A Little Piece of Quiet

We moved!

2008-07-03T13:36:00.001-07:00

http://www.lexsmama.typepad.com

Been busy...

2008-06-24T07:30:00.000-07:00

I've had myself a long, long run of business. Sorry to keep you waiting! Will post more soon.

Btw, I sold 10 bracelets and a necklace this weekend for Relay for Life Silent Auction!! Woo hoo!

Some artsy lovin'

2008-05-05T07:59:00.000-07:00

Morning! Thought you could use some artsy lovin' (in the spirit of Lilo & Stitch. hehe..) First off, I totalyl forgot to share my Valentine's Day gifts for Michael & Lex! Each has little charms on them that represent them. Then, there's a monogram, a quote, and then a letter from me on the bottom. (Michael's is a close up!)

My second favorite page so far. My favorite is at home right now. It was so simple, but I used all black and white items, with transparency, paint, and a red map color. This one was so fun to do! I even used dominoes to show 2007! (I know, I'm weird, but hey!) I used bubble wrap and white acrylic paint to make my background, and I used my favorite pic of Lex and his Dada playing football.

We see the neurologist tomorrow afternoon. Say a little prayer, will you?

Happy Monday!

Art, playtime, and Cheetos

2008-04-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

Our recent art attempt. If Mama has paint out, Lex Lex wants his foam brush and paint. My little artiste!

Oh, and don't forget Mama's "endless" bags-o-buttons! And the Elmer's Glue. Yes, he's in love with scraps, buttons, stickers, and all the sort of things that he should probably NOT have at 19 months old, but hey. We only live once, right!?

And what's up with puffy Cheetos?? Why are the so stinkin' addictive? I love those things, but they've got all the things in them that Dr. OZ says is a no-no. (Btw, I hear the white cheddar ones are AH-mazing!)

Outside time on a dull Saturday afternoon. We were stuck indoors for so long, we took some photos, sticks, pinecones and had a little fun.

Hope you're having a great "hump" day!

Lookie! Lookie!

2008-04-18T09:03:00.000-07:00

I got the most gorgeous banner hanging in my home, now! I hung it in the washroom for today, so I could get a good picture of it. It's going above my mantle or in my kitchen this weekend, after some well-needed spring cleaning. Thank you again, Julie!

Lex had his 18 month checkup. 33 inches tall (60th %), 27 lbs (73rd %), and head circumference in the 90th %. He's doing things at a 2 year old level and is loving to help his pediatrician out. She gave him a nose spray to help the congestion and see if we can't help out his dull looking little inner ears.

Michael's MRI is scheduled for Tuesday at 3:30. We are fairly sure, as well as the dr, that everything will be okay with the results. Then, we move on to the next step. Yay.

It is friday, and a busy and wet one at that. Hope you have a GREAT weekend!

Oh, by the way!

2008-04-17T07:46:00.001-07:00

I need to take pictures of the BEAUTIFUL banner Julie sent me for the Celebrate Banner Swap. Oh my Goodness, it is perfect and then some. Will post a photo bright and early in the morning! I hope she likes hers!!

Also, I will be sharing some fun little pictures of Lex's encounter with Elmer's glue, cardstock and buttons. One was a bunch of circles, the other was also circles, but he ended up making it look like a heart. Coincidence? Maybe, but I don't care. His Daddy loves it anyway. ;-)

Not much to post.

2008-04-10T11:31:00.000-07:00

I'm at a loss for words today. My fingers slip and misspell nearly every word I make for some odd reason.

Naples Daily News ran a story about the mommy that lost her baby. It was a misconstrued story, from what we know of her. They will release the little boy today or tomorrow for funeral. APA has raised $1850 for her as of this morning, plus one mama is paying her rent this month so she doesn't have anything to think about but her family. What a truly amazing group of ladies!

I have been working diligently on more scrapbook pages. I finished my portfolio for the class I'm teaching, and it is on display outside the Sanctuary at the FUMC. I forgot to take pics! I will this weekend.

We have 3 new members for UMW! That makes 7 of us so far in Circle III. I'm excited to get a new circle going. I'm ready to have women friends. I hope they're ready for me. I've always had troubles with women, I don't know why. They're so cruel sometimes. I want female bonding. I need it. I need those stories that let me know I will make it to Lex being 18. That they've been through that time, too. Or sad times, or laughter, or presents! lol. Oh, and don't forget food. ;-)

Michael goes to the rheumatologist tomorrow morning. We finally made it through phone tag to tell her what's really going on. She wants to see him asap. So, we go tomorrow. Say a little prayer that she figures out some way to get him well. The pain's unbearable now.

I hope you have an amazing Thursday, and weekend if I don't blog until Monday!

Hug Your Babies Today.

2008-04-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

This morning, an APA mama woke up to find her 7 month old boy blue and lifeless. He had stopped breathing. She called an ambualnce, and they did everything they could to revive him. It could happen to any of us. Hug your baby today and let them know how much you love them.

Lex is a cutie-patootie. He's learning new words everyday and lovging school more and more. He doesn't even hesitate to go in the gym in the mornings anymore. They danced this morning! Music was blaring, and the kids were having a blast.

And, he has a little girlfriend. He walked into the gym Friday and she ran up, "LEX!" They grabbed hands and hugged. Then, he came to me and hugged me. I'm now second fiddle to a cute blonde with a bow. I guess I can handle that for now.

I've only gotten 3 layouts done recently, due to overwhelming amounts of work here at work and Michael helping his parents with their flood damaged home. ;-) I've become very minimalistic in my lack of time approach. Weird. That's not me. Time to reassess my scrapping self.

Little gifts, big hearts.

2008-04-02T08:40:00.000-07:00

Morning! Look what I got in the mail the other day! Vintage seam binding from JunqueArt. I am as giddy as a little schoolgirl to be able to touch this soft ribbon. Thank you!

My very first bag I ever made. I made it for Mimie. When Pop asked me to go through some boxes of old clothes, I found this little beauty and took it home with me. I wanted to share!

And I'm nearly done with Julie's banner for the Celebrate Banner Swap! Just finishing up on the embellishments, and it's wrapped and off to its new owner. It says Life. Celebrate it. So true. Life's way to short not to seize the day. Just like in my favorite movie ever,"Seize the days, boys. Make your lives extraordinary." (Dead Poet's Society)

My inlaws were struck really hard by all the rain this past weekend. They lost the first floor of their home due to the flood damage. Say a little prayer for them if you will.

Here's the link to the story and slideshow. (Click slideshow on page.)

http://www.dailysentinel.com/hp/content/news/stories/2008/03/31/flooding_folo.html

I tick, Mama.

2008-03-26T10:27:00.001-07:00

Saddest words to ever come out of a one and a half year old's mouth. "I tick, Mama." Cough, cough, hack, hack. Lex's little allergies have got him good this time around. Ear infection in his right ear, constant horrid cough, red itchy watery eyes (yes, there should be commas there,) lack of eating, lack of sleeping, fever, the works. We took him to Dr. Huggins yesterday and she gave him an eye drop, antibiotic, two weeks of breathing treatments, and his normal two allery pills. She also said that a teaspoon of honey works better than the DM in the cough medicines. So, we tried it. Would you believe he DOESN'T like honey?! Our little cookie monster doesn't like the sweetest thing around! Wow. I was stunned. So was Michael. We're on day three of staying home with this. His school has a strict throw up policy, and even though he gagged on phlegm, he still can't go back for 24 hours of throw up free time. He's loving it all. Movies, Mama, toys, and coloring. I really want to bake some cookies with him or maybe some cupcakes. I don't know if I'm ready for that challenge yet.

I joined a swap again. Yes, I said I wouldn't, but I couldn't resist. Tamy from GaGa for Garlands and SimplyMein.typepad.com (she's linked on my sidebar!) has some gorgeous work. The ladies she swaps with do some wonderful art, and I really want to be able to share some vintagy art myself. I got my sweet buddy, Julie, yesterday and can't wait to hear from her. I'm so excited.

I also thought about entering the Scrapbooker of the Year contest with Creating Keepsakes. Maybe I'm in over my head, but I'd like to try. 20 of my very best layouts, an article, and all my products in a list. Let's see if I get time.

