Christmas fun

So much to report! Baby and I hit the road for a visit to Grams and Big Ben's. Although it was a different sort of Christmas than I would really wish for, it was a good time. In addition to actual Christmas, we also made a trip to Fiesta TX and to the zoo! Baby continues to be the cutest thing you (well, at least for me) ever did see, and I'm doing amazingly well (thanks to all of you praying for me). Hubby and I have had several nice long chats, and both of our gifts arrived in time for Christmas. And let us not forget the reason for the season! Thank you God for sending your son so that we may have life. So, now it is photo time...hmmm...which ones of the hundred million I took should I share?! Guess these will have to do:

Daddy sent a DVD of him reading a story to Baby. She obviously loves it.



























Christmas Eve European Baby The table was one of Baby's gifts

Pa-fier

Pa-fier, pa-fier? Peas? Peas? I can NOT seem to get rid of the pacifier! And now Baby is calling it by name! I'm not quite sure where she learned that, since I try really hard to never talk about it. Mmm. So, for a few days I caved in wondering to myself why exactly was it that I don't like to use it, again? Until it became clear...she tosses it during the night and cries until she gets it back! So, tonight, back to business as usual. Which was hard since she was asking so sweetly. I need to learn some rewards for her. Most of the time she is such a good little girl, and I want to reward her, but it seems like I usually give her a yummy treat. I would like to do something other than food! Let me know if you have any big ideas. I've recently decided (again)that my writing isn't really all that interesting, so that's all for tonight folks.

What was I thinking?!?!

An event at Fair Park? Other than the fair? Let me tell you, readers...BAD, bad idea. The ONLY thing that made it even part way safe was that I invited a couple to come with me. So, me, Baby, my preggos friend, and her hubby (token body guard male) drove straight into culture shock to go to the city's tree lighting event. Advertised as great family fun. Stories and photos with Santa, puppet show, arts/crafts, symphony concert, tree lighting (with military tribute). All free! Sounds like a lovely Christmas event, huh? So, sparing the details, the next day in the paper I read about a SHOOTING at the Kwanzaa event in Fair Park!!!!! Holy smokes. What was I thinking?!?! Never again.

Let's see...what else. Yesterday was Hubby's b-day. I missed his call b/c I was at church. I got so hot the other day trying to get fuel for my car I thought I was going to have to take off my sweater. Instead I just rolled down the windows and turned up the a/c (and this was on one of those rare cold days). All the spouts were full, and every time I tried to maneuver to one the turn would be too sharp or a pole was in the way (or some other random thing) that I was just this moron driving a sedan blocking everyone. This one gal took pity on me and waved me in front of her (perfectly parked and waiting) car. So nice. I graciously took the spot and realized the tank was on the OTHER side of the car. At which point I got so flustered (and hot) (no room to turn around) that I just drove off. Makes my heart race just thinking about it!

Today I plan on baking some cookies. Brrr...baby it's cold!

Regular update

Well, let's see, where did we leave off? Oh yes, decorating for Christmas. I have a few more decorations now...check it out to the left. Ha ha! Phunny, huh? MIL gave that to the dog. Of course Maddie would never be allowed to eat any cookies with her special restrictive diet and all, but it sure is cute.

Oh, and it turns out I'm famous. Only I already pretty much forgot about it. My 15 minutes of fame has turned out to be closer to 15 seconds, but I suppose that is OK. I participated in a press conference at my local YMCA regarding a benefit from the Department of Defense. The DOD is paying for Y memberships (some strings attached) for deployed guard families. And apparently I'm the only one participating in the program. So, I got called in by the y to basically just be present and snap a few photos with the Y pres and a local congress man. I've been told I was on the Telly, but can you believe I didn't see it?! Ah, too bad. I was also quoted in the paper, and I have 3 copies of it, so I CAN prove my fame if I have to. Photo here is of Baby dressed for the press conference.

Ah, and next...the annual 6 pack Christmas party. 9th year. Fun, fun for everyone! I love my ladies. And I came away with a snazzy pair of knee high slippers. Seriously. They look sorta crazy, but they are real fun and warm.

Moving on to Disney World! Sans Baby. I'll have to return when Baby is a bit older. What a cush job I have. Our annual conference was at a DW resort. I DID actually attend the conference, but we also made some time to check out Magic Kingdom. I do enjoy a theme park, friends. I must say, the rollee coasters didn't make my stomach drop, but it was fun all the same. I rode the tea cups, sang It's a Small World, and devoured ice cream. Who says you need to bring the kid to have fun?!

Now it is back to the real world, which involves getting my Christmas cards out. I have been working on them since Thanksgiving. I imagine I'll get them sent before Christmas, but it sure has turned into a project. Let's see. Baby has learned a new trick. She has discovered that she can pick her nose. Gross. Most of the time her nose is like a leaky faucet, but for some reason it isn't dripping now. Which I guess has prompted her to pick it. Ew. We're working on learning proper hygiene. Baby is real sweet, despite the new boy habit. Speaking of boy, Momma scooped the yard today (typical boy job), and Baby helped. She really wanted to hold the shovel with me. It was cute. Although it did take longer to get the job complete. It was so warm out today. Another great reason to love this state! Warm in December. So we spent some time in the yard (other than scooping). Baby really enjoys the trampoline. She just shrieks and laughs. She says...ashes? Her request for Ring around the rosy...she likes the fall down part especially. We also made a grocery store run (does anyone get outta the store for under 100 bucks? seriously! and it's just us two!), where Baby opened up not one but two items to eat in the store. I felt a little better about it when I saw another mom with open boxes in her cart.

