goodbye Fox man

Some of you know already that I was raised in a very small town surrounded by ranches and farms. We didn't really have either but odds and ends of animals here and there for 4-H and a hand full of horses my mom and dad roped on and later on we (me and my sisters) also learned to rope on. All three of us learn to rope on this old man. Foxy was born the same year as my middle sister- I think that was ''83. His mama passed away when he was born so we bottle fed him and he stayed in my Grandma Pattie's lambing shed. From birth he was pretty sure he was our little brother and he was most definitely a person. There were many times that I just knew he was being a stinker and hard headed because he wanted his way and was pretty sure his sisters (us girls) weren't giving him all his needed attention. At one ropin' he was being a HUGE stinker, giving me a really hard time in the box and just down right ornery the whole day - so I went and got on my spurs and I started swattin' him with the end of my rope - hopin' to line him out a little. We did a little better after that but when we got back to the horse trailer to unsaddle, I was walking behind him to put this and that away and he totally kicked me right in the middle of my butt. From that day on I knew he wasn't just the big black horse out back that we roped and goat tied off of - he was for sure serious about this whole I'm a real person thing.



I had quite the connection with all my horses - when I was a junior in High School I quit all my sports and decided to just go home from school every day and ride my horses and do homework. My grades went up and we all did better that year come rodeo season. Whenever anyone would ask me if I had a boyfriend, I would say yeah, 4 - Yellow Horse named... well... "Yeller" I know so creative, a sorrel horse that was about 4 hands high named "Miller" that I goat tied off of, and Foxy, who I headed (team roped) and breakaway (calf roped) off of and that leaves Barchone - our really old blue heeler dog that, as mom called him, the arena director. He would lay in the middle of the arena every day all through practice (And yes, one time Yeller and Jodi did run him over) and I think I probably did once or twice. After I left, Jodi and Casi used Miller and Foxy (we got rid of Yeller - he was a mess :) then one winter night, ole Barchone had to be put down, then one summer day at a junior rodeo Miller died, Foxy lasted the longest of all of them and bless their hearts, Daddy and Mom had to put him down yesterday. We all sure loved him and I am quite positive he had one of the most fabulous lives that a big black horse could have.



He took care of us from this arena to that one, from this hunting trip to that one, on this cattle drive and back to that one. He was always willing to back right back into the ropin' box when all we were doing was coming out and stickin' our loop right back into the dirt over and over and over again. He was always patient and willing to try new things, He was a reliable ropin' horse but everyone knew they could climb on him and run him around the barrels if they had to or they knew they could rely on him to come flamin' out of the box and run down the arena for some kid who needed a hazin' horse. He did it all and was always happy to. He was always a loving shoulder to cry on, he always listened, he was always happy to see us when we came home to visit. We'll miss you old man... we'll love you forever.

Ramblings...

It hasn't quite cooled off as much as I would like it to - but we are definitely getting a lot more cooler days mixed in with 90 degree weather here and there. I'm so glad too because I'm pretty sure that my sweat glads need a break. Is it possible that your pores can give out because they are tired of sweating?


We are up to our ears in tomatoes and thank you Jesus this weekend Granny (Hubby's mother) is coming over to help my dear husband can them. I wished that I had... well... the know how first of all and second of all, the energy and comfort level to can up some delicious jars of salsa, spaghetti sauce and whatever else I can think of. As it is, I can barely reach the dishes in the sink and just cleaning up the kitchen and here and there for a half an hour at the most DOES ME IN! So there is no way I could stand on my feet and successfully can I believe we have 50 lbs or more of tomatoes... Although, I can't can them I've been doing a pretty good job of eating at least 2 or 3 a day (of course always ending my day - well usually ending my day - with a delicious tomato on toast with mayo and salt and pepper...


I'm up to 3 Tums a night when I have heartburn as two WILL NOT DO THE JOB! It is amazing!

I am on my last chance of being able to paint my toenails I believe, so I better get that done soon!!

My hair has not seen very many diverse styles for the past 7 1/2 months I have boycotting all hair products, curling irons, etc. and the perfect hair due for being preggers in 100 degree weather for me is two pony tails with my bangs swooped over to the side up in bobby pins - usually 2 but sometimes 3. I currently have 3 grey hairs that creep out right in the front of my head where I part my hair. I got my first grey hair the day I brought Little Man home from the hospital, then I got the other the next year and recently found my third. As Samantha on Sex and the City says, if you pluck them then 20 more will come to their funeral... So I am not plucking them because of that. Besides... I'm considering being that lady that totally goes grey... completely embracing it - ya know! Will it be a problem if I have grey hair and my mom doesn't? I figure I have NO Hope in the grey hair department looking at the head of my grandparents... we'll see :)

Little Man and I took a trip to Winco on Tuesday - I was coming around the corner out of the freezer aisle and there it was... one of those "Emo" my husband said they are called... a boy with TIGHT pants on that were down to the middle of his knees, his shirt was stretched down to cover his bum and his hair in the middle of his back... gorgeous. I, without even thinking made this look like totally bewilderment and guess what! His mother caught me! She looked at her son and looked at me and kind of laughed like I caught you... I kind of sofly giggled like I know you caught me and I went on past... I kept on running into them and of course she pulled out in back of me when I was headed home. I instantly called my mom to tell her that if I end up beaten some where it was the mother/son team in Winco! They turned and I could finally breathe. I've got to keep that kind of thing to myself so I don't get beat up!

We also saw a newborn in the check out stand. I pointed the baby out to little man and his mouth dropped open. I think his little brain clicked and he put the two together of what really is in mama's belly!

Little Man will be 2 on Sunday! Dear Lord - I can't believe my tiny baby boy will be two.

Toodles till next time.

Made me smile...

"I will give you the treasures of darkness,
riches stored in secret places,
so that you may know that
I am the LORD, the God of Israel,
who summons you by name."
-Isaiah 45:3

Turning 2!!

