the olivers

Water Bombs!

2011-08-16T10:26:00.013-05:00

Since the kids are having fun in the the bounce house, I'll throw in one more post for the day.

As Summer draws to an end and the school bells will once again ring next week in most of Texas, kids everywhere are holding on to the last bit of summer left.

I saw this on a blog...somewhere...I am notorious for not remembering where. But never the less they are fun, easy, and cheap.

All you need is:

Scissors

Fishing line or strong thread (i used handquilting thread)

sponges (the dollar store is the best place to look)

Start by cutting your sponge down the middle lenghtwise.

Then cut down the middle of each half to create 4 long pieces.

Lay out a piece of your string, I doubled the thread. Then stack 8 sponges like so:

Pull tightly as you knot the fishing line or thread

Cut

And throw!

Brooke and her cousin loved helping stack the sponges!

Kids' Bath!

2011-08-16T09:39:00.011-05:00

el bano de kiddos

(we are in south tejas now)

Like the rest of the house it was stark white with a wallpaper border. Now I am not the biggest fan of wallpaper borders I prefer to use paint or material to help accent give character. But mostly I prefer just very simplistic design...fairy wallpaper border just doesn't fit my simplistic vision.

We still have work to do but here are the basics:

We played off the blue accent tiles in the shower when chose our paint color. I found this picture in my This Old House magazine and liked the shower chenille accent curtain but thought it might be a heavy. Bed Bath and Beyond had the one on the right, exactly what I wanted the different shades of blue and tan chenille against the white is bright and subtle!

Still to do:

The light fixture while might look nice in an art deco hollywood bath it doesn't quite fit in ours. I want to frame out the mirror, paint the vanity white, and add new hardware. The faucet works fine but for about $60 we can get 2 new ones that are not so delta-faux-crystal-ish, that kelly can operate...he doesn't have the handspan to grasp the "crystal" and pull.

Spa Water

2011-08-16T08:53:00.008-05:00

When we were on our trip to the California Newport Coast, I had the opportunity to visit an upscale spa at our resort. Sure I have been few times to get massages or facials at day spa and when asked if I would like water I was always handed a bottle. It was here that I was introduced to "Spa Water" when the attendant mentioned it I almost chuckled...looked like water with ice to me, lady I'm from the south. But one sip was all it took to feel the refreshing coolness of spa water.

I couldn't let the refreshment end there. So when I got home I gathered the supplies:

1 small cucumber peeled, sliced thin

1 lemon washed, sliced thin

Water

1 qt Pitcher

Mix together in the pitcher and let the flavors blend together for an hour or more in the fridge. When (not if) you run out of water just fill it up again using the same lemon and cucumber slices. Of course after 3 days you probably want to start fresh.

Now turn on the zen water fall to drown out the battery operated toy noise from the playroom and pretend you are here...

Chocolate Cookies (aka Brownie Bites)

2011-08-04T13:56:00.004-05:00

I have tried "healthy" desert recipes that mayhave been "healthy" but tasted like cardboard. Well this is one that will satisfy your chocolate craving and make you feel like you actually had desert. They taste like brownie bites! Plus since it uses dark chocolate and cocoa it is full of heart-healthy epicatechin!

Now of course I forgot one of the ingredients while at the store...it is the shopping curse I always forget at least one thing. I forgot Arrowroot Powder, which is used as a thicker similar to cornstarch. But I did a substitute instead of the 4.5 tsp arrowroot powder I used 3 Tb of cake flour. Also Sucanat is a type of unrefined evaporated sugar cane, much healthier for your body to process than refined white sugar. Use any unrefined evaporated sugar cane (it will be by the stevia and such down your local grocery store's baking aisle), I used Turbinado sugar. I use it in my coffee it has a rich molasses flavor, it is also good to sprinkle on top of muffins or cookies prior to baking to add alittle extra touch.

With that I'll post the actual recipe!

Chocolate Cookies:

makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

6oz dark bittersweet chocolate, broken up

3 large egg whites

1 1/2 cups sucanat, divided

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa

4 1/2 tsp arrowroot powder

Insructions:

Preheat oven to 375 and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper
Place chocolate in a microwavable bowl and heat 50% power for 2 minutes stirring halfway. Set aside
Using electric mixer beat egg whites until they form soft peaks; gradually beat in 1 cup of sucanat and continue beating until mixture appears creamy; add vanilla
In separate bowl combine remaining 1/2 cup sucanat, cocoa powder, and arrowroot powder;then beatinto egg whites on low speed.
Stir in warm chocolate and continue stirring gently until mixture thickens.
Place rounded tbsps of batter onto prepared pans and bake 10 minutes. Cool on baking sheets for additional 10 minutes before transferring to racks to cool.

Nutrients per cookie:

Calroies:90, Total Fate:3g, Sat Fat:1.5g, Carbs:16g, Fiber1g, Sugars:14g, Protien:1g, Sodium:15mg, Cholesterol:0mg

Don't they just look yummy!

Introducing the not so poopie house

2011-07-22T16:21:00.006-05:00

You might be thinking it is lacking something...But what could it be? hmmm...

Maybe some CURB APPEAL! With a roof that would make the Egyptians green envy.

You might also be asking yourselves "How exactly does a house get the name 'poopie house'?" Well if you see our realtor about to open the door, well she is about to step into...well...poop. The owner failed to train his dogs...so gross.

So here is the Living Room before. No not terrible, but the carpet was gross from well...poop. And the tv placement made it dark inspite of the ALL WHITE WALLS.

What we did:

Warmed up the walls with Pittsburgh Ponty Tail and added hard wood floors from Lumber Luiqidators.

Let's get another shot of those floors...

Here it is will all of our decorations!

Whew what a move!

2011-07-20T14:21:00.003-05:00

After 3 months of ups and downs, this roller coaster has finally stopped. The family is united under one roof. I am cooking dinner without fear of the phone ringing for a showing, bye bye Tyson chicken nuggets and Kraft Mac & Cheese. I did learn the secret to getting a guaranteed showing. What is it you ask? It is very simple, pick your stinkiest meal and cook it. Pot of beans, boiled shrimp, maybe a big ol' pot of gumbo. I promise the phone will be ringing off the hook and you will soon find yourself throwing those windows open, fans full blast, and throwing in a couple of extra scentsy cubes.

