Two Men & A Lady

FOUND DOG (MISSING OWNER)

2012-01-25T14:08:00.000-06:00

Anyone There? Anyone?

2012-01-03T20:22:00.000-06:00

Since you all are missing my random updates to the virtual scrapbook and have been checking back daily to see if I've left any posts...

...wait, you did realize I've been gone for a while? Didn't you? Surely you've missed us and wondered which side of the earth we might have fallen off. Maybe just once... or Maybe pondered for a second? even a nano second? No? Well, I've been gone from the computer world for quite some time now. Ever since my computer got fried and refuses treatment, I've taken an indefinite hiatus from the keyboard until I find the perfect laptop. I almost took advantage of some great sales on them, but then I thought Nah, maybe I'll just get into the giving spirit of Christmas and get Dax Christmas presents instead. Told old pots and pans are getting rusty. har har.

No, seriously, there's like a huge list of heavy cool electronics we need and a laptop just isn't at the top of the list right now. There's only so much you can buy while living in a one income family. But I get to stay at home w/ Dax and there's not a laptop existing that could or ever will make up for that, soooo, until then I've been using my mom's computer every now and then to check emails.

Needless to say, there just isn't much time to get in the "zone" - computer zone that is and type my fingers away until I've spilled every minute of our personal life not spent on the computer.

So in a quick update, Clint is working hard as ever. His employer even threw in a double shift one night with the the latter shift being a trip to Huntsville. So he's in good health, but exhausted to say the least.   I'm doing pretty good, jolly as ever, like - Santa Clause SIZE jolly. I'm not breaking any scales yet, but let's just say it's time to get on the treadmill b/f my weight gets out of control. Other than that I'm just plain peachy.

AND Dax, of course, fun as ever. He's got all his preschool "things to learn" out of the way except right now he just finishing up on learning to recognize the letters of the alphabet, he's been able to say them for some time now, but if he's able to pass the TERO alphabet flashcard scramble, he'll earn himself a brand new "Hiccup" toy he's been asking for (already bought b/c it was on sale). (That's Hiccup as in "How to Train Your Dragon" movie). He's growing tall and his hair is still as curly as Shirley Temple's and shines like the moon.   He has the verbal skills of a 5 year old but not the comprehension of one. So it's very tricky figuring out what he understands and what he doesn't. He often fools us. Of course not on purpose though.

So, that should do it for now. With this parting sentence I'll leave you with an interesting photo. I was digging through the desk drawers at my parents house (that occupies my childhood bedroom and found my last ~~pager~~ "BEEPER"    Wow, seems like so long ago when people carried these things it might as well be buried under ground along with the Cro-magnon man's remains. Lame analogy I know, but I'm tired and it's late. And the best excuse of all   "I have a 3-yr old.

Nostalgia is flowing over me like a river right now. ;o)

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!

Like Father Like Son? or is it really Like Mother Like Son?

2011-10-26T21:26:00.000-05:00

When Auburn kicked off this year Clint and I finally got a glimpse of the future that we'd (well Clint really) dreamed of. Dax being his father's son - watching the game side by side with their Auburn shirts or jerseys on. Jumping up and down with excitement over a good play. You know how it made Clint feel. It was special to me too just because I know that's the beginning of a special bond between them. That Like Father Like Son feeling...

So, it's September and Auburn is playing Mississippi State and I was enjoying watching both of them jump up and down yelling GO BABY GO! TOUCHDOWN AUBURN! Dax had already been fond of his AU Jersey, his stuffed Aubie, his AU helmet and football, but now he was "beginning" to understand what all of it was for. It was a great day.

Fast forward to the present, October, by now, Auburn's lack luster season is getting annoying. The cheese dip doesn't taste as good and Dax is starting to act more like his mom when it comes to Football. Let me explain:

I love Auburn football. I've always been an Auburn fan along with my brother with parents who are Alabama fans (long story). I'm not the live for football, know all the stats and every player and position type and etc, but I had ALWAYS watched or listened to all the games, know the history pretty well, and get that euphoric feeling while visiting the campus, Toomer's Corner or attending home games. You'd think that Clint and I would be a match made in football heaven wouldn't you? Uh, wrong. After spending 12-13 football seasons with Clint I'm much less of a fan and enjoy the games less than I did before.

"But how could that be? Is it because he's one of those obnoxious rival fans?"- you ask.
Absolutely not, we're a lot alike when it comes to that sort of thing. He doesn't give a hoot about the rivalry and aside from lighthearted jokes here and there he doesn't banter w/ Tide fans. He just has a love for football.

"Well, then what's your problem?"
Lots of little things I guess, like for 1, I can get very nervous/serious and on the edge of my seat while watching the game with my heart racing when things go bad so I stay very quite except for touchdown time (of course!). While Clint, on the other hand - the whole game-, paces, claps his hands constantly (he's got some big hands and they make a really loud ear piercing clap) never is quite, he's either in constant TV pep talk or hollering angrily at the players, coaches, commentators, man cheerleaders - when things aren't so well. Watching the game with him/listening to all this makes me a nervous wreck. So, since we've married if we're watching the games at home, I have to do this little dance of watching in a separate room while at times walking back and forth between the rooms at Clint's calmer moments - if there are any. A lot of times I have to shut the door and even that doesn't help. I'm not dissing Clint, I'm really dissing myself. I'm just not the GUNG HO fan that most SEC fans are.

Then, of course, there is this need to watch every game on TV, listen to Paul Finbaum (sp) ever second we're in the car and hogging the computer visiting au.com, rivals or any other site that is in the know about stats, recruits, team news and etc. But the worst is planning our life around a game. i.e.

Me: "Clint, guess what Mom and Dad have offered to take us on a all expense paid trip to Brazil!!" Clint: "No way, do you know how many games will miss and I seriously doubt they pick up the games in Brazil."

Or another example:

Me: "So we're finally getting married, YAY, I was thinking of a Fall wedding, what do you think?" Clint: "Only if we get married Mon-Fri. or on a Sunday. Don't forget Fall is football season..."

Okay, I'm exaggerating a little about the Brazil trip - a little but the "Can't get married on a Saturday in Fall" is totally true! So, it's kind of taken the fun out of football season for me. I still find myself giddy at times, but it's definitely become a "I can totally live without it" feeling.

So, there we were last Saturday watching Auburn get beat by LSU. Dax was constantly running to me wanting to do something else because he wasn't just bored out of his mind, he was a bit upset. Why wouldn't he be. Clint was upset at the game and was vocalizing this at the TV. Unknowingly he was in danger of breaking the father son football bond without realizing it. Once I brought it to his attention, he stopped of course and made more of an effort to "act" happy.

I know, I know, Dax is only 3 and he's got so much more growing and learning to do when it comes to appreciating football but if he's personality is anything like mine, which sad to say he already shows many signs that it is, all it's going to take is a couple of bad memories and he's done. Let's just hope it's w/ football and not with Auburn. I mean, there's always baseball and soccer. Though it really wouldn't bother me much if football didn't interest Dax it would, however, bother me if he becomes an Alabama fan. ha ha Just kidding, of course. But that would break Clint completely. Seriously. And I'd have to repaint his room too. That would be tragic. If you've seen his room, you'd agree. But, if he did go BAMA it might serve Clint right for being so fanatical.

Until then, we'll just have to cross our fingers for more weekends like this one:

WALL-E

2011-09-27T12:55:00.000-05:00

Here is the picture to go with my Facebook status update a while ago. So you could see just how funny it really is. Check out that shirt his Aunt Sheila gave him. Aunt Sheila, he loves that shirt even though he can't appreciate the humor in it.- YET.

Facebook 9/8: My son has a new lovey-a small food scale. He thinks it's WALL-E. I can't believe he fell asleep holding a 5x3.5" plastic square that measures chicken by the oz. We may be weird but atleast we're not dull... :o)

Mouse Powell

2011-09-27T12:26:00.002-05:00

FINALLY after approximately a year of eluding capture of every mouse trap known to man or rodents, alike, (not to mention rat poison) I finally caught the tiny terror. Thanks to my two cats along with my own cat like reflexes this little feral dude is on his way to being domesticated.

I'm sure you're thinking,

"did I just read domesticated? Wait, doesn't she mean executed?"

Nope, you read right. After all this time of outsmarting man and his deadly contraptions. It just doesn't seem right to kill him. I kind of have respect for my bug eyed nemeses that I've tried to get rid of for so long. Dax took a peek and said

"Awe, he's a cute little mousey! Hey little fella - hey cute mousy - wanna play?"

That just about did it...definitely helped sway my decision towards mercy for mousey.

This mouse has been around so long it's almost as if he's apart of the family. Like a disturbed sibling that wreaks habit but you are so use to him being part of a weekly (if not daily) ritual of trying to catch him. I think he's earned the family name.

When I asked D to name him, he looked at him and hollered

"HEY MOUSE! WHAT'S YOUR NAME MOUSE?"

After all, I admit, I'm not grossed out by mice (*Rats- now that's DEFINITELY a different story) but ever since I was a kid I thought they were cute. Sure, they are disease ridden and leave tiny droppings which disgusts me to no end especially because I use Clorox to clean up where they've left tiny droppings and I hate the smell of Clorox. You know if you caught me in the middle of cleaning up where they've been and you were to ask me what I think about mice, I'd absolutely be singing a different tune. I'd want to recommend mouse genocide. But, put that same mouse in a little small house with a tiny litter box and wallah, you've got a fun funky little pet that will run up and down your arms. How do I know this? How do you think?

I would like you to meet Mr. Ben "the Mousey" Powell - formerly known as Pest!

Pet Mouse... Seem strange? Yeah it is. But at least we're not this bad off. I would never write a song or a movie about a mouse. But I do sing the song to him. "Ben, your always running here and there, you feel you're not wanted - anywhere.... ;o)

FYI: Have your own mouse problem? Don't call Pest Control or what most people refer to as the Bug Man. Most don't do that type of pests. Or at least our Pest Control doesn't. We use A-1 and I absolutely adore them. Especially the reminder calls from his wife (who in 20 years not once altered her tone or script when leaving the message). However, they won't whack a mouse for you, so you'll need to seek out a special pest control for that.

Sadly to say that "Ben" didn't live but a little over a week in captivity. I don't think that's why he died b/c as soon as he got his own little house he seemed as happy as could be. I think the kitties had probably hurt him before I got to him. I'm not even joking when I say we miss him. Dax and I had fun letting him swim in the bathtub everyday.

That Old Sad Song

2011-04-26T09:16:00.000-05:00

I'm of course dancing the same jig and singing the same old song that I never have enough time to do the things on the computer that I wish I could. In a perfect world I could put the world on pause while I

Uploaded all our pictures along with our weekly story because as any mother knows life with a 2 1/2 year old is an adventure everyday.
Catch up on all my friends' blogs
Catch up on all my friends' updates on Facebook
Google every little question that pops through my nerdtastic brain so I can honestly say "I'm all pointless info knowing"

However, my computer time has once again shrunken to a minute above nonexistent thanks to life drama, attempts to exercise off 30 lbs of extra "M&M's are the devil" weight, ~~teaching~~ chasing Dax, yard work and etc. I'm sure it will be back on again sometime in the future. May not be until Dax graduates from elementary, but I remain optimistic yet.

A Little Peep

All the while Dax is growing and changing fast. Right now the quickest way to sum up D is he talks as well as most 4-5 year olds (like I've said before, as much as I talk, there are no surprises there) I constantly have to remind my Godson, Isaac, along with his other big kid friends, that Dax is only 2.

Curls curls curls! He's often mistaken for a girl. The other night Clint put one of my headbands on Dax and I about fell out. He did look like a girl. Not only did he look like a girl, but a beautiful angelic looking little girl. Not sure how to feel about that. Mixed feelings for sure. But no worries, he's definitely ALL boy. Cars, trucks, tractors, boats and more cars are his favorite things. He's the pickiest eater on the planet! So Mama is having to get tricky to get him to eat healthy. Hopefully that will suffice for the family reading that wants to know what's going on in D's world. I'll add pics to go with the news in later posts that will hopefully be up sooner than later.

Road Kill Educational Program At Bham Zoo? You Betcha!

2011-04-04T10:04:00.001-05:00

Dax and I got a chance to go to the Zoo with Isaiah's class on their field trip. For D, going to the Zoo is fun, but going with older kids is down right "big boy" fun. Other than getting hit with a huge migraine half way through the trip, I had some "grown-up" fun myself. And by grown up fun I don't mean throwing back a few Budweisers while pushing a stroller around. I mean getting my authority on by seeing who could yell the loudest at a couple of unruly kids or counting how many times I got to tell them "no" in 5 mins or making fun of the other shady weirdo chaperon mom that was in our group (okay, I'm totally kidding of course... about the making fun part...). Between the shady chaperon mom, the exhilarating educational program and wanting to tangle with a 7 year old it really was quite the day.

Last Thursday was cold and overcast but a great time at the zoo. Good thing we didn't need the sun to have fun. Which did come out as bright as ever AS soon as we got home. Quick! how many as's in that sentence - without looking?

I love the zoo, but really hate that I do have to add it to the list of migraine triggers. I think the smell coupled with looking left to right constantly, totally did it. Thinking back, I got a migraine the last 2 trips to the zoo. Bummer.

The kids we had in our group were a lot of fun. They were so sweet to Dax and really looked out for him. Good apples in my book. We had 2 other chaperon moms besides me and Leandra and one Grandmother. The other 2 moms were nice. Well, one of them was anyways even though neither of them seemed to have cared that the kids would run off and totally disappear from sight. Maybe I'm just knew to this chaperon thing, but isn't that the point? To make sure the kids in your group don't get lost or kidnapped by some pedophile. I don't know, maybe me and Leandra take the job of parents entrusting their children to us a little too serious?!?! Well, even if I am, I don't plan on changing. I'm sure Le doesn't either.

For fun, I have to tell you about the educational program that 3 old ladies from the zoo put on for the kids. You'd expect them to pick some exotic animals to pull out, show off and tell us about them. Right? Uh, no. If I'd have been editing the agenda pamplets to hand out, I would have entitled this "educational" program - Name That Road-Kill. The animals they did pick to show to the kids were a possum, a lizard (geico [sp] to be exact), and a screech owl. Oh, they did show a boa constrictor, but it was the length of my arm. I couldn't help but laugh out loud when the old lady said: "Now, when I bring this BIG boy out, nobody scream..." Pa-leez lady. I know these kids are young but that's no reason to patronize them. ha ha.

For a total WTHay moment. While the kids were playing on the zoo playground where they had a fake rock formation with a tunnel. A 6-7 year old kid came running out of the tunnel. Dax just happened to be standing there, minding his own business and this kid looks over at him and then pushes him (for no reason) so hard he sends D flying. Landing only an inch or two away from the fence. If ever I wanted to hurt a child, this was it. Did I cause a scene. No, I scolded the kid to never push anyone - and that D is just a baby but that's just about it. I know I know. Mom to the rescue? total failure. If I was a quick thinker, I'd have discreetly reached under the kids arm, grabbed a pinch of the fat piece and twisted it until the kid came off the ground. Hear comes my Dr. Eveeel laugh...

So, all in all it really was a wonderful trip, that I will take again. Migraine or no. Spending time with Leandra and the kids is always a blast and seeing Dax laugh and run and know he had a wonderful time is totally worth suffering a migraine. I'll just bring a bucket of Maxalt with me and maybe a few other provisions to keep me better laid back and chill. That way if I encounter the bully kid from Hades again, I won't go to jail.

Ian and Dax

Poor Dax, one day he'll be tall enough

The Lion's loose!!!!

This would be right b/f it devoured my child. I can't help but think of Alfred Hitchcock's movie when seeing this picture. You know which one.

Among her many talents

My 2nd Godson, Isaiah

Riding the train is some serious business

So is being in the cage with a wild bird

Oh, to be a kid...

Pass me the Bongos, Daddy-o

Me & D

Rocky Mountain High

The Obvious Next Burning Question Is

2011-03-16T08:15:00.005-05:00

For 6-7 years Clint and I endured the question "So when are y'all going to tie the knot?" (and every imaginable variation). Finally, after marrying we graduated to the question of "when do you guys plan on having a baby?" Then Dax arrived and that of course, lead to the obvious next question of "Do you plan on having more?" or from those who know me well enough to ask "When are you going to have more?"

I have to admit, when it came to the marriage question I used to get highly annoyed. In my defense, being a total product of my generation, I often felt "why? Why do these people keep hounding me - why do they think for me to have a happy and meaningful life I must settle down and have children." The notion that my life was on stand still until I did so really aggravated me. But, in their defense, after 6 years of dating the same guy, why not go ahead and get married? ha ha. It's not like I was against it, even though I did joke about it from time to time.

Either way, I never handled that question well. Some of those people's comments could be really rude and intrusive. In the end when asked I'd say, "we don't believe in marriage." Or if you got me on a bad day, my answer was much worse: "we plan on living out the rest of our lives in sin!" I know, I know. Totally ridiculous and I severely needed an attitude adjustment over the whole ordeal. Don't worry, I got it. I always get what's coming to me.

After we got hitched it was time for a new repetitive question which is "when do you plan on having a baby" My attitude towards this question was much different. After years of extremely painful cycles like SEVERE cluster migraines, debilitating cramps, 5 lbs water weight gain (sometimes more) for a week, ankle pain and lethargy. I was aware that I could have problems with getting pregnant. I had never done the procedures to make sure or prove this, but most of the females on one side of the family had to have hystorectomies within one or two years of the age I was at that time. With my problems, I was sure that I would be just like them. So when Clint and I got ready, I went straight to the Doc to make sure those worries weren't valid. Due to a small thyroid problem and the need to see an Endocrinologist it was a total of 6 months before I was even allowed to see if those problems existed much less get pregnant.

You'd think I would have dreaded the baby question. On the contrary. I'd would talk to anybody that would listen. I think I needed that. I needed to hear their thoughts and I definitely needed their prayers because I was one basket case. I woke up obsessed and concerned with fear over not being able to get pregnant - I went to bed obsessed with the same. It was not a fun time in my life. Finally I had an HSG and found out that everything was in perfect working order. It was such a relief. That left me with only one problem to overcome. Easy fix with Clomid (fertility drug) and 3 months later we were over the moon with a Big Fat Positive pee stick.

So that leaves us with a new question to be brought up in small talk and asked by everyone and their mother. "Do you want more? When do you plan on having more? With this question I'm so much more laid back. I never mind being asked. I know people are curious, and so am I when it comes to other people and myself. Admit it, it's a fun question to ask.