Oh, so update on the Hubby. We talked this morning for awhile. He is getting mail from home and is always excited about it. He already got his Christmas present from me, and he opened it! I got one from him today, and so far (for like the past 5 hours) I'm managed to restrain myself from opening. Mmm. So, he is really over there in The Iraq doing his whole convoy support mission thing. Guess this is really happening. Oh, I'll post a pic soon with the chain. The chain says 261 days left, and it is noticeably smaller!

Well kids, I guess I'll call it a post. Gotta go work on those Christmas cards!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

I've done a little decorating for Christmas! I have my Spode dishes in the cabinet, an international garland hung, and my tree up! Check out the tree to the left. Seriously. It's my tree. It's paper. It took about 10 minutes to put up, and the clean up will probably be even less. At first I was sad when I decided not to decorate for Christmas, but then I decided to be OK with it. It's actually sorta a relief. I don't have to get all worked up about crawling into the yucky attic, cleaning up the grim that comes down with the decorations, keeping Baby outta the boxes, and putting it all back where it came from. I guess that might sound a little scrooge like, but it has taken a weight off of me, and I feel good about it. I'll just light my yummy candles, turn on the Christmas tunes, drink my hot cocoa and be relaxed. Ah. What a stress free holiday. I even have most of my shopping done.

Today has been a pretty good day except I missed 2 calls from The Iraq. That's a bummer. The evening has been full of activity. We went to Baby's gym today b/c we have a conflict with her normal class. It seems that I will be in a press conference then. I'll tell ya all about it later. After gym we went out as our Wednesday tradition continues for Mexican food. Baby is a good Texan and loves her tex-mex! We walked over to the Christmas tree lighting ceremony afterward, and it was full of Christmas cheer. A children's choir was singing and you could take photos with Santa and a real live reindeer. We skipped out on the photo, even though I had brought a darling little dress for Baby. We had had a long day, there was a line, it was cold, and Baby didn't care. Why teach a pig to sing? I figure we'll have another opportunity.

A fun package was waiting for us when we got home. I'm currently all snugly and warm in my new OIF hoodie. And I got a cool beaded bracelet too. Ladies, I would never suggest that I'm enjoying this time away from Hubby, but I tell you what...I've been spoiled rotten by all the things he sends me! They are just all things, though, which doesn't replace the real deal. But they are all very special things that make me think of him every time I see them.

smoke detectors

Why is it that without fail, when the battery dies in the smoke detectors it happens in the middle of the night? Why? Can anyone tell me? Another question...why is that they chirp once, then lay quietly while you take everything down before alerting you to the correct one? So, there I was at about 4 AM taking every smoke detector off the wall thinking it was the culprit. I even took the carbon monoxide one down plus the one in Baby's room before I found the right one. They are are still on the desk in the family room. One is busted open with a dead battery tossed to the side. Guess I'll have to get around to putting them all back where they belong, huh? And I guess that whole "change the batteries" during time change thing is a pretty good idea. I might get better rest that way.
Ah, so it is already back to the grind from Thanksgiving. T-giving was very enjoyable. Baby and I spent some time with family, and Baby was very good in the car. I think it had something to do with the pacifier. And the wheels on the bus song, which is still her current favorite.
So, I am fabulous and sent Baby to school yesterday while I enjoyed a day "off". The day was mostly spent getting a few Christmas things together to send to The Iraq. Yes, folks, the day has finally come. Hubby is indeed in The Iraq. It sounds altogether quite silly. I'm sure it is quite safe. We got to speak yesterday, and he mentioned something about concrete walls and living quarters similar to shipping containers. Sounded a shade worse than jail, but concrete walls sound safe to me. Now, the question is, will he always be within the concrete walls? I prefer to live my delusional life in my head and answer yes to that.

Thanks

So, we had a great sermon at church today. In keeping with the season, the topic was giving thanks is ALL circumstances and being thankful even for the (yet) unanswered prayers. So, here it goes:

I'm thankful for the monster headache I had because it forced me to rest for an hour (which I wouldn't have done), and I'm glad I could hold it together until I put Baby to bed (early). I'm grateful for Hubby (this is hard) going to The Iraq and for the blessings that will flow from it in regard to the growth of God's kingdom and richness and fullness that our marriage and family will experience when he returns. I'm thankful for the incessant whining from Baby because I'm learning to be much more patient and empathetic.

Let's move on and talk scripture. A few verses that touched me today: 2 Chronicles 20:15..."Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but Gods...17...You will not have to fight this battle....Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged...the Lord will be with you." 1 Peter 5:6-7 "Humble yourselves, therefore, under Gods' mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." Amen!

On a lighter note, check out the fun photos:

today's family photo, notice the new "do"

School project; don't worry baby, there won't be a test! So serious.

Baby having fun on a pony! Third time is the charm.