Well... a week from now my little boy is turning 2 - I just can't believe how time has totally flown by! He is such a good boy and I know he is going to be a wonderful big brother! He is very busy and loves to go outside where he very much enjoys eating mud, playing in the sprinkler/water, run with Daphnie when she is chasing her ball that daddy throws (dad is quite often trying to aim for the top of Paul's head with the ball or see if he can cause a huge wreck between Dapher and Pauly - he is pretty successful!! Mean ole pa!), and he especially loves to "help" his daddy in the garden aka pick as many tomatoes, green peppers, etc. as he can get away with before daddy catches him. During the day while daddy is at work we run errands, get groceries, go to the park, color pictures, watch movies and he has been very helpful lately with laundry. I just give him a basket and I tell him to go put his dirty clothes from his basket into the basket I'm giving him and he does it! It rocks! I haven't really ever had too much trouble with him going to sleep at night (Thank you Jesus!) and when it comes around to bedtime - he pretty much tells me he is ready and we file into his bedroom, put his pjs on him and pray and give kisses and he is out! It is amazing! (Wonder if Dos will do the same?) Pauly is a pretty easy going kid so it does make me wonder what I'm in store for with Mr. Dos. Here is a picture Ben took of us at a Rugby game during the spring - I love it!

29 weeks!

I'm 29 weeks today - So excited but a little anxious. If I have a c-section which I'm guessing I probably will my Dr. said they usually take the baby 2 weeks early so I'll have this kid in about 9 weeks.... eeeek! We'll see what is supposed to happen I guess. I ordered a coming home outfit and it came yesterday - this is it. It has a little lighthouse, whale and boat on the shirt. Very similar to the type of style our little man's outfit looked like.

I have a list a mile long to still work on and I need to make the hubby his list. But for the most part, because I already have all my boy clothes and baby stuff already as this is #2 (Dos) I'm just filling in the blanks. Putting the two boys in one room is going to more interesting and challenging than I thought but we'll just take it day by day.

To add to my anxiety my little man is turning 2 soon... Man! I can't believe it - he is quite the little man and such a snuggler lately. He has been sick with the stomach flu for the past 3 days or so... I'm doing my best not to get sick - hopefully I am successful!

All my doctor appointments have been really smooth and I'm so thankful my blood pressure isn't up like last time! Dos is rocking and rolling and growing!! Toodles for now, The Lady

Snuggle Bug!

So my little Pauly sure is being a snuggle bug lately. He would always give me a kiss and hug if I asked him but now about 20 minutes before bedtime he wants to climb up on my lap (what lap?) and snuggle. I hold him like a little baby and pat his back and kiss his face... He is really lovin' the snuggling time - he must know some way or other that things are going to be changin' up a little here real soon! Little stinker.

What a mess!

I am a huge cartoon watcher and yes it is mostly Disney - from Winnie the Pooh to Beauty and the Beast, Old Yeller and my ultimate favorite Cinderella - having my first son gave me a really fabulous reason to get away with watching cartoons. I'm addicted!!! Even when I was pregnant with little man I would tell my husband that the reason I was already watching the Disney channel was because I was "previewing" the shows to make sure they are okay for our little man to watch or not. I'm pretty picky and won't even let him watch some little shows because of the speech impediments they give some of the characters not to mention the snappy back talkin' characters that are on the majority of shows lately.

On the Disney channel I let him watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (hot dog, hot dog, hot diggity dog - sorry I had to throw that in :), My friends Tigger and Pooh, and Handy Manny (w/ some other exceptions) There is NO Sponge Bob allowed in the house, and none of those Tweeny/Tenny Bopper Movies (THEY ARE SO MOUTHY!) A lot of the shows that are on are SO Inappropriate! ALSO have you ever noticed how many characters have speech impediments? (Tigger and piglets are terrible! but they fall into my exception category) The little Wonder Pets on Nickelodeon are terribly cute and adorable and they are a speech impediment nightmare! Why is it so important to make a character talk funny to make them interesting?

Now, I am not saying that speech impediments are a bad thing, I totally understand that some and probably most kids (at one time or another) have the unfortunate struggle of having to work through speech problems. BUT I just don't want my kid (s) learning them on television.

The other HUGE problem I have with most movies for kids involves one or more of the following: smoking, drinking (to drunkenness), or just mouthy kids. Even on Dumbo - they get drunk! Alice in Wonderland - the caterpillar was smoking! Beauty and the Beast - Gaston and his sidekick are drinking in the pub ---------- it just does not end! I've noticed this a while ago and it was when I was quite young (like freshman in high school) and I thought then I should write a letter to someone about this. Although I never did, NOW having my own kid (s) I feel like I really should do something about it! Can't "the kid these days" enjoy movies and still find them interesting without these things... Is it just way too much to ask? Or are they so used to it that flicks just aren't interesting to them anymore without kids talking back to their parents and cartoon characters throwing back a shot or two?

My husband and I have decided to discontinue our Dish Network (which I'm totally proud of us! Go Team!)... We have not been watching near as much television and when there is "nothing" on we turn the t.v. off and read books and play outside or something. Weekly, I consider living without television as a whole BUT then I think about Monday Night Football and I remember that it is on Dish (not on regular television anymore :( and I'm not sure if I can handle October and November (being pregnant and WITHOUT my football!!) so we'll see how long no Dish Network lasts and we honestly just aren't the type of people to go without t.v. as a whole - hopefully we are working toward a happy medium in our household. What is your opinion? Any thoughts?

Hidey Ho and link to a Fabulous Giveaway!

Fabulous Giveaway Link to Peanut Petunia - it is a cute little blog and I found her blog through one of my most favorite blogs The Lettered Cottage
It is Peanut Petunia's 100 Post - Congratulations! and go sign up for her wonderful giveaway.