The only problem is, that though some of us know how to answer, it's not the answer people are expecting but really should. So, if you are one of those that have been wondering (like so many here lately). I thought I'd go ahead and formally answer this one here and now. Plus, my short answer can being confusing and probably quite awkward for the person asking. I don't know why, it's not at all awkward for me. I think they feel they should pity me or something, but they really shouldn't.

drum roll please....

The answer... to the burning question...will Clint and Teri give it another go?

ANSWER: I DON'T KNOW. The truth is, is that Clint and I want another child - we'd take as many as we're blessed with. However, there is only one person that knows the answer and so far he's not telling. ;o)

Over a year ago, I went on Clomid for 3 months. Things weren't so easy that time around. The serious Clomid side effects were so bad that I wasn't in the mood to do anything. I didn't even put up my Christmas tree from the lethargy. The mood swings were so bad that I couldn't even stand to sit in the room with myself. So I stopped the Clomid and decided that if we are to have another, it's going to be without the help of fertility drugs. Which did happen one time, but sadly ended in a miscarriage.

Now that's where the pity from other folks might come in. To them it seems as if we are trying but are unsuccessful and are sad about it. What they don't understand is that Clint and I have made peace with the possibility of not having another.

We'd feel wrong and selfish for getting bummed out if we're not able to have another one. God gave us Dax and he is more than we could have imagined so, that being said we are truly - TRULY blessed. If God sees fit to bless us again, we will be ecstatic. We don't expect it, but we wouldn't be surprised either. Who are we to know what his plan is for us.

That's what's most important. His plan. I trust that he knows what's best for our lives in serving his purpose and knowing that, gives me all the peace in the world.

I do have to say, most graciously, THANK YOU for all of those who are sharing your stories and pictures on Facebook and Blogger. It seems as if every time I log on, someone else is pregnant. I have a sister-in-law and two cousins who are also prego. You'd think I'd be kinda of jealous - jealous may not be the right word, maybe sad. Totally happy for their blessing but sad because it's a reminder. Surprisingly I'm not. I'm having so much fun going through this wonderful time in all your lives that it's as if I'm living vicariously through you for a couple of minutes a day. It's good medicine for the babyitis. They are so sweet.

Only I don't have the sleep depravity, crazy hormones that takes a year to go back to normal and all the other fun stuff that comes along postpartum. ;o) It brightens my day. There are so many new babies to go nuts over. And of course IF in a couple of years we never do get our 2nd - there's always adoption. There is a calling for adoptive parents, and right now I don't feel that calling myself. But as we all know, time changes everything.

There may be a time where we want to go all out and give fertility a try, a decent try this time but right now we just aren't there. So for now, we don't try but we don't prevent.

I would ask you to keep us in your prayers, but I'd rather you pray for those who have no children and are going through infertility. It is a really REALLY painful thing to deal with. Just the scare of it for 6 months was enough for me. There are those who have been trying for years. Infertility seems rampant this day in age, and though there are amazing doctors and procedures to overcome it, it's still not 100% guarantee. Invitro doesn't always work. Most people who haven't gone through infertility really aren't able to sympathize. Often they think, "why don't they just adopt." But like I said, adoption isn't for everyone. Plus there is something about not being able to have your own child that makes most women feel like... well... not a woman. So again, keep them in your prayers.

For now we have a fast growing little man that does more than enough to fill my time and keep us occupied. I can't believe he was once so small. I also can't believe he's 2 and a half with 3 just around the corner It is coming too fast.

I kind of went crazy with the picture adding to this post, but I couldn't help it. Where did the time go!!??

From Dax Delivery in St.V

From Dax

From Standing and Stranded

From 1 - 9 Days of Christmas

From Autumn 2009

From Winter 2009

From Spring 2010

From Summer 2010

From Winter 2010

February's Run Down Post is coming, just got to add pictures. It used to not take so long, but these days with D's help, it takes much much longer .

Do you Google?

2011-02-26T12:42:00.002-06:00

Bing? Yahoo?
I'm totally not making this stuff up to be funny. However, I do find it humorous after the fact. The other day I started to Google something in my search engine. As soon as I put the first letter, a whole list of previous searches starting with that letter popped up. As I went down the list I couldn't believe that I actually Googled that. From A-Z here are some of my previous searches.

1. Addicting games Not funny, but what in the world??

2. Cutting the Cheese (this has to be one of Clint's...) This is some of the results: Redeye Cut the Cheese Rally or Play Free Games - The Art of Cutting the Cheese 4kids.tv

3. Do Mice have memory (easily could have been one of Mine, but I think this was Clint's) As always, the ever dependable Wikipedia gave this: Hippocampus

4. Do woodchucks really exist Well, do they? Don't you just LOVE Wikipedia!?! Woodchucks/Groundhogs

5. Do Woodchucks chuck wood Am I the only one that is completely bothered by the GEICO car insurance commercial?? It aggravates me every time it airs. Why? Because Woodchucks don't chuck wood. Or so says the tongue twister:

"How much wood would a woodchuck chuck

if a woodchuck could chuck wood?

A woodchuck would chuck all the wood he could

IF a woodchuck could chuck wood!"

Of course I had to make sure: And the answer is... If you have time to read this and actually want and do read this (in its entirety), then you are more of a psycho than I am.

6. Emeril Meatloaf Recipe: Which is FYI: Emeril's Most Kicked Up Meatloaf Ever Recipe

7. Is DJ Lance Gay - If you have a kid 5 or younger, you know who DJ Lance is, and admit it. You know you've wondered this yourself... DJ Lance Rock Dance

8. What are the lyrics to Yo Gabba Gabba It's very probable that I'm deaf in one ear due to loud music. So I'm often singing the wrong lyrics to songs because I didn't hear them correctly. After hearing this song over and eventually trying to sing it back out loud - I thought to myself. "Surely that's not what they are singing. I kid you not - this is what I heard when Yo Gabba Gabba comes on:

"Muno - He's so unfriendly,"
"Foofa - she's stinkin happy,"
Brobee, the little mean one...

So, I finally had to look it up. Yo Gabba Gabba Lyrics Just like I've done with many a song. Thank goodness for internet. Without it I would have continued wondering why that guy on the radio (when I was a kid) kept singing "You're only Bologna (Ba-lon-ee)." In comes the internet ~ many years later ~ and I finally get the answer to that vexing question - I now know he wasn't singing "you're only balonee", he was singing You're Only Lonely - J.D. Souther

9. What is the best glue for bonding human hair to a pumpkin I'm totally not making this up!! In case you're wondering why I was searching for this - well, I'm just going to leave you with what ever you imagination will come up with. I will share what the internet provided: Bond A Weave Liquid Gold Adhesive Welp, if it's good enough for a weave...

10. This one is out of order, but considering recent media events, it was a good one to leave off on...
Was Toomer's Corner rolled the day Bear Bryant Passed Away I did put this question in various forms. Did Auburn fans roll Toomer's Corner in celebration of Paul Bear Bryant Passing... Any way you could pose this question, I typed it in. By far, this was the most informative link I could find - on the internet. I didn't want to know bad enough to go get in the car and drive down to Birmingham Public Library to find out for Absolute Sure. However, this guy did - well, not to BPL, but the closest one to him...Did Auburn Students Celebrate Bear Bryant's Death By Rolling Toomer's Corner?

(Did anyone else noticing that guy is wearing a skirt - pleated no less...)

These weren't by far the most interesting but then again some things just aren't meant to be shared... ;o)

So, What's in your Google?? Search Engine, that is...

Ask and You Shall Receive

2011-02-19T05:58:00.002-06:00

Dax is the lightest sleeper on the face of the earth, besides me of course. Snap your fingers, and he's wide awake. I know all of you with Toddlers know about the 5 minute nap. They fall asleep in the car on the way home for 5 minutes and think they've had their nap for the day. You always try to get them from the car to the bed and tucked in without waking them up. Doing so is one tall order. Winter makes this twice as hard since you have a coat, hat and etc. to pull off without waking your sleeping angel. Oh and heaven forbid they need a diaper change.

Which was the case with Dax this day because he'd finished off an entire fruit shoot in the car. Nonetheless, this was the challenge I was presented with a couple of days ago. Who says God doesn't have a sense of humor. I'm also starting to get the impression that he listens to our subconscious pleas. Remember my last post... Here lately, I constantly, "subconsciously and consciously" whine about not being able to get one waking minute to myself, though I've never prayed about it. ;o) This day, it was as if God was saying "Okay I get it, my seemingly ungrateful and whiney child, Here's a chance for you to have that minute to yourself but first you must complete your challenge. Manage to get Dax undressed and diaper changed without waking him and you get 1-2 hours to catch up on chores. (Usually Dax has to have me ly down with him to take a nap - me lying down for 10 minutes puts me out like a light so I end up napping with him. Him napping without me is a rare occasion, esp. lately)

I figured it was a long shot but with 1-2 hours of free time at stake, you know I had to try... Game On!

The Challenge: Getting Dax tucked into proper nap position so he doesn't awaken too soon uncomfortable and freaked out.

The Dilemma: He needs a diaper change AND there are no sheets on the bed due to wash day.

Play Call: Forget trying to put sheets on the bed before nap, that's just too impossible but diaper must be changed otherwise mattress will get ruined since mattress cover is also in the wash.

Round 1: Shoes, Socks and Pants.

Round 2: Unbelievable, Diaper changed!!

Round 3: Toboggan off! Whew that was a close one, but will she be able to swing the coat?

Round 4: One arm out.

Round 5: Both arms out! All that's left now is sliding his rain coat out from under him.

She did it! She did it! By Golly, she did it!!

Can you believe that I didn't even have sheets on D's bed either. Not that it matters, he never uses it. I don't know why I still wash them with the other linens, he doesn't even use his bed for naps. The other day I almost thought about taking the bed completely down, but somehow I'd feel guilty by doing that. However, it definitely needs to go back into his room, but taking it completely down is the same as saying we're not even going to try to break the co-sleeping habit at all. What do you think?

And So It's Twenty Eleven

2011-02-18T08:22:00.000-06:00

Kid you are all up in my personal space is something Dax gets told at least 3 times a week. Through frustrated looks of course. I never say that out loud, because, well, he's 2 and he's actually supposed to be all up in my space.

[As I type right now, he's sitting in my lap trying to block my view of the screen by putting his face right in mine and repeating "Mama!! What are you doing?!?" over and over and over. crazy kid...]

I would however enjoy a 15 minute break every now and then when I can do something like - Oh - I don't know - go to the bathroom, load the dishwasher, pay bills online without Dax saying "Can I hold you?" Of course it's terribly sweet, but after several months of things piling up and not getting done, I'm starting to get all hot and bothered just thinking about finishing a task such as doing the laundry. I kid you not!

I'm seriously having sweet dreams about getting usually dreaded errands/duties done? That's because "me time" is absolutely out of the question (I mean, I can't even do chores without entertaining my child). Actually hearing someone complain about the word "me time" makes me want to projectile vomit! Okay, now I'm being unfair and I know everyone needs a little "me time" but if you have a kid that's 2ish, that's just not realistic. Not with my 2yr old anyway. A female living in my world doesn't even get to bath alone. Personal hygiene such as shaving my legs has to be done in secret in the wee hours of the morning when everyone's asleep. But that's another story...

Though I would definitely love to say I've learned to manage my time, until I do I console myself with the fun of having a two year old. The way I see it, is this kind of sweet SWEET blessing doesn't come without a price. If being the hairy legged pony tail wearing / au naturale looking female as well as all the other things listed above is the only price I have to pay, then I'll gladly do so.

Actually, if I'm able to get myself in the right mind set, then sitting back and letting Dax "hold you" is pretty relaxing. I'm painfully aware that there will be a day when I long to hear that phrase just one more time..

I'm really embarrassed to complain about not finding time because of my two year old when around those such as my SIL who has 5 kids and another one on the way. I was relieved by what she told my mom, that it really did seem harder to manage 1 child than it does with her 5. I guess maybe because by the 2nd to 5th child you've figured out how to juggle everything.
[Does Teri ever find a happy medium between juggling chores, raising her child and getting time to address personal hygiene for herself? tune in to next months episode entitled "IT"to find out]

Global Warming Is Just Being Coy
When I was a kid it snowed at least once every year. Then, for at least a decade, it seems, we only got snow every two to three years. Now we are back in the good ole days (though anyone reading this right now would be thinking "HUH?!") and since Dax has been alive it has snowed every year. He's only two but he's experienced snow 4 times. Pretty cool in my opinion.

We were surprised at Dax. The first thing he did when he got out in the snow was lay down in it and say Snow Angel! I don't recall teaching him that, but who knows. Don't have a pic of it b/c the camera I have at the moment is a bit slow. Can't wait until I get MINE back.

Oh, gonna have a lot of plants to replace this Spring. Hope this won't be one of them.

Waste Nothing Want Nothing
Clint and Dax coloring on the backside of old unwanted unused wrapping paper. Some people have an addiction to buying shoes, I have an addiction to buying wrapping paper. So, when I run out of room to store all of the rolls I have, instead of throwing unused ones away, I let Dax do his thing. He loves it. It's like a never ending piece of paper and then of course there's the big cardboard roll that ~~kids~~ everybody loves to play with.

DIY Queen
We finally started staining our customized EC that we had Carpenter Rick build. Maybe one of these days we'll finish, so the Rick can come back over and finish putting the doors on it and get it lifted and mounted to the wall. Seeing how long it takes me to get through our usual weekly 6-7 loads of clothes, it might be a while. Especially considering all the other DIY stuff around our old house that needs to be done. I'm really starting to get that itch to build. Not ready to scratch it yet, but... it's definitely getting my attention. Sounds like it's time for a vote:

Say What?
Dax has some new phrases that's been around for a few months, but he's mastered to the point that he's even got both Clint and I repeating them as well. So, I thought this month would be a good time to share:
1. Don't worry Mama, we'll help you. (when he's asked where something is and we tell him we don't know. i.e. "where's Brobee Bear?" "I don't know baby, where did you leave it?" "Don't worry Mama, we'll help you!")
2. Daddy Up! (Anytime he sees Clint doing push ups he runs and gets on his back and proceeds to tell Clint to continue by saying that)
3. U Poot Daddy (I think you've got an idea why he says this - it's just so darn cute the way he says it)
4. Excuse you (After he's burped - on purpose I might add) Which is a step up from Dear old Dad b/c when Clint belches (or passes gas) he says "bless me." He claims that he can never remember the phrase appropriate. I think he's just being silly. ha ha. That or he just wants me to explain ~ just one more time ~ that you don't say "bless me" when you you burp, you say it when someone else sneezes and they're supposed to say it to you, you don't say it to yourself.
5. NO THANK YOU!!! [loudly and sternly] He says this when he doesn't want to put a shirt on, socks on or anything he needs and he feels we are trying to force on him.

Instead of Dax being the mockingbird and mocking everything we say, Clint and I have found ourselves mocking him or using his phrases when talking to each other ourselves. It's too funny.

A Lifetime of Waiting!
You know I wasn't going to miss Auburn's celebration for the 2010 National Championship. After my generation witnessing more than one undefeated season without a shot at the Championship it was super sweet to see Auburn finally get that shot and take it - What an awesome year and what a fun day of celebrating. The man responsible for my Auburn fanaticism, Uncle Alan, took Leah, Tracey (his daughters) Katie (their friend) and myself down to the celebration. Clint would have been there if he wouldn't of had to work.

Thought of the Day: Governor Bentley, I know your Alma Mater is University of Alabama, but did you have to mention their championships at our party?? Rudely played, Sir, rudely played.

Me, Tracey, Katie and Leah

Uncle Alan and Me sans cool crocheted hat

I really wish I had more pictures, but like I said above, I don't have my camera, so until then I'm having to make due with the huge dinosaur digital. It's still a great camera, it just doesn't take very good pictures in low light - which seems to be the setting for all my pictures and I hate the flash.

Not The Throne, Not Yet!

2011-02-01T11:01:00.006-06:00

Dax's potty sits lonely in the dark, collecting dust and sometimes serves as a table for our reading material. Way back when (so long ago now that I can't even remember how long ago) Dax starting becoming a big boy, he started telling me his diaper was wet and when he wanted new britches. He was very curious about the toilet. In my excitement I went out and purchased pull ups and pulled his potty out of the box and set it up. After he thoroughly inspected it by taking it back apart, piece by piece he sat it down, never to show interest in it again. He actually won't go near it. As if the scary monster is going to eat him.

Everyday ritual for the past 6 months:

Me: "Dax, do you want to use your potty?"
D:    "No Thank You."
Me: "Hey Dax, Come here and sit on the potty, please"
D:     "NO! [poutey tone and face] I don't want it!!"

Or

Me: "What's wrong Dax, why are you running away?"
D:    "Scary Monster! There's a Monster I don't like!!"

We've tried books and I've even talked Clint into thinking it's his responsibility to teach him/train him to pee in the potty. Least Clint wants his son to squat, sit and pee like a girl. That didn't work either. A total no go. And now Clint's hesitant to keep taking him when Clint's got to go because Dax just stands there and tries to catch pee in his hand like he thinks a young "grasshoppa" should.

I have to take a moment out to tell you a funny story about a friend of ours teaching his son to go pee pee in potty by demonstration. After taking his son with him numerous times to the potty and saying "see, now do what Daddy does and go pee pee," his son finally got the point and proceeding to go pee pee like Daddy was doing, only little guy proceeded to go pee pee on Daddy's leg rather than the potty. Well, at least he's getting some of the lesson. LOL.

No matter what I say or when I say it, he wants nothing to do with his potty. I'm starting to wonder if it's the potty that's unappealing to him. Adding to that thought, when we were at Target, he saw the frog potty (which is cheaper there than at Wally World - surprise surprise) he said, "Mama, can I have froggy potty?"

I know, totally TERRIFYING, Isn't it?!?

For now, he's just content with his diapers being changed. In August, when he turns 3, if he still wants nothing to do with potty training, I'm giving in and buying the frog potty to see if we have better luck with it.


At least he's got the reading material habit down and knows you can't rush a good service.

FRA - GIL - EE

2011-01-21T16:24:00.000-06:00

It's crazy to sit and think back on all the reasons I used to tell myself that I wasn't ready for kids yet (years ago). "I'm not ready to give up my cool, pretty, or pricey house ornaments and replace them with pieces of toys, broken crayons and kiddy books strolled out all over the floor"... You'd think that I was being insanely materialistic, but actually it was just because I just wasn't ready for children yet and I'd use the dumbest of excuses to let myself off the hook.

