Supper time with Cricket

Supper time with Cricket is a hoot and a half! Every night...she keeps us rolling with laughter at what she either says or does. She always has! She just seems to have the perfect comedic timing and hilarity in how she describes everyday, normal things! This evening was no different!

On nice evenings we've been enjoying eating supper outside, and this evening while eating her supper, she loudly exclaimed, "This corn is freakin' good!"

Uh...I'm not sure where she learned that word...hmmm, but it was really good corn on the cob tonight! (I've been tossing an ear or two or five into my buggy at the grocery store every time I go since they're apparently in season [where? I don't know!], and Ricci's been grilling them for us! Hmmm!!)

Yes, Cricket has always (since she was eensy-teensy) kept us roaring with laughter at the things that she tells us....especially at the supper table.

"It's better to burn out than to rust out!"

Another great Steve Hartman interview which will sweep you away...I'm sure you'll enjoy!

This video reminds me soooo very much of my great grandmother, Mother Simpson. She died at the age of 101; she still lived alone and was still cooking...although not as frequently as she'd have liked. Those who knew her know that she fed half of the south in her lifetime....either in her restaurant or her home. I clearly remember a specific holiday when she sent my dad and I all over town to deliver meals to those that needed somethin' extra.

This spring marks the second anniversary of her death. Most of the town attended her funeral, for they all knew that something great was missing from here on earth. Yes, the day her spirit left the earth was a sad one, but we rejoice knowing that she is in heaven with her Lord. She served Him by serving others all she was able while she was here on earth! She's still quoted as saying, "It's better to burn out than to rust out!" What a lovely character she was!

We miss you, Mother Simpson!

"Please get the snow out of your sand pail!"

With snow falling, we somehow managed to get the car loaded up for our Easter trip. We didn't leave as early as we had intended...partly, because we Southerners were enjoying the snow...even though we were shouting, "Don't forget the beach chairs!" "Do you have your new swimsuit?" And "Please dump the snow out of that sand pail before you put it in the car!" How exciting!

Ever since the girls were little, I've taken photos of them when we're embarking on a trip...never intentionally; it's just something that's always happened! These I thought were pretty telling...

Lovey with her lovies and her shades on....ready to hit the beach!

Cricket watching a movie on her mp4 player (it's sitting atop her lantern where she's cocooned herself in the back of the car)...I wonder if Gramma and Grampa knew what doors they were opening when they gave her this! Thank you, again! This gal thinks she's in heaven between singing with Judy Rogers and watching Ratatouille!

And AngelWings, sitting there all pretty...pretty excited like me! "Let's get this show on the road! We wanna see our peeps and smell the salt air!"

So with the mail stopped, everything turned off, house locked up, Brody over at Zachary's and Mama Maria's, and Bluey in the capable hands of Connor and Emily, we got on the road! It snowed on us (I guess, I should technically say the word "flurried") at least until half-way to B'ham! We grabbed a quick bite to eat at the Summit (again...can't go through B'ham without at least driving through the Summit!) and continued on our way! First stop...Uncle Charles!

We pulled into the restaurant parking lot at the exact same time he did, and we had a nice supper together and then drove over to his house to see his new, little puppy, Little Girl. Sadly, I look back and see that we didn't get one picture of the girls with Uncle Charles! In the cold weather, I guess we were in a hurry...then once inside, we had Little Girl(s) quite excited about seeing one another! It was a fury of activity! And Uncle Charles just sat there and didn't seem to mind the loud squeals and giggles! We love you, Uncle Charles!

Then after we said our goodbyes and accepted all of the gifts that he had for us (toys for the girls and boiled & raw peanuts...it's the "Peanut Capital of the World," ya know! Thank you, Uncle Charles!), we headed on to Mimi and Pawpaw's. We got in a little after midnight, but Mimi was still waiting up for us and had a fire going in the fireplace....again, this global cooling has got to go!

Oh, it was good to be home! I'm so sentimental, so the smells, sounds, etc. are so special to me! We stayed with Mimi and Pawpaw for a few days...long enough to start a demolish job in her bathroom...we ran out of time to finish it...oops! I guess we'll have to make another trip back! And one night we had Jen and Nate over for a cookout and another night we all went bowling...grandkids love it, and the adults don't mind it so much either...pretty fun stuff with all of the fellas with us this time! Let's just say that P-Daddy had to show us all a thing or two! My score's not even worth mentioning! On the kids' lane, once again...Macy did really well!

After a couple of days, Ricci and the girls and I headed over to stay at the condo, and what fun it was! Driving there wasn't the fun part; I had one of three migraines in my entire life, so I was trying not to "get sick" (I know that's improper English, but you know what I mean!), and the spring break traffic's flood gates were opened! And we had so much stuff in our car that we could barely see out...and I'm not kidding! And of course, there's a mandatory sign when you get close to the beach that one HAS to stop at Wal-Marts (again, deep south) and pick up more than you can carry back to your car.

