Sugar and Spice and All That's Nice

Christmas at Disney World

2011-01-02T14:08:00.012-06:00

Nathan and I had been planning this trip for 6 months. We booked it in July and had a really hard time keeping the secret! We are not good at keeping secrets! On Christmas morning, the girls each had a new rolling duffle bag under the tree with a bow on it. When you opened the bags, they each had a disney plush doll. (minnie, mickey and pluto) On the back of the plushes I attached a note that said.. "PACK YOUR BAGS!!!!!! You and your family are headed to DISNEYWORLD… today!!!! Be at the airport for your flight at 2pm! Merry Christmas and have a fun week in Florida!!"

My mother had obviously spent all of her free time this fall making cute outfits for the kids to wear on vacation! She made these adorable outfits to wear.

She also made the jackets that you will see in most of our pictures and a pair of disney princess jammmies for each girl! Thanks mom!

The trip to Florida was pretty uneventful. We got settled into our room at the Port Orleans Riverside resort (after several room changes, ... long story) and got into bed for the night.

The next morning we woke up, had breakfast and headed to the Magic Kingdom. The weather was freezing and drizzly! I had rented a mobility scooter to use for the week at the suggestion of my doctor. We unloaded at the bus stop at the Magic Kindom and by the time we reached the entrance, my purse was gone!!

Spending the morning in the Magic Kingdom security office was NOT what we had planned for our vacation but I have to tell you how amazing they were to my family. They settled the girls into a nice warm conference room, offered them hot chocolate, gave them crayons, and set about telling them about all of the greatest things about the park. In the meantime, we set about canceling credit cards and filling out reports. By mid afternoon, my purse had been located, minus 80$ cash and my iphone. It could have been so much worse so we were grateful.

Imagine our surprise when the operations department made all sorts of arrangements for us to enjoy the rest of the day. We were handed over 35 fastpasses for the attractions in the Magic Kingdom. We were given priority seating for the Holiday Parade that afternoon. We were given complimentary lunch. We headed over to Guest Services to cancel my current email account (which was accessible from my phone) and two of the cast members called us over to ask us if we were busy. We told them we hadn't been busy all morning!! They asked the girls if they wanted to meet some of their friends. When they brought them to a back room this is who they found...

Tiana and Cinderella visited with them for over 20 mins! It was so amazing and already the vacation was getting better. When we turned the corner, we were informed that there was NO LINE to meet Snow White! The girls got to meet 3 princesses in 30 mins!

We headed on over to the Holiday Parade and were greeted by an amazing cast member! She seated us on roped-off benches, gave each girl a free fleece blanket (with the disney castle on it), gave us all free hot chocolates and settled us in to watch the amazing parade.

After the parade, park operations had arranged a shuttle to take us directly to our dinner reservation at Ohana in the Polynesian Resort. We enjoyed our dinner and went back to the Magic Kingdom to watch the light parade and fireworks. It was a fun night!

The next day we had a good time watching all of the shows at Hollywood Studios. It was very, very crowded. We enjoyed seeing Beauty and the Beast stage as well as Ariel. We had dinner at the Sci-Fi Diner where you had your meal in your very own car. It was a good day.

When we got back to our hotel that night there was another surprise. The park operations office from Magic Kingdom had left three stockings full of disney souveniers for the girls. We were very touched and couldn't believe how kind they were.

We decided to get up early the next morning and take advantage of the extra magic hours at Magic Kingdom and were able to get on many of the rides we wanted to get on without waiting in any lines! We were at the park a little after 7 and by the time it was early afternoon the girls were ready for a break!

We managed to catch a few characters that day! Early in the morning the girls managed to spend a few minutes chatting with Aladdin and Jasmine.

Later, we waited patiently to meet with Woody and Jessie from Toy Story.

That night we had reservations to have dinner with Cinderella, Lady Tremaine, Anastasia, Drizella and Prince Charming. Unfortunately, as Morgan was loading up her plate at the buffet, she started to feel nauseous and lost her cookies right there in front of the carving board. I ended up taking her and Melody (who insisted on tagging along with her mom) back to the hotel while Maya hung out with the characters. She had a great time getting to know them as they circulated to the table.

The next morning we took it easy so that we could make sure Morgan was feeling ok. After a light lunch at the contemporary resort, she informed us that she was ok to get back out and have some fun. We had not used our fast passes and thought this was the best opportunity to use them. We went on rides until we couldn't ride anymore! The highlight for Maya was going on Space Mountain with mom!

That night we had reservations at Whispering Canyon. We took the boat over to the Wilderness Lodge resort and had a great time! They really entertained the kids there. They even had horse riding!!

Thursday was our last full day in the parks and we wanted to be sure to have a full day of fun! We were hard core! We were at Epcot before it opened at 8 and didn't get back to our room until around 10pm. We really enjoyed all of the rides, shows, and displays at Epcot. We lucked out again and managed to meet Belle without waiting!

That night we had dinner at CHEF MICKEY!!!

We finished up the night riding rides and using up the last of our fast passes.