That's strange to me, especially since I've had nieces and nephews way before that time and if they broke something I thought was important to me, it took all of 2 seconds to get over it. Because actually, their feelings and importance of exploration was 10 times more important than some meaningless object I'd probably paid too much for anyway. I should've guessed that I'd care even less about my own child breaking my pretty things.

This Christmas has been a test to that thought. So far Dax has put the following Christmas Decorations out of commission:

1. Crystal C-mas Tree embellished with sterling silver ornaments placed on a musical stand.
2. Bisque porcelain Santa Clause .
3. My favorite "Best Stressed" Dolly Mama's (he opened the presents she was holding - ha ha ha and pulled off the lights)

4. "A Christmas Story" Leg Lamp brought back from Ohio (where the movie was filmed) by my Aunt Sheila [salvaged by crazy glue and a little black paint]
5. Ceramic Japanese Geisha tree ornament that my Late Grandmother made (this one will actually survive thanks to crazy glue as well).
6. Santa Clause Candy cane holder.
7. Tall whimsical ceramic Santa Clause (Little guy must have something against the jolly man - that probably won't last. Especially when he figures out that Santa is the one that checks his list twice. He'll stop being Naughty and give a tryout to being Nice.
8. Huge Bowl Apple Cinnamon Candle

I know there was more, but right now I'm hard pressed to remember. Why? Because they are, of course, only things. It's safe to say I passed this test with flying colors. I had to act upset more than I was to be sure he understood that it's not okay to break things.

I like to look on the bright side: It was taking me way too long to put up all my C-mas decorations anyways and another thing is that I still have plenty of stuff left to put back into storage and break out next year for their next fight for survival.

A Compromising Recipe

2011-01-15T09:32:00.001-06:00

Would this make you mad?

Finally after years of having and never using my springform pan, I found a recipe that called for one - well one that I liked anyways. So, I made the cheesecake put it in the fridge b/c it was supposed to be chilled overnight. Went and put D down for a nap - decided to join him. Woke up, went to the fridge to get something to drink and this is what I saw...

HA HA. Clint must have went to the fridge for the same thing and saw this and thought JACKPOT. He pulled the springform off of it too soon. Like 3 hours too soon.

Since, I didn't get to have the fun of pulling the springform off myself. I made another one. This time it was done right and spent the necessary 4 hours in the fridge. We ate dinner with my parents last night. So at least we won't be consuming two cheesecakes back to back. We don't need to gain anymore weight!

Clint's crazy pay is Cheesecake. My weakness is Pumpkin Pie. Everything about mine and Clint's 11 -12 year relationship has been about compromise being that we are polar opposites. So why should recipes be any different.

Our dessert compromise:

Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake

(just like everybody else, I change recipes to make it perfect for us. * I've typed out what I used beside what it called for)

Nabisco Ginger Snaps, finely crushed (about 1 1/2 cups) / INSTEAD I USE *1 1/2 cups of Oats and Honey Bars finely crushed (like Nature Valley)
1/2 cup finely chopped Pecans
1/4 cup butter, melted / I JUST USE *1/4 cup Fleshman's made w/ Olive Oil - no need to melt
4 pkg. (8 oz. each) Cream Cheese, softfened
1 cup sugar, divided
1 tsp. vanilla
4 eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
Dash ground cloves

PREHEAT oven to 325F. Mix ginger snap crumbs, pecans and butter; press firmly onto bottom and 1 inch up side of 9-inch springform pan.

BEAT cream cheese, 3/4 cup of sugar and vanilla with electric mixer until well blended. Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until blended.

REMOVE 1 1/2 cups plain batter; place in small bowl. Stir remaining 1/4 cup sugar, pumpkin and spices into remaining batter. Spoon half of the pumpkin batter into crust; top with spoonfuls of half of the reserved plain batter. Repeat layers. Cut through batters with knife several times for swirl effect.

BAKE 55 mins. or until center is almost set. Cool completely. Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight. Cut into 16 slices. Store leftover cheescake in refrigerator.

Makes 16 servings, 1 slice each.

HOW-TO: Don't have a springform pan? You can bake this cheesecake in a 13x9-inch baking dish. Line the dish with foil, with ends of foil extending over sides of pan. Prepare as directed, decreasing baking time to 45 min. or until center is almost set.

If you need visuals for making cheesecakes, go to kraftfoods.com and search for "cheesecake."

Kissin Kousins, Terrible Two's, Box Forts and Hair Do's

2011-01-14T14:28:00.001-06:00

NOT! But I thought that would get your attention...
Huggin - Lovin Cousins is more like it.

Dax and Hannah, who are 3rd cousins, are going to be really good buddies. They both get so excited when they see each other. It's so precious to see them constantly hugging each other.

This picture was taken when Clint's Aunt Marsha, (Glenda's sister and Hannah's Grandmother) Clint's Mom, Glenda, and Hannah came down to eat lunch with us. We had a hard time getting them in the car because they didn't want to stop playing and when we split them up to go in separate cars he cried "Hannah!!" all the way to our Burger King. Too bad we don't have pics from there, because Clint and I both had to climb in the huge slide in order to help Dax and Hannah climb the steps. Quite a sight, but so much fun. I can't believe Clint didn't get stuck because I barely had room myself and I'm half the size of Clint.

I know I'm going to sound like a broken record, but I've got to explain - AGAIN. Updating D's page on a "normal basis" has become just about impossible. You couldn't imagine how much time it can take for some posts (especially update ones). It's a shame too, because this is such an extremely fun time in our lives. I've not given up hope on updating what I've missed posting during the Summer and Fall, but if I don't let it go for now, I'll never pick up posting again. So to fix this, I'm just going to give you the quickest "bringing you up to speed" I can and then start posting from here on and HOPEFULLY - maybe later (yeah right!! wishful thinking is an understatement) I'll fill in the blanks of what has become our Summer Season ending and Fall Season all together.

Let's get this party started...

Terrible Two's? Not so far. I braced myself for them as I knew they were coming. I thought they'd actually come early at one time when Dax had a couple of meltdowns a while back. That is until I figured out the problem.

While pregnant, I read mountains of parenting information to ready myself. Though I think for the most part it's wasted effort since every child can present VERY different circumstances, it was interesting nonetheless.

Some of the knowledge I gained by doing this did actually help in keeping me calm when circumstances did arise that would have seemed very abnormal had I not read about strange things such as "night terrors."

Not sure that Dax has them, but he does wake up crying and distraught off and on since he was probably around 9 mos.   When we'd try to awaken him and calm him down is when these meltdowns would occur.

I finally figured out that even though his eyes were wide open and that he was screaming words while stomping around, he actually wasn't awake. I think he is still asleep when he does this. So now when he's asleep at night or during naps and starts crying or screaming, I don't try to awaken him. I just turn the TV on or up until he comes to. If the TV doesn't work, I have a series of steps I go through until he is really awake and stops crying. Worse case scenario leaves us on the last step of driving around in the car until he's really awake and calm.

Thank goodness for the Crane family's Home Christmas Light Extravaganza on MO Rd., because the last one was one of the worst and it took sitting in their driveway, tuned to their 88.1 station (for the music that the lights are timed to) before he came to.

Hmm [finger taping] Let's see, what else happened over the past 2 seasons that was big enough to mention?.... Two big things that come to mind (well, big in the world of a toddler mom anyways).

1. Dax started sleeping in the bed with Clint and I. He's slept in his own crib in his own room since 4 mos. But back in August, we had a house guest for a couple of weeks. So, instead of putting our house guest in the finished attic room upstairs (which is really hot during the summer because of heat rising) we let him stay in Dax's room. So, Dax started sleeping in our bed and has done so since;

and

2. Time for Dax to give up his pacifier. (Any mom knows, this one is a dreaded biggy!!) I dare you to say it's not.

Here we are with two habits that needed to be broken, one old - one new. There was no way I was going to tackle them both at the same time. Somehow I thought they'd both be equally difficult. WRONG!! Oh, thank goodness I was wrong.

I decided to get rid of the paci first because, to be honest, Clint and I LOVE Dax sleeping with us.

So I'd heard horror stories of paci weening failure. I personally know of parents who tried to avoid the paci from the beginning altogether just so they wouldn't have to go through weening their kids off.

Dax loved his paci and I just knew it was going to be hard. You are so not going to believe this - But, like Honest Abe (or was it George...?) anywho, Tero cannot tell a lie. Exaggerate in the name of good story telling - MAYBE. But lie? Never. Although I don't even have to exaggerate this. It's the honest to God truth that Dax cried one time during the first nap without his paci and never cried over it again. SERIOUSLY!!

Now, he did ask for it from time to time for about a week. I don't even think that long, but after we'd tell him that paci was gone gone. He'd go right to sleep or move on.

Totally awesome but I have to admit I'm a little scared about having to trade that dodged bullet in later on...

As far as the co-sleeping? Still going on. Like I said above, we love it. It's special to get in bed, say our prayers together, have him curl up between us, say our good nights like the Waltons (Me: "Good night Daddy" - Clint: "Good night Mama" - Me: "Good night Dax" - Dax "Good night Mama") Okay, you get the point... Turn off the TV and the lights and then have Dax start shouting "where's pooh" "where's race car" and just about 10 other toys he thinks he needs for bed. It's just fun. We don't intend on breaking that habit anytime soon - especially with this cold winter... ;o)

Okay kids, story time is now over.

Time for Pictures. HOORAY!

Nothing funner than Box Forts in the den - If you think this is just for his fun, you'd be wrong. Mama LOVES box forts or blanket forts/houses -whatnot.

Now as far as all the toys, that's D's idea. I just love the way he properly organizes them neatly in his new temporary digs. Thus proving OCD is completely genetic. Guess which one of us he got that from?

Dax eventually got a hair cut. Actually it was just a trim, but at least it calmed his wild hair down a bit.

At Grandmother's. Early Christmas present.

Christmas on the River 2010 with Clint's mother, Glenda and his sister, Diane: husband Cale. Their 3 sons of course: Austin, Anderson and Ashton

Austin

Anderson
Ashton

They love their Grandmother

Cale and a much MUCH better version of the light saber

What do you get kids that have everything? Aunt Tero took a chance on Nano Hexbugs...
Boba Fett's Helmet - How cool is that??

I guess by now you've picked up that I'm a Star Wars nerd.

Quick, what's worse than a Star Wars nerd?? A "female" Star Wars nerd.

However, I did have to look up how to spell Boba Fett's name. I would have put Bubbafet - though that doesn't make me any less of a nerd. Does it? Maybe a little bit?...

Clint, Glenda and Diane

Grandmother and ALL Grandsons. Maybe Clint and I will give her a granddaughter someday? After 4 grandsons though, she's probably given up hope.

He must have pooted...

That's all the time I have for now. But don't get too disappointed. I've got a couple of recent posts coming real soon and OH GOODY GUMDROPS - A recipe too!

Nope, your eyes aren't playing tricks on you. A recipe... And it's a cheese cake recipe. Don't fall of the edge of your seat! I'll be back in a jiffy.

Tis The Season and The Reason

2010-12-31T14:45:00.001-06:00

Nothing better than Christmas Leftovers:
SLEEPY HEAD

Uncle Merrill & Aunt Sherry

Natalie Ellen

Emma Brown
Leah, Claire and Isaac

Top: Emma Brown, Brian & Caleb, Clint, Aunt Sheila, Daddy, Leah, Bottom: Natalie Ellen, Me, Tracey, Dax, Claire, Owen, Uncle Alan

Caleb, Emma and Brian

Daddy

Claire

Clint & Dax

Tracey

Uncle Alan

Caleb

NUTBUSTERS!!

2010-12-07T08:45:00.002-06:00

My Fall obsession was not repairing drought damage to my landscape, Instead we've been completely ~~inundated~~ inutdated with pecans. Necessary requirements for a successful seasonal business:

1. A Willing Helper.

Check.

2. Product.

CHECK!!

3. A well thought out assembly line process. - Super check.

4. Presentation.

check.

For the most part, we've enjoyed our daily process. Picking up as many as we can in order to make room for all the ones that will drop the next day. Siting down and cracking them. On goes the gloves as I shell them and separate the easily cleaned ones from the pecans that need extra attention to clean out the crevices. Weigh em, bag em and then Cha Ching!

It's amazing how many pecans you can shell while watching the news, movies or spending time with the fam. Surprisingly, we've had company want to help out when over watching football games. Friends that didn't even like to eat nuts, just wanted to shell them (I think to break up the tension when our team wasn't doing so well).

Dax even gets in on the action of shelling. He said to me. "I help you" After grabbing one and picking a few pieces off, he put it in the bowl and said "I did it" for the next 5 minutes while running around. It's been a fun experience. Though they drop every year. we'll definitely look forward to doing this again next time we have a really good year for them. Which is typically every 4-5 years.

We cannot believe how many are still falling. We've sold close to 30 lbs and we have 10 lbs freshly shelled sitting in our fridge right now. A wonderful blessing at such a bad time in our economy.

If your pie is rank, and it needs some taste....

who you gonna call?....

(Sometimes it's fun to be a little cornballish)

A Lifetime of Special People

2010-10-29T08:33:00.002-05:00

Thanks to two very important people in my life, you will never - EVER - never hear me shout "Rammer Jammer - Yeller Hammer, Give 'em H---- AlabamER" with enthusiasm. My Uncle Alan and Aunt Sheila have played an extremely special role in my life for many reasons. Reasons having nothing to do with something as unimportant as football. However, despite that fact, every year when football season approaches and it's time to pull out my Auburn wardrobe, I usually say a little thank you to my Uncle for saving me from a life of wearing red, seeking as many garments as possible in Houndstooth, or the urge to glue toilet paper to a detergent box on a stick.

Alan and Sheila (my Uncle and Aunt) 1985ish

Uncle Alan (known as Buzzy to the rest of the family)

My Aunt deserves her own separate thank you as well for all the things she sowed and/or crafted in orange and blue for us.   My mother seriously blames Uncle Alan (her brother) for brainwashing us (my brother and myself) over to the "dark side." Really, it was because we thought he was definitely the coolest and we wanted to be cool like him. Plus, his Auburn fanaticism was contagious.

The Sports mentor in all his coolness - 1981

For almost a decade, a little more than a decade in my brother's case, Brian and I had Uncle Alan and Aunt Sheila to ourselves before the first of their two daughters, Leah arrived.   It's an awesome feeling when you have not only parents and grandparents, but an Aunt and Uncle to dote over you as well. They have from the time I was born and still do to this day (those these days it's directed at Dax - as it should be). I've always felt just as special to them as I did in the days before the "Floozies" (Leah and Tracey).

As a kid I was fond of my Uncle not only because he was cool but also because he was fun and genuinely loved being around us or playing with us. In those days at the Swann family get togethers, you'd find me either sitting in his lap, leaning against him, on his shoulders or being tossed around - pure fun. As an adult I'm fond of him because he's still cool, of course, but I've come to the realization that he is a total closet nerd - something he passed on straight to me and Brian. My Uncle, brother and myself can carry on a conversation that no one in the family is interested in whatsoever. (maybe except for the Floozies of course).

I said before that I share a special bond with my brother because of our unique shared sense of humor. That same sense of humor came from my Uncle. No matter how dry, pessimistic, blunt but utterly harmless some of my jokes are, he gets them. Every time. When my own parents even sometimes are left baffled by my comments. My Uncle is always laughing under his breath because he knows exactly how I meant it and what or where I'm coming from. If he doesn't understand it, he at least appreciates the personality behind it. I like to think so anyways. ;o)

And My Aunt Sheila? Some people's relationship with their aunts by marriage are seen as nothing more than a long time acquaintance. There's not really a sense of love, loyalty, devotion or genuine concern. They are seen as someone that may not always be family and they could care less if that were the case. I feel the absolute opposite is the case with Aunt Sheila. For one, she's been a part of my family longer than I have.   I DO have the same love, loyalty, devotion and genuine concern for her that I do for my Uncle Alan, my mother's brother.

Besides that she has a personality I absolutely could not live without knowing. She's really something else. There's something about her nature that rubs off on even the most prideful/stubborn of those who need help but will never admit it. My Grandfather is one of those. After he had his stroke/heart attack and needed to be fed by someone else, Mom and Uncle Alan had a hard time getting him to eat when he really needed it most. Even myself who could usually talk him into doing almost anything, couldn't persuade him to eat. But he'd do it for Aunt Sheila.

Aunt Sheila pregnant with Leah

Something about her - her kindness or no nonsense (not really sure which) makes you want to instantly do as she says. What ever the case, we've always been impressed with her ability to calm my Grandfather's obstinate nature and the wish to please her. She's definitely respected by everyone in our family. My late Grandmother was really fond of her and shared a special relationship with her Daugther-in-law as well.

What I really enjoy about her is her quick wit. My Aunt has a tongue as sharp as a knife when pushed to it.   She never disappoints when it comes time for a smart comeback or a good opinion. She has a way of putting things in perspective and can really be humorous about it. Guaranteed to lighten the mood of any bad situation. It's a nice talent to have - or to witness, really.

There are so many people I owe Special Birthday posts to and it's really hard to do them because though I love these people equally it's not as equally easy to verbalize what's so special to me about them. That's why I combined Aunt Sheila and Uncle Alan's post.   Uncle Alan's Birthday was July 7th and Aunt Sheila's was August 12th. So I got a bit out of order and of course I'm didn't wait until now to wish them a Happy Birthday. I really didn't even wait until now to write this post to them as a gift. Just took me this long to post it.

Ha ha.

Uncle Alan and Aunt Sheila, I love you both so much and I pray that Dax will grow up knowing you as I did and experience the love you've always shown me and Brian. It is truly a blessing!!!

Our Place

2010-10-25T11:43:00.165-05:00

Clint and I so represent the bumpkin side of Alabama. If we want to go somewhere special to make wonderful memories as a family we don't have to board a plane and go somewhere romantically spectacular like Rome. We just hop in the car and travel to McCalla. A place were we made a very important promise/a covenant made legal and of course, ahem, our honeymoon...

