Raisin' M&Ms

Is She Random or Common?

2011-05-03T18:42:00.000-07:00

I sat my alarm clock for 4:00 in the morning with the hopes of seeing a fairytale wedding! Through sleepy eyes, I was able to stay awake long enough to walk Kate down the aisle to one of my favorite anthems, I Was Glad! Even hummed along to the alto part! Needing to go to work in just a few short hours, I gave up! Both girls were a little disappointed I didn't get them up for the festivities but during breakfast we were able to see the new couple appear on the balcony. Merritt glanced up from her waffle to reply, "That random girl only loves him because he's a prince!" I'm guessing she heard so much coverage of Kate being a commoner and chose her own vocabulary to describe the situation! She may be random/common but she's beautiful and handled the day with such grace! Reminded me of another random woman, an American actress who became royal many years ago!

Hey Jude, I love you!

2011-04-27T20:10:00.000-07:00

Allergies and sleepless nights have left me feeling and looking haggard and reaching for more Diet Cokes than I had hoped! As I finished up my lunch and headed back to class, I brought along my half empty Diet Coke can. As I entered the kindergarten classroom, my favorite little boy said, "Mrs. Hughes, can you drink Diet?" Not sure what he was alluding too, I asked, "What do you mean?" A little worried about his response, thinking that I wasn't supposed to have a canned drink in the classroom, Sweet Jude replied, " I can't drink Diet because I am too young!" He went on to say, "Aren't you too young?" Whatever you say, Sweet Jude and I think I just received the compliment of a lifetime because I am certain I am older than your Mother!

Too Excited To Sleep

2011-04-23T21:27:00.000-07:00

The girls had a hard time going to sleep tonight as they anticipated what might be in their baskets in the morning! I overheard Merritt tell Morgan to hurry and go to sleep so Santa could tell the Easter Bunny to visit our house! Wonder if the Tooth Fairy came along for the ride?

Back Pack Treasures

2011-04-23T16:42:00.000-07:00

I always find special school work in Merritt or Morgan's backpacks when I am desperate for a smile! Today was no different. After a rather difficult day with Merritt yesterday, I was pleased to find this treasure! Assignment was to write about what she can do on a rainy day! She chose to "play with my sister Morgan." and "paint with my Mom." Notice the canvas on the easel in the picture on the right! Not only am I glad I am passing along a love of the canvas, I am thrilled she wants to do it with me!

How Could I Ever Forget You?

2011-04-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

Over the last 2 weeks, our household has seen a major change....Momma has gone back to work! It all happened quickly after I saw a job posting at the Elementary school where I have been substitute teaching. I am now a child specific aide working with a kindergartner! Great fun but great changes!

During dinner the night before my first day, Merritt seriously asked me, "Momma, will you remember me tomorrow!" As my heart began to break, I quickly reassured her that of course I would remember her! Merritt quickly replied, "What about next week, will you remember me then?" Still quick to answer I said, "Merritt, of course, I will remember you next week!" Still experiencing a breaking heart, I wondered how in the world can I get out of this job commitment! Merritt then asked, "What about next month, will you remember me then?" Determined we were headed to therapy, I replied, "Yes, yes, I will remember you next month!" She quickly replied, "Well, what about next year?" "Merritt, I will remember you as long as I am on this earth!" I replied as my heart completely broke, wishing Scott were home to pick up the pieces!

Merritt then said, "Knock, knock!" Glad we were on to a new subject I happily replied, "Who's there!" With a devilish grin on her face, Merritt replied, "See, you already forgot me!"

Kindergarten Haiku

2011-04-13T19:52:00.000-07:00

Merritt wrote this yesterday in class:

Sister

Fun, playful

Sharing, pretending, loving

Always beside me everywhere

Morgan

So sweet! I guess she really does listen to me! When they are arguing I tell them to take a good look at one another because family is all we have in this world worth anything and they will be together for the rest of their lives so start getting along!

So Happy Together

2011-04-03T19:20:00.001-07:00

Morgan turned to me today and said, "You know, Max sure has become part of our family!" Yes, he has, I thought as I wiped the allergy induced tear from my eye! What fun we have already had with him and what hopes we have of many more fun times! Later in the day, Merritt asked, "Why did we get Max?" I quickly replied, "Because you and Morgan have always wanted a dog!" "Oh yeah!" she said. What I wanted to say was deeper than that. But I think they already know the answer! Because your mother loves you so much that she happily takes her allergy medicine now and readily has eye drops or inhaler on hand so you can make all your colored pictures come to life. All those doodles of sweet girls walking a dog or playing frisbee are now our reality! All the "if I had $50 dollars, I would buy a dog" stories are now your reality! And for the record, I rock Max to sleep each night just like I did both my girls. He has found a special spot in my heart! Maybe my allergies are worse or maybe the pollen count is high! Who knows for sure! All I know is, yes, Max has become a part of our family!

That's How Cinderella Rolls

2011-04-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

The last day of Spring Break was spent preparing for the ball! "Cinderella" arrived in style! Her "horse" drawn "carriage" and "footman" were great sports!

The Birds and The Bees

2011-03-31T10:18:00.000-07:00

After lunch yesterday, Morgan brought up the day Merritt was born. Being an emergency C-section, it was quite the event! Hearing Morgan's recollection and retelling from a 3 year old's perspective was fun. Merritt replied, "Sounds like the world stopped the day I was born!" It sure did! At least for your family!

This conversation led to Morgan asking how a woman knows it's time for the baby to be born. I tried to explain contractions and "water breaking" in a simple way! Whew! This led to Merritt asking, "Do you have to have a husband to have a baby?" Note to self and children: Save these conversations for when Momma isn't driving! I took a deep breath and said, "No, you don't have to have a husband to have a baby but in our family, we would like for you to have one before you have a baby!" She replied, "So, you don't have to have a husband to have a baby." "No, Merritt, you don't have to have a husband but it does take both a man and a woman to have a baby." Morgan quickly interrupted, "Can we stop this conversation before it goes too far! Mom's not ready to have the "birds and the bees" talk with us and I'm not ready to hear it!"

"Thank you, Morgan!" a relieved Momma replied!

Morgan, you also helped me realize now isn't the time to give you the All About Me book I just bought!

Good Things

2011-03-28T17:39:00.001-07:00

Found this recent school work of Merritt's which of course made me smile!
I love that I made the list, sort of! Even though Mom's macaroni and cheese comes in a certain blue and yellow box! So, what are your Good Things? Merritt pretty much covers what would make my list: nature, accessories, food, celebrations, friends and best of all, family!

Love Hurts

2011-03-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

Merritt begins every morning the same; breakfast and playtime with her buddy Max! The first morning of Spring Break was no different. As they had their morning tussle, Max nipped at Merritt. She quickly replied, "I love you Max but sometimes love hurts!"

I Love You Like...

2011-03-04T12:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, a dear friend and mentor to Scott lost his son-in-law in a brutal and cruel way. As I struggle to make sense of this, I stumbled across some of Morgan's recent school work. When someone's life is cut short, it shakes me to the core and makes me realize how precious our moments are and how much I oh so love my family! Morgan summed it up better than I will ever be able to!

I Love You Like...
By Morgan

I love you like bunnies love to hop.
I love you like Mrs. Lott loves to shop.

I love you like a monkey loves a vine.
I love you like a star loves to shine.

I love you like pages love a book.
I love you like a fisherman loves a hook.

I love you like ink loves a printer.
I love you like mittens love winter.

I love you like sand loves the beach.
I love you like a teacher loves to teach.

I love you like a kid loves good grades.
I love you like a bed loves to be made.

I love you like the wind loves to blow.
I love you like the stars love to glow.

I love you like a flower loves petals.
I love you like a runner loves medals.

I love you like a boat loves sailing.
I love you like a letter loves mailing.

I love you like a winter day loves to be chilly.
I love you like a clown likes to be silly.

I love you like cats love mice.
I love you like lemonade loves ice.

Wow! My children continue to amaze me each and every day! Thank you Morgan for these special ways to say, "I love you." And oh how I love you and my family and my friends! Thank you for reminding me that we need to tell one another we love them and for giving me fun ways to say it!

Lost Valentine

2011-02-17T19:52:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have those days when you feel like you are spinning your wheels? Nothing being accomplished on the "to-do-list?" Hopelessly wondering if you are making a difference, being the mom or person you need to be? Well, today was one of those days for me! Until I found this guy, an elephant Merritt made at Parent's Night Out at church the other night. Sunday at church, the children's director asked me if I had seen the elephant as she was beaming from ear to ear. "Oh, yes! So cute!" Well, I had seen it, but not really! When I found it today, I remembered her smiling face and wondered what did she see so special in it that I hadn't?

His precious ears held a precious message to me and Scott from Merritt and quickly answered my question! Yes, I am serving a purpose and making a difference! Even if the laundry isn't all folded and the kitchen counters are piled to the sky with school papers! She won't remember all the laundry I did, meals I cooked or dishes I did. Those aren't the reasons she wrote "I Love Mom" and "I Love Dad" on those precious elephant ears! Thank you sweet Merritt and thank you sweet elephant for letting me find you today!

Snowzilla 2011 Versus The Flu

2011-02-05T12:05:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that until last year, our last snow was 10 years ago and now the girls have enjoyed it twice! How great is that?!?! If you ask the girls, "Great!" they would say!

Despite strep throat last week and currently the flu, we bundled up and spent a short
time in the beautiful snow having snowball fights,

making Snow Angels,

and smiling a lot! Thanks Snowzilla 2011, you beat the flu better than Tamiflu!

Mom with her Snow Angels

And Dad with his!

What better time to introduce the outdoors than after it snows! Max loves being outside but not sure about the snow! He walked around on just his front two paws for as long as he could!

The Commish

2011-02-05T11:58:00.000-08:00

Scott was recently appointed by the Governor to the Civil Service Commission representing our area of the state. Prior to reporting for duty, a friend and district judge administered the oath of office. Two special Bible carriers were present! Wow, their resumes sure are growing! Way to go Scott, Mr. Commish!