The trip home was uneventful and we were so grateful to be able to have this amazing experience as a family!

Ethan

2010-03-02T13:24:00.001-06:00

Santa Baby

2009-12-05T20:26:00.004-06:00

Today we went to Melody's annual preschool Breakfast with Santa! Melody would not even give santa a high five.

Maya, on the other hand, probably would have gone home with him. She even went back to tell him how she ate all of her breakfast.

Morgan was mad that we made her pose but she got over it! :)

Sleepover!

2009-06-25T07:24:00.004-05:00

The girls whipped out the airbeds and had their very own sleepover in the playroom upstairs last night. Silly girls!

Buc-ees!!!

2009-06-20T20:00:00.005-05:00

Morgan and I went to Houston this weekend for the Texas USAG banquet. Rather than take a bunch of pictures of her getting her award (I did get some on my phone but actually forgot my real camera) I took video of the highlight of our trip, a newly built, cheesy but incredibly fun rest stop called Buc-ees! Morgan got extremely excited and took some video that i thought i would share with you. Enjoy.

Then, we saw the statue of Sam Houston... but we couldn't leave the buc-ee's issue alone...

Yes, we are a barrel of fun on roadtrips.

Maya's Dance Recital

2009-06-08T14:07:00.003-05:00

Maya had her first recital this weekend and she did great! :)
The first video is of her tap dance and she is on the back row on the far left.
In the second video, she's doing her ballet dance and she's the last on the left in the front row.

Morgan's Talent Show Routine

2009-05-23T11:02:00.001-05:00

Fashion Show!

2009-05-01T13:56:00.012-05:00

I have told you before of the talent of my mother. I wanted to showcase some of the items she has made for my kids over the years.
Let the fashion show begin!
(pictures are courtesy of my sister, Sarah)
First we have a beautiful camel colored skirt modeled by the lovely Morgan.

Next we have some gorgeous summery polka dot dresses. Note that two of these models are enjoying each other's company while the third model had to join later following a massive break down. I think the little one likes her big sister.

This lovely ballerina is wearing a velvety leotard with matching skirt and hair scrunchie.. tres chic, no?

Our flexible gymnast is showing off her one of a kind neon pink zebra striped leotard made only for those that grandma adores! Sorry teammates, grandma doesn't love you!

For your little gymnast, there are sparkly leotards, fit perfectly to show your little ones' nice round little biscuits.

Siblings love to match!

And finally, summer is coming and what could be better but your very own sundress!!?

We love you mom!! You're the best!

We're famous!!

2009-04-21T17:04:00.002-05:00

Ok, we're not technically famous, but this picture **IS** from the usa gymnastics website. The girls got to meet olympic silver medalist Chellsie Memmel and had a great time.

Greek Goddess

2009-04-07T10:18:00.004-05:00

You too can have this look with an older sister and a fitted sheet (queen size).

Uncle Sam (and Morgan brag)

2009-03-26T12:54:00.003-05:00

Nathan's parents and brother Sam are here for a visit and the girls have decided that they like Uncle Sam a whole lot.

And while I'm in the posting mood, I just have to let you know how proud I am of Morgan. She got all 4s (top grade) on her report card, passed the TAKS test with 100% and had her art work selected to be displayed in central office tonight. We are proud of how hard you are working, Morgan!

12th Anniversary

2009-03-21T22:46:00.002-05:00

Today is our 12th anniversary. We spent it at a soccer game. We had a good time. At halftime the hubby surprised me with a sweet anniversary message on the big screen at Pizza Hut Park. Thanks Monster! Love you.. looking forward to many more years together.

Soccer Season has begun!!

2009-03-14T22:28:00.003-05:00

We went to a pre-season game today at pizza hut park.
FC Dallas played CAP from Brazil. It was an entertaining game with a goal scored in the first minute. Sadly it was the only goal (thankfully it was for FCD) but the score was 4-4 on aggregate and it went to penalty kicks where we lost 5-4. We were fortunate to have some good friends join us and Morgan was able to bring her friend too. I didn't realize I missed the games so much. Next week is the season opener against the Chicago Fire. I am looking forward to attending with Nathan's family.

My Nephew Ethan

2009-03-04T19:20:00.001-06:00

Jawbreaker Solar System

2009-02-24T15:23:00.003-06:00

Morgan has a keen interest in space. She decided this weekend that she would make a jawbreaker solar system. I thought it was very creative.

Don't leave my children alone with your stuffed animals.

2009-02-23T15:16:00.001-06:00

This is what will happen to them.

Let Us Eat Cake... Rainbow Cake! Edited

2009-02-17T18:54:00.005-06:00

Idea and recipe credit goes to my good friend Michele!

Daddy and Daughters

2009-02-10T14:08:00.005-06:00

Every year the city puts on a daddy daughter dance at the community center. All 3 girls got to go this year and daddy was EXHAUSTED! :)

Some other odds and ends...
This is entitled.. "the best afternoon ever"

and this one is called "Morgan and her mini-me"

A Hip Update

2009-02-04T14:17:00.003-06:00

Get it.. a "hip" update.. ha. ha. ha. I need to get out more.
So let me refresh your memory. This video is before surgery and then a few weeks post 2nd surgery.

