The Miles Family Adventures

HAPPY BIRTHDAY....

2009-06-06T21:01:00.003-04:00

Today (well, yesterday in Australia) is Evan's 21st birthday!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVAN!!!

Huh? What?

2009-05-27T12:46:00.003-04:00

Chandler just walked into the room wearing an old Halloween costume...

Halloween 2006
3 Years Old

C: "Mom? Does this dress make me look skinny?"
J: "Yep. It sure does Chan."
C: "Yeah. I thought so. That's why you shouldn't give it to me"
J: "What? Why?"
C: "Because it makes me look skinny."
J: "Oh. Well what's wrong with that?"
C: "MOM!" (said like I had just totally offended her!)
J: "What? What's wrong with it? Do you think I'm skinny?"
C: "Uh... No."
J: "Well what am I then?" (cringing and waiting for her response...)
C: "You are... nice... and smooth."

HUH? WHAT?

Then she ran off to change into another costume.

Strange child!

oh i can't WAIT for your responses...

2009-05-26T09:06:00.006-04:00

so back in april i got my nose pierced...

well this weekend...

i got a tattoo. :)

yes. it's large. i know.

Trish and I took a trip back to Nashville to hear the band, Josh Garrett and the Bottomline.
While we were there we decided to get tattoos... it was totally a spur of the moment thing. I have been talking about possibly getting one for a while and I already had a few ideas of what I wanted. I showed Jay (my tattoo artist) a picture of what I had found online and he said, "can I draw you something better?"
:)

so, he did...

on my back...

with a marker...

lol

me excited... thinking "getting a tattoo isn't so bad"

the finished drawing

me gripping that chair for dear life

it hurt! i'm not gonna lie to you!
thinking, "wow... maybe it's not as easy as i thought it would be!"

it hurt so much that i cried!

AND i told Jay it was worse than child birth. lol

ok, looking back on it... just based on the pain factor... it rivals child birth because you can't get an epidural for a tattoo! :)

(it's not red like that anymore...)

no. i am not crazy. no. i have not lost my mind.

i wanted a tattoo. the opportunity presented itself. i did it. :)

and...

I LOVE IT!

Live Blogging...

2009-05-06T12:27:00.002-04:00

These words are currently coming out of Riley's mouth as she sits in front on Annie on the floor at my feet...

"Mommy. Annie Cute!"

"Mommy. Annie have eyes!"

"Mommy. Annie tail."

"Tail Mommy"

"Tail Mommy"

"Mommy see? Annie Tail"

"Hey Annie"

"Mommy. Annie ears."

"Awwww... mommy! Annie toes." (that one cracked me up!)

"Annie? See toys?"

"Annie? Play?"

"Annie? Sweepy?"

"Annie? Go poop?"

"Annie Outside?"

"Wywee sneaky puppy"

"I sneaky puppy"

"Annie. Hey!" (while squeezing Annie's face)

"Ouch Annie" (after Annie clawed at Riley to get away... lol)

Did I mention she was screaming periodically? Good Grief!!

Looking for a job?

2009-05-03T09:07:00.002-04:00

Times are hard. The economy is "dodgy". People are "fortunate" if they have a job right now... not a job they love... just a job.

So, I have an offer for you...

I STINK at puppy training! I'm seriously toying with the idea of hiring someone to train my puppy NOT to poop or pee in my house!

Anyone need a job? :)

**Oh! If you can potty train Riley in the process I would be eternally grateful!

Meet Annie

2009-04-25T16:29:00.006-04:00

Here is the newest member of our family...

Annie is 8 weeks old.
She is a Black Lab mix (possibly some Chow)

I picked her up yesterday before I got Chandler from school.
Riley loved her right away!

She likes to nip quite a bit, but we're working on that.

We decided to go to a park at the University last night for a picnic dinner.
Annie went along for the ride...

She travels in the car VERY well.

When the girls crashed between 9:30 and 10 last night... so did Annie.
She claimed a spot on the bathroom floor and passed out!

Riley's favorite new thing is to come into the room and say, "where annie?"
or "there annie! she sweeping" (sleeping... no, i haven't trained her to sweep the kitchen... YET!)
or "NO NO Annie! NO NO!"
or "Mama! Annie!"

Basically anything to do with Annie...

Chandler is doing well with Annie.
She has taken her out to go potty a few times.
When she took her out this morning, Annie pooped. Here's our conversation...
C: "Mom. I need a napkin."
J: "Why Chan?"
C: "Annie pooped in the grass."
J: "That's ok. We are trying to teach her to go potty outside."
C: "But someone might step in it. I need to pick it up."
J: "Ummm... ok Chan. If you really want to."
C: "I do."

Uh... what? She WANTED to pick up dog poop!

She isn't my kid!! :)

WELCOME TO THE FAMILY ANNIE!

ho chee!

2009-04-24T10:59:00.001-04:00

no, we're not moving to china or studying chinese! lol

that's riley's newest "catch phrase"... "ho chee!"

any idea what it means?

"HOLD ME!" or maybe "HOLD YOU!" since lots of kids say that when they want to be picked up!

it makes me laugh every time she says it! and she says it A LOT!

All About Riley

2009-04-23T11:14:00.004-04:00

Wow! This kid cracks me up!

Here are a few pictures of Riley from the past few months...

February:

Riley and Me riding the carousel at Zoo Atlanta

NO FEAR!
Feeding the giraffes at Silver Springs

Licking Ranch Dressing out of a cup!

March:

Waiting for Chandler to get out of school

My "human scrapbook" as Denise called her!

April:

Sick day! :(

Salt on spaghetti-Os?

Apparently salt on spaghetti-Os is good.

Diva Riley

Date night at Chick-fil-A

Waiting to see the pediatrician!

New on the Twilight front...

2009-04-23T09:56:00.006-04:00

Ok, you KNOW I've been in a bloggy-funk when I haven't posted ANYTHING Twilight related since January!!!

In case you aren't in on the Twilight craze... the movie based on the 2nd book in the series, New Moon, is currently being shot.

Because Jennifer loves me she sent me this link about New Moon the movie!

"The Wolf Pack"

Here are a few other sites for you to check out if you are interested in the upcoming movie... due to release in the U.S. November 20th of this year (Happy birthday Aunt Karen... guess what I'm giving you for your birthday? Can anyone say "movie tickets"?? lol)

Stephenie Meyer: New Moon Movie

IMDB.com New Moon Movie

In other Twilight news...
The "go ahead" for the 3rd book has been given and here's part of an article about the director for "Eclipse":

DAVID SLADE TO DIRECT SUMMIT ENTERTAINMENT'S THE TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE

Los Angeles, CA April 22, 2009 — Summit Entertainment announced today that David Slade has been hired to direct THE TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE from a screenplay written by Melissa Rosenberg. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE, the third film in the studio's TWILIGHT film franchise based on the Stephenie Meyer's blockbuster book series, will be released theatrically in North America on Wednesday, June 30, 2010. The announcement was made by Erik Feig, Summit's President of Production.

Now, I for one, am a little confused about why they are choosing to go with yet another director when "New Moon" hasn't even finished shooting yet... but no one asked me my opinion when they were making this decision so I guess I'll just have to trust their judgement (whoever "they" are!).

The truth comes out...

2009-04-18T10:10:00.003-04:00

This morning over breakfast, I was telling Brandon about my post last night (Chick Chatter).

Chandler chimed in with this little nugget of truth:

C: "Hey Mom. In a little while, when Riley is bigger (translation: in a few years), and I say 'Hey Riley. I'm going to the zoo!', she will say, 'HEY! NO FAIR!!', because she will want to go to and she can't!" (followed with a smug grin)

That's my girl! :)

Chick Chatter...

2009-04-17T23:22:00.002-04:00

Conversation between Chandler and Riley on the way to school this morning:

C: "Hey Riley! Guess what!"
R: "Wha Channer?"
C: "I'm going to the zoo today."
R: "Oooo. Cool."
C: "Yeah. It will be so much fun."
R: "Ok Channer."
C: "A LOT of fun."
R: "Ok Channer."

Obviously Riley was either
A) unimpressed with Chandler's field trip to the zoo.
B) didn't understand that Chandler was going to the zoo.
C) Wanted to see if she could irritate "Channer".

:) I'm kinda putting my money on a combo of B and C!

I can't believe I forgot to tell you...

2009-04-15T07:53:00.002-04:00

MY SISTER IS PREGNANT!!!

Yes, I will be an aunt again... and according to my sister, I'll be a "real-life blood related aunt". Are their additional perks to be a blood related aunt as opposed to a marriage related aunt? I don't know. :)

So, sometime in December (she goes to her 1st doctors appointment next week) I'll have a new niece or nephew.

Chandler is rooting for a boy.
Joel (Erin's husband) is rooting for a boy.

I would kind of like a girl... I "know" girls.
But, a boy would kind of break up the "girlness" of family get togethers.
Plus, thanks to my cutie nephew, Colten, I'm learning about what boys like. :)
AND... Watching Jeremiah these past few months has been good practice!

And in other news... Chandler announced at dinner last night that she and Trevor said the Pledge of Allegance for the whole school!
I didn't know she even KNEW the pledge!

Alert the Presses....

2009-04-14T10:31:00.003-04:00

SHE'S BACK!

Ok, Kristy made me feel guilty for such a long blogging break. But honestly people... I had NOTHING to blog about... well, nothing I could really share publicly! lol

But... now I do!

The weekend BEFORE Easter, we took a trip to Nashville (Me, Brandon, Brian and Trish) to see the comedian, Brian Regan. If you haven't heard of him, I suggest you look him up on YouTube... funny funny stuff. :)

While in Nashville, Brian spotted this sign... Trish and I HAD to have our picture made with it!

Makes you wonder if we participated, doesn't it? lol

Here's an update on my 30 Things to Do Before I'm 30:

#2: Plan a trip with my high school buds. IN PROGRESS!

#4: Visit Elementary School friends in Decatur, Ga. POSSIBLE TRIP IN THE WORKS!

#5: Stop biting my nails... AGAIN. CHECK!

#7: Run a 5k on March 28.
Sadly, this did not happen. Between the extremely cold weather, my crazy illnesses, and Brandon's work schedule, we just didn't get to train for it the way we needed to.

#14: Audition for a play. CHECK!
Our church had an Easter musical last weekend. I auditioned for an acting part. :)
I was Mary Magdalene. Yes, former "lady of the night". lol

#25: Wear a Cute Hat. CHECK!
I've worn this hat several times lately... everyone seems to like it.
Except my Aunt Karen. She says it reminds her of Barney Fife when he gets frustrated and pulls his hat down real hard! lol

#27: Remodel our bathroom. ABOUT TO BE IN PROGRESS! YAY!

In other news... Yesterday I got my nose pierced!

It hurt like crazy, but I love it and would do it again in a heartbeat!

Chandler took this picture. It's a little blurry and there's still blood around the piercing. I'll try to take another one soon.

So, what had everyone else been up to?? :)

sometimes looking back can be funny...

2009-03-31T13:59:00.004-04:00

sometimes it brings up painful memories.

in high school i kept a few different journals.

i burned some of them... lol. for therapeutic reasons!

i still have a few of them.

occasionally, i'll go back and flip through them.

some entries in those journals always stick out to me, but sometimes "new" things stick out. i'm sure that has to do with where i am in life at the particular moment i'm reading them.

today i saw one of them sitting near my scrapbook table so i flipped it open to the first page and this is what i had written...

"when you REALLY love someone, you don't need space. when you REALLY love someone, the space and the distance hurts."

just after that, there was a note to flip to a particular entry dated a little while later. that entry had a highlighted section. it said...

"what does it mean with the space STOPS hurting?"

now, i know what that entry meant at the time that i wrote it (and who it was written about)... no, i'm going to tell you... :)

i also know what it means to me now... no i'm not telling you that either! lol

i did laugh when i read those two entries because it reminded me of how superficial "love" was at that time in my life.

it made me sad because i remember how much unnecessary hurt i exposed myself to... over and over and over again.

it made me glad that i'm not in high school again!

it made me worry that my girls may (and probably will) face that same kind of hurt.

it made me realize that those entries have helped make me who i am today.

not back... just yet...

2009-03-30T15:05:00.002-04:00

i'm not really back to blogging just yet, but i had to share the conversation i just heard in the car:

Chandler needed a new school folder so she gave Riley her old school folder. While we were in teh carpool line, Riley thought it was funny to drop it and laugh then call for me to pick it up.

C: "Riley. Stop dropping that folder."
R: giggling "Mommy. Up"
C: "Riley. Stop it. I really mean it."
R: giggling "Mommy. Up"
C: "Riley. Look at my eyebrows! They are not happy!"
R: hysterical laughter!!!

