chik austin

Closing Time

2008-02-10T22:40:00.000-06:00

"Closing time... one last call for alcohol now finish your whisky and beer." Hey, it's moving day! The time has come for me to stop using the training wheels and move to a big girls bike. My new home is here www.chikaustin.com.

Stop by and say hello!!! And don't worry, you don't have to bring a housewarming gift.

Be My Valentine

2008-02-08T10:52:00.000-06:00

Today we woke up thinking about Valentines Day. As a family, we have always made handmade valentines. Even before we had kids, Miles and I would get out the construction paper and scissors to create a Valentine. Now that we have kids that can do some crafting, it's time to get them involved.

I signed up for the Valentine's Exchange over at Sarah's site so we need to get busy making our Valentines to send to Pensacola. I'm thinking about some finger paint. This will be a first for Keegan so I'm sure it will be extremely messy.

While Keegan was napping, Makena and I decided to do some Valentine crafting thanks to some ideas from Martha Stewart. These crayon hearts are just what I needed for my kitchen window.

Now to figure out what to make for everyone. You know, I'm thinking about something for our garden. But don't tell my Valentines!

Green Thumb Anyone

2008-02-07T13:02:00.000-06:00

Where did winter go? I know some of you are cuddled up inside of your house with a fire, hot cocoa and lot's of snuggling watching the snow fall outside. Well, let me tell you that spring has sprung in Austin, Texas. The birds are chirping and seem quite pleased that I've decided to fill the bird feeder with sunflower seeds. I've been trying to get a picture of them but I seem to always venture outside with a parade of dog and toddlers so they don't stick around. I will catch one sooner or later.

With the incredible weather and Makena's newly gifted Pansies we ventured outside to do some planting. I let Makena pick the spot where she wanted to plant her flowers. She marched around the side of the house, plastic shovel and watering can in hand ready to plant.

We decided to make a lesson out of the first planting of the year. We pulled out the vintage flower books and learned that Pansies are a type of Violet. Who knew? Okay, so maybe you already knew that. But we looked in our books and decided (Makena decided) that we need lots of flowers, and if we water them they will grow all the way up to the sky. Maybe she just read Jack and the Beanstalk? Who knows where they come up with these things.

All of this got me thinking about spring gardening. Oh do I have big plans I'm just not sure where to start. We live on about an acre and have lots of room for gardens. My question for you, my friends, is what should I plant? I would really like to plant blackberries, blueberries, tomatoes, things for cooking, things for canning, etc. Does anyone have any good suggestions for things to plant and resources (books/websites) that might help?

The only stipulation that we have is deer and I'm sure they would love some tasty blackberry vines. We do have lots of different levels of gardens that surround our house that the deer can't reach. Anyone have a green thumb out there?

Flowers

2008-02-06T12:30:00.000-06:00

Makena's boyfriend Gage joined us for our Mardi Gras celebrations last night. He jumped out of his mommy's car, flowers in hand and said "Makena, I brought you some flowers." Makena, on the other hand, had befriended our neighbor's dog who was also over for a visit. So here is Gage running around with the flowers trying to catch Makena as Makena is trying to show Gage the dog. They finally met, somewhere in the middle, hugged and proceeded to run different directions again.

As we were making our way into the house, we noticed that Gage had stopped and was drawing a picture on the chalkboard. When we asked him what he was doing he replied "drawing a picture for Makena." I just can't get enough of this sweet little fella.

We proceeded to celebrate Fat Tuesday like two families with two kids each. There was Cobb Salad, Jambalaya and King's Cake. Lots of rushing around, trying to get the kids fed so the adults could eat. Playing referee. Reminding each of the kids to play nice. Jumping onto the sofa. And lots of fun. Hope your Mardi Gras celebrations were just as festive! This is the way we plan to celebrate ours for years to come!

Fat Tuesday & A Winner

2008-02-05T09:58:00.000-06:00

Happy Fat Tuesday! Happy Super Tuesday! It's Tuesday and there are plenty of reasons to celebrate. This morning we had a drawing for the winner in my 100th post contest.

Drum roll please...

And the winner is....

Claudia at Aux Petits Oiseaux email me with your mailing address. Something special is coming your way!

Today the kids will be busy with Mardi Gras crafts while I'm in the kitchen cooking jambalaya, homemade bread and homemade King's Cake. Ayeeee!

Let Them Eat Cake

2008-02-04T09:25:00.000-06:00

Our weekend was spent in San Antonio with family. Makena woke up Friday ready to go so we loaded up the car and hit the road. There were bridal showers, bachelorette parties and birthdays to celebrate. On Friday, we took Makena for ice cream because nothing can make you feel better than ice cream!

Saturday was a very busy day! If you can picture this Miles, Grandpa, Uncle Nick and soon-to-be Uncle Robert took all of the kids (5 of them) to the San Antonio Zoo. Sorry I don't have any pictures because that would have been asking way too much of them. We were just happy all of the kids came back!

All of us girls spent the day in Boerne with Miles' sister's bridal shower at a tea house and some shopping.

Saturday night was spent on the Riverwalk eating Mexican food and enjoying margaritas. Oh how I love San Antonio in all of it's glory. The sounds of the mariachis remind us that we are back home. Can you guess which one is the happy bride and which one is the sister-in-law/bridesmaid? The bride was VERY reluctant to wear the veil so Carla wore it for her for a while. Carla was very excited to wear the veil. She kept getting 'congratulations' from bystanders. Too funny! She was like 'thanks!!!' The blonde is the bride.

On Sunday, the celebrations continued with Baby Cousin Addison's 1st birthday party. Happy Birthday sweet girl. Today we are back home recuperating from the weekend. Maybe we'll get some crafting in today. Fingers crossed.

Blessings and Miracles

2008-01-31T22:17:00.000-06:00

Today was the big day. Surgery day for Makena's finger. There were lots of nerves. Lot's of waiting. Lot's of prayers.

Lot's of picture taking by a nervous momma. What a beautiful hospital. So very non-hospital feeling.

Today's surgery went unbelievably well. A HUGE thank you to everyone that prayed for us. Our prayers were answered. Dell Children's Hospital is an incredible hospital and we were immediately made to feel comfortable. All of Makena's fears were alleviated by one member of the staff or another. They are all so caring and considerate. Makena was wheeled back to surgery in a Dora the Explorer car, chattering all the way.

She was in surgery for about an hour to align her finger with two pins. When we met with the doctor after the surgery we were welcomed with much good news. When he cut open her finger he noticed that the growth plate, in fact, had not been crushed. It was ALL THERE! What had happened is that it had flipped up and out of line. These things are almost impossible to see on an x-ray because it is all tendon and cartlidge and not visible through an x-ray. If you remember, we were working on the assumption that the growth plate was shattered and destroyed. Not the case after all. What a miracle!!! So, Dr. Sharma realigned her growth plate with a metal wire. Makena also has two pins to keep her finger tip straight and pointed upward. These pins stick out of the end of her finger and will be removed in 3-5 weeks.

These are the best possible results we could have asked for. The fact that the growth plate is still there and now back in line is a miracle. Makena is recovering well. She spent most of the afternoon eating six popsicles and forcing Miles to do one craft after the next. We are all exhausted and glad it's over.

Thank you to everyone that has been praying for us. We rejoice in the good news and are optimistic about her future use of that finger. Thank you, thank you, thank you from all of us!!! We have felt your prayers leading up to this and today.

Winds of Change

2008-01-29T13:56:00.000-06:00

It's 10 pm and I've just finished my grocery shopping and am standing in the middle of the parking lot. Alone. Then it hits me. A gust of wind, out of nowhere. Cool, crisp, refreshing winter air hits me and takes my breath away. I stand there in the moment. Arms spread, letting it lift me up and reinvigorate my soul.

It's almost nap time. The kids are having a last run around the yard before the "two more minutes" count begins. It finds me again. The sun peeks out from behind the clouds for a brief hello. The wind circles around us, catching us off guard. Keegan stumbles, Makena takes off running and I stand there. Once again, arms outstretched welcoming the change.

The kids are asleep. I'm doing dishes, trying to dig my way out of the chaos from flu week. I turn on my music. Which today is the Once soundtrack. I open the kitchen window and there it is again. In these moments, I find solitude, forgiveness and hope. I look outside and listen to the wind whistling through the house. My hair is blown back by the bursts of wind and I am once again at peace.

In the chaos that consumes your daily life. I hope you find that moment. That breeze that catches you off guard and takes your breath away. Take some time. To live in that moment. Reflect on what you've been through and what lies ahead.

With this change, I've decided to make some changes for my 30 days of photos. Oh, I'll keep taking pictures and working on my photography but it's lonely over here without something to talk about and someone to talk to. So, I'm back. Chatty as usual. Feeling blessed by the winds of change.

Life :: 3

2008-01-29T10:11:00.001-06:00

Our trees and yard are full of these air plants. They always seem to amaze me. They just grow and grow without being watered or planted. They just need a little spritz here and there. They don't need any attention, just a place to sit. I think a lot can be learned from an air plant. We're always looking for other people to nurture us, make us stronger. When all the while, we have exactly what we need.

Today is my 100th post! I could go on for days about my blog and how much it means to me. How much all of you mean to me, the friends I've made, the things I've learned... but we're in the midst of my 30 days of photography so that will all have to wait.

But what can't wait is a giveaway! Just leave me a comment on this post (by Friday) and you'll be entered in a drawing for a trip for two to.... Oh just kidding, it is fun to dream right?!? Seriously though, I'll make something for you. And I promise it won't involve glue, glitter or construction paper.

home sweet home

2008-01-25T12:54:00.000-06:00

The flu. There's no better way to pass the time than in mommy and daddy's bed with grandpa's quilt, movies and hot tea.

life :: 1

2008-01-24T11:53:00.000-06:00

Today we are starting a new journey. I've been inspired by some great photographers and bloggers online with their stellar photography and am ready to jump right in. I figured what better way to do it than to devote the next thirty days to photography. I'm in a pretty Zen like state of mind with everything going on around here. So I'll take a break from rambling and dive right into pictures. I'd like to fine tune my Photoshop knowledge and learn some new tips and tricks for using my camera. Along the way, capturing snapshots of our daily life. I hope you enjoy it!

I'll spend most of my time photographing our life, the ordinary and not so ordinary. Hoping to capture some fun shots along the way. It will be more of like a photographic journal. As always, I appreciate your comments and if you have web/book resources for me to check out please let me know. And of course, I don't want to play alone so if anyone else wants to play along with the Life series, please do. I'd love for some other bloggers to join me. Let me know so I can link to you on my page!

Of course, don't forget we are very close to my 100th post so check back in for a giveaway!!! We're at number 97 my friends!!!

look deer

2008-01-23T14:20:00.000-06:00

We woke up this morning to near freezing temperatures, a pretty bird on my balcony and fourteen deer in the front yard. Fourteen! We counted them. It's been really foggy, or froggy as Makena puts it, for the past couple of days in the hill country. And as the weather changes, so does my attitude.

We are promised a new day, everyday. Life will happen. Things will get in the way of our plans. But the sun will rise once again and with it the promise of restored energy and faith.

Kids aren't phased by our fears and worries. They continue to run about, laugh and play amidst our angst. I think we can learn a thing a two from our children, if we only take the time to watch.

Keegan spends most of his day sorting. Moving my yarn from a basket to the trash. Moving the mail from the table to me. Taking each book out of the basket and bringing it to me. Moving train parts and blocks from one bin to the next. He will be great on an assembly line!

Makena spends most of her day guarding her princesses from Keegan. Each one is meticulously lined up on a table just out of Keegan's reach. They wait there for her to return. She dreams of castles, horses and princesses. Her fairy tale is just beginning.

finger update

2008-01-22T14:30:00.000-06:00

Thanks for all of your well wishes and prayers!

I just wanted to give all of you an update on Makena's finger. We visited another surgeon this morning who feels like we need to be proactive in this case. No one knows how it's going to grow. If you are familiar with anatomy, there are growth plates between each bone. And her growth plate that she had that was between her finger bone and finger tip bone (none of these are correct terms so bear with me) is out of line. It's only about 1/4 of the size that it was. It was shattered in the gate and has gone. And now the remaining sliver of her growth plate is not even between those two bones in her finger. Her finger tip now droops and with the growth plate out of line we need to do something.

This doctor feels like we need to get that growth plate back in line if we can. Do a surgery now and then in a couple of years more surgery to continue to correct the crooked growth. This will be a childhood of surgery to fix this finger. Just depending on how it's growing, go in and do reconstructive surgery. Only time will tell.

For now we are feeling positive that we have found a doctor that is proactive. She has surgery scheduled for next Thursday. They will put a pin in her finger to align the bones and try and realign the tiny growth plate.

Thanks for all of your supportive comments. They truly reach me when I need them most.

thrifting fairy

2008-01-21T09:13:00.000-06:00

Sorry I've been out of pocket lately. The finger feels all-consuming in my mind these days and I haven't felt very inspired to write. Not much has been going around in these parts. Winter finally arrived here in Central Texas bringing with it rain, lots of rain. It's cold outside and raining. I think we'll stay in our pajamas all day... and do laundry. Anyone have a laundry elf that they can send over to help?

This weekend we organized the garage. Woohoo! But as exciting as that is, the pictures are definitely not blog worthy. Although, I can show you some things recently thrifted and handed down. That's fun stuff!

For Christmas, the kid's gifts from us/Santa were either handmade or thrifted. My proudest find was the book The Little Prince for Keegan. It's edges are worn and tattered and dates back to 1943, when hardcover books like this were only $4.50 new. And after doing my research, this actual book is from the first publication. Fortunately I found it at a garage sale for .50 cents. I probably would have paid much more for it.

The sewing machine was passed down to me from my father. It was his grandmother's machine, my great-grandmother. I can just imagine how much this machine was used to make clothes, household wares and necessities for the family. Isn't it just fabulous?!? It now has a new home in our bedroom/my little craft space.

And look what I found at the thrift store. A 1950's sewing book, 1960's French textbook and some knitted potholders. Good stuff!

Happy MLK Day Y'all! Sweet dreams.

prayer request

2008-01-18T14:32:00.000-06:00

For those of you who are the praying type, we need you. Here's the story plus an update.

