OOPS

...she fell right off. I was mid snap when she went flying. Notice her butt in the corner of the picture.

Today, 4/18/07

Today is an anniversary.
Today marks ten years since I saw that face.
Today marks the last time I heard him sing.
Today is when I learned you can survive grief. It may take your breath away, it can stay under the surface and come out when you least expect it, but you can make it through.
Today has always been a tough reminder. I remember every painful moment of that night ten years ago. I remember her face when she told me. Someone who didn't even know him told me one of my closest college friends had died.
Today was the first time I could actually hear a missing voice in a choir. We never sounded the same again.
Today is different somehow.
Today I was given a happy thought to reflect upon.
Today a new path was given to my mother.
Today my Mama was given approval for a church. My Mother will become a Pastor.
Today's usual sadness has been replaced by exhilaration.



DPM 4-18-97

Here is a hint...

Do not ever, ever, ever try to adjust the arm of the shower head while the shower is on. I do not know what I was thinking. There was water everywhere. Since our master bath includes a shower stall there is a large open area above the shower. There was water on the ceiling, the floor, and the mirror. The clean up may have been just as funny. Not wanting to alert Shawn to my interesting predicament I tried to find the proper tools in the bathroom. My McGuyver moment included the following items: a hooded towel, a hanger, and Aubrey's upstairs (small child's step stool). I put the hood of the towel over one of he edges of the hanger. I wrapped it around and then put the corner mitt over the same corner. I stood on the upstairs and dried the ceiling. Not bad for a short girl.

For those of you that have known me for any length of time, know this is just par for the course.

What a weekend!

We have been very very busy this weekend. Here is what we have done:
1. Taxes, Shawn actually did this I just came in at the end and supervised.
2. Laundry, this is always a work in progress but I at least have clothes to wear to work.
3. Went to Target 3 times. Once for a birthday gift, next for an emergency outfit for Aubs, and today for groceries.
4. I actually planned out a menu for the week. Tonight I made burritos with mexican style rice, black beans and pulled chicken. They were fantastic. Also this week are Gyro Burgers, and Chicken Club Salad these recipes are courtesy of Rachael Ray. I am also making Tostados and Turkey burgers.
5. We went to a karate birthday party and I BROKE A BOARD!!! So did Aubs. It was tons of fun and we may go back to take some classes.
6. We had a tree fall in the back yard. Thank the Lord that the wind was directed away from our house and the neighbors fence.
7. Aubs and Michaela did some gardening. We planted little butterfly gardens in pails.
8. Uploaded the weekend pictures to the computer.

Kim's Game

Kim suggested I ask Aubs a question and write down the answer. I am going to play with Michaela and Aubrey.

Michaela's question: How do you cook fish? (Her own suggestion)
We put a tail on it and then put it on the stove. And then we put a thing and a tummy and then we have a head and then we eat it.

Aubrey's question: How do you cook a turkey?
You um use the stove and then um you put it on the stove. and then um you flip it over and you get a bone to put in it. Then you get another bone and then um you cut it without the bones and you eat it. And then um you cut it in half and there is the meat and you get something to put the bone in. And then that is it. The End.

Belated Easter Pics #4

On Easter Sunday we were invited to participate in a traditional Mexican Easter Egg Hunt. It actually started on Friday when we met to paint and stuff the hollowed out eggs. On Sunday we hid the eggs and then Aubs and Alex found them all. Once all the eggs are found you run around and crack them over someone's head. It was really a lot of fun. The kids were very gentle and would crack them with their hands first so they didn't slam them on you. It was a lot of fun and we may try it again next year.

Belated Easter Pics #3

Thanks to GG who bought Aubs a long sleeved bunny dress. It saved the day because we had an unseasonably cool day on Easter.

Belated Easter Pics #2

Here is Chicken Little with Aubs and Alex.

Belated Easter Pics #1

This is the view down Main Street USA looks like the day before a holiday.

Old Friends

It's funny that I posted how horrible I was at keeping in touch with everyone and that it was going to be a resolution to do better. Thanks to the magic of cyberspace I have been "found" by two old friends today. One of them is one of the people I was referring to in #2 of the Lakeside List.

I am always terrified to send a message when I find someone on myspace or something similar. I really should get over that issue. Maybe that should be a new resolution.

Trip Down Memory Lane

Shawn was up in the attic today looking for some of his old sheet music and awards. He found a treasure trove of memorabilia. He found my first scrapbook that I made. I have to redo it because I now know the evils of magnetic style albums. He found my senior year book and a photo album I had decided was just gone. I don't remember seeing it in almost ten years. Finding that album was bittersweet. I was painfully aware of the pictures that were in the missing book. That is probably why I knew it was missing. I found some surprises in both albums though. Here are some of my thoughts on the things I found.
From the Lakeside Book:
1. Three of the friends in that book have since passed away.
2. Some of the friends in the book I have sadly lost touch with.
3. One of them was my partner in Helen's wedding. (Dan you had a heck of a lot more hair then)
4. One of the boys from the "Sears" pose is the husband of my sister and the father of my wonderful nephew.
5. Little did I know when these pictures were taken what an integral part of my entire family's lives some of these people would become.
6. I have pictures of some future clergy doing some silly things. Some much more innocent then others. Dear Eliza, dear Eliza.