I admit I started cracking up too!

J: "Chan? What did you just say?
C: "I said, 'look at my eyebrows. they are not happy!'"
J: "That's what I thought you said. You are a funny kid."
C: "I know!"

Yes. Horrible. I know.

2009-03-23T01:29:00.001-04:00

I know. I've been a horrible blogger.

You know when you just get into that "funk". The kind where you think to yourself, "I DON'T WANT TO TALK TO ANYONE TODAY! JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!!"

That's me... lately anyway. I'm sure I'll see the light at the end of the tunnel and then I'll be back to "normal"... or whatever that is for me! :)

I really do miss my bloggy friends. I've really tried hard to keep up with all of you... forgive me for not commenting on your posts... I'm horrible... I fully recognize that!

Quick and to the point...

2009-03-12T22:42:00.002-04:00

It may be a few more days before I get back into the blogging routine...

I spent 2 days this week in bed with what I was guessing was a sinus infection. I took Nyquil and drank lots of water...

Last night about 10pm my right ear clogged up... it did the same thing last Friday right before I had to sing, but about 2 hours later it was fine...

Last night... NOT SO FINE.

At about 11pm, I was in so much pain I was crying! It felt like someone was stabbing a knife in my ear!

I couldn't lay down in bed... that made it worse.

I took my pillow and blanket to the sofa and propped myself up... no relief.

At 4am, I woke Brandon because I couldn't take the pain anymore. I was sobbing... I hate getting that worked up over anything! It was the UGLY CRY!

At 4:30am, I drove myself to the Emergency Room (I didn't want to get the girls out of bed!).

The prognosis was this...
*Sinus Infection (I KNEW IT!)
*Ear Infection (I was pretty sure of that)
*Eardrum Perforation (HAD NO CLUE!)
*Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (I don't even know what that is!!!)

So basically, I came home in just as much pain as when I left, but was given a prescription for Hydrocodone... my best friend from my surgery back in September! I had some left over so I popped one in and fell asleep about 6:30am.

Brandon took Chandler to school and picked up Jeremiah. He worked from home today and let me sleep till almost 10, when Jeremiah decided to wake up.

So as long as I stay on the hydrocodone or extra strength tylenol, I'm feeling ok... beside the fact that my ear is still clogged up!
I've got amoxicillin for the sinus infection and ear drops for the ear infection.

When I can sit up right and type without grabbing my face or ear in pain... I'll get back to blogging!

Hope everyone else is having a better week than I am!

Has it really been over 2 weeks?

2009-03-07T11:38:00.003-05:00

Wow! I haven't blogged in over 2 weeks!

Life has just been CRAZY! Evan was here for 2 weeks and we've been trying to get back into our "regular" routine... if there is such a thing!

I just haven't felt like blogging...

and sadly, my Project 365 went down the tubes when my camera decided to stop working properly. It was just too hard to keep up with it using my camera on my phone. :(

But here's a picture I took a few minutes ago...

is it ok to bribe my kid with M&Ms to make her poop in the potty?

If it were working, I would say yes... so far, no such luck!

Oh yeah! I forgot to mention that Riley turned 2 on March 2nd! Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!

And it only took 7 hours and 45 minutes...

2009-02-19T23:46:00.002-05:00

I'm pretty sure that's a record.

It's normally an 8 hour drive from my home in Tennessee to my parents' home in Florida, but that's with Brandon driving... :)

Apparently I drive a tad bit quicker.

I have a picture to post, but I can't get to it from here... *sigh* I'm beginning to see a trend as of late.

So, almost 8 hours on the road after an already full morning... I'm exhausted and GOING TO BED!

Night!

Only in the south...

2009-02-18T21:09:00.003-05:00

I was going to say only in Tennessee, but this could probably be found in Wal-mart stores all across the south...

49/365

Yes, that says, "bottle opener under the brim".

Yes, there was a bottle opener under the brim.

Yes, there was only 1 hat like this left in the store.

Yes, I'm sure there are women in Tennessee walking around wearing this hat AND actually using that bottle opener... probably at family reunions and tailgate parties.

Wow!

Issues...

2009-02-17T23:26:00.000-05:00

Issues with my camera.
Issues with my phone.
Issues with Blogger.
Issues, issues, issues.

Arg!

A seat with a view...

2009-02-16T19:53:00.003-05:00

This was my view on the way to Lynchburg, TN today...

47/365

And on the way back...
Those are my feet propped up on the arm rest between Brandon and Evan. :)

My Monday Mumblings for today...

1. Lynchburg, TN is further from Cleveland than it seems on the map.

2. My kids do not travel as well as they used to! *Maybe it's because we have traveled so much the last few days*

3. Evan is very tolerant of my children... for that I am thankful.

4. Chandler has really taken a liking to Evan... for that, I feel sorry for him!

5. The Jack Daniel's Distillery is smelly... not really bad... not really good... just smelly.

6. The Jack Daniel's Distillery tour is educational... when you aren't chasing children and you can pay attention to the guide.

7. Our guide... slightly obnoxious. *sigh*

8. However, Evan got the opportunity to hear a "real tennessee accent".

9. I'm looking forward to only having to be in the car long enough to take Chandler to and from school tomorrow!

10. I'm exhausted!

A day downtown...

2009-02-15T23:57:00.000-05:00

This afternoon we headed to downtown Atlanta to wander around and show Evan some of the sights...

46/365

Here we are at the Centennial Olympic Park in downtown

After the park we stopped by the CNN Center for lunch in the food court and then drove over to Zoo Atlanta.

After the zoo we loaded up and drove back to Tennessee... after a little Mario Kart, the girls crashed for the night and we lounged around watching a movie.

I declare war...

2009-02-14T23:46:00.004-05:00

This morning we decided to play a little paintball...

I haven't played paintball in quite some time. In fact the last time I played, I ended up with bloody knuckles and decided I was done playing for a while.

45/365

Cousin Brett and Me

Brandon and Me

I have video footage, but again, my phone and computer are not cooperating! ARG!

When I do get the footage uploaded, you'll get to see my injuries and just one of the hits that I took.

After we got cleaned up from paintball, we had dinner at IHOP. Dinner was yummy and just what we needed after running around like crazy people in the woods.

After dinner, Cousin Brett and I headed off to the airport to pick up EVAN!

You'll get to meet him in tomorrow's post. :)

He was a bit tired after being awake for 30 hours so I decided not to ask him to pose for pictures tonight.

And we're off...

2009-02-13T23:12:00.004-05:00

I'm sitting in Atlanta in Cousin Brett's room to send out this quick blog post...

and my picture isn't cooperating with me... again... ugh!

So, I took one, but I can't post it.

It was a photo of the roses that Brandon surprised me with when he came home from work today. Since we'll be in Atlanta visiting with family this weekend and won't go out on our own Valentine's date, he got me roses a day early.

We will be celebrating Valentine's Day with Cousin Brett, Aunt Karen, and Uncle Mike tomorrow at IHOP!

After dinner, Brett and I will drive to the airport to pick up Evan! YAY!

44/365

Wow!

2009-02-12T23:10:00.003-05:00

I was at Wal-mart tonight after my girls were in bed...

43/365

It looked like Valentine's Day threw up all over Wal-mart!

This was only 1 side of 1 display of about 30 spread out around the store!

I'm so glad my kids weren't with me... It would have been nothing but desperate pleas for gigantic Valentine's Day balloons!

Tomorrow evening we are driving down to Atlanta for the weekend. We'll spend 2 nights at Cousin Brett's house (technically his parents house, but you haven't been introduced to them... yet).
Saturday night, I'll pick up Evan at the airport!! I'm so excited!

A letter to Diego

2009-02-12T12:50:00.002-05:00

Dear Diego,

While I can appreciate the values and education that you and your cousin, Dora, are attempting to pass along to preschoolers, I do have a small complaint.

You see, my daughter, Riley, is 23 months old and as of late has developed a slightly, albeit cute, obsession with your television show.

Normally, this is not too much of a problem except that she wants to watch your show even when it is not on. I have not yet been able to teach her about the structure and schedule of the tv guide.

So, in order to remedy this small problem, I have begun setting my DVR to record new episodes of your show. Problem solved, right?

Well, in today's episode, Cousin Dora made a guest appearance. The combination of her two most beloved cartoon characters on the television all at once was too much for Riley to contain!

It could only have been more exciting if you had been rescuing Blue and Magenta from the evil clutches of Mr. Salt and Mrs. Pepper (and let's not forget Baby Paprika) while Joe (or Steve) narrated the adventure.

Ok, but back to the excitement...

This caused Riley to run down the hallway screaming "Day-go! Dora! Day-go! Dora!"

Unfortunately, this was during Jeremiah's nap.

I was using nap time to get some much needed work done around my house. *sigh* I was being quite productive until this moment.

So, Diego. I appreciate the entertainment value that you bring to my home. I appreciate that I can often sneak in a shower while you memorize my child with stories of 3 toed sloths and baby beluga whales.
I just wish your show didn't come on during nap time!

Sincerely (yet frustrated),

Jennifer Miles

Ah, to be 2 again...

2009-02-11T22:19:00.001-05:00

Well, 23 months, but that's close enough, right?

42/365

Oh how desperately I wanted to lay down and take a nap this afternoon!! Brandon found Riley laying on the sofa, sound asleep.

**Yesterday's post has been edited to add the picture that I couldn't get to yesterday.

Tuesday... oops.

2009-02-10T23:44:00.003-05:00

So, I forgot about my Monday Mumblings... and I just realized I forgot last week too. Oops!

So, Monday Mumblings on Tuesday:
1. Evan arrives this Saturday. I'm excited!

2. Chandler asks at dinner every night, "How many days till you pick Evan up at the airport?"

3. Riley. Well. She's Riley. She's screaming. A lot.

4. I'm taking something to help me sleep... well, it's not FOR sleeping, but it helps with that too.

5. As you see, it's almost midnight and I'm awake.

6. It worked great yesterday. The problem is I fell asleep at 7:00. Now I'm awake.

7. I have a million things to do before Friday afternoon, but I've just been so tired.

8. I MUST get myself into gear tomorrow... tired or not. Things must be done.

9. My camera is busted... thanks Riley.

10. I need a new one.

So, this is where today's Project 365 would go.....

41/365

I took a picture on my cellphone since my camera is busted.
However, the signal at my house isn't strong enough to send the picture to my computer. ARG!

So, I did take a picture today and I did attempt to blog about it so I'm still on track with my project.

I get a GREAT signal at Chandler's school. Maybe I'll send it to myself in the morning... maybe. :)

**EDITED:**

41/365

This is what happened when I bathed the girls before dinner and then tried to lay down for a quick nap... everyone piled onto the loveseat!

Why I hate doctor's appointments...

2009-02-09T20:26:00.005-05:00

Today was full of appointments for me. Really I only had 2, but you know how long to have to wait anytime you go to the doctor. Two appointments turned into a whole day!

You may remember I had surgery back in September... if not, and you want to read about it you can find the story here.

And for the entertaining pre and post surgery pictures click here.

Anyway, today I had a follow up mammogram...

That's about all I'll say about that. :)

Later in the day I had another appointment. Because it was the only appointment I could get on a fairly less hectic day, I couldn't be picky about the time. I had to pick up Chandler from school early and take her AND Riley to my appointment.

I'd like to tell you that this is how my kids acted the entire time...

40/365

Unfortunately, that would be a lie.

Because this is actually how they acted...

Ok, in all fairness to Chandler, Riley was really the only one acting this this.
However, Chandler did her fair share of pestering about how long it was taking for the doctor to see us.

Yes, Chandler it took a long time. I agree with you! *sigh* It always does.

A little glimpse...

2009-02-08T21:47:00.002-05:00

My week is starting off with a list... just so I don't forget anything!

39/365

It's going to be a busy week!

Saturday...

2009-02-07T22:02:00.003-05:00

Well, we did a whole lot of NOTHING today.

Slept in. Lounged around the house. Had a late lunch at Zaxby's. Bought 2 controllers for our Wii. Came home. Played Mario Kart. Had dinner. Watched TV.

Ummm... that's it.

38/365

Chandler is just a tad bit attached to "Cousin Brett". Poor guy has been climbed on, sat on, pushed, shoved, hugged, and probably kicked a few times too!

Cousin Brett comes for a visit...

2009-02-06T22:01:00.004-05:00

Here he is!

The cousin that so badly wants his own post is finally getting it!

37/365

Brett arrived right around 9:00 tonight.

Chandler wasted no time getting him into the play room and showing off her Mario Kart skills.

She felt like she was really teaching him a thing or two.

What she doesn't know is that Brett, his brother Bobby, my sister Erin, and I used to have Mario Kart playoffs back when it was cool to own a Super Nintendo. :)

A little sleep would be good...

