Nothing Much

There hasn't been too much going on around here. I thought I would post a few pictures that I have taken recently.

My Daddy

Dear Daddy,
I am so glad you are mine. I love you more than you could ever know. I love the fact that you drank out of the same coffee mug for year just because it was from your first Father's Day gift. I love the fact that I was your first Father's Day gift, sorry for scaring you in those first few days.
You have raised us to be faith filled, fun loving, most excellent parents. I know that the things I do with Aubs and the person she is becoming are directly related to the lessons from you and Mom.
This past year has been quite an adventure. We have made it this far and I am sure we will be stronger on the other side. You gave us quite a scare this year, I guess we are even now. I am glad that you are doing so well and hope and pray you continue that way for a very, very long time. I am sorry for the other rough stuff we have faced and know that if I had the power to stop it all I would, because I would do anything for you.
You are the most amazing grandfather to Aubs. She just absolutely adores her Papa. Thank you for loving us all unconditionally.

I love you Daddy.

Your Nunky

30 Project Year 1

Today marks the close of the first year of the 30 Project. I thought I would list the items I have crossed off and the ones that are in progress.

Completed Items
#11 To take tap dancing lessons. I have taken one year of lessons and will be going back for more next year. I have also been inspired to try lyrical. September 07 to May 08.

#21 To see my mother preach at her own church. October 07


In Progress, some of these by nature are continuous goals.

# 4 To explore cultures through food. I have tried both Indian and West Indian food this year.

#5 To read one classic per year. June 08. I came in just under the wire on this one but I finished Jane Eyre last night.

#6 To explore the places where history happened. We went to the Alamo. January 08.

#9 To be less wasteful. I have switched over to reusable bags, If only I could find a filter that actually worked on our water I would be able to give up the bottled water.

#13 To be there for family events. I made it to one wedding, One health crisis, Two Military Graduations.

#14 To raise a happy well adjusted child. Aubs has had an amazing year. She is reading and writing and excited for Kindergarten

#15 To pass on a love of music to Aubs. The kid can't sit still and must dance to any music she hears. She also plays the drums and constantly wants to play the piano.

#19 To remember it is okay to play. My mother's day gift was a Wii.

#26 To learn something new everyday. I am sure I have done my best on this one. While most of it is probably useless info, I have learned to sew this year.

#27 To lead a healthy lifestyle. I trained for and completed a 15K. Next up is a 10K and a half marathon.

#28 To see all 50 States. I can now cross Texas off the list.

How Did I Miss This?

Snacktime

Current Favorite Links

I thought I would share a couple of my favorite websites that I have found quite entertaining.

Ravelry This is a site that I stumbled across recently. It is an online community for knitters and crocheters. They have tons of patterns and inspiring people.

Craft Gossip This site is hilarious. Most people who know me know I have a small habit of reading the celebrity gossip sites. It is a sickness, I know. This site does not contain celebrity gossip but seems to be written by "Not Your Grandma's Crafter" types. Their sidebar contains a link to crafts I didn't even know existed. I especially like the recycled craft section.

Passive Aggressive Notes If you have ever worked in an office or lived in a dorm you will definitely appreciate this site. It is definitely a good laugh.

Hello Kitty Hell Whether you love or hate Hello Kitty this site is awesome. Anyone who has ever lived with a collector can relate to this poor man's personal hell dominated by "the evil feline". Not that anyone I know has gotten to this point but still very funny.

My First Ten on Tuesday

1. I have never done a Ten on Tuesday post but have some rather random thoughts and since it is Tuesday this seemed like the best way to do it.

2. Shawn found me a Wii Fit for my birthday and I am not allowed to touch it until Friday.

3. I loved the Sex And The City movie and didn't really give it much thought until I read a review saying that it just made the writer miss the show more. This got me thinking.

4. I found out the episodes are on twice a night so Tivo has allowed me to become reacquainted with the episodes.

5. After reading the review about it making you miss the show made me start thinking about other shows I missed which led to me rewatching Friends. We are going to watch some of our old favorites during the summer. The last five will be my very random observations after watching seasons 1 and 2.

6. How in the world did I find a husband dressing like that. I am quite sure that at the time I thought I was hot sh**, but come on. The waistbands on those pants may very well have been cross marketed as bras.

7. I do still really love a giant coffee mug.

8. I miss Ronda.

9. Knowing how the show ends some of jokes are actually funnier now. Especially the Monica/Chandler scenes.

10. Aubrey thinks the theme song is the best dancing song ever.

Oh Baby Girl.

