Val's Mom Blog

The Darya Project

2009-11-23T12:46:00.000-08:00

This family is doing the seemingly impossible, and they only have a few more days to do it. The dad is a friend of a friend, which is how I found out about their remarkable journey. To get the main idea of the "challenge," start with Lydia's entry on Nov. 17. In less than a week, she has raised over $5,500. I dare you to read their story and not be touched and compelled to give.

http://the30dayjourneyforhope.blogspot.com/

No Excuses...Just a New Post

2009-11-12T04:02:00.000-08:00

I'm not even going to try to make an excuse for my non-existence in the blogosphere. Here's a new post:

I didn't actually watch the CMAs, but I won't let that little detail stop me from commenting. Hey, I got home from rehearsal at 8, and then--hello!--Glee was on until 9. After getting the kids to bed, then re-visiting them several times for various needs (stall tactics), I had to take care of a few grown-up duties before I could settle in. But here's what I DID see, between commercial breaks, soundbites, and the final moments:

Taylor Swift is a precious young thing, and I even like her music--when it is recorded in a studio, with LOTS of technological "help" thrown in. But, let's face it, she's pretty awful in a live performance. And Entertainer of the Year? Honey, let's just hope you can grow into that award, because you are not there yet! How 'bout you start with hiring a vocal coach? (Love ya, sweetie, but sometimes love hurts.)
Is it just me, or did Darius Rucker look rather awkward singin--and sort of dancing--in his solo performance? Darius, I get it: you're conflicted. You're a black man singing country music. But please don't allow your desire to fit into a new genre cause you to deny your inner blackness! Darius, you are a BROTHER--you have rhythm! Know who you are, and BE THAT!
Is Naomi Judd trying to bring back the mullet? I'm just sayin'...
Little Jimmie Dickens is priceless. I can watch that little guy all day--especially with Brad at his side. Love him!
Yay for Barbara Mandrell! I love seeing truly talented people be honored. And does she look amazing, or what?!? I'm privileged to attend church with her, and let me say that she's just as lovely up close. I'd do well to look that young and fit NOW, not to mention when I am her age!

That's all for now. Just had to throw my 2 cents out into the blogosphere. What can I say? I'm a natural-born critic. It's what I do...it's who I am. ;-)

"Find a Happy Place! Find a Happy Place!"

2009-09-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

That's one of my favorite lines from Finding Nemo. And it's not too hard to guess where our family's "Happy Place" is: Walt Disney World! So, when I discovered that Reagan had 10 days off in October, I began trying to think of ways to get there.

Now, keep in mind that we were just there in late May...less than 5 months from this proposed trip. But had I known that Reagan would have 10 days off in October, I would have certainly voted for waiting until then to go. After all, October is the time of free dining, cheap resort rates, and short lines!

Still, having just been, the Daddy vetoed another Disney trip immediately. No surprise really. We'd be frivolous to go, right? Instead we started planning a smaller vacation to Atlanta. And cheaper...or so we thought. But when I started pricing hotels, tickets to the aquarium, a trip to the American Girl store....well--"cha-ching!"--our smaller, cheaper trip started adding up. When I mentioned this to the Daddy, he jokingly said, "Run the numbers, give me an Excel spreadsheet, and we'll discuss it."

OK, so I didn't actually do a spreadsheet, but I did some " 'cipherin' " as Jethro used to say. And I figured out that we could actually go to Disney World CHEAPER than we could go to Atlanta for the week!!! We'd be crazy not to go, right? That's what we thought!

So...in 3 weeks, we'll be there! Can't wait. I'm going to take lots of pictures for my website (www.affordingthemouse.com), and do some research for that as well. But my primary objective, as always, is having a great time with my family in our "Happy Place." For us, at least at this point in our lives, no other destination compares.

Combining Blogs

2009-09-10T08:31:00.000-07:00

OK, so I have been terrible about blogging lately. Well, actually, that's not entirely true. I have been concentrating on my Disney blog, Affording the Mouse. But I realize that many of you really only want to see pics of my sweet girls and hear what they're up to...so...I'm going to try to do better.

In order to accomplish this, I realized that I simply cannot keep up with separate blogs for each of the girls as well as my own. So, I've combined Reagan's and Presley's with mine. Presley's Page and What Reagan's Doing will be deleted (don't worry--I've saved an archived copy!) and their adventures will be featured here going forward. And, you can actually see old posts from their blogs here as well. So, nothing lost really. Just the hassle of keeping up with multiple blogs. I'll still have my Disney blog, and that will still be my main focus, but I hope to post here at least monthly with an update. If that's not satisfactory, you'll just need to join Facebook--that's where you can really find out what we're up to!

Couponing...Again

2009-07-25T11:06:00.000-07:00

OK, so it is not my intention to turn this into one of those couponing/bargain hunting blogs (although I do love reading them), but I needed to share my latest shopping triumph with you. So...how much would you pay for the items pictured above? $50? 60? Maybe even $70? Well, retail value on these items is a whopping $78.45 (with tax added). But how much did I pay? I'll tell you later.

First, let me tell you that Harris Teeter is doing "Super Doubles" this week. What that means is that they double manufacturers coupons up to $1.98 in face value. You are limited to 20 coupons per day, but this can mean significant savings if you have coupons for $1.50 or even $1.75. (FYI, most stores will double coupons up to $.50, but HT usually doubles up to $.99 every day.)

So, with my VIC card (the equivalent to a Kroger Plus card), I saved $12.44 in basic "advertised sales." With my coupons, I saved $46.23 after doubling! (That odd number is because I actually got a few items free. Technically, HT would have owed me money, but they do not pay overage on free items. FYI, some stores, such as Target, do!)

That brings my total to a whopping $19.78! Not too shabby, considering all these items are name brands and several are higher-priced health & beauty items. That makes my savings around 70%. Oh, and I returned the next day and purchased several more items and saved approximately 65% on that shopping excursion!

Pop Star Trailed by Paparazzi!

2009-07-18T19:22:00.000-07:00

We had a little fun today prepping for Reagan's 6th b-day party. The party will have a "Pop Star Diva" theme, so we thought it would be fun to dress Reagan up as Hannah Montana and take some "paparazzi-style" photos. We hope to take a few more--maybe at Starbucks grabbing coffee, or in a car driving away. Those "on location" shots require a bit more planning. Here are a couple to entertain you now:

"Hannah" walking her dog, flashing the peace sign

Taking an important call

Summer Couponing

2009-07-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

It has been a really long time since I have posted anything here. So, what have I been up to? For one, I've been concentrating on my Disney blog (http://www.affordingthemouse.blogspot.com/) lately. Trying to post at least a couple of times weekly there has eaten up a lot of my free time (well, almost free--the time when Presley naps and Reagan watches TV). Mostly, we've been busy with summer. With both girls home, I have my hands full.

My new favorite hobby is couponing. Kind of lame hobby, I know, but it keeps me busy and it saves me money. So...a much better hobby that simply shopping, wouldn't you say? Most of the time, I can save as much on a grocery shopping excursion as I spend--in other words, I'm getting my groceries (including health & beauty items) for 50% or more off regular prices. I wish I had kept track of how much I was spending BEFORE couponing, so I could compare it to what I spend now. Then I could add up all that savings and see what my "salary" for a year of couponing would be. :-) For now, I'll just brag by showing you what I got at Target today for $5.47 (it would have been $4.47 but one coupon site would only let me print 4 coupons instead of the 5 I needed). Still, pretty good when you consider the retail value of this is around $27. Have a look:

Items:

10 Sobe Lifewater (retail $1.39 each; I got them all for $1, or $.10 each!)
3 Eggo Bake Shop (retail $2.29 each; I got them for $.50 each)
Tide travel size (retail $.97; Target actually paid me $.03 to buy this)
Nexcare Bandaids (retail $.99; I paid $.44--a splurge, but these are great)
2 RoseArt washable markers (retail $1.99; I paid $.50 each)
12-pk. Bic Pens (not sure of retail, but I spent $.50)

On the Sobe, I combined a sale (10 for $10) with coupons (Buy 1, Get 1, or BOGO) and also a special promotion (Buy 10, get a $5 Target Gift Card). Again, they would have been free if I had enough coupons. Still, not a bad deal!

Tomorrow, I'm heading to Kroger to do a Kellogg's promotion. If you buy 10 Kellogg's or Keebler items (and a few specified others), you get a $10 rebate. Kroger is also doing a deal where you save $5 when you purchase 10 qualifying items from their list. Some of the Kellogg's items are on the Kroger list, so...with coupons and combining these deals, I plan to come home with a couple of sacks full of groceries for maybe a couple of dollars. Oh, and Kellogg's is also offering a $70 coupon for Dell with this deal, which will come in handy when I purchase a new laptop. See why I get excited about coupons?

Wonderland/Mad Hatter Tea Party

2009-07-13T12:23:00.000-07:00

I have been a total slacker about blogging these days (too busy couponing and such!), but I'm finally posting a few pics from Presley's 3rd birthday party. Enjoy!

Presley as Alice

The Topsy-Turvy Cake (created by Mama)

The Table

Playing Croquette (we didn't have flamingos or hedgehogs)

Blowing Out the Candles

Happy Birthday, Presley!

2009-06-11T11:39:00.000-07:00

Today our baby girl turns 3! Presley is such a funny, happy girl at three years old. She is fiercely independent about some things and still a lazy baby about others. Presley loves girly things like princesses and fairies, but she's also the rough-and-tumble kid who has been known to bite her sister on occasion. We learned from potty training that she does things on her own timetable (she is trained now, btw). And one of her oft-uttered phrases is: "Don't boss me!" (Said mostly to Reagan. She knows better than to say it to Mama.)

We celebrate you today, Presley!

We're Back

2009-06-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

We're back from Disney World! We had a great vacation, despite the rain and the little cold that Scott and I brought home as a souvenir. Here are a couple of pics from our trip:

The girls in front of Minnie's house

The family with Lightning McQueen

Back from Disney

2009-06-05T11:18:00.000-07:00

We're back from our Disney vacation, and Presley is still trying to adjust to a number of things (not having someone to sleep with...not being constantly entertained...naps...etc.). We had a great time, despite the rain we encountered daily. Here are a few pics from our trip that feature Presley. The first was after Snow White had kissed Presley. The second was at breakfast with the Mad Hatter at the Grand Floridian. That last one is after she had some yummy chocolate mousse in the France pavillion at Epcot.

Back from Disney World

2009-06-05T11:09:00.000-07:00

We're back from Disney World and trying to acclamate ourselves to the "real world"--or at least the summer version of it. We had a great time, despite the rain we encountered daily. Here are a few pics from our trip featuring Reagan. The last one is at the Garden View Tea in the Grand Floridian. Reagan got to have a special afternoon of tea with Mama there while Daddy and Presley rested.

Just Dancing

2009-05-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Presley loves her big girl panties so much that she enjoys just dancing around in them. She's probably not going to be a big fan of this video when she's older, but for now, she likes watching herself.

BTW, so far so good! No accidents yet!

Nashville School of Ballet Parent Observation

2009-05-18T10:57:00.000-07:00

Reagan has been taking dance this semester at the Nashville School of Ballet. For the primary classes, there is no recital. A little sad in some ways, but much less of a hassle in others. Here are a few pics from Reagan's final class. The parents were invited in to view class and were treated to a couple of group dances, along with demonstrations of the drills and exercises the girls do. FYI, the teacher uses curriculum from the Royal Academy of Ballet in her classes.

Look at that posture!