Our daughter, Makena, was injured in a baby gate just before Christmas. She was hanging onto our metal baby gate when she fell. Her finger got stuck somehow in the gate and the weight of her fall severed her finger at the fingertip. We rushed her to the ER. She got five stitches to reattach the finger tip but her finger is broken. Her growth plate was shattered in the gate and the possible outcome could be that her finger will not continue to grow. We've now been to several specialists, occupational therapists and so on. All of the doctors up to this point don't think that surgery will fix it. Only time will tell. We just got x-rays again today only to find out that her finger is not healing. Makena is only three years old so we'll have a lifetime of waiting to see if/how it grows. We have an appointment with another surgeon Tuesday to see if he thinks surgery is the answer... if it can even be fixed.

We count our blessings everyday and are just glad she was not injured any more than she was. Please pass this on as we feel that it's in God's hands.

ballet 101

2008-01-16T15:07:00.000-06:00

Today was a big day for Makena as she started dance classes. As we pulled up in the parking lot you could see the excitement in her eyes. She couldn't get in there fast enough. We walked inside and as I was finishing up paperwork she quickly darted into the room. She placed her ballerina bag in her cubby and joined the other kids in the middle of the dance floor.

It took me a few moments of looking around to realize that it was okay for me to leave. I already knew it was okay to leave. I guess I just needed to give myself permission. She didn't need me. Hmph. Okay.

Keegan and I ran a quick errand and were back in twenty minutes. We spent the last few minutes of class watching her through the window. I think it was such a huge moment for all of us. Keegan was toddling in the waiting room, making friends of his own. Mommies were chattering about schools and neighborhoods. I sat there, with tears in my eyes, and reflected on my baby girl. As I watched her, I saw a little girl full of confidence, poise and grace.

We got home and she quickly wanted to show me all she learned. So she ran into the yard and spun around, leaped and twirled. This is just the beginning of Makena's adventures and I'm ready for the ride... I think.

check out my new digs

2008-01-14T20:39:00.000-06:00

You all know how proud I was of my little craft space before the holidays. I officially marked my territory in our master bedroom and made it mine. I put in a table and dusted off the sewing machine. Well I have been inspired and motivated to do more.

Since I've claimed my space I have put large holes, anchors and shelves in the wall to officially make it mine. There's no going back now. I've also added some books to my crafting library, art and fun fabric to my stash. Looks like 2008 may be a good year for crafting! Taking on new endeavors! Spending way too much money on fabric online! Losing a countless number of pins in the carpet! Keegan possibly swallowing buttons! Buying clothes in the store just for the fabric! Oh what a year this will be!

So I wanted to show you what I've done. Thanks to Ikea for affordable shelving and accessories. And thank you to the city of Round Rock for allowing Ikea to come to central Texas. This is beginning to sound like an acceptance speech for an awards ceremony. Golden Globes, where are you?

ballerina bag

2008-01-13T15:25:00.000-06:00

I recently picked up a copy of Celine Dupuy's book Simple Sewing with a French Twist. She frequently contributes to Marie Claire and I'm a huge fan of French design so I just had to get it. The book has lots of great ideas and I decided to start with a ballerina bag.

This week Makena begins dance classes. The shoes and leotard have been purchased, all that was missing was a bag. Every girl needs a great bag. In due time she will learn this! I ordered my fabrics online, some for this bag and some for other projects. Green, green and more green!

The bag came together really quick. It's a very simple tote bag and I'm even thinking of making more to use for shopping instead of the plastic bags. I used a fun Japanese fabric depicting some of the fairy tales. The pattern had one typo though that threw me for a loop for a good 30 minutes. Does this happen often? Friends, you know I'm new to this sewing thing. I corrected the pattern and was on my way.

A brand new ballerina bag for my little ballerina.

delicious

2008-01-11T07:53:00.000-06:00

Before the holidays, Sarah posted the recipe for her cinnamon rolls. They looked so good I just had to make them myself.

I bought all of the ingredients, got home and read the directions. Yes, this is backwards. That's how I do things. Since it is a six-hour recipe (don't fret, it's just a lot of rising time) they would have to wait until the next day. But oooh, would tomorrow be a good day with yummy cinnamon rolls.

And it was! Thanks Sarah!

Since we're talking about Sarah I might as well tell you that she is the most kind, generous person. Last week she sent me a box full of clothes her sweetie Annika has outgrown to pass on to Makena. It was just in time since she just jumped from a 2t to a 4t. How does that happen? The box was full of wonderful clothes. Thanks again Sarah! And the kids also thank you for the box! I'm not sure what setting my camera was on but it was way wrong. Sorry for the pixely shot.

grace

2008-01-08T14:09:00.001-06:00

That's Makena's middle name. Grace. A resolution this year. I could go on for days about life. I could moan and groan about issues, stuff and more stuff. I'll save you the drama and simply tell you that although smelly cat spilled an entire glass of water on my MacBook and I possibly lost all of my pictures because I didn't back them up, I shall not fret. Because of grace. When life hands you lemons you make lemonade right?!?

So where have a I been the past couple of days? Not fretting over stuff and that other stuff. Things I need to get done, issues I need to resolve, that pile of laundry that is haunting me. I've been spending my days with my babes. The weather has been unseasonably warm, 80 degrees, so we are taking advantage of it. Yesterday, we went on a walk and walked down to the neighborhood park with a playground. This was my first time taking Keegan to the park since he started walking and oh boy am I in trouble. He is a climber!

Today I took the kids down to our lake front park in our hood. You know, to throw rocks, almost fall into the water and run as fast as you can down the big hill. Child's play. As I sat there watching the little ones scamper about all I could hear was the sound of the breeze and the water lapping onto the shore. Tranquility.

Makena trying to find the largest rock she possibly can find to throw and Keegan throwing the rocks but they didn't quite make it to the water. All in due time my dear Keegan.

So now all is quiet. Everyone is napping. Even the cat. I'm sitting on our balcony looking at the lake in the distance. Enjoying my favorite soda and some German treats a friend brought over. There is no noise. The breeze comes in waves, but no noise. I need to do more of this, take a moment, or two. To just be. Be with my babes and enjoy the child's play.

I resolve to work on grace. You can't control the circumstances, but how you react to it. Philosophy has a line of bath products, maybe you've seen them? One product in their line is called grace. My sister-in-law graciously gave me some of it for Christmas this year. I'll leave you with the writing on the bubble bath. Something to ponder over bath time. It was put so elequently:

amazing grace philosophy: how you climb up the mountain is just as important as how you get down the mountain. and, so it is with life, which for many of us becomes one big gigantic test followed by one big gigantic lesson. in the end, it all comes down to one word. grace. it's how you accept winning and losing, good luck and bad luck, the darkness and the light.

you're a winner! winner do a funky dance

2008-01-04T08:53:00.000-06:00

Before Christmas, Melissa had a giveaway on her blog. She was giving away the sweetest little baby doll quilt, Gingerbread Baby and a Haba baby toy. I quickly left a comment, like any hopeful blogger would and crossed my fingers. Low and behold somehow I won. The gifts came right around Christmas so it was perfect timing. Santa brought a new willow stroller and dolly for Makena and the quilt just was the icing on top of the cake.

I had never read Gingerbread Baby but it's written by Jan Brett who also wrote The Mitten, one of our favorite books. Gingerbread Baby is such a lovely tale. The kids now think the Gingerbread Baby was living in our gingerbread house all this time.

And the clackty-clack of the Haba toy is perfect for a new walker. Keegan carries it around while practicing his newly found walking skills.

Thanks Melissa! She's even got a great ETSY shop where she sells her wares so check it out.

Speaking of giveaways, my 100th post is coming up and I decided to do a giveaway as well. Not sure of the details yet, but it will be coming up in a couple of days. Check back!

good intentions

2008-01-02T20:07:00.001-06:00

As good as my intentions may be, life gets in the way. Plans to go, plans to do, plans to be get put on hold when life changes my path. In the middle of thinking about resolutions, life interrupted. Both of my babes have come down with a wretched cough and fever. Rushed to the doctor first thing this morning to be told, once again, that it's allergies with possibly a virus. Maybe because it's 20 degrees here at night and 80 degrees during the day? There is a reason Austin is the allergy capital of the nation. We hold that title proudly.

They are both now on nebulizer treatments three times a day for seven days. That's ninety minutes a day of holding a crying child. That's 630 minutes in a week. What a way to pass the time. Then, Keegan must continue once a day until March. March. It's January.

Once again we will survive what life throws at us. I'm just not able to show you fabulous pictures of closets organized, laundry completed, toys picked up or crafty items completed.

The chaos that is known as Christmas has left it's aftermath and is scattered throughout. All of the decorations are finally in the garage so at least we accomplished something before the storm. Toys are strewn throughout, none of them have a home yet unless the middle of my living room counts. We spent our New Years Eve with a few friends at our house. We even set off our own fireworks and only caught the yard on fire twice.

I resolve that my resolutions will have to wait. For a couple of days at least. No organizing, no cleaning, no laundry. I resolve to sit and hold my babes. They need me. Everything else can wait.

happy new year

2008-01-01T13:45:00.000-06:00

Lists. They keep getting longer. It's the new year and we all feel the urge to purge, simplify and do. Something.

Resolutions. The more I delve into the crafting community the longer my list gets.

Simplicity. Finding those moments.

:: 2007 A Year in Review ::

sixteen going on seventeen

2007-12-30T21:39:00.000-06:00

I want to hold them tightly. Keep them safe. Protect them. Hold on to these moments for a lifetime. Take a million snap shots. Write it all down.

This week Makena has started shushing us. You know, telling us to be quiet. "Shhhh" she will say when she wants me to stop talking or telling her what to do. We watched "The Sound of Music" the other night and whenever she shushes me I keep hearing "i am 3, going on seventeen."

My little man is now free to roam on his own two feet. He's now walking, talking and even signing from time to time. A full fledged toddler.

A lot of reflection going on right now. Aren't we all? Reflecting on the past year, how much has changed and on the year to come. What's in store? Only time will tell.

All of the pictures are compliments of my father who is one incredible photographer. Nice work Daddy!

fit for a king

2007-12-29T18:50:00.000-06:00

The house is quiet, except for the pitter-patter of tiny toddler footsteps and voices. All family is now home safe in the comfort of their own homes. As I sit and look around at the devastation around my house, the piles of laundry yet to be done and the presents yet to find a home I sip from my glass of Beaujolais Nouveau red wine, take a deep breath and relax. Home.

This evening we quickly bathed and tucked the kids into bed since they haven't made their bedtimes in say... about a week. For Christmas, Miles got me a fabulous cookbook that I would very highly recommend to anyone and everyone. The book, My French Kitchen, is written by Joanne Harris who is the author of Chocolat, one of my all time favorite movies. The recipes are simple although you do have to go to Whole Foods to find some ingredients like fresh tarragon. The photography is exquisite and the selections are divine. From creme brulee, ratatoullie (no, it's not just a movie) and spinach gnocchi. The list goes on and on. Tonight I drug Miles into the kitchen to teach him a thing or two. He was in charge of the chopping of the vegetables and in the middle of dicing the shallots, with tears in his eyes, told me how overwhelmed and grateful he was with the meal. Funny guy.

Together we made filet mignon with a tarragon cream sauce on top of a portobello mushroom served with a side of roasted asparagus spears and sliced baguette. The entire process took 20 minutes. Need I say anything else?

onto the new year

2007-12-27T09:33:00.001-06:00

The stores are now filled with SALE signs, clearing out the sweaters and Christmas goodies and making way for Spring. How quickly our culture moves onto whatever is next. The anticipation of the holidays, gone in a flash. The signs are still pretty obvious around our house. Presents are strewn throughout the house, sweets are still waiting to be consumed and we are all exhausted.

::my sister Katy drawing a princess with Makena::

We spent our first Christmas in our new house at home. The days surrounding Christmas we got to spend time with our entire family. My dad's family came into town. My mom's family came into town and then we went to San Antonio to see Miles' family. We had family over for Christmas eve, chopped firewood, lit the fire, baked cookies, made cosmopolitans, strung popcorn and had a Wii bowling tournament, which my grandfather who has never even held a Wii controller won.

Santa came just as expected and delivered. What a nice fella.

We spent the day before and after Christmas shuffling Makena from one doctor's appointment to the next. Getting first opinions, second opinions and then a splint made. No surgery for now. The growth plate on her little finger was crushed so there is NOTHING to fix. Only time will tell how her finger will develop. For now, it's a splint for eight weeks.

Christmas was wonderful, I'm exhausted and working on my resolutions for the new year. Well, I'm at least beginning to think about them. I missed all of my blogging friends out there and am ready to get back into the swing of our normal routine. I hope you all are having a wonderful holiday.

oh Christmas tree

2007-12-20T23:53:00.001-06:00

It just hit me the other day that I haven't taken a picture of our Christmas tree to show you. We went with the real tree this year, a big step for us. We had a pre-lit fake one for years but when all of the lights had gone out and we were stringing new lights on top of the burnt out ones we decided it was time. So we left the old tree in the attic of our old house for the new owners. Kind of like a house warming gift. Kind of not.

Finally finished all of my crafting for the gifts on my list tonight. Everything is wrapped and under the tree so I can spend the next few days enjoying my babes and family. Have I told you how much I love the Ikea gift bags this holiday season? Such cute little gnome/elves. We've got family and friends coming to stay and we've also got family to go and visit. Oh, and we'll also have a follow-up with the plastic surgeon next week. A flurry of activity. Minus the flurries.

Today Makena and I made peanut butter kiss cookies. I'm sure that's not the actual name, but I don't know the name so that's what we are going with. We made the peanut butter cookie dough and stuck a hershey's kiss smack dab in the middle. It was actually more like stuff one cookie, eat five kisses, stuff another cookie, eat five more. Tomorrow is onto Sarah's cinnamon rolls and then cookies, cookies and more cookies for the next couple of days.

Earlier this week week we went to the Trail of Lights near downtown Austin with some friends. They should rename it the Austin Cattle Drive because it is literally herds and herds of people with their strollers, trying to take out anyone who slows down their pace to actually look at the lights. Mooooo..... (Sorry, I'm in a mood)

I hope you all have a fabulous holiday. I'm going to take a break for a couple of days but will be back very, very soon and share all of the holiday goodness with you. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you all take time to enjoy yourself. The kids are just getting too big too fast. Adios friends! See you in a couple days!

Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas!
xoxo-
Jade

check, check, check

2007-12-18T09:58:00.000-06:00

What a difference a day makes. We had to take Makena off of the Tylenol with codeine for fear that she would scale the wall, hang from the ceiling fan, fly around and then jump. It was making her very hyper and we need a calm child to heal her finger. Out with the codeine, in with the Motrin. With all of the chaos the past twenty-four hours I really needed some time to myself in my little crafting corner to get busy on Christmas gifts. Well, I didn't really get the time to myself. What I got was movie night in our bedroom (my craft room) with our favorite holiday movie National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Now that's a classic.

So while the movie was playing, Miles corralled Makena and kept her up in the bed and I continued my holiday presents. I'll show you what I've come up with but of course can't tell you who they are for. I worked late into the night and before I knew it I was able to check four gifts off of my list. Wonderful! The picture above is of course a gift, but I can't show you the whole thing. You only get a little peek.

A pair of appliqued tea towels. I love this fabric and it keeps popping up everywhere in my creations.

Look what I finished! This has to be the longest scarf I've ever made. It just keeps going and going and going.

My signature chik once again, this time on a tee. I also added some fun stitching to the shoulder and bottom hem.

e.r. visit

2007-12-17T08:12:00.000-06:00

Sorry I don't have long to post today. Last night we had an accident at our house. Makena was playing around on the baby gate and fell. Her finger was at a 90 degree angle and ripped open. I'll save you the gory details. We rushed her to the ER. She broke her left index finger in two places, near the tip. She also had to get five stitches on that little bitty finger to put it all back together again. She was a trooper though and insisted on watching the doctor the entire time.

We are off to the plastic surgeon this morning. I'll keep you posted as I know more.

Update:
Thank you for all of your well wishes. She is doing much better today. Last night was HORRIBLE. I just couldn't stop the bleeding, trying to rush her to the ER, got pulled over by the state trooper for speeding (with a lecture).... Ugh. I almost fainted a few times in the ER. I just couldn't stop crying and couldn't keep myself together. Then I felt like a failure for being that type of mom. I can usually handle a lot but the thought of her losing a finger and it mutilated just put me over the edge.

Went to the plastic surgeon this morning. He removed the splint and replaced it with a large band aid. A band aid? Can't we put her in a full cast for a while? Just to make me feel better? He told me to let her use it as much as she wants to. She will let us know if she's in pain. He said she'll be ripping open her presents next week.

The break occurred on the growth plate, on the joint below the finger tip. Basically the growth plate was moved to the outside of her finger. He consulted a hand surgeon and they both think it will just fix itself. Just that kids are resilient while adults will walk around for a month wearing a splint. We go back in next week for more x-rays. Today she's in great spirits, running, climbing, jumping as I cringe my teeth. I just keep telling her 'not today Makena, just not today.' It's got to be the codeine.

go sit in the corner

2007-12-14T23:16:00.000-06:00

I didn't get much crafting done today. A stitch here and there on the scarf but mostly I dedicated my day to organizing my craft corner. Yes, I said craft corner. Oh, how I long for a craft room which I can call my own. With pretty little shelves nicely organized with Ikea jars and baskets. I've already picked out my paint colors, art and furniture. Now all I need is a craft room. You see we moved into a three bedroom house and all of the bedrooms are used as such. No room for a craft room. So currently my little space is in the corner of my bedroom. It's my little corner where I stash my small piles of recently purchased fabric, notions and all things craft related. The rest goes into the master bedroom closet. Are you feeling me? Does anyone feel my pain?

Today I organized my space. This was a major accomplishment for me since my craft corner had turned into the catch all corner. Company coming over? Toss the junk into the catch all corner. Laundry need to be folded? Toss it into the catch all corner. Something broken and needs to be glued? Toss it into the catch all corner. Bills to be paid? Toss them into the catch all corner where they will certainly get lost. You get the picture. I'm very happy with my little space now. It's just perfect, it's all mine.

the little engine that could

2007-12-13T22:13:00.000-06:00

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can. Positive affirmations from this point forward my friends. I'm making progress on my list. Fortunately since I'm new to the crafting world I didn't pick very difficult gifts so I should be done in no time at all. My friend Melanie came over tonight to assist with the record bowl construction. Needless to say we burnt every single last finger tip. It's all for the cause though! Got to keep it all handmade. Well, most of it. I do need to fill the bowls with something and Jade (yes, there are two of us out there) over here suggested Japanese candies to fill the bowl. What a great idea and even better excuse to go to the Asian market. Thanks Jade for the suggestions and Melanie for burning your Wii fingertips!

I got distracted mid-afternoon by my need to create a wreath I saw online here and here and here. I was obsessed with it the moment I saw it and just had to make one myself. Originally I bought a white wreath for our front door and a pair of grasshoppers moved in. They must not be very smart grasshoppers since the wreath was fake. Anyway, they were living in the mum on the front porch but since fall is gone, so went the mum. They moved into the fake white wreath and have been living happily until I moved the wreath. There they stood, hanging onto the door for dear life for all the world to see. I'm not sure if they like their new home. There really isn't a place for them to hide. You can actually see one of them on the bottom of the wreath. We'll see in the morning if they are still there. Maybe they will find a nice new plant to live in rather than greeting everyone at the front door.

Just as soon as I found Jen's wreath I also found her art which she sells on ETSY. Good stuff! I even knocked out my Christmas shopping for Miles and myself (yes, I do my own Christmas shopping most of the time) by ordering a couple of her prints. Simply fabulous! The print above is the one I ordered for myself. Sorry I can't show you the one I got for Miles, it's a surprise for him. We need some art for our new house and I just love her work.

Back to work, eleven days to go and this crocheted scarf if taking me forever! Lot's of love going into this one.

leaning tower of gingerbread

2007-12-12T20:48:00.001-06:00

Oh how things never seem to go as planned. Take one ideal winter evening. Baby Keegan is fast asleep so Makena and I decide to build our gingerbread house that Grandma brought for us. We put on the Christmas music, dim the lights, tree is lit and throw some cookies in the oven for a snack. We line up our gingerbread, candies and icing. We are ready to decorate. Sounds like a shot right out of a Martha Stewart magazine.

When all of a sudden. Insert sound of a record screeching here. Chaos ensues. As we are attempting to add candies to our rooftop the entire house collapses. Keegan wakes up. The dogs won't stop barking. Makena's face and hands are covered in red colored slobber from eating and licking all of the ingredients. So I run in to get Keegan. Feed the dogs. Give Makena a good wipe down and attempt to regain my composure. We have run out of icing but fortunately we have left over icing from our gingerbread cookies made earlier this week. So I run to the fridge. Throw the icing in the microwave so we can work with it. Get back to the table and Keegan has taken the bowls of candy and is now having his way with the ingredients on the floor. I sit back and just laugh. Why not?

Needless to say our house is now the leaning tower of gingerbread. But hey, I'm Italian so it works.

So I'm being reminded daily by you crafty mommies that I need to get working on my handmade Christmas gifts for everyone. I'm just sitting back, surfing blogs, amazed by what all you girls come up with while in the meantime my days are numbered. I'm such the procrastinator and there is no way I can get all of this done if I wait until the last minute. So I did my research today, got my supplies in order, made my list and figured out what I was going to make for everyone. Hold onto your seat belts. Here we go!

Christmas List (all in progress, as of tonight):
crochet scarf
fabric scarf (2)
appliqued shirts (3)
softies (2)
pillowcase aprons (2)
elf/gnome baby hat (2)
woodland elf hat
record bowls (2)
set of coasters

12 days left... no pressure.

three years old

2007-12-10T23:08:00.000-06:00

Yesterday came and went in a flash. Thank you for all of your wonderful comments and well wishes to my little one. Before everyone got here she ran down to her room and put on a princess dress to wear for the party. I was thinking to myself 'that's not the outfit you are supposed to wear' but it was her day and her rules.

The cold winds blew in and with it a flurry of activity. Car after car arrived and unloaded anxious toddlers ready to run and play. And off they went! At the party there was eating, drinking, cupcake decorating, kid crafting and good times. Wagons were pulled, pushed and ridden down hill by children young and old. Fires were roaring and marshmallows were roasting. There was singing, laughing, chasing and playing. Happy birthday baby girl!

a flurry of activity

2007-12-08T23:49:00.000-06:00

A flurry of activity in anticipation for Makena's 3rd birthday party tomorrow. Trying to get everything done this evening so I can relax and enjoy my baby girl's big day tomorrow. I've been busy baking and crafting (oh yes, I'm getting this crafting thing down my friends.)

My good friend (and very patient) Sarah taught me how to make a table runner. Sarah, are you proud??? I made this during the kid's nap time today. I used some old curtains and bright fabrics to create this runner. Then I added some little birdies at each end to anchor the runner.

I was overly ambitious and decided to use some Martha Stewart recipes for the cupcakes, icing, gingerbread men and their icing. Once again, I need to learn to read directions BEFORE I begin an endeavor. Notice all the dough stuck to the counter top. How much flour does this take? It's all coming out well, but has been a full day's work. Learning as I go. Baby steps.

And during my down time, while gingerbread men and cupcakes were baking I stitched up some little birdies for Makena's tree.

Wish me luck tomorrow as I attempt to host an incredible amount of people at our house. Do a little rain dance for me to keep the rain away so we can all go outside!

look ma, no hands!

2007-12-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

My youngest babe started walking last week. We've been waiting for this. Both my babes were 'take your time' walkers. No hurry really. Why walk when you can crawl quickly? He's been waiting for a long time for this moment. The anticipation of that moment. Gone so quickly.

He's really moving now. At 15 months old, he let go of the sofa and headed straight towards the Christmas Tree. You can tell that he's so proud of himself. He can finally play with his big sister. The look in his eyes and his little giggle tells you that he's really going places.

And have I told you that he's big enough to be a running back on a football team? Here we go.

can you feel that breeze?

2007-12-04T14:34:00.001-06:00

That's a Texas winter right there my dear friends. It will stay pretty mild here for most of the winter, with a few days really cold and a few days unseasonably warm. This is the view from my kitchen window where I spent part of the afternoon making oatmeal cookies for my book club that came over last night. Sorry I don't have a fancy recipe for you. I used the recipe from the Quaker Oats box and it was just perfect. It's the simple things that are the most rewarding.

These cute little guys are my vintage Santa and Mrs. Claus salt and pepper shakers set. They were given to me from my Mema. They sit there and watch over me as I attempt to create our own holiday traditions.

Book club. A good evening with great friends. Using books as an excuse to get together. Shhhh... don't tell anyone our little secret. Sharing hopes and dreams. Using this night as a recluse. To reinvigorate and rejuvenate the soul. To discuss world issues and solve them from our perch. We are reading The Memory Keepers Daughter by Kim Edwards if anyone wants to read along with us.

'tis the season

2007-12-04T07:34:00.000-06:00

'Tis the season of Winter Fairs, Christmas Markets and Festivals. This past weekend was a whirlwind of events which looked a bit like this. Wake up, eat, load the kids into the car, go to a Christmas Fair, eat lunch, bring the kids home for naps, load the kids into the car, another festival, etc., etc., etc. It's like the planning committees got together and said let's schedule every fair/festival for this first weekend in December and see how the families handle it.

We spent Friday night in Fredericksburg for their annual German Christmas Market and Parade. There was a constant drizzle throughout the evening which kept us soaked. Nothing like the Christmas spirit! The parade was full of tractors, beauty queens, elves, Santa and even a few llamas.

Saturday morning we woke up to go to the Austin Waldorf School's Winter Fair. There was lot's of lovely crafting, food and activities. The kids made their own gnomes, hand rolled candles and snowflakes. We ended up spending most of the day there because it was just such a wonderful experience for the kids.

Today is GET YOUR HOUSE IN ORDER DAY so maybe I'll have some time to finish up some projects I've been working on. Until tomorrow... have a wonderful Tuesday!

card workshop

2007-12-02T22:28:00.000-06:00

This is my idea of using the kid's nap time wisely. I actually put the computer down and completed something on my to do list. I made these Christmas cards with blank card stock and fabric. I bought way too much fabric for my advent calendar stockings so I've plenty to go around. You'll definitely see this fabric again before the holidays are over. The cards were very simple and fun. I'd never used my sewing machine on paper before. I used some of my grandmother's old thread and it seemed awfully thick. When I was finished with the last card I read the label on the thread and it said for hand sewing only. Maybe I should learn to read labels.

Anyway, they came out great and I even got a picture of the kids to include in the card. It was definitely a goat rodeo picture but what do you expect?!?

sumi, miga, quatchi

2007-11-29T20:55:00.000-06:00

What's not to love about the Winter Olympics? You know my love for Vancouver and Whistler... well when we found out the Olympics were coming we were ecstatic. Double the love! I've got Miles online as I type trying to find lodging for the festivities.

The mascots were just released for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games and I just had to share them with you. As much as you all love Japanese characters I just knew you'd find them simply irresistible.

Also, here is the link to their incredible site. The site is amazing and has fun activities for the kiddos. You can even create and print coloring pages with the characters. Very cute.

The company that created the characters is called Meomi. The entire site is interactive. Mouse over different areas on their site to find cute animation. They even have a book series called The Octonauts. Oh, I just can't get enough.

{toy from their store}

{poster from their store}

It's just all so cute I can't stand it. They even have a store. Oh, I'm in heaven. Such lovely illustration. You just have to look for yourself. There is just so much to look at. Have fun!

goat rodeo

2007-11-28T18:22:00.000-06:00

While mommy's mind is away, the monkey will play.

This is what I get for spending too much time on the internet oogling at the lovely blogs out there. Yes, all of your blogs keep me captivated, envious and motivated. I look up to see Keegan rearranging the kitchen. If you are in need of a kitchen elf for the holidays just let me know. I can send him right over!

I also spent a good portion of yesterday trying to get a picture to send out with our Christmas cards. It's really like a goat rodeo. (I'm sure not everyone knows what this is, but just imagine trying to run around and catch goats. It's just like that.) Makena was going one way, Keegan the other. Makena wanted to love on Keegan, Keegan wanted to get away. Then the dogs were running around in the background. Ugh. Here's the evidence.