2009-02-05T23:59:00.000-05:00

This is where I would like to be right now...

36/365

Sleeping. Soundly. In my bed.

For about the last 2 weeks I've been keeping CRAZY hours. I'm tired all day long, but I just cannot make myself go to bed at a decent time... I'm tired, but I'm wide awake!

Maybe it's insomnia. Maybe it's stress. Who knows?!?!?
Oh maybe it's "transient insomnia"... actually that sounds pretty close to what I've been feeling... thank you Wikipedia!

*sigh* Maybe I'll get to sleep before 2am this time... we'll see.

Oh for crying out loud....

2009-02-04T23:59:00.003-05:00

35/365

Seriously, these two girls... they. make. me. laugh!

What else makes me laugh? The fact that our server at Chili's took this picture and actually thought it was good.
I mean, hello?? Did you notice that 50% of the picture is comprised of glasses, a go to box, and a to go cup?

The picture tells a story... you wouldn't understand it even if I tried to tell you... one of those, "you had to be there" moments.

So, Trish. Tara. Thanks girls. I needed a good laugh. The kind of laugh that made me cry. Hard. Several times.

This dinner came at the perfect time for me.

In with the new...

2009-02-03T21:49:00.004-05:00

The guy from Lowe's came today to install our door.

34/365

We still have to paint it, but we haven't decided on a color yet.

We are planning to paint our house this year so we'll pick out a house color and a complementary color for the door.

I did really like the look of our old door. I really didn't give it enough credit. The look really suited the house so it was SUPER hard to pick out a new door... our decision pretty much came down to price and availability.
It was just old and drafty and had a crack in it... and seriously people, I'm not kidding about the neighbor... she watches us!
That is just too creepy!!!

Out with the old...

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

Say goodbye to the old front door...

33/365

Good bye old door...
I will miss you for a few reasons, but it is time for you to move on to become scrap wood or chopped up into firewood.

I will miss your big windows because they allow so much additional light into our living room, but I will not miss the fact that your large windows allow my nosy neighbor to spy on me! :)

Ummmm... that's about all I'll miss about you! Sorry.

Tomorrow the nice man who is sub-contracted by Lowe's with come and rip you out and haul you away... leaving a nice new door in your place.

Just another Sunday...

2009-02-01T21:28:00.005-05:00

Sort of...

32/365

Brandon watching the Super Bowl

I kinda forgot that the Super Bowl was tonight so we didn't think to make any plans with anyone. It was just a lazy night at home.

Blah...

2009-01-31T22:55:00.003-05:00

That's how Wal-mart makes me feel.

31/365

So 2 hours and a whole lot of money later... that's all I've got to show for it! :)

Chandler...

2009-01-30T23:13:00.002-05:00

30/365

*6 years old
*Incapable of speaking at a "normal" volume.... everything is loud!
*Wants to help.
*Wants to be a "big kid"
*Likes to take pictures.
*Loves TV!
*Loves movies!
*Loves to eat out!
*Love to wrestle with her dad and sister.
*Likes to be "in charge".
*Loves her friends at school.
*Loves her friends at church.
*Loves her teachers at school and church.
*Loves to sing... ALL THE TIME... LOUDLY... IN THE CAR!
*A good kid
*Is capable of the most convincing stories (lies)... it's scary how good she is!

We're working on that last one!

In training news:
Last night I ran 2/3 and walked 1/3 and DIDN'T feel like dying.

Tonight I ran 2/3 and walked 1/3 and felt like I was dying! lol

One of a kind...

2009-01-29T21:55:00.002-05:00

That's my Riley...

29/365

Just recently she has started sleeping with a bed FULL of babies!

She arranges them all in her crib.
Brandon asks her, "Where are you supposed to sleep??"
She just smiles.

This is her at dinner tonight...

"Hey! Think I'll put this empty carry out box on my head!"

"It fits!"

"Did you see me??"

She is CRAZY! We never know what she might do!!

Must be love...

2009-01-28T22:13:00.002-05:00

I know Trish loves me because we had dinner tonight after church and she gave me this:

28/365

My collection is now complete!

Well, until EW come out with a "New Moon" cover! :)

THANKS TRISH!!! YOU'RE THE BEST!

Meet Jeremiah

2009-01-27T20:16:00.004-05:00

Isn't he adorable?

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Jeremiah is the something "new" I mentioned in yesterday's post.
I got permission from his mom to blog about him.

His mom is a friend of mine and a teacher at Chandler's school. She and her husband found out that the place they were leaving Jeremiah during the day changed their hours of operation so she asked if I would be willing to watch him on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

I obviously said yes. :)

He's a very sweet boy and Riley just loved having him here today.

We need to work on her "quiet voice". I never realized how LOUD she is during the day!! Good grief that girl is noisy!

J: "Riley. Shhhh. We have to be quite. Jeremiah is sleeping."

R: At the top of her lungs, "SHHHHHH!!! BEBE IS SLEEPING" (as she RAN down the hallway past the room where he was sleeping)

I also discovered that the reason he was having a hard time falling asleep this morning was that Riley was going in and "checking on him" every time he made a bit of noise.

"Hey Bebe!"

"No No Bebe"

"HEY!"

Interpreted as, "Hey! I'm trying to watch cartoons! Get away from me!!"

In "training" news:

You're reading this post which means I survived not only the first HORRIBLE day of running, but also tonight's run. *I didn't have to put my head between my knees tonight... that's a step in the right direction!

No picture to post tonight.

There are 2 reasons for that...

1. I'm disappointed in myself. Yesterday I ran 2/3 and walked 1/3. Today I WALKED 2/3 and ran 1/3... It felt like my heart and lungs might explode so I had to walk my last lap instead of running it.

2. I didn't look nearly as cute tonight. Which means it's a really good thing my heart and lungs didn't explode... I would have hated for anyone at the hospital to see me the way I looked. :)
(I'm kidding... sort of!)

No running tomorrow. Wednesdays are our off day. :) Hallelujah!

Exercise might just kill me...

2009-01-26T18:19:00.004-05:00

People, seriously...

26/365

Me. Today. Just less than an hour ago.

Why am I doubled over with my head between my knees? I refer you to #7 on my list.

I don't consider myself to be really "out of shape"... ok, let me rephrase that... I DIDN'T consider myself to be really "out of shape", but apparently I am.

Brandon and I decided that today was the day to begin our training for our 5k.

Until today I didn't realize how hard running a 5k was really going to be.

I'm in trouble.

Of course, I have 2 months to get ready. I can waste no more time!

I was proud of myself today... I completed 1 mile. I walked for 1/3 and ran for 2/3. That's a BIG deal for me. I am NOT a runner. Never have been. If I'm honest with myself, I probably won't ever run again after this 5k.

So, if training for it doesn't kill me... I'll be sure to post a picture of me being drug over the finish line on March 28th.

**But aren't my new running clothes spiffy? :)

Monday, January 26th

2009-01-26T11:01:00.003-05:00

1. Happy Australia Day to my Aussie friends... even though, technically, Australia Day is over in Australia. :) Crazy how that time difference thing works, ain't it?

2. Yesterday I laughed until I cried... several times in fact.

3. I didn't get my bathroom primed before the end of the week. It WILL be done this week.

4. I'm working on a plan for redecorating our bedroom... new paint, new colors, the works.

5. I'm working on cleaning up our bonus room today. Gotta get it done TODAY!

6. I'm starting something new tomorrow, but before I tell you about it, I have to get approval from someone. :)

7. I need to start training for my 5k on March 28th! (#7 on the list)

That's all I've got today...

What kind of random things are you thinking about?

To Knoxville and back again...

2009-01-25T23:01:00.003-05:00

This afternoon the choir loaded up on a charter bus and drove to Knoxville to sing at a prayer conference.

I sat with Trish on the bus. Much laughter ensued.

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I mean like crazy amounts of laughter. I don't think I've laughed that hard in a LONG time.

I know Trish has a few "good" shots of me... I refrained from posting any really bad ones of her. :) Because I'm a good friend... and because she will "un-tag" herself in them if I post them on facebook.

After we sang, we stopped for dinner at Abuelo's.

Trish, Me, Ryan and Ashley

We all laughed pretty hard tonight.

I think a good time was had by all! Now I'm exhausted and headed to bed!

Typical Saturday...

2009-01-24T22:16:00.003-05:00

Around the house. A little cleaning. Doing a whole lot of nothing.

24/365

This was one of my Hobby Lobby purchases.

I'm going to hang it in my scrapbook room and use the shelves to display things I love. :)

Once it is hung and loaded up with my treasures, I'll post a picture of it.

IN OTHER NEWS:
My friend, Kim, had her twins today! She went in for a scheduled c-section. I haven't had a chance to talk to her since yesterday, but she sent me a text letting me know that the babies were in the NICU and she would give them a big kiss from me as soon as she saw them! :)

Welcome to the world precious baby girls! Can't wait to meet you!

Lazy Friday Night

2009-01-23T20:29:00.006-05:00

This is us girls taking it easy on a Friday night...

23/365

*Everyone got baths before dinner.
*We got into out pajamas (or in Riley's case, just a diaper!)
*No makeup and hardly any effort put into my hair... don't look too closely!
*"Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" on the Disney Channel.
*Tons of pillows and blankets!!

I felt exhausted and just worn out all day so aside from a few loads of laundry, nothing else got done...
Well, I took care of Riley, took Chandler to and from school, and put a pizza in the oven for dinner.

While I was sitting in the car waiting for Chandler to get out of school, I finished the last chapter of "Playing for Pizza".
Not my favorite of John Grisham's novels, but in the end I did decide that I enjoyed the story... It is just a departure from his intense stories of crooked lawyers and corrupt legal systems.

If you want an easy read with a little football thrown in (American football played in Italy) and some Italian history and culture, then I recommend it. :)

The next book I'll be reading is "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" by Mary Ann Shaffer. It's our 1st Book Club book. :)

I'm more of a college football kind of gal...

2009-01-22T22:05:00.002-05:00

Real life conversation between me and Brandon... one, I might add, that is slightly embarrassing. :)

After seeing a commercial for the Super Bowl:

J: "Who do we want to win the Super Bowl? I think I'm pulling for the Cardinals."

B: "Yeah, I'd kinda like for Kurt Warner to win."

J: "Who's that?"

B: "Wow. You are a girl." (he may have even shot me a look of disgust)

**In case you are like me and DON'T follow pro-football... Kurt Warner is the quarterback for the Cardinals. :)

Another week... another project...

2009-01-22T20:19:00.006-05:00

This week we are tackling the bathroom...

The bathroom needs A LOT of work, but right now we are going with quick and fairly easy.

When we do our serious remodel (note #27 on 'the list') we will need to replace sub-flooring, the current linoleum, the cabinet and sink, and the tub... ok *need* and *would very much like to* are very different.

Need:
*sub-flooring
*get rid of the linoleum... it's pretty damaged
*have the pipes checked. we're pretty sure there's a small leak somewhere behind the wall that's causing problems with low water pressure.
*scrape all of the pealing paint off of the walls and repaint

Would very much like:
*new tub
*new cabinet and sink
*new toilet
*get rid of the peach tile that covers over 50% of the walls. *shudder*

So, for the quick and easy fix (a.k.a. all I can afford to do right now financially and time wise):
*scrape all of the pealing paint off of the walls
*prime the walls

Those 2 things alone have already created quite a mess. I'm pretty sure I'll be sweeping and vacuuming paint chips for the next several days!

22/365

Brandon took this shot of me tonight using one of my Christmas gifts! Yes, MY Christmas gift... I asked for an electric hand sander for Christmas and Brandon's parents got one for me. :)

This was the first opportunity I've had to use it, and let me say, it works quite well.

**Do you see the horrible peach tile on the walls??? *shudder*

Tomorrow I'll try to get the walls primed. :)

And in other news:
I spent ALL of my birthday money at Hobby Lobby today and I didn't even step foot in the scrapbook aisles!

I went in to get 4 photo boxes (at 50% off) to start organizing 29 years worth of photos (#20 on 'the list')... When I walked in, I found that select home decor was 66% off.
I wandered around... I can NEVER find anything I want or like when I have money to spend, but I can find 100s of things I LOVE when I have no money at all.
Is it like for for anyone else?

Today must have been my lucky day. I had money AND I found great stuff.

I'll be hanging it throughout the house over the next few days (#23 on 'the list'). I'll be sure to post pictures when I'm done. :)

It's getting ridiculous!

2009-01-21T23:08:00.003-05:00

This weather is killing me!!

7:15 am... on the way to Chandler's school...

21/365

Is is spring yet?

Maybe I've done this before...

2009-01-21T07:47:00.005-05:00

I get so many of these it's hard to remember...