Leaping

Free Dance

with Ms. Nadine

Big Girl Panties

2009-05-05T07:40:00.000-07:00

We're on about day 6 of Presley wearing panties with no accidents! Yay! (Did I just jinx myself?) Presley is doing a great job of telling us when she needs to use the potty. Looks like she is officially trained! (Well, we actually still wear pull-ups at night, but that's a job for another day.)

We finally had some pictures taken of the whole family last weekend. Here are a couple of sweet Presley.

We Welcome You to Munchkin Land...Tralalalala

2009-05-05T05:27:00.000-07:00

Reagan is excited to have earned her first theatrical role! In June (dates still TBD), Reagan will be playing a Munckin in the touring show Oz: The Musical. The show will be at TPAC (Tennessee Performing Arts Center). We always knew Reagan had a future in the dramatic arts, but we didn't realize it would be starting this soon.

For more infomation on the show, click here.

We also had a few photos taken last weekend. Here's one of Reagan's sweet poses.

Visit My New Blog

2009-04-21T04:50:00.001-07:00

I finally did it--I've taken the plunge and decided to start my own Disney vacation planning & consulting business. Tell all your friends and anyone you know who might be planning a trip!

http://www.affordingthemouse.blogspot.com/

Hannah Montana: We Were There!

2009-04-14T15:09:00.000-07:00

Good Friday was opening day for Hannah Montana: the Movie, and Reagan and Mama were there...along with every other little girl in Nashville! We purchased advanced tickets from Fandango, and it's a good thing, since showings were sold out.

Reagan decided to dress the part for the show. Any excuse to wear a costume, right?

We enjoyed the movie, but our experience was tainted by the tornados that came through the area. While they weren't actually near the theatre, an over-zealous movie patron announced that they were--which sent every little girl in the place into a panic! The theatre manager had to stop the movie and let us all know that while there were storms in Middle Tennessee, they were not near us. In the event that they came within ten miles, the movie would stop and we would be taken to a safer location. Still, the damage was done, and it took Reagan several minutes to calm down and actually watch the end of the movie. Guess we'll have to go see it again--on a sunny day.

This Just Made Me Laugh

2009-04-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

Pitiful...but Still Cute

2009-04-05T11:48:00.000-07:00

Poor little pumpkin had a stomach bug on Thursday. Fortunately, it was only a 12-hour thing. But she threw up multiple times and we were a little worried that she might get dehydrated (she didn't). Still, even though she was awfully sick, she managed not to make any big messes in the process (except for the first time, which was a total surprise to us both). She kept this "popcorn" bucket handy and always got it just in time. She was so sweet and precious with it that I took this picture. I'm happy to report that she's all better now!

What Will You Celebrate?

2009-03-10T07:03:00.000-07:00

Since we'll be going to Disney World less than 2 weeks before Presley's 3rd birthday, we'll be celebrating while we're there. We did a little parade float of what that might look like. Enjoy!

http://www.mymagicalparade.com/20947

Presley Welcomes Baby Bailey

2009-03-03T11:40:00.000-08:00

Presley was very excited to see her new cousin, Bailey Hope, for the first time on the day she was born, 2/27/09. Welcome to our world, little Bailey!

Reagan Loves Her New Cousin

2009-03-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

Here's Reagan holding her new cousin, Bailey Hope Gibbs, born on Feb. 27. Welcome to our world, Bailey!

Meet Bailey Hope Gibbs

2009-03-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

Born 2/27/09

We've Finally Turned the Corner...I Think

2009-02-20T10:27:00.000-08:00

It has taken countless afternoons of frustration, about 4,837 diapers and pull-ups, and more than a few tears (mine and hers), but Presley is finally pooping in the potty! Up until now, those poops had been few and faaaaarrrr between. But for the last several days, she has pooped consistently in the potty without any coercion! (Well, perhaps treats count as coercion. Nonetheless, she has pooped of her own free will.)

As I type, I am both crossing my fingers and knocking on wood (both of which are extremely hard to do while typing, I might add). Still, I think we're on our way. Some setbacks are to be expected, but at least we can see the light at the end of the diaper tunnel.

Another Installment of "The Funny Things She Says"

2009-02-06T09:56:00.000-08:00

Presley's language development is moving at the speed of light these days. She says anything she wants, and you can usually understand it all. However, it's the way she says things that cracks us up. Here are a few examples:

"Trash or 'cycling?" (When taking something to the trash/recycling bins.)

"I want more some of that."

"Are you got ____?" (Do you have ____?)

"Dat not fair." (In response to anything that she doesn't like, whether or not fairness plays a role.)

"Him is not got ______." (He does not have _____.)

"You're gonna lost it and cry." (After I told Reagan she couldn't take her Leapster to school. Guess Presley was worried she would lose it there.)

"She not say 'nice day'." (After the safety patrol forgot to tell me to have a nice day when I dropped Reagan off at school.)

Winter Fun

2009-02-04T06:12:00.001-08:00

We headed north to my parents' house in search of snow last weekend--and we found it! This is the view of their back deck and pool, from inside the house. Notice the ice-covered trees.

We bundled everyone up and went outside to play. Sadly, this was not the kind of snow that makes good snowmen (very dry, not sticky), so we didn't get to do that. But we did lots of sledding and made snow angels.

This was Presley's first time sledding, and she had lots of fun!

Reagan was apprehensive at first, but she really enjoyed it too.

Scott had probably never played in that much snow as a kid, being a native of Tennessee. By the end of the day, he had the sledding distance record!

We actually had much better hills than this, but we didn't take many pics--the camera was fogging up in the cold. But, really, we were pretty adventurous. For example, most people would be shoveling off their front steps. But my dad was piling on more snow to make a better sledding ramp for us! Yep, we started on the front porch and sledded to the street (just the grown ups--we wouldn't let the kids do this). We usually got stopped by the ditch, but Scott made it all the way onto the road once! Fun times.

Sledding Fun

2009-02-04T04:53:00.000-08:00

We headed north to Grandma & Grandpa's in Indiana this weekend to find some snow--and we sure did find it! Reagan was a little apprehensive at first, but she really enjoyed it once she got started. We all had a great time sledding--especially Daddy, who had probably never played in that much snow his entire life as a Tennessee native.

Sledding Fun

2009-02-04T04:50:00.000-08:00

We went to Grandma & Grandpa's this weekend in search of snow...and, boy, did we find it! Here's a pic of Presley's first time sledding. We all had a fun time--even Daddy, who had probably never played in that much snow in his entire life as a Tennessean!

Another Poignant Reagan Quote

2009-02-03T11:32:00.000-08:00

“The American people will never knowingly adopt socialism, but under the name of liberalism they will adopt every fragment of the socialist program until one day America will be a socialist nation without ever knowing how it happened.” --Ronald Reagan

It's happening now, Ronnie. Sad but true.

Big Potty News!!!

2009-01-26T08:28:00.000-08:00

Presley had her first poop in the potty last night! I won't tell you what an ordeal it was to get there. Suffice it to say, we have been spending a LOT of time in the bathroom lately. There was a lot of whining, pleading, and even bribery. In the end, she was all alone in the bathroom when the big moment finally arrived. Then the whole family came in a cheered, clapped, etc.

I gave Presley her much-desired Hannah Montana microphone, and she promptly began to sing (while still on the potty), "You get the limo out front...whoa whoa... hottest styles, every shoe, every color..." That's the Hannah Montana theme song, in case any of you out there are living under a rock and haven't heard it.

Daddy had to run to the store to get Presley a big package of Reese's cups. (We had purchased these before, but too many stressful afternoons of waiting for Presley to finally go caused Mama to eat them herself.)

There is much rejoicing in the Gibbs household! We're hoping this is just the start of Presley's amazing potty progress!

Now that Christmas Is Over...

2009-01-16T14:38:00.000-08:00

Now that the holidays are behind us (ours was good, was yours?), my thoughts turn to warmer climates and summer vacation. I'm a big planner. (That may just be the understatement of the year.) It's not that I'm not spontaneous. In fact, when I was younger...and childless...and single, it wasn't uncommon for my friends and I to decide on a whim to drive to the beach for the weekend. (And we're a good 7 hours from the nearest beach.) And, in the right frame of mind, I can be talked into almost any fun, SAFE adventure.

But now that I have a family, I've learned that the only enjoyable vacation is one that is well-planned. After much consideration of various destinations, we've decided to go to Disney World yet again this summer. Why? For starters, it just happens to be our favorite vacation spot. Sure, we were just there in April/May, but we just can't get enough of Mickey and the gang. Another good reason is that it's actually a very economical vacation for us. We drive instead of fly, and often we stay with family on the way down and back. We usually choose a nice but inexpensive hotel, and...well...we don't have to buy tickets.

Yep, that's right. We get in free. See, I have this fabulous friend who works there. She meets us at the park each day and walks us right in. We usually go for 3 days, which would cost our family roughly $750 without her. Did I mention that she is a REALLY GREAT friend?

My friend can walk in three people per day. Presley is free until her 3rd birthday (in June), another reason we're going at the end of May--it's our last chance for a completely free ride. Also, you never know when this dear friend might decide to take another job elsewhere. We're so thankful for her graciousness to us, and we want to enjoy it while we can!

This will be Presley's 2nd visit, Reagan's 3rd, and Scott's 5th. Me? I have lost track--at least 10th, but maybe even 12th. I'm a hard-core Disney fan. I'm even thinking of becoming a Disney travel agent at some point down the road. (I'm getting experience by helping friends plan their WDW vacations.) But for now, I'm enjoying making plans for our next visit!

BTW, even if you don't have a friend who works there, 2009 is a great year to visit WDW. They have some amazing deals, especially if you're active or retired military! And, if you need any help planning, I'm your girl!

It Has Been a Rough Day...

2009-01-15T14:57:00.000-08:00

...ya know, one of those where nothing seems to be going your way. Presley is still quite resistant to the whole potty training thing. To put it delicately, she's doing pretty well with #1, but she's a no-go on #2. I've caught her in the act several times and rushed her to the potty, only to have her stop and hold it in. Seriously, the kid is going to end up constipated from holding it in!

So, today was a repeat of the scenario above. And then, when I finally gave up on the potty thing and decided to try a nap, she resisted there as well. Normally, Presley is a great napper--she goes down without any trouble at all. And she still naps pretty early in the day (sometimes before lunch) so that I can get her up in time to go pick up Reagan from school. But not today. She cried, she whined, and she even got out of bed (one of the downfalls of the "big girl" bed).

So I gave up. Decided to feed her lunch instead and try again later. I had gone downstairs to fetch her a drink or napkin or something, and when I came back up Presley asked, "Mama, are you frustrated?" Not "angry" or "mad"--"frustrated."

Yes, Presley. That's exactly what I am. Frustrated. (But amused. How can you not laugh at that?)

Little Mommy

2009-01-04T12:09:00.000-08:00

Last night we watched the 2009 Disney Vacation Planning DVD. Scott and I often joke about retiring to DW and working in the parks, just so we can enjoy the perks. We were once again discussing this when I asked, "Reagan, do you want to work at Disney World when you grow up?" Her immediate response was an emphatic, "No!" When I asked, "Really? Why not?" she replied, "Because I wouldn't be able to take care of my children." I sure hope she meets and marries a man who is as traditionally-minded as her, so she can experience all the joys of motherhood. (I hope I'm still around to see that for so many reasons!)

Video Christmas Card

2008-12-24T07:42:00.000-08:00

Here's a blast from the past--last Christmas, to be exact. Reagan and I had the opportunity to sing together at our church. Can you believe how much younger/smaller she is? So figity and wiggly, but so cute!

Merry Christmas!

