Beth and John's Home

Why?

2010-11-14T15:26:00.003-06:00

Why is it so hard to find the "want" to clean this house on the weekends. We start the week with a clean house, and let me tell you, by Friday this place is a pit. This weekend I just don't have it in me.

I'll let you know tomorrow if my house has maintained its pit status.

2010-04-15T22:35:00.002-05:00

I stole this from Kate. Mine isn't nearly as entertaining, but here goes:

The Game of Tag about your MAN:

Who is your man? John

How long have you been together? 17 years I think, dated 6, married 11. Yep, 17..

How long did you date? 6 years.

How old is your man? 30 something....

Who eats more? WE both eat WAY more than our share.

Who said "I love you" first? No doubt he did. I'm not that naive..

Who is taller? He is. But I'm WAYYY cuter!! :)

Who sings better? neither

Who is smarter? He is..book smarts anyways.

Whose temper is worse? Mine, I got this one nailed!

Who does the laundry? Me, unfortunately. Trust me, if I ever have a son, I WILL teach him to do laundry. His wife will thank me.

Who takes out the garbage? He does. But I tell him to. So I do my part in this task.

Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? He does.

Who pays the bills? I pay the bills with our money.

Who is better with the computer? HIM!

Who mows the lawn? Our lawn service.

Who cooks dinner? We both do, but John is more consistent.

Who drives when you are together? Usually him, but since I received my company car, I do a lot more of the driving.

Who pays when you go out? I usually get out the debit card for our JOINT account. So I guess we both do.

Who is most stubborn? He is pretty darn stubborn, but I give him a run for his money!

Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? We are never wrong. We live in a house full of rights. (LOVE this Kate!)

Whose parents do you see the most? Probably mine since they come more often.

Who asked who out? He asked me out, of course.

Who proposed? He did.

Who wears the pants in the family? I do. Of course I do. But he would say "Whatever"..but that is because he is stubborn.

Easter

2010-04-15T21:47:00.002-05:00

Easter was a perfect day for the Wahl household! We went to church, obviously, and then came home and RELAXED!! We stayed home this year, no traveling to Windthorst or Wichita Falls for us. Nope, we watched movies, ate hot dogs, and just hung out as a perfect little family. Here is Ava's Easter pic, dress courtesy of, yep, AVON!! Necklace, AVON!!

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-04-15T21:02:00.006-05:00

I decided to get the C-Stone Cove street together for an egg hunt this year. There are so many great kids on the cove and I wanted to do something fun with them all without having to participate in the huge City egg hunt..yes, call me unsocial OR call me THAT mom who refuses to bring more City candy/crap into my house...if it was good candy I'd be all over a CIty egg hunt...

Ohh..I forgot..Ava did participate in the City egg hunt. My neighbors Kevin and Sherry took her with their kids.

Happy Anniversary!!

2010-04-15T20:50:00.002-05:00

Yep, 11 years!! I know, right?!?! Who would have thought John would continue to put up with my nonsense, my spending, my attitude, my lack of laundry abilities.... ok, I know how to do laundry, I just choose NOT to do laundry. We spent our day at the soccer fields watching Ava run up and down the field yelling WHOO HOOO for no reason!!! Then we went to dinner at Texas Land and Cattle. The best part of the day was my DIAMOND EARRINGS!! Oh yeah baby! I'll post a pic so you can be jealous!!

Good job Girl!

2010-03-08T22:06:00.002-06:00

Tonight I was playing basketball on the wii and was trying to beat my high score. Ava was watching me. Every time I scored points, she jumped up and yelled, "Good Job, Girl!!!" She says the best things!

Alaska Cruise-Better Late than Never!!! Part 1

2009-07-18T22:42:00.005-05:00

My family took an Alaskan Cruise for our big vacation this year. My parents, my sister Becky and her husband Doug, John, Ava and I were all in attendance. We left May 12th, and we were all SO EXCITED to get the trip going. It took about an hour for all of us to check in for our flight only to find out that the plane we were taking to Vancouver via Phoenix was have engine issues. We were informed of this while I was trying to check my family in, and after my parents and my sister had already checked their luggage...SO, we had to find a new flight because now our Phoenix flight was delayed which meant we would miss our connecting flight to Vancouver. We all finally got on an Alaskan Air flight to Seattle with connecting flight to Vancouver. We were assured that all the luggage from Airline 1 would be taken off plane number 1 and placed on our new Alaskan Air flight. Why do I tell you all of this?

(Ava's first flight ever to Seattle, Age 4. My first flight was to Seattle, Age 20)

Because my sister's suitcase with her wardrobe for the ENTIRE CRUISE did not get placed on the right flight. We find this out at 12:30am in Vancouver, when every airport in the Western Hemisphere is closed. We were told we would have to wait until later in the morning to try and locate her suitcase. My sister was in TEARS.
(Doug and Ava in Seattle. SHE LOVES THAT DOUG DOUG!!)

With nothing else to do til morning, we headed off to the hotel to catch some sleep. Later, around 8am, my sister contacted the airlines to see if the luggage showed up...only to be told they could not locate her luggage on the worldwide luggage finder. They took her number and told her they would contact her if anything came up. Well, the cruise left the docks at 5pm...things aren't looking so good.

We catch our bus to the cruise terminal at 11am, and then Becky calls the airlines again because she is, of course, frantic to have her luggage. Same story. So basically, the only clothes my sister has to wear are jeans, a t shirt, shoes, and whatever she has beneath those clothes. UH oh... The airlines tell her she has $25 a day (with a limit of I think $250) to spend until the luggage is found. What the heck can $25 a day buy you when you need clothes for 10 days? UGHH

SO, LUCKILY, the cruise terminal is located within a few blocks from what has to be Canada's most expensive shopping mall. Becky, Doug and I head off to get her clothes. We spot an American Eagle, so off she goes to spend about $300 for a few shirts, a hoodie--because HELLO, we are going to ALASKA--a pair of jeans..and I head off to find her some underwear. I spot a Sears and think, cheaper than VS right, so I go spend about $80 on those necessities. All the while I am thinking, why can't WalMart be next to the cruise terminal??

We finish shopping for clothes and head to the CVS type store to get her toiletries. While standing on the toothpaste aisle her phone rings--THEY FOUND HER LUGGAGE and was heading to the cruise terminal!! You should have seen her dance! If only they could have found it a few hours before we spent $400 dollars; we didn't have time to return any of it. We race to the cruise ship, because now it is 4:15 and decide the first thing we are doing when we check in is get a DRINK!!
BTW, Vancouver is BEAUTIFUL!!

Ava and Lilli

2009-06-28T17:32:00.003-05:00

Today we met up with one of Ava's Primrose friends for some yogurt and laughs. Lilli left Primrose about a month ago. Her mom emailed me to ask Ava for a playdate because Lilli has been saying she lost her best friend Ava. I thought that was sweet.

If you have a Yogurt Story near you, GO!! It is awesome!

Ava's Father's Day Questionnaire

2009-06-24T16:32:00.005-05:00

I really love it when my daddy kisses me.

My dad likes to play with me.

My dad always tells me to quit licking him. (She goes in for the kiss and licks instead. It makes him sooo mad.)

The best thing he does is play instruments.

It makes him happy when he eats pizza.

My dad loves to relax on the boat.

The best thing he cooks is dinner.

When my dad shops he likes to buy pudding.

My dad’s favorite household chore is the vacuum.

My dad’s favorite TV show is news.

If he could go on a trip, he would go to a big giant boat.

I love my dad because he gives me kisses.

My favorite thing to do with daddy is play bowling.

Ava's Favorite Things

2009-06-17T18:11:00.015-05:00

I asked Ava to show me her favorite things in the house. Amazingly enough, her favorite things were all over the house, which suprised me. Here is what she came up with.

First she said she loves all her clothes. She can't live without those. And also her shoes, mainly her pick shoes and flip flops. This is only about a quarter of the shoes she has, but the idea was to get the pink shoes in the picture.

Next came all of her stuffed animals. If you ever think your kid has the most stuffed animals, come to my house. I think WE have the most stuffed animals, and for some reason, people keep buying them for her.

And of course we can't forget hippo! Silly Momma!

Next was where she keeps all her money!

And her very own junk drawer. This drawer is off limits to mom and dad. She is allowed to keep anything she wants in this drawer with the exception of food and live pets. She let me glimpse inside, and I can tell you her drawer contains all of her cds, some hotwheels cars, stupid party gift bag crap that I WANT TO THROW AWAY, and misc items that go to her kitchen.

We left her room and went to her bathroom. What could she possibly not live without in the bathroom you ask? These Avon bath paints are the best little invention ever. They are roll on soaps, and she LOVES them. And they are cheap!!

Soft soap? OK...
And her make up kit...the one thing I about killed my mom for. BUT, since my mom also introduced us to the Avon roll on paint, I let her slide. :)

Off to the office where she points out the digital arts studio. It's pretty cool and lets her have computer time.

In the living room she shows me her book of DVDs. Now obviously some of the dvds belong to us; we don't let her watch Supersize Me!!

In the kitchen she points out her massive jar of Smarties. She gets one treat every day after school. She also wanted me to photograph the gummy bears and marshmellows that are her snacks on the weekends, but that would have made me publish the clutterness that is my pantry right now.

And finally, she brought me to the front door, where I had my outside flip flops. She loves putting these on and hiding when she knows I'm about to go outside and get the mail. One day I spent 15 minutes looking for these shoes and couldn't find them anywhere. Why I looked 15 minutes I don't know, but later I realized Ava had them on while she was playing in the backyard. She told me she didn't have special outside only shoes. I think that was just her ploy to get some new flip flops.

Now she wants me to do a list of my favorite things. Hmm...we'll see about that.

Ava and Kenslie

2009-06-11T18:49:00.004-05:00

I am SOOO FAR behind blogging. I will slowly get up to date. These next few pics were taken in April when Mom and Dad took Ava with them to see my brother and his family. Ava and Kenslie are 8 months apart and they LOVE each other! I wish we saw more of them; they only live 4 hours away. But can I tell you how hard it is to get schedules together? ARGGG....

Anyways, here are a few pics of the two beautiful girls doing what they do best--being princesses!!

Bethany is OCD and I can only imagine how much this mess drove her crazy! Hopefully Ava helped clean up. She tends to be good at that!

These next two pictures crack me up. Ava HATES to be crowded in bed. She likes space. But notice how Bethany made Ava her own special bed next to Kenslie's bed but Ava chose to sleep next to Kenslie. I think sometime during the night both girls ended up spread out on the floor. That bed was WAY to crowded!