The question I get whenever I phone a friend is,"Do you have any pictures?" Yes we have lots of pictures, but with a name like "the poopie house" given by our daughter I was reluctant to show before pictures until we had afters. Over the next few days I will post each room.

As for the area, it is okay. We haven't been able to really get out to places to really meet people...unless you can count the 3-4 trips per day to Home Depot with the 16 year old cashier that remembers you and invites you to church...other than THAT we have found that we have 2 sets of great neighbors on each side of us...whew!

Quinoa

2010-04-22T04:51:00.000-05:00

Yum! A grain that is fun to eat. Almost as fun as tapioca.

Seasoned v. Fermented

2010-03-09T12:56:00.000-06:00

I have learned in the past few days that there is a big difference between being a seasoned and fermented adult. Sure both seasoning and fermenting give you a medley of flavor in food but which would you want to be?

When you season something you carefully look through the spices in the cabinet or spin the carrier until that perfect spice jumps out at you.
You blend the spices and herbs with care imagining the desired flavor you want to achieve. After years of experience a chef knows, as if it is second nature, what is going to add just the right flavor to please his patrons' palate. Yes I have tasted some food that does not appeal to my own personal taste buds but I can agree that it would be good to people who enjoy the flavor...fennel seeds come to mind.

Fermenting on the other hand is different. You may add spices and flavor to this jar or barrel of food or drink to help enrich the flavor. But you have no control over what actually comes out if that jar or barrel. A thought comes to mind when a person close to me was living overseas in an area where alcohol was not allowed and desired to have a beverage. Enter the home brewing system...needless to say the first batch was thrown out, as was the second, and the third... Or imagine the cabbage that some cultures put in a jar, bury with little to no maintaince or thought, and open up 6 months or so later, each jar has a different, unexpected pungent flavor. Maybe some turn out and some do not but there is little control over the end result.

How can you tell if someone is seasoned or fermented? By the interactions with those around them. Do they have sour relationships or are they “brutally honest”? Or do they choose their words with grace that comes from God and show restraint in order to show respect to others. Because the desired result is to please God and He wants us to live in harmony with others sharing His good news. Which method, seasoning or fermenting, is how God desires us to grow in Him? Fermented? Where there is little control of what comes out of the jar...open the jar to that adult and the smell could clear the room. Or seasoned? Where after careful consideration the medley of flavors brings a pleasing, peaceful flavor. While our taste buds may not always desire the flavor, the careful consideration of the seasoned adult brings an end flavor that many can agree is good.

The many face of rice cereal

2010-03-01T15:18:00.000-06:00

Oh crap!

2010-02-26T15:35:00.001-06:00

Hold onto your cups

2010-02-26T15:33:00.001-06:00

If he could crawl...grasp...or levitate items he would have tasted his first taste is dr p. Yep he is a Texan and the dr p gene is a dominate gene.

I am sure if he could talk he would have said,"what kind of coke is that?" I would have said,"dr pepper." he would have said,"may I have a sip."

Hmmm I wonder if sweet tea is dominate...Brooke inherited that gene from me.

So demanding

2010-01-14T07:26:00.001-06:00

Brookie and I stopped to feed some ducks that live in one of the many athestically pleasing man-made ponds near our house. These ducks started waddling out of the pond towards our car BEFORE I even got out of the car. it was like the moment I put it into park they knew breakfast had arrived.

They were so close at times that Brooke could have easily pet them. I was considering our escape plan...launch bread as far as possible-grab girl-throw girl in the car-run around the car -jump in-if charging the car drive a 1/4 mile-then buckle girl...all while not looking crazy in front of the ever present landscape workers. Brooke stepped up her game, instead of gracefully tossing the bread she pitched like she was in the bottom of the 9th up by 1.

Notice the step...couldn't quite get a picture of her knee form.

The secret

2009-12-08T09:21:00.001-06:00

Eau de monster secret recipe is out

Smiles!!

2009-12-02T17:32:00.000-06:00

Thankful Turkey

2009-11-22T16:30:00.005-06:00

Today in Brooke's sunday school class they made turkeys with feathers that represent the things and people they are thankful for. Here is Brooke's fine turkey...

Some of it is covered so the list is...

Mom (yeah)
Mr Darren/friends (Mr Darren is one of Sunny's friends & according to Brooke "her 1st favorite friend")
Jesus (whew)
Nikki & Christian (a sister & brother pair that she admires)
Monster (of course)

3 year old gratitude love it!

Slo's new toy

2009-11-13T15:58:00.000-06:00

In the words of the Polaris dealer,"most people get rid of toys when they have a kid."

Not Sunny, we purchase...

3 hours

2009-11-13T05:11:00.001-06:00

It is amazing how precious 3 hours can be with a baby! I am probably jinxing myself, but it is pretty awesome that Kelly has been going 3 hours in between eating at night! Only feeding at 2ish and 5ish during the night is pretty amazing for 2 week old!

Now tonight I will not sleep...

Introducing...

2009-11-11T15:51:00.006-06:00

Kelly Lee Oliver

(yes I know I am late, but two makes us much busier than one!)

He was born October 29, 2009 at exactly 10am! He weighed in at 9lbs 2 oz which he successfully weighed 9lbs 4oz at his 1 week check up, way to go Kelly. He is 21inches long. Surprisingly though he is larger than Brooke was he is leaner, no rolls on him. I need to check her length but I though it was 20.5inches so not much difference there, I loved Brooke's rolls.

He is doing great and loves his big sis. I have never seen a baby smile and get so excited at such a young age over his sister and dad's voices. He loves when she cuddles with him...most of the time. And she is so willing to help him in the car with out me needing to ask, she has taken it upon herself to keep the sun out of his eyes. She is very sweet to him...now if we could only work on the volume of her voice...

The answer to all your parenting woes...

2009-11-08T11:49:00.004-06:00

The columnist for grandparents.com has a simple way to solve all of your parenting woes!
Read first:
http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/parenting/the-top-6-reasons-kids-have-tantrums-542259/

The writer's 6 simple solutions will turn your unpredictable, disobedient kid into a perfectly content angel, that is if YOU jUmP through hOOps.