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
ummm.... Mom? Was I? I dont' think so. Jennifer was a VERY popular 70s/80s name!

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?
monday... The lady at the pharmacy told me that my prescription was $45! Did I mention that it has been $25 a month for over 5 years??

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
sometimes... I'm trying to incorporate more of it into my scrapbooks... Denise says my kids will want to have samples of it some day...

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
turkey

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS?
yep. 2.

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
well, it depends on the day...

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM?
uh yeah.

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?
yep. i still have 'em.

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
i'm undecided on this one.

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
Honey Nut Clusters... however our stinkin' Walmart doesn't carry it anymore. UGH!

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
most of the time.

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
mint chocolate chip.

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?
teeth.

16. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
do i have to pick just one?

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
tough one... it changes with my moods and what's currently going on in life.

18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO COMPLETE THIS LIST?
what kind of silly question is that? yes, but only if they have the time and are bored enough to do it! :)

19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
grey running pants (not that i've been out running this morning!... unless you count running to the car) and white sneakers.

20. FAVORITE SOUNDS:
probably my kids laughing together.

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
the occasional car driving by, "Finding Nemo" playing in the living room, the "beep" of my msn messenger when Evan sends me a message. :P

22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
today? orange sherbet. i have no idea why? just sounds like me today.

23. FAVORITE SMELLS?
the beach.

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
brandon this morning on the way to chandler's school.

25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?
all 3 of them. :)

26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?
football!! not just football, but UGA football... Braves baseball is a close 2nd.

27. HAIR COLOR?
brown

28. EYE COLOR?
brown

29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
yep.

30. FAVORITE FOOD?
home made mashed potatoes with extra salt and extra butter.

31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
well i don't like scary movies, but they don't all have to have happy endings either... tragic love stories are ok. ;)

32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED?
is Jeff Dunham's Christmas Special a movie? no? ok then... "Across the Universe".

33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?
blue shirt. red sweatshirt. did i mention my wardrobe is quite impressive today? i just threw on the closest clothes that looked warm and ran out the door to get chandler to school.

34. SUMMER OR WINTER?
ummm... it's 11 degrees outside... i'm going with summer.

35. HUGS OR KISSES?
both

37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND?
i have no idea.

38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND?
the people who have actual lives and things to do today! :)

39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW?
Playing for Pizza by John Grisham... not the most interesting book. that's sad because i've loved everything that i've read by him... up until this book.

40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
gateway computer logo... even though our gateway computer died a LONG time ago!

41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT?
american idol, fringe, and Jeff Dumham's Christmas Special... SILENCE! I KILL YOU!

42. FAVORITE SOUND(S).
see question # 20

43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?
beatles

44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME?
australia! :)

45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?
i guess singing.

46 WHERE WERE U BORN?
atlanta, georgia

47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK?
everyones. :)

48. HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR SPOUSE/SIGNIFICANT OTHER?
*sigh* the lee university symphonic band.

I feel like I'm in school all over again...

2009-01-20T23:13:00.003-05:00

I'm STILL a procrastinator!!!

Two weeks ago, when school started back after Christmas break, Chandler came home with a letter from her teacher. In this letter it informed us (the parents) that Chandler (really meaning me and Brandon... really meaning me) needed to create a project for the 100th day of school. The project is due on January 21st.....

that's tomorrow in case you were wondering.

They gave a few ideas and suggestions about different projects... I had a few ideas at the time that I first read the letter...

that was two weeks ago.

Well, this evening after dinner, I noticed Chandler's school folder laying on the counter and I picked it up to sign it (we have to sign off on her behavior report each day). Inside the folder there was a note... a note that I did not look at last Thursday because I knew she wouldn't be going back to school until Tuesday because school was canceled last Friday. A note that I did not look at on Monday night because school was canceled again today.
The note said: DON'T FORGET YOUR 100th DAY OF SCHOOL PROJECT!

Uh Oh!!

So, I did the only thing I knew to do...

raid my scrapbook supplies!!!

Fortunately I had plenty of smiley face stickers that I bought for my Cherub Choir kids... sorry Cherubs! I'll have to buy more! :)

Chandler recently learned to count by 10s so we used this project as an opportunity to practice.

20/365

100 Smiley Stickers by Chandler Miles

I'm sure there will be better projects turned in... and there will probably be some kids who had parents who completely forgot about the project.

We'll do better next time!

Snow Day!

2009-01-19T19:56:00.005-05:00

So, it snowed today. Fortunately (or unfortunately... depending on where you live and how you feel about snow) it wasn't quite cold enough for it to stick.
We got just a bit that accumulated on our back deck, but that's about it.

19/365

Here's a quick video we took when we got home from shopping today...

It's Monday...

2009-01-19T09:15:00.003-05:00

1. Chandler is out of school today. It's Martin Luther King Day.

2. I have been working in my guest room all weekend. I'm pretty pleased with the way it looks.

3. I spent several hours yesterday cleaning out the guest room closet and the hall closet.

4. Evan will now be able to hang clothes AND fit his suitcase in the closet while he's here! :)

5. That's really all I have for you...

Notes on my headboard...

2009-01-19T08:49:00.003-05:00

So many of you commented on the headboard in my guestroom. Thanks for all of your wonderful comments!!

I just thought I'd let you know how I did it in case you were feeling crafty and creative!

I started off with my plain rectangular headboard.

I bought 2 rolls of foam batting from the fabric department at Wal-mart.

I cut the foam so it would over lap the top of the headboard and the sides by several inches. The headboard has a tendency to wobble and it was hitting up against the wall. The foam helps quite the hits against the wall as well as protect the wall (It has also helped stabilize the wobbling!).

I stapled the foam into place using a staple gun.

This first piece wasn't wide enough for the height of the headboard so I had to cut a second piece the same length to cover the bottom half of the headboard.

I wrapped it around the side and around the bottom and stapled again.

It REALLY helps to have a second set of hands during all of the stapling. Brandon held the foam in place as I stapled.

Next was the fabric.

I did not take the time to hem the edges of the fabric, so instead when I cut the fabric I left an extra 2 inches so that I could fold the edges over a few times before I stapled them.

I followed the same directions for fitting and stapling the fabric as I did for the foam.

It's VERY important to pull the fabric tight and to staple OFTEN. In some places I left too much space between the staples and the fabric isn't as tight in those places. At some point I'll probably have to go back and add some more staples... we would have done it then, but we didn't notice it until it was already reassembled and put back into place.

So there you have it... pretty easy... probably not the "correct" way to do it, but I was making it up as I went along and I like the results. :)

**The fabric is upholstery fabric that I bought in a big roll (at 75% off) when Hancock Fabric was going out of business here in town.

Her father's daughter...

2009-01-18T22:36:00.003-05:00

This would make me gag...

18/365

Riley enjoying a carton of cherry tomatoes.

I think more of them ended up on the floor than in her mouth, but it did keep her busy for a few minutes!

Success!!!

2009-01-17T22:18:00.005-05:00

WAY back at post #101, I started a make over project. That was back in June... I started with the best of intentions, but life happens.

So, here we are 7 months later (almost to the day) and my guest room is finally finished.

I do have ONE more thing I want to do, but it wasn't on my original list so I'm calling the project complete based on the original desires I had for the room.

This is what the room looked like back in June...

What the room looked like back in October...

I spent a long weekend painting while Brandon and the girls were in Georgia...

I thought I was getting a nice "sunshine" yellow... instead I got Big Bird Barf Yellow!

I was frustrated and it took me over a month to work up the energy to repaint it!

This is what the room looks like today!!

17/365

I still have plans to build a cornice for the window and cover it with the same fabric that's covering the headboard.
I bought a cheap curtain rod because I intend to hide it behind the cornice.

You can see all of my Twilight books on the shelf in this picture! :)
Yes, I have 2 copies of Twilight... one paperback, one hardback!

I liked the idea of having yellow in this room... the yellow wall paint didn't work out, but I added some daffodils. :)

You can see the moulding in each of these photos. We cut it, painted it, and hung it in less than 24 hours!

It really does give the room a finished feel. We love it.

I don't think that green plant/thing is going to stay on the dresser... I'm undecided about it.

I would like to point out the headboard... I LOVE IT! It's the same headboard that's in the picture from last June, but I padded it and covered it with upholstery fabric.

I would like to get new bedding, but I haven't found anythign I really love yet.

So, there you have it! Our new guest room!

COME FOR A VISIT! :)

We ain't afraid of a little cold...

2009-01-16T23:56:00.006-05:00

That's not entirely true. I HATE the cold.

However, when you have a home project and you've told your bloggy friends that you WILL have that project completed by the end of the week... you brave the cold and do what you gotta do!

16/365

Brandon being a good sport as he works outside in the cold (and dark) to cut the moulding for our guest room.

Brandon pulled out the hat and gloves for this project!

If it hadn't been so cold, I would have had him take a picture of me... I looked ridiculous!

You may have noticed on "the list" the "wear a cute hat" goal. I DON'T wear hats. I think I look goofy in them... most of my adult life my hair has been so short that when I put a hat on, you can't see any of my hair... as if I don't have any. Therefore I do not wear them and that's why it's on my list.

Anyway, even in the freezing cold I refused to wear a hat. My ensemble consisted of my jeans and thin sweater I wore all day, Brandon's bright blue ski jacket (WAY too big for me) and my green and yellow Wallabies scarf WRAPPED AROUND MY HEAD to cover my neck and ears while still allowing me to see. :)

We had 4 pieces of moulding to cut tonight... one to cut tomorrow because it will involve some more complicated cuts than the ones tonight.

Did I mention it was 19 degrees today? (-7 for you Aussies!) That was 19 degrees while the sun was out! Who knows how cold it was while we were outside at night!

30 Things To Do Before I'm 30...

2009-01-16T15:18:00.004-05:00

Ok. I'm finally finished.

This list is quite an assortment. From silly quick things to involved year long processes!

I tried to be practical while still pushing myself to work. I couldn't very well put down "Take a trip to Paris" even though I would LOVE to go to Paris this year... it just ain't happening. :)

I also tried to list things that could actually be measured... actually physically completed, but there are 2 things on the list that may be hard to measure.

So without further ado... in no particular order... I present my list of "30 Things To Do Before I'm 30"!

1. Reconnect with old friends. Call Kristy, Heather, Kim and Crystal once a month... every month.

2. Plan a trip with my high school pals (see list above!).

3. Meet Kim's baby girls (who have not yet arrived, but it's looking like they will be here before the end of next week! YAY KIM!!).

4. Go to Decatur, GA and visit my elementary school friends. Many of which I am reconnecting with via Facebook.

5. Stop biting my fingernails... AGAIN!

6. Work out 3 times a week.

7. Run a 5k. There is one on March 28th to support Cystic Fibrosis.

8. Learn to apply my makeup better.

9. Work on having better posture. :) That one is just for my dad who always pulls my shoulders back we he sees me slouching over.

10. Be more confidant.

11. Play my violin again.

12. Visit the west coast.

13. Join a book club. (CHECK!)

14. Audition for a play.

15. Scrapbook 1 weekend every month.

16. Help build a house with Habitat for Humanity. (This is the one Jaime can help me with since she is the person that organizes the volunteers!)

17. Start donating blood again.

18. Learn to make Saige's "state pillows".

19. Finish my kitchen cabinet remodel.

20. Organize all of our photos into boxes by date.

21. Create files for vacation souvenirs that need to be put into scrapbooks.

22. Make an 8x8 scrapbook of our Disney Vacation.

23. Hang stuff on the walls in my house.

24. Send more handwritten notes... randomly.

25. Wear a cute hat.

26. Pay off credit card debt.

27. Remodel our bathroom.

28. Get rid of clutter!

29. Become more disciplined in household chores.

30. Tile my back splash.

So, there you have it... I better get started!

Because you asked...

2009-01-15T23:54:00.002-05:00

Several people have commented on my shirt in this post, and wanted to know where I bought it. It came from Old Navy just after Thanksgiving.

I looked to see if they had any online, but didn't have any luck. Sorry, but thanks for all the compliments! :)

Another insight into who I am...

2009-01-15T22:34:00.004-05:00

15/365

Here I am at my desk... again.

I got so many positive responses from this blog, that I decided to do another one.

The notepad:
*It contains my list of 30 Things To Do Before I'm 30...
I'm still working on it.
In fact, while I was at my first book club meeting tonight I remembered something I wanted to add to my list... just so happens that my friend, Jaime (the book club organizer) can help me check this item off. :) **More on that later**

My hand:
*The pen I'm holding is BRAND NEW... as in just recently in stores...
It's a Sharpie Pen.
Not to be confused with the Sharpie Ultra Fine Point Permanent Marker.