Oceans of Fun!

2011-02-05T11:50:00.000-08:00

Morgan's third grade play was Go Fish! She and several of her friends were "clown" fish! They all did a great job with the singing, dancing and delivery of lines. It was not only fun, but delivered a wonderful message. The play centered around a tiger shark who wanted to be friends with everyone. All the other ocean creatures were afraid of him because she was a shark. Through the lines and songs, they learned that everyone can be friends despite their differences. In this day of bullying, it was a wonderful lesson for us all!

Literary Ball

2011-02-05T11:44:00.000-08:00

Each year the kindergarten classes participate in a Literary Ball. Each child is presented as a character from a story. Merritt chose to be The Gingerbread Girl from the recent classic, The Gingerbread Girl! Her partner, Wyatt was Hubie from the series The Black Lagoon. After their formal presentation, they danced a waltz and then had a literary snack of Very Hungry Caterpillar Fruit Kabobs, Rainbow Fish, Swords in the Stone and Peter Pan's Never Land Punch. It was a fun event and thanks to strep throat, Morgan was able to attend!

Introducing Maximus Elmore

2011-01-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

And so our family grows.... Coming home tomorrow is Maximus Elmore, "Max." Morgan has wanted a puppy for as long as she has known how to say the word and Merritt followed right along! With my allergies, I have resisted but this Christmas, a big gift was under the tree! We are all very excited and nervous! I feel like I am about to be a new mother again and from what I hear I'm not far off the mark! Sleepless nights and pitiful cries are in our future, I hear! The things we do for our children!

On the 50th day of kindergarten, Merritt wrote, "If I had $50 I would buy a dog!" Looking back through Morgan's kindergarten papers, she wrote the same thing! Well, add a 0 to that $50 and voila, a dream is coming true! Stay tuned and pray!

I Thought 50 Was the New 30!

2010-11-03T06:36:00.001-07:00

Today Merritt celebrates her 50th day of kindergarten with a 50's style sock hop! She looked adorable heading out the door in her purple poodle skirt! I have a lot of educating to do, though! I don't think Merritt has heard that 50 is the new 30!

What Happened On 9/11, Anyway?

2010-09-11T11:43:00.000-07:00

Morgan has become interested in the news. What started as a little girl wanting to see her daddy on TV, has turned into a great interest in what is going on in her world! This summer, she curled up next to me many nights to watch the 10 o'clock news. I quickly realized I always need to have the remote in hand in order to censor what was being broadcast!

So, last night I got the question, "What happened on 9/11, anyway?" My first instinct was to blurt out the fears and questions that we all felt that day. Instead, I kept to the facts. No other questions arose. I think she's digesting it all and more questions will come! Please note, I gave the kid-friendly version, if there is one!

Since her question last night, I have thought back to 9 years ago, like I am sure we all have. The anger, the fear, wishing for the times prior to that awful attack. This year, I'm looking at it completely different. Granted, I wish those events never occurred! But today, I am not missing life before that day, I am missing the America we became after that day! The unity, the compassion for one another. It was a true time in my life where I felt brotherhood! I am still proud to be an American and prouder every day but searching for some unity!

Merritt Crocker

2010-08-09T19:54:00.000-07:00

After discovering this apron and chef hat, Merritt decided we needed to do a little baking! I was able to scramble together the ingredients for chocolate chip cookies. Morgan joined us in the kitchen just in time to help lick the bowl. While Merritt was coming up with her plan of serving cookies to her Daddy via Morgan, the waitress, the two sisters got into a disagreement. When Morgan stormed off, Merritt looked at me and replied, "Great! I just lost my waitress!" After telling her she should treat her employees better she responded, "Momma, get a plate!" I think I've been hired!

Great Expectations

2010-06-09T21:16:00.000-07:00

"I expect you to do great things with your life. I don't hope it... I don't wish it... I EXPECT you to do great things with your life!"

A childhood friend of mine recently posted this as her facebook status explaining that her daddy prayed this over her and her siblings for many years. Wow! If we all wanted this for one another, what a wonderful world it would be!

My greatest hope or expectation for my girls has been self confidence... that which I have lacked! In their recent production of "The Little Mermaid", I have seen self confidence in action sometimes to the extreme. As neither child needs help with costumes either because they are capable of doing it on their own or have been resourceful enough to "hire" their own staff, Momma spent two weeks backstage helping other children, not her own!

At the close of the production, a weary mother returned home a little saddened that her chicks didn't need much of her only to find a smiling father reminding her, "Isn't this what you have always prayed for?" Yes it is my wise partner and oh how proud I am of our Seaweed and Coral! You lit up the stage and made us all smile and giggle! Great show, girls and Great Expectations your Momma and Daddy have for you! Continue to Shine!

The Horse With No Name Has A New Home

2010-05-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

This horse has been outside my grandmother's home for as long as I can remember and longer! He was always the first one to greet us and the last one to say goodbye every summer. He might have even been there when my dad was a little boy! When my grandmother passed away, my aunt asked me if there was anything I would like from her house. As we said our goodbyes on my grandmother's driveway, I looked over at the familiar horse and said, "I would love to have the horse!"

Aunt Donna said, "Well, take him now!" We went to work digging him up! I was so proud to bring him home. I'm embarrassed to admit that he's sat in my garage for two years. He's been a steady friend, greeting us each evening and telling us goodbye each morning but I'm proud to report that he now does it with more height and strength. He's found a spot in our flowerbed by our kitchen door which is the door that all our friends and loved ones enter. How proud I am that the horse that greeted my grandparents' friends and loved ones now greets mine! So, special horse, you might not have a name but you definitely have a home and many, many memories! Welcome Home!

Another Year of Violin

2010-05-23T17:50:00.003-07:00

This Little Girl Has Big Plans

2010-04-28T07:55:00.001-07:00

Last night as I was helping the girls get ready for bed Merritt said, "I can do it all by myself! I'm growing up, Momma and one day I'm going to be a beauty shop owner so I need to start doing everything by myself!" Go for it sister!

Momma Needs A Hobby, That's Why!

2010-04-26T08:59:00.000-07:00

After seeing a Facebook posting by a friend telling about her art teacher starting a beginner painter class, I found myself enrolled! I've always loved art and beamed when 3 year old Morgan started telling everyone she wanted to be an artist when she grew up, and a firefighter! I think if I had to answer the question, "If you could do anything, what would it be?" I would answer, "Be an artist." A children's book illustrator to be exact. Not sure why I never took any art classes other than an elective in high school and an Art History class in college. I guess it didn't seem practical and I was afraid I had no talent. Anyway, 2 months later, I have completed my first still life and have begun a landscape. I'm not sure that I have talent but I really look forward to my weekly class.

The girls have found interest in this new outlet of mine! I think they aren't sure why Momma is starting something new. When I brought my still life home, Merritt asked, "Why are you taking a painting class?" Before I could answer, Morgan quickly responded, "Merritt, Momma needs a hobby, that's why! All she does is sit around the house while we are at school! She needed to find something to do while we were gone!" Oh, my! I couldn't even respond to that one! Rest assured, for the rest of the week, I made sure Morgan knew what I had done while she was at school!

Times ~ They Are A Changin'!

2010-04-26T08:45:00.001-07:00

We recently received the news that Merritt would be attending her sister's elementary school next year for kindergarten! We are all so proud of Merritt for scoring so well in the testing process not only because it will make carpool simpler on Momma but also so she can have the same experiences her sister has had! Shortly after the excitement, reality set in!

No longer will it be Morgan's school! Morgan is proud of Merritt but not sure she wants to share the school with her! It all came to blows Friday morning when we helped Morgan get to class with some snacks. As we were walking to the classroom a 5th grade girl none of us recognized waved and said, "Hi, Merritt!" Morgan quickly shot me a look as if saying, "Are you kidding me, Momma! I don't even know her!" I asked Merritt if she knew who the girl was and she said, "No, but everybody knows my name!" Aunt Amy might have to offer some counsel this summer on how to handle a little sister in the same school! What Morgan doesn't realize is the next 3 years will be a blink to her mother and the next time these two will be in school together will be when Merritt is a freshman and Morgan is a senior! Reality sure does stink! Just when I thought the two sisters would never share another kind word or look, I walked in on them after church to find.....

Big sister teaching little sister how to read! I guess she decided if she has to share the school with Merritt, she might as well make sure she's the smartest in her class!

A Snowy Day ~ An ArtBreak Entry

2010-04-21T14:27:00.000-07:00

A story Merritt wrote at school was entered in a local student's art festival, ArtBreak. Her teacher gave me a copy of the story today. Morgan also had a literary work entered this year. They are both excited to go to the festival this weekend and see their stories on display!

A Snowy Day

by Merritt Hughes

One cold February day it snowed. I thought it was good. My grandparents brought my family a sled that they saved for a very long time. They were waiting for it to snow so we could use the sled. My sister and I went sledding in the front yard. We got on the sled and my daddy used the rope to pull us. My daddy is really strong. There is a little tree in the front yard that we tried to go around together, but we fell in the snow. My sister tried to go around the tree by herself and she didn't fall! Then I tried it by myself and I didn't fall, either! We were outside playing on the sled for a long time. We were getting really cold so we went inside and had some hot chocolate. It was a fun day.

She's So Black and White!

2010-03-28T19:43:00.000-07:00

The girls and I stopped by my grandmother's to visit this afternoon. She had some old photos of her out to show me and the girls. I showed Merritt one of the photographs of my grandmother when she was barely 20. She was standing outside with two young cousins of hers. As you can imagine, it was a black and white photo. As I showed it to Merritt I said, "Look how beautiful Ms. Jo is in this picture! She's so young and pretty!" As Merritt peered over the photo, her face quickly changed to shock and surprise as she exclaimed, "And she's so black and white!" We laughed and laughed while explaining that Ms. Jo was a grown woman before she got her colors! Later, when we left, Merritt told Ms. Jo, "I'm so glad that you are colorful now!"