#1
Bringing out the snacks while waiting for dinner? I get on to Sunny if he comes home from work and pops open the pringles can while I am cooking dinner! Toddlers, yes, pop open the cheerios and the finger food at the restaurant, they are probably not going to have dinner from the menu anyways. But once they hit about 2.5 or 3 years they need to learn that sometimes we have to wait, even for food. How about bring the crayons or keep them in the conversation at the table instead of ruining their dinner and paying $4 plus dollars for a kids plate that goes to waste.

#3
Your kid's teacher would probably disagree with this one also. Life is full of challenges you should help them along to success, not let them out of their responsibilities.

#4
"Honey, if you don't throw a fit (after I reward you with the park) then we can go get ice cream (lets promote healthy eating)." We go to the park or an indoor play area several times a week, Brooke would be diagnosed with childhood diabetes if I had to bribe her out of the play area with ice cream! How about this: I give you 5 minute, 2 minute, 1 minute warnings by holding up my hand, if you decide to throw a fit then you will not get to go the park again this week. Simple, they may choose to have a tantrum but they will catch on when they do not get to back for a while.

#5
Rewards for showing good sportsmanship after losing? How about talking about self control and how life is full of highs and lows.

#6
"Honey, I am going to set the timer for 10 minutes while I take care of Kelly. If you can be patient then I will spend time with you." Really? Poor kids will grow up with a complex! And what does it say about how a family should operate? Yes there is give and take, but a family shares each other's company and works together to promote unity and emotional safety. Timers set offensive limits and boundaries between siblings.

awww #2 this is the only one that actually makes wonder if this person does in fact have kids, or nieces/nephews, or even friends with kids.

Ramsey Wallet (You Can Buy)

2009-09-01T17:31:00.008-05:00

Sept 1 marks a new beginning for us and to gear up last night I made what I call a "Ramsey Wallet". Today is our first day to use the Financial Peace University's all cash budget. We pride ourselves that we only "owe" on our house and sunny's truck, but we really hope that this program will help us stop the leaks.

Not in our plumbing...but our wallets...primarily through the use of the dreaded debit card. I resisted up until Sunny and I got married, but at the time it just seemed easier to use. What is was a curse...the frustration of trying to keep up with receipts and keeping track of each other's spending.

So now it is cash for us, except for the gasoline...I am NOT dragging a 3yr old and a newborn in every time I get gas...that will be debit card!

I have to add the snaps to close the wallet and for the polka dot pocket which will house my debit card, id and could hold a checkbook.

Of course I had to make dividers for the categories out of cardstock that I laminated.

Now the second part to this story is about the card that Brooke received from her great grandma oliver for her birthday. It is one of those singing cards that kids love and parents get stuck in their head and find themselves singing along.

The words are:

Think of all the joy you'll find,

when you leave the world behind,

and bid your cares goodbye,

you can fly, you can fly, you can fly!

Now sub the word BUY for fly as Brooke does...Dave may have come to late for Brooke!

So much fun!

2009-09-01T16:50:00.003-05:00

We had Brooke's Ballerina-Princess birthday party over the weekend and she had some of her favorite playmates. Each girl received a tutu selected by Brooke and a leotard to wear to her special event. She has such a sweet group of friends and they have such a great time together...just like the moms.

One of my friends painted faces and hands. Brooke got her lips painted pink!

There was a lot of running, giggling, chit-chatting.

Brooke's aunt~Michelle~made an awesome cake that Brooke was so proud of! She showed it to very one and gave credit where it was due.

HaPpY bIrThDaY bRoOkE

2009-08-28T14:36:00.007-05:00

Brookie is the big 3 today! Her and I had a mama/brooke day...I know what you are thinking aren't 5 out 7 days mama/brooke days? Yes,but I tried to make this one a little more special, she did get lemonaide at Chick-fil-a and got to listen to Toby Mac all the way to and from our adventure.

We started the day with a visit to the Cockrell Butterfly Center at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It has been years since I had been through.

We decided we liked the big beautiful white butterlies the best. They were so big that they had a hard time flying. It was really cute.

The volunteers took the iguana outside to get some sun. John the volunteer showed her how to pet the iguana. The volunteers knew his sweet spots and he would lean into their scratches, like a dog or cat would.

Then she found the 5,000lb ball that is held up by water and able to freely rotate. I tried to get it going as fast as possible...but I was messing up brooke cleaning the ball.

Next we went to one of Brooke's favorite eatery...Chick-fil-a.

Chicken+cows+greasey play area=tons of fun!

What a morning! She is down for her nap. But requested that we go to the neighborhood Splash Pad when dad gets home. And we still have the Sweet Tooth to visit. More pictures to come I am sure!

Thanks Sunny

2009-08-22T10:44:00.003-05:00

After a day at the pool with Brooke The Fish and Play it Safe activities, I was beat! So I climbed into bed and tried to roll over. That is when it hit me! An excruciating pain across the right hand side of my belly and let out a yelp. I tried the freeze method...didn't work. I needed back up and quick...so I tried the SOS call to Sunny. He "rushes" (sunny speed of course) in. All I can mutter is heating pad...heating pad... He grabs the pad which was just out of reach on the floor and the soothing relief comes.

He leans over and gives me a little hug and whispers, "I am so glad I do not get pregnant."

Thanks Sunny.

Play it Safe Day Update

2009-08-21T22:38:00.007-05:00

Play it Safe Day at Cross Creek Ranch was pretty fun! Brooke got to see the fire truck and got a cool fireman hat.

Got to discuss various topics with the ambulance paramedic such as the shots, blood bags, bandages, and of course her shoes. You can tell he thought it was riveting conversation.

Brooke was nervous about going in the cute yellow life-flight helicopter, even though she was all over the Black Hawk helicopter months ago. She kept telling me that she didn't want to go with them...maybe she thought they were going to take her for a ride?

But she did like seeing it take off when it had to head home before the storm hit.

Of course they had a bounce house...

They ran out of snowcones and the storm was just about to hit so we made our way over to the Sweet Tooth candy shop in the cute tiny town of Fulshear to make up for it.

Then the storm hit and Brooke got to play in the rain...she loves the rain.

CoUsIn CaMp 2009

2009-08-20T17:11:00.009-05:00

My mom has been talking about this for about 2 years. The girls are just now all old enough to be away from moms for a week to have what she has been calling cousin camp. She took both my two nieces and Brooke for a week of fun.