Dearest Aubrey Girl,
Tomorrow is your last day of Pre-K. I don't know why this is such a difficult transition for me. It is just that being the mommy of a kindergartener makes you sound so grown up. You have had a great year and I couldn't be more proud. Mrs. P. has been a better teacher than I could ask for. When I told you I was going to write the letter you asked if you could read it yourself. This is a first for you, I usually read your birthday letter to you. You can read almost anything, it can cause a bit of trouble sometimes. When you get older I will tell you about the coffee shop with the donkey name bumper sticker that you nearly read. We can no longer spell secrets unless we do so very, very quickly and even then sometimes you catch what we are trying to keep from you. You can count to over one hundred the goal for VPK is twenty. I am amazed by you everyday. Today as you were painting you were so pleased with your project that you told me "I must be an Artist". You have the most amazing imagination even if the programming is not quite what you are in the mood for. I love you always my baby girl. As you so lovingly reminded me "I will still be your baby even when I am big and in Kindergarten".

Love,
Mama

Question

Is there anyone else out there as addicted to the Bravo reality shows as I am?

I have recently discovered Top Chef and Step It Up And Dance. I am already a fan of Project Runway, Work Out, and Shear Genius. I also wonder how I have made it to season three on Top Chef without watching. I love this show. I am finding these shows much more entertaining that the scripted shows that came post strike with a few exceptions.

AAAHHHHH!!!!!!

I. am. sitting. on. the. floor. section. 1.

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK. OH holy holy cow.

Conversations With My 5 Year Old

This child is just too much some days. The things that come out of that sweet little mouth of hers. By the way if anyone and I repeat ANYONE is around when Aubrey wants a blue Icee make sure she does not get said Icee. I am sure they put some sort of kid speed in them. If I should forget remind me of the day we saw Indiana Jones. She has been a riot all afternoon. She got upset when we got home and told her not to turn on the TV. Here is what came next:

Shawn: Why don't you use your imagination?

Aubrey:What?

Shawn: Use your imagination.

Aubrey: There is nothing on in there.

I don't think I can make it to six at this rate.

Self Portrait

Yesterday the girls all dressed up a bit to go to the movie. I have a scarf of my Nana's that I had been afraid to wear because I think I look silly in scarves. I found a great shirt and had wanted to dress it up a bit. I couldn't find anything at the store and remembered the scarf sitting in the closet. I decided they were perfect together and what better to wear to Sex and the City than a fabulous vintage piece. I think it turned out looking okay and decided to take a picture of myself. Hilarity ensued and I only got one semi usable shot. Hope you like it.

SATC GNO

Is that enough acronyms for you?
The countdown has begun in less than 12 hours we will be seeing Sex And The City. Yay, Yay, YAY!!! Carly, Jen and I are hitting the town!! Watch out.

I Did...

- Not throw up.
- Not hit anyone with my cane.
- Not forget the steps.
- Not fall of the stage.
- Tap Dance!

Welcome Back

There were a few of us doing our first recital in a number of years. One of those was Kris my sister. Kaitlyn just couldn't get past the fact that Kris and I refer to ourselves as sisters and usually drop the in-law part. We explained that few people are as lucky as us to get someone that just fits. It is something I am even more grateful for now. Unfortunately I seem to be living on both sides of this one. So Kris and Danny thanks for being there and being as much a sister and brother as one could ask for.

Always Time For Twirling

Nerves

As my sister mentioned on her blog this weekend both Aubs and I are in a dance recital. It has been a number of years, thirteen to be exact, since I last danced in a recital. We are eating a dinner of comfort food and will be trying to go to bed early. I will take tons of pictures tomorrow or Monday. I hope everyone has a great Memorial Day.

New Fun Game

Jenny came up with a new fun game today. Here are the rules: Go to ebay and type in New Kids On The Block.

It makes for a fun trip down memory lane. I am not responsible for the resulting stomachache from laughing or sore throat that may result from your screaming.

Mission Accomplished

As usual I set of to do a simple task. I had to alter my tap costume. Then I realized that I only had one chance with the costume and hadn't used a sewing machine since sewing class in seventh grade. I realized that I should probably try to sew something else first. I bought a one seam project and made Aubs a little sun dress. Once I figured out that I could use the machine without a problem, I started on my costume. I managed to get the elastic into the costume and no longer have the droopy drawer syndrome. By droopy I mean falling off my bum. After watching Aubrey be so proud and happy to have a dress made just for her I decided to be adventurous and try a dress from a pattern. The picture above is the final result. It took a little while longer than I thought and I realized that the Simplicity 123 patterns are not necessary a beginner easy pattern but I made it through.

Welcome to Blogland

Please join me in welcoming Helen and Co. to Blogland. The link is in the sidebar under Hassels.