So the last couple days have been a little strange. I woke up Thursday morning at 2 p.m. with sever pains which I was thinking at first I had stomach flu but then it felt like my uterus was contracting and squeezing... It was happening about 3 times or more an hour. I'm only 27 weeks so I was worried. Mr. and I woke up, called Granny to watch Little Man and headed to the Hospital where they monitored us for 3 hours. Everything turned out to be fine. I couldn't believe those pains though... they had me tossin' and turnin' and sweatin' just a MESS! So it wasn't my uterus it was my stomach and Thank you Jesus everything is just fine now. I'm feeling 100% better and just so thankful everything is okay. Enjoy your weekend!

Toodles, The Lady

I'm anxious...

Philippians 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,

will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I really needed to read this today... I'm looking around my house thinking oooooh crap! new baby coming and lots to do... but if I think about it for a second without letting my emotions take over - I'm really doing pretty good and it won't take much effort to get everything right the way it needs to be and lets all remember... everything always works out :) *Sigh*

Wheel of Fortune!

There is no doubt that Pauly is a huge fan of Wheel of Fortune and has been since he was very tiny. I remember when he would be running around in his walker and Wheel of Fortune would come on and he would come running from the other side of the kitchen to come and watch it! Well things haven't changed much except for now he actually screams at the television as if he is solving the puzzle or yelling out a letter. For some reason he yells out the same thing every time which is, "NINE!" We just laugh and laugh - we don't have a clue where he got it and we think it is hilarious that he is screaming a number instead of a letter. It is just too much!

Plus he always claps along. Through the entire show no matter if he is eating or playing he will drop everything he is doing and clap along. With a big grin on his face and those hands just a clapping' along he is in heaven when Wheel of Fortune comes on!!

Quite the character!

Are there ever times when you see a cartoon character and it totally reminds you of someone you know? When my sister married her husband, my mom pointed out that he was very similar to Woody on Disney's Toy Story... see the resemblance? Isn't that crazy! And I'm telling you there is this part on Toy Story 2 where Woody has a little swagger in his step and it is just like Bub (we call him bub since he was our first brother (in-law)) Anyhow, I've discovered I have just that same type of character in my own home and it just happens to be another Disney favorite...

I'm married to Mr. Incredible (incredible in more ways than one of course!)

See...

Now of course it isn't exact but it is "incredible" how their personalities are quite similar as well as their looks!! Proud of their work, not to mention very hardworking, loves his family and dashingly handsome!

As I do this post I watch my little man and I'm trying to decide what type of character he is becoming and there is now doubt that he is following in his daddy's footsteps and I believe I have another "incredible" on my hands.

(Little Man flexing his muscles!!)Not to mention the little rascal that is in my belly - he is for sure quite the character - I can tell already!

Nap Time!

So... today we had errands to do and Pauly did catch a cat nap here and there in the car but once we got home I knew he needed a little better nap... I laid him down, told him to go to sleep and take a nap - he had a little bit of a hard time sleeping but then in the middle of nap time - I hear him wake up, go to his door and lay down in front of it. I wake up from my nap a few minutes later to find that he has truly went to sleep in front of his door... there is no way I can open it and put him back in bed so I just leave him there (Maybe we can win the $100,000 on Funniest Home Videos because I totally got it on video)

Oh! He just woke up, better go save him - he is cranky - I can tell... Mimi said I better blow in his ear to re inflate that side of his head... I'm sure it is sore!

About Me!

getting to know me - getting to know all about me... (la! la! la!) Isn't there a song like that on the King and I? Well this post is LONG OVER DUE! I haven't posted anything in a while... I've honestly had a hard time thinking of something... blame it on my pregnancy brain-deadness I guess.

Anyhow, here we go...


I am 28 years old and my birthday is May 18th (Same as George Strait - who growing up loving all things country western from clothes, music and every day life that made me pretty happy when I found out!)

I've been married to my hubby for almost 5 years... Totally need to think of something fun and creative for this anniversary... better call Granny and make sure she's available for babysitting :)

I grew up in a small small very small town out in the middle of no where - we rode the bus for about 45 minutes to and from school. Population sign for the longest time said 26... & I was related to everyone! That is why my mom and I joke - she had to go all the way to Nevada to find her husband and mine came from Alaska! To see a lot more about small town life where I grew up and our family check out my mom's blog (Idaho Round Pen) click here!

I played most sports growing up and loved it! Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Track and we all rodeoed. I played Volleyball and Basketball in High School up until my Junior year and that year I decided I was going to graduate early so I took on a very big load of junior and senior classes to help me accomplish that. I also just wanted to practice ropin' as much as possible - so every day that year when we got home from school we were off to the practice pen out in front of our house. Lopin' horses and ropin' the dummy, tyin' our goat (all of our goats and we've probably gone through 10-15 were named Elvis - we're just quirky like that) - I was in the top 10 for Breakaway Ropin (Girls calf ropin') in Idaho my Junior and Senior year. I loved it!

I have two little sisters - I'm the oldest. I'm very protective!


I'm 26 weeks along with our second son... We still don't have a name... We're struggling with this one so far - BUT we don't share till their born anyway so I guess it doesn't really matter any way. Come on November - Mama is cookin'!



I am truly in love with beachy type cottage decor. I love home design and decor - I think I'm obsessed! I really haven't decided what I want to be when I grow up as far as besides being a mama. I've really felt pulled in this direction... I guess you never know where the Lord will use you... for now, I'm content.


I'm totally a girlly girl - just ask my family... I hate being dirty. and I already have my hair thingy box all ready for when I ever have a girl... will it ever happen? or will I forever have to get my girlly-fix off of my nieces? We'll see :)

I wish I was more of a do it all kind of gal... I'm workin' at it! I wished I knew more about DIY home stuff, gardening and such. I do love cookin' and I'm okay at it - I mean my husband and son are still alive... right? Totally a Martha wannabe :)

I love a good drama movie! My favorite movies are You've Got Mail and Step Mom - which I realized last night are both based in New York... So I think I also have a unknown obsession for wanting to travel there.


So excited for the new Meryl Streep movie Julie/Julia :) LOVE IT!


Favorite actors - can't think of any right now... duh! Liam Neeson is probably one...

actresses - Amy Adams and Rachel McAdams (isn't that weird they both have Adams in their last name?)