Today

TGIF! Baby actually slept past 6:30! That made a happy morning for everyone. The big dog ran out to get the paper (she actually had to get Thursday's too), and she had an audience. It always makes me so proud when someone sees her get the paper. Ah, proud of my dogs, proud of Baby. Pride goeth before a fall? Mmm. I hope not.
After breakfast (Baby has taken to eating apple slices AND apple sauce...Momma must need to do some shopping), we went to her gym where she had a ball, just like always. Then we went to the library for story time. And she actually sat through the whole thing for the first time. We came home with 2 bundles of recycling bags and a book on CD for our Thanksgiving trip. I'm gonna have to cut the books on CD out pretty soon due to content and language (not like I listen to "adult" stuff or anything, but my favorite murder mysteries might be a bit scary for Baby...plus it is shocking how many bad words there are when you really listen! Sad, it seems I must be a bit desensitized).
The day wasn't really that interesting. The biggest thing is that I've been asked to participate in a press conference with Pete Sessions. Isn't that a hoot?! I don't have many details yet, so stay tuned. Short story is the YMCA wants to spread the word about the military membership, and I apparently am the only one taking advantage. We'll see what they want me to do (could be just a warm body in the crowd, but hey, it's kinda cool).
Let's see. Man things I've done the past week: talked with the yard man, scooped a dead mouse from the yard, built a fire, and changed the A/C filter (aren't you proud, Hubby?!). I don't recall so many dead mice when Hubby was around. Mmmm.
Cute thing Baby did today: she is very particular about her songs. I sing Jesus Loves Me right before putting her to bed, and tonight she had this adorable little pouty face on shaking her head no! She was holding a book of nursery rhymes and I had to sing the right song as she turned the page. Funny. Plus, she loves, loves, loves, Wheels on the Bus.
I've managed to jam pack my weekend full of activities. 285 days left.

Penny Anderly

Who is Penny Anderly? And why hasn't she told all her contacts that she changed her number over TWO YEARS ago? Even Gramma didn't have her new number (that call was probably about a year ago). But, ever so often we get a personal call (plus plenty of solicitations) for Penny. The most recent one was last night at eleven. I believe I've mentioned before about how tired I am, so that call wasn't welcome. Although I must admit the gal on the other end was really apologetic.

So, Hubby is off in another land. I heard from him this morning from Germany. I'm not sure where he is now. I'll let you know whenever I do. So, for the rest of the day, I believe some retail therapy is in order!

Nothing special

I just sorta felt like writing. You may notice the new layout...whadaya think? I think it is super pretty! Anyone else noticing the ridiculous grocery prices? I mean, a loaf of bread for 3 BUCKS?! I used to think $1.89 was steep. I've been trying to buy some edemame for months, and I've finally located it at the store. Why is all edemame "product of China"? I don't know about you, but I plan to avoid eating anything from China. So, I spent over $100 bucks at the store...for just me and Baby. That is way wrong. I guess I got some stuff that wasn't food (health/beauty/pharmacy), but it still seems like a lot to me. At least the price of gas is going down.

What does everyone else eat? Don't you wonder? Yeah, yeah, I know I'm probably overly fixated on food. But I sorta want to peek into all the kids' lunch boxes at Baby's school to get some ideas. How many tuna sandwiches and boiled eggs can a kid eat? Well, a lot, actually, but I'd like to introduce some variety (hence the edemama).

I have managed to get my back unaligned again, and this time it was without doing anything fun like the wii. I can attribute it to nothing. It just started hurting, and now my whole leg down to my knee is in pain. If I can't work it out in the gym, I guess I better get back to the chiropractor. Am I growing old already? Seems too soon for that.

We have some fun things on tap for the weekend. 2 big things: a visit from Grams and a birthday party with a pony! Oh, not baby's party. We are just attending. Given the last experience with a pony, I'm not sure how this one will go, but I think she'll at least like petting it.

Baby is so smart. She can count. No kidding. She can get to 3 all by herself, but it sorta falls apart after that. She skips 4 and goes right to 5. I think it's because of all the stairs at school. They count them (Grandma counts them too). Anyway. I guess I'll just keep working so I have a reason to send her to daycare. She loves it!

Let's see, what else. Oh, Baby can also work the buckles on high chairs and such. She can't unbuckle them, luckily, though. Hubby will be glad to know that it's just the same 'ole same 'ole around here. I'm still setting off the smoke alarm in the kitchen when I bake. Did you know you can hear the smoke alarm all the way out in the yard by the swing set? The other day I was baking some chicken and I kept hearing this beep beep noise and I was like, what is that? When I went inside I sure found out! And NO, the chicken itself wasn't burned. Goo that's accumulated on the bottom of the oven is what was burning.

OK. I'm going to watch The Office now.

This and that

The big dog has taken to eating the cat's food. This has apparently upset the cat so that she felt the need to kill a mouse and eat most of it and leave the leftovers in the garage. Gross. Man thing I did today: clean up mouse guts.

Today is a beautiful day. For some reason I tend to miss Hubby a little more on the weekends. I live the life I want to live in my head. If he were here we would have gotten out this morning to go to the nursery to get some plants. He would plant them this afternoon and tonight we would go out to eat at Mexicalie. Instead I went to the Y then we went to the car seat check where I learned that my car seat has been installed incorrectly for ALL of Baby's life. Mmm. Turns out I shouldn't use the LATCH system in the middle seat. Who knew? Anyway. Got that set and now I know. So...you should all check your car's owner's manual. If it doesn't explicitly say it is OK to use the LATCH system in the middle seat, you probably should use the belt instead.

Next we did a bit 'o Christmas shopping. Then it was back to the house for Baby to nap, and I got to work on the never ending chair refinishing project. I'm nearly through with my second chair. I no longer have time frames or hopes for when I might get finished. I just imagine I'll finish eventually. I'm not sure what is on the agenda for the rest of the afternoon, but I'm thinking that Baby and I might go eat at Mexicalie anyway.

