Zoo Day

As mentioned in this past Wednesday's post, we went to the Dallas Zoo last Sunday. The kids had a blast and Matt and I truly enjoyed the excitement, giggles and questions from the kids. Here is a pictorial review of our outing...Enjoy!

Both kids got maps and Max set off and actually knew where to direct us...most of the time!

Cate just liked the pictures!

Cate watching the Mandrill eat his/her lunch of oranges and spinach!

The kids loved these bronze statues near almost every exhibit as much as the real animals.

I didn't snap the picture quick enough, but Cate had just picked the bronze Gorilla's nose!!! So ladylike!

The Gorilla Habitat - the gorilla is just above the bush to Matt and Cate's left. They had signs to be very quiet in this exhibit and the kids were suprisingly very mindful of this!

Riding the monorail around the "Wilds of Africa" exhibit.

Of course, Max is excited about anything train related!!

Cate's favorite....Duck, Duck, Quack, Quack!

Spider Boy in the Children's Zoo!

Just outside the Otter pavilion

Max asked about the Rhinos and we "raced" to them! He loved how they played with these corregated plastic tubes that they would get on their horns and toss in the air!

My favorite...the Giraffes! They just have this simple grace about them.

We are already looking forward to our next Family Fun Day this weekend....we plan to go as a family to a movie...Cate's first!

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Literacy Thursday - Bear Snores On

One of my new bloggy friends is Jennifer @ If You're Happy and You Know It. She hosts a bloggy carnival on Thursdays called Literacy Thursday. I am a big advocate for reading to children. We have read to Max and Cate since they were in the womb. We have storytime every single night before bed, and both of them look forward to it. They each pick out the 3 books they want to have read to them. I strongly feel that this is how Max has such a strong vocabulary these days and I look forward to seeing each of them learn to read! Even though both of my kids have speech delays (but that is a whole 'nother post), their receptive vocabulary is very strong. You only have to show them a picture a couple of times before they can find it upon command! Anyway, back to the point of this post. My pick for this week is my personal favorite series to read to the kids. Matt and I each have a "special" book that only that parent is allowed to read to the kids. Mine is Bear Snores On and now we have all of the ones that follow. They are great books about friends coming together and helping the one in need. They are told in a fun sing-song fashion which makes it easy and fun to read (at least for me).

Bear Snores On
Written by Karma Wilson and Illustrated by Jane Chapman

Others in the series are: Bear Stays Up (for Christmas), Bear's New Friend, Bear Feels Sick, Bear Feels Scared, Bear Wants More

For more book suggestions, head on over to Jennifer's blog by clicking on the button at the top of this post! Happy Reading!

WordFUL Wednesday - Penguins!

This past Sunday, we took the kids to the Dallas Zoo for a family fun day...just the four of us! The weather was great, the crowds were small, and the kids loved every minute of it. In fact, in certain areas, they were so interested, we had to drag them away to see the next thing. By far, one of their favorites was the very first one we saw...the penguins. They giggled and pointed and smiled each time the penguins swam past them. We even got an idea of how they measured up to some penguins. While walking through the zoo, Matt and I looked at each other on more than one occasion and just smiled as the kids marveled at animal after animal. As we pulled out of there right at closing time, Max said, "Thanks for a fun time, Dad!" On the way home, Matt and I were planning our next family fun day for next weekend. Sometimes our lives get so hectic that we neglect to spend REAL quality time with our kids, listening to what they want to do or have to say! This was a day I'll remember for years to come...and all is took was a simple trip to the zoo.

For more Wordful Wednesdays, visit Angie at SevEn cLoWn CirCuS

Things I Learned This Week!

So, I decided to join this bloggy carnival hosted by Jo-Lynne over at Musings of A Housewife. She is also the designer of my blog. So, here are a few things I learned this week...

1. I am truly addicted to my email, blog, blog reading, Twitter, and Facebook! I think I already knew this, but after our router blew on Saturday afternoon and I didn't get a replacement until about 20 minutes ago, I had pure withdrawal!

2. Family fun days with just the four of us are pure pleasure! We haven't done one in a very long time and we went to the zoo this weekend with the kids (more on that to come). We made a pact to try to do something fun as often as we can, maybe even soon giving the kids a chance to pick the destination!