I DO

2009-04-10T17:04:00.001-05:00

Sixteen years ago today we went on our first date. Ten years ago today we got married. Either he is crazy, or he puts up with me, or he loves me. I think a lot of love, a LOT of putting up with me, and a hint of craziness.

Mom...Mom...Can I tell you a secret?

2009-04-05T18:55:00.003-05:00

Mom, I want to wash the dishes ok?

PLEASE??

Me: Sure...

Ava: YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My interview with Ava

2009-03-23T10:51:00.003-05:00

1. What is something mom always says to you?
To get away from the TV.

2. What makes mom happy?
when I smile

3. What makes mom sad?
like this...(she makes a sad face)

4. How does your mom make you laugh?
when you go Ha HA HA..( in a deep voice)

5. What was your mom like as a child?
probably...cute

6. How old is your mom?
54 (she said five four)

7. How tall is your mom?
big

8. What is her favorite thing to watch on TV?
Wonder Pets

9. What does your mom do when you're not around?
I think....watch TV

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
maybe being cute. (yep, that's probably it!! What a kid!)

11. What is your mom really good at?
Beind very good at church. You were good today Momma. Thank you.

12. What is your mom not very good at?
you not good at letting me watch Thomas and Jerry.

13. What does your mom do for her job?
listen

14. What is your mom's favorite food?
pancakes. Right Momma? I like pancakes. Member you ate my pancakes after Becky's house? And I ate your shrimp? Can we have pancakes for dinner?

15. What makes you proud of your mom?
You put me on your 'puter when I ran around the living room? That's funny. Let's watch it, ok??

16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
You can be Thomas. I am Jerry.

17. What do you and your mom do together?
hold hands

18. How are you and your mom the same?
we are CUTE. Right! Daddy, momma and I are cute right? DADDDY: YES

19. How are you and your mom different?
You don't run super fast even though you have super fast shoes. Daddy, momma needs new super fast shoes, ok. DADDY: NO! Ava: Daddy, momma super fast shoes are super slow. So the answer is yes. Momma, I say yes!

20. How do you know your mom loves you?
you tell me, silly face.

21. What does your mom like most about your dad?
that you kissy kissy (insert smoochy noise here)

22. Where is your mom's favorite place to go?
Target

She loves to clean!

2009-02-19T18:56:00.007-06:00

We start at the far side.

And continue.

I made her get in the corners!

Almost done!

And a final dry and we are all done!

2009-02-14T12:34:00.003-06:00

I think Valentines Day is stupid. I think some money hungry CEO at HallMark schemed up this whole idea just to get a bigger bonus.

If your marriage, relationship, whatever...needs Feb 14 to provide romance, then I think you might have a bigger issue.

That's just what I think.

This year, like the previous 16, I told John I wanted nothing. No flowers, no candy, no presents... I think he appreciates the fact that I think it is stupid, although he tries to act hurt and offended. But, honestly, I know if he REALLY was into Valentines Day like most people are, he would get me the flowers, candy...

BUT

He thinks it's stupid too! That's why we are so great together.

Happy Valentine's Day

Birthday parties OH MY!!

2009-02-14T12:20:00.002-06:00

Ava has been invited to 8 birthday parties this month so far. And the month is not even half way over. We have two this weekend, 3 next weekend, and **sigh** who knows what else is being planned that I do not know about.

The thing is, all of these parties (except for 2) are parties for kids not even in her PK class. Ava is in PK1 and the other 6 of her 8 parties are for kids in PK2. I'm beginning to think that either Ava is REALLY popular, or the parents in PK2 have gotten together and talked and figured out that if she gets the invite Ava will come with present in hand.

And here's the other thing. If we for some reason can't make the party, we bring a gift to school before the day of the party. That's the guilt in me. I don't want some parent to think that Ava likes one kid and goes to that party but doesn't like their kid so she doesn't go to his/her party. The kid whose party we don't attend normally gets about $5 more on the gift tab, because of the GUILT I feel.

I think that in the book "What To Expect When Expecting"--the Later Years--they should include a chapter about birthday parties.

I'm just saying...

This is the "smile" you get when she's just not into pictures.

2009-02-14T12:15:00.002-06:00

4th picture tag

2009-02-09T18:25:00.003-06:00

I was tagged in a fun photo blog. I am to open the 4th folder in my photo directory and post my 4th photo in that directory. So, here is that picture.

This is a wonderful picture of my very dear friend Emily after a night of fun on the beach. We took a couples vacation with Emily and Daniel and had some very good times!! This picture was taken long before we had any parental responsibily.

I'm not so sure she will enjoy this particular picture posted, but you can still see how stunningly beautiful she is, even if she has a slight hangover.

2009-02-07T22:13:00.001-06:00

Ava, as we speak, is using 409 and a sponge to scrub down the kitchen table and chair. actually, I am spraying the 409 and she is scrubbing.

Is it child abuse to let a 4 year old clean out the refrigerator if she BEGS to do so?

Stay tuned. We will see how long this cleaning madness goes til!!

Pictures will follow soon!

2009-01-24T22:41:00.004-06:00

Yesterday when I got off work and picked the kid up I decided to go to Target for a little fun momma/daughter time while we waited for John to get home from OKC. We browsed aisle after aisle of Target heaven, looking at all the stuff we so DO NOT need. We started over in the book section because I want a really good LOW CALORIE cookbook (any suggestions out there?) and made our way over to the Wii games. We continued on our way through sports...fitness...blahhh...making our way quite quickly to their "world bazaar" home items that just set and is now already on clearance. Ok, so whatever..we keep walking through the aisles when Ava yells "STOP!!! MOMMA STOP!!" I'm thinking she lost a shoe or something for her to be THAT dramatic. Nope. Wrong. What was it that caused such a commotion? Yep, Hannah Montana. This time: a fleece blanket. Well, actually, the whole darned bedding ensemble. I'm like forget it. No way. I have spent a small fortune redoing her room to look so cute. I told her no, watched her pout, and then finally pursuaded her to get a pair of hot pink glitter "princess" slide on shoes (but pitched to the 4 year old as HANNAH MONTANA shoes)to use "on stage" during her "concerts". SOLD!! I couldn't get out of Target fast enough. I knew John was going to just shake his head when he saw another pair of those glitter shoes in the house. But I knew he would be ok when he found out I "gave in" over a 14.99 pair of shoes instead of a 39.99 Hannah Montana blanket.

Well, just so you know: I got played. All I heard about today was how much she needs the blanket cause Emma has a Hannah Montana blanket. And how much she needs the blanket because her room is cold at night and she is coughing because she gets so cold. (She has a down comforter and a nice Serasoft blanket on her bed.) ALL DAY I HEARD ABOUT THIS DARN BLANKET. ALL DAY I SAY.

Anyways, we went to WalMart tonight for some groceries. Me and the kid. I wait until 9pm when I know no one will be there and I can get in and out. I walk down the aisle to the much needed DT Dr Peppers when she does it again. MOMMA!!! STOP!!! What? I look over to see a lifesize Hannah Montana cardboard diplay unit that is on the main drive aisle of the girls clothing pad. On it: Hannah Montana blankets. Oh dear God. Did I do this as a child?

Price for the Hannah Montana fleece blanket at WalMart: 16.00
Price I would have paid to have a picture of John's face when we walked into the house with the Hannah Montana blanket: well, that was priceless.

Damn Disney.

Turnaround time

2009-01-24T17:56:00.003-06:00

I applied for passports for myself and Ava on January 13. I received my passport on January 23. I would like to thank the US Government for being on top of their game. Since I didn't get the passport application complete until mid afternoon on the 13th, the process probably didn't begin until the 14th. So, by my calculations, there were only 8 business days from start to finish. That has to be a record right?? It HAS to be a government reccord.

I have to send out my kuddos when deserved...so...KUDDOS to the government for being fast, friendly, and efficient.

(There IS a GOD!!)

2009-01-24T17:40:00.003-06:00

I love lazy Saturdays. Days when nothing is planned (except for returning the rental car), naps are essential, and the cozy fireplace warms the chill air.

I love lazy Saturdays. I love turning the phones off, playing a few games with the
big kid and the little kid, and stealing hershey kisses out of the candy jar.

I love lazy Saturdays. Sausage and eggs for breakfast, movies in the mailbox (Netflix) are great in the afternoon, and a fun recipe to follow for dinner.

I LOVE LAZY SATURDAYS!!

My E-Reader

2009-01-20T23:44:00.003-06:00

The best thing about my new e-reader is how easy it is to read while I am on the eleptical. I was on the machine for 45 minutes and didn't even realize the minutes had passed. My mind was all caught up in my last book, The Reader, and I didn't notice the throbbing in my calves until I stepped off the machine.

I knew requesting this little piece of electronic heaven would be good for me!

A few pics from the past week.

2009-01-20T21:46:00.005-06:00

On this night she gave a huge "LIVE" Hannah Montana performance and wiped herself out. She was dancing and singing and shaking her hips...so cute...then she laid on the ottoman and sang herself to sleep. Look closely, she is still holding the microphone. My little rock star!!

The next day she decided to pretend to be Hannah Montana (at school) and wear obnoxious tights. These are her Miley tights that she said she HAD TO HAVE or else she would be SUPER SAD. I'm not really for sure if this follows dress code or not. I'm guessing it's ok since I didn't get any disapproving looks.

And finally, Ava as a little 4 year old girl not pretending to be a super star. She got this dress from Grandma Wahl at Christmas. We have to make sure we take pictures in her dresses because she has so many clothes she typically wears her dresses once or twice before moving on to the next season. Somebody is going to score BIG TIME when I decide to get rid of her clothes.

Another tag...so here goes.

2009-01-09T23:48:00.005-06:00

I have been tagged about 6 times with this, so here is my list of 16 things about me (that you might not already know but I am sure you do).