Now I don't mind a candid picture. That's essentially what I'm going for, but give me a break! Is it really possible to catch a one year old and two year old in a picture together? Does anyone have any suggestions?

winter sunrise

2007-11-28T07:41:00.000-06:00

{photo taken by Miles this morning}

If you find yourself running in circles, running out of time, take rest.
Stop.
Breathe.
Take a break.
If you can't get it all done.
Don't fret.
Remember to enjoy the little moments this month.
Enjoy yourself.
Enjoy your life.
Enjoy your babes.
Don't go too fast.
You might miss something.

beauty school drop out

2007-11-25T19:30:00.000-06:00

I know, I know... go ahead and say I told you so. I've failed at NaBloPoMo and have no regrets. I gave it a whole-hearted effort but simply cannot post daily. Miles even tried to save me a couple of nights ago, but I have failed. I just feel like the content was suffering and I was struggling with something to post rather than posting what makes me happy.

So now we're back on track and I'm feeling a tremendous weight lifted and freedom to post whenever I feel like it. Ha! I'm back in charge. The man can't keep me down! So what should I tell you about my Thanksgiving? That we ate two Thanksgiving meals, so that would be 10,000 calories in two days? Or that when I served Makena the green bean casserole she said 'is that poo-poo?'

The kitchen is clean, the kids are tucked in bed, The Holiday is waiting in the DVD player, we have our Christmas tree up and the fire is roaring. A very fine holiday indeed and the perfect way to end it.

I completed the advent calendar much faster than I had anticipated and it is prominently displayed in the living room. Here is what we ended up with.

I'm going to work on what to put in it for each day this week. Grace has fabulous suggestions on her website.

Each little stocking was lovingly hand-stitched. I made patterns for the two different size stockings, found fabric for the tops and stitched the numbers. I'm the type of girl that needs to start and finish a project in an afternoon so this one was a challenge for me. I love it though and think the kids will really look forward to it as we use it for years to come.

only 15 min left....

2007-11-23T23:44:00.000-06:00

And Jade is sleeping...

(so I'm posting for her to keep her going in Noblaoblahb)

table for two

2007-11-22T21:51:00.001-06:00

::where's our food?::

Thanksgiving is about... being thankful, tradition, family, dressing up, dishes, football, parades, food and making memories. Hope yours was lovely!

::Keeges::

::Makena and her cousin Camden::

::Makena helping Grandma with the dressing::

turkey day

2007-11-21T21:53:00.000-06:00

::My Daddy, our dog Zack and I::

Happy Turkey Day friends! Did you hear that if you eat the standard Thanksgiving meal that you will consume over 5,000 calories? So, I raise a toast to you my friends that eat second helpings and sneak that late night piece of pie. Enjoy yourself, you can fast until Christmas! ;)

::Seems like just yesterday, canoing on the Brazos River with my Daddy::
(check out my mullet)

::My Daddy, me and my step-mom Pat::
(sorry Pat, I'm sure this wasn't the way you were wanting to make my blog debut)

You know I've been struggling with posts for this NaBloPoMo and am counting down to the end of the month. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, thankfully I've been tagged by Anne and Stefani to give you five random facts about myself. Here we go...

1) I hate peas with a passion. I can't even stand them in soup or a pot pie. I've tried and tried to like the cute little green balls but just can't do it. I'm not a picky eater at all, but if I'm served peas I will have to pass. I've been to England a few times with my students and the British are big fans of their peas. It seems like most meals we were served fish, chips and peas. The kids used to think it was funny to pile up all of their peas and present them to me. Just lovely.

2) I'm the oldest child of seven by eleven years. Are you with me? You see my mom and dad got married, had me, then divorced. They both remarried and had three kids each, but not until I was eleven years old. I have one sister, Katy, that is 22. Three sisters, Leslie, Chelsea and Alison, that are 21. One brother, Chance, that is 19. And one brother, John, that is 14. Fingers crossed I got that all right.

3) I played college basketball and at one time held the three point record. That was a long, long time ago. Many moons ago.

4) I can't pick a favorite anything. I don't have a favorite color, food... anything. For some reason I can't commit. I would love for someone to analyze this and tell me why. Maybe one day I'll go to counseling and have an 'aha' moment.

5) I used to play the violin.

::My Papaw and I playing Win, Lose or Draw::
(raise your hand if you had big bangs)

Okay girls... April, Marjorie, Sarah, Melissa and Molly... Tag, you're it! When you are done, tag five other victims.

Today, I am thankful for good times.

mini-stocking fever

2007-11-20T22:54:00.000-06:00

I'm surrounded by stockings. Twenty-four to be exact. Here is the work in progress for my advent calendar. I got the idea from here and tweaked it a bit. Here's what I've got so far, it's a work in progress. I still need to finish the blanket stitch around the seams, give the stockings a top and stitch the appropriate numbers on each stocking. All things I can do while enjoying the Thanksgiving holiday with family. I hope to show you the completed advent calendar very soon.

This evening we had a mommy and kids night out to IKEA and the fabric store. Good times. Since we were in the city, we had to hit all the highlights. I'll show you all my IKEA goodies later this week.

Today I am thankful for my blogging friends. Yes, that's you! Somedays I don't have any other adult interaction other than you. So, thank you. I appreciate you!

let's get real

2007-11-19T20:46:00.000-06:00

This NaBloPoMo thing is about to do me in. How on earth am I supposed to think of something relevant to talk about every day? I do apologize for such a late evening post, but you see now I don't have to post again until tomorrow night. Which gives me all day to lounge around (ha) and think of something to type. Because that's what I do. I sit around, relax, read magazines and never raise a finger to do anything. Ha!

Let's get real. Today I spent the day frantically running in circles trying to get ready for this evening. Miles's grandmother is in town for Thanksgiving and tonight I cooked dinner for everyone. You know the way I handle stressful situations... I ignore them until the very last minute and then panic.

Case in point... what do I wake up to do this morning? I begin working on an advent calendar like this that I found late last night online. So I stayed up way too late cutting out little stockings to use for the advent calendar. Taught myself the blanket stitch, woohooo and finally got in bed around 1 am. I know, I'm crazy. So I wake up and continue working on my calendar. Six stockings down, eighteen to go. By mid-morning it hit me. My family is arriving very shortly and I haven't even been to the supermarket yet. I load up the kids, remember I have some shoes to return to Marshalls. While at Marshalls, decide to pop into Old Navy because (thank you Jesus) I've lost some weight and none of my pants fit. I told you I would need a twelve step program to do this whole Handmade for the Holidays.

By now it's lunchtime and any mother in her right mind would take the kids home. Not me.... let's go to the supermarket. I should have known when I couldn't find a parking spot or a shopping cart that it was going to get ugly. I ventured in, feeling the pressure surmount to cook a good meal for Grandmommy. Who, I might add, hasn't ever met Keegan. Big pressure.

The supermarket was chaos, we got what we needed but not before I had to throw a few elbows and sucker punches. People are serious about their grocery shopping around the holidays. And why weren't these people at work? Does the entire country get the week off for Thanksgiving?

Since it's Thanksgiving let's talk about what I'm thankful for. Family.

It's now evening and I've somehow survived day one of Thanksgiving week. I was near breakdown earlier today but it all worked out. Dinner was lovely and the company was even lovelier. I hope you all survive Thanksgiving week without a breakdown. If you do find yourself in such a predicament, know you are in good company.

sleepy hollow

2007-11-18T09:49:00.000-06:00

As I awoke to the smell of bacon, I realized that a fog rolled into the Hill Country overnight. Then it hit me. Miles let me sleep in. I rolled over, looked around, and took a deep sigh. Boy, do I love this man. Made my way downstairs to this...

Miles was in the kitchen. Both kids had been fed and were now playing in the pots and pans. Makena was actually standing in a pot while Keegan attempted to stir the pot with a wooden spoon. At first, I thought I was dreaming. Is Miles making breakfast? He was indeed.

Then I noticed some of the first signs of fall in our yard. We are surrounded mostly with oak trees and cedar trees but some plants are beginning to change color. Welcome fall and my new husband, I've been waiting patiently for you both.

fried chicken and collard greens

2007-11-17T09:04:00.000-06:00

Have I told you how fabulous the food is in Savannah? Most of our days were scheduled around reservations and where we were going to eat. The Paula Dean Restaurant was one that topped the list of must places to eat. In order to eat at her restaurant, you have to be there at 9 am to get your name on a list. No thanks. So, we planned to rent a car on our last day, pick up carry-out at the Lady & Son's Restaurant and have a picnic in Bonaventure Cemetery. What could be better than sharing your lunch with a few thousand dead folks right?!? We went to the restaurant to place an order to go and then were told that if we wanted to eat inside we could. Perfect. The buffet consisted of fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, creamed corn, yams, baked chicken, and much more. And it didn't taste like any buffet I've ever been to before. It tasted like grandma's home cooking.

Now that we were fattened up we made our way to the Bonaventure Cemetery. Story goes, there was a plantation that burned down before it became a cemetery. The owners were having a dinner party when the house went up in flames. They moved the party outside, continued to eat and drink and threw the crystal and china into the fire. To this day, you can still hear sounds of a party and crystal breaking.

Bonaventure Cemetery is about as spooky a place that you can visit. The gates close at 5 pm and for good reason. If you watch or read Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, this is where they had martinis on the bench at Conrad Aiken's grave.

If you are so inclined and if you dare, put Savannah on your list of places to visit. You won't be disappointed.

was that gunfire?

2007-11-16T07:33:00.000-06:00

True story.

We are sitting in Lafayette Square having just gone on a real haunted house tour. We are waiting for our next tour to begin and are just taking in Savannah at night. There is an eerie calm that comes over Savannah at night. You know that feeling you get when you know you aren't alone but can't see anyone. That's the feeling ALL OVER TOWN. Creepy. We are taking turns taking pictures of the Hamilton Turner Inn with our phones when we hear gunfire. We both stopped dead in our tracks and looked at one another.

"Did you hear that?"

"Was that a gun shot?"

"Um, yeah that was not just any gun shot, that was a rifle."

A rifle??? Last time I checked people weren't packing in downtown Savannah with rifles. Not since the 1800's at least. I'll let you come to your own conclusions on that.

We had just visited the Sorrel-Weed house that is very haunted. This house is known, historically, for having lavish parties. Taking host to individuals such as General Sherman and would have parties for the entire town. Ghost Hunters (the show) has been there and recorded all kinds of sights and sounds. We stood in a square adjacent to the Sorrel-Weed house and were told stories of General Sherman and how he took over the house next door. He even stole the bells from the church next door to use for ammunition. The Sorrel-Weed house has it's own history. The previous owner had an affair with the servant, his wife killed herself by throwing herself head first over the balcony. Keep in mind this is all Civil War era. The servant ended up being hung in her room in the carriage house a few days later. To this day, you can hear dinner parties going on inside the house when their is no one there. Also, voices are heard throughout the house. Especially screaming from the carriage house.

So now we are sitting in Lafayette Square, watching the Hamilton Turner Inn in all it's glory. Walt Disney even stayed here and designed the Haunted Mansion after this house. Guests have reported seeing a man standing outside the gates of the house, in full Confederate regalia, guarding the house. Guests have even gone so far as writing thank you letters to the management for such a nice touch to have the guard dressed up outside. How authentic the experience felt. There is no guard hired to watch the Hamilton Turner Inn. It is a ghost that appears on a regular basis.

The houses in Savannah are so full of layers. History complied upon itself, family tragedies that intertwine throughout time. A family that lived in the Hamilton Turner House in the mid 1800's suffered a terrible tragedy when their daughter fell down the stairs and died during a dinner party. There was a pool table in the room at the top of the stairs and the children were directed to stay up there and play during parties. For a chance to join the party, the kids would roll the pool balls down the stairs and go running after them. One fateful evening, it did not end so well.

Once again, there have been several letters written and actual complaints from guests about the sound of children in the hallways and pool balls being hit together and rolled down the stairs. Children have not been allowed inside this house since the 1980's and there is no pool table.

Sights and sounds from the past are heard all around Savannah. If you close your eyes you can hear the sounds of horse hoofs clomping through the streets, just like the 1800's. But today, you just might hear the reminiscent sound of gunfire. A reminder that life was not always so peaceful in lovely Savannah.

The stories and photos will continue tomorrow. I hope you'll come back to join me. I'm getting myself a little creeped out with the spooky stories so I'll share some of my favorite fun photos and also some of Bonaventure Cemetery. Still spooky, but beautiful in it's own right.

midnight in the garden of good and evil :: savannah

2007-11-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

Savannah. A city full of history, intrigue and mystery. Oak trees draped in spanish moss, like they forgot to remove the Halloween decorations. Fog settled in at night creating an eerie feeling. Days spent walking through the 22 squares, most with monuments dedicated to Savannah's best. A people so full of history. It feels like the British left not too long ago. The ties to Britain and the Civil War run deep. There are so many signs that remain from the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. There are other signs, that mostly come out at night, that terrifyingly remind you of the past.

Savannah is a beautiful city, and once we opened her doors and began to dig into the layers that created this extraordinary place, we were enlightened and also reminded of a unnerving history that founded America as we know it.

You can learn more about the city and it's history here. Good stuff.

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is a book I would highly recommend. It's a very good read and will draw you in to Savannah and it's people.

I have so many stories for you that I just don't know where to begin. We stayed at a fabulous bed and breakfast in the historic district. Our room overlooked the park where Forrest Gump sat on his bench. Every square was so beautiful and unique. Each has a history unto itself which draws you in. It's like you are in a mystery novel that just keeps on giving. We spent every day walking around this beautiful city, going from square to square, learning about the history. Stopping to have a drink and talking to locals. We visited antique shops, cute boutiques that looked like miniature versions of Anthropologie and book shops. We ate the best food and I found out that I really like collard greens.

We learned that the city is full of dead people. Literally. Thousands of people have been buried all around Savannah, most in unmarked graves. Even some of them built into the walls of homes. Quite a few actually. Simply put, every building in historic Savannah is haunted and there are tales to prove it.

We ate in a tavern that once was used as the kitchen for the house down in the basement. It's a very fancy restaurant in Savannah and it's recommended to eat down in the tavern. Live jazz was being played by a blind man on the piano by the fire. He was surrounded by people sitting in leather chairs, sipping drinks. The bar was full of people enjoying dinner or an evening drink. There are only about six tables to eat at. We ended up finding a place at the bar, after enjoying time by the fire, and ordered dinner there. This ended up being my favorite evening. It was straight out of a movie.