3. North Texans PANIC at the thought of freezing rain/drizzle! I am not kidding you...the mere thought of the temperatures dropping below 32 degrees, and schools have delayed opening/early release or they FLAT. OUT. CLOSE! I remember growing up in the panhandle of Texas, where, yes, it does snow...often, and they wouldn't cancel school until there were inches, maybe even feet of snow! In our days in NJ, forget about it, it had to be pure blizzard outside! I am just laughing at the constant SEVERE WEATHER ALERTS that keep breaking into daytime TV! Ridiculous!

So, there you have it....not real insightful, but this week it is all I have. For more "Things I learned this week" click on the button at the top of this post!

Souper Saturday - Thai Chicken Soup

This week, I am posting a recipe from Sandra Lee's Slow Cooker Recipes. It is Thai Chicken Soup and it is very easy since you just dump the ingredients and turn on the Crock Pot! Enjoy.

Thai Chicken Soup

1 1/4 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
2 cans (14 oz each) chicken broth
2 cans (14 oz each) light coconut milk
1 can (15 oz) straw mushrooms, drained [ Polar brand] (note: if you can't find these sliced mushrooms work fine)
3 Tbsp chopped lemongrass
1 Tbsp chopped ginger
2 tsp Thai Seasonings [Spice Island brand]
2 Tbsp lime juice
2 Tbsp chopped cilantro

In a 4-quart slow cooker, stir together all ingredients except lime juice and cilantro until thoroughly combined.

Cover and cook on HIGH setting for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours.

Stir in lime juice and cilantro and serve.

I hope you enjoy this. For more Souper Saturday recipes, head on over to Dandelion Dayz. Thanks, Janel, for hosting!

Lucky 13!

Happy 13th Anniversary, Kelly, Monica, Amy, and Pattie!

13 years ago, today, we met while doing the Walt Disney World College Program Spring 1996!

Four of us were actual roommates and one of us lived directly below us. We did Traditions (Disney training program), worked our shifts, laid out by the pool, had fun in the parks, partied at Pleasure Island and Church Street, ate at as many of the Disney restaurants as we could, spent a weekend in Key West, did Character breakfasts, and so many more memorable things that I can't list them all!

It was the time of my life and I will never forget it. We have stayed close ever since. In the 13 years following, we have all gotten married, most of us have kids, and we have reunited many times at Walt Disney World.

I worked at Port Orleans in Sassagoula Floatworks (the food court). I also cross-trained in the Scat Cats Lounge and Bonfamilles, which was the full-service restaurant that is no longer there.

Kelly, from Massachussets, worked at the front desk in Disney's Yacht Club.

Monica, from Indiana, worked at Epcot in transportation and drove the double decker busses around World Showcase (these are also no longer there).

Amy, from Missouri, was a park greeter/ticket taker at Disney's MGM Studios (now Hollywood Studios).

Pattie, also from Massachussets, worked custodial in the Magic Kingdom.

Pattie, Amy, Kelly, and me at Yachtman's Steakhouse

Amy, Monica, me, and Kelly at 50's Prime Time Cafe

Kelly, Amy, and me in front of Cinderella's Castle

At the Character Breakfast at Crystal Palace

Me, Amy, Mickey, Kelly and Pattie
WDW College Program Graduation

I am so glad that I have stayed in touch with these wonderful gals. We plan to go for another reunion sometime in November. 4 out of 5 of us have November birthdays and we want to take advantage of the "Get in Free on your Birthday" promotion going on in 2009 at WDW.

I hope you enjoyed my walk down Disney memory lane!

I love you, my Disney Gals! Here's to many more years of friendship!

WordFUL Wednesday - First Daughters

So, it is a new day in our country! As many of us watched in awe of President Obama and his inauguration celebration, I couldn't help but look at those beautiful girls and wonder how their world is about to change. However, by the looks of their family, it will be changes for the good. Their family seems so grounded and loving. As I heard on one of the broadcasts, it was stated that Mrs. Obama made it known to the White House staff that the girls would still be responsible for making their own beds and keeping their rooms clean. Even though there will be a huge staff, Mrs. Obama is still the MOMMA! Anyway, as these girls were decked out in head-to-toe J. Crew, they just beamed at their Daddy! What a wonderful and precious memory for them to have for the rest of their lives. Yet another "Pie and Ice Cream Moment"! Have fun, Malia and Sasha!

For more WordFUL Wednesdays, hop on over to SevEn cLoWn CirCuS!

Projects, Projects...Finally Accomplished!

We spent the weekend finally getting some stuff done that should have been done weeks ago. However, based on how the year started, those things got pushed back.

So, the Christmas decorations are finally put away!

We finally made it to the photographer to get the kids annual pictures together...and they are so cute. Can't wait to post them.