Sibling Rivalry

2008-12-17T07:30:00.001-08:00

Reagan simply refuses to be upstaged by Presley. (It gets a little ugly toward the end.)

Worst Mom Moment of the Year

2008-12-15T09:45:00.000-08:00

To read all about my terrible "stage mom" moment, check out Reagan's blog: http://reagangibbs.blogspot.com/2008/12/reagans-big-finish.html.

Also, for fun, here's an "Ultimate Bucket List" that I found on Angie Hunt's blog. You're supposed to copy/paste it into your blog then put an * beside everything you've done. Finally, add one thing that you have done to the bottom of the list. I challenge my readers (all three of you) to post it on your blog!

*1. Started your own blog
*2. Slept under the stars
*3. Played in a band
*4. Visited Hawaii
*5. Watched a meteor shower
*6. Given more than you can afford to charity
*7. Been to Disneyworld
8. Climbed a mountain
*9. Held a praying mantis
*10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
*14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
*16. Had food poisoning (but my parents swear it was a virus)
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
*18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
*21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
*23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill (can't specifically remember, but I'm sure I have)
*24. Built a snow fort
*25. Held a lamb
26. Run a marathon
*27. Gone skinny dipping (but only with girlfriends in the country)
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse (have seen a partial)
*30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run (does T-ball count?)
32. Been on a cruise (does the General Jackson count?)
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
*35. Seen an Amish community
*36. Taught yourself a new language
*37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo's David
*41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
*45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
*46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
*51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
*52. Kissed in the rain
*53. Played in the mud
*54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
*57. Started a business (sort of; I work for myself)
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
*60. Served at a soup kitchen
*61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
*63. Got flowers for no reason
*64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
*69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
*70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
*71. Eaten Caviar
*72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades (I went canoeing in a swamp in FL with gators. Does that count?)
75. Been fired/laid off from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
*78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
*79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
*80. Published a book (contributor, not author)
81. Visited the Vatican
*82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
*84. Had your picture in the newspaper
*85. Read the entire Bible
*86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating (my dad has MANY times)
*88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone's life
90. Sat on a jury
*91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
*93. Lost a loved one
*94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
*98. Owned a cell phone
*99. Been stung by a bee
100. Seen Mount Rushmore in person
*101. Learned to play an instrument
102. Kissed the Blarney Stone
103. Ridden a camel
*104. Sung on and album/CD

Reagan's Big Finish

2008-12-15T09:05:00.000-08:00

You may have already heard that Reagan had "walking" pneumonia this week. Apparently there's a contagious strain going around (one of Reagan's classmates had it). But after a couple of "sick" days at home and a snow day as well, Reagan had recuperated...or so we thought.

Saturday night was the be the culmination of all Reagan's rehearsals at church. She would be singing her duet in "Fear Not Factor." Both sets of grandparents were coming (one set drove over 3 hours to be there). We had pre-purchased a copy of the professional DVD. We were all eager to see Reagan do what she loves: perform!

But just minutes before she was to leave for church, she complained about her chest hurting. Scott and I kept telling her it was probably from all the coughing over the last week. Or it might have been the slice and a half of pizza she had just eaten. I gave her a Tums and sent her on her way with Daddy.

At church, Scott said she was still complaining. I found her and gave her another Tums and a cup of water. I told one of the youth to keep an eye on her and mentioned that she wasn't feeling well to one of the directors. Just as the kids were getting on stage, another parent brought her to us and said she wasn't feeling well. Ms. Sandy, our children's pastor, came by and said to let her go up on stage as soon as she felt ready.

We tried. We bribed, we threatened. We actually got her up there for a song...then she came back down. We guilted and coerced. She went up again but barely sang and did about half of her choreography. Then it was time for her song.

She was visibly upset. Scott went to get her off the stage...she was almost in tears. He got close but then stopped because she seemed to be trying to sing her duet. It was pretty bad. She was barely singing and nearly crying (and so was Mama, who felt bad for pushing her up there), but she got all the way through it...sort of.

At the end of the song, Reagan totally upstaged her duet partner by losing her dinner on the stage! Scott moved with lightening speed to get her out of there. I ran out to meet them in the bathroom, where Reagan threw up again and I cried some more, feeling like the worst mother on the planet for forcing her on stage.

The good news is that within minutes Reagan actually did feel better. It stuck with Mama much longer. (I put on a brave face for our friends at church, but I cried even more that night in bed. Really felt awful about the whole thing.)

Like a real trooper, on Sunday morning, Reagan woke up ready to sing again! She sang "Who Would Imagine a King" with Mama and a group of 6 kids in both services, and did a great job! So...she's not giving up her performing career just yet. But we've learned to listen to her when she says she doesn't feel well and can't perform.

And although we didn't take any pictures or tape it Saturday night, we did have these pics from last week's dress rehearsal. Oh, and there is the matter of the professional DVD. We'll have to wait and see if they cut out the throw-up scene. Should be interesting...

Away in a Manger

2008-12-07T18:20:00.000-08:00

Presley had her first public performance today, as she sang "Away in a Manger" with her toddler class at church. Now, Presley sings at home all the time--just not on demand. In fact, if you ask her to sing, most often she will not. But if she doesn't think you're listening, she'll belt out any number of tunes at the top of her tiny lungs.

Today was hit & miss. In the first service, she sang most of the song and even did a few motions. But she also spent part of the song touching the baby Jesus in the manger. Being the only girl in a sea of boys, I guess no one else was that interested in the doll--but Presley sure was! In the second service, most of the kids were tired, and none of them really sang much. And again, Presley was more interested in the baby Jesus than singing.

Regardless, she was simply adorable in both services!

Joyland

2008-12-07T11:45:00.000-08:00

This has been a busy week(end) for us, but we've got one big event now behind us: the Joyland mini-musical. Reagan was a hit as a Shirley Temple doll! (Isn't that wig outrageous? And adorable!) It was very cute to see her sing/dance/pose as ST. Scott also got in the act as a "shopper" who chose to buy her at the end of the show.

And just before Joyland, Presley's toddler class sang "Away in a Manger." She did a great job but was a little distracted by the baby Jesus (a doll). She kept trying to touch him and was shielding him from the other children. She's very greedy, er, protective like that.

Since Mama also sang "The Name" this morning, it was a busy day for us all!

Say What?

2008-12-03T13:25:00.000-08:00

Presley is at such a fun age! If she thinks you're not listening, you can get a full concert of her singing anything from the ABC song to "Who Would Imagine a King." (Mama and Reagan have been practicing that one lately.

Presley also never ceases to amaze us with her vocabulary and the interesting way she says things. Here are a few of her current favorite sayings:

"Dat not berry fair!" (That's not very fair.)

"My tummy making me hungry."

"I not a baby--I a big girl!" or "I a baby--not a big girl!" (whichever suits her needs at that moment)

"I not pee-pee in the potty--just change my diaper!"(potty training isn't going so well)

"I want you, Mama." (usually spoken when I'm seated at the computer)

ICE!!!

2008-12-02T09:24:00.000-08:00

Before Thanksgiving, we took the girls to see ICE! at the old Gaslight Theatre, which used to be a part of Opryland. (The Gaslight was the home of one of my favorite Opryland shows, "For Me and My Gal." It was also the home of CMT's "Pop! Goes the Country." I went to a taping once to get a closer look at Bryan White, whom I had a huge crush on when I first moved to Nashville.)

But I digress...ICE! was lovely to look at--quite amazing, really, that they can do all that with ice. But it was extremely COLD! They give you big parkas to wear over your own coat. Fortunately, we also had gloves, hats, and scarves. The theme was "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," and it had all the expected elements of Whoville. The girls enjoyed it, although Presley said, "It scare me" a few times. (She has sinced asked to go back several times.) My only complaint is that there really just wasn't enough of it. In fact, we backtracked and saw everything twice.

Presley's favorite thing was the giant ice slide. She made Daddy and Mama take her down it several times. Reagan was content with once. We were all impressed that the final room was filled with sculptures of the nativity...Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, shepherds, angels, etc. And the real Christmas story was being played in that room. Not a watered-down "holiday" version...the real thing.

It was a fun outing for us all and a great start to the Christmas season.

Truer Than She Knows

2008-12-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

I didn't hear the first part of the argument or what prompted these words, but here's what I overheard Reagan say today:

"Presley, I'm not your servant! Mama and Daddy are both of our servants."

Reagan's Busy Holiday Season

2008-11-24T05:55:00.000-08:00

Now that Reagan's a big five-year-old, she really needs her own day planner to keep up with her schedule. Besides all her school activities (parties, reindeer day, gingerbread day, holidays around the world, etc.), she's involved in several Christmas programs at church. She's doing "Fear Not Factor" with the big kids. It's a musical--all the kids are angels--and Reagan has a duet with Reece (Curry's older brother). Then, because the Pre-K class is full of boys and no girls, Reagan was asked to be in their mini-musical, "Joyland." She gets to be a Shirley Temple doll--so cute! Finally, Mama is organizing a group of kids to do a nativity scene and sing "Who Would Imagine a King" with her, and Reagan is singing in that and will probably be an angel. And did I mention that she and I would be singing that song together at Grandma & Grandpa's church this weekend? Busy, busy!

Reagan got her performance season off to a great start Saturday night, when she danced at the Hanging of the Green at church. Reagan got to dance with her beloved teacher, Mrs. Donna, and her friend Gracie and another "big girl" Jacqueline. Reagan did such a great job, and she took the whole thing very seriously! Unfortunately, our video camera did not work. But, fortunately, Gracie's parents took photos. Here she is, our tiny dancer:

Half of Our Christmas Card

2008-11-14T09:35:00.000-08:00

We spent a couple of hours at the Opryland Hotel on November 1. According to their calendar, the Christmas decorations should have been up at that time. And while some were, the really iconic ones (like the poinsettia tree and the big tree in the Delta section) were not. Nonetheless, we put Christmas sweaters on the girls and attempted to get a picture suitable for our Christmas card. My dad had his fabulous camera (I would compare it to a semi-automatic weapon, in terms of shutter speed) and took over 100 photos. It was pretty hard to tell what we had until we got home and uploaded them to the computer. But with that many shots, we were sure we had something that would work. But we were wrong.

Most of them looked like this:

Or this:

And not one of them was picture-perfect enough for our Christmas card. :(

If I were a master of PhotoShop, maybe I could cut/paste one together. This one of Scott and me isn't too bad. It was actually of all four of us--I cropped the children out. Think anyone will miss them on our card?

Reagan's Sweet, Sensitive Heart

2008-11-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

I didn't get to witness this story (got it second-hand from Scott), but it made me tear up a little when I heard it.

Scott had planned to take Monday off work, and I mentioned to him that it might be a good chance for him to have lunch at Reagan's school since he had been wanting to. Her school encourages parents to come anytime they'd like. When your parent has lunch at school, you get to pick a friend and eat with your parent and friend up on the stage area of the cafeteria. A few weeks ago Reagan got to have lunch with Grandma, Grandpa, Presley, and Mama--and she invited her good friend Azur along.

Tonight when Scott took Reagan to bed, he asked if she'd like him to come have lunch with her on Monday. Of course she was excited. She said, "And I'm going to invite Drew up on the stage with me." Having been around Reagan's entire class on numerous occasions (including an all-day field trip), if there was one kid in the class that I would expect her to never want to be friends with, it would be Drew. The kid clearly has ADHD--and heavy on the H for hyperactivity. He's in trouble A LOT! He has bloodied a kid's nose on the playground (and this is Kindergarten!!!). Even Scott had heard a few Drew stories, so he asked, "Really? You want to invite Drew?" And Reagan said, "Well, nobody ever invites Drew up on the stage. So I'm going to invite him."