1. I drink Dt Dr Pepper every morning by 7am.
2. I am extremely anal about my house--it must be clean--minus my bathhroom. I need the maid just for my bathroom.
3. I love Coach purses. I love them so much I have bought both my mom and my sister purses to feed my obsession. I don't think they GET it.
4. I call 3 people every (work) day at 5pm. John, Becky and Susan. In that order. Usually Becky doesnt answer on the first try, so this year it might go John, Susan, Becky.
5. I always have my phone on me but seldom answer it. If you really want to talk to me and want me to answer, the secret is to text me and tell me your fixing to call. Then I will answer.
6. I LOVE MY WII!! Best Mother's Day gift EVER!!
7. My all time favorite show is Friends, but the show that gives me pure happiness is The Office.
8. I "get" my sister in law. Bethany, that is. I totally get her and I love her!
9. I used to love El Chico's but one bad experience has ruined it for a lifetime. Just the thought of that place makes me want to throw up.
10. My favorite cousin is Katie Berend. She is the funniest person I know.
11. I LOVE Sam's Carrot Cake. YUMMY!!
12. I regret not taking the time to get to know some past work people.
13. I have a crush on the Under Armour mannequin at Dicks Sporting Goods. He is HOT.
!!SHUT UP!!
14. I get disciplined daily by Ava because I leave a trail of lights on and that really bothers her.
15. I love my dad's pig raising/pig butchering/pig seasoning skills.
16. I have a very hard time forgiving people who have spoken ill of anyone in my immediate family. Let me clarify that: I won't forgive and I won't forget. And I don't care if you want to pass judgement because of that.

My late Christmas post.

2009-01-09T23:07:00.007-06:00

We had one of the best Christmas holidays to date. We were able to go home and see almost every family member I have. I missed a few cousins, but overall, I think we all had a great few days back in Windthorst/Wichita Falls.

On Christmas Eve we went to Mass in Windthorst, then headed to WF for my mom's family Christmas. I did not have my camara available there, but John and I both made out extremely successful in the Chinese Christmas gift exchange. Of course it took some tag teams efforts to get the gifts we wanted, but our strategy worked just fine!! Christmas with Sandra, Nancy, and the rest of my mom's family was the most enjoyable get together yet. Ava had LOTS of fun playing with Taylor and the rest of her cousins. Hopefully we can get those kids together more often.

After we left Sandra's house we went to the MIL's house to spend the night. Carolyn always has her refrigerator stocked full of all our favorite treats, so of course John and Ava went to town on all the food. Ava loves going to Grandma Wahl's house because she has a PIANO that is REAL!! Christmas morning we opened presents with Carolyn. Ava's big gift:

That's right...Barbie is homeless thanks to my mother in law. She went right on QVC and bought the thing out from under poor ole barbie. This thing is HUGE. That's all I will say about that!

Some of Ava's favorite cartoons.

After the Wahl Christmas we headed to Windthorst for my Grandma Berend's party. As usual I was told to sit in the dining room and eat, which I avoid like the plague. As a kid my cousins and I always tried to rush to get a good seat in the dining room, but we were forced to eat in the kitchen. We were told back then the dining room was no place for kids. They should not wonder--they being the "adults" aka my Mom, my Aunt Sherry, my Grandma--why we "kids" now REFUSE to eat in the dining room. That room is for old people only!!!

Ava Grace and Emma Grace

Of course Ava came home with MANY MORE stuffed animals this year. Once again, she has more stuffed animals than Noah had on his ark--so ENOUGH STUFFED ANIMALS!! Ok, yea whatever, I know she LOVES ALL OF THEM!

2009-01-09T23:03:00.001-06:00

He thinks I am posting this because he scored a perfect score and was so proud. Actually I am posting this picture because I want you all to see how it IS possible to make a Wii Mii look just like you. John's Mii is so him!!

2008-12-21T01:11:00.001-06:00

Can you tell from this picture she is just like her Momma? !!!

She's a ROCKSTAR!

2008-12-13T23:22:00.001-06:00

Ok, the link works now!

Our new bedtime routine.

2008-12-13T20:58:00.002-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8xwX7iHjRA

2008-12-09T10:41:00.001-06:00

This is wrong on so many levels, but I laughed.

So I posted it.

2008-12-09T08:59:00.008-06:00

I received my first ever blog award!! How exciting is that??!!! So...here's the deal: I got this awesome award thanks to GlamRBaby and I have to list 6 interesting facts about myself....SO HERE GOES!!

Six (not so interesting) facts about me:

1. I MUST have a Dt Dr Pepper first thing in the morning or else my entire day starts off bad. On the same note, I do not like talking to anyone first thing in the morning, not until I have swallowed my first gulp of DDP. And the best DDP is from Sonic!

2. I am OBSESSED with Coach purses. I have now started making my family carry Coach bags just so I can feed my addiction.

3. I am a Golf PRO. On the Wii that is.(QUIT JUDGING ME!!!)

4. My all time favorite body wash is actually not a body wash, but VO5 shampoo! I love the way it smells, so fresh and clean, and I get people asking me ALL THE TIME what I am wearing. The best part is VO5 is only $.88 a bottle at WalMart. Very cost effective!

5. I love going to the movies all by myself. I love going to the first showing of the day (in the middle of the week), when no one else is there. I am the only one in the theatre, treating myself to a bag of popcorn and of course the DDP I snuck in! That is the best way for me to get ME time.

6. I get daily updates via text messages on Amazon.com deals of the day. I get LOTS of great savings on all kinds of things there! You should check it out.

Now I nominate 6 people for the award:

1. Jenn

2.Photography by Dixie

3.Jeanette

4.Christy

5.Audrey Woulard Photography Blog

6.Cool Mom Picks

2008-12-07T12:09:00.002-06:00

Another Quote of the Day from the lovely Photography by Dixie's Blog:

"So many people walk around with a meaningless life. They seem half-asleep, even when they're busy doing things they think are important. This is because they're chasing the wrong things. The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.”

-Morrie Schwartz (To know who this wonderful man Morrie is, go here http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=3863455317235235085

The book Tuesdays with Morrie is probably my favorite book so far. I LOVE it. If you haven't read it, READ IT!!!

2008-12-05T10:24:00.003-06:00

Look, my kid is WAYYYY to cute to have a bad haircut.

I'm thinking I need to sue the JCPenney salon in Vista Ridge because every time I take her there she gets butchered.

No, I don't normally go there, but yesterday was one of those "hurry up and get your hair cut" moments. We were at the mall, I couldn't see Ava's eyes for her bangs, and I was in a rush. And we were already next to the salon because we just HAD TO HAVE a potty break when Momma is rushed.

(I know you can picture me rushing around yelling at my kid because she has to go the bathroom. I'm horrible sometimes.)

Ava's favorite Christmas ornaments.

2008-12-04T00:44:00.006-06:00

Typical baby's first Christmas ornament.

You thought I was joking about Chewbacca didn't you? Look at how she looks at this hideous thing. SHE LOVES IT.

Last year's ornament pick.

This year her pick was the Star Wars spaceship, but dammit, I put my foot down. I demanded that she get the new Barbie 2008 with the beautiful silver dress. I KNOW my husband instructed her to get the spaceship. I KNOW HE DID. But joke's on him...

Now Ava will always remember HallMark as the place Momma lost her mind and threw a fit over an ornament.

Making memories is what it's all about right?? :)

Ava loves that Katie.

2008-12-04T00:26:00.003-06:00

Laura and I met up on Sunday so the girls could hang out. We went to this place in Flower Mound called Life's a Beach and can I tell you it SUCKED. But whatever, the kids had fun and Laura took Ava home with her for the afternoon so I could trek over to Arlington to see Stacy and Jeremy at the hospital. Anyways, here are some shots of two shy little girls that together make so much noise an Areosmith concert sounds peaceful.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-03T23:54:00.009-06:00

We spent Thanksgiving at my sister's house. I was skeptical that she and Doug could pull off an entire dinner for 14 people, but they did an amazing job. I was impressed. The turkey was perfect.

As with any Thanksgiving, you plan to eat at a certain time, and for whatever reason you end up eating an hour and a half later than planned. Ava had no problem filling her time playing Mario Kart on the Wii.

After eating we decided to take a little walk around the neighborhood. Sometimes Ava gets really tired of having a camara in her face. So she runs...

I chase her til I get a good one!!!

Afterwards, one last picture with Grandma and Grandpa Berend. Try to tell me this kid isn't rotten.

Put a fork in me, I am done.

2008-12-02T21:39:00.003-06:00

Yes, it's true. My last day in HELL was Black Friday. I left and never looked back. To be honest, I didn't say goodbye to anyone. I wasn't ready to say my goodbyes. It has taken me the last 4 days to (somewhat) come out of this state of depression I have been in over this whole tragic state of affairs. I know that sounds stupid, but whatever, judge me how you want.

I must return to clear my office and turn in my keys, but I will do that on Thursday. That is when I will finally say all of my goodbyes.

The new job starts Dec 8.

So to my peers: I apologize and understand why you are mad that I left and didn't call your stores to tell you Friday was my last day. I intended to call most of you this Thursday. All of my employees knew I would be in this week to finalize everything. I'm sorry they told you I was gone and I should have been a better friend/coworker. We all have the weight of the world on our shoulders right now, and I did not want any one person to think I was rubbing my opportunity in their face. I never meant to disregard any relationships I had built over the last 6 years.

We will all land on our feet.

I believe that.

2008-12-01T23:12:00.003-06:00

GlamRbaby is giving away a Christmas bow on her blogsite. Go there and follow the instructions on the post entitled Christmas Spirit to enter. The website is http://www.glamrbaby.blogspot.com/

Here is the bow she is giving away.

I don't know why I entered the contest because Ava has this bow already. Hers is a little fuller than this one, but basically the same. Maybe if I win I will pass the bow to another cute Glamrbaby!

I get most of Ava's bows through Noelle because they are so cute and VERY well made.

Support GlamRbaby and tell Noelle I sent you!

2008-12-01T10:12:00.003-06:00

Here is the product overview of the Kindle that I copied and pasted from Amazon.com. I am kinda tired explaining exactly what the kindle is....so here you go.

Product Overview

Revolutionary electronic-paper display provides a sharp, high-resolution screen that looks and reads like real paper.
Simple to use: no computer, no cables, no syncing.
Wireless connectivity enables you to shop the Kindle Store directly from your Kindle—whether you’re in the back of a taxi, at the airport, or in bed.
Buy a book and it is auto-delivered wirelessly in less than one minute.
More than 190,000 books available, including more than 105 of 112 current New York Times® Best Sellers.
New York Times® Best Sellers and New Releases $9.99, unless marked otherwise.
Free book samples. Download and read first chapters for free before you decide to buy.
Top U.S. newspapers including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Post; top magazines including TIME, Atlantic Monthly, and Forbes—all auto-delivered wirelessly.
Top international newspapers from France, Germany, and Ireland; Le Monde, Frankfurter Allgemeine, and The Irish Times—all auto-delivered wirelessly.
More than 1000 top blogs from the worlds of business, technology, sports, entertainment, and politics, including BoingBoing, Slashdot, TechCrunch, ESPN's Bill Simmons, The Onion, Michelle Malkin, and The Huffington Post—all updated wirelessly throughout the day.
Lighter and thinner than a typical paperback; weighs only 10.3 ounces.
Holds over 200 titles.
Long battery life. Leave wireless on and recharge approximately every other day. Turn wireless off and read for a week or more before recharging. Fully recharges in 2 hours.
Unlike WiFi, Kindle utilizes the same high-speed data network (EVDO) as advanced cell phones—so you never have to locate a hotspot.
No monthly wireless bills, service plans, or commitments—we take care of the wireless delivery so you can simply click, buy, and read.
Includes free wireless access to the planet's most exhaustive and up-to-date encyclopedia—Wikipedia.org.
Email your Word documents and pictures (.JPG, .GIF, .BMP, .PNG) to Kindle for easy on-the-go viewing.
Included in the box: Kindle wireless reader, Book cover, Power adapter, USB 2.0 cable

ABC’s of Thanksgiving.

