Hi everybody!!!

I am so sorry I have been away, but my computer crashed, and we have not replaced it yet!! I am at My Mother's right now, so I thought I would hop on and say "Hi!"

The twins turned FIVE yesterday!! I still am baffled at how my little babies are getting so big!! It seems like yesterday that we were looking at them in their incubators in NICU. We are truly blessed with these beautiful babies... or I guess now they are truly little kids.

Well, we have a HUGE birthday party planned for Sunday, and I promise to post pictures. You will all be amazed at how big they are both getting. J is now in a size 7!! Can you believe it? And T is just right for her age at a size 5. I just love those smocked dresses for her... she can wear them for ages!!! O.K. everyone, time to sign off, and try to find some really cute pictures from the fair to show you. Have a happy and warm day!!!

My Little Kitten

Without her ears....

Halloween

I have fished out the cutest seersucker sailor suit that my brother had when he was J's age, and I found the most adorable matching dress for T in pink. Unfortunately, everyone I have shown it to does not see the "Bobbsey Twins", they ask why I am dressing them in Church clothes for Halloween!!

So, I found the most beautiful pink long sleeve Guinevere dress for T. What should J wear? He has his heart set on a pumpkin, but I think this is the last year I can "talk" him into dressing like his twin. He already was prince charming last year. I am a bit stumped. Hmmm, we will see!!

Not in MY lifetime baby boy!

So J and I watched the above movie on Disney Chanel tonight. At the beginning of the movie, the kids ghosts are doing fun tricks. You will never believe what came out of his mouth!

"Wow Mama, I wanna be a ghost for Halloween."
Me: "Sure, we can do that."
"No, no costume, I jus' wanna be a REAL ghost. I don't want a mask or anything."
Me: "Well, that's going to be a hard sell without a costume."
"No, I wanna be a REAL ghost. I wanna go outside, stand in the street get hit by a car and be dead. Then I will be a real ghost and I can do those fun trick!"

Then I picked myself up off the floor. I calmly (as calm as I could be under the circumstances) explained that if he got dead there is no coming back. No more Mommy hugs, or ice cream, or school, or anything. Thankfully, in the movie the kids are really missing their parents, so I think he got the point.

Then at bedtime I explained that only God decides when, where, and how we die. And that if you decide it for yourself, and do something to make yourself die on purpose, you will not go to Heaven. You will not get to go and live with Jesus, and God.

Do you think I explained it right? I am pretty freaked out about it.

Rain, rain, go away!!

It is raining AGAIN here in the big D. No kidding, this is truly crazy weather. And J is home sick again!! Ugh.

On the bright note? I am really getting good use of the cute rain boots that I bought the family!!

New Mooned...

So, keep in mind that I closely monitor what the twins watch on T.V. (I have it monitored to G rated ONLY. And, on the Web, they can only access educational sites.

Last night I told the twins it was time to go to bed. They both ran obediently and put their Pajamas on. Then T ran in, and with an truly evil grin... turned around and MOONED me!!! "This is what I think about going to bed Mama!" she squealed. J was right behind her with his hands on his pajama bottoms, until he saw my face. I calmly looked at her and told her to show Daddy what she just did, and tell him to deal with her. Then I ran outside and cracked up. I am sorry, it was so rude, but so unlike T that I lost it!!

And Paul calmly explained why that was rude, and shamed her so badly that she even apologised to me this morning. The power of the "I am not mad, just very disappointed..."

Strange Days

So, The twins never "officially" came down with swine, but my headache tells me otherwise. For one solid week... "Mamaaaaaa! My bones are ache'in, my head hurts, I just hurt all over!!!" I really am convinced they had some sort of the flu, but only J developed a fever. Very strange. I did talk to a neighbor who is a GP (General Practitioner) and she told me that it is very likely that they did indeed have the flu, just a light strain.

Well, they are better now, and bored to tears. I have to constantly pull them off each other. Who knew that my otherwise "best friends" would result in killing each other while I step out of the room to do dishes? Geesh!! Back to school tomorrow!

Speaking of... BYE!!

I spoke too soon...

J just developed a fever... and it is climbing fast!!! Off to the Dr. once again!

Hello from Swineland!!

O.k. Not really. Very strange, the twins have ALL the symptoms of the flu. Just no fever!! Isn't that weird?? I guess I should be happy, but instead I am just stumped.

Swine flu...

The kids have been sick... the Dr. said he is 99.9% sure it is the swine flu. So for the next few days we are in isolation until they either...
a. feel better, and their symptoms go away.
or
b. they develop a fever and go and get tested to confirm the Dr.'s suspicions.

UUUGH!!!

And then they regressed...

so the kids have grown a TON in the last two weeks. J is 2 sizes larger alone!! Really kinda freaking me out. They are not babies anymore for sure!! Also in the last two weeks they have regressed to the behavior of two year olds. Hmmmm let me give you a run down.

Well, I already told y'all about the little party that they had with the wine glasses and Dr. Pepper. On another morning, (I think it was Tuesday) they just made a HUGE mess in the middle of the night. On Wednesday evening, we sat them down and explained in detail the horror of punishments that would be their consequences should they get up again...

Well, they didn't make a mess. They got out my favorite Lilly pink nail polish, and painted EACH OTHERS fingers and toes. Ha ha ha. I am laughing now about it because they didn't get polish on anything. They actually had the thought to grab an old towel and polish on top of that so they wouldn't make a mess!!

Well, now I am off to make dinner. Spaghetti anyone?

Party Time...

Soooo sometime last night between us going to bed, and waking up this morning, the twins had a party. We are going to a party for MC and her baby brother W today.

There is a "Happy Birthday" banner taped to the wall. Streamers everywhere. In addition...

The kids decided that since I had not wrapped the presents yet, they needed to. They also felt the need to wrap half the toys in their playroom too. Very sweet that J wrapped all his favorite Thomas trains and coaches. Very sweet that T wrapped up her favorite Barbies.

ALL of my wrapping paper, grosgrain ribbons and tape wasted and scattered all over my living room? GRRRRR.

