The O'Neals

World Premier

2012-02-12T04:06:00.000-08:00

Lauren went to 'dance camp' at school this week and got to perform at half-time at the basketball game yesterday. She had a great time!

Hey Mikey! She Likes It!

2012-02-04T16:33:00.001-08:00

Merritt sat in her highchair for the first time tonight, so I figured Why Not? Let's try some cereal.

I'm kinda surprised it was such a hit.

You can't really tell, but she got at least equal parts on her as in her.

Let's do lunch!

Labor Relations

2012-01-30T17:33:00.000-08:00

Tonight at supper Lauren mentions that she knows how to spell 'employee.' After proving herself...mostly right, I asked Lauren if she knew what an employee is, 'someone who has to do what the boss says' was her on-target answer. Somehow during that definition the word 'manager' came up. I asked if anyone knew what a manager is, to which Tucker replied, 'someone who turns off the lights and cleans everything up.' Ha!
I think they are both budding Human Resources professionals.

That's My Fun-Day

2012-01-29T17:16:00.000-08:00

Oh, today has been gorgeous. A little chilly outside, but felt comfortable enough in a sweatshirt. Lauren and Tucker had lots of outside time. The outside time did my brain good.

Tucker performs an impromptu drum concert on the back porch...

...and stops afterwards to snap a pic with a fan...

Lauren, always ready for the photo op...

Merritt is getting in a good habit of going to sleep early in the evening. Last night, it was a little too early (6:00ish) and subsequently, we were awake for the day around 4:30 a.m. So, I am very grateful that she is going to bed, but after she is down, I crash. I am good for nothing after about 7:30 p.m. (that is earlier than my norm of 8:30 p.m.) She has done well in school this month. Weighed in at 16 pounds, 7 ounces at her 4 month check up. Geez, where has the time gone? 4 months, already!! I am glad. She is cute and fun. Nothing but smiles (most of the time). Would love to write more, but I am approaching my 7:30 couch crash.

"Is This Heaven? No, It's Iowa."

2012-01-27T14:13:00.000-08:00

I know I have a very few blog 'followers,' and I think I know them all in real life, so....whoever you are in Iowa City, Iowa, I'm calling you out!! Who are you?? Curiousity is killing me!! Comment and let me know!!

Lauren-isms

2012-01-10T18:59:00.000-08:00

Deep thoughts at the supper table: "Why are there Black Eyed Peas the band....and black eyed peas...the peas?" (indeed!)

Upon being forced to eat her home-cooked hamburger, cooked well done: "I don't like the side burns!"

Gotta love this kid!

2012-01-06T17:49:00.000-08:00

This was The Super Carrot's first week of school. The first day was sad. I had dealt with it easily with my normal method of avoidance up until the morning of. As we were getting ready, and in a completely 'looking out for baby sister' way, Tucker asked me "What if Merritt misses you?" And that got me going. Fortunately, there was tons going on at work this week, and I had no choice but to dive in. Merritt had no choice but to drink out of the bottle, and by week's end was an old pro.

And I have had an amazing feeling of being on top of my game this week. No, my house is not clean, but I have gotten everything accomplished without an enormous amount of dread. I have even enjoyed work this week. Conversing with adults while NOT covered in spit-up has been wonderful. Eight years ago I never would have thought I would have gotten to this place. I hope my children are not too scarred by having a working mother. Sometimes I wonder if it would scar them more if I stayed home.

Managing expectations is a big part of life. We have a phrase we use at work--isolated epiphanies--that I love to use. I seem to have these random realizations that put me at ease with my life. There is no cookie cutter way to go about things. It is okay if we eat supper at 7:00. No one will die if the pile of laundry stays on the couch overnight. When I saw the above StoryPeople quote today, it spoke to me for this reason. "Everything changed the day she figured out there was exactly enough time for the important things in her life.

first day of school

We Interrupt this Hiatus to Bring You a Blog Post

2011-12-29T17:39:00.001-08:00

Sometimes, I wish my parents weren't as awesome as they are. I will never reach the bar that they have set. My particular set of parents are rock solid, unwavering, loving and dependable as they come. As a child, I may have wished that they were this way or that, but I never questioned them. Well, I questioned them plenty, but I never questioned them in the sense that they were the omnipresent guides in my life. What they said, they meant. I know some folks with some nutty parents, and mine were the picture of stability.

As an adult, and as a parent myself, I now have insight into what went on behind the scenes. My parents have feelings! Sometimes they were angry...get this...with each other! Maybe they didn't want to do the dishes either! They didn't have all the answers all of the time, and they questioned themselves. Knowing this only helps me to identify where my particular brand of neuroses came from (hint: both sides). I fear every day that I do not provide that level of consistency with my own children...the dishes win the battle in my house many days, and I won't even mention the laundry...but I can hope that my children feel my love for them all the same.

Sometimes, I wish my parents weren't as awesome as they are. Today is not that day. My parents graciously agreed to keep Tucker at our house while we took Lauren for some scheduled surgery in B'ham. We came home from the hospital today to not only a delicious pot of chicken and rice stoup (that's stew/soup) but a clean house and a raked yard. It has been heaven and has given me peace. I will stop before I get too sappy, but I love and appreciate my parents more than they can know. They are truly the best.

How Cool is This?

2011-12-02T14:08:00.001-08:00

Got to love Shutterfly.

Click here to view this photo book larger

Build your own high-quality photo books at Shutterfly.com.

Last Day of November

2011-11-30T05:53:00.001-08:00

And I have failed miserably at the 30 days of thanks challenge. Its not that I am unthankful--in fact I wanted to be poignant and all that, but I have not had the time to reflect on the deeper things that I am thankful for. Each time I wanted to write a blog post on something important and involved, other things came up. So, I am thankful for the things that keep coming up. Kids, friends, family, house, etc.

We started out the advent season last night with a First Penance service. Lauren is all squeaky clean. I am reminded to take a step back and be ready with forgiveness. Forgiveness for others and forgiveness for myself. I am hoping to take that forgiveness and peace into the holiday season. And speaking of holiday season, I am putting my Christmas cards in the mail today!! Are yours ready?

Over the River and Through the Woods

2011-11-24T05:54:00.001-08:00

Extremely thankful to be spending Thanksgiving with my family.

Thanksgiving Eve

2011-11-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for some quiet time by myself (please stay asleep Merritt!) and am super thankful to Orville Redenbacher (sp?) for making popcorn without butter. It is surprisingly delicious!!

Nov. 21

2011-11-21T15:18:00.000-08:00

The Super Carrot is two months old and is weighing in at 13 lbs, 13 oz!!
Yes, I'm days behind. Oh well. Today I am thankful for girl time at the mall that may or may not have resulted in the purchase of a Justin Beiber t-shirt. Oiy vey.