Happy Late Mother's Day Or Why Am I Still Awake?

We have had a very eventful weekend. While out and about yesterday I decided that it was time to paint Aubs' room. She now lives in a Perfectly Pink Princess room. It is definitely pink. She picked out the color herself. My Mother's Day gift to myself was letting go. It is so hard to realize that she is now a little girl not so much the baby whose ideas I can help go my way. She wanted pink she got pink. I also finally let her sleep on the top bunk. That was a huge move for me, I didn't even sleep on the floor in her room just in case.

We did not go to Disney this year as is our normal tradition because the weather report called for rain. It did not rain but that is okay because I used my Disney Cookbook to make the Cheddar Cheese Soup. We had our favorite Disney meal in the comfort of our home, no lines or over 90 degree heat!

I have tons of pictures from our adventure and I promise to post them soon.

FYI

This can go under things you learn if you stay up to late. The version of RENT that they play on regular TV even after midnight is missing a lot of words.

An Invitation and An Aubs Story

What: Disney's Race For The Taste 10k (6.2 mi) and Picnic
When: October 12, 2008
Where: Epcot Center and Hollywood Studios.

Any takers? You get a collectors Pilsner glass since it is a part of the Food and Wine Festival. They also feed you at the end. If you are not up for running you can buy picnic only tickets. I will also be celebrating the fact that 10 years ago on that same day I started working at FAO Schwarz.

For the kiddos out there they are also having a kids race. I promised Aubs that the next race I do she can run the kids events. She heard me talking to Shawn about it on the phone and had a few questions for me when I was done. First was "Well what are we going to dress up as?" The poor kid thinks you have to dress up for races now since I had a costume for mine. We came up with the idea to run in Chef Hats and Aprons. I can always pin my bib to the apron and the chef hat is just plain fun.

Second was "Do they make treadmills for kids? I would like to train next to you so I should have a treadmill so I can be healthy too." Any help with this one would be greatly appreciated. Do they still make these? We had them at FAO but that was a long time ago.
Update:I should have known Target sells them.

The Thing About Today.

Is that I achieved a goal I had set when I was over 9 months pregnant with Aubs. In order to take my mind of the fact that I was nearly a week over due Shawn took me to Downtown Disney to walk around and wait for the doctor to call with my induction appointment. I saw all of these people wearing their 1/2 and marathon medals. I waddled over to Shawn and said "One day I want one of those." I decided right there that I would run/walk one of the Disney Endurance Series Races. So besides realizing that I am much stronger than I thought, and that the support of good friends means everything, I achieved a goal 5 years in the making.

Ready to line up!

Off We GO!

About five minutes after this picture I tried to get everyone to let me go back to the car. I completely freaked out and thought I shouldn't do it. Then I went a bit further and Jessica said that if I didn't finish this one she would make me run the 1/2 marathon. While now I think a 1/2 marathon is doable at that point it seemed pretty darn ridiculous.

Almost There

Shawn got up at 4 AM with me and stood near the finish line with a sign that Aubs made for me. It said GO MOM RUN.

The Girls

I couldn't have done this with out these two. Literally. They made me keep going when I wanted to stop in the first 1/2 mile.

I did it!

I Think...

...My new favorite accessory is my finisher's medal.

I must go shower and rest but I promise pictures later.

Off To The Races

Well, here I go. I will be leaving soon for the 15K. I am a bit nervous but that may be more due to the fact I am leaving my house dressed like Minnie Mouse! I will post more later.

OMG!!!!

I thought I had pulled of something amazing by getting the Disney Channel Games Concert tickets for Aubs and Kait. I thought it would be an acceptable replacement for the tickets I just couldn't get. The ones that I cried over because I wanted to do something so amazing for my child while others got them with greed as their only motive. The ones I prayed I would get. The tickets that Aubrey had wanted so very badly even though she wouldn't actually say for fear that I would be even more disappointed that I couldn't pull it off. I only wish I could be there to see her and Kait's face when they realize this.

I guess prayers no matter how silly they may seem are answered in their own time.

Aubrey the Author

The Sand Book By Aubrey Barrieau, Illustrated By Shawn Barrieau
I apologize for it being sideways. My computer won't save them right way up. It is only a two page book. If anyone needs a translation it is this "Once upon a time there was a man That man was in a book".

A Secret

What We Have Been Doing

I have been pretty bad with the postings since our rainy day trip to Epcot. She got her ballet costume, we had a beautiful sunny day at Epcot with a bonus visit with Uncle Bill, we bought our summer pool, and Aubs did some crafting.

Aubrey The Stand Up Comedienne.