We found out, later that night on a ghost tour (we took three) that the tavern and entire house is very haunted. Story goes that the son of the owner of the house, back in the 1800's hung himself down in the basement in the exact location of the current women's restroom. We didn't know about this story when we ate there. The women's restroom door does not close because women have gotten trapped in there. Creepy. Supposedly it would happen on a regular basis so the owners secured the door so that it cannot close. Women would go to the restroom and begin screaming because they couldn't get out. True story.

Pour yourself a martini and take a seat on the bench in the garden of good and evil. Story time will continue tomorrow.

photo journey :: san antonio

2007-11-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

We spend a lot of time in San Antonio because it's where Miles' family lives. Here are some of my favorite shots from the Riverwalk and one of our visits.

:: Slip 'n sliding with the cousins Connor & Camden ::

photo journey :: whistler

2007-11-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

January, 2007 :: Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

:: Canopy Tour between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains ::

:: Daddy & Makena sledding ::

:: Whistler countryside ::

:: Baby Keegan ::

photo journey :: home

2007-11-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

:: Afternoon light, babes still napping... toys waiting ::

photo journey :: makena

2007-11-11T09:00:00.000-06:00

How about we do a photo journey for the next few days? I wish I had more time to type up all my blog posts but I just don't. I can't do it all so here's what we're going to do. I'll show you some of my favorite photos for the past year. I'll be back to being chatty next week. Enjoy!

The other day I was shooting around, trying to learn some new photography techniques. Makena was all dressed up in bright colors so she was my model. It quickly became a photo shoot.

buy handmade

2007-11-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

With all the talk of crafting and my love for ETSY, I have pledged to Buy Handmade this holiday season. No department stores, malls or Target for me. For those of you who know me, this is a big step. I may have to enter a 12 step program but I think I just might be able to do it. I have been inspired by all of the mommies out there with shops on ETSY. My friend Melanie and I are going to take a knitting class. Fun! And I know how to crochet a scarf so maybe I'll work on my crocheting a bit more to see if I can do anything else. Maybe I'll need a class for that too. I'm not going to put too much pressure on myself though. I can only do so much so I will rely on the lovely mommies that craft and sell at ETSY to give me a hand this holiday season. I will though, try my hardest to make some things on my own. I have books, I have fabric, I have yarn... I can work something out. Maybe say some prayers for me... or maybe say some prayers for the person receiving the gift! Hehehehe...

Molly over at molly coddle has been posting on babycenter for handmade for the holidays. I hope to find some new lovely ETSY goodies on her posts.

Shopping on ETSY can be addicting though. You don't have to wait for a craft fair and you can shop until your heart's content. I just love it. I check it everyday always find things that I just have to have. This is Oscar the Sock Monkey. I got him from Adrian that has a shop on Etsy called fried okra. Cute name isn't it! She has more sock monkeys just waiting to be adopted. Don't fall for the ploy at Target... I'm sure the sock monkeys they are advertising now are made in China. Please correct me if I'm wrong. I would love to be wrong in this case.

Anyway, there is just so much good stuff at ETSY. Happy shopping for the holidays!

look at us now

2007-11-09T06:55:00.000-06:00

Boy, look how far we've come. I look around my house and see toys, laundry, old sippy cups, hair clips, tap shoes, cowgirl boots, diapers, tutus, tiaras, trucks, sand from the sand box, dog hair, oh and did I mention laundry. You know, when I look back and think about what my plans were "ten years from now" I could never have imagined this. I imagined having kids, not the mess and all the stuff that comes with them. I just imagined a husband, house, kids, dog, etc. I didn't really go into detail in what that might possibly look like. I sit here typing this and am blown away by my life. I love the chaos that sometimes ensues. I love the special moments with our babies. I love all of it.

Last night we took the kids out to dinner, because that's what you do after ten years. You invade a local restaurant and make a mess. On our way home, Makena asked if we could go to the new mall. A new galleria was built by our house and it's an outdoor mall with fountains, trees lighted and music always playing. We enjoy going to simply walk around. As we got out of the car, we heard the Roy Orbison song Pretty Woman. (Update: Roy Orbison passed away in 1988. Must check my references.) I just thought it was on the radio but as we listened closer we heard someone singing Pretty Woman from the Backyard (a local music venue right next door). The song Pretty Woman was playing on my anniversary. I've always really liked the movie and felt like I could relate. Not so much as to looking like Julia Roberts. And really not so much about being a prostitute. What I've always liked about the movie is that I always imagined that could be me. Swept off my feet and simply in love. I have been swept and am totally in love.

After ten years we have somehow started to figure out this thing called life. A little birdy told me a long time ago to marry your best friend. I found mine and never let go. Miles is simply everything to me. I've included some pictures for you, some not so new because I realized that we have NO pictures together since we had kids. Maybe I'll find some old ones for you and scan them in sometime. That's for another day. My list is too full today. We leave for Savannah this evening... I will continue to post while away because of NaBloPoMo so keep stopping by. Everyone have a wonderful weekend.

vintage birds

2007-11-08T07:49:00.000-06:00

Lately, the kids and I been into everything related to birds. Since our short stay in our apartment that was in the treetops, the kids and I have talked about the birds, watched the birds and fed the birds. We had a resident owl for a while and had regular hummingbirds and a cardinal family that came to visit. I found this bird book at my Mema's house. She was into birds, as well, and we use this book as a reference to watch the birds. Thank you Mema.

I found this collection of vintage bird prints (with descriptions on the back) at a garage sale for $2. Since then I've been collecting vintage frames for 50 cents each to frame my new finds. I picked up some vintage inspired scrapbooking paper at Michaels and voila... bird pictures. They are a work in progress but I wanted to show you what I've been working on.

We're all feeling better today. Thanks everyone for their concern and thanks Katy for your suggestions! And did I mention that it's our ten year anniversary!!! I'll post more on that tomorrow for you all. I hope you all have a wonderful day, I know I will!

under the weather

2007-11-06T22:16:00.000-06:00

Fall has brought with it a whole new round of allergies. If you've never experienced allergies before, visit Austin. My little babes and myself have been a bit under the weather for the past few days. We made the trek into Austin, during rush hour, to visit the doctor this morning only to be told what I already knew... allergies.

Keegan has a 'reactive airway' which is triggered by allergens. So today we began nebulizer treatments, once again, and steriods to open up his lungs. We're very familiar with the nebulizer and even own our own lovely machine. The steriods are something I'm not so sure about. The doctor only told me to not give it to him at night because he will be wide awake and possibly agitated. Hmmm... First red flag. Then I go to fill the prescription and the pharmacist looks at Keegan and says "poor guy." What does that mean? She told me that it was just rough on them. Whatever that means. He seems to be fine but we'll see in the morning once he takes his second dose. Ugh. I just want him to be healthy before we leave for our trip on Friday. I just want him to be healthy... period.

Makena is fine, just a cough. I did get a sympathy prescription 'just in case' it develops into an infection. We're going to wait and see if we need it. So, both the kids are loaded up on Benadryl, Clairitin and Mucinex. My question is this... Are their other options? Are their homeopathic options available or should I just stick with this trio? Anyone know? Please help!

In the midst of all of the running around this morning, with the doctors appointment, grocery store and prescription filling for the awful steroid, we did have 'a moment.' Keegan was asleep in the car once we got home and I carried him inside. Usually he wakes up but not today. He slept in my arms for about 20 minutes. He's 14 months old, this NEVER happens anymore. I held onto that moment for as long as I could. Fleeting moments. Poor little fella.

Update: It's morning and none of us are any better. Looks like movie/cuddle in bed day.

conversations with a toddler

2007-11-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

I found this globe a few weeks back at a local Goodwill and it's definitely my proudest find to date. As a child I spent countless hours looking at my grandparent's globe. I would spin it real fast and wherever it would stop, with my finger held in place, was where I was going to go. Our new globe sits in Makena's room and everyday we spin it around and talk about all of the places we are going, have been, or where our friends are. And just every once and awhile, I take that giant spin once again and land some place exotic.

I was trying to explain to Makena that she will be going to stay with Grandma and Grandpa this weekend while Mommy and Daddy go on an airplane. We've been talking about our ten year anniversary and what that means. I'm sure she has no idea what I'm talking about but she tries her hardest to understand. Here's how it went this afternoon...

"Makena, this weekend you are going to stay with Grandma and Grandpa okay? This is so that we can go on a ride on an airplane and go to Savannah."

"Mommy, are you getting married?"

"No baby, we are already married. That's how we had you."

(pause)

"Are you going to be ten years old?"

"Yes baby, Mommy and Daddy will be ten years old."

happy birthday phoenix

2007-11-05T07:48:00.000-06:00

This weekend we celebrated my nephew, Phoenix's, first birthday. Let me just tell you that he's the cutest little fella. My sister, Chelsea, had him all tatted up with pirate tattoos. Makena chose to wear her princess dress for the party and was immediately attacked with a pirate tattoo herself. She'd been marked! It was just so wonderful to have (almost) everyone together. Get well soon Papa!

Chelsea is a fabulous (my new favorite word... so get used to it) party host. She picked up great food from Whole Foods and made a fruit salad, green salad, and tortellini with sundried tomato pesto. Yummy.

I can't believe Phoenix is already one. He's running all around the place, takes a nose dive every once and a while and bounces right back up. He's such a trooper. These moments are just going so fast... Happy birthday little bird.

apples for jam

2007-11-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Amanda over at SouleMama for suggesting Apples for Jam. This is probably the most beautiful cookbook I have ever owned. The vintage pictures combined with her eloquent writing about childhood and recreating those moments is worth the cost alone. Not to mention there are great recipes included. Check it out for yourself!

Ummmm..... it's Sunday and I'm up at 6 am. What's wrong with me? Stinkin' daylight savings time. Ugh.

gingerbread pancakes :: a texas tradition

2007-11-03T08:15:00.000-05:00

Since I've decided to participate in NaBloPoMo I will have to post on my blog every day. I'm not always sure what I'll post about but hopefully something will come to me. Or you might just get pictures. Stick around and we'll see what happens this month.

It's Saturday morning and that means one thing around my house.... pancakes! There is not a pancake in this world that I love more than gingerbread pancakes. My first gingerbread pancakes were at Kirby Lane Cafe and I've been addicted ever since. Gingerbread pancakes not only taste incredibly yummy but they also make your house smell soooo good. It's fall and it's time for gingerbread pancakes! On a side note, I'm a horrible food photographer. It must be an art form that I just haven't mastered yet. I'll keep working on it.

The recipe I found is from Magnolia Cafe here in Austin and I found it on this great blog. I topped them with maple syrup and they are muy declicioso!

Gingerbread Pancakes (From the Magnolia Cafe, Austin)
Ingredients:
3 eggs
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup brewed coffee
21/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon ginger
1 tablespoon nutmeg
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Method:
Cream eggs and sugar together. Stir in buttermilk, water, and coffee and set aside. In a separate bowl sift together remaining dry ingredients.
Stir egg mixture into dry ingredients, then mix in melted butter.
Add more water or buttermilk if necessary, but batter should be thick.
Cook until done on a lightly greased hot griddle or in a heavy skillet (turn once when bubbles appear on upper side and start to break).
Pancakes will be thick and cake-like in texture.
Makes 8 to 10 five-inch pancakes.

Bon Appetite!

in need of a vacation

2007-11-02T07:26:00.000-05:00

I haven't mentioned it yet online but Miles and I will be celebrating our ten year wedding anniversary next week (November 8th). Yes, we got married straight out of college and have been happily in love ever since. I won't get sappy and sentimental here, I'm sure I'll be full of it next week so I'll save it for then. In celebration of our anniversary we are going to Savannah, Georgia.... without the kids!!! My wonderful mother and father-in-law have graciously volunteered to watch the kids for us while we go away for a few days. The picture above is of Vancouver, B.C. which we usually visit once a year to go skiing up in Whistler. In lieu of our winter trip to the snow, we are going to celebrate our anniversary.

We struggled with where we wanted to go. In our pre-kids life we traveled all the time. I love to travel and will impulsively plan a trip at the drop of a hat. Impulsively always being the key term. We aren't big long term planners. It's more like "want to go to Canada next week... okay!" We've been to a lot of fabulous places all around the world and just feel truly blessed. We decided to go to Savannah simply because we haven't been there, it seems so romantic and mysterious, and it's full of history. The city seems to be full of park spaces, old cafes and bars and antiques! How much more fun can you ask for???

We bought a travel guide and I've done my research online but I would love some suggestions from you if you've been there. Where should we definitely visit? If you haven't been there, does anyone have any good romantic ideas for me on things I could do? Maybe email me (chikaustin@yahoo.com) so Miles won't find out! I would appreciate any help!!!

these moments go too fast

2007-11-01T08:28:00.000-05:00

As I stand there watching my little ones exchange glances it hits me... this is all going WAY TOO FAST. Not Halloween so much as my little ones. Just last year Keegan was my little baby, my little peas in a pod. This year he is trying his hardest to keep up with his big sister. The walking hasn't come yet for him, which ya know, I'm just fine with that. It will come soon enough.

My little cowgirl Makena is all of a sudden a little girl. With dirt smudged on her face and a relentless, persistent attitude.

At times I wonder... will I blink and miss it all? So I continue to snap away to try and capture these moments on film to put in a book so I can sit with my little ones and look at how much they've grown. And probably cry.

If you haven't seen the new Kenny Chesney video, get a tissue ready.

happy halloween

2007-10-30T20:04:00.000-05:00

True story... I spent my childhood in plastic grocery store Halloween costumes. Was anyone else forced to endure such cruelty? Then I spent my awkward adolescent years dressed as either a baby or a french maid. I believe I had therapy needed written across my forehead. Since I've become a mommy I have vowed to not abuse my children in this manner.
Since it's Halloween I thought I should show you some lovely Halloween art. This is done by Marisa Haedike who sells wonderful prints on ETSY. How cute is this print? I love, love, love her work! I would love to get some of her art put in the kids rooms. Hmmm... Maybe for Christmas?!!

kids running, playing, riding, selecting :: the pumpkin patch

halloween crafting

2007-10-30T08:13:00.001-05:00

I've been waiting to show you what I've come up with for the kids Halloween costumes. This past summer we went to the Blanco County Fair and Rodeo and took the kids to their first rodeo. While at the rodeo Makena had a newfound fascination with all things country. Let me tell you that I don't even own a pair of boots or a pick-up-truck. Makena decided that for Halloween she was going to be a cowgirl and Keegan would be a rodeo clown.