Brother Doug holding the Ring

May 27, 2006

Winter 2009

Before you go all thinking spending your honeymoon camping out at Tannehill is "WOW, that is SO... red," it's because my brother and his family at that time lived in Brazil and were only visiting for a very short time. I didn't want to travel out of town because I only got to see my nieces and nephews once a year IF that often. So, we put it off until a later date. Clint and I spent one night and the next morning celebrating marriage and then spent the rest of that week with my nieces and nephews. I don't regret one second of that decision.

We have a lot of great memories there and the list keeps growing. Most of them are unmentionably funny. Hilarious to only us. A sort of "you'd had to been there." Like the night of our wedding after everyone had gone home and we sat around a campfire celebrating the day with me drinking a bottle of Seagram's Dry Cham-pag-ne (Tannehill convenient store's finest) sans the champagne glasses (basically, straight out of the bottle) and Clint eating smores while laughing at me once I'd gone full buzz. I'm not one for drinking champagne, of course, but I was celebrating.

Surprisingly I was saved from the huge hangover headache. However, while watching the Tannehill Memorial Weekend Civil War reenactment (bahahaha, can we say "hick!"). I'd say redneck, but everyone knows I prefer to be called "country" instead.) Every time they'd shoot off a canon I'd shriek with pain. That is also hilarious to us. When we pull out our so called "honeymoon" photographs, they are from a Civil War reenactment.

Reenactors

Our sweet memories are not all from our wedding of course. We have many from that place! It's just special to us in a way that it's hard to explain.

May 27, 2006 Reception

So if we find ourselves getting into arguments over stupid stuff constantly or if the looks of disgust become a little too common, we go to everyone's favorite grade school field trip spot. There's basically nothing there but old construction representing a long but not forgotten war/way of life and gorgeous scenery. Especially in Fall.

Winter 2009

It's not very big and we've seen everything there is to see (which is not very much) a million times BUT we never grow tired of it.

Like a few others, we carved our initials on the tree on one of the trails behind the creek the day after we got married. CP/TP = 06. This last time when Clint was tracing back over it, one of the initials got chipped - bummer - so he carved out a separate place. We keep intending on putting Dax's name in it, but - well one of these days we'll get to it.

October 2010 Riding the Train

Chicken Soup For The Silly Soul

2010-10-12T07:53:00.000-05:00

Around midnight I awoke to a huge drop in temperature. So, I got up to put warmer clothes on Dax (we got home late after watching the AU game at a friends house, so we just put him down in the shorts and sleeveless shirt he was wearing that day). He also needed his diaper changed, so I was hoping to achieve all this without waking him up. To my surprise, I actually succeeded. Amazing considering all the commotion!

Commotion? Right after I got his diaper changed and was getting ready to put his pants on, out of nowhere a loud noise rang out. A long extremely loud whoopy cushion sounding fart. Now, whether it came from Clint, Dax or [ahem] ~~someone else~~ the barking spider, is beside the point. I looked at Dax, hoping that didn't wake him up. Still in a deep sleep, Dax laughed out loud and with eyes still shut gave this huge sly grin and then proceeded to make loud poot noises with his mouth. He did this about 3 times - the whole time never opening his eyes. Dax's reaction is what caused me to get so tickled I couldn't keep quite. Me laughing out loud myself at this point didn't even wake him up. Or Clint for that matter.

Sorry, to take this blog to the toilet - literally. ha ha. But I had to share. Hopefully you got as tickled as I did (or maybe it was a "you'd just had to have been there").

I've tried over and over to stop being so silly about gas humor and I always think I've started to succeed, right up until it happens again. The unsuspecting passing of gas will get me every time. Embarrassing as it may be, I'm starting to make peace with the fact that flatulence will always be hilarious to me. I mean it's almost as if it's in my DNA. Not cutting the cheese, cracking up over it. My smart, sweet, pillar of the community and good Christian Grandmother Mildred would get hysterical over the walking poots. My mother would have to spit her drink out from laughing if someone let one in a fancy restaurant and everyone heard it (I use that example because that did actually happen. With the offender being my older brother when he was a baby). After Dax laughing out loud in his sleep, I'm convinced it's in our humor DNA.

After listening to Rick n Bubba (who I never liked until recently) this morning, I don't feel so bad. They had recorded footage of a city council meeting in which someone let a loud one right in the middle of a proposal. It took them a while to proceed because no matter how hard the speaker tried to ignore it, she couldn't because everyone else was still trying to contain their laughter.

A Late Goodbye To July

2010-10-04T08:35:00.002-05:00

Since I'm way behind on posts, I'm going to skip my usual discourse and just leave you mostly with pictures from July.

I so envy all of you Mama-bloggers that are able to manage your time wisely enabling you to not only keep your blogs up to date, but keep them well written and interesting. Even with my excessive multitasking, I still can't seem to find the time - or the "right" time anyway.

Let's do this...

Dax playing hide n seek. He actually thinks I can't see him.

Any of you waste money on buying sunflowers from the grocery store? Don't. All you have to do is till up fertile dirt, toss sunflower and zinnia seeds out and 70-90 days later: wallah! Easiest thing in the world to grow.

Some people prefer the couch, some have a favorite old recliner. My kid likes to sit in a basket.

Early stages of OCD? He does this with his cars, alphabet letters on the fridge - anything

And he wears mittens in summer?

Isaiah and Dax (Isaiah is a tank) He does look stout. But you wouldn't believe how heavy he actually is. I'm barely strong enough to pick him up and can only hold him for a couple of seconds. It's as if he's made of solid steel! If he plays football...

His older brother Isaac. Isaac is our (Clint and myself) one and only Godson.

Isaiah is 4 and Dax was scared of him for the first year and a half of his life - now he's crazy about him.

Lulu and Ian. He's the absolute happiest baby I've ever seen. I'm keeping him while Isaiah has surgery on his teeth this week and I can't wait.

Think Isaiah gets called firecracker often? I can hardly quell the urge myself.

Eric (Isaac, ~~Firecracker~~ Isaiah and Ian's Pop) and Dax

Papa John and Ian take a snooze after the long boat ride. Dax is in there somewhere.

My nephews, Owen and Caleb

Nieces and Nephews, Claire, Isaac, Owen, Caleb and Natalie Ellen. Notice Dax's legs. He's so tough on them. Never fear, Paw Paw to the rescue with Mecurichrome (sp). It's saves everything.

When I cook, Dax circles my legs and leans on them like a cat begging for scraps. So, I let him lick the pan of excess homemade spaghetti sauce.

Evan and Dax at the Play Place in Trussville for E's B-day.

Dax got to try out the same big wheel that we got for his Birthday early. Good to know he was going to like it. Of course his feet can't reach the peddles, but that doesn't stop him.

A Lifetime of Special People

2010-09-17T09:59:00.003-05:00

She Answers to Sister, Mother, Wife, Grandmother. Aunt to me and Sherry to everyone else. There is far too many different avenues to go down when you are trying to sum up what's most likeable about her personality. It's taken me since June to figure out which one to take. June 27th to be exact, because that's when her Birthday was. [Happy Belated Birthday Aunt Sherry] Or figure out why she's always been a special person not just in my life, but our entire family and everyone who knows her. Am I fond of her so much because I've been told my entire life how much I favored her when she was my age? Is it because I share many of the same mannerisms? Or is it just simply because she's my Dad's sister, my aunt and has always been there? Since it seems we are raised with a special duty or loyalty to love and care for those that are blood related it's definitely not a given. More than not it just doesn't play out that way.

Sherry and Jimmy [my Dad]Duty and love are two very different things and even though I actually do love my Aunt Sherry because she's been there from Day 1 but only because since Day 1 she's wrapped me up in one big blanket of love and has never stopped. She's done so for all the children in her family as well as her friends' children.

My Aunt has had such a non stop giving and nurturing nature (still does) that's it's impossible to totally return the favor. Even if you did, there's no way she'd even consider letting you do the same for her. So, I do what I can and that's just love her back, be thankful I have her and visit her as often as I can with Dax so he'll have a chance to know and love her like I've do. My Uncle and Aunt both are extremely wonderful people and I love them dearly.

Like I said above, it's very hard to put into words the many many reasons of why Sherry R. P. is so darn special. So I'll just list some of my favorite things about her.

2 things I've heard often in my life. The first is that I favored her above anyone else in my family for the majority of my existence. Our own family often mistakes old photos of her to be me. The second is that I have her unmistakable boisterous voice that carries. Considering that my Aunt was/is really really pretty when she was younger (of course she still is) and the fact that people love to hear that same boisterous voice coming their way I definitely take it as a compliment. I love being told that I favor her.

She NEVER misses one birthday. Every birthday she makes us our choice of anything we want. I usually pick chocolate oatmeal cookies. Everyone says their G-mother or Aunt is the best cook, mine really is. She can do anything.

My Aunt Sherry kept me and my brother along with other kids and out of all the babysitters or daycares I ever went to, she was hands down the best. I'll never forget some of the memories I have from the days spent with Aunt Sherry and messy mouth crew on those hot summer days.

She always picked the best movies when we were little and would let us rent them as many times and we wanted. She never got tired of watching them with us either!! Whenever I hear of Xanadu, Monty Python, Willie Wonka and a few others, I fondly think of my Aunt Sherry. She was the coolest!!

Though me and Aunt Sherry both get impersonated for our voices that carry, she has one of the softest I've ever heard as well. For the most part when she speaks, it's very calm and soft. It's always comforting to be in her presence. Though that actually may have nothing to do with the way she talks and more to do with the fact that you know she loves you and genuinely cares about your well being.

She's a hard worker and often gets up early with her job but (as I keep saying) no matter how hard her day has been or how tired she is, she'll be more concerned with how you're doing than she will be with yourself.

Aunt Sherry, thank you for being the person you are! I love you and will always cherish what you do for me and the rest of our family! It wouldn't be much of one without you.

It's been a good while since I've posted and have especially gotten way behind on these particular posts. If you regularly follow our blog, you'll know what and why I'm posting them. If you are new and aren't familiar and/or are curious click on the folloing and read the first couple of paragraphs:

HERE > A Lifetime of Special People

2010-09-17T08:33:00.000-05:00

I had a total moment this morning. Things are so different when I was a kid, faster, louder and bigger. Driving with Dax in the backseat, if felt great to turn on the radio to Reba 'still' on the air with a great song. Took me back to those slower days when I was the one in the backseat with my mom driving listening to Reba. Wonder if she was thinking the same thing... I love this song.

June... More Like Zoom - a - Zoom - Zoom!!

2010-07-19T20:37:00.006-05:00

No more foolin around, time to update the family life via Blogger. I mean, did we even exist during the past few months if it's not documented here?

The answer to that question is of course, yes. Boy did we! and I certainly have the pictures to prove that we weren't hiding out or anything like that. On the contrary, life smacked us in the face again this summer. I'll leave out the unpleasant and stick with the pleasant, or at least interesting?

I've actually got so many pictures that it's taken me a ridiculously long time just to sort through them. I'm probably not going be able to catch up entirely by next week because I have July and now August, but also 6-7 special people posts!!   Since my life has now been threatened by a few family members unless I update soon (okay, that's a bit of an exaggeration - just a little) I'm going to get the ball rolling. I do promise that when I get an extra week to do nothing except sit in front of the computer downloading pictures and commentary for them (b/c the whole post/pictures process takes a long time) it will all be here in picturefied glory.

Enough already, on with the show - Picking up where we left off: June . . .

started out with a bang literally

1.   Dax and Clint were in a wreck. This topic deserves it's on separate post. Until then, the bottom line and what's important - they are okay and as far as we can tell other than Clint suffering from a case of whiplash there are no other injuries. The worst that came out of it was all the damage done to Jacob's (a good buddy of Clint's) truck.

2.   Bachelorette Party:...ride in Limo with the girls - need I say more?? Actually, I think I will say more. This mom needed some estrogen filled fun and celebrating Heather and Jon's upcoming union couldn't have come at a better time. We had a lot of fun.

3.   If my son wants to grow up and join the circus, he's certainly off to a good start He climbs anything and everything he's not supposed to: our stand-up mirror, dressor, into Clint's boat, and this last is really incredible I've added a picture of presentation to prove my point. Potice - I mean Notice:

Exhibit "A" Is a pink index card some very important numbers I need to keep up with. I placed it on the shelf (far out of Dax's reach) so he can't get a hold of it and hide it, tear it and etc. While I was in the bedroom putting sheets on the bed, Dax was in the living room coloring (so I thought). When I went to check on him, I happened to notice Exhibit "A" lying on the floor???

Which means he had to climb on Exhibit "B, C and D" without so much as even disturbing the picture frames or papers - all the stuff that was on B, C and D even a little bit to get to "A."

4. Dax's favorite phrases used often in June:
"Um-Hold me?"
"Snipps!!"
"Down Please"
When he wants to smell a candle he brings it to me and says "mouse" or "mouth" I don't know why he doesn't say "smell"...
"Oh gah!" He didn't pick this up from us, he actually picked it up from Wow Wow Wubbzy (go figure!)
"ALRIGHT! or Awesome!!!"
Singing ZBB's Free loud and off key.
Twinkle Little Star is his absolute most favorite song in the world!
He talks on the Ipod and the remote control like it's a phone. He does so just like he's a grown up. He mimics the phrases, the looks, the tone - everything to the letter.

This video is actually from May I think. Notice how he looks out the window while talking - a habit his Daddy often does.

5. Like everyone else on these hot summer days in June we spent a lot of time at the toddler hot spot - Splash Pad. One of those days we met Sharon with her kids, Lauren and Evan. Evan is two weeks older than Dax. Sue Ann, mom's best friend and Lauren and Evan's G-mother was with us also.

Sharon and Evan

Dax rarely stands in one place longer than a minute. This is what he usually does the whole time he's there. I enjoy - no actually I NEED the splash pad more than Dax. After chasing him in the hot sun, I literally wrangle him up and go stand under the waterfall so I don't pass out.

It helps when Mom is there but we still both get worn out.

While sitting under the pavilion Sue Ann had given Dax a cookie or something of the like. Usually Dax never forgets to say thank you (my child folks... the epitome of mannerly toddlers) This time, however, Dax didn't say thank you. So, mom reminded him by saying "tell her thank you" Mom kept saying this over and over again trying to get Dax to say it but he never would. Finally Dax looked at Mom and said "YOU'RE WELCOME!"

You can tell when Dax has just about ran himself to a frazzle by the shade of color his face is. When it's went from red to a nice shade of purple, then it's time to go. So though he looks burnt in this picture, he's not.

Mimi and Dax - See here - put a fork in that boy, he's done!

6. My lovely rash from Sunblock. Oddly enough I'm allergic to sunblock - any type, any brand. Which hasn't bothered me for years since I simply just don't wear it. But since Dax has to, and of course I have to hold him - I get to keep this lovely rash for the most part of the summer. Gorgeous! isn't it??

7. Redbox Rentals. We finally got to watch Dear John - Ugh! This movie was such a disappointment. It kept getting worse and worse until it was finally over. We felt disgustingly sorry that we did watch it to the end. I would rather clean an army barrack's john than watch that movie in its entirety again.

8. Most people would think is a no-brainer, but.... Note to self: Always make sure you check the price of everything before you buy it. No matter how cheap it looks. When the woman at Walmart rung me up, I thought that my total sounded a bit high... when I got home and checked the receipt, this ball was $8.00!!! It did bounce awfully high, but still.

9. Skippin and a hoppin in Wally World. If you've recalled my mentioning that Clint very rarely if ever lets me go grocery shopping without him and thought this was a little strange, well no matter how strange you think we are, there's always a reasonable explanation. In this particular case, it's because Dax has so much fun skippin and running down the aisles and shrieks and squeals with laughter nonstop that Clint doesn't want to miss out on the fun. It's guaranteed to put a smile on your face no matter how hard or tired your day has been.

If I ever get time, I'm going to start a petition to Target and Walmart urging them to use this style of kid buggy rather than the monstrous aisle yachts they use. Winn Dixie's is the absolute coolest and Dax's favorite. He actually likes their buggy and doesn't say "DOWN?!?" every 5 seconds.

10.    Being called out for yet another one of my many... many quirks. This particular one happens to be ALWAYS inappropriately dressed for the task at hand.

I think it's widely known that I'm the type of wife that makes a "Honey Do List" but my ~~impatience~~ "can do attitude" leads me to cross a lot of those things off myself. Clint had been really busy and the trash had backed up, not to mention I had a lot of junk from cleaning out our upstairs room - so I decided to take care of that task by myself. Of course I'd not thought too much about what I was wearing when I hauled all that trash to the nasty dirty part of the landfill until I got out of the truck and heard some men laughing out loud. I looked at them and they were staring and pointing at me. Oh hardy har har...so what if I had on a sundress and sandals! At least I got the job done! Even if I did ruin a pair of Anne Klein sandals. I can't remember, but they were probably knock offs anyways...

11.   Dax is definitely his mother's son. Like his Mama he can hide/lose things forever within a 3 foot radius. Can we say talented?? My camera has disappeared from the face of the earth (the earth being our little house)! Thank you SO much for this one, Dax. Mama's been wanting a new camera for some time. However, Mama is the most indecisive person on the planet. It's now September 3rd (Even though this is June's post) and the count is up to 5. Five! cameras I've taken back and exchanged for another one because I'd find something I didn't like about each one. I've finally settled on a Canon Powershot G11. For a compact or what some people call "point and shoot" - I really really recommend this camera. I haven't tried them all, but most of the well rated ones and this is my favorite. Clint's mom has a Sony Powershot DSC-W120 Carl Zeiss Super Steady Shot. It's awesome for action shots and toddlers.

12. Terrible Two's came fast and furious to this household. Guess what else my son is talented at? Meltdowns. Not 'fits' mind you but Meltdowns with a capital M!

I actually have one of them on video, but for Dax's sake I'm too embarrassed to show it. Up to this point, he's had 3 of them. All of them were sleep related (waking up or trying to put him down).

13. Clint shaved his head. When he was finished, I could have swore I heard an echo of Mel Gibsom's FREEEEEDOOOOOMMMMM! when he gave his relief sigh. Only to be interrupted by "ME NEXT!!" Sorry, forgot to take a pic.

14.   YARD SALE! Everyone should do this at least one time in their life. Now that I've done it and even though it was a great success, I can say I'll never do it again. It was a complete hassle getting everthing ready. Erin and I felt as if we would melt into the porch at any minute but it was fun AND funny going through all kind of junk and finding stuff then watching Dax play with everything.