Lots to update

The biggest update is that Baby, me and MIL made a trek up to Savannah to visit Hubby! We all had a great time, and that flat daddy really has done the trick. Baby wasn't shy or anything when she saw Daddy. We got to stay for 4 days, and thanks to Grandma, Hubby and I had some time just for us in addition to family time.

Many of you have commented that I tend to write a lot about food. I agree. No apologies. So, lemme tell you about the food that we ate. I'll start with The Lady and Sons. Those of you who "know" are jealous and salivating. And let me tell you what! It totally lived up to expectations. I mean, I've eaten a few green beans, and I don't mind them. But these green beans were GOOD! We all just ordered up the buffet like good foodies would do. A little of it all, ya know? Fried chicken, mac 'n cheese, rice, corn casserole, all that good southern food. Y-U-M. Topped off with Paula's Gooey Butter Cake. MIL got me the cookbook...does that mean I'm on for Thanksgiving next year? Hmmm...I hadn't thought of it from that angle. OK, now, for those of you who DON'T know...Paula Dean is a big wig on the food network with her southern food cooking show, and her restaurant is in Savannah.

Let's see. What other foods...traditional Low Country food at Elizabeth's on 37th, some pub food at an Irish pub, oohh...breakfast at Clary's (for those of you who've read Midnight in the Garden of Good ane Evil). Good stuff. Since Army pays for a Y membership (recently learned of this perk...it is so worth it to have Hubby in army...ha!), guess I better get there and do something about all this extra food I just put into my body.
Should we talk about the plane ride with Baby? I think not. Except to say I'm buying her a ticket next time even if she could ride in my lap so I can strap her down with a seat belt.

Dinner tonight...a far cry from the past few days. Can we count mac 'n cheese from the box and canned peas as dinner? I did.

Awe...Daddy and Daughter time

Family pic on the trolley tour

Mmmm...at Cupcake Emporium

Outside our town home. You may see this on a Christmas card.

The Lady and Sons!

Happy birthday....

to me! I have had a good day. I started my celebration a couple of days ago with a day at the spa. Yes, that's right...a whole DAY. From 10-4. I felt fab-u-lous. While it lasted. When I got home and noticed quite a bit 'o cash was taken from my wallet, uh...the warm fuzzy feelings quickly faded. Yeah, yeah, I know. I shouldn't have stashed anything in the locker I wasn't OK with losing, but STILL. The trip to the spa was my gift to me from Hubby. Charge it, please.

Other b-day related items included a night out with the girls (including cheesecake and champagne...again, fabulous!), candles, and a new wii game! Cookin' mama. As if I don't actually cook enough without playing a game. Sorta reminds me of my attraction to the hit Lifetime series Army Wives. Like I have to watch a show to live an army wife life. Ah, the true colors of irony. The cookin' mama game really is a lot of fun. I'm getting faster with my sauteing and chopping. Maybe I'll throw a dinner (uh, I mean wii) party soon.

The folks were in town for a couple of days, and we had all sorts of big fun. We spent some time at the arboretum with a cow, uh, I mean, Baby, and we got to attend a pro tennis match. Martin and some other guy. Baby didn't really watch a whole lot, but it was a fun experience. The cow also had her first experience with a trick or treat environment at a church festival this afternoon. She really didn't care for the pony ride AT ALL, but I did manage to snap a photo before she demanded to get off.

Well, at the close of my b-day, I think I'll go cook...on the wii, that is.

The fair and other happy events

So, things are getting back to normal (not normal, remember, but the temporary normal). Weenie is just about back to her 'ole Weenie self! Scrounging around for morsels off the kitchen floor and such. After a few days of exclusive lunch meat, she ventured on to the homemade dog food I've been whipping up for her. And then she went ahead and added the canned stuff (MUCH easier on me!). She is still on some medication, but we'll finish that off this week, and then...well, I'm grateful for each "extra" day. I have like a million new pics, but I'll spare ya for the moment.

Baby is continuing to be just about the sweetest thing on earth. I'm pretty sure she is going to go into vocal performance. Here are the songs she (sorta) sings:

*The Ittsy Bittsy Spider (with hand motions)

*ABC

*I'm a Little Tea Pot

*Old McDonald Had a Farm (excels on "e-i-e-i-o")

*Jesus Loves Me (per her Sunday School teachers)

She is currently spending a bit 'o time with Grandma, and Momma spent a bit 'o time at the Greatest Fair on Earth! Seriously. I doubt there are few people who love the fair as much as I. Some of you may not know, but I got engaged at the fair (on top of the Ferris Wheel!). What's not to love? Where else could you possible get chicken fried BACON?! Although I'm a bit ashamed to admit I didn't try it, even though it got first place. Here are the things I DID have:

*corn dog (yeah, a given)

*fried chocolate truffle (my second favorite)

*fried somers (my favorite)

*Belgian waffle (just a bite)

*fried waffle ball (really just chocolate covered strawberries)

*gordita

*hamburger

*tornado potatoes from the stand by the Chevy main stage (the others don't have the seasoned salt!)

And we managed to hit the Go Texas pavilion right at free sample time. Score!

So, I'm basically not eating today, although that isn't entirely true because there was cake at church. And I did split most everything, too, with one of my dear 6-pack friends.

Update on my chair project (that has been dragging on since June). I finally got ONE chair finished today! I'm hopeful to get another one finished next weekend. We'll see.