From the Senior Scrapbook:
1. I saw a lot of movies. Thank you Regal for building one of your theaters less than 5 minutes from my parents house.
2. I miss KJ so much it hurts.
3. I did a horrible job at keeping in touch with people. I need to add that to my list of resolutions.
4. Why did I think a body suit was an attractive article of clothing? They should be renamed wedgie giving boob squishing tops.
4. I must have really, really, really loved my rust colored palazzo pants.

Did you know...

That Jesus is the Mother Superior from "Sound of Music"? Here is a small glimpse at the rest of the conversation:
Aubrey (looking at the TV): Oh, so that is Jesus.
Me: WHAT?
Aubrey: Well, she was talking about God.
Me: Oh. That is because she is a nun.
Aubrey: What is a nun?
Me: A nun is someone who loves God so much that... Maybe we should call Nanny tomorrow and ask her. (What good is it to have a minister in training in your family if you can't take advantage?)

It is official...

Summer is near. I got my first sunburn today. It comes with complete with the "Idiot Award". I forgot to put on sunscreen because it wasn't hot outside. I have tons of fun pictures from today. Aubs and Alex had a lot of fun.

Flashback Friday?

I know this is not a real flashback picture.
I know that there are some of you laughing at how young I am
I know that there are some of you thinking "Wow, she's getting old".
I know that someone is probably wondering why I still have my senior t-shirt.
I know I saved them because I have every intention of turning them into a memory quilt.

However, I now have a stopping block. My daughter is completely and totally in love with my "Puppy Dog Shirt". I don't know why I bother buying her pajamas. She is really much happier wearing a mommy/daddy shirt. Have a great weekend all. Our schedule is jam packed with fun. We are going to have a Disney weekend. I am not sure how a holiday trip will go but I am going to try it out.

My First "Green Dinosaur" Moment

I used to read the "Chicken Soup" book all the time. A few stories have stuck in my mind, one of these talks about a man who would wear a green dinosaur pin on his lapel. One of his children had asked him to wear it, so he did. Today Aubrey handed me sticker she had colored and asked that I wear on my work shirt today, so I did. It made me very happy when Miss K asked me what I was wearing and I could proudly tell her that "My Punkin made it for me." Thanks Aubs for putting a bright spot in my day.

Back in My Good Graces...

Aubrey has redeemed herself for earlier comments this week. This morning she came in and woke me by kissing my elbow. (My only body part not under a blanket.) She is definitely my sweet girl.

Yesterday we went to Carly's new home. It was such a nice afternoon. Carly, thank you for thinking of us as family. Watching you and Aubrey cook together while telling her what your mother taught you took my breath away. For those of you who don't know Carly was the first to figure out Shawn and I were dating. She has been apart of "Us" since before we there was an us. I remember when she figured it out and said to me "I better be in the wedding!" and she was.

I am so blessed to have all of my "Florida Family" Carly & Robb, The Cowans, and the Sweeney-Bells. You are all the people who have made Florida my home.

Blogger is a strange, strange place.

Mellie was talking about the fun she had hitting the next blog button. I decided tonight while having some quiet time I thought I would try it out. OH MY GOODNESS. There are some very, very odd and varied types of blogs. I found some in Russian, Spanish, German, and possibly Norwegian. I was proud of myself for being able to read the one in French without too much thought. However the language that amazed me was the one written entirely in IM speak. OMG. It gave me quite the headache. There were crafty blogs, tattoo blogs, political blogs, motivational blogs, and blogs that belong to people with entirely too much time on their hands. It was an interesting adventure to say the least. I may try this game again some time, TTFN.

Inappropriate comments.

Today we had a lesson about inappropriate comments. This morning while getting ready for work Aubrey looks at me and said "Wow Mommy, you are getting bigger, bigger, bigger". Hmmm. I was quickly on the verge of tears. Shawn explained to me that it is a game they play after she weighs herself each morning. I swear I had nothing to do with this, she doesn't know what it actually measures. She climbs on each morning to make sure she is getting bigger. I then spent a few minutes explaining to her that you can say things like that to a kid but when you say them to an adult it can hurt their feelings.
I would also like to state for the record I have not gained any weight recently. I was however so paranoid that I came home and worked out with Bob and Kim.

Welcome Baby Boy C.