Here's today. Clearly I have a little more work to do but I'm thrilled.

Texas Prime Meet

2009-01-28T09:13:00.006-06:00

I'm just a posting fool today. This weekend Morgan and I attended Kim Zmeskal's Texas Prime Meet. The team captains of the Legendz Classic this year were Alicia Sacramone, Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin. Morgan was just a little excited to be attending.

We took some video to show you how close we were to Shawn and Nastia. The girls picked a quiet moment to shout "We Love You Nastia!!" and got her to turn around and smile at them. I wish I had taken out my camera then.

Fun with Frosties (or would it be "frostys"?)

2009-01-28T08:44:00.002-06:00

I am not the only one in my house who likes a frosty from time to time. (or daily)
My kids like them too... and you can imagine the fun that comes with a cup of chocolate ice cream and a plastic spoon :) If you can't imagine it I will show you.

Sisterly Love

2009-01-22T22:11:00.003-06:00

No this is not Maya strangling Melody. She is actually lovingly showing her how to navigate the website to play games with the Cheetah Girls. These moments are awesome.

Happy Birthday Maya!!

2009-01-13T02:41:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to my little blonde spitfire! You are an answer to many prayers and a child I never thought I would be blessed to have. You never cease to keep me entertained. I love your sense of humor and your energy. Our family would certainly not be complete without you! Your momma loves you!

Staples

2009-01-08T12:23:00.002-06:00

Morgan and another girl collided in a vault/foam pit accident at gymnastics yesterday. The other girl split open her chin and Morgan needed two staples in her head. She's fine and other than requiring ibuprofen, she's actually doing really well. She is out of gym for a week and gets the staples out in 10 days.

Happy New Year from my girls

2009-01-01T16:42:00.001-06:00

Maya's Milestone

2008-12-29T14:46:00.005-06:00

Maya wanted to get her ears pierced so off we went to Claire's today. She was so calm and collected. She didn't even flinch. I couldn't believe it. We keep telling her how beautiful she is and she keeps saying "Oh I know!! :)"
She was all ready to go.

She had her hair clipped back. (and started to gather an audience)

Had her ears pierced..

... and admired herself in the mirror.

Luckiest girls in the world

2008-12-28T17:56:00.004-06:00

My lucky girls also have a grandma in Scotland who has a talent for finding gorgeous dresses for them. Check out the beauties she sent this year. My kids love them and wore them to church today! Thanks grandma!

Gramma Jamma Gram!!

2008-12-28T10:35:00.005-06:00

Just like my sister in law, Tib, I wanted to post about my mom's amazing Christmas Jammies. She makes them every year and she didn't disappoint this year. Mom, if you're reading, Morgan says she'll gladly take another gown just like the one she has.. even if it's a different color :) She's in love! We think they look great. We got some interesting pictures.... :)

The Big Christmas Surprise

2008-12-24T07:34:00.009-06:00

In lieu of large presents this year we opted to take a surprise mini-vacation. The kids didn't know where we were going this past Monday until we pulled up to the Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, Texas. The place really is amazing. It has an indoor waterpark with many slides and an incredible amount of water attractions. The waterpark truly is the highlight of the resort. We also decided to get the kids a theme room called the Kid Cabin. They basically had their own cabin-themed room within the suite.

They also had a game that the kids could play where you used a wand to find various treasures throughout the hotel while completing various quests. Morgan and Maya had a good time playing that game while Melody took a much deserved nap.
They also had storytime with Santa. Can you see a little blonde girl who edged herself up to be as close as possible to the big guy?

Melody enjoyed the view from a safe haven, at a distance..

Morgan wasn't enthralled, but participated nonetheless...

The highlight of the trip was definitely the waterpark, which we visited 3 times.

We did end up leaving a night early because while the beds were adorable, they were way too close to mom and dad, were extremely uncomfortable and the kids all developed a cough. Daddy managed to get some money off our stay which was a bonus. We had a nice rest in our own beds last night and have some great memories.
Maya says it's the best present ever.

Hardy Har Har

2008-12-20T07:34:00.002-06:00

My kids are trying to tell Knock Knock jokes this morning. Both Melody and Maya said "Knock Knock!" at the same time! When I said, "Who's there?" and Melody started to answer... Maya got her whiney voice and said, "ooohhhh!!! But I knocked first!!!"
At least she makes me laugh. Otherwise her lifespan might be in question.

Who needs boys!??

2008-12-16T17:05:00.005-06:00

Girls are just as good at wrestling...
If you ask me.. Melody's winning.

Christmas Happenings

2008-12-13T09:51:00.005-06:00

This week we made our gingerbread house..

Felt some cold weather.. (for Texas)

...and had breakfast with Santa..

I was feeling left out...

2008-12-09T16:45:00.002-06:00

So I cut my hair too..