Nov, 17

2011-11-17T11:10:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to Andy today!! Sorry for not having a cake made. Maybe I can scratch something together by this evening.
I am thankful today that Merritt stayed asleep during the entirety of Tucker's dermatologist visit, and let me quickly handle an administrative task at the office, AND let me scarf down a bowl of tomato soup and potato chips (yes in the soup)!!
We are talking MAJOR power nap, which was needed (by ME) b/c she hardly napped at all yesterday and was very spitty uppy and fussy. She spit a little this morning, but since she has slept soundly since, I am concluding that the tummy is not bothering her at the moment.
I absolutely hate that she is having tummy issues, I hate the unknown aspect of it, and I hate that what I eat is the cause. It is so frustrating, especially since milk is in nearly everything. I don't want to stop breastfeeding just because it is inconvenient for me to cut out dairy, but some days--like yesterday--make me want to throw in the towel. I just want her to not hurt. Am definitely waiting it out until her 2 month appointment next week. Hopefully I can have a conversation with the ped about the whole situation and come to a resolution (even if it is to stay the course).

Nov. 14

2011-11-14T16:56:00.000-08:00

Clean (kitchen) floors. Enough said.

Nov. 13

2011-11-13T17:37:00.001-08:00

Oh, today I am very thankful for Stacy and her lovely dairy-free pita chips. We have realized that Merritt's reflux appears to now be a real sensitivity to milk products, so I am indefinitely off of dairy. Dairy, for those who don't know appears in everything from milk to non-dairy creamer. (yeah, it doesn't make sense to me either)
I am going to give this a real shot, although it is difficult...not so much to sacrifice, but to figure out what I can't eat. However, (and knock on wood) it appears that I have laid Miss M down IN HER BED for the first time in a while where she has not immediately started complaining. She has been sleeping exclusively in her bouncy chair for a few weeks. Maybe her tummy is feeling a little better?

11-12-11

2011-11-12T11:01:00.000-08:00

Today I am most thankful for Lauren & Tucker's in-town aunt and uncle who graciously offered to take them to the movies this afternoon. They will love having something fun to do, and I will LOVE for them to have something fun to do!!

11-11-11

2011-11-11T14:58:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for a sweet little baby head to smell and kiss. Merritt, you are the snuggliest baby, or maybe I appreciate it more since you will be the caboose. I love you!!

November 10

2011-11-10T05:53:00.000-08:00

Today I am so, so thankful for my 8 year old daughter Lauren. Even though she growled at me this morning in the car and (I could tell) seriously contemplated sticking out her tounge at me, she is a joy and light in my life. Lauren has insight like no one I have ever seen. After telling her recently that I had wanted to be Cindy Lauper when I was a kid (and spelled it Sindy Lopper), I had occasion to show her who Cindy Lauper is (yes, we were watching the Goonies). When she came on the screen, I was singing along and told Lauren...'see, this is who I wanted to be when I grew up.' Lauren, totally serious and deadpan, looks at me and says "Why don't you still want to be her?"
Indeed. I guess some days I do still want to be Cindy Lauper. I mean, who wouldn't?

Rats!

2011-11-09T06:11:00.000-08:00

Okay, I missed yesterday too. For yesterday, I am thankful for my comfortable couch, where I fall asleep every evening pretty much as soon as my head hits the cushion.

Today, I am thankful that I had the foresight (ha) last year to snatch up some goodies on after-Christmas sales. Thanks to that, I have teacher presents checked off my list this year!! Its the little things, right? That is hugely relieving my Christmas present anxiety.

November 7

2011-11-07T11:43:00.001-08:00

Today I am thankful for my job. Easy to say when I haven't been there in 6 weeks, huh? I am thinking of other new moms who don't have the option to take 12 + weeks off of work after giving birth, and it continues to astound me. There is no way I could ever be mentally or emotionally ready to be back at work now. Sure, part of me craves the routine and adult interaction, but I am still wandering around in a spit-up haze, wondering how in the heck I am going to make it to the big kids' pediatrician appointments this afternoon?!
I am making it through these first two months, but it is only by fully embracing my 'one day at a time' mantra. I am able to do that by not having to worry about work for the time being.

November 6

2011-11-06T04:45:00.000-08:00

(I'm giving up on yesterday. Not going to spend the month in arrears.)
Last night the time changed. This morning I am oh-so-thankful for waking up at 7-now-6 o'clock because it COULD have been 6-now-5 o'clock. Whew!! Off to a good start.

Wow, That Didn't Take Long

2011-11-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

So, I've already missed a day.
My thankfulness yesterday was for sunshine. It was a gorgeous day and it made me happy. Will have to come back to report on today. Busy Saturday.

November 3

2011-11-03T13:56:00.001-07:00

Today I am thankful that I got to enjoy the perfect rainy "nap weather" by snuggling up with Merritt and resting on the couch. I didn't actually doze off, but had some peaceful meditation time. Ahhh....

November 2

2011-11-02T14:18:00.000-07:00

Today I am so thankful for being able to provide adequate nutrition for my baby. We had Merritt weighed today and she weighed in at 12 pounds, 12 (and a half) ounces!! She is six weeks old today, and over the past few days has gotten even cuter and a little more tuned in to the world around her, and it is wonderful to have validation that, yes, she is growing like she should!
Breastfeeding is not a subject I take lightly. I think it is a hot topic, and I could be absolutely tired of it tomorrow, but I know that it is a precious time that I won't get back. Would love to elaborate further, but my nursling is calling...

November...argh!

2011-11-01T08:33:00.001-07:00

In an obvious attempt to blog regularly, I am going to once again do Thirty Days of Thanks during the month of November, in which I will endeavor to post daily about things for which I am thankful.

The first thing I would like to be thankful for is Pepperidge Farm's Pumpkin Spice Bread. It jumped in my buggy last week in Target, and was everything it promised it would be...delicious!! The air has been crisp for the past few days, and I love fall and getting excited about holidays to come. It is an exciting time.

One Month Down...

2011-10-24T08:48:00.000-07:00

The first couple of months after a baby is born are the hardest. Emotions are flared, bathing is a gamble, and sleep is inconsistent at best. There are some super-high highs--that first grin is a definite winner--but for me there are some super-low lows as well. Very, very fortunately this time, the lows have been a lot fewer and further between. After some good and random cries during Merritt's first couple of weeks, I am on a very even keel. Our current motto is 'One Day at a Time,' and it is working for us. And we are celebrating because we are HALFWAY! through the first two months!! Here are some notable things from our first month:

-I have literally taken a shower every single day since Merritt was born. This is an accomplishment that I congratulate myself on every time I lather up my hair.
-We have gotten to every obligation that we have had in the last 3 weeks. Doctor's appointment, Lauren & Tucker school events, we even went to a musical yesterday!! I will survive having three kids!!
-Somehow, Merritt has gotten cuter over the past month. I know, its weird, but it is true. She is having more awake time and is super cute!! Lots of people comment that she looks like Tucker, and I agree to an extent...mostly when she is asleep. Once those peepers are open, she looks like herself.

Tucker

Merritt

-Merritt has gained the nickname: Merritt the Super Carrot. Just because they rhyme. And Tucker has run with it.
-I am hoping that Miss M is gaining weight. I am not concerned enough to go to the doctor to have her weighed. She has been a little reflux-y over the past few weeks, but (knock on wood) the past couple of days have been better. Whether it is her system ironing itself out, or me learning her cues and how to handle...anybody's guess. But it does seem to be getting better.
-Sleep is going well. The really, really great thing about breastfeeding is night feeding. No making bottles, no clean up. The last few nights I have noticed that I will get up with Merritt, feed her, and then an hour later I wake up still holding her (safely, I promise) on the couch. The point is: I AM SLEEPING. So, I am totally fine with it.
-Bonus points for me: Obligatory pumpkin patch picture taken.