Some of you may remember "Two drums in a truck". Apparently since that day she had been working on her delivery and some new knock knock jokes. Today we called Aunt Honey because Aubs had a new joke. She got on the phone with Uncle Brian and it went something like this:
Aubs: Knock knock.

I couldn't hear Brian's side of the conversation but I imagine he answered appropriately.

Aubs: Gladiator

Once again I guess he answered "Gladiator who?"

Aubs: I love you!

I started laughing of course.

C"wii"n Up

Yesterday I received an early "Mother's Day" gift. Mother's Day is in quotes because as much as I wanted the Wii for Mother's day it has quickly become a family favorite. Did you know that you can download classic Nintendo and Sega games? How awesome is that? I have already added Metroid, Toejam and Earl (A game that makes me think of Bob :(), and Super Mario 3.

C"wii"n Up is a game that Aubs and I invented. We played video games and ended up with a clean house. In order for this to work it needs to be a 2 player game where you take turns. When it is not your turn you must pick something up and put it where it belongs. I am not sure how long this game will work but I will enjoy it while I can.

Conversations With My Five Year Old

While driving to Jenny's today I mentioned that I had to use the restroom and hoped that the light would quickly change. Here is the conversation that followed:

Aubs: Well Mommy, You have to wait for God to change the light.

Me: Huh?

Aubs: God is the boss of Florida. He changes the lights.

Me: Isn't He the boss of the world?

Aubs: Yes, and the world. He also makes the people. He even makes our skin and our blood, and our bones.

Flower And Garden Festival 2008 Take 1

Yesterday we went to Epcot. It was supposed to be a visit to enjoy the Festival however it rained so hard we left after we ate lunch. These are a few of the pics I snapped before the rain came and didn't stop.

Creativity Abounds

We have had a very creative weekend. I have sort of grounded myself from knitting, and by grounded I mean injured myself in such a way that the splint the very nice doctor made me wear does not really allow for knitting. It also wouldn't help the sprain that I have. I have however been able to scrapbook. If you have the right tools your thumb is not as necessary as it is in knitting. As as result we have had a Scraptacular weekend. It seems Jenny and I created very smallish scrapbooking monsters a few weeks ago. We set them loose with a few 12x12 pages, hole punches, stickers, tape runners, and scrap paper. Since creativity is encouraged Jenny inquired about a Mommy and Me scrapbook class. We took the kids on Saturday and they each made their own pages. It was very fun for the girls, and trying for the mommies. It is difficult to embrace the randomness of a 5 year old scrapbooker. However we all made it through and the girls pages are perfect. Once we got home I started on a mini book, which by the way are my new favorite thing. I made two this weekend. I will try to post some pictures soon.

Set Your Tivo's

NKOTB is going to be on the Today Show on Friday Morning. OMG, I can hardly contain my excitement. I told Shawn that this is the most important thing I have recorded since I was 13 and held my tape recorder up to The New Mickey Mouse Club.

Prayers

Please keep baby Carter in your prayers. My mom said that they may have to admit him to the hospital because his biliruben levels are elevated. He has had a biliblanket for a couple of days, he looked like a glo-worm, but his levels aren't coming down. Also some prayers for my Mama she is on her way to pick up Michael. Thanks.

Startled

While this is very cool, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23818541, I was totally unprepared. Aubs and I nearly jumped out of our skin. For those of you that don't know the shuttle is moving so quickly over Central Florida that we experience dual sonic booms just prior to the landing. These booms have gotten quite a range of reactions from me. The first time I heard them I thought my Father in Law had fallen upstairs. After that I was okay and they didn't bother me for quite a while. After Columbia there was silence, that is how we knew something was wrong before we turned on the news. The first landing after Columbia brought tears to my eyes. Tonight however I nearly jumped out of my skin.

Books

I have been reading books nonstop. I am almost regretting the resumption of regular television. I just finished The Other Boleyn Girl by Phillipa Gregory. I have also discovered a real problem with liking a series of books or a certain Author that causes me to quickly run to the library, used bookstore, or www.abebooks.com to obtain the rest of the series. After I finished one of the Temperance Brennan books, the basis for Bones, I went back to the used book store and bought a second. After finishing that I purchased seven more books in the series at AbeBooks, an online used bookstore, for under $30 including shipping. Saturday I picked up another book by Phillipa Gregory. I am hoping to read all of these this summer and cut way back on evening TV time. I am hoping that Aubs soon realizes she can read books without someone else in the room.