Here are some photos.

Update on Weenie

Well, what a roller coaster the past week has been. I basically dog napped Weenie yesterday from the vet. And she had a tiny bit to eat last night AND this morning! I had been sorta planning on today being The Very Bad Day, but it turns out that day will be some other day in the undetermined future. I went to have her IV needle removed (they've kept it in her for a week so they don't have to re stick her), and the vet said that NO, today is NOT the day for Weenie's last day with us. Now, all she has to do is continue to eat. I've been feeding her peanut butter off my finger (to get her meds down). She isn't her usually peppy self, but who would be after a week in the hospital? And for those of you who are wondering...you don't want to know what it costs to have an animal in the hospital for a week. Suffice it to say that I'm happy to pay it for another day with Weenie!

bad bad news

Weenie is not getting better. I'm sad. Just broken. My heart is deflated. If she doesn't eat by Monday, I have a horrible decision to make. She is spending another night at the vet, although I do get to visit, and I have been able to bring her home a few nights. I'm just sick.

Weenie is ill

For those of you who know, Weenie is my mini dachshund. I love the queenie weenie as I like to call her. She has been my best fur friend for 9 years. I don't feel like giving the whole long story (odd, I know). So, short story is she spent 1 night at the emergency vet and is spending her 2nd night tonight at the regular vet. Weenie has kidney disease. I don't know why, and of right now, I don't exactly know the prognosis, but I'm choosing to believe it is good. They will run tests in the morning and compare with the original tests to see if the kidney function is improving. I got to go visit her in the hospital today and it was so good to see her! Whenever I'm down or need some extra love, I cuddle with Weenie, and of course I've been down these past days and I couldn't cuddle :( I'm praying for good news in the morning and that she gets to come home. She has been on an IV for 2 days now. Poor queenie weenie.

So, my past posts have been quite euphoric in mommyhood. I figured out a few days ago why. 1 because, yes, I really DO enjoy being a mom, but 2, she had recently gotten home from a few days with grandma, and absence really DOES make the heart grow fonder. So, it turns out I'm just as human as I always was, and I'm REALLY looking forward to the next visit with a grandparent, which will happen in mere days.

I'm empty right now. I'm tired from these past late nights, I'm worn out from the worrying about weenie, and I'm exhausted from the daily grind. Something stinks in my kitchen, and I can't identify it. No, it's not the trash.

On a high note, one of the items I had ordered online finally arrived after a month of being backordered (the "nack" tray for Baby's hot new ride).

You are now cordially invited to feel sorry for me and attend my pity party. Right now I'm the only one here. Will someone please bring me a cup 'o tea?

On being a mother and a child of God

Sometimes I wonder if everyone else's mind is as busy as mine. All day long I have so much running through my head! Maybe it's because most of my conversations are with a toddler. I don't know. Today as I watched Baby happily spinning around with only a diaper on (sadly, she often only has a diaper on) and stickers on her belly (she has found the wonderful world of stickers), I just had to take a photo in my mind. Who could miss these times? These wonderful, challenging, tiring times. At the end of the day my body aches (could it be because I'm 30?), but I am satisfied. Being satisfied. I also think of that about 100 times a day. Because truly I am. Without the whole the Iraq issue, of course. But little things. For instance...I make lunches for work/school days. And I was satisfied that I was cutting strawberries and tomatoes to go into Baby's lunch (my lunch has m&ms and chips, but it didn't when I was a child!).

I'm thrilled when Baby takes my hand to lead me around the yard. She finds such treasures in the yard! I call them her outside treasures, because they do not belong inside. Leaves, acorns, sticks, an occasional bug and once her hand in a cactus plant (that one wasn't actually a treasure). She collects them carefully and then without notice...she dramatically messes the whole pile up with her hands. Then, as a lady, wipes her hands against one another to clean off the dirt. It has become quite a chore to get her inside, where Baby is promptly deposited into the bath. Which is another opportunity for discovery.

What a change has taken place in the past month. Certainly the prayers have been answered. And I guess Baby just had to work through some issues with Hubby/Daddy being gone.

So, what about this being a child of God. I wonder if all parents have some of these thoughts. But I think that being a mother has helped me "get" a little bit more of what it is like to be a child of God. It's just a different sort of love you have for your child. And it actually didn't come easy for me. I really had to grow into it, and I fully believe that it will just keep growing. When Baby was only about 5 days old I started praying (begging?) for God to grant me "whatever it is I need to do whatever it is I need to do today". Sorta vague, but the Holy Spirit knows much better than I do what I need. I still often pray that prayer. And you know what, God has answered it every single day. Every single day. Every day. I don't always feel successful at the end of the day (I do today, though). And sometimes I have to pray that God will fill in the blanks for me when I can't/don't give Baby what she needs and deserves. And I also pray that God will fill those empty places I have when I think about Hubby and the Iraq (see original post on why "the" Iraq). Sometimes I feel called to this period in my life (could it be one of my Egypts?), and other times I feel like a victim of circumstance.

Sometimes people say, "I couldn't do that," or, "I don't know how you do it." Well, you could if you had to, and I don't know how I do it either. Which just makes it all clear that I'm NOT doing it, and God is. Which brings me to another point. I'm not a real out loud Christian...I have all those problems with being meek. But, I do know this...I MUST make it clear that God has given me "whatever it is I need to do whatever it is I need to do" and currently, that is to parent my child in the absence of my husband and still provide love and support to him while he is away. Ponder that for awhile. I'm open to suggestions if you have any on how to be successful. Or forget pondering, and just pray!

