Mochas & Memories

Not enough time in the day...

2008-11-13T14:41:00.003-06:00

Hello all... I know it has been a while, but there is just no time in the day!!

Being a temporary single parent is hard stuff. I am handling it a lot better than I thought I would, but still. I am busy, busy, busy... cheer 3 times a week, working in the office at Madison's school, being a book buddy at Madison's school, room Mom, Navy Spouse club president, and working through a horrible 3 year old phase with Evan has taken a toll. Emotions are running high around here. With Travis' computer broke we haven't talked with him as much as normal for the past couple of days. I have a close friend who is leaving very soon, and I try not to show how much it is bothering me.

I know this is probably the most horrible country sounding song of a blog, but hey I vented now I feel better. I don't have many pics right now, but here are a couple of the kids.

Jersey Day at school

Evan's 1st school pics.

Inner secrets from Mandeville...

2008-10-19T20:46:00.001-05:00

As a recipient of this award, there are rules to follow. I must answer the following questions with one word answers, and one word only. Then I must pass it on to seven others. The questions are as follows:

1. Where is your cell phone? Table
2. Where is your significant other? Nicaragua
3. Your hair color? brown
4. Your mother? Hero
5. Your father? estranged
6. Your favorite thing? Starbucks
7. Your dream last night? none
8. Your dream/goal? perfection
9. The room you're in? livingroom
10. Your hobby? shopping
11. Your fear? death
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Dallas
13. Where were you last night? home
14. What you're not? thrilled
15. One of your wish-list items? money
16. Where you grew up? Fairiview
17. The last thing you did? snack
18. What are you wearing? pajamas
19. Your TV? on
20. Your pet? dirty
21. Your computer? life-line
22. Your mood? annoyed
23. Missing someone? Travis
24. Your car? tricked-out
25. Something you're not wearing? rings
26. Favorite store? Dillards
27. Your summer? long
28. Love someone? Yes
29. Your favorite color? pink
30. When is the last time you laughed? today
31. Last time you cried? today

Evan's 1st day!!!

2008-09-17T13:38:00.003-05:00

Evan's first day of school was very exciting. When we got to car line he unbuckled, hugged me, and told me he would miss me. With that he told me he loved me, and that I was his best friend. Now if he were the first child I would have been in tears at that point Although touched by his sweetness, we were both ready for this moment. He bailed out of the van, and never looked back, and I didn't either. I then met up with Carrie for coffee! I love my children more than words can say, but I really enjoy my 12 hours a week ALONE.

Don't take this email to be horrible in anyway, I'm just having blogging block today so short it is.

Alive and Kicking...

2008-09-16T11:46:00.002-05:00

I am still alive, I know I have not posted in forever... With schedules, and then Gustav who has time for anything??? I hopefully will start posting again later this week. Be patient with me, I am in high demand right now!!! :)

Excitement, Nerves, and Emotions...

2008-08-27T12:37:00.002-05:00

I usually post about Madison because she has more going on to post about. However, today is all about Evan, and I am looking forward to him doing more things so I can include him more often.

Today was Open House at Evan's pre-school. Last year I was on the fence about it, then I decided to climb over the fence and enroll him. Madison's pre-school was such a horrible experience that I have reservations about doing it all over again. But this is a different place and comes highly recommended!

Evan was so excited to be going to school this morning, he has been waiting ever since we learned the names of his teachers. He walked in like a pro did not have any separation problems which I knew he wouldn't. Things started off well, Evan was playing in the kitchen and this little boy came over trying to play too, when Evan in a not so nice voice said NO. I thought oh boy here we go. Then Evan was playing blocks when all of a sudden a small sibling of a classmate came over and bopped Evan upside the head with a large wooden block. Those of you who know me well, knows that doesn't set real well with me!! Sharing problems, rough housing is one thing, hitting...NO! The lady said she was sorry, but truth be told I was annoyed. Evan cried, but was okay after a Mommy hug, and kiss.

It was time to go to orientation while the kids stayed in class with their teachers. I went over and said goodbye to Evan and gave him a kiss. Just like Madison did on her first day, Evan said a half hearted bye and turned around to play. 90% of me was happy this is how he reacted, 10% of me was sad he didn't need me to stay.

Thank goodness Rachel, and Carrie were there to calm me down and to tell me everything was going to be ok. I returned to pick Evan up, and his teacher said he did fine. Evan is very small for his age, and in my opinion very immature compared to Madison at this age.

I think this will be a good year, and I am sure after the first couple of days of total freedom I will be way over it!

The TOCC Boys!!(they are church buddies)

Non-stop schedules, party planning, and 2 weeks of saying goodbye...

2008-08-25T10:07:00.004-05:00

I know it has been a couple of weeks since my last post, sorry. Since Madison has started school, and we have been back on our crazy schedule. Madison's teacher is great, but with great teachers comes great responsibility! 2nd grade is a whole new ball game. Last year they did not get your typical grades A, B, C, D, F. They got E=excellent, S=satisfactory, and so on. Well, for the next what will seem like 30 years of her life to her anyway will be the "real" grades. Let me give you an example of our week.

School gets out at 3:51

Monday - Folder is packed. 10 spelling words to study for a test on Friday(Madison has to write them 5 times everyday) Along with the spelling words comes 5 sentences which contains the spelling words. The teacher will pick 2 of them, but you have to know all 5 because you never know which ones she will pick.(Madison writes them everyday) 5-7 Vocab words for a test on Friday(We study them everyday) Reading comprehension for a test on Friday(yep, we study everyday) Now, she comes home with a text book, and has to read 3-4 chapters, and answer the questions at the end of the story. We go over the story, and answer the questions before bed, and on the way to school. All of this is going on while Evan is bugging Madison at the kitchen table, me trying not to yell at him to leave her alone, her frustrated, him crying because it seems nobody wants him at the moment. And while all of that is going on, I am in the kitchen cooking dinner. Studies finish at about 6ish. Madison gets 1 hour of free time, before bath, brush those beautiful braces/teeth, then she is required to read every night for 20 minutes per her teacher, and us. 8:00 comes, everyone is in bed, and I start laying out clothes for the next day, getting her lunch box ready, breakfast planned, snack packed in her bag, and then I fall on the couch in a daze of what just happened, and where am I!! This is JUST MONDAY!!!!!!