I don't read! Yet another thing I wished I did... I heart kid's books but can not for the life of me sit down with a "good book" for one - I have a toddler and that just doesn't happen for me and two I start thinking about anything and everything else. When it comes to reading my Bible I honestly have to pray about staying focused and asking God to help my mind not wander... I'm working on it :)


favorite Bible verse : Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the Desires of your heart Psalms 37:4


I'm a huge fan of going through clutter and junk drawers and making a Youth Ranch pile to donate! It is invigorating!! BUT I have to be careful - sometimes I think I offend people when I do it :( Sometimes I'll get something from someone that I have many of so I am not afraid to donate or re gift... I think that should be okay... am I the only one?


I love coffee! I mean I love it! I guess I got that from my dad and Grandma Pattie (she heats coffee up from her coffee pot in the microwave that has been sitting there since yesterday - she's adorable & my dad's coffee has to be strained through a dish towel before I can drink it... grounds anyone?)

I love arts and crafts!

I go a little organizing crazy when I'm nesting... just ask my husband...

I'm a huge fan of eating out... terrible I know but I love the whole getting waited on thing... My husband calls me a princess... Aren't I a Queen though?

that is all for now - I'll write more next time.. toodles

Goodnight! What a stink!

Remember in Charlotte's Web when Avery Zukerman fell onto Wilbur's slop trough and under it was that Templeton's fantastically stinky dud of a Goose egg - the trough obviously crushed the egg and the terrible smell filled the air? ...

Well my son has started the stinky burps and I kid you not he totally burped in my face just now! OMG! I totally almost passed out! I can't believe little perfect me (who never has a stinky anything!) is filled in a house with only stinky! boys!

My mom always teased me by saying "I hope you end up with all girls!" She was pretty sure that my sisters and I were so challenging that she wanted us to have to go through the same thing we put her through... pretty funny that I've ended up with all boys so far... Believe me - Pauly sure keeps me hoppin'! I'm not convinced that boys are so much easier... the little boys in my family are IN TO EVERYTHING!!!! Very busy!

At least after Pauly has any type of "bodily function" he has started saying - excuse me (which actually sounds like goo-me) and he puts his hand over his mouth... It is pretty cute!

Prepare for Dos!

So in preparation for our newest addition "Mr. Dos" I have made up a little list of things I need to fill in the gaps. Obviously I already have a lot of the stuff I need for baby #2 as I already had baby #1...

It is just amazing how the Lord works. I made up a list of things I needed, and slowly but surely, without even really sharing my little list with anyone (except for ma and sisters) - people send me, randomly, things I need off my list! It is just amazing and I am so grateful to the Lord for this type of reassurance that he is the Amazing Provider and will always take care of us.

Nesting

As all of you already mama's know - Nesting is a feeling that comes over your body during the last trimester to get your house all ready for your new born baby. I'm just starting to get that feeling of wanting to turn my house up-side-down and go to town on it! Except it has been too hot! I have been doing a few things here and there and I have my list. I'm sure I'll get it all done soon enough! There isn't much to do as this is our second boy.

This morning I was thinking about this feeling I have to go crazy cleaning and reorganizing and I thought about nests - how much work birds put into making their little nests the perfect home for their tiny ones is just amazing isn't it! I actually love birds and nests as part of decor so below are a few pics I found of where people have used bird's nests in their decor. Enjoy!

This chandelier is amazing - but I'm not sure how one would go about cleaning it. Probably really carefully!


This came off of Etsy - funkiefinds is the seller.

I found this at quillcottage.blogspot.com - I love the bird and the nest!

Aren't these creative - love them and totally doable!

This is totally me. The letters, the candles, the glass... I love it all!

Let's Go!

Pauly's new thing is telling us "Let's Go" He takes his hand and waves us to come his way and says it in his cute little half understandable language. It is too adorable.

Now he has started doing a wind-up with his leg where he pulls it up as if he is a hardball pitcher - it is too cute! He says it for everything, when it is time to go change his diaper, eat dinner, go outside or if we are actually getting ready to leave the house. I need to get it on camera before he is on to the next adorable thing.

I've Lost my COOL!

For the last 4 to 5 days, here in western Idaho, we've had triple digit temperatures. My husband jokes and says that if the temperature is hotter than our body temperature (what is it supposed to be 98.6 or so?) that is no good! I totally agree as I have (not to mention extra insulation (if you will) another human being inhabitating my habitat... Ughhh... I'm getting so sick of the heat! Not only am I loosing it over the heat but also I've definately noticed that the pregnancy hormone craziness has been coming out loud and clear.

Up until about a week or two ago I had definately been struggling with monitoring what I just let spew from my mouth as if I am an out of control bubblegum machine. Bubble Gum coming out everywhere and there is nothing you can do to stop it! Whatever was coming to mind I would just splurt it out and not even give it a second thought as to if it might hurt my husband's feelings or not. I was letting Satan get away with WAY too much! I had a break down and my hubby and I struggled for a whole weekend - where I couldn't quite figure out what the problem was. I just knew he was driving me crazy, he was a stinky, gross man who was completely unaware of what I needed or expected from him nor (I thought) did he care to know. I was so disgusted by even just looking at him and I just knew that I really liked it when he left for work and sometimes I wished he would stay there!

Finally Saturday evening, after I had talked to my dad, I realized that I wasn't being aware of what I was saying and any old thing that came to mind during our conversations I would say it. When I'm struggling with such things, I usually talk to my mom and sisters and things tend to just blow over... I can't hardly ever talk to my dad without bawling and everyone knows when your bawling you can't listen or really get anywhere in the conversation - so I usually just tell mom... No I can't talk to him - I'm okay. I think it is because I'm very concerned and probably mostly embarrassed of what he'll think about me having such issues.

I went to the Library and picked up 'Help Me! I'm Married' By Joyce Meyer (this author and speaker is a family favorite) She talked about asking the Lord to give you a new set of eyes for your husband, which has helped me with the whole - he's just a stinky man thing... :) and also she encourages you to pray for the Lord to help you be a better listen vs. trying to always have the last word.