The ironing pile is down to only a few pieces...thanks to my wonderful hubby!

The playroom got a little rearranged and semi-organized.

The floorplan and furniture selection for Cate's big girl room is set in motion.

Long overdue thank you notes for birthday, Christmas, and sympathy gifts have been written. Well, most of them anyway!

Our refrigerator/freezer was cleaned out thanks to my hardworking and dedicated mother.

And on top of that all, I got to sleep in for two mornings in a row until 10am, thanks again to my sweet mom, so that I could fully recuperate!

Aaaahhhh...the feeling of accomplishment. So, thanks Matt, Mom, Max and Cate for a wonderful, hard-earned weekend. We even managed to have some fun along the way! I love you all.

Musical Monday - The Debut!

Hello friends,

Well, while checking in at The Secret is in the Sauce on Friday, the featured blogger was Jori @ Jeff & Me + Three. She is starting a new bloggy carnival called Musical Mondays. So, this is the first week of Musical Mondays and I wanted to join in on the fun from the very beginning.

As most of you know, my grandmother passed away a couple of weeks ago and in my eulogy I referenced a song by Mark Shultz. I know that I posted this recently, but here is the video and song again. It is a beautiful song and it brings a smile to my face each time I hear it as I remember Me-Maw. So, without further ado, "Remember Me" by Mark Shulz. (note: remember to press stop on my playlist to the right before pressing play on the video)



For more Musical Mondays, click on the button below.

Big Girls Don't Cry

We began the week with "Operation No-Paci" in which we threw away all pacifiers (at least all the ones we could find) and made Cate go cold turkey without a pacifier. She made the transition fairly well. It does take her longer to go down for a nap. There was only one day that she cried out for me for about 30 minutes. As hard as that was to hear, I held strong and didn't give in. {pat on the back}

Cate has also been longing for a big girl bed of her own...at least I think that is what she wants. At bedtime, during storytime, she will climb into Max's bed, lay her head on his pillow and pull up his blankets. So, today, Matt and I took measurements of her room and headed out to Pottery Barn and did some long hard looking and price comparing. We found a cute set called the Olivia Bedroom set and ordered the furniture. We should have it sometime in mid to late March.

We have decided to keep the Pink/White/Black and Paris theme of her nursery but with new linens of course.



I am soooo excited to get it all together, but at the same time, a little sad that the time has come for her to leave her crib behind. Stay tuned, more to come....

Shout Out

Did you notice anything different?

If not, you must be new to my blog or you didn't pay attention in the first place! LOL

Yep, my blog design changed for the new year. Still the same picture of that delicious dessert, but I have a new title and siggy font, and a new gorgeous color scheme!

THANKS SO MUCH, Jo-Lynne. HOLLA!

If anyone needs a blog design or a little fresh touch up to your blog, check her out at DCR Designs. She is very reasonable and very reliable and fast!

I also added some new things to my sidebar, such as my recent awards and a pic of my personal "Slices of Heaven". Couldn't you just eat them up!

And, as if that wasn't enough, I changed my countdown to our Disney trip in April to a little fancier "princess" look!

Again, thanks for your continued loyalty and support as you leave your comments.

Honesty - A Good Virtue

...and I am flattered that others notice that in me! As I mentioned on Monday's post, Jen over at Our Daily Big Top awarded me with the Honesty award.
And with it come a few tasks...

• Write a post about the award, link back to the person who gave you the award.
• Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
• Add links to those blogs on your blog.
• Leave a message for the nominees on their blogs.
• Name 10 honest random things about yourself.

Jen is a loyal reader of my blog and even though we have never met in person, I know that she is a supportive, genuine, and honest human being, too!

10 honest random things about myself

1. I am a morning person, but a VERY cranky person if I am tired!

2. Cucumbers are one of my favorite foods...I know, I warned you, honest and random!

3. I hate my nose and profile. I always have, but would never get a nose job since that is the way God made me.

4. I don't like talking on the phone...and sometimes, I even screen my calls if I don't feel like talking right then (don't hate me, those of you that know me personally).

5. I love the smell of burning sugar beets. It reminds me of home...again, wierd and random!

6. I snack and eat junk food while watching "The Biggest Loser"....HELLO, ALLISON! How do I think those people got where they are! I am just being honest here.