Um...somehow we all forgot that there wasn't any room in the car in the first place. I still don't know how Ricci packed us all in WITH the added plastic bags from WallyWorld! We had to roll the windows down and hang our legs and arms out with the bags...this time I am kidding. Somehow we made it to the condo, and Ricci and the girls unpacked the car, I went to town doin' my thing: ever since I was a child, I've tossed what I can into the dishwasher (plates, utensils, cups, etc.) and always empty out the ice to start fresh. Whew...it was nice just being at the condo. And then the fury of questions began, "Can we get our suits on? Can we go down to the pool? Can I blow up the beach balls? Where are the towels?" I have to say that I was just as excited as they were, and thankfully my headache subsided after everything settled down and we got something to eat! So we made it down to the beach just in time for the sunset!

A storm was a'brewin', so we couldn't stay out there for too long (and it was still a little chilly!), so when Jen and Nate got there for supper, we ate and then let the kids play in the heated indoor pool. Camera? Urgh...I got everything else but my camera!

The next morning, we woke up bright and early to hit the beach! Man, I married a sweet fella! He doesn't question a thing when he helps take the umbrella, cooler, two beach bags (one for toys and one for towels/sunscreen), oh yeah...chairs, etc. We all love just being on the beach, and it's so much easier now that the girls can carry their own (literally)! We stayed out as long as we could, and then I remembered...Easter shoes! We still hadn't bought the girls' Easter shoes! Man, why do I do this every year?!? I guess I'm waiting for the sales: supply and demand! And one certainly can't wear white shoes before Easter Sunday! It's just not proper!

So we made our way through the crowds at the Sandestin outlets, grabbed what we needed and headed back to the condo, for Meems and P-daddy were coming over for supper! After supper, the girls showed Mimi and Pawpaw their new tricks in the pool before they left, and then Ricci and I got busy getting ready for Easter Sunday (Easter baskets, Easter lunch, Cricket's bday cake, birthday party goodie bags...)

The next morning we woke up and headed off to church; it was great to see everybody, and then we all went back to the condo with Mimi & Pawpaw, Jen & Nate & Co., and Greg & MaryAnn & Co. to have Easter lunch together and to celebrate Cricket's birthday.

Jen brought this amazing appetizer; maybe she'll share the recipe with us; maybe...Jen?!? Lunch was yummy...it was the same menu that we served for Cricket's baptism luncheon (sniff, sniff)...garlic and herb chicken-pasta salad, a really yummy salad with cranberries, sugared pecans, and bleu cheese, and croissants. Some ate in the condo, and some ate out on the balcony! And her birthday cake was just a simple pound cake (Sorry, Carolyn, I used a cake mix...we were on vacation!) made in a fun sand-castle Williams-Sonoma cake mold that I thought I'd never find! [Ricci finally found one online on Friday afternoon, ordered it, and it was shipped to our condo the next morning...AND it was less than I would have paid for it in the store...amazing! Way to go, Ricci!] And I just added some seashells and raw sugar around the base of it! (So I now have the form, if anyone wants to borrow it!) Simple and fun...much like my Cricket, who loved the cake!After lunch, we ate some birthday cake, opened some gifts (Seriously, we weren't expecting gifts! And y'all gave her some really great ones...thank you, again!)

Then we went on a treasure hunt! I hid all of the kids' goodie bags inside a treasure box (I forgot that at home, so a simple Rubbermaid box had to do!), and Ricci and James hid the box somewhere along the beach. Here's the poem that Ricci wrote and had them follow (smart fella; he is!):

Out the door and to the left,
Around the corner and down the steps,
Look across; it stands so high;
Better go under, unless you can fly!

To the left or to the right,
Go the way with the beach in sight!
Go to the end and wait right there!
Read the last clue at the very top stair!

He Is Risen!
We heard it in church!
The treasure is hidden
By a man on a perch!

The weather had once again turned colder, so once the buried treasure was found, those of us that were brave enough (not me!) got into the outdoor pool, and those of us that weren't brave enough stayed in out of the wind and just watched everyone play from a distance and gabbed!

That evening after everyone was gone, Mimi stayed with us to spend our final night on the beach, and we had such a good time enjoying our last night there! It was actually the first time that I had to sit down and just relax, have a glass of wine and unwind! I guess there's no better test of a great vacation than one that makes you go back home to get your relaxation!

The next morning we awoke to terrible weather and waited out the storms that were covering the southeast; maybe I shouldn't admit this on the world-wide-web, but my all-time, recurring nightmare is being with my family...overlooking the water...and seeing a water-spout or tornado coming at us. Aghhh! (Maybe confessing this is good therapy!) We kept the local weather on all morning, and that's all that was being reported...water spouts and tornadoes...right where we were! Again, aghhh! Finally, the weather somewhat subsided, and we HAD to leave to get Ricci back to work, so we got our car and Mimi's car loaded up and got on the road! Boohoo!