I joined them for seaworld Monday & Tuesday (no one can do that alone!). I believe they enjoy the hotel the most. But everyone got to see their favorite shows, get wet at the waterpark, and of course, more importantly, get splashed by Shamu! Then she took them to her house for a couple of days.

Next we met back up for the Imax at the Museum of Natural Science Thursday. We saw age-appropriate Animalopolis...short and sweet at 35 mins with no "devouring".

Then we toured the Houston Zoo on Friday! My Sister-in-law and my nephew decided to join in the fun.

The giraffes had another baby since the last time we visited and they had a new turtle...

And the prairie dogs were out...

Brooke cared for the animals...

Whew what a week!

Play It Safe Day

2009-08-17T07:33:00.003-05:00

Cross Creek Ranch, a local subdivision, is hosting Play It Safe Day. An evening filled with exploring and learning about firetrucks, ambulances, & a life-flight helicopter. Brooke will be in heaven with the helicopter! That may have been her favorite part of our galveston beach getaway. Click on the ad for more information.

Atlantic is heating up

2009-08-17T07:23:00.002-05:00

After much anticipation by the local news channels with their "continuing coverage" for the past 2 months of well...nothing. The Atlantic is actually producing some tropical storms and hurricanes this weekend. Check it out on the Weather Channel. Maybe we will get a tropical depression out of it...we really need the rain just not the damage! Check your battery stash and stock up on water & food just in case we get something.

Only the best fruit ever!

2009-08-03T22:00:00.003-05:00

Walk into the beloved HEB and this unusual fruit caught my eye. Plumcot. What it is...I am not quite sure. It is part of the stone fruit family (peaches, plums, apricots...) But it is sweet, tart, and refreshing! Not to mention cute with the little spots.

No time for flash cards?

2009-06-01T14:38:00.004-05:00

After the move from OK to TX we lost Mother's Day Out. Fall 2009 was the earliest I could get Brooke into a program! Plus the fees are more than OK and in a Dave Ramesy would be proud moment I resisted the urge.

Solution: My friend Jill and I alternate days 2 days a week taking our 2 girls which are only 4 months apart. We take them for about 3.5 hours, just enough time to get the girls good & tired. We sing, do crafts, pLaY, feed them and send them to their respective houses for a good nap.

Coming up with creative ideas can be hard! So I have a few tricks up my sleeve:

*My resource box from Kindergarten
(okay I know not everyone has one of those, but you can start one! It is easy just find a box that fits letter size files, label them simply with "fish" or "Thanksgiving", then add to it each time you see a clever idea. Bonus you can save your child's work by putting back into the file with name & date on back.)

*The Mailbox Magazine
6 issues a year full of songs, activities, book reviews, and crafts all related to themes. If you don't want to purchase a subscription then try their economical resource books.

*Preschool Express
An online resource by Jean Warren. Check it out you can find some great ideas for free.

*No Time For Flash Cards
A new resource introduced by a friend. These are simple things that any parent can do without a large craft box. Most you can do with construction paper & glue! And if you notice her little boy is at the dinner table and sometimes in his jammies. These activities would be great for filling that time while you cook dinner! Set the kiddo at the breakfast table & start chopping!

So if you cannot pay college tuition for preschool, try some of these resources whether you work at home or outside the house. You will be surprised by how much you and your kiddo talk & interact even if you do these while cooking or laundry!

Pink boxers!

2009-05-22T11:57:00.003-05:00

"Any solider who goes into battle against the Taliban in pink boxers and flip-flops has a special kind of courage." US Defense Secertary Robert Gates

Any guesses on where he is from?

Fort Worth, TX

Read the full story here

Way too much fun!

2009-05-20T16:59:00.003-05:00

Sunny & I have been mentioning that we should make out our hurricane prep list...yes we are list people. I decided today is the day. At first it was a drag I came up with generic ideas like canned veggies and canned tuna, really. So I googled hurricane supplies and got some pretty creative grocery lists with yummy sounding recipes. We have an adapter for our car to plug in appliances like you would into a wall. So we can use our food processor to make hummus from canned chickpeas with canned sundried tomatoes & basil...yum.

Thanks Brooke?

2009-05-09T20:49:00.004-05:00

Brooke was helping me out by measuring various items around the house and I guess felt the need to measure my cheeks...not the cheeks on my face...happy mothers day

Dear God...

2009-05-02T22:06:00.002-05:00

B: "Mama, can we pray for rainbows?"
M: "Sure, why don't you pray"
B: "Okay. Dear God, thank you for making all the rainbows for the people far away...Amen"

Love those 2 yr old prayers.

Felt Fun

2009-05-02T21:58:00.003-05:00

I have a new sorta challenge for myself to make as many gifts as possible. This time I tried something that I have never tried before and it was so much fun! For Brooke's best friend's 3rd birthday Brooke & I (I stitched, Brooke was moral support) made a felt food set & a chef hat with her name on it.My hands actually hurt from all the tight hand stitching on the cinnamon rolls...but she absolutely loved it and wore the chef's hat as the kids decorated their cupcakes. It was so worth it!

Sodium...grrrh!

2009-04-30T14:29:00.005-05:00

I little hidden secret of mine...

When I am walking down the grocery store aisle comparing the different brands sure I look at the calories, the carbs, the nutrients provided...but it is the sodium level that really makes the decision for me. If there is no salt added canned tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, green beans, & veggies I buy them. Boxed dinners...a big no no for me (only two exceptions zatarians jambalaya & kraft mac & cheese). Fresh is always best, but when picking out frozen veggies I cannot resist flipping it over to check that veggies & only veggies are the ingredients listed.

Today I decided to check the back of the impulse buy (for the ever expanding belly of course) greek peppers & pickled okra...yum. Sure I figured the sodium was probably high...but I just ate 1 pepper & 2 pieces of okra and

... drum roll please ....

I took in 43% of my sodium intake for the day!! Ouch!

Thank you for friendship

2009-04-22T22:32:00.002-05:00

Today more than ever I felt that I needed to just stop and truly thank God for the friendships that he has given me post-move. I am free to be me. Friends that I can express my frustration with raising a 2 going on 14 year old along with what I struggle with day-to-day. From the first time Sunny met Jill's husband I just had a feeling that we should get to know each other. And I am so thankful that I didn't resist and be a hermit. Brooke and I both gained a best friend. And through a bible study another fun friend came into play, Amanda. Plus the three of us truly try to bring out the best in each other and want each other to grow into godly women.