What a sweet, tender heart! Mama is so proud--and glad it's Daddy and not her who gets to have lunch with Drew.

Do You Mind?

2008-11-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

I hated to make Presley's adorable JoJo pics drop down on the page, so I added another one to this unrelated post. But I just had to write about Presley's latest language development. For the last couple of weeks, Presley has been saying pretty much whatever she wants--and we can actually understand most of it. But she said something yesterday that cracked me up.

We were watching TV--specifically football--when Presley asked, "You mind changing the channel?" (No, I didn't. But apparently Daddy did.)

Then again this morning, as she had joined us in bed before 6:00 a.m., she asked, "You mind turning the TV on for me?"

I love her new "Do you mind?" way of asking for things! So cute!

TinkerBell

2008-11-02T16:32:00.000-08:00

Reagan continued with her TinkerBell obsession by dressing as her for Halloween.

Apparently, her cousin Ashley likes Tink too!

JoJo the Clown

2008-11-02T16:29:00.000-08:00

Here's Presley in her JoJo costume for Halloween. It was quite a hit!

And with her cousin Ashley and Reagan (both as TinkerBell).

Halloween

2008-11-02T16:26:00.001-08:00

Aren't JoJo and Tink the cutest?

Slippery Slopes

2008-10-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

It amazes me how desensitized to things I can become. When I was a kid, if you heard "crap" or some similar word on a TV show, it was the exception--not the norm. Now, you can say all manner of things on TV that I won't print here, because I like to keep my blog G-rated.

But there's a far more troubling area that our entire country seems to have become desensitized to: abortion. When I was in college, I remember wearing my "As a former fetus, I oppose abortion" shirt with pride and vigor. There certainly weren't many who openly supported abortion. It was more of an ugly little secret. I mean, nobody wanted to get an abortion, right?

Sadly, abortion is no longer shocking or even shunned in our society. Nope, regular early-term abortions are a mere fact of life, although still unpleasant. Now we've moved on to debate partial-birth abortion. If you've never researched what this is, and have merely heard the term on a newscast, you simply must Google it. This is heinous, by anyone's standards. And yet Barack Obama has refused to vote against it, instead voting "present." A "present" vote is a coward's retreat--a meaningless vote that allows him to continue to say that he hasn't supported partial-birth abortion. Obama has voted "present" 129 times in the senate on various issues.

So we see the slippery slope: We become "okay" with abortion--nobody likes it, but it's an unpleasant necessity. Then we accept partial-birth abortion--because apparently not everyone knows they want an abortion in the early stages of pregnancy. Now it has come to this: we are actually faced with the decision of what to do when a baby survives an abortion. (Yes, it does happen.)

How could that actually even be a question? If a live baby is born, how could any doctor who has pledged to "first do no harm" let that innocent child die? And yet, it would seem that Barack Obama would allow that to happen (http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=7030bd098cca768e72d111&skin_id=701&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url).

We've all heard Obama say that nobody likes abortion...that he would take measures to limit abortion...but the truth is that his voting record does not back up those statements. He has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood, is openly lauded on the NARAL Pro-Choice America website, and his own words continue to reveal his stance:

"Thirty-five years after the Supreme Court decided Roe v. Wade, it's never been more important to protect a woman's right to choose... I've been a consistent and strong supporter of reproductive justice, and have consistently had a 100% pro-choice rating with Planned Parenthood and NARAL Pro-Choice America."
"I am pro-choice. I believe in Roe v. Wade..."
"I've got two daughters...if they make a mistake, I don't want them punished with a baby. "

Here's a copy of his voting record:
http://www.votesmart.org/voting_category.php?can_id=9490

Granted, the Republican candidate's stance on abortion isn't as strong as I would like. But at least it appears he hasn't gone down the same slippery slope as the Democratic frontrunner.

Is there anything more important to life as we know it than life itself?

Reagan is Out Standing in Her Field

2008-10-23T07:54:00.000-07:00

Get it? Outstanding (out standing)? OK, bad joke. This is a pic of Reagan at Walden Farm.

Our Little Pumpkin

2008-10-23T07:52:00.000-07:00

Presley got to visit Walden Farm last weekend. She saw lots of pumpkins and got her face painted--cute!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-23T07:37:00.000-07:00

Now that I'm on Facebook, I sometimes upload photos or videos there and forget that I haven't posted to my blog. These photos are from last weekend at Walden Farms. The girls had a great time petting the animals, walking through the cornfield, getting their faces painted, and just enjoying the outdoors.

Celebrity Sighting

2008-10-18T18:50:00.001-07:00

Scott and I had dinner for his birthday tonight at the Cheesecake Factory in Green Hills Mall. (Thanks, Sarah, for offering to watch the kids!) After dinner, Scott wanted to walk to the Apple store and check it out. I, personally, wanted to get back to the kids and had very little interest in the Apple store--or the mall on a Saturday night, for that matter. But we took the little detour and, after consulting a directory, finally found the Apple store. (It was totally geeked out, btw.)

On the way back through the mall, we both did a double-take as we spotted James Marsden. In our house, he is best known as Edward from Enchanted. He's also been in the X-Men movies as well as one of my favorite shows from a while back, Second Noah. He had a little girl, about two- or three-years-old on his shoulders (I assume that was his daughter), and absolutely no one seemed to be bothering him. You gotta love Nashville, perhaps the only place on earth where a bona fide movie star can walk through the mall on Saturday night and nobody seems to care.

Pumpkins!

2008-10-16T08:42:00.000-07:00

Last week Scott and the girls carved the two pumpkins that Grandma & Grandpa brought us. Actually, I traced the patterns and Scott did the carving. The girls mostly watched. This year, we found Disney patterns--how perfect for our little princesses! Cinderella turned out beautifully:

but her castle actually looks like a "spooky" castle--not a "princessy" one. What can I say? I was working with a lopsided pumpkin!

Here's a pic of what Cinderella looks like all lit up (pretty--but maybe a little creepy, too):

She's Got the Right Attitude

2008-10-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

This week we said good-bye to a dear friend, our former neighbor Ashley, who lost a six-year battle with cancer. (More details at: http://valsmomblog.blogspot.com/2008/10/ashley.html) Reagan has known Ashley since she was an infant, and Ashley was the only non-family babysitter Reagan had as a baby.

When I got the news on Monday that Ashley had passed, I was worried about how to tell Reagan. Reagan knows about death and heaven because she has lost three great-grandparents in the last few years, and we explained that their bodies were worn out and tired, and they were going to heaven to get new healthy bodies and be with God. But this is the first time Reagan has known a young person who died (Ashley was only 23). And, most recently, Reagan has been praying, "Thank You, God, that You are healing Ashley." I wondered how she would respond to God's choice of ultimate healing, rather than earthly healing, for Ashley.

I guess I underestimated her. When I told her Ashley had gone to heaven to be with Jesus, Reagan didn't get sad at all. In fact, she kept asking me why I was so sad. (Honestly, I found it a little disturbing that she wasn't more upset.) But then, as the day went by, she did say a few times that she was sad and would miss Ashley.

Then, last night as we were getting ready to go to Ashley's visitation, I was giving Reagan the behavior talk: "We need to be respectful. And quiet. There might be some very sad people. Some might be crying. We're not sad because Ashley went to heaven; we're just sad because we'll miss her."

Then Reagan said with earnest excitement and amazement, "I wish I was Miss Ashley! I want to go in heaven! They have streets of gold--that's metal!"

Wow, if we could all have that attitude.

Presley's New Skill

2008-10-13T15:12:00.000-07:00

I have video of Presley demonstrating her latest skill, but since I try to keep this blog G-rated (or at least PG), I'll have to offer a description and keep the video for private viewing (but, wow, is it ever funny!).

So one morning when Scott was out of town, I was taking a shower when Presley burst in and said she needed to use the potty. I told her I couldn't help right now, but if she could get her shorts and diaper off, she could do it herself. She managed to do that, and within seconds she had used the little potty. I did the whole, "Good job, Presley!" routine and told her she'd have to wait a minute for me to help her. But she said, "I do it myself." She promptly pulled the removable bowl from the potty chair, opened the big potty, and dumped the contents in. (Good start!) She then stood on the step-stool and pulled herself up on the sink, balancing with her bear bottom in plain view. She then turned on the water and filled up the potty bowl, dumped it, filled it, dumped it, etc., to rinse it out. Then, she got some soap from the dispenser and washed her little hands!

This process was so amazing to me that I had her repeat it for Daddy that evening, and then for Grandma and Grandpa when they visited. In fact, Presley was so proud that she told Grandpa, "Get your camera!" so he could tape her doing it. If you're ever over to our house, we'll show it to you...we could probably win $10,000 from AFV with that one--but our daughter's modesty is worth more to us than that.

Ashley

2008-10-13T09:08:00.001-07:00

Our dear, sweet friend Ashley went home to be with Jesus Sunday afternoon, surrounded by friends and family. Her last words were, "I love you" to those who had gathered to sing hymns and pray at her bedside. Her service will be this Wednesday at Judson Baptist Church.

If you are not familiar with Ashley's story, you can read about it in this post: http://valsmomblog.blogspot.com/2008/07/pray-for-ashley.html

Our hearts are breaking for her family, but we know that their hope is in Jesus too. Please pray as they continue to deal with this devastating loss.

My Little Cookies

2008-10-13T06:29:00.000-07:00

A while back, I entered a contest to win a vacation to Disney World. Well, more like, I entered dozens of contests to win various Disney vacations or prizes. (I have a website I visit periodically and enter the ones that don't take up too much time or effort.) Anyhow, one of these contests was from Cookie magazine. I believe I had to write a fifty-word essay about my idea of a perfect day at Disney. Honestly, I couldn't have put much effort into it, because I forgot I had even entered it. But, I was chosen as a finalist! And, no, I didn't win a Disney vacation, but I did win a CD of children's music and t-shirts for me and the girls. Mine was just a red shirt with "Cookie" on it. The girls' shirts were considerably cuter. I didn't request any particular style--just gave them the sizes and they sent these:

Looks like they nailed their personalities! Presley is definitely the "tough cookie" while Reagan is more of a "smart cookie." Couldn't have chosen better myself! (BTW, these were taken just after the girls got out of the shower; thus, the wet-n-wild hair.)

Another Plea for Ashley

2008-10-11T06:07:00.000-07:00

I just received the most recent update on my neighbor Ashley, and the news is very grim. While they still carry hope in their hearts, I believe the family is coming to terms with the notion that Ashley has very little time left on this earth. I'm no mind-reader or doctor, but from the last email, I would guess days, not weeks.

I'm asking those of you who have followed her story (or are simply prayer warriors who have stopped by) to bathe Ashley and her family in prayer at this time. I don't know what God's plan is. Certainly He could choose to heal Ashley, even now, for we know that with God all things are possible. But it would seem He has made another choice. Despite how sad that makes me, I know that even in Ashley's death, God will be glorified and lives will be blessed.

Specific things to pray for: Ashley's pain is great, and she struggles to breathe. Pray for physical relief and continued optimism. And pray that she'll be able to leave this world peacefully, if that is God's will. Many family and friends have gathered; pray for peace and comforting times and sweet memories to be shared among them. Pray especially for Ashley's mother Judy, who is dealing with unimaginable grief and has not completely healed from her own breast cancer surgery. And also for Alli, Ashley's sister, who has been an amazing nurse and confidant for Ashley. Then, finally, pray that God's hand would be evident in every step of this journey. Let everyone who came near be a witness to God's great power and mercy and strength, as displayed in this family. Amen.