Tuesday - Madison comes home, writes her words, sentences, studies vocab, does her math homework, gets dressed for cheer, I am quickly making dinner, because we have to walk out of the door at 5:15 to get her there on time. While in the van Madison is going over vocab again, writing spelling words she needs extra help on, etc... Cheer is from 5:30 to 7:00. We rush home throw her in the tub, she brushes, then to bed to read.

Wed. - Madison is home, doing the same studies as Tuesday's. I can take a little more time to cook dinner, Madison has to get a bath early so we can make it to church by 7:00, unless I have a church mtg. which is at 6:00, then we have to alter things a little bit.

Thur. Same exact schedule at Tuesday (cheer is twice a week). I give Madison a spelling test, and if she misses any, she works on the words on the way to cheer.

Friday - can not come fast enough in this house. After Madison gets home from school she runs to her room and does whatever she wants, I fall on the couch thanking the lord it is Friday, and good luck with dinner people, you guys are on your own!

Sat. - Madison has private cheer/tumble lessons with her coach for an hour.

All of this while I am helping to plan church functions, Navy wives functions, being room Mom, working in the office at school as a volunteer, etc.... I do enjoy staying busy, but I love the weekends that have nothing scheduled and we just lay around all day.

The next 2 weeks will be emotionally draining. Travis' boss (CO), and the CO's wife (COW) will be leaving the command. They are not moving, but there will be a new boss in town. The Connon's are wonderful people, and have been an absolute pleasure to work with, and to be friends with. For the next 2 weeks there will be lunches, picnics, parties, and a ceremony to say goodbye.

I know it sounds crazy, but I LOVE this time of year!!!

My point...I may not be blogging as often!!!!

Ding Ding!! Time for school....

2008-08-09T13:12:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was the first day of school for Madison. My alarm went off at 6:45 on Friday, and as I annoyingly hit the snooze button, I realized I did wish it on myself. I have been counting down the summer ready for the school year to begin, but with the pros comes the cons, like getting up early!! I walked into Madison's room to wake her up at 7:15, she jumped out of bed excited it was a school day. I give her a couple more years of excitement until the typical pull the covers up over the head, and moan routine.

I know with every year comes change in kids, but this is the first year that I saw a HUGE change in Madison. Here is a picture of her first day of school last year going into first grade....

Here is a picture of Madison's first day of school going into the second grade...

Madison is about 8 bls. lighter than last year (not that she needs to be, it just happened, cheer maybe?). She is about 6 ft. tall this year!!!! LOL :) Madison has a better understanding of what school is for, and what is expected from her. Just total change...

Madison is in the newer part of the school building this year with a seasoned teacher. Mrs. Bradshaw Is one of those teachers who have taught forever, is very sweet and loving, but also expects her students to do exactly what she says. In working in the office last year, Mrs. Bradshaw was one of the few teachers you saw needing the principal, etc....because she handles her class, and molds her kids' accordingly. The other students in Madison's class are absolutely wonderful. Everybody knows that there are those kids' that are a chronic problem, and always interrupts the class. NONE of those kids are in this class, and I am so thankful! Last year there were 4 Madison's in her class, this year it is just her. She is so happy about that!!! Madison came home yesterday all smiles, she loves her teacher, she loves the other kids, she loved everything. Let's hope it stays that way. I think it will, and we are all excited about this school year being a total success.

Four graduations down...one to go???

2008-07-30T23:07:00.004-05:00

Congratulations Travis!!!

Travis finished his 2nd Masters degree, and graduated today. We are all so proud of him. Travis has been in the Navy for 19 years, and has loved every minute of it, well almost every minute. On the way home not to be mean, but I asked him if he was getting bored with graduating so many times, because I am kinda getting bored with it!! :) Anyway it was a nice ceremony followed by cake for the kiddos, and signifies the end of school, and the beginning of deployment.

Babe we love you, and are so excited for your future.

So, Travis any chance of maybe a doctorate degree in the future???

What's up with us? Well...

2008-07-29T12:31:00.007-05:00

With summer winding down so are we. Madison is still cheering 3 times a week, and Evan still hangs out with us, and on us!!

Madison is not quite a pro on her backhand springs yet, but getting close. She can now do them without a spot at the gym, and with a spot on our trampoline. A huge thanks to Daniel for coming over to show us how to properly spot Madison. Oh, and if you ever see Daniel and a trampoline in the same place ask him to do tricks for you, he is absolutely AMAZING!! Here is some video of her last Sat. at private lessons.

Since Evan is 3 he pretty much has cheer 3 times a week too! He has been working on his toe touches, his dance, and pom routine! So here is some video of Evan yesterday!

A couple of weeks ago we had Christmas in July at the Gilbert's. We had all kinds of holiday food and eggnog. We all wore holiday garb, it was hilarious!! Another thanks to Daniel for picking up our sweaters at the Goodwill!

Ang. & Daniel

Daniel, Travis, Ang., Michael

Everybody

Carrie and I went to the Gilbert's last night for some Karaoke fun! I don't have any pics. or video, but Becky sure does. Carrie was FANTASTIC! I have never seen a better Celine Dion ever!! My heart will go on Carrie.... Maybe one day I will have the guts to get up there and join, until then I will continue to chair dance and sing backup. Good Times.........

16 DAYS!!!!

2008-07-23T23:14:00.004-05:00

Yes that's right I am counting down to the first day of school for Madison. Summer has been great, summer has been fun, we got the t-shirt, now let's move on!! I am ready for a different kind of frustration, a different kind of busy, a different kind of schedule, like being room mom again, etc...