Welcome to the world Andrew.
Andrew Charles entered the world at 12:33 PM today. He is 7 lbs. 9 oz. and 20 inches long. Everyone is healthy. Congratulations to Jenny, Joshua and Big Sister Michaela.

Best Friends Adventure

Yesterday I took the Aubs and Michaela to the Animal Kingdom. We had a great day. Anytime Michaela was worried about something being too scary Aubs would offer to protect her with "My Karate Moves". HMM. We went on the Safari ride it must have been the perfect temperature because all of the animals were out. If it is too hot the animals all hide in the shade. The girls even saw the baby elephant. We saw everything the girls wanted to see so when I was ready to leave so were they.
Thanks Girls for a great day!

Bubbles!!

Why do kids love bubbles? I love that something so simple can provide so much pure joy.

Best Friends

Aubrey is dictating this post to me.

I love Michaela. She is my best friend. She is my best friend because I love her. I like her because she is my best friend. She is my family.

As you can see she is a girl of many words.

Busy Morning

We have had quite a busy morning. Michaela spent the night last night and both girls have been excellent today. They quietly played and allowed me to clean my kitchen and catch up on the laundry back-log. Today we have a barbecue to go to as well as a birthday party.
Yesterday we went to the park and took some pictures of the girls. That is where the monkey bar pictures are from. I will probably post most of the pictures we took over time but today I will leave you with my favorite.

Check These Girls Out!

Things We Have Done This Week

1. Added to one of my collections. I will post a picture later but it isn't quite ready for photos.

2. Went out to dinner with Carly and Robb. We don't get to see them enough and it was a great night.

3. Experienced American Idol Outrage. Why, why, why is Sanjaya still there?

4. Got another fund raiser for Ballet Class. Speaking of which would anyone like to buy a candle?

5. Bought the ingredients for Irish Soda Bread, only to come home to find no internet access. Not usually a problem but the recipe was online and like the genius I am I had forgotten to write it down.

6. Ordered a Mac compatible printer/scanner, this will ensure that #5 doesn't happen again.

7. Bought a birthday gift for Baby Elizabeth. She is almost two now but the girls will not stop calling her that.

8. Almost died of embarrassment in the restaurant tonight when Aubs loudly proclaimed "I can count is Puerto Rican!".

9. Realized our weekend is totally overbooked. Here is hoping we can make it to see everyone and everything on the schedule. I am quite sure this will not go according to plan and I will have plenty to post about at a later time.

10. Remembered to wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day!

11. Found out I may get spring time visits from family anyway this year.

12. Prepared myself for what I like to call "Jenny is in Labor Fireman Drill" meaning I am probably the closest to get Michaela if she should go into labor in the middle of the night.

Comedy of errors

Tonight I went to hang out with Jenny. For those of you who don't know she is one of my best friends who happens to be days away from having her second baby. Since Helen told me that pedicures seem to help along the start of labor, I offered to take Jenny out for one. By the time we finished making a cucumber alien (a whole different story) and made it to the pedicure place we realized that they were closing in ten minutes. By realize I mean stared down by the employees inside. Since we had promised Michaela pretty nails we went off to Target. Now anyone who knows me that such a simple thing cannot be done without some type of small disaster. We found Michaela's perfect color and went over to the clearance end cap to see if they had any perfect colors for me. While standing at said end cap two things happened that made Jenny laugh so hard I thought we might not need the pedicure. I dropped a bottle of lotion on the floor, that wouldn't have been so bad had I not dropped it on the pump top. The nozzle happened to be pointed at my leg. Right then someone tried to go behind me Michaela held up both arms and said "Not without the magic words!" the poor woman actually turned around. That is what started Jenny. Now I missed this because I was looking at my pant leg noticing that when I had dropped the lotion the nozzle had expelled a lotion bomb. My leg was coated in light green lotion. It is a small miracle I have made it almost to my thirtieth birthday without breaking myself.

What I want to be when I grow up.

While driving down the road on Saturday Aubrey informed me what she would like to be when she grows up. Here they are in no particular order:
-Firegirl sometimes called Firemangirl
-Drummer like my daddy
-Motorcycle ridingboygirl or Motorcycle ridinggirl
-Cookie Scout Girl. Yup she is definitely my kid.

While creating this post I asked if there was anything else and this is what I got:
-Cooker (chef)
-Teacher like Owen's Dad and Mom
-Work with daddy at his pool store.
-Soccer player
-Ballerina
-Fixer like "Handy Manny"
-Be a Mommy because you are a Mommy and I want to be just like you. (I swear I had nothing to do with this)

Mom, I'm sorry.