"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."

Proverbs 27:17

Rain drops keep falling

2009-04-19T22:08:00.003-05:00

The other day I bought some kid-friendly cookie dough, I figured that it would come in handy. So Brooke made us cookies on Saturday during the storms.

Brooke still considers clothing optional, what can I say she likes to be "in her belly" as she puts it.

Easter Sunday!

2009-04-19T21:48:00.005-05:00

We started off the day with my parents, grandparents, and brother's family coming down to see Brooke sing in church. It is so great that we are close enough that our entire family can come down to see Brooke's firsts since we moved.

Next we high-tailed it in the crazy weather to my dad's side family gathering for an easter egg hunt. At first she was picky she only wanted the princess eggs that she brought.

But then she got her game face on...

Then we scooted on over to our friend's house for some Slip N Slide.

I think the boys had the most fun. Sunny, in true modification mode, came up with this elaborate plan involving a rather large tarp, sprinklers, & a big hill...will see if it actually happens.

Disney On Ice Recap

2009-04-19T21:15:00.008-05:00

I stayed out late with Keith's wife at our bible study and I came home just as Sunny was placing Brookie in bed. She had so much to tell me...

Ariel

Tinker

Flying people (peter pan & wendy)

But what stood out most of all for her was that her dad wouldn't buy her the overpriced souvenirs. "Daddy said, 'NO! It is too much monies!'" Sunny felt so bad because that is what she told everyone who asked her about Disney on Ice, so he took her to Toys r us and got her a much-cheaper Tinkerbell barbie-type doll (she even told the cashier about it).

Brooke & her best buddy!

Disney On Ice

2009-04-14T13:19:00.004-05:00

UPDATE: So we didn't win, but it is okay because...Sunny & his friend Keith are taking the girls to the show anyways!! It is a daddy date night while Keith's wife & I go to our bible study.

So neat! Our pastor's wife has been given the opportunity to do a giveaway for 4 Disney on Ice Tickets for Wednesday. Brooke would love to see the Princesses skating around! Go to http://www.katymom.com/ to enter she is going to draw a name sometime this afternoon or evening!!! I am crossing my fingers so Brooke & Sunny can go!

My advice on pacis

2009-03-17T08:24:00.002-05:00

People can be so judgemental on mom with kiddos & pacis. As moms we get a lot of unsolicited advice on the subject. The thing that helped me was remembering to respect Brooke & her security in the paci. Everybody has something that helps make them feel secure, some are more socially acceptable than others. Think about how it would feel to a child that doesn't understand that socially he/she shouldn't use the pacifier and he/she finds it being ripped away. I never felt good about cutting the pacifier and saying that they were all broken or telling the toddler that pacis are for babies "are you a baby?" (Asking a toddler if they are a baby is never a good thing) Neither one of those would have been successful with my daughter, she really does have remarkable reasoning skills. What makes it successful is the child realizing that he/she doesn't need it anymore without putting the child down or deceiving them. Now don't get me wrong as parents we sometimes have to use deceiption to our advantage, but without creating trust issues.

How we got rid of the pacifier (boppee)? The dentist! Brooke went with me to my check up b/c she loves to watch medical procedures. I talked with the hygentist, in between rinses & metal tools being shoved in my mouth with a just 2yr sitting next to me, about if she would ask the dentist to look at Brooke's teeth. I told her about our concern that the pacifier was messing up her teeth. The dentist came in to give me the all clear and then he sat down with Brooke to look at her teeth. He gave a quick glance, told me that it was in fact moving her teeth and that we should try to take it away. So I asked him to explain it to her, he looked at me crazy, and said,"Brooke you do not need it anymore. It is hurting your teeth." It took him about 3 minutes extra time with me. Thus we got rid of it during the day. After she hurt her teeth 6 months later we had to go to the pediatric dentist in our new town. Same thing he said since the teeth were loose she really needed to get rid of it sooner than later. So we took it away at naps & bedtime. And when she asks for it I remind her about how the dentist said it was messing up your teeth. She even reassures herself about the dentist saying that she doesn't need it anymore. Had I been more strict we would have been done with it at 2, but she just looked so sad.

My advice:
If your child is not that into the pacifier...faze it out. Younger kids: Try getting them to sleep before they ask for it, consoling them more when crying instead of giving the paci. Older: Try exchanging a book or two before bed instead of the pacifer.

If your child is really into the paci and he/she just might take it Kindergarten: Try the "gifting" them to a new baby being born within your circle of friends or church. Try using it purchase a new item at the store...yes the cashier will look at you like you are crazy...we tried it with brooke first for us it was a no go, but I have heard success stories. If all else fells & your child can sit still...take the kiddo to the dentist with you or schedule his/her own appointment if you have insurance. The main thing here is having the child hand it over so they realize that it is gone.

Just remember it could be worse...it could be the thumb...

Big Changes for Brookie

2009-03-11T21:18:00.005-05:00

Brooke had a little mishap on her bike last week. She is fine just got a little shaken up. Her teeth were a little loose from the "trauma" so the dentist recommended that we not use the pacifier (boppee) anymore. Her front teeth were being affected by the pacifier and I already notice a difference in just a week. The looseness probably helped them move. Our dentist in OK said that the pressure from her lips would help them move back into place, back in September when we decided to take it away during the day. So after a week's worth of difficult bed times now we are completely boppee free and in the process found a great pediatric dentist in TX.

She and Sunny also go to visit her Justin, sunny's cousin, at Sun & Ski to get a bike helmet. I said to go to Toys r us and let her pick one out...knowing my daughter...barbie or disney princess. No princesses at Sun & Ski...but luckily she is 2 and doesn't know the difference. She was so excited to show us the helmet when she got home.

"Did God make...?"

2009-03-02T15:11:00.002-06:00

At lunch today Brooke went into theology mode and started asking if God made various items. It started easy:
Brooke: Did God make Chevy (our dog)?
Me: yes, God made chevy
Brooke: God made me!
Me: yes!
Brooke: God made Nonnie!
Me: yes!
Brooke: Did God make our house?
Me: Well God made the people that made our house.
Brooke: (pause) Did God make goldfish (the cheaddery snack that we love so much)?
Me: (long pause) well...
Brooke:Strawberry shortcake is a magnet and I can change her clothes (pointing to the paper doll like refrigerator magnet of strawberry shortcake.)