Redeemed

Back in December I tried to buy my beautiful daughter some Hannah Montana tickets. They sold out in under 30 seconds or some other nearly impossible amount of time. I promised her I would try to do something equally as cool and would try to take her to the Disney Channel Games (DCG) tapings where she could see all of the Disney Stars. Last week on I noticed the Theme Park Rangers Blog had a notice for Annual Passholders to get first dibs on tickets to the DCG Concert. I put my name in without high hopes and said a little prayer that I could do something extraordinary for my baby. I had figured I wouldn't hear back for a while but this morning I found that I had been granted (Hey it was a Disney Wish) 4 tickets to see the Cheetah Girls, The Jonas Brothers, and a few surprise Disney Stars. YAY!!! The Jonas Brothers concert sold out much like Hannah Montana's so I feel like I accomplished something great.

Happy Easter

Happy Easter Everyone.

We have had a great day today. Aubs started the morning hunting for her basket, the Easter Bunny even hopped a basket to her from Nanny and Papa. We had a quick visit with Grandpa and then had a nice afternoon nap. We are ordering pizza for dinner, a bit untraditional but we thought it would be fun. Aubs and I went scootering while Shawn mowed the lawn. We were going to go bike riding but when I was getting mine out of the garage, Aubs managed to ride into a large mud puddle. She was covered from nose to toes with sand and fresh cut grass. We have also discovered that The Girl is in need of a new bike. She is getting a bit to tall to safely turn corners on the bike, hence the trip into the large puddle.

Welcome To The World

Carter Liam
Born 3:04 PM
7 lbs 8 oz.
19 inches

I hope to have a picture soon so all can see the most assured handsomeness of my new nephew.

Lost

I seem to have lost touch with my blog this week. Sorry for anyone looking for an update. Here is the quick run down: Aubs has a cold, I learned some new tricks in Tap class, I've read another two and a half books, worked on two more knitting projects, I am designing another, and I channeled my inner Rachael Ray. I wanted tilapia the other night and decided to try something new. I put the fish on the grill with a bit of lemon, garlic, and salt, while that was cooking I cut some grape tomatoes in half and put them in a pan with a splash of white wine and crushed red pepper and cooked them until warm. The whole process took about 10 minutes and it was delicious.

Super Good Day

Yesterday was awesome. It wasn't one specific thing just and overall exceptional day.

1. Ballet Class: This is where we start every Saturday. Aubrey was in a horrible mood last week and the teacher asked that Grumpy not return to class this week. Aubs had a much better week and when she got out of class her favorite people were there. Amanda, Gillian, and Miss Erica. Aubrey told Miss Lynne that she does not need to call Amanda Miss Amanda because she is her babysitter. They call all the teachers and assistants "Miss"

2. Target: This is a given that a trip to Target makes it a good day. We bought a baby gift and had our Starbucks. While we were in Starbucks we saw my old manager's wife and son. I hadn't seen them in 2-3 years so it was really great to catch up for a few minutes.

3. Old Navy: Aubrey had received a gift card for Christmas. She found one beautiful dress, 2 t-shirts, and a wallet all for her $25. She is a shopper in the making. I also found fabulous sandals for $9.49 and pedal pushers.

4. IKEA: I got it in my head that I only wanted the IKEA wrapping paper. It is beautiful and thick and did I mention cost effective? While there we had a lovely lunch in the cafe. We also picked up a gift for a friends birthday in June and a popsicle maker for $2.49.

5. Bad Ass Coffee Company: Kim at work has been raving about this place for a long time. I decided to give it a try yesterday on the way home. It was FABULOUS! I tried a chocolate cherry mocha. YUM. If anyone else should happen across one of these I highly recommend a stop.

6. Phone-call: While drinking Hawaiian coffee I decided to call my cousin in Hawaii. It was great to talk to Gwenn for a few minutes. They love Hawaii and we had a good laugh about our parents and sisters being snowed in.

7. Treadmill Time: I went 4 miles yesterday. I am using Hal Higdon's 15K Novice Runner training program. I finished in just under 67 minutes. This may not seem fast but when I started I was at a solid 20 minute mile. In just 3 weeks of the training program I have shaved off 3 minutes/mile. (I am also still able to move today!)

8. Family Dinner: We ordered Chinese food and had a lovely quiet dinner.

9. Reading Time: I finished my second book of the week. the curious incident of the dog in the night-time by Mark Haddon. Jennifer lent me the book. I really liked this one. It was a bit strange and hard to follow for the first few chapters. The book is written from the point of view of and autistic young man. On Wednesday I finished Why I Wore Lipstick To My Mastectomy by Geralyn Lucas I am on a bit of a True Life/Empowering book kick. I read Jenny McCarthy's Louder Than Words: A Mother's Healing Journey Through Autism a few weeks ago. These two books are incredible stories of faith, strength, and two very ballsy women. If you are feeling down at all I recommend picking up one of these two books. You will feel like you can do anything when you are done.