Tomorrow I'm off to my "other" job...the one that supports all my recent shopping :)

Arboretum and other activities

Today I met up with some friends at the Arboretum for the Autumn Blooms. Everything was so pretty! Baby had a fair time...not great, but fair. Momma had a good time. Here are some photos of the day and also some from the weekend.

I love my baby

I do. I mean, even after long hard days I love my baby. But today, I just really love my baby. It certainly helps that she has been a pleasant little girl, I'm sure. She "let" me read the paper while she played happily (putting my shoes and socks on!). After I turned on some music, she danced for me awhile until I felt compelled to dance with her. What fun! Also, as it turns out, it is a great work out. Dancing while hoisting a 27 pounder around really takes some strength. And if you've never shared an ice cream sandwich with a toddler, let me encourage you to do so immediately. I almost (almost) didn't even mind that I hardly got a bite. What pleasure she had! And I really didn't mind the messy clean up. Isn't that what being a kid is all about? So, even though the day is only half over, I felt the need to write about this. Who knows, the joyous feelings may not last until the end of the day!

Roomba is dead

This is not a confirmed fact, but I'm afraid it might be true. As soon as I take him off his charger, he refuses to start. And he has been charging all day after a 2 hour power outage (details next) and he STILL isn't charged up. I'm afraid. Maybe I'll get him out tomorrow to confirm.

OK. Power outage. This is out light a sleeper I am. I woke up because the electricity went out. You know...that soft hum of the dvr, the whir of the fan...those noises. Well, when I no longer heard them, I woke up. And glanced at the clock. And noticed I couldn't see the clock. Or hubby's clock. Odd. I quickly figured out (even at 5 AM) that something was amiss. My brain goes straight to the "someone must have cut my electricity to come get me mode" and naturally there is no sleep for me. Who needs electricity to sleep? That's like the perfect time for it to be out. Anyway. I'm up running around with my cell phone as light to get the number to report an outage. I never did learn why it was out, but it came back on before 7.

So my day started out messed up. But overall it wasn't a bad day, just sorta weird. Little Gym was today, and Baby was back to loving it. Then, when I thought we might get a marathon nap as we often do on Friday's, the carpet cleaner showed up not just ON time, but EARLY! Who ever heard of such a thing? Between 2 and 6 means like 5:45 if you're lucky! The carpets did turn out nice, but a 45 minute nap wasn't what I'd hoped for.

We spent quite a bit of time outside (Baby had her first experience with chalk) before heading to one of the local dive drive-ins. I tell you Baby is no fool. She knows a good meal. Who could resist a grilled cheese with all that butter Momma would never dream of serving? Baby would've eaten the whole thing if I hadn't of saved her from herself by eating part of it myself. And it was goooooood. Even after my burger :).

Man things I did today. Scooped doggie poop, scooped a mouse head (yes, a mouse head) and killed a roach. Only 342 days left. Can't come soon enough!

Just normal stuff

The wii party was fun! And not impacted by the hurricane. Check out the cupcake cake I made. Baby really liked it. Momma did too! So, Saturday started with a mostly unsuccessful trip to the mall (Baby was a little cranky), but then a loooong afternoon nap was perfect given the yucky rainy weather.

Sunday also included a long afternoon nap. I gotta say, this paci thing might just stick around. Monday started out with a trip to my gym then Baby had her 18 month check up. Where did the past 18 months go? She is getting so big! 70% in weight (have I mentioned her appetite?), 50% in height, and 15% in head circumference. Her head doesn't LOOK that small, but I guess it is. Then we made a trip to the park to celebrate her good behavior at the doc. She really has been a good girl.

Nothing that interesting to report, I guess. I've been doing some online shopping, and my purchase keep arriving. It is so fun! T shirts, shoes, even a bean bag chair on the way. Nothing like a little (or a lot?) of retail therapy.

Today was a very good day

For no reason in particular. It just was. We were busy but not too busy. We went to my gym and Baby's gym (she LOVES the Little Gym). It is hard to get her out of the gym! And on gym days she usually takes a long(er) nap. Maybe that was why it was a good day. Anyway. Oh...and Baby had her first experience with cake batter! Oohh...I tell you what. She sure liked that. The big dog went to the groomer today for a bath and is now indoors in preparation for this hurricane. Now, isn't this talk about a hurricane here plum silly? I hope I'm not eating my words tomorrow. Anyway. I did bring in the lawn chairs and took down the wind chimes. Hope it doesn't get in the way of my wii party!

New things

Baby is learning new things. She can point to her head, nose, belly button, and toes. She can say toe. She was a sweet girl today holding my hand and walking around the yard. We continued our Wednesday night tradition and dined at Super Salad. Baby enjoyed mac and cheese and drank her milk from the carton. Baby went to bed (uh, was PUT to bed) early in the hopes that she might sleep past 6 AM tomorrow. We're trying that whole "early to bed, later to rise" thing. I hope it works. This 5:50 AM business is making one tired Momma.

Open House

Today was Baby's first Open House at school! It was fun. Well, I guess it wasn't really all that exciting, but it was fun because it was the first. Of course I didn't know about it until I took Baby to school today since she hasn't been in a week, but oh well, we made it work. Oh, but that was the fun part of the day. Let me back up to how I found Baby this morning.