If You Can't Decorate the House, Decorate Cookies!

2010-03-28T19:28:00.000-07:00

Other than Christmas, I don't decorate our house for other holidays. Too much effort, I guess. I have a feeling Merritt is going to change that! She has been asking for weeks about decorating our house for Easter. I've put her off as long as I could. While visiting my grandmother today, Scott got our Easter decorations out. When we returned home and I saw the sad little pile of eggs and broken baskets, I knew I had to come up with something good!

"If you can't decorate your house, decorate cookies!"

The girls had a great time making the dough and rolling it out!
They especially loved icing and decorating them, though!

They even made 'M' shaped cookies. Purple for Morgan.

And pink for Merritt, of course!

They did a nice job and Momma enjoyed finishing the job when they got tired. We have plenty to share if Daddy doesn't eat them all tonight!

It was a fun diversion to house decorating but I'm sure I'll be hitting the after Easter sales to satisfy next year's decorating adventures!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2010-03-25T11:31:00.001-07:00

Morgan's 2nd grade class presented the play "How Does Your Garden Grow?" It was great! All the children did such a great job!

What Are You Giving Up?

2010-03-07T18:36:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago after "letting the good times roll", our family attended a Shrove Tuesday Pancake dinner at church. It was hosted by the Children's Ministry team and was a great way for the girls to learn more about the Lenten Season. One of our ministers answered questions from the children and parents and suggested that in addition to giving up something, we give back as well!

The girls participated in several activities but their favorite was sponsored by the Prayer Ministry. In private they were able to write down, or draw a picture of one of their sins and then nail it to the cross. That night the sins were burned and used the next day in the Ash Wednesday service.

On the way home we discussed what we could all give up and/or give back. Morgan joked about giving up playing with Merritt but settled on giving up Sprite while encouraging her daddy to join her by giving up Coke. He agreed and has probably already lost 10 pounds much to my dismay! Merritt decided to give up being mad and has had a little difficulty sticking to it but only when things don't go her way! I decided to give up using my cell phone in the car thanks to Oprah and her No Phone Zone campaign. I'm giving back by being a safer driver as well as spending more quality time in the car with the girls! They were both quick to let me know that I was always on the phone while driving!

Morgan even made me this sign to keep in the car to remind me while they are at school! So far we have fulfilled our obligations! The girls and Dad are anxious to get back to Sprite, Coke and being mad but Momma's car will forever be a No Phone Zone, at least for the driver (see sign)!

Birthday Wishes Do Come True!

2010-02-07T20:11:00.001-08:00

How lucky can you be? Celebrating your 44th birthday while watching with 150 million others as the New Orleans Saints make history! Thank goodness for King Cake and birthday wishes!

The smoke was still in the air from Scott's birthday candles when the Saints began to take control of Super Bowl 44!

The girls had a great time cheering on the Saints with their Daddy!

Victory!

Merritt says, "Who Dat's #1!"

What an amazing night! I'll never forget where I was for Super Bowl 44 or how I celebrated Scott's 44th birthday! Drew Brees woke up this morning and asked his wife, "Did it really happen?" I Believe Dat it happened and as I continue to hear weather reports expecting 3 inches of snow this week I'm beginning to believe the old saying about if the Saints ever win the Super Bowl what might freeze over!

Auld Lang Syne

2009-12-31T21:04:00.001-08:00

Our New Year's Eve celebration began at Mumsie and Poppa's with their traditional Fondue dinner. This definitely satisfied Morgan's new appetite for steak! She enjoyed cooking her own meat right at the table! It is a fun event that I always look forward to. After a delicious dinner we headed to the New Year's Eve performance of Willy Wonka.

After another great Oompa Loompa performance by Morgan and Merritt, we headed to GranMe and Poppy's for a little snack and fireworkin'! Scott, Morgan, Merritt and I had shopped under the tent earlier in the day and made our final selections. Daddy won with his "Pyro Package." We knew we'd be in for some fun with the menagerie that Daddy bought!

His "Pyro Package" put out some smoke at times!

These aren't your Momma's sparklers, Morgan!

Poppy, are you sure this is alright with the neighbors?

It didn't take long for the bravery to come out! I think Merritt was ready to go first but Morgan didn't want little sister to do something before she did! The Roman Candles were fun!

It's all fun and games until her hand slips and she aims right at the Momma with the camera! Daddy was quick to save the day and the lady behind the lens never saw it comin'!

Morgan and I shut down the party in the bathroom pulling her 8th tooth! Either I have become an expert or Morgan has become braver because it only took 5 minutes this time!

How appropriate to lose your 8th tooth a week before your 8th birthday!

Two Thousand and Ten or Twenty-Ten, However You Choose to Say It, We're Ready!

2009-12-31T11:50:00.001-08:00

Have you decided how you will pronounce the new year? My first thought was two thousand and ten. I guess since I've said two thousand and something for 10 years now but my father pointed out that we said 19 so why not say 20. Good point! Whatever you choose to call the new year, the Year of the Tiger, my prayer is that it will be a healthy and happy year for us all!

In honor of the Year of the Tiger, a symbol of bravery, I am entering 2010 bravely, unarmed, no resolutions! That being said, I still have many changes to make and issues to continue working on but for this year, that list will remain in my head!

2009 In Review

2009-12-31T11:49:00.000-08:00

WOW! This year flew by! The older I get, the faster time seems to travel! It seems like I just started this blog and now I am in the process of making it a book for a keepsake for the girls!

As for my resolutions at the beginning of the year, I kept some, still have some to work on and am already looking forward to some new ones for 2010. My resolutions for 2009 went something like this:

1). Lose Weight ~ although this is not a completed goal by any stretch, I am happy to report that I am ending 2009 lighter than I began it!

2). Organize our home ~ work in progress...

3). Continue to exercise regularly ~ Although I have not been faithful since Thanksgiving, this is a resolution that I feel I kept the most! I have really enjoyed my mornings this year at the Y and am proud of my progress with my running efforts. 2009 saw me improve my 5K time and run my very first 10K. My friends tell me that I'm running a half-marathon in April! I better get my running shoes on!

4). Write more handwritten notes, not emails ~ If you were a lucky recipient of one of my handwritten notes, it probably arrived earlier in the year! This is one I would like to continue into 2010.

5). Be more patient with the girls ~ This is one I always want to continue because I always want to approach our children with patience. I will brag and tell you that since they began sharing a room at the very end of this year, we have seen much more sharing and cooperation between them. They seem to enjoy playing with one another now as Merritt begins to have more in common with Morgan!

6). Regular date night with Scott ~ Scott and I were really good about this until the summer and once school began again, we haven't gotten back into it on a regular basis.

7). Start my own blog ~ Woo Hoo! Accomplished! I have enjoyed putting my feelings in writing, documenting milestones, telling funny stories about the girls and sharing our lives with our friends and family far and near while making some new friends along the way! I know I haven't captured every memory this year, but I've captured way more than I missed!

2010 ~ I'm ready!

I'm a Wonka-er, Are You?

2009-12-31T11:48:00.001-08:00

Peter Pan Players' production of Willy Wonka opened the day after Christmas with two of the cutest Oompa Loompas I know!

Merritt, a yellow Oompa Loompa

Morgan, a red Oompa Loompa sporting her Mike TeeVee glasses

Mumsie, Poppa and Aunt Nancy attended the opening night show

Momma and Daddy attended all of the productions where Momma became quite skilled in the art of Oompa Loompa make-up!

GranMe, Poppy and Ms. Jo shut down the performances and took Merritt home so Momma, Daddy and Morgan could "strike" the set!

Our Oompa Loompas enjoyed their holiday production!

Next up, The Little Mermaid!

Christmas

2009-12-31T11:45:00.001-08:00

Christmas morning began at our house with stockings and presents!

Merritt was thrilled to get the most coveted Christmas toy of the year, Zhu Zhu pets and Morgan was without words when she opened her Nintendo DSi!

GranMe and Poppy came over to see what Santa brought and to have our traditional Christmas breakfast, sausage balls and Blueberry Coffee cake. The coffee cake was especially good this year. Next year I'll need to shadow GranMe in the kitchen so I can learn the secret!

GranMe and Poppy headed to Ms. Jo's for Christmas lunch as our little family enjoyed Christmas lunch together and created a new tradition, "Christmas Pasta." It's from the children's Paula Deen cookbook that Aunt Jane gave the girls. It's basically fettuccine. The girls loved it and have deemed it a keeper among recipes!

Christmas afternoon we headed over to Mumsie and Poppa's house to spend some time with them and Aunt Nancy and Uncle Billy and exchange gifts. Morgan got some more DSi games and Merritt received lots of new treats for her beauty shop. We played a few hysterical rounds of Christmas charades where Poppa won the award for funniest actor and then had a nice dinner before heading to the theater for dress rehearsal! Willy Wonka opens tomorrow night!

Christmas 2009 was a success! Lots of memories made, traditions continued and new ones begun!

Goodbye Happy, Until Next Year!

2009-12-31T11:42:00.000-08:00

Aunt Karen started us on our Christmas Elf tradition last year when she asked Santa to send us Happy, our Christmas Elf! We have enjoyed having Happy in our home and sharing the Christmas holiday with him!

This year Happy granted us a special treat, to hug him good-bye! What a special moment for each girl!

See you next year, dear friend!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-31T11:35:00.000-08:00

The day started out at Strawn's with a wonderful Christmas eve scrambled egg, grits and a diet coke! After breakfast, we headed to Ms. Jo's to exchange gifts! After realizing that Grandmother dined with Joe Paterno at the famous Capri in Homestead, Florida, we enjoyed opening Christmas gifts.

The girls were thrilled to open the most coveted Christmas gift of 2009, Zhu Zhu pets! Ms. Jo was quick to realize how popular they would be and gave each girl a hamster and accessory piece!