I had to take a picture of this: Clint's cassette tape collection and CHECK - IT - OUT!!! Vanilla Ice, Poison and Anthrax all in the same case. Oh and make sure you notice the B-52's. Some might want to reject his Man-card after seeing this? Nah, I'm just glad he didn't have some Debbie Gibson or Whitney stashed up in there. I tried to give this (the case and tapes) away for free and can you believe it, nobody wanted it!?!? Oops forgot about Ratt!! Round and round.... I'm in high hair heaven just thinking about these songs.

I knew keeping all those empty diaper boxes would come in handy one day. I used these to put our large DVD collection for sale in. This occupied D for about an hour too.

Not sure about what this face was for...

15. Wednesday night Cookouts!! Jacob moved down to Auburn and we've been mega busy so we haven't had them in a few weeks, but back in June it was a given. Wednesday nights we'd have plenty of food on the grill while Dax and who ever else's kid we could wrangle up would run around in the yard just enjoying being little and the rest of us sat around shootin the breeze.

Yes, that's the garden sprinkler and yes we're using it for recreational purposes just like we did back when we were little bumkin kids. And it's STILL fun!

That just about covers June - what I can remember anyways [If Blogger had a smiley icon, it would go [HERE].

Oh, one more thing...

(I didn't make this video, of course. I found this when I searched for this song on youtube.)

Dax loves for me to sing it to him. That song has been stuck in my head for months. Now it's in yours...

The Comedian

2010-06-19T12:52:00.058-05:00

June 19th was my nephew, Anderson's, Birthday. Since I wanted to pay special attention to his post, I had to wait until my little circus monkey is sleeping soundly, all yard sales were out of the way and I got my own computer back on line before I could do so.

When Anderson was baby I remember thinking "wow, all babies do is cry, eat, poop and sleep." Anderson was proof of it. I could never get him to stop crying when I held him.

The baby that convinced me that it would be a long time before I was ready to have one of my own is also the very same child that verified I definitely wanted kids later on.

Anderson turned into the most favorable, congenial child I've ever met. It's impossible to not smile when in his presence. Not only does this kid have ample amount of personality, he's as handsome as they come. Diane, get ready to be up all hours of night with girls calling...

We went to see Anderson play ball the first year he'd started. While the coach was warming up the other players, Anderson was in the field completely entertaining himself and us, to fight off boredom I guess. But it was hilarious. Since he's gotten quite well at ball and definitely enjoys it more.

His ability to entertain without even trying runs in the family I think. Dax does it as well and often reminds us of Anderson.

Anderson it's an absolute joy having you for a nephew! Since you are such a great person with such a wonderful personality you will never have problem meeting new friends and life will be filed with many people who love and want to be around you. A person with many friends is surely destined to have a wonderful life as I hope and pray you always will. Love, Uncle Clint, Aunt Teri and Dax.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-16T16:00:00.000-05:00

Mother "May" I? Yes, You "MAY!"

2010-06-05T05:02:00.207-05:00

There's more than 13 here, but since I'm not doing "Thursday's Thirteen" why limit myself. So here's what our May was like.

1. What can a unsupervised 21 mos old do in half the time it takes to microwave a burrito (that's 30 seconds flat)? A LOT!

30 seconds on a Monday? he can: rearrange living room furniture;

30 seconds on a Tuesday? he can climb onto the entertainment center, behind a 50 inch flat screen and down between the back of it and the wall

30 seconds on a Wednesday? he can get wedged between the furniture (oddly enough he loves this)

30 seconds on a Thursday? he can figure out an alternate way to get on the entertainment center and stand in front of 50" flat screen and make a hand print on every inch of TV screen.

on a Friday? Find himself tied to a chair!!!

There are 168 hours in a 7-day week. Dax spends approx. 49 of them asleep and the other 119 looking for trouble. It is inevitable that I will look away for at least half a minute. When I do, this child knows how to capitalize on just one second of me being unattentive. Which leads me to No. 2...

2. Mimi, Dax and I eating out with my Aunt Sherry, her 2 daughters Misty, Brandy and Brandy's 2 daughters Katelyn and Kourtney. That makes 6 extra pair of eyes to watch over Dax while I ate my fries and enjoyed catching up without so much as even looking over my shoulder to see what Dax was doing. Ha ha. j/k I might have asked the girls, K&K, a couple of times "are you sure you don't mind playing with him" totally insincere of course. ;o) My moment to capitalize... and boy did I!!

Katelyn & Kourtney (June 2009)

From Katelyn and Kourtney

Brandy and her husband own an embroidery business. They can personalize/embroider anything. Large orders - small orders, anything!! If you are interested, please e-mail me and I'll send you their info. I plan on putting up a button in the near future with their business logo on it. She did the embroidery on his onesie and blanket in the pic below as well as the navy blanket with Dax in orange that's in No. 14's picture.

She also did Dax's crib bumper

3. Last month I forgot to mention that my parents celebrated their 40th Wedding Anniversary on April 4. I have never seen a cuter couple than the two of them. After all these years they are still in love.

4. We've decided that we want Dax to call my mother "Mimi." That's mom's new granny title - "Mimi." Just get'n rid of them there words that skre-eeems Ima hick. Though I'm proud to be a "southerner and it's impossible to hide the fact that I'm hopelessly country!

Actually we can't get Dax to say Maw Maw. He'll say Mimi, but not Maw Maw and the truth is that Mimi fits my mother better. The other grand kids aren't on board with Mimi at all, but we're determined. You say to-mah-to, I say to-may-to. On the other hand, Daddy will remain a "Paw Paw." One of Dax's favorite words!

If you think that me referring to myself as"country" is just a more dignified way of calling myself a redneck, you'd be wrong. Being from Birmingham, you learn to distinguish between the two. Because down here we all know at least 10 bona fide rednecks. People who are racist, has a roll of duct tape on hand at all times, not just your average racing fan, but belongs to the church of Nascar, spends their yearly vacation at the free campground at Talladega (if you don't know what I'm talking about, believe me - you don't wanna know!), has a tattoo of a rebel flag (if not several)...you get the point - that's a redneck. Gretchen Wilson can be proud to call herself a redneck all she wants, I on the other hand wouldn't appreciate being called a name that usually goes hand and hand with a southern racist/bigot. The remainder of us down here that can't apply even one Jeff Foxworthy's "You might be a redneck" quotes to ourselves, are what I refer to as "country" or "southern" if you will. Hick might even be appropriate but that sounds so harsh. ;o) Okay I'm going to get off my soap box now and move on from this subject before it warrants a whole post to itself.

5. One piece of dog food is all it took to finally break the ice after several attempts to get Dax and Eli to play with each other instead of along side each other. So proud we were of this peace offering that Jac and I could have cared less that they were actually eating dog food. I mean, considering people treat animals as well as their own children, the dog food was probably more nutritious than baby food.... more importantly they seemed to enjoy it and it kept them occupied while Jac and I talked. I might start bagging dog food for snacks instead of oatmeal cookies. Whatever works, right?

SIKE!

This is Eli. Isn't he the prettiest little brown eyed boy you've ever seen!

6. Okay, I always like to think I'm humble enough to admit when I'm wrong so I'm going to confess that Clint was right. I really do tackle ~~landscaping~~ yard beautification with the same enthusiasm I do my other hobbies. Only difference is, I usually don't bite off more than I can chew with my hobby projects. I've definitely stuffed my face on this hobby. I've started several different yard projects at the same time which means I'm killing myself trying to get any of them to the halfway point. So, needless to say I spend a lot of time trying to get the dirt out from under my nails only to put them in the same shape the next day. At this point, meeting a Fall deadline would be AWESOME! But it might kill me first. All this landscaping along with the fact that we have a full garden to tend to. I've had to start taking Glucosamine to help with the finger joint pain I wake up to every morning from pulling at weeds. I'm sure it will be worth it in the end, however, the yard may be more extravagant than the house.

7. My child is already practicing his game on the ladies. While waiting to be worked in at the doctor's office one morning a little girl walked in grabbed a book off the shelf and sat down in the chair beside her mother's purse as her mother signed her in. Dax, without missing a beat, went to the shelf grabbed a book (which he cared nothing about 2 mins. earlier) and climbed up in the chair right beside the little girl on top of the woman's purse and all. Grinning ear to ear staring at her the whole time! Poor little girl didn't know what to think but she was called back before Dax and so he went about his business until another little girl walked in and sat down. Dax treated her with the same enthusiasm. He climbed up right in the chair beside her and blissfully giggled. I hope he's not going to be a little Lothario! At the park he chases girls down and does his best to verbalize pick up lines.

little Casanova himself

8. Our new year resolution is still going strong and it is still the highlight of our day. Even if Clint or I have already eaten or aren't hungry, we still sit down at the table with Dax while he eats. I probably should start focusing on teaching Dax table manners instead of doing what we usually do which is laugh our tails off. Here's why:

Check out those curls!

9. 4 times this month Dax got ~~spanked~~ disciplined and laughed at me like I was playing with him. During a later advice seeking conversation with my Dad as I usually do when I'm totally clueless I realized I'm getting full payback. When Dad said that he hopes I'm able to figure it out because he never did, I realized he was referring to me. I know that payback is "butcher" and I feel as if I'm just now seeing the tip of the iceberg.

10. I'm afraid our walks to my Aunt's house that is approx 1 mile away may be coming to an end. Dax thinks he's too big for the stroller and wants to walk himself rather than be pushed around. The only way I can get him to stay in the stroller is by singing to him. Show tunes from Oklahoma and the Sound of Music are the only ones that work best. Which is fine, except for the embarrassment I have to endure when I didn't notice someone standing or sitting on their lawn as we walked by. Just imagine an off-tune "OOOOk-lahoma, where the wind comes sweepin' down the plain!"... I literally wanted to crawl into the bottom of Dax's stroller and DIE! So it might be a while before we head back.

11. 3 different occasions someone referred to Dax as a little cherub. A cherub?? If I heard that once, it wouldn't be so strange, but 3 different times, by 3 different people. Maybe he does resemble a cherub...

Hmm... I guess there's kind of is a resemblance.

12. An interesting or should I say painful trip to Walmart. The one and only time Clint didn't demand that we all go together (Clint loves going to Wally world with the fam...call us bumpkins if you must). Matter of fact it was the first time I begged him to go, but he declined due to fatique. But we were out of milk and growing Daxes love his milk so it was a necessary trip. Dax fell asleep right as we pulled into the parking lot. Much to my amazement - unbuckling him out of his seat and picking him up didn't wake him up. He was so konked out that I had to throw him over my shoulder and carry him - forget trying to put him in a buggy. He was absolute dead weight. Even after stopping a few times and adjusting the way I was carrying him he still didn't wake up. So, we finally get to the dairy aisle, I grab a gallon of milk and try to carry dead weight baby over my shoulder and freezing cold gallon of milk in the other hand. Both my arms were so numb halfway to the register that I felt as if I was about to drop the milk or the baby or both. I had to requisition a customer to help me carry the milk to the register. When we get to the car I can hardly move either of my arms from the pain. Despite that I manage to get Dax in his seat and buckled up and guess what? You got it. Little man wakes up.

13. Getting up to tinkle in the middle of the night only to have the living nightlights scarred out of me by a door swung open by a baby announcing his presence with "H-AAAA-Y" while holding every toy his little arms could carry and running to climb on me just to get comfortable and fall asleep on my lap while I'm sitting on the throne. How did this strange situation come about and what's up with all the toys you might ask? Dax has been going through a phase in which he must sleep as close to me as he can if not on me. Of course this is uncomfortable and keeps me up so when he's in deep sleep I'll sneak out of the bed and go get on the couch. This particular night he'd woke up and followed me to the couch. 30 mins after he'd fallen asleep on the couch I got up to use the bathroom and much to my surprise he actually followed me in there. It's kind of sweet actually. I dare not complain because I know I'll miss this one day!! So, what's up with all the toys??? Well, Dax is slowly turning his crib into a toy box. The list of things he requires to get settled for a good night's rest are as follows:

Binky "pooh"
Passy "Paseeeee" (melts my heart every time he asks for it)
Brobee
"Froggy"
AU "cover"
Dax "cover"
Ball
Football "catch"
Car
The list is STILL growing!!

Of course when I get ready to get him out of bed in the morning he has to carry all this to the living room. It's hilarious standing there watching/waiting for him to pick it all up.

14. Clint's not one to quit a garment, hat or even shoes for that matter just because it's worn... No way. His refusal of letting things go reminds me of my Mom's habit of watering plants a full year after they've died. She'll say "well, it's still green!" ha ha ha. When it comes to shirts and hats, I literally have to dig them out of the hamper and throw them away while he's not looking. Hats, shirts - you name it. Shoes is a little more tricky because he wears a size 13 and in some shoes, a size 14. So it's hard to find exactly what he's looking for in his size. But still, this is just inexcusable ...

15. Carrying on with the "Hobby" in someone else's yard at 1am. For Mother's Day I made a flower bed in in my parent's front yard for Mom's gift. She loves flowers, but doesn't love yard work (who in their right mind does). Monetary gifts are fine and I know mom would appreciate anything I got her - even if only a card, but I realized a long time ago that stuff like this means more too her than picking something up at the department store. Don't know what I'll do next year, how do you top hard labor?

16. Clint and I celebrated our 4th Anniversary on May 27. We haven't made it to Tannehill and out to our favorite tree yet (I'll explain later with pics ) because we've been busy. But Trade Days are coming up, so well just do it then.

17. Spending Memorial Day at Grandmother's House

As you can see, it finally fits him. Awe [whipping a tear from my eye] VERY hard to imagine the difference two years make...

18. With all the heavy downpours, every bug in town wants to stay at our house. Spiders and crickets and bears! OH MY! The bug man told me that if I found a bug in the house to kill it and put it in a plastic bag and list what room it came out of. Nasty... but if I want him to take care of it I guess I better do what he asks. This note is for the bug man. I wanted to make sure it got his attention when he walked in the door. If you remember last months post, you know why we won't be at home... Think he'll see it?

19. Skinny Jean thief!!

20. Laughing at Dax and Brant putting their heads together to figure out how to escape from Amanda's living room to the hallway. It's true what that say... A toddler can get into anything but put two of them together and they can turn into a weapon of mass destruction. Good thing Brant and Dax didn't have enough time together to accomplish that.

Brant recently turned 2

21. Dax telling Muffin (Our friend's, Jacob, dog) to "sshhh! be quiet!" while his favorite show The Backyardigans was on. Muffin was whining because she wanted on the other side of the gate in the living room where Dax and Jacob were playing. It's amazing what a 21-22 mos old can say. Not only that but that Dax can manage to communicate successfully to getting what he wants or needs, just by saying "pees" please and "tank u" thank you. Watch out if you don't jump when he asks you to. Dax repeats the word for what he wants over and over ... and over again each time getting louder until he gets what he wants. I heard the word "colors" crayons 20 times in a row. By the time I finally got up to go get it he was saying it so loud the neighbors could hear him. I have to keep from laughing. It's a habit he needs to break.

22. Jac and I realizing we are so not ready for #2 while at the park. It felt we were outnumbered by 10. Dax would take off one way while Eli would be checking something else out. Just wait until Eli get's 6 months older and they are both taking off like white lightning. I would like to write a letter to the G's Park Authority. Like putting a fence with a gate up between the splash pad and the rest of the park. Build a separate play area for toddlers. Dax loves it so much but it's just too dangerous for the toddlers. Too high off the ground with too many openings at the top.

Dax and Eli at the Water Park

Until Next Month, "Th-th-th-

Wordless Wednesday Summertime

2010-06-02T14:43:00.001-05:00

Ask the Milies!

2010-05-23T13:10:00.002-05:00

Attention Military Wives: I wanted to help my friend Jacqueline, of ACU's, Stiletto Shoes and Pretty Pink Tutus, spread the word about a site she has co-founded "just for military wives."

Not only has befriending Jacqueline been great because we share our enthusiasm for documenting our lives as new mothers but following her story has really given me insight into the world of a military wife, life and family.

Here's an excerpt from her post introducing "The Milies":

Ask The Milies is a platform for you to submit your questions about military life and relationships and get honest, dependable answers.

Here is an excerpt from our "About The Milies" page:

"The idea for a website like this had been in both of our heads for a while. We saw a need for Military Wives to have a trustworthy resource at their disposal so they could ask their questions, get answers and read that others have experienced similar situations and emotions...We're so excited to provide quality advice on all matters love and military based on our experience of having the toughest job in the service."

To find out more about Jacqueline and Kerry's new site "Ask the Millies" you can click here for the original post.

The Observer...

2010-05-22T22:25:00.003-05:00

My brother, Brian, was always called "The Man" by our Grandfather so of course his first son, Owen, who turns 6 today has inherited the "The Man" title. The Man's arrival into this world was very exciting not only to all who were there but to us as well. We were shocked after being told about his entrance into the world. Since Emma Brown's 1st child, Natalie Ellen, took her time getting here, Emma Brown thought she'd have plenty of time to get to the hospital but Owen came so fast that he ended up being delivered at home by his Uncle Mallory one of Emma Brown's younger brothers. (OOPS, as of June 6, 2010 I was corrected by my brother...actually, it was Emma Brown's sister Berry who delivered Owen, not Mallory. Don't know how we made that mistake, but when info is be passed overseas - mistakes are bound to be made).

Just like all of my brother's children except Caleb, the 1st time I saw Owen was through pictures. However, since Brian and family came home to the States for Christmas later that year, I didn't have to wait as long to meet him in person as I did Natalie Ellen. Owen was 7 mos. and by that time he'd become a very healthy big hunk o' baby. He was unbelievably precious, especially in person. You could feel his preciousness with every ounce of baby phat too! Ha ha.

As Owen got older he reminded me more and more of my brother as well as our Dad, Jimmy . He's got such a gentle and quite nature. When he does speak it's only when he has to. You can often catch Owen standing or sitting quietly studying every move you make. But when Owen smiles it just lights up your heart. He is by far the sweetest child I have ever met.

Though he's not smiling for most of the pictures in this post he really does have the most wonderful smile

Owen is such a wonderful older brother to all his siblings and a wonderful big cousin. I love that Owen always wants to play with Dax. He's always pushing Dax around in a stroller, watching out for him and Dax really has a blast when he's around Owen.

Owen excited over meeting his new little brother, Isaac.

Owen, I'm so glad you had a great birthday visiting with your cousins and playing with your new puppy Dyxie. Though we don't get to see you as often as we'd like, you are in my prayers everyday. Aunt Teri loves you terribly as does Uncle Clint and Dax. We look forward to seeing you very soon!! Continue being the great older brother that you are by watching out for your brother's and sisters. They are very blessed to have you.