My mother once told me that kids pay you back for everything you did to your parents. If that is indeed true does anyone know how many apologies to rectify this situation? Here is what has happened this weekend:
- Yesterday running and hiding in the racks at Old Navy. Shawn looks at me and says "Sorry, this one is my fault.", he is pretty convinced that his mom is watching from up above laughing her ass off.
- Today she was running, running, running, and yelling, there may in fact be a track worn in my hallway. I asked "Why are you acting so crazy?" her response was "Because my brain is telling my body to.".
- A few hours later I asked her to clean up in her room. I heard her talking to someone so I went to investigate. I asked what she was doing and got the following explaination, complete with hands on hips and to forehead for dramatic emphasis: "Well, I was talking to my pretend daughter, and she just won't listen. (I added that she should tell her pretend daughter to take a nap while she cleaned) I told her to take a nap and she just won't do it. Sometimes she gives me a headache." At that point I had to walk away.
So to my mother I am sorry. To Shawn's mom I am also sorry.

What a day.

Here is a rundown of our busy busy day.
- Today was "Encourage Crazy Mom Behavior Day" at ballet class. Really it is just the day when they let you in to take pictures.
- After ballet we went to Target and did some power shopping. Aubrey needed new sandals her toes and heels were hanging off of her current pair since she last wore them. We also gained some inspiration for new wall colors.
- We watched Michaela get a hair cut. Aubrey made sure the lady didn't cut her hair by stating "I want to grow my hair down to my butt.".
- We went to Chipotle for lunch. I had a salad with a dressing that should have been named "Sinus Clearing Vinaigrette" I am not sure what was in there but I could finally breathe through my nose when I was done. I don't usually eat spicy foods so what someone else may find tame, my mouth will be on fire.
- We went to Old Navy I got some St. Patty's day socks. Yay, I love socks.
- We went to Lowe's. I have decided it is time to let Aubs have a little girl's pink princess room. I really love her Stars and Moons but it is time to let her grow up a bit. We however did not buy any paint because today seemed to be the day that Winter turned to Summer and everyone's cure for cabin fever was going to Lowe's. The line at the paint counter was insane so we just bought the tools and figured we would get her room ready for painting this weekend.
- We went grocery shopping. As I have mentioned Summer has returned to Florida so it is time to use the grill as often as possible. It also starts to get too warm for other methods of cooking.

I will leave you with pictures from ballet class. I have played with one of them in iPhoto. The other is Michaela and Aubrey hamming it up.

Taken down a peg

I was trying to help Aubs get ready for bed this evening. I was trying to save some steps and put her night shirt over her head before she had taken off her skirt. She said "That is not how you do it!". I apologized and she said "Your still a good Mommy it is just sometimes you do things the wrong way.". It is a good thing that child is cute! This picture is about a year old but I think it captures The Girl's attitude perfect for this post.

Update: Sorry I somehow forgot to add the picture. I guess Aubs is right!

Two posts in a day, No way!

Update to earlier posting: Do not ever, ever give a nice clean just bathed child a bowl of chicken soup. If you do not listen to the first part at least pull back that clean child's hair.

Now on to the second post of the day:
If there was an AIA (American Idol Anonymous) Aubrey might just have to be the first member. "Hi, my name is Aubrey and I am an Idoholic. I severely injured my thigh and destroyed my parent's living room while rocking out to Gina singing Evanescence." My cute sweet little girl heard the song start and looked at me with a glint in her eye. She then proceeded to slap herself on the thigh. When asked why she thought this was a good idea she responded "Because this song is AWESOME!". She then rocked out around the living room until the song was over. She is now cleaning up the carnage. Gina may not have been the best performance of the night but she is sure Aubs' hero of the day.

Whoever said laughter is the best medicine...

...Had obviously not seen the magic of a Pink Bubble Bath. Please do not fear the unnatural color of the water is due to Curious George Tub Tints. Aubrey is still a bit stuffy but two days of rest have definitely put her back on the way to being my happy little Aubrey Beth. Thank you to Michaela who offered to come and take care of her for me.

Cranky Sick Girl

I think I figured out why Aubs was so sad on Saturday. She was coming down with a cold. She started sneezing a bit yesterday morning but insisted on going to Miss Sherry's. By the time she got home the poor girl sounded like Edith Ann. I discovered this morning why getting well is not her priority, there is a new swingset. Fun is always better than rest. Today we kept her home, that was one heck of an argument. I will leave you with a classic Aubreyism. The other day she asked me "Since you found you iPod ears could I please give mine back to me?". For those of you who are wondering iPod ears are headphones. If they are used on the DVD player they are TV ears.

Today's adventure

Aubrey had a very sad day yesterday. She was missing all of her family that is not close. I was determined to get her out of her funk and offered to do anything she would like. She asked that we please go to Disney World. She also wanted to scrapbook when we got home. (Today's original plan and I swear she needs no prompting on this) We got home a little too late for her to make a page but I am sure her little windburned cheeks understand. The first picture from today is a Missy and Shawn tradition. On our very first real date at Epcot Shawn tried on silly hats so I could take a picture. We have pictures from almost every trip now of one or more family members in silly hats. So many in fact they may get their own scrapbook. The other is what happens when you let a four year old eat chocolate mousse out of a plastic container.