So today I was talking with my lovely husband on the phone. I took the call to the bedroom so maybe just maybe I could actually hear what he was saying instead of listening to LOUD kids. So I am talking to him, folding laundry, you know FUN stuff. I hung up with Travis, and I heard something coming from the end of the bed.

Yep you guessed it, Madison, and Evan sneaked in the room, and was down on the floor at the foot of the bed play fighting. And you know what? I so let them go for once.

Time to kiss, and makeup

Evan starts pre-school this year. I will start that count down in August, they don't start until Sept. Madison has 2 pillows in her room, a M and a C. Well Evan wears her C on his head. Anyway I showed Travis this pic. and the first thing that came to mind was a Las Vegas show girl! So funny, but NOT?

AND.....WE'RE DONE!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-20T22:23:00.003-05:00

I know this is the moment most of you have been waiting for. For the past 4 months everybody knows we have been working on our summer project. For those of you who don't, let me fill you in...

Last April Travis extended our concrete slab that the previous owners called a patio. It took well over 50 bags of concrete, many man hours, plenty of hard work, and lots of sweat, but it was worth it. I never knew Travis was so talented in this area, but to my total surprise he was perfect!

I came up with an idea to tile the patio (looking back, what a dumb idea!) kinda of an oasis to entertain on, watch the kids play from, a place to drink cocktails on, etc... We have worked for months, laying out tile, forming the design, cutting tile, making sure every piece was perfect before we really laid it down.

Travis, and I laid tile for 3 straight days from 10 am until 2 am pretty much non stop. My Mom was here during this process to play with the kids, etc.... Thank goodness.

After that was all said and done, it was time to clean the tile, oh what a job that was. Bending over every piece of tile making sure all the mortar was off, and not too thick in between. This only took forever. Not only would we work days, but after the kids went to bed for several nights we worked well into the morning getting it done.

Finally everything was clean, now it was time to grout. This process was easier, but still hard work. We managed I'm not sure how yet, but we did. Travis, and I were so sore, and exhausted, but we pressed forward.

Today we sealed the tile/grout 3 times, and now it is dry, and ready to play on.

INTRODUCING THE PATIO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I know this post was not witty, or funny like most, I apologize for that. We are so happy to be done, and look forward to never ever tiling anything again!

Thank you to all of my friends who have listened to my war stories during this whole process.

Thank you to Earle, and Carrie Brown for loaning us your wet saw, and other tools which we need to return to you!

Now if you will excuse me, Travis and I are going to sit on the patio and do absolutely NOTHING!!!!!

Do you really know me?

2008-07-12T22:42:00.002-05:00

I remember back in school I loathed pop quizzes. Well I thought it would be fun for you all to take one. Good Times.....

1. Do I have any brothers, or sisters?

A. no
B. yes

2. What vegetable is my favorite?

A. green beans
B. broccoli
C. none of the above, vegetables are for rabbits

3. What is my favorite t.v. show?

A. Grey's Anatomy
B. Lost
C. Tori and Dean
D. All of the above

4. My favorite color is?

A. Pink
B. Yellow
C. Blue

5. I like my steak?

A. Still mooing on it's way to my table
B. Just stopped mooing
C. Can't moo, burnt to a crisp

6. My favorite restaurant is?

A. Chili's
B. Olive Garden
C. McDonald's
D. all of the above

7. What is my favorite thing to do?

A. mow the lawn
B. read a book
C. shop
D. clean house

8. My favorite musical/Broadway show is?

A. Phantom of the Opera
B. Cats
C. Les Mis

9. What drink do I get at Starbucks (be very careful, read all combos before answering!)
***size TALL***

A. nonfat peppermint mocha with 5 equals no whip
B. peppermint mocha with 2 equals with whip
C. nonfat peppermint mocha with 2 equals no whip

10. My favorite NFL team is?

A. Philadelphia Eagles
B. Dallas Cowboys
C. New Orleans Saints
D. Washington Redskins

!!!!ANSWERS!!!!

1. No
2. C
3. D
4. A
5. B
6. D
7. C
8. A
9. C
10. B

Score - 1-3 Do we even know each other?
4-6 We need to hang out more
7-10 We are no longer friends, WE ARE FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I hope this has brought a smile to ya'lls face. Have a great day, and thanks for playing!!

Fears, tears, and cheers!!!

2008-07-10T22:53:00.006-05:00

Today was "B" day in Clemville (braces). The alarm went off at 7:45, and I rolled over hitting snooze feeling excited, but dreading the morning. Excited because this is the day Madison starts the braces journey to a beautiful smile. HOWEVER... Dreading what Madison would say when she got up from a long sleep.

As I expected, Madison was crying from the moment her sweet feet hit the ground. All morning was spent making breakfast, getting both kids ready, and trying to assure Madison it won't be bad. She was not convinced and was so upset she could not eat, and her stomach was hurting.

We left for the office of doom but first we dropped Evan off at the Wells brothers house! I figured Rachel has 3 boys what's 1 more??? No, really Rachel was such an angel to take Evan for me so I could focus all of my attention on Madison. For this I truly thank you Rachel. (we will touch on Evan in a bit)

I told Madison to get all of her crying out now because when we get to the ortho she had to stop. I explained to her that if she is crying she may scare some of the other kids, and also Dr. Kay can not do her job and may decide not to put them on you.

Remember me bragging on the whole no more than 10 minute policy in the waiting room. Well on the day that I bothered Rachel to watch Evan, they were running behind. One of the clinicians had the nerve to have her baby last week, and was not back to work already??? So this time Madison got her wish to prolong the waiting time!

It was finally our turn and as we walked back with Madison clutching her mouse in one hand, and holding my hand with the other her eyes started to water. There was no sound, and you could see her holding, fighting back the urge to cry with everything her little body had. I felt so bad for her so I teared up too!