I even went to bed at a decent hour so that the time change didn't kick my butt.

Pickle Soup

I have the greatest daughter ever. I stayed home today because I wasn't feeling well. Aubrey promised she would make me pickle soup. This is her special creation for when one of us is sick. She makes the soup in her blue kitchen, the reason it is pickle soup is because when she first got the kitchen that was the only type of pretend food she had to cook with. I love my girl.

New Nickname

Jenny and I went to visit our friend Johanna yesterday. She has a nearly three year old who decided I needed a new name yesterday. She insisted on calling me Ducky. It was adorable. She can say Missy just fine but definitely preferred to Boogie with Ducky. One would think that Missy is a pretty easy name to say however many a small child has come up with their own version of my name. Here is a random sampling of the many treasured names given to me by some very special people*:

1. Mimmy
2. Ninny
3. Ducky
4. Aunt Mithy**

* Andrew and Kiera I cannot wait to add your versions to this list.
** Addendum: That is from Michael, although he never really wants to tell me my name when he is talking to me. Helen I did leave off Meleeha because it was not from a small child.

Spring Cleaning AKA Another Mystery Solved

Today I started with the Spring Cleaning. You may remember from last year the great Dishwasher Epiphany. This year I solved two mysteries. Today I took out our Easter/Spring decorations. Aubrey also has quite a few Bunnies since her first major holiday was Easter. While cleaning up today and pulling out the bunny collection I found no less than 8 pair of dirty socks under her bed. I realized that she is going into her room at the end of the day and taking them off. We have discussed a new rule of sock removing, it must be done within arms reach of the hamper. I'll let you know how that works out for me. The second mystery is what happens to all of my hair bands. We moved the couch to clean under and behind and I found 10 or so hair bands under there. I am not quite sure how they work their way from my head to the underside of the couch but at least I now know where to look.

New Word

Aubs has been learning all sorts of things lately. I am sure she is going to be quite musical as she can hear a song once and repeat parts of it almost immediately. This is something I must remember when playing the Rent soundtrack. It is rather inappropriate for a child to sing "Tango Maureen". Oops.

As she grows there seem to be less and less funny mispronunciations, however she pulled this one out today: Cruckage. What is a cruckage you ask, they are the things you use to walk when one of your feet are broken.

A sight to behold

I noticed a beautiful sunset on the drive home. I ran in the house and grabbed my camera and Aubs and I went outside and snapped a few pictures.

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby K!

Lunar Eclipse

These are a couple of my attempts at using my tripod and different aperture settings to capture the eclipse.

As Promised

Confirmation

Every parent wants to think that other people enjoy their child as much as they do. In the past week I have been fortunate enough that two very important non-family people in Aubrey's life have let us know that they too adore The Girl. We received her report card today, she is doing very well, and in the teacher's comment section was this "Aubrey is an absolute joy to teach!". Last week we were talking to her ballet teacher about which class she will go into next year. Her birthday is on the borderline for which class she can take. Miss Lynn said that they usually move them by grade she said that when they start first grade they will move up. When I told her Aubs was starting Kindergarten this year her face lit up and she gave Aubs a huge hug because she gets her for another year. Being a working mom is quite a struggle some days and I wonder if I am doing what I need to for Aubs. Weeks like this help immensely in knowing that she is becoming a child that not only our family adores but also the people around her.

*Her thumbs are turned out like that because Kristi, the Marine, told her that her hands needed to be in fists with the thumbs out along the seam of her pants when she stands at attention. After a quick chuckle Jesse, the Airman, helped her stand at attention with the proper form.

More Randomness

1. Yesterday was "Crazy Parent" day at the dance studio. They actually encourage us to bring in our cameras and document the moment. Surprisingly enough all of the parents in our group behaved themselves.

2. I love California Pizza Kitchen. I especially love the tostada pizza. Last night I tried to translate the recipe into single serving size. I had never tried to replicate something like that and was quite happy with the results. Aubrey even ate all of her dinner without a fight. We will definitely be making that again.

3. I burned my hand today and am typing one handed. If I take the ice off I want to scream in pain.

4. I hope to post pictures of yesterday soon but #3 has seriously slowed me down. I have a crazy to do list all of which requires two hands.

5. I am feeling totally inspired by my new Simple Scrapbooks.

6. This is a picture from last year's parent's day.

Random Cuteness

I have not been very good at posting lately so I thought I would make up for it with a cute picture of Aubs and an update on what is going on with the Barrieaus.

