Corporate America- Here I come-

Sorry its been so long since I've posted- I've been busy with kids, having my main contract not renew with one of my clients- and finding a new j.o.b. :( So-- as you can tell-- its been quite a few weeks around here. We're adjusting- and I've started a new position with a local energy company that fits my skills and background quite nicely- so it's all good. Regardless- I hope I never have to witness any of our VP's pulling this shite!

Datz how we "roll" to Aggie Football

Amazing how Aggie football can conjure up old feelings (basically the last 10 years of my married life.) Every football season and several early fall-late summers- I've been inundated with college football. It's not my husbands fault- it's his moms! She is probably the most energetic football enthusiast I've ever met! She know's the scores- she knows who's who and why they played for a certain team (both NFL and Collegiate) and what they weighed at their spring training. (well- maybe not what ALL of them weighed) So- lets just say- I'm either doomed to the life of a "football-widow" or I join in on the fun! I've picked the latter. (not as enthusiastically as my MIL though.) Our dear friends Kat and Lance have had a motorhome for several seasons and a travel trailer before- they also have twins that are one year older than the "killer B's"- and the B's love hanging out with "the E's" :) so- we decided to do it- we're now RV'ers! We've purchased our first little trailer with a bed and a cooktop and basically a place to crash when games get tough or the celebration gets to a point that stopping is not an option! We took this little maroon and white baby out on her maiden "voyage" this past weekend. (I think we're going to call it the "B Hive") and I've even picked out an image that I'm going to have a flag made into for our little "home away from home" Other than the fact that I almost broke my foot when we drove in the parking lot and began taking the trailer off the "Ex-Pi" (whether it is actually broken or not-is still up for interpretation) We had a great time! We grilled burgers, had a few glasses of wine- and soaked in the football! The lot ("Lot R") is basically about 300 yards from the football stadium- and although A&M has not been the "hot-bed" of collegiate tailgating in the past- it is heating up pretty quickly now! There were TONS of RV's in the lot for this game- and even more will be there once they start going head to toe with the big 12 teams. (Texas Tech is this coming Sat.- Whoop!) So- we've got lots of "camping" in our future. We're also thinking about people like Brad Blauser while were there and wishing him the best while he is in Iraq. Enjoy the pics- There will be LOTS more coming in the next few weeks!

Filler' Up!

Amazing!! We drove in to the parking lot of Sams this weekend to fill up our gas guzzler- and this is what we saw! National Gas prices are still pretty high- I wonder if the little gas man that stands around the pumps at Sams accidentally put up these prices? We thought we were in some alternate reality. :) We had ideas of "running home to fill up milk jugs" with gas and driving for days around Beltway 8 or the loop just to stop at other Sams and fill up on cheap gas! (Incidentally- we had some other thoughts too horribly immature to speak of in this venue-) so I'll just keep quiet about those and we'll enjoy the better gas prices while they last.

Queen of the Rodeo

Here's a clip of Brooke riding one of the hand fed goats at my parents farm- (This past weekend) She screamed and chased them and tried to get back on them when she fell off. It was really cute. Do they make goat saddles? :)

A binkie each night helps ALL of us sleep tight

(THIS PIC IS NOT MY KID BTW-)

Horror of all horrors-- We (aka:Royal We- which is really "I") took away the binkies yesterday. We have been w/o them for approximately 22 hours now- and during waking/play hours things are good- but bed time is another story! Let me back up a little- a few months ago- we decided that our 2 year old twins needed to ONLY have the binks in the nursery- and we held pretty tight to that rule- unless we were on a long car ride where they might "need" them to get to sleep- they pretty much didn't come downstairs unless they were snuck in a pocket and pulled out on the sly while we weren't watching. So- yesterday- after the kids got out of bed and came downstairs- I got this wild idea that we would tell them that "Jiffy had them" and since he is a baby bunny- he "NEEDS" them. I went on to explain to two very perplexed toddlers that at nap time we would not have the binkies anymore and that they had been "sent to Nana and PAPA's farm to be put in Jiffy's cage". They seemed okay with that and only asked briefly where they were. When we laid them down for nap time- I went all over the house, in the cars and in their bags to collect the binks and put them in an undisclosed place. I didn't think that I would cave- but I knew that B might- so I didn't want him to be able to find them! My plan was falling into place seamlessly- but I hadn't "planned" on the fallout that ensued! At naptime- we all marched up the stairs as usual and that's when the kicking and screaming and running and opening all the drawers in the nursery began- there was explaining and re-explaining and letting them know that they were "big girls and boys now- and they didn't really need them"- this explanation happened at least 4 times. Needless to say- there was NO nap. :( This all took about 3 hours- Several times I wanted so badly to just give in to Bryce- (because Brooke acted as if she could care less if she had one or not-although she did use this as an opportunity to get out of bed and run in circles as Bryce cried.) but I knew if I handed it over to him- he would know I was a liar- and my elaborately schemed plan wasn't really true. Hang with me-parents of older kids- this is my first attempt at parental sneekyness! Furthermore, I knew it might spark other tantrums for other objects that Bryce might want really badly in the future. So- I held firm. After we got them up from their non-existent "nap" we all went outside- and did a little gardening and they rode their bikes around the driveway- and after about an hour- Bryce layed down on the concrete and said- "I tired-sleepy!" So- I decided to take them up about 6:00 -- and start the process of getting them in bed- early. Bad idea. It just ended up being 3 hours of them (Him) screaming for binkies instead of the regular one hour bath-PJ and book reading extravaganza that bedtime usually is. (Note to self-don't prolong agony- keep it simple stupid!) So- now "We" have TWO over-tired two year olds on our hands-- and its only 8pm! God help us! Then (drum roll please)- the door slamming started- and after several attempts at getting them back in bed- the frustration set in. Bryce was NOT going to go to bed w/o his "bink"- and about 1:30am B started asking if we were doing the right thing-- "yes" I muttered... He just looked at me and blinked- like I was cutting off their arms or something! ugh! I realize they are our babies- but they REALLY are toddlers-- 2.5 now and ready to be potty trained and move past needing oral fixations to get to sleep. (Although B is almost 40-- and ...well- never mind... ) How does this happen to me? It seems simple enough. The doc says "they cant have the binks- take em away- and don't give in. "-- Now execute-- EXECUTE--EXECUTE!!! With that-it's way past nap time here and I feel like getting my silky- and laying down for a good thumb sucking... :) Some things never change.