Thankfully, we made it "back up north" (to B'ham...as Mother Simpson would have said), and we met K-Ren at our usual Cracker Barrel; it was great to see her, and then we headed on home!

Ahhh...home again, home again, jiggety jig!

"...kills ants too!"

We are very thankful to have been blessed with great friends, one of which is none other than Levi (aka, "Ivy" as our girls call him)! We love him and his wife and daughter for so many reasons, but this week in particular I've been singing his praises, for this spring along with the April showers, we've had a couple of unwanted visitors...ants! Urghh! And years ago Ivy gave me a great tip on how to rid them!

I'm not overly organic (not that you are either, Levi, but...), but I am sensible and cautious to care for my family, and I'd rather choose to not use extra chemicals and pollutants in our house to rid ourselves of bugs, so I turned to Ivy's wisdom regarding ants...

Once at a party in our yard, he showed me an ant pile and said that if we'd sprinkle a little Sweet'n'Low on the pile that we'd see that "it not only kills humans, but it kills ants too!"

We have cracked up about that whenever we think of Sweet'n'Low, and this week I decided I'd try it! While I was out one day, I snagged a couple of packets from the restaurant where we were eating, came home and drew some lines 'to not be crossed'! I still can't believe it myself...it works! I've heard that there are rumors that Aspartame was originally designed as an ant poison, and I don't know if that's true or not, but I do know that if you have any unwanted spring-time visitors, try it; it works!

The Red Envelope Project has been a huge success so far!

The project has been a huge success so far! A worker in the White House mail room has confirmed the delivery of more than 2.25 million red envelopes! Million!

I know that many of us were a part of the nationwide, grassroots Red Envelope Project where every pro-lifer was asked to mail an empty, red envelope to Barack Obama at the White House.

It's not too late to participate...each envelope represents a baby who has been killed by abortion. The red color symbolizes the blood of abortion. The President’s address is on the front. The following message is printed on the back: "This envelope represents one child who died in abortion. It is empty because that life was unable to offer anything to the world."

The goal is to have millions of red envelopes flooding the mail room of the White House, and that’s exactly what is happening!

The Obama administration has noticed, and the Red Envelope Project continues! You can still send your red envelopes to the President.

President Barack Obama
1600 Pennsylvania
Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500

I pray that this tidal wave of red envelopes changes the president’s heart on abortion and that he acts to protect unborn babies from a violent and brutal death.

Saving/Giving More!

I've mentioned these two blogsites to a couple of you, so I just thought I'd share the direct links here. These two blogsites actually do the work for me when it comes to saving more money when shopping....MoneySavindMom.com and DealSeekingMom.com.

Using Publix for example, each week (or when there's another really great sale/deal) these two sites will email me a list of items that are on sale and also provide links next to the items where one can print off a coupon to save additional money!

The richest bum I've ever seen...everybody has a story!

This spring the girls have taken up a new favorite past time of looking under the bridge overpasses for...bums. Yes, I've done my duty to remind them that not all have been blessed with covenantal blessings, and we've taken several opportunities to pray for them and what may or may not be going on their lives.

But yesterday when we drove down to the zoo, as we pulled slowly into their drive which takes one under the overpass, there was a huge display of lots of goods! Now, I'm telling you that there was so much that I want to go and get a picture, but I'd never do that....I'm just saying, "This is somethin' to write home 'bout!"

Driving carefully along the one-lane road, I did my first glance...tons of stuff!

Second glance...happy fella sitting in a lawn chair (may have even been an easy-boy recliner)!

Third glance...he was having a great time listening to music...oops...eye contact...and we actually waved to each other!

Cricket shouted from the back, "Wow! That's the richest bum I've ever seen!" Even though it was awkward, I'm just dyin' to go back and get another look...take him something...pose as a journalist to get his story! Yes, everybody has a story!

***

Does anyone remember that news segment, Everybody Has a Story, on CBS's The Early Show? It's not around anymore, but when the girls were little, it would air on Friday mornings, so I'd arrange to have someone to feed/hold at that exact time so that I could see it. (Before TIVO!)

Steve Hartman (one of my favorite journalists) became well known for his award-winning feature series, Everybody Has a Story, based on his belief in a "theory" of the same name. To prove his point, Hartman would toss a dart over his shoulder at a map of the United States, and then travel with his cameraman to wherever the dart landed. Upon arrival, Hartman would find a phone booth with a phonebook, and then, after choosing a name at random, would call that person, hoping that they would tell their "story." His adventures took him around the country, and it was amazing how people would allow him to come and interview them as they told their story. The stories that his assignment would produce were ALWAYS so emotional! I'd be sitting there either laughing, crying or both! I wish they still sent him on those special assignments!

I wish that they'd bring back that series by Steve Hartman...it was such a special series! Here's a link where you can view a few more, if you'd like! But get out the tissues, 'cause your either going to be crying from tears of sadness or tears of joy!