Thank goodness for 2 year old attention span.

the pillow...

2009-02-25T17:18:00.004-06:00

I pick this same pillow up at least 3 times a day. My daughter likes repetition...

But at least she is making up for it other ways:)

Miscellaneous Monday

2009-02-16T14:06:00.003-06:00

I don't have the time to list 25 random things about myself, so I'll have Miscellaneous Monday!

Here we go!
I LOVE chees puffs!! Any brand, not a brand snob, generic is great with me. The imitation cheese powedered air puffed corn goodness brings out the kid in me. Only thing better are the cheese balls.

2009-02-16T13:59:00.003-06:00

yes, those are panties. I told her to put them on...not quite what I had in mind.

So relaxing!

2009-02-15T21:35:00.002-06:00

We had our first show since I moved and it was so great! I think I can speak for my mom when I say that we were both pretty stressed out about it. It is a farmers market setup in a market place (similar to the one in The Woodlands). So we are in courtyard area surrounded by mid-upscale stores. Kids are playing in the water feature, people are shopping for unique artisan's, farmer's, & baker's products holding either the local coffee roasters at the show or starbucks coffee in hand. We didn't quite know what to expect, but we were pleasantly surprised by how relaxing and enjoyable it was. But I did take a nap when I got home...

B-R-O-O-K-E

2009-02-09T08:36:00.003-06:00

Make sure you check your volume;)

!@VerTigo%@

2009-01-30T15:45:00.004-06:00

So for the past 6 days I have been suffering from what they call vertigo. It started mildly on Sunday morning, then hit me hard Monday through Wednesday, and is slowly getting better. I have been plagued with extreme dizziness and light-headed feelings. Which also brought on nausea, focussing issues, and slight headaches. There was no fluid in my ears and my hearing is great, but still there is the feeling of pressure in my ears.
The answer: TMJ
Basically I have arthritis and inflamation in my jaw bone. When inflammed it pushes on your inner ear and can cause the feeling of vertigo. The ENT pushed on the muscle around the jaw bone joint and it was excruciating pain. His answer is to minimize stress, take alieve, and use a heating pad if necessary to get rid of inflamation. Minimize stress...I have a 2 yr old!

New family member!

2009-01-30T14:12:00.006-06:00

First mistake: Sunny told me to go to Pet's Mart to get a dog bed...

Second Mistake: I told Brooke that there were fish...

Third Mistake: I said, "yes".

She is not quite sure on the name. She has mentioned: Fish, Girl, and Song...so we will see.

But it could have been worse...she also liked a 7month old kitten!

The Willow Tree Massacre

2009-01-22T13:03:00.002-06:00

One word...Brooke

I think we have found it!

2009-01-20T07:07:00.002-06:00

We went from too little to too many churches to choose from when we moved from rural life to suburban life. We had a great church in Duncan, however it teamed up with another in August right before we left. Which is great for the church, however it was a MAJOR transition and with everything going on in our lives at the time was not a good experience for me to say the least.

One of Sunny's old high school friends kept mentioning his church. Last Sunday we visited their church. It is setup in a school close to our house and has been around for about 2 years but at the school for only a month. Your thinking school?...but they managed to make it their own. They have black curtains, lights, and decoration that setup a and tear down each week for the chapel area. To get to the nursery they have waist high portable walls that guided you to the rooms. I thought the nursery was going to be limited being setup in a school, but it was awesome! They bring all of the supplies, give a lesson, with games and activities.

One thing that Sunny, Brooke, and I love is organization. Sunny likes clear organization, I am fine with organized chaos, and brooke is a little bit of both. They have a trailer that has set boxes (used by traveling bands and production companies) that are clearly labeled as to their exact location in the trailer to help with tear down. Sunny and I probably talked for 30 minutes just on how organized they were. Yes we are weird...and he is an engineer.

One of the most important things are the people. They were so great. Mostly people in our stage of life, some older, some younger. They loved Brooke and made her feel special and important. She was showing her true colors...dancing, singing, talking, and waving to everyone. I asked her in the car if she would like to go back. She looked at me with that look of are you crazy and said "yea, dad, you have to turn around!"

2 yrs and too many barbies to count!

2009-01-15T13:18:00.003-06:00

We went to Target today and they were marking down their toys to unbelievably low prices. We doubled our Barbie location for just $14.88. Now she has 14 Barbies...she can't even count that high! And yes nonnie, she has already undressed most of them.

extra crispy

2009-01-15T13:09:00.002-06:00

Did you know that you can burn bacon in the microwave, it is easier than you think!

Best Christmas Present EVER!

2009-01-07T07:59:00.004-06:00

Sunny got a bike...,

Brooke got a trailer...

I get 20 mins of freedom...everybody wins!

Training her well

2009-01-07T07:38:00.002-06:00

Family Matters

2009-01-02T08:30:00.003-06:00

Sunny and I are about to embark into unknown territory. Please pray for guidance and assurance as we make family desicions.

I will elaborate further as we feel more confortable on this path.

The waiting...

2009-01-02T08:14:00.002-06:00

I think everyone can agree that there is a certain amount of satisfaction from Internet shopping. The bargain hunting in your jammies (and not toting a 2yr old).
The ha-ha I saved .61 cents by getting from here not there!
The instant gratification that you get when pushing that "confirm order" button
The joy of seeing "FREE SHIPPING" as if beams from heaven are shone upon you.
And the anti-government side in you, NO TAX!

But then there is the...waiting. The feeling as if you forgot something at the store. The excitement of wanting to play with your new gadget, only to be dissapointed that it is not there where it belongs.

Nifty printer and embroidery supplies...you will be here soon.

October Recaps

2008-11-11T08:11:00.010-06:00

Since I was pretty much MIA the last half of October, which was also the most fun part of the month, here is the October Recap!

First off The Pumpkin Patch...

Brooke's favorite part- feeding ducks.

Mom's favorite part- giggling at the silly OK women style.

FaLl FeStIvAl!!

NASTIA LUKIN (AKA Barbie Nastics!)