I don't' know who scheduled the little 9 yr. old girl next to us for the same time and day, but THANK YOU!!!!!! This little girl finished up and visited with Madison telling her it didn't hurt at all, and it will be ok. SCORE, TOUCHDOWN, GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MIRACLE? Maybe, but whatever it was, helped. Madison was nervous putting the spacers around the back teeth, and then it was smooth sailing from there! We were told how to take care of her teeth and how she can earn cool prizes if she keeps her teeth brushed, flossed, and her brackets, and wire in good shape.

As we left Madison told me she really enjoyed Evan not being with us! Which I understand, Madison and I never have alone time. When I am suppose to be focusing on her, I am always chasing after Evan. Then she asked me if I thought she earned a Webkinz? And you know what??? I did! Here she is at 7 with major work needing to be done on her teeth and gums for the next how many years? She was a trooper, so we went to Playville to pick out a new friend. As luck would have it there was a sign in the window 40% off select Webkinz! She chose a Kangaroo (which was not on sale, but it was so cute I could not say no), and a Schnauzer that was $5!!

We left there to go pick up Evan from having the time of his life, and Madison says do we have to go get him? I really like just being with you, can we go to the mall? Yes, she said mall, and while I was tempted, being a Mom means sacrifice, and responsibility so, we roll up to the Wells' house, and as the door bell rung you could see Micah, Conner, and Evan standing at the door ready to let us in. Rachel said Evan did great, so I asked her if she was lying to me, but she said no. It looked, and sounded like things went well. Then Rachel drops a bomb on me....Evan loves corny dogs, and ate it!!!! WHAT???? Let me tell you how this conversation goes at my house.

Me - Do you want a corn dog?
E - Noee
Me - Why?
E - Because I don't love it (thank you Carrie)!!!

Isn't it funny how kids treat everyone else in the world different? Rachel said that Evan told her that he loves corn dogs, and he loves her. Now that is just plain sweetness, and southern charm wrapped up in one.

With my OCD issues I can say Madison will have the cleanest teeth in the world. We brushed her teeth like 10 times today, because after every meal you are suppose to brush. She is suppose to floss and use Listerine. The ortho gave her a kit of tools to use at school after she eats lunch, and she chose purple since they did not have pink.

This is what she earns at every visit to get prizes. You get dollars for being on time (no problem, OCD), keeping your teeth clean (no problem, OCD), wearing your ortho t-shirt (no problem, OCD), having nothing broken (can't promise anything on this one) Are you down with OCD? ya you know ME!!!!!!!!!

Thank goodness Madison has not felt any pain or discomfort so she went to cheer tonight. I was telling her not to run up to everybody showing off her braces, because with this crowd she will get a bunch of so whats, and junk. I told her to just go in normal, and let them come to you. Then I told her when they come to you to just act calm, and say I got them this morning. She did just what I told her, and it worked!!! Most of the other girls thought it was really cool, and gave her hugs, and nobody teased her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I did tell her that people would tease her, and it doesn't matter, they are just words, and yes words hurt, but what matters is what she knows to be true within her......but in my head (and yes this is bad) I was thinking I wish she could say yes I may have braces, and yes they look funny, but one day they will come off, but your ugly never will. Sorry that's just the rebel coming out in me!! I hate kids getting teased period!!!

And here she is..........

This evening Madison told us that she feels so much better about herself, and was very happy about her teeth now.

I know this was a long post thanks for reading.....

Vacation

2008-07-09T21:21:00.002-05:00

To all of my faithful readers.......

I have taken a few days off in observance of me! I am very sorry for any boredom this may have caused in your life, and I will be back very, very soon.

Thanks, and keep reading...
Ang.

Rockin the 4th!!!

2008-07-04T23:13:00.005-05:00

I hope everyone had a great 4th of July!! I must say this was the best 4th ever for our family. Travis, and I started the holiday by going dancing on Thursday night. We came home pretty late, and the kids were up fairly early. Me being mother of the year got up, made them chocolate milk, gave them muffins, and turned on the t.v. I told them no fighting, and I would be back. I went back to bed and snuggled with Travis until 10. I know, how horrible but the kids were safe, fed, and happy so I assume cps will not come knocking on my door.

A lot of times I am spun up by time, and schedules, but not today. It was so nice to just do what we wanted when we wanted. We ate our traditional grilled hot dogs for lunch, moseyed to Wal-Mart to get fishing supplies, and MILK! About 3ish we left for Heidi's house (Michelle's sister). Everyone there was so very sweet, and not completely bothered by our children!! The Well's joined the party, and at one point we were all in the pool for a great swim. Thank you so much Heidi for opening your home to us, and a big thank you to Michelle for extending the invitation to us!!

Ding, Ding, time for dinner!! We grilled out hamburgers, and I am not sure if was that we were all so hungry, or the world's aligned perfectly, but they were the best hamburgers to date that Travis has cooked. Great job hun!!!!

Here is where it gets just crazy. About 7ish we headed down to the pier to FISH!! (I know, me ms. prissy fishing) The weather was PERFECT. It felt like temps were in the lower 80's with a breeze. There was not a mosquito in sight, and none of us broke a sweat. We sat up camp, and fished until fireworks time. The Well's joined us at the pier, and we are so glad they did!! It was hilarious seeing all of the kids climbing up the wall looking over the side for the fish. Well I say hilarious, but it made us extremely nervous that they would become fish bait soon. As the sun set, the kids were getting tired, and we kept calling for a time check. :)

This years fireworks were at Foun. State Park. It was crazy to get to, and $10 per head. I am so glad we opted for the pier for FREE. I hate to steal the parishes thunder, but the fireworks show was no more than 10 minutes long, and pretty lame!!

Travis spent most of his night baiting our hooks, helping us cast, that manly kind of stuff. I felt bad for him, because it seemed like he did not get very much time for his fishing.

After the show most people left, and it was just us fishermen standing, waiting for that one fish that was meant to be....... Travis caught the only fish of the night, and I don't even think I would call it a fish!

The kids did a really GREAT for their 1st time going to the pier. Both of them were patient for the most part, and just hung out. Good job guys...