Just my luck...

Yesterday morning I woke up really horse, but feeling fine. Fast forward to 2 p.m. and I am taking the twins to get flu shots. Driving along I start to feel super sick. So sick that we take my healthy kids to the sick side. For their Flu shots.

And now I am pretty sure that I have it. Even worse, even after I quarantined myself to the couch. T is now horse. And she has a cough. I am going in the morning to get us tested. Hopefully J stays well. With his asthma...I shudder.

I am back!

Crazy week...

Tuesday I woke up to a terrible mess. The twins got hungry late night and decided to make jello. With milk, flour, and a dozen eggs! The best thing about being almost 5 is that they can now clean up their own messes. Also, they now take responsibility for their actions. They totally got why I could only make toast due to the fact that everything else had been wasted. Yay for lessons learned!!!

Wednesday, we had our classes at church and all went well. And T went to ballet again and LOVED it this time.

Thursday, back at Church for a meeting, and T walks up to her teacher from last year. She is VERY pregnant. T knocks on her tummy "Hello in there? When are you coming owtta there?" Then she tries to look under her skirt!! Well...we had a long talk about boundaries after that one!

Friday, went up to pre-school and made an apple pie with J and his class. Then when I got home I talked to my friend on bedrest. Her nephew (who for all my Dallas friends goes to HYER), has a confirmed case of the swine flu! When they notiffied the school, they seemed unconcerned. Wanted to let Moms out there aware because the school took the news lightly and indicated they would not send out an allert.

Also...apparently, it is everywhere in Dallas right now. So remember to wash those hands!!!!

I took down my last post and pictures because...

I was warned about this.

Current Events : Discussions : Couple sues WalMart over bathtime ...

Now I am worried. I probably needed to take the picture off anyway, some sicko might enjoy the picture of J's toosh a little too much. He was sliding down the slide on his tummy for goodness sakes! Any thoughts? I get worried when I am warned I could get reported...

WOOOO HOOOO!!!!

Paul just got his first check from this new company he launched!!! It is tiny, but just enough of what we needed today! Also, it is our 5 year anniversary, which is paper. Money is paper, right? So is that check! Happy days on the horizon, I JUST KNOW IT!!!!

Hermes on Bluefly...

I Die! (I have watched too many Rachael Zoe episodes)

http://www.bluefly.com/

Sooo...

I have allot to talk about...
1. The twins started pre-k with me crying , but they seemed o.k.

2.One of my BFF's is on hospital bed rest, so this floods my mind with memories...

3. Our insurance just gave us an impossible deductible for the twins....

4.And today, J ran into my car door with his eye brow, thus more stitches... ( And y'all know I faint at blood).
5. Oh... and T has Bronchitis...

Another thing... I have a very thoughtful exchange I need to mail, but I cannot make it to USPS!.... Carey, I am so sorry!

BTW, MY blog partner from Monograms and Manicures sent me the BEST SWAP EVER!!!

My new obsession...

A. Tierney discount!!!

Love, love,love her products! Since I am on a spending freeze...I want everyone who is able, go shop!!!!

www.atierney.com

First day jitters...

J walked into his pre-K class full of confidence...

T was wide eyed, pale, and shaking...

Me, a blubbering mess...

Where did my babies go, and who are these little kids?

The State Fair is coming!!

Since the corn dog was invented here, they have a contest every year for the best fried foods. Here are the contenders for the Labor day contest. Paula Deen would be so proud!!!

Green Goblins: Cherry peppers packed with spicy shredded chicken and guacamole, battered and deep fried. Topped with queso. (I think this sounds amazing)

Deep Fried Butter: Pure butter whipped light and sweetened with choice of flavor. Placed in dough and deep fried on a stick. (Heart Attack on a stick! Whats next, lard on a stick?)

Twisted Yam On A Stick: Spiral-cut yam fried crispy, rolled in butter, dusted with cinnamon and sugar.

Fernie's Deep Fried Peaches & Cream: Peaches coated with batter and deep fried, sprinkled with streusel and cream. Served with raspberry sauce.

Texas Fried Pecan Pie: Pecan pie battered and deep fried, drizzled with caramel sauce and topped with cream and chopped pecans.

Country Fried Pork Chips: Thin pork loin seasoned, dipped in corn meal and deep fried. Served with ketchup or gravy. (Ummmm...NO)

Sweet Jalapeno Corn Dog Shrimp: Shrimp coated with sweet and spicy batter, deep fried and served with spicy glaze. (Sounds yummy! But how do I check that they are properly de veined?)

Fried Peanut Butter Cup Macaroon: Peanut butter cup wrapped in coconut macaroon, fried and dusted with powdered sugar. Ice cream scoop optional

Save the Date!

Come as a slob, or as a snob! Join us as we tee off the 33rd annual Lakewood Home Festival Weekend with our BushLakewood Caddyshack Casino and Auction Party. Events for the evening will include Live and Silent Auctions, Casino, DJ, Contests, Food, and plenty of adult beverages at the “19th Hole”. Nonstop fun will be par for the course!Friday, November 13 7:00 PM 'til midnight Lakewood Country Club

Tickets - All Weekend Pass - $75.00 Candlelight Tour Friday, 5:00 PM Caddyshack - Auction Party Friday, 7:00 PM Weekend Home Tour Saturday and Sunday Purchase Tickets Prices increase after 11/1/2009

Party Sponsorships Stock Membership $2000 Golf Membership $1000 Tennis Membership $500 Social Membership $150 Legacy Membership $100 Guest Fee - You decide Purchase Details

	Sign Up PAR-TEEs Get in on the fun early this year. Caddyshack Watching Party, October 3 Top Golf Tournament, October 12 (On-line purchases get a free ball!!) Purchase Details

Caddyshack T-shirt Buy your Caddyshack T-shirt ($12.00). Purchase Front Back

Auction Donations If you have a vacation home, frequent flier miles, or own a business and would like to make a donation download the form or contact us at auction@lecpta.org.