I will post some pics tomorrow if I'm back at work. Some art, some pretties, and some sweet Easter toddler pics.

I hope you have an AMAZING, pollen-free Wednesday. :-)

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a colorful, warm Easter Sunday!

A Note from the President and Other Happy Goodies.

2008-03-20T09:32:00.000-07:00

I thought I was supposed to work all week. This morning, we all got a mass email from the university president stated that he's declaring tomorrow a holiday for all staff, for our hard work and dedication to the university. I'm so jazzed! Today's it. And then a 3 day weekend.

So, I decided to make a few little Easter Buckets for Michael and myself.

Needs some lace or something. I love the muted colors. Spring is so beautiful. Even if it does mean a killer allergy season. (And yes, my office is painted Robin's Egg blue! The blue bucket is supposed to be teh same color...)

Lex's basket will have to be another post. His basket is a Mickey Mouse fabric basket and is currently in the middle of an amazing school egg hunt. It will eventually contain many various goodies from the Bunny. We asked him to bring Lex the new Backyardigans dvd, two Sesame Street plastic figurines, and a Little People Easter egg. Of course, it will be chock full of candy as well. I guess that'll be a Monday morning post.

We think Michael's wallet pix that he got for Christmas was stolen, so I replaced it for him. Black this time. So sleek and sophisticated. He ordered me an IPod Nano from www.ubid .com and I told him that would be my present from him. Brand spanking new, and is leaving Coppell, TX today. Maybe we'll see it today. Oh wow. Now, I can get ITunes gift cards for holidays.

The beginnings to a very "active" Easter Sunday. Yes, I've been asked to teach 4 & 5 year olds. And yes, they will be hyped up on sugar, sugar, sugar. So... In my inevitable wisdom, I'm making two emotions matchinig games for the floor, coloring pages, a fingerprint butterfly station, and a foam cross station to keep them all busy as little worker bees for an hour. Then, they get more sugar from me. lol.

I hope you have an amazing Easter. Good Friday, Easter Sunday and all. Mwuah!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2008-03-17T08:52:00.000-07:00

I hope you're having an AMAZING Monday. It's the day we Irish type people love. Usually. What I would love to have a sip of green beer and eat corned beef hash and poached eggs. Or cabbage rolls. Mmm... Maybe not all at once. lol. I am wearing lots of pretty green jewelry, but blue clothes. My green wardrobe is either in the wash or at the cleaners.

Lex got his pictures with the Easter Bunny Friday. He did NOT like the Bunny. He'd high five him, but not sit in his lap. Weird. But, kids at this age are fickle with who they will go to. Especially fuzzy white bunnies with no voice. lol.

I've got a blog together for my bakery now. I'm working on getting a menu posted and keep it updated. I'm all kinds of excited.

Sold two of my little pretties this past week. Birthstone bracelets. I'm excited.

Michael's now officially 30. Turned that way on Friday. He's such a sweetie. We went to Outback with his parents and had a nice time. Lex and I gave our presents Thursday, and he loved his shirts and "Daddy and SOn" Willow Tree figurine.

I hope you have a great beginning of the week. It's Holy Week, with Easter this Sunday! Yay!

I made some pretties!

2008-03-07T12:02:00.000-08:00

I was thinking the other day, and I wanted to do something to help others. So, I told my friend Sarah that I'd donate to her cause. What better way that through my craft, right? So, I have made a few awareness bracelets, and I am in the process of putting up more in my etsy shop. (The link's on my side bar to your left, by the way! <--- ) I wanted to make some purple ones to honor Mimie, who on May 27, 2006, lost her battle to cancer. She was an amazing woman that touched so manu lives. Cancer touches so many of us, why not help find a cure?

Lex is growing like a weed. 27 pounds and 34 inches tall. He's saying 3 word sentences and inquiring about everything. We craft every weekend at my desk and enjoy every little moment we get together. WHICH, by the way, we have a WHOLE week next week. Spring Break is here! Well, come 5 '0' clock, anyway. ;-)

I hope you have an AMAZING day and can touch someone else's life in the process.

Wow, so much going on.

2008-02-26T07:53:00.000-08:00

It's been one heck of a few days.

Michael found out what's wrong with him, we hope. Just some vitamins and we're good to go. the problem is that he can't swallow them. We learn new things every day.

I went to a UMW meeting and joined. I was so excited. The ladies at church are wonderful and so funny. I hope I can get to know them better and learn about my new circle members when we are assigned in two weeks. Yay.

I was just asked to re-teach a scrapbooking class for Wednesday Night Live at church. Some ladies took it last year, and I thought it was a bust, but they want more. Wow. I'm so jazzed that
I could do something productive and helpful. I love my art and I am so glad to share it with others.

Lex has awful awful allergies lately. It got to the point that his eyes were swollen nearly shut and the drainage has him coughing and gagging. I talked to our local allergist's office and they said they start seeign little ones at 1. I have an appointment to see what we can do to get Lex in and get him some relief. I can wait, he can't.

Like my new setup on blog? I figured out how to do a banner and love it. I like the rustic feel I get when I open the page and look at it.

Pic for the day. What is it about baby feet that's so gorgeous?! I love to kiss lex's little tootsies and tickle til he says " 'top Mama!

Chef Lex, at your service!

2008-02-15T11:42:00.000-08:00

Oh how fun it is to have a little person in your home. We have had so many wonderful hours in lex's little kitchen. And the funny part is that he's so gentle with it all. He will pour his little bottles into cups and hand them to you. He will try so hard to put things into the pots and pans and on the plates. He will walk up and hand you a plate that everything's fallen off of in the 10 feet from him to you.

At least it teaches him imagination. I absolutely love that time we get. And yes, peas, celery and grapefruit are all in the same bowl. :-)

Here's the coffee pot. He tries to put real drink in it sometimes. lol. Pour that sippy on in, sweetie.

We celebrate our vday tomorrow. We had to spend all day in Tyler trying to find out Michael's health issues. Still waiting. Say a little prayer if you can.

In honor of Valentine's Day...

2008-02-13T08:15:00.000-08:00

We have learned to say Good job and sticky this week. Lex had hand, foot, and mouth, a double ear infection, and has teeth popping through. Poor baby. We were home all week and weekend last week with high fever and pain. I promised him that if he were feeling better Saturday, we'd go to the park. And we did. He went down the big slide all by himself! (With Daddy at the top and Mama at the bottom.) Flipped onto the tummy and went for it. lol.

The other night, I was laying on the couch and I had a baby climb up to join me. He smiled and layed his head on my chest. "Mmm... Mama," he said. Michael walked up, sat down, and asked if he could have some hugs too. "NOOOOOO Dada!" and pushed him away. He layed back down on my chest and grabbed my neck even tighter. We laughed so hard. He's so sweet.

He's at school today with his red heart shaped cookies and little bags of playdoh. He and I made mailboxes with candy in them for his teachers and put them on the counter this morning. I hope he's having a good day!

Found a quote I love. So true to Michael.

Find a guy who calls you beautiful instead of hot, who calls you back when you hang up on him, who will lie under the stars and listen to your heartbeat, or will stay awake just to watch you sleep... wait for the boy who kisses your forehead, who wants to show you off to the world when you are in sweats, who holds your hand in front of his friends, who thinks you' re just as pretty without makeup on. One who is constantly reminding you of how much he cares and how lucky he is to have YOU... The one who turns to his friends and says, "thats her"....
~unknown~

Words and stuff...

2008-01-29T10:54:00.000-08:00

What can a girl do with all these supplies?? Why work her little creative fingers to the bone, of course! I even picked up some trancparencies to play with for layouts... I'm all kinds of excited today.

And my word of the year... Beauty. I'll carry it around with me for some fun photo ops and to remind me that I am beautiful the way I am. "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder."

Two views from the office. Beauty's even in my swivel chair! hahaha! :-) (Everything's a raw photo today...)

Lex has been uber clingy lately. We had a super rough night last night, and he ended up in our bed around 4:30 a.m. I love snuggling with that little cuddle bear... WHEN he sleeps. We crashed again and woke up at nearly 7! Wow. He wouldn't let go of me at school. Arms locked around my neck and legs locked around my torso. Head down on the shoulder. Man, I love that boy. More and more every day. I've been looking for quotes and cool art and found www.curlygirldesign.com. They had a quote that I love:

"Just when you think you know love, something little comes along to remind you just how big it really is."