I LOVE Sharpies. I love them. I love that when I write with them it is PERMANENT. :)

I use the Ultra Fine Point Permanent Marker ALL THE TIME, but it bleeds when I write on paper... The answer to my problem: The Sharpie Pen.
Thank you Sharpie People. You make me happy. :)

I must get these in all available colors!!

The mug:
*Recognize this mug? Maybe from Monica's kitchen shelf over her sink in Friends?

Well, my parents had these mugs WAY before Friends ever aired... In fact, they had them before I was even born.

One time the shelf with all the mugs hanging on it fell off the wall... ALL of the mugs broke EXCEPT for this one and it's twin mug.
I think my mom's response was something like, "You've got to be kidding me!! These 2 ugly mugs survived, when all the others shattered!!!"

Well, mom. I love this mug. Always have. That's why it holds pens and other various things in a spot where I can look at it everyday. :)

I have no idea who has the other one... my sister maybe? I'd love to have both of them (hint, hint Erin).

The basket:
*It holds bills, calculators, and other random papers.
I really need a better system... I'm trying to come up with something that will work for us.

The plastic bin:
*It holds 12x12 scrapbook paper. It's 3 drawers and it's CRAMMED FULL of paper, pictures and scrapbook accessories that won't fit in the smaller plastic organizer on the other side of my computer.

The bottle of superglue:
*Used to repair all of the Christmas ornaments that my kids broke this year!

So there you have it!
I'm hoping my list will be done soon... I'll share it with you as soon as possible! :)

The count down to 30 has begun...

2009-01-14T22:28:00.004-05:00

Yep... I'm 29. Only 364 days till the big 3-0. Wow... that's depressing! :)

So, my day wasn't too bad. Riley was in a funk all day... that was difficult.

Thank you to my little blogging community for your lovely birthday wishes! Every single one of them was special and really made my day!!

After church tonight, Brandon surprised me with a cake...

14/365

This picture is just for Mummy McT. She told me that today's Project 365 photo HAD to be one of myself...

Chandler shared her birthday crown with me. :)

Here is my yummy cake. It was so rick I couldn't finish my piece, but it was DELICIOUS!
Thankfully there were only 8 candles this year... I don't think we even had 29 candles!

This is a Project Chandler photo.
She wanted to take pictures of me opening my presents.
I guess she's been the subject of tons of birthday photos... it must be rubbing off on her!
Birthday = Pictures!

Brandon bought me a HUGE pack of Twizzlers.
I LOVE TWIZZLERS!

Chandler had a present for me too.
She gave me her backpack and told me to look inside for my gift...
She had "wrapped" one of her blankets in her backpack.
I thought it was sweet.

So, all in all, not a bad day! :)

**I'm pretty sure this is my first post EVER that has had only pictures of me! UGH!

Off to a pretty good start...

2009-01-14T08:09:00.004-05:00

*Sigh* Today is the day... my 29th birthday.

I woke up feeling OLD. I didn't sleep well last night. I tossed and turned all night long... I had a lot on my mind.

Anyway... this morning Brandon told me happy birthday before he headed off to work... more like told the back of my head happy birthday... I had a hard time dragging myself out of bed!

Chandler and I had this conversation as we passed in the hallway:

J: "You know what today is?"
C: "Ummmm... your birthday?"
J: "Yep. I'm old Chan."
C: "No you're not. You don't have grey hair."
J: "Oh I have some."
C: "Lemme see." She careful examines my horrible bed head hair. "I don't see any."
J: "Thanks Chan."
C: "You're welcome."
J: "Did you get me a present?"
C: Worried look on her face "Ummmm... I don't think so. But maybe Daddy did."
J: "Oh. Ok. That's alright. Do you have something you want to say to me?"
C: "Ummmmm... Happy Birthday?"
J: "Thanks Chan. Go grab your shoes so we can leave for school."
C: "Ok. Hey Mom?"
J: "Yeah?"
C: "You're not as old as Grammy."

I took Chandler to school. I came home. I checked my e-mail. I had all kinds of wonderful birthday wishes from friends and family (mostly on my facebook account).

I checked the blogs that I read daily and came across this post from Kristy.

Thanks Kristy! You have absolutely NO IDEA how much that meant to me!

Your post made me think about this...

Last year a few things happened (or didn't happen) that had me a little anxious about today... it doesn't really matter what those things were... and now, a year later, on my actual birthday, I realize that I wasted time last year being worried, frustrated and disappointed over people and things that really shouldn't matter.

Happy Birthday To Me!

Does that mean I'm growing up AND getting old?? UGH!

**Maybe Riley will make me another cake this year!

Wii start them early...

2009-01-13T22:09:00.004-05:00

Even Riley is getting into the Wii action!

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Riley decided to play a little Wii while I folded clothes today. :)

Tonight we went to Logan's to celebrate my birthday (a night early). Wednesday nights are hard nights to try to go out for dinner since I have to be at the church at 6pm to get ready to teach my preschool students.
Yep, we went to Logan's last year on my birthday too... and possibly the 2 years prior as well. Apparently it's becoming a tradition!

After dinner we headed over to Lowe's to pick out our new door. They didn't have it in stock so they are going to order it. It should be ready to be installed in 2 weeks!

We also purchased the moulding for the guest room... CHECK!

Sorry this is a boring post... I used up all of my creative juices on the Play-Doh post! :)

To the people at Play-Doh

2009-01-13T12:46:00.002-05:00

To whom it may concern,

I would like to thank you for having the forethought to create Play-Doh in a NONTOXIC form.

This is not the first time I've thought this.
I thought it once while I was working at a daycamp and one of the kids took a bite out of her Play-Doh creation.
I thought it once while I was babysitting and one of the kids fed some Play-Doh to her sibling.
I thought it once while working in a classroom full of 2 year old at church and I noticed a big bite taken out of the Play-Doh as I was collecting it.

The reason I write to you today is because I've never been more thankful for your NONTOXIC Play-Doh than I am today.

You see, my daughter, Riley, is 22 months old and she has recently discovered the enjoyment that is sitting at the table and rolling Play-Doh with a rolling pin.

She has taken to doing this almost daily.

I've suspected that she might be "taste testing" her projects from time to time, but I've never actually had proof.

That is, until today.

I have just discovered that several of our 2 ounce containers of Play-Doh now contain significantly less than 2 ounces.

Apparently that lovely light brown, beautiful bubble gum pink and the shocking green apple must be the most tasty. Maybe it's just that she's a fan of those colors. She is after all, my daughter.

Don't worry, she's an equal opportunity taster. All colors have been tasted.

I guess you can say Riley has literally tasted the rainbow.

Sincerely and with all my thanks and appreciation for my child's safety,

Jennifer Miles

Possibly the most perfect job ever...

2009-01-13T07:53:00.003-05:00

Here, on the eve of my 29th birthday, I have found the perfect job...

Possibly the most perfect job ever

Even though the description says that the job is open to anyone, I'm pretty sure they would rather hire a local. :)

Making Progress!

2009-01-12T19:14:00.005-05:00

A few posts back I declared this as the Year of Serious Home Improvement. :)

Well, hopefully...

Anyway, we are off to a good start.

I've made a list of projects to complete this week AND next week. Fortunately they are projects that I can work on while Brandon is at work (assuming Riley cooperates!) and then he can help me with "his part" in the evenings.

Today I purchased a TV stand from Walmart...
I had seen it online and it seemed to be just what we needed. According to the website, they don't carry it in the store so we knew we would have to order it.
On a random trip down the furniture aisle today, Riley and I happened upon the TV stand we saw online!
I bought it. I brought it home. I assembled it... Brandon had to help me with some of it. :)

I'm normally quite good at following directions and assembling furniture, but I had some problems with this one.
In my defense, the directions were stupid! Only pictures. No words. NONE.

Once I figured out what I did wrong, it was a pretty simple fix... it just required an extra set of hands.

It started out like this... yes, I assembled it AROUND the toys on the floor!

12/365

The finished product.

It now houses the Wii... that means the Wii is out of my living room!

I'm shopping around for some small baskets or plastic bins to hold the Wii accessories.

This may not seem like a serious home improvement project to some people, but it's something we've just been putting off and now I can check it off of my "to-do list"!! :)

Yesterday, Brandon cut another shelf for the bathroom closet... we've only been saying we would do that since October 2005.

On list list to work on the rest of the week:
*Moulding in the guest room
*A window treatment in the guest room

I'll take pictures when it's done.

I know. I know. My guest room was supposed to be finished by Labor Day. Then I told you it would be done before Christmas... BUT... I decided on a few other things I wanted to add to the original list so HOPEFULLY it will be done this week. :)

Monday Mumblings: Injuries and whatnot

2009-01-12T11:28:00.003-05:00

1. My tooth is "less loose" today.

2. I grind my teeth at night so I'm kind of surprised it didn't fall out over night!

3. I had to take Brandon to the eye doctor this morning.

4. He had a "cornea abrasion"... the culprit? Riley.
After my post yesterday, are you really very surprised?

5. This is his 2nd cornea abrasion in 5 years!
The first one was courtesy of Chandler at 7 months old... babies have SHARP fingernails!

6. Currently he's laying in the bed attempting to sleep.

7. I asked him if I could lay in the bed all day if I had a cornea abrasion. :)

8. He threatened to give me one! :)

9. I had a leftover cupcake (from Chandler's party) for breakfast this morning... that's been the highpoint of the day so far!

10. I finally printed my pictures from Australia. They are going into a fun photo album today... I bought it at Target back in October.

*sigh* Here's to hoping that this day gets better from here!

sigh

2009-01-11T19:26:00.004-05:00

This has just been one of THOSE days.

I'm not even really sure why... it just has.

We got off to a rocky start this morning. There was a cup of coffee, a small child and a brand new off white turtle neck shirt all involved... just as we were walking out the door to church. *sigh*

Church.
Lunch at Cracker Barrel with Brian & Trish.

Home to clean...
We all helped clean the girls' room... it was a disaster!

I sat down for a minute to help Chandler with a Mario Kart race course (Mario Kart for the Wii was her birthday gift from me and Brandon)... in the midst of helping Chandler, Riley was wiggling all over my lap... screaming... she popped up and hit my chin with her head... the result? I now have a loose bottom front tooth and a tiny chip in my top front tooth. *sigh*

Worked in the kitchen... Washed the top of the fridge. :) Cleaned the counters. Washed them down with disinfectant wipes.

Washed 4 loads of laundry and still have atleast 2 more to do. *sigh*

Brandon put a frozen pizza in the oven for dinner.

Riley refused to eat her pizza. Instead, she ate the cheese out of my salad.

Apparently she's still hungry... this is what I just found...

11/365

Please ignore my nasty floor... it's time to mop!

Riley carried her stool into the kitchen and helped herself to several handfuls of Hershey's Kisses. *sigh*

Is it bedtime yet?

Bowling...

2009-01-10T20:55:00.002-05:00

Today we had Chandler's birthday party at the bowling alley... is it just me, or does it seem like Chandler's birthday has lasted for FOREVER!?!?!?

10/365

She got a birthday bowling pin. :)
All of her friends signed it at the end of the party.

Here are just a few of my favorites from the day...

Doesn't she look so grown up... leaning against the wall with that smirky little smile. :)

Riley eating her pizza... literally right off of the plate!

It was a lot of fun.
I think all of the kids enjoyed themselves.
I KNOW Chan and Riley did. :)

Success!

Rumors

2009-01-10T17:34:00.004-05:00

Rumor has it that Delta Airlines will soon be offering a nonstop flight from Atlanta to Sydney.

I get inside info because Cousin Brett works at the airport in Atlanta AND his dad, my Uncle Mike, works for Delta. :)

Delta just merged with Northwest Airlines and this flight will be something new starting in June... but like I said, rumor has it.

So, if any of my lovely Australian blogging buddies are considering a trip to the east coast of the United States... I'm only 2.5 hours from Atlanta AND we have a guest room!

I'm excited because maybe this means a return trip to Sydney isn't 10+ years away like I was afraid it might be! :)

Anyone up for a trip?

***Edited to add: Cousin Brett has just informed me that the flight will NOT be non-stop from Atlanta to Sydney, but they will have an L.A. to Sydney flight beginning July 1st. That's still happy news!

Where you can find me...

2009-01-09T23:48:00.005-05:00

9/365

I was inspired by Jaime's picture on January 2nd.

So, there's a lot to learn from this picture... you ready?

Let's start with my phone... laying in front of the keyboard.
*I LOVE MY NEW PHONE! It's red... that alone makes me love it, but it's cool too! :)

My hands...
*I always type with my fingers on the correct keys... Thank you ole' what's-her-name that taught my 6th grade keyboard class. :)

My arm...
*I LOVE MY NEW PJS!!! I got them this week at Target. They are bright pink with white piping and have little gingerbread men on them. I saw them back before Christmas and REALLY wanted them, but I resisted... until this past Wednesday. :) Got them for 50% off!! YAY ME!