Good Caddies Needed We are looking for a few good caddies to keep the party on the Leader Board. If you would like to get more involved with LECPTA, but don’t want to give a huge time commitment, this is your chance. If you have the time, whether it is 2 hours or 20, then contact us at party@lecpta.org.

Grand"friends" - $50 Recognition in Auction Catalog for you and your grandchild. "Gram and Poppi - Grandparents of Jonny Student". Purchase Download letter

And back down

Friend is in the hospital after an emergency ceclage. (I think I spelled that wrong.) I have not talked to her...so I know she is in her own frightened bubble. Please pray for her and her family.

Looking up!

So, girlfriend went to the specialist first thing yesterday morning. This Dr. sees the most severe cases and was not nearly as alarmed as her OBGYN. (Who told her she was funneling. She googled it, and there was not ONE happy ending that she could find).

Whew! Now it is just a matter of keeping her down!! She has an almost 5 year old, and an almost 3 year old. For her sake, I hope she goes on hospital bed rest. That is the only way that she will stay down and in bed!! Once that nesting instinct kicks in, it can be very hard to keep us girls down! I painted my nursery about a dozen times before I found the right shade of green...Hormones!!!

Twins in danger...

one of best Mommy friends has a need for Prayer... She is 22weeks prego. With twins. She is in REAL danger...She is leaking fluid...She really needs these babies to survive. Can anyone out there that can make a praying button for babies X? For my blog?

Thank you to....

mom and kids at home and http://momandkidsathome.blogspot.com/2008/10/clean-as-new-ballet-tights.html


I googled how to get T's ballet tights clean. I get so frustrated because after one use they get dingy stains that do NOT come out!! The answer? Bathroom bar of soap. I used Ivory. It was like magic!

This woman's blog saved me hours of frustrated scrubbing! Now I am off to see what else Ivory can solve! Will it be like Windex from "My Big Fat Greek Wedding"? I will let y'all know!

T just ran in...

and looked VERY serious. "Mama, I don't want to wear bows in my hair anymore". After I picked myself off the floor,she got a devilish grin and... " Just jokin' Mama...I would wook soooo silwy without any more bows... How would I get coorwdinated?" She said as she rolls her eyes to the sky and shrugs her shoulders.

Four going on 14!

Preppy school finds!

No, it's no secret that money is tight these days. But I would never let it interfere with dressing my kids as preppy as possible. Hey, they are getting older by the minute and I need to strike while the iron is HOT!I was over by a Marshall's and a Ross, and scored some really cute shoes!


I found these for T. I think they will look very cute with her new plaid skirt!!



I also found Ralph Lauren Madras plaid tennis shoes for both kids. Now I just hope they don't have another growth spurt before school starts!!

Smartie pants...

So now that J is learning to read, he is convinced he can read EVERYTHING! (sigh)

This is pretty cute. What is not cute anymore, although I am sure I will get over it quickly, every word he sees he sounds out the letters. The first two hundred times it was adorable. "D...da da da...D and O...au...au...au...O and G...ga...ga...ga.... That spells DOG!!!"

But then he spells something wrong, like when I tried to tell him the sign said Albertson's not alligator.... Even after he spends a good TEN yes TEN minutes out front of the store refusing to go in until he has sounded it out. (And sounds it out wrong) Because clearly Albertson's is NOT alligator, and then he squeals that we have to get outta there cause Alligators love to eat little kids. Meanwhile my patience has run out, and I am forced to drag him in so I can buy a flipping gallon of milk. At this point a ten minute trip has turned into 30 minute trip and I am worn out. (BTW, T is being a perfect angel through all of this)

I hear a voice behind me "Honey, they are only little once, try to enjoy them! Look they are sooo sweet!" Says the elderly woman who clearly does not remember this phase. At this point both children are smiling sweetly at her as if she is going to produce lollipops. And they were dead on because she did!! Thank goodness she turned away quickly so I could snatch the lollipops out of their hands before they can get the wrappers off. Lets face it, these kids are not going to eat candy from a stranger no matter how sweet she seems... Thank goodness at check out, the girl gave them neon PAID FOR stickers to put on their shirts. Most appropriate, don't you think?

Weird...

Google is preventing me from veiwing my own blog, I wonder of I will be able to post this?

Target finds!

How adorable is this skirt? I am on my way to Target ASAP!

So bummed...

So, I was planning on meeting all the Dallas Blogging girls tonight....but no. Sadly this temporary cap will not stay put!! So they have kindly scheduled me to come in after hours because they are full. Aaaargh! Did anyone else have issues with having a tooth capped?

Some good news? My cheek is healed! Thank goodness! Whew! Until today I have been a complete mess...

Ouch!

I will post something soon, but I just hurt! In a crazy, close to an unbearable way!

The good news is...

My tooth feels GREAT! Like nothing ever happened. As in "Tooth fracture? What tooth fracture?"

This is where the bad news comes in....
While coming off of my anesthesia, I bit my cheek. Actually, I butchered my cheek so badly that I now have a mouth full of stitches. The entire office and every Dentist in the practice came in to look. The senior Dentist told Paul it was the worst bite he has seen in 30 years of practice. I even have muscle damage. I don't remember a thing. THANK GOODNESS! The last thing I remember is telling the nurse that the anesthesia wasn't kicking in, so she better turn it up a notch.

Next thing I know is it's 3 a.m. Saturday morning and I woke up in PAIN. As in worse than my c-section pain. So what does Paul do when I ask him what happened?

"Paige, it was awful! You jumped up off the chair and were dancing around the room. When they tried to get you to sit down you cursed them. That was when you spit out those white cotton things and bit your cheek. When you saw the blood you passed out, and that's when they did the stitches. Oh, and by the way...they asked for you to see another office for your follow up. Classy, Paige, real classy."

Paul let me believe this until I woke up again and was asking him what I should send with an apology note- fruit basket or flowers. "Paige! I made that up to tease you! You really believed me?"

Thank goodness he was teasing. Could you imagine?

Oh, and BTW? Why didn't they have those white cotton things in my mouth? I will definitely ask when I go back!

Well, I guess...

