Our Family Blog

The American Dream...

2011-11-10T13:27:00.008-05:00

Excuse the cobwebs, I know it has been far too long since my last post, but life has been a wee bit busy these days. It's amazing how one little Kindergartener can do that to your life.

Anywhoo, enough about me - today is about them - the Veterans.

Ava's school was having a special Veteran's Day mass today so last night I asked her, "Do you know what a Veteran is?"

Without much hesitation she responded, "Yeah, its someone who fights other people so our country can stay free."

I congratulated her on her knowledge explained that Grandpa was a Veteran and he was in a war to help protect our freedom.

She seemed pretty impressed by that, they quickly added, "You and Dad can never go to war because you could get hurt and then we wouldn't have a Mom or Dad."

Yep, she was right and unfortunately that nightmare is many families' reality.

So this Veteran's Day I want to say "thanks". Thanks to my grandfathers who both served in WWII, to my Dad and Uncle Ed who served in Vietnam, to my Uncles Paul and Chris who were in the Coast Guard, my sister-in-law's ex-husband who served in Iraq, my co-worker's husband who recently enlisted and is now an airforce pilot, as well as the many other Veteran's I've been touched by through my work with the Angie's List Wishmakers program and the thousands of other men and women who selflessly do a job that I can honestly say I'm too scared to do.

I salute YOU.

School Daze....

2011-08-28T21:49:00.012-04:00

It is official - I'm the mom of a Kindergartener!

Ava (and I) made it through her first day and believe it or not, despite my anxiety and break-downs in the days leading up to it, there were NO tears on the first day. Instead we were all smiles!

She really seems to be loving it. She's such an independent little thing, she loves being able to decide whether she wants to pack lunch or buy...and even gets to select her own side items when she buys.

Her teachers are amazing - I've been SO impressed with the communication between the teachers and school administration, surely not what I remember as a student so many years ago.

This week Ava is the "Star Student" so today we completed her very first school project. And I do me WE - she answered all the questions on her questionnaire and WROTE the answers out herself! I helped her spell the words, but she actually did it!

I've been so impressed and proud of my little speller - she loves to read the letters on just about anything. Yesterday for lunch we were having tacos and the sour cream was sitting out and she blurted out "s-o-u-r / c-r-e-a-m". I about melted, though sour cream is one of Daddy's favorite condiments, "sour cream" was not on her spelling list, ha! It made me so proud also because as a kid I always struggled with reading and worried that I'd pass that on to my kids. So grateful that doesn't seem to be the case!

While I'm get up earlier and go to bed later, we're getting into the groove of how this school stuff works and what it means for our home routine, but I know we'll have it down in no time.

The things I've learned....

2011-07-11T21:42:00.012-04:00

I've learned a lot in the past 33 years...but quite possibly not as much as I've learned in the past few weeks.

Lesson #1: Don't let your child lay face down in calf-high grass.
If you do, this will happen:

For nearly two weeks now we've been battling an on-again-off-again rash. While we think it was caused by the grass, we can't figure out what keeps flaring it up. All I know for sure is my baby girl wants to feel better.

Lesson #2: Don't under-estimate the strong will of a 5 year old.

If you've ever spoken to my daughter (or read this blog) you know that Ava is quite the character...but the pain and frustration with this rash has really brought out her dramatic skills. Here are some of the most notable quotes over the past two weeks (most of them relate to her flat-out refusal to take her medicine):

"Mom, Dad wants me to take my medicine, but I told him I don't have to because it tastes like garbage."

"I can't do it! I can't do it! I can't do it! I wish I lived in a world where I didn't have to take my medicine....I want to go to Japan right now!"

"I just wish I never laid down in that grass. I shouldn't have done that. I quit with all this itching. I quit."

Lesson #3: Life is precious. SHOW someone you love them.

I'm a firm believer, it's not just enough to tell someone you love them - you need to SHOW it.

On the same day we celebrated the birth of my sixth nephew, dear sweet Benjamin Stanely, we also mourned the loss of Jason's dear sweet grandmother. The thing that comforted me most that day was knowing that we hadn't just told Joycie that we loved her, we showed her just three days earlier. I'm so grateful for that hour we got to spend with her sitting outside, enjoying the beautiful weather and hearing her talk about how proud she was of Jason.

So the next time you go to tell someone you love them, don't. Show them instead - it will speak many, many words.

Lesson #4: I'm an emotional eater.
Not much to say here - the 3 pounds on the scale says it all.

I Love you Because...

2011-05-03T15:46:00.009-04:00

When we first started dating more than 10 years ago, I used to torture Jason and make him play the “I love you because” game. He hated it. And to be honest, between that and the fact that I celebrated our “month” anniversaries and gave him a “love shrub” that was supposed to represent our love (oh yes, I did!), I’m not sure how or why he decided to stay with me. But I’m sure glad he did!

So in honor of our 8th wedding anniversary, here are 8 reasons why I've love my husband for the past 8 years.

1.) He tries. He’ll be the first to admit that he’s not the most mushy man on the planet, but he knows that tulips are my favorite flower and that I don’t like extra cheese on my pizza. He tries to pay attention to those little details and I appreciate that.

2.) He loves me. No really, he LOVES me. Prickly legs, scratchy feet, post-baby body (x2), crazy-whack-funky bed-head and all. He loves me.

3.) He makes me laugh. He’s not one to be the center of attention or the loudest one at the party, but he is funny. It’s his quick little one-liners that tickle me the most.

4.) He is an amazing father. There are lots of men out there who don’t take an active role in raising their kids, but my man is not one of them. He stayed home with Ava until she was 15 months old and now holds down the fort two days a week with both little rascals. He does it because that is what is best for our family, not simply because he wants to.

5.) He works hard. He is one of the hardest-working people I know. He takes pride in his work that makes me proud.

6.) He gets better with age. I loved him when I married him, but I can honestly say, I am deeper in love with him today then I was when I said “I do”.

7.) He is a family man. Our family is his top priority. Even when work is hectic, if something comes up with the kids, that takes priority. No questions asked.

8.) He is committed. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that we will be together forever. He is so committed to being a team, a partner and a family and for that I am unbelievably grateful.

Boys will be Boys..and Girls will be Girls

2011-05-02T21:30:00.016-04:00

I remember feeling a little petrified when found out I was having a boy. The thought of a rough and tumble little man scared me, after all, I knew tutus and tiaras, not trucks and tanks. But I've come to my senses and LOVE, LOVE, LOVE having a little boy (not that there was any doubt in my mind that I would).

My little guy is totally a Momma's boy - and I love it. But don't let him fool you. He IS a boy...and this is what I saw when I walked into the kitchen.

This smart little guy, had gone into the playroom, gotten his big sister's stool, carried it back into the kitchen, bellied it up to the cabinets, then started riffling through the stuff on countertops. I'm sure it is only a matter of time before he figures out how to scale the cabinets and get ON TOP OF the counters!

And then of course girls will be girls....

Earlier tonight this is what I saw when I walked into my bedroom to get Ava ready for bed....

Yep, that IS an evening gown, and yep, she IS standing on a speaker, which doubles as the perfect 'stage' for a 5 year old beauty queen.

It's Hopeless...She's Already a Romantic!

2011-04-21T22:42:00.005-04:00

If you've ever read my blog before you know that my daughter, who is now 5 years and 2 days old says some funny things. But tonight's bedtime conversation was one for the books.

As soon as we wrapped our up bedtime prayers, she sat straight up and said, "Mom, I need to tell you something."

"Hmm, what is it?" I asked, sure that what was to follow was a question about her upcoming birthday party, what she could have for breakfast in the morning or a request for a drink of water. But, I was wrong. Way wrong.

She stumbled for the right words for a minute then said, "Mom, I just get in love with boys."

WHAT?! Is my 5-year old really telling me that she falls in love with boys?! I mean, I figured she was bounded to get the hopeless-romantic-gene from me, because, despite the fact she got every other gene from her father, I don't think that is one he'll be passing on. But I thought the "L" word wouldn't come up for until at least another 10 years (and I'd be perfectly fine if it was another 15!)

I explained to her that she's 5 and 5-year-olds don't need to worry about falling in love and they don't have boyfriends.

That's when, my dear sweet Ava said, with stars in her eyes, "But mom, I just look at boys...and then when they pass me, I say they're my boyfriend. And then they are!"

Now, as a mother, I LOVE the fact that she wants to loop me in to her thoughts. But also as mother, I'm scared sh@tless what this means for my future!

Happy Almost Birthday!

2011-04-16T21:17:00.013-04:00

Having an almost 5-year-old (in 3 days to be exact) and an 18-month-old means my dear husband and I don't get out much, like many parents. But last night was an exception!

Almost 5 years ago my dear husband received the best gift 3 days before his birthday - his daughter, Ava Elizabeth.

And while he would NEVER say (or even think) that he has gotten the shaft when it came to birthdays, I wanted to do a little something to make him feel special - so, I planned a surprise date night in honor of HIS birthday...in his style...low-key.

First stop: The retirement home. (No, he's not THAT old! :) )

For MONTHS we've been talking about going to visit his grandmother, but have never made it was big enough priority to make it happen. So I took advantage of our alone time and we surprised him with a trip to see Joycie. It was wonderful. I know it warmed her heart to see her "favorite grandson" as she always says, but it also warmed mine to see the smile on Jason's face when he was with his grandma.

Next stop: Dinner (with friends). I planned to have a few friends meet us out for dinner and drinks - but Jason didn't know anything about it.

Surprisingly, getting him to go to the restaurant I arranged wasn't the hard part, it was battling super observant mind.

We arrived at the restaurant before anyone else. I thought this was great - we'd be at the table then SURPRISE! But no, of course my little bday boy isn't good with surprises, so as we were sitting down at the table he immediately noticed the 4 menus and said, 'Are we expecting company?'

"Uhhhhh..." I studdered. "So what looks good to you?" I said, trying to change the conversation.

It didn't work. Did I mention the observant one is also persistent? Like Rain Man, he kept asking, "so who is coming?". Thankfully our dinner guests, Amy and John arrived...and shortly after two more good friends, Eddie and Janice showed up.

It was a great night with great conversation and just OK drinks. But I loved that we were able to get out, hang with friends, we'll definitely have to do it again - hopefully it won't take another year.

Happy almost-birthday babe, love you!

I'm no longer a virgin!!

2011-04-14T22:53:00.013-04:00

So I'll admit, I'm a pretty frugal person, but when it comes to couponing, I don't have much patience, despite my frugality. I'd rather just go to a store where I know I'm going to get the best prices (hence I'm a huge Aldi fan). But tonight...may have changed all that.

It all started with an email from CVS offering $4 off a $20 purchase. Sounded pretty good, but then I immediately went to the place in my head where I've gone several times before after receiving similar offers, 'who the heck spends $20 at CVS if it can't be used on prescriptions or alcohol??'. But then something made me click on their weekly ad - and to my surprise there were some good deals!

$1.66 for name brand cereal, BOGO Colgate toothpaste, 2/$5 for the multi-purpose cleaner we use, $3 off the dish detergent and paper towels. And then my personal favorite, discounts on HAIR COLOR! That was my golden ticket!

So with my shopping list that I created on the CVS website, I took my bargain hunting to the next level and decided to do something I've never done before...I cross-checked my list with Bargain Brianna's coupon database. And then I was getting really excited! I printed off several printable coupons and clipped through the Red Plum inserts, thanks to the suggestions from the database. With only about 1-1.5 hours of total prep behind me, I was ready to put my couponing skills to the test.

With confidence that I was about to save some serious dough I strutted into CVS with my shopping list and envelop of various coupons in hand. Aisle by aisle I made my way through my list, making some adjustments along the way and even deleting a few items. Finally I was ready to check out.

I must say, I've NEVER gone up to the CVS counter with a cart full of products, and by the look on the poor cashier's face, I don't think many people do. I enthusiastically said to him, "Okay, I'm gonna give this couponing thing a shot!" Wide-eyed and a bit frightened he said, "Okay. Well first things first, do you need to ring anything up separately for Extra Care Bucks?"