We Will Not Forget!

“"The liberties of our country, the freedoms of our civil Constitution are worth defending at all hazards; it is our duty to defend them against all attacks. We have received them as a fair inheritance from our worthy ancestors. They purchased them for us with toil and danger and expense of treasure and blood. It will bring a mark of everlasting infamy on the present generation – enlightened as it is – if we should suffer them to be wrested from us by violence without a struggle, or to be cheated out of them by the artifices of designing men." -Samuel Adams”

Goodbye Croc-Hunter

So Sad to hear about Steve Irwin! He is one of my kids favorite's! He will be missed! "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin died today after being stabbed by a stingray barb. Irwin was off Australia's coast, filming a feature for his daughter's show. "He came over the top of a stingray that was buried in the sand, and the barb came up and hit him in the chest," Irwin's manager John Stainton said.

Dear Brooke;

CIMG8334, originally uploaded by amydell.

“To stand still is to lose, To move is to gain, To change is to grow.”

Interesting article on the finances of parenting

I was reading this article- and couldn't stop thinking of my friend Leigh (in Texas) She just bought a minivan! (Which incidentally was more $$ than my expedition!) I guess that's fine for Leigh and her family- but I assure you- we did NOT buy the BIG OL' S.U.V. for our whitewater rafting excursions! Its a good article- give it a read.

Whore for HBO

Have I told you how much I love this show? I would climb mountains, drive through the pouring rain- and knock down old ladies to get home in time to see it!

Bunny Love

We spent time at my parents farm this past weekend- and these are a few shots with "Jiffy" the peanut butter colored bunny- and baking Nestles Toll House cookies- YUMMAY! The kids had a great time and I think we've gotten them in the swing of spending time with Nana and Pop Pop- just in time for A&M football to start next weekend. We're super excited- and I cant wait to see my A&M friends! This should be a fun season. At least we're down one mortgage and things are going to start smoothing out really soon. I'm also looking forward to the next few months with the kids. They seem to be chatting up a storm and really enjoying the extra attention they get from saying such cute stuff! Here is a pic of Nana, Jiffy and Brooke too-

Memories of "Clique-ville"

Its hard for me to deny how much of an outsider I felt like when I lived up North. I know I talk about living up there frequently- but this week kind of brought up some memories from years ago- and how living there was both the best of times and the worst of times. Firstly- this post's comments section!!! (I don't think I even remembered how much I hated the "Bitchy-bitches" up there- until now!) I seriously have NEVER had problems making friends- and I had a serious problem up there. This post on Gawker really puts it into perspective. Women were so clique-ish and self centered- money-focused (I was a flight attendant with no degree & no $$ at the time- so I measured a "zero" on their scale of possible acquaintances!) The only people who even made an impression on me were ones who WERE NOT FROM THERE! I can honestly say I lived there almost 5 years and only keep in touch with ONE person from there now. No one I worked with up there even lives there anymore. Its a hard city to live in- one that will chew you up and spit you out if you aren't paying attention! I'm pretty sure the reason I had to make it back to the South ASAP was for my own sanity!! Another reason was to finish my education. Lastly- I had to meet my Darlin Mississippi man! Who says you cant play-then get back to where you feel comfortable and accepted? NYC might as well be another planet to me now.

And for my 100th post- a little Aristotle

“Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence”

Kiddos Packing Care Packages for the Soldiers in Iraq

The Kiddos LOVED packing the care packages for the soldiers over in Iraq. Bryce's little fingers had to be pryed off of the matchbox cars- and we had to explain to him that there were other children that would love to have these toys. Brooke eyed the "goldfish" and almost crushed one of the bags she was so excited. It was a good day- we all felt great to do something fun together and to make others happy by letting them know we appreciate what they are doing! I'd like to plug a website that I'm going to challenge you to donate to- Read his entries and pass on a note of encouragement if you can- or maybe a care package? He's a good Ag! - and thats Good Bull!

Trash Truck Irony

CIMG8944, originally uploaded by amydell.

Check out this shot- I took it this morning when the recycle truck came around to pick up the trash in the neighborhood. The house on the side of the truck is OURS!!-- the ironic thing??-- We dont recycle... :)

Wiggles Mania!

CIMG8711, originally uploaded by amydell.

Well- Wiggles mania has hit Houston! We had a great time taking the babies to see them this afternoon. As you can see from the picture- we were so close to them that they could practically sweat on us! There were only a few melt downs- and one that cost Bill 15$ (The flashy Wiggles red car plastic thingy- that Bryce HAD to have-- :() but all in all- it was a good time. Bill was upset they weren't selling beer! lol-- at a CHILDRENS concert-- Helloo??? The house has not closed yet- we are waiting to hear back from the buyers mortgage company- once they approve his funding- we are able to move forward and march to a closing. If everything goes well- then this should happen next week?? Good times--

It was the "lacerated S" George!!!

OMG- all of the attornies we know will love this-

Some things I dont miss about NYC

Apparently-- some men (from my experience--a lot of men) up north- dont have much of a leg to stand on when it comes to manners- This is as funny as it is scary! I think I dated this guy when I lived there? ;)~

"Milk and Sugar"

Seersucker--Does it get much more Southern? This past weekend- my eldest female cousin got married. Thats where this pic was taken. How lucky am I to have found such a handsome man? :) I'm hoping to get back to the posting with some regularity now! ;) We got an offer on our house- and its going through the inspection process now. -- They want to close by Aug 15th- isnt that fantastic? ;) I cant wait to have this off of our plates! Hope everyone is having a happy summer!

Welcome baby Price!

DSC00671, originally uploaded by amydell.

A Note to Price:

Dear Price-

We've waited a long time for your mommy and daddy to have you- and you are FINALLY here! Welcome to the world- and to Houston! It's hot- (you picked the hottest time of the year to join us)- and also the most fun time of the year to have a birthday party! Your mama did so well today- and we're all really proud of her- she is a trooper! Take it easy on her okay? Don't stay up too late at night and cry until unbearable hours of the morning. Be sure and come and visit often- Brooke and Bryce want to teach you how to beat the hell outa TU -- just like daddy taught them- ASAP- :) (Whoop!)--

Welcome, welcome little one- we love you!