Yet Another Reason...

2008-10-10T06:06:00.001-07:00

...I will be voting Republican in this election.

Here's a new number I just heard on the Today show: $995. That's the MOST money Joe Biden has given to charity in the last ten years--the MOST!!! I won't go into specifics of my own numbers (not because I'm ashamed, but because I know my friends read this blog and it's tacky to talk about money among friends), but Scott and I give considerably more than that. . . considerably. (The bulk of it goes to our church, but we also support a number of local and national charities.) Now, I consider us a pretty average American couple. Certainly we have more than many, but we are by no means wealthy. Yet, when I compare our numbers to those of Joe Biden, I am astounded. The average family in America gives 2% of their income to charitable organizations. The Democratic nominee for Vice President gives less than one hundredth of one percent.

Here are the numbers (year, adjusted gross income, charitable donations, percentage of income):

1998--$215,432--$195--.0009%

1999--$210,797--$120--.00056%

2000--$219,953--$360--.0016%

2001--$220,712--$360--.0016%

2002--$227,811--$260--.0011%

2003--$231,375--$260--.0011%

2004--$234,271--$380--.0016%

2005--$321,379--$380--.0012%

2006--$248,459--$380--.0015%

2007--$319,853--$995--.0031%

(An aside: Republicans are often criticized for being greedy and Democrats are certainly on record as supporters of our welfare system. It strikes me as ironic that studies have shown that conservatives give more than liberals. Here's one story, but a simple Google search will yield dozens: http://abcnews.go.com/2020/story?id=2682730)

Here's another number: $15,000. That's how much Biden spends on train tickets each year, commuting between his $3 million home in Delaware and Washington, DC. But don't worry, he doesn't pay for those.

Do you think this man can really relate to the economic issues of middle America?

Oh, by the way, here's a report on John McCain's giving (a very different story): http://philanthropy.com/news/updates/4437/john-mccain-discloses-data-on-his-charity-giving

And here's the Obama info (better than Biden, but nowhere near McCain): http://taxprof.typepad.com/taxprof_blog/2008/03/obama-releases.html

Here's Palin's (not as good as I had hoped, but still outshines Biden by a country mile): http://philanthropy.com/news/updates/5900/gov-palin-releases-tax-returns-reveals-charitable-giving

Can You Hear Me NOW!!!

2008-10-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

Presley has developed an annoying habit of asking for something over and over and over...even after we have said no. Only, she doesn't just make her demand the same each time. She slows down, articulating each word as well as her little two-year-old language skills will permit, emphasizing then final word. It goes a little something like this:

Presley: I want treat.
Mama: Not right now.
Presley: I want treat!
Mama: No, you have to eat something healthy first.
Presley: I...want...treat...right...now.
Mama: You're not getting a treat.
Presley: I. Want. Treat. Right. NOW!!!

Obviously, this little tactic doesn't work (I'm tougher than that, people!), but it does keep us entertained.

Reagan's Crazy Costumes

2008-10-07T06:49:00.000-07:00

Every day is Halloween around our house, as Reagan creates unique costumes from her existing wardrobe. And, boy, does she have an extensive dress-up wardrobe! Besides the many princess costumes and accessories that we have purchased for her, she was the beneficiary of a substantial collection of hand-me-down costumes from her cousin Camille. It's almost uncommon for Reagan to get through a whole day without putting on some sort of costume piece or accessory. Here's a pic of one of her latest creations:

The pants are part of her SSA (standard school attire). The top is half of an Ariel costume, and she has complemented it with fairy wings. Then we have the pink fuzzy slippers and the red Snow White purse. The tiara is generic and not associated with any particular princess. The necklace is also Ariel, and I believe it came from a Happy Meal. The piece de resistance is the Austin Powers sunglasses with yellow lenses. (Those were Mama's from oh-so-long ago.)

She has a fashion sense all her own!

It's the Little Things in Life

2008-10-07T06:23:00.001-07:00

I'm trying to have an "attitude of gratitude" these days. I know I can fixate on the negative and let it take over, forgetting how much I have and how good I have it. So, here's a little list of things I enjoy, things that make my life a little bit better:

Sugar cubes. Or "dots," as they're sometimes called. I remember these being in our church kitchen when I was a kid. I love them in my coffee or tea because they're just a bit more fun than the traditional spoonful of sugar. They make me feel more refined, more British.

Nice pens. Many of you know I have an affinity for office supplies (don't even get me started on Sharpies!). But there's nothing quite like a pen that feels good in your hand and writes flawlessly and effortlessly. Pilot is a favorite brand of mine.

Fun shoes. (See my earlier post.)

A fresh, untouched Sunday newspaper. Now, lately I am most annoyed with the Tennessean. They are ever-so biased in their political reporting (in favor of the "opposing" team). But I do love to sit and read the paper slowly, and in whatever order I choose, without having to share it.

Great songs. I don't mean fun songs that have a great beat (although I like those too). I mean a song that has clever, meaningful lyrics--a song that makes you wish you had written it. My favorite artists are also songwriters, and I'm a closet songwriter myself. As a copywriter, my job is to put the appropriate words together into sentences--words that convey my meaning and capture interest. But a songwriter has to do that PLUS put it into a specific rhythmic pattern and make it fit with the melodic line. Now that's talent.

Photographs. In this digital age, we tend to take a lot of pics and hit the delete button more than we probably should. Many of these gems never get printed. But I still like holding a photo in my hand. I like to put them in albums and look at them in groups. Call me old-fashioned, but I prefer flipping through old albums to clicking on thumbnails.

Feather pillows. They're getting harder to find, but I have one that my mother had before me. It's probably as old as I am, if not older. Some of the feathers have come out, and the seams have been re-sewn many times, but I still love it.

This, of course, is just a partial list. And it doesn't begin to cover the "big" things I'm thankful for--my God and my family would top that list. So, what are you thankful for?

What I'm Learning About Single Parents

2008-10-02T07:10:00.000-07:00

My dear husband, Scott, is out of town for five days--can you hear the screams coming from Magnolia Lane? It's actually quite rare that he has to be gone, but when he does, I usually call in the grandparents for reinforcement. (They will be arriving later this afternoon.) In the mean time, let me share a few things I have learned about single parents in the last twenty-four hours:

Single parents need more time to do everything. Why? Because they only have one set of hands to comb all the hair, button all the buttons, and tie all the shoes. Admittedly, I handle most of the morning school rush. But if Reagan happens to finish breakfast before Presley, as she often does, I know I can send her upstairs and Scott will help facilitate the whole "use the bathroom and brush your teeth" process. (And it is a process, seriously.) When Scott isn't here, I find Reagan has fallen back to sleep on the stairway.
Single parents can't possibly awaken early enough to have time to themselves. On a normal day, I get up around 5:30 or 5:45 (yes, that's a.m.) to read my Bible and have a twenty-minute workout. Then I grab a shower and am ready to get Reagan up by 6:30. But Presley inevitably wakes up sometime in the 6:00 range. No problem--I just put her in bed with Scott and continue with my plans. But when Scott's not here...you guessed it. I must halt mid-workout to fetch milk or turn on Elmo. And then I hear, "I want you, Mama." That means, "Come sit with me...I need attention!"
Single parents are always indebted to someone, and that feeling stinks. Having friends that are willing to help is wonderful. But being on the receiving end of free childcare makes me uncomfortable. When it's an even trade, I don't mind. I do my stint in the church nursery on Sunday mornings, so I'm OK with dropping Presley at the door. But on Wednesday nights, while I'm at rehearsal, I feel a twinge of guilt at putting her in a nursery that I never help in...especially when she's the only child other than the nursery worker's son!!! But, when Daddy's not home, you do what you have to do.
Single parents have to make all the decisions. OK, so some single parents actually have exes who help with major decisions, such as public vs. private school and whether to take dance lessons or play soccer. But when it comes to the day to day, the parent in possession of the kids has to make a LOT of decisions on her own: like whether to take the kid to the dr. or just wait it out, or what punishment is appropriate for a kid who sasses a teacher. (These are mere examples; my kid has never sassed a teacher!!!)

This is just a drop in the bucket. I didn't even go into the financial ramifications...whoah. I'm just so grateful I have a husband who is helpful and is almost always home with us! But, seriously, when are the grandparents getting here?!?

My B-day Shoes

2008-09-29T07:19:00.001-07:00

For my birthday, I decided to buy some expensive, frivolous shoes. I wanted them to be fun first, and not necessarily functional. And I planned to spend more than I usually do on shoes...it was my birthday, after all. But when I went shopping, I was overwhelmed. It had been so long since I bought shoes just for fun that I didn't even know what I liked. DSW and Off Broadway had so many styles to choose from, but nothing jumped out at me. I left without new shoes.

But while shopping for Reagan at Ross, I decided to check out their shoes...and I found these:

You may not be able to tell from the photos, but they are fabulous--and ridiculous! They have a bit of a platform, about five inch heels, peep-toe, and they lace up the front. They are houndstooth plaid and black patent leather. Yet, here's the funny thing, they're actually rather practical. I've worn them several times already. They can be worn with jeans and dress pants or with dresses and opaque tights. And they're not terribly uncomfortable--not bad at all.

Here's the best part: they were cheap (about 1/3 of what I was planning to pay). Happy birthday to me! :)

When I Grow Up...

2008-09-29T06:46:00.000-07:00

Recently at Awana, the kids got Fun Fair points for dressing as what they want to be when they grow up. I felt certain that Reagan would either say a princess or a ballerina, but no. I guess starting kindergarten has had an impression on her, because Reagan chose to dress as a teacher. She comes from a family of teachers (Grandma and both her sisters are teachers, as is Reagan's Aunt Sharon), so it's probably in her blood. In case you can't tell from the photos, she's holding a ruler and her grade book/lesson plans. She also has a very grown-up hairstyle--a low ponytail with a sort of French twist in the back.

Reagan has been playing teacher at home quite a bit too. She loves bossing Presley around. I've learned which kids in Reagan's class must get in trouble a lot, too, because Reagan calls on her imaginary students and has them "take a break" (time out) or put their names on the board. There are a few names that just keep coming up.

More Funny Things She Says

2008-09-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

This morning on the ride home from dropping Reagan at school, Presley points out the window and says,"Look! Starbucks! Let's get coffee!" When I didn't go for it, she said, "There McDonalds. Go there." Do I need to remind you that this two-year-old can't read? Yet she knows every logo out there!
******
Two nights ago, at the dinner table, Presley was having a slice of American cheese (seriously, the kid would live on cheese if we let her). She put the half-eaten slice of cheese flat in the palm of her hand and said, "Do you want to listen to my iPod?"
******
Mama got her hair cut this week! When I came home from the salon, I asked Reagan if she liked it and she did. I asked Presley the same thing, and she said no. Later that evening, as I was getting Presley into her PJs, she said, "Haircut." So I said, "Yes, Mama got a haircut." She then said, "I don't like it. I don't like it. I don't like it," emphasizing the "don't" each time. The next morning, I got a repeat performance: "Haircut. I don't like it."