Anyhow, through much prayer and petition of getting back in the Word... and as daddy-o says "Got to Battle, Battle Every Day" I've been monitoring my thoughts and actions and working through this hiccup. It is totally working like a charm and those snappy, cranky things I once would of said are getting held back to reflect a more loving and respectful wifey.

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

James 1:19-21

little tid bits

for dinner tonight - pan fried chicken breasts, steamed zucchini and yellow squash and baked potatoes with cheddar and sour cream

we're watching - The Bachelorette, The Men Tell All - She has two great guys to pick from Ed and Tristan (who was my first pick on the very first show but I've switched to Ed as being my pick for Jill) We'll see who she picks!

tonight - Ben worked late but got home earlier than I thought - nice surprise :)

the temperature - is too hot! Our house is not air conditioned so we spend a lot of our time down in our basement.

tomorrow - Paul and I will do a few house chores and in the afternoon he is going to spend the night with Granny and Grandad.

my next doctor's appointment - is Wednesday morning I'm excited to hear the baby's heart beat again. He is kicking around like crazy as we speak!

I miss - my family. My mom and dad's house should be done soon and I am so looking forward to a long weekend to spend with them and my sisters and their kids and just bummin' around and laughing till we pee our pants ... okay, okay till I pee my pants (why is it always me?)

I hear - my boy playing with his daddy laughing as they sharing a piece of cake, the window air conditioner humming, the dishwasher washing and the television blaring, Daphnie's collar jingling as she itches

I'm looking forward to - lunch with a long lost friend I haven't seen in 7 or 8 years ... kinda nervous but mostly excited!

I need to - make a organizing list and get hopping before this baby is born :)

Something Funny!

So this weekend (on Saturday) we went to Jerome for our Stauffer Family Reunion - we saw so a lot of family that we hadn't seen in a while. It was very nice to also see my immediate family as I hadn't seen them in a few months.

The reunion was at a park and we ate really yummy food like prime rib, delicious salads and tasty desserts.

After eating we went swimming at the Rec Center there. We took all the kids and they loved it! We were just swimming around and then all the sudden, out of nowhere, I started singing - I've Got You Under My Skin... just singing along then Casi says - literally, you literally got something under you skin. We just laughed and laughed till tears were filled in our eyes. It was hysterical!

Don't Talk To Strangers!! vs. Be Friendly!!

So... for the last couple times that we have took a trip to the grocery store, my little rascal has been - And I'm not kidding! - seems like he is running for President of the United States! He is telling everyone! and I mean everyone! Hello! Good Bye! Hi! (with a sweet little wave) and I'm surprised that he isn't kissing babies and signing ladies chests... this kid is flirty, friendly and seriously outgoing! It, sort of, embarrasses me... just a teeny tiny - but then the mama in me is so proud of him for being friendly and sweet. EVERYONE always smiles and says hi and just gets a kick out of him.

Last time we were in Winco I thought for sure that people were kind of worried about him because it was just after his dad shaved his head WAY TOO SHORT! so people kind of were looking at him like... is he sick? oh well, I'll just say hi - and they'd say something like, "you're so cute" and "awwwwwww" But tonight they were just like regular friendly back to him since he doesn't look like such a poor little bald pale boy :(

When is it okay to say be friendly and when is time to say - don't talk to strangers? I always want my kids to be greeting people with smiles and be friendly - that is what I try and do... I guess the challenge is teaching them that in certain situations you do have to be quiet and also to learn to read people's character and know when they are trustworthy vs. not trustworthy/shady - ya know?

My Wish

Some of you might recognize the lyrics below it is to the song sung by Rascal Flatts. I love it and I always thought portions of it would be so cool stenciled somewhere maybe in a kids room or maybe a play room... I love it so much and I wanted to share! Enjoy!

I hope that the days come easy and the moments pass slow,

And each road leads you where you want to go,

And if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,

I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.

And if one door opens to another door closed,

I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,

If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile,

But more than anything, more than anything,

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,

Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,

You never need to carry more than you can hold,

And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,

I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,

Yeah, this, is my wish.I hope you never look back, but ya never forget,

All the ones who love you, in the place you left,

I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,

And you help somebody every chance you get,

Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,

And you always give more than you take.

But more than anything, yeah, and more than anything,

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,

Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,

You never need to carry more than you can hold,

And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,

I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,

Yeah, this, is my wish.

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,

Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,

You never need to carry more than you can hold,

And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,

I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,

Yeah, this, is my wish.

This is my wish I hope you know somebody loves you

May all your dreams stay big

Snot Rag!

So Pauly has a new trick... he has always been the type of kid to HATE and I mean hate! having a snotty nose... most kids will just let it drip down (mom, I know your gagging right now :) and they lick it and well you know... Anywho... Pauly ever since he could say it will say "Nose..!" after he sneezes. He'll sneeze than say "Nose!" waiting for whoever is closest to wipe his nose - BUT lately he has a new trick where he'll sneeze - say "Nose!" then wipe his nose on ... YOU! So watch out Mimi! He does it almost every time. I can't wait to see what happens if he does it on Grandpa Bill at the family reunion. Hilarious!

Busy little Mr. Brown!

If you could, you'd want to follow daddoo all day long,

right behind him, with your matching blue jeans on,

Belt buckle, work boots and that hat pulled down tight,

Keep up! Gotta keep up! with all your Might!

Please help daddy feed the horses and fix that worn out fence,

You're an awesome daddy's helper, but that only makes sense!

Mama and Sissy will be waiting for you both with arms open wide,

They're so proud of you brother for working by daddy's side!

Wrangling the doggys and keeping a really close eye,

on those chickens, kittens and cows - Be careful! Oh My!

You're busy, yes so busy, you've got lots of things to do,

but now it's time to sleep Mr. Brown and shut those eyes of blue!

In the morning it will start again and there will be lots and lots to see,

like rocks and sticks and muddy holes and don't forget to climb that tree!