I wish Steve Hartman would call me up to get me to take him down there so that he and I could get the story of the gentleman that lives under the bridge near the zoo! Yes, everybody has a story!

What a difference a day makes!

It seems like it was just yesterday that Ricci and I went to the hospital to have our second baby! And in a few hours, my sweet Cricket will be eight! Where on earth does time go?!?

She has just recently gone through quite a growth spurt, and every morning she appears differently than when we said goodnight to her the evening before!

Cricket, we're so very proud of you and the young lady that you are becoming! We love you and hope you have a wonderful birthday!

An evening on the town...

As a small token of thanks for watching the girls while Ricci and I were away, we treated our friends, the Steves, to attend the symphony with us for the symphony's Heart of Romanticism performance, which featured the Brahms Symphony No. 4 paired with Dvorak’s Cello Concerto that some call “the grandest of all cello concertos.” It really was amazing!

It was a very fun evening, and it was so amazing to watch the children as they watched the musicians. The evening was fun, and I have to say that watching the guest cellist was helpful in making the evening memorable. Let's just say that he looked a tad-bit like Fabio and was very enthusiastic with his playing that cello...amazing talent...and if I had that talent, then perhaps I would behave the same...still he is/was 'worth writing home about'!

After the symphony, Ricci took us to Rembrandt's for a late-night coffee and treat...hmmm! These days are sooo much fun! To quote Aunt Katherine, "Isn't life so much fun and worth living?!?"

And today we had the pleasure of witnessing a special marriage between two very special people. Now...as a wedding coordinator for almost ten years, I have to say that I've witnessed many'a'marriage (and they all do start to blend together), but this one was all-the-more special, and I had to fight back the tears when both fathers stood up and prayed for the couple! Oh...to see the evidence of this covenantal family being extended! What a special weekend!

Fillin' up on my Family Tank

I talk to Mom and Jen multiple times a day, and at times it does seem like they're right down the road (or at least I like to pretend!), so when we realized that all of our hubbies were either out of town or REALLY busy, I decided to take a jaunt down there...on a whim!

I'm one that will actually plan to be spontaneous, so already this trip was unlike me! But...it was so much fun! And I wanted the opportunity to spend some time with Jen before they move. Ricci's been super-duper busy, and we knew he wouldn't be at home many nights this week; Daddy was out of town on a business trip, and with Nate deployed...we had the perfect makin's for a girls' trip!! We grabbed some essentials (Cricket was sure to grab her Clifford tent), packed the car and took off! Shockingly, we got out the door early!

Okay...I dislike gadgets, but I think I'm ready to cave on getting a GPS thing in the car. We planned to stop and have lunch with Uncle Charles in Dothan, but since it was a spur of the moment trip, he was on his way to the state capital...he's the mayor, ya know! So we decided to take our time and stop when we felt like it, so of course we had to stop at the Summit in B'ham; then Cricket rallied us together for a run to Cracker Barrel, and.... this just shows you how relaxed I was...the girls said they saw one to the left, so I turned to follow their directions! Someone has since told me it's there, but we didn't see it! So we drove on...until we were so lost that even I couldn't find my way out of this gorgeous subdivision! So I called Ricci at his office, who turned on a tracking device on my cell phone, told me to turn this way/that way/and boom...we were back on the Interstate! Scary, huh?!? But hey...it worked!

We found our usual Cracker Barrel near K-ren's house, had a fun lunch and then got back on the road! Of course, Ricci called us immediately after we drove past exit 205 and said, "So you didn't want to go to the Peach Park without me?" Again...scary!!! He even told me where we were parked at Cracker Barrel! Whew...today's technology! Can't live with it; can't live without it!

Once we got to Jen's, Mimi was there, and she grilled us an amazing dinner...I can't remember what kind of fish, but hmmm...it was good! We stayed with her for a couple of nights and then moved over to Mimi's and stayed with her. (Although, Annie had already learned that life was sweeter at Mimi's...as an only grandchild! She and Mimi enjoyed some early morning chat/play time together...thanks, Mimi, she loved every second of it!)

One morning the girls went to Story Hour at the library with Drewby and Sarey...clearly you can tell that Lovey and Sarey got into the "Princess" theme of the day. Drewby and Cricket were havin' nothin' to do with it! AngelWings just enjoyed helping take care of baby Quinny!

And one afternoon we went bowling, which was Cricket's and Lovey's first trip to the bowling alley...lots of fun was had by all! Poor Drewby; he's sooo out-numbered by girls!

Early one morning, Lovey and I were the only ones awake, so we sneaked outside in our jammies, got in the car, and went to the donut shop that's been there for as long as I can remember...more than 30 years! Hmmm...the donuts are still just as good! I had forgotten about the traffic being as thick as it is right there, so I strategically placed the car so that we could get out in our jammies and check out our options...again, hmmm! We each picked out a donut and some more to take back to the others and then headed on down to the park down near Giuseppis and Chip's house (like my description? I can't remember it's name) The seagulls enjoyed our being there!