Winning!! More to come.

So, Now that Facebook Officially Stinks, I Can Start Blogging Again

2011-10-02T14:05:00.001-07:00

On January 12, 2011, I got one of the biggest surprises of my life when I realized I was pregnant!! I mean, I had seriously just. thrown. away. my last few baby-hoodie-towels over the Christmas break, thinking that it was nuts that I still had them because Lauren and Tucker are so big, "and its not like we're going to have any more babies..." (cue evil laughter here)

Here is what I wrote in my journal that day (funny, haven't journaled at all since)
"I have not really ever truly believed that things happen for a reason. I am reconsidering...No way to tell the end result of how this will turn out, but currently I am sitting here with 2 positive pregnancy tests. This is a complete and total surprise. I am truly in shock. Will be buying a third, more expensive test on the way home. This is really surreal."

Well, ladies and gentlemen, here is the end result:

Merritt Ashcraft O'Neal, born Wednesday September 21, 2011 2:27 p.m. 9 pounds 12 ounces (!) 21 inches long

I had a pretty great pregnancy and a wonderful birth. Along the way we took Lauren and Tucker to Disney World and I spent the majority of the summer in the pool. I started to get pretty swollen and uncomfortable round about the beginning of September, but I was determined to go the distance with the pregnancy. I had so much going on what with work and Lauren & Tucker in school, that I needed the baby to stay in as long as possible.

I went to the doctor on September 19 (a Monday) after a pretty grouchy weekend, and since I was into my 39th week, I finally called it. We settled on Wednesday and I was pumped. That way, I was certain that my doctor would deliver, I didn't have to worry about the logistics of going in to labor (especially in the middle of the night) and what to do with L & T, my mom would assuredly be there with plenty of time, etc.

I woke up around 3:00 a.m. on the 21st and stayed in bed until Tucker came in around 3:30. After getting in some last minute email checking and facebooking (before the crappy changes), I got to work. Made sure to blow my hair out really nice, and put on my favorite maternity dress. Kissed the kids good-bye and drove myself to the hospital!! (Andy had to take the kids to school) I left the house around 6:15 and it was fairly dark for my drive. I was probably funny to look at--a hugely pregnant woman wheeling her suitcase into Labor & Delivery all by herself. I presented myself to the nurses station and was taken to the room where I would meet my baby!!

My lovely, lovely nurse came in (I remembered her from when Lauren was born) and got things rolling. I had pitocin started and my water broken before mom or Andy got to the hospital. My dad also came a little later in the morning. I was having contractions, and they were getting stronger. At 10:00 we all had a discussion and I decided to proceed with getting the epidural. I think that was in place by 10:30. (For the record, I could have gone without it.:)) (Also for the record, so glad I got it!) Around 10:45, the doctor checked me and I was about 5 cm dilated. Got checked again around noon and was a '6.5 to 7.' My nurse went to lunch and when she checked me again around 1:15, she announced that there was no cervix and I was complete!! I was truly shocked. I think, because it took Tucker until 6:30 p.m. to be born, I was really expecting to be laboring all day. So, we started to push...

Fast forward an hour. And bless my sweet doctor's heart, he is such the champion of the soft sell. He starts talking about how the baby's head is having a difficult time getting under the bone (pubic? pelvic?) and that we may need to use the vacuum. It took me a few seconds to realize that we were talking about making this decision NOW, not in a while from now. So, I turned to mom and Andy and said, 'is anyone here opposed to having a baby now? Let's have a baby!' And then it all started happening sooooo fast. The suction worked like a charm, and true to what Dr. S said, as soon as she got under the bone, she was coming out!! It was amazing and to anyone who will ever birth a baby, I really really urge you to get the mirror. What an unbelievable experience. (side note here: I feel really blessed to have been very mentally present during this whole laboring experience. I was well rested, had an excellent epidural, and was able to really enjoy the whole thing)

Anywho...earlier in the morning, the doctor speculated that this baby would be as big as Tucker (8lbs, 6oz). When Merritt came out, he said 'I may have been wrong earlier...this may be a 10 pound baby!' And she damn near was!!

Merritt has been such a wonderful baby thus far. Lauren and Tucker are in love with her. Tucker has nicknamed her 'enchilada' and Lauren is constantly pronouncing that 'she is so cute when she ________.' (fill in the blank) I seem to be coming out of my post-partum fog a little quicker than with the first two.

And we thought we were done...who knew?!

Three's Company

2011-09-20T12:39:00.000-07:00

So, what's it been, like nine months?
Stay tuned for what we've been up to since I last checked in!!

Snaps

2010-12-30T16:02:00.000-08:00

We have had a great Christmas and are REALLY enjoying the break. I got a Wii for Christmas this year from Santa, and that has helped make this really feel like Christmas to me. Even Andy likes it!! I am having to ration my time playing Mario brothers...but it is a truly awesome blast from the past! Here are some shots of our holiday season...
Reeves Christmas 2010..."vintage" themed.

A lot of Christmas reading...as well as commandeering my camera (a la Tucker)

O'Neal Christmas at our house

Christmas morning. This was the first year that someone other than me woke up with the express purpose of opening presents. This year it was Lauren. She woke up several times between 3:30-ish and 5:45, when we actually got up.

And now, we are puppy-sitting Oscar, the wonder weiner. He is a great dog and the kids are having a super fun time taking him on walks.

Last but not least, we have welcomed new niece and cousin, Peyton Abigail this December. I may or may not have cried the first time I got to hold her (on Christmas day). And Tucker may or may not have made a point to show her his new dump truck.

Peace on earth, good will toward men!

The Way It Is...

2010-12-22T06:43:00.001-08:00

This is funny, because its true!

The Man Himself

2010-12-06T12:23:00.001-08:00

Jammied Up

2010-12-05T16:21:00.000-08:00

Love new pjs. These are compliments of Aunt Kitty.

And...Lauren took a big step today! She decided while waiting in line for Santa Claus that she DID want to get her ears pierced! She took it like a champ. Not one tear!

Festival of Lights

2010-12-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

A real conversation at my house this week:

Me: Hey guys, its December! Do you know what happens in the month of December?(SIDEBAR--this was a trap! I just knew the kids would go for the obvious choice: Christmas, then I was going to hit 'em with...and baby Peyton will be born this month!)

Tucker (immediately, without hesitation): Hanukah!!

(Did I mention that they have a broad curriculum at his pre-school? LOVE IT!)

20-Something-Odd Days of Thanks: Final Thank You

2010-11-30T19:18:00.000-08:00

Ahem.
Lots to be thankful for, many excuses not to blog about them. Here's a compilation:
-thankful for my health
-thankful for good jobs and a warm comfortable home
-thankful for having enough family to necessitate two Thanksgiving celebrations
-thankful for my secret mac & cheese recipie
-thankful for getting to live Christmas again through a child's eyes
-thankful for lazy Sundays
-thankful for internet shopping
-thankful for a good book
-thankful for a good glass of wine and a good laugh with my mom
-thankful for a daddy who I can hear laugh on skype even though he's in a different room
-thankful for a husband who I don't have to impress

Amen.