And it is SO true. My little Lex has an amazing power to melt his mama's heart into a puddle of mush. And I love it!

Michael found out that his specialist appointment is on Valentine's Day, so we hope we find out what's going on with him really soon. Keep him in your prayers.

I hope you have an amazing Tuesday! (Btw, this is an AMAZING font color!)

Bleeding Purple??

2008-01-23T13:37:00.000-08:00

Literally.

Like what I got to do today?? I've been highlighting like a mad woman. We're getting ready for our annual partnership meeting, and I'm trying to make it easier to find the parking garages. I'm all school-spirity and everything. Haha!

My baby boy is whistling great now. AND he's taking keys to the doorknobs and trying to put them in. Wow. I'm soooo in trouble if he ever really gets them in the holes.

I went to lunch with my boss. We went to the Yellow House and had soup and sandwiches. It was sooo nice. I really enjoy the fellowship time. I just hope I can get out of the feeling of "odd man out." It'll be better then.

Did I tell you I'm teaching 4 & 5 year olds Sunday school?! I'm so jazzed. Starting February 3rd, I get to help out teaching little minds... I love helping.

Have a warm, dry day!!

All work and no play makes Ashley a dull girl..

2008-01-21T14:12:00.000-08:00

Yep, this is my day. Taking fun shots of my keyboard and files to pass my time. I'm alone for the next two days. Ugh!

We didn't make it to CKC Houston. Sucked major. Lex got the crud and ran a high little fever for a day. He's doing 110% better now, but still a little clingy.

This week's milestones:

1. He ate a corndog, by himself! With ketchup. Needless to say, we bathed immediately afterwards. Did you know that dried ketchup doesn't wash too easily? lol.

2. He blew his little nose! All by himself!

3. He whistled. Or what HE thought was whistling. Soooo cute.

4. And last but not least, he sang us a song. Such a sweet little melody.

I have determined that I'm going to enter the CK Hall of Fame 2008. Yes, I am. All kinds of excited, too. I only have a couple of weeks left, so wish me creative juices!!

New Beginnings...

2008-01-16T07:51:00.000-08:00

I was sitting here this morning, bored from nothing to do at work today and a boss gone, and I came upon Ali Edwards' blog. I was very excited to read her post on the word of the year.

http://aliedwards.typepad.com/

I believe that my words will be light and beauty. I want to shed some light and a little beauty into my life this year. It's time to accept things for what and who they are, and be comfortable in my own skin. That's the only way to change, right? I have been working out every day and doing my best to eat lighter and healthier. So far, so good. Well, except for my homeade fried french fries. I fell off once, but I got right back on the healthy eating horse. :-) I hope I can be a better mama, a better wife, and friend.

Many thanks, Ali! And I'm off to do some scrapping or some more blog lurking... ;-)

Oh, and we're off to Houston this weekend! I can't wait to see what CKC's all about. I don't remember if I posted this, but my dear and wonderful Krystin is going to go to CKU in June with me! I get to share my love with my sister! I'm all excited. She shared horses with me, and I share my art with her.

Have an amazing Wednesday!

Art and fun stuff...

2008-01-13T14:42:00.000-08:00

Our artwork for the week. APA September 06 mamas are taking on the crafty task of doing one a week with our little ones. This week was construction paper, glue, and an edible of some sort. We used penne pasta and brown rice. Lex even tried eating the uncooked rice! Eeewie. But, he learned. He went on to fingetpaint with the glue. Such a cutie. :-)

Circle:

Heart:

Lex's name:

We are going to CKC Houston on Saturday! I'm so excited to finally see some of my scrapping "heroes" in person. There are a couple that I believe won't be there, but I hope to meet them one day.

I made the CUTEST abstract pregnancy wire art. I made two pendants with the due date in a Swarovski bead. I'm going to put some in my Etsy shop this week. I'm all kinds of excited. I'm also working on some pendants and necklaces. Cant wait to share!

Have an amazing week!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-04T13:29:00.001-08:00

A new year, a new slate. I plan to be a better blogger and sharer. Here's my little one putting rocks in Mema's plant. He's so funny. Kind of artsy, if you ask me. :-)

I've done 17 pages in Lex's scrapbook for year 2. I'm quite proud. Wish I had more time, but hey, I'll take what I can get. And, I got into a simplistic rut. Everything's overly simple. I'll share pics of them tomorrow. I need some serious inspiration. Some serious new toys to work with. Little towns aren't the best for new and innovative scrap necessities. Internet... mayhaps.

Hope you've had an amazing holiday season!

Mark your calendars...

2007-12-17T11:10:00.000-08:00

For August 9, 2008!

Drumroll please.... I'm going to GRADUATE! I'm all kinds of excited. It's taken me 6 years (with a little haitus, mind you ;-) ) but I'm getting the heck out of dodge. (as a student, anyway.)

Lex played with Ashley & Will yesterday and had a total blast. He wanted to be a big kid, so he ate at the big kids table and wanted to climb up an d down to prove he could do it "all by me-self."

And he tried to "help" put ornaments on the tree.

My baby's growing up. Oh! He LOVED Santa! He grabbed for him and played with his beard and coat.

Will post some of my 10 layouts that I did here at work Friday, later today. :-)

Toodles!

Look, Mama!

2007-12-10T10:22:00.000-08:00

We tree farmed it last weekend! (Well, not this past one, but the one before that!) Lex found his favorite tree, and guess what?! It's as tall as he is!

He loved looking at all of them. He'd walk up, "Look!" Every single time. It was soooo cute! He wanted to touch every one.

But, as you can see... There were hundreds of the jolly green giants! :-)

We had fun, though. Lex also got to see llamas and goats yesterday. A sad, sad zoo that has a few exotic animals and moves around like the circus. Oh! He can say red, pad, three, and Papa now. He's growing up. :-(

Anyhoo~ Just needed to post a little photo lovin'. Hope you have a fantastic day!

Brighter days...

2007-11-30T09:42:00.000-08:00

I played around with paint.net today. It's similar to photoshop, but still a little foreign. I loved this of Michael & Lex at the chicken houses. My boys make my life so much brighter.

I'm on to finishing up Christmas presents and cards. I'm in love with my little 2x3 cards I've done. Well, so far anyway. lol. I was in the mood for itty bitty, and that's what I did. I'll post pics Sunday. Oh, if you want one and aren't on my many lists, let me know! I'll be glad to spread some holiday cheer!

Oh, I'm on a strange ornament and body "therapy" kick this year. I think almost everyone's getting something along those lines, with exception of the men in my life. They don't need those things, right? :-)

The job's going well. I'm ending month one and have little to do on my friday. I have an eye appt this afternoon and I think I may try contacts! Woo hoo! Scary. My hormones are levelling out. Michael's having serious back pain and we're trying to work with Dr. Cline to figure it all out. I feel for the man. He's been in so much pain the past couple of weeks, and lower levels of it for nearly 3 years. I pray he gets all firgured out.

Michael's Mema is in the hospital. She's not doing well. Pray for her if you can.

We get a tree tomorrow!! Woo hoo! I'll post pics on Sunday! My dial up takes half an hour for 3 pics. ugh.

Have an amazing day!

Wow, what a week...

2007-11-18T14:58:00.000-08:00

I got the job!!! Woo hoo! I started Monday, and I already have us caught back up from year one. It's killing me to be away from Lex for so long, but I know we need this. He cried all week, but I'm hoping it gets better. I hope. I don't know if I can do this if he cries too much more.

We got to see chickens today. Babies even. It was neat. Lex liked grabbing their heads and wings. I think he traumatized at least four.

A few photos...

One (above) had its head stuck in the fence, running away from Lex...

Still nothing...

2007-11-05T05:59:00.000-08:00

I still haven't heard a word, but Michael tends to think that I'll get a good phone call this morning. Ugh. I hope. I hope. I hope.

We went to S.A. yesterday. Lex's tooth had him hurting so bad that he choked and couldn't stop crying. Poor baby. He ended up with us a while last night, until his medicine kicked in. I'm finding the teething tablets again...