The Acheiver...

2010-05-21T00:00:00.003-05:00

I'm sure these posts are beginning to read a bit redundant to those who aren't family or who do not know any of the subjects in person. However, it's quite the opposite for me especially when it comes to my family. Because as I've mentioned before each of my nieces and nephews have their own unique personality and I love sharing my pride over each one of them.

Clint and I have a lot of nieces and nephews. Eight and counting. Imagine remembering all those birthdays! Actually, they are the only birthdays I've gotten a good handle on. Maybe it's because each one of them has brought tremendous joy to our family with their arrival til now.

Austin is the oldest of them all. 11 yrs old!!!

Right here I'd usually insert a picture and boy do I wish I had this one on the computer. For sometime a picture hung on Clint's mother's wall of a sleeping newborn Austin with angel wings. It - he was gorgeous. He really did look like an angel.

11 years ago! It's so hard to take that in. It seems like yesterday I felt as if I was going to have a heart attack when a 3-yr old Austin stuck the key in the ignition of my car and turned it over. He was sitting in the front seat of my car and I was in the passenger side just letting him play (he loved keys) and before I knew it, he'd cranked it up. Thank goodness he didn't get a chance to put it in gear, or I'd have been a dead woman. My very first lesson in underestimating what a baby/toddler is capable of.

I also have a picture of this not scanned in! I'm a little behind on backing up old family photos.

We have three nephews from Clint's sister Diane and I love and remember each of them for the different little souls that they are. In Austin's case, it was the constant excitement of seeing what he'd learn to do next. He seemed incredibly smart early on. Every time he'd come to his Grandmother's he'd dazzle us with his intelligence or his ability for sports at such a young age - even before he showed any interest in it like he is now.

Before Austin, hanging out with tots wasn't on the top of my list of favorite things to do but he changed that fast. He was and still is such a cool little guy (he's not so little now...) that Clint and I would be willing to watch Stuart Little over and over again just to hangout with him.

Not so little at all. Our Christmas present to A that was just a bit ;o) too small though it's hard to tell in this picture.
He'd grown quite a bit since I'd last saw him.

He had the cutest personality from the get go. Austin used to ask his Grandmother if she'd been to the Hoggly Woggly (Piggly Wiggly). I always got so tickled at Austin's reaction to situations or what he'd have to say about them. When I was in labor with Dax and the whole family was in the room (before I got to 10 and the nurses chased everyone out) Diane informed me Austin wanted to come say hey to me. So Austin walked up to the bed. Very excited and happy to see him I said "Hey man! look at you, so tall - love the 'do' (he'd let his hair grow out)." Before I could finish my sentence I got a huge contraction (epidural had worn off) and made the most horrible face, grabbed the rails of the bed like I was bracing myself to drive off a cliff and let out the biggest moan. Poor Austin calmly but quickly said "okay, so - I'll see you later" and ran back to safety on the couch with his Uncle Clint and his younger brother Anderson! I couldn't even wait for that horrible contraction to end before I burst out laughing because the look on Austin's face was classic. Having him, as well as Diane, Anderson and and the rest of our families, there at the biggest moment in mine and Clint's life - Dax's beginning - made that day even more memorable.

Anderson, Clint and Austin on August 1, 2008 Dax's D-day. Right before I scared Austin to death

Austin, I look forward to seeing what wonderful things your life will bring. With your intelligence, good nature, athletic abilities and many other great qualities - the sky is the limit and I hope we'll always be there to share it with you. I regret that we don't live much closer so we would be sure to miss nothing. You are and always will be very special to Uncle Clint, myself and of course, Dax too!! Have a wonderful Birthday!!

Real Man of Genius

2010-05-20T00:02:00.002-05:00

I'm behind on posts. I'm sure I'll catch up when the weather gets too hot to enjoy the great outdoors! Until then, you can expect to see us outside enjoying all the lovely ants, kamikaze junebugs and giant crickets!

Speaking of our kamikaze junebugs. One of the very few times you'll catch me dancing is when one of these things fly straight into my hair. Their legs grip everything, especially hair. It can take a good 2 minutes to dig one of them out. DISGUSTING!! All this bonding time with our bugs led Clint and I to reminisce about the huge bug zappers that were widely popular in the 80's - 90's? I wasn't even sure if they still had them.

Well, of course, they do but I've heard that they're not as loud and maybe a little bit more humane - or maybe not and as strange as it may sound, I kind of miss the summers of playing in the backyard to the music of bzzzzz...ZAPPPPP..ZZZZRRRRZRZRZR%$&%$! We were feeling kind of sinister especially since we enjoyed seeing all those bugs meet their equivalent of the electric chair.

When we got back in the house I thought I'd go to the computer to try to find out the best way to ~~kill~~ repel junebugs. What an enormous coincidence it was to find this on someone's post about bag a bug. I swear I'm not making this up. I found this literally minutes after we were laughing about the bug zappers.

I could listen to these commercials all day....

I found this one on youtube, it was easier to post the link:

Real Man of Genius - Mr. Backyard Bug Zapper Inventor

Until I catch up on posts with pictures, here are some of Dax and Kayleigh on cookout Wednesdays. We never know who we'll be feeding, but we know someone will pop in. It's becoming a hump day tradition.

From Spring 2010

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-19T23:21:00.001-05:00

From Spring 2010

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-12T15:53:00.000-05:00

From Spring 2010

Little People Are Special Too - The Socializer

2010-05-01T14:49:00.003-05:00

Although this person has only been in my life 2 years short of a decade she's just as special as the rest. It's not only because on May 1, 2002 for the first time in my life I knew I'd have a permanent title of someone's Aunt. It's not just because she's turned into such a wonderful little girl either...but it might have a little something to do with those things. ;o)

I'll never forget the overwhelming feeling when I met Natalie Ellen for the first time. I remember it like it was yesterday; there I was sitting at the table on the patio on a gorgeous day in Brazil in 2003 surrounded by gorgeous scenery. My first cousin, Misty, and I had arrived in Belem the day before and didn't get to the farm/plantation until late that night. So there we were at the main house waiting for Emma Brown to bring her out. I looked up and saw Emma appear in the doorway holding a sweet 15 mos. old and I immediately felt my heart being stolen. She was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen in my life. I was absolutely speechless.

Over the years I loved hearing stories of her personality or that the way she talked reminded my sister-in-law and brother of me, hearing her say I love you Aunt Teri over the phone just made it impossible not to be terribly fond of her.

Because she's lived thousands of miles away for so long and I've only been able to see her every couple of years (until now) I'm able to remember every moment I've gotten to spend with her and they were all special. And each moment has brought something new. One year we picked them up from the airport and she ran straight into my arms and didn't stop hugging me until I had to put her down. She'd not seen me since she was 3 but still she acted as if she'd missed me the whole time. And later when we were back at the airport to send them home to Brazil she was stuck to me like glue as I held her so Emma Brown and Brian could check in. It's like she was making the most out of the last hug she'd get from me in a long time...Who wouldn't eat that up??

Natalie Ellen, you have grown into such a special little girl and I couldn't be more happier to call you my niece. I love you love you love you. I know you are having an exciting time moving into the new house and the package you got in the mail. I hope it was something wonderful. Continue to be the good girl that you always are and help out your mother every chance you get. I will talk to you soon!

BIG HUG!!!

Love: Aunt Teri, Uncle Clint and Dax.

All The Pretty Pollen

2010-04-29T04:50:00.000-05:00

As geeky and/or kooky is it may have been for me to walk around our yard taking close up pictures of flowers, I did just that.

Actually, some of you may have or will do this. However, I bet you wouldn't squat on one foot lean as far down as you can without kissing the sidewalk or even better lie on your back with camera pointed up in the air in order to get the right angle on your pictures...of flowers... but I just had to document this.

Every time a car went by, I'd jump up, start whistling and pretend I was just strolling so they wouldn't catch a glimpse of me in an awkward position and think I was off my rocker. We live on a busy road, so let's just say I got my exercise. ;o)

I guess I could call this the fruits of my labor but I can't take credit for all this unexpected beauty. That glory goes to God for giving us this wonderful gift. This is one of those rare years in which everything bloomed all at once. Spring flowers and Summer flowers. So, it's quite an explosion of color all over the place so I'm going to share what's been keeping me outdoors so much in the past couple of weeks. We've been eating on the patio a lot this month! Only downside to all this bloomage is the pollen. My mother told me we have record levels due to everything blooming at once.

Word for the Day:

FLOWER:

Pronunciation: \ˈflau̇(-ə)r\

Function: noun

A plant cultivated for its blossoms

TEROLATION:

Pretty righteous dirt decor!!

Rose/Don Juan Climber on a trellis I made out of an old screen door. Someone was going to throw this away, so I got it, stained it and painted RustOleum on the center part.

From Spring 2010

Wisteria

From Spring 2010

Snapdragon (Sown from Seed)

From Spring 2010

Azalea (Encore)

From Spring 2010

Azalea (Encore) Color: Sunset

From Spring 2010

Rose/Chrysler Imperial (Hybrid Tea)

From Spring 2010

Irises

From Spring 2010

Rose/Iceberg Climber

From Spring 2010

Rose/~Not sure of the name~ Climber

From Spring 2010

I had so many blooms this year that I've got enough flower arrangements to go around

From Spring 2010

My favorite:

From Spring 2010

FYI: Iris buds will bloom after cutting. They don't dry out in bud form like some flowers do. I had cut out a lot of buds and got ready to throw them away because I assumed they weren't any good. I saved them just in case. They actually bloomed and just after the others became spent. I got many many days of this same flower arrangement just by changing the spent flowers out with the buds.

So, we have Irises coming out of our ears...More buds

From Spring 2010

and some more

From Spring 2010

Sis-In-Law + March 2010 = 40

2010-04-29T02:58:00.004-05:00

Clint's sister, Diane, turned 40 on March 10 and she doesn't look a day older than she did 10-11 years ago when I met her for the first time not long after Clint and started dating.

Diane is Clint's half sister. Same mother; different father.

For her very belated Birthday post I thought I'd turn it over to Clint but Clint is a man of very few words and even fewer typed words.

I asked Clint what does he like most about his sister. His answer was sweet, "I don't know, I'm not good at this kind of stuff. Everything is special about her. She's always been funny and smart... and I love my nephews."

There is approx. a 10 year difference between Clint and his sis, so Clint's thoughts on Diane are very saturated with his nephews.

His reply makes sense because since Austin, Anderson and Ashton came on the scene Diane is best known as the loving mother of the family's most valuable treasures. I'm guessing Diane would take being admired for the mom she is to 3 of the best behaved, smart, sweet and loving children we've ever met as a huge compliment. And I'm not saying that just because Clint and I are the biased uncle and aunt. 3 BOYS! I have one boy that isn't even 2 and I can only imagine how hard 3 would be.

Diane got her teaching degree from Jacksonville State and teaches high school kids with special needs. She's also a Realtor, wonderful decorator, cook and a pretty good artist. She's all around talented with an abundance of energy that I'd love to borrow from her if it were possible.

Diane has a witty sense of humor and a laugh that just makes you smile.

I'm so blessed to have two of the most wonderful sister-in-laws and just like Emma Brown (my brother's wife) I have tremendous admiration for her.

Happy Belated Birthday Diane and BiG HuG! Clint, Teri and "The Man"

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

From Spring 2010

April Showers = May Flowers

2010-04-15T11:56:00.003-05:00

I can't commit to the "Thursday's Thirteen" that some people do, but I can do it at least once a month.

So here's what our April has been like thus far:

1. Dax and I pullin a "George Jones" on the John Deere every now and then (minus the drinking and DUI) when it is too hot to push around the stroller and Dax totally digs it.   We rode down to a nearby friend's house. They weren't at home, so, we cut their small lawn and cut the word "YO" in the field next to it just to make them scratch their head wondering.

2. A strapless mu mu sundress seems like it'd be appropriate for staying around the house attire. That is until Dax caught site of the bug man carrying his scary looking container while spraying the house. Scared Dax bad enough to yank hard on said strapless dress letting me know he wanted to be picked up immediately!   Poor bug man! At least I was wearing modest underwear... However I'm still embarrassed so I'm going to set a reminder for myself to run errands on "Spray Day" of each month so the bug man is allowed to spray away in peace.

3. I realized just how much of a rut I got in this Winter being a stay at home mom/housewife when my husband informed me he was "proud of me" after several days of coming home to me actually wearing makeup and dressed nice. I totally had the "that's not going to be me" attitude... but it happened. So sue me, I had a rough year... ;o) ha ha. But I promised him AND myself I wouldn't let the rut catch me again. Lancome, Clinique, Merle and Cover Girl - it's wonderful to see you. Glad we're friends again.

4. Best way to ensure a cold front after 90 degree weather... break down and turn your air conditioning on. An outside temp of 40 degrees will show up overnight.

5. Chatty Canadians in Target that verified my opinion that they are the friendliest/best sense of humor people on planet earth. After talking with them a bit I felt safe enough to ask what part of Canada they were from though they hadn't said. When she asked what gave them away. I answered her back with "aye." She said that was their version of our southern "huh." Touche and very true. Dax is already saying "huh."   I enjoyed talking to them so much I wanted to take them home with me!

6. YARD WORK! That's all I have to say about that.

7. Dax has now learned how to climb over the furniture which means my computer days are VERY limited. He makes a beeline straight to the computer keyboard and bangs on the keys with enthusiasm. Dax has also found another high gear to shift into when it comes to speaking jibberish. Says "I - U" for I love you, can ~almost~ count to ten (he does this when he's trying to stay awake) and has all the sudden become bashful when around people but more so when he's around kids.

8. For the 1st time in my life I've actually kept a New Year's Resolution. We haven't made it through the whole year yet but I've heard doing something for 30 days is long enough to make a habit. Our new habit (New Year's Resolution) is sitting down for breakfast and dinner together as a family at the dining room table.

9. We have our very own stalker. I have to admit, although he's strange, shady and a little dirty, he's a total cutey. He comes to the front door. Then the back door. Then back to the front off and on through out the day. Even though he's cute, we don't pet him or go outside when he's around.

From Miscellaneous

10. After taking a nice little drive in the country we passed this. Creepy isn't it? What's creepier than a vacant bulldozer in the middle of no where?...this is!!

From Miscellaneous

11. Going to Jacqueline and Eli's house to take a stroll around the "compound" and having wonderful fun albeit my frustration with Dax hitting the "bratt" phase of being bashful and fussy to everyone besides us and the grandparents. He wanted to play with Eli's toys but wasn't very inviting to play with sweet little Eli. He also pitched a fit when I was talking to another baby at church Sunday. I hope it is like they say, he's just hitting a phase... 6 mos. ago he was the total opposite. However, we're lucky that's the only time we see the "bratt phase." He's a total sweetie any other time.

12. Laughing at Dax steering us in circles on the lawnmower. I know the lawn mower is not a toy and we don't use it as one. But, since he LOVES riding on it... and I'm just amazed he's able to turn that tight steering wheel.

13. Waking up to finger joint stiffness and pain every morning. It's official. I'm Old! That's the most damning evidence I've received thus far. Yes I actually did imagine myself being forever young. I've now had my rude awakening... literally.

Until Next Month's Thirteen, enjoy your Spring!

The "Hobby"

2010-04-15T10:22:00.001-05:00

This week I shared Clint's response to our talk about the yard work that needs to be done - and is getting done - but only one of us is contributing while the other has some fun in the sun while trying to get a bite.

The talk started when I was still working late into the night and Clint was urging me to call it a night. Of course I politely suggested (politely in Teri language translates to "as a matter of fact" in Clint's language) that if he helped me I would have been finished already. Of course he agreed but his never ending sighs and comments let me know he wasn't too happy about his task at hand. Several back and forth "as a matter of facts" later (such as "can you at least pretend you'd like to help me... I mean this is your yard too") Clint finally unloaded the final explanation (AHEM... excuse) when he basically said "I thought yard work was your hobby... I didn't know you hated it as much as I do. I promise, from here on out I'll do anything you want me to and I promise to fake my enthusiasm for it too just so I can make it up to you" ....

I couldn't help but laugh. I mean I really got tickled. I've heard some pretty clever ones from Clint before but that has to be one of the best. Clint's such a stinker. What husband doesn't have their arsenal of good excuses or "get out of jail free" comments and compliments. ha ha. Although we aren't completely finished with our projects for this year, I'm doing all I'm going to do for this month and join Clint fishing. Yeah, the work will be harder to do when it gets hotter, but so will the fishing.

Mom and Dad helping me early Saturday with transplanting dirt from our field to one of our beds in great need of good dirt. Look how black that dirt is!

From Spring 2010

Mom watched or I should say chased Dax while I stood back and took on the role of task master. This is the real reason Clint goes fishing when there's work to be done. Who can blame him?

From Spring 2010

Very good dirt

From Spring 2010

Mama's future helper - can't wait!

From Spring 2010

Dad tilling the dirt for me. Thank goodness I didn't have to do all this!! The other bed liked to have killed me.

From Spring 2010

Dax loves riding the green mean air conditioned machine with Paw Paw. As soon as they unloaded the tractor Dax cried until we turned him over to Paw Paw in the cab. After a couple of trips hauling dirt back and forth, he finally got out.

From Spring 2010

When I got finished laughing at Clint, I explained to him in all seriousness that I like to make things look good but doing the work for it - I absolutely hate. Not to mention the man power. There's only so many rocks and mulch I can carry.So to make up for it the next day he cooked dinner,watched and fed Dax,loaded the dish washer and cleaned up. Totally worked for me! I was definitely content. That's the wonderful thing about Clint, even though I do love to tease him about the excuses he comes up with, he's more than happy to help me out on other things he doesn't mind doing so much but they're things I don't necessarily hate but do love to catch a break from every now and then. It's definitely a trade off that works for us.

I don't want to post pictures of this year's project until it's finished, but it's basically two new beds. The one Dad was adding dirt to and tilling is for much needed shrubs. The other is a huge area I tilled up with a hoe, mulched and will be a bulb, tuber and rhizome garden with a rock pathway like the one in the picture, but this pathway will wrap around our dogwood tree and is a bit large in comparison to that one below.

From Dax is 9 Mos Today

I know some of you will want to see pictures, I'll post them when I'm finished or when everything starts blooming - that's if it does...