I picked up Makena's costume down on South Congress at Allen's Boots. She is Dale Evans, or simply a cowgirl. She wore her Daddy's old cowboy belt from when he was a child. The hot pink cowboy boots made an appearance as well as her cowboy hat. She decided that Keegan would be a rodeo clown. I made Keegan's costume out of an old pair of overalls, bits of fabric, mismatched buttons, striped tights and a polk-a-dotted shirt. I found a Texas Ranger button to pin onto the front and a Redneck patch to attach to his back. This past Saturday we went to our neighborhood Halloween party so the kids got to try out their costumes. The had fun and the costumes held up great!

turning over a new leaf

2007-10-29T08:03:00.000-05:00

Now that fall has made it's way down to Texas it's time for a few changes around the homestead. We've rearranged our closets and pulled out our sweaters. Our flip flops are now actually in the closet while they usually reside in the living room. There is squash in the refrigerator. We've got the firewood all ready to use inside and out.

Fall means that it's time for...

:: new shoes

:: hip huggers

:: evenings in the backyard with my mema's blanket

eat your veggies

2007-10-25T21:47:00.000-05:00

The UPS man showed up today with BOOKS! I'm so excited I can't even begin to explain it. So I recently learned about a new book by Jessica Seinfeld titled Deceptively Delicious. The book is full of recipes and tips on how to get your kids to eat their veggies. She suggests you steam your veggies, puree them and then mix them in to all kinds of foods. I went right out to buy a steamer and get steaming. I try and try to get my kids to eat veggies. The only way these kids are going to eat veggies is if I fool them.

Let me tell you that the book is fabulous. It is full of great recipes like pink pancakes which includes pureed beets, spaghetti sauce with pureed carrots and zucchini, chocolate chip cupcakes with pureed pumpkin and yellow squash. Need I say anymore?!? I do know there is some drama about another book just like this that is alleging that this book is just like another book already published. To be honest with you, I don't care who published this book. I'm just happy to have found a veggie solution!

So tonight I dove right in and made my spaghetti sauce recipe but added the carrots and zucchini. I even used the sauce in the eggplant parmigiana. I fooled everyone! Not only will my kids not eat veggies but Miles is the worst. His mother warned me when we were newlyweds that I would have to puree his veggies for his stuffing at holidays or he wouldn't eat it. He will pick out every little piece of crunchy vegetable if he can find it. He has gotten better after ten years of marriage but it's still an effort.

Keegan ate two bowls of spaghetti, Makena finished hers and Miles ate it too! Unbelievable! Miles said he couldn't tell the difference. I will continue to use this book as a reference and simply stand back and smile as everyone eats their veggies.

field trip fridays :: austin

2007-10-25T08:26:00.001-05:00

A few Fridays back we went to downtown Austin for a morning out. We started at the Austin Children's Museum which had a construction exhibit. We then made our way down the street to have lunch at a deli. Downtown Austin is changing tremendously. We were in the 2nd Street District and it is booming with condos, specialty grocers and boutiques. A couple of years ago nothing was there.

The sights and sounds reminded me so much of being in a large city somewhere else. It was very crisp morning and everyone was out and about. We then made our way to South Congress and went into Monkey See Monkey Do which is a new toy store. They really have the most unusual toys, a very fun place to visit. We ended our day with a trip inside the Big Top Candy Shop to buy lots of vintage candies like candy cigarettes. Did anyone else buy these as a child and think it was okay?!?

All in all, Austin is changing whether people like it or not. It's a great place to visit and even better place to live. The live music scene is ongoing, the hill country just outside of Austin is a gem and the city lives outdoors with the vast amount of parks. I hope to continue to do field trip Fridays and plan to post the pictures sooner rather than later!

Update: Miles and I went on a date night this weekend (rare occasion) and went back to the candy shop. We bought my sister Chelsea (who was watching the kids for us... God bless her) this box of candies. Hilarious! There are instructions on the side of the box for how to use 'your box.' It says to place the box next to you in a bar so people know you are not a tranny. Funny!

did someone say "road trip"

2007-10-23T21:28:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago we loaded up the car and traveled north. We went to visit grandpa and nanny in North Texas, do some thrifting and visit the Texas State Fair. We went to the Weatherford Market Days which I had great memories as I child. My Mema would spend weekends in Weatherford going to the flea market and decorating the house with her bargains. It was never about how much you spent, but how much you saved. Can I get an amen?!?

I hadn't been to the Texas State Fair in about twenty years. Not much had changed, the lights, sights, sounds and food were almost too much for a girl with ADD. We first walked through the Midway which is filled with games and rides. "Hey lady, come over here... Take your turn... Step right up... Ding, ding... Ring, ring" The sounds of the midway are really sensory overload. It was really enough to drive a sane woman crazy.

From my childhood I remember riding the rides in the midway. Does anyone else remember riding the motorcycles? Makena was a little hesitant about the rides, as she usually is. She was saving her energy for the barns, stables and petting zoo. We like to call her the animal whisperer. She just has this thing with animals. See this ostrich, the camera was NOT zoomed.

The Backyard Circus was a live performance that included kids from the audience. Believe it or not Makena raised her hand because she wanted to be a butterfly. She actually got on stage, put on a tutu (no surprise there) and twirled around in front of an audience. The next day I signed her up for dance lessons. Tutus required! Okay, I swear I'm done posting about tutu's. Enough already right?!?!

fall has arrived

2007-10-23T08:46:00.000-05:00

We woke up yesterday morning to a crisp 50 degrees! Welcome fall, we've been waiting for you. I've been working on my crocheting but all I seem to know how to do is go back and forth so I end up creating a lot of scarves. Anyone know any resources out there to do to broaden my crocheting knowledge? I love the color of this yarn, it's so fall don't you think?!? This is a birthday present for my lovely sister-in-law.

With fall officially here and everyone in their fall gear we had some friends over. What better way to spend the day but with a few close friends.

And a gingerbread cake and pumpkin spice coffee. I hope you are enjoying this weather as much as we are here.

why did the peacock cross the road?

2007-10-19T09:54:00.000-05:00

... to stop in front of my car so I couldn't drive past him of course. Most of us are feeling better today. We woke up to a beautiful, sunny 52 degrees so I decided to head out and get breakfast tacos (since everyone is now starving). As I was driving down the road I came across a lovely peacock and three deer. All of which were standing in the middle of the road, pecking at the asphalt. I'm not sure when they would have moved but they weren't moving.

Taco's were calling so I had to keep going. Since it's Friday I'll go ahead and show you our scarecrow so maybe you'll feel inspired to create your own.

I visited a few local craft shops hoping to pick up a scarecrow for our yard. I was less than impressed with the selection so we decided to create our own. It's sooo easy, so go ahead... try it!

Scarecrow Supplies:
:: an old western shirt ($5)
:: old jeans (free)
:: twine (free)
:: boots (50 cents... see, I'm finding uses for these boots already!)
:: hay ($6)
:: cowboy hat ($3)

We bought a bail of hay at our local feed store. If you don't have a truck, you'll have to make do with what you've got, but let me tell you that the hay doesn't remove from the back of your car very easily.

We went to Goodwill to find a snazzy shirt for our scarecrow. It was a total score. We found a vintage, flannel, western, pearl snap, Wrangler shirt for him. Perfect. I dug through Miles' closet and found some old jeans and used a pair of our garage sale find boots. We went to Garden Ridge and found an assortment of cowboy hats.

Lay out all of your scarecrow supplies. Simply start stuffing your scarecrow with the hay. Use the twine for his belt. The kids will love stuffing the scarecrow. You will be surprised how much of your bale of hay you have left over. Do not untie the bale of hay, simply pull pieces from it. You will have enough hay left to set him up on when completed.

In no time, you will have your very own scarecrow! Have a great weekend, search out your local feed store and have a great time with your family making a scarecrow.

slap in the face

2007-10-18T13:33:00.000-05:00

We now interrupt this important message... Sometimes God can be ever so subtle in telling us what to do. A girlfriend of mine at bible study yesterday said that first God taps you, then he pushes you, then he slaps you right across the face. Well I got a slap yesterday as we (Makena, Keegan and myself) have all come down with a stomach virus. I guess we were in need of a good slowing down. I called the doctor and he said a stomach virus is going around so wash your little one's hands relentlessly. It is not pretty.

As I type this I think of all the laundry I need to do, we have gone through every towel and sheet in the house. It's 1:42 pm and we haven't eaten lunch. However, no one seems to mind. Makena is watching Barney so you know I'm desperate. Now Miles is on his way home from work because he too is sick. Wish us luck... say some prayers! I'll be back online soon.

evening dance

2007-10-16T09:24:00.000-05:00

a fairy flutters by.
out of the corners of my eyes.
a sprite.
hopping.
skipping.
leaping.
moments.
fleeting.
moments.
resonate in my mind.
a snapshot.
of carefree nights.

thriftaholic... i'm addicted

2007-10-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hi... my name is Jade and I have a thrifting problem. I'm finally able to admit it. I'm addicted to the good stuff. I like it good, dirty and old. I have a problem. I feel like I just can't stop. You never know what you will find so you shop more and more. I think to myself, 'maybe today someone dropped off something REALLY GOOD.' So, I stop by my local thrift shops of choice to see what has been left behind.

Last weekend I hit a goldmine. The city of Marble Falls had their city wide garage sale and I picked up all kinds of good loot. An antique mixer and rolling pin to put in the kitchen. I found this great hand stamped leather wallet and on the inside it says 'Beverly.' I also found this great collection of records. I was drawn to the record book by the cover, then I opened it up to find no actual cowboy songs, but classic children's Christmas records. Score! Now if I could only find a record player. You see, the addiction feeds itself. You just want more and more.

On the way home I hit up a few garage sales that were just about to close shop. Amazingly I found not one, not two, not three, but four pair of old cowboy boots. All for two dollars. I'm addicted.

I'm not always sure what I will do with my finds. Most of them are put to good use around the house, but sometimes things like Beverly's wallet sits on the counter waiting for me to decide what to do with it. I think I met Beverly's husband this past weekend and somehow I have made up the world in which Beverly lives or lived. I think this is part of the addiction. The need to feel like you are carrying on someone's treasured items by bringing them into your own life. I wonder after I am long gone what people will do with my things. Things have had such importance. That pair of shoes I just had to have. Or that purse that was just begging to be brought home. I wonder where my things will go.

in my hood :: home

2007-10-11T20:31:00.001-05:00

It's Friday, it's Friday and that means that it's day 5 of Neighborhood week. What a way to wrap up the week by posting about home. I can't imagine a better way to spend this weekend than being at home. Okay, maybe being on a south pacific island (pre-childbearing weight) with my lovely Miles might be better but let's try and stay focused. It's Friday.

Our home is our sanctuary, our haven, our vacation destination. I wish I had some really good sentimental moments to share with you but we've only been in our new house for a couple of months. There are still boxes in the garage yet to be unpacked, but I've got memories to make with my little ones and don't want to miss a moment. I look forward to living in our home, making it our own and creating memories to share. We've got gardens to create, tree houses to build and fish yet to catch.

I sure hope it gets cold quick because we've got fires to build in our fire place. Can't wait for Christmas!!

The antique John Deere tractor is always a big hit with the 5 and under set at our home. This tractor was Miles as a child and was recently brought back to Texas from his grandmother's home in Georgia.

This is the back of our home and the main reason we fell in love with this house to begin with. The house is not big, but when it lacks in inside square footage it makes up with it's four decks. This house is truly a vacation lake house. It begs you to take a seat, consume a beverage and just relax.

in my hood :: special

2007-10-10T20:08:00.000-05:00

Day 4 of Neighborhood Week so let's just dive right into everything that is special. As I sit outside this afternoon Makena runs up to me and throws her arms around me. She brings with her the scent of rosemary from an afternoon spent playing outside. How sweet the smell is when you are enveloped in it. The smell is actually intoxicating as she stops by for one brief moment before becoming once again the 'dog tamer' in her very own circus.

My sweet little fella Keegan, sitting on the slide, waiting in the wings for his chance to run and play. He's only days away from walking and the innocence in his eyes, the yearning to sprint across the yard and chase the dogs is just so special to me.

My loving, forgiving, caring husband Miles riding around on his brand new toy. He looked happier than a kid in a candy store with his cowboy hat on and ready to ride. This, I might add, is his first cowboy hat. Ride 'em cowboy!

Finally, I couldn't write about things being special without mentioning what is most special in my life. My faith in God is so very special to me and keeps me going everyday.

Special is more about moments and the feelings associated with those moments. An email from an old college friend (Hi April!) or the song Angel by Sarah McLachlan on the radio when I need it most. The simple things in life that mean just so much.

in my hood :: weird

2007-10-09T17:30:00.001-05:00

Day 3 of Neighborhood Week and today I'm feeling the pressure. Today's word is weird and since Austin's unofficial slogan is Keep Austin Weird I'm feeling the pressure to come up with something truly weird. Do a flickr search for Keep Austin Weird and you'll see what I mean. Leslie Cochran, Austin's resident weirdo, is the epitome of keeping it weird. I find things that are weird to be so subjective and relative to their environment. Not everyone thinks the same things are weird and more importantly I would hate to describe something as being weird that is simply different. Weird can sound negative and I would hate to sound negative. Okay, I'm thinking out loud here. Bear with me...

Keep Austin Weird was the first thing that came to my mind. I was thinking of loading the kids up in the car and heading downtown to see what weirdness we could find. I checked out the Keep Austin Weird website and got some ideas of things that were considered 'weird' and ventured out with the kids in the backseat, Madagascar on the car dvd and camera by my side. We first made our way to a restaurant that we frequent almost weekly, simply because they have a playscape and that makes my dining experience with the children so much more pleasurable. There is a little ice house called Angels and they have a reserved parking space for Willie Nelson. From the research I did on their website they were still waiting for a visit from Willie this past summer and he finally made an appearance. This area we live in has a fascination with Willie Nelson. His recording studio and golf course are here and people keep their eyes peeled in anticipation for him to appear. Anyway, here's his reserved parking space.