2008-11-27T22:46:00.002-06:00

Here is a list of things I am thankful for this year.

A - Ant killer. Yes, I am thankful for ant killer. (oh yeah--and Ava.)
B - Becky--the best sister and aunt in the world.
C - Coach Purses!!
D - Diet Dr. Pepper - Because without that I would be a serious "B" in the mornings. And afternoons.
E - my employees. The most loyal group I have ever had.
F - Family - I am thankful they put up with me.
G - Grandma--The one woman I wish I could be more like.
H - Hippo. That little pink stuffed animal purchased at a Grand Canyon gift shop was the best purchase my parents ever made.
I - internet--Without the internet I would never talk to my friends--old and new.
J - John. Goes without saying.
K - my KitchenAid mixer.
L - Laura--she forces me to be thankful and she doesnt even know it.
M - Mom and Dad -if we can be half the parents they are, I am doing good.
N - Norman, as in Susan Norman...my best friend.
O - Opportunity - The opportunity to start a new job next week.
P - Primrose- The best school ever.
Q - Quick Trip--best gas prices in town.
R - Rock Paper Scissors--the way we solve disputes at our house.
S - Sonic--like you didn't expect that.
T - toll tag--keeps me out of traffic and keeps you from being the subject of my road rage.
U - Upbringing--because after the things I have seen the last few weeks, I realize my parents raised me well.
V - Vacation - I LOVE traveling with my husband. And I can afford to do so.
W - Wii--brings my competitiveness to a whole new level.
X - I am thankful I have not had any xrays this year.
Y - year-end--2008 SUCKED.
Z - Zoo - Fun times with Ava!

Tuesdays Quote

2008-11-25T09:31:00.000-06:00

In any moment of decision... the best thing you can do is the RIGHT thing, the next best thing is the WRONG thing, and the Worst thing you can do is NOTHING.
-Theodore Roosevelt

A gift to myself.

2008-11-24T20:24:00.003-06:00

After all of this nonsense I deserve to feed my guilty pleasure. And since I have been offered a job I am going to be sporting a new Coach purse from the Zoe collection.

I'll wait until after Christmas to see if I need to buy myself the previously blogged about Kindle.

Another day, a day closer to leaving...

2008-11-24T18:37:00.003-06:00

So today I had the priveledge (HAHA) of breaking up a punch fest between 2 grown women fighting over a duvet. One started by pushing the other, the other punched in the shoulder, I told them both to get a life and get the hell out of my store. I told them if either touched the other on the way out or in the parking lot I would detain them (like I could do that) and press charges. I don't know if they left so willingly because they knew I was serious, or because I was yelling at them like an evil stepmother, or because they could see I was at my wit's end and I was just over it.

Funny thing is, if the dumb women would have looked at the bottom shelf they would have found more of the same duvet they were fighting over.

Then later I had another grown woman KICK ME IN THE SHIN because she didn't have a receipt to prove proof of purchase. When she kicked me I just laughed...because SERIOUSLY...REALLY...I told her my 4 year old doesn't kick and scream like that when she doesn't get her way. Another guest had words with the kicker and that made the kicker angry and she left.

Just another day in hell.

Yesterday

2008-11-23T10:03:00.001-06:00

Don't you just love those new moms with fresh pink little babies who think they know EVERYTHING about how to raise a newborn? You know...that 20 something mom with all the newest, trendiest gadgets..all supposed to be the best for this little baby. The one who INSISTS to any warm body that is listening that diposable diapers are evil and cloth diapers are going to keep the ice caps from melting..(just joking..she didnt say that.) The new mom who insists that the latest blogger on her blog roll has more advice to give than her own mom and grandmother.

Meet my latest idiot "guest" yesterday. She had a newborn (3 days young) out in the 45 degree cold winds. This little baby was super cute all dressed in pink and brown, with a GIGANTIC pink bow the size of my head attached to her head, curled up all nice in her carseat. The mom of this cute little thing was one of those cute little things herself, in her designer jeans that were no bigger than a size 4 and her Louis Vutton purse the size of a volkswagon beattle. You know..the ones we all love to hate but secretly envy... She wore this really beautiful white coat as well, really nice...

Anyways, the mother and grandmother of the new mom were pushing the cart through hell (LNT as you know it) as the new mom was barking orders about how to push the cart with baby Maddie sitting inside. The cart was one of those annoying carts with a wheel that does its own thing, so I told the new mom I would go get another cart for her. This 20 something splinter of a girl thanked me and called me HONEY when I gave her the new cart. (Insert an UGHHH... and also a eye roll..)

Before I tell you any more, let me tell you that I was 5 days away from turning 30 years old when I had Ava. I was around little kids and babies my entire life. I practically raised Becky when she was a baby because I wouldn't put her down. So my mom says. But when I brought my own child home, I was hopeless. My mom stayed with me the first week Ava was home and my mom has been on call since then. So..I am NOT saying I am God's gift to mothers. No way...maybe my mom is...but not me...

Anyways, this new mom is having a very heated conversation with her maternal family members about what type of towel is best suited for little Maddie. Does Maddie need Egyptian cotton yarn with longer loops for silky rich texture, or the pure hand picked cotton that has extra long generous terry loops for faster drying? Or should we go with the celebrity towel that is made with Pima cotton? OH...such deliberation on towels... I was asked for my opinion...I spoke to the maternal grandparents when I answered. I told them the Rachel Ray towels were IMO overpriced and the colors were appauling... my preference is the Genesis...but if we are buying new towels for a newborn...just go with this everyday oxford ultra that is soft and absorbant and will withstand tough wear. I told them that I bought Ava oxford towels to use in her bathroom and I have all different kinds of towels in my bathroom. The new mom was insulted that I thought she would buy her precious Maddie cheap towels. She dismissed me. ("You're dismissed." is actually what she said.) I told her to buy whatever she wanted for the baby. It didnt make me any difference.

But before I walked away, I had to tell this new mom who knew everything that old moms and new moms like myself might question where her head is when she is fighting over towels, but has her 3 day old child out in 45 degree cold and wind with no socks, no shoes, no hat, NO BLANKET, BUT in a super cute sleeveless princess onsie with a pink and brown tutu. YES...that is what precious Maddie was wearing yesterday. Mom has on a beautiful white coat...Maddie has purple feet and a purple head that is clashing with her GIGANTIC pink bow.

(I wore a sweater at work all day because it is so cold in the building.)

Normally I would not say anything to a guest like this...but when you talk to me like a dog I bark back with harsh words.

If you are wondering what towels she bought, she got some white promotional towels that are crap. (Sorry, ALL SALES FINAL!) She got the white because she didn't want any dyes to irritate Maddie. BUT..she also bought a cinderella mutli colored dye infested towel wrap that has a "PRECIOUS!!!" princess crown on the head. Makes no sense.

The mom of the new mom actually thanked me on her way out for what I said. She said her daughter (the 20 something) threw a tantrum in the car on the way over because she did not want a blanket on Maddie that would possibly squash the tutu. She said my comments embarrassed her daughter...which was a blessing...because the older mom knew if she said anything to her daughter she wouldnt get the chance to see her granddaughter for a few months.

It's just another day in hell.

A good quote that I like to read regularly.

2008-11-20T15:29:00.000-06:00

“Watch your thoughts, for they become Words.

Watch your Words, for they become Actions.

Watch your Actions, for they become Habits.

Watch your Habits, for they become Character.

Watch your Character, for it becomes your Destiny.”

I'm doing this for FREE!! From Oprah.com

2008-11-13T18:04:00.001-06:00

Overwhelmed by what to do with growing piles of your child's art projects? Peter has a great solution! "Take digital photos of their artwork, upload them to Snapfish.com, and they will send you back a beautiful, bound book of the kids' artwork. So, over time, you can build a library of your children's artwork—let the pieces go, but keep them in this form forever."

To help you get organized, Snapfish.com is offering The Oprah Winfrey Show viewers a free 8" x 11" custom-cover photo book! *

Create a Snapfish.com account now or log in to your existing account to receive this special offer. Get your free book!

* This offer is only good for one standard 20-page 8" x 11" custom-cover photo book per household. Coupon dispersal ends at 11:59 p.m. PST Friday, November 14, 2008. Free photo book must be redeemed by 11:59 p.m. PST Sunday, November 16, 2008. Offer does not include customary shipping and handling changes or additional pages. Offer applies only to mail-order delivery to U.S. customers. Offer cannot be combined with other coupon codes. Coupon cannot be resold or otherwise transferred and is void on the earlier of redemption or the offer end date.

Due to heavy demand, you may experience some slowness navigating to the website. Please be patient and try again later.

2008-11-09T21:46:00.002-06:00

>
Nana: Ava, what do you want for Christmas?

Ava: Roller Skates

Nana: What else?

Ava: That's all. I don't need anything else.

Later, I asked Ava what she wanted for Christmas. She told me her Nana already asked and she said roller skates. I asked, what else do you want?

Ava: Momma, let's think about it. THINK Momma.

Me: What?

Ava: Ain't I rotten enough?

This is true!

2008-11-08T13:14:00.000-06:00

"Every morning you are handed 24 golden hours. They are one of the few things in this world that you get free of charge. If you had all the money in the world, you couldn't buy an extra hour. What will you do with this priceless treasure? Remember, you must use it, as it is given only once. Once wasted you cannot get it back."

2008-11-04T09:03:00.003-06:00

2008-11-01T23:33:00.001-05:00

So you guys from Windthorst will understand this. No one else will.