Our busy little Mr. Brown, you're quite the little guy,

May the Lord bless and keep you, for you're the apple of our eye!

Love you forever, Aunt Sam

Where do I begin?

Do you ever feel like you are watching your life and not participating in it? I've been feeling this way for a while and I just can't seem to snap out of it! I am in a fog and I have aspirations of "the woman I want to be" and know I have it in me somewhere... I just can't seem to get the ball rolling in the right direction.

My sister and I were talking about this the other day and I was telling her what I was working on, as far as personal goals and aspirations, and she was telling me about her things. This way we can encourage each other - but honestly it obviously can't just end there... I've got to Start! I've got to get going! or I'll be sitting here another 10 more years from now and wish I would have (as I do now).

These aren't really career things, I've never really been a career type gal - I never went to college, I've never really had any true career goals or ideas of "What I wanted to be when I grow up" my challenges mainly include becoming a Woman of Substance for mainly my God, my family and myself. I need to establish a daily, weekly, monthly routine consisting of everything from exercise, to family time, to home projects and goals, and don't forget outings for the kiddo.

As the Proverbs 31 verse goes I want to be a Godly woman, I am going to work towards my husband and children being proud of me and I hope they see me more precious than any jewel in the world, I will strive to be more diligent with the affairs of our home, become a noble woman and every morning rises before those in my home and that way I can get my day started seeking his face, with prayer and devotion.

So, where do I start? I feel like I'm getting swallowed by the never ending tornado... I can't get out of the pulling and swirling of what the world wants and the idea that I've already failed and there is !No Hope! I should be this woman already! Where did I go wrong, why am I stuck!? I guess I could go on and on about asking questions as to Why and How did this happen and Where did I go wrong?

BUT!! That isn't going to get me anywhere. I've wrote out my plan and all I can do is pray and Start!

This morning I read something on DivineVerses.com and it mentioned that we can set up plans but those plans don't necessarily mean they are God's plan for us. It reminded me that I need to seek his ways first and rely on him for the plan for my life. (Prov 3:5-6) So I have a outline, "a game-plan", and I will seek him daily for guidance and strength... by listening (can't forget the most important part) that is the only way to Start!

Proverbs 3:9-18
9 Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: 10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine. 11 My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: 12 For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. 13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. 14 For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. 15 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. 16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. 17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. 18 She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.

Reporting for Duty

Daddy got a little carried away with the haircut last night. The Army called and wants Pauly. Such a great head won't go unnoticed!

When Ben was done cutting his hair, I took him in the bathroom and held him up to the mirror and he looked at himself, said "OH! No" and hung his head in shame. It was kind of sad... (but kinda funny too!)

I think mama goes back to doing the haircut again next time! Daddy is FIRED!

Tick - Tock - Tick - Tock

I often wonder if my house has that certain comfort that just makes you want to return as soon as possible. Both of my Grandma's houses had clocks in them that would make lovely sounds on the 1/2 hour and hour mark. I loved them! I loved hearing it during the night, knowing everyone was all snuggly in their beds and the clock was ticking and tocking along till morning when I would wake to be greeted by my Grandma Pattie's smile and hugs or my Grandma Sally's sweet songs that was either 'You are my Sunshine' or 'Good Morning to you, Good Morning to you - you look like a monkey and you smell like one too'... I loved every second of it! I also loved I could tell what time it was without even waking up all the way and I didn't have to get out of bed to check - I instantly knew the count down till morning... Ahhhhh... simply lovely.

I want my house to have that certain loveliness about it. I want my kids to hear that lovely tune during the night and know they are safe in bed and look forward to the morning where they will be greeted by my smiling face, a hug and maybe a sweet song or two. My house is probably too small right now for one of these beauties but some day I'll have a clock and it might not be as big as these but it will sing that sweet tune to assure us that morning is on its way.

photographed by James Merrell

Scottish Mahogany Round Dial Grandfather Clock

Masterpiece Faux Black Cherry Mini Grandfather Clock

Bulova Jerome I Bulova Villa


Cream Grandfather Clock

If you are wondering the first one was my favorite! I couldn't find who made it only who photographed it. Takes my breath away...

1 Little Monkey Sitting on the Dresser?

So... Last night Pauly was being WAY too quiet in his bedroom - so Ben decided to go sneak in his bedroom just to see what he is doing. A lot of time we'll just catch him sitting on the floor or on his bed reading a book. It is adorable - he loves to read!

BUT yesterday, he was sitting on top of his dresser. He wasn't doing anything - just sitting very still on his dresser - of course it was where he could climb on one thing and over to it - so I've got some rearranging to do. I think no matter where I move things he will still climb. That is just the stage.

Tonight, he was jumping from couch to ottoman back to couch. Ben keeps saying thank God we have insurance because soon enough we'll take our turn with our trip to the Emergency Room (Knock on wood)... 2 boys - I think, unfortunately, it is inevitable!

Boys' Room!

I plan to put the two boys in the same room as the other two bedrooms in our house are down in our basement. My Little Man is too little still to go down in the basement all by his lonesome. He'll only be 2 in September so for now they will go in the same room. I plan to keep the room the same for the most part but maybe changing up a few things. I was looking through Google Images to see what ideas I could find. Here is a pic of the nursery when Pauly was born and for the most part (minus rocking chair, nightstand then add in a toddler bed and a toy box) it is the same... I really want to paint their names on some boards or maybe directly on the wall. Maybe just their initials like this

I also ran onto this cool idea which I completely love. The alphabet letters in all sorts of different fonts and colors. We don't have any crown molding in that room but just putting up a boarder like this and maybe painting beyond that a separate lighter color and same as the ceiling would really be appealing to the eye.Then I found this sign and I just couldn't help myself. Maybe I can recreate it on my own... I bet I can ;)

I've still been struggling getting Little Man's quilt done that includes the same bold colors as the baby bedding set. I've got to get focused and get it done before I get too big! I wasn't sure if I had posted any ultra sound pictures so here is a couple. We are calling HIM Dos. (as in #2) (Paul's nickname when he was in utero was Banjo - it was a nickname that came to a dream of his Auntie Holly - so we just called him that as we kept his name a secret from the family and that is what we are doing again - not that we have a name yet anyway... we are really struggling :)

Spit like a Man!