We continued to drive and I started noticing mailboxes painted all sorts of designs. Some were the Texas flag, others were dogs and landscapes but my favorite were the zebras. I came across two of these mailboxes and if we didn't have rock surrounding ours I'd make Miles paint it up with a nice zebra pattern. Cute isn't it?!?

I'm not sure about the fascination with Americans and their storage facilities but that's another blog post all together. Our houses are huge, but we are busting at the seams with so much stuff that we need storage too? I digress. There is a storage place by our house that has a boat suspended up in the air with a mannequin. Well here, see for yourself. THIS is weird!

On our way back around to our house, because you know we couldn't spend all day doing this, we passed by an area that is being cleared out to make room for one of those neighborhoods I had told you about. And what do my wondering eyes should appear but a huge mulcher, minus the eight tiny reindeer. However, the deer are probably now looking for a new home since their habitat is being destroyed. Sorry, once again I digress. I'm in a mood. Anyway, this was an incredible machine. A crane would lift up the cedar (which I don't actually have a problem with it's removal due to my constant sneezing) and dump the cedar in this huge mixer. The mixer spun it around, chomped it up and spit it into a huge pile. Pretty cool eh! A lifetime supply of mulch.

Well, all in all weird was tough but fun once found. Thanks Anne! Just tryin' to keep it weird.

in my hood :: fun

2007-10-08T19:59:00.000-05:00

Day 2 of Neighborhood Week and the focus is fun. Their are several images that come to mind when I think of the word fun. I have a tendency to find odd things funny and also like to have fun when it's most unexpected. Fun abounds when you open your mind to the possibility.

This is the sign hanging above the entrance to our local feed store. Yes, I did say feed store. I took my first trip to the feed store to buy hay. Yup, I said I bought hay. We bought hay to make our first scarecrow and he will be making an appearance online next week. The area we live in is full of opportunities for fun. There is the lake, honky-tonks, barbeque joints and mom-n-pop shops. I first noticed fun in our area by the people at our grocery store. Everyone out here seems to always be on vacation. At the supermarket, people are stocking up an ice chest for a weekend of camping, biking or a day on the lake.

The lake... of course I couldn't post about fun without showing you, yet again, another picture of our little slice of heaven. This is the fire pit with the swimming platform down at our lake park. It is begging you to come down and have fun. It sure isn't cool enough to start a fire, but soon it will be. There is actually a plaque on the bench I was sitting on that reads "pop a Bud and sit a while."

There is a basketball court in our hood that is never used. Again, a sign that children once ruled the hood and have all grown up. As an old college basketball player myself, I see this as a sign of fun. Old dreams that once filled my head... A childhood of playing basketball for that one big game. The moments when that last basket counted. When everyone depended on those free throws. The countless hours spent running sprints on the court, shooting three pointers, jump shots and fade aways. My... how those memories have somehow faded away but the sight of a basketball court brings them all rushing back.

Makena and her friend Grayson at a pool near our hood. Simply fun.

in my hood :: peace

2007-10-08T14:40:00.001-05:00

Some days I really struggle with what to post. There really are GREAT blogs out there and sometimes my life doesn't seem that interesting. Or maybe it's just that I'm moody. That's probably more like it. For those of you out there that know me, not a word! Zip your lips! So I was reading Stefani's blog over at Blue Yonder. An incredible writer and mommy to say the very least and she's doing a photo week from the Green Jello blog. This led me over to her website and I decided that I want to play too! I feel like the kid on the side of the basketball court jumping up and down saying 'pick me, pick me!' Well, I'm glad to say that I've picked myself and I will play too. Thanks for the idea Anne!

So for the rest of the week I will be participating in In the Neighborhood snapping shots from around our hood and talking about them. I guess this means I need to get out of the house and go for some walks! Since the kids are now napping I think I have a picture that means peace to me.

This picture happens to currently be my banner picture. I love the docks in our hood so much. During the summer we took the kids down there all of the time. It's not so peaceful with the kids and dogs in tow but when I go down there alone... PEACE. All of my worries go away, all of my troubles seem to vanish. These things are just a short walk up the hill, but for that moment when I am there alone all I feel is peace. Our cove is very, very quiet, especially during sunset and early in the morning. Miles has begun to go swimming down there in the mornings and I prefer to sit down there in the evenings. I don't feel the need to 'do' anything. Just to sit and be at peace with myself. This is something I, and I believe all of us, really need.

This is a fort in our hood that looks to be abandoned. The area we live in is under rapid growth, right around the corner are three large neighborhoods currently under development. This fort now stands in an area that will soon be cleared out to make room for a mega mansion. The thought of children taking the time to build something that is their own. That to me, is peace. Their own little piece of the pie in this great big world.

Most of the houses in our hood were built in the eighties. Families moved away from the city in search of peace. These stepping stones remain a testament to those families, whose children are now grown, and the peace they were looking for when they moved to the hills.

finally back online

2007-10-08T13:19:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! How's it been going? Long time no chat! Let me tell you about our week. First of all, my Mac charger broke. This is the second charger to break on us, the first I tossed in the trash not thinking it was probably under warranty. I do have a tendency to throw things when I'm frustrated... the cat, the charger. Well, enough about that! Amidst me trying to stay afloat and check my emails from our ancient Dell laptop Keegan came down with a sinus infection. Poor little snotty fella. I was reluctant to post anything on the Dell simply because I am in love with my Mac. I would hate to feel like I was cheating on my Mac with an old lover. So, I spent the past week taking care of my Keeges and waiting patiently to get to the mall to get the charger.

Good news! Got the charger and to my relief I didn't lose that much money by throwing out the old charger. I don't understand how something can be under warranty but I still have to pay for it. Some things I'll never know.

Keegan is still snotty so we have him on an inhaler for his cough and he finished his antibiotics. I truly missed you all though. I'm sorry to have been away for so long. I promise to keep in touch!

This morning we went with some friends to the new Town Lake Park in downtown Austin. Yes, the country folk took a road trip and went to the big city! Just kidding. We really only live about 25 minutes from downtown so I'm not sure why we don't go into town more often. We had a great time. The kids splashed and enjoyed spending time with their friends. We need to do more of this.

Maybe some of you can relate to this. We REALLY needed a change in our life when we bought our house. We were looking for a new way of life. And we were absolutely blessed to have found this house. We have made a lot of great changes for our family, but all in all, I do miss my friends. The grass does always look greener on the other side of the fence, but let's not forget those friends who walked with us when life was a bit crazy.

By the way, where is fall? For those of you who live in wonderfully cool parts of the country, count your blessings! Today it will be around 90 degrees and probably around 75% humidity. That won't keep our fall spirit away though. Makena painted sticks from the trees with our favorite fall colors: red and orange. She obviously painted her hair too. Check out the pigtail. Our pumpkins are out, our branches are fall colors and we're ready to build our scarecrow.

I've got lots to share from the last week and will post it all up here next week. Thanks for stopping by!

life of a pioneer

2007-09-25T13:50:00.001-05:00

What exactly is a pioneer? When I looked it up online I found several definitions mostly relating to settling a new area. The one I like the best is 9. to take part in the beginnings of; initiate: to pioneer an aid program. When I was thinking about this word I was thinking of the many blogging mommies out there that are pioneering a new way of a life. Amidst the full color circular adds of toys, amidst living in a generation that wants to have more, buy more, show more, amidst all of this these women are pioneering a new way to live. I thank you pioneer women for forging ahead. Teaching the rest of us a trick or two about how to simplify our lives and live healthier, happier lifestlyes.

This past weekend we were pioneers in our own right. We visited a local Pioneer Days and the kids made corn husk dolls, pet the llama, listened to music, watched the cloggers and played traditional games.

What did I learn from all of this? I learned that we still have a long way to go. We still have tons of plastic toys from those circular ads. And we still visit Target way too often. Thank you though pioneers for guiding me. I think there is something we can all learn about taking moments to spend with our children, to look at the bugs and the rocks. Taking moments to make better decisions about what we put into our kids little bodies and our own. I hope you all have a wonderful week and find a new way to incorporate something learned from our pioneers.

purple passion

2007-09-24T22:34:00.000-05:00

Now that we live out in the country, we are limited in preschool options for Makena. Let's face it. There are only two preschools near here, and they are both 15 minutes away. And they both have long waiting lists. When Makena was one I put her name on a couple of lists at reputable preschools in Austin. She got into both preschools and we had to decide where she should go. We decided to enroll her at our church for a variety of reasons. I've always had mixed emotions about Makena starting school at two. I think first came the guilt of sending her away to school so I could have free time. I tell you, it's the guilt in motherhood that gets me every time. To save you a very, very long story I'll just tell you where we are now. Makena is not in any school. I have chosen to home preschool her for the time being. One, because there are no openings at any preschool out here and two, I think Keegan (and I) would miss her dearly. I do want to put her in preschool. I think she'll get a lot out of it, but for just right now I'm keeping her with me. I have a stinkin' masters degree in education. You'd think I could figure out how to create a preschool curriculum right?!?!

I think it's the teacher in me that needs to plan out my day. There are learning moments all day long in the life of a toddler and I'm sure she's learning. Last week I focused on the theme of purple and grapes (red grapes, or as we call them now 'purple grapes'). So this is what we did...

::We read Harold and the Purple Crayon everyday::

::We played with purple crayons and ate purple play doh. Serious::

::Makena wore purple, especially the tutu::

::We ate purple grapes::

::We looked for the color purple in nature around our house and when we were driving::

::We visited a local vineyard to see where grapes grow::

::We ate grape jelly and drank wine. Well, not all of us!::

What did we get in return you might ask? Makena now knows the color purple, she talks about grapes that grow on the farm on trees. She is fascinated with Harold and his crayon. And there is dried purple play doh all around my house.

All in a weeks work.

smelly cat

2007-09-20T20:50:00.000-05:00

I was in a funk all day long today. Once again, not able to get myself motivated to unpack boxes, do laundry, or clean the house. Tomorrow will be a better day. I found out the reason for my funk once I solved the problem. Thanks to Marjorie for the cat story today. I do believe it is a cat themed day. You see, I've mentioned that we are cat sitting Zoe for friends. We've got this cat with us until the end of the year and she's a very strange cat. She's very skiddish and doesn't like to be touched. Where is the lap cat I was needing? Well this stinkin' cat has been pooping and throwing up all around our bedroom. She refuses to go downstairs because of the dogs and kids so she sits contently, or not so contently, in our bedroom. My theory is that cats don't like to be moved. My experiences in the past with cats is that they are down right stubborn. Now I'm sure not all cats are this way, but we've had some stinky cat issues in the past and have just decided that we are dog people. As cute as cats can be, they just don't like our dogs or our kids.

Long story short, we lost the cat. She somehow got out, maybe it was me tossing her into the garage when she pooped on the carpet two days in a row. Okay cat lovers, I didn't literally toss her out. Just a nice little push. I swear I'm an animal lover. It's just not a good week for squirrels and cats around here. So, the cats been gone for a little over 24 hours and I hadn't seen her. At first, I was relieved. I figured she can live in the garage, go outside for some sun if she wants, simply lounge around. Of course she bolted once the dogs were looking the other way. I didn't feel so bad yesterday, I figured she'd come back into the garage to eat. Today she never returned. I started to get worried. I cannot call my friend and tell her I've lost her cat. We live in the country. There are predators out here I'm sure. At the very least a dog that would love to chase a cat around.

This evening I was really worried. I started saying my prayers "dear Jesus, PLEASE let me find this cat. I promise to not put the cat in the garage ever again. I will be nice to all cats from now on." I hung signs throughout the neighborhood. I went on a long walk, I searched our yard. Nothing. Then I decided to take one last walk outside before going to bed and low and behold what do I see staring back at me? Big yellow eyes!!!! It's Zoe. My three little words to Stefani were 'Thank you Jesus.' All I kept saying was "Thank you Jesus, thank you Jesus, thank you Jesus." I had never been happier to see a cat. So, in celebration of finding the cat. I would like to dedicate a little song, Smelly Cat by Phoebe Buffay. Please feel free to sing along!

Three, four...

Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat,
What are they feeding you?
Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat
It's not your fault

They won't take you to the vet
You're obviously not their favorite pet
Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat,
It's not your fault

You may not be a bed of roses
You're not friend to those with noses
I'll miss you before we're done
Or the world will smell as one

Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat,
What are they feeding you?
Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat
It's not your fault

(Phoebe) Oh are we done?

One, two, what's that smell?

Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat,
What are they feeding you?
Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat
You're getting fat

I think that I'm gonna be sick
It's your ears, and nose and pick
Part of it, tempt me

One, two, what's that smell?

All the dogs in the neighborhood
Are saying this for your own good
What, you're fat, so you can't run
No fun, I bet, No fun

Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat,
Porno makes you eat like that
I saw you in the shopping mall

Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat,
It's not your fault,
Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat,
It's not your fault
Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat,
It's not your fault

We know what was in your food
They say it might affect your mood

You smell like something dead (3x)

One, two, what's that smell?

(Phoebe)Yeah, that's not the song

simplicity

2007-09-20T10:29:00.000-05:00

Simple.
Quiet.
Moments.
From the Texas Roadside.

i'm being sabotaged...

2007-09-18T12:27:00.001-05:00

A little secret about me is that I don't have a very green thumb. It's probably because I haven't had the time with a one and two year old to garden (that's my story and I'm sticking to it!). I try, in earnest, to be one with nature. I love plants, especially native plants that don't take too much work. I like a yard to look natural, being landscaped, but not overly manicured. Plants falling over their borders and mixing with one another is where I find true landscape design. With that being said, we are blessed to have moved into a house that has been already landscaped. A tremendous amount of money and hard work was spent on this yard by the previous owners. We do our best just to keep in watered and as weed-free as possible. I do have grand plans however for my acre. I want to put in a garden with the help of Makena and Keegan. I found a great book called Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots for activities to do in the garden with kids.

I also took the kids to the Stone House Vineyard this morning to look at the vines and show them where grapes come from. More on this later this week. Anyhow, I'd like to plant some vines of my own and a vegetable garden. At this point, I'm not sure what type of grapes to plant. Should I plant with the intent of making wine or just to eat? I'll have to do some research. I'm definitely not a wine maker but I sure would love to be. I do believe I would need more than an acre though.

I'd also like to start canning fruits and vegetables. The whole thought of growing our own food and storing it just sounds like too much fun to pass up. Maybe I'll hit up the Bee Cave Farmer's Market tomorrow and see what I can find. Probably a last round of tomatoes ready to be canned. I'll keep you posted on this endeavor.