When I went to get Baby up (ha ha...she got ME up), her diaper as at one end of the crib, and she was at the other. A diaper disaster! I don't think she had it on at all last night. I'm not sure if it was user error or if she took it off. Either way, I had a wet (thankfully not dirty) mess on my hands. So, the day started the same way it usually ends...with a bath. A load of laundry later (down to the stuffed (not dust!) bunnies, which actually made it through the machines OK), we are all put back together.

Between school and open house, we made a trip to Chick-fil-a (have you ever goolged this misspelled? you get ALL KINDS OF THINGS YOU DON'T WANT). Chick-fil-a is the best place to take a toddler. Healthy(ish) kids meals with a sticky mat. And the one I went to had cheerios for waiting and a play place. Good times...until it was time to leave play place to go to open house, anyway.

Well, that's probably enough adventure for one day.

Back to normal

What peace I have in my heart, currently, anyway. Baby is back home with me, and I'm finding that I don't mind stepping over toys again. I wonder how long this will last! At any rate, I was glad for the break, and now I'm glad to get back into a routine.


Lots of fun has been happening. I got to see Hubby once more before he headed out of state for more training. Comment or email to get his latest address. He would love to hear from you all! And with my parents, I got to take Baby to Fiesta Texas! She had a great time...uh, er...at least her mom had a great time. I think she enjoyed a few things, too...like the ice cream.


So, God is continuing to be faithful, and I'm continuing to ask for and receive his mercy to get through each day. Baby was an angel baby on the 5 hour drive home, and she let me read to her and rock her before bed. It has been so long since she has behaved that way! Maybe all she needed was a week with Grams. What a sweet girl.


Check out the photos for the good times we've enjoyed.

she sat in her own truck!
she was more interested in the instruments (background) than the ride
country girl!
playing in the dirt

hubby enjoyed an evening with friends
I had to drive us home
cooling off after a hot afternoon at play
are we having fun?
yes!

I miss my baby!

So, it's been awhile since I've posted. Most notable things are that I got to see Hubby last weekend, my stroller arrived, and Baby has been at my parents for nearly a week! I miss her! And with her being gone, I miss Hubby even more. Only 363 days left, says the chain. Less than a year! I'm sure it will just fly. Mmmm. It has been nice to recharge, but I'm ready to see my family (such as it is) again. Wow. I'm even up late. Better go finish up those brownies I'm baking. Yummy.

PS

Other things to note:

We made it through the day by taking TWO trips to Target. Parents, don't by the Parent's School Bus magnet set. I am taking it back. The magnets are too weak to stick to the refrigerator.

We shared a malt from Dairyette. The malt turned out to be my dinner (not Baby's, though).

There was this weird dude roaming my neighborhood this afternoon.

Baby cooled off in the back yard by playing with the water hose.

We were actually having a peaceful mommy/baby time when she whipped out her chompers and bit me. She mostly got my shirt, so I decided to pretend like it didn't happen so I could keep rocking her rather than punish her.

Back to school tomorrow!

Random Thoughts

Let's see. I think I left off on Friday. Pretty much to sum up the last 4 days they were mostly awful. I guess I could elaborate, but there isn't much sense in bringing everyone down with me, huh? Let's just say this toddler stuff is hard. Really hard. And I seem to either have a harder time with it than most everyone I talk to, or Baby is an extra challenge. Anyway, she got over whatever was making her cranky this afternoon, and we actually had an almost fun few hours together. Maybe it's because I started giving timeouts for the whining. Mmm. At least she wasn't screaming exorcist style in the bath tonight. That was nice. I don't ask for much.

Other things of note: I went to the gym twice. I had a nice visits with several friends. Oh...Flat Daddy hung out with our friends. He had a great time. I get to patch a hole in the jog stroller tire (not the one I just bought, which was shipped today!). My friend told me that any 8 year old can do it, so I bought a kit and figure I'm just as good as any 8 year old boy. I'll let ya know how that turns out.

I'm kinda glad the Olympics are over. Now I can go back to watching my House Hunters and Army Wives (again, like I need to WATCH A SHOW to know what it is like to be an army wife).

So, let's talk prayer requests. I have many. For me, for Baby, for Hubby, for us.

-That this time won't be wasted (for any of us). That whatever it is we need to learn/do/refine, etc... that it will happen
-That we will be open to God's (hopefully happy) surprises
-That we do more than just endure this time, but that we grow
-That our marriage is stronger, not weaker from the time a part
-That the Devil just stays outta this and that God protects us from his evilness
-That I have the strength and gumption to be Mom and Dad and do it well
-That God's mighty shield will envelope Hubby not just physically, but spiritually and mentally
-That Hubby will be a light for God in a dark circumstance and surrounding
-That Hubby will have the confidence to lead at God's will

Hmm. That sounds pretty good for now.

OK. Off to fix lunches for both of us.

The Schwan Man

To those who know, you are probably pretty excited. I love Schwan's! Boy, did everyone who didn't answer their door yesterday afternoon sure miss out on a treat. As luck would have it Baby and I were in the yard enjoying a little bubble blowing, otherwise I might not have been so lucky. Anyway, they are trying to set up routes in my neighborhood (that after much deliberation I've decided not to join...not quite the nutritional content I seek...too bad), and we got a few ice cream sandwiches! Who says having a baby isn't worth the effort.