"HUH?!" Crap. I started to sweat at that point, but before I completely pitted-out my shirt, the nice cashier explained how I could split my order and earn ECB toward the rest of my purchase. SCORE! Sounds good to me. My qualifying purchases from round 1 + existing ECB, saved me $8 right there.

BAM! That felt good, so we rung it up!

8 rolls of paper towels

3 2-liters of soda

2 bottles of multi-purpose cleansers

2 cans of coffee

2 boxes of hair color

2 tubes of mascara

2 boxes of cereal

2 tubes of toothpaste

2 toothbrushes

1 box of dish detergent packs

1 pkg of peeps

TOTAL SPENT: $42.13

TOTAL SAVED: $60.17

In the end, sale items + ECB + coupons + my original $4 off a $20 purchase coupon, ended up saving me (if I did the math right, which I'll never promise) I saved about 57%!

So folks, I'm happy to report I'm no longer a couponing virgin. Thanks CVS for being my first!

Before...and After....

2011-03-30T21:00:00.009-04:00

We all think about how things were back in the day - but yesterday my dear sweet Ava was sure to remind me just how much some things have changed since I was younger.

On our way home she started inquiring about what I looked like when I was a teenager.

"Mom" she said. "What did you look like when you were a teenager?"

I told her, "I had long, dark, curly hair," I replied.

"Oh, is that when your tummy was....um..what's it called Mom"?

"I don't know, what?" I asked.

Suddenly she remembered. "Oh yeah, FLAT!" she blurted out. "Is that when your tummy was flat, Mom?"

Sadly I had to admit, "Yep dear. That is when my tummy was flat."

This wouldn't be a true Ava story if the conversation didn't continue, so of course it did.

"Your tummy is just a little bit flat," she said. And before I could even respond she quickly followed it up with, "And the rest of it looks like....well it looks like Daddy's."

Now, God love my husband who I think is ubber handsome, but let's be honest, neither of us are up for a hard-body of the year award, so I knew that wasn't exactly a compliment.

But just as I was starting to feel bummed that 17 years and 2 babies had really changed my body that much she offered me a little encouragement.

"Well Mom, you just have to exercise and your stomach will be flat again!"

Oh, if only it were that easy. But a girl can dream, can't she?!

I had a 50/50 chance...

2011-03-17T21:37:00.007-04:00

I realized today that everything in life gives you a 50/50 chance. It can either be bad, or good.

Today, from the moment I woke up, I was certain it was going to be a baaaad day.

The time was 7:11am...exactly 1 hour and 11 minutes AFTER my alarm SHOULD have gone off! Chances seemed pretty good this was a bad start to a bad the day.

In a horribly panicked voice I shouted, "Honey! It's after 7 o'clock!"

He grumbled, "What does that mean?"

"It means it's Thursday and the kids and I need to be out the door in 15 minutes" I snapped.

"Oh (beep)" he blurted out.

He ran to get the kids, I ran to the bathroom, thankful I had showered last night. Before I knew it we were all downstairs, out the door and in the car at precisely 7:31am. Not bad for a day I thought was starting off badly - thanks Honey!

Then, about 2 hours after I got to work (only 5 minutes late, by the way), we got word it was going to be a half day! No, not in honor of St. Patty's Day, but in honor of the first 70 degree day of the year - it's an Angie's List tradition, one that I'll certainly continue should I ever start my own business!

After I scooped the kids up from daycare we headed home, one kid crashed in the car the other wanted to 'rest' on the couch with a kid show. Lovely! It gave me some time to tackle the dishes. Not long after, a neighbor noticed we were home and invited Ava over to play. Score! More time for Mom to get the house in order.

And then...this could be the biggest perk of the day. As I started picking up Ava's room, I looked out the window saw someone pull up and get out of the car. For the life of me I couldn't figure out who the heck was at my house. Then it hit me - it was the CLEANING LADY!!! I thought she wasn't coming until next week. I was SO glad to be SO wrong.

The rest of the day was great - played outside with the kids, went out to dinner with fam, created my own version of a Skinny Girl margarita (1 shot of tequila + diet 7 UP + a dash of salt, voila!) and found out that the oversight our accountant made on our tax return, which I pointed out to him, earned us A LOT more moola!

So you see, each day we all have a 50/50 chance...I think I'll go check my lottery numbers now, wish me luck!

The Dreaded Question...

2011-03-09T20:52:00.003-05:00

I came across a request from a reporter today, he wanted to know know what is a working mom's most hated question. It got me thinking...so here's my answer.

As a full-time working mother of two (three if you count my husband) there is one question that makes me cringe day in and day out...."What's for dinner?"

I know, I know, some women may think that being asked about why they don't stay home with their kids is a bad question, or whether they like having "someone else is raising their kids" while at daycare, but for me, the big "D" question trumps those every time.

There is nothing worse than hitting the door after an 8 or 9 hour day and hearing the dreaded question....night after night after I drop my bags wherever the landing zone may be that day and it is straight to the fridge, freezer of sometimes, phone book to tackled dear old dinner.

Now I will say, my husband is home with the kids two days of the week, so maybe that's why it is like nails on a chalkboard for me. On those days it would be great to walk into a house with water boiling on the stove or even a frozen meal sizzling in the oven. But, God love him, 9 times out of 10, that's not exactly how it works.

So there you have it - the number 1 most hated question for this working mom is "What's for dinner"....did I mention a close 2nd is "can I have something different???"

He loves me....I love him more...

2011-03-05T08:22:00.002-05:00

Do you ever just have those days when you wake up in love? I mean sure, you always love you're spouse or partner, but let's be honest, there are times when you don't necessarily feel in love. But today isn't one of those days. Today, I feel in love.

Thanks to my little brother who was in town and agreed to watch the kiddos for us we had an unexpected date night! It was very low-key and very cheap!

We had dinner at Tiajuna Flats, a semi-fast food restaurant that is alwasy delish. We used a buy 1, get 1 free coupon, so our meal including an appetizer and drinks, was $15. Since it had been YEARS since we had gone to a movie together, we decided to take advantage of the overnight sitter and head to a 10:15pm showing of "Hall Pass" (cute, not great, but entertaining). As an extra bonus we had two gift certificates for the theater, so the flick was on the house. By the end of the night, we actually SAVED more than we spent, love that!

I think we've had 3 date nights in the last 2.5 months, which is more than we've had in the last 2.5 years! And that's why today I'm in love. It's great to know that after 10 years, he's still that into me....and I've gotta admit, the feeling is mutual.

Comic Relief: 4.5

2011-02-18T21:16:00.006-05:00

This week has been one of those challenging weeks as a parent. My sweet (and way-to savvy-for-her own good) 4.5 year old has been pushing buttons I didn't even know I had. But despite it all, she still managed to offer some comic relief. Here ae some of my favorite quotes from the week:

While I was trying to tuck her into bed and explain to her I didn't like her decision (to sneak gum for the gazillionth time this week), but that I love her, she snapped, "Okay, I don't like your stinky breff." (I rushed out of the room before cracking a smile, don't worry)

After a time out, I was kneeling down talking to her eye-to-eye (Super Nanny would've been proud) discussing why she was in time out. She abruptly interrupted me, serious as can be with, "Eww, you have a booger."

On one of her good days she had a friend come over and play - that's when she informed me, "Mom, J said if I quit farting I can go play at her house."

LOL! Oh, I do love that girl - despite the fact that I can see my grey hair doubling overnight. Hope this made you chuckle like it did me. Here's to many more laughs and fewer timeouts!

Long time, No Type

2011-02-15T20:56:00.016-05:00

If you haven't checked our blog for awhile, don't worry, you haven't missed anything. Really. Nothing. You know it's been FOREVER since you've posted a blog when it takes a minute to even remember the URL to your own blog. Oy Vey!

Needless to say 2011 has kept us very busy during its first 6 weeks. Whew!

Nathan is 17 months now and is really developing quite the personality. While "Mom-mma" seems to mean, "Mom", "Dad", "more"and "milk" and "Eeeee!" is the Nathish lanuage for "see", "I want that" and "give me what you're eating", one thing is crystal clear - "A-Ya!". He loves is big sissy Ava.It's one of the first things he says in the morning - and calls for her the moment we get in the house. He quickly follows it up with "Hi-ya!". No, he's not yet in tae kwon do, it's just his way of greeting those who come into his line of sight.

Ava, well lets see....I love her too - but man, is she pushing us to put our true parenting skills to the test these days.

I can deal with a kid who hits, kicks or screams (not that she does those things), but a kid who tries to negotiate everything with a side of sass - that is something I don't deal well with. I feel like I'm turning into the don't-do-that-stop-that-what-did-I-just-say Mom. Not quite what I was going for. I will say, I'm blessed to have a husband who is a great father and who shares my sentiments about not spanking. But honestly, there have been a few times lately that I've thought about it changing my stance.

How do you get through to a little girl who thinks she's not so little? How to do you let her know you're the boss without being bossy? I just keep thinking, if she is this way when she's not even 5, what the heck is it gonna be like when she's 15?!

Enough about that - I'll figure it out, all parents do, right? Right?!

Despite the fact that things have been ubber busy, sometimes I feel like that is when Jason and I are at our best. Work has been crazy for both of us - but I think it almost makes us appreciate our family time even more. We had an impromptu visit to the Children's Museum of Indianapolis last week and have really made a point to carve out time (as much as possible) for our family.

And then there was Valentine's day - for being a hopeless romantic, I totally sucked this year. On the other hand, my sweet Valentine amazed me. It all started with an invite for a date night on Saturday. I love me some alone time with my man...his goofy snarls and all.

Then yesterday when I came home, my dear sweet husband had dinner all ready to go. Nathan was bellied up to the highchair with a spread, while Ava was ready to dig in to her very own little steak that Daddy had gotten just for her. On the adult menu was sushi...Mmm! On top of that he got me a bouquet of tulips (my favorite)...and Ava her own little bouquet of mini roses (yes, that made me cry). Did I mention I love him? No? Well I do....a lot!

So long farewell...

2011-01-02T12:30:00.011-05:00

When I think back over the last year, I can't help be think about how quickly it passed and unfortunately some very special people to us also passed.

A stepmother, a dear friend and a family member, gone all too soon. It's hard to get excited about the new year ahead when you're still sad about those who were lost in the past year.

Jason's stepmother unexpectedly passed away in October. We hadn't seen her in some time, but I thought of her often - wished I had picked up the phone more often. She was a gentle soul who was always looking out for her furry friends. There wasn't an animal in the world who wasn't Cheryl's best friend...especially after Thanksgiving dinner when she spoiled them with leftovers.

Just a few days ago we found out that one of our best friend's from Florida is no longer with us. It was a sad, tragic end to his life, but its a life that won't be forgotten. Despite the fact that we lived in Florida for nearly 5 years, we really only have a handful of true friends from there. Jason was one of them. In fact he and his wife were not only our great friends - but they were our first friends. We spent many nights enjoying drinks at each other's homes, watching 4th of July fireworks on the beach. One year we nearly burned down our apartment while trying to grill (using Andre 3000, lol!). We where there for each other through anniversaries, pregnancies, surgeries and even the boob cake that followed. Jason was a hard worker and aimed to please, unfortunately he just couldn't see his accomplishments - the biggest being his baby girl.

This morning, we unfortunately received word that my sister's father-in-law passed away. Like Cheryl and Jason, it was a shock. Mr. B was the picture of good health. He was 70+ years old (maybe even older) and biked across the country - ran marathons and traveled the world. He didn't do those things when he was younger - he did them now. We saw Mr. B about 2 weeks ago and he told me he had run 12 miles that day....fyi...it was about 25 degrees that day - and he did not run on a treadmill. He was a man who lived life to the fullest. As long as he could go for a run or bike and have a cool beer in his hand he was a happy camper. Just thinking about him makes me smile.