1. Aubrey is still completely obsessed with Marines. We found a book in the Library all about the Marine Corps. She was so excited that she wanted to call Jake immediately. It quickly became a lesson in time zones.

2. I have started my 15k training program. To make this easier we also bought a treadmill. While I live in the greater Orlando area we are in an area that is still being developed. The closest gym with treadmills is a good 20 minutes away. I really wanted to commit to this training routine and this was the best way to do so. Also Shawn will be able to use the treadmill if he wants.

3. Healthy Food Is Great. With my dad's health scare, Aubs' Healthy Food Unit in school, and my training we are really focused on eating right. I am working on perfecting no salt added recipes and cutting back on red meat. It is going much better that I thought it would. Being the smart girl that she is Aubrey will correct us if something we pick up is not healthy. However she is the heaviest salter in the house. I am definitely working on that, she is discovering she likes spicy foods making it much easier to cut back her salt intake.

4. Recital is approaching. Aubs and I have started learning our recital dances. She is of course picking it up much faster than I.

5. The house re-organization has started. The ultimate goal is to end up with a craft room in the back. I feel like that Sesame Street sketch where Ernie breaks the cookie jar. (It is on YouTube if you don't remember it) We started by taking Aubrey's old dressers and putting them in our closet. I have to organize the other 1/2 of my closet to put a third dresser in there from the room that will be a craft room. After that I only have a desk to find a home for. My goal is to rearrange everything while getting rid of very little furniture, especially if it is storage type furniture. You don't realize how much you use a basement until you don't have one. I will post pictures soon of our progress.

Our Airman

A few weekends ago we went to see Jesse graduate from Air Force basic training. It was great to see him and we are very proud of him. An unexpected bonus from the trip was that I was able to work on a few more of the 30 project goals.

#6 To see places where history happened

#13 To be there for more family events

#28 To see all 50 states

New Look

I thought it was time for a bit of a new look around here. I am preparing some redecorating for the house and I thought I should start with the blog.

She Should Have Been A Cow Girl

We went to Texas for Jesse's graduation. I could not resist the urge to buy the girl a hat. She even got to ride on a long horn steer.

Nearly 12 Years Too Late.

When I was in college a lot of the friends I made while working at SeaWorld kept talking about this great musical they had seen. One of the guys loved it so much he even went and auditioned. I then pretty much forgot about it and moved to Florida, far away from my musically inclined friends and with only one theater that can handle a Broadway sized show.
Fast forward to 2005 and Rent became a feature film. I had really wanted to see it in the theater but since Aubs has been born my movie going time is usually spent watching shows of the animated variety. I missed the theatrical run as well. When the DVD came out in the spring of 2006 I picked up a copy and didn't watch it because I didn't read the label correctly and got full screen. Not usually a problem but all of the televisions in our house are widescreen. Oops.
So now I have had this DVD for two years and it was still in the wrapper. I decided that while flying to and from Ohio I should catch up on some movie watching. I was hooked. Only then did I read the articles letting the world know that Rent was about to end a 12 year Broadway run. I have been plotting a way to get to NYC before the end. I know that just isn't practical but it doesn't hurt to dream.
I was telling my coworker about my dilemma and she suggested either flying up on a Wednesday, catching the matinee, and flying back home that night or checking out the tour schedule. As fun as I thought it would be to take a day trip to NYC the better solution presented itself when I noticed that the tour is coming to Sarasota and Clearwater. YAY. I just made it.

Moving On

It has been a rough few months but I have decided it is time to move forward and stop looking back and questioning why. It is happening and that is that. I am dealing with the loss of someone I once knew and while that person is still around I cannot dwell on who they used to be. One day they may come back but for now we are all moving forward together one man down so to speak.

I had a great day today. It is amazing how sometimes just saying something out loud can be so very helpful. It sure didn't hurt that it seems my favorite band from my tween years may be back together!!! Nothing but happy memories filled my head today. Even the ones that included the person who has caused the pain didn't bring tears. Thank you to all my family and friends who have stood by me and my family during this time. I will never adequately be able to express in words what you mean to me. We will survive all of this and be stronger.