Oh, and did I mention that I HATE daylight savings?! Lex was up at 6 this morning, let alone he didn't sleep last night either... Can't people leave little ones' internal clocks alone?!

Anyhoo~ Not much to post, other than I found the theme song to The Big Bang Theory on iTunes. lol. I know, it's sad. It's by Barenaked Ladies, and it cracks me up. Btw, it's on tonight at 7:30 CST. We love it. It reminds both Michael and me of many people in the physics dept. (Did I mention this before?!)

Anyhoo~ Will post later with results, I hope.

Lady in Waiting...

2007-11-02T07:56:00.000-07:00

I am waiting for a phone call about whether or not I got the admin asst. job on campus. I barely slept last night, and when I did I had horrible nightmares. Great. I'm stressed.

Can't they let me know something soon?! Please don't let it be Monday... Please!

I did remember a quote Michael's always told me... (And the Green Chair Studios blog reminded me...)

Faith is believing that one of two things will happen...
That there will be something solid for you to stand on -
or that you will be taught to fly.
~unknown~

So fitting for today, eh??

At least I get to crop tonight downtown. And I get to go to an all day retreat tomorrow at church. It's a whole day of crafts and devotions. Wow. I'm interested. I'm going to bake a cake for tonight... or maybe little chocolate pound cakes... Hmmm... Oh the possibilities!

Oh, and here's my little chickadee from Trunk or Treat on Halloween! He was soooo cute!

I have an Etsy shop!

2007-10-29T18:02:00.000-07:00

And I uploaded 6 of my many bracelets. I'm all excited. I hope I'm priced alright. The ones like it around here are going for $40-$50. Even the one with Lex's name on it that I got as a gift from Ms. Shirley and Sandy.

Omg, The Big Bang Theory is soooo funny! I love that show. And it's so sad because I can soo relate many of my physics friends to the characters. Michael thinks he's Sheldon, but I beg to differ. I think he's more of a Leonard. I was told I'm closer to Penny because I never fit in. lol. Yeah. I even downloaded the theme song. The Barenaked Ladies are good. :-)

Anyhoo~ We're making rice krispy treats for Lex's school party tomorrow. He's getting to dress up as a little chicken and trick or treat at school. I can't wait to see this. I'll use my new Canon PowerShot to take pics. (Btw, I LOVE that thing!)

Nighty night!

I got an interview!

2007-10-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

I have an interview at SFA on Thursday morning for an Administrative Assistant position. i'm so nervous! Yet, so excited. I hope hope I get the job. We could sure use it.

My suit options... I could throw the skirt with the purple, too... hmmm...

Lex has two days in a row of costume wearing. Tuesday at school and Wednesday night at church. I can't wait to see what my little chicken looks like!!

Happy 25!!!

2007-10-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

Oh my Goodness, I cannot believe I'm 25 today. I still can't believe that I have my very own little family. The three of us are cozy. I guess I feel like there's no way I can be my newfound age... A quarter of a century old. With a 13 month old. Wow.

And My little 13 month old is running a muck in the kitchen. He's coloring on any magazine he can get his little paws on. Redirect. Redirect. I'm getting to the spat the hand point. Maybe.

Anyhoo~ I'm off to watch Barney... or the Backyardigans...

"No one can surf Tiki Beach waves, unless they've got rad moves a-plenty..."

Our day so far and it's only 10:19 a.m.

2007-10-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd share... We have successfully taken the whole roll of toilet paper off the roll and played in the tub water... He turned on the faucet all by himself!

Hey from Aggieland!

2007-10-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

Yep, we're in Aggie Country. Michael has a conference this weekend, so we made it a family affair. Lex has some seriously gnarly allergies, Michael's sleeping, and I have a nice little bout of insomnia. So, here I blog.

Babies are such a blessing. Lex showed me what it's like to be in a totally new place and enjoy it. He got on the chair, patted the lamp, and snuggled into the comforter with Michael. Oh, and he thinks that elevators are better than a pb&j sandwich cut out with an acorn cookie cutter. Yes, I am a sad woman. I use an acorn cutter for his sandwiches... this week. Last week it was a pumpkin. And before that... a maple leaf. :-)

My tootsies are frozen solid from the AC unit feet away from me. I miss my tea pyramids... My fuzzy socks... And a cozy blanket. But I like the chair... tee hee.

Can you believe that I think I like Private Practice more than Greys?? Ugh.

I am random tonight, but that's okay. How about a pic to end it off right? My little man was off to find a pine cone...

Our little pumpkin at the Patch...

2007-10-14T18:00:00.000-07:00

We took Lex to the Pumpkin Patch at Christ Episcopal this weekend. He had fun playing in the straw and picking out his very own little pumpkin. $.75 to make a little guy happy. Funny thing is that when Michael gave him the dollar to give to the nice cashier, Lex dropped the pumpkin and wouldn't let go of his brand new dollar! :-D

Oh! We went and gt Lex's professional pics done. It's not the best place in the world, but he looked absolutely ADORABLE in his chicken Halloween costume! He was put "on the farm." I can't wait to get them back. :-)

It's been so nice having Michael home this weekend. A well needed time to relax. He's been so wonderful~ helping out where he can. I know it's rough working all the time, but I'm so lucky to have him when I do. Lex loves his Dada sooo much. They've played up a storm...

Too funny!

2007-10-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

Go here and watch this... Anita Renfroe has soooo condensed the day of a mom into 2 minutes and 55 seconds! I guess now I know what I have to look forward to. ;-)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anSpBUxsgAU

On a side note, it's going to be at most 80 degrees here by tomorrow. I hope we can get some serious park time in! Lex loves the slides and lives to go out. My little outdoorsman... Ah, fall!

Pic fun!

2007-10-08T09:04:00.000-07:00

I'm trying hard to be a better little blogger. A few photos for your day!
A layout and a cutie pie. Have a happy day!!!

Thank Goodness It is FRIDAY!! :-)

2007-10-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

Yes! I'm so happy! I get two full days with my hubby! I've missed him since the end of the 6 weeks is here this week. I know he'll be usy busy getting things finished and put into the grading system before Monday, but I get to sleep in with him and eat lunch together! I'm giddy with excitement.

Lex said DOG yesterday! And walked up to me with Playdoh and said, "My mama! My mama!" I put him in his highchair and we played away with yellow dough. :-) Well, until he decided to eat it.

We saw Ashley and Will last night. Lex loves the McDonald's playground. Heck, the boy loves kids. He walked and walked, laughing and smiling the whole time! Darling little boy.

I have taken up jewelry making. I'm all kinds of excited! I started out with earrings, now I'm onto bracelets. I made some adorable ones that would be great for new moms. I'm thinking of birthstone colored ones and a sweet mama charm. I may even make up an etsy shop for it. Hmmm... Lots to think about! I'll post pics soon!

I'm an awful little blogger!

2007-10-02T10:35:00.000-07:00

*tee hee* I am so far behind on blogging. Whoopsies. I will do my best to do better! :-)

Lex turned ONE last week! Isn't it nuts?! I remember what I was doing this time last year... Working through the pain and getting my staples removed! That was a good day. Moving is a good thing. Liz was with me, even! I bet you remember, eh? :-)

Lex made out like a little bandit in LJ! His Grams, Grampy, & Auntie Krystin got him a bouncy zebra, a choo choo train and a Cabbage Patch boy baby. His Grandma and Grandpa got him a playset with a slide. His Poppie got his a car. aunt Alice, Uncle Mackie & Kimberly got him a Little People bus that we ended up having to exchange. He got one two days earlier form Julayne. We got him Bathketball and a drum instead. He had no interest in the Little People airplane. :-S Liz and Ty got him a phone, which he ADORES! "Meow! Quack!" Thanks guys... Aunt Nadine got him pjs. I found him a slip & slide on clearance at Target for $4! It's sooo cute!

I haven't been scrapping much lately. Had scrapper's block. So, I started my hand a jewelry making. Swarovski crystals and sterling silver, mostly. I'm having fun. Ladies are really liking my handiwork! I never knew. Wow. I'll try to post pics of my work soon.

We go to College Station for an APS, AAPT meeting at A&M Oct 18-20. Yep, yep. My mother in law is keeping the little tyke for a few days, as far as we know. We're at the Hampton Inn. It'll be a nice, well needed time.