So... on Thursday - Pauly and Daddy went to watch some men practice Rugby. These are some men that not to long ago Ben played Rugby with and is friends with. Pauly had a great time watching them and they played with him and talked to him.

They came home and Pauly was tired! Just worn out! We got him bathed and then off to bed. The next morning, Ben left for work and Pauly and I were hanging out at the house and I noticed that he was squatting down and spitting. ALL THE TIME! I had to tell him no spitting just when you brush your teeth and outside - okay!

Daddy got home and explained to me that he had learned about spitting during the Rugby practice. I was totally NOT MAD! about this - I think it is perfectly natural and totally adorable for a little boy to want to be like his daddy and spit and stuff! Don't get me wrong it is hysterical watching spit drip down his chin because, of course, it takes practice! But just the same it is darn cute!

Now, he has also started telling me he doesn't want his shirt on because... (you got it) he wants to be like daddy and run around without a shirt all the time. It is totally adorable!

I just can't believe all these Men I'm surrounded by! Not to mention the one that has taken up residence in my uterus who thinks he can kick me anytime he wants to! (mouthing the words... !!Help Me!!)

Special Agent Dos...

Some of you may remember when I was pregnant with Pauly... Our Auntie Holly had a dream that we named him Banjo! Hilarious right? Well... that became Pauly's nickname while he was in utero.

Have you seen Special Agent Oso on the Disney Channel? Ben gets that silly song stuck in his head and well let's be honest... we all get it stuck in our head. So last night, we were out on the front lawn talking (it was gorgeous out last night!) Pauly was playing with Dapher and Ben said Special Agent Dos that is #2's nickname... So I shall call him Dos... Here are a few ultra sound pictures of our baby boy "Dos".

Nickname: Special Agent Dos

Makes My ♥ Smile...

This picture is so inspirational to me! I love the color and shape of the tile. The glass cupboard doors make it feel so open and delightful. I love the wooden wicker like shades. So very beachy and fun! Yes please...

photo from: My Home Ideas

The bedroom below kind of looks like something you would find upstairs at Grandma's House... Okay, Okay Grandma in the Hamptons but just the same... very put together, the ocean colors and crisp linens are delish, along with the white boards that goes up three quarters up the wall - Awesome!

photo by: Posh Living, LLC Beach House bedroom on Flickr

Now, this bed! Who couldn't fade away into the sweet dream land in it?! I adore the white wood plank walls and what about that door? I would love one or two of those doors in my house with the frosted glass... Yum!

photo by: Studio M Design on Flickr

I swear I was born on the wrong side of the U.S. I adore this house in East Hamptons... (who doesn't?) Can't you just imagine waking up to this view and drinking coffee out on the porch? Then later taking a nice walk along the beach collecting sea shells.

photo by: drbeach.org

Picture this... You and the one you love sitting here for hours.

photo by: Just Beachy
What makes your heart smile?

I ♥ Ina!!

The Barefoot Contessa is something I look forward every day at 3 p.m. on Food Network. My boy is usually still not up from his nap by then and I can squeeze in one last moment of peace and quiet with Ina Garten.

From her fabulous kitchen and yard to her scrumptious, decedent desserts and don't forget those fantastic tips and tricks for party favors and table settings. I just love her! She is sunny, beautiful, classy and timeless! Take it all in and enjoy Ina asap!

Little Boy of Mine

Little boy of mine so sweet,

I cannot wait to kiss your feet,

Hold your hand and touch your head,

Wrap you tight and off to bed,

Keep you warm and be near by,

Mama is here so don't you cry,

Your daddy can't wait to hold you tight,

For brother it will be love at first sight,

When you arrive we all will be near,

My precious, my sweet, my little dear.

To my little boy who is on his way,

Love, Mama

Boy O Boy!

For those who have not heard via phone call or on Facebook. We are expecting #2 Boy. We found out yesterday. The ultrasound was great and the lady said he looked perfect. He wouldn't let us get the shot of all four chambers of his heart that the lady had to have but she did see everything and said it looks good he just wouldn't turn right for the pic. He was sucking his thumb and drinking amniotic fluid... it was precious! His little profile looks very familiar... I hope to have pics some time soon!

I love you Ma and Pa!

I could never even begin to write of how thankful I am for my mom and dad. Can anyone? There were us three girls on a little place out in the middle of no where. We had horses and from time to time cows, sheep, goats, pigs and chickens. Growing up where we did and in the life I did was amazing and I wouldn't want it any other way. We would play outside practically all day running from the orchard, to saddling up the horses and going for a ride to getting all those chores done.

When I was little my dad drove truck, long-haul. He would leave usually on a Sunday afternoon and be home Saturday night, just in time to go to bed, get up and go to church in the morning, eat a little lunch with the family and maybe get a nap in and start it all over again. There were definitely times where he didn't actually get to come home and it might of been 2 or 3 weeks at a time.

I remember being a junior in high school and it was Homecoming Week and I was on the powder puff team. Jodi was on the opposite team than I. We were warming up and Jodi and I looked over to the bleachers and there was dad! We had no idea he was home and was coming to the game. I also played sports all through junior high and high school and I know he would of been there for every single game if it had been possible. I remember him showing up to a few and it was so awesome when he could but usually he would call in the evening to get an update on our day and I would tell him about my games.

He worked so hard driving truck day and night - trying to get home to us girls. We never went without a thing EVER! We always did whatever sports we wanted and had whatever we needed all the time!

Obviously the whole time my dad was gone our mom was playing the part of mom and dad. I don't know if you can relate but having my husband gone for even a day or two puts me into a BIG stressed out mood! She worked at the Pharmacy in town and that was convenient because it was a block away from the schools. She was at every game, making sure we were getting homework done, fed and off to bed.