Baby Fingers

This is the picture of Kiera's hand I meant to post the other day. Sorry for the blurry ones I posted earlier.
Also after feeling inspired by the Scrapbook Show I started a new blog for my photos. I read an article that all pictures do not need to be perfect. So now I have more confidence in my non-professional pics. I put the link in the side bar, it is called "Through My Eyes".

Scrapbook Expo! YAY!

Today was the Orlando Scrapbook Expo. Today is the day my inner crafter comes to life. I wander the aisles thinking of new ideas for all of my projects. I bought some new stuff today including a subscription to Simple Scrapbooks. It looked like a lot of fun and now I will get it delivered to my home for the next two years. I even found paper made from boiled down elephant poo. A little strange but only a dollar so I bought some. This years show was not as big as years past. My first two shows stocked my scrapbooking shelves so this year we just looked for tools and really cool accessories. Joshua was nice enough to keep Aubrey and Michaela so Jenny and I had mommy time. It was very nice and we walked as much as possible to try to get Andrew to decide it was time to come out. At this point he does not seem to have his exit strategy planned, so Jenny is still waiting.

American Idol

We just finished watching the show. Did anyone else think that Kelly had some work done on the "girls"?

Grandpas

Yesterday marked 30 years since my Grandpa A. passed away. My mom told each of us what she sees in each of us that is a part of him. I was also thinking about my Great Grandpa McD. It seems that since Shawn's Poppy passed my own grandfathers have not been far from my thoughts. I thought I would take a minute to write down some great things I remember.

I never met my Grandpa A. but I know that he was a policeman with five girls. I am told that by the time I was born he didn't care if I was going to be a girl or a boy he was still going to teach me to go hunting. Knowing that he loved me that way before I was even born has been a great comfort to me my entire life.

My Great Grandpa McD lived on the west coast for most of my life. It was always such and adventure when he came to town. We almost always ate at the Brown Derby in Hudson. If I remember correctly it was because Wilma loved the crab legs there. It wasn't until after she died that I remember eating anywhere else with him. I have asked my mom to post a picture of the two of us from when I was small on the McD family blog. It is a picture of the way I always think of him. I swear to you that man never aged.

My Grandpa Morgan was the dad from a Christmas Story. He was not the actor of course but from what I have been told that is a pretty accurate picture of him. I remember him being lots of fun. He lived in a retirement community that had a trolley you could ride. He would take us on the trolley and for ice cream. I think I can still hear him talking to my brother during the great pudding incident.

I am also lucky enough to have a Grandpa Tom. He and my grandmother helped foster and encourage my love of music. I used to love staying at their home. I would wake up to the sounds of him playing Fur Elise on his baby grand in the living room.

All of these men have shaped who I am. I am just sorry that three of them have not met Aubrey and Shawn.

Aubrey and Shawn Meet Kiera

And some little hands and feet pictures for Bill.

Announcement

Two Starbucks runs for everyone waiting for Keira: $30.00
Two meals at the Hospital: $12.00
Being there for the following moments...

Priceless

Welcome Kiera Alexis. She arrived at 6:12 PM today February 24, 2005. She weighed in at 5 lbs. 11 oz. and 18 1/4 inches long. She is absolutely beautiful.

Still Waiting But Closer

Kris is pushing now. With any luck Kiera will be here very very soon.

Still Waiting

We are still waiting on Kiera. The epidural is being administered now. Love and happy thoughts are all appreciated. Thanks.

Live Blogging from Winnie Palmer

No baby yet. They are thinking probably sometime tomorrow.

Please Pray For A Safe Arrival.

My sister-in-law Kristen is at the hospital now having her labor induced. Kiera is not due for another month but there were some concerns about low fluid. Please keep both of them in you prayers. I will keep everyone posted and hopefully sometime tomorrow will have some pictures for you. Thanks everyone.

Girl Scouts

I love the Girl Scouts. I really love their cookies. I cannot pass by a group of Girl Scouts selling cookies in front of a store without buying a box. I know I do not need the cookies, but there is something inside of my saying "Buy the cookies.". It sounds kind of like the line from Heroes. I think buying a ridiculous amount of cookies comes from not exactly happy memories of selling cookies in the Kmart entrance on Kent Road. Even though the girls have it much easier down here, they don't get a blast of sub-zero temperatures every time the door opens, I still feel for them. I remember hearing over and over again that "I am on a diet". So what!!!! Send a cute little Scout to camp. Shawn said that he thinks I may have financed one Scout's trip to camp all by myself. LONG LIVE CAMP LEDGEWOOD!
Speaking of the Girl Scouts, the little girl who lives across the street from us was collecting stuffed animals to donate to the Fire Department. Aubrey made some very big girl choices and chose some of her animals to donate for the firemen to give to scared little girls and boys. I am very proud of her very first charitable act.