We stayed until 10, and it was pretty obvious to us the fish were being very snobby, and the kids were exhausted. Well Madison was not ready to go until she caught a fish, oh my goodness!!!! Let me tell you about little girls, (cause this is exactly how I reacted when I didn't catch a fish at Madison's age) when they don't catch fish, and somebody else does their feelings are so HURT!! It is so personal it is not even funny. TEARS, TEARS, TEARS!!!!! That girl cried all the way to the van, all the way home, during her bath, until her tired, hurt self hit the pillow and ZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!

Since both kids were crying (could not get the money shot of Evan crying, I tried so hard, sorry), Travis figured he would join in the fun...

I sit here exhausted, stinky, and ready for bed. Happy 4th everybody!!

But I love him today...

2008-06-30T22:44:00.003-05:00

Oh the summer days! Some days are good, and some I just want to hide from the kiddos for about 30 minutes, and change my name from MOM.

Madison is getting to the age where she needs privacy, and she doesn't want to play with Evan because he is just a baby.

Evan is getting to the age where he loves bugging Madison no matter how, or when.

But today was a day that they actually interacted with each other in a POSITIVE way. Sissy gave Evan a piggy back ride, I asked why, she says because today I love him. Okay I thought sounds good to me.

Blue rubber bands, and tears...

2008-06-26T21:39:00.005-05:00

Today was O-day at our house. (orthodontist) Madison woke up crying this morning because she was scared of getting her bands on. She was sick to her stomach all day, could not eat a single thing, watched movies, and I decided to paint her nails for her.

It was finally time to leave the house when she asks me if we can go to Starbucks so she can have a cookie??? Um, hello....YES! Now I have a reason to go.....thank you thank you thank you..... Madison took about 4 bites, and she was done which was a good thing because we were in the parking lot of the ortho.

You know how you go to the dentist and it takes forever for them to call you back so your 3:20 appt. becomes your 4:40 appt? Well Dr. Kay is way too organized, and by the time you sit down they are already calling your name. They have a wait no more than 10 minute policy, not bad for parents, but for scared kids putting off the inevitable not so good. Madison starts playing with the video games telling me they will take a while, when you can hear Madison Clem ringing through out the waiting area.

We start off in a room signing contracts, blah, blah, blah....A nice lady comes for Madison to start her x-rays. After 5 minutes I join her in the back as she completes her films. So far so good. The next step is digital pics. no problem..........

The lady picks up plier looking things with a little blue rubber band around the tip. Houston we have a problem! The lady would start to go towards her back teeth, and my baby would gently push her hand out of her mouth. Second try same thing. This lady was so very nice, so she told Madison she could put them on with dental floss. Madison agreed to that, and to me holding her hands down.

Everybody knows Madison is 7. Let me tell you if I had a lady shoving a rubber band between my molar, and my other tooth (at the age of "21") I would not have been as nice as Madison about it!! She did well, but it did hurt her. She did cry, her gums did bleed, but when she asked the lady if she was bleeding I quickly cut everyone off and said NO! I looked at the lady, and she knew to back me up, so she said oh honey no.

So now that the bands are in as snug as a bug in a rug no peanut butter for two weeks, or we will have to repeat this process. AND I can tell you that won't happen for both of our sakes.

You promise we are all done?

Do you want to see? No thanks!!!!

The ride home was very quiet. I don't think either of us knew what to say so we just enjoyed radio Disney, and left it at that. When we got home Madison got on the computer to play Webkinz, and I started making dinner (mashed potatoes for Madison). While in the kitchen I heard this little voice ever so sweetly ask for some cold ice cream because her teeth hurt really bad. I of course said YES!! I got her some vanilla ice cream with chocolate syrup, and she ate happily. I know she will milk that for a couple of days, and that is ok. Her cheeks did swell up a little bit, but Motrin did help her out.

Yes I had the camera with me at the ortho. today, and yes people looked at me like I was a total goof, but you know what I could care less. It helped me cope, and it did make Madison giggle that I was taking pics. of her in "the chair" and that is all that matters!

From back hand springs to braces...

2008-06-22T19:40:00.005-05:00

As the "the Bug" passes I wanted to share some things with you that happened this week.

Madison had another private lesson with her coach. Madison is excited she is getting better, and loves doing cheer.

Ever since Madison was 3 the dentist said she would have braces. We all thought ok whatever, she is only 3 how can you tell. Well I guess they can after all. Madison had her 2nd orthodontist appt. on Thursday, and Dr. Kay told us we need to go ahead and get phase 1 braces on her now. Dr. Kay said her teeth are worse than other kids her age. After several appts. she will have her top braces put on 7/10. She will have her braces on for a year, then will get a retainer put on for 2 years. During this 2 years she will need gum surgery. Her teeth look like they are half way in, well we found out Thursday they aren't! They are all of the way in her gums are so thick, and cover half of her tooth, so we will have to fix them. After the 2 years are up, and her gums are fixed Madison will get her full set top and bottom braces to fix her bite.

I know this is probably nothing to most people, but I have never had a single thing wrong with my teeth, so this is crazy to me. I am sad for her, scared for her, etc... I don't want kids to make fun of her, or for her to dislike the way she looks. They told us for the next week that she needs to eat as much as she possibly can of things like popcorn, hard candies, gum, etc... So, this girl has been doing just that! Popcorn is the big problem!! She is very sad about that buttery, salty goodness. So now our new rules are popcorn has to be hidden in the house. Popcorn can only be eaten when she is at school, or in bed, and at the movies we have to change our snack.

I know we will get through this journey, I just wish it didn't have to be her!!

I hope to see most of you this week......

The TOCC Bug...

2008-06-20T23:49:00.002-05:00

Okay, so the TOCC bug got us. Not so much me yet, but it is only a matter of days I'm sure. Today my Mom, and I loaded up the kids for a day of shopping. On our way to the mall as we approached exit 74 Evan says he has got to go potty, and can't hold it. I exited to the local Chevron to find Evan is not well, and needs to return home. The plan was to drop off Evan with daddy at home while us girls go to the mall. We hit Hwy 59, and Madison starts complaining of her stomach killing her, and moves to the back of the van to lay down.