Back to being sabotaged... you see, I'm being sabotaged by a pesky squirrel. I have a nice potted plant on my bedroom balcony that seems to just thrive in the Texas sun. As long as he has water daily, he's very happy. That is, until the squirrel found him. He is literally being eaten alive by this squirrel. Not that I don't love God's creatures, but come on. Can't he find an acorn lying around to munch on?

Evidence:

nostalgia

2007-09-18T11:25:00.000-05:00

September 11th is my Mema and Papa's wedding anniversary. That date came and went this year, for many of us, remembering sadness and loss. My Mema was my rock, my cheerleader, my shopping partner and most of all my best friend. She was everything you might imagine in a grandmother. She loved me unconditionally and went to great lengths to show me that kind of love. As I child, I have so many wonderful memories. My Mema passed away, on her birthday, in April of 2001. Five months before her anniversary and the tragedy of 9/11.

My Mema's shiny gold clutch was one thing that she gave to me before she passed. I can imagine her getting all fancied up to go out with my Papa. Maybe to go dancing with friends, or maybe for a nice supper (as she used to call it). Whatever happened to the word supper anyhow? I digress. I carry this clutch sometimes when I go out. Whenever I feel like I need a little sparkle to my outfit. Whenever I want her near me.

After my Mema passed, I really had the opportunity to learn more about my Papa. Hi Papa! My Papa is a West Texas farm-raised fella. He worked hard on the family farm while growing up. On my last visit to see my Papa I was given this quilt that was lovingly made by his mother. It was hand-stitched made in the early 1900's to keep somebody warm. I found the quilt stored away with all the other blankets collected over the years in the hall closet. The quilt was just sitting there. Waiting for me to bring it out of the closet and into the daylight once again. I would love to know the history behind the quilt. Who originally was it made for? Where has it been all these years? Has it always been in that closet and I've overlooked it? I, so very much, treasure that quilt now and use it all of the time. It has a home at the foot of my bed and it rests there all day long. Just waiting to be cuddled.

a little corner of our home

2007-09-17T10:38:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting here this Monday morning thinking of my long to-do lists. Things I never seem to get finished, like unpacking the rest of our boxes. We've now been in our new house for a month and a half. Although, there are few signs of fall I need to get into the garage and get some boxes unpacked to find Makena's fall clothes and our fall decorations. I'd really like to just see what all is out there since we've been living without it for several months while it was in storage.

Instead of tackling my lists and boxes I've been surfing the web this morning and reading so many inspirational blogs out there. I got the idea to show you a little corner of our home... my kitchen. I love my kitchen in so many ways. I love the kitchen because it inspires me to cook better food for our family. It's just very pretty. Makena loves to help with the cooking, especially when it comes to stirring. If she knows I'm baking something, she has her apron on and stool pushed up to the counter to help. I don't bake that often. Hopefully, this fall will encourage me to start baking. If it ever cools off!

What else??? This weekend we went to San Antonio to take the kids to see Grandma and Grandpa and to also go to Sea World. Makena kept insisting on being able to pet the whales and dolphins. She almost fell head first into the dolphin petting tank. Keegan was really in awe of the aquariums and kept kissing the fish. You know, I think with Sea World I wish there was more sea to see. Maybe a little less world. I dunno, just a thought.

We spent Sunday afternoon enjoying the back yard. We aren't used to such big spaces as our last house had a yard the size of our living room. Miles was mowing on the riding mower and then I decided I wanted a turn. I ended up mowing the entire back yard. Miles knows the way to my heart. I'm a tom-boy by nature. The kids played around and I got this great picture of Makena and Keegan. How sweet! These moments are priceless and are usually hard to photograph. I'm learning to always keep a camera nearby.

my 2 1/2 year old found Jesus...

2007-09-13T18:03:00.000-05:00

Dear loyal readers,
Sorry for the lack of posts but I've been feeling a bit uninspired lately. I feel like, at times, I struggle with what to write about. Thus the fact that no posts have been made in four days. I know, I know. I promised to post daily to keep you entertained and informed and I have failed you. My dear readers, you too have to take a little bit of responsibility in this. Come on you strong-silent type... post a comment every once and a while. Let me know that someone is reading this to give me inspiration to keep typing. For those of you who have posted comments... an insurmountable love is coming your way from me!

I digress... My 2 1/2 year old found Jesus... in the craft store. Seriously. As God is my witness (no pun intended), I'm standing at the checkout when I look back to find my over-zealous little one literally making out with Joseph, Mary and my main man Jesus. You see, there was a toddler size Christmas display set up. Yup, it is only September and Jesus has already entered the building. I paused for a few moments to not interrupt her but to watch what she was doing. In her short life and even shorter memory she has no idea who this trio is. I watched her walk to Joseph (he was exactly her size), give him a hug and then attempted to make the same facial expression he was making. Then she made her way to Mary, gave her some love too and then made her way to Jesus. It was literally like she was having a conversation with each one. She was talking, exchanging glances and making sure not to leave anyone out. So it was Jesus' turn. Jesus was, of course, in his cradle so Makena had to get down onto his level to converse. At this point (I swear I'm not making any of this up), she gets down on her knees and hugs him and starts talking to him like she's known him forever. Maybe my little girl knows more than I think she does. Unbelievable.

easy like sunday evening

2007-09-09T20:36:00.000-05:00

How are you spending the last remaining days of summer and warm weather? We can't seem to get enough of the lake. It seems like we just moved into our new house and the lake season is almost over. Fall is right around the corner and we'll transition from long afternoons swimming at the lake to fishing on the docks and spending more time at home. This evening we took a break from football to take the kids down to the lake. We had the entire cove to ourselves and took full advantage. We couldn't go to the lake without the fishing poles, worms and floats. You never know what you're going to need when you get there. We had promised Makena all week we were going to take her fishing and ran into a bait dilemma. Fortunately, we found a bait shop right around the corner from our house and got some neon green glow in the dark worms. The first thought that crossed my mind was the glow in the dark fish you can buy at the pet store. How exactly do they get the neon in the fish and how humane is that? I guess with worms, their lives are short lived since they are BAIT. A little green neon can't hurt can it? We made our way down to the docks and Makena quickly had her princess fishing pole in the water. It wasn't long before she caught a little fish.

Makena was done fishing pretty quickly and in the water with the dogs. I don't think our chances of catching a large fish are good with the princess pole and three dogs playing fetch in the water. We have to always remind ourselves that it's about the experiences and not so much about the outcome or the size of the fish. Anyone know what type of fish this is?

The rest of the evening was spent splashing around in the water. An occasional nip on the legs by a small fish kept us looking into the water. The dogs constantly swimming around kept us laughing. Roxy has even become a bit more brave and just heads out into the middle of the cove. Ironically, she's not chasing a ball, she's just swimming. Makena spends the majority of her time trying to ride the dogs as they are swimming. Keegan, of course, sticks close to me and we float around. While Daddy is busy trying to keep up with the demands of a two year old. One minute she wants to fish, the next she wants to swim, the next she's running full speed down the boat ramp towards the water. She's not the most coordinated of toddlers and spends a lot of her days with scratched up knees.

This is what summer and family is all about however. Fishing with neon worms, swimming and simply taking it easy. I hope you too are enjoying the final days of summer. If not, take a moment to relax and enjoy the simplicity of a Sunday evening... wherever you may be.

some things i'll never know

2007-09-07T11:25:00.000-05:00

Why is it that when I tell Makena it's time for bed she always says "two more minutes" and it really means 'I'll be up for the next hour?' Why does she insist on wearing a pink tutu to the park?

Why does she argue with me every time we get into the car?
"The skies not blue, it's green."
"You're going the wrong way mommy."
"Don't say 'yah' say 'yes.'"

Why does she insist on playing in the middle of the street? Why does she ride the dog like a horse?

Things that I know for sure... She would rather look at the rocks and the bugs at the park than play on the playscape. She would rather give her friends a hug than a high five. She would rather spend every waking moment with her cousins than do anything else. She would rather go fishing with Daddy than go shopping with Mommy.

I hope she doesn't grow up too fast. She's already becoming a little girl and I'm not sure if I'm ready for that. I hope she always looks at the world with a new found fascination and she never loses her spirit.

quiet

2007-09-06T08:03:00.000-05:00

It's 7:30 am and the babes aren't awake yet. It's quiet. In a matter of moments the house will erupt with baby and toddler noises. Squawking, crying, laughing. But for just this moment, it is quiet.

Looking for signs of fall. Not many outside other than the school bus passing by, the retail stores selling sweaters and pants and many of the flowers beginning to shrivel. Soon it will be October, but not soon enough. Can't wait for October. Oktoberfest and Fall Festivals abound throughout the country. Our family can't visit too many fall festivals. Pumpkin patches and hay rides are the way we like to spend our October. But for now, it is just quiet. So we will just wait.

and the winner is...

2007-08-31T16:32:00.000-05:00

After hundreds of suggestions (hehehe) for the new blog name and careful consideration... the winner of the customized Little Dubbs shirt is...

AshFab!!!! Woohhooo!!! Confetti and streamers! Fireworks! Way to go Ash!

The new blog name is chik austin. Thanks Ash!

sewing endeavors

2007-08-30T13:27:00.000-05:00

A while back I ordered Amy Karol's book Bend the Rules Sewing. I love, love, love this book and it has helped me not only learn how to sew but has provided projects that are inspiring as well. The first project I wanted to do was the clutch. I am addicted to clutches and the thought of being able to create my own clutch. Wowza! The perfect fabric had to be selected and since I'm new to this whole sewing thing I had to search out local shops that had the cool fabric I was looking for.

I found a fabulous crafting store that not only provides great fabrics, but other notions and classes as well. This great store is called Craft-O-Rama and is located on South Congress in a very hip/retro little shopping center. Yesterday I ventured out with the kids in tow to see what all they had to offer. I found this beautiful Amy Butler fabric and bought enough to make two clutches, because a girl can not have too many handbags. I'm really glad Craft-O-Rama opened up and can't wait to go back!

I've got a girl's night out tonight for my birthday and it's the perfect opportunity to make my new clutch. So, while Keegan was asleep... Voila!

new blog name

2007-08-29T10:08:00.001-05:00

I've decided that I need to change the name of my blog. Kicking & Screaming really doesn't match my entries, although it does match our household at times. Anyone have any great suggestions? Send me some ideas. If your blog name is chosen, you will get your very own Little Dubbs customized baby or kids shirt.

familia

2007-08-28T22:11:00.001-05:00

My dad, who is a great photographer, sent me this picture of Keegan's birthday party. It really made me reflect on family and the importance of family. As I have previously mentioned, our family is really big. There are parents, step-parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers, half-sisters/brothers, cousins, aunts, uncles, etc. etc. It is a rare occasion when we all get together. Mostly birthdays for Makena and Keegan bring everyone together. The rest of the year is spent with individual visits. This picture reminded me that although we are all so different, those differences are what makes them our family.

It's important to me to have our entire family at the kid's birthday parties. They know everyone individually but rarely get to see everyone together. It's the little things that have always meant the most to me. My father feeding Keegan his birthday dinner. The cousins dressed in cowboy hats singing, playing the guitar and riding a rocking horse. The look on Keegan's face when everyone sang 'happy birthday.' Kids running all around the yard. Great-Papa making the drive from Ft. Worth to be here. And being able to look down into the yard and view OUR family and friends all together is what birthdays are all about. A celebration of life.

a little slice of reality

2007-08-28T15:36:00.001-05:00

Okay, okay... In lieu of Ashley's comments posted on my blog I feel inclined to grace these pages with a bit of reality. Nap time. Or shall we call it, the battle of two girls bound and determined to get their way. This afternoon I decided to try to take a nap. I've been really tired lately trying to plan Keegan's birthday party. Oh, why do I lie? Actually I've been staying up late to watch Big Brother After Dark which runs from 11 pm to 2 am. I know, it's sad. Summer time TV just isn't worth watching and for some reason I get sucked into really bad reality television. I started watching Big Brother just before the move and am still watching it. I'm not sure why. It is boring, boring, boring. And to make matters worse, I've started watching the late night version. That isn't any more exciting. No making out, nothing. Mostly watching them lay around and eat. I don't know why I do this to myself. Anyway, point being that I'm tired.

So, here I am trying to take a nap. The kids go down for afternoon naps around 1:30. Keegan goes right to sleep. Sweet little fella. But Makena plays for about 2 hours, gets out of bed twenty times and usually poops somewhere in between all of that. Hey, look at that. It's 3:50 and she's still playing. Super Nanny can you help me?

So Zoe Monster (the cat) and I sit up in my room. Praying that she'll eventually go to sleep and that she hasn't taken off her diaper. Most days she finally goes to sleep around 4. Right when Keegan is waking up. Figures. There he is now. Awake.

birthday number... (32)

2007-08-27T15:40:00.000-05:00

You know what makes me happy? New shoes for my birthday!

And the pitter-patter of toddler feet that refuse to take a nap. And the sound of a baby through the monitor just waking up. Happy birthday to me! The best presents I have ever received are fighting naps and waking simultaneously in their rooms downstairs.

birthday number one!

2007-08-27T14:47:00.000-05:00

On Friday, my baby boy turned one. I guess it's appropriate that on that very same day he jumped on the little baby bike and rode all around the house. He was able to get on the bike and off the bike, all without a tumble. Boys are sooo much different than girls and I'm learning this more and more every day. Keegan is so rough and tumble. He can take a spill and not shed a tear. We had a pretty large party for Keegan simply because our family is large. The new house held up well for the large group and the party ended with an impromptu football game in the back yard.

I've begun crafting lately, and deservedly got a lot of slack for my new creations. I'm not sure what has come over me. Maybe it's the move to the country, maybe it's the free time (ha) I have staying at home, maybe it's simply because I want to make something nice for my kiddos. I've always been into handmade fashions/clutches/jewelry. With kids, I have a reason to create! I got the idea for the baby book and crown from Grace at her Uncommon Grace website. What wonderful creations she has. I also attempted to create a bunting to hang at the party.

The party was a blast and everyone seemed to have a nice time. We went with a cowboy theme which is easy to do in Texas and I ended up having to decorate the cake since I couldn't find anyone locally that could do it.

Thanks to all of our wonderful friends and family for sharing this special day with us!