Death sucks, there no doubt about it, but I guess the best way we can deal with it is to LIVE. So this year, I'm going to do just that. I'm going to pick up the phone and call that friend I've been thinking about, but haven't had time to chat with. I'm going to spend time with my family, just because. I'm going to let the dishes sit and snuggle up on the couch with my babies. Because in the end the laundry, dishes and kitchen floor won't remember whether or not I spent time with them....but my family and friends will.

Twas the Night Before Christmas

2010-12-25T17:00:00.010-05:00

Many families have Christmas Eve traditions, in our house a tradition involves work and a lot of it for my dear husband. Guess its a given, when you work at a church, you're working on Christmas Eve.

So each year the kids and I fend for ourselves on the Eve of Jesus' birthday - most years I feel a little lonely and bummed to not have Jason around, but this year, I felt blessed. Blessed that my husband had a job to go to (even if it was ALL day on Christmas Eve). Blessed that I have two healthy kids (depsite the 4 antibiotics that are sitting on my kitchen counter). Blessed that my daughter knows the REAL reason of Christmas and isn't afraid to talk about Jesus.

Of course there were moments when it definitely would have been nice to have an extra set of hands...like when we arrived to church 1 hour early and I was trying to wrangle the kids in the car...and then the bathroom because OF COURSE someone had to go potty.

Once we nabbed our seats...and STILL had 45 minutes to spare, I decided to try and snap a couple of pictures. This one is my favorite, Ava is really intrigued about baby Jesus' birth. She would have sat in front of that nativity set all night if I would have let her.

In the end we all survived the 2.5 hours at the church and were ready to continue the Christmas Eve festivities. On the way home, Ava made a revelation. She decided that Santa needed something for Christmas and she knew just the right thing, a toothbrush!

"Mom, why doesn't Santa have a toothbrush and toothpaste?" she asked.

I explained to her that I was sure he did. But she wasn't buying it.

"Welllll...when I went to see Santa, I saw his teeth were dirty."

I couldn't help but let out my own laugh that made my belly shake like a bowl full of jelly.

After she convinced me that maybe Santa did really need a toothbrush, we were home and it was time to bake cookies for the Jolly Old Elf. And what goes best with a plate full of cookies...milk...chocloate milk, of course!

The night ended with both kids snug in their beds and my favorite little elf, home from work, safe and sound. It was a wonderful night before Christmas at my house, I hope the same was true for you.

Count 'em 1, 2, 3???

2010-11-05T07:33:00.008-04:00

There is no doubt about it, we are extremely blessed.

We have good jobs, good friends, wonderful families and two beautiful and more importantly, healthy kids who love each other (and us...I think). But somtimes, I feel like I want just a little bit more....babies that is!

Growing up one of 5 kids, and having 40+ immediate cousins on my Dad's side alone, I just can't help but feel like 2 kids isn't enough.

I mean, what if they have a spat when they get older, then they don't have another sibling to turn to. What happens when Jason and I are gone - it's only the two of them. What if one of them doesn't get married or have kids, then that means the others' kids won't have cousins. I realize they're only 4 and 1, but these are real things I think about - concerns for the future. And let's be honest, Momma isn't getting any younger, and God love my Mom, but I'm not trying to have a baby when I'm 42 (hence my tween little brother at my wedding!)

Don't get me wrong, there are days when I feel like my head is spinning because life is so busy with two - or like all I've heard all day is whining. But really, that won't last forever. Their days as babies fly by, and soon (too soon it seems) they'll be more independent.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not ready for #3 just yet, but I can't shake this feeling that we'll have one more. I honestly feel like I already know my third child (a girl, I'm predicting). Is that weird?

So my question to you is...have you said 'enough is enough' or are you too saying 'I want more'?

A week of 1sts

2010-10-10T14:08:00.014-04:00

Nathan had his first birthday this week and with that came lots of other firsts!

It was the first time I ever made a marshmellow foundant cake - okay make that any sort of foundant cake. Despite the fact that it was 3 days in the making, I had fun doing it and may even do it again....but no time soon. I'm hanging up my apron at least for another month or so.

It was also the first time Nathan ever had cake - and judging by the way he shoveled it into his mouth, I think he liked it!

Still no first steps....but I'm not rushing it. I'm happy to keep my big boy my baby boy as long as possible.

On Your Mark, Get Set, GO

2010-09-23T21:42:00.003-04:00

Bedtime is usally a time when people wind down, settle in for a long night's slumber...but not so much in our house last night.

My brother and his family were in town from Atlanta and we were lucky enough to have them stay with us for the night (after a long and fun day at the Children's Museum). The kids were great all day and actually went to bed without a fuss - in fact my neice fell asleep on the couch about 20 minutes into our movie night! But what was to come over the next 8 hours was a surprise.

My plan was for the kids to sleep in the office (2 on the air mattress and 1 on the couch), so my brother and his wife could have Ava's room with the full size bed. All went well until....

9:27pm - Ava couldn't sleep with the other kids (despite the fact they were knocked out) so she went back to her room.

10:31pm - Sound asleep, Ava was moved back to the office so my Jeff and Erin could have the bed when they returned home from visiting with a friend.

10:45pm - Camryn woke up, a little weepy because she missed her mom and dad. I offered either our bed with us, or Ava's bed that was recently vacant. She opted for the latter.

11:00pm - Jeff & Erin return home. Jeff takes the couch (because that IS his bed, no matter whose house he's at..he's always been a couch sleeper) and Erin nabbed the recently bed recently invaded by Cam.

12:30pm - Ava woke up wanting HER bed, I managed to distract her and convince her that a 'bed' on the floor of our room would be just fine. She agreed.

5:00am - Nathan woke up hungry so he came to our room for about 30 minutes for a little mommy milk snack.

5:30am - Ava woke up AGAIN, this time wanting to go sleep with her cousins in the office. I sent her on her way.

5:31am - Apparently more movement had happened because Jack was no longer in the office - he was now in Ava's room too! Ava insisted she "needed a buddy". So I drug the blankets into her room and made her a cozy spot on the floor.

6:30am - Nathan is up again....which startled Ava...which woke up Erin. After a quick trip to the bathroom, she nabbed a spot on the couch in the office.

By this time we were up and gearing up for our day - so we suggested Jeff head up stairs - so, the 10th bed swap went to him - he ended up on the air mattress in the office. I think the only one who didn't budge all night was my dear husband...what a lucky guy!

Forever Frags

2010-09-07T20:45:00.010-04:00

My sister is the queen of blogging - she's the 4th Frog of the 4th frog blog (a great read in case you've never checked it out) and every Friday (or at least I think it is every Friday) she offers up Friday Frags - some quick little snipets, random thoughts if you will as her blog. So I'm stealing her idea, even though it isn't Friday. Because it has been FOREVER since my last blog, I figured I'd title this "Forever Frags". So here it goes....

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The 4 year old's version of a FB profile pix:

(I randomly found this on the camera tonight)

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When I was little, it was cool to be able to call someone on the phone - landline, of course - but today my age it me, when my 4-year old came up to me with her play phone and said, "Oh, Mom, Jayde just texted - she said I'm invited to come over to her house, right now! Is that okay Mom?"

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My little boy is not-so-little these days...we sent out the invites to his 1-year birthday party and it kinda made me sad. Could this be our last 1st birthday party? Are we done??? (Just between you and me, I sure hope not.)

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There is nothing more precious than the sound of pure joy coming from kids laughter - that's way this was a great drive home from work today. It was loud, distracting and hard to concentrate - but it was wonderful because the kids were cracking each other up. Today was a good day to be a mom.

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My Little Smurf

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Holy Encore!

For those of you who missed it on Facebook - here's an encore performance from Sister Mary Ava.

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Last by not least, I'd like to use this final frag to express my gratitude for my family. I woke up feeling so grateful for my life and family today it was wonderful. I had an awesome weekend - got to catch up with a grade school friend whom (or is it who?) I hadn't seen in 11 years...checked out my little bro's college dorm and enjoyed a delicious pizzaria dinner with the folks. And that was just on Saturday!

Sunday night we went to church and relaxed, then had drinks with our good friends and neighbors.

On Monday I planned a picnic at the park and we had my mother-in-law over for dinner. I really couldn't have asked for a more enjoyable and relaxing weekend!

The Future of My Healthcare

2010-08-22T20:58:00.006-04:00

There is so much going on these days about where our healthcare system is going...and everyone one has an opinion.

Some say change is good - others say things are just right the way they are. But me, I'm not worried, because today I found out what the future holds.

While at church, I leaned over and kissed Ava and whispered, 'I love you.'

She chimed in with the her typical response, "I love you too mom," but then added in, "I'll take care of you when you're old."

So who needs politics when you have 4-year olds?

Turn On, Turn Off

2010-08-02T21:30:00.003-04:00

If only life was as easy at my 4-year old makes it seem.

Tonight, about 45 minutes after she went to bed, she beckoned me upstairs. After a few 'just a minutes' her persistence paid off. She wanted me to sleep with her for four minutes, I negotiated my way to two minutes.

The 120 seconds was up and I was ready to make my way back downstairs and relax for the evening, when she pulled the 'Mommy, I have to go potty' trick. And like thousands of parents each night, I bought it. But not without one condition.

I said, "Okay, but when you're done, it's right back in bed. I don't want to hear a peep from you."

"Not a peep?", she replied.

"Not a peep." I confirmed.

"Well Mom, the words just come out so fast," she continued.

Sticking to my guns, I re-itterated, "Not a peep, it is bed time."

Then, making complete sense in her 4-year old head, she told me how to get what I wanted.

"Mom, I have a button on me."

"A button?" I asked.

"Yeah" she continued, "It's on my back, you just need to push it."

Ah, ha! Finally the secret to parenthood has been releaved. So for all you parents out there with kids bouncing off the wall hours after bedtime, just look for the off button.

Windin' Down and Movin' On

2010-07-28T20:37:00.012-04:00

I'm finally starting to unwind ...a lot has happened since my last post, so here's a little wrap up.

We ended up going with the tubes for Nate - I was so torn about the decision - and even had visions of snatching him from the gerny on the way to the operating room, but thankfully I didn't do that and so far, the tubes seem to have been the right choice for him. I haven't noticed the 'night and day' difference that many parents report after doing tubes, but about one week after surgery and nearly 10 months after he was born, I he FINALLY started sleeping through the night! Thank ya Jesus!

My little buddy is such a sweet baby boy - I just can't get enough of him. He is all smiles and kisses...and looks like he's starting to take after his big sis and is even growing some CURLS!

Of course the tales never end when it comes to Miss Thang - Ava-Bava. That girl is a trip and has me worried what the teenage years are going to be like. She's dramatic, sensitive and moody. Help me now, Father.

But at the end of the day, when she asks me to snuggle in bed with her - she is just my baby girl.

Mission: Infection Extinction

2010-06-25T22:14:00.013-04:00

Sigh, the exhaustion from the past few days is setting in. I've probably averaged about 3 hours of sleep each night this week because Mr. Man hasn't been feeling well. Poor guy, I really shouldn't complain, I'm not the one with a continual ear infection.

If you haven't experienced chronic ear infections with kids, consider yourself blessed. Since the beginning of January (and the beginning of daycare, albeit just 1-2 days/week) he has had, count them....8 ear infections! This last one is definitely taking the cake.

(My little man, feeling puny with goopy eyes)

After 7 bouts of infections we pretty much know his tell-tale signs that one is coming...so this time we were determined to get to it before it caused him too much discomfort...apparently we were so good at knowing the signs we took him to the doctor too soon.

Earlier this week, his ears "looked good" and his last ear infection which lasted 3 weeks and 2 different rounds of antibiotics was gone. Fast forward 24-hours and there is goop seeping from his eyes, he's not eating, not sleeping, his most telling signs that an infection is brewing...but surely he can't have an ear infection, right? Wrong!

After trying to tough it out and for a couple of days, today I said enough is enough! He wasn't getting better - in fact he was getting worse by the hour. And sure enough - one quick peek in his ears...yes that is plural...confirmed he had TWO raging ear infections.