Ornament Exchange and Christmas Dresses

2008-12-08T16:30:00.001-06:00

This year I participated in Tiburon's ornament exchange. I was excited to receive my ornament today from Kami! Isn't she cute for getting me an ornament for all of my M girls!? Thanks Kami!

I also wanted to post the girlies in their new Christmas dresses. Yay for Target!

Getting into the spirit of things

2008-12-08T13:34:00.002-06:00

Morgan and I had a fun time making some Christmas cards this year. We mailed them out last week. Nathan and I are done shopping. I have teacher gifts all ready to go. I have wrapping paper and just need to wrap. All the decorations are out. The only thing left is to get some stocking stuffers. Now we can sit back, relax and enjoy the season. (and do a little baking) I love this time of year and the extra time I get with my kids doing stuff as a family.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2008-12-01T18:40:00.002-06:00

Monkey See Monkey Do

2008-11-27T21:15:00.001-06:00

Monkey gets her hair cut too!!

Maya's New Do

2008-11-24T19:39:00.002-06:00

Maya decided she wanted her hair cut short. Here's the new do.

State Champ!!!

2008-11-22T21:00:00.001-06:00

Check out the new North State Level 5 All-around champion in the silver division!
We are so proud of her. She also earned first on floor, second on bars, and third on beam. She's worked so hard and it's so great to see her do so well.

Mini Me

2008-11-20T13:19:00.003-06:00

No... not this one....

Maya.

Isn't it funny how things out of the mouths of children don't sound the same as when adults say them? Every time the kids ask me for something unreasonable I tell them that I want a million dollars and that's not happening either. (Yes, I know.. sarcasm, not a good plan.)

Here's this morning's conversation -
Melody: "Mommy I want to go to Chuck E Cheese"
Me: "Really Melody? Well we can't go right now. It's not even open yet."
Maya: "Well I want to go to the Natatorium but that's not happening either!"

More Pictures

2008-11-17T13:23:00.002-06:00

Here are the individual shots. I love them.

Annual Family Picture

2008-11-14T13:53:00.000-06:00

Here's this year's picture.

Patriotic Day Parade

2008-11-12T09:00:00.005-06:00

Every year Morgan's school has a patriotic day parade, usually on Veterans Day. The two littles decided to come along this year and enjoy the festivities. We all walked the 1 mile walk (I was pushing the two littles in the double jogger - good times.)
Maya and Melody decided to get their groove on to the song stylings of the 4 & 5th grade choir. (***Note**** Maya dressed herself. I just had to mention that.)

Morgan and her good friend Baylee....

Love for Grandma and Grandpa

2008-11-11T09:13:00.002-06:00

My parents came to visit this weekend and we had a great time. Grandma always has a way of getting my kids to relax! We got pictures of Grandpa too but they're on Grandma's camera. We'd love to see them mom! Thanks for a great visit.

Addicted to Harry

2008-11-06T18:01:00.002-06:00

Much to my delight, Morgan has become addicted to the Harry Potter series. She started the The Sorcerer's Stone last week and finished it this evening. She is understanding it and is excited about it. It's so fun. Of course I took pictures!

She was so proud of herself for finishing all 309 pages and her mother certainly was too!

Halloween Pictures

2008-11-01T07:22:00.004-05:00

Behold the Countess of Darkness! (check out her nails!)

Daphne's looking pretty smart! She's ready to solve a mystery.

What's this? Is Daphne a shape shifter? No.. it's the costume of choice for the preschool party.. Supergirl! A girl can never have too many wardrobe changes.

Princess Aurora is blowing you a kiss. Pull up that dress Aurora!! Modesty! Sheesh!

Three unlikely friends.

Melody's new hobby

2008-10-30T14:36:00.000-05:00

Getting Creative

2008-10-30T07:03:00.006-05:00

So I'm thinking of trying the yummy mummy hotdogs for halloween dinner this year. (I don't think even I can mess these up, but we'll see!)
I think we'll also do the nutter butter ghost cookies. (I've actually done this before!)

I need some other "real food - for dinner" ideas that are super easy. Help?

First Fire of the Fall

2008-10-28T09:01:00.002-05:00

"Fall Festibal"

2008-10-25T20:07:00.004-05:00

We told the girls we would take them to the city's Fall Festival this evening and they were excited about it all day. It did not disappoint. Maya kept thanking us for taking her to the "festibal".
They had a petting zoo where the girls were particularly interested in the bunny.

There were also pony rides.

They also had an inflatable "Mechanical Bull" ride which Maya particularly enjoyed.

Morgan tried too. She was dubious at first but had fun.

The coolest part to me was that I walked around for over 2 hours and I don't hurt. I can't remember the last time that I walked for that amount of time and didn't require advil. Seriously. It's been since before I was a teenager. It was so cool. I feel very blessed. Nathan caught me in the corner of one picture and I have never seen myself have such a normal stance before. So.. even if you think it's silly.. here's the picture.

I'm just so thrilled for the miracle I'm still experiencing every day. We had a wonderful Saturday.

Ask Maya King

2008-10-24T16:48:00.003-05:00

(Shamelessly stealing this from several blogs.)
1. What is something dad always says to you?
"Somtimes he says "you look so beautiful honey!""