Other highlights include gym class (which Baby seemed to really enjoy), having a friend over for dinner, and buying a stroller. That's right, folks. I bought a stroller...online without even trying it. I'll let ya know how it works out for us. I went for the baby jogger.

Happy weekend!

Wednesday Night Tradition

So, I think Baby and I started a new Wednesday night tradition. We went out to dinner together! It was sorta cute and fun. Just Baby and Momma. Of course Baby made all sorts of friends. So, the dinner wasn't fancy or anything...Super Salad. It's nice to get our veggies and Baby gets to try all sorts of things from the buffet. Plus Wednesday is $4.99 night. What a deal.

Let's see. What else. My work week is over, but really next few days will be more work. We all know about that. On a positive note, I think I've figured out a little about this whining business. I think Baby needs more quality time with me. The quantity is pretty good, but it's mostly just me trying to hold it all together rather than having fun with Baby. So, we're trying some new things, and it seems to be working. I hope it continues! Tomorrow's quality time should be all sorts of fun. We have our first lesson at the gym! I think she'll probably win a gold medal at the 20-whatever Olympics. I hope it's held somewhere fun like the Maldives Islands. So, God is continuing to be faithful in 1) guiding me to figure it out and 2) helping Baby get it together. We're hanging in there and I didn't even yell today. Ah. I think I get to reward myself with glass of cheap wine. Cheap b/c they don't really sell the good stuff in those little 4 packs. And a whole bottle would just go bad, so I get the tiny ones when I want to treat myself.

Oh! So cute. Baby gave Flat Daddy a kiss! I said, "Give Daddy a kiss," and she did! Complete with the "mmaaa" sound effect. I even actually got it on video. Can you put video on this thing? According to that little icon I can. Mmm. We'll see.

What else. Oh. I'm sure everyone wants to know the latest on the yard man. We have actually spoken, and it seems that he is having some personal problems. He didn't elaborate, and I didn't ask. OK. So, today, I get a note on my door that he had his equipment stolen, but he'll be by tomorrow to mow. Guess he is going through a real rough time. He coulda called instead of a note...maybe he was in the neighborhood.

I've also been spending sometime researching strollers to replace the hunk of stroller I bought a year ago. If you have kids, do NOT buy a Combi stroller. Inferior product for sure. So, I've narrowed it down to the Joovy Kooper or Baby Jogger City Mini. I'm pretty excited. Trouble is, pretty much I'll have to order online. I did finally find the Kooper in a store, but no luck with the City Mini (which, according to my matrix, is the one to buy). Do I dare make such a purchase without pushing it?!?! Check it out for yourselves and give your opinions if you'd like.
http://www.babyjogger.com/cityminimain.htm
http://www.joovy.com/pages/pd_kooper.php

Off to a little relaxation time.

Family photo...for real

Guess who we got to see for real this time!

We got to make a trip south for a short visit with Hubby. We took Baby to the park and out to eat. Then she got to spend some time with Grandparents (thanks mom and dad!). So, we got to do regular 'ole stuff...we saw the Dark Night, roamed around Wal-Mart(s), hung out at the coffee shop. Ya know, date stuff. It was fun. So, after a NOT fun drive back (in the rain, getting lost, and the Interstate being shut down b/c of 1 of the FOUR accidents I passed), we are back to school tomorrow. While I was gone it seems the yard man decided to make another stop at the house. That was a nice surprise. He left a nice little note for me...it seems that he doesn't think I'm taking care of the yard like I should (same could be said for him). He wants me to water "3-4 times per week 50 minutes each section". Mmm. Seems like a lot of work. Glad God took care of that for me today with the rain. Speaking of God. Let's spend some time in reflection. All these questions I have. Any theologians reading this? Why is it that after 4 years of praying that Hubby doesn't go to The Iraq he goes anyway? Why is this happening? Is there a purpose or is it just because it is and nothing more? Either way I know Romans 8:28, and I believe it. On some sorta (really weird) level this is exciting. God can do all sorts of wonderful things during this time...if I let Him. So, I better get myself in gear and let Him! OK...sidenote...did anyone else know that trampoline was an olympic sport?!? Weird.

My Flat Daddy Arrives!

Check out who dropped by! Funny family photo, huh? I think Baby was a little confused by the whole thing. I couldn't decide if she liked it or was scared. Anyway. I'm learning that the average person is not familiar with the Flat Daddy. So, the Flat Daddy is, well, a flat daddy. These people started making them shortly after the war in The Iraq started to help children cope while their Daddy was deployed. So, it's this close to life size cut out. People take them everywhere...sit them at the dinner table, take them to graduations, weddings...etc... So, really, Hubby won't miss a thing. And he'll just smile right through the next year no matter how hard a time I give him! Hmmm...that might be frustrating for me. I gotta say...it's been a little creepy a few times. I'm like working my little self to death in the kitchen (I have to pack lunches for Baby, and she eats A LOT), and I'll look over and guess who is just being lazy on the couch...Flat Daddy. Guess it's not that different than usual (ha ha).

Update on the yard. Yard man decided to show up today and actually do something. Not a lot, but he did do a little yard work.

Oh! Baby has a homework assignment! Actually, I think Momma has a homework assignment. I have to make a poster with family photos. Not too hard, but her (my) first! Mmm...should Flat Daddy make the poster? Gotta get to work.

Desk

Does anyone want this desk? I can't get rid of it! I tried to freecycle it but it didn't work out. Anyway. It's been on my porch for weeks. Comment if you want it (you gotta come get it, though!).