Random Thought

Does anyone else wonder if MSN.com's purpose in being is to see how many people they can get fired? I have recently noticed that during the day in the top box and the first set of headlines that there are a number of links to career items. These can be headlines like "Make a Better Resume" and "Ten Hints You Have a Good/Bad Boss" After five PM they seem to all disappear. Most of these articles are posted on a part of Career Builder. So, if your office uses spyware it looks like you are looking for a new job everytime you want to read the ten steps you can take to get a promotion.

Who knew? Part Two

- That PlayDoh is completely water soluble. I found this out when clearing Aubrey's table last night. There was a curious blue lump in her juice. When I went to dump it down the drain it poured out in liquid form. Update to yesterday's PlayDoh post: Make that 4 hours, she went back to it after lunch.

- That while most Archer Farms (SuperTarget) brand foods are great, their General Tso's tasted like watery spiced ketchup. Luckily I had some of their Honey Oatmeal bread and made a delicious sandwich.

- For those of you up North SuperTarget is Target with a grocery side.

- That I would have to scrape ice off of my car for the second morning in three days. I know wa wa wa but I have no scraper that conveniently keeps your hands away from the flying ice crystals that feel like little needles to a Florida Girl's hands.

- That the Orlando Ballet has a family series. We are going to see Snow White in two weeks.

- That there was even an Orlando Ballet. We are kind of lacking in these types of cultural experiences. In fact the Orlando Ballet is shared with Tampa. The theater that they preform in is the only fine arts theater in the area, and from what I understand leaves much to be desired. Oh, how I miss Severance Hall and the orchestra with my grandma. The downtown theaters, two ballet companies, and the Art museum can be added to that list.

Who knew?

-That PlayDoh is a miracle worker. Aubrey sat at her princess table and played quietly for 1 1/2 hours. I don't know that I have ever seen a four year old sit still that long.

-That Aubrey is slowly but surely turning into my father. She was sitting in my lap today and falling asleep. I said "Are you already sleeping?". She replied "No, I am just resting my head.".

-That widgets are so much fun. I learned all about them yesterday and now have sudoku and bubbles installed in the dashboard.

-That an induction cook top is one of the coolest kitchen appliances I have ever used. Jenny has one in her new kitchen. I cooked a pot of chili in half the time last night. (Yes, it was the same sized batch as normal.)

-That Village Inn and Baker's Square serve the same pie. I remember going to Baker's Square by Chapel Hill with my family. Last night we shared this tradition with Aubs. A Village Inn opened up by Jenny's.

Does this count...

...as breaking my resolution? I had to use a credit card today. It was not in the way you are probably thinking. I had to use it to scrape the ice off of my car windows.

Aubrey said the funniest thing today to Joshua. Michaela was running around acting a bit crazy. Aubrey looked at Joshua and said "What is wrong with your child?"

Florida is not supposed to freeze.

We are supposed to have a hard freeze tonight. This is not the kind of weather I moved here for. My only comfort in the freeze is that if the winter is cold enough the Gulf won't be as warm and produce the mega storms. Since moving to Florida I have lost the ability to deal with any type of cold weather.
So tonight in anticipation of the cold weekend I will plan my menu of cold weather foods. These are the meals that seem to heat up the whole house while they cook. Sunday is Shepherd's pie. Saturday still needs to be planned.
Everyone even the Floridians stay warm.

Have you ever noticed...

That when you leave your cell phone at home is the day you see the funniest things while driving to work?
Here is the other problem, I had such a rough day at work that I can't for the life of me remember what was so funny that it made me laugh out loud.
I am posting a new picture of Aubs making meatballs. It has absolutely nothing to do with the post but this is my blog and I will do what I want.

Stay Safe and Happy Valentine's Day

To all my friends and family up north, stay safe and warm. Please send pictures or Aubrey she loves to see pictures of the snow. She is not going to know what to think when I tell her the snow is almost as tall as her.

Happy Valentine's Day to all.