To the left of my arm...
*Scrapbook resources and supplies. The books, binders and magazines are all ideas for fantastic pages that are just WAITING for me! The white plastic organizer holds all sorts of fun scrapbook supplies... stickers, embellishments, notecards with more ideas on them, etc...

In the middle of the picture, behind the keyboard...
*My miniature Eiffel Tower bought all the way from Paris by non other than... Cousin Brett. :) Brett's brother, Bobby, is in the AirForce and is currently stationed at a base in Ramstein, Germany. Brett and his parents (Aunt Karen and Uncle Mike) went to visit Bobby this past year and I requested this little Eiffel Tower...
One day, I'll see the real thing... up close and personal. :)

On my computer monitor...
*Simplify. One of my many goals for myself. In so many different areas of life. This little rub on serves as a daily reminder.

Tonight, Melanie sent me a text message with an offer to meet her at the theatre for a girl's night out... Brandon gave me the "go ahead" and I was off!
We saw, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"... I really enjoyed it, but I cried... a lot. :)
*It has renewed my love for Brad Pitt (who honestly, was becoming less and less attractive me as of late). His New Orleans accent (in my opinion) was spot on and VERY charming!
*Cate Blanchett was STUNNING! Her skin is gorgeous!
*It made me want to take ballet lessons!

On a much more serious note...
Please pray for my high school friend, Kim.
Kim and her husband, Neill, are expecting twins. They had a bit of a scare today... I'm not 100% sure how far along she is, but she's far enough for the girls (identical twin girls) to be born next week... They are measuring about 5 lbs each... I've heard that's a good weight for twins.
There is some concern about gallstones in Baby A and Baby B has some calcification on her chest and in the placenta.
Kim was sent for tests this evening. Once the results are back, they will make a decision about delivery.
Kim is worried (what mom wouldn't be?!?!), but she has faith in her doctor and has been encouraged by how pro-active the doctor has been. NICU has already been briefed on Kim's pregnancy and they are ready for the girls when the time comes.

I have faith in God and He knows exactly what He's doing.

So please say a prayer for Kim, Neill and their families. They need peace, wisdom and comfort right now.

'Nother one stolen....

2009-01-09T15:06:00.002-05:00

Stole this from Kristy... again. :)

It's helping me get motivated to finish my 30 things to do before I'm 30 list.

Things I have done in my life (in bold):

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band (I guess marching band counts, right?)
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch (scrapbooking)
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables (well technically I just helped Brandon!)
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon (I'm actually going to start training for a 1/2 marathon... pray for me!)
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person.
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies (I think my mom actually did more of the selling part!)
62. Gone whale watching
63. Gotten flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar (no, but I've had chicken hearts!)
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square (maybe this year???)
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone (only fractures)
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle (I rode with my dad when I was little... I don't know if it was a speeding motorcycle or not!)
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club (It starts on Jan. 15!!)
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

Wow... I haven't done much. :)

A little prayer...

2009-01-09T12:59:00.002-05:00

Say a quick prayer for my friend,Emily. I just heard that she's headed to the hospital to deliver a sweet, new baby boy... this will be her 3rd child. :)

Can't wait to meet him!

Ah the Birthday Crown!

2009-01-08T20:31:00.003-05:00

So, I know you are just DYING to hear.... Did Chandler get to wear the Birthday Crown?

8/365

Yes. Yes she did!

I dropped Chandler off at school this morning and then headed home to get Riley and myself ready for the day.
I dropped Riley off at Becky's house and headed back to Chandler's school.

I got there just as her class was walking to the cafeteria.

We sat together at lunch. I watched her interact with her classmates... priceless! They are too funny!
Have you ever had lunch with 20 kindergarten students?? It's an experience EVERY parent should have! :)

We passed out the cupcakes. Some of the kids were SO polite! I was very impressed... "Thank you for the cupcakes Chandler's mom." :)

I went back to her class for about an hour... I was very interested to see what she actually does in her class. It was very insightful... she knows a whole lot more than she lets on at home! Sneaky kid!

I left her as her class was lining up to go to the computer lab.

It was a great day!

**Tomorrow the nice guy from Lowe's is coming to measure for our new front door!! WOO HOO!

So all in all it wasn't too bad...

2009-01-07T21:58:00.004-05:00

Chandler ended up having a nice birthday.

She thanks you all for your lovely thoughts and wishes for a happy day!

She had phone calls from friends and family in addition to your comments, e-mails, and Facebook messages.

First there was a call from Evan. If you ask Chandler about it, she will tell you, "he called ALL THE WAY FROM AUSTRALIA!"

Followed by calls from Grammy & Squire, Gran & Chief, and Aunt Erin (sorry we didn't call you back Erin!)

We went to the post office to pick up a packaged and she informed me that this was, "the biggest package EVER!"
Thanks Gran... your timing was PERFECT!

We came home and she unwrapped all of the treasures inside the "biggest package ever".

At church tonight she got a gift of CASH from a friend of ours and she even found a CROWN to wear!

So she was a happy camper as she climbed into bed tonight (in her new PJs from Gran)... especially after she remembered that tomorrow we are having lunch together and cupcakes with her class!

7/365

I just can't believe that she's 6 years old!

The most sad girl in the world...

2009-01-06T20:01:00.005-05:00

Chandler was SO excited about taking cupcakes to school tomorrow to celebrate her birthday... the big number 6!! The plan was for me to bring cupcakes and our lunch to school tomorrow at 10:30 to have a little birthday party with her school friends... because heaven knows I can't afford to take all 20 of them bowling!

I got a call tonight from my neighbor (and wonderful friend) Becky... she was going to keep Riley tomorrow so I could actually enjoy lunch... not chase Riley around the cafeteria... I could hear the dread in Becky's voice...

B: Hey Jen. I just a call about school being closed tomorrow.

J: WHAT!?!?! WHY!?!?!

B: Something about the rain.

UGH! Only here would they close school on my child's birthday because it rained TODAY!

Now, it did rain a WHOLE LOT, but come on! Canceling school!?!?

So I broke the news to Chandler...

J: Hey Chan? I need to tell you something and it's not very good news.
C: Ok.
J: There's not going to be an school tomorrow.
C: WHAT! (tears already in her eyes)
J: Yeah. It rained so hard today that they canceled school.
C: BUT (sob) NOW I (sob) WON'T GET TO WEAR (sob) THE BIRTHDAY (sob) CROWN! (sob)
J: I'll call Mrs. _______ tomorrow and ask her if you can wear it on Thursday.
C: But she'll say NO because Thursday is NOT my birthday! January 7 is!
J: I'm sure she will understand.
C: It's just not fair.
J: I know Chan. You're right it's not fair.

**Her teacher knew we were planning to bring cupcakes and have lunch together so I'm sure she will be very understanding about the whole birthday crown situation.

6/365

Something else on my to do list...

2009-01-05T23:15:00.003-05:00

Actually it's more like something else on my list of things to STOP doing.

I will not be the only one in this family taking pictures this year!

I'm NEVER in any pictures... it's my goal to BE in more pictures... not TAKING more pictures.

So, technically I didn't take today's Project 365 photo, but it's a picture that represents our days lately:

5/365

No. I'm not practicing to be one of Charlie's Angels. I'm actually doing one of the yoga poses on our Wii Fit... notice that Brandon is not letting my attempt at exercise bother his football game! :)

Brandon and I have been faithfully using the Wii Fit program in an attempt to be more active. Yes, we know that the Wii is not a substitute for getting out and actually doing physical activities as a family, but it's a good motivator on the yucky, cold, rainy nights... like tonight!

This is not the most flattering picture, but I have to loosen up and realize that if I want to be in pictures I can't be too picky about them! :)
Ugh... that's gonna be tough!

1st Monday Mumblings of 2009

2009-01-05T10:47:00.003-05:00

1. Tomorrow Chandler goes back to school. I have mixed feelings about it. I've enjoyed having her around over the Christmas break and she and Riley have been getting along really well the last few days. Riley will miss her while she's off at school... and probably be bored to death with me!

2. Chandler will be 6 on Wednesday. She's excited about taking cupcakes to her class.

3. We are taking her bowling for her birthday. She is excited!

4. Over the past week Riley has ended up in our bed several nights. She just starts SCREAMING out after being asleep for several hours. I think it's her ears again... *sigh*

5. Last night she slept across me... yes, across... her head and neck were draped over my neck. Not comfortable for either of us. Brandon tried to help me out by moving her once... actually it was probably more because she had her feet in his face... but she ended up right back where she started!

6. She probably didn't get the best night's sleep, but I'm sure it was better than the sleep that Brandon and I got!

7. Since starting this list I have been interrupted 6 times...

1st it was Riley:
R: "Bebe? Bebe?"
J: "Looking for your baby?"
R: "Uh huh."
J: "Let's find the baby."

Then she came back...
R: "Bebe nigh nigh."
J: "Does the baby need a blanky to go night night?"
R: "Uh huh."
J: "Let's go find the blanket."

Then she came back...
R: "Bebe! Bebe!" Pointing her the baby's mouth
J: "Does the baby need a bottle?"
R: "Uh huh."
J: "Let's go find the baby's bottle."

We found 2 baby bottles!

Then it was Chandler:
C: "I need a baby."
J: "You know where they are."
C: "I want the one just like Riley's" (thanks to Aunt Amanda we have TWIN babies! it saves us a lot of fights!)
J: "You had it yesterday. Where did you put it?"
C: "Oh yeah! Thanks mom!"

Then she came back...

C: "Riley won't share a baby bottle with me."
J: "Did you ask her?"
C: "Yes. She won't."
J: "Let's go ask again."

Riley is sitting happily on the sofa watching cartoons and feeding her baby from TWO bottles!

J: "Riley? Can Chandler's baby have a bottle?
R: Silence
J: "Riley? Chandler's baby is hungry. Can she have a bottle?"
R: Silence
J: "Riley? I think Chandler's baby is crying. Can Chandler have a bottle to feed the baby?"
R: "Bebe cry?"
J: "Yeah. Can she have a bottle."
R: "No."
C: "MOM!"
J: "Hey Chan. Why don't you feed your baby cereal?" (She was having frosted mini wheats for breakfast)
C: "She doesn't like them. I think she's allergic!"

*sigh*

8. I downloaded a new ring tone on my phone. Super Massive Black Hole by Muse... more commonly known as "the song during the baseball scene in Twilight!"

9. Now I'm just waiting for someone to call me so I can hear it...

10. Maybe the nice guys from Lowe's will be the 1st to call me! :) That will be 2 reasons to smile... my cool new ringtone and a new front door!!

Haaaaaappy Monday!

A Belated Christmas from the South!

2009-01-04T19:38:00.004-05:00

I know it's already January 4th, but when I saw this video I KNEW I had to post it!

My mom's family gets together at Christmas each year...
When we sit down to eat it is tradition to sing "The 12 Days of Christmas".
My grandmother has a set of "12 Days Glasses".
If you are fortunate enough (or unfortunate enough... depending on how you look at it) to get one... you get to sing that day of Christmas.

We (Brandon, myself and the girls) were not able to be there this year... we were celebrating Christmas morning with Brandon's parents.

I was so excited to see that Erin (my sister) had made a video this year and her husband, Joel, posted it on youtube!

In case you are curious...
My dad sings the 1st day of Christmas
My sister, Erin, sings the 7th day
Her husband, Joel, sings day 11
My mom sings day 12

I would tell you who everyone is, but you probably don't really care that much... just know that they are all aunts, uncles, and cousins on my mom's side of the family. :)

And yes, you may recognize Brett... the cousin who wants a post all about himself... standing with (more like trying to get away from) my sister as she sings.

So, here it is...
A merry belated Christmas from the southern United States... more specifically, Georgia!!
**Enjoy the accents!!

Projects. Projects. Everywhere!

2009-01-04T19:23:00.004-05:00

Today's installment of Project Chandler:

Can you tell what it is? If you are a mom, I'm sure it's obvious!
It's a yellow play-doh Christmas tree!

What does this picture say to me?
1. Focus is not important to a 5 year old with a camera...
2. The closer you are to your subject, the better
3. I will NEVER have a nice kitchen table... well maybe after Riley moves out. :)

Tonight, Riley climbed up into Brandon's lap (while he was attempting to watch football... ha ha!) and gave him a book to read to her...