30 Days of Thanks: Wednesday, Nov 24

2010-11-24T06:59:00.000-08:00

Lauren,
A week or so ago, you asked me how I got to be a "great artist" (your words, not mine). I told you that I had just had lots of practice.

If the same holds true, I should be a "great mom" by the time you have grown. I love you so, so much. Parenthood, as cliched as it is, is harder than anything--ANYTHING. I have learned and am learnin so much about myself because I am your mom.

You make me smile. Today, and every day, I am thankful for you.
love, Mom

30 Days of Thanks: Tuesday, Nov. 23

2010-11-24T03:29:00.000-08:00

Whew! Thankful for small favors--left work just a couple of minutes early to run by the bank...I thought the bank was open til 5:30...I pull up, complete my transaction, and they pull the shades down. I was right on time!! Its the little things, right?

30 Days of Thanks: Monday, Nov. 22

2010-11-22T17:37:00.001-08:00

Today I am ever thankful to work in close proximity to medical care. I'll spare the details, but suffice it to say that my week long cold morphed into a sinus infection. Was able to pop in-and-out in under 30 minutes this morning with a prescription in hand. Hoping it works quickly.

Weekend of Thanks

2010-11-21T19:37:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bob! This has been a great weekend. Had a good Saturday, bopping around town, painting some ornaments, and going out on a date! with Andy! without the kids! We even went to church on Saturday so we didn't have to get up early this morning. We raked up a ton of leaves in our yard and jumped in them. I helped a friend put up her Christmas tree, then enjoyed the gorgeous weather on her screened in porch. I even vaccuumed the house. Twice. I wrapped some presents. I saw the cutest fuzzball dog I have ever seen in my life. And I watched a funny Adam Sandler movie. (Grownups. Its no Billy Madison, but also no Reign Over Me)

I am thankful for all of that.

30 Days of Thanks: Wednesday, Nov 17 and Thursday, Nov. 18

2010-11-18T09:21:00.000-08:00

Nov. 17: I am thankful that I am not being graded on this project, cause I can't meet my deadlines. I am also thankful for Andy, whose birthday was yesterday. We celebrated at Wings for supper and had the surprise of that being magician night! We were all impressed and the kids got balloon figures.

Nov. 18: I am thankful for a 1/2 day of work. It is nice to be off on a Thursday and then go back rejuvenated on Friday, just to realize that you then get 2 more days off!!

30 Days of Thanks: I'm Trying Here People!!

2010-11-16T09:41:00.000-08:00

Always a day late and a dollar short.
Yesterday was a rainy Monday. I had (have) a nasty cold. I am very thankful for the makers of NyQuil. Thanks to them, I was in bed and passed out cold by 9:00. And, despite bizarre work-related dreams, I am feeling better this morning.

And let's go ahead and lock in today's, shall we? Today I am going to be thankful for daydreams of new beginnings. Even if the new beginnings don't come to pass, I enjoy the mental stimulation from planning things out in my mind just-so. Me and John Lennon. Two peas in a pod. (People say I'm a dreamer...)

30 Days of Thanks: Weekend Make-up Post

2010-11-15T03:38:00.000-08:00

Okay. We had a good weekend and here is what made it worthwhile...

Saturday, Nov. 13--Target. Have I already been thankful for Target? I can't remember. It is one of my favorite places. Saturday morning we started the day with breakfast at Panera, and then I took my coffee and the kids to Target just to wander around. We had no agenda and it was wonderful. The kids pushed every button that they came across, so they were in hog heaven. It was a peaceful, in-the-moment morning. I needed it.

Sunday, Nov. 14--My Mom. I am so thankful that I have the mom that I have. We are fortunate to live close enough that she (or we)can pop over for the afternoon. Mom came over and we had lunch (at Panera...then went to Target...see a theme?) and hung out for the afternoon. I needed that, too.

30 Days of Thanks: Friday, Nov 12

2010-11-12T18:05:00.001-08:00

Today I am thankful for babies in footie pajamas. Is there anything cuter?

30 Days of Thanks: Thursday, Nov. 11

2010-11-11T14:50:00.000-08:00

Today, I am most thankful for my freedom and for the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect it. Happy Veterans Day!!

30 Days of Thanks: Wednesday, Nov. 10

2010-11-11T04:05:00.000-08:00

New make-up. It is simple, but I always love opening a new box of powder. It is a new beginning.

30 Days of Thanks: Tuesday, Nov. 9

2010-11-09T07:26:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am getting this one out of the way so I won't forget tonight...
Today, I am thankful for two things:
1. My new coffee mug. It is exactly what I have been wanting. I found it at Hobby Lobby yesterday and it met all of my qualifications...super-cute, super-huge, and 66% off. Woo!
2. Combo: DVR. DVR is the best thing ever invented. Ever. And TBS. Because, yes, I fell asleep before Coco came on last night, and Andy was reallllly off of his game and hadn't set it up to tape. (Andy is usually very on top of those things. Its his calling) So I went to bed thinking I was going to get the last 30 minutes of Conan to watch today, but Lo! TBS = repeat programming. I'm covered.

30 Days of Thanks: Monday, Nov. 8

2010-11-09T03:30:00.001-08:00

ARGH! I have GOT to stop falling asleep on the couch!!
My thanks for yesterday goes to Hobby Lobby, which provides therapy in the most wonderful of forms: creativity. I could literally spend hours in there studying all of the supplies and decorations.

Fifty points if you can identify the subject.

30 Days of Thanks: Sunday, Nov. 7

2010-11-07T17:02:00.000-08:00

Today, I am MOST thankful for coming home to a clean house. And for hearing the kids tell Andy over and over that they love him/missed him.

30 Days of Thanks: Friday, Nov. 5 and Saturday, Nov. 6

2010-11-06T07:52:00.000-07:00

Whoops! Missed Friday. I was thankful, I just crashed before I posted. My thanks yesterday goes to staying busy at work. Although it was a bumpy day, I much prefer those days (especially Fridays) that are cram-packed, cause they always go by faster. I even had the treat of forgetting that it was Friday, and that is the BEST thing to realize/remember at the end of the day. Woo Hoo!

So today, Saturday, I am thankful that I live so close to my family. I would love to be next door to mom and dad, but fortunately, I am close enough that I can drive home whenever I want or need to. Lauren, Tucker and I are driving over this afternoon to spend the night in Cols.

We have spent this morning going through toys and cleaning those out. Really at Lauren's request, nay, demand. She did really well. We could not close her toy box this morning, and now she has room to spare. We have several boxes to donate. Yay! I am happy to stay on my cleaning kick from this week. Hopefully it will extend through the holiday season.

30 Days of Thanks: Thursday, Nov. 4

2010-11-04T17:39:00.001-07:00

Three Words: Mental Health Day

Ahhhhhh.....it was a much needed break. I got to spend some quality time with my vacuum cleaner. I got some Christmas shopping done. I snuck in a few minutes of Jersey Shore. It was heaven. My house is clean(er) and my brain is more refreshed.

30 Days of Thanks: Wednesday, Nov. 3

2010-11-03T17:29:00.000-07:00

Today I'm thankful to be able to slide into my sweats and fuzzy socks at the end of a long, chilly, rainy day. The last two weeks have given us more than several rainy days that have left me longing for a bowl of chili and curling up in the covers. I have resisted the urge, but man it feels good to shuck the work clothes at the end of the day and get comfy!!