I should have done a Snope search before posting the whole Facebook deal. Oh well, at least now my pictures are protected "just in case". Although...if I put the pictures out there, then it IS at my own risk I suppose. This is why my Mom is so paranoid about Facebook and this blog. It totally freaks her out that I put OUR actual family pictures on here. I told her "How else are we going to be discovered, offered our own reality show and make a gazillion dollars?" As usual, she sighs and rolls her eyes.

For all of you with Facebook pages...

IMPORTANT - Facebook has agreed to let a third party advertiser use your posted pictures without your permission. To disable this (and keep your uploaded images from being used by others) Click on SETTINGS up where you see the log out link. Select PRIVACY SETTINGS. Select NEWS FEEDS AND WALL. Select the tab that reads FACEBOOK ADS. There is a drop down box, select NO ONE. Save your changes.

Hot Weather Dish!

Since I will be enjoying my food through a straw soon, I am going to make these today. I have a ton of cucumbers from the garden that I need to use. I have tried the first recipe and it does not disappoint. The second is a new one I am going to try out. Don't they look perfect for a hot day?

Avocado-Cucumber Soup with Shrimp

Serves 4

• 1 English cucumber, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
• 2 avocados, pitted and peeled
• 1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 minced small jalapeno chile (seeds and ribs removed for less heat, if desired)
• 1/3 cup sliced scallions
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• Coarse salt and ground pepper
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 12 medium shrimp (about 6 ounces), peeled and deveined

Directions

1. In a blender, combine half the cucumber and 1 avocado with the yogurt, lime juice, jalapeno, scallions, 1 tablespoon cilantro, 1 cup ice water, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Puree until completely smooth. Transfer to a large bowl.
2. Cut remaining avocado into 1/4-inch cubes. Stir avocado and remaining cucumber into soup. Thin with1/2 to 1 cup ice water, as desired. Season again with salt and pepper. Chill, about 1 hour.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp, turning once, until opaque throughout, 2 to 3 minutes. Ladle soup into bowls; garnish with shrimp and remaining tablespoon cilantro.

Cucumber-Buttermilk Gazpacho

Ingredients

Makes 6 cups

• 3/4 cup whole blanched almonds
• 1/2 cup sliced blanched almonds, for serving
• 4 ounces rustic white bread, crust removed, bread cut into chunks
• 2 1/2 pounds Kirby or regular cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and coarsely chopped (about 4 3/4 cups), plus 1 unpeeled cucumber, diced, for serving (about 9 cucumbers total)
• 2 small garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons coarse salt
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 3/4 cup cold water, plus more if needed
• 1 large ripe beefsteak tomato, diced, for serving
• 4 scallions, sliced, for serving
• 1/2 bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread whole almonds in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, and spread sliced almonds in a single layer on another rimmed baking sheet. Toast in oven until brown and fragrant, 7 to 10 minutes (sliced ones will brown more quickly). Let cool.
2. Place bread in a bowl, and cover with cold water. Let stand 10 minutes. Squeeze out liquid, and discard.
3. Puree half of each of the whole almonds, bread, peeled cucumbers, and garlic in a blender. Add half of each of the oil and lemon juice, and puree. Transfer to a large bowl. Repeat.
4. Stir in buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Add water; if a thinner consistency is desired, add more water. Pass through a medium sieve. Refrigerate at least 1 hour (or overnight). If desired, thin with water before serving. Serve cold. Drizzle with oil, and serve with diced cucumber, tomato, scallions, parsley, and sliced almonds on the side.

First published: July 2007

*from Martha Stewart Living

Tooth ache

(Demi Moore toothless)

So, I am finally getting work done on Friday, and then I will have one less molar...but hopefully I will feel better. Very frustrated on trying to get the "incident" resolved before getting any work done. My Dad insisted I get a move on, take out a Medical loan, and deal with everything else later.

I must say, having my Father as a well known and respected surgeon growing up, I took health care for granted. Wow, what a difference when you can no longer say "Hi, I am Dr. J's daughter, and I need ..." And poof! All taken care of. I do still get great perks if I (or the kids) need an emergency taken care of. Years ago, when T was 2 and had a horrible head injury needing stitches, the e.r. staff were waiting for us (well, my parents, because I was passed out when they left). She was rushed in and given top priority. Hey, did I ever post about that day? I two year old, a winter muff, and metal edging on a neighbor's lawn do NOT mix!

More later...I see that I am rambling so my Vicodin must me kicking in. Ha ha *OUCH* ha

Ahhh ha ha ha.

I got this from Pink Preppy Party Girl's last post. I am sure he felt like a winner when he sobered up!

From the mouths of babes....

So, before I was hurting too much this morning, I took J to the grocery store with me...

"Hi! My name is J....an...an...an..I have to talk ALOT ...an' weally FAST...cuz...um..it is jus me...and no T...an you just HAVE to listen to me!" he said to everyone who would listen.

By the time we checked out..."HI!! I am four, and I am a TWIN, but it is just me so I gotta talk ALLOT!" You would think I never listened to him!

Cashier replies: "He sure does talk good" Ahem...

Note: As I was writing this post Paul has J at the auto store and called to ask if he had an off button. Ha ha ha...

I remember when we just wanted them to talk so that we could understand them! (Like last Summer) Wow...time flies!!!

No babies...

I cannot convince the twins that the tooth fairy is not coming. They overheard the dentist say that he may have to take my tooth. They were thrilled. "WOW. Da toof faiwy is comin' Mama! You are so lucky!!!" Ha.

Tote Sale!!!!

Catching up!

Last night I had dinner with old friends from Lakehill Prep. Two of them, (on the right) I have known since Kindergarten!! Even though we had not seen each other in forever, it was like we had never been apart. K, J is pestering me to go swimming...more later!

I think I am going to start...

a new post/weeklypost. How to stay preppy on next to no money. HA HA HA.

Really, girls (and the boy out there) I think I have it cornered!! Ebay, T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and Home Goods, along with Tuesday Morning have been a life saver!! J, and Paul have vineyard vines, Lilly, and Ralph. T has too many Lilly shifts to wear! Yipppie!!