This month is BREAST CANCER AWARENESS month! Get to checking, men and women alike!

This touched me today....

2007-09-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

MOTHERHOOD... IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE

Time is running out for my friend.

We are sitting at lunch when she casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of "starting a family." What she means is that her biological clock has begun its countdown and she is considering the prospect of motherhood.

"We're taking a survey," she says, half jokingly. "Do you think I should have a baby?"

"It will change your life," I say carefully.

"I know," she says. "No more sleeping in on Saturdays, no more spontaneous vacations..."

But that is not what I mean at all. I look at my friend, trying to decide what to tell her. I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes. I want to tell her that the physical wounds of childbirth heal, but that becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so raw that she will be forever vulnerable. I consider warning her that she will never read a newspaper again without asking "What if that had been my child?" That every plane crash, every fire will haunt her.

That when she sees pictures of starving children, she will look at the mothers and wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die. I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think she should know that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will immediately reduce her to the primitive level. That a slightly urgent call of "Mom!" will cause her to drop her best crystal without a moment's hesitation.

I feel I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood. She might successfully arrange for child care, but one day she will be waiting to go into an important business meeting, and she will think about her baby's sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure he is all right.

I want my friend to know that everyday routine decisions will no longer be routine. That a visit to Mc Donald's and a five year old boy's desire to go to the men's room rather than the women's room will become a major dilemma. That right there, in the midst of clattering trays and screaming children, issues of independence and gender identity will be weighed against the prospect that danger may be lurking in the rest room.

I want her to know that however decisive she may be at the office, she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother. Looking at my attractive friend, I want to assure her that eventually she will shed the pounds of pregnancy, but will never feel the same about herself. That her life, now so important, will be of less value to her once she has a child. That she would give it up in a moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years, not so much to accomplish her own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish his.

I want her to know that a cesarean scar or stretch marks will become badges of honor.

My friend's relationship with her husband will change, but not in the ways she thinks. I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is always careful to powder the baby or who never hesitates to play with his son. I think she should know that she will fall in love with her husband again for reasons she would never have imagined.

I wish my modern friend could sense the bond she will feel with other women throughout history who have tried desperately to stop war and prejudice and drunk driving.

I want to describe to my friend the exhilaration of seeing your son learn to hit a baseball.

I want to capture for her the laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog for the first time.

I want her to taste the joy that is so real that it hurts.

My friend's quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes.

"You'll never regret it," I say finally.

by Dale Hanson Bourke Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul

Birthday parties and colds..

2007-09-16T14:02:00.000-07:00

Yep, we had to cancel Lex's little party yesterday because he's a sick little boy. Michael and I agree that it's allergies, but we're doing our best to get him well. In the meantime, we put together a little smash cake for him anyway. He got balloons and a cake no matter what, darn it.

It wasn't my best work, but it tastes the same, regardless.. :-)

This was one HAPPY little boy! 22 balloons and loads of fun...

A Day to Share...

2007-09-12T11:03:00.000-07:00

My newfound favorite way to eat fruit cocktail! I just wanted to share the great image. :-) We are soooo happy! I went to pick up Lex at school and they said that he finally walked for them!!! YAY!!! He gets to stay at preschool. We're also trying to get him in three times a week for the spring semester. All happy are we.

School's in session!

2007-09-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

Our little painter...

Little bit had his very first day of school Thursday morning! We got there a little early, but he walked around the commons area in front of the Family Life Center. 8:30-11:45. He cried for a minute and then was off! Three of us toddler mamas hung around for a few to make sure the little ones were okay, and then we all headed off together. We picked them up at the same time, too. Lex couldn't stop talking afterwards! "Goooo!" and "Bye bye!" were the phrases of choice. Oh, and lots and lots of babbling. He took a long nap and then was up until bedtime. He enjoyed the kitchen and read "Peek a Moo." I even fixed his little lunch with mini cut out sandwiches, goldfish, and freeze-dried fruit. He loves the Gerber Mango, Banana, and Apples. Strawberries make him pucker. :-)

However, can you believe that they have the one year olds selling gift wrap?! Okay, well, the parents are selling gift wrap anyway. At least there's other stuff like candy, candles, kitchen utensils, and cards...

A little photo for your day...

Scrapbooking Layouts!!

2007-08-26T15:45:00.000-07:00

This next one I got a little inspiration from a CK magazine a long time ago...

Finally!! Here are a few layouts I've done.. I'm quite happy with them. :-)

Happy Sunday!

Summer Goodbyes...

2007-08-23T09:04:00.000-07:00

Our mild summer's almost gone, and it's time for school again. Yep, all three of us are going back. Michael's teaching physics, chemistry, and a tutoring session first and last periods. Lex is going to the FUMC preschool from 8:30 to 11:45 tuesdays and thursdays. I go to college for two classes: behavior modifications and psych of agression. Wish us luck!

Lex is walking quite well. I hope he gets better and better everyday. We all got over the tummy flu, so we're all back to normal. :-)

Posting pics tonight!

Ha ha ha!!! I'm a brownie! Too funny!

2007-08-11T12:58:00.000-07:00

You Are a Brownie

Decadent and intense, you aren't for the weakhearted.
Those who can deal with your strong flavor find out how sweet you really are.

What Dessert Are You Most Like?

Things things all around

2007-07-20T13:58:00.000-07:00

It's been a good time lately. We got professional pics of lex taken, we got a new computer (a Compaq Presario notebook... :-) yay!!!), we found out that lex doesn't have a cold, school's going well, Lex loves plums and peaches... Bad's: Lex is teething again, he's not sleeping well again, his tummy's off, mutant cantaloupes are gone at the Farmer's Market... But I guess it's livable.

I made a recipe book for my local scrapbook store with the Bo Bunny Blueberry Collection. It's pretty cute, but it had to be plain so anyone can do it, from beginner beginner to advanced.

I'm trying to find my stepper for my sewing machine. It's driving me nuts that I cannot find it. I think it's in a craft box, but which one, I don't know.

Will post pics soon!

Great, great news!!!

2007-07-01T15:46:00.000-07:00

First off, we went to TX Children's not too long ago... and... WE'RE SEIZURE FREE!!! Yay!!! He never had a seizure. So, that leaves us with trying to find out what the heck the other dr found. Hopefully Dr. Huggins will get some answers when she gets back in town.

I got my Red Velvet Kit Club stuff yesterday and I'm itching to use it! It's an art journal and supplies to use in it. It's all kinds of retro fun fun things. I'm totally excited!

Oh, and we're ordering a laptop this week. I'm so happy to be getting a faster computer. Maybe i'll be able to log into things and do my papers for class in Word now. lol.

Anyhoo~ Good news, good news! Ta Ta!

Boy, I hate old computers...

2007-06-16T16:02:00.000-07:00

I haven't been able to get onto my blog in AGES! The stinkin' thing won't let me log on! So, I'm here at the in-laws, working out the kinks as I work on a little homework.

Lex is having seizures. We know that much. He's having absence seizures, myoclonic seizures, tonic-clonic and clonic seizures. There's also something with his facial muscles that we're not sure about. We were going to LSU in Shreveport, but we're at Texas Children's in Houston now. Thank the Lord! All of our prayers have come through on that one. Maybe we'll get a few answers now. We go Tuesday and Thursday of this week.

He's trying desperately to walk. He's crawling and walking along things like you wouldn't believe. He's a smart little cookie, too! He's stacking baskets in the living room to make stairs to climb. He's also trying to take things apart and put them back together. He'll stare at something for 20 minutes trying to figure something out. He says Mama, Dada, Daddy, Diddy, Hi, Hey, Hugs, I nee nee Mama, Snake (Disney's Robin Hood, Krystin would be proud,) and a few things we're not sure if it's real or not.

I'm in school again. I've got A's so far. Yippee! My first test was a 90 in abnormal psych! I've got an A in my history and systems class, too. Maybe I've found my calling.

Anyhoo~ I've got to get back to the little guy. Toot~aloo!

Funny Stuff!

2007-05-10T13:23:00.000-07:00

I was reading Kendra McCracken's blog and thought this was hilarious! Google your name and then needs after it. It'll tell you what you need for a more fulfilling life...