30 Days of Thanks: Tuesday, Nov. 2

2010-11-02T18:04:00.000-07:00

Today, I am most thankful for non-broken bones. My tootsie has been thoroughly examined and my toe-area is not broken. I have Turf Toe. Basically I have sprained my big toe. It hurts like a sonofabitch, but I don't have to wear a cast!! The rest of me is pretty sore from my fall yesterday...I can see why falls are so hard on elderly people!!

30 Days of Thanks

2010-11-02T03:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, starting a morning late, but I am going to (copy other's idea and) post one thing I am thankful for during the month of November. May or may not be accompanied by pictures. There are so many things I have to be thankful for, it is hard to know where to start. So, for yesterday, I am going to go with fried pickles. God bless the person who first thought "you know what, cucumber? we haven't put you through enough yet. pickles are good, but let's take it one step further and FRY them!!"
Seriously, fried pickles are divine. And thanks to a tip early in the day, I knew that Mugshots would substitute fried pickles for french fries. They were a great accompaniment (?) to my black bean burger. We had a fun dinner downtown and then decided to take a stroll around the block, which ended abruptly with me falling on the sidewalk (also thankful that downtown is pretty empty at night) and I'm pretty sure, breaking my toe. Off to Google "how do you know if your big toe is broken..."

HalloWEEKEND

2010-10-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

Boy, we have really gotten our money's worth this holiday weekend. Lauren and Tucker have packed in a lot of tricks and treats.
We carved pumpkins earlier in the week to get in a festive mood.

And here is the first costume: Tucker as a football player, Lauren as a surly teenager. Oh, wait...that was just Thursday before school.

Friday we went to a Halloween festival at the school. It was a lot of fun and Lauren got her face painted like a fairy. This was our first foray into 'trunk-or-treating.'

And on to Saturday. Lauren dressed early as Batgirl and Tucker as Bobble Head Iron Man.

We trick-or-treated at Chick-fil-a for a free kids meal and pics with the Cow. I love Chick-fil-a. (And, Lauren really is on the mascot bandwagon now, full force)

And we teamed up with our normal group of hooligans for trick-or-treating last night. We got a lot of treats and have spent most of the day today outside trying to run off energy.
We are hoping to see a few trick-or-treaters at our house tonight...mostly so I can unload some of this candy I have...Hope your Halloween has been filled with treats and not too many tricks!!

No Apologies. Just Pictures.

2010-10-17T17:59:00.001-07:00

Lauren wore braids to school. TWICE.

The Fair...we wore Character Shirts so we would fit in.

Toes in the water...

McWane Your Brain

2010-09-06T18:09:00.001-07:00

We took a stroll up to B'ham today to visit the McWane Center. Lauren and Tucker had a blast. Who knows what's up with my picture quality?? I must have had my camera on some funky setting.

Doing the News (and a Bonus! Rare Andy Sighting on the Blog!!)

Most notably, we will mark this day down as The Day that Lauren Overcame Her Fear of Costumes!! I did not prep her that Mr. Potato Head would be there, and completely expected her to freak out when she saw him. But, as children are oft to do, she totally went the other way. She LOVED Mr. Potato Head. She couldn't get enough. She even got pissed when we left before he came back for his next showing!! She proclaimed that she is "ready to go to Disney World!" I guess we really have to start saving now!!

Back to our Regularly Scheduled Programming

2010-08-06T03:28:00.000-07:00

Lauren was so excited about starting the First Grade!! She could barely contain it and much like her mom wanted to make sure that 1)everone had to bring tissue; 2)everyone was bringing it in a bag; 3)her teacher would tell her where to sit in the 'capiteria'; 4)her teacher would show her where the bathroom was; etc. ad infinitum...

The night before...this picture doesn't really capture how gorgeous her hair looked. It is getting so long...she still will not allow ponytails unless she is under duress.

And before going in on the first day (yes, yesterday...could it BE any earlier? Don't answer that)

Growing up...

You Got that Right, Giselle

2010-08-04T03:34:00.000-07:00

Apparently I am not the only one who did not take too kindly to Giselle's proposed breastfeeding law, and now she is doing a little bit of backpeddling to help keep off the baby weight.

Because there is a lot of controversy here, I would like to amend my original lashing-out at Giselle. Here words could have been taken out of context. It could have been some language-related issue. Whatever. I concede that even Giselle is entitled to her small-minded opinion. My point is this: when your sentiments are going to be printed for millions of people around the world to see...choose your words more carefully.

Sorry, Have to Comment on This One

2010-08-03T08:15:00.001-07:00

http://celebritybabies.people.com/2010/08/03/gisele-bundchen-secrets-of-a-pregnant-supermodel/

Really Giselle?
I realize that this is not an in-depth article, and I'll put aside the fact that I don't care for Giselle Bundchen much anyway, but a LAW that mandates breastfeeding? On which planet are you living? I have to say, I equate this moronic statement with Tom Cruise's anti-anti-depressant snafu years ago. The two are very intertwined.

I am not an expert on post-partum depression, and I AM an advocate of breastfeeding, but what I will say is this: it seems to me that there is one thing in common in many, many of the PPD stories that I read -AND absolutely applicable in my case-and that is breastfeeding. Personally, I was 100% committed to doing it prior to having my first baby, and when I was unable to do so I felt inadequate and wrong. It was definately a major contributing factor in the post-partum depression that I went through, and that is something that I never in a million years thought that I would experience. I would be willing to bet that PPD occurs more frequently in women that breastfeed/try to breastfeed than those who do not plan to do so (it is at least worth a scientific study). I thank God for women like Brooke Shields, Heather Armstrong, and now Bryce Dallas Howard that come forward and tell their stories of how they felt after giving birth.

It is miserable at the time in your life that should be the happiest, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone. And I am so tired of people making ridiculous statements that do nothing but exacerbate that feelings of guilt that people harbor during that time.

I am pro-breastfeeding. I think it is natural. I think it is easiest (not necessarily easy). I am so proud of breastfeeding my second baby for 9 months. And I continue to feel pangs of guilt for not being able to nurse my first. For the record, (for anyone who doesn't know)I could not breastfeed her because she had a cleft in her soft palate that was not discovered until 5 days after she was born.

And, with all of that...we are humans. We have choices. We all parent differently. Advocating breastfeeding is one thing, Giselle, but mandating it? Get real.

We Had Chocolate Toast for Breakfast

2010-07-24T13:33:00.001-07:00

And it was delicious!!

Expecting The Rock To Show Up

2010-07-19T18:09:00.000-07:00

Lauren pulled this tooth all by herself tonight!! She was so proud. She told me, when stalling at bedtime, "you know why you're the best? Cause you let me pull my tooth by myself and it was awesome!