Brooke's favorite- inflatable jump house

Mom's favorite-giggling at Brooke eating a hot dog

Hello Texas

2008-11-11T07:56:00.004-06:00

Not quite sure that Texas is ready for her...

Goodbye OK

2008-11-11T07:43:00.005-06:00

We were blessed with great friends, neighbors, and a great little house. Even though we are overjoyed to be moving closer, it was a little sad to leave our best friends.

We have kinda started a tradition with all 3 moves that we stay in our beds the last night in our house. Yes there are boxes surrounding us and we have basically nothing except what we packed in our suitcases, but it is fun. There was a lack of communication between the movers and us. They asked us if we were going to sleep in our beds and I answered, "yes". However when I went to check on the packing progress I found Brooke's bed COMPLETELY packed.

So Aggie innovation kicked in...

By the way she did LOVE it!

Hurry over here and hurry over there

2008-10-20T22:38:00.002-05:00

I feel like one of Brooke's silly songs about the parent's rushing back and forth. From one show to the next with Sunny emailing me house listings in between. I sold 12 of my boy capes, most all of my burpies, and my mom sold a ton of her babies. We have 2 days to make more capes, burpies, and babies, plus little house errands in there too. We had to drive 45 over to the next town to meet my prefold diaper supplier at a Kwianna's fish fry to pick up more diapers and to pick up supplies...life in small town OK.

We are heading south!

2008-10-08T16:44:00.002-05:00

Sunny got the offer yesterday and returned it today. He is already getting relocation info, so it is going to be quick!! We are putting the house on the market after both the shows, so around the 1st of November. We will be heading south before winter sets in, no last snow for Brooke. Houston here we come!

Moving or not...we'll see

2008-10-02T21:19:00.002-05:00

So out of nowhere Sunny got a call this week for a different position. They asked Sunny to come for an interview on Monday. We hope that we have a clear answer from Halliburton if he has the position on Monday and if Sunny even wants the job. It is a big and quick desicion that we will have to make. Pray that we will have clear judgement and answers!

Cape-a-teers!

2008-10-02T21:10:00.004-05:00

I have to show off my capes that have made for the upcoming shows...1.5weeks away!!!

Brooke "flying" on the swing and running with her "boys". And yes, she dressed herself.

Goodbye booster seat

2008-10-02T21:04:00.002-05:00

I have a big kid now! She doesn't even want or need her booster seat for the table.

stomach bug I loathe you!

2008-09-25T11:53:00.002-05:00

You know the feeling waking up in the middle of the night with that distinct rumbling in your tummy and that "oh no am I going to make..." thought. I am bedridden trying not to move. I am not a good sick person, but I have a good husband.

We decided to quarantine our family as to not pass it on to others, stomach bugs spread like wild fires. Brooke and Sunny are feeling fine...for now. But no work for sunny, no mother's day out for brooke, no sewing my capes for the show. Brooke is having a daddy day...we will see who survives.

Good news - from our battle last Christmas with the bug we had 1 refill left of anti-nausea medicine...God is good.

Doctor's orders

2008-09-17T22:30:00.003-05:00

I took brooke to the dentist with me on Monday to get my teeth cleaned. She is fastinated by anything medical, that is probably why she did so well with her hand. The dentist after he checked my teeth and looked a brooke's to see if the boppee (pacifier) was making her teeth crooked. Sure enough her front top and bottom were being pushed by the boppee...nonnie isn't going crazy.

So the dentist sat her down, looked right at her, and firmly said, "Brooke the boppee is hurting your teeth. You do not need it anymore." (it was so cute)

She amazes me how much she listens and respects authority (most of the time...she is 2) Even though she does ask for it, she seems to understand that the dentist said she doesn't need it anymore.

At the moment Sunny and I have a soft spot for her, and let her have it at night...or maybe it is b/c we want to sleep too.

The cost of poo

2008-09-17T21:23:00.003-05:00

Walmart went up on their price on pull ups. Now for a pack of 40 pull ups you have to shell out 11.48. That comes to .287 cents for each poo!

Luckily Brooke is very close to being fully potty trained. I consider her potty trained, she wears panties most of the time, but we use reg diapers (.19cents) at night and pull ups (.28cents) during nap. She still likes to sometimes wear dora "nastics" (gymnastics) pull ups b/c she likes dora doing nastics I guess. SO if you on the rare chance find dora gymnastic panties...BUY THEM!

Pray this morning

2008-09-17T07:17:00.004-05:00

My grandma should be taking a nuclear stress test at some this morning. They have been waiting on power and doctors since Monday. They got power early tuesday morning and the dr came through yesterday also. She hopes to get out today, but conditions at the hospital may be better and the amount of stress may be less than at home.

Please keep my grandma in your prayers this morning.

**UPDATE** the test got postponed until Thursday morning to avoid an interaction between dyes used for different tests.

Pray for gandma

2008-09-15T21:07:00.004-05:00

My mother called a little bit ago and said that my grandma collapsed this morning. They took her to the ER and the doctors said that they were very happy that she come in. First guesses, they think that it is a clot, but still need to run more tests. They have been under increasing stress in the days following Ike without power. Unfortunately land-line phone service is out and cell phone coverage is being limited and circuits are full with calls. As my mother was trying to explain the call dropped out and we are unable to connect. I will keep everyone posted as I hear more. But for now know that she is in the hospital and doing fine, they will be running more tests, and continue to pray for her healing, staying calm, and doctors' wisdom.

Daddy's little girl

2008-09-15T20:54:00.002-05:00

Brooke helping dad fix a four wheeler. It got to dark so they had to sport the headlights...

Boppee here to stay!

2008-09-09T17:05:00.003-05:00

Boppee (pronounced bop-pee) is the name Brooke came up with for her paci. So strange how we said paci and she said boppee. We have started to discourage the use of boppee, but I am not sure it is working...

Raindrops keep falling on my head...

2008-09-08T22:33:00.010-05:00

The envy of MDO

2008-09-02T00:14:00.004-05:00

While other kids sleep on a plastic mat with a blanket, Brooke will be the envy of Mother's Day Out with her kindermat cover!

It is a simple slipcover with an attached fleece blanket. I also made a matching pillow case.

But the best part is...

It folds up and ties with the attached ribbon!

Hey Mom!

2008-09-01T21:19:00.003-05:00

It has begun!!!