Cold Winter - Even Colder Winter - Easter - Now Summer

2010-04-08T03:11:00.000-05:00

I wouldn't dare complain about the weather. Wouldn't dream of it. I'm simply making an observation that we might possibly be skipping Spring and going straight into summer since we are already having 90 degree weather. That being said, I better go ahead and get Spring pictures (what few there are) out of the way before I get too far behind on my posts. I've already got a couple of B-days I'm late on. Whoops. :o(

Before I post Easter pics I wanted to share a little proud moment. Dax stopped looking at his rocking horse as if it were going to bite him and decided to climb on but before he could break that bad pony in he had to address something that was bothering him. Which was getting rid of that girly bow. Quite the manly thing to do I thought. Now I can stop worrying about gender bending episodes like Dax always wanting to wear my bracelets and stuff of the like... just kidding. He's definitely all boy. I keep putting the bow back on (to see what he'll do) and first chance he gets he takes it off and throws it. I'm sure it'll come up missing... just like the plastic fly swatter we use to spank him. It's amazing to me that a 1 1/2 year old can hide something that big so good that it basically disappeared off the face of the earth (our small house being the face of the earth). We can't find them anywhere.

Dax's first horse: Woody

From Spring 2010

Easter 2010We were lucky to get the few pics that we did. Gone are the days when Dax stands still long enough to snap a picture - much less smile and look cute.If anyone can get him to at least look at the camera, it's Maw Maw.

From Spring 2010

One of the ladies that kept Dax during church service said "he's got the cutest personality" I would love to have known what he was doing for that sweet comment. I can't help but wonder if that was her creative way of saying "He's a handful!"

From Spring 2010

Littering Takes A Dangerous Twist

2010-04-01T09:23:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago Clint, Jacob and Dax were on the way home from their fishing trip and Dax's visit with Grandmother when passing a couple of teenagers. One of the teenagers threw a bottle out the window and it hit the bass boat.

This is the damage it did. Absolutely unbelievable that 1 little bottle thrown at that slow speed did this damage. It completely went through the seat. Though the seat was old, it was in perfect condition. So all the damage was done from that one bottle.

Thank goodness it didn't hit their windshield!!!!

From Miscellaneous

Genuine House-Cat Purse?

2010-04-01T09:21:00.000-05:00

or maybe cat skinned stilettos?

Maybe I'll just start a trophy wall with my first addition being a mounted domestic cat head.

Listen up people, or read up people. Literally. Up in the header of this blog where I wrote "Learn from our mistakes (THERE ARE MANY)." Well that time has come as I bring you a what not to do education from the Powells.I'm now right back to square one when it comes to being overly cautious in regards to my or anyone else's sweet furry friends.

Twice this month Dax has paid for my love for animals and the belief that Dax is safe around our sweet, loving, gentle natured pets. 2 weeks ago he was knocked down head first on the concrete by my dog, Boss, in which he got a blue knot on his head (thank goodness he didn't hit the ground harder!!) because Boss is a big dog.

Now he has another battle wound from our cat.This picture was taken 3-4 days after it happened. So it had healed a great deal.

From Winter 2010

You might argue that I'm beginning to over react, but imagine if this cat has gotten his eye. It could have easily blinded him.

The bad thing is, is that this is our fault not the animals. Boss is a sweet playful dog that got carried away. The cat is the most docile creature I've ever been around and up to that point didn't mind Dax's occasional roughness towards him. He'd usually continue to purr like he loved it.

I don't know what caused the cat to decide he didn't want to be touched but we now have a difficult situation. I don't want Dax to fear animals, but he's not going to be allowed to get too close to them either. Not until he's old enough to understand the danger.

I've constantly heard or even said myself "oh, don't worry, ____ loves kids or that dog/cat wouldn't hurt a flea. My Grandmother thought the same about her small house companion until it tore my hand up for just trying to pet it. The dog had always loved me up until that moment. Just before I wrote this post, I was pressured by a neighbor to put Dax down to pet a very sweet dog that had been adopted and wouldn't get close to "just anybody." They didn't understand my caution but though I hate to offend anyone and their pet, it's not going to happen.

Dax is the problem, not the animal. Apparently, Dax is too unpredictable and I think animals sense that which causes them to strike. So, if I run into you and won't let my son down around your pet please don't be offended. It's just not worth the risk to me. You don't know how many times I've heard "they've never bitten before..." until some poor kid or even adult is the first of course.

After what I've seen recently, I'm going to stand by my belief that animals can pose a huge threat to a child. They can and will retaliate at any moment and for any reason. Better to be safe than sorry.

My Coping Device

2010-03-27T02:14:00.008-05:00

I constantly get asked "how do you manage?" referring to the constant severe cluster migraines I've been having for a long time now. You know...because I'm never able to commit to anything, I have to cancel on a lot of get-togethers with friends and family (which I dearly love), missed vacations, occasionally forced to be a recluse for days at a time. Worst of all is the unimaginable pain.

Well, this is how. Dax. He keeps me smiling, laughing, loving and optimistic. Babies bring so much sunshine to people's life it's amazing! It's a strong possibility Dax will be our only baby due to my condition but that makes us even more thankful for him.

This is Dax being HILARIOUS... he dumped his dirty clothes out and ran around with his hamper on his head. Running into stuff, rolling around on the floor fussing because he couldn't get out and then when he did he'd put it right back on his head.

From Winter 2010

VIDEO: The kooky music in the background is Baby Einstein on the TV.

It must be said that Dax doesn't get to watch Baby Einstein or ANY television very often.

To be honest it's not just because too much TV rots the brain (wholesome shows or not) well that, but really because 1. Babies are entranced by these shows and if I've got something I need to do - like put on makeup, take a shower... BE or Yo Gabba Gabba is perfect for keeping him occupied just long enough for me to get it done.

If he got to watch them all the time they wouldn't work so well would they?

and

2. Being a stay at home mom is a mental sacrifice, for me it is anyway. A 24/7 job filled with baby food, messy diapers, nap refusals and bad English is fine but watching too much Noggin or weird music from Baby Einstein would push me over the edge!

BE didn't work so well this time, but the hamper did!! After 30 minutes of him playing with this thing, I finally decided it was time to get the camera out.Dax being a little less precious... Dax's retaliating for having to try on the flag jumper.

Picky Eater Recipe

2010-03-27T01:25:00.002-05:00

If there is only one thing that is difficult about Dax, it's that he is a picky eater. Most of the time, he down right refuses food and will only eat 1 good meal a day with NO snacks. Sometimes it's worse than that. It goes without saying that this frustrates me, no, worries me to no end. Getting reassurance from his pediatrician on any other concern usually does wonders in getting me to calm down but not when it comes to food. He'll say, "don't worry, he's still growing..."

I had hyperemesis gravidarum and actually lost weight when I was pregnant with Dax and even though I know it wasn't my fault, I have a stigma about Dax not eating enough. Especially when it comes to protein. He'll eat veggies and bread plenty enough but meat is a different story and over all I just don't feel he's getting enough calories from fat (the good fat). So, I've come up with a recipe that is my own version of GNC Weight Gainer - homemade baby style. ;o)

It has plenty of protein, as well as, fruit and fiber in order to make sure he gets enough substantial calories. The best part about it is, of course, that he likes it and doesn't often refuse it.

Happy happy-joy joy...I thought I would share. Since it's my own recipe, I get to choose the name (how special am I??)

PRO PERFORMANCE POWER OATMEAL

1 1/2 cup single grain baby oatmeal
3/4 cup 100% all-natural applesauce (no sugar added)
1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
2 tbsp strawberry jello powder (sugar free)

* Ingredient measurements are an approximate guess. Meaning, I've never measured out anything, I just add what I think is the right amount of each until I get the taste right. Stir it all together and serve cold. No microwaving. If it turns out too thick, I add a little milk until I get it just right. Of course that may mean I have to add more strawberry jello powder so it's ~just~ sweet enough.

I also have another recipe that's protein packed that Dax usually won't turn down. Best part is it's quick.

YOGURT "CHEDDAR MAKES IT BETTER" EGGS ~N~ GRITS

3 Tbsp of Quick Grits
3/4 Cups water
1-2 Eggs
1 Cup of finely shredded sharp cheese
1Tbsp Plain Yogurt

Measure grits in microwavable bowl add water. Microwave for 2 mins. Beat egg into grits. Microwave for 1 minute (times may vary with your microwaves. If 2 eggs, then cook 2 mins). Mix in cheese and yogurt. I use a fork. Waiting to add the cheese and yogurt after eggs and grits are already cooked is important because it cools it down enough to eat without having to wait long.

Pretty clever, huh? I'm desperate for a pat on the back - even if it is from myself. But of course we all know this won't last long. If it does continue to work he'll just find something else to be difficult about. If only to remind me that I'm still a rookie mom who will always have a healthy share of totally clueless moments.

Of course this new protein packed diet has Dax galloping around like a thoroughbred at Churchhill Downs!

Dax and his Pooh Recliner

2010-03-15T23:35:00.000-05:00

Or at least he thinks that's what it is. This is also Dax's safe haven when he's really mad at me. When he throws a temper tantrum, he runs to pooh and buries his head in the seat. So, I guess Pooh makes it all better.

From Winter 2010

A Lifetime of Special People

2010-03-13T01:34:00.001-06:00

March 2 was my wonderful sister-in-law, Emma Brown's birthday.

Emma Brown is the oldest of 10 kids that were the 3rd generation of her family to live in Brazil.

She knows how to work with wood and made all the wooden pews in the Davises' family church in Brazil.
For a short time she lived in the states and graduated from Samford with a nursing degree before meeting and marrying my brother in August of 2000.

Thereafter they lived in Anniston for a short time before leaving the U.S, to live on their farm (Fazenda De Gratidau) in Brazil. Where they stayed for almost a decade
.

During which time 4 of their five kids were born. 2 girls and 2 boys. Brian Owen, the 2nd child was born on their farm and delivered by one of her younger brothers, Mallory.

Emma Brown is an excellent cook and from scratch nonetheless. There's so much more fascinating details to Emma Brown and though I haven't known her all my life but having her as part of my family for the past decade has definitely made quite the impact.

Not only is it because she's a wonderful mother but because of the happiness she brings my brother as well as the wonderful blessing it is to all my family just knowing her. I could write about many wonderful things in my life that I've experienced just during our visits with my brother, her and her family, the Davises (who are extraordinary people) in Brazil, but I'll just stick to Emma Brown.

I don't remember much about my first impression of Emma Brown, only that she was very soft spoken especially compared to our loud and sometimes boisterous family (well me and mom, anyways), she had a beautiful smile and she was very sweet and polite. Oh but let me not forget about the biggest thing I remember - my brother shined like the sun when he was around her. After I got to know her I realized why.

While sitting beside my brother on the plane to Brazil for their wedding, I'll never forget my brother's small proclamation of "Teri, I LOVE Emma Brown." I don't know if it was the look on his face or the sincerity in his voice when he said that but it told me that my brother had found someone incredible and wonderful things would be in store for them from the minute they exchanged vows.

The next day I witnessed the most beautiful and touching ceremony I've ever seen to this day. I literally almost fainted. Though that was actually from the heat... ;o)

Over the next several years I soon realized just how special Emma Brown was. Brian's blessing (Emma Brown) has been extended to our entire family through knowing her.I've always learned so much from watching Emma Brown. The way she's always calm. Her graceful demeanor and even her astounding physical ability to bounce back into every day life after giving birth or having her appendix removed.

My favorite impression of her was given by my Paw Paw Swann (my mother's late father) who said he loves to hear Emma Brown talk because she coo's like a dove. Our whole family's sentiments exactly for we all (immediate and extended) love to hear Emma Brown talk.

Emma Brown I hope your Birthday was as special as the one you gave my brother. It's so wonderful to know and have you as a sister-in-law. When we prayed for my brother to meet a special person many years ago, we could never have imagined just how greatly our prayer would be answered!

Note From Mom

2010-03-11T01:06:00.000-06:00

My excuse note for being late. Only I'm the mom and I'm writing it for myself. I've not been able to be on the computer much at all the past 2 weeks. So I'm running a bit behind on Special People/Birthday posts and a couple of Dax picture posts for blogger. Status updates on FB and answering e-mails and etc. I'll try to get them up by this weekend though.So what's keeping me? Well, the usual that I'm not going to mention just because I'm plain tired of hearing it myself. And, Dax is hitting the 2's head on literally. He doesn't allow me a lot of free time to myself these days. The nerve of him? You'd think he was a baby and needed lots of attention or something... ;o) Since we're getting some pretty weather, he's finally getting to play outside more which makes him very happy but has come with some BIZARRE temper tantrums when it's time to come in. So my internet time has basically been nonexistent. I imagine I'll be back shortly though. All this play time will require more than one nap I'm sure. Till then. Hope all is well with you guys that are reading this!!

The Alpha Male Fashion Police

2010-03-10T23:06:00.005-06:00

Though Mom and I thought this outfit would probably be cute, Clint definitely had something to say about it.

I guess Dax thought otherwise too. When I pulled out this cute little flag defacing frock (jumper) and got ready to put it on Dax to see if it fit, Clint pleaded with me by saying his usual - "Mama, Don't do that to that boy!" I hear that quote quite often.

Other memorable occasions:

When I dressed Dax up in a reindeer outfit for his 1st Christmas Clint hung his head in embarrassment when he saw that our Christmas cards would enclose a photo of Dax in this PRECIOUS outfit in front of the tree...

OR

when I dressed Dax up as cupid for his 1st Valentine's Day... (I don't care what Clint thought about these, I still think they are too cute. Want to see the rest: Cupid 2009

In the past Dax had no quarrel with my decisions - even seemed as if he had fun. Not this time, or maybe, not this outfit! He fussed the whole time it was on and as soon as I got it off of him he flashed a huge smile.

Okay, he got me on this one. Maybe it is a little bit too much! ;o) Especially since I couldn't resist poppin his collar.

Dax On the Move

2010-03-03T01:18:00.004-06:00

I was going to let this be the "Wordless Wednesday" post, but you know me...

Dax will hardly ever stand still anymore. Out of 15 pictures, I'm lucky if he's standing still for at least one of them and I'm even luckier if it's not blurry.

Dax learns a new word every couple of weeks or so. My favorites are "peese" - please; "dat do" - thank you and of course "poe" - pooh (when he wants his binky or he's climbing into his chair).

Other words he says very clearly are "I know" and "where did it go" and "1 - 2 - 3!!!" But I like the ones he doesn't say so well. The cuteness makes my heart skip a beat each time he says a word incorrectly. He also mimics me very well. Especially when I'm hollering for Clint when we're inside and he's outside. I'll say "C-L-I-N-T" Dax will directly follow it up with "K-L-E-E-T."

From Winter 2010

A Lifetime of Special People

2010-03-02T23:29:00.004-06:00

On February 25 it was so wonderful to be able to call my brother and wish him happy birthday without having to make an international call. This time he was just one state over. And for the first time in years I got to hear about how his day went without it sounding as if we were using 2 Campbell Soup cans held to our ears with a string attached. As most know, Brian and family have lived on the Northern side of the rain forest in Brazil since 2001-02. They're now in Georgia.

Within only minutes we were already laughing out loud at the other one's comments when talking about how Brian's day had went (which sounded wonderful by the way - Emma Brown gave him an all day feast fit for a King).

This instantaneous urge to laugh whilst conversing with each other is how it's been with us for as long as I can remember.

When speaking to each other in person even the smallest twitch of expression, smile or tone in our voice can send the other into hysterical laughter. It's almost like a secret language that I believe most siblings have with one another and our language is definitely spoken through humor.

I can only imagine how silly we must look from someone on the outside looking in. Which can really be misleading due to the fact that Brian and I both tend to be very serious people on a normal basis... just not when we're around each other. Sometimes I think even our parents don't know what to make of it.

From Old Photos

However, aside from sharing the same sense of humor, Brian and I not only look as different as night and day, our personalities are as different as night and day.

From Old Photos

He's basically everything I'm not. He's always been an agreeable, quite, kind, passive....just an all around GOOD SOUL. Growing up I don't recall him getting into one argument with anyone. I'm sure it happened... I mean kids will be kids you know... but I can't remember even one.

Except for me of course! He doted on me at first. Then I learned to talk and it all went downhill from there.

If I didn't have this picture as proof, I probably wouldn't believe that myself.

From Old Photos

As I got older and was no longer this quite, sweet baby I believe I took on the role as his part-time nemesis. I say part-time, because one minute we'd be laughing and cutting up then 5 minutes later declaring all out war on each other. My mother, basically, told me that I was an expert when it came to pushing Brian's buttons. I knew which button to push at what time to get the reaction I was counting on. Sadly, mom's pretty accurate. I remember tearing his Star Wars Millennium Falcon apart with great pleasure among other toys of his.

From Old Photos

I probably had just eaten all his Easter candy too

From Old Photos

But if you ask me, that's just a sister's way of showing love.

Brian got plenty of chances to act out his revenge. I remember one time he had me convinced I was adopted. I'm full of stories of the horrible stuff we did to each other as siblings. Now of course they make me laugh. However, in my opinion, it's nothing out of the ordinary. Considering our age difference and that we were brother and sister instead of brothers or sisters. I'm sure there were many times when Brian wished I was a little brother instead of sister. And I can't tell you how many times I wished I'd had an older sister to hang out with. If only to show me cool things like putting on make-up or how to dress...
obviously Brian was no help in that department.

From Old Photos

But I can promise you I've thought often since, about how thankful I am to have had an older brother and more importantly having Brian as a brother. Because actually I idolized my brother so much you'd have thoughthe'd hung the moon. A guy we grew up with (that was my age) said healways thought my brother "was as cool as the other side of thepillow." My brother could have been the biggest nerd and I still wouldhave "tried" to follow him around everywhere. He couldn't get rid ofme.

Want to know how cool the other side of the pillow was? The galactic star fighter (or whatever that is) helmet says it all...

From Old Photos

When Brian was in college he became a Christian. Not long after, if I'm not mistaken, he went to each and everyone of his friends' house, sat them down and told them about Christ. Everyone should do that, but I can tell you that most of us don't. It takes a lot of humility, selflessness, and most of all LOVE to sit someone down and give them the message of salvation especially when you know that person will probably scoff at you.

From Old Photos

My brother and his faith has been a huge blessing to my life. If not for him, I probably wouldn't be a Christian myself. He never stopped being a witness. Though I was raised in church all my life by faithful parents, it took my brother to get the message through to me. I will always be thankful for that.