5 Things I Hate about the Car Rider Lane

2008-09-17T10:00:00.001-07:00

1. Having to arrive 30 minutes before school gets out. Seriously, if I don't do this, I end up in the street...and Reagan panics and cries.
2. Parents who leave their cars in the lane unattended. This causes those of us behind you much grief. Do we pull around? Wait for you to return and then move up? Will you return before school dismisses? WHERE ARE YOU!!!
3. People who smoke. If I have to sit for 30 minutes with my windows down (because I can't afford to idle my engine for that long!), why must I breathe in your disgusting habit?
4. Entertaining the two-year-old. I usually bring snacks (which invariably end up all over the car seat) and let Presley watch a DVD while we wait, but she still gets rather restless.
5. The busy-body mom who thinks she's the traffic director. She will literally come to your window and ask you to start up your engine, put it in gear, and pull up exactly 17 inches. I am not even kidding. Hey, I appreciate the fact that there are people in the street--but I'm not willing to risk my bumper to see that they get in the parking lot. Furthermore, if everyone would stay by their cars (unlike you, who are at my window!--see #3) we could all pull up completely at the start, and this wouldn't be an issue.

Still, I just can't put my five-year-old on a bus. And so...I wait...

Ashley Update

2008-09-11T06:33:00.000-07:00

I received another email update on my neighbor, Ashley. (If you're not familiar with her story, you can read this post http://valsmomblog.blogspot.com/2008/07/pray-for-ashley.html.) Today's update came from her sister Alli, rather than Judy, her mom. I think this is in part because Judy recently had her own cancer surgery, but mostly because she just isn't emotionally able to put everything into words right now. The situation is dire, to say the least. And yet, as always, Ashley's faith remains strong. They truly are an amazing family. I wish you could all know them personally!

In my last update, I mentioned that they were raising funds to send Ashley to Oasis of Hope in Mexico. The money came through with amazing speed, and Ashley was able to go and receive treatment. Certainly the doctors there were hopeful, but also realistic. Only time will tell if Ashley's body has enough fight left in it--although her spirit certainly does!

Here's sweet Alli's update:

Dearest Friends and Family,

When peace like a river attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blessed assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
It is well with my soul.

I love the verses of this song…and I don’t think I could have come up with greater words than these to describe the spiritual condition of our family right now. Mom is usually the one to give these updates, but I (Alli) will do my best. As many of you know, Ashley has taken a physical turn for the worse. I say physical, because her spirit is still fighting this battle! Her tumors have increased in size and number in the past several weeks. he result of these increases is greater pain throughout her body. It’s as if a firing squad has been given random orders to fire merciless shots throughout her body. In addition to pain, she has almost completely lost the strength and feeling in her legs leaving her frustrated, immobile and in need of a great deal of assistance. After spending a week at Vanderbilt Hospital for pain control, Ashley’s doctors felt that it would be more comfortable for her to come home under Hospice care. On Friday they moved her home with a hospital bed, wheelchair, unbelievable amounts of pain medication, and around the clock nursing staff.

This has been a bittersweet transition for all of us. Bitter, because of the implication that exists with a move to Hospice care, and sweet because we are all here together and friends and family can come and go as they please. It will still take a little “getting used to.” Mom is still experiencing considerable pain from her own surgery, but I’m not sure that it can compare to the pain she is feeling in her heart right now. I suppose if God would just lay his hand right on her chest…it would pretty much cover all the right areas! She is having a hard time being physically weak when she wants to be strong. There is one thing she just can’t seem to get off of her mind though…Thank You Notes! I know…crazy huh? Every day I hear, “Alli, there are just so many people that have given so much. I need to thank them. I can’t forget to write!” So I figured I would just take care of that little job for her by writing to you.

This Paragraph is devoted to you “saints” that have been praying and serving our family for so many years… Someone asked me the other day, “Alli, how are YOU doing through all of this?” My answer was, “I think a lot of people must be praying, because I’m doing OK.” I hope you all know that your prayers are not hitting the ceiling! They are flowing straight up and into our home. I know for a fact that we would be falling apart without the spiritual support that we receive from you, our dear brothers and sisters in Christ. God is good! He always provides for us. I am convinced that every time you have whispered a prayer on our behalf, an action has been carried out in our lives. When you asked God to give me strength, I probably made it up the stairs one more time with a plate of food. When you asked God to give Mom rest, her best friend flew in from Illinois. When you prayed that Dad would be less stressed, he got a different job! You see! You are all warriors fighting this great battle right along side of us. Thank you notes just wouldn’t be sufficient. I think crowns would be much more appropriate! We have put in a large order to heaven, and you will all be receiving one when you get there!

God has blessed us with such wonderful support. He has kept us fed, clean, and emotionally stable through the hands of His children. Though our hearts are breaking right now as we find ourselves standing in our very own “Gethsemane” asking God if there is any other way, we can honestly say that it IS “well with our souls.” It is well because God is in control. It is well because He loves us more than we could ever know. It is well because He loves Ashley more than we do. It is well because His plan is perfect. It is well because He WILL BE GLORIFIED!

I love you and I am so blessed to have you in my life. Thank you for your prayers and support during this time. Please continue to pray for Ashley’s physical restoration, and Gods will to prevail!

In Christ Jesus,
Alli

Minimum Wage vs. Living Wage

2008-09-05T09:41:00.000-07:00

Maybe once this election is over, I'll stop all these political posts. But right now I have the proverbial "bee in my bonnet," and I can't help myself.

We've all been hit by the tough economy. Gas reached the $4 mark in some areas, milk is hovering around $3.50 here in Nashville, and every time I visit my salon, it seems the price of a haircut has escalated. So, why don't I support Barack Obama's plan to raise minimum wage to $9.50/hr. by 2011?

First, let's look at the current minimum wage: $6.55 since July 2008. A person working 40 hours a week for a full 52 weeks (hopefully getting a week or two of that in paid vacation time), would earn $13, 624 before taxes. I certainly don't disagree that a family of four can't live on that wage! (But I will counter that in 1994, when I moved here, my first full-time job paid only $12,240/year, and within three years I was a homeowner--on my own and without financial support.) Still, Obama's plan would earn that same worker, working the same hours, only $19,760. And, of course, this will be in 2011--no telling what inflation will have done to us by then! My point is, this increase won't do much to help families being supported by one person earning minimum wage.

Minimum wage is just that: the minimum. And, I propose, it is designed for "minimum" employees. It is meant for low-commitment jobs with little or no training, where the expectations are low. And there's nothing wrong with that! If I were still a teenager and wanted some spending money for the weekends, I'd probably seek out a minimum wage job. Or if, say, I was retired and wanted something to keep me busy for a few hours each day without a lot of stress or commitment, that would be a great fit. And, hey, if I liked it, and I did it pretty well, I would expect to be compensated a bit more as I got some experience under my belt. But, still, I'd be in it for the short-term. When it stopped being fun or profitable, I would walk away.

Minimum wage jobs are not intended for the primary bread-winner of the family! It is not meant to provide the so-called "living wage." And if you're next counter-point is about those who can't afford an education, let me stop you right there. There are decent-paying jobs out there, even for the under-educated, if they're willing to work. And I don't necessarily mean tough labor, either. I mean, if they're willing to work on themselves--to smile, be friendly, use good manors, study, etc. For example, who makes more money, the server who grumbles about their station in life, is unwilling to make an extra effort, or the one who smiles and speaks warmly, and does whatever it takes to make his or her guests happy? Duh! If you're working for tips, this is a no-brainer.

Still, outside of restaurant service (which, by the way, IMHO is under-paid, as the federal minimum wage for servers has been stuck at $2.13/hr. since 1991), there are other industries that reward effort. Sales is a great example--and the US average income for a sales rep or manager is around $48,000/year! No degree needed. Food prep is another area where skill and ability can often trump education and experience (who cares, as long as it tastes good, right?). The national salary average for a food prep supervisor is a respectable $35, 964.

Here are some other jobs that don't require degrees (although some require training), but pay rather well:

Air Traffic Controller ($102,030/year)
Storage & Distribution Manager ($66,600)
Sanitation Worker ($32,000-59,000, depending on experience; $65,000 in California)
Funeral Director ($79,517)
Police or Detective Supervisor ($64,430)
Transportation Manager ($66,600)

And, as an aside, although I usually take advantage of free babysitting from family members, when I do pay a babysitter, I pay $10/hour--more than Obama's proposed change for 2011--because I don't want a "minimum" babysitter.

To sum up, if you want to earn a living wage, you need to be more than a minimum employee. Do your homework, make the effort, and seek gainful employment in a field that can provide for your needs. Even then, I know many families have financial struggles (I could go on and on about living within your means, but that's another post entirely). But struggle is the sign that someone is trying . . . trying really hard to get ahead. I can respect struggle. I can even support it.

Reagan's Prayers

2008-09-04T18:33:00.000-07:00

Reagan has really taken an interest in saying her own prayers, both at meals and before bed. They can be quite simple or, at times, rather elaborate. But they are most certainly sincere and heartfelt. Here's a sampling:

"Dear Lord, thank you for our food. And thank you for our beautiful smiles . . . and our beautiful voices--our whisper voices and our calling voices and our singing voices . . . "

"Dear Lord, thank you for taking away my fear in the Halloween store . . . "

"Dear Lord, thank you for a great Thursday! And thank you that you are the best God!"

"Thank you that you gave us Jesus, for Him to die on the cross so that we could go to heaven."

As Reagan would say, it "just swells my heart to pieces" to hear those tiny prayers.

How Big Is Presley? Soooo Big!

2008-09-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

Presley is now sleeping paci-free! That's right, folks. Presley has given up her paci, and I can't believe how easy it was! I meant to start weaning her from it last weekend, but I kinda forgot until it was already bedtime--and giving up an attachment like that needs a little mental/emotional preparation. So, I decided I'd try it on naps this week and then start doing it at night on the weekend. Of course, as things usually go around here, I put it off until Wednesday.

At around 9:00 a.m. (early, I know), Presley started saying she wanted a nap. Knowing that she has a habit of asking to nap just so she can have a few minutes with her paci (and then "wakes up" about ten minutes later), I told her she could nap, but she couldn't have her paci. She, of course, protested by repeatedly saying, "I want my paci!" I let her lay in my bed with me a few minutes, but she continued with her whining/crying. So, I put her in the crib and told her she could get up anytime she wanted, but she would not get her paci. After lots of crying, I finally convinced her to get up and have lunch and try again later.

After lunch, I started bribing. I told her she'd get a treat if she took a nap without a paci. And when she has been sleeping without her paci for a whole week, I promised to buy her a toy. After that brief discussion, she went down without the paci and without incident. Ten minutes later, "Mama, I wake up from my nap!" Put her back down. Ten minutes later, same thing. But on the third try (fourth, if you're counting the 9:00 attempt), she went down and stayed. . . for at least 45 minutes! (We're calling that a nap.)

Yesterday, she went down for her nap with no tears or complaining without her paci! She slept for two hours! We were so excited that we decided to ask if she wanted to sleep without it last night. At first, she said no, but then I offered her a treat in the morning and reminded her about the toy I had promised her, and she decided she would sleep without it. Again, she went down with no tears, and we didn't hear a peep out of her until morning!!!

But, of course, the first thing she said to me this morning was, "I want toy!" Hey, what can I say? Bribery works!

Why We Should All Vote

2008-09-03T09:35:00.001-07:00

I think I'm finally excited about the presidential election! With the loss of Mike Huckabee (who would still win my vote in a second!) way back when, I couldn't really get behind the Republicans. Oh, believe me, I could still vote against the liberal left, but I just wasn't gung ho about it. Now, with the addition of Sarah Palin to the ticket, I'm finally at peace about my vote. (Say what you will about her family values and having a pregnant teen, but I've seen this happen to families that I respected and would never have thought it possible. The fact is, despite our best efforts, sometimes our kids don't follow our lead.)