I can remember dad pulling out of the drive-way and it never failed something always went wrong as soon as he pulled out and my mom would have to deal with it. Either recruiting our Grandpa Bill or other men from our church to help out. From frozen faucets to broken down cars or pickups or needing firewood or hay, there was always something she had to deal with we could always count as those people to help. It would be so tough having all those stresses for years and years on end. I remember her being a little stressed but mostly I remember good times and lots of laughing and always feeling super safe and loved!

Later on, mom would usually leave the house at 6:30 or so in the morning to get to work where she was a secretary for a large waste management facility - so this meant that we also had to get ourselves on the bus. Of course we gave her a run for her money but over all we were good girls and took care of lots of things around the house and helped out. We all rodeoed so usually we would get home from school, exercise the horses and practice and then get done with that, sometimes we would start some type of dinner then do homework and off to bed.

When we rodeoed mom would usually be traveling with us and boy those were good times then when possible, dad would show up in the truck or come a little later and I do remember him being there quite a bit for our rodeos. BUT of course even there we had the fill in daddies who we could count on and mom was juggling recruiting of those daddies and all the stresses we had of competition and performing well.

I'm so thankful to say today that my dad did stop driving truck a few years after I left the house so one of my sisters did get a little more daddy time and dad didn't have to miss out on all of us. It was a hard deal for my dad not to be there for everything but bills had to be paid and God puts us in certain situations for reasons... my dad was a huge light for God while he was on the road as he still is today. Dad is now working at the same location as my mom and thankfully they get to ride to and from work. They are really like little honeymooners now that they finally get to spend all this time together.

It is such an amazing thing to see all the crap they had to go through and how strong it made them as people, their marriage and their spiritual walk with God. I count on their guidance every day and I'm so thankful for both of them. There isn't a day that I call mom and run some situation past her about how I might of should of reacted as a wife and she lines me out. Her encouragement is so valuable to me. It makes me step back and realize that Ben and I are going to have hard times but it can be done through God's strength and lots and lots of prayer. The Lord always provides and we always have each other no matter what.

Father's Day 2009

Yesterday we had a lot of fun. We all got up and went to church. Holly and kids were here visiting for a couple days as they made their way back to North Dakota from paying their respects in Portland when Granny passed. We all had a relaxing day and in the evening Grandad came over which was also wonderful.

We ate a huge meal consisting of hamburger, hot dogs, potato chips, macaroni salad, corn on the cob, watermelon slices and pineapple triangles and ending with a delicious and might I say beautiful coconut cake I made for Ben as he loves coconut and cake of course!

We had fun laughing and hanging out all day. Ben got a card from Pauly, Me, #2 and Dapher Too! and we showered him with hugs and kisses all day. He is such a wonderful daddy and husband. I am in such aw of him when I watch him with Pauly. We are so blessed to have our Daddy.

Yesterday was also my daddy's birthday and Father's Day and I called him to wish him a happy day but I was really bummed to not be with him too. I love my dad and appreciate his love and guidance!

It is such a blessing to have these amazing men in our lives and I'm so thankful my son and baby #2 can enjoy them as I have. These men all have a real heart for God and the respect, pride and honor that shines from all of them is truly a blessing in our lives.

DOESN'T SHE GET IT?

Now, don't get me wrong! I know I did stupid things when I was young but this was before I was married, before I had kids and I'm totally not saying doing those things was okay but I didn't have any responsibilities to anyone but myself. I chose to hurt myself over and over while family, friends and coworkers were telling me STOP! & This is a bad situation! I just pushed those people away while Satan pushed me through many many more messes and I just kept along because he totally had my #NUMBER#!

I'm not so much glad I went through this big mess but I totally think it happened for a reason, I've learned from it and it has shaped me to be who I am today. The situation was addicting and it took a lot to get away from it. (No it wasn't drugs or alcohol) I'm just so thankful that after so many many months after realizing I was in this train wreck I still had a friend left over and my mom and sisters were there and they hadn't just wrote me off forever.

There is a certain situation that has been floating around for the past 9 months or so and whenever I think about it for a while I see what things I lost as far as opportunities, friends and self pride - I just want to bang this "said" girl's head up against the wall! Mostly because I love her so much but also because there is one particular little sweet reason with pigtails that just makes things SO MUCH MORE SERIOUS!

My husband keeps telling me not to be mean to her about it and to be sweet and be there for her but whenever she says something so completely bazaar I pretty much tell her I can't believe that you might be considering this or that - and Don't be a stupid women! These comments don't help and even staying completely out of it doesn't make me feel like I'm helping any. I realize that I'm not supposed to solve the problems of the world but it breaks my heart to watch this happen to this particular girl. Not any of us really know what to do besides just pray about the situation (which obviously isn't just Nothing - it is definitely Something!) Having gone through this already I just want to fix it and tell her STOP! and have her listen ya know!?

Price of Peace

The Price of Peace by Alyssa Gaddis of Springfield, IL. She and her sister Cassy sing this song found here. Grab a tissue.

Thank you Jesus

I found a Toddler Bed for Pauly for $15 and the lady even delivered it! I told her she was truly a God Send. It was so nice of them to bring it to my house without charging them more. Thank you Jesus for little surprises we wouldn't otherwise expect.

Today we went to Winco and I had my list and we got our groceries and as we were packing them up in the parking lot and pulling out I said "Thank you Jesus for our groceries!" and in Pauly's little voice he repeated what I said. It was precious!

This last Sunday we were singing during open worship and I usually let Pauly sit with us for about 4 or 5 songs then he goes down to Nursery to play so Ben and I can enjoy the message. Well, there was a prayer during the open and the lady closed her prayer with of course Amen, and Pauly said "Amen!" which is something he hadn't said before...

We pray every night but usually he squints his little eyes and get this!... my mom, dad and Casi taught Carti to clap at the end of the prayer so he would usually clap at Amen - which is perfect right? Well... instead he is now closing with Amen.