We next headed to Mumsie and Poppa's for Christmas Eve dinner. After dinner, we all headed to our church for Christmas Eve service.

Morgan was especially excited about Christmas Eve communion! She decided that she was ready to take communion this year! I guess after this summer's decision of being forever friends with Jesus Christ, this was her next step in her journey! How excited I was when I realized Poppy would be the one to serve us Christmas Communion!

Merritt decided she was ready for a Christmas blessing!

After church we were thrilled to discover a Christmas Eve snowfall!

Santa called the house to make sure his sleigh was packed correctly! The girls were surprised to hear that GranMe was on the naughty list! Maybe next year, GranMe!

We were sure to set out Christmas cookies and reindeer food!

Christmas Cookies

2009-12-31T11:22:00.000-08:00

My Granddad Rhoads was an excellent baker and his specialty was Gingerbread boys. They were so good, it has been told that I turned down a free Gingerbread boy at a local bakery telling the baker, "No thank you, my Granddad makes the best!" I guess he passed along his love of baking because I have baked Christmas cookies with my mom and sister as far back as I can remember. I have passed this tradition along to Morgan and Merritt and my Aunt Jane helped perfect the tradition this year with the girls' Christmas present of baking tools, a Paula Deen cookbook, their own aprons and a scrap book and recipe cards for them to create their own special cookbook to treasure for years!

The artist in Morgan took decorating the cookies very seriously!

Merritt was very careful with her decorating too!

She was especially proud of her Christmas angel!

This year the girls added their own tradition of a Christmas tea party to enjoy their delicious creations! They ate Christmas cookies and drank lemonade from Christmas china!

*For years I have left Santa a special cookie, the "Hawaiian Santa", which is Santa on vacation in Hawaii complete with a Hawaiian shirt! This cookie was again created this year but was quickly eaten before I could snap a picture! Maybe next year!

Sunday School Christmas Party

2009-12-31T11:19:00.000-08:00

Another tradition of ours is our Sunday School Christmas Party for a local children's group. Scott and I have been part of our Sunday School for 12 years and the party was going on before we joined the group so this is a long standing Christmas tradition for us. It is actually one of the highlights of the season for me and Scott.

This year we sponsored a sweet 6th grader who was actually a student at Morgan's school last year. We were all excited to make that connection. She was very appreciate of her gifts and the girls enjoyed watching her open them. When we left the party, Morgan told me that she felt really good inside. I explained to her that she was feeling the joy of giving rather than receiving! Merritt wasn't as sure about attending a Christmas party where she opened no gifts but still had a nice time! I look forward to many more celebrations in the future as my girls continue to learn to give rather than receive!

Christmas Church Nights

2009-12-31T11:15:00.001-08:00

Our church's Christmas church night has been a family tradition of mine since I was 4 years old. I'm sure I performed in many Christmas programs. I remember my sister being the narrator one particular year. I thought for sure the part would go to me! Being that I could barely read, I think Amy was a better choice!

This year, Morgan had a speaking part, Little Glow, a little star with a big voice! She did an excellent job!

Merritt even got in on the action as a lost sheep named Baaaabra! She even had a short speaking line and showed no fear as she was lifted up to the microphone for all to hear!

Rumor has it that one of the local television stations beamed it up to New York City and they loved it, wanting the video of the whole program! I'm certain that some talent scouts will be calling!

The following week found us at Mumsie and Poppa's church's for their annual Candles and Carols. This year's theme was, O Holy Night! It is always a nice dinner and we always look forward to the sing-a-long and jingle bell ringing by the children. Our evening was cut short this year, due to the girls' play practice but we still had a nice time.

Christmas Traditions

2009-12-31T11:14:00.001-08:00

Scott and I both come from families with Christmas traditions. As Morgan and Merritt get older, it has become important to us to carry on certain traditions as well as create new ones with the girls. This year has been especially fun to celebrate Christ's birth with our girls as they begin to fully recognize the reason for the season!

Merry Christmas From Our Home to Yours!

2009-12-26T07:29:00.000-08:00

All I Want for Christmas Is...

2009-12-21T21:16:00.000-08:00

... a new garage door!

It never fails! After 12 years of marriage, something falls apart at Christmastime! This year it's the garage door opener! Thank goodness for quick repairs! We were back in business rather quickly! Merry Christmas to each other, Scott! At least after 12 years of marriage we can both say it's not our marriage that's falling apart at Christmas! That's a blessing I treasure!

Presenting Queen Merritt Elizabeth

2009-12-21T21:13:00.000-08:00

Here is the coat Merritt was wearing the night she proclaimed herself a Queen!
Every queen needs a princess....

Christmas Lunch

2009-12-20T19:00:00.000-08:00

The second grade classes at Morgan's school treated the parents to Christmas lunch! What a treat we had to eat lunch with Morgan and her class! Thanks for letting dear ole Mom and Dad sit with you! The lunch was tasty, the conversation delightful and the table decorations beautiful!

Festive Field Trip

2009-12-20T06:21:00.000-08:00

Merritt's class took a field trip this week to the home of a retired teacher who fully decorates her home for Christmas each year! I was overwhelmed by all the decorations! She decorates every inch of her home! It is so decorated that they start in the summer getting ready! Made me feel a little guilty about all the decorations I opted out of this year! Not guilty enough to rush home and finish decorating, though!

The highlight of the trip was when she allowed each child to pick out a moveable decoration and push the button to see what it would do! When it was Merritt's turn, she quickly moved to the Bathtub Santa! The children all laughed as he rub-a-dub dubbed in the tub of bubbles! Merritt was so cute on her mission! She definitely had her eye on that one!

Minuets and Mistletoe

2009-12-16T21:35:00.000-08:00

Morgan's annual Suzuki Christmas concert was yesterday afternoon. She did a beautiful job and looked beautiful doing it! She and her classmates entertained the crowd with some Christmas tunes as well as a Bach piece, Minuet #1! It's amazing how much she's progressed in a year's time! We are definitely seeing the benefits of daily practice! December 20th marks her 100th practice day in a row! Way to go Morgan!

I'm the Tween!

2009-12-14T21:25:00.001-08:00

Morgan and Merritt headed out Saturday night with Mumsie and Poppa for their annual production of The Nutcracker Suite! The girls were dressed in their new Christmas dresses courtesy of Mumsie and Poppa. Only the finest coats would do! When I presented Merritt with the red coat she would be wearing she replied, "I'm going to look like a "tween" (her pronunciation of queen). When I put the coat on her, she looked down and replied, "I really am the Tween!" Watch out Queen Elizabeth! Here comes Queen Merritt Elizabeth!

Uuuuhhh! I Wanna Play the Clarinet!

2009-12-11T21:37:00.000-08:00

Merritt can be quite determined! With each new day, I gain a better understanding of what my mother's 30's were like and am sure she is finding some pleasure in my 30's being quite similar! No matter how determined I try to be I have decided that I might be winning some battles along the way but definitely not the war!

The second challenge of the week with Merritt occurred during Morgan's private violin lesson. Merritt typically goes to her Daddy's office during this time allowing me the time alone with Morgan so I can concentrate on the lesson and take notes so that I can be her teacher during the week. Unfortunately for me, Daddy was out of town!

Merritt doesn't usually let much time go by without being noticed. This day was no exception. In an attempt to get her to sit quietly, I explained to her that one day when she was ready to play the violin we hoped that Mrs. Webb would be her private teacher. When that day comes, we surely wouldn't want Mrs. Webb to remember how Merritt behaved and say, "No, I don't think I would like to be her teacher!" Thinking I was staying very calm and explaining an excellent lesson, I ended by saying, "So, Merritt, one day when you play the violin, don't you want Mrs. Webb to be your teacher?" To which she replied, "Uuuuuhhhh, I wanna play the clarinet."

The conversation ended with a formerly composed mother laughing and promising M&Ms! Any suggestions, please?

Thanksgiving Feast

2009-12-11T21:28:00.001-08:00

We had the privilege of attending a 4th and final Thanksgiving feast at AC Steere Elementary. 2 years with Morgan and now the last 2 years with Merritt. What a treat! We're hoping to be honorary parents/grandparents and be invited back next year. With no other little ones in our home headed to this fabulous preschool program, we knew this would be it! We were not disappointed.

Merritt was honored to have 6 members of her family with her this year: Momma and Daddy, Mumsie and Poppa and Ms. Jo and GranMe. She was a little disappointed that Poppy couldn't make it but remembered he was there the year before!

Our favorite part of the day was the performance by Merritt and her 9 friends. What a sweet group they are! My favorite was ~ Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving, what joy, what joy! When kin folk gather from far and near....... but the succulent turkey has gone quite bizerky yelling, "Can't you have hot dogs this year?"

Thanksgiving in the Smokies

2009-12-11T17:10:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving week found us in Sevierville, Tennessee enjoying the Smokey Mountains. Friends of my parents for nearly 4 decades gifted us one of their cabins. What a beautiful backdrop for us to spend with my parents and my sister and her family. It was double the fun when our friends stopped by to reconnect. It was so good to see them again and visit with their daughters (my first babysitters!) Many memories were made this week........

You can't go to the Smokies without hiking! We chose the 1.4 mile "easy" route to Grotto Falls with the reward of a beautiful waterfall we could walk behind. I question the posted distance and the guide books description of "easy." It was a wonderful adventure, though and the reward was sweet!

Merritt quickly got the hang of hiking and was determined to be the leader! We had to cross several streams along the way. She became the expert and needed no help. When Poppy stepped ahead of her to help her across the stream, she held out her arm to stop him and said, "You're getting in front of the leader." Getting him back in line and preparing to cross the stream she said to Poppy, "Watch and Learn!" She even resorted to a walking stick to keep us in our places!

Sisters taking a little break! Sweet victory with Daddy!