I love making memories with each of the girls!

One day Mom and I took the two middles out to lunch at the Crab Trap...the girls' lunches came served in two, cute little pails with shovels...the perfect conditions for making sandcastles!

Oh! These two had so much fun! They were both in their own worlds! And Mimi and I had fun watching them!

Tinkerbell...having so much fun!

Killing time until we met up with everyone else, we rode the trolley through the Destin Commons...after a little stop at Starbucks and some shopping through Williams~Sonoma, of course!

What can be more fun than riding on a trolley?!?

A little run through Publix with my two sleeping babies...had to get some extras for our picnic at the outdoor movie night at Baytowne! We met up with Jen and the rest of the kiddos and also Greg and MaryAnn & Co. Bad news...Sharon was working that evening! Good news...she was working at the Starbucks right beside us! Trust me...we kept visiting her!

The movie we were there to see? What movie? We were practically the only ones there, and the kids had so much fun running around; Greg was spotted going in this and that "restaurant" (still have no idea what he was doing!); the kids kept going down to drive the miniature boats; us gals kept chatting; it was all fun and games until Cricket went downhill...quickly! No one could console her, and Greg was so sweet to take care of her and help us all get back to our cars...by the time we exchanged kids, cars, etc. and got home to Mimi's, sweet Cricket was running quite a fever! Ughh! So that night I barely slept (kept checking on her...in her Clifford tent, of course!) and got up early the next morning to "make a beeline for home" as Ricci told me to do! So Meems helped us get all packed up again and set up to head home. Of course, I think I had to stop more this trip than when they were eensy-teensy; I had to stop to get drinks to keep me awake, Tylenol/ibuprofen for Cricket, snacks, etc.! And of course a super-duper fast run inside the winery...I have friends with expectations, ya know!

We moved peeps around in the car a little....we set up the blankets and such next to Cricket so that she could rest on the way home; Lovey was excited to be moved up a seat; and AngelWings was thrilled when we said she could ride up front...for the first time ever!

What a help this gal was...sitting up front like a grown-up! As we got closer and closer to the interstate in LA (lower Alabama), I cautiously stayed at my lower-than-normal 55mph, came down a hill, and boom! I was the only one on the road, so I knew that the cop (urgh...makes me mad to even type it!) hiding behind the broken down, yella schoolbus was after ME! Of all the nerve to give a momma with a sick baby a ticket for going 59 (I was going down a hill...come'on!) in a 40mph area...WHAT?!? I NEVER saw a 40mph sign! Urghhh! That blows my "never gotten a ticket"! As soon as I pulled away from the rude putz, I cried like a little girl! Then I called Ricci and asked him what would happen if I got another one on the way home! I was still at the bottom of AL...and had to drive all the way to the top! Cops were everywhere that day! I still haven't heard why!

Yes, AngelWings was ever so helpful when I had to pull out my license and registration...and all of the other million things she helped me do to get us back home safely! Thanks, MaeMae!

It was nice to be back at home; and Ricci was waiting for us when we got back home; we got Cricket all settled in, told Daddy about our trip (as if we didn't call him every second giving him the blow-by-blow!), and whew...we were back at home again!

Have Mardi Gras beads...will travel!

Packing for five to go three different places isn't what I'd call fun! We are a very close-knit family, so separating us all isn't my favorite thing to do! But a great friend of ours and her aunt were having a special birthday party out in New Mexico, so who were we to not join in the fun?!?

Thankfully, we are blessed to have some amazing friends who were so wonderful to step in and help with the girls. Sooo, once everything was planned, it was time to put them into motion...getting the house/laundry, meals taken care of, making sure that everyone (including pets!) were taken care of, and lots and lots and lots of packing...tucking notes, gifts and surprises into various, hidden places was the name of the game! Ughh...I thought I'd never get it all done! And yes, I did forget some key elements out of my own suitcase, but "just buying it when you get there!" always seems to work! And um...the fish...I didn't remember to make provisions for Bluey until we were flyin' high in the sky! (He was fine when we returned!)

So we were ready to take off! We dropped off two, picked up one, dropped off one more, and then Craig, Ricci and myself were off! Saying goodbye to the girls is always by far the most difficult part for me...but they were all quite excited to be staying at their friends' digs! Yes, I HATE saying goodbye...and I can never make eye contact with anyone on the first leg of any plane trip...for fear of everyone seeing me cry like a little girl. Then, of course, as I board the second flight, I'm good to go! I guess by the time it takes me to realize that I'm boarding a second flight somewhere, my subconsciousness has come to the realization that "I'm not in charge; He is; they'll be okay!" And after that first drink, I'm great...funny part is that my 'drink' is nothing more than a tomato juice on ice! Hmmm....it tastes so much better flying at 30,000 feet!