And speaking of being excited about voting, my mom sent me an email this week about women's suffrage that reminded me how important it is for us to exercise that right. Most of us think of Susan B. Anthony when women's suffrage comes to mind. We probably think of women in those long, buttoned-up dresses and big hats giving speaches. But women's suffrage wasn't just about a few civic-minded women carrying signs, and it wasn't as civilized as most history lessons would have us believe. Women were wrongfully imprisoned in filthy cells; they were beaten, even tortured, and nearly starved. It's hard to believe that our right to vote is less than 100 years old, but in 1920 the state of Tennessee actually cast the tie-breaking vote in this historic decision.

So if you're looking at the candidates this year, and you're having a hard time committing to one or the other, take a closer look. Do the research and make the effort. Somebody paid a high price for you to have that right. (Cue the music, "And I'm proud to be an American . . .")

A Hannah Montana Kind of Day

2008-08-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

So Reagan came home from school yesterday and told me that Oliver from "Hannah Montana" had been at her school. Of course, not believing her, I said, "Oh, you mean he was on TV or something? You watched something with him in it?" But she said, "No. For real! It was him! He was there!" Well, she did have some flyers with his picture on it (he's the spokesperson for the "Clean Hands are Cool Hands" initiative), so I thought it was possible...but I still kinda doubted it.

So, today I was at the school for a room parent meeting, and all the moms were talking about it. Sure enough, he had been there. In fact, it even made it on the news last night (but, of course, I missed it).

Then, on top of seeing an actual star in person, Reagan got a call from THE Hannah Montana last night to remind her that she had dance class! (This was a special "back to school" promotion by Wal-mart, where you could sign up for a phone call online.) We have saved the message and played and played and played it! Reagan was so excited. It says, "Hey, sweet niblets! This is Hannah Montana calling to remind you that you have dance. What would you do if you didn't have me to remind you? Have a great time..." etc. You get the point. Reagan thinks it's really funny that she calls her "sweet niblets."

All in all, it was a very Hannah Montana-filled day of fun!

The Funny Things She Says...

2008-08-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

Presley is changing every day--learning new words and putting complete sentences together. Just yesterday, she was standing behind Reagan as big sis played a computer game. Apparently, the seating arrangement was not to her liking, because Presley said, "I can't see bery (very) well. Moob (move) a li'l bit."

Other favorite sayings:

"Dat cool, Mama?" ("Is that cool, Mama?" This usually comes after some gymnastic stunt.)
"I got it!"
"I go wishoo." ("I'll go with you.")
"I know." (This actually means "I don't know." Very confusing, but we figured it out.)
"Help me, Mama!"
"I go kin'garen wif Reagan." (Do I need to explain this? She wants to go everywhere Reagan does--including kindergarten.)
"Dayee may me mad." ("Daddy made me mad." So she came running to Mama.)

Why I Wish Ronnie Were Still President

2008-08-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

"America was founded by people who believed that God was their rock of safety. I recognize we must be cautious in claiming that God is on our side, but I think it's all right to keep asking if we're on His side." --Ronald Reagan

Kindergarten...the First Week

2008-08-16T06:46:00.001-07:00

We're coming to the close of the first week of kindergarten for Reagan, so I thought it would be appropriate to share a few thoughts. First, I must say that I was apprehensive about Reagan's teacher who was (and still basically is) a stranger to me. My first impression of her was not great. She was quiet...seemed a bit frazzled at the parent meeting and, quite honestly, I thought she might be a control freak too. But the more interaction I have with her, the more I believe that I was wrong. I think Reagan will have a great year, and both Mrs. Willhite and her intern, Mrs. Mills (who is very energetic and fun!) will have positive influences on Reagan.

On Reagan's first day, Scott and I (and Presley) walked Reagan to her class, got her settled (I cried), and then stayed for a reception with the principal. Pickup was at 10:30, so we arrived back at school at 10:15. By then the car rider lane was backed up and Reagan couldn't find our car, so she cried. :( (Keep in mind that the kids are always under adult supervision--the teachers walk with them until they find their car. Nonethelesss, I now get there 30 minutes before the end of school). Tuesday was better--another half day for kindergarten. I walked her in again, and I arrived at pickup in time to be on the front side of the school (Presley watched a movie and ate lunch while we waited). Wednesday was again chaotic. I walked her to her class that morning, but pickup was complicated by a full day of class for the whole school which meant an especially crowded car rider lane. (Again, Presley watched a movie and snacked; I crocheted.)

Then there was Thursday. Reagan insisted that she wanted to be dropped off at the door--no more walking in with Mama. What? Already? Are you sure? Yes! So, against my will, I arrived just before 7:45 (when the doors open), pulled up as close to the entrance as permitted, and let Reagan hop out of the car alone--alone!!! But, fortunately, there are lots of staff members on hand to open doors, hold hands, and usher kids safely into the building. I tried to watch as I was pulling out of the drive, but I wasn't able to see if she walked into the building...I just had to trust that she did. (Then I cried on the ride home.)

A friend of mine who also has a kindergartener explained it best: Up until now, there has always been a hand-off. You go to church, hand your child over to a loving nursery worker, and get your card that identifies you as her parent. Or, you go to preschool, sign your kid in for the day, then hand her over to the teacher who will nurture and watch over her. In big kid school, you just let them out at the door and hope they all get to where they're supposed to. (And sometimes they don't!!! Just ask my mom about her school losing a kindergartener for a while this week! Don't worry, the story ends well.) So, forgive me if I feel a bit apprehensive about letting her take on these big kid duties. We've both been through a lot of growing up this week!

Today is Friday, and once again I let Reagan out at the door and watched her walk toward the entrance. The good news is that in just a few minutes I'll be going back to the school to help out in the lunchroom--so I can see with my own eyes that she did, in fact, arrive safely. Then I'll do my 30 minutes in the car rider lane this afternoon. I didn't realize that kindergarten was going to take over my life...but it kinda has. I thought I would actually have more time and freedom to accomplish things, but the opposite has really happened. Not only am I a prisoner of the car rider lane, but Presley now requires so much of my attention because she misses Reagan! But it will get better on all accounts, I'm sure. And whether or not we're ready for it, this is what growing up is...for both of us. All of us.

Reagan's First Day of Kindergarten

2008-08-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

Bright and early this morning (7:15 a.m.) we all (Daddy, Mama, Reagan, Presley) piled in the car and took Reagan to her first day of kindergarten. The area surrounding the school was so crowded that we had to park on a neighborhood street across the road! Hundreds of students and their parents were milling about, checking out classrooms, catching up with old friends, and filling out more paperwork. (I seriously think I've filled out about a ream of paper's worth just for Reagan.)

When we got to her room, Mrs. Willhite was there with her camera to take a photo of the whole family. (We took a few pictures too.) We dropped off Reagan's classroom supplies in the bins, and then Reagan found her cubby and put away her backpack. Each child had a container of Play-doh at their desk, so their morning got off to a fun start. We stayed for a couple of minutes and then said our good-byes. Reagan smiled and said, "Bye! I'm going to have a great day!"

The rest of us went to the Media Center for a reception with the principal, then we had to see the school nurse about Reagan's Epi-pen. Finally, after 8:30, we were on our way home.

It seemed like the day went very well for Reagan. She told us about reading time and named a few of her new friends. But the day came to a sad end. As we were waiting in the endless car rider line, I could barely see the kindergarteners being marched outside by the teachers. We were so far away that Reagan couldn't see us. (We arrived 15 minutes early, and we barely made it into the parking lot. Within about a minute of our arrival, traffic was in the street and through the intersection!) I had warned Reagan that she might have to wait, that there might be other cars in front of me, but apparently that information didn't sink in. By the time she was led to our car, she was in tears.

Even though pick-up didn't go so well (and, really, it was just a crazy mess out there), I do feel a bit better about sending her to kindergarten, now that she has her first half day under her belt. I know she's going to have a great year--after all, she's smart and funny and totally loveable!

Love Is...

2008-08-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

Remembe those "Love Is" cartoons from the 70s? You know, they had that naked man and woman (only, for some reason, nobody seemed to care that they were naked) who always looked starry-eyed and shared sentiments like, "Love is... teaching the baby to say 'Daddy' first" or "Love is... giving him the last cookie."

I vaguely remember buying a book of those cartoons when I was a kid (at a book fair, I think, because I doubt if my parents would have approved the purchase if they had been with me). I recently found the book (got a new bookshelf--you find a lot of things when you re-arrange your books), and Reagan has been asking me to read it to her. This got me thinking about my own "Love Is" list for my kids. It goes something like this:

Love Is...

...letting your daughter pour you another cup of invisible tea, even though you've had approximately 658 cups already.

...trading her your seven-layer burrito for her plain taco--even though that's what she ordered--because she likes yours better.

...taking the morning off work so that you can both take her to her first day of kindergarten. (That one is Daddy, actually.)

...letting her help you cook, even though it takes twice as long and requires more clean-up.

...reading Little Mommy one more time before bed.

...loading the "Story Time with Belle" CD-rom on your computer, even though the last kid game you loaded caused your computer to crash six times.

The list could go on and on. The things we do to show love to our kids is endless. Sometimes it's also at the other end of the spectrum: sending her to time out so that she learns to be respectful...making her drink her milk so she'll have strong bones...even sending a little defenseless five-year-old into a big, scary school so that she can become more independent and gain knowledge. (That one is happening within the week, by the way.)

Sometimes I ask Reagan if she knows how much I love her. Surprisingly, sometimes she says "no." (I'm afraid she's a bit of an emotional manipulator--she knows that kind of stuff will get a reaction from me.) But I know that when she grows up, she may look back and see things she wishes I would have done differently (who can do it perfectly?), but she will know, without any doubt, that she was and is loved by her family.

Can I Have Five Minutes to Myself, Please?

2008-08-05T13:22:00.000-07:00

So, I had just settled in for my five-minute shower (yes, five minutes--if I'm lucky) when the door flew open with reckless abandon as Presley stood--with absolutely no concern for my privacy, I might add--holding a pencil. Here's how it went:

Me: Presley, close the door.

(no response)

Me: Presley, why are you holding a pencil?

(no response)

Me: Presley, put the pencil on the sink and close the door.

Eventually, after much more discussion along the same lines, Presley leaves with the pencil in hand. Within a minute, Reagan bursts through the door.

Reagan: (in her sing-song, tattle-tale voice) Presley just wrote on the wall!

Seriously, can I just get five minutes to wash myself? My personal hygiene is at stake here. To make an already long story a bit shorter, I'll just say that Presley got to scrub the wall in the bonus room (glad we chose the semi-gloss paint that washes well!), and it was actually a pretty normal morning. In fact, if I get to take my shower alone, I consider that an unusual morning.

Oh, the joys of parenting.

Pray for Ashley

2008-07-31T05:02:00.001-07:00

Many of you know our former neighbor, Ashley Holmertz, who discovered she had bone cancer when she was a vibrant 17-year-old varsity soccer player. Ashley has had her ups and downs, miracles and setbacks, but throughout this journey, Ashley and her family--especially her mother Judy--have never wavered in their faith. Now Ashley's fight has reached a critical point, and unless the Lord intervenes (which He has done before), Ashley will go home to be with Him.

I've attached a portion of her mother's email update below so that you will know how to pray. Here's a link that tells a brief version of Ashley's story. It's from the website of the foundation she and her family established to help others who are facing cancer: http://ashleyshand.org/story.html

July 30, 2008
Dear Friends and Family,

I write to you with heavy heart because of our news last week. As I watch Ashley walk today, my heart fills with sadness and memories. Her walk is so different than when she ran down fields of green to place the ball into the net or assist a teammate. Her nickname was “The Force!” Rightly named because of her intense determination to make it to the goal no matter what or whom she plowed down in the process.