Who can stay in a cabin in the woods and not roast marshmallows? Not us! By the end of the night these experts were renamed "S'Morgan" and "S'Merritt." Jacob was pretty into the marshmallows too! He knows a good treat when he sees one!

GranMe likes her marshmallows Cajun-style ~ blackened!

Lots of grandparent time was enjoyed!

A trip to the ice cream shop ~ Poppy didn't order any ice cream but he sure does take his job as "Clean-Up Man" seriously! Do I see three cones, Poppy?

Our day trip into Gatlinburg to the famous "Pancake Pantry" was lots of fun! We even got an early visit with Santa! Hopefully this gave him extra time to fill our orders!

Feeding the fish!

Our week also included: relaxing by the fire, playing cards, eating Thanksgiving dinner, a little shopping, several walks, college football, lots of playtime with cousins, Aunt and Uncle excursions, beauty shop appointments by Merritt and many more memories!

Our visit to the Smokies was a swingin' good time!

Oh the Lord is Good to Me...

2009-11-26T08:38:00.001-08:00

...and so I thank the Lord!

Thanksgiving is probably my favorite holiday not because of the excuse to eat many delicious foods, or the Christmas presents I can get at rock bottom prices. Although those options are nice, Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday because the day always appears as a calm, lazy day of family and thanks! It's a wonderful way to take a deep breath and remember what's truly important. I can't think of a better way to head into the Advent Season!

This year is no different than others. I have many things to be thankful! Too many to list. I've enjoyed my Facebook friends who posted something they are thankful for each day this month. Although I didn't post on facebook, I too have taken note of all things I am thankful for.

Family, love, health, shelter, friends, food, healthy children, happy children, loving children, well-adjusted children, a church home, loving parents, loving in-laws, a healthy grandmother, an employed husband who allows me to stay home with our children, excellent educational settings for our children to learn, a new car to drive carpool, watching Morgan learn to play the violin, time to spend with family near and far, anticipation of Merritt's first play...

And the list goes on! I'll end this thankful blog entry the way Merritt says grace over all our meals. "Thank you Lord for giving me the things I need, the sun, the rain and the apple seed. Oh Lord, you are good to me!"

Halloween Fun

2009-11-09T18:45:00.001-08:00

Lots of Halloween activities took place in our household during the month of October. During the month we were able to fit in 8 soccer games, 3 field trips, 3 birthday parties, 2 Halloween School Carnivals and 2 Church Fall Festivals! I guess that sentence alone explains the neglect my blog has experienced. Hope this will catch you up on the lives of our M&Ms!

The girls had a "sliding" good time at Morgan's school carnival!

Merritt really wanted to beat her sister in the obstacle course! I guess Garden Fairies should be more concerned about undergarments!

More "sliding" fun at Merritt's school's Carnival!

Halloween Carnival games are the best!

But the prizes are even better! Merritt had more fun with these teeth!

The girls handed out candy at our church's Fall Festival! They had a lot of fun participating in the annual "Trunk or Treat!"

Pony rides at Mumsie and Poppa's church's Fall festival!

And a petting zoo!

Supergirl squeezes in her 50th consecutive violin practice!

Our first trick-or-treating stop was Mumsie and Poppa's neighborhood.

Couldn't miss a stop at Miss Jo's!

We ended the night at GranMe and Poppy's for more candy and some LSU football! Whew! What a month!

Oompa-Loompa Doompadee-Doo

2009-11-09T18:35:00.000-08:00

Oompa-Loompa Doompadee-Doo! I've got a perfect puzzle for you!

Oompa-Loompa Doompadee-Doo! How many Oompas are living with me?

Scott and I are the proud parents of two Oompa Loompas or Yoompa Yoompas as Merritt likes to call them! Merritt will perform in her first play the day after Christmas in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Morgan's 3rd play! Rehearsals have already begun and the girls are excitedly awaiting their costumes and dancing responsibilities! It should make for a fun-filled holiday!

I Want a Golden Ticket!

2009-10-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

Last night Morgan and Merritt auditioned for Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory! This will be Morgan's 3rd production but Merritt's first! Both auditions went well. Merritt sang Ring Around the Roses and Morgan chose her favorite stand-by, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. Both girls came out of the audition room with grins so that made Momma happy!

Morgan wants to be a girl in the candy shop and Merritt is hoping for a "talking" part! She has big aspirations! Momma's hoping for Oompa Loompas but regardless of the role will be proud of both her aspiring actresses!

Stay tuned for the cast list next week......

I Would "I Do" Again!

2009-10-18T19:32:00.000-07:00

Today marks 12 years of marriage for me and Scott! Wow! On one hand it seems like yesterday and on the other it's a lifetime ago! We celebrated it with our girls at church, lunch and then hanging out at home! Couldn't have asked for more! We'll squeeze the romantic dinner in sometime!

Scott, I would be lying to you if I said that I loved you as much as I did on our wedding day! I love you much more than that and in so many new ways! 12 years ago I had no idea what a fantastic father you would be, diligent provider, fun roommate, beach buddy, travel companion, tough back gammon opponent, and the list goes on! I knew I loved you but I never dreamed it would only get better!

Many things have changed since Saturday, October 18, 1997. We are living in our third home now with 2 more roommates. We are PTA members, soccer coaches, violin teachers, carpool queens and role models! For someone who never imagined life after 25, it's been an incredible ride! We have new dear friends in our life while maintaining special friendships with those that celebrated our union with us. We have lost some dear family members but gained new ones through other marriages and births.

I don't know what the future holds but I do know that with you by my side I can handle the lows and will enjoy the highs! I love you!

A Hoopin' Good Time

2009-10-13T19:54:00.005-07:00

Monday, October 12th was GranMe's birthday. I won't tell you her age but if she were a workin' girl, she could have retired Monday! We surprised her by meeting her at her favorite restaurant, Chianti's. One the way there I explained to the girls that this was a nice restaurant. In fact, it is the place where Momma and Daddy met and later the place where Daddy asked Momma to marry him. Morgan replied, "It's a special place to you, right?" I told her it was and then a small voice from the very back of the car said, "Did you say, yes?" Yes, sweet innocent Merritt, Momma said yes! Logical and analytical Morgan went on to explain to her that if Momma had not said yes, she wouldn't be here!

The girls had wonderful manners until Merritt discovered her inner talent of hanging a spoon from her nose!
Morgan had to give it a try too! GranMe decided she should try too but I was laughing so hard I didn't get a picture! The art of spoon hanging must be only for the young ones, GranMe was not as successful!

After dinner we headed to our house for GranMe's favorite, coconut cream pie from Strawn's. While the coffee was brewing, Morgan asked GranMe to listen to her violin practice. She surprised her with "Happy Birthday!" Morgan learned it on her own in less than two days! She's becoming quite the violin player!

I think GranMe was quite pleased and proud! It was the 6th Happy Birthday rendition of the day but the only one on violin!

Merritt decided to show off her hula hoop talents which quickly turned into a hula hoop contest!

Morgan shows off her hoopin' talents!

GranMe gets an 'A' for effort!

Poppy takes the prize for least coordinated efforts! We've never seen hips and hula hoops go in complete opposite directions! Thanks for the laughs, Poppy!

Big Tex and Mary Poppins

2009-10-13T19:54:00.003-07:00

Saturday we headed to the Texas State Fair via DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit). I felt like we were headed to Broadway via the New York Subway! The girls had a good time on the train even though we had to stand due to the number of passengers!

Big Tex, so good to see you again! It's been too long! We took the girls to the Texas State Fair this weekend mainly to see Mary Poppins. What a thrill it was for me to introduce the girls to Big Tex! I think they were impressed!

After meeting Big Tex, the next stop was the Midway! We told the girls they could pick out a few rides and I was amazed at their choices! Their first choice was a dragon roller coaster that I was lucky enough to "have" to ride with Merritt because she wasn't tall enough to ride alone!

The next stop was "The Tower of Terror!" Just kidding! I'm sure it had a happier, friendlier name but to a momma of two sweet girls it looked like "The Tower of Terror!"

Look how high it went! Higher than the gondola ride! I was a nervous wreck!

What a relief to see two smiles! I knew Morgan would love it but not so sure about Merritt!

Next stop, looking at the museums on the fair ground site! The girls were happy to see this woolly mammoth! Reminded them of Manny from Ice Age.

Our final destination was Mary Poppins! I'm not sure who had the most fun, the adults or the girls! It was an incredible show; full of magic! It's like Cats, I could see it again and again!

It's Revel Time!

2009-10-13T19:54:00.001-07:00

Merritt's class went on their annual trip to the Red River Revel Arts Festival. Mrs. Bryan luckily scheduled it between rain storms and we were able to get the trip in! Despite the humidity, fun was had by all!

The grocery store tent sported new shopping carts this year! Perfect replicas of momma's cart! The children were really excited! Merritt stuck to her list, never deviating, unlike her momma!

After much fun, music, story-telling, icees, sand art and face painting, we headed back to school!

Thanks to Mumsie, Poppa and Poppy for joining the fun! A return trip was enjoyed by Morgan, Merritt and Mumsie and Poppa. Momma fit a turkey leg shift in supporting Morgan's school but due to the rainy weather not as much revelling was done this year! See you in October, Revel!

The Return of Soccer Saturdays

2009-09-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

The return of Soccer Saturdays began mid-September amidst much rain! Although this signals a hectic schedule in our household, it was good to be back on the field watching my girls get some exercise. Good friends of ours are Merritt's coaches, so that makes it extra fun!

Where's our goal?

This was my favorite shot of the day! Snapped it quickly as Merritt was running to me asking for water!

Great block Morgan!

Another great block!

Morgan is proud to have her daddy coach her team!

Field Trip Friday

2009-09-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

On Friday morning, Merritt's class accompanied by parents, teachers and grandparents headed to the Tyler zoo. We saw lots of animals and could not have ordered more perfect weather. After many days of rain it was so glorious to see the sun!

The highlight for all the children seemed to be feeding the birds. I was a little apprehensive myself but enjoyed it too! Merritt loved feeding the brightly colored birds!