Back to Aubrey

I am going to post about my daughter today, I have been selfish and posting about myself. Here is a sampling of the random things that have come out of her mouth lately:
1. I would like to try bumbling after ballet. (tumbling)
2. M: What would you like to be when you grow up?
A: A firemangirl, a drummer at Epcot like daddy. (Always accompanied by the requisite arm flailing)
3. At the fire station playing the safety game:
Fire Safety Officer (FSO): Who do you call in an emergency?
Aubs: The Policeman that lives next door
FSO: Ok, what number do you call?
Aubs: The fireman (also a neighbor)
FSO: But, what number do you call.
Aubs: OH. Uncle Bob.
Me: Uncle Bob is a paramedic.
FSO: OK. You get a prize. I was looking for 911 but you do know who to call.
4. Aubrey is becoming quite the song writer. She wrote Nanny one called Because. The chorus went something like this"Because I love you and Because you love me, Because, Because, Because"
5. We are writing our very first Valentines. She is making her list of who to give
them to. I think she is naming every child she ever met. I am going to need a lot more boxes.
6. Aubrey got her first cofuter this weekend. (Computer)
7. She loves to play the palano. (Piano)
8. Aubrey told Nanny we are thinking about having a baby. It will only be a girl
because she does not want a boy.
9. My daughter has mad midway game skills. In a three day span she dunked a pirate,got the rope on the hook, and threw the ball in the cup on the first try. Did I
mention that the bigger kids before her had to hit the target with their hands to
dunk the pirate. FYI I have never hit a target on a dunk tank.

Getting along quite nicely

I have spent the last 24 hours (minus sleep time) learning my way around a new computer. My experience with Macs was playing on Aunt Kim's, Mount's Mac Lab, and playing with Jenny's. Shawn decided with the launch of Vista that we were going to need new computers because our laptops were not compatible with Vista and in order to make them so would have been quite a process. When this problem was first made aware to me I mentioned how much I love Jenny's iBook. This started what I like to call "Shawn's OCD search". I am not using that to make fun of him that is how he refers to it as well. It was then determined that I may actually be on to something with the iBook idea. From what I gather (please remember I am not the researcher) Vista is Microsoft's somewhat feeble attempt at matching the Mac OS. We decided why not go with the original. It was so much fun to go into the Apple store with purpose instead of just to drool. Unlike many PC users I have never been opposed to moving over to Mac. I do however believe strongly that one should never look a gift horse in the mouth. Most of my computers have been lovingly passed on to my from my parents. My Dell laptop was a gift from my loving husband so that I could have my very first computer of my own. Yesterday I got to go and pick out my new laptop. It is white and shiny and has a light up apple on the front. My iPod music is safe and I can still add music with no problem. I will leave you with some photos of Aubs and Michaela discovering what they love about the MacBook. The extra body with no face is another little friend of theirs Baby Elizabeth.

I got a new toy

Can any one guess what it is?

In the News

I guess this is just the Central Florida's week to make national headlines. Today it is the arrested astronaut. I saw it on the news last night but didn't realize what a big story it would become. It was on MSN every time I pulled up the homepage. We were speculating whether or not it would be such a big story if the major national outlets weren't already here for the storms and Super Bowl. Driving home from work today there were three helicopters hovering over 33rd Street. You could also tell which news channels had a 5:00 broadcast because their trucks had the antennas up. I lost count at 25 for other news vehicles parked in front of the Orlando Jail. What an interesting week it has been.

We are all Ok.

For those of you who heard about the Central Florida Tornadoes, I just wanted to let you know we are fine. They were not too far from my second Florida apartment and about 50 miles from where I am now. Apparently we had a few cells over our home as well but fortunately they did not come to anything more that rain and severe thunder storms. It did however take me 2 hours to get to work on Friday. (Normally anywhere from 45 mins to 1 hr 15 mins) My family is all safe. I have recently discovered that I have some cousins living up past Ocala.

I am sorry to not have posted sooner but I was diligently knitting so that Kiera's blanket would be ready in time for her shower today. Now on to a Nanny McPhee sweater.

Update

As we end the first month of 2007 I just wanted to do a resolution update.
Although slow I am updating the blog. That is one still going strong after 31 days.
I have used cash for every purchase. That is my biggest accomplishment by far.
Two of the others won't happen until the summer but we are well on our way to them as well. Aubrey is excited to start school. I am excited for my birthday.
My vision of walks every night after dinner has not really gone quite to plan but we have spent tons of quality family time. Most of it while walking theme parks so I guess that is more active. We also went rollerskating. Shawn found his roller blades and Aubs has some new skates as well. So now all we have to do is wait for it to not be in the 30's after dinner and we can try to start that one a bit late.

Sorry

I haven't posted in over a week. I had been doing much better lately. We got back from Ohio on Monday. We had a great weekend and were able to see all but one family member. We celebrated Morgan family Christmas on Friday night, Aubrey's birthday at Build a Bear on Saturday, Sunday we ran the family circuit, and on Monday spent some time with Gwenn and had lunch at Swenson's on the way to the airport. It was a busy but fun weekend. Aubrey got to make a snow angel and go sledding in the yard. I will post some of the pictures from the weekend. I won't post any of the birthday party because I don't know if everyone minds their kids online. We also ate at Quaker Steak and Lube. If anyone does not know what this is I'm very sorry. I had a compact bucket all to myself. I love that place. Since returning home we have unpacked all the clothes and started the laundry. We also went to the Princess and Pirate party. I will post those pictures later. If anyone is in the greater Orlando area on any of the nights this is happening I highly recommend it for all. I will try to get better at posting in the next week but it is another busy busy Barrieau week. Shawn's convention is in town and we have events a few of the nights. Tuesday they have bought out SeaWorld for a private party and showing of Believe. These events are always tons of fun and make us feel very special.