I'm sick over this! My little guy has been on an antibiotic pretty much continually since January, with the exception of a week or 10 days here and there. The doc wanted to give him an antibiotic shot of Rocephin, but I refused.

That's some serious sh*t...its what they give kids with meningitis, 1 shot is equal in strength to 30 doses of Amoxicillion...AND they may have to repeat it 2 or 3 times. Uh, no thanks!

While initially, when we were on infection 3 or 4, I was NOT interested in even discussing tubes, but now I'm open to the possibility and hoping that will be our saving grace. We have an appointment set up for the 14th.

In the meantime we will be doing all we can on our own to keep him healthy including:

* Exploring pediatric chiropractic care

* Doing drops of breast milk in the ear

* Increasing my vitamin (esp. vitamin D) intake since I'm still nursing

* Putting a little olive oil in the ear to help open the canals

* Blowing warm air into the ears to help open the canals

(I'm not making these things up....all were either suggested or approved by our pediatrician.)

Got anything else? I'm desperate here.

Today I Lived...

2010-06-09T23:23:00.021-04:00

So often the days come and go and I feel as if it's Ground Hog's Day...I think we all feel that way from time to time. Like we are going through the motions of life, just to get us to another day. Well today was different - today, I LIVED!

Jason drove up to Minnesota to be with his Dad for his heart surgery, so I decided to take the day off work. But this time I was determined not to get sucked into doing work on my day off....I promised myself I wasn't going to get on Facebook or stalk my email accounts all morning. No, no, not this time. Instead I vowed to to get out of the house (and just to go to the grocery store) and do something really fun with the kids. So off to The Children's Museum of Indianapolis we went!

It had been years since I'd been there - and truth be told, I don't ever recall being a fan of museums when I was little. I found them a little boring - but let me just tell you, all that changes, when you're a parent and you're there with your little ones. Seeing Ava's eyes light up with excitement (and a bit of hesitation) as we entered Dinosphere was awesome.

First she dug for fossils, then she did what little girls do best - dressed up. Unfortunately we didn't find any princess dinosaurs, but I think she made a pretty darn cute "Avasaures" if I may say so myself.

True to form, my sweet, sweet, go-with-the-flow baby boy even suited up and joined in the fun....what a cute little "Dinonate"!

After lunch, a show in planitarium, visits to the Barbie exhibit (SUPER cute btw!) and Playscape, there was one last promised stop on our trip -- the carousel!

While I don't do things for 'thank yous' or recognition, the smiles on the kids' faces let me know that I did alright as a Mom today.

Though I'm a little exhausted at the end of the day, I feel alive! I really took everything in and was present in everything we did today.

Maybe it was because I did something out of the ordinary, got out of the regular day-to-day routine. Or maybe it was because I was flying solo and knew it was all on me to make things happen. I'm not really sure, but I do know this - I'm extremely gratefuland if I can manage to live like this every day - it can be Ground Hog's Day for the rest of my life.

Enough!

2010-06-02T22:48:00.004-04:00

Do you every feel like there isn't enough?

Not enough hours in the day...

Not enough food in the fridge...

Not enough clean clothes in the closet....

Not enough hands on your body....

Not enough energy to have a meaningful conversation at the end of the day with your spouse....

It's days like today when I wish there was enough of everything, but instead I'm left feeling like, enough is enough!

Mom, Momma, Mommy!!!

2010-05-16T20:02:00.006-04:00

I love being a mom, don't get me wrong, it is the biggest blessing in my life and I would never trade it for anything.

However I wouldn't be human if I didn't admit that there are some days when I hear "Mom" or "Mom-mom" or "Mommy" followed by a specific request, so many times that I forget my real name is actually Angie.

Why is it that many babies first learn to say "Dadda" - but from then on, everything is "Momma"?

"Mom, can I have some breakfast?"

"Momma, I want to go outside?"

"Mom-mom, I'm thirsty."

"Mommy, I'm bored."

This evening, while sneaking a little "me time" (aka catching up on my FB), I heard the pitter-patter of my 4-year old's feet shuffling up the stairs.

"Mom, can I have a bedtime snack?"

"Sure, just go have Daddy get it for you", I said.

"But Daddy is asleep on the new couch," Ava answered.

Huh, that's funny, despite the loud snoring coming from my throat and the drool running out the side of my mouth, the fact that I'm asleep in the morning has never been an acceptable reason NOT to wake me up to fulfill the request of the moment.

Maybe next time, I'll follow my sister's lead and play the Mommy's Legs are broken game.

Lesson Learned

2010-04-23T22:51:00.010-04:00

In case you haven't noticed or don't know my daughter, she's quite the performer. She's always pretending to do this, singing about that or just plain dramatic. But the other day her performance earned a standing ovation in my heart.

I was in the kitchen cleaning up while she and Nathan were in the living room. He was happy to be in his little world full of balls, rattles and other toys he could chew on. And apparently Ava's world was pretty good at that moment too.

"I love you...you love me..." she sang in the Barney theme song tune. "You are my best friend...yes you are", at this point I peeked in there to see her serenading her little brother. My heart melted as she continued.

"It is true love, it is true love, it has to be! It has to be! True looooovvve!"

Okay, so while most of us think "true love" in the romantic sense, it made me realize that REAL true love has nothing to do with romance or romantic feelings, but has everything to do with TRUE LOVE.

Thanks baby girl, you taught your mother something today.

Easter Traditions and Travels

2010-04-04T22:01:00.018-04:00

What do you get when you have 2 families + 2 egg hunts + 215 miles + TOO much candy? Answer, EASTER!

Growing up holidays were filled with family and food! Today, I'm happy to report that we carried on that very tradition!

The day started bright and early for Jason -- BEEP, BEEP, BEEP - his alarm started squawking was 5:45am. Up and at 'em! He was headed into work for, count them, 4 Easter services at St. Luke's.

My day started not much later - at 6am I got up, fed Nathan, but him back to bed, then began the get-ready-for-church routine, because this was NOT a day I wanted to be late for church, that is for sure! And believe it or not - we made it - I was even showered!

After church the kiddos and I headed over to Mimi's for Easter festivities. We met up with Aunt Amanda and her crew as well as Auntie Jen. Mimi had special goodies waiting for the little ones as well as an egg hunt.

Once round 1 of the candy was ingested - we were off. A quick pit-stop at home to have a non-sugar-laced lunch and pick up Daddy, then we hit the road again -- destination: O-HI-O!

Not only were we celebrating Easter with my Mom's side of the family, but we were also celebrating my PaPa's 85th birthday!

It isn't a Beach Family Easter without an egg hunt, so the tradition carried on - thankfully though, Uncle Billy's "special egg" tradition of replacing candy with worms or even worse, dog doo, didn't! :)

It was a great day - the only thing that would have made it better was to be able to go to church with my husband on Easter - but when duty calls - and it is God calling, you must answer, so I understand.

Forever Young

2010-03-21T14:39:00.003-04:00

All too often, I think about how quickly my kids are growing up. It seems just like yesterday we were bringing Ava home from the hospital with her head full of hair. Now, here we are nearly 4 years and another baby (who is almost a 1/2 year old, I know its dramatic, but seriously!) later.

For some reason Ava has a facisnation wtih Kindergarten. I'm not kidding - honestly for the past 2 years she has been talking about going to kindergarten - and the truth of the matter is - she'll be going to her first day of K in just over a year! Eeek! How did that happen?

A couple of weeks ago we did some pre-school shopping. Ava seemed to really enjoy seeing the different schools and she definitely liked the idea of going to a real school. Or so I thought.

The other day when we were driving home from work (and daycare) she spontaneously broke out into tears.

"I don't want to grow up and go to Kindergarten, Mom."

Curious and caught off guard I asked why.

"I want to stay a little girl!"

Ahhh....those words were music to my ears. Just when I thought she'd turn into a tween, then teen in a matter of minutes - my baby girl wants to stay forever young!

Making 101 Memories

2010-03-14T21:40:00.005-04:00

Yesterday I received a call from a good friend asking if I would be able to use two tickets to the Broadway production of 101 Dalmations. Of course I "barked" at the chance!

The thought of taking my little princess to the theatre for the very first time made me feel like Daddy Warbucks taking Annie to see her very first movie. I prepared Ava the day before and told her that we were going to a special show and that she got to wear a pretty dress. That alone makes for a good day for my ruffle-loving little girl.

We arrived right on time and quickly made our way to our FRONT ROW seats. Before the curtain was raised, I managed to get a quick video of the pre-show excitment as Ava was taking it all in.

With her eyes as big as saucers, the show began. The look on Ava's face and hearing her belly laugh, was enough for me (yes, I did get a little teary-eyed as I savored the moment) - so the INCREDIBLE stage production was just icing on the cake. My almost-4-year-old was glued to the show the entire time.

While most of the play was acted out by people, there were some pups on stage as well. And in order to differeniate the humans from the humans playing puppies, all the 'humans' in the story were all on stilts. I found this facinating and kept thinking, "That's a long way down...hope they don't fall!"

The music was fantastic - the storyline, terrific - truly a show for all ages. In fact, the woman sitting next to us could have been my grandmother and she too was having a great time. Though during Cruella De Ville's first appearance in which she was wearing a bust-defining strapless dress, the little old lady leaned over to me and said, 'Oh, she's about to have a wardrobe issue!'

Really, if this show is coming to your town - or any town near you, it is a MUST see!

So thanks to E for being generous enough to share the tickets and allow me to share 101 memories with my sweet baby girl. Even if she doesn't remember much from this day, I know I always will.

A New View of the World

2010-03-05T15:21:00.004-05:00

While my little guy may not offer as many laugh-out-loud stories as his big sister just yet - he does enjoy showing off his new tricks from the camera! Looks like he enjoys his new view of the world...

The 2nd Born

2010-02-17T21:33:00.012-05:00

I know I've been terrible about posting, but life has been a wee bit busy these past several months. However I did take time to notice that the posts I have made have primarily - okay all been about Ava. So in an effort to not make my son feel like the 2nd child already, I'm dedicating this blog entry to my dear sweet, sweet little man.

Nathan has been busy growing the last for months - litterally. He is nearly 15lbs and 25 inches long...that's 5 inches in just 4 months. Not sure if that is really a lot or not, but to this 5' 3" mother, is sure sounds like a lot.

In case there was any question, he is a great eater. I feel so fortunate that breastfeeding has been easier the second time around -- makes me even more proud to see such great growth. No solid foods yet, we'll start those around 6 months. But something tells me he's gonna like them. And I'm looking forward to making baby food again!

Everyday more of his little personality comes out. He loves his exersaucer and Bumbo seat and is really taking to his big sister. It doesn't take much from her to get a great big belly laugh from him.

Having two kids may be busy, but it is more than rewarding when I see interacting and loving each other.

3 and Tellin' It Like It Is...

2010-01-30T09:14:00.007-05:00

It's been awhile since I've shared one of my daughter's antics...so here's one for the books!

Last night I was putting Nate in his car seat getting ready to go to dinner and my shirt was scrunching up in the back, exposing my oh-so-hot love handles. My dear, tell-it-like-it-is 3.5 year old, comes up behind me and proceeds to squeeze my back-fat and says, "hey mom - your butt is just so squishy!"

First of all, it is sad that she thinks my butt and back are one in the same, second of all, that's not where she stopped with the "compliments".

Now stroking the flab, she testified, "But Mom, it's not jiggly, its just shaking!", as if a clarification was needed.

Then she begins pinching the chub and says, "It just shakes SO much, Mom!"

At this point I was nearly in tears...I'm still trying to figure out if its because I was laughing or crying because the truth hurts...especially when its coming from a 3-year old. :)

Family Tradition, Faith Passed Down

2010-01-29T23:50:00.016-05:00

Apparent by the absence of blog postings, life has been a wee bit hectic this last month or so.

After a fun-family-filled holiday season it was time to get back to work...literally! I returned to my full-time PR job at Angie's List. To say that I was anxious about making my debut as a WORKING mom of 2 was an understatement. I was petrified. However, I'm happy to report that thanks to a great boss and an even more wonderful husband, the transition couldn't have been any more smooth.