2. What makes dad happy?
"Sometimes when i brush his hair."

3. What makes dad sad?
"When I don't kiss him."

4. How does your dad make you laugh?
"When he makes funny things to me, like when he tells me jokes."

5. What was your dad like as a child?
"I don't know what he looked like!"

6. What is his favorite thing to do?
"I think he likes playing with us."

7. What does your dad do when you're not around?
"Maybe he plays upstairs by himself."

8. What is your dad really good at?
"I think he is really good at playing the trumpet" ??????

9. What is your dad not very good at?
"He's not very good at playing toys."

10. What does your dad do for his job?
"I don't know."

11. What is your dad's favorite food?
"Macaroni! Noodles!!"

12. What makes you proud of your dad?
"I don't know."

13. What do you and your dad do together?
"Sometimes we play with just toys."

14. How are you and your dad the same?
"I don't know."

15. How are you and your dad different?
"I don't know." (she's not liking this anymore)

16. How do you know your dad loves you?
"Because I kiss him."

17. Where is your dad's favorite place to go?
"I don't know."

Then I thought it would be fun to do the same questions about Me.
1. What is something mom always says to you?
"Ummm... obey."

2. What makes mom happy?
"When you treat someone nicely."

3. What makes mom sad?
"When you don't obey."

4. How does your mom make you laugh?
"She makes funny things and laugh."

5. What was your mom like as a child?
"Umm.. I don't really know. I don't."

6. What is her favorite thing to do?
"Maybe she likes to eat."

7. What does your mom do when you're not around?
"She calls people."

8. What is your mom really good at?
"Going upstairs to play with us and to help us."

9. What is your mom not very good at?
"Going up the stairs."

10. What does your mom do for her job?
"She helps clean up."

11. What is your mom's favorite food?
"Vegetables."

12. What makes you proud of your mom?
"Picking up things."

13. What do you and your mom do together?
"Sometimes we clean up things together."

14. How are you and your mom the same?
"We both have the same eyes."

15. How are you and your mom different?
"My mommy is different."

16. How do you know your mom loves you?
"Because she loves me really much."

17. Where is your mom's favorite place to go?
"I think she likes going to the mall."

Teacher Conference

2008-10-22T09:16:00.002-05:00

It's my blog. I can brag if I want to. :)
I met with Morgan's teachers this morning for a conference. Here are some words that every mom wants to hear:
"Morgan is a model student and always goes the extra mile."
"Morgan is well liked by the other students."
"Morgan is the kind of student that I would love to have 20 more of."
"We love having Morgan in our class. There is nothing she could possibly do to work any harder. She is such a hard worker."
I'm so proud of my Morgan. School comes first and she knows it.

Up Up and Away!!

2008-10-18T20:12:00.003-05:00

It really was the perfect evening for our very first balloon ride. The weather was mild and the winds were calm. It's surprisingly quiet up there but you can hear so much from the ground. What an amazing experience! We really enjoyed ourselves and are so glad that we were able to enjoy this unique activity. We got some good pictures.
Here we are as the balloon is being inflated:

Getting up in the air:

Enjoying the view together:

A view of our church from the air:

Looking up into the balloon:

The balloon deflating:

Happy Birthday Nathan!!!

2008-10-18T15:08:00.002-05:00

It's Nathan's birthday today! We celebrated last night by going on a hot air balloon ride! It was so much fun. I will post pictures later when i get a minute.
I just wanted to wish a happy birthday to my very own monster, Nathan.

Black and White

2008-10-16T14:16:00.004-05:00

As promised, here's a picture of my flashy cane.

And here is part of the damage done at Ikea this morning..

Chapel

2008-10-16T09:20:00.002-05:00

Maya's giving me plenty of material to post this week.
Maya attends a wonderful preschool in a presbyterian church that we adore.
We are not members there so are not familiar with all of the church terms.
Here's our conversation:
Maya: (singing) "This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.... "
Me: Wow, Maya that's beautiful, did you guys have chapel at preschool today?
Maya: "Yup and I was the CABOOSE for our class today! and guess who was behind me on the way to chapel? Passenger John!!!"
Me: "Wow! (i say this alot for some reason) Who is passenger john?"
Maya: (sighing because mom doesn't know anything) "You know, PASSENGER JOHN! He teaches us at chapel!"
Me: "Oh! You mean PASTOR John?"
Maya: "Yeah.. passenger John. He plays the guitar."

Becoming like little children

2008-10-15T10:28:00.004-05:00

I often wondered why we are constantly reminded to be like little children. The cynical side of me often sarcastically thought, "What? We want to be whiney and needy?" Today I finally understood the concept.

We had a rough morning. I am embarassed to say that I lost my temper big time. I felt horrible. I first went to Morgan's school to apologize and my apology was accepted (with a promise of coming to lunch too). Next I went to Maya's preschool to tell her how much I loved her and how I was sorry for yelling at her. She wrapped her arms around me, kissed me and said, "It's ok Mommy. I always forgive you."
I often worry that Maya won't realize how special she is since she is our middle child. I want her to know how important she is in my life and how our family isn't complete without her. She taught me such a lesson on humility today.