"Once Upon a Time"

It's a story of a princess who meets a magical friend who grants her 3 wishes...
I bet as a boy or a teenager, Brandon never thought he would be reading princess stories! :)

4/365

This is today's Project 365 picture because...
1. I adore the silly face Riley is making!
2. Her toes are TOO CUTE!
3. It reminds me of how cuddly Riley can be, but only when she wants to cuddle!

Because Kristy tagged me. :)

2009-01-04T15:21:00.004-05:00

1. name: jennifer
2. birthday: january 14
3. wear silver or gold: silver (or white gold)
4. favorite restaurant: olive garden or panera... depends on the mood
5. favorite junk food: currently it's turtle pie... be on the lookout for a post about it!
6. favorite candybar: mr. goodbar
7. favorite candy: peanut butter m&ms and twizzlers
8. favorite store: target
9. favorite online store: target.com (lol)
10. do you collect anything: junk and dust! trying to quit both of those!
11. favorite movie: i can't pick one, but i really do love period films. pride & prejudice is one of my favs
12. favorite book: duh! twilight series. i also love john grisham novels, janet evanovich's stephanie plum series, and james patterson's "sam's letters to jennifer"
13. something you could never get enough of: scrapbook supplies... although my scrapbook table may argue with me!
14. favorite band: currently, i'm into jason mraz, maroon 5 and the twilight sound track
15. favorite indulgence: cute new stuff for my house
16. something you never buy yourself but want: ooooo... a nikon D90... i just can't spend that kind of money on a camera right now... or ever probably!
17. favorite color: oddly enough... since i'm not a girly girl, but i've gotta say pink... it may change tomorrow. :)
18. something you are wishing for right now: a nikon D90, a clean house, a completely remodeled bathroom!
19. favorite symbol: huh? a heart... i don't know. :P
20. who are you tagging: amy beth, mummy mct, my sister (she better do it!), sarah, and anyone else who wants to play along! :)

Check out Kristy's answers too!

A New Year, A New Door...

2009-01-03T22:45:00.003-05:00

We have needed a new front door since.... oh, before we bought this house! Today, 3 years after buying our home, we went shopping for one.
The nice guys from Lowe's should be calling me sometime in the next 2 business days to schedule a time to come out and measure our space. :)

I'm declaring this the year of serious home improvement.... maybe?

So, today's picture is typical of our family... especially on the weekends:

3/365

Chandler and Riley (still in their PJs) attacking their dad. :)

Sorry this post is so short...
I went to Walmart tonight. When I got home their was a Mexican lady sitting on my sofa and a strange kid playing in our playroom. :)
Apparently, she backed her car into the neighbor's yard and got stuck.... that actually happens a lot. I wish I was keeping track of the number of times... I'd say at least 5 times since we've lived here.

Anyway... that caused the girls to get into bed late and that started a chain reaction...

It's almost 11pm and Brandon is waiting for me to finish this post so we can watch a movie. :)

Kristy finds all the good stuff!

2009-01-03T17:49:00.002-05:00

I steal things from Kristy all the time. :) Here's another one!

Hee hee!

So far so good!

2009-01-02T20:28:00.004-05:00

Yep, it's only day 2 of my Project 365, but I'm proud of myself for just remembering to carry my camera in the diaper bag today! :)

Brandon had to go back to work this morning... boo!

The girls and I took it easy.
We slept in a bit... the girls slept in a bit more than I did... that may be a first in our family!!
We were just lazy.
I did some laundry.
The girls watched cartoons.
Riley played with the Hotwheels racetrack we bought them for Christmas.

About noon we started getting ready for the day because...

We had a DATE!

Melanie met us at the movie theatre with Daphne, Micah, Gabe and Myles!
If Riley had been sitting in her own seat (instead of crawling all over my lap) we would have taken up an entire row of seats!

We saw Bolt. I know it has been out for a while, but we had not gotten around to seeing it yet.
It was HYSTERICAL!

If you haven't seen it, you should. Rhino, the hamster made me laugh over and over again! Although, I think Melanie laughed harder and louder than anyone else in the theatre!

I wanted to get a picture of all of us in the lobby after the movie, but it just didn't happen.

However, on the way to the theatre, I passed my camera to Chandler and asked her to take a picture of me...

So begins, PROJECT CHANDLER

I've realized that there are SO many things to learn from seeing life from a child's perspective.

Such as:
I need to pay more attention to what my hair looks like from the BACK!
and
I look incredibly tense when I drive... I don't feel tense, but I look it!

There will be more installments in this project... be on the lookout! :)

And picture #2 in my Project 365:

2/365

This picture says SO much about Riley and who she is right now.

1. She is FOCUSED!
2. She is determined!
3. She is a connoisseur of movies.
4. She loves CARS! Not just the movie, but actual cars... hence the Hotwheel racetrack.

A New Year... A lot to do!

2009-01-01T19:02:00.006-05:00

So, it's 2009.

Time to get serious about all of the things I need to get done!

My list of 30 Things to do before I'm 30.... Gotta get started on that.... Pronto!

I'm also going to try this Project 365 that several people have mentioned... I don't know all of the "rules", but my goal is to take a picture each day that tells you a little bit about our day.

Here's today's photo:1/365

We took Chandler (and Riley) to the bowling alley. It was a 1st for her. She was surprised when she realized where we were.
She's been enjoying the Wii bowling game so much that we decided to try it out for real.

All in all she had a good time. She was frustrated that she couldn't get a strike, but she did manage to get 1 spare in each game that we played.

Well, I better get back to cleaning my kitchen! It might be a new year, but some things never change!

I knew I couldn't keep it up!

2008-12-30T11:22:00.005-05:00

Well, it's Tuesday and I just realized that I didn't do a Monday Mumblings yesterday OR last week... oops!

So here's 2 weeks worth of Monday Mumblings.... on Tuesday. :)

1. All 8 members of my family got some sort of stomach bug over Christmas.
Riley got it just after we opened presents at my in-law's house on Christmas Eve.
Chandler got it about an hour later.
I woke up Christmas morning MISERABLE!
Brandon got it sometime the day after Christmas at my grandmother's house.
My sister AND my mom got it on the Saturday after Christmas.
Joel AND my dad spent all Saturday night and all Sunday day SICK!

2. The good news in all of that is that whatever it was, it didn't last more than 24 hours for any of us.

3. Because of being sick on Christmas morning, I don't have a single picture of my kids opening presents. :(

4. I got some great gifts for Christmas.

5. We have all been enjoying our Wii.

6. Chandler is quite the bowler, golfer and boxer! :)

7. I LOVE the Wii Fit!!! I'm a hulla hooping CHAMP!

8. We MIGHT be slightly obsessed with the Wii right now.

9. We have TWO televisions set up in our living room. 1 for the Wii and 1 for watching movies and tv WHILE we play the Wii.... As soon as the holidays are over the Wii will move into the bonus room and my livingroom will get back to normal.

10. I am THRILLED to know that Mummy McT got her package (or parcel as she calls it... I love Australian accents!) ON CHRISTMAS EVE! YAY!

11. I'm looking forward to having some good friends over tomorrow night for New Year's Eve!

12. I need to clean my house before those good friends get here!!!!

13. I'm excited to start planning my trip to Forks, WA (Washington State for my non-U.S. readers) with this guy...

My cousin, Brett.

14. Brett thinks there should be an entire blog post just about him... careful what you wish for Brett! :)

15. I'm also excited that Evan will be here in just over 6 weeks.

16. I need to start seriously planning my list of random U.S. things that I'm going to expose him to! I'm open to suggestions!

17. I still haven't finished my list of 30 things to do before I'm 30.

18. There are PLENTY of things I want to do, but I'm trying to be practical about it.

19. Chandler's 6th Birthday is ONE WEEK from tomorrow. I need to make some party plans!

20. Since Chandler's birthday is one week from tomorrow... that means MY birthday is TWO WEEKS from tomorrow!

21. The longer this list gets, the more I realize I have to get done in a fairly short amount of time!

Got any random thoughts you want to share?

Don't really have time...

2008-12-28T13:48:00.001-05:00

Well, I'll fill you in on our Christmas "mishaps" when I've actually got a few minutes to organize my thoughts, but for now I'll leave you with a link to a few of the pictures from our photo session.

Jared Wielfaert Photography: Jennifer's Headshots

Check out Jared's Blog and his website for more info on what he has to offer. :)

Hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas!!!

A Very Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-22T20:05:00.002-05:00

Well, it seems as if most, if not all, of my bloggy friends are taking a "blogging vacation" over Christmas so I may just do it too!

We are headed out of town in the morning... so begins the season of holiday travel. :)

Merry Christmas everyone!!

Oh! By the way... the photo session went quite well. I've seen a few of the proofs and I'm very pleased with the results. We managed to get some REALLY good ones of Chandler and a few of me and Brandon together. Riley wasn't too cooperative due to an ear infection, runny nose and well... being on the threshold of the "terrible 2s". :)

Fortunately for all of you, I didn't get Janna's clothing suggestion until AFTER the session. Ha! (see the comments on the previous post.)

Decisions, decisions...

2008-12-19T09:11:00.004-05:00

I mentioned in this post, that my friend Jared is going to be taking some head shots of me. A few of you asked why I needed head shots...
In high school I was a member of a drama class and became a member of the International Thespian Society. My senior year of high school I auditioned for a part in a community theatre production of "Annie Get Your Gun". That was SO much fun!

I haven't done any acting since then, but I've always wanted too... head shots are one step closer to acting again. :)

Here I am in "Annie Get Your Gun" just to the right of Frank Butler.
My hair was short like it is now, so I had to wear that terrible wig! At least it was brown and not that horrible blonde on the other girl! :)
**Note: Unless I am in another musical that requires me to dance, this is probably the only photographic proof you will EVER find of me dancing!

So, this coming Monday at 10am, Jared will be shooting photos of me...

Here's the decision part...
WHAT IN THE WORLD AM I GOING TO WEAR?!?!?

O Christmas Tree!

2008-12-16T22:59:00.009-05:00

Ready for picture overload?

Brandon and I FINALLY got into the Christmas spirit (sort of) and got a tree. He and Chandler went to Lowe's last night and picked it out... perk of waiting so late? Our tree only cost $17 with tax! :)
We are still not doing our full blown decorating... no lights on the house... no Christmas dishes on the table... I just don't want to watch Riley like a hawk for the next few days while hoping and praying that she doesn't grab the table cloth and pull all of my Christmas China onto the tile floor! **I'm sure you moms can understand that!

So, we decorated the tree and SOME of the house tonight...

Yes. I am one of "those moms" that fixes the ornaments that her children put on the tree. I really didn't move too many of them... we have LOTS of heavy ornaments and they must be hung "just right" to keep them from crashing to the floor!

Chandler HAD to put the star on this year... it's the 1st year she hasn't complained that we have a star and NOT an angel.
I have no idea what kind of face she is making!

The finished product!!
I told you my presents are all wrapped and ready to go!

All lit up... anyone know how to get a picture like this that ISN'T fuzzy?

So, I've read TONS of blogs lately that have had pictures of trees and homes all decked out for the holidays...
Since I don't have much to show as far as home decor is concerned, I've decided to show you some of my favorite ornaments. :)

These first 2 are gifts from my mom and dad.
They are from Hungary and they bought them on one of their trips through Hungary headed to (or back from) Romania.

Brandon tells me every year to remind my mom to look for more while she is there... he wants an entire tree FULL of these bells!

I'm pretty sure they are one of a kind since they are hand made out of porcelain. :)

Ok, every year we try to buy an ornament that reminds us of something we did that year.
If we go on vacation, we buy an ornament while we are there... it's my favorite vacation tradition!

This one isn't from a vacation, but we bought it to remind us of our very first UGA game!
Gooooo Dawgs!

This one is from a trip I made to Kennebunkport, Maine.
I made the trip with the choir at church a few years ago... back before Riley, but I'm not exactly sure what year it was...
Kennebunkport is BEAUTIFUL! If you live in the U.S., you NEED to go... I recommend going in the summer... the weather was PERFECT!

This ornament was the very first one that Brandon and I bought after we were married... it's from our honeymoon to Aruba.

This little lighthouse is from our first vacation to Jekyll Island with Brandon's parents after we were married.
I had been with them to Jekyll before we were married, but we didn't start the ornament tradition until after our wedding.

This cute little Santa is from a trip we took to Myrtle Beach in 2002. It's the only vacation the two of us have ever been on alone.

The candy cane is from 2004. We vacationed on St. Simon's Island that summer with my parents and my sister.

Bet you can guess where this one came from!
We took a vacation to Disney World with my parents and my sister back in 2006.

This one is from another vacation with my parents. We spent 2007 up in Gatlinburg.
Fortunately, we did NOT see any bears!

**I do not have an ornament from my trip to Australia. I looked for one while I was there, but didn't find anything that I really loved. I've sent Evan on a "Australian Christmas Ornament Mission". We'll see if he succeeds.
I'll keep you posted!