7. As a little girl, I used to hide my vitamins behind the toilet instead of taking them.

8. My biggest fear is dying too young.

9. I really want another baby.

10. I have an uncanny knack for burping really loud and long (however, I also have the tact not to do it in front of my in-laws)


I now nominate these 7 blogs in which I see true honesty:
Darcie @ Such the Spot
Julie @ Inmates to Playdates
Terra @ The Emerson Family
Sassy Stephanie @ our piece of quiet
Stephanie @ Adventures in Babywearing
Kat @ Seeking Sanity
Jennifer @ The Fun House

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UPDATE: Just when I thought I was back, that is when I lost my voice and then got pink eye! My voice is cracking through slowly after almost 5 days without one, the pink eye has begun to lessen. Boy, 2009 didn't start out well, but I am hoping to go up from here. Heck...it probably can't get any worse...so up is the only way to go! So, again, I think I am now TRULY back to my regular blogging.

Odds and Ends

Now that I am pretty much caught up on my blog reading/dishwashing/DVR watching/general picking up the house...I thought I would catch everyone up on a few things.

1. "Operation No Paci" is underway. When Matt and I returned from Houston on Sunday, we threw all the pacifiers away (well, all that we could find...I am sure there are a few lurking out there). So far, so good! She went to bed pretty good last night and slept all night. Today's nap was a little different. Not necessarily in a bad way, but she sat in her crib and talked, sang, and jumped for about 45 minutes before finally falling asleep...but no crying...so I am not complaining! So far, SUCCESS!

2. We discovered the mysterious culprit of the previously mentioned flood and the latest back up of the kids toilet yesterday....a WADDED UP WASHCLOTH! Mystery solved to the tune of $200. So, now, after weeks of training Max to not use too much toilet paper, we now have to train little miss Cate, no wash cloths in the toilet!!!!! Fun times...yes, fun times!

3. I have absolutely no voice. It actually comes in handy because I can't yell at the kids, but it is a major pain when you forget all about it and answer the phone but can't speak or you go to the drive-thru and suddenly can't place an order! I hope it comes back soon. Max has been pretty cute about it asking me, "Where did it go, Mommy?" or "When is it coming back?" or "Who took it?" However, he did have concern that he would lose his if he simply coughed! I had to set that record straight as he struggled in the back seat to hold in his simple cough.

4. The Celine Dion concert in Houston was FABULOUS! After going to Vegas to see her in Oct 2007 only to find out an hour before showtime that she was cancelling due to illness, I was thrilled to get the opportunity again. Matt was just glad he didn't have to pay for plane fare or a dinner at Spago this time! While in Houston, we also visited with several friends, slept in and relaxed as much as we both could (despite the coughing and aformentioned lost voice)!

5. I received several blog awards from friends while I was away from my blogging. Lynette gave me a "Your Blog is Fabulous Award" and I have to list my 5 addicitons. Here they are: Dr. Pepper, Reality TV, anything Disney, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and most recently, blogging!

I also received an Honesty award from Jen (but that's a whole 'nother post. Hint, hint - check back Thursday)

Thanks for stopping by, checking in and catching up! Have a great week!

A Day to Remember

Hello, everyone! Sorry for my recent neglect on the blogfront! 2009 began with quite a lot...some good, some not so good...but, I'm back and I will definitely try to get back to my daily or at least every other daily posts again.

As many of you know, on New Year's Eve, my grandmother went on 24/7 hospice care with an "end is near" diagnosis! She passed away on January 4, which also happened to be Cate's 2nd Birthday. From now on, that day will hold even more significance. I always had a special bond with Me-Maw as I was the only granddaughter and I was the oldest. Now, my daughter will get to have a special bond with her that even I didn't have, she will forever be Cate's "Special Birthday Angel".

Even though she passed on her birthday, we decided to continue with the birthday festivities, since Cate really didn't understand and also since we all wanted to celebrate LIFE! So, without further ado, I give you Cate's 2nd Birthday Party, which had an Abby Cadabby theme. (For those of you without toddlers, Abby is the newest character on Sesame Street, and she is a fairy in training!)

The Abby Cadabby balloon marking Cate's seat!

The table decorations

Our little 2 year old!

Hanging out before the party began.

Cate and Brooke are all giggles!

The four little girls all coming down to open presents!

Doll clothes for her Bitty Twin from Max!

A Dirt Devil cleaning set to help Mommy!

Make A Wish!

Enjoying the cake!

Feeding herself with a fork...a far cry from last year's cake eating!

Delicious!

Enjoying her new Cherry Blossom Market from Nonnie and Pop-Pop!

"Welcome to my market, how can I help you?"

I turned out to be a festive and memorable day filled with laughter and smiles even though it started with sadness and tears! Happy Birthday, my sweet girl!