After we landed, we thankfully collected all of our luggage, got our rental car (which for some reason they upgraded us to a nicer SUV...don't remember what it was exactly!) and headed off into the sunset! Awww...sunsets out west are so beautiful!

As for our first destination...don't forget who we had with us...Miss Craig (not feeling her tippy-top self!) saw that Walgreen's off in the distance! So we did make a pitstop and then drove up into the hillside of the Sandia Mountains where the party would be held Saturday night. By this time, sweet Miss Craig had completely lost her voice! Ricci said that had to be her world's worst nightmare...someone that has a lot to say...someone that others want to hear what they have to say...someone who could barely whisper, "Oh, honey-child!" by this time! "Bless her heart!"

After unloading Craig's luggage with her family, helping with a little prep work on the Mardi Gras decorations and foods, we all drove back down into Albuquerque to the first of several parties! These peeps know how to celebrate! What a crowd it was...and what an honor it was to be included in that fun evening of great family stories of back home in Louisiana, lots of laughter and lots of yummy food!

The next morning (hmmm...I wish I could wake up every morning with two extra hours! I love that Mountain Time Zone!), we got up bright and early and did some driving around (getting lost if you ask me...hee hee!) before heading over to the birthday brunch where we were so graciously greeted by the family members that we knew and met even more wonderful friends and family. The brunch was delicious, and the gathering couldn't have been any more fun and special! As everyone was making plans on how they'd spend their day, Craig's hilarious cousin, Steve Jr., gave us a great hint about where to shop...he said that we had to visit Jackelope's, a great place... "like World Market on crack!" Boy, was he right! We loved it...it was similar to an open World Market or our Southeastern Salvage, and we bought some great souvenirs for the kids and their friends, and even some special things for our annual Cinco de Mayo parties...it'll be here before you know it!

So after brunch, everyone went off in different directions. Ricci saw an REI in the distance, so we went their first, of course! Then we headed off for some sight-seeing and shopping. Everyone suggested that we visit Old Town Albuquerque which was a lot of fun...it was full of life with tourists, horse-drawn carriages, shopping, great restaurants, etc. "New Mexican" restaurants to be exact...which cracked Ricci and I up every time we heard someone say it. (At first we just thought the town was fun of new restaurants that were Mexican...nope...they are New Mexican restaurants!)

After a full day of acting like a tourist and just enjoying being with one another, we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the big Mardi Gras birthday celebration! What fun it was! The food was amazing...different, yummy appetizers, jambalaya, gumbo and King Cake! Arra...please share some of those recipes with me! And none but Craig and her great-grand-daughter MaryBeth outlasted the Second Line Dance! She may not have had her voice back yet, but she wasn't droppin' out of the Second Line Dance!

The next morning we all enjoyed worshipping with Craig's family at her nephew's church; then we all said goodbye to one another as some had to rush back to the airport. Ricci and I took the afternoon to drive along Route 66, then up into the Sandia Mountains to the ski resort up there. The snow and views were amazingly spectacular! Then we headed on up to Santa Fe. The drives out there are just so beautiful! And the art and history...I look forward to learning more about the rich history out there along with taking the girls back there to see it all again!

The next morning we packed up and headed back over to get Miss Craig (who still had little to no voice!) before heading to the airport. The trip seemed to fly by...from beginning to end...and what fun it all was! On the way back through Dallas, we were able to have a quick bite to eat with Tara and her girls at the Grand Hyatt. Then after Miss Craig and I stepped through the wrong doors, poor Ricci came and helped us get back in through security...which stopped him! Now, I'm talkin...full body scan with some pretty impressive equipment that I've never seen! I'm just thankful that after they took digital images of his face and everything (we're laughing hysterically about this now, but then...not so funny!) security found a forgotten hotel key in his shirt pocket! Whew! So we were back in the air in no time and headed home!

We so appreciated getting to see everyone and celebrate such a special weekend with them! What a great time it was! And just as soon as we landed, L brought us our car and our AngelWings, and then we received a call that dinner was awaiting us all at the Steves! How blessed we are to have friends that love us like they do! What great care you showed to our little loved ones....the girls had a great time being with their friends and no harm came to them while we were away....except for Lovey, who was quoted saying, "No! No! Please don't make me sleep under a Georgia Bulldog blanket!"

Nan, all I have to say is "Come on over...Lovey's got a nice LSU blanket awaiting your next stay with us!"

Add your name to the list too!

Oh...this has the potential to be a great fundraiser! The girls and I have partnered with Firstgiving to help us with our fundraiser for Bethany Christian Services. Won't you please help us by donating a gift of at least ten dollars?

Bethany Christian Services is a Christ-centered, not-for-profit, pro-life, adoption and family services agency with more than 75 locations in 32 states and ministries in more than a dozen countries.

Bethany is the largest adoption agency in the country! In addition to adoption services, Bethany also provides pregnancy counseling, family counseling, foster care programs, refugee services, orphan care, and an infertility ministry called Stepping Stones.