5

Dearest AubreyBeth,
Today you are five. You have had an amazing year. You started pre-K and are loving every minute of it. You have learned to read and continued to dance. I have heard the saying "A Song In Your Heart" many times, I however did not truly understand that until this year. You are always singing, writing songs, and bursting into song at any moment. You danced for the first time on stage and didn't experience and ounce of stage fright. The mothers in your class are convinced that one day your name will be one they see in lights. We have only began to realize how very smart you are and thanks to your wonderful teacher are learning ways to encourage and nurture your academic needs. I find myself afraid that we may not be able to keep up with you at the rate you are going. After you told the boys at Miss Sherry's that you are smarter than them we had a very good talk. I let you know that we should not tell people that even if you are smarter because it may hurt their feelings. You quickly responded that you know you are smart because Mrs. Pate uses you as a helper when she teaches the things you already know. Daddy gave you a new nickname this year and I think you love to be called Munchkey. It is funny to me because your Aunt Honey has a very similar nickname.

Five is gearing up to be just as fun. You will start Kindergarten this year. We will travel to Texas together, it will be both of our first times in the Lone Star State. You, Mommy, Aunt Kris, Uncle Danny, and Kait will all share a stage this year during recital. We have tons of fun planned for this year and I can't wait to share every moment with you.

I am so proud of you and the young lady you are becoming. You are a natural leader and we can see by the way the other kids at school interact with you, that you are truly loved and respected by your peer. I can think of nothing better than that. I love you so very much.

I am sure I could write to you all day but I must go pick up your Pinkalicious cupcakes and bring them to your class.

Love Always and Forever,
missy

Conversations With My Four Year Old Final Edition

Mommy: What is going to change when you are five?

Aubs: I can do chores. (Cheering erupting in my mind). When you are five you are almost grown up.

Mommy: What kind of chores can you do?

Aubs: Washing the dishes. I really want to help washing the dishes.

Mommy: Anything else? What's special about being five?

Aubs: I might get another toy.

While walking into Target the other day:

Mommy: What would you like to bring to Texas for Jesse's graduation?

Aubs: I should not bring any camo clothes. The Air Force would not like it if I dressed like a Marine while I am there.

While in Target the other day Aubrey seemed to have some trouble standing up after sitting on the floor. Her pants may have been a bit slippery or she may have just been being a bit dramatic.

Mommy: Get up. (more sliding) Get up now. (more sliding) Aubrey you must get up right now.

Aubs: (with hand raised palm towards me) Don't worry it is nothing a Marine can't handle!! (she of course stood right up)

Here is a hint...

...if you are already having trouble trying to decide which book to read next do not under any circumstances go to a used book store. Yup, I added another to the to read list. I found a book by Kathy Reichs the author whose books the television show Bones is based on. I figured since I cannot watch the show maybe the book will fill the Forensic/Crime show void.

Three In One Day

It must be some sort of Missy record. Three posts in a day. I saw Charissa's reading list and books that she recently posted and realized that I am inspired to post my "To Read List" and also to ask for opinions of which to read next.

First these two books are in process.
1. Wicked by Gregory Maguire. I have been reading this one for a while I can only read a bit at a time before I lose interest for a few weeks. It is also a bit more graphic than I thought it would be.
2. The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger. This one is only still in process because I usually travel with it and leave it in my knitting bag and become distracted by another book in my collection.

Here is my list of unread books. As I have two plane trips coming up I figure I should have plenty of reading time.
1.Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. This book fulfills one of my 30 Project goals.
2. 4 Blondes by Candace Bushnell. I love Sex in the City and have read the book. I bought this one a few years ago and put it in the books I have read pile not realizing I hadn't finished. I thought with the Sex in The City movie coming out in May it should be moved into the reading list.
3. Love In The Time Of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. I have wanted to read this since seeing the movie Serendipity.
4. Magical Thinking by Augusten Burroughs. I have read both Running With Scissors and Dry and while I at times find it hard to believe that one person can go through all this and survive with such a sense of humor about it all, I am drawn to reading his books.
5.comeback a mother and daughters journey through hell and back By Claire and Mia Fontaine. It is one of the Target Bookmarked selections and they have yet to let me down.

Does anyone have any suggestions of where to start? Also if anyone else is interested in any of these let me know and maybe we can do a book swap.

GO JENNY GO

Jenny and her sister Jessica finished the Disney 1/2 marathon. 13.1 MILES!!!!!!

I will post some pictures soon. I just wanted the world to know how proud of them I am. I was waiting for them at the finish line. I made a sign and took my job as photographer very seriously. I tried to get a picture of all the characters (pun intended :)) that ran the race. By my best count there were a few hundred people in Mouse Ears, 50 Tinkerbells, 5 hula girls, 1 little green alien, 1 green Shrek like thing, 3 Snow Whites only two were girls, 1 Belle, 1 Cinderella, 3 male flamingos in tutus, 1 man in a beer keg hat, 7 pirates, and 1 gladiator. Gladiator is a loose interpretation he was a man in a gold luchador style mask with a cape, boot/spats, and a speedo.