Mine:

1. Ashley needs to be more daring with what she wears. (Woo hoo! I love me some good clothes.)

2. Ashley needs an escape. (A vacation, perhaps? Scrapbooking??)

3. Ashley needs to provoke. (Huh?!)

4. Ashley needs a MySpace playlist. (Ummm... no.)

5. Ashley needs a home that is patient and understanding. (I think I gottey one of those...)

6. Ashley needs to pick up her marbles and go home. (Strange, but okay.)

7. Ashley need to choose already. (Choose what?!)

8. Ashley needs to move into the wetland so it can expand an assembly line and have more loading space adjacent to the railroad. (I have no words...)

9. Ashley needs love, attention. (Don't we all?)

10. Ashley needs distraction. (Tuesdays and bank holidays would be nice... Ode to Lilo.)

Long time, no see...

2007-05-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

Whew! I finally got my little booty back in the blog world! The darn thing wouldn't let me log on, so I back doored it. (Okay, well I logged in from gmail...)

And luckily, little bit is sleeping a looong little nap. (Over an hour now..) :-)

Lex is desperately trying to walk. He's crawling, pulling up, getting into every little thing. He took a nose dive off the bed a couple of weeks ago. Scared us to death, but he was great. Bad way to get Dada home from work and to get held all day... He tried to eat the closet plant this morning. Yay, my baby's eating things I have no clue what they'll do to him. Err. Oh, and not to mention he climbed into his little Fisher Price vibrating chair and stood, rocking and screaming. Yep. Oh, the last one... he tried to climb out of his fully dropped crib... Toddler bed, here we come. P.S. 4 toofers! All 4 front ones! Dude, they hurt! And he likes to grind them and make funny sounds.

I've been a scrapping madwoman. I've done over 6 pages of Lex and am starting my Mimie book. (2 pages so far.) Mom's Day cards, too! They'll get out, I promise! I lost my 1 GB SD card, with my favorite pic of Lex in the box. Dang it! Maybe Mom'll let me make a copy. Or maybe they're in a pair of pants somewhere...

We're watching Liz and Amy graduate with their Masters' Saturday! And Krystin graduates HS on the 25th! Woo hoo! My turn next! I'll walk with a B.S. and M.Ed. in Psych & Counseling... Yeah buddy! Soon... soon.

I promise promise I'll get pics up soon. I have a heck of a time with dial up and photo laoding.

Relay & Snow

2007-04-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

Our day before Easter snow! Isn't it the coolest!?

We walked in the Relay for Life last night, amidst all the rain and cold front coming through. It was at the Expo Center and was strange. We raised $400.40! (With $40 more coming from NC!) I think we reached in the $10,000 area. Just had to share!

Have a great Saturday!

Aahh! He's mobile!

2007-04-12T12:07:00.000-07:00

Completely mobile! Crawling AND pulling up on stuff. He made it to his bedroom the other day and to the kitchen last night. That boy can move! Oh, and this morning, he pulled up on the automan and hobbled his way around it, lifted up his little left arm and "Mama!" pick him up now... lol. Uh oh, we'll be walking soon!

Can you believe it SNOWED Easter weekend?! Yes, it snowed in East Texas. Michael asked if he needed to break out the Bible and see if was a sign of the Apocalypse. Funny guy, huh?! I'll post pics asap.

Yes, I've promised LOTS of pics. I WILL get them posted, this computer's just slow as Christmas. So, one at a time... one at a time...

I got advised yesterday. I'm officially a Psych major. Woo hoo! Maybe this one'll fit! Only one problem, I have one class that I'm required to take both Fall and Spring... and it's Monday/Wednesday from 2-3:15. Yeah, not too fitting with my schedule and time constraints. Not sure what I need to do there. Ergh.

Anyhoo~ Sleeping baby and plumber on the way. Yeehaw.

Happy Day Before Easter!

2007-04-07T09:44:00.000-07:00

Ohmygosh! My little man has TWO toofers! I can't believe it. We were out to eat last night, and I thought I felt one. We got back and there were TWO! The two bottom front ones. I'm so happy. He's growing sooo fast...

He's crawling like a madman, too. He can get wherever he wants now. And he's trying to sit up from the lying down position. Too fast, I tell you, too fast...

We're going to a birthday paprty for Kaitlyn today. Lex gets to have his first Easter Egg hunt. And.. he's decorating eggs and cookies today, too. Well, with a little help anyway. :-)

I hope Easter is a wonderful holiday for all!

Hump day!

2007-03-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's wednesday! Happy middle of the week!

Lex had his six month check up and shots. He weighs 18 lbs 11.5 oz. and is 27 inches long. Apparently I found 3 inches somewhere that weren't there! :-) He remembered his shots from last visit! He started wailing when the nurse brought them in. Wow, I didn't think that little ones remembered so well. He cried for a minute and then pouted for an hour. Wouldn't talk or anything. He also showed off a bit... He took the stethoscope from Dr. Huggins and put it on his own chest! Yeah, we were surprised. Fluke.. maybe.

He gets to go up to an upright, rear facing carseat now. He can undo the top clasp on his carseat!

From what she said, "We have to stay one step ahead of this one."

We're on our way to lj this weekend. Stayin' with gma! And watching Krystin's track meet. Go Krystin!

Monday, eh?

2007-03-26T06:24:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's Monday again. And a blah one at that. Michael got up feeling icky. I guess it's from moving the last bit of stuff yesterday. Lex got up early, and I miss my extra hour of sleep! lol. It's gnarly outside, and I'm just waiting for the bottom to drop out! Pollen's nasty. So, I guess... COME ON RAIN! :-)

I'm so dang proud of what I did for Krystin that I may post anyway today. She gets it this weekend. SO jazzed!

I found out a little more about our assoc. pastor. She has tumors all up and down her spine now. She starts 10 high impact doses of radiation therapy this week. Then to chemo. It's a clinical trial program. She's at Methodist Hospital in the Methodist tower. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. She needs all she can get. Such a wonderful woman to get such a disease. It makes you think...

We're 2 people up on our Relay for Life Team. And I've reached my goal thanks to Sandy and Aunt Joann. Thank you so much ladies! It means so much to me that we can do this. I added our name to the church list, I hope, to see if we can accquire more members for the team, too. I hope, hope Krystin can walk. And yes, I'm probably going to look like a bloated up toad frog before the night's over due to my allergies, but it's worth it.

Oh! Lex got to meet the Easter Bunny on Saturday!!! He was SO good. And his photo was amazing. Yep, he's a photogenic "ham"...

Wow, what a day!

2007-03-20T13:33:00.000-07:00

We've had an eventful day!

First, I turned off Lex's Little Einsteins to get him ready to go out and about. I ran to put on shoes and pick him up. Well, I get back and he has the dvd box in his little hands and is hitting the dvd player. 8-) Who says babies aren't smart?!

Then, we went by the Scrapbook Store. I was asked to teach a scrapbooking class at my church. So, I went by there. We found out Lex is eligible for toddler preschool in the fall. Wow! It's all the kids in his nursery Sundays and Wednesdays. We're contemplating the idea.

And, I'm now the teacher at the FUMC Nac. Four classes starting out. The first one I teach. Then, we see if it'll just be a crop or classes. Fun fun. :-)

And we have a date for the fundraiser!!! October 20, 2007! All day long... Yay! Progress! :-)

And I got to talk to Aunt Joann today! Nice hour long talk. She reminds me so much of a really wise lady I once knew... ;-) And a lady she and I love so well.

Speaking of Mimie... Our associate pastor found out, today, that her cancer has spread from her lung and liver to her brain. She's starting chemo soon. Please pray very hard for her recovery.

I hope you're having a wonderful Tuesday! :-)

Have a Monday...

2007-03-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

Lex is now rocking, and occasionally really crawling! It's so funny to watch him rev, rev, rev... jump! It cracks us up. I just hope he doesn't try it again with a toy in front of him.

I've joined yet another swap. Michael may have a calf. It's with APA, though. A two page layout for a mama. I'm all excited. I have something in mind already, I just hope it fits with what my mama wants. :-)

I'm working on some cards for the family and friends. It's an adorable pic of Lex. We had a great photo session Saturday. He was all decked out in his green and was sooo happy. I'm thinking a pocket with the photo and an update. Yep, that's what I'll do. I'll try to post, too! :-)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2007-03-17T18:55:00.000-07:00

Are YOU wearing your green today? :-) Happy Saturday!