Inspiration...

from the most interesting places.

So...we are struggling financially, like many out there right now. Paul, has been awesome. With NO warning, they pulled his guarantee, and we (a.k.a. Paul) scrambled to find a solution. To say he is a rock star in my eyes is an understatement. Seven days a week he wakes up at 6 a.m. and gets going only to get home well after dark. We will be o.k., with Paul's hard work and faith in God.

On to the inspiration... I was watching L.A. Ink of all things and some one came in to have the story of Job inscribed on his chest. What a wonderful story to remind us to have faith in Him, particularly during trying times, and he will provide. I had totally not even thought of this story/lesson, and I find that once again, God works in mysterious ways... Any thoughts?

Happy Fifth!

Here is a picture of T with her Grandpop, (my Dad) after she decided she did NOT want to ride her bike in the parade. She threw a first class fit after she saw a beauty queen was riding in a convertible . She threw her sparkle tiara off her head saying it was not sparkly enough. Fine...I gave her to my Dad to deal with the hot mess I am sure I somehow created, and went back to our LECPTA float.

On the other side of the street, J was pulling the same sort of business with Paul, and was asked to not participate, but to watch this year....Sigh.

The plus side to T's fluffy tutu that she asked me to "Pweeeease make for me so I can be a pretty Fourth of July princess"?

She and J scored a TON of candy!!!!

Getting ready!!

Not even kidding, I would name myself "Mrs. Lakewood" and wear this in the parade.

Today we are decorating the twins bikes for the parade tomorrow. I am giving them balloons, crepe paper, and sparkles... The theme is "That's entertainment" so I am making T a ballet outfit, but I am stumped for J. Any ideas?

I am still around...

but still sewing these slipcovers!

Good idea?

The pattern mentioned that is now ruined.

So, some of my Ralph Lauren bedding has some permanent damage thanks to the storms. Would it be crazy to chop up my now ruined Egyptian cotton duvet cover? I want to slipcover my outdoor cushions. And this area does not ever get wet or sun. Thoughts? My wicker furniture is tan.

Everybody poops!

J just walked in wanting to know how to make his poop stop.

J:" Mama...I weally need to know how to stop da poop".

Me: "I don't really think you want that, buddy...You would get really sick"

J:"B-b-but it weeeely takes me a long time! And today I awmost missed Thomas! All because of da pesky poopin!"

Me: "I am going to blog about this so I can blackmail you as a teenager!"

J:"Da mail is white Mama...see dis envelope...silly Mama!"

And with that he ran off to bed.

"Mama...what ARE you doing?"

Said T from the back porch. She was sporting a tutu, tiara, and a superhero cape. Me? I was mowing the lawn and getting after the underbrush with a weed eater...

You see... this was my first encounter with a weed eater. I had enough sense to put on tennis shoes, but I was wearing a terry sundress. Um, yeah, now I know why you need pants on for this sort of thing. Since all my jeans are packed away... I put on my riding chaps. Great solution!

I was really making progress...sporting crazier outfits as the morning wore on (I also know why yard guys wear long sleeves, sunglasses, hats, headbands,gloves, ect.) Then pop! Snap! There goes my neighbors weed eater. Because I am scared of an electric lawn mower, I was trying to weed eat the entire yard with a few laps on the push mower for good measure!

Well, tomorrow is another day, and I will try again. Here it's in the triple digits and I am done before a heat stroke. In the meantime, maybe the lawn boys will show up!

Doubtful...but a girl can dream!!

Chivalry Lives On!

An excerpt from "Forgetful Gentlemen" by Jennifer Von Reuter, NBC 29

Two former UVA students are taking what they learned in business school and cashing in. The company is called "Forgetful Gentleman" and its product helps men remember special events and send handwritten notes. Inside a cigar box are cards, envelopes with stamps and even tips on writing the perfect message.

"What we've found for a lot of men, they have great intentions but their busy lives kind of get in the way and so things like remembering to send hand written correspondence kind of fall to the way side," said co-founder Nathan Tan.

Tan and Brett Nicol are recent graduates of the Darden School of Business at UVA. They founded their company out of the school's entrepreneurship program, where they're getting help from professors

Forgetful Gentlemen Website

Thanks to Taylor from Tucker Blair!
http://www.tuckerblair.com

Howdy Y'all!

Cicada Killer

So, I know that I have been M.I.A., lately...Summer has picked a fight with me, and Summer is winning. The heat is ON y'all, and I am not loving it so much. We are already in the triple digits and it is only June!!

Along with the heat, we have a major wasp issue around here. I mean a ton, as in 17 nests from dirt dobbers, to the scary black ones who chase you back into the house to a yellow jacket nest that I still can't find... The ickiest part is J is allergic and the last thing I want to do is deal with an epi-pen. Shudder....

Back to wild kingdom in our backyard. Cicada Killers, once I really researched, they don't sting, and they are pretty funny bugs. They fly right up to you, give you a once over, and when they determine you are not a cicada, they go on to the car, trashcan, flowerpot, and do the same thing.
I can promise you this, none of us will be wearing all green in the backyard anytime soon!

Cicada

Kingdom Builders!!

What a ham!! And J is in heaven, holding a big girls hand!

The little crosses they made.

T's FAVORITE junior guide.

Last week was the twins VBS, and they loved it! I did too, for the first time they actually recalled what they did during the day.

That's all I have for now, due to the fact that I am still trying to salvage all of my linens that were casualties of the flood in my garage/overflow of stuff/storage space. Losses so far?

1. Ralph Lauren Guinevere duvet cover.

2. 4, yes 4 complete sets of coordinating sheets!

3. 1 down duvet

4. 200 cocktail napkins

Sigh....I have only scratched the surface

Da lightning hit da house!!!!

The park by our house. The water is WAAAY up, around 16 feet.

A street in Lakewood.