Thank You, Dancing With The Stars

2010-06-28T17:43:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure I see Tucker going on any Doctors Without Borders trips anytime soon...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAwP12BXvok

Lucky Number Seven

2010-06-15T04:12:00.000-07:00

Lauren, I can't believe you are SEVEN!! I remember turning seven. Pretty vividly. It is wild to me that my baby is totally...no where close to being a baby any more. You are a pretty spectacular kiddo. Funny, moody, intense...just a cool kid. I hope that you know that you can knock 'em dead. Still concerned with the presence of "characters" (think mascot-size costumes), you are now at least able to cope rather than running in a serpentine fashion whenever you mayhap to encounter one. I think that you may be a hostage negotiator with your communication skills. Or just a negotiator in general. You never accept the first offer. "One?" you may say, and when I agree, you quickly jump to "Three?" That's my girl.

You were so teeny tiny for so long, but have had a major growth spurt over the last year or so. I can't believe you were so little, even a year ago!! You are getting to be so grown up. In honor of your special day, and in no particular order, I present some of my favorite pictures of your life.

They Say Its Your Birthday...

2010-05-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

Four years ago today, I was missing the wedding of one of my best friends. That morning, Saturday, May 27, I got up early, kissed Lauren good-bye, and caught every green light between here and the hospital. Crossing the Black Warrior, I looked over the bridge to the most gorgeous rising sun. "A great day to have a baby," I thought.

At 6:29 p.m., Tucker Reeves O'Neal was born, gray and silent. It seemed like an eternity before the nursing staff got him to pink and screaming. He has brightened each of our days since. Born at 8 lbs, 6 oz, Tucker quickly earned the title of "Hoss." He was good and healthy. A great sleeper, as well.

Adored by his big sister. She still loves him, but won't admit it as much.

Funny and full of personality from the start. (The outfit he is in at 3 months, above, was worn by Lauren at 15 months)

A loyal and trusty companion. Always willing to help when asked.

Sooooo cuddly...

Couldn't you just eat him up?

Such a stud muffin...

...and a real party animal.

I can't believe its been 4 years. Its gone by in a blink! We love you Tucker Bug! Happy Birthday!!!

And, Happy 4th Anniversary to Ashley and Jeremy!!

The Softer Side...

2010-05-24T18:24:00.000-07:00

Really, Sears should consider marketing canister vacuums as "easier for you to make your kids to vacuum with."

More Chuck for the Buck

2010-05-22T17:06:00.000-07:00

After a long, LONG week (Lauren spent the first half in Children's Hopsital with a massive ear infection that had to be drained), we celebrated Tucker's upcoming birthday at Chuck E. Cheese. All his buds from preschool came and partied. It really was a great party. I kinda thought it was ridiculous to throw such a big birthday for a 4 year old, but really it is a great age...the kids are just wide open and have a great time.

(I got, like, zero pics of Lauren. She had carefully strategized how to avoid Chuck E.)

As an example, check out this link...
(I'm pretty sure its going to go viral)

Granola

2010-05-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I got a wild hair to start a compost box. I had been wanting to compost for a while, but I guess a few weeks ago is when I actually got the gumption to do it. Lauren, Tucker and I spent a Saturday morning dumping in things that will decompose as well as some wiggly friends.

This will come in handy when we move to the chicken farm.

Lauren Reading at Mass

2010-05-13T16:49:00.000-07:00

The sound quality isn't great, but she did a really good job!

Racing Day

2010-05-08T16:27:00.000-07:00

(I owe you a blog post about my compost box. That one is coming up. In the meantime...)

Today, Mom, Bob and I ran in the Market Street Festival 5K in Columbus. (not to brag, but it is my second 5K in the last month. ahem.)

Before the race...

Me crossing the finish line. I did about 35:40. Bob came in around 28 minutes and Mom was about 35:47. Bob actually placed 3rd in his age group!
Post-race with our friend, Lauren Herbstrit (she ran it in around 33 minutes!)

After the race we kicked around the Festival for a few hours. They have fun stuff for the kids to play with and lots of really talented vendors and neat things to see. We also got some good 'fair food.' We are ending the day today roasting marshmallows on Nanny's back porch. The kids will sleep good tonight...

Long Day

2010-04-24T17:36:00.000-07:00

This is how I found Tucker at approximately 6:30 tonite. Miraculously, he survived the move to the bed and has been there since. Hopefully this will not result in an early wake up call in the morning.

In other news, I ran in the Mayor's Cup 5K this morning at just under 37 minutes. Time wasn't great, but I ran the whole way, and there was an absolute downpour (thunder, lightening, the whole bit) for the last .75 miles. I was soggy.

Extension

2010-04-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

I am extending the voting for the art contest on Abstract & Absurd through Friday. Thanks for all who have voted, and for those who haven't....go VOTE!!! We will have an awards ceremony on Saturday morning, as mom, Craig and I will all be together that day. Stay tuned...

Best $260 I Spent All Day

2010-04-17T14:40:00.000-07:00

First, the tree. We had a big pine tree in our backyard that has been dead since before we moved into this house. For one reason or another, we have put off getting it cut down (denial, stupidity, fear of wrecking our fence or deck, fear of cost, etc.), but the time had come. Each time a big wind would blow through, I would think to myself..."please don't blow down, please don't blow down).
This morning, two nice guys came and got rid of the problem for us. I had a slight panic attack as they removed part of my fence, but it all got put back together nicely. And then I saved us another $100 by moving it to the front by myself. Woo hoo!
Lauren, Tucker and I were at the Wal-Mart this afternoon, and I got the wiggly-sprinkler. Hey, my car thermostat said 90 degrees, so we had a few minutes of fun in the front yard.

Here's hoping the water will wear them out tonight!!

Coolest Thing Ever

2010-04-17T14:38:00.001-07:00

I now have two computer screens in my office. I'm pretty sure this is the coolest thing ever in life. I have arrived.

But Tastefully Done

2010-04-14T16:16:00.001-07:00

Hop on over to my other blog, Abstract & Absurd, for a little fun competition...not for little eyes this time!!

And don't forget to VOTE by leaving a comment!

Scenes from a Baptism

2010-04-11T17:59:00.001-07:00

This weekend the O'Neal clan was so excited to head to the MS delta for the baptism of our cousin and my goddaughter Reed. It was a great trip--the weather was wonderful, the ride was nice, the cousins were fun, and the blessings were flowing!!

And let me say first (mostly b/c this pic is out of order and I can't figure out how to get it back down in the post) that Reed is the Best. Baby. Ever. Seriously, the child does not cry. She just hangs out, smiles, and talks to you. Complete angel!

First stop was Leland, MS, which is the birthplace of Kermit the Frog. Has anyone seen Ms. Piggy?

Lauren and Tucker LOVED their new baby cousin Reed.

Cousins monkeyshining.

Trying so hard to keep it together through the ceremony.
Hannah Kate, with Lauren as photographer. Lynn, BTW...who is the random lady with the camera? She sure took a lot of pics...not sure where those will end up, LOL!!

Lauren and her Nannan Lynn.

Thanks to the Hookers for a wonderful weekend!! And for more pics, visit Lynn's post.

Easter Wii-kend

2010-04-04T19:32:00.000-07:00

Despite me being under the weather, we had a nice Easter weekend with the Reeves clan in Columbus. We joined Bob and Kacie at First United Methodist on Friday night for their Good Friday service. Saturday, we dyed eggs with Alyssa and Craig, and then made some...interesting "Easter Basket" cupcakes.

Okay, Mom, let's get this show on the road...