Today, Ashley is running a race for her life. The PET-CT reports last week show very advanced tumors (new ones) in her body in the sacrum area. We were shocked that so much had changed in only 7 weeks. Vanderbilt doctors and Hospice have given a limited time for Ashley to be with us. BUT the final WORD comes from our heavenly Father – God Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, healer of our souls and body. God gently reminds me that she was His daughter first. And He loves her even more than I do. He has a plan…

Right now, Ashley wants to fight. So to honor her wishes, we turn to the Oasis of Hope Cancer Hospital in Tijuana, Baja California. (Her doctors at MD Anderson and Vanderbilt have run out of options.) We have visited Oasis of Hope twice, so we know and trust its oncologists. They feel they have some new treatments to offer. They do not promise a cure, but feel that their plan coupled with Ashley’s hope can go a long way, especially when the Lord is in it. I agree. However, our insurance will not cover the approximately $30,000 for the 24 days of treatment. We ask that you pray diligently for God to provide the money for Ashley to go. Allison, her sister, will be traveling with her so that I can have surgery for my breast cancer which is scheduled August 14th.

Any donations may be mailed to:
Judson Baptist Church
4900 Franklin Road
Nashville, TN 37220
(Make checks payable to Judson Baptist and memo for Ashley Fund.)
If Ashley is unable to go due to health or available funds, donations will go toward hospice care and to create a special memory with family.

Please continue to pray for God’s healing miracle in Ashley’s life. I hold closely the verse in Hebrews 10:35, “Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward.” God is a rewarder of those who believe and do not doubt.

As always, thanking God for you,
Judy

Ladies Who Lunch

2008-07-29T11:29:00.000-07:00

Doesn't Presley just look like one of those "ladies of leisure" who spend their afternoons playing tennis and lunching with friends. Love that she has her shades on and her cell phone at the ready!

Reagan's Neverland Party

2008-07-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics from Reagan's 5th birthday party. The theme was Neverland, and all guests were sprinkled with pixie dust upon arrival. We made a craft, opened gifts from family, and ate cake and drank punch.

Reagan requested no gifts from her friends, since she got plenty from her family members. Instead, if guests wished to contribute, we had a donation jar for the Haiti Starfish program our church sponsors, which provides school lunches for children in Haiti. With what we've collected so far, we can feed two kids for the entire year!

Here are a few pics from the party:

Wendy & Tink

The cake, made by Mama, had beads to make it sparkle!

All the kiddos in their costumes

Opening her gifts

5th Birthday in Neverland

2008-07-29T06:26:00.000-07:00

Reagan had a Neverland party on Saturday. She, of course, was Tinkerbell (along with most of her other little girl friends) and Presley was Wendy. We also had a Lost Boy and Peter Pan present, along with miscellaneous fairies. Here are a few pics:

Mama made the cake, and added a few beads for sparkle

Tink

All the kids in costume

The girls at the craft table

Reagan with her two true loves, Curry (Lost Boy) and Tyler (Peter Pan)

The Girl with the Curl

2008-07-21T11:44:00.000-07:00

There was a little girl who had a little curl

Right in the middle of her forehead.

And when she was good, she was very good.

And when she was bad, she was horrid.

That pretty much sums up our sweet Presley. . . she can turn on you in a second! But she sure is cute, isn't she?

Allergy Warning

2008-07-08T15:11:00.000-07:00

Today Reagan was making all sorts of "food" for me with homemade play dough. After a burger and some fries, she asked if I would like some cookies. I said, "Sure." She replied: "They have tree nuts in them. All of my cookies are processed with tree nuts." Her exact words.

Now, this might not seem so unusual, except that Reagan is allergic to certain tree nuts, and we've cautioned her on eating foods that don't necessarily contain tree nuts but might be processed on equipment that also processes tree nuts. In fact, she didn't get to have a cookie from the Fresh Market last week because all their cookies are processed on shared equipment with those that contain tree nuts.

My point is, she's learning! And she's using that knowledge in role play, which will serve her well in a situation where she really should avoid certain foods. Wow, sometimes she just seems so grown up!

Sticky Situation

2008-07-08T15:01:00.000-07:00

I meant to blog about this a couple of weeks ago when it happened, but I got busy and forgot.

One afternoon, I was letting the girls watch a DVD and "rest" while I did some work on my computer. They were being pretty quiet/calm, so I must have relaxed a bit and stopped paying attention to them. A few minutes later, Presley came over to me with her finger up her nose and said, "Ticker." I took that to mean that perhaps she had a "bat in the cave," so to speak, so I did what any other mother would do: stuck my pinky nail up her nose to try to get it out. Only when I did, I felt something hard up the canal of her nose. That's when I realized what she was trying to tell me--that she had put a sticker up her nose.

So...I took her to the bedroom and got her horizontal on the bed. With a trusty flashlight in hand, I instructed her to close her eyes--didn't want to blind her in the process. I could see that the sticker was indeed in her nose, and quite a ways up there. I fetched the tweezers and made a valiant effort before realizing I might hurt her, since I didn't know what I was doing. I resigned myself to calling the pediatrician who, no doubt, was experienced at extracting foreign objects from the noses of preschoolers.

We were in danger of being late for Reagan's dance camp, so I figured I'd drop her off on the way to the doc. I had dialed the phone and was waiting to push 2 to talk to a nurse, when Presley stood before me and sneezed loudly. Out came the sticker! Woohoo! Trip to the pediatrician and a $25 co-pay averted (not to mention much embarrassment for being the parent of "that kid who put the sticker up her nose").

My Little Helper

2008-07-08T14:52:00.001-07:00

I just love the fact that I can ask Reagan, "Does Presley have a stinky diaper?" and she will sniff her for me and answer with authority one of three ways: (1) "Yes," (2) "No," or (3) "No, but she pee-peed." That is a service I would gladly pay money for, but am lucky enough to get free from a four-year-old.

Indy

2008-07-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

We took a quick trip to Indy over the holiday weekend. First, my parents (along with Scott and I) took the kids to the Indianapolis Children's Museum.

Getting in costume for the bluescreen show.

In a giant Dino-nest.

Water play in the exhibit sponsored by Indiana native David Letterman.

Afterward, they took the kids home with them and Scott and I stayed in Indy for the night. We stayed at the Canterbury Hotel downtown in the Circle Center. We actually had access to the mall directly from our hotel. We were also next door the the famous St. Elmo Steak House and within walking distance to dozens of restaurants. Just a few blocks away was Indy's landmark Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

On the way out of town, we stopped to take a few (dozen) pictures of the new Lucas Oil Stadium where the Colts will play next year. As you can see, it dwarfs the current stadium. Pretty impressive.

Indianapolis Children's Museum

2008-07-08T07:27:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics from our recent visit to the fabulous Children's Museum in Indianapolis:

Reagan Poses with the Museum's Own Superhero

Super Girl Reagan in the Comic Book Exhibit

Driving the Bulldozer

Surprise!

Indianapolis Children's Museum

2008-07-08T07:21:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics from our recent visit to the amazing Children's Museum in Indianapolis:

Presley plays a game as Lightning McQueen.

One of the many play areas.

Hangin' out with the Couch Potato.

Presley & Curious George: buddies for life.

Asbury Reunion

2008-06-30T11:02:00.001-07:00

With all that's been going on lately, I hadn't had a chance to post anything about my, ahem, 15th college reunion. (Serioulsy, am I that old? 'Cause I still feel like a kid sometimes.) Anyhow, we had a fun but brief trip to Wilmore last Saturday. I must say I'm a wee bit disappointed in the number of classmates who decided not to show up (many of whom, I know, live much closer than I do). But those of us who were there had a fun time catching up and reconnecting. And, thanks to Facebook and, hopefully, the new Asbury online community, we'll stay in touch between reunions too. Here are a few pics from the event:

Matt Atkins, Jana Bracken McCracken, me, Tiffany Switzer Harper

Neil Brenner, me & Presley, Melinda Jones (don't know her new last name)

Neil and I spent ten weeks in a van together with four other vocalists on summer tour in college.

Holly Schopmeyer Law, Jana, Melissa Kuhnell Davis, Amy Turkelson (don't know her new last name), me & Presley, Tiffany

Me, Chad Crouch, Presley

Chad and I went to Jamaica on music teams together several times.

Do you see a recurring theme here? Presley just couldn't stay out of the pictures. Reagan, on the other hand, had made a new friend in Caitlyn, Jana's daughter (we were both pregnant at the last reunion), and was off doing her own thing.

I loved seeing my "old Kentucky home," but we had to return to Nashville early Sunday morning to visit with Scott's ailing granny. She passed this week, and we celebrated her homegoing yesterday. Granny was loved by many, as was evident by the full chapel at her funeral. We'll miss her, but we know her suffering is now over and her joy is complete.

Kid's Biz

2008-06-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

Reagan just completed a week-long song & dance camp, Kid's Biz, with her Kinderdance teacher, Ms. Donna. In just one week (less than 5 days, actually, and only 2 1/2 hours in each session), Ms. Donna teaches a group of about eight girls, ages 3-6, more than a dozen song and dance numbers, complete with costumes and props. This year's theme was, "Reminisce," and featured songs such as "I Enjoy Being a Girl," "You're a Grand Old Flag," and "Someday I'll Be Miss America." The girls perform the show for a group of residents at an assisted living facility, and, of course their adoring families. Here are a couple of pics, along with a video of Reagan's solo on the mic (she was the only one with a solo!), "A Bushel and a Peck."

Club Libby Lu

2008-06-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

Getting an Updo

The Finished Princess

Giving Daddy a Makeover

Big Girl Panties and Other Fun

2008-06-19T07:30:00.000-07:00

Elmo Panties

The Carousel at Opry Mills

Presley with the Pink Leopard She Made at Build-a-Bear

After a Summer Treat

Summer Fun

2008-06-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we took the girls to Build-a-Bear and Club Libby Lu to use up the gift cards they had received. Here are a couple of pics.

Presley's Candy Land Party

2008-06-09T06:20:00.000-07:00

Presley's Candy Land-themed 2nd birthday party was Saturday. You can read about it at http://presleygibbs.blogspot.com/2008/06/candy-land-party.html, but here's a pic of the cake I made.

Candy Land Party

2008-06-09T05:55:00.000-07:00

Presley had her 2nd birthday party on Saturday. The theme was Candy Land, and it truly was! There was every kind of candy under the sun in mason jars for the immediate consumption. The cake was a full sheet cake (serves around 75!) with the game board in even more candy and icing. I printed pictures of the characters on cardstock to designate the different areas from the board (peppermint forest, chocolate swamp, candy castle, etc.). We also had our own "chocolate swamp"--Grandma's chocolate fountain. Here are a few fun pics from the day:

For the cake, I used a pre-iced full sheet cake,

then spraypainted the green and added all the candy.

The Cholcoate Swamp

Playing Candy Land on the rug board

The birthday girl takes a dip in the Chocolate Swamp

Candy Land did, however, come at a cost. Much like the Sunday after Reagan's 2nd birthday party when we kept the nursery and watched out mild-mannered toddler hit, bite, and just be generally naughty, Presley had a rough morning in the nursery at church. She wasn't being aggressive, but was crying and inconsolable--sooooo not like her! After a couple of attempts to leave her, I finally just took her into church. Once she was sitting with her grandparents and cousins, she was just fine. We chalked it up to too much candy and not wanting to miss out on cousin time. She was fine the rest of the day.

All in all, it was a fun birthday, but we still have WAY too much candy and cake in the house.