So, yesterday, we had some horrible flooding in Big D. Yes, lightning everywhere, and straight storms. No drizzle here, STORMS for well over 12 hours. J was home from VBS because he had been sick, and it took me THREE hours to get to T! If it wasn't flooding, then there were down power lines or a downed tree. No kidding. I was on my way to run errands when BOOM, and yes lightning hit the transformer box behind our house and sent electrical cables flying!! Then of course we lost power. J is obsessed also, because he is convinced that lightning hit our house.

Back to the box. Now you look up to see it and there is nothing there. NOTHING. And to make matters worse, the rolled up the power lines and just taped them to the pole as if to say... "they are out of the way, we will get to them when we get to them" GREEEAT! Day two of no power and I just stocked the deep freeze!! (Which I had to unplug anyway, because the garage was flooding BIG time) Anyway, I told another Mom I share a board position with, and guess what? They leave tomorrow for their summer home in Italy!!! And they have both a deep freeze like ours, and a fridge/freezer combo!!!! Well not a moment too soon did I pack up 30, yes 30 bags of groceries and high tailed it over there. Really a few more hours and everything would have been ruined.

So, here I am at my Mom's house until the power comes back!!

Hot Potato

J is sick with who knows what. Every few hours..."MaaaaMAAAA! Come cuddle wis' me." So I would sleepwalk into his bed and "OUCH!!! Hot, buddy!!"

Fast forward to today "Mama, I don't need dat pedia stuff' cuz I am not sick cuz' I don't have a fever!!" (Insert him sighing here) He does not get that he is only better when he doesn't need the meds anymore!( Insert me sighing here!)

Holy cow!!

A dancer from the Dallas Metropolitan Ballet

So,T had her recital on Saturday, and while the itty bitties did fine, I was NOT impressed by the older kids. Some of these girls had been dancing with this studio for 15 years and I could not get past the horrible posture these girls had!

Fast forward to Sunday afternoon, next door girly girl J, had HER recital. NIGHT and DAY people!! Even the little ones were amazing. So now T will hopefully start at the Etgen-A. school of ballet. This school turns out beautiful dancers and feeds directly into D.M.B. I don't expect for T to become a principal ballerina, but I want her to have the foundation...just in case!

We asked

T if she was nervous about her recital, her response? "No, because I am just so very good and I know ALL the moves." Ha ha ha. She stood up there, and except or a wiggle here and there, deer in the headlights!!

Thanks Mrs. Fussypants...

This song/dance reminds me of my cheerleading days!!

Wonderful Friends

So, at play date on Friday, I was very frank about our situation. How we had no warning, ect.

Today, digging through my bag, money hidden everywhere, from my sunglass case, to my cell phone case!!!

Lookin' up!!

Paul has a great job lead!! And it starts out as double of what we have been living on!! Woooo Hoooo!!!

Well...

Pollyanna, whom I always loved as a child.

the plan to "work something out" was to string Paul along and then present him with, well, NOTHING!! I really need a breakdown, but since I have kids, that is not an option. My normal, Pollyanna attitude is fading fast, and I need some good news FAST! For months,I have been racking my brain about what I could do to help bring in some income and I keep coming up dry. I certainly cannot go back into couture. Besides, half of your salary comes in the form of a clothing allowance. Everything else would involve me working all day just to sign over my check to someone else to raise my children.

I think my best bet, is if I could find something to do from home.

On to other news, T's ballet teacher got a job with an amazing studio with an amazing salary to match!

"Summer Lovin'"

Yep, Grease is on and the twins are holding hands skipping around the couch singing along.

On to other news. I am officially baked. I spent 4 hours at the pool yesterday and forgot to apply sunscreen. The twins were lathered up, just not me. I have olive skin and I don't get red, just brown. I look like I stepped out of the 80's! Ha ha ha!

Let's hope...

Paul's employer's (Ahem... Big car maker) Do not want him to leave the company, so they are going to try and "work something out".

VERY Bad

Paul was told TODAY, that he would no longer receive a draw, which is due on Friday. No warning, no time to prepare. To say we are screwed is an understatement. We ran out of our savings awhile ago, thanks to this lovely economic state we are in. I am really upset, because I just figured out how to live on this draw which is only 20% of what I am used to him bringing home. More later, I am too upset to type.

Redneck tanktop!

This was taken in front of the Gardendale,
Alabama Wal-Mart, where the young lady was
shopping at the Flea market.


Look at it closely.

Yup, that there is a pair of men's briefs with the crotch cut out!!

Crazy cat!

My cat just attacked a dog. Really, dog was just walking along, minding her own business. Cat ran up and attacked the dog on head, was shook off and went back again, and again, and again. Eventually the dog was on her back yelping while three of us were trying to figure out how to get this crazy cat off of her! Finally I got the hose on her. Is this an attempt at kitty suicide?

Smellin' good, Son.

J just came to me with Paul's deodorant in hand.

"Sure I need to pud dis under my shoulder (arm-pit), cuz it make da hair grow like da Daddy"

On another note...

One of my favorite blogger's had to shut down for a bit because of threats, and her personal safety. This makes me so angry, because she is so sweet. Chin up sweet girl...this too shall pass.

I'm Back!

With new at&t u-verse. Now I just need to figure out how it all works!!

In shock!!!

I actually have to appeal a claim to our insurance for a trip to Children's E.R.

Last month, J had an asthma attack like no other. While he had his nebulizer on, after a treatment of albuterol and pulmicort, his fingernails and lips were turning blue. So we rushed him to Children's where his Doctor had a team on standby. They rushed him to the a special breathing treatment room where he stayed for two hours until stabilized.

Now why insurance does not see that as a necessary visit, I don't know what is!!

So funny!!

J just grabbed one side of my chest and said "I ate outa' dat when I wuz a baby?"

Me... "yes, you drank my milk"

J grabs the other side..."Oh, I am allergic to milk, so dis one has lemomaid!!"

This is why I blog!

S.O.S.

just kidding, kind of...

Paul is back in school. Yeah for him, stinks for me/us. He comes home for around 20 minutes, then off to my parent's to study!!