Off to Winter!!!

We are off to see some snow. Have a great weekend. I am not sure if I will have time to post.

ARRRRGH!!!

The night before a trip is the worst for me. I am a procrastinator. Instead of slowly getting ready over the course of a week I cram it into the night before. I power cleaned and packed. I then had to shower because of my over zealous cleaning. When I make a cake I save the frosting for Shawn. He likes to eat the left overs. Knowing that it would not be good when we returned I set out to empty the decorator bags. Since it is me I had trouble getting one of the couplers off of the bag. Next thing I knew I had frosting on my shirt, in my hair, eye, and on my chest. Do you ever feel like you are living in a sitcom? Here is a pic of the cake. FYI black icing is a pain in the butt to clean off of white counter tops.

Dear Aubrey,

Today you turn four. I can't believe how fast our first years together have gone. In the past year you have had many firsts. Your first ballet class, first time bowling, and roller skating. You learned to write your name. You marched in your very first parade.

I am in awe of you every day. You have the most incredible faith of any child I have ever seen. You minister to anyone who will listen to you tell them how great God is and how much you love him. At Christmas this year you sang lullabies to any baby Jesus you saw.

We had a great year. You said good-bye to your Poppy this year. You tell us all the time how much you will miss him but that you know he is OK because he is home with God and Jesus. You are such a wise soul for being only four.

Four is going to be a great year. You will have your first day of school. We will welcome a new cousin. My little ballerina will be in her very first recital. I love you so much and can't wait to see what this next year holds for you. I look forward to learning from you, seeing the world through your eyes.

Love always my darling,

Mommy

Random Question

This question came to me while driving in the car with Shawn.

Does wearing a fanny pack negate the coolness of riding on a motorcycle?

Last night...

Was amazing. We got to see parts of the new parade. It is going to be awesome when it is ready. Last night was the first time the pirates had been on their ship. We were fortunate to stand right in front of one of the designers. He helped to fill in some of the blanks for us. All I have to say is if you are going to be in the greater Orlando area during January to March try to got to the Pirates and Princess Party. If last night is going to be an indication it will be and excellent time. We were not allowed to take pictures once the parade started. Disney wants to be the first to show those off. We did get a few pictures before hand. They asked us to at least have the kids dressed in Pirate or Princess stuff. I think they may have also requested the employees that went to wear Disney gear. Shawn and I didn't know this but dressed in our pirate/princess and pirate gear.

For the Ohio State Fans

Yes that is a Gators front page. Notice where it is? That is the dog's litter pan. Sorry about the red eye. I didn't get a chance to fix it.

Once in a Lifetime

Tonight we have a once in a lifetime opportunity. We are going to Magic Kingdom to see the premier of the new Pirates and Princesses parade. They are only letting in 50 people. As if that weren't great enough they are filming for potential media and upcoming ads. Aubrey is so excited at the possibility at being on TV I think she may jump out of her skin. I will try to take pictures but I don't know if we are allowed. Aubrey is dressed like Belle. She has the gloves, crown and dress.

4

Aubrey's birthday is one week away. The number four looms in front of me. I don't understand why it seems so hard to believe that she will be four. Why is this number so scary? She will finally be the age everyone thinks she is when they see her. (My kid is Huge) Four, that is a little girl age not a baby age. Four is a pre-schooler! I just don't think I am ready for this phase of her life. At least I won't have to put her on the bus. I am quite sure that would push me over the edge. Our district here is the exact opposite of the one I grew up in. I always took the bus. Aubs probably won't have to take a bus to and from school until she is in high school. Well I guess I better get over this funk because in exactly one week my girl will be four.

Resolution Update

I have done a pretty good job of sticking to the resolutions. The Vegas trip has moved out of a dream and into the planning stages. I have priced packages vs. do it yourself trips. We have co-conspirators and now have some friends planning to join us. I have consulted with a Travel Agent. (Through her sister but consulted none-the-less.) I have requested the days off of work. Turning thirty is going to be a blast!!!

I have not swiped the card!!!

I have completed another scarf.

I have learned to crochet. Not on the list but I am still pretty proud of myself.

By writing this I have done #5.

#1 is falling a bit to the wayside but we have been quite busy. We undecorated the house for the holidays and Shawn installed one of our late year purchases. #4 will have to wait until August. I am planning the 4th birthday festivities. If any of my readers are in Florida this weekend or Ohio next weekend let me know and I will get you details. We would love to see you.

I know it is only 9 days in but I think this is 7 more days than I have ever made it with resolutions in the past.