By the time we got home Evan had it coming out of one end, and Madison out the other. Evan was having to go to the bathroom every 2 minutes or less for about 4-6 hours. Thank goodness there was a Hannah Montana marathon on for Madison as she laid by her "bucket". Thank you Disney channel!!

For obvious reasons there are NO pics. I hope everybody from church is either over it, or will not get it, and I hope everybody brings their Lysol cans to church on Sunday!!

Summer Project...

2008-06-18T22:38:00.003-05:00

I have been out of pocket for a couple of days due to our summer project, and company visiting...Sorry! Travis, and I have been working on our project for 3 months now. We are so ready to be done. We started by extending the concrete slab, then getting the surface ready to tile...We made the cuts on all of the tiles, we laid them down to get the spacing right. We started on Monday actually laying the tile. WOW harder than I thought. We have tiled from 10am to 12:30am on Monday, and Tuesday only with water, and food breaks. We have 4 more rows to do then we have to fix about 7 tiles before we can even start to grout. Travis has been in bed all day today sick from being out in the sun. Will it ever end??? We know the end result will be great, but getting there not so great!!

Swimming lessons continued...

2008-06-13T17:29:00.003-05:00

As you all read Monday's swimming lesson was less than desirable for us. The rest of the week has been really pretty good. We still have next week to go then we are done.

Not bad... This weekend will be busy. We started today going to the pool. We came home ate lunch, then went to the movies, and it's only Friday! Travis is home all week, so this will be a project/spend time with the family kind of week. :)

The swimming lesson from you know where!!!

2008-06-10T22:22:00.003-05:00

Last year when Evan was 2 he was completely fearless when it came to the water. He would jump in off the side, put his face in, blow bubbles, hang on the tube and float around. So surely now that he is a whole year older there should be NO problem right? WRONG!!!!!

We have been swimming at the PAC, and he has screamed, and cried about being scared of the water. Travis took him on Sunday and did get him out and kicking without crying, so we figured this was great since his lesson started on Monday. Evan was excited about getting to Ms. Geta's pool, until it was time for him to get in and start his lesson!!! After you watch this video you will understand why Travis, and I were so embarrassed!!

This kind of crying went on for about 22 minutes. I hid behind Travis, not only so Evan would not see me, but because everyone except for Carrie was staring at us.

Ms. Geta told us to come to the baby class at 6 to get him comfortable in the water. So I made Travis put on his cute trunks, and take Evan to Mommy and Me, and yes he was the only man there! Evan did just fine, and loved it.

Keep in mind this was all yesterday. Today I took him to the PAC, and he did much better in the water with me. Ms. Geta told us to bring him back to his normal 4 o'clock lesson, so we did. Evan got in like a pro, and never cried, not one time. I will post proof tomorrow!!

Madison is a fish!!

Take me out to the ball game...

2008-06-07T21:34:00.010-05:00

We went on our first family outing of the summer to see the New Orleans Zephyrs (minor league baseball). I love baseball, I used to play softball for several years way back when.

The last time I went to a game was to see the Texas Rangers play when Madison was about 7 months old. My Mom, Travis, Madison, and I went figuring we would have a good time when all of a sudden Madison was scared of the whole thing!!! That girl did not stop crying, especially when people clapped, or booed she would scream.

This time was different, Madison has learned what baseball is all about on the Wii, and she knew a lot more than I thought she did. We had GREAT seats. I love 3rd base line, we were about 4 rows up from the opponents dug out, we were on the end, it was PERFECT!!!

We played around, ate normal baseball food, complained about the calls the ump made that we just knew were oh so wrong. It was the typical American experience. The seats were cheap, it was easy to get to, and a cute little stadium. I urge everyone to go at least once while they are here.

We told Evan he could not swing his wooden bat around, or hit the seat in front of us, so this is what happens we he doesn't listen! You would think he gets it by now....

We HAD to take Madison's picture with the cheerleader walrus?!

Playing around...

Okay, let me tell you about Travis....he was ready to catch a ball! He sat with his glove on the whole time just waiting. There is no doubt in my mind he would be one of those guys who run women, and children over to get the ball! So in the 8th inning here comes a foul ball towards the crowd, it is not even in our section probably the one over, and Travis gets up runs up the stairs trying to figure out how he is going to get it. He did realize there was no chance, so he came back to his seat! Thank You Travis!!!!

These two awesome children of ours sat together through the entire game, and did not fight, did not touch each other, or breath on each other, or anything. Travis, and I did not know what on earth to do with ourselves!! It was so cool to be NORMAL people at a game, and not having to gripe at the kids over who is touching who... Thank You Madison, and Evan for a great evening...

Evan has always been scared of people dressing up in large puffy costumes. When we were buying food there was a huge smoothie king cup walking around. Evan does his typical scream, and cry act, while trying to climb our legs! Oh how annoying... It is just an over sized drink. So when the Zephyr mascot came to our row I just knew it was so on. To my surprise though the gave him a high five, and laughed at him. So note to self, scared of big drinks, but not huge animals with big buck teeth!

Who sports the DARKER tan???

2008-06-04T22:55:00.004-05:00

Okay so Travis, and I are sitting around tonight discussing important church stuff like what are our strengths, what kind of church do we want to be, and what do we look for in a minister... and all of a sudden I pop off I am darker than you are. Travis pops back nuh uh, I am darker than you are. SO, I told him to get the camera, and we will let the public decide.

Here are our arms...mine is on top, and his is the one with way more hair!

Be sure to study the facts very closely, and only when you are certain you may vote at any time!

Here are our shoulders, mine is the one with the white strap

As I look around now at 11:03 pm knowing that I need to do some laundry, general clean up, and get to bed this all becomes very silly.......

But you know what??? I AM DARKER THAN HE IS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And my SECRET SISTER is........

2008-06-03T22:26:00.002-05:00

Rachel Wells?????