But wasn't so sure about it once he decided to hop on the stick for a little ride!

Poppy quickly saved the day by taking over feeding duties!

This little guy found something he liked on my shoe!

Biscuits and Jelly, Every Southern Girl's Dream!

2009-09-24T18:13:00.000-07:00

To conclude Apple Week, Merritt's class had an apple tasting party. All the children brought something apple-flavored to share with the class. Merritt brought biscuits and apple jelly! She swore she would not try it but I hoped she would! My family knows my two favorite foods growing up were biscuits and pie! Anytime the extended family was together someone would ask, "Beth, what's your favorite food?" And I would always say, "Biscuits and piiiiiiiieeee!" in the most beautiful southern drawl! I am pleased to report that following the apple tasting party, Merritt is officially a biscuit lover! Now I'll have to get her hooked on piiiiiiiieeeee!

What's up next for the girls? Merritt heads to the zoo tomorrow and Morgan swings on over to the circus!

Learning to "Start Again"

2009-09-22T20:10:00.000-07:00

Morgan recently began her second year of Suzuki Violin Lessons. She has made great strides in her studies and can play a large repertoire of songs. Merritt has benefited from the lessons as well as the three of us tend to travel in a pack. Not sure if we're a herd, gaggle, or what but usually if you see one of us, the other two are not far behind!

That said, I realized today how much Merritt is benefiting from Morgan's lessons. Today during Morgan's theory class which Merritt so desperately wants to participate in, we looked at some music and talked about different elements of the music. During the discussion, Merritt whispered to me, "I know what that is" (pointing to the above image). Knowing it was a repeat sign, I asked Merritt, "What does it mean?" She replied, "Start again!" Surprised that she knew the answer, I asked, "How do you know?" Exasperated with me she replied, "I've been here before!" So, I quickly realized that when Merritt starts violin class, she'll be the teacher rather than the student!

Morgan's Advice for Swine Flu Prevention

2009-09-18T19:05:00.000-07:00

Wondering how to prevent swine flu? Morgan has three great tips for you! #1 Wash your hands! #2 Sneeze into the sleeve of your shirt! #3 (My favorite germ prevention technique) Flush the toilet with your foot!

This Public Service Announcement has been brought to you with love and care by Morgan!

"P" is for Pizza!

2009-09-18T18:39:00.000-07:00

Merritt's class had their first field trip this week! We headed to the local library for storytime and then to Louisiana's famous Johnny's Pizza to learn how a pizza is made! We love pizza in our household so we couldn't think of a better food to celebrate pizza with! Merritt had a great time with her friends and enjoyed some delicious cheese pizza!

Everybody Deserves a Pajama Day!

2009-09-18T18:35:00.000-07:00

In celebration of "P" week, Wednesday was Pajama day at Merritt's school! She was excited to realize that cousin Jacob also had Pajama day all the way in Fort Wayne, Indiana! After the week that my family has had, I declared that "Everybody deserves a pajama day!" In fact, I might claim a whole week in honor of the institution of pajamas! Anyway, Merritt had a grand time wearing her pajamas to school! I think she looked pretty darn cute, too!

The Licking Spoon

2009-09-12T16:29:00.001-07:00

Merritt loves to bake these days ~ cookies, brownies, cake. Anything that requires her assistance in licking the spoon! Today I was out! Nothing in the house to bake! Realizing all she wanted to do was lick the spoon, I dipped a spatula in pudding! Voila! Instant happiness! She claims it tastes better on the "licking spoon!"

Eight Years Later

2009-09-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

Who could ever forget where they were 8 years ago this morning? I was 6 months pregnant with my first child, struggling to get to work on time and not succeeding. Scott was on his way to work and called me frantic. I'll never forget his words and the nervousness in his voice, "Beth, turn on the tv! It sounds like a plane has flown into the World Trade Center!" I quickly turned on the news and saw the above image. "Yes, they're showing it right now!" My brain thought it was a replay but I quickly realized it was the second plane. Nervousness soon became fear....

I struggled for many days, perhaps weeks with the question, "Why are we bringing a precious child into this awful world!" I was drawn to Todd Beamer's story, the originator of the catch phrase, "Let's Roll!" His wife, Lisa, was pregnant with their 3rd child, a girl. We were due within weeks of one another. I couldn't imagine the pain she was feeling. Each joy I experienced throughout my pregnancy, I imagined her sadness of experiencing it alone! On the day we were bringing our Morgan home two days after her birth, I learned that Lisa Beamer had given birth to their daughter, Morgan.

Throughout the past eight years, I have often wondered about the Beamer family and how their Morgan was making her way in this world. Eight years later, I know the answer to my question that I struggled with so many weeks after September 11, 2001. The precious children we bring into this awful world bring their special light with them and offer us hope and make this world a lot less awful! Thank you Morgan and Merritt for the hope you have brought into our lives!

I Like to Call it Early Rush!

2009-09-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

I like to call it early Rush! My ZTA friends and the girls' ZTA aunts might choose to call it dirty Rush! Whatever the phrase, Bid Day 2009 was Saturday morning and I decided to introduce the girls to the fun of sororities, especially Chi Omega!

Here are the girls meeting Chi Omega's mascot, The Wise Ole Owl!

Here they are hanging out on the balcony waiting for the girls to run down the hill to their new "home!"

Here are the 2009 pledges, I mean new members, running down the hill on campus to the Chi-O house! It was a lot of fun and my girls had a good time. With only 2 sororities on my college campus, rush, I mean recruitment, can be stressful! Morgan was very interested in finding out how the girls decide which sorority to choose. I explained that both sororities have several nights of parties to meet the girls and share with them, through conversation and fun skits, what their sorority was all about. She pondered this for a moment but was still unsure of it all wondering why I chose one sorority and her two aunts chose another. I guess that's why they make chocolate and vanilla, Morgan! Of course, in our household, we eat Bluebell's The Great Divide which is half chocolate and half vanilla so I don't think that's a good example for us! We had a nice time but knowing I'll be the mother of a daughter going through recruitment in 11 years, already puts butterflies in my stomach!

Who Says You Can't Judge a Book By It's Cover?

2009-09-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

With college football beginning and the temperatures lowering, I was excited to share this sweet book and DVD with the girls. If you haven't read The Legend of Spookley the Square Pumpkin By Joe Troiano, pick up a copy today! It's a sweet story about our differences and how you can't judge a book (or a pumpkin) by it's cover. And with fall just around the corner, it's the perfect time to read about pumpkins!

This particular book set came with a DVD which I watched with the girls the other night. It's quite a bit of an adaptation of the book but still teaches the moral of the story ~ You can't judge a book by it's cover! To which Merritt replied, "But I can't read! That's how I can tell if it's a book I want to read! I look at the cover!" Being a little bit after bedtime and feeling confident that both my girls know we are kind to all of God's creatures, I let it go!

It's Always the Quiet Ones

2009-09-02T09:08:00.000-07:00

Friday night the girls spent the night with GranMe and Poppy. I was a little hesitant to let Merritt go because she came home from school early today after getting sick in "morning meeting." She never ran any fever and said she felt fine, so off she went. While having dinner with friends we got the call....she wanted to come home.

Already a little anxious about her going in the first place, I was glad to see her back home especially after hearing her reasoning. She was afraid no one would hear her in the middle of the night. Merritt slept soundly in her own bed, while Momma was up every 30 minutes making sure she was alright. When I asked her why she wanted to come home she explained that Morgan had told her that if she went home she would be able to play with all her toys and Morgan's toys all by herself!

When I questioned Morgan the next day if she had encouraged her sister to come home she sheepishly replied, "Maybe!" Morgan was looking forward to some peace and quiet and the ability to sleep late. Too bad mother nature kicked in and woke her up at 7:15 am! That's what you call pay back, Morgan!

Merritt's Last Year of Pre-School

2009-09-01T14:51:00.001-07:00

Merritt's preschool class held an open house on Tuesday, August 18th to meet the teachers and students. Merritt considered this her "first" day of school so she insisted I take a picture of her just like big sister did on her first day!

Her first day of school was officially Wednesday, August 19th. Since Morgan started on Monday, those two days were a little rough for Merritt. She didn't think it was very fair that Morgan got to start school before her. Wait until next year, Merritt! Kindergarten students don't start until the Friday of the first week. Life will really be unfair that week! Until then, we have a wonderful final preschool year ahead of us with lots of new friends, fun and field trips!

Now that I know Merritt likes turkey and cheese sandwiches, taking lunch to school is an option. She is really proud of her lady bug lunch bag. We look at the menu for the week and decide when to take a lunch and when to eat the school lunch. So far, I think I've packed more lunches. Poor thing, I think she lived on ketchup alone last school year!

She loves school but has had a slight adjustment. Her best girl friends moved on to kindergarten this year. The first week I think she was really missing them but she has quickly grown to love her new classmates. Since she never meets a stranger, the adjustment didn't take long!

Welcome to your final year of preschool, Merritt! Enjoy every second of it!

We Interrupt This Blog......

2009-08-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

We interrupt this blog for Second Grade!

Sorry for the blogging delay! Second grade has been an adjustment! Not for Morgan, for me! Merritt began her final year of preschool the Wednesday after Morgan started. The new school year has started smoothly, I'm just trying to adjust to a new routine, information from 3 teachers (those are just Morgan's teachers) and getting 2 girls to school on time! So far, so good! Hopefully we will be returning to previously scheduled programming (posting more regularly) soon!

Second Grade on the Second Floor

2009-08-17T19:13:00.000-07:00

Today our household woke up with a 2nd grader in it! Morgan asked me to wake her up at 6:45. She popped out of bed, quickly dressed and headed downstairs for breakfast and to help me make her lunch! We were pulling out of the driveway at 7:32 a little worried that we might be at school too early! Wow, Momma is liking second grade so far!