Auntie Amydell~

Happy Birthday- USA!!

4th, originally uploaded by amydell.

There's nothing like a two year old- and fireworks!! The 'ewwss' and 'ahhhh's'-- adorable!!

I explained to Brooke (on the way over to the private nature preserve we watched fireworks at) that we were going to "celebrate the "birthday" of the United States!" and that we were going to see "lights in the sky" as part of the celebration. She thought about this- got a huge grin on her face and promptly replied- "BIRTHDAY CAKE!!!"-- which, in essence- IS a birthday to a two year old I guess.

After we arrived there- we set up our chairs and settled in for a delightful display of fireworks that not only lit up the beach immediately in front of us- (the Hilton had a fireworks show for their guests) but we could also see shows going on as far as we could see down the beach. It was wonderful! The babies loved it- and kept saying "MORE, MORE" and "MAS!!, MAS" , "Again" and "Ewwwww, SPARKLES!" This has certainly been a great trip for us- and the kiddos are having a great time here in Destin. Who would have known that they would be such a joy to travel with? I get the assurance that they are okay- and taken care of- and plenty of family to watch out for them when my eyes wander away for a minute or I "need" to grab another glass of wine or a beer! ;) I can’t ever remember having this much fun on a vacation. I also can’t remember a time when I felt more patriotic. It's been wonderful- and I'm thankful for the people who are in Iraq- fighting for my right to enjoy this holiday with my family. HAPPY 4th!

Terrible Two's

CIMG8161, originally uploaded by amydell.

It's impossible to tell you all just how bad she's been lately- This was taken right after a crying fit- before we spent our day taking them to the zoo and to Chic-fillet. Hmmm.. something is wrong here-- the harder we try- the harder she makes it on us.

How Nice to Be Southern!

So, there they were- after drinking my morning coffe and sauntering to my mailbox still in my pajamas- I peered in and there they sat!! Beautiful paper, beautiful handwriting, addressed lovingly with the name that I've adopted with marriage-- "Mrs. Amydell Beardshall" and "Mrs. Beardshall"- how lovely and wonderful! And I thought- "How nice to be Southern!" These notes of 'Thanks' made every second of work and preparation- worth the effort! Rarely do I get the attention of such notes, so when I do receive them- I cherish them! They contained such nuggets of love as "... we were all happy and delighted guests!", "I enjoyed every minute of my stay" and "I have never seen such attention to detail and I loved it all." -- My mother made me this way! I must confess- Southern women aren't just born Southern- we're bred. I've often felt that etiquette and adoration shown to people that provide enjoyment for me is of the utmost importance. I absolutely love, love, love to entertain- but find that people rarely return the favor. In days past- people would meet for lavish or simple - lovingly prepared dinners and parties- as a part of their social engagement calendars. No internet- no phone-- letters and correspondence were their method of exchange, giving them something to look forward to outside of slopping the hogs and weeding the garden. It was seen as a mode of entertainment before the "tonight show" and Nintendo. How Delightful it must have been to just sit on the front porch after supper- with a glass of iced tea and chat about the neighborhood or the state of the Union. I often think I was born at the wrong time- (barring the necessity of central air and heat) It was more genteel and certainly more fussy. I like that. I LIKE spending time to entertain my friends and family- who am I without them? I putter and primp in preparation for my next feast, I crave the conversations of the evening under candle light and good wine. I am here to please and pamper you, for without you, I am not happy. So thank YOU- for those notes of 'Thanks"- they made my day- they might have even made my year! I'm off to write a couple of my own now with fresh thoughts of appreciation on my pen!

My 'room with a view'

CIMG8101, originally uploaded by amydell.

Clearly-(for those of you that know us)- the last 14 mos have been the hardest financially of our married life. The small things- like this view from our library/office window make things a little more tollerable, make me a little more 'willing' to hang on and pray that our other house sells soon! There is a book that I read in college by Forster, that I'll always remember- the opening passage says "Any nook does for me, but it does seem hard that you shouldn't have a view." It reminds me a lot of a saying my mother used to use a lot when I was little (and frequently now, even though I'm grown) "Bloom where you're planted". I love making this home, my own.

Check it out and let me know what you thought of it. Its a free read. ENJOY! Let me know about your 'views', today. :)

You might think I'm cute- but THINK AGAIN!

So- this past Sunday- we took the kiddos to this local place called Lupe Tortillas. It's supposed to be "the kid place" to take small chillens and eat some good grub. (and it IS) for people with children who are not demon spawn! Holy Jesus!! I have NEVER seen TWO, two year olds be as bad as our two were. They RAN across the parking lot to the sand box- where the "parent stadium" is set up- and happily joined three hundred other blonde haired, blue eyed, white kids whose parents were partaking in various libations (from the stadium) and screaming demands to "stop dumping sand down his pants" and "stop kicking the little girl in the eyeballs!" I SWEAR I have NEVER seen that many kids in my life that looked just like mine do! It was worrisome, at best- because I could never seem to get both of them in my "mommy view" before the other ran in the opposite direction. Oh- how I 'love' them being two. 15 mins after we let them loose in the sand pit- we were called to our table- where we 'promptly' wrangled the kids (after my being BIT on the shoulder by Bryce, because I was taking him from "MY sandcox") -- and after navigating the small, seperate rooms of the place- could not find DH- I returned to the deck- and found that he had given up the table we were waiting for and had let Brooke return to her sand dream. UGH! Instead of EATING-- Grrrrrrrrr.... So- I went back in- put us back on the list and demanded that we were GOING to have a meal AT THIS PLACE- and the kids WERE going to behave... (1st bad mistake!) They WHALED all the way in from the box-O-fun and layed on the floor screaming until we started shoving chips in them. They started to calm down a little bit after the found and tore apart every crayola on the table. By this point- the poor wait staff were DONE with us- and the young, childless couple sitting at the table next to us- vowed in a loud whisper NEVER to procreate! (yeah, Good idea!) FINALLY - the food came- and some order was restored as Bryce climbed from the back of my chair (after trying to escape and run free in the eatery) and sat on the "REEEEEEDDDDDDDD" chair you see here. He ate like a champ- colored (with his partially chewed crayons) and basically turned into the angel that I gave birth to. We caught this pic- right after he settled a bit, and Brooke pee'd on my leg. Caviat: ALL I HAD IN THE CAR (because I'm twin mother of the year, was swimmers-- we had NO PULLUPS left!) (are swimmers supposed to be used as every day diapers? because apparently- they arent- they wick away water and let it SEEP through the diaper- because thats what this one did!) Are two year olds supposed to be in public? I dont think mine are supposed to leave my house. I know I cant keep them locked in the house FOREVER- but after this past weekends experience- I dont think we'll be eating in public with them again until they are at least 14!!!! Hey Lupe Tortillas- THANKS for tryin! I hope the waitress enjoys that fat tip I left her! She EARNED it!