These next 2 ornaments are special because they have pictures of my babies in them!
Brandon's mom got each of the girls a photo ornament to celebrate their 1st Christmases.

Chandler in 2003

Riley in 2007

I mentioned last year how much I love my nativity.

It's the one my sister and I grew up with and it's VERY old.
The bottom of each piece is stamped, "Made in West Germany".

It is chipped. It is scratched. Some of the people have had heads glued back on, but I wouldn't want a new one... even if it was a duplicate set.

A few years ago, my sister in law Lainey, bought me this Flurryville set.
It's Santa's Workshop, but all of the pieces are snowmen... I LOVE IT!
Thanks Lainey!!! It's one of my FAVORITE Christmas decorations!

So, that's all in my livingroom.

Next we have our kitchen...

My Gingerbread Welcome sign... a gift from my sister. :)

A cute little gingerbread man hanging on our French doors.
My mom found him at a yard sale... thanks mom!

Another gift from my sister... a little gingerbread family pillow hanging out in an extra kitchen chair.

Chandler and Riley's tree got moved to the kitchen so we could keep an eye on it.
I mentioned last week that Riley is just a tad rough on it!
Now it is wedged between my china cabinet and the fridge.

Riley went to bed before the decorating got under way tonight so here are a few pictures from the night we decorated the little tree... it was still in their room at the time.

"Puppy Mom!"

"ohhhh... I can take the ornaments off all by myself!"

Welcome to Monday Mumblings

2008-12-15T13:10:00.003-05:00

Everyone seemed to enjoy my random list of thoughts in my head last Monday so I've decided to turn it into a regular Monday activity...

I make no promises that I'll be able to keep up with it, but I'll try my best.

So here is it...

Monday Mumblings:

1. Today is my sister's 25th birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERIN!

2. It's December 15th and we STILL don't have a Christmas tree. Honestly, I'm ok with not getting one this year, but it's a little sad since this is the 1st year that we've had presents wrapped and ready to go so early into December and we don't have a tree to put them under.

3. This is Chandler's last week of school before Christmas break... I've changed my mind about not looking forward to Christmas break... I'm looking forward to it for one simple reason... I won't have to get up before the sun!

4. I'm SO excited about the gifts we got for the girls this year!

5. Taking on the job of Cherub Choir (the pre-school choir) Director and the Nursery Coordinator at church has helped us out financially this Christmas. :) We have been able to pay for ALL of our Christmas gifts IN CASH!
**By the way... My Cherub Choir is singing in church this Sunday... I'll have to figure out how to post video of that! They are adorable and I NEVER know what kind of craziness will happen in the middle of our performances!

6. I'm anxious... maybe more excited than anxous... to see what is in store for us in 2009.

7. 2008 has been full of medical type stuff for us... I'm hoping for LESS of that in 2009.

8. I'm still working on my list of 30 things to do before I'm 30.

9. It has been slightly warmer this past week than it was on this day. For that, I am grateful!

10. Only 1 more Christmas party to attend and only 1 more Christmas program to sing in.

So what's floating around in your head this Monday?

Thoughts on Rules

2008-12-12T08:18:00.003-05:00

Well, your honesty made me laugh! Myself and the 8 of you who commented should NEVER go out into public together! :)

Half of us would be breaking all kinds of socially implied rules while the other half would be hiding under the table out of embarrassment!

No, not really... I'm sure we all know how to control ourselves in public!

Sara: I go out in public without makeup... in fact, if you saw me right now... well it's scary really so I wouldn't let you see me right now. Monday through Friday I leave my house between 7 and 7:15 to take Chandler to school... I RARELY change out of my pajamas... makeup, ha!

Jenn: Before I had kids (and even when Chandler was very young) our friends commented that any time there was a party, Brandon and I would be the 1st ones there... I was a band geek most of my life (and really... who am I kidding? once a band geek ALWAYS a band geek.) and the band geek moto is "Early is on time and on time is LATE!"
Now, I'm lucky if I'm only 15 minutes late EVERYWHERE! I HATE being late... I don't intentionally break that rule... I blame my kids! :)

Sandi: I eat when I'm hungry. The only "set" meal at our house is dinner. It is a bad habit that I have passed on to my kids.

Renata: I don't even make rules for myself anymore! I know I'm going to break them so why bother! :)

Kristy: I love that you are a tattooed mama! I was REALLY close to getting a tattoo not too long ago, but couldn't make up my mind so I decided to wait.
When Chandler was born I took out my cartilage ring because "mama's probably shouldn't have multiple piercings" and I wanted to fit the "mama mold".
Today I sit here with not the 3 piercings that I had when I was pregnant with Chandler, but FIVE (yes 5) piercings. :) All in my ears, but 5 none the less.

Lacy: Your blog comment makes you sound like the kind of friend my parents warned me about! lol! I did sneak a snack into the theatre once, but it was for Chandler before I allowed her to eat popcorn... I had a fear that she would choke to death!

Mummy McT: Your comment reminds me of my friend, Kim, from high school (Kristy can back me up on this)... she could burp louder than any GUY I knew! In fact, on several occasions, I heard her burp the ABCs... and I'll admit, I was a bit jealous. LOL!

Jaime Lynn: I already knew about you and your non-conformist streak! You didn't surprise me one bit... actually I thought about you as I was writing the post! :)

So? Do I break rules? Yes. I do.
Do I always do it on purpose? No.
Do I feel guilty about breaking rules? Yes and No. Really the only I time I feel guilty is when Chandler (who is beginning to notice EVERYTHING) calls me out on breaking a rule... it's usually the socially implied rules.
Does it keep me up at night? Nah.
Is there one rule in our house that's more important than the others? No. Not really. Our rules are more of the "unspoken" variety. The importance changes based on what we are currently struggling with at home or school.

After I posted my rule breaking blog on Wednesday, I noticed that is was my 200th post! YAY ME!
Such a landmark blog requires some sort of giveaway so...

Mummy McT you are the winner! E-mail me your mailing address at brandonjennifer@bellsouth.net and I'll mail out your prize!

You may be asking yourself, "What is she winning?"

I guess you'll just have to wait and see! Maybe she'll write a blog all about it.
**Here's a hint... it's a little story about a rule breaker. :)

Maybe you are asking yourself, "How did she win?"

That's an easy one... Chandler picked her.

Now you are asking, "Why did Chandler pick her?"

J: "Chan. Here are 8 people which one do you think should win?"
C: "Who are they?"

I showed her each of your blogs...

C: "I like this one." (pointing at Mummy McT's blog)
J: "Why?"
C: "Because she has cute kids and they call her mummy... not mOmmy!"

Apparently she shares my love of the Australian accent!

Rebel without a cause?

2008-12-10T12:56:00.002-05:00

I'm just curious...

Are YOU a rule breaker?

I don't mean breaking the LAW... please don't tell me THOSE stories! :)

I mean... do you break "rules"...

actual written rules like "no blue jeans at work except on Friday"

rules you set for yourself like "I will NOT eat ice cream... well except maybe on odd numbered days!"

socially implied rules like "don't burp at the table" or "early is on time and on time is LATE!" (maybe that one's just MY socially implied rule!)

random "ruling" requests like "we've all decided to wear white shirts tomorrow"

My question in response to a request such as this is, "who is WE and why do I have to do it too?" :)
Would you wake up tomorrow and intentionally put on a lime green tank top?

I'm not just asking for the sake of posting something today... I really want to know...

Do you break rules?
What KIND of rules to you break?
Do you feel guilty when you break a rule?
Does it keep you up at night?
Is there one rule in your house that is more important than any other?

Nacho Update:

2008-12-10T10:43:00.003-05:00

Mummy McT: They were delicious! I may just have to start visiting Taco Bell more often!

Heather: Maybe I'll try to send Brandon out for dessert tonight! Cheesecake sounds good!

Heather C: While I was pregnant with Chandler, I craved Chick-fil-A icecream!! There was not any guacamole on my nachos, but there were refried beans... I like the beans.

Jaclyn: I think I may have had the small one as well... I'm not sure since Brandon went out and got it for me.

Nacho Libre :)

2008-12-09T21:41:00.005-05:00

I don't eat at Taco Bell.

I have not been to a Taco Bell since my freshman year (MAYBE my sophomore year) in college. My roommate, Kathryn, and I would make late night runs for "study food"... in the town where our college is (and where I currently live) there wasn't much open after 9:00pm back in 1998 so we would end up at Krystal (gag!) or Taco Bell (gag!)...
We always got the same thing... 2 bean burritos add sour cream... we each got 2... we ate them in the car before we got back to the dorm (or our apartment if in fact we were still doing this our sophomore year).

Tonight after scrubbing my kitchen floor (literally on my hands and knees), Brandon and I sat down to watch last week's episode of The Office. There was a commercial for Taco Bell and it was an ad for the most delicious looking nachos that I have EVER seen...
Now, before you give me a hard time... I KNOW that food never looks as good IN the restaurant as it does on TV... I KNOW THIS, but SOMETHING about those nachos has me CONVINCED that they would be delicious!!!

I NEED THOSE NACHOS! I DON'T CARE THAT IT IS 9:50 AT NIGHT!

**and NO I am not pregnant. :)

**and if you are interested... I did a post last year about a Krystal eating contest that we went to.

****Edited to add:
At 10pm I was sitting on our sofa eating nachos from Taco Bell.... THANKS BRANDON! :)

What else on a Monday morning?

2008-12-08T08:26:00.003-05:00

My brain is full of random half thoughts this morning...

1. Kristy has inspired me to kick myself into gear and work on my list of "30 things to do before I'm 30"... her list is 29 Things Before 30, but I'm gonna 1 up her! :)
**Jenn also had a list a while back ago... she's the one that originally made me start thinking about working on my list.

2. Brandon and I are both going to make lists... maybe some of them will overlap... we can hold each other accountable! :)

3. It's stinkin' cold outside!

4. I am singing this Thursday night for a "Senior Adult Christmas Banquet"... jealous? :)

5. I have partially decorated my house for Christmas... I'm just not in the mood this year. :(

6. The girls have a 3 foot Christmas tree on the bedside table in their room... so far there have been 2 broken ornaments and I've picked the tree up off the floor atleast a half dozen times... that's not counting the times that Brandon has picked it up.

7. My friend, Jared, is going to be taking some headshots for me sometime in the next few weeks... I'm excited about that!

8. Remember when my guestroom was supposed to get a makeover in July and then the date moved to September... well it's December, but it is finally ALMOST DONE!!! 4 of the 5 things on my list to do in that room can be checked off, but I still need to finish the last one and add one more thing to the list... it WILL be done before Christmas!!!

9. Here's the results from the ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialist that I took Riley to see last week... "If you WANT to have tubes put in, we can do it. If you DON'T want tubes put in, we don't have to do it."
Uh? Um? Well? I DON'T KNOW!!! YOU ARE THE DOCTOR! TELL ME WHAT TO DO!!!!!

10. My follow up appointment with my surgeon went well. I have to go back for a mammogram in March... that mammogram will serve as my new "baseline" picture to which all future mammograms will be compared. After my mammogram I will go back for another follow up with my surgeon.

11. I am no where NEAR being finished with my Christmas shopping!

12. My friends, Brian and Trish are in the process of adoption. Trish just started a blog... go check it out. They are SUPER people and will be AMAZING parents!!!

13. They have a cookbook that they are selling and all proceeds from the sales are going straight to their adoption fees... need a nice cookbook for yourself or one to give as a Christmas gift? Check out her blog. They are only $15. They are VERY pretty... kind of a scrapbook appearance to the cover AND I even have a few recipes in there! :)
Brian is a chef... yep, that's his actual occupation... and he has a TON of recipes in the book.
I told Trish that they should auction off Brian's culinary talents. :)
I'd pay to have him come cook a nice dinner for me and my family!! Especially in the craziness of the holidays!

14. To make things ever easier... you can buy the cookbook on Ebay! Check it out!! For less than $20 (including shipping) you can help Brian and Trish and add some new recipes to your cooking repertoire! :)

15. My parents are currently in Romania on a mission's trip. If you can spare a minute or 2, say a prayer for their safety as well as the safety of their team.

Wow... I think I'm all out of randomness. Ah. Now I have space in my brain!

I told you it's cold outside...

2008-12-06T13:07:00.003-05:00

Don't believe me? Even Rainn Wilson and Selma Blair say so...

It's gonna be a LONG winter!

2008-12-03T11:54:00.002-05:00

Have I mentioned I'm not a fan of the cold?
You can read about my dislike of cold weather here and here.

Sitting outside of Chandler's school this morning... waiting to drop her off...

And for my Celsius reading friends...