I am now a single Mama of sorts. I also decided to pull naps, so my blogging time is spent keeping my babies awake!! So funny, they tried to pass out while I was making dinner, so I would walk into the playroom banging pots to wake them up. Good, no, GREAT news? When their heads hit the pillow at 9 p.m. Out like a light! Soooooo refreshing.

What a beating!!

T "gets" to do treatments about 6 times a day for awhile. Ugh!!

No swine today!!!!

Although Dr. said good call because she exhibits all the signs. I got really worried when she was having trouble breathing, as this is a warning sign for swine. (According to the CDC web site)

Instead...acute Bronchitis. Thankfully, because of J and his asthma, we already have the nebulizer, albuterol, and pulmicort.

T has the flu...

J is soon to follow, I am sure. In the morning we get her tested. Hopefully, no swine. Their immune systems are compromised already. Fingers crossed, prayers said.

Mama's Day!!!

So, on Friday, I went to pick up the twins from pre-school. They each handed me a little something as they stumbled in the car. After kisses, hugs, and buckled in, I began to drive but quickly had to pull over...My eye's were full of tears...

T's note:

Why I love you Mommy
By T Pettit

I am happy when I am with Mommy.
I like her hugs. We like to go to the park and play.
My Mommy is 5 years old and she likes Souper Salads.
I would like to buy her cupcakes.

Sooo funny, I really do have a "thing" for Souper Salads!

J's note: A crayon drawing with arms spread out...In his very own writing.

"I love my Mama this much"

And he made me a heart pin out of clay. "Mama, dis is dat Lilly green like dat party from last night to wear with all dat pink!!"

More on the Lilly party from Thursday later!

WOW

AT&T came out on Thursday to set up U-verse, and disconnected everything. aaaargh!!!! Hopefully tomorrow!!

How on earth do I explain this to a 4 year old?

J: "Momma? How cum' S has two Daddies? Where is da Mommy in dat family?"
Me: "Let me get back to you..."

I need to learn how to say "No"

Next year I have a full platter:

JLD gorilla guide at the zoo.

Woman's auxiliary of Children's Medical Center.

Board member, in charge of sunshine for LECPTA.a.k.a. cradle roll.

Board member, in charge of Wonderful Wednesday's at SMAA.

Well....hmmm. It looks much easier now that I have it listed. I am just trying to make up for those two years of isolation when the twins were babies.

When it rains...

all my lines go dead. So, it is about to rain again and I will be absent awhile. Good news, on Thursday, we are switching to fiber optics, thus no more problems.

Swine Flu

This flu is putting a damper on my day. After my parents discussed the situation with our pediatrician (who was my Dad's roommate in med-school) they told me to pull the twins from school. With J's asthma, we cannot risk it. To top it off, Paul just left with a car seat and now we are stuck.

I have the body...

of a 20 year old!!

Really, no high blood pressure or anything!! After I get my blood work back we will know more about the rash.

Oh, and I took the needle like a champ.

Worried

I have a strange rash all over my mid section. I think I may be allergic to my IUD!! I have been dealing with this on and off for years, and now it comes every day. First I start feeling weird, then the rash. I also swell up huge around the middle. Like up 4 sizes. I am going to the Dr. on Thursday. I am already panicking.

Because of how much I was poked when I was in the hospital, I freak out now. Remember, I was on hospital bed rest for MONTHS with the twins, and had a horrible botched I.V. needle change. I simply cannot handle having blood drawn. Last time they tried, I truly lost it.

Weird? Anyone else had this happen?

Things I have done this week...

18 loads of laundry.

12 home made meals.

1 authentic African salad, for T's culture week.

1 African recital, followed by party.

1 reading at story time.

2 authentic Native American dishes.

1 little Indian recital, followed by party.

7 home made snacks for 12 kiddo's.

2 play dates.

5 trips to Newflower and Whole Foods, kids in tow. (Don't even get me started on this one)


And finally...playroom, and kids bedrooms cleaned just the way "Mommy likes it"
EVERY DAY THIS WEEK!

Paul: "I really know you are busy...but I am tired of tripping over the vacuum cord. Can't you put it away?"

"UMMMM, Yeah, Jack***! I am only one woman, and when we down sized and removed the cleaning service, so did the last of my sanity! So back off, and put it away yourself, if it bothers you!"

Paul is now at work with tail between his legs thinking about his actions. Can you ground your husband?

My goodness!

Basically the movie is the EXACT same thing as the Planet Earth series. So I feel a little ripped off. If Disney wasn't planting 3 trees on our behalf, I would file a complaint.

Now on to one of the funniest things J has ever done. If you remember the series, there is a part where the baby walrus is hiding under his Mommy, and the starving polar bear is trying to pry the Mom off of his "lunch".

J freaked out. "I'm SCAWED! That mean beaw is huwting da MOMMY, and is gonna eat da baby! OH NO RUUUUN!! COME ON EWERBODY! RUUUUN!"

As he tears out of his seat, runs down the stairs, down the hall, busts open the double doors, down the next hall through the lobby and to the elevator. All this from the kid who told me "Don't be scawed Mommy" when I had covered my eyes earlier.

So, after I told him that don't worry, the Daddy walrus stabs the bear, and the bear goes away, he seemed o.k. I hope I haven't traumatized him!

Earth

As the proud Mama of babies who survived incredible odds stacked against them, I think this is a PERFECT first movie at the theatre!

One of my favorites!!!

Go here www.atierney.com and stock up!!

Overheard last night

T: "Hey J? How bout after our bath we get up on the roof and kinda slide down?"

J:"Yeah, T, that sounds bout wight, we could jus woll, and woll, and den?"

T: "Mama can stand at the bottom and catch us!"

J: "Oh, T, that sounds jus wunderful!"

Me:"If I so much as even catch you with a ladder..."

T: "Hmmmm, I was trying to figure out how we was gonna get up there!"


OOOPS!!!

VERY funny!

Newflower Farmers Market

Crazy cheap produce. Like 1/4 of the price. You just have to get past the aesthetics since we have all been spoiled by Whole Foods and Central Market. Ha ha ha

How cheap? Umm... ruby red grapefruit for 10 cents a piece. And 4 HUGE lemons for a dollar!