2007-03-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

Ha ha ha! Too funny! Do I make a cute M&M? The site is http://www.becomeanmm.com. I was so jazzed to see such a fun little site.

We're playing alot this week. Still moving, but Lex thinks it's Christmas all over again. He's playing with toys he doesn't remember and is in complete awe. We also took him to Maroney Park this week. Yes, my allergies are suffering from it (dang, my eyes are driving me nuts,) but it was well worth its weight in gold. He LOVES swinging and sliding down the little slide. I hold him as he slides, and Lex will giggle and smile the biggest grin I've seen in a long time. I've got pictures...

I measured him yesterday... he's 30 inches long!!! Whoa! I remember when... lol. Don't we all say that one?!

Michael turned 29 on Wednesday. We made stuffed bell peppers and cupcakes. It was a fun night. Lex even colored his Dada a card. We got Michael a shadow box for his Scout memorabilia for the big day. What's sad is that I got the 16x20 frame, and he could've gone bigger. The only bigger frame was a t-shirt shadow box! That man has ALOT of Scout patches.

Anyhoo~ I'll post more later... Got to get to a fussy, sleepy little man.

Many, many Things I've Found...

2007-03-10T07:26:00.000-08:00

I finally go tback into my account! Dang computers...

Okay, to start off, Elizabeth, Michael & I are going to walk in the Relay for Life on April 13th. It's from 7 pm to 7 am, either at the SFA Track or the Nac High Track. Not sure which. We're going to walk in Mimie's honor. (Elizabeth's idea!) It'll be tiring, but worth it.

Next, I got in contact with a person that will be oh so valuable to helping me with the Cancer Awareness fundraiser I've been working on putting together. The owner of Education Station, Nikki, was wanting to put on an event like mine for Colon Cancer Awareness. (Her dad's has come back pretty aggressively... The motto of their awareness campaign: "Check your Rump!") So, we decided on making the event huge by doing a general cancer awareness in October or November. (November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month!) Plus, her sister is the Regional Director of American Cancer Association. Who woulda thunk it?! I'm getting so so excited.

By the way, one of our associate pastors was in remission, but her cancer has come back. It's in her lung again and I believe her liver. Please pray for her.

On a funny note, Lex is trying to crawl, but he found out that rolling gets him there faster. It's really cute. He also LOVES to be outside. When we go walking at night, he'll flirt with the college girls. My little man... He's eating us out of baby food and home. He's loving his fruits and sweet potatoes. He's learning to like peas again. He can tolerate green beans. I'm just waiting for the day we can give the little guy some meat. He's already loving Gerber Graduates puffs and freeze dried fruits. Yes, they're meant for a 12 month old, but he's doing great and not choking. Who knows.

It's Spring Break!!! Woo Hoo! We're going to visit people, move stuff, get the house in order, maybe make a park run or two, maybe play in puddles, celebrate Michael's birthday, and hopefully rest somewhere in there.

Hope you're having a mah~velous Saturday!

Ribbons, trophies, & cold weather... OH my!

2007-03-05T07:33:00.000-08:00

Michael had the Physics Olympics Saturday morning. His students came home with 15 ribbons and 1 trophy. He was proud. Lex was the team mascot. They kids call him Dragon. Come to find out, one of his classes had an inside joke about this name. Before he was born, one of the classes with football guys said that we should name him Dragon, because he'll be good luck for the team. Well, we didn't but they still did. They said he's what got them to the playoffs. lol. Funny kids.

He went to the olympics, but he stayed really bundled. He even got an SFA sweatshirt. It's so cute!

We went to a Missionary Conference Saturday night and listened to an older preacher at the San Augustine Methodist Church. He was there in the 60s. Nice gentleman, likes to talk.

If I can get the dang thing to work, I'll post pictures of some random stuff today. Here's hoping!

Package for you, Sir!

2007-03-02T10:15:00.000-08:00

Krystin's package is off today! Whoopie! Lex made sure you had some photos of him to show off! lol. .

I got my pics done, so I can upload them. Will do! At least Elizabeth's pics... Krystin's will go up when she gets the package. I downright proud of what I did. I hope others likey.

Lex is doing well. Feisty as ever. He can roll all the way over, and is trying to figure out how to get both ends up at the same time to crawl. It's funny. He can't get them both up together. He loves the Gerber Graduates Puffs right now. They melt in his mouth and he loves to have the "real" food. It lets us eat meals anyway. lol. We're making mashed taters with Silk. He can't have cow's milk right now, so we asked the pediatrician if we can use soy milk or formula~ she approved. He's 16.54 lbs as of Monday. He's in the 64% area for boys his age. I guess our baby's more normal than we thought, huh?

He also went to the park for the first time. We swung in the toddler swing. He laughed so hard! He's not a fan of the sunlight in his eyes, but he loved all the people. He's an outdoorsy kind of boy. I guess Mama's gonna have to change up her outdoors liking, huh? lol.

But, I have an upset little man in the swing... I need to get to him.

Have a good day! It's nice outside...

Guess who has...

2007-02-19T11:04:00.000-08:00

a cold... Yes, my dear, dear boy has a cold. Nothing bad, just enough to make him not know what he wants right now. Stuffy nose, a sneeze & a little cough~ that's it. Poor baby can't sleep well. Hard night for all 3 of us last night.

Heard two bits of good news~ Krystin got 1st place at the B-Wood Invitational Saturday! With a "bum leg" even. lol. And... she got to see the birth of a baby on her rounds at the hospital. Yep, she's taking a health tech class her senior year, and she got to see some amazing stuff! Cool cool. Congrats, sis!

Oooh, I gave Liz her book I made for her job/wedding. I'll post some pics asap.

I'm working on something fun and cute for Krystin, too. I'm all excited to get it done. Halfway! :-) I can't wait for her to get the package! Or... maybe I'll give it to her over Spring Break... Hmm...

I think I'm going to do Interior Design. I'm not 100% final with it, but that's what I'm leaning towards. I'm jsut looking for something creative. And my college lacks in some creativity learning. (Boy, that sounds gramatically wrong.) Photography is through Journalism~ Nope. Me no likey a prof. And he's all I have left. Grr. I procrastinate. lol. Art... well, I'm not the best at drawing. And it's alot of drawing. Hospitality could be interesting. I'm checking. Design will give me a job if I want it, and I'll get to play with colors and different forms of design at the same time. Maybe it'll get me out of my scrapbooking rut, too. lol. I wish I had a little insight/advice from others...

Anyhoo~ Off to eat lunch while the little guy's asleep in his swing. Anything to prop him up.

Happy Monday. :-P

Friday, 20 degrees, & A Big, Big Event

2007-02-16T15:11:00.000-08:00

We've officially survived one of the coldest days this winter. It was 20 degrees last night. Brrr!

Anyway...

I've officially been re-accepted here at grand ole' SFASU. I got bookoos of papers in the mail. All the bulk mail they send out to new freshmen. It's kinda funny. Yes, I've gone to the school for 4 years. Yes, I took a year and a half break. Oh, and I worked there a year... lol. I guess I get the info again. Too funny. There was even red and perple confetti in my acceptance card! Woo hoo! I likes confetti. lol.

We're just hanging out today. Lex has been alot of fun this afternoon. He loves Little Einstein. It's for toddlers, but he's in love. He talks through the whole thing. I can't help but chuckle.

Michael and Lex are both napping right now. So, I decided to take that little piece of quiet and finally put my makeup on and get dressed. I'm late getting started today, but it's okay. At least I did it! :-)

Hmm.... I need to go back in my posts and re-read. I don't know if I've posted about my biggest adventure this spring/summer (aside from school and Lex.) Drum roll please... brrrrmmmmm...

As Aunt Linda said, it's my time to give back. So... I'm going to host a benefit all day crop for Nac and surrounding towns! I want it to benefit Lung Cancer Awareness. I don't want to sit around depressed or moping on Mimie's birthday this year. So, in her memory, I'd like to get as many people together and do a scrapping event. 12 hours of unadultrated cropping on June 9, 2007. lol. :-) I'm also thinking of asking for donations for 1.) door prizes & 2.) pages to be sent to MD Anderson in Houston. I really like the idea. I'm hoping on help from as many people as possible in as many ways as they can. Here's to working out the best darn way to remember an amazing woman.