A couple of weeks after my return we celebrated Nathan's baptism. As a Catholic, many times I feel like I do things 'because that's what Catholics do' (ie: go to church on Sunday) and don't always really think about what it is I'm doing and why. This is how I've felt in the past about baptisms - I knew it was important - but felt is was important 'because that's what Catholics' do. But not any more.

While there was a great sense of tradition as my son was baptized in the same baptisamal gown that I, my daughter, sister, mother, grandfather, great-grandfather and a gazillion other extended family members were baptised in, its 120+ years old. There was something more.

It could be because I'm a Mom now, or maybe its because I have a better understanding of my faith and now know how important it is to instill the same values in my kids that were instilled in me when I was growing up (thanks Mom & Dad), but I found Nathan's baptism to be very spiritual, personal and moving (yes, I cried...real shocker there, I know!).

We felt so blessed to have everyone from both sides of the family be part of Nathan's special day - even my brother and his crew from Atlanta made it up for the event!

For us, Nathan's baptism wasn't just "a Catholic thing" - and it wasn't just our thing. It was a family moment where our families gathered in support of us and in support of Nathan as he officially began his journey with God (ohhh, shoot, I'm getting all teary-eyed again).

Year End Wrap Up

2009-12-31T13:33:00.008-05:00

Like most everyone, I can't believe that another year has come and gone! So much has happened in 2009 and all in all I have to say it has been a great year!

January-March

The kicked off with anticipation of a tropical work-paid vacation (thank you very much Angie's List) to the Dominican Republic with my sister Amy. For those of you who know my husband, you know why he wasn't joining me on the trip.

But even before I headed to the airport the excitment began! About 12 hours before boarding the plane bound for balmy beaches and unlimited adult beverages, I found out I was pregnant with baby #2! Ha! It was a little surprise - about a month ahead of our schedule, but God had His own plan and it was a VERY BIG blessing!

So instead of sitting on the beach sipping cocktails all week - I basked in the sun sipping on "mocktails" - hoping no one would notice the difference!

April-June

My baby girl turned the big 3 in April while her Daddy turned the big 3-4! Can he really almost be 35? Dang! Makes me feel old...but I'll always be younger than him!

In May I officially began the blog and found that stories of Ava's antics would quickly become the focus of many entries. A fan-favorite: "The F-It List".

We had hoped to repeat our Michel Family vacation to Holiday World in May or June, but we weren't quite able to make it. And good thing we nixed it because my sister Shelley had her baby, Joshua 10 days early - I'm pretty sure she was glad that she didn't deliver in St. Claus, IN!

While we didn't make it to St. Claus, IN, we did make it to Atlanta and Miami on a week-long road trip! What a great time we had visiting my brother and his family as well as our friends in MIA!

July-September

With the year more than halfway over, my pregnancy was moving right along. I can't complain, it was a good pregnancy - though this time around the carpal tunnel was really kicking my tush by the beginning of September.

Before the little man arrived, I wanted to be sure that we did some special things before the three of us turned into the four of us -- so we treated Ava to her very first Circus! We all had a great time!

October-December

Obviously the biggest highlight of the year came on October 8th at 12:57am. We welcomed our son into the world!

The past 12 weeks I've gotten to spend with him have been such a blessing. While I didn't know what it would be like with two, it is exactly everything that I had hoped it would be.

Nathan timed his birth perfectly! I was able to be off work through the holidays which was terrific! We spent lots of time with family and even took a few road trips to Dayton to visit with my extended family.

2009 has been a great year for us - one that has been filled with lots of laughs, love, memories and of course "Ava antics". I hope the year has been a blessing for you as well and pray that 2010 may bring us all continued happiness and health.

Gooooo Ava!!

2009-12-19T14:38:00.003-05:00

I've blogged before about how Ava takes after me in the dance department - well now she has discovered yet another skill that comes straight from her mother -- cheerleading! (In case you didn't know, I WAS the Captain of the cheerleading squad - Gooo Eagles!)

Not sure where she saw cheerleading - but I cracked up yesterday when she announced her 127th wardrobe change of the day and said it was her cheerleading outfit. I must say I was pretty impressed with the fact that she thought to make a leotard into a cheerleading outfit by pairing it with tennish shoes! She's pretty innovative when it comes to her garb!

While most cheerleaders cheer on teams or players - she prefers to cheer on her fellow rah-rah girls! Guess you could say she's a real cheerleader's cheerleader!

Now while she still has to work on her grace, I definitely give her spirit fingers for her energy!

Say What?

2009-12-14T15:03:00.003-05:00

I've been really slow on the blogs these days - but honestly every day I say to myself, 'I need to blog about that'. Most of the time it is about funny things Ava says - so here is a quick run down of the latest laugh-out-loud remarks my lovely 3-year old has said!

When Jason went into her room to check on her she shreiked, "Dad, you're freaking me out!"

I was trying to get her to clean up her playroom and repeatedly kept telling her to pick up her dress-up clothes, when she informed me, "Mom, you're driving me nuts!"

We recently rented the new Tinkerbell movie, to which she has attributed the following italicized phrases:

When she see's Nate for the first time after he gets up (using her 'baby voice' of course): "Well there's that dreadful monster! Hello!"

I was trying to convice her to change her big girl pants in the morning. I said they were dirty, she said they weren't. I told her she dribbled a little in them, she said, "Mom! They are not dirty - don't jug (judge) me!"

She is just too witty for words - if you'd ever like to check her out for yourself, just let me know - she's available to rent!

Over the River and Through the Woods...

2009-11-24T08:38:00.011-05:00

While on maternity leave I really wanted to take advantage of the time and spend some quality time with my family...both immediate and extended. So yesterday, Jason and I packed up the fam and headed out on our first road trip to Ohio!

Before going over to my parents house for dinner, where we had a wonderful visit, we stopped by my grandparent's house.

Being one of forty-plus (yes, I said 4-0) grandkids, it is not often you get much 1-on-1 time with Grandma and Grandpa, so when I get the chance to spend the afternoon with them and Aunt Patty, I love it!

As a child I have fond memories of sitting on my Grandpa's lap as he packed his pipe and told the me and the other grandkids colorful stories about Santa Claus. Oh, that was the most exciting time of the year at Grandma and Grandpa's - it really got my imagination going!

So when Ava climbed up on his lap and listened to the same stories he told me years ago, it touched my heart and is a memory as a mother I'll never forget.

Other memorable moments from the visit:

*Hearing my Grandpa give his signature approval of the newest member of the family (Nathan), "He's a good lookin' kid! I tell you! He's a good lookin' kid! Say! Say!"

*Learning that my grandparents paid $7,500 for their first HOUSE

*When I asked how they did it with 13 kids, my Grandpa as a matter of factly said, "We did it one at a time." This really spoke to me because so often I fret about the "what ifs" in life...but I need to just take each challenge, 'one at a time'.

*Hearing my grandparents talking about baby Bobby who passed away when he was just 4 months old. It was clear that even after 50+ years, there is still some pain over the loss, yet a whole lot of love for their baby boy.

*The realization that we live in a very different world than my grandparents grew up in. My grandpa referred to the internet as the intercom! Ha, ha, this made me laugh!

So this Thanksgiving, not only am I thankful for my family -- but I'm eternally grateful for these moments that I got to spend with them.

Once Upon a Time....

2009-11-16T09:18:00.003-05:00

Anyone who knows me knows I'm a hopeless romantic, and apparently the apple doesn't fall from the fairytale tree!

The other day I received an exciting email from a friend of mine announcing her engagement to an awesome guy! As I was reading it I said, "Oh, yay!!!"

Ava heard me and ran up and said, "What? What is it Mom?"

I said, 'My friend is getting married!"

To which she inquired, "What is her prince's name?"

"Greg," I said.

Apparently not happy with my response she corrected me saying, "How about Prince Charming??"

Here's to wishing that Princess Megan and Prince Greg live happily ever after!

The Adventures of Ava, Part II

2009-11-11T13:53:00.005-05:00

After the bead in the nose incident - I thought the drama was over...but little did I know Ava was about to head out on another adventure!

It was Monday afternoon and we were all enjoying some quiet time, until - CRASH!

With the baby in my arms, I quickly ran out of the office - trying to figure out where the crash came from, then I heard Ava crying. Realizing that her room was the scene of the crime, I bolted in there to find her dresser overturned and her partially pinned underneath it!

She was on the floor smashed up against the side of th bed with her ankle stuck under the dresser. I tried to pull the dresser off, but had a hard time since I was still holding the baby. Thankfully Jason was home and ran in and lifted it off of her. While we were concerned that her leg was broken, she was more concerned about the jammies she was trying to get when the dresser took a tumble.

Yes, I said jammies...and yes it was in the middle of the day. Some girls love purses or shoes - my little one loves her jammies!

The Adventures of Ava, Part I

2009-11-10T15:47:00.004-05:00

I've heard all sorts of stories about what it is like to have a boy. They're busy, rambunctious, rowdy and adventurous. While I haven't yet seen any of those sides of my little guy, my little girl certainly seems to be preparing me for the future.

Pretty much since Nathan has been born, Ava has decided she's too big to take naps - which means two things - she's a sass and a half by dinner time and bedtime is now at 7:30pm. Most nights she exhausted by the time 7pm rolls around, so she's knocked out after a book, prayers and drink of water...that is most nights. However Sunday was not most nights.

After a few trips upstairs to answer her, "Mom, I need you calls" I was exhausted and decided to protest, determined not to make another trip up the stairs unless it was to carry myself to bed - but then I caved.

In a very calm, buy very concerned voice I heard, "Mom, I need help. Mom, I need help."

The longer I waited to respond the more anxious Ava's calls became, "MOM, help me!"

At that point I started up the stairs - about halfway up, with some major annoyance in my voice I said, "What? What do you need help with?"

That's when I heard it. She said, "My nose! There's a bead in my nose!"

"Oh, crap!" I thought. "What?? You put a bead in your nose?"

"Yes", she replied, "I can't breathe."

Quickly I took her into the bathroom and tilted her head back - sure enough I could see just enough of the pink iridescent bead to know that she was telling the truth and it wasn't going to be easy to get out.

I armed myself with tweeters and a nasal aspirator, not sure which to use first or if either would work at all. Thankfully, I didn't have a chance to find out because Jason had a better idea.

He held down the beadless nostril and told Ava to blow!

Faster than snot (ha, ha get it?) the bead came shooting out of her nose at lightening speed!

Relieved that it was out, Ava gave her take on the whole situation.

"Mom, that was BAD!"

"Yes," I told her, "We don't put ANYTHING up our noses."

She agreed and added, "Only boogers go in our nose!"

Hey, at least she knows the don't go in her mouth!

Busted!

2009-11-03T09:32:00.010-05:00

Our house is like many the day after Halloween: early morning risers thanks to all the sugar from the night before and requests for MORE candy first thing in the morning!

Of course any good parent says "No, it's too early" to those requests from the little ones - but there is just something about a mini Snickers bar for breakfast that I personally can't resist.

So after getting Ava all set up with a healthy breakfast, I snuck a couple pieces of candy for myself, careful not to let her see me with it, however I forgot to hide the evidence.

When Ava saw the two candy wrappers she immediately questioned in a very grown up voice, "Mooom..."

"Ut oh", I thought.

Giving me the benefit of the doubt she asked, "Are these from yesterday?" pointing to the not one, but two empty wrappers on the plate.

After tap dancing my way around the candy interrogation, I thought I was home free until....she puckered up to give me a smooch.

"Oh Mom, you smell like candy!!" she declared.

Unable to do anything but laugh out loud and knew I was officially busted, and so did she. Quick to take advantage of my vulnerability she made her next move - "Can I have a piece?" she asked.

Acknowledging my defeat I caved to her request....and enjoyed one more piece myself!

Ugh...How Rude!

2009-10-28T14:38:00.007-04:00

We've all heard the saying, "Kids say the darndest things"...well that is an everyday realization in my life.