Tootin' my own horn

2008-10-15T07:10:00.000-05:00

This morning I did 30 mins and almost 2 miles on the elliptical. (and it didn't even hurt!)

Gymnastics Superstars

2008-10-12T20:18:00.002-05:00

Last night Morgan and I attended the 2008 Tour of Gymnastics Superstars !!
We had such a good time. The gymnasts were amazing. We got to see Nastia Liukin, Shawn Johnson, Chellsie Memmel, Shannon Miller, the entire Men's bronze medal team, Blaine Wilson and a few others! My personal favorites were the Hamm twins, Paul and Morgan. Here's a video of my favorite routine that they did together. (those boys can dance!)

My other favorite gymnastics superstar, Morgan King, had a meet as well. She earned her personal best on the beam by getting a 9.35, earned a 9.025 on the floor and improved both her vault and bars scores! She's been working hard and has been setting goals. We're so proud of her and how she is committed to her sport. We enjoyed each other's company yesterday!

Happy 3 month anniversary to my hips!

2008-10-09T09:24:00.002-05:00

Ok, so it's just my left hip but it's been three months since I have started this journey. It's actually gone by pretty quickly. My physical therapist hasn't taken measurements recently but at the last appointment she said that i had over 70 degrees of flexion on my left and she thought about 85 on the right. I have been doing so many stretching/strengthening exercises and they really seem to be helping. She said that my pelvis has never really had to move before and that it was "finally separating". I told her that i hoped that was a good thing! She said it was and that it was giving me more movement.

I have graduated from my walker to my sparkly black and silver cane. I'll take a picture of it one of these days. It's flashy! I am able to get around better without getting tired. I am walking better. I am getting stronger. Three months isn't really that long for such a huge change.

Tagged

2008-10-07T14:29:00.003-05:00

Lori tagged me. I'm supposed to post the 4th picture in the 4th folder in my picture folder.
This is my little monkey Maya at last year's preschool Christmas party.

I'm going to tag Sarah, Rachel, Tiburon and Natalie. Come on ladies!

Halloween Preparedness

2008-10-06T17:20:00.002-05:00

According to my kids you can never be prepared to early for Halloween. We have costumes purchased and have even started on the candy purchasing. (the trick will be not opening the candy)
My two little goblins got an outfit each today. Maya's says "Mommy's little monster" and Melody's says "My magical power is being cute"

"My 'nastics!!"

2008-10-01T14:15:00.003-05:00

I took Melody to an open gym today so she could run around and play while Maya was at preschool. She was so excited to put on a leo and go to "my 'nastics!" She also took a great nap today! Yay!
(and if you look in the background you can see my friend Sharron in the black and white shirt with her daughter Lauren.... Sharron, you're blog-worthy!)

Eat out much?

2008-09-30T14:15:00.004-05:00

We really don't eat out as much as we used to. I promise.

As I was carpooling to preschool the other day one of the little boys excitedly pointed out McDonalds... each child exclaimed, "Yay I see it! It's McDonalds!!" Mel promptly squeals, "It's McDonalds, I see it!... Hey! It's Taco Bell!!"

There was a Taco Bell next door. Sadly she has inherited her daddy's desire to 'think outside the bun'.

I am thankful.. a list of 10 things.

2008-09-27T19:36:00.003-05:00

1. I am thankful that Morgan found a gymnastics coach who truly loves her. I think that is priceless.

2. I am thankful that all my kids are potty trained! Yay!

3. I am thankful for great friends who have helped me so much recently, especially with childcare during physical therapy and doctor appointments.

4. I am thankful for great teachers for all three of my kids this year. They are all loving their classes and are so happy.

5. I am thankful for the job that my husband has. I know it's a great blessing, especially with the state of the economy right now. He is a hard worker and plays a part in keeping himself employed.

6. I am thankful for kids who drive me crazy but also keep me laughing.

7. I am thankful for the knowledge of a Heavenly Father who is mindful of each and every one of us.

8. I am thankful for a great doctor and physical therapist who have helped me heal and get on the way to becoming fully recovered even quicker than they thought.

9. I am thankful for being born into my family. We're quirky. Some of us are downright weird (Rachel! :) ) but I'm grateful for each one of them.

10. I am thankful for autumn weather. I feel like I can be outside for a period of time without needing another shower.

Do me a favor would ya?

2008-09-25T09:12:00.003-05:00

If you wouldn't mind... please post a comment if you are viewing this blog. I am so interested in who is reading and where they are from/how they got here... pretty please... with sprinkles on top?

New video

2008-09-23T17:35:00.001-05:00

My brother has been harassing me about putting up new video of me walking. Here it is :) I am leaning to the right a little in the hallway, trying to compensate for the weak muscles on the left. They're getting a LOT stronger though. My gait improves every week.

Smarty Pants

2008-09-23T07:10:00.002-05:00

Progress reports were sent home today. Our school grades on a system of 1-4, with 4 being the best grade. Morgan came home with all 4s in every subject. Congratulations brainiac!