I was shocked, and Pleasantly surprised to find out my secret sister was somebody who I hold near, and dear to my heart!! It was hard getting to know Rachel at first, but now she is just one of the gang who makes us laugh.

Rachel is one of those women who you could only hope to be like someday. She is so laid back, nice, smart, and PATIENT! The list goes on, but I don't think I have enough time right now. Even on some of her hardest days when she has all three kids, two of them running around, Bret is at work, and she wants to RUN out the door.....she still has the sweetest voice, she does not appear to be stressed out in any way, and you wonder WOW how does she do it???

Rachel, this blogs for you! I am a better person for knowing you, and only hope that you keep in touch when you move on.

P.S. I decided not to use the pic. of you tonight, although I loved it, you may not have!!

SUNDAY!!!!!

2008-06-01T19:43:00.009-05:00

Today was the day we said our final see ya to Whitney. No, I am not that mean, it is just how I handle the pain, oh the pain. Here are a few pics.

Carrie, Whitney, and me

Whitney, and David looking at their song book

We also had a picnic at FSP, and boy was it HOT!!! We had fun though, and even more memories to share...

Carrie, and Becky in the Pontchartrain

Michelle, Hayden, David, Emma, Cooper, and Allie

Lauren, and Ansleigh

Huh?? I'm sorry I am just an AGGIE!

I am a woman with few words tonight, I am exhausted, and figured you guys would like to see the pics. anyways....

Goodbye Whitney!!!

2008-05-30T21:59:00.006-05:00

Whitney, Whitney, Whitney...we are SO going to miss you! You have been a treasure to our lives, and a complete joy to spend time with. You always make me laugh no matter if the subject is funny or not. You have such jubilation in your heart, and I can't help but smile every single time you walk into a room. I still can't believe you are leaving, it does not seem real, I guess when you are gone it will hit me. I loved going to dinner with the ladies tonight, oh and I LOVE THE HAT!!!

Every time Carrie, and I go out for Mexican food there will always be a void that only you can fill. We have laughed so hard over your stories we have cried!! You are a great person Whitney, and don't ever forget we are here if you need us.

Always remember the power of the "Rita"

P.S. David is a STUD!!!!

SIBLINGS???

2008-05-28T15:04:00.005-05:00

Ok, so this is the 5th day of summer, and my question is how many days until school starts?

Evan has been sick for a couple of days, and Madison now has strep throat so we are home bound until they are better. I have been slammed with these kinds of questions...Can I go jump on the trampoline? NO... Can I go out and blow bubbles? NO... Can I go out and write with sidewalk chalk? NO... Can I? NO... Now when they walk into the room I just say NO before they even begin...LOL

Since there is nothing they can really do these two kids of mine have been fighting like crazy. You see I am an only child so I don't get it, and it is driving me CRAZY!!! So today Madison was sitting in Daddy's special chair, and Evan kept making the leg part come up so she could recline. Well of course she did not want to, and words started flying (clean ones). It is only 3:15, and it feels like 8:00 and bed time to me!!

So I started saying the most shallow prayer I have ever said, Lord, please let the antibiotics work quickly, please let Evan's viral infection move on so that we can get out of the house to survive. Amen!!

Evan is completely making Madison MAD, and he's loving it... While

Madison ran and hid in my shower! It took forever for me to find her...

Life at my house with two precious kiddos is challenging, and sometimes funny at the same time. Come on Aug. 8th!!!

Speedy

2008-05-26T23:20:00.005-05:00

Our Memorial day was very low key since Evan is sick. I spent most of the morning getting him to the Dr., and to the lab for tests... Madison, and Travis spent most of their day playing Carnival Games on the Wii, it was just a lazy day all in all.

As we sat down for dinner (classic cheeseburgers on Memorial day) Madison saw a turtle crawling in the street. She could not help asking the age old question...Why did the turtle cross the road? and as we all laughed we answered her...to get to the other side!! Trav went out turtle hunting after our entertaining joke from Maddie, and this is what he found.

I caught turtles in my younger years, and I must say none of them were as aggressive as this little guy. When you moved your hand to where he could see it, that mouth of his would open like he was just daring you to get your finger close enough. After visiting with him, and making him pose for a few pics. Travis took him across the road where he wanted to be, and off he went.

Even though Evan is sick we could not deny him turtle privileges!

Memorial Day Weekend...

2008-05-26T00:26:00.007-05:00

As we celebrate those who have, or are serving in our military (thank you Trav) we always "use" this 3 day weekend to have some fun, grill out, be with loved ones...

Saturday was the kick off to our fun weekend. Madison had her usual private cheer lesson early Sat. am. When that was done we joined Travis at the church where the Mud Olympics was taking place. Trav is helping out with the youth group so he dedicated some of his time to join in on some icky fun. Madison, Evan, and I sat on the sidelines with all of the sane people who did not believe in getting dirty! It was sunny, and HOT... Needless to say it was a great day to start my base tan.

Trav showing the kids how the wheel barrow is done!!!

But wait there is more!!! Sunday was a wonderful busy day. We started our day going to church, then we met some friends at the Bayou to spend the afternoon on their boat!!! Well I must say it was fun, relaxing, and yes more SUN.

Can you tell that my shoulders are purple?

Travis, and I finished our Sunday evening by going to see Indiana Jones without the kids!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! However when we got home, and checked on Evan he seemed extremely hot, so we took his temp. and yes he had a 102 degree fever. I have no idea what on earth is wrong with him, he has no symptoms, but those of you with kids know that they don't have to have symptoms to run those dang fevers. So, we will spend our Memorial Day taking Evan to the Dr. and not going out to the pool, I don't think my shoulders could have taken it anyway.

Nobody freak out, his cup has water in it because he was so hot!

Everyone have a SAFE, and Happy Memorial Day!!!

Goodbye 1st Grade!!

2008-05-20T17:51:00.005-05:00

Today was Madison's end of the year party for first grade. She only has a 1/2 day left, and really that is just to get her report card. Mrs. Pellerin has done a fantastic job with Madison this year!! Madison is reading, doing math, spelling, etc... We are just plain shocked at how far Madison has come in such a short time...