Yesterday after a fun-filled afternoon with her cousin, Kate, Ava was bouncing off the walls. Jason had a late meeting so I had to fend for myself with the baby in tow.

The girls had a great afternoon of play including, dress up and playing doctor - and the playroom was proof of the fun they had. Before dinner, which was cereal by the way, I asked Ava to go clean her playroom. Knowing that she's a 3.5 year old, I wasn't expecting perfection, but a little effort would have been nice.

After asking about 3 times - I told her to go pick it up, giving her specific little tasks, like 'put your dress=up clothes in the drawer and pick up your books.' Well that didn't work - in fact it backfired.

When I walked into the room she had knocked over her baby bed, dumped out all the stuffed animals and made an even bigger mess. Frustrated and annoyed I sent her to time out. Once it was over, I instructed her to go back to her playroom and clean up, this while I was changing the babies diaper.

About a minute or so later, she came out to the living room and said -- and I do quote:

"Mom, I know you put me in time out because I was being sassy and not listening....but, you can't be RUDE to me!"

Oh, Lord help me - its just so hard to be a disciplinarian when she's so darn cute!

She's Having a Baby!

2009-10-27T21:36:00.002-04:00

We've all heard of "motherly instincts" and clearly my little girl has them...and clearly she went to more than a couple of doctors appointments with us while I was pregnant with the little guy!

Check out her version of "playing doctor" with her cousin:

Quarantine Lifted?

2009-10-23T15:54:00.007-04:00

Having a new baby can be stressful and having a new baby in the midst of flu season just adds to the drama.

It doesn't help that everytime you turn on the news there is more H1N1 hype...but add into the mix a germ-a-phobe husband and I'm lucky to still have my sanity.

Now before I go any further, I really do appreciate that my husband is concerned - I know his neurotic worry-wart tendencies come from a good place, but that doesn't mean that he doesn't drive me nuts with them sometimes.

This is what my kitchen counter looks like...I promise I didn't not gather up all those bottles...they are there...and then there is a super-sized bottle upstairs as well! I'm waiting for the vat to be placed outside the front door, so Jason can hand-dip anyone wanting to come inside.

For the past week we've have a visitor ban in our house, again, not a bad thing, just a bummer. My siblings and their families have yet to meet Nathan and Jason's mom is just dying to get an in-person peek again. She has even offered to just look at him through the window! :)

After much debate and realizing that we can't live in our little bubble forever, we decided the best thing for us to do to protect ourselves is to get the H1N1 vaccine. Do I think the effects of H1N1 are horrible and life-threatening, no. But do I realize that what may be mild symptoms for me could be serious for a newborn baby.

So now that we're on the road to protection, I think the quarantine can be lifted...but God help anyone who brings a sniffle into the house - I think they'll be on the permanent "Do Not Call" list. :)

Welcome to the World!

2009-10-13T09:08:00.020-04:00

The absence of new entries can only mean one thing...my little man has arrived!!

Nathan William wiggled his way into the world, very quickly in the wee morning hours on Thursday October 8th. Weighing in at 7lbs, 10oz he is perfect.

Here's how it all went down:

6pm - Hoping to get things moving, I convinced Jason that we needed to go out to dinner - Mexican of course; by the time we left, I felt a couple random contractions

730pm - Hoping to keep things moving, I took a brisk walk with my wonderful neighbor, Amy.

8pm - Contractions started coming, I started timing - 3-4mins apart, starting to build in strength

9:30pm - time to call the doc! Contractions were 3 minuts apart and feeling pretty strong

10:30pm - left for hospital

10:50pm - arrived at hopsital, 4-5 cm dilated

11:30pm - got to my room; now 7cm and feeling STRONG contractions

After this point I don't have a clue as to the time on the clock, all I know is that it was FAST! Jason had to run down to the car, the nurse told him to HURRY. While he was gone I had two of the worst contractions I'd ever experienced. During the 2nd one, my water broke. Exactly 10 minutes later, Nathan was born NATURALLY at 12:57am!

Thankfully, the doctor was wearing roller skates because he litterally walked in about 3 minutes before Nathan's grand entrance.

Life with Nathan is just perfect! Big sister Ava couldn't be adjusting any better. She's still as sweet as can be. As a matter of fact over the past 5 days she has said the following, which just makes me melt...or crack up:

To Nathan when he was crying, "Oh, its okay baby Nathan, I will protect you."
To Nathan in the car (using her 'baby talk' voice), "Hi Nate! Hi Nate! You like me??"
To me while I was nursing him, "Mom, why he want to drink your boob?"

One of the sweetest things I think she said though, was to me. I was a little weepy, so grateful for all that I have. She quickly turned around and said, "Mom you crying?"

I told her it was because I love her so much it hurts.

Here's where she got me, she said, "But mom, love doesn't hurt."

Ohh..can she be any sweeter? I don't think so.

Meatloaf with Sprinkles, please!

2009-10-07T11:56:00.005-04:00

Most days on my way home from work, Ava and I engage in the typical after-school discussion.

"Did you have a good day today?"

"Did you take a good nap?"

And some days, as a way to gauge we'll be having for dinner, I ask, "What did you have for lunch today?" Yesterday was one of those days.

Intially she told me she had pizza, but quickly corrected herself and said she had "meat".

"Meat?" I said. "What kind of meat?"

"Sprinkle meat" she said with all the confidence in the world.

Not having a clue as to what she was talking about, I let it go. Afterall, while I didn't know what it was, I knew we wouldn't be having it for dinner and that's really all that mattered to me.

Fast forward to today. I got an update from Ava's teacher just letting me know that her snaggle tooth didn't seem to be bothering her yesterday - as a matter of fact she said for lunch they had all soft foods: peas, mixed fruit and meatloaf.

Ah, ha! It all makes sense -- the mystery "sprinkle meat", was meatloaf!

So before you turn up your nose at a plate full of meatloaf and think of it as a meat-mush-pie, think of it as "sprinkle meat"...that's what Ava does!
Afterall, sprinkles do make everything taste better!

Forgive and Forget?

2009-10-06T04:27:00.006-04:00

Waiting for the arrival of a new baby can be excuriating - so apparently God has decided to give us something to divert our attention.

Tonight I sent Ava upstairs to put on her jammies. I thought that would be a good time to hurry up and vacuum the living room. She changed her clothes in record time and I hadn't realized she was standing behind me when I drew back the vacuum and accidently smacked her in the mouth with the handle!

Oh, I knew it wasn't good when I turned around to find her laid out on the floor. I quickly picked her up and took her into the kitchen to investigate, I was right it wasn't good.

While I hadn't completely knocked out her front tooth, I had dislodged it and shoved it up into the gum. Oh, it makes me sick to my stomach just thinking about it.

Feeling like the world's worst mom, I called the pediatrician. She told me there wasn't anything we could do tonight, so we just gave her some tylenol and hoped for the best until we can get to the pediatric dentist in the morning.

As Jason and I cuddled in bed with her, I realized how much of a big girl my little girl really is. She said, "Mom, why did you bump me with the vacuum?" I told her it was an accident and I didn't know she was behind me as I vacuumed. She said, "I'm sorry, Mom, I didn't mean to be behind you."

"Aww, baby girl, it is not your fault, it was just an accident. I'm sorry, do you forgive me?" I said.

"Yes I forgive you," said Ava.

Feeling a little relieved that I hadn't completely traumatized her, I wrapped up our bedtime prayers. As I was leaving Ava stopped me.

"Mom, I have to tell you something. Tomorrow, don't bump me with the vacuum."

It was clear she had forgiven me, but hadn't forgotten. Maybe her jacked up tooth and fat lip had something to do with it.

The Waiting Game

2009-09-26T15:30:00.001-04:00

The countdown has been on for the past 39 weeks, now I feel as if we're almost counting down the hours until the arrival of my first son!

I originially thought I'd be late - but after yesterday's doctor's appointment, I'm thinking this little man is already trying to prove me wrong! I would be VERY suprised if I made it to my due date of Oct. 4th.

The family has placed their guesses and my co-workers have placed their bets! They're tossing in $1 for date guesses and another dollar for weight guesses. Seems funny that they're the ones paying - considering they'll be doing my work for me for the next 3 months, kinda seems like I should be paying them! Well guess that's why I like them so much - they're cool like that!

My parents are really hoping my little man will arrive on October 1st, as that is my Dad's birthday and it could be very possible. Birthdays in our family have a strange tendency to fall on signifcant days in the fam.

So here's to hoping for a safe and healthy grand entrance for my yet-to-be named son who I already love so much!

Battle of the Bellies

2009-09-21T19:32:00.005-04:00

Like many first time moms I was obsessed with taking belly pictures. For the entire 40 weeks I snapped pictures every two weeks. (God love my family for humoring me and looking at them twice a month!). But this time, since I have a 3 year old to chase around, somehow the weeks have flown by and I just haven't had a chance to capture as many belly shots as before.

But tonight I took 1 minute to myself, during Ava's bathtime to snap away. I thought it would be fun to compare my bellies...

Here's me at 38 weeks with Ava...

Here's me 38 weeks now....

I think I look like I dropped more at this point with Ava...and she was 2 days overdue - so something tells me this little guy won't be coming early!

Elephants, Tigers and Clowns, Oh My!

2009-09-16T21:07:00.007-04:00

Before we welcome Ava's little brother into the family, Jason and I really wanted to do something special just the three of us. So we decided to take her to The Greatest Show on Earth!

The circus was in town and I seriously think Jason and I were more excited about our family date night then she was! We had it all planned out - first dinner was at the Old Spaghetti Factory because that is Ava's new favorite food - then a quick 1 block walk to Conseco Fieldhouse for Ava's first ever CIRCUS!!!

Despite the ridiculously priced items, we knew we were going to give our baby girl something special. My thought was COTTON CANDY - after all it was the circus and it wasn't a school night for her. But then I realized the cotton candy was $12!!

Next idea, a snow cone, it was $9, but seemed a little more reasonable considering you got to keep the cute little clown cup that came with it.

But Ava had something else in mind...a $4 jumbo sucker - still overpriced, buy "cheap" by circus standards!

All in all we had a great night and she already has plans to go next year...hope she doesn't mind doing a double date with her little brother!

Nesting in the Nursery

2009-09-15T13:23:00.011-04:00

If you've talked to me lately you know I've been "nesting" like crazy! For the past couple of weeks, aside from cleaning out the fridge and scrubbing the bathrooms, I've been busy turning the guest room into the little man's nursery.

Jason did a great job bringing my vision for the paint to life a couple of weeks ago. We love how the horizontal stripes turned out - I think he could have his own show on HGTV with his stripe-painting skills!

Last weekend with the guidance of Jason's cousin, Annie - who really should be called "Martha" and some over-the-phone advice from my Momma, I tackled the more domestic decorating 'to do' list.

I successfully managed to re-cover the rocking chair cushions, make a new skirt for the table and make a new lamp shade. While I am very proud of myself, don't look too closely as it isn't perfect, but for my first time running a sewing machine it isn't half bad!

The only thing the room is missing are the letters for above the crib...but those will have to wait - until we actually have a name for the little guy.

Busted!

2009-09-13T20:30:00.004-04:00

Admit it, every parent has done in at least once...maybe even once a week!

It's late, you're exhausted, its story time and your kid manages to fine the LOOONGEST book on the shelf. So after about page 4, you decide to speed things up a bit with a little hop, skip and a jump of pages.

Tonight that was my plan when Ava picked out Pocahontas. I tried to convince her to choose a different book at first, reminding her that she just read Pocahontas yesterday, but it was clear there wasn't any convincing to be done. So put up my white flag and snuggled in with her and openned the book with my "plan" in mind.

After about 5 pages it was time to take action. Very carefully I turned a few...okay, make that 10 pages at one time and quickly kept ready. I thought I was safe until she said, "Oh Mom, you forgot this page!"

And to make sure I didn't "forget" again - she carefully instructed as she turned pages, "And then after that page, is this page and then this page."