Too big for her britches, a.k.a. The Last Year I Get to Buy A Little Girl Dress for Lauren...

Easter, from the 6-year-old perspective...
I'm outta here...

Sunday morning, we woke up to find all the goodies left by the Easter Bunny, and went to church in our finest new clothes. After stuffing ourselves at lunch, the fam battled it out in some intense rounds of Wii Bowling.

P.S. Apparently, my kids are over Easter Egg hunting. This makes me sad on so many levels.

Dear Ricky Martin,

2010-03-30T06:17:00.000-07:00

We all knew.

Sincerely,

Everyone in the World

Help a Sista Out

2010-03-23T09:44:00.000-07:00

http://www.thekingandiblog.com/p/blogging-questionnaire.html
Whitney King is a student at Utah State U and is doing a thesis on blogging!! Go to her site and help her gather some info...

I don't know Whitney or regularly read her blog. I just linked to it from one of the other randon people that I don't know but I DO read their blogs. We're practically family.

Man, 5:30 is going to come Early in the morning...

2010-03-21T18:05:00.000-07:00

It has been a WONDERFUL spring break. Coupled with the time change, it was great sleeping in (seriously, til after 7:00 most every day). Lauren enjoyed some only-child time, Tucker came back mid-week, and we did lots of nothing and had a great time doing it. I pretty much ate my way through the week...but what are vacations for? I read some good books, watched some good movies. My house is a little cleaner, and my head is a little more decluttered. Hopefully ready to go back at it full-speed tomorrow!!

Tucker had a great time at Nanny & Granddaddy's house.

Cookie Party #2...

I really want chickens.

Chillaxin...

Go fly a kite! (this looks like some other child with dark hair, but its Lauren!)

This has been a really great week off & I have thoroughly enjoyed it. What a blessing to have this time to rejeuvenate!

Getting Down on the Farm

2010-03-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

Friday, we met our friends Angie and Eric and their daughters Sarah and Allie at The Barnyard for some fun in the sun. It was the perfect day to be outside and on the farm!!

Puzzle Mania Continues

2010-03-16T16:16:00.001-07:00

No pictures to bore you with this time, but I will say that we have totally rocked a High School Musical (300 piece) puzzle in record time. Andy and I laughed when we read '6 & up' on the box. They can be a little tricky!! Its good fun.

Last night we took a break from the puzzling to have a mexican fiesta at Iguana Grill, and if we weren't stuffed enough from that, we came home and had a cookie party. Lauren did a fabulous job making sure that every inch was covered in sprinkles.
And, because mere sprinkles aren't enough, we covered them with frosting after they baked. The frosting, too, was mixed with green sprinkles. They were an early St. Patrick's Day treat.

Kiss Me, I'm Irish...

Today, Lauren, Andy and I enjoyed a trip to P.F. Chang's. Oh yeah, and the zoo. It was a little chilly outside, but we were able to walk at a slow pace and see all the animals we wanted to see. Lauren claims that it was her idea, and that it was "the best idea EVER!"

Tomorrow, Tucker comes home!!

Spring Break

2010-03-15T06:53:00.000-07:00

What do you do when its Spring Break, overcast and chilly, and you have a convalescing 6 year old to entertain? We shipped Tucker off to Columbus for a few days to hang with Nanny and Granddaddy and then we bought a puzzle. We opted for the 300 piece job, with the next step up being 550. Lauren hung in long enough to get all of the pieces flipped over...then she headed for the hills. Andy and I worked tirelessly, completing about 3/4ths last night, and then attacked it again this morning with fresh eyes.

Lauren became the Official Photographer of Puzzle Mania 2010.

And the finished product!

To quote Andy..."I have to admit, I really wasn't into this at first, but now I really am..."

(what he doesn't know yet is that we will get another one before the day is out!!)

Weekend Catch Up

2010-03-12T07:52:00.000-08:00

The last couple of weekends have held glorious weather. It has been nice to play outside!! Here are some pics of what we have been up to...

Blowing bubbles in the backyard...
Getting ready for the Heart Walk...We all walked 2 miles...even Tucker!!

Then Lauren got her face painted. Tucker declined.

Of course she chose a pink spider!!

They shared some cookies at Publix...

And then Tucker passed out on the couch!!

Lauren has been at home this week convalescing from ear surgery. She had a tympanoplasty to repair the hole in her right ear drum (left was done last year). So we have been taking it easy. Tucker will go spend the first few days of Spring Break with Nanny and Granddaddy and is really looking forward to that. Lauren and I will have some girl days...we started by painting our nails this morning. She did hers all by herself!! (should post a pic of that!!)

Beginning to Look a lot like Spring

2010-02-28T14:57:00.000-08:00

Man, I tell you that I can handle the crappy, cold weather during the week as long as we have weather like this on the weekends!! The past two weekends have been so wonderful!! Yesterday was a little windy, but good enough to go to the park for a little while and later in the afternoon to play in the back yard and rake leaves. (what, you don't have leaves still in your yard?)

And as great as yesterday was, today was even BETTER! We had gone to church last night, so I started the day with a solo trip to the Wal Marts...which is heavenly enough. Then, after visiting Pa, Lauren and Tucker and I have played on the playground (okay, that was more them than me), walked a loop around the track at the park, gotten a TCBY vanilla cone, gotten Tucker a haircut, played again in the backyard, AND washed the car!! What a full day!! It is now 5:00 and both kids have been bathed. I am hoping to get another walk in myself in a minute, then it will be dinner followed shortly by bedtime for the kids!!

I know that snow is predicted for early this week, but...Woo hoo for the spring preview!!

The 'P' is Silent...

2010-02-20T16:45:00.001-08:00

To his credit, Tucker was just showing me how to write 'P' and then I asked him to write his name. And he had gotten turned around when he wrote the 'C,' hence it being backwards. Not to shabby for 3 years and 9 months, huh?

Saturday

2010-02-20T16:32:00.001-08:00

Today was a good day. We started this morning selling Girl Scout cookies at the mall. I wish I had gotten a pic of Lauren in her Daisy vest. She is too cute! And, while we were there we got a tip that today was Free Pretzel Day at Auntie Anne's--and they weren't kidding!! We got two full-sized (read: huge) cinnamon sugar pretzels for Lauren and Tucker. They were delicious. Not that I know.

Today was an absolutely gorgeous day, and such a departure from the frigid weather we've been having. We celebrated by having a picnic in the park by the river. There were lots of folks out and about and lots of dogs to look at (and they didn't get too close!).
When we were finished, we shared our fries with the fish.

After that, we took a walk around campus and then met Nanny to watch Cousin Garrett's baseball team (Univ. of South Alabama) play at Alabama. Unfortunately, Garrett pitched yesterday, so we didn't get to see him in action, but had fun all the same. The weather could not have been more perfect for watching baseball.

Say Cheese!...

Tucker enjoying the game.

The kids had about fizzled by the end of the first inning. We stayed through seven, but finally had to throw in the towel. Definately an early bedtime tonight!!!

More from the Weekend...

2010-02-15T17:18:00.001-08:00

Lauren was a little jumpy, but for the most part did wonderfully with Aunt Mimi's dogs, Penny and Chrissy (or Christy as Tucker says)...

And Tucker absolutely loved Chrissy. I want a schnauser--they are great dogs!!