Bethany is supported through reimbursement for services and gifts received from individuals, churches, corporations, and foundations.

Firstgiving is the leading social fundraising platform, and it's amazing how simple and secure it is to provide an online donations and/or leave a supportive message on our page. Donating through this website is simple, fast and completely secure. It is also the most efficient way to support our fundraising efforts by automatically processing these donations for us, saving you the hassle of collecting and forwarding checks. However, if you'd feel more comfortable sending us the money without using the Internet, feel free to contact us, and we can make the arrangements for you! Any help is greatly appreciated!

Our family has made a personal goal for this February and March...to raise a minimum of $1000 by receiving at least $10 from 100 of our friends, family and associates! And we're hoping that many of you are partnered with a company that offers a matching program that will increase your investment!

A gift to Bethany can be a caring way to honor loved ones both living and deceased. Your gift will help Bethany in ministry to protect and enhance the lives of children and families. On this blog, I'll be showing our progress as well as keeping an updated list of names of our helpful friends/family (and a link back to your blog/website, if you like!); however, if you'd prefer your name not be listed, then just let me know! We're just so appreciative of your support --anything great or small! Please forward this link to anyone who you think might wish to donate too! Together we can make a HUGE difference in the lives of those around us!

** Charitable Donation Receipt for your taxes is available for printing.

To help us reach our goal, please visit our website, http://www.firstgiving.com/sc1.
Thank you!!!

1. DixieChirps & Co.
2. Mrs. Sherri Martin
3. Dr. & Mrs. Erik H. Stoer
4. Nekey Shirley
5. Anonymous
6. Anonymous
7. Mark & Chrystie Moody
8. Richmond family
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Laissez les bon temps rouler!

What a crazy January/February we've had thus far! I absolutely love the Christmas holidays for every single reason of why we celebrate, but I have to admit that I almost enjoy more the hum-drum days that follow!

Although we still haven't seen the hum-drum days of winter as of yet (except the first week of February when I got to do nothing but snuggle with the girls and make sure that they were as comfy as possible while they were all under the weather!), but we've all thoroughly enjoyed these months of the new year!

We've enjoyed getting to see various family/friends come through town! Ricci's aunt and grandmother came for a short visit, and it was wonderful to have the time to just sit by the fire, chat and laugh about crazy things! I enjoyed helping host a baby shower at our home for two good girlfriends, Brite and Jan; driving the girls to various field trips, classes/clubs, etc.; having our eldest tested with the CAT...and whew...she did really well! (Even though I know it's the Lord who I'm ultimately held accountable, it was great to know that according to the CAT, we're not doing such a terrible job homeschooling after all...she did really well!)

I just think this picture is just too cute not to share!

And perhaps the highlight of my January was the honor in being able to attend the placement of a Bethany baby with the family that adopted this lovely child. At the end of last year I joined the board of directors, and what an extension of my heartstrings have already been touched by this ministry! For those of you that aren't familiar with Bethany, Bethany Christian Services is a not-for-profit, pro-life, Christian adoption and family services agency, supported through reimbursement for services and gifts received from individuals, churches, corporations, and foundations. [Click here, if you wish to help the girls and I raise a $1000 donation by asking 100 of our friends and family to each donate a minimum of $10, which is greatly appreciated!]

Yes, I've noticed that life has seemed to really speed up...it was especially noticeable when Ricci looked at me and said, "Um...how are you going to accomplish all that's on the calendar for just today?!?" Life did seem to be slower when the girls were younger....now, we can accept more challenges and responsibilities, give of ourselves to others, etc. What a joy life is!

The girls' Prairie Club's Valentine Tea party...too cute! Even Auntie Craig had to join in!

February has brought its own surprises...my aunt and uncle dropped by for a brief visit; we were blessed with a week (our winter break?!?) of snuggle time to get through cold/flu yuck; we've celebrated with friends over their triumphs and are praying on our knees with friends' enduring hardships. Over Valentine's weekend (yes, holidays are several days...not just one day!) Ricci and I were blessed with getting to go away to New Mexico for a FUN Mardi Gras birthday celebration for two lovely ladies, Auntie Craig's 85th and Aunt Katherine's 90th...don't let the ages fool you...these two began and more importantly ended (after most had fallen off the line!) the Second Line dance at our Fais do-do! What a treat that was to be with them and their family and to see God's wondrous American Southwest!

Laissez les bon temps rouler!

Jen Daniels' new CD release!

A friend of ours, Jen Daniels (who just had twins! congrats again!), is releasing her newest CD, titled "Come Undone." I placed a widget on blog's right sidebar...listen, take, and/or share! I'm sure that you'll enjoy her music as well! And as one that's not a regular concert-goer (unless one can visit/move about freely! ;), I highly recommend your catching her next in concert!

PRE-ORDER through PayPal her New Album "Come Undone"
$16.50 - all pre-orders ship April 1

Or check out some of her other songs at http://www.myspace.com/jenniferdaniels. Some of our favorites are: It's a Good Day to Live, Welcome to Your Life, and In My Coat!