Morgan was so excited on the way there. She had already prepared me the night before that she would like to be dropped off in the carpool line rather than my traditional way of walking her to the classroom on the first day of school. I knew this day would come but I really thought it would be 6th grade or high school or what's wrong with waiting until college!

She was so ready to get out of the car and head to the 2nd floor, I'm not sure what I said to her. Surely I said goodbye and I love you! If not, I know she knows it!

Thanks for the look-back Morgan! That makes up for not letting me walk you to the classroom!

Next year, I'll know to roll the window down! Or better yet, park the car after carpool line and sneak to your classroom! Not walking my princess to class on the first day of school..... not so sure Momma likes 2nd grade!

Poppa's Birthday Party

2009-08-17T18:52:00.000-07:00

On August 12th, we celebrated Poppa's 71st birthday. The girls helped us host an evening of dinner, cake and ice cream and some Wii bowling! During dinner, Morgan wanted to play our dinnertime conversation game. Each person takes a card and asks a question that we all have to answer. We had a great time hearing everyone's answers and learning new things about each other! It was a birthday party to remember!

Merritt, the pro!

Check out that form!

Serious Mumsie!

The girls loved their idea of getting a 7 and a 1 candle to avoid any fire hazards!

Happy Birthday, Poppa! Hope all your wishes come true!

Go Speed Racer!

2009-08-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

Before the great Ferris Wheel incident of 2009, the girls did a little go-kart racing. Morgan was old enough to drive the kiddie karts by herself. She was pretty excited and really good. Made me less apprehensive about her turning 16! Well, not really!

She got comfortable in the driver's seat very quickly!

Look how she hugs the inside lane! Definitely the winner in this race!

Parking was a snap! I think the ride attendant was rather impressed!

We all rode the big track together. Momma and Morgan versus Daddy and Merritt. Daddy and Merritt were clearly given better equipment than the all-girl team. Morgan and I had a great time even in the smoke that Daddy and Merritt left behind!

When Merritt wasn't tall enough to drive the karts that Morgan could, Daddy took her for one last spin around the big track. The vote is still out on who had more fun!

Go-kart racing is serious business!

Another Treasure

2009-08-17T18:13:00.000-07:00

"Momma, look what I found!"

Favorite Beach Photos

2009-08-12T19:49:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my favorite beach photos/memories of our week (in no particular order) ~

GranMe & Poppy

Girls' & Daddy's annual sand sculpture. This year, a crab!

Sisterly love!

Amy, Jacob and Joe

Sea creature that Uncle Joe found

Daddy getting some much needed and deserved rest!

Motherly love!

Sand diggin'!

The girls!

Daddy & girls!

Hey Momma, We're Stuck!

2009-08-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

One of our days at the beach was spent at a mini-amusement park where we drove go-carts, bumper boats and the girls rode on a few rides. Realizing I was missing some great picture opportunities, I headed back to the car to get my camera while Scott got in line for the Ferris wheel with the girls. On my return, I quickly started taking pictures, seizing the opportunity of the Ferris wheel being at a stand still.

As I'm taking this picture, Merritt says, "Hey Momma, we're stuck!" I kept taking pictures trying to get Morgan to look at the camera and smile. She said, "Mom, we're really stuck!" Noticing all the park employees surrounding the ride, I quickly found Scott. Yes, they really were stuck. The new ride operator loaded three baskets in a row, not distributing the weight. Scott said they got around a few times and then it just stopped.

The girls handled it very well. It helped that they were in the bottom car and not the one dangling in the air. It helped me that it was a kiddie Ferris wheel and even if they were at the top, I felt confident I could scale the Ferris wheel to their rescue if I had to! Actually, I would have sent Scott!

The great rescue!

What a brave little girl!

Big sister let little sister be saved first!

The children in the green basket were the highest up. The park employees got a ladder and handed them down to their parents. Everyone stayed very calm and the girls got a free ride on the ride of their choice. They played it safe and chose the carousel!

Gulf Shores 2009

2009-08-10T07:20:00.000-07:00

Our annual beach trip to Gulf Shores brought us to a new location. Actually same location, just different venue. We usually stay in friends' condo but this year since Amy and her family were joining us, we rented a beach house. After the first morning breakfast on the porch/balcony with an ocean view, most of us decided we wanted to stay here every year! Not sure the purse strings of Poppy's agreed!

It was a grand location for the 9 of us! The week consisted of great beach time, putt-putt, nature walks, aquarium visiting, Lambert's roll throwing, a little shopping, many hours of driving, picturing taking, swimming, ferry riding and lots of fun! Seeing the girls with their cousin, Jacob was priceless!

Thanks to all #7A Beach house occupants for making the end of a great summer even greater!

Beach Bums

2009-08-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

The month of August began with our annual beach trip! It seems like the older the girls get, the more fun we have! My heart hopes that continues, my head knows it won't always be the coolest thing to build a sand castle with dad, and hunt for shells with mom. For the time being, Scott and I will savor each moment! More highlights to come........

July Recap!

2009-07-31T21:23:00.001-07:00

With July ending and August approaching, I must recap some of my highlights. Since July is my birthday month, I am partial to July 3rd and 4th. In recent years, I have celebrated my birthday and our country's birthday with participating in our local Firecracker 5K. It has especially become important to me as I try to set a healthy example for our girls. This year, I asked Scott to bring the girls to the end of the race to celebrate my accomplishment with me.He was sweet to surprise me with bringing them to a point in the race route. It was at a critical point where I was actually considering walking. Just as I thought about stopping, I looked up and saw the girls and Scott waving and cheering me on! What an inspiration!

Here I am about to cross the finish line! I actually shaved 3 minutes off my last year's time! I hope I can do the same next year!

Here's a shot of my best asset crossing the finish line! If only the rest of me could look so fit and toned!

Me and my #1 fans!

Later that night we shot some fireworks. Here's our "brave" Merritt anticipating the fireworks!

Morgan wanted to get the hose in case her parents set the world on fire! July was a great month for our family! We are anxiously awaiting what August holds for us!

A Place Called Murrell's

2009-07-29T09:01:00.001-07:00

When I began this blog at the beginning of the year, I wondered what my 100th post would be about. It's only fitting that it's a monumental occasion! When we moved to town 34 years ago, we were quickly introduced to a place called Murrell's. It's been in our community since 1947. Has seen several different owners but has always served the best cheeseburger and chocolate pie any Southern girl could love! I was saddened to hear last week that the doors would be closing.

Although Murrell's hasn't been a part of my life in many years, I have many fond memories of many occasions there. From Saturday morning breakfasts with my family to late night munchies with my sorority sisters.

Poppy couldn't imagine not passing along the "flavor" of Murrell's to the girls so we headed there on Tuesday for their first and all of our last tastes of Murrell's. I was a little nervous about our return visit. Not because of the questionable cleanliness of the place. I was afraid our final meal might not measure up to all the many fond memories I have of this legendary restaurant. Never fear, Murrell's did not disappoint!

Our experience quickly started off nostalgically as Poppy pointed out that the first time I ate at Murrell's I was Merritt's age and Aunt Amy was Morgan's age. If I wasn't already thinking about that cheeseburger, I might have cried. As a child, every Saturday morning we had breakfast at Murrell's. Every Sunday evening after night church, we had dinner at Murrell's. Amy and I always ate the same thing ~ cheeseburger (mayo only), french fries and a coke, Dr. Pepper for Amy. Our love affair with Murrell's ended abruptly the summer of my 13th birthday. I think Sunday evening worship services had ended and my dad at the age of 43 had a heart attack. It was chicken, turkey and tofu from then on in our household!

Murrell's came back into my life in high school and college but I haven't been back much in my adult life except on a few occasions when I got a taste for that special cheeseburger during a pregnancy or friends came back in town and wanted to go there.

So, how do you say goodbye to something you've known your whole life? I guess you just say, "Thanks, it's been nice knowin' ya!" Even though the place will be gone, the memories will always last!

Merritt rings the final dinner bell at Murrell's!

In line to pay the bill.

The final bill!

Tomato Pickin'

2009-07-29T08:53:00.000-07:00

When Ms. Jo moved to her new apartment, we were put in charge of babysitting her tomato plant. We have been careful to water it just right, and even encourage it to grow by talking to it. We have 1 success in our crop this year. Lots of flowering blooms but no other prospects on the horizon!

I think the topsy turvy has found a permanent home at our house. Ms. Jo wasn't very impressed with the tiny fruit of our labor. I guess when you are used to a big juicy tomato, 1 tiny little Roma isn't too thrilling!

The girls enjoyed watching it grow and couldn't wait to pick the tiny little thing! Maybe next year's crop will be more bountiful. Either way, it was fun playing farmer!

Grandparent's Day

2009-07-25T17:27:00.000-07:00

Today was Grandparent's Day at the Waterford, the senior living apartments where Ms. Jo just moved. She invited us to join her in the festivities. We all had a lot of fun! I think the highlight of the day was bobbin' for apples. The girls had never experienced it. Grandmother and I had fun reminiscing and telling them about fall/Halloween parties we had been to and tried to bob for apples. Merritt was ready to give it a try!

Ms. Jo had the best angle of Merritt's attempt!

Sweet Victory!

I think she liked getting wet the best!

Big sister, can't be out done!

"Girls never give up!"

Sweet Success!

We ended the day's activities with a great hot dog lunch! Here's hoping the Waterford makes this an annual event!

Blood, Sweat & Tears

2009-07-21T20:11:00.001-07:00

This morning began grandly with my trip to the Y while the girls were with Mumsie and Poppa playing and having lunch at Chuck E. Cheese! (hence the sweat) The afternoon ended with blood and tears as Morgan picked at an angioma on her chin. Who knew one small spot could hold so much blood! The dermatologist recently told us she could remove it whenever Morgan was ready for her to, most likely her teen years. I think Morgan handled the procedure herself, today! Thank goodness GranMe was still here, visiting with me in the driveway! I don't think I could have handled it without her! Merritt was a big helper to her sister as she came to the driveway and said she needed me. I told her I would be right there. She said, "But, we need you now!" That's when Morgan appeared in all her glory! Thanks for being on blood patrol for me, GranMe! All is calm tonight. Morgan still has a small red spot on her chin but she reports that now she can't feel it! I think she's learned her lesson! No picking!