Some Days Are Better Than Others!

fussy guss, originally uploaded by amydell.

Nuff Said! ;)

Memorial to today

CIMG7843 Originally uploaded by amydell.

10 things I loved about this morning-with you- my love bugs: 1.) Watching you both get jiggy on some DMB 2.) Watching you both 'hop on pop' repeatedly 3.) Listening to you squeal in delight as we pointed out your boo-bah's and tickled you. 4.) The smell of daddy's pancakes and syrup on your breath when I sauntered into the kitchen at 0930. 5.) Your sticky fingers on and up my nose- while you tried to push my nose up and oink at me. 6.) Waking up next to you in your bed and seeing you stare out the window in amazement- and whisper "agua-outside" over and over. 7.) Seeing how tired you get when you need a nap- but can’t seem to budge from the playground equipment. 8.) Listening to you run through the downstairs- from upstairs, and knowing how lucky I am to hear that sound. 9.) Hearing you say "pretty girl" to me when I put your hair in a pony tail and seeing your delight as I affirm that "yes- you are the prettiest girl, in the whole wide world!" 10.) Carrying you up for a nap, while you sleep on my shoulder. You are my reason for getting up most mornings. The small things are much bigger now that you are with us. War, crime, violence, immigration, taxes, income, preservatives, Sugar, Whole wheat bread, cursing, clothing, vehicles, gas prices, neighbors, neighborhoods, friends- they all take on new meanings for me because I know that you must live in, around, with and for some of these things. It's my job to make all of these things the best I can for you both. But how do I achieve Motherhood Martyrdom- and make you independent, loving, wonderful, non-codependent people?

The Beauty of Brooke's "Bling"

CIMG7937 Originally uploaded by amydell.

What is it about jewelry that makes every girls heart go pitter patter? Even at TWO my munchkin has an affinity for picking out the prettiest and shiniest pieces in my jewelry box. There are plenty of places to pick up some cool bling in Houston- some of my favorites include 'Wish', Nordstroms and Neiman Marcus. Here is what is making my heart pitter patter this month- maybe i'll find a way to swing it and grab one of these? Or these? (Because you know, my dears, that bling is much more than jewlry! ;) Oh- to be two again and happy with plastic and shiny beads! They are much cheaper- and made me just as happy at that point!

Geeky but Cool!

Okay- my DH just sent me this URL for a neat new doowacky thing: Check it out! http://tinyurl.com/o7eru

Thanks Daddy!

Our 2 year old kids LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Hermann Park- More importantly, the train! They cannot walk past without saying "Choooooo Choooooo!" and "Thomas!"-- It costs a family of four TEN dollars (GASP!) to ride around the park for the three minute ride. It's almost unspeakable! I know that there is a ton of upkeep that must have to be done to keep these trains running- but it still seems pricy! This past week- when I was walking (alone) to the water pad (ACROSS the park) from the zoo parking lot-I had two babies- (Did I mention they are two?) a cooler on wheels (thank you Jesus for rolling coolers!) and various bags, backpacks and toys that "had" to be brought along for their enjoyment-(which they never used.) :-) "So there I was,-IN THE CONGO" and moving at an alarmingly slow pace- to get past the parking lot without one of them getting squashed by a passing vehicle and I decided to put Brooke on the rolling cooler. Yep- you guessed it- she fell off-! IN FRONT of the train! - NOT The tracks, but the ticket house-- I knew better-- but the GASPS and hushed whispers that I got-while slothing by were the most shaming I've gotten in recent history. (I'm totally expecting the "mother of the year" award this weekend, next to my pancakes in bed, which I won’t be holding my breath for!) So- I promised her we would ride the train later if she just stopped sobbing of front of the angry mob. This is her ---> with her "better judgment" daddy, safe and not riding on any ice chests. Thank you, Daddy- for the $$ train ride and for helping me get them to their birthday party- relatively unscathed.

My First Beater :)

CIMG7895 Originally uploaded by amydell.

When I was 3, I remember vividly- my mother bringing me into the kitchen and letting me help her make something chocolate- (Bryce was helping me make pudding, here) I think it was brownies or fudge- I can't remember. I was wearing a navy blue dress with white polka dots. I'll look for the picture. It was precious! I, much like Bryce here, had chocolate from head to toe- and was licking it off of a large spoon. It was delightful! I remember spending a lot of time with my mom in the kitchen. I hope B&B will do the same. Making cookies for school, pancakes on a Sunday morning with daddy, mac N' cheese- PB&J sammiches. All part of my childhood-all part of theirs too.

And Then it Happened

CIMG7755
Originally uploaded by amydell.

You turned Two-
-- I will never be the same.

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Lemon Herb Chicken

CIMG7839
Originally uploaded by amydell.

So- Bill called home last Friday night at 7:45 and said "I'm on my way, and I'm hungry!"-- Whats new? Anyhow- I had planned to grill chicken for dinner and grabbed three chx breasts out of the freezer- thawed and cut some fresh Texas Genovieve Basil and quartered some fresh lemons. Covered the chx in penzeys Florida Pepper spice and wrapped in Tin- Oh, dont forget a quick spray of Lemon Pam- to keep everything from sticking! It was fantastic! AND- doesnt everything taste better when it's from your own garden? (Everything but the yard bird that is!)