All I can say is "BUSTED!"

Say Cheese!

2009-09-04T21:14:00.012-04:00

After a 2 week delay, today we were so excited to be able to take our latest round of family photos with photographer extraordinaire -- Jessica Johnston.

Today we spent about an hour and a half with her at the goregous Lilly Gardens. I've included a couple of my favorite shots, but you can check out the complete preview on her blog.

I found Jessica about two years ago on IndyMoms.com and have been addicted to her work ever since our first photo session with her!

If you're ever looking for an EXCELLENT photographer, be sure to check her out - her work is amazing!

Ava's Got Talent

2009-08-29T07:35:00.004-04:00

Look out Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson and Jordan Sparks - Ava could be the next American Idol!

3 going on 13!

2009-08-23T21:30:00.005-04:00

My lovely daughter may only be in the single digits, but lately she has been acting like she has another decade under her belt!

The other night was a special treat because I was out and she got to hang with her Daddy. When I came home at 9:30pm (I know, crazy night on the town!) the two of them were engrossed in "Ghost Busters".

Trying to be the "cool" mom and not ruin their moment I decided to let her stay up a wee bit longer, after all it was a Friday night.

So 10:00pm rolled around and it was time to round her up and get her into bed. Like any 3 year old, she had every excuse as to why she couldn't sleep:

I'm thirsty
I'm hungry
I can't see (uh...yes, it is dark, you're not supposed to be able to see)

Finally as we were approaching 11pm, I made one final attempt to remove the books, tutus and magic wands from her bed and tell her it WAS bedtime. She apparently had one final attempt of her own.

She said, "Mom, I have a question to tell you."

Annoyed, as I was walking towards the door I said, "You can ask me your question in the morning. Good night."

As I was closing the door I hear a deep sigh and my 3-year old say, in her best 13-year old voice, "Uh! You never listen to me."

God help me, if she's this dramatic now, I'm not sure what I'm going to do when she hits her teens!

The Other Woman

2009-08-21T15:10:00.009-04:00

We’ve all heard the stories..and now I’m afraid one of those stories is my reality.

Today my husband’s other woman showed up on our front porch.

Her name is Roxanne.

I have to admit, she’s a beauty…I guess, If you’re into that look. But honestly, she doesn’t really have much of a personality and seems a little high maintenance, but J says he knows how to push all her right buttons. That is something I’ll NEVER figure out.

Meet Roxanne:

A Reason to Give Thanks

2009-08-20T20:28:00.005-04:00

There are so many things in life that pass us by so quickly that I think we often forget to enjoy them, forget to recognize them and forget to give thanks for them. Today I’m choosing to enjoy, recognize and give thanks for one of those moments.

I’ve previously talked about the Angie’s List Wishmakers program in the past. Many times the requests we get are heart-breaking, but I think one that has really touched my life is the story of a Cleveland area family who lost their three little girls, in a devastating house fire back in 2007.

Despite their situation, this family is always so grateful for what they have and doesn’t focus on all they've lost.

Today, the mom, Roschelle, shared a “praise Jesus” moment with me that I can’t help but pass along.

In the fire, the house was a total loss, so they’ve been working to rebuild it ever since. Despite some insurance money and many donations, they’re running out of funds and time (they’ve been paying a mortgage and rent for the past 18 months). Finding affordable kitchen cabinets was the next big thing on their to-do list before their end of the month move-in date.

Stressed about what they were going to do, Roschelle stopped what she was doing and said a prayer. She handed over her concerns (and fears) and vowed to let God do His work.

A few moments later, she got a feeling that she needed to call a cabinet store she had accidently run across several weeks earlier. She found out that not only would they be able to install an entire kitchen in just a few days, but they were also willing to put them on a payment plan, as they don’t have the funds for an up-front purchase. While on the phone with the store owner, Roschelle said, “Praise Jesus! Thank you.”

When she arrived at the store she was floored by all the beautiful cabinets and thought she surely couldn’t afford any of them. Just then, the owner said to her, “By the way, we’re donating an entire kitchen to you. God told me to give them to you.”

Is that unbelievable or what?

But what is even more incredible – is that Roschelle NEVER told the woman about her story or the loss of her children, the woman just "knew" she was in need.

Now that gives me goose bumps and is proof that God is good!

This is "zit"!

2009-08-18T20:50:00.007-04:00

Growing up I have many fond memories - many of which my family members swear NEVER happened, but there is one thing we can all remember quite clearly. Mom squeezing our black-heads!

Yes, sounds gross - and quite honestly it was - but admit it, you've all done it. You've stood in front of the mirror for 20 minutes trying to get one of those squiggly little suckers to pop! You know how good it feels when you get a "good one!" Am I right?!

Now, I know, the difference is that you get an adreneline rush from squeezing your zits, not someone elses. I felt the same way - until my husband came along. Like many men, skin care isn't a top priority for my lovie - so I take it upon myself to help him out in that area.

Not too often, but every once and awhile he lets me pull out the tweezers and have at his bulging black heads. I love it! Must have gotten it from my mom...and apparently Ava is already getting it from me.

The other morning, I asked her to help put lotion on my back. After a few careful strokes across my shoulder blades she suddenly stopped. I asked, "What's wrong, honey?"

With concentration in her voice she said, "Just a minute Mom, I picking a zit on your back!"

Ahhh...the family tradition continues.

Ewww..that Smell!

2009-08-16T08:36:00.003-04:00

You can always count on one thing in life - kids to tell you the truth!

The other morning, as usual I was smothering Ava with hugs and kisses when she suddenly pulled away from me and said, "Ewww...Mommy, you're breaf (breath) is tinky (stinky). You need to go brush your teef (teeth)."

I told her that I already brushed my teeth. She continued with another possible solution for my supposed hallitocious.

"Mom, would you like some gum? You like gum!"

At that point I busted out laughing - then promptly went upstairs to brush my teeth - again - just in case the kid was on to something!

Am I THAT Mother?

2009-08-13T10:41:00.008-04:00

We've all seen them...you can spot them a mile away by their child's crooked hair cut. I swore I'd never be THAT mother.

In fact, I've treated my little princess to an Aveda salon more than once to tame her tressles. But I can't really justify spending $25 on a kids cut - so I've just been trimming it up every so often. Promising that I'll take her back to Ms. Tori for a real cute soon. But sadly, I think I may becoming THAT mother. Judge for yourself.

Ava before any haircut...

With her first Tori 'do....

Mom's 'do #1....
Mom's 'do #2.....

Hopefully they're won't be a Mom 'do #3 or my child will be bald! Help! I admit I am THAT mother. But the first step is admitting my fault, right?!

The Name Game

2009-08-03T20:23:00.004-04:00

So we're in the homestretch until Mr. Man arrives! We haven't decided on a name, as we like to see the little one looks like before giving him a name he'll be stuck with forever.

Generally we like classic male names - the only problem is so do my siblings and they've already used many of our favorites! Guess that's what I get for being the 4th child out of 5. First come, first serve, right?!

So here are the names that are out of the running: Charlie, Max, Robbie, Jack and Joshua.

While we do have our top two favorites, we are open to other suggestions as well. So do tell, what are your favorite boy names?

Once Upon a Time...

2009-08-02T09:19:00.004-04:00

Like most little girls, growing up I liked dressing up. But I don't think I was ever as obsessed with it as my Princess Ava.

Each morning pretty much starts the same. Here's the rundown from today:

8:00am - "Mom, Mom! I'm ready to get up!"

8:02am - Princess outfit #1

8:05am - "Mom, I going to borrow Ariel's prince, so she can't get married."

8:10am - Princess outfit #2

8:11am - "Oh, no, Mom, the clock says 12 - I going to be late for the wedding! I have to get Prince Eric!" (I thought it was especially cute how she combined the Little Mermaid and Cinderella in this one)

And on it goes throughout the day.

Let me just take thank my boss for the great dress up clothes (especially the Ariel dress) her little princess donated to our cause last year. Those tutus, tiaras and princess shoes have provided HOURS of fun for my little princess.

Belly Etiquette

2009-07-30T12:59:00.013-04:00

(Yes, I took a "smoke break" at work to take this picture.)

Before I get started, for the record, I understand that men have never been pregnant, however their inexperience does not excuse their ignorance.

So yesterday evening I was outside with Ava when a neighbor, who we'll just call "Richard", saw us and decided to make conversation. That's great - we all know I'm a talker, so conversation is great! The problem came with how he started the conversation.

"So Angie, when are you going get rid of THAT thing, anyway?!"

In case you're lost, 'that thing' he was referring to was my ever-expanding pregnant belly.

Stunned by his bluntness, which I'm still trying to decide if it teetered on rudeness, I quickly responded with, "Oh it'll be awhile!"

"Really?!", continued "Richard". "Yep, really!" I said.

Then the look he gave me was as if I was so huge that I was about to give birth right then and there. Now don't get me wrong, I realize that I'm not small - but I'm 7.5 months pregnant for goodness sakes. I certainly don't look like Kate Gosselin getting ready to birth her brood.

So to all you men out there - especially when talking to a pregnant woman - follow Momma's old rule of thumb - if you don't have anything nice to say then don't say anything at all.

And if you're not sure if what you're about to say is nice then, just tell her she looks beautiful, you can never go wrong with that!

Today I am Blessed...

2009-07-24T15:57:00.008-04:00

On this blog I generally share stories about that have happened in my life - or funny things that my 3 year old has said, but today, I'm moved to share something different. Something that made me cry.

At work, I over see the Angie's List Wishmakers program. The great part about it is that I get to help people in need. The down side is that I am introduced to families who are struggling - many times with sick children.

Most recently I received a request for a Chicago-area family whose 13-year old daugther, Brianna is dying of a brain tumor. It was a sad story, but it wasn't until I logged on to Brianna's blog that I was truly touched by the strength of this family.

As of late, things have really taken a turn for the worse, yet, somehow, some way her mother remains strong and faithful. Today, as her daughter is literally slipping away with each breath, she wrote:

"Brianna is God's child first and if He chooses to call her home, He is the only person who loves her more than I...in that I find comfort and peace."

As a parent, I'm not sure how I'd ever deal with knowing that I was losing my child, but I can only pray that I too would be as comforted in the Lord's plan as Brianna's mom is and that I too would be able to thank God for lending His child to me.

Things that Make you Go "Hmmm!"

2009-07-20T15:38:00.004-04:00

While my husband may disagree, (quite loudly I’m sure) I like to think that I’m pretty good with directions – at least when I’m driving. Now trying to verbalize directions to someone, that's another story. I admit I get my lefts and rights all screwed up. But when I’m behind the wheel I’m usually pretty good.

So today as I was running errands around downtown Indy, a couple of things struck me as odd. Like:

Why does North street run East and West?

And why is East Street a one-way South?

Some may say I have too much time on my hands to ponder such questions – but I like to think that I’m just more observant than the person who named those dang streets!

Baby? What Baby?!

2009-07-10T21:57:00.003-04:00

Even though my daughter is over 3 years old - I still call her my baby girl. Maybe that's because I still think of her as a baby - maybe it's because I know my new baby is a boy so I think I can get away with it - or maybe it's because I can't imagine her NOT being my baby.

But today, whe I looked at this photo, I realized that she is in fact not a baby at all - she's a big girl who is already growing into a little lady.

So mothers of multiple children out there - is it okay to always call your babies, babies...even if they are 30+, the oldest of the crew and a parent themselves? Because I just don't think I can stop letting her be my baby!

Missing Child, New Found Gratitude

2009-07-04T14:57:00.009-04:00

Having a child go missing is a worst nightmare for parents. But it is not until you come face to face with the possibility of that nightmare being reality that you TRULY understand. Yesterday we learned that lesson for ourselves.

After lunch we put Ava down for a nap. Like usual she chatted away and played in her room for a little while. Before I missed my window of opportunity I decided to hop in the shower, while Jason relaxed downstairs.

On my way upstairs I heard her chit-chatting with whomever she was "playing with" at that moment, I figured she'd be sound asleep soon.