We signed Ava up this year for religion class at Immaculate Conception. I didn't think there would be much adjustment for her to attend this weekly Sunday class, considering she goes to school Monday through Friday. Can I just tell you taking her to religion class is a beating? She HATES going. She tells me she does not like the teachers, she does not like the kids...I have to bribe her with donuts every Sunday just to get her to walk into the classroom. Last Sunday she cried the entire time, 75 MINUTES..I don't blame her teachers for cringing every time they see us. They probably think Ava is the worst child born, and I am the worst mother to give birth.

When I grew up religion class was part of our daily routine in elementarty and junior high school. We had religion class Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 730-8am. I wish I could give Ava such a privelege. The only way to make that possible is to enroll her in the Immaculate Conception private school. Tuition is not that expensive, probably no more than any other Catholic private school in the metroplex--and quite frankly, the tuition per semester would be cheaper than what we pay for Primrose per semester. The problem is Immaculate Conception is not convienant. The trip is probably 20 miles out of my way every morning (at least) which calculates into about 45 minutes of traffic. And then another 20 miles out of the way in the afternoon...which could be an hour plus extra in traffic.

So, which is more important? Convience?? Or introducing my child to the Catholic faith? The answer is quite clear. Unfortunately my lack of patience on the interstate and my unwillingness to give up precious free time is clouding my judgements.

I have to find a way to make Ava enjoy Sunday school AND participate. Some have suggested teaching the class myself, but I can tell you that that is simply not a solution at this time. Others have suggested I move back to Windthorst for Ava's sake. Again, I can assure you, that will not happen.

So, I must ask myself: How important is it TO ME to make sure Ava has the best religious education? The answer: I have to send her to private school. There is no other way.

The next question is this: How will I possibly maintain self control on the interstate for an extra hour and a half each day? I can barely maintain self control now...

Pray for me..and Ava...but mostly me.

Cutest Cat in the Neighborhood!

2008-10-31T21:47:00.001-05:00

I've decided!!

2008-10-31T07:43:00.003-05:00

The day I get the job offer, I am ordering a Kindle.

This little peace of electronic heaven has been calling my name for about a year now. I have actually had dreams about seeing the UPS man drive up to my house to deliver it. SERIOUSLY, I have! I haven't ordered it because I was kind of afraid my husband would think I was a dork.

Last week Oprah did a show about the kindle being her favorite new gadget. Not that I needed Oprah's opinion, but her excitement got me excited all over again. When I told John I wanted it, he was suprised. He said he thought about getting it for me for my birthday a few months back, but he thought I would think HE was a dork for getting it.

So, its settled. I'm getting a Kindle!!!

A day at the fair.

2008-10-30T18:57:00.003-05:00

She REALLY wanted her face painted. She wasn't so sure after I paid the money...

Ok, she's ok with her cat face!!

Notice the little blond boy checking out my kid. When the ride was over he RUSHED over to Ava's car and unbuckled her seatbelt. He helped her out of the car and pointed to the exit. The mom of the little boy was a little embarrassed, but I told her she had quite the gentleman!!

Her response to attention from BOYS!!!

A creative approach to redistribution of wealth.

2008-10-29T20:29:00.001-05:00

(This was in my inbox today and I felt the urge to pass along...)

Today on my way to lunch I passed a homeless guy with a sign that read "Vote Obama, I need the money." I laughed.

Once in the restaurant my server had on a "Obama 08" tie, again I laughed as he had given away his political preference--just imagine the coincidence.

When the bill came I decided not to tip the server and explained to him that I was exploring the Obama redistribution of wealth concept. He stood there in disbelief while I told him that I was going to redistribute his tip to someone who I deemed more in need--the homeless guy outside. The server angrily stormed from my sight.

I went outside, gave the homeless guy $10 and told him to thank the server inside as I've decided he could use the money more. The homeless guy was grateful.

At the end of my rather unscientific redistribution experiment I realized the homeless guy was grateful for the money he did not earn, but the waiter was pretty angry that I gave away the money he did earn even though the actual recipient appeared to need money more.

I guess redistribution of wealth is an easier thing to swallow in concept than in practical application.

Nana and Peeps Peeps

2008-10-23T21:55:00.002-05:00

Your presence is requested to come to our house and play Cowboys and Ghosts (??) with the kid.

Peeps Peeps is supposed to bring along a pink princess gun (??) to protect Ava from the COWBOYS.

She is not worried about the ghosts, only the COWBOYS.

This may have something to do with the childish actions her father displayed during the last NFL game in which a certain Dallas team got, well, you know....

The kid!

2008-10-23T21:49:00.004-05:00

Ava told me today she wants to move to a new house with a new family that only eats bread and jelly for dinner.

A few things.

2008-10-20T19:50:00.000-05:00

Just some things.
Here's a few things that have irritated me over the last couple of months.

1. I really think it is RUDE when I leave a message (not in the comment section, but a personal message) to someone, in the form of either asking a question or complimenting on an event in their life, and my message goes without a response. I mean really..I have a pretty hectic life, as we ALL do, but when I take the time to directly acknowledge you, common courtesy is to do the same. A couple of people on my "friends" list continue to live the high and mighty life they did years ago. Get a grip. I hope you aren't teaching your children to have the same hateful attitudes.

2. I hate that I some of my "friends" are notorious for not returning phone calls. I return phone calls within 24 hours. You know I do. A couple of "friends" had to be deleted from my phone this weekend because I was REALLY hurt over the lack of interest shown towards my own personal life issues that they know about. They know because I left them messages telling them about what was going on. AND, of course, they never returned the calls. But, I promise, when they read this they will call. I won't answer.

3. I hate that certain businesses do not recognize my loyalty to their "brand". They will no doubt question my actions (and theirs) when they realize I have left them.

Here are a few things that have simply AMAZED me over the last couple of weeks.

1. Long time vendor friends, past employers, and customers of my current store location and other store locations I have officed from have called offering incredible support, job connections and a few have even sent words of wisdom in the form of letters and cards to my home.

2. My wonderful liquidator who is working with me to close the store called me this morning to tell me that I have one of the best store teams she has seen in her 17 years of liquidating. You see, I was on vacation for the last 12 days and today was my first encounter with the liquidator. She said that my team worked so well with me gone...and that was an incredible reflection on me as their manager. She said she couldn't wait to meet me...that was pretty incredible. I don't deserve those kind words, but I will take them.

My image was no doubt tarnished when I told her I had marked out a wine refrigerator at her expense and had wine chilling in the office to get me through the afternoon!!!

I was joking...

3. Ava has a little friend at school who was put in a different class this past August. I dropped Ava off at school one day last week and when I left I noticed that this little girl was crying hysterically..I was like ohhh so sad....Miss Kendra had to take the little girl from her mom so the mom could leave. When we got outside of the classroom the mom told me that her child was crying because they saw Ava and I walking to her classroom and Hannah called out to Ava but we didn't hear, and Hannah misses Ava so much. The mom was practically in tears, which of course had me crying too, and she was saying Hannah comes home every day saying she misses playing with Ava. Now I make sure Ava tells Hannah hi in the morning and bye in the afternoon. This makes me SO PROUD of Ava.

Melissa, if you read this, you should put Hannah in Ava's class. But don't put Ava in Hannah's class.... :)

Our Destin Vacation

2008-10-17T19:23:00.006-05:00

We made the trip to Destin, Florida last week for Kevin and Traci's wedding. This little peace of paradise is freaking incredible!! If you have never been I would definately recommend going. We played on the beach all four days. The Gulf water was cold, tolerable for about 15 minutes at a time, but that doesn't stop an anxious 4 year old!! We (actually Ava) built fun sand castles while I easdropped on conversations about the presidental campaign, the bail out, the oil crisis, some "stupid" conferance this man was attending at the resort(stupid was his word), and I had quite a time sitting back and people watching--which happens to be my FAVORITE hobby. The BEST place to people watch is on the beach!!! The hotel resort we stayed in had nice heated pools. Ava learned to swim in this nice heated pool. I would have more pics to publish but most of my family chose to stay in the room and watch the TX/OU madness and various other sports programs. SOOOO...Ava and I enjoyed the beach by ourselves minus the camara.

Site of the wedding

Perfect sunset

Ava loves that Katie

Happy cousins

Katie to Ava: Your daddy is watching us with a camara.

People have asked

2008-10-17T19:04:00.002-05:00

Many people have asked why I don't blog on here more. Actually I blog quite a bit, just not here. I blog ALOT on myspace. I post ALOT more pics of Ava and our family on myspace. The reason is this: I can control who sees my myspace page. This little google analysis thing I have on my blogger page reveals some crazy stuff... so I don't know who all is looking on here. If you want to keep up more with the kid..and me and John, get a myspace. You can set your profile to private so only your friends see your page. You can even set certain blogs to private so only the friends you want reading specific blogs can read it.

I like myspace much better than facebook also. I rarely even get on facebook.

See ya at myspace if you want. You might be suprised at everyone you find on this crazy site!!

http://www.myspace.com/berende

You wonder what I have been up to?

2008-10-16T22:41:00.003-05:00

Well, I'm officially on the job hunt. I found out on October 7th, 4:59pm, that I would be losing my job. Corporate blames poor sales and the economy. The 20,000 employees (who survived the first 120+ store closings) that will be losing their jobs blame Mr. Leon Black and Mr. Bob DiNicola for mismanagement of corporate funds, lack of skill and know-how on running a multi billion dollar company and maintain its profit margins...

I would say more but, frankly, I am tired.

BUT, do me a favor. If you plan to shop a LNT in the next 11 weeks left of their existance, have a little compassion for the employees who are losing their jobs during such a poor economy, not to mention right before the holiday season. The liquidation sale that starts on Saturday is only starting at 10% off the entire store. Most of the inventory will be sold before it hits even 40% off.

I will have little tolerance for guests that come into my building looking to haggle over prices or try to return items bought ALL SALES FINAL. My team and I have worked way to hard, missed way to many family funtions preparing/executing the daily taskloads, preparing for corporate visits...to deal with such behavior. I have had to deal with miscommunications from corporate about this situation for the past year... I am now going to protect the employees who have been so extremely loyal to me. It's unfortunate I have to protect my associates from my guests.

I am lucky. I have a husband that can support our family on his salary. I have many, many friends in this company who will no doubt be hurting over this tragic state of affairs.

I will say this: I have never in my life had the priviledge to work for and with such great people. From the VP's, Regional Staff, DM's, my own peers, and then my own personal staff... I can't say enough great things about my staff. Eden, Jennifer, Melody: you ladies are part of the best team I have ever had the priveledge to manage. I will do everything I can to make sure you find great jobs. I have already started reaching out to my connections to get you placed.