This is Madison's class plus Evan...

Mrs. Pellerin gave the kids' a pizza party today, I brought the cupcakes, and awards were handed out!! (Madison got the Deep Thinker Award) It was a very nice way to softly say goodbye...

Being room Mom I arrived early while the class was discussing next year. Most of the kiddos are very upset to be leaving Mrs. Pellerin, and quite scared to move on to second grade! You see Mrs. Pellerin is one of those unique teachers who not only uses love, and smarts to teach, but a TON of FUN... The kids know there will never be another Mrs. Pellerin, or as Madison called her on the first day of school Mrs. Pellican!! And Evan always called her "Pellerin". They have seen the second grade teachers around the school, and know that next year will be different, they will be expected to do more things, be more mature, and act better than they acted this year. I never thought I would be sad to say goodbye to Mrs. Pellerin, and to first grade, but I am.

So long first grade, so long Mrs. Pellerin we are forever in your debt for making Madison a better person, and a better student!!! Thank You!!!!!

From Nervous to Confident!!

2008-05-18T19:18:00.000-05:00

Madison had her very first violin concert last week. Woodlake Elementary offers free violin lessons all year long, so of course we jumped on the opportunity. From the first lesson she loved it, and did as well as a 1st grader would be expected to do. Her class started out with 4 kids, then as time went by 3 kids, then 2 kids, then just Madison. She puts on concerts for her stuffed animals in her room all the time. Our dog Tiffi sits outside of her room and howls to the wonderful sounds. As the end of the year was approaching her teacher told us that she is doing unusually well for her age, and has learned to play over 20 songs!!!!

Every morning at school they have what they call "Morning Meeting". The whole school gathers for announcements, they sing the school song, etc... So last week it was the violinists turn to entertain the other kids, teachers, and parents. Madison was very nervous, and told me she could not go through with it. What Madison does not realize is that she is very strong, and can do it......so she did, and did it well. The violin teacher will offer lessons through the summer to keep her brushed up on her music, and get her ready for next year.

GREAT JOB MADISON!!!!!

Mexican Food, and MORE....

2008-04-28T23:37:00.000-05:00

After a long awaited "girls night" we finally made it happen tonight!! We enjoyed mexican food, and of course great company...

Getting to know people is not always easy for me. I never know what to say, what to do in awkward silences... A couple of my friends opened up tonight that I don't know that well, and it was NICE!! The ladies gave me a hard time about my blogging qualities, like they were pretty much non existent. So with that challenge here I am writing before I go to bed. This blog is dedicated to ya'll, you know who you are!!!!

Beautiful Weekend...

2008-03-02T18:02:00.000-06:00

What a wonderful weekend we all had here in the state of LA. Highs in the upper 70's, and plenty of sun for all. We spent Sat. early afternoon at the park, then to Sonic for lunch. When we got home we found reasons to stay outside like, the van is so dirty time to wash it, the leaves need to be raked, oh, and the weeds in the back yard need to be pulled. While Travis, and I did the grown up things, the kiddos played on their swing set, did hand stands, cartwheels, and caught lizards. And yes for a time Travis, and I were doing cart wheels, and hand stands too!(I am so glad none of you were driving by) When we came in this evening I told Travis that I better get the laundry done tonight, because I don't think I will be able to move tomorrow. Summer is so close you can just smell it, and wish it were here so much faster.

The PAC

2008-02-28T21:31:00.000-06:00

So my friend, Carrie, and I have been visiting our athletic club a lot here lately. My first visit in many months was 2 weeks ago for jazzercise! I was thinking to myself how hard can jazzercise be, I took jazz as a kid..... I arrived, and as we are getting our spot back in the far corner away from the see through door I see this skinny athletic girl who is our teacher. Come to find out she has a new baby, and worked out the whole time she was pregnant up to delivery! WHATEVER... Carrie, and I look at each other in friendly disgust, not with the teacher per say, but you know the kind of disgust I speak of.(I can't speak for Carrie, I just assumed we were on the same page) The class is a one hour class, and let's just say by the time it was over I could not feel my legs walking me out of the door. I was looking down at times thinking I was floating. By the time I got home I was popping Motrin, and eating everything in sight since I had not eaten dinner yet. UPDATE-------I have gone two more times, and it is getting some what easier, and more enjoyable.......

The Night of EVE!!!

2008-01-25T19:06:00.000-06:00

Here it is almost Mardi Gras (our 1st), and I am sick with an ear infection, and bronchitis. I have been running fever for 3 days now with the highest reaching 104.3! This is what I get for volunteering at the school...GERMS!!

Becky Gilbert, a wonderful lady from our church wanted to pick up Madison to take her to the Eve parade in Mandeville tonight, so we got her all ready to go..................when the rain started in. Becky came to the house to let Madison know that the parade would not roll tonight due to the weather.

Yes, the parade has been rescheduled for Monday night, and Becky is taking Madison to the Caesar parade on the South Shore tomorrow night. So here are some pics. of Madison all dressed up with no place to go!!

And for the record yes Madison has been in tears for the past hour just crushed! As for me, I can not help feel but a tad bit selfish, knowing now that I will get to attend the Eve parade with my children, (and the Brown's) and watch their faces light up as they catch bead, after bead!!!!! :(

For those of you who dont' live here, yes Mardi Gras is HUGE! It is not just a fun thing, it is a way of life here!!!

The Very First Time...

2007-10-25T22:03:00.000-05:00

I have plunged into the world of blogging, thank you Carrie!!! Everyone will need to work with me here until I get the hang of pouring my life onto the pages of technology. Here is something to ponder until my next entry....

Tonight as I was with a new friend of mine we were talking, she looks at me and asks if I have siblings. As I replied no, she said she kind figured that. Not in those exact words. (I will tell you I LOVE how my new friend can be up front and honest with me, how refreshing) NOW my question is...

Why would she figure this?????