I am so LOST!

Okay...I am so LOST in this TV series! What the heck is goin' on?!? Ricci and I have had a couple of episodes stockpiled, so we finally sat down late last night to watch them, and I can't tell you where/when/who people are!

I used to sit on the edge of my seat while watching it, but now I just sit there thinking, "No need to run, Jin, you'll just reappear somewhere else in the woods a matter of seconds!" Ricci and I both agree that we're only watching it now to reclaim the investment that we've put into it AND to see how it's all going to end! What on earth kind of upbringing did these writers/creators have?!?

All I have to say is that if I were on that freaky island or in LA with "Ben," then I'd be stickin' close to Sayid, Jack or Locke!

Well, we've had a full day with birthday parties (Happy Birthday, Jonathan! Happy Birthday, Emmaline!), running errands and shopping, so my sweet loves are fed, bathed, jamified and enjoying some good 'ole I Love Lucy, so I'm off with Ricci to watch the last episode that we've recorded...not that it's getting me anywhere! I may go and join the girls!

Am I the only one that's LOST here?!?

BOGO @ TGIF

It's BOGO @ TGIF! Here's another great offer that a really great friend [;)] sent me....it's a "buy one entree, get one free" deal from TGIF's, and it doesn't expire until March 1, 2009! Woohoo! I just think we'll have to run downtown to have a little lunch date with our daddy here soon!

http://www.tgifridays.com/promos/bogo_2009_02.aspx?fromhome

Thanks, Alma...via P-Daddy!

Stinky Brown Bag

If any of you are on the mailing list for Qdoba (one of our family's favorite eateries), then you've already received this email, but I just had to post it, for I think it's hysterical! As a business major in college, I appreciate great advertising, and this one is a memorable one! Besides, I'm also sharing this great deal! AngelWings and I especially love their Mexican Gumbo (one can pick either steak, chicken, or veggie)...hmmm! I'll warn you...it's a huge serving, so we usually share!
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Subject: Stinky Brown Bag

Attention All Employees,
There is a brown paper bag lunch in the break room refrigerator without a name. It’s behind the ranch dressing and it smells like bologna. If this odorous brown bag happens to be yours, PLEASE DISPOSE OF IT IMMEDIATELY.
Then go to Qdoba Mexican Grill for lunch. They’re now offering any chicken entree on their menu with handmade chips, a choice of salsas and a regular fountain drink for only $6.99 (click here for the offer). It’s a great value and you can choose from any of their 18 different chicken dishes. So, whoever you are, you no longer have to be the SAD PACKER.

Thank you,
Management
"Propelling work to the next level"

Here today, gone tomorrow!

Last Monday was an interesting day...full of surprises! (We like good surprises!) Right as we were running out the door to meet Aunt Jan and Uncle Eddie for breakfast, the rain started turning into snow! It was so beautiful! The 'city' had already salted the roads (wahhh...please stay off of 'our' road!), so the roads were fine, and everyone was out and driving about, but it did feel so odd to be driving in it as if nothing was unusual.

The further we drove down the mountain, the snow did turn into a slushy rain, but there was still an excitement in the air! And after a lovely breakfast that Uncle Eddie and Tressie treated us to (thank you, again!), we ran to the store like all true southerners...to get our milk and bread. (Honestly, we make our own bread, so we only got milk....and a few extras!) Then after dropping Ricci back off at work, and after we ran another errand or two, we headed back up the mountain. As we drove along the road that leads up the mountain, one could see that beautiful snow/ice line that sometimes appears in the winter....it is always so breathtakingly beautiful to me! And it reminds me of one reason why we live up there!

As we drove further and further up, the yards were nothing but white, and the entire mountain was still and quiet...so we drove around for a bit, until the girls couldn't take it anymore and just had to get out and play in it. So I parked the car and enjoyed sitting in the warm car with the windows rolled up (to keep the snowballs from hitting me!), watching the girls play in the snow while I enjoyed the heat and made some calls to my sis, mom, grandmother, etc. (You know that snow down here is worth a call home!) Thankfully, Aunt Jan had just given the girls some fun gardening gloves, so the girls used those to keep their hands warm...thanks, Aunt Jan! After the snowballs stopped flying at me, I did get out and play for a while...'til the snowballs started flyin' again!

This is the bottom third of the huge snowman that sadly never was assembled...who knew a snowball that large could be so heavy?!? Obviously, we didn't!

AngelWing's snowman...scaled down quite a bit!

Thankfully, I had the camera in the car, for as soon as we took this photo, the temperature rose just a degree or two, and as quickly as the snow had fallen...the snow began to melt. Here today...gone tomorrow! It reminds us to be thankful for what we have...thanks, dear Lord, for that beautiful snowfall! So now we sit and await with great excitement our next 'big' snowfall!