Linens 'N Things to begin liquidation this week

By MAE ANDERSON
AP Business Writer

NEW YORK (AP) -- Specialty retailer Linens 'n Things, which filed for bankruptcy protection in May, plans to begin liquidation sales at its stores as early as Thursday after failing to find a buyer that wanted to operate the company.

"It's a straight going-out-of business liquidation sale," said James Schaye, president and chief executive of Hudson Capital Partners, one of the members of the investment group buying the company's assets. He expects the process for the company's approximately 371 remaining store locations will take about 11 weeks.

Last week, the Linens Holding Co., the parent of Clifton, N.J.-based Linens 'N Things, said it would put itself up for a sale in an auction on Tuesday.

The company agreed to a preliminary "stalking horse" bid from a joint venture between Gordon Brothers Retail Partners LLC, Great American Group LLC, Hilco Merchant Resources LLC, Hudson Capital Partners LLC, SB Capital Group LLC and Tiger Capital Group LLC for about $475 million for its assets.

A stalking-horse bid is an initial offer on a bankrupt company's assets from an interested buyer chosen by the company. Linens 'N Things planned an auction including the initial bid along with others for its assets on Tuesday, but since it received no other qualified bids, it canceled the auction, according to documents filed late Monday with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.

After facing weak sales and a slumping home furnishings market, Linens 'N Things, based in Clifton, N.J., filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May. In August, the company said it reached a plan of reorganization with the bankruptcy court. However, it later decided to auction its assets as conditions in the financial markets worsened.

Things I can control.

2008-10-02T10:13:00.002-05:00

I can control most things. Things like what Ava eats, drinks, watches on tv. I control who she interacts with, what books she reads, when she goes to bed.

Last night I realized she controls one thing: her body. And let me tell you, she CONTROLS it!

Last night I noticed her shaking her leg, which if you know me at all, drives me INSANE. (This hatred for all leg shakers started with my mom...she shakes her legs all day every day. I can feel her shaking her leg now..and she is an hour and a half away. UGHHHHHHH. And then I married a leg shaker. The house is shaking. KILL ME NOW!!!)

Ava wouldn't stop shaking her legs. Then I noticed the "dance." I told her to go to the bathroom. She refused. So I literally DRAGGED her to the bathroom, and MADE her sit on the toilet. So far, I'm still in control. She is on the toilet, but refusing to go. I can tell she needs to go, so "GO!!!" (This is me starting to lose control of my temper, which I tend to do with leg/body shakers.) "JUST GO ALREADY."

Then the mood changes. Something is terribly wrong. She has the most terrified look in her eyes. Not a look of fear of me, because I have lost control of my temper. She, unfortunately, is used to my own personal lack of self control. (That's not a proud blogging moment right there.) She is terrified of peeing. She starts crying uncontrollably, begging to get off the toilet. I ask what is wrong. She won't tell me. She calls for her daddy. Daddy comes in the bathroom too.

I'm totally lost. What's the problem? I'm losing all control...

John tells her to use the bathroom. Screaming ensues. A few hours later, after an emergency call to the pediatrician, a couple of baths, a TON OF BRIBES, and finally a rush to go to the emergency room, she pees.

Long story short, I believe she has a urinary tract infection. 48 hours will tell. The doctor thinks it is because of bubble baths. I think it is because I let her have soda. She is now enjoying the distastefullness that is cranberry juice.

I am also enjoying the distastefullness that is cranberry juice. Mine is on ice with a splash of vodka. This is how I regain control.

(No, I am not an alcoholic. I very rarely drink. So quit judging me.)

Random blog.

2008-09-25T19:28:00.001-05:00

Growing up my parents had a hidious avacodo green electric can opener. This can opener was so incredibly ugly that I was embarrassed to have anyone see it. Whenever our babysitter (or anyone for that matter) came over, I would hide the thing in the back of the cabinet. This can opener lasted until I was a senior in high school. So, we had this can opener for at least 17 years. When that can opener finally died my dad bought one of those crappy metal manual can openers. I think they still use it.

My grandma has a white electric can opener that has that fake wood panel on it, made by Black and Decker. She still uses that same can opener from when I was probably 5 years old.

When I was registering for my wedding, I wanted to register for an electric can opener, but John didn't want one. Didn't matter anyway, because on the night of my wedding one of my great aunts walked up to me and INFORMED me that I didn't register for an electric can opener and she got one for me. I was so excited.

That can opener lasted me about a year. Since then I have gone through 4 more electric can openers. I threw the latest victim away last night. (So, 5 can openers in 9.5 years of marriage.) I am preparing to buy another can opener tomorrow. This time I am bypassing the Black and Decker/Hamilton Beach brands and going for the Cuisenart for the stupid price of $49.99. At least I get a discount.

This is KARMA. If only I hadn't despised that avacodo green can opener. If only I had proudly showcased the thing on the counter for all to see.

I would give anything for an old avacodo green can opener that would last me 17 years.

Sarah Palin

2008-09-04T00:09:00.001-05:00

Wow!

I don't even have the words to describe how excited I am to have her run with McCain. Move over Hilary, there is a new woman about to make history!

First day of PreK.

2008-08-25T19:51:00.003-05:00

First day of school and she acted like she was on the catwalk! What a rotten kid!

Water Buffalo and Lions with Crocs

2008-08-21T20:43:00.000-05:00

I am so sad.

2008-08-18T18:23:00.000-05:00

I feel an incredible saddness over what has happened in Scotland. I did not know the woman who had her life taken, but I have on overwhelming sense of grief for her and her family. I do not want to begin to imagine how her family feels, but I do pray they feel the love I send to them. I have grieved all weekend for this woman. I don't think I have ever grieved so intensely for someone with whom I had no relations with. I pray that her family, with the help of friends and surrounding communities, can push past this devestating tragedy and live a blessed life.

A few months ago I was in Windthorst for a benefit. I remember getting out of the car with my husband and this van slowly drove by watching us. That man kind of gave me the creeps. Usually I can recognize the people who are driving past and watching us. Having people stare at us is something I have become accustomed to when I go home. I think everyone in Windthorst knows when a strange vehicle is in town. It might be that we are the only vehicle in the parking lot that does not have a Windthorst/Trojan/Trojanette decal. Anyways, I could tell that this van/man did not belong at the benefit. I told John to go back to the car and get my purse and camara because I didn't feel safe leaving them in the car unattended. (Usually I leave my purse in the car in Windthorst, at church, at my parents, whatever. That day in March was the first time I ever felt creepy on the beloved church hill. John noticed the van parked by the grotto when he went outside to get my stuff. He came back in and I told my dad I had a weird feeling. My dad went outside and looked for the van but it was gone. I dont know what he would have done had he found the van, but he went out looking for it. Maybe it was coincedense, but I think that man was out and about to search cars.

Point of my story, I guess the bubble of protection in the Windthorst/Scotland area has been burst. I've been gone from the area a long time, but I know how strong the sense of community is there still. I hope we all do our part and take care of this family who has been dealt such a devestating blow.

I'm not going to open the bag of politics, but I also hope this man is tried in Archer County. I hope the judicial system learns that any person who has to be registered as a sex offender does not have the right to be walking our streets and hurting innocent lives.

God Bless Mindy Daffern.

Keaton Issaic Berend

2008-08-10T23:24:00.002-05:00

He was born July 28th and he is a very healthy little boy. Kenslie is so great with him. We are so thankful!!

Ava's Birthday Party

2008-08-03T09:56:00.016-05:00

Ava started planning her Backyardigans party almost a year ago. She knew she wanted a Backyardigans theme and she really wanted the party in HER back yard. I was nervous about her plans for two reasons. First, there were not any Backyardigans party supplies available until about 2 months ago. The first time I saw the supplies at Party City I scooped up all I could find for fear of never finding them again. I knew I was going to have a dilema with finding a Backyardigans cake as well, but Sams got the template for the cake design 2 weeks ago. So, the way I see it, GOD really wanted Ava to have this Backyardigans party as well. The second reason I was nervous about the party is because I am NOT the hostess type. I HATE having parties where I have to be the planner.

We themed the party a Backyard Splash Bash and rented 2 large waterslides for the event. We also set up a kiddie pool for the little kids who may not like the water slides. We had our 2 gazebos up for shade and tables and chairs rented to make people more comfortable. In the house we layed down our painting tarps on the carpet as protection because we KNEW people would have to use the bathroom. That was John's idea and thank GOD he thought of it, or my carpet would be trashed.

Ava and her friends had tons of fun on the slides. They played and played. Then they ate and played more. A lot of the parents had a hard time getting their child off the slides when it was time to go.

After all the kids left we opened presents. Ava made out pretty well. I tried to put most of the toys away for a later date but that did not go over well. As soon as I got in the shower Ava had Becky take down some toys. Her favorite toy from the party I think is the barbie car or the Little People airplane. The least favorite is the barbie storage container I told Becky to buy.

I'm not really sure what Ava and Grandma are looking at, but it sure is a funny picture!!

I think the party was a success. When I counted there were 24 kids (not counting the newborn of course!!) and about 29 adults. Good times!

Backyardigans

2008-08-03T09:49:00.002-05:00

On Thursday we went to the Backyardigans Live concert. The concert was really great and Ava had a blast. She wanted SO BAD to go on stage and play with the characters. At the end she really wanted to give them all a hug as well, but the characters never came out. She settled for her Tasha magic wand and the Backyardigans Live tshirt.

I would have gotten more pictures before the show but some jerk...err..stage manager made me put my camara away. Becky and I were the only ones told to put our camaras away. There were actually people walking right up to the stage taking pictures and he didn't say anything to them. Oh well.

Backyardigans Live

2008-07-14T22:41:00.000-05:00

The Backyardigans Live will be at the MPEC on July 31st. We are taking Ava because the Backyardigans are her favorite. Her birthday party is a themed Backyardigans party held (where else?) but the backyard.

The amusing thing about this is that I have to travel to Wichita Falls to see them on tour, as there are no proposed tour dates in the DFW area. One reason we left WF was because there was nothing to do, yet we find ourselves going back because we have something to do.

Infomercial

2008-07-07T23:56:00.000-05:00

Over the last few months one of the best selling products in LNT has been the ped egg. It's this egg shaped grater for your feet. It is gross. I made fun of EVERY SINGLE PERSON who bought this item, including employees. (Get over it. I make fun of lots of guests!! And employees!!) The pictures on the packaging for the ped egg is disgusting. It shows a woman disposing of SO much dead foot skin. It actually looks like she is posing with a bowl of parmasean cheese. NASTY...