Dios Bendice a los mexicanos que permanecen en México

Ahhhhhh.. you knew it would happen. I have to share my opinions on today’s "day w/o an immigrant" situation. It is several things, in my opinion: 1) Unorganized 2) a slap in the face to employers 3) A good example of people only hurting themselves. This being said- I want to tread lightly- because I, myself employ a full time-Hispanic nanny/helper in my home. She, for all intents and purposes- helps me raise my children. She allows me to continue to work and be a productive member of the workforce. Unlike some of the articles I've read recently- she is not "cheap" labor, nor is she an illegal. She's a Texas-born, U.S. citizen who has two Texas-born grown boys. (one married to an illegal-living here illegally) We pay her well- (over 20K a year) and she deserves every penny! Our first nanny was white. My Lawn guy? White. So we're the exception- not the rule, for employing illegal immigrants. So, when you ask me "how did ""a day w/o an immigrant" go in Houston, for you?" It hasn't made much of a difference. (Although- its only 11:30-as I write this-- the day is only half over!) I walked outside with the kids and a cup of coffee this morning- and as I watched them play in the yard- I heard Garbage trucks drive by (Hmm.. garbage p/u wasn’t "halted" as expected?) I could hear people speaking Spanish in my neighbors backyard- and working going on- (They are putting in a new brick pathway), My other neighbors were getting their lawn cut by a "troop" of trailer pulling-lawn cutting extraordinaire’s- and much as I expected, life goes on! I dont happen to be one of the people who think that our economy would come to a standstill- if we chose to round everyone that is not a U.S. citizen up- and ship em out. But out of the other side of my mouth- I think that they provide a stream of income into our economy that actually helps boost our spending and buoys our per capita income, allowing us as Americans to spend less money on say- building our homes and more money on labor to help us "keep" our home. Where does the money go when we pay people to keep our homes, cut our lawns and take care of our children? Straight back into the U.S. economy? Not always- it's also bolstering the Mexican "economy" as well. People are able to send money back to their families and support them in ways that they can’t if they remain in Mexico. This is an issue for me as well- Is this right? I don’t know- but the flip side is paying an American worker- (more you can be sure) and them spending all of those dollars here in the U.S. , on housing, clothing, food, etc. I had a real "eye-opener" when I was on bed rest with the babies at Memorial Herrman Memorial City- I was there for 31 days- and I saw things the "average" American probably doesn't see much of. For one- I saw a CONSTANT influx of illegal immigrants being checked into anti-partum (that’s the "don’t have the baby yet" wing-) and getting free treatment. These girls and their boyfriends, spouses etc, were being checked in and refusing to speak ANY English- and demanding free health care (never having had ANY prenatal care) as well as free delivery of their "anchor" babies- which as most of us know- makes their children U.S. citizens. This is WRONG, Wrong, wrong on so many levels. The cost of this indigent care is in the BILLIONS- and DRAINS our businesses and schools (hospitals, schools, healthcare clinics) of dollars they might otherwise be spending on U.S. born- "Aunt Clara" who cant afford health care. Illegal aliens have cost billions of taxpayer-funded dollars for medical services. Dozens of hospitals in Texas, New Mexico Arizona, and California, have been forced to close or face bankruptcy because of federally-mandated programs requiring free emergency room services to illegal aliens. Who pays for this ultimately? We do- the U.S. Tax payer. We absorb the wear and tear on our schools and hospitals and feed the welfare recipients. We feed the children who's mama's continue to utilize the WIC programs. They are not thrown out on the curb as most people will tell you- the numbers don’t lie. Now before I get flamed by all of my dear readers or inundated with feedback (which-by the way, I love- so please post your replies!) I must say that I realize that Mexico still needs to overcome many structural problems as it tries to modernize its economy. They MUST raise their living standards. Some of it's real ongoing economic problems include low real wages, underemployment for a large segment of the population, inequitable income distribution (top 20% of income earners account for 55% of income), as well as immigration (mass exodus of a real segment of the economy that could help their economy immensely-by keeping their pesos in Mexico!) How do we solve the problem? I don’t know entirely- but the issues and drain that illegal's impose on our economy far outweigh the rewards. I feel like illegal’s are standing in our streets, wrapped in their Mexican flags and screaming while they bite the hand that feeds them. It’s all kind of absurd!

Voila! and it's done!

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

After much labor and fussing, the tile is layed and I am HAPY, happy, happeeeeeee!! Click on the picture to see a stream of all of the photos of the renovations we've done! It's looking pretty great! The living room and dining room have been re-painted to a "non-amydell" neutral color and the kitchen is next! We also replaced tile in the powder room and in the laundry area! I'm glad we got it done before this coming Monday- apparently all of the hispanics in houston are planning on sicking out. -- no work- no shopping, etc.. I'm really looking forward to a little less traffic on the road! ;)

Let me know what you think of the new tile!

Out with the old- In with the new!

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

Things are happening at a lighting fast pace lately- We've decided to tear up the flooring- and have the kitchen floors re-leveled and the walls all painted to a neutral color in our 100 year old home. (Not the new one) -- Its more work than we had bargained for and getting people there to do the work has been a task in itself. Harder than getting the workers there to actually WORK- is seeing the house go through this transformation. Although it still "belongs" to us- (we are monetarily responsible for it)- it becomes less and less ours as each day passes. It's as if I'm painting over memories. Mostly memories like when Bill and I did a 'PK' (pre-kids) faux-painting frenzy in the dining room and went all night (literally till 6am) to get it painted for an upcoming dinner party. Lesson #1. Dont paint a room with little ventilation just before a party (where people will be eating!) unless you want nauseated guests!!! :) Other memories that made this house ours were the bright yellow walls and faux finishes that we painted throughout- as well as the "death-tile" that was installed in the kitchen previous to our moving in. (The nanny and I affectionately call it that- because when the babies were learning to walk- if something was spilled on the slick porcelain tile- then they would slip and 'eat it'- every time they walked. Oh-the memories!! (good and bad) -- I think that the "changes" we've made will def. help sell the house. The sad thing that never dawned on me, is the detachment I would have to go through to wipe away the "beardshall's" and make it clean and fresh for someone else to build and paint new memories in it. It's heartbreaking. It's also heartbreaking not to have sold it yet. Although- the "detachment depression" one feels when they sell a home never really happened until now. Since we've still owned the home- we've been able to go in it any time. Such is life- ever-changing. We'll build new memories, in our new place and say good bye to the old. C'est la vie!