From Brian, Emma Brown, Natalie, Owen, Claire, Isaac

In August 2000 Brian married his wife, Emma Brown Davis, in their family church at Dom Elisau, Brazil in the most natural, unique, just all around beautiful ceremony I've ever witnessed. Probably the longest ceremony I've ever witnessed too. ;o)

From Brian, Emma Brown, Natalie, Owen, Claire, Isaac

Since, our family has grown tremendously with the arrival of their 5 beautiful children: Natalie Ellen b. May, 2002; Owen b. May 2004; Claire b. January 2006; Isaac b. February 2008; and Caleb b. November 2009. Each one such a tremendous blessing.

From Brian, Emma Brown, Natalie, Owen, Claire, Isaac

It's amazing to watch my brother with his children. It comes to no surprise that they adore him and just like my father, he's an excellent teacher.

From Brian, Emma Brown, Natalie, Owen, Claire, Isaac

Brian, I wouldn't trade you for 5 of the coolest big sisters in the world. Being your little sister has truly been an adventure. You are such an awesome brother...make sure you keep up the good work! ;o)

From Old Photos

Just for fun. I always tell everyone that I can see just about everyone in our family - both sides - in Dax from time to time. Even my brother. Though this picture doesn't do the resemblance (because Dax isn't blowing) justice I thought I'd add it anyways. And of course I'm only talking about their "jows" spelling please? I'm guessing you all know what I'm referring to, I just don't know how to spell it?

Dax has jows (sp) not jaws... or is it? like his uncle.

From Old Photos

From Winter 2009

Will Be Visiting The Fat Farm This Year For Vacation

2010-02-28T02:14:00.000-06:00

Clint and I love these deviled eggs so much we've been craving them like a pregnant woman craves pickles. It's different in that it requires NO sweet relish. Neither one of us likes sweet relish.

We fixed deviled eggs approximately 3 times last week. Not just ate, but fixed a whole new batch...

It's not just that they're so good (well, maybe it is) but I believe we have a little bit of fun boiling, cracking and peeling eggs together while trying to keep Dax from snatching one of the eggs before he takes off running (since we sit on the floor in the den to crack and peel ours). Much like our chocolate pretzel tradition/obsession.

Some families like to play games together, watch a movie together, etc... we like to make deviled eggs together.

Later comes the real fun when we start firing off at each other with a fine display of methane gas. Nothing revitalizes the senses like deviled egg aftermath.

I thought I'd share our favorite DE recipe. That is if you didn't lose your appetite after reading the above sentence... ;o)

DEVILISH AMMUNITION:

7 Hard cooked eggs
3 Tbsp Hidden Valley Ranch
1 or 1 1/2 Tbsp chopped fresh dill weed (to your liking)
1 clove garlic, minced ( I use moist ready minced garlic)
5 dashes bottled hot pepper sauce
1/8 Tsp salt
4 Slices of bacon; crisp cooked and crumbled ( I use Oscar Meyer natural bacon bits)
1 Tsp seasoning salt
2 oz of ricotta OR cream cheese OR plain yogurt (only if your mixture somehow ended up too salty)

Halve hard boiled eggs lengthwise and place yolks in small bowl. Set whites aside. Mash yolks with fork. Stir in salad dressing, dill weed, garlic (I would really recommend using moist ready minced garlic. Clint and I use these with all our recipes that calls for cloves of garlic and it really makes all the difference in the world to us.), hot pepper sauce, bacon and salt. Do a taste test and if too salty for your liking, add ricotta OR cream cheese OR yogurt, Stuff egg white halves with yolk mixture.

Let me know if you try it and you like it better than the sweet relish DE's!

A Lifetime of Special People

2010-02-27T15:05:00.006-06:00

So, I'm a bit behind... but that was the point, wasn't it? I'm bad about "belated" birthday wishes so I'm doing these posts to make up for that... ;o)

My best teacher, my biggest disciplinarian, my biggest provider and now that I'm all growed up one of my best friends, as well as my biggest hero, was born on February 19.

This person is quite, Wise, kind, calm, loving, DEPENDABLE, funny, intelligent, creative, respectable, well spoken, interesting, Brave, proud yet humble    (he isn't going to like all this praise one bit!) FORGIVING, understanding, honest, faithful, hard working, unique and just about every good adjective I can think of... he's all these things!

So does this wonderful guy have a name? Well, his friends call him Jimmy or Jim, but I call him Daddy, but more often these days he's known as Paw Paw (hearing Dax say Paw Paw absolutely melts my heart because he already loves his Paw Paw so much and vice versa).

When I told him this was going to be his Birthday present he told me the same thing he always does which is "I try to forget my Birthday" (that makes two of us Dad)   and    "don't put all that on the internet."

Dad, sorry to disobey you but there's no way I'm going to post about all these fine people that are/were special in my life and leave you off the list when you are one of the most important.

I'm sure many of you reading this post feel the same as I do. When writing about all the good things our parents have done for us or how important they are, you could easily write a book the size of the dictionary and then some. But, I'm going to try to keep it short-er.   ;o)

FACTS:

Born and raised in Mt. Olive to Travis and Athlyn
Has a younger sister, Sherry.
Grew up watching The Gene Awtry Show, Rawhide, Gunsmoke and Bonanza.(apparently the Mickey Mouse Club too. Boy, does he make wearing those ears look cool!)

From Old Photos
Was a member of the 1st Graduating Class of G-dale.
Married my mother at the age of 20.

From Old Photos
Was a Staff Sergeant in the US Army Reserve.

From Old Photos
Had a Black Belt in Karate.

From Old Photos
Has two kids; my brother, Brian, and me.

From Old Photos
Is and has been an Electrical Engineer for Alabama Power/Southern Company - close to or more than 30 yrs.
His shirts are always nicely ironed, tucked in with boots nice and shined (he doesn't wear ties as much as he used to, but, he still wears one of my all time favorite Father's Day gifts from time to time (below).
(That doesn't mean he hasn't received bad Father's Day gifts that get put somewhere in his room to collect dust for 15+ years - ahem - Bath and Body Works Cologne and Soap... what was I thinking??)
Was raised riding horses. So, he in turn raised us riding horses.

From Old Photos
From Old Photos
From Old Photos
Loves to ride his Harley with my Mom.
Enjoys making heavy duty farm equipment to attach to his tractors. (He's probably working on something right now as you read this)
Has 6 grandchildren and counting.
He can fix anything with mecurochrome. Sever a leg? Just put some mecurochrome on it, it'll be healed up by morning. In the picture: Dad's medicine cabinet: plenty of mecurochrome (iodine tincture).
Now has a head full of gray/white hair with my name written on every strand.

My Dad needs a T-shirt that says "I survived Teri 1994-1998 I was such a little heathen when I was a teenager and for the life of me I still don't know why. Looking back I'm glad he was the Dad he was. Not a friend but a Father. I glad he didn't budge one iota when it came to the disagreements - mostly about "why can't I go 'here'?" or "why can't I stay out until ___ a.m.?"

Eventually I came around when I realized I had nothing to be rebellious for to begin with. I only needed to be THANKFUL because he loved us so much. Thanks to both my parents I had/have a wonderful life filled with many blessings. But, to this day I wince when I think of what I put my poor Dad through. My mother said she never worried as much because she didn't have to; Dad worried enough for both of them. So he got the brunt of it even though my mom got a good dose too. What goes around - comes around and I'm sure it will come full circle when Dax hits the teenage years. I'm positive I've got it coming. ;o)

WHAT I LIKE MOST:

Writing these posts about very different people draws on very different emotions or reactions from myself. While writing about some make me laugh, others make me cry and some just make me plain stir crazy. The feeling I get when I write or even think about my Dad, is the feeling of Awe. I'm basically just in awe of him and pretty much have been since I've been old enough to grasp a concept of the person he is and the father he always has been. And it's not just me. Clint has pretty much vocalized the same feeling. There's too many things I really admire about my Dad to name just a couple, but these are some that are easily put into words.

My Dad has always been quite the teacher. He never told me I couldn't do something. When I'd follow him around at the barn with the horses, making home improvements, using power tools or just piddling as he calls it, he'd teach me what and how anytime I showed interest. With the exception of really dangerous power tools and what not. Plus the "girl" in me had standards and a power saw just didn't appeal to me but working/spending time with my Dad did ;o)

He never got annoyed with the fact that I'd hold him up either. He always had patience with us. I never heard him say "go inside with your mother." He was always too happy for me or Brian to tag along and we loved it. (Especially to go load hay. Yeah, loading hay... let the good times roll, huh? But we loved it. I still have fun doing that. When Dax is old enough to help, he'll have a blast climbing and jumping from one bale to another.)

He was like that with everything in life. Always asking our thoughts to see what we'd learned - his way of making us think for ourselves maybe? He rarely tells us you MUST do it this way. He listens to our thoughts and either he'll agree or politely point out a better way. That is of course unless we were dealing with something potentially dangerous. In that case, he commands like fathers do to keep us safe.

He's worked hard all his life to make sure that our family was taken care of. It's always been such a tremendous comfort knowing that he's there for us. If he could, he would take any pain we had away and suffer ten fold to keep us from harm or hurt. When he's witnessed me go through a really bad migraine, I can see in his face that he'd gladly suffer that migraine for me if he could. To be loved that much by a parent is what's expected but, sadly, doesn't always happen. That's never been the case for me or my brother. I think I've said before that we know how to love our children so much because we were so loved by him and my mom as well.

Dad, since I know you are glad your Birthday is gone and over with I will just say thank you for being the best Dad I could have or would ever want and I love you!!!

Dax Capitalizing On Our Mistakes

2010-02-17T22:19:00.002-06:00

Clint and I were both in the kitchen. I was loading the dishwasher and Clint was... well I don't know what Clint was doing, but point is the 3 of us were in the Kichen. Dax was playing with his washed out empty containers of sour cream, cool whip - etc. that he pulls out of "his" kitchen cabinet space. Well... that's what Dax was doing the last time Clint or I looked down.

Dax decided the back room was the place for him, or more specifically, this awkward ladder to reach Mama's glasses was the place for him.

From Winter 2010

Dax will be 19 mos. on March 1st. Can't wait to see what an 18th month old can do!!

A Lifetime of Special People - Mary Athlyn

2010-02-16T21:48:00.003-06:00

April and May must be the months of fertility because there are so many Birthdays in February!! I have my Dad and my brother's b-day to go for this month.

WHO:

My Grandmother Mary Athlyn R. (my father's mother) was born on a February 15. She passed away many years ago when I was 8 or 9. But thankfully I was old enough to remember her and the things she taught me.

It was my Grandmother that taught me to draw and do the crafty things I so often enjoy doing. Any holiday - Easter, Valentines and etc. She had us making all kind of crafts. She could make anything and could make it well. She made a ton of ceramic Christmas tree ornaments that I keep in a safe place and one year in the future I plan on putting up an extra tree for them.

Though I spent a lot of time with her I don't remember much about her personality. Maybe because I was too young? However, I do remember what her hugs felt like, the sound of her voice and her projects for me like picking up pecans or raking leaves to get me off the coach and outside. I remember shucking corn and breaking peas from my Uncle Pud's garden, or I should say field that ran behind her land...stuff that seems mundane or monotonous but you somehow enjoy doing these things and remember it fondly because it made times feel simple and calm.

My Aunt Stella, the youngest of her siblings, sent me an e-mail telling me more about her personality because I only saw her from the point of view of a 9 year old granddaughter.

Here is what some of the e-mail Aunt Stella sent me had in it:

She was loving and kind. I remember her as a very talented personwho could paint, sew, bake, crochet and even make her own ceramicmolds. Everything looked professional when she finished it.

She waslike a mother to me when I was little since I think Mama made her takecare of me most of the time. She was so young when she married (just15) and I was only 5 but I remember feeling as though I had lost mymother and I stayed with her as often as I could. When I becamepregnant with Bill she sewed maternity clothes for me and gave me themost wonderful baby shower where she decorated the bassinet beautifullyand baked little pink and blue cakes that looked like baby booties.Mama said Athlyn felt as though she was going to be a grandmotherherself when I became pregnant.

She was a fanatic about keeping a cleanhouse and one day while I was dusting her many little whatnots, I askedher if I could have a small ceramic Victorian shoe she had. She musthave said I could have it after she died because I taped a note tothe bottom of the shoe that said "This belongs to me. Stella". WhenJimmy was going through her things, he found the shoe, read the noteand gave me the little shoe, which I cherish.

I remember the family gathering at her house (your house) andfilling the dining room on holidays where she served the most wonderfulfood. I especially liked her cherry pies. Each Christmas she would makea rum soaked fruit cake which she began weeks before Christmas so itcould soak and always a Lane cake which is a very southern recipe. Istill make her beef stroganoff recipe which I used to make and mix withformula, blend and freeze in ice trays for my children when they werebabies. They loved it then and still love it as I do.

When she became a grandmother, I think she was the most happyspending time with all of you. Shannon has loving memories of spendingtime with her when we would visit from Nashville and she would staywith her.

Athlyn and Travis (Grandmother and Granddaddy)

From Old Photos

Grandmother and Aunt Sherry

From Old Photos

Granddaddy and Grandmother on an Indian

From Old Photos

Athlyn and Curtis or Ralph? (one of her 3 brothers)

From Old Photos

If you asked different people who Dax looks like, you'll get a different answer almost every time. It's always been the same with me. My physical appearance is a complete hodgepodge of all my family members from both sides. Going through old photos to add to this post I was astonished at what I saw...

I've been told I look like just about everyone in my family at one time or another ~ except ~ my brother and I've NEVER been told I looked like my Grandmother, Athlyn. Even though the picture of her below is blurry, and isn't the best picture of her...this is pretty close (not exactly) to the way I see myself - this is the face I see in the mirror everyday even if nobody else sees the resemblance. Only my face has blue eyes and blonde hair. This is crazy to me!

She is standing 2nd on the left

From Old Photos

I hated losing my Grandmother so early. She was in her 50's when she passed away. When I was younger, I felt robbed and to be honest, that feeling still comes over me every once in a while. But that pity party passes when I realize how blessed I am to have actually had 2 wonderful Grandmothers on my Dad and Mom's side. If that weren't enough, I could simply think about all the special people in my life I get to post about. So I really don't have a right to complain. I'm thankful for the time I had with her, the person she was, the things she taught me and how much she loved Brian, Brandy, Me and Misty (her grandchildren). Though there's a lot I'm sure I've forgotten over the years, one thing I remember that's most important was how much I loved her.

Clint, Dax and I live in her house and I had to redo a lot of hard work to get the house back to the shape it was in when she was alive (15 years of renting doesn't do a house good). I'm actually not quite there yet. But, this house is very sentimental to me. It's small, but if I never lived anywhere else, I would be satisfied. There's a peace I have living in the house where I have so many memories as a child.

In case you're wondering what "Aunt Stella" looks like - here is the most recent picture of her. J/K, Aunt Stella. Love U!

From Old Photos

Isaac

2010-02-15T21:53:00.002-06:00

One Birthday I'm actually going to be early with!

My nephew, Isaac's, birthday is tomorrow and Clint, Dax and I want to wish him a Happy Birthday!! I can't wait to see his sweet face and those big gorgeous brown eyes. Thank you Brian and Emma Brown for all your sweet babies! They are our family's biggest blessings.

From Winter 2009

A Lifetime of Special People - Sue Ann

2010-02-14T15:59:00.000-06:00

February 14.. Valintines Day...

WHO:

It's hard to know where to start with this posts. I'll start out with the fact that she is the most perfect    (double superlative... totally necessary) example of what a best friend is and should be. God blessed my mother with one of the best friends you could possibly imagine.

We all know that no one is bigger in our hearts than our own Mama's... and being good to my Mama is the same as being good to me.

Actually Sue Ann has been very good to me as well. If I ever needed anything - anything at all, I'm certain all I'd have to do is ask and she'd be there - except for maybe breaking the law. I don't think she likes me well enough to do that.   But I bet I could talk Heath into it. ;o)

All joking aside. Sue Ann has always been there for our family.   Long before weddings and showers, but those too.

WHY:

Sue Ann is a part of my past as much as anyone that are and will be mentioned in these posts. I have so many memories wrapped up in the McKnight family I wouldn't care to imagine what it would have been like if they'd stayed in Mississippi where they are from.

It's all too perfect that my Dad is best friends with Leonard too (Sue Ann's husband) ... who I'm just going to go ahead and dedicate this to him as well here now instead of on his birthday as I'm sure he no longer recognizes them... ) Heck, I'll just dedicate this one to the whole family... but Sue Ann first and foremost.

I have heard of friends as good as the one she's been to my mom, but honestly I've never seen them myself. Of course I've seen that dedication out of my own blood relatives, but not from an unrelated acquaintence. But Sue Ann proves they do exist. She's a good person, a good mom, loves her grandchildren to the fullest and like I've already said, a very good friend.

My brother and I used to love to watch mom and her work the crowd while waiting in the car after church. They'd spot someone across the parking lot - wave or "point" them down with big smiles and commence a pleasant but seemingly neverending conversation much to my Dad's dismay. One of those "you'd have to see it to understand it" moments but truly hilarious.

Then of course there were the bargain shopping trips. My mom and Sue Ann were the original "bargainomics" ladies. I'd follow them around to the point of exhaustion during shopping Saturdays to which they'd go through every item in the store looking for - if not trying to out do each other on finding - the best bargain of the day. For someone who hates to shop it could sometime be down right tortuous but obviously not enough for me not to look back on it fondly.

Sue Ann more than once took the time to hand make something for me and then later for Dax. Her mother even did so as well!! Mrs. Warren who is a beautiful person to meet and talk to herself gave Clint and I pillow cases that had her embroidery on them. When someone takes time out to hand make something - for me... it touches my heart and will always be cherished.

Sue Ann, thank you for being the person you are and being such a wondeful asset to our family! Have a wonderful and blessed birthday. I pray you have many more.

As for you Leonard... "My heroes have always been cowboys, and they still are it seems." You and my father are not the type of cowboys Willie Nelson sang about (thank goodness) but heroes nonetheless. Men of your integrity and unwavering values are a dying breed I'm afraid. But you are proof they still exist and are alive and well.

As for Scott - there's never been a time your quiteness and shy grin wasn't appreciated especially since I always had too much to say. I can't help but laugh... I was always envious of your calm and quite nature.    and Heath: I can still whip you, so watch out!

Sue Ann and Mom

From Miscellaneous