Well, today I become an official team member of GO PED EGG!! This thing is awesome. Disgusting, but awesome. The egg retails for 9.99 and is a great investment for the summertime--especially since it will cut down the pedicures to maybe once a month--if that!!

So, if you want fabulous looking feet/heels, get the ped egg. Since I am now a proud owner of Ped Egg I promise not to make fun of you. I cannot, however, promise to not make fun of you for some other reason!!

PS. Ped Egg is sold everywhere, but i prefer the ones sold at LNT.

Let's play catch up.

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

It has been a long time since I blogged about anything. Sorry about that. We have had a busy summer so far, and July and August are definately more hectic than any other months this year.

Work has been unusually stressful, although I have been blessed to not be working in a closing store. Only 5 stores are closing in the metroplex, but I have some very close friends in the Galleria, North Park, and East Plano. It saddens me the most to see the Galleria close. I worked there for some time, and it is our flagship store. I don't think I will even make the trip out there to see the store in its final days. To me, that is like watching the Titanic sink all over again. (Jenn, I would love to hear your thoughts on this!)

We have some home projects going on that are driving me nuts. We moved Ava into the bigger guest room. We have repainted and redecorated the room to suit her little personality. It is very girly, very pretty, and ALMOST complete. I will post some pictures soon of her room. We are now moving the guest room into Ava's old room, which will need to be completed by July 25th, when John's mom comes home from NY. That room just needs to be repainted and then I will clean the carpet. We are also in the beginning stages of relandscaping our front yard. I HATE yard work, so I want something low maintenance, but low maintenance seems to translate into not so pretty. I may have to have my grandma come teach me how to have a green thumb. Ughh..dreading it already.

Speaking of John's mom, she is in NY again for her annual summer trip. This trip is exciting because Richard and Carmen (John's aunt and uncle) are having a movie filmed in their house. The movie stars Richard Gere, Ethan Hawke, and a famous woman, I just forgot who she is. Richard and Carmen live in Brooklyn and are getting PAID (I mean PAID) to have this movie shot in their home. I wish we would have gone up there for a week to watch, but, alas, we must work.

Randy and Bethany are preparing to have my new nephew in a couple of weeks, (hopefully not on July 22 or July 29!!!)and I am praying Bethany has a safe delivery. She has been on bedrest since around 13 weeks, and let me tell you, she is handling this situation WAY better than I ever could. I am super excited for them to finally complete their family, and Kenslie is going to be a great sister!

Becky and Doug are in the sheetrock stage of their new house. I am excited to be the appointed "interior designer" on this project! Yea for me! They will only be about 5 minutes away from me. Can you say free babysitter!! I can!!

BTW--Save the date for August 2nd, which is Ava's backyard splash bash to celebrate her 4th birthday. We have 2 waterslides coming; one for toddlers and one for the "big" kids. Invitations are going out Wednesday in snail mail.

That's all for now. Please keep Randy and Bethany, Sam and Christy, Kevin and Jennifer, and Robert and Nora in your thoughts and prayers. They will all have new additions to their families this month!

Sale!!

2008-07-07T22:48:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite places to buy Ava's clothes--mainly dresses-- is having a great summer sale. I just stocked up on 6 summer dresses for next year for incredible prices. If you haven't checked out www.chezami.com yet, go there now!! Cute stuff!! You can thank me later!

2008-06-07T20:38:00.001-05:00

B4 Photography

2008-05-27T21:52:00.001-05:00

Here is a little sample of Ava's newest pictures.

The way my daughter thinks.

2008-05-18T23:09:00.001-05:00

I had to work all weekend. Yesterday I went in at noon. Here is our conversation.

Me: Bye Ava. I love you.

Ava: You go to work? I want to go with you?

Me: No, you stay home with Daddy and go shopping.

Ava: I want you to stay home with me.

Me: I have to work so Ava can have pretty things.

Ava: You buy me presents? Ok..go to work. I see my present when you come home.

Every time I called her on Saturday, all she asked about was her presents.

On Sunday I was getting ready for work and Ava came into the room and asked where her present was. Since I hadn't bought a present I told her she would get a present when I came home that afternoon--IF her room was clean.

John and Ava came by at work and Ava was determined to get me to go home with her. Since I still had work to do I couldnt leave, so she left very sad. When I came home tonight this is the conversation we had.

Ava: Momma, you tired? You work hard?

Me: Yes, I'm tired.

Ava: Momma, you not buy Ava present? (I shook my head no.) You buy Momma present? ( I shook my head no.) Momma, you buy you a present. You tired. Ok momma? I not want present. You want present.

Me: You want me to buy Momma a present?

Ava. Yes. That's ok. Nana will buy me a present anyway.

At least she wanted me to have something!

Happy Day

2008-05-11T11:21:00.002-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there!

My mom should be so happy.

2008-05-02T23:36:00.003-05:00

Ava is acting more and more like me it is insane. She already walks with her hands on her hips, nose in the air, and a UGHHH in her throat any time I tell her to do something. My friend Susan said it best--she is SO your daughter. Well, I can see my Mom laughing and laughing....

It is payback...

BUT--I love it!

We are back!

2008-04-26T22:20:00.003-05:00

So we came back from Hawaii today. I will post later about the trip, but instead of answering a dozen "Are you back yet?" emails, I decided to put out a blanket response.

Thanks for needing us back so bad! :)

9 years!!

2008-04-10T21:45:00.000-05:00

Today is nine years of marriage for John and I. The time goes by so fast. It's hard to believe that we dated for 6 years before we married..we have been together 15years. That is almost half of my lifetime. CRAZY!!

Conferance Call 101

2008-04-08T18:36:00.001-05:00

I learned on my 2 HOUR freaking conferance call today that I will need to sign a new employee acknowledgement form stating that I will not post anything about my company on myspace or my family blog. (All employees have to sign this, not just me.) So before I sign this acknowledgement I want blog that I work with so many ’Michael Scott’ personalities I sometimes want to drill holes in my head to balance out the pain and suffering. If you don’t know who Michael Scott is, watch a few episodes of "The Office" and you will get the idea. I also learned today that if I decide to mock any idea, suggestion, or plan that my boss has, the mute button MUST be on. I don’t think he liked my comments....

The Office

2008-04-07T22:40:00.001-05:00

New episodes start April 10th!! I am SO excited! If you haven;t seen this show you should so watch it. We all have had a Michael Scott as a boss!

Here’s the deal:

2008-04-01T23:38:00.000-05:00

One of my best friends quit her job at Parkland and started a new job. Why does this matter? Well, her old job had her sitting in traffic with me at 5pm. Her new job is working 3p-3a--no sitting in traffic for her. SO, I am taking applications for a new phone friend for my drive home. I warn you, I am not the most pleasant person to have a conversation with after a long day at work while sitting in Dallas traffic at rush hour. Qualified candidates must be able to tune out my moaning and groaning, must remember the names of all the employees I have that are on THE LIST, must be able to see through the phone and tell me to quit flipping off the idiot beside me, and also have the guts to tell me to pull over because I need a drink. ( Dt. Dr P of course!) Please know that if you do apply and are chosen for this horrible position, you will be saving the lives of many idiots in the DFW metroplex. Good for you.

And to Susan: Shame on you for not giving me a month notice. I am not finding an adequate replacement.

Answers to the test!

2008-04-01T23:19:00.001-05:00

Answers to the test.

Question 1
Whose wedding did I cry at most?

My own

Becky and Doug

Randy and Bethany Correct!

Stacy and Jeremy

I cried like a blubbering idiot and my sister stood there laughing at me.

Question 2

Who did I call when I found out I was pregnant?

John

Becky

Mom

Stacy Correct!

I called Stacy and left a FRANTIC message telling her to call me back immediately, which she did, because she was afraid someone had just died. Sorry about that Stac.

Question 3
If I HAD to move out of state, where would I go?

New York Incorrect

New Mexico

Oregon

Colorado

If I HAD to move, I would HAVE to move to Oregon because John’s corporate office is in Portland.

Question 4
What household task do I hate the most?

Mopping Incorrect

Cleaning Toilets

Laundry

Vacuuming

My sister answered mopping because she said "in the 2 months I lived with you I never saw you mop." Actually, I did mop when she was here. BUT, she probably NEVER saw me do laundry, because I HATE laundry.

Question 5
What is my dream vacation?

Europe

Hawaii

Antartica

Australia Correct!

So going to Australia on my 10 year anniversary; he just doesn’t know it yet.

Question 6
What program do I TIVO religiously?

Oprah

House Hunters

Survivor

The Backyardigans Incorrect

I watch House Hunters religiously. I have seen every episode since 2000.

Question 7
If I were to be on a reality show, which one would I choose?

Project Runway

Top Chef

Amazing Race Correct!

Big Brother

John and I would SO win this race. I would have to drive though; I can’t read a map to save my life.

Question 8
Which guilty pleasure does my husband give me the most grief about?

Overpriced car washes Incorrect

Pedicures

Sonic Happy Hour

My twice a month maid.

Sonic Happy Hour. Get over it. It’s 96 cents. And I have TONS of gift cards. :)

Question 9
I would love being a stay at home mom.

True

False Correct!

If I stayed home my kid would go mental faster than Britney Spears.

Question 10
How long have John and I been together?

5 years

10 years

12 years

15 years Correct!

We met in 1993, got married in 1999. So, dated 6..married 9. Yea for us!!

Cutest Bow Holders Ever!

2008-04-01T20:38:00.002-05:00

Babies

2008-03-28T17:48:00.000-05:00

There are so many people having babies around here. I visited Jacqueline today and she had Reagan I think on the 18th. Before I left John told me to hold the baby and see if I had "baby fever." WELL, I have absolutely NO desire to have another child. I help that precious little girl and smelled her sweet smelling head and--nothing--no "fever" came across me.

It’s not even fun buying baby presents anymore.

So you crazy people can just lay off. (hmmm...REBECCA!!!!). And if by some stroke of "luck" Ava does get a sibling, I’ll let you say I told you so. Then you can babysit while I go on a cruise. :)

GlamRBaby

2008-03-21T22:50:00.005-05:00

If you haven't heard me talk about the FABULOUS Noelle with GlamRBaby, well, listen up! This lady makes the most beautiful clothing, bows and accessories for PRINCESSES!! Ava absolutely ADORES the bows we get from Noelle. Go visit her website at www.myspace.com/glamrbaby.

Here are a few pics.