After my shower I noticed all was quiet. I peeked into her room to make sure my suspicions were correct, but I didn't see her in bed. This was a little strange because her gate was still up and her fan was still on, but I just figured she hollared long and hard enough to convince her Daddy to let her get up.

I went downstairs, fully expecting the two of them to be in their spot in the green chair - but no one was there. Happily, I headed toward the garage figuring they'd be enjoying the weather, but that was not the case.

When I opened the garage door and asked Jason where Ava was, he replied, "What do you mean, she's in bed."

At that point panic started to kick in...I told him that she was not upstairs and her gate was still up. I just KNEW that someone had come in and taken her while I was in the shower and Jason was outside...or for all I knew, maybe he ran an errand while I was upstairs.

With my heart beating faster than I've ever felt I flew back upstairs - looked in every room, even in her closet as she has been known to sleep in there. She was no where to be found. I'm pretty sure I was hyperventilating at this point, hysterical as I was screaming for her in the house.

Meanwhile, Jason was on the phone with 911, saying those dreadful words, "My daughter is missing."

The neighbors quickly joined in the search. They were driving around and calling her name. I ran back upstairs to look again. I threw the sheets off her bed just to make sure she wasn't curled up in the bottom of it, then I lifted the bed skirt.

Thank God, there she was, curled up with pillow and all sound alseep under her bed.

I left her there, ran downstairs to tell Jason I had found her. Jason held me in the driveway as I sobbed and neighbors looked on. I can honestly say, I had never been so grateful to God for the blessing that is my daughter.

The whole experience got me thinking about how much joy she brings to our lives and what wed' be missing if she really was missing. So I put togethether this little video of our Tiny Dancer.

So for all you parents out there, give your kids one extra kiss or hug them extra tight tonight because unfortunately sometimes the nightmare isn't just a bad dream.

Words of Wisdom from a 3 year old

2009-06-29T20:37:00.007-04:00

(WARNING: The following may be offensive to some readers. I apologize to anyone in advance who doesn't find bodily functions funny.)

This evening was an all-too familiar scene in our household. Jason and I were tossing around the question "What's for dinner?" like a hot potato.

He mentioned Taco Bell, I turned up my nose. I mentioned KFC, he was disinterested. So he did what any good man who has a pregnant wife would do, he brought home both!

The boneless barbeque wings, mac n' cheese, green beans and mashed potatoes hit the spot...and apparently something else in my digestive system. Almost immediately my body was giving me signs that the Colonel's secret recipe was recipe for a digestive disaster.

By now, you should know that not much gets past my dear Ava...including foul-odored bodily functions. So when the bombs started flying, she was sure to chime in.

"That's what Daddy always does!" she said, very as a matter of factly.

The flatuent fireworks display continued as did Ava's commentary. Finally, once I womaned up to the stench by saying "Mommy's bucket stinks," Ava offered these words of wisdom that would make any mother proud.

"Maybe you need to wipe it."

You know, the girl may be on to something...

A Lesson in Sharing

2009-06-24T11:52:00.009-04:00

As a parent it is part of our job to teach our children right from wrong, how to be a loving human beings and how to share. But are there some things that just aren't "sharable"?

Not according to Ava...especially when it comes to her new little cousin - Joshua.

This weekend we were in Dayton visiting family for Father's Day and a few birthday celebrations when the newest member of the family made his grand entrance.

Most of us, including Ava, had already met the little guy, but for my oldest sister Amy - this was her chance to make a first impression. So like the good aunt she is, Amy got dibs on Joshie even before he came through the door. The only problem was - Ava didn't like that plan.

I re-assured her that after Aunt Amy had a chance to hold baby Joshua, she could hold him. Well apparently Aunt Ame was taking too long, because about 30 seconds after holding the babe, Ava started asking...no make that hounding...Aunt Amy about 'her turn.'

Very politely, Ava was told "Not yet". Again - that did not make Ava happy so she did what any rational 3 year old would do - she told on Aunt Amy!

That's right, she marched right up to me and said, "Mom, Aunt Amy is not sharing!"

Maybe she'll be a lawyer because she already knows how to use the rules to her benefit!

Love my Babies...

2009-06-20T08:59:00.007-04:00

This morning I thought I'd try to snap a few belly pictures on my own. But what I ended up capturing was more precious than I expected as my "baby" girl decided to join in...

Question of the day from a 3yr old

2009-06-14T21:16:00.006-04:00

So I usually post things about my little one -- but this time it is about a friend's little girl who is also 3 years old.

The other day all the kids in the neighborhood were getting their yah-yah's out and playing together on the swingset. I was taking my turn pushing the kids when one little girl, noticed something was different about me.

She asked, "Do you have a belly?"

I assured her I did and asked if she knew what was in my belly (aside from a big dinner! :) )

She replied, "No." So I told her that there was a baby in my belly. She inquired more, "Why?"

I told her that God had blessed us with another baby. Then it was her response that melted my heart. She asked one final question.

"Did you pray really hard?"

Yes, as a matter of fact we did, I replied.

Dancing Queen

2009-06-09T21:43:00.007-04:00

For those of you who knew me in my younger years...you likely recall my furniture dancing days! Whether it was a chair or a coffee table, I used anything and everything to perfect my moves.

Well, it seems Ava is taking after her mother! While she hasn't yet reached for the furniture, she is well on her way to becoming the next prima balleria.

For the record, I did not prompt this mini recital. She got dressed all by herself and started showing off these new moves this afternoon, then again after dinner. That was when I knew I needed to grab the camera.

Check out my dancing queen for yourself:

Welcome (back) to Miami

2009-06-06T21:22:00.012-04:00

The Barnes family summer vacation 2009 is officially over! It was a whirlwind trip that included visits to 3 states in 6 days, covering nearly 2,500 miles! I must say, I don't think I would have survived if we didn't have two things...the new mini van...and the in-car DVD player!

Okay, so maybe my daughter watched more TV than she's accustomed too, but that's what vacation is all about, right?

Our first stop was in Atlanta where we spent a day with my brother, sister-in-law and his two adorable kids. They live in a great neighborhood that alwasy makes me envious of living in the South when I'm there. Great people, great weather and an awesome neighborhood!

After a short trip in Atlanta, it was off to Miami, bright in early at 6:00am! I was a little worried about the forecasted weather that was waiting for us in SoFlo. Unfortunately Mr. Weatherman was calling for thunderstorms EVERYDAY! Fortunately though, Mr. Weatherman was WRONG!! We were able to go to the beach both days we were there.

Truthfully though, the beach was just icing on the cake. We were so happy to visit with our wonderful friends that we hadn't seen in 2 years! Really, 2 years, how could time go by so quickly?!

Ava also got to reconnect with her bff, Keenan - while making new bff's, Brianna and Goldie!

Being back was bitter sweet. For both Jason and I it was a great opportunity to see our friends, but really made us long for their friendship again. Friends really are a blessing.

After a quick trip to Miami was packed up and headed north, but instead of heading home, we had one more pit stop to make...Ohio. It was time for us to meet the newest member of the family...Baby Joshua!

Clearly Ava was as taken with him as we all were. Looks like that's a good sign for when her little brother comes along!

So now we're back, recovering and ready to plan our next road trip.

Caught on Film

2009-05-31T09:13:00.010-04:00

Anyone who knows me, knows I LOVE photographs...especially great ones! So when a great friend of mine, who is also a fabulous photographer, Leslie Keough offered to snap a few pictures of Ava and I, I didn't turn down her offer.

Leslie was visiting from San Francisco on the same weekend that I was visiting from Indianapolis. It couldn't have worked out any better. We had a great visit and she was kind enough to share these pictures with me, so I thought I'd share a few of them with you them with you!

Les has traveled the world snapping shots - you can check out more of her work on her website:

http://www.keoughphotography.com/

They Say It's Your Birthday!

2009-05-28T20:37:00.004-04:00

Birthdays are a big deal when you're little. Then as the years go by they don't seem so special..well except for the "big ones"...30...40...50...and if you ask me, those "big" ones are the toughest ones. Not because of the number, but rather the expecations.

This week I turned 31 - and let me tell you - I had a much better birthday this year than last. Not to say that I didn't appreciate the wishes and kid-less dinner out that my dear husband planned for me, but this year I didn't have the grand expectations of my 30th birthday.

Last year I would have loved (okay, let's be honest, I was really hoping for) a surprise party - or a surprise trip somewhere (afterall I did surprise my lovely hubby with a 3 day cruise for HIS 30th bday..but who's keeping tabs??!) So my point is that my hopes and expectations overshadowed the real event.

Now this year, since it was just my 31st bday, I had zero expectations and tons of fun! A day with my family and close friends - then a surprise bagel breakfast and decorated desk at work...complete with a princess crown.

So I've learned that you don't need surprise parties or sun-soaked vacations when you get the royal treatment like that. Besides, there's always hope for my 40th!

The Art of Negotiation

2009-05-23T08:24:00.005-04:00

So by now, we all know that Ava has good ears and picks up on most anything - including 4-letter foul words. But she is also really starting to learn the art of negotiation.

The other evenign in the car we were driving home from running an errand and it was past her bedtime. So I informed her that when we got home it was bedtime, to which she responded with her best negotiating skills:

"Umm, I would like to watch a little TV when we get home."

No, I told her her, it was too late. Again another rebuttle - and slight stipulation on her initial request.

"But I would just like to watch a little bit of TV."

Again, sticking to my guns, I told her no - it was too late, but maybe tomorrow after school.

Not happy with my perserverance - she brought out the big guns.

"Oh, come on Mom! Just let me do it!"

Gotta give it to the girl - she is tenacious.

Oh, Boy!

2009-05-19T20:51:00.009-04:00

From having four nephews and many little boy neighbors I realize that boys are, well..let's just say, full of energy, and apparently my little man is following suit!

The other night - at just 19w, he had his momma up for an hour because he was rockin' and rollin'. After a busy weekend he seemed to be catching up on some sleep earlier this week, but yesterday and today he more than made up for it.

Yesterday after eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, then popcorn later he was bopping around like a little popcorn kernel himself.

Now don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. Afterall, there is nothing more precious or re-assuring than feeling the sweet little (or not so little) kicks of your child inside your belly.

The F-it List

2009-05-17T18:02:00.020-04:00

To say my little 3 year old is observant is often times an understatement. Like most kids, the things she picks up are amazing and often times hysterical.

This evening while sitting at the table eating dinner (well while she was SUPPOSED to be eating dinner, but that's another post), she knocked over her cup of milk. As Jason and I raced to clean it up before it got all over the clean clothes we had yet to put away (again, another post), Jason was frustrated, but I was proud that he watched his mouth and remained calm.

Well apparently Ava wanted to be sure it stayed that way because she gave her father some specific instructions on how to deal with the spill.....

"Don't say f*ck it, Dad. Don't say f*ck it."

Now, for the record, that is a favorite foul word of my dear husband - but I really don't recall him ever saying it around my sweet, sweet daughter...but apparently her ears are far better than my memory.

My little Monkey

2009-05-13T19:40:00.003-04:00

We've all heard the song about 3 little monkeys jumping on the bed...well here is Ava's version.

Bellies by Ava

2009-05-13T19:27:00.003-04:00

So I have to admit the little man in my belly is already the "second child". By this time in my pregnancy with Ava, I had no less than 10 belly pictures, and this poor little guy has yet to get 1. So I figured it was time to play catch-up!

I managed to get the best photographer around to do the honors...her name, Ava Elizabeth.

Not bad for a 3 year old!

19w 2d

Then we swapped places because I couldn't resist snapping a picture of my mini super mod-ell!

Our Family

2009-05-12T14:24:00.003-04:00

Well I feel very "techy" right about now, I've officially started a blog! Now for those of you who are fans of The4thFrog Blog (as I am), I can't promise the quitty writing or hysterical happenings - but I can promise I will keep you updated on the happenings of our family.

(Photo by Jessica Johnston Photography)

Angie, Ava & Jason...

Plus 1...
Baby BOY is due to arrive in early October!