Brooke: Hey mom!?

Mom (me): Yes, babe?

Brooke: (pause) I need a drink

Mom: Here you go. (give drink) Night, night (exit quickly)

Brooke: Hey Mom!?

Mom: (caught at the door) Yes, brooke?

Brooke: (pause) I need the bumble bee.

Mom: Here you go. (give stuffed bumble bee) Night, night (race to the door)

Brooke: Hey Mom!?

Mom: What?

Broooke: (pause thinking of what else I could possibly need)

Mom: (hastenly) Night, night (race into the living room and act like you cannot hear anymore hey moms)

Nastics!

2008-08-31T14:43:00.003-05:00

Brooke loves the gymnastics from the Olympics! We went to Wally World and picked out a pink leotard for her to practice. She was supposed to start nastics this month, but we have to wait for the hand to heal!

The Big 2

2008-08-31T14:13:00.011-05:00

Brooke turned 2 on Thursday the 28th!

Here she is serving up a yummy hamburger patty to dad as she tries out her new house. Thanks Nonnie & Grandaddy for chipping in on the great playhouse!

Here are some pictures of her at the Splash Park with her favorite guys for her Duncan birthday party!

Mother of the year

2008-08-31T13:59:00.004-05:00

So in my Mother of the Year moment that each us mom shave every now and then Brooke brunt her hand Tuesday. She loves to cook with me and is so great at following directions. We were getting ready to pour the cans into the pot (which she does best) when I noticed that my onions that were sauteing were getting a little too brown. Without thinking I moved it off the stove, which left the red burner uncovered while on high heat. Turned off the burner the reached for my spoon. As I did this Brooke also reached out with her little curious hand and placed it right on the burner. I screamed! She cried! We went to the ER!

This picture was taken Thursday. You can see the mega blister, but you may not be able to see all her little fingers are blistered also.

Luckily we were in and out of the ER within an 1 hour & 10 minutes of when it happened. But is was very rough on me because it was 1 month from Tuesday (the 26th) that we were in there with Ollie.

Longing for heartburn in the presence of God

2008-08-14T00:47:00.003-05:00

As I stay awake longing for the intense heartburn from little Ollie. I began to think about various advice and encouragements that I have received from everyone. I am so appreciative of each and every caring word of encouragement and support that has been sent to me.

A very dear friend of mine told me "that it just wasn't meant to be". As I stew on those words unable to sleep. God steps in and clarifies them:

She's right. Ollie wasn't meant to be, not in the way that I so desperately want him with me on this earth. No one is meant to be like this on earth, separate from God.

Ollie is however meant to be in the way that each of us are meant to be, in the presence of God.

2008-08-07T04:59:00.002-05:00

Saturday, July 26th started a week and a half of ups and downs for us. I started bleeding and the doctors started running a series of tests on my hormone levels. The hormones fluctuated for a few days however when we went yesterday, my levels had dropped significantly. Our little Ollie had made it to heaven.

I am flooded with emotions. I know that my baby as little as he was has a purpose. But it is hard right now to see that. He was our little surprise, our gift from God, just as we thought that we knew what we were supposed to do, God blessed us with this baby.

I wonder so many things, did his heart get a chance to beat just once, what would he have looked like, did he hear me talk to him, did he feel my touch through my belly, did he know how much we loved him? I will have to wait until my life is over and I also get that chance to be with him in heaven to see him and hold him. I have to believe that God made his life better by taking him so early and that he is made whole through Jesus. I know that someday our family will be complete in heaven.

I have always known that Brooke is a generous, caring, and nurturing person, but I was reminded of that through all of this. She, in her almost 2 mindset, cared for me yesterday. She laid with me, brought me water and cashews without me asking, even shared her monster with me. Brooke tenderly brushed my hair with her fingers and rubbed my back. She is truly amazing. God's way of reminding me that I am blessed.

Please pray for us the days, weeks, and months ahead will be difficult with medical procedures and coping with our loss.

Ollie In The Oven

2008-07-23T00:30:00.002-05:00

We found out last week that we are expecting our 2nd ollie. The baby is due March 23rd, which is my birthday...how fun! I have started another blog completely dedicated to our adventure and once we find out the gender it will be an unconventional registry (since we have so much from Brooke). So bookmark www.OllieInTheOven.blogspot.com and www.sloamo.blogspot.com for updates on the fam and ollie.

Shamu Shamu!

2008-07-21T23:53:00.039-05:00

If you still believe there is a Santa you may not want to read further....

The real Shamu...died!

However the show was excellent. It is amazing to see these huge whales hurl themselves out of the water. You can tell that there is true bond between them and their trainers.

Brooke loved being splashed by the whales! It was by far her favorite part of Seaworld...besides the roller coasters that her 26 year old mother was scared to ride on but she would have gotten on in a heartbeat.

Nonnie and girls enjoyed the water park. Katlyn and Brooke absolutely enjoy spending time and playing together.

Brooke&me on the waterslide!

Grandaddy and the girls splish-splashing.

Our Shamu impersonators...

Busy...Busy...

2008-07-21T13:40:00.008-05:00

Oh! It has been so crazy around the house. I have pretty much surrendered my house over to Brooke while I have been sewing like crazy for our upcoming shows this fall.

It has been diaper bags galore for about 3 weeks. BUT I almost have 27 complete!! I only have to put on my simple embellishments.

Who ever thought that starting a business with a toddler was a good idea?

Turn, turn, turn

2008-05-27T15:11:00.005-05:00

Also known as "the land" for those speaking in codes around kids.

Kiddieland, run by the local kiwanis, is the cool thing to do on weekends during the summer.

Warning: Do not eat 30 minutes prior to arriving at the land.

Everything either spins or goes in a circle...fast.

me & my monsters

2008-05-24T12:57:00.014-05:00

Even though Monster doesn't appear in pictures until 5 months, he was there from the beginning always waiting for her in her crib.

He is there when she needs a fluffy pillow.

He is always there for the ups and downs of life.

And she is there for him...

Teri...you inspire me

2008-05-23T21:10:00.001-05:00

So we are now blogging. Thanks to Teri who inspired me. Maybe this will help me to keep everyone informed of what is going on North of the Red River. Even though it is only 5.5hours from most of you, it seems so distant at times. Please feel free to leave comments!