How do I count the ways?

Today- I had to deal a lot with work. Normal stuff- but stuff that I usually wouldn’t be doing. So my Friday was fried. That being said- I got to work with a gal that I had met a few weeks ago at a team meeting. Let me tell you- she rocks. Not just for the beauty she exudes when she walks in a room, but also for the independence and sharpness that is evident is each question she asks. That being said- I'd like to mention the things that I (as an outsider) noticed about her. Because (as she would say) "as a Diva, everyone needs to know my opinion!" ;) ** Perfect Hair- perfect- not a gray, not a wave out of place, cute coife -extroidinare! ** Perfect nails—That’s my gal!!!- and just up my alley- no explanation needed! ** Smart- Need I say more? ** Lives in the Rockies! (Does it get any cooler than that?) ** Hikes, walks, runs with the wolves! (Or her German shepherd!) ** Cute Boyfriend- No explanation needed. ** Drinks Shiner and Chardonnay at the same time. (that’s just COOL!) And these are just a few. -- Some people feel a need to say that they are jealous of my "situation"-- not needed... To: "some people"-- I'm jealous of YOUR life. The best thing, is that we get to be girlfriends and live vicariously through each other! Rock on -- in your big monster truck- mama! ;)

The "Milestone" Moments~

Today was a milestone, at least it was for me. I think one of the hardest parts of being a parent is not realizing when you are approaching a milestone- and you overlook it's significance. I've tried not to do this in the past- at the expense of making even the smallest things "overly" big. (other peoples opinion, not mine!) Meaning that even well-intentioned family members (even some that did not attend) thought that B&B's first birthday was over the top! They've even dropped hints that there should only be parties on their "milestone" birthdays (1, 5, 10, 16, 21) WHAT??? EVERY birthday is a milestone- and meant to be a party! I don't mean to make things a big deal- (yeah, I do) - but for God's sake- this may be my only shot at being a parent- so if I want to make a big deal out of birthdays, first haircuts, first days at the beach and new beds for them- then so be it! I vow not to do this-for anyone but them! I don't do it to keep up or to feel like I've done a better job than others with children- I make a big deal out of things because I didn't just "oops!-" my pregnancy. It was OVERLY dramatic and so will their lives be- because they are the kind of "big deal" worth having in my life. So, that being said- the milestone- we had their first "non-crib" beds delivered yesterday! We have been waiting on them for about 4 months. The were hand made by a local carpenter- and are BEAUTIFUL! They are in pieces right now- on the guest bedroom floor-. White washed and distressed- and have 2 placard-type carvings on the headboards of each one. They are heirloom quality- and I hope that B&B will love them as much (later, of course- when they can appreciate such things) as I've loved designing the beds for them. I cant just stop there though- I've basically gone over the top with the bedding for Bryce. I found Brooke's bedding immediately, but his has been much harder. I've bought and returned 4 sets of sheets, quilts and shams. I think I found the "one" today though- it can be reversed later to a floral pattern (the front side of the duvet is striped and very masculine in a "soft" shabby chic way. Baby blue, cafe and egg-shell colored (bold) stripes are on the side we'll keep flipped for Bryce- and later the reverse will "match" pretty closely to her current bedding. Perfect for a little gal or boy! The hard part of this whole process is walking into their bedroom at night- with their two matching, gorgeous cribs and watching them sleep, knowing that each day we get closer to the weekend is one of the last days I'll ever see them in a crib. They aren't my tiny 4 lb. babies anymore. They are toddlers. It breaks my heart! They each have a personality unique to them. She talks more than him. He loves music and Thomas the Train. When DID this happen? I thought I was being careful to watch and notate each milestone, to breathe and really experience each day of parenthood. But as careful as I've been- that doesn't keep their growing as people from hurting any less- because they need me less. I sound like a total freak- and completely co-dependant, but I finally understand what my mom went through only having to really raise just me. It's such a delicate balance of letting them experience their childhood and letting yourself enjoy their childhood. For now, and at least the next 3 days, I'll enjoy having them in cribs. I'll force myself to put the sheets on their new beds and talk excitedly to them about their sleeping in them for the first time, and how that makes them "big boys and girls". I'll cry inside and here, to you. knowing that this is just the beginning of the road for milestones which will ultimately lead us to their adulthood and their being productive "good citizens". In the mean time- everything is a big deal- because this is the only chance I have to be here, in this moment, loving them as they are right now.

Trying to Make it Through the Day~

Isn't it true that we're all just basically - trying to make it through the day? I've blogged before about time management (and my lack of it)- but basically- I'm sucking at it lately. Is it my lack of time, lack of organizational skills, or is it the sheer number of things on my plate? We've still got our "other" home on the market and were getting showings- but we're not staying with our current realtor past this Sunday. So- we're going to try and sell it ourselves! (gulp! Gasp!) It won't be the easiest way- but it will give us more freedom to negotiate a price that might get it sold more quickly. We'll have to see. This being said- there are things that I would like to do to the other house to make it more attractive- but every dime we spend on it- is one less dime we're putting into our new home. Herein lies the problem-- prioritizing. Not to mention the fact that I've gotten 2 wedding invitations, my best friends baby shower to plan (at my house) and a bridal shower to attend in the near future. Add on the babies 2nd birthday, (Bills b-day was this past weekend) and WORK! -- and my plate is full!! The nanny keeps reminding me to "buy floor cleaner" and when I came home from running errands this afternoon-- the house smelled like wet soil- probably from the 2500SqFt of sod we just had installed. (Imagine the smell of compost and poop!) Then there are the things that go to the bottom of the list- like B's car needing to go into the shop for a leaky a/c before the heat of summer hits- and my car needing to go in for tire pressure monitors, and oh- did I mention the garage that still needs to be cleaned out at our old house? My list is getting more full and I'm getting more frustrated! It's a good thing, I suppose to have frustration in your life- it lets you know that "life aint easy!" It keeps you grounded. It also makes me feel as if my life is very apportioned, rarely feeling as if I can reach completion of the smallest tasks. It is burdensome. It makes me feel like a less than stellar mom. I feel guilty when I have to work, run errands and get life situated for the weekend, so that we can all have time together to relax. But I also feel guilty and preoccupied when I spend too much time during the day with the kids- never feeling as if the tasks I have on my list are getting accomplished and wondering when I can get back to work as I push them around the yard on their Radio Flyer trikes. I thought that life would be hard after kids- I didn't know that my life would be cut in two! Meaning- the life I have with the kids and the life I have outside them. (And never the two shall meet) --It will get worse- I assure you- if they are anywhere NEAR as active as I was in school activities- this part is the proverbial "cake walk!" I talked this evening with my SIL- who also (just) had twins- Boys- and she is returning to work in just a few weeks- My theory of why I could not do that (my mantra) is that the (my) babies needed individual attention, that "I" (AKA- nanny AND I) could only give them. I like to tell myself that their worlds would tumble into oblivion if I weren't present to witness them blowing bubbles from a BUBBLE wizard bucket for the first time, or finger painting with chocolate pudding or riding their trikes by themselves- but they wouldn't- they would be fine! But for me- the "little" daily milestones are just too darn big for me to pass up- so I keep on, keeping on- trying to fly above the crowd on my GIANT trapeze!- flipping and spinning and grasping to feel and deal with the guilt, frustration, giggles and tears- smiles and snotty noses of everyday life. The battle doesn't make me understand motherhood any more clearly- or make me a better planner or time manager- but it forces me to breathe and experience the moments that I know will be gone- all too quickly. It makes me accountable for the title of "mom".