It's A Bird, It's A Plane.......

2009-07-21T19:13:00.000-07:00

.......It's Super-Uncle Rick! Saturday afternoon we had a surprise drop out of the sky! Uncle Rick and Adam landed in our little town during their cross-country adventure. What a thrill it was for the girls to pick them up at the airport! We took them to our favorite Saturday spot, Strawn's for some down home cooking. Now that Uncle Rick has paved the way, we are hoping that Aunt Jane will let him fly her here, I hear he offers great frequent flyer miles! So, here's to Uncle Rick and Adam for making our Saturday extra-special! We loved seeing you and so did my parents and Grandmother!

Opossums Eat Shrimp!

2009-07-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

On the way home from Vacation Bible school today, the discussion centered around what opossums eat. Merritt's group this week is the Orange Opossums and Morgan is in the Super Shrimp. The discussion between sisters centered around what the opossums diet consists of. Morgan soon brought me into the conversation. "Momma, what do opossums eat?" I went on to explain that they are probably like raccoons and are scavengers, eating whatever they can find in trashcans. Merritt quickly replied, "I can tell you what they eat.....Shrimp!" Morgan, being a member of the Super Shrimp VBS group, didn't find humor in this!

On a more serious note, at the conclusion of today's bible school which centered around "God gives us life", the children were given the opportunity to invite Jesus into their hearts. Sweet Morgan couldn't get down to the front fast enough! Afterwards, I asked her if anything special happened at bible school. She grinned and told me that she had asked Jesus to be her "forever friend!"

Great Fun at Great Wolf!

2009-07-13T17:59:00.001-07:00

We celebrated Mumsie's 70th birthday with a family trip to Great Wolf Lodge! The girls could not have had a better time! From water slides to finding treasure throughout the hotel with our magic wands, we left no stone unturned! Saturday night, Aunt Nancy and Uncle Billy treated us to a wonderful birthday celebration! It was a great weekend!

Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road?

2009-06-30T20:03:00.001-07:00

Answer: To have dinner with Merritt!

Merritt won a "Color the Chicken" coloring contest sponsored by our local newspaper. She was one of four winners who were invited to come have a chicken dinner with the Famous Chicken prior to his performance at the baseball game. Morgan and and I were lucky enough to be her invited guests. Daddy would have been there had he not had class tonight! We felt a little funny about eating chicken but he assured Merritt it was fine as long as we weren't eating any of his friends!

Our group only consisted of 11 people so we really had the chicken all to ourselves. He took pictures, signed autographs and even talked to us! I think Morgan was most surprised that he actually talked. I guess she's accustomed to the silent characters at Disney World!

We had a great time, lots of laughs and many tricks pulled by the Famous Chicken. He's still got it even after all these years! Rumor has it this might be his final season so I am thrilled the girls got to experience a fun and fond memory of my childhood! Sorry Daddy couldn't join us, though!

Sleeping Beauty and the Ladybug

2009-06-26T09:04:00.001-07:00

Sleeping Beauty opened last night to a full house! It's a great production! Very entertaining. Of course at our house we think the production should be called Sleeping Beauty and the Ladybug because we know the cutest ladybug there is! Good Show, Morgan! You amaze me with your confidence! Keep performing!

A Daddy and His Princesses

2009-06-21T18:07:00.000-07:00

Hope you enjoyed your day with your girls! Your hands-on approach is not only helpful to me but important for the girls to see a loving, nurturing father! Thank you for all you do to make our life even "richer"! We love you!

40 Years of Fatherhood

2009-06-21T16:07:00.000-07:00

I think today marked my Dad's 41st Father's Day! I'll have to ask him or my statistician sister, they are better at math! He put me on the spot at lunch today, taking a suggestion from this morning's sermon. What characteristic describes your father? He started the conversation off, remembering his father, my granddad that I only knew for 4 short years. As it quickly became my turn, I was very lost for words. Not that I don't have many memories of my father, they just weren't coming to me!

Hope this makes up for my lack of words this afternoon ~ Daddy, your character is what makes the biggest impression on me. Not an unkind word could be spoken about you. Your honesty and integrity are well above the norm! I often joke about your inability to lie even on my wedding day when the videographer was a no show. As one of my bridesmaids asked me if the wedding would be videoed, I'll never forget your head shaking out of the corner of my eye. As I turned to you with tears I said, "Daddy, just once in your life, couldn't you lie!" My tears quickly dried as you and my friends reminded me that the best video will be my memories. Although I wished you had lied at that moment, thank you for staying true to yourself because that moment, that lesson, has lived on in my heart. My hope is that my children can one day say the same about me. Although they've got me on the Santa Claus thing!

Thank you for always putting us first, making sure all our needs were met. I always thought we were rich, never feeling like we went without. I now know we weren't "rich" in material things but you and mom made sure that we were "rich" in the areas that mattered!

You set the standard high and because of you and your example, I have the best husband and father to my children! The only way I could repay you for that is to raise my girls so that they too will have a "rich" life!

Even though I haven't been a part of all 41 Father's days, one thing I know for sure, today was your best Father's day ever! Just like next year will be your best Father's Day ever!

How 'bout those Indians,
Beth

Blueberry Pickin'

2009-06-20T14:50:00.000-07:00

GranMe and Poppy took us blueberry picking one day this week. It was a fun outing for the cousins and adults alike! I don't think I've ever been blueberry picking! The kids had a great time pickin' and eatin' the berries! Sometimes there was more eatin' going on than pickin'! I guess the blueberry farm factors that in when they determine the price of a kid's bucket!

Morgan was very methodical in her approach and wound up with the fullest bucket!

Merritt worked carefully in the shade and on the low branches. She liked to find spaces Morgan was too big to get in to pick!

Jacob was very careful to only pick the blue ones!

And very carefully only ate the blue ones!

Thanks GranMe and Poppy for a new experience! Although the girls have been before, this was a first for Jacob and Aunt Beth!

Merritt told Poppy he needed to know 2 things before they went to the blueberry farm ~ #1 "I don't like blueberries and #2 I don't like popsicles!" I think we've won her over to the blueberry side but she still won't give a popsicle a chance! Maybe next year!

Cousin Comes To Town

2009-06-20T14:45:00.001-07:00

Cousin Jacob has been with us all week! What fun we had but were sad to see him head home this afternoon. So glad his mom's home office is only 3 hours away. This is the second summer he has flown with her and we have picked him up and brought him home with us for the week. Looks like a tradition in the making to me! Thanks for sharing him with us, Amy and Joe. Many memories were made this week! Hope he had just as much fun!

A Surprise From the Beginning

2009-06-13T15:09:00.001-07:00

Dear Merritt,

Fours years ago today you joined our family. Your entrance into this world should have been a clue; you have been a surprise from the beginning! Mommy and Daddy wanted another child but God added you to our family sooner than we thought He would! You were to be a July baby just like Momma but you and the doctors decided June was a better month for you! June 13, 2005 proved to be a very lucky and healthy day for Merritt Elizabeth! Many friends and family members were present for your birth, even 2 great-grandmothers!

Although I was already a Momma to Morgan, you have made me a better parent. I am more patient and understanding because of you (at least I hope that I am). Although you say that Daddy is your best buddy, I will always be a champion for you since I too understand what it's like to be a little sister! You have played a very special role in the making of our family. You have completed us! It's hard to remember life before you were a part of this family and unimaginable to think of life without you! You are the bright spot in the day for so many of us!

May your zest for life continue to grow!

May your knowledge and understanding of fashionable shoes continue! You have already learned 2 valuable lessons ~ If the shoe fits, wear it. If it's cute but hurts, still wear it! You learned this lesson just this week when you picked out your first pair of flip flops. You told me, "I really love them but they really hurt!" I told you to keep wearing them, you would get used to them. The next day you announced, "They still hurt, but I'm getting used to them!"

May your adventurous spirit find you on many adventures in your lifetime. And may you bring dear 'ole Mom on one or two of your adventures! So far you've allowed me to travel on many a camp out in our living room! Thanks to Mumsie and Poppa for the new tent! We have many more adventures ahead of us! Thanks to GranMe and Poppy for the camera to document those adventures!

May your sweet spirit and kind heart continue to brighten others and put a smile on their face! God has something special planned for you and I am blessed to watch it unfold! May God continue to give Momma and Daddy the patience, love and understanding so that we may be able to equip you for your greatness!

Thank you for blessing my life daily!

I love you all around the world and back,

Momma

Make-Overs & Manicures

2009-06-11T18:38:00.000-07:00

Our summer has already seen many make-overs and manicures! Merritt is definitely a girly girl, loving to put on makeup and have her nails painted! If only she would allow them to be "snip snipped!" She's got some claws on her! She created the above look all on her own. Complete with a chocolate beauty mark! I swear, that child always has chocolate on her somewhere!

During our most recent manicure, we got a call from Mimi needing some help with my grandmother, Ms. Jo. I told Merritt we needed to go to Ms. Jo's to help her a little bit. Remembering Ms. Jo's recent fall, Merritt replied, "She's not on the floor again, is she?" I told her, "No, she just needs a little help." I'm not sure what Merritt thought we were being asked to do but as we were hurrying out the door she said, "Wait a minute, I think I'll need this" as she grabbed her pretend cleaning supplies!

As I am typing this, I have realized that only one hand is painted. I either need to go find some finger nail polish remover or ask for another manicure appointment with Merritt. As I try to decide what I want to do next in life, I might consider being a manicurist. Merritt says I'm really good at painting nails since I can stay in the lines! Come to think of it, when it comes to painting nails, Merritt's not so good at staying in the lines so I think I'll go find that finger nail polish remover!