Please join me in saying goodbye

2008-09-22T14:38:00.003-05:00

to my walker!!!!!!!!

I need to use a cane for the next couple of months but it sure beats the grannymobile. Now... what stylish cane shall I choose????
I like this one..

Which sports car are you?

2008-09-19T07:26:00.004-05:00

I'm a Chevrolet Corvette!

You're a classic - powerful, athletic, and competitive. You're all about winning the race and getting the job done. While you have a practical everyday side, you get wild when anyone pushes your pedal. You hate to lose, but you hardly ever do.

Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.

And now for an update on my hips..

2008-09-19T07:26:00.003-05:00

My physical therapist cleared me to start on my elliptical this morning so off I went. I was only allowed to do 10 mins so I did that, some upper body weights, stretching and aquatic exercises in the pool. My hip flexion is up to 65 degrees on the left and 70 degrees on the right. I'm astounded at my results and continue to be so grateful for my own personal miracle.

Oh.. and the most important thing.. I am this close < > to beating Morgan on the Wii hula hoop game :)

Happy 3rd Birthday Melody!

2008-09-18T07:13:00.003-05:00

Happy birthday to my biggest and most wonderful surprise ever! I never could have imagined the joy you bring to my life. You complete our family and are the best 3 year old a mom could ask for. We love you little Mellie!!

Happy 9th Birthday Morgan!!

2008-09-14T08:09:00.002-05:00

My oldest girl turns 9 today! I can't believe it! I know I say that every year but this year sure went by quickly. Morgan is such a special girl. She has a big heart and is full of compassion. She has a keen understanding of social issues and is quick to do the right thing. She works hard and loves her family. She loves her Heavenly Father and often reminds us to pray before meals and read our scriptures. I can't believe that I am blessed enough to be her mother. I only hope that I can live up to the job.

Open Gym!!

2008-09-13T10:17:00.002-05:00

Both Morgan and Maya love to go to open gym to play on all of the equipment.
Maya has no fear. Here she is on the pit bar..

Morgan loves to make up routines and practice her skills. She's working on her roundoff/back handspring/back tuck.

Would you find it silly?

2008-09-11T20:47:00.002-05:00

to see a woman walk into the gym with this?

I am getting back into my 5:30 am routine of going to the gym! Can I just say how much i love that??? Today I did upper body weights, stretches and aquatic leg exercises in the pool. I also walked a few laps forwards, backwards and sideways. I admit to getting a few stares as I rolled my self in to the joint... (but i feel good! - sore, but good!)

Little Soccer Player

2008-09-08T13:57:00.003-05:00

Maya had her first game this weekend.
My little peanut scored 3 goals!
It was so much fun to watch her play.
Here she is making friends with her competition.

Getting ready to take the ball to the goal..

After all of that hard work a snack is definitely earned!

Bummer

2008-09-06T10:16:00.002-05:00

I finally get the courage to take myself and my walker to the gym. I wanted to do the upper body machines, my stretches and walk in the pool. The pool outside in our community is freezing so I thought it was a good alternative. Too bad the stinking water aerobics class was going on and I couldn't go in the pool. I managed to get some weights and stretching in but I was bummed that I couldn't do the pool since that will give me the most benefit. Hopefully after a day of sunshine I will be able to use the community one in the evening.

"I go to school too!"

2008-09-05T09:56:00.005-05:00

Melody was so excited for her first day!

She was eager to get busy!

"I love you mom, goodbye!" (translation: no more pictures, get outta here!)

Miracle Worker

2008-09-04T16:57:00.001-05:00

My physical therapist is a miracle worker. I say "it hurts" and she makes it all better. Can you ask for anything more than that? Of course... then she makes it hurt again... no pain no gain right?

Part 2 of 3 - School Edition

2008-09-03T10:41:00.004-05:00

Maya started preschool today. She was so excited! We'll have part 3 of 3 on Friday when Melody gets to start going to preschool for a day each week.

Maya was lucky enough to get Ms. Ellen again this year! We love Ms. Ellen!! Notice Maya's buns didn't stay in long..

Preparing for the future

2008-09-02T09:53:00.002-05:00

A conversation in the mini van not too long ago...
Mom: "What do you guys want to be for Halloween this year?"
Morgan: "Some type of food"
Mom: "Ok crazy head.. whatever you want!"
Maya: "Can I be an angel?"
Mom: "You want to be an angel again this year?"
Maya: "What does my costume look like? Can we take it down and look at it?"
Mom: "As soon as I can climb the stairs."
Maya: "Awwwwwwwwww (insert whiney inflection)
Melody: "I want to be a COW! I say Mooooooooo!!"

At least they have their own ideas, right?
So .. what do you think? Can she wear this?

Child Labor

2008-08-29T17:59:00.003-05:00

Hey.. she ASKED to vacuum. Who am I to deny her the pleasure? Besides.. is there anything cuter than a toddler vaccuming in her dora panties?