April is on it's way!

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

Praise the spells and bless the charms,
I found April in my arms.
April golden, April cloudy,
Gracious, cruel, tender, rowdy;
April soft in flowered languor,
April cold with sudden anger,
Ever changing, ever true --
I love April, I love you.

Ogden Nash

Beach Bliss

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

Theres a beautiful time of year (my favorite time of year) -- when the light dances on the water-just so- and the kiddos can finally run around at the lake and find "treasures", without freezing their bunz off! Click on the picture on the right to see a stream of our latest shots- they were taken up at Lake Sommerville and at a couple of bluebonnet fields near Independance, Texas. Good stuff!

Great Ad

Those of you that "get" this- will enjoy it!

Wow-- I'm "published"

Check it out:

Things I'm looking forward to

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

I know I'm not supposed to rush his (their) growing up -- but here's a list of things I think of/look forward to on a regular basis:
-Your first crush
-Your first bat/ball/glove and practice with your daddy
-The first time you say "gig em!" and get what that means! (you Aggies will get this!)
-The first time you tattle on each other
-The first time you get your self dressed.
-The first time you have an opinion on what you are wearing that day
-The first time you figure out how to work the remote w/o turning on the volume so loud

I know that most of these are simple things, but I remember all the other firsts- and with two of you- its hard to stop- and realize that something is in fact a first for one or the other of you.

Tonight I read this poem- and being one of MY firsts- I thought I would share it. Its beautiful and reminds me of both of my angels!

E.E. Cummings:
i love you much(most beautiful darling)

more than anyone on the earth and i
like you better than everything in the sky

-sunlight and singing welcome your coming

although winter may be everywhere
with such a silence and such a darkness
noone can quite begin to guess

(except my life)the true time of year-

and if what calls itself a world should have
the luck to hear such singing(or glimpse such
sunlight as will leap higher than high
through gayer than gayest someone's heart at your each nearness)everyone certainly would(my most beautiful darling)believe in nothing but love

Gladness

Gladness
Originally uploaded by amydell.

Theres a certain feeling I get, every time Bill gets up to "rescue" Brooke in the middle of our "parental-quiet time" ;) (Which is every night from 8-8) It is a feeling of closeness that you cant explain to people w/o kids. She sometimes wakes up and needs a little time to calm back down. Last night was such a night. She wanted to play with the computer, immediatly- so, we went to www.starfall.com and played the ABC song a few times- while she recited a few lines and screamed out letters she wanted to hear stories for next. Her vocabulary is growing so rapidly! She's starting to say more than one word at a time and grunting much less. Every day she makes such large vocabulary strides, that its noticable. Scary, huh? Guess we better stop letting the obsenities fly around here!

Cupcake

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

Amazing how something as uneventful as a cupcake can be made to be a new adventure in eating! Happy St. Patty's day early!

Heaven-- I'm in Heaven

Bryce and Gals
Originally uploaded by amydell.

This shot was taken this a.m. at a playgroup we hosted at our house. Bryce, obviously, is quite happy and content in hanging out in his centipede tube and checking out the ladies! Oh, isnt life grand? :)

A wave to my "people" from the train

Check out the most adorable chick-a-dee in South Texas! This is just a snapshot of why we love her sweet-sunny disposition. While Granny B was in town last week- we took B&B to the Houston Zoo and on a train ride before hand-- since the boy had never ridden a large scale (smokey) train (shouldn't everyone at some point?) and the girl wasn't wasting any time- waving to her peeps- it all worked out. She always stops briefly to say "hi" or "bye" to just about everyone- and she has a very outgoing personality (as displayed in her internet movie debut) I just wish I could put some of her sweetness (now) in a bottle and keep it for a time when I'm about to loose it with her -- pull it out- and out pour the giggles and sunshine. My dad called today- first thing out of his mouth was "Aint it a booooooooootieeefull day, Sunshine?" -- I used to say to him- "aint it a boooooooootiefull day, daddy?" -- so when he's thinking of me- he usually calls and says that. Maybe baby girl gets her sunshine genetically? I wonder?? Take away all of the stress, two mortgages, consulting business, DH working for a fledgling business, and a "money pit" to constantly be sinking money into-- I might be all sunshine and giggles too. Aint it a bitch what adulthood does to a person?

Pink Power tools! COOL!

DH just sent me http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2006/03/fluffy_tools.htmlthis link to "ladies sized" tools- fluffy screwdrivers and pink hammers- what fun! At least you know it would never be "lost" or misplaced by said hubby-- ;) I think I'll run right out and get the lavender ladies screwdriver- with fluffy white feather fringe!