Newflower Farmers Market

1800 North Henderson Avenue
Dallas, TX 75206
214.826.2937

KIKEN

Wook!! KIKEN!

Greaaaat, they escaped their box. And all three are obsessed with running after the twins. Oh, I hope they live four more weeks without any major injuries. So far....

NO! The kitten does not need a bath!

NO! The kitten does not want to play dress up!

STOP! Slowly put the kitten down....

This is gonna be a long afternoon. I really wish I had not sold the baby gates.

Note to self

Boil only 12 eggs next year.

Tell bunny thanks for being "healthy", but next year no goldfish and trail mix in the plastic eggs around the house. I just stepped out of the shower to a crunch followed by a soggy mess. Yuck.

STOP trying to get mean lady around the corner to like me. And certainly not after a glass of wine on an empty tummy. Ugh, I just know if she got to know me, she would see how fabulous I am!!
*Also, does she really need to judge me because T was wearing her princess dress to the playground? She is 4 people!

Happy Easter

The Church we attend.

We woke up at 7 with the twins giddy over their baskets. So much so, that they still have not gone "hunting" for eggs around the house. It was raining, so bunny did not hide any outside.

Then we went to St. Michael's for the 11 a.m. service and we were early! Since we have been going up there on Wednesday's as well as Sunday's I really feel at home! I have so many church friends, as do the twins, from children's choir and Sunday school.

I was chatting away with our next door neighbor when I spy Kappa Prep from Monograms and Manicures.
She looked adorable, and maybe she will call SMAA home.

Well, for some reason I get really weepy at our Easter Service every year, and this year was no exception. It is always so pretty, and as soon as the trumpets start, so do the waterworks. Ha ha ha. Oh, and I must say, I was so proud of my kiddo's during communion! They both recited the WHOLE Lord's prayer, they both bowed/ curtsied leaving and coming from our pew, and they crossed themselves after we took our communion!

Then we came home, had lunch, and went to the Hollywood Heights Easter Parade. Fun and cute!

How was your Easter?

Whew!

Eggs are filled, and out. Some very close calls as I was filling said eggs with the twins not yet asleep!

Alright...

I have to say, this economy stinks, and it is finally hitting home! Paul is not doing well AT ALL, since no one on this planet is buying!!!

The twins birthday party may not be in our future. My "carnival" theme may not be much of a "carnival" after all...Hmmmm I am super creative and resourceful, I wonder how I can pull this off?

What a ....

Someone from Paul's office stole his flash drive out of his office, so no pictures or video that I promised.

On another note, my friend that I have known since age 3, lives in the area of Italy that was hit by the earthquake and no one has heard from her.

***Update...A is o.k.!!! Whew!

Lakewood/M streets Car Jackings

All my Dallas readers, please read. I just became aware of this and want you all to stay safe! This is a verbatim letter from the police chief.

I know there is a lot of concern regarding the recent individual robberies that have occurred in and/around your neighborhoods. This is an update to the bulletin I sent at 4:00 pm. I want to clarify some misinformation that is being distributed through private individuals' email networks that I've received since so please share the following with them:

A carjacking incident involving a wf/35 occurred today approximately 1:25 p.m. in the 6300 block of Martel Avenue. There were no other robberies today in this area. The driver had her 7 y/o daughter and 9 y/o son in the vehicle when she was backing out of her driveway into the rear alley. She exited vehicle to move a trash container when the suspect approached her and was wearing an orange/yellow reflective work type vest over dark blue sweatshirt. Suspect had a toy chrome handgun that we recovered at the location after the complainant struggled with the suspect since he was driving away with her children in the vehicle. The suspect did allow the children to exit the vehicle. There were no injuries. Suspect fled in complainant's vehicle - 2005 Green Ford Expedition. He matches the description of eight previous incidents since February 5th that have occurred in Central, Northeast, Southwest, and one possibly out of town. Several of the vehicles have been recovered in South Central Division.

There was information being distributed that there was another offense today and that it occurred at Stonewall Jackson Elementary and that is not the case. There were concerns of the elementary school being in lockdown but the principal can make that decision for student safety reasons, however, the incident did not occur near the school.

Further Suspect description is: Black Male, 35-50, 5'8" - 6'2", 160-180 pounds. Suspect may be unshaven with a little gray and have missing or gaps in teeth. Also please confirm any additional information with the Dallas Police Department before distribution and we'll keep you posted on any updates.

Happy Hump Day!

Well, I have so many funny pictures and video's for y'all, but Paul can't seem to remember to bring home the camera cord! So here is what's up with the Pettit family.

Paul has decided to go back to school. Yup, and undergrad too. He wants to accomplish an undergrad degree in finance, then do an executive MBA. All while working 70 hours a week. Hmmmmm.

T has a double ear infection...AGAIN. Ugh, if this continues I see tubes in her future.

J learned how to drive stick shift this weekend while watching Paul in the roadster he drove this weekend. Yeah, on the way to school this morning J tried to "shift" into second while I was going 40 down Garland Ave.

***Note: yes the car is a two seat er, but has a booster seat sensor, so the airbag is off, thus safe.

"The snake needs hair"

I just walked into the playroom as T is snipping away her hair. Yup, like it's no big deal. After my gasp she looks up with an "I just got busted" look. I walked in the nick of time. Her next cut was going to be a fistful next to her forehead.

Because her hair is wavy it is kinda hard to tell. Whew!

Oh, and why? Because the snake she drew needed some hair.

Not much to say...

Just Dentist appointments, and hair cuts. But I have a flipping hilarious video of J for y'all. I will have Paul bring home the download cord.

Container Store

How cute is this? Only $9.99!

Lawn idiots...

took a weed eater to my vegetable garden. The ENTIRE thing. They even went through the tomato cages and sweet pea trellises. I am so upset I can hardly type!

Not MY baby girl. No Way!

I was looking at Neiman's web site looking for a dress for T when I ran across this. Ummm WHAT???? Tisk tisk tisk...

I wonder if I am just conservative, but that suit seems a tad bit sexy.