Oh, Krystin! I'm SOOOOO proud of you for getting tapped for NHS! I knew you could do it! :-) And good luck at the B-Wood Invitational. You'll out vault those girls by leaps and bounds! :-) I promise PROMISE I'll make it to a few this season! Hugs! xoxo

Happy Valentine's Day!

2007-02-14T10:03:00.000-08:00

It's a cold, windy Valentine's Day today. But, you know, it's okay. We already had our day. Friday, we exchanged gifts. Lex and I gave Michael a basket full of goodies: a bib that says "I love you," boxers, new pens and pads, a handmade item from each of us, and lots of candy. Well, you know what I got! Saturday we went to dinner. Tonight, we go to church.

Oohh... guess who's alseep in his crib for a nap?? Yes, he is! Woo hoo, woo hoo! And for 15 minutes, too. I just put the Baby Einstein travelling cd in the cd player and crack the door. He's just been fed, changed, and rocked to sleep. Oh, I hope he makes it for a while. He's so much happier when he takes at least a 45 minute nap. Uh oh. He's talking. 8-

Anyhoo~ I'm working on some felt flowers for some pages and some AMM bag decorations. I seem to not be able to stand it when something's plain. lol. I just hope they turn out without turning my hands all black. Eewie.

90% Chance of Rain & a Wall of Fire

2007-02-12T09:13:00.000-08:00

I love getting to put titles on these things. You can always have so much fun. Some are "you had to be there" moments, but hey!

Anyhoo~ It's a dreary day in Nactown. Front coming through and cold weather behind it. Sucks, if you ask me. The rain, anyway. I love love cold weather.

Done some research... Due to hour constraints, and the out-of-state tuition issue thingy, I've narrowed it down to 2 majors. One~ Interior Design; Two~ Hospitality Administration. Both sound interesting. Here's to making appts this week!

I got my Valentine's Day presents this weekend! Ooohh la la, I'm so happy. Michael & Lex got me matching earrings, necklace & a ring. Lex got me earrings, Michael got me a ring, and the necklace was for our anniversary. Ruby hearts with white sapphire hearts and diamonds. I'll post pics asap.

Lex finally slept in his own bed last night! Yes, my friends, it is a miracle. We had to get up with him so many times with tummy troubles, but he did it. We didn't sleep much, but... it's a start. I let him lay with me for an hour this morning. He needed to be on his side. And a little mama lovin' never hurts! *tee hee*

Oh, and he prefers Pedialyte to juice. Funny little boy. :-) And he makes out loud belly laughs. I'm trying so hard to get that on video. It cracks us up.

Christy found out that there's room in the Mother's Day Out at Calvary Baptist, if we'd like to schedule an interview. 4 hours a week, once weekly. It may end up something we look into, maybe being the operative word.

I finished Liz's thingy for her wedding/ new job. I'll post as soon as she gets it. I'm quite proud of it. I can't wait to work on Krystin's! I likey gift making.

I want a pug. A black pug. I know we can't as long as we're in this house, but when we move in a couple of years, Lex needs a puppy. Right?

Did I forget the Wall o' Fire part of my title? Yes, I did. Michael's doing an experiment with his physics kids with a copper tube full of holes, gas, a frequency generator, and a speaker. It's supposed to make a large wave out of the holes when you light it up. I think flickr.com has some demos. I'll look and post it if I can.

Anyhoo~ I guess it's time for me to get something done. He's napping. I like naps every 2-3 hours. I just wish I could muster up the energy to sleep with him. lol.

Weeee!

2007-02-07T15:18:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited. I'm like a little girl on my way back to kindergarten. I just applied for readmission to SFA! Now, if only they had a degree in scrapbooking... hahaha! :-D My choices so far, in order~ Interior Design, Nutrition & Dietetics, or Child & Family Development (Preschools & Daycares.) I'm going to go talk to some professors and see what I end up with. Wish me luck!

Whoopsie! I doubled pics yesterday. I meant to add the one of Lex's name and the alphabet, but... I'll get to it! :-)

Michael's at Trinity tonight. Looong story. One night only! Favors... ugh.

Must be off. Have a fussy baby in need on attention! :-)

The Colts won, Peyton Manning got MVP, we ate lots of fried chicken and brownies...

2007-02-06T12:07:00.000-08:00

Hahaha... I like my title. :-)

Guess who woke up early, ate 12 ounces in 2 hours, and refused a nap? Yep. He slept well last night, though!

We went to visit Mrs. Shirley and Mr. Jerry today. Holly was there, and Lex loved to play with her! He was such a good baby. He played up a storm. He's taking a nice long nap in his swing now. I love observing babies when they're asleep. There's something angelic about them.

Well, I finally got the pictures on a cd. How did we take over 233 picstures in less than 2 months? I have no clue. It's either proud parent syndrome or the digital photography class lecture coming out in me. (You know, the "the more pictures you take, the better chance of a good one coming out" thing?) :-D I'm all excited to show Lex's room. I think I did quite well, if I do say so myself.

Ooohh... I got a desk from surplus at SFA for FREE! It had some bubbles in the laminate on top, so it was given to me. I can't wait to get a new piece of laminate glued on and a coat of either pink, purple, green, or blue spray paint. You'd never know it was near the end of its life when I'm done with it. :-) Okay, when Michael & I are finished. ;-)

I like cinnamon. Especially Watkins cinnamon. Random? Not so much. I'm eating applesauce while writing... *tee hee*

So, here goes nothing!

Mmm... Superbowl... And Other Odds & Ends

2007-02-04T06:04:00.000-08:00

I went to a private crop at the Hampton Inn yesterday. That was so much fun! We got there around 8 am and had the room until today, if we wanted it. We had candy, food, drink, and lots of movies. They comped us the room because they didn't have it ready for us by 8. I made 2 frames, started 2 sarabinder books, and a page. Not too shabby.I left around 3 to go to Lufkin with Michael and his mom. Lex needed new clothes. But, I stayed 7 hours! That's a new one for me.

Lex got those fruit/veggie thingies that you can put solid food in them and he can eat without us worrying about him choking. He's on mixed fruit right now. Adorable! He's also taken to spitting out food now. Yay. :- He's not eating anything. Oh well, cest la vie.

I've got pics to post, but have to find a creative way to get them. My computer won't support the program, so... Here's hoping! I'll post some asap.

Off to find my one bowl chocolate cake recipe. I'm making me a Superbowl cake... or cupcakes. Oooh, speaking of! Where can I find extra big cupcake tins?? I saw some cupcakes at Sams... Wow!

How Cute is That?!

2007-01-31T08:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, so my 4 month old decides he wants to learn my face. He's started this in the past week. He'll reach up and grab my mouth and laugh. Then, he'll grab my nose and laugh. Then, he'll go for the chin, eyes, ears... all the while laughing. And I've begun the whole,"Yes Lex, that's my mouth... that's my..." thing. It's adorable.

And I think he's left handed. He does everything with his left hand~ pick up things, eat, spoon food into his mouth... you know the drill. He even colors and squeezes paint with his left hand! Yes, we got bored one afternoon, and he wanted something to do. So, Mama goes for the markers and squeeze paint. We made valentines for Daddy and the grandparents (great ones included!)

Anyhoo~ It's off to church!

First post!

2007-01-25T19:21:00.000-08:00

Wow... The first posting. How exciting.

What a day it was... We take Lex to the doctor to get his 4 month check up, and he somehow ends up with a stomach bug. Yeah, icky. We all smell of "pit up." We almost ended up in the ER. He seems to be sleeping and over the worst of it, so we're just pumping him with Pedialyte for the night.

I may not go to crop night tomorrow night... It depends on how the little guy is.

I'm working hard on getting my fundraiser up and running. I know that lung cancer awareness is a major deal. I know that I'm in need of securing a building. I also know that I need to find donors/donations for door prizes and silent auction. I have it all lined out, I just need to get this train a movin.' I CAN and WILL do this. I'm giving back for Mimie. She would be proud, I know she would.