Flexibility

2008-08-26T16:39:00.001-05:00

I had an appointment with my Physical Therapist today. Here's the news.
While I will not ever be doing anything like this...

Since Thursday I have gained 10 degrees on the left, making my hip flexibility 52 degrees (up from 10) and 7 degrees on the right, making it 49 degrees (up from 20)!!
It is expected to continue to get better and better. Amazing.

First Day of School!

2008-08-25T08:51:00.000-05:00

And she's off!!

Morgan's first meet of the season...

2008-08-24T22:44:00.002-05:00

She got 3rd on Vault, 3rd on Beam and 2nd All Around. Not a bad start to the season.

Tell me if you see a difference...

2008-08-23T18:42:00.002-05:00

This is a video of me walking before and after surgery. I am still recovering and have a small limp but I think it's helped quite a lot.

Lorin's last day..

2008-08-22T18:28:00.004-05:00

The biggest issue when considering my hip surgery was adequate care for the kids. We have had plenty of help, especially during my hospitalizations. I will definitely miss having Lorin around. Not only is she a great gal but my kids love her. She is an extraordinary young lady and I count myself blessed that she was available to care for the kids this summer. I offered to home school her for her senior year but alas she declined... what's up with that? We have a spare room....

Gold Medal!!!

2008-08-21T10:50:00.002-05:00

Meet Carli Lloyd, game winning goal scorer of the gold medal match for the USA women!! So awesome. The game was won in over time.

Soccer Maya

2008-08-19T20:03:00.003-05:00

Maya had her first soccer practice. It was raining so it was a little less fun that it should have been but they had a good time. Here are a few pics of my little star.

Here is a group shot.. I think the coach in the red shirt is pretty hot :)

My baby is growing up.

2008-08-16T16:26:00.002-05:00

She took the longest of all three but the process is finally under way.
She's really starting to get the hang of it! Wtg Melody!

A late night of gymnastics

2008-08-13T10:11:00.003-05:00

We let our little gymnast stay up to watch the team finals. She was inpired by this talented group of young ladies.

Time to take it easy

2008-08-12T13:17:00.002-05:00

My right hip is absolutely throbbing and I had to break out the darn Darvocet.

Pictures of this week..

2008-08-07T21:41:00.004-05:00

Here are my girls getting ready for a swim.

And my favorite pictures of the week..
Maya refuses to use the toilet near her room. She prefers mine so she can nestle comfortably into the extended-height toilet seat and use the phone.

Breaking Dawn

2008-08-03T20:49:00.003-05:00

All done reading. Wow. Can I have some of that creativity please? When you're ready to dish, I'm ready.

Just like riding a bike.....

2008-08-02T16:33:00.002-05:00

I learned to ride a bike in a different way. It was never really comfortable. Basically I used from my knees down and swayed the bike from side to side. Stationary bikes were out because I was never able to keep a bike stationary and ride a full circle on the pedals. The seat was always extremely uncomfortable, painful even.

Just now I hopped on my husband's recumbent bike, just out of curiosity. He held my right leg and i put my left leg in the stirrup. Being careful to not make my hip go past 90 degrees (just in case you're reading Dr. Snoots!!) I rode a full circle without my knee turning a single degree inward. When I am completely healed I will be able to go on a family bike ride. I am so incredibly grateful and amazed at what lies ahead for me. I always knew that miracles existed (I do have children after all) but I never knew that I actually would BE a miracle. My cup runneth over.

Funny... I don't feel 34..

2008-08-01T05:41:00.003-05:00

Yet here I am. I am going back and forth between feeling mentally like a teenager and physically like a senior citizen (which I know will pass). However, I count my many blessings and am so grateful.

Nathan splurged and got me a laptop for the hospital in July so I have already begun enjoying my birthday present. What a guy!

Just for a laugh, this morning I yearbooked myself.. this is what came up in the 1970s... i think i look like my mom..

Yearbook yourself here. It's a good laugh.

There's no place like home... (m)

2008-07-27T19:34:00.004-05:00

and I'm going tomorrow!!!!! I can't believe my hospital days are almost over!? Can you believe they don't show all of the SOCCER GAMES here!!?? It's like PRISON!! Why oh why did FC Dallas have to beat LA 4-0 when I couldn't watch?!!! Oh the humanity!!

I did have the girls come to visit today and this is what happens when you let Maya play on your orthopedic bed. It's like the circus!! Wheee!!

Tales from the Hospital

2008-07-25T04:56:00.001-05:00

The right hip is now as metal as the left one and I'm feeling like a robot. The first night was really hard as the nurse took her own sweet time giving me minimal pain meds. Needless to say, I am not very good at hiding my displeasure and above mentioned nurse is paranoid and trying to redeem herself tonight. So far so good.

Round 2

2008-07-22T15:54:00.001-05:00

Surgery #2 is tomorrow bright and early. I'm looking forward to getting this over with and moving on to focusing on recovery.

Oh, Edward!!!

2008-07-21T09:21:00.003-05:00

I am so addicted. My good friend Lori brought over Eclipse last night and I can assure you it will be read by tomorrow.