I took Ava to see "Horton hears a Who" this afternoon and she insisted on dressing up. She wore a brown and pink dress today that I got from Dillards and although the dress is cute, MANY people told me the bow made the outfit. Many people came up before the movie asking me where I got the bow. I actually had a couple of GlamRBAby's cards left over from Libby's benefit and I gave them out. On the way out of the theater another lady at the concession stand told me how beautiful Ava is (of course!!) and how she definately looked like a DIVA with that bow!! HAHA Ava took offense though and told her "I NOT A DIVA" and "that not nice." I almost peed my pants!! Priceless!!

2008-03-21T22:45:00.002-05:00

Here is a late post of the snow we got a couple of weeks ago. We had about 4 inches.

We made a pathetic snowman, called "Princess Snowman." We tried to make a regular snowman, but someone lacked patience. You can guess who that was...

journal Jar 3/9

2008-03-09T23:48:00.003-05:00

The next 5 questions from the jar!!!!!

Question 1:Tell about your favorite aunt or uncle. Were you close? What do you remember most?

Answer: My favorite is Ronald. I liked hanging out with him as a kid because I thought he had a cool car and a pretty girlfriend. He used to babysit us and let me wash the dishes! He told me that I always BEGGED to wash the dishes and I made Daryl dry.

Question 2: Describe your first home as a young couple.

Answer: We moved to Albuquerque right after our honeymoon and lived in an apartment. Typical one bedroom apartment.

Question 3: Did you have a close relationship with any of your grandparents? Tell about it.

Answer: I absolutely ADORE my Grandma Berend. She used to take me shopping with her when I was a kid--read my blog about that--she also is the best cook in the world! She makes the best comfort food around. I could write forever why she is so great but only I would be interested in reading it!

Question 4: Did you trick-or-treat on Halloween as a child? Describe your childhood experiences.

Answer: We used to go to town and hit the same streets. Year after year the houses always had the same treats. Like Michael's grandma Schroeder always had popcorn balls. And that crazy old man that lives on a certain street always gave us a nickel. And Connie Steinberger had the best full size candy bars in town. She always lined them up on the table by her door and we could pick anything we wanted. She had every imaginable candy bar on that table. I wonder if she still has the best candy in town??!!! We always went to Grandma Berend's house first and she gave us each a big bag of candy. I remember one Halloween in particular when we all dressed up as clowns with those plastic masks that didn't let you breathe. After we came home I surveyed all the candy that Daryl, Randy and I had and I started bargaining. I gave Randy all my smarties for all his snickers. I gave Daryl all my suckers and hard candy for ALL his chocolate. When my dad found out what was going on I got in SOOO much trouble. HAHA Dumb brothers...

Question 5:Do you have a favorite sport, talent or gift?

Answer: My favorite sports to watch are Mavs basketball, gymnastics during the olympics and competition cheer/dance when it is at Disneyworld.

Bonus question:What were the favorite places to go when you were young?

Answer: Grandma's house, Runaway Bay, Six Flags. Or playing in the trees at Great Grandpa's house. Good times.

Journal Jar

2008-03-09T23:42:00.003-05:00

Journal Jar 3/8/08

So here it goes!(I'm drawing a slip of paper with the questions on them from the jar)

Question 1: Describe a typical day in elementary school.

Answer: Typical day in elementary....
-Religion Class
-Class
-Recess
-Lunch
-Class again
-PE
-Ride bus home

Question 2:Have you ever sung in a group, a choir or a band? Describe it.

Answer: No

Question 3:How did you like being the oldest, youngest or middle child? What were the advantages or disadvantages?

Answer: I like being the oldest. I don't think it comes with advantages. I think my sister got all the advantages.

Question 4: Describe getting a Christmas tree as a child, when did you put it up and decorate it?

Answer: Sometimes we had real, sometimes we had fake. We put it up whenever my Mom told us to. It was decorated with all those homemade ornaments we made in elementary school.

Question 5: Tell about a trip your family took as an adult that you particularly enjoyed.

Answer: WE went to Port Aransas this past summer for Ava's birthday, and although not everyone got to go, those of us who did go had an amazing time. We had fun on our dolphin tour and building our professional sand castle. Ava had so much fun she is insisting on going back to the beach. The beach is her FAVORITE place!!

Moments like this.

2008-02-28T22:52:00.001-06:00

Today was supposed to be a relaxing day off. Being with Loss Prevention all week at work has left my muscles tight, my head swimming, and frankly, I'm a little agitated. My husband thought it would be a great day to have Ava at home so we could play. I wasn't in the mood to play. I was in the mood to sleep off the rest of this flu bug and watch some Oprah on Tivo. Instead I watched ALOT of the Smurfs. I colored ALOT. I played ALOT.

John took us out for lunch. We went to OTB. When we got our food Ava bowed her head and said her prayer.

Thank you for the food we eat,Thank you God for Everything.

AMEN

The waitress stood there in shock. I should have felt like the best parent in the world, but I know that I didn't teach her the prayer. Primrose did. Still, I was so proud of my child.

At bedtime Ava and I read her Backyardigans book. We played airplane and turned her music on. When it was time to say prayers she told me to listen. I listened. She recited the Pledge of Allegience. Hand over heart. With tears in my eyes I asked her to say it again. She did. Again, I didn't teach this to my child. I didn't even know she said the Pledge of Allegience at school already. It was another proud moment.

I am so glad Ava stayed home with me today.

We didn't dodge the bullet.

2008-02-17T23:18:00.002-06:00

The flu has found its way into our home. Ava has been sick since Thursday and John is sick now. Actually, Ava was doing pretty well today. She hadn't had a fever since Saturday morning. She went to her dance recital feeling just fine. She played with Becky and Doug tonight, but at bedtime starting running a fever again. Great. Now we probably infected her entire dance class. John is running a 102.7 fever. He has slept all day long, even missing Ava's recital. The only thing he will eat is jelly sandwiches. I don't know what is so special about jelly sandwiches. I have managed to miss the bug, although Wednesday night at Ava's dress rehearsal I thought I was going to die from that headache I had. I went home Wednesday night and went to bed by 8 and was just fine the next morning.

I hope this bug leaves our home soon. It is no fun.

2008-02-17T22:58:00.003-06:00

Ava is third from the right.

Again, 3rd from the right.

Ava and friends.

Let me tell you what she is thinking here: "PUT DOWN THE CAMARA MOMMA! GEEZ!"

If you won't put down the camara, take a picture of this.

And the trophy!

Childhood Memories

2008-01-24T20:54:00.001-06:00

Childhood memories

I read something in the WF paper today that made me sad. They are closing the Piccadilly Cafeteria in the mall. Why does that make me sad? Well, I have many a childhood memory tied to that restaurant. For so many years I would go to Wichita with grandma and Mary. Those were the best Saturdays of my life. We would go shopping at the downtown Sears, then eat at Piccadilly and end the day with grocery shopping at United--the United on Jacksboro highway that closed to build the newer one next door.

Going to Wichita with Grandma was WAY better than going with my Mom. Going with Mom meant that my brothers were going to. UGGHH!! Grandma ALWAYS bought me something special at Sears. She always let me have the coconut pie at Piccadilly (she would get the chocolate pie and we would share pies), and she always got a bag of those little caramel squares at United for me to take home to my brothers.

My grandma had to quit taking me to Wichita after a few years because she never took the other grandchildren--just me. Seems there was a little family jealousy..whatever..no bitterness...wait..yes there is.

Closing that restaurant is kind of like trying to steal those precious memories. I'll have to go to Windthorst before next Friday and take my Grandma to lunch. My treat this time. I can already taste the coconut pie...

2008-01-11T22:16:00.001-06:00


..

The difference between Momma and Daddy

2008-01-09T16:27:00.001-06:00

Ava loves routine. She has been on the same routine since she started school at Primrose, back when she was 12 weeks old. The school is so great at following the same routine from classroom to classroom, teacher to teacher. I really think it is up to the parents to maintain a routine at home. I am not so good with routine. At least not in MY life. But with Ava, I stick to her school routine even when I keep her at home. Little things, like snack at 10 or lunch at 1145, nap at 1230--we follow the schedule.

Morning time is Ava's Daddy time. They both are early risers. They get up and eat breakfast together every morning. Then they sit on the couch and watch cartoons until it is time to get ready for the day. Ava practically has the morning Daddy routine down to knowing the exact minute when she needs to quit watching cartoons and get dressed. Daddy gets her to school at precisely the same time every morning. Daddy picks her up from school at the same time every day. Daddy LOVES routine also.

Well, Daddy is out of town this week. Momma is NOT a morning person. Momma gets out of bed after hitting the snooze 8 times, rushes into a 3 minute shower, and gets dressed for work in 15 minutes. Momma is a "here, eat a piece of bread in the car til they serve breakfast at school" kind of Momma. My lack of a morning routine really throws Ava for a loop. She gets that ARGGGG look on her face. Basically she puts up with me.

Today I took a holiday and stayed home with Ava. I wanted to suprise her and have breakfast at the table, watch cartoons--like she does with her Daddy. She gets up, sees me and says "that's ok Momma. I eat marshmellows. Momma go take nap."

I guess she reserves her morning routine only for her Daddy.

Does this make me sad? Heck no. It makes me realize how incredible my husband is at being a Daddy.

There are definately routines Ava and I have that she loves. She loves our bedtime routine--the way I read her stories at night and how I play airplane with her, hippo and our new friend "Little Monkey" (see my Build a Bear blog) every night. She loves our shopping days, where we leave Daddy at home and get all dressed up and hit WalMart and Target, with a Sonic stop in between. Well, we go to other places besides WalMart and Target--but those are her two favorites. She especially loves the stops at Barnes and Noble because she gets double pleasure..first she plays with the trains they have set up, and she ALWAYS gets a new book. Also, she loves that I "bounce" with her on the trampoline, that I color the sidewalk with her...

And to answer your questions..yes, I did let her have marshmellows this morning for breakfast, and no--I did not go take a nap after she saw I was up. We watched Franklin and then the Wizard of Oz. We had lunch and then a nap. Then we got all dressed up and went on a shopping trip that included Walmart and Target, with a Sonic happy hour stop in between.

Christmas at Nana and Grandpa's

2008-01-05T23:27:00.000-06:00

What a dork!!

Ava loves that Doug.

Anything Backyardigans makes Ava very happy!!

Doug hangin' out!

First present at Nana's house.

Ava and Kenslie

2008-01-05T23:20:00.000-06:00

Mom and Dad took Ava to see Randy, Bethany and Kenslie for Christmas. Ava loves to see Kenslie. Here are a few pics.

In the car.

Silly girls!

Moon Sand!!

Opening Kenslie's presents!