Newk's on the way home...

On Nana and Pa's swing...

Parade

2010-02-15T17:13:00.001-08:00

The Gulfport parade was awesome. Lauren was, of course, concerned with the possibility of 'characters' being there, but it was really tame along those lines. Just tons and tons of beads and goodies. I'm pretty sure that Lauren and Tucker came home with their weight in beads. Here are some pics from the day...

Road Trip!! Part 1

2010-02-15T16:59:00.001-08:00

Lauren, Tucker and I met up with Nanny to take a Mardi Gras Road Trip! The threat of snow couldn't slow us down. It was a great weekend.

Friday morning we got to play in the snowflakes at Nanny's house. The snow stopped and was melted by early afternoon.

And Saturday morning we were headed to the coast! We stopped at The Ole Country Bakery to get some goodies to take with us. Yum!!!

Central MS had more snow than Columbus did, and we got to see a virtual winter wonderland from about Macon through Hattiesburg. In Lauderdale, we stopped and posed with a leftover snowman. His eyes were made of...skoal cans, and I'm pretty sure that his head was topped with nacho cheese. Hey, we're in Mississippi. We have to improvise.

No picture from Hattiesburg, but we stopped to see Uncle Craig and got in a few rounds on the Wii. I will endeavor to have one of those in our house by the end of the year. It was fun.

To The Lady Who Cut in Front of Me in Line at Target...

2010-02-08T17:17:00.000-08:00

...Sorry about the eye roll and loud sigh. And thank you for realizing that you were wrong and at least offering to step back. None of us wanted to be waiting in that line on our way home. And it is probably too much to ask that the Pharmacy keep up with the line, and who's next, and which one of the 5 people behind the counter could possibly help with customers.

Signed,

Another Tired Mom

Do NOT Try This at Home...

2010-02-07T19:15:00.000-08:00

Seriously, it is a bad idea. I thought..."no big deal, I will make a few, let the kids eat them, no biggie."
Yeah, right. Six or eight of these later....whew! They are too good to be so simple. However, I do have to believe that these, along with my chili con queso and meatballs, helped lead the Saints to a Super Bowl victory!!
WHO DAT?!?!?!

Footie PJs

2010-01-12T09:25:00.000-08:00

Here are my last shots from right after Christmas...wearing the new footie PJs that Santa brought. (so cute!)...and providing evidence of the impossibility of taking a "nice" picture of the kids.
(Lauren's trying, she really is...)

(But she is no match for Tucker.)

(aha! She rallies...)

(but the evil brother threatens to take her down again...)

(Victory is mine!!)

Champions

2010-01-11T05:57:00.001-08:00

Rooooollllllllllll Tide!! Yes, Lauren, Tucker and I stood in line at the Wal Mart to get our picture made with the National Championship trophy!! I mean, how many opportunities do you have to stand beside a $30,000 piece of cut glass?

Christmas Morning Magic

2010-01-06T07:14:00.001-08:00

Christmas morning was truly magical. The kids ended up in our bed, of course, and at 6:00 everyone but me was still asleep. I finally couldn't stand it anymore and asked Andy if he heard that big noise last night? At which point, Lauren perked up as if she had been awake for hours. "What noise?"

I asked her if she had seen any presents when she walked through to get to our room and she said, "No, Santa hadn't come yet." So, after the normal parental dallying (brushing teeth, taking a looooong time), I lined the kids up at the door...

And with that, they were off! Is there anything better than Christmas morning? The absolute, utter excitement of running to the couch to find a big pile of presents left by Santa? I love it because, for a while, everyone is interested not only in what they got, but what everyone got, and Hey! We can share!! It was bliss.

Lauren got her requested Leapster, doll that uses the bathroom, and footie pjs! She was so excited to see the cookie remnants and a note from Santa, thanking her for the snacks. The reindeer had also eaten the veggie that we left outside.

Tucker got a tool bench (per his request), lots of hot wheels, and several games that we have all had fun playing with since. After a few minutes of surveying his treasures, and completely unprovoked, Tucker exclaimed, "Thank you Santa Claus!"

He had to get to work quickly...

It was a wonderful day, one that we will write in our memory books!

Out of Order

2010-01-05T09:14:00.000-08:00

Not to leave out the annual Reeves Christmas photo...

This year, we all wore our team colors.

Back in the Saddle

2010-01-05T09:00:00.001-08:00

Okay, so fast forward to Christmas Eve...Lauren and Tucker had received an early Christmas present from Uncle Sam and Aunt Kitty, and it was THE. BEST. PRESENT. EVER. #1--Edable. #2--Disposable. That about sums it up. Well, along of course with fun and decorative. It was a blast.

It was a deluxe gingerbread house. Meaning that we had to actually build it, and there was beaucoup candy decorations to snack on.

The rules with gingerbread houses are there are no rules...

And art is in the eye of the beholder...

A good time was had by all (Tucker ate more than he decorated).

We went to vigil mass on Christmas Eve. Always a daunting task. At mass, all the kids got up front and sang 'happy birthday' to Jesus. Tucker proceeded to become really upset that "the Real Jesus" was not there. That's kind of heavy stuff for a 3 year old...

My kids have fully grown into their birthright and are perfecting their 'silly face' for the camera.

Lauren really got into the details this year with the cookies and milk for Santa and veggies outside for the reindeer. It was exciting.

Been A While, A Photo Journey

2010-01-04T14:33:00.001-08:00

Whoops! Has it really been since Halloween? Sorry!! We've just been out L-I-V-I-N. Here's what happened. (may be the first of several mea culpa catch up posts)

Tucker had a day out of school. We had lunch at Panera, and he told me "This is a good date." We followed that up with a trip to A!! Fired Up to make some ceramics, then picked Lauren up and got ice cream.
Lauren lost some more teeth (she's down three, by last count).

We russled up some grub and feasted with the pilgrims and indians (um, prince.).

And that only got us through Thanksgiving!! More to come...

Hobgoblins

2009-11-02T10:23:00.000-08:00

We had a good Halloween weekend. Lots of treats, with only one trick...Tucker got a small tummy bug AFTER trick-or-treating (no, it was not candy-induced)...but all-in-all, a really fun weekend.

Lauren went as Super Why, a little-known PBS hero that has the power to READ! I have to give Lauren props. Not only does she choose a not-so-obvious, male character to dress up as, but she selected this in JULY and has stuck with it!! She was darling! And, true to form, announced BEFORE trick-or-treating on Saturday..."Next year, I'm going to be a vampire!!" (so, we'll see if she hangs on to that one!) Tucker had aspirations of being a policeman, but when he learned that our friend Sarah was going to be Snow White, he declared: "I'm going to be Prince Charming!" And, he was. (This morning on the way to school he told me that next year, he is going to be a zombie--talk about extremes!)

With Snow White...Thanks to the Dickeys for hosting a wonderfully fun Halloween Extravaganza...again!!

And with pumpkins we carved last week...

Snaggle Puss

2009-10-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

Before.....

After!! Lauren lost her first tooth this morning!! We are eagerly awaiting a visit from the tooth fairy tonight!!

She looks so grownie!!

What's Making Me Happy at This Very Minute

2009-10-27T11:16:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Spice Latte. Yum.