First Haircut

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

Today was the day-- Bryce's first haircut. It was lots of fun for him to watch his daddy get all of his hair cut off- but when it was his turn- he didnt think it was as much fun. He liked the water bottle and watching himself in the mirror. But that was just a quick diversion- then he screamed!!!! (He's a little dramatic-- just like me!) Here's a pic of my two handsome men- outside Doug and Dons barber shop, here in the Heights. HOW precious are they?? ;) Click on the pic for a stream of all of the pictures that we took today. Next he'll be going off to school- or something else equally as horrible. How could they grow up so quickly? I saved little locks of his hair and think of how my mom did the same thing with my hair. -- Oh sweet times! ;)

This Time Of Year

Well, there's a feeling in the air Just like a Friday afternoon. Yeah, you can go there if you want Though it fades too soon. So go on, let it be. If there's a feeling coming over me,Seems like it's always understood this time of year. Well, I know there's a reason to change. Well, I know there's a time for us. You think about the good times And you live with all the bad. You can feel it in the air, Feeling right this time of year. Well, there's a football in the air, Across a leaf blown field. Yeah, and there's your first car on the road, And the girl you'd steal. So go on with yourself If there's a feeling that there's something else. Seems like it's always understood This time of year. Well, I know there's a reason to change. Well, I know there's a time for us. You think about the good times And you live with all the bad. You can feel it in the air, Feeling right this time of year. Well, there's a feeling in the air Just like a Friday afternoon. Yeah, you can go there if you want Though it fades too soon. So go on, let it be. If there's a feeling coming over me, Seems like it's always understood this time of year. Well, I know there's a reason to change. Well, I know there's a time for us. You think about the good times And you live with all the bad. You can feel it in the air,Feeling right this time of year.

Coldplay

Were going to see Coldplay tonight-- Its raining- so its a good night for a concert. Cant wait!

Sneek a peek at the Beardshalls

Were going to see Coldplay tonight-- Its raining- so its a good night for a concert. Cant wait!

Spring is on the way!

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

Last year, about this time, was when we saw the pumpkin house- for the first time. Lots of things have changed around here in the past year- but most of all- we see changes in the babies and everything around us seems a little brighter. Its fun to remodel it- and make it our own. At every turn- I see remnants of Mr. Bennett here. whether it be a box of screws or pictures or just about any of the other hundreds of things that made this his home. But- with each coat of paint- and each repair- it becomes just a little bit more ours. Surprisingly enough, having a mortgage, doesn't really make a home yours- putting your own touch in and on it- makes it yours. :) Enjoy your "almost spring!"

family

family
Originally uploaded by amydell.

Theres certainly a bit of happiness and sadness in this picture- it reminds me of a shot just like the one that my mom took of 4 sets of shoes-- 32 years ago, just before my dad left. Four tiny litte shoes and 4 bigger shoes. Thats the sad part- the happy part- is that this is of MY family. I'm the mommy- the "2nd set" of shoes-- and I get the chance every single day- to make it a family that stays together. I still cant believe that just two years ago (almost) there were only 4 shoes- not 8! How much fun is that? That we got to double our shoe quota in one shot?

Fascinated by the Dyson!

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

I hope this lasts! Click on the picture to see a new photo album of the kiddos and some of our landscaping work.

Sneek a peek at the Beardshalls

OMG- I am SOOOOOO laughing about this! Check out the particularly humerous posts in the comments section! I'd like to make my own personal comments about this whole debacle-- first-- WHAT is the issue with people hunting birds? We (almost all of us) eat chicken and duck and other fowl, every day! Although, I realize that these birds are killed in a manufacturing plant-(which I have some problems with vs. shooting them for SPORT) -- I dont see the issue with the sport of hunting fowl. YOU EAT THEM! You dont leave them on the ground to rot!! Secondly, I've heard some pretty amusing banter about this issue today- on talk radio- Sam Malone-(a local Celebre-joc) was on KPFT today ranting about how "officials shouldnt be allowed to hunt while they are in office"- I think he is now on my list of "Houstons 100 most stupid people" Whats next? Public officials arent allowed to go to church--Baptists know how dangerous that can be lately, dont they? Or rollerskate-- (thats dangerous, isnt it?), shopping in public or out to dinner (esp. not a Lubys in Killeen,Tx.) WHAT A STUPID dumbass thing to say! Should all public officials be locked in their homes upon electon? He used the analogy that "we wouldnt just let them out to walk around the Galleria w/o security" well-- I'm sure there was plenty of security there too, being the VICE prez of the US! and I'll bet NONE of them were stading in the line of fire! Americans have a right to bear arms--that includes hunting, Sammy! I havent hunted all my life- but I have had hundreds of hours around guns, shooting skeet and target practice with pistols. (My dad was a cop) I cant really fathom the issue here-- this lawyer from Austin (according to reports) was apparently walking in the line of fire-- something you should NEVER do while someone is hunting! (Hellooooo-- clue phone, its for you, Anyhoo- I just thought this topic was classic- and worth a rant!

Quote

I love this blog.. I love that she is so right on.. like a fortune cookie! ;) I needed this quote today-- and SHE posted it! Every new day begins with possibilities. It's up to us to fill it with the things that move us toward progress and peace. - Ronald Reagan

Lazy

So I'm sitting here, at my desk- computer at hand- and being LAZY- I've already surfed this morning for at least an hour. Not really looking for anything- but visiting all of my fav. blogs and such. Reading about that poor Whale in London. What a freaking weird thing to happen, huh? So- after this, I think I'll run to Specs and grab Kat a case of vino to "thank" her for all the duds she brought over for Brooke. ADOREABLE! Can you say RL, Baby Gap & J&J? Not to mention like 6 pairs of shoes and the cutest PJ's I've ever seen in my life. I cannot believe how generous she and Lance are. They continue to amaze us- and the fact that they have 2 girls -- well,, thats a bonus for Brooke if they have one dress in purple and blue! ;) So- I need to THANK her- and generously! She loves wine-- I love free clothes.. Its a marriage made in heaven! ;) P and I took B&B to the park this morning. They played and played, and slid down the slides and got wet from all of the rain we've been getting. They loved it though- and I think they even got a little pooped out- because we just laid them down for their nap and I dont hear a peep! (bonus!) Mommies night out is tonight for the group of 300 mommies here in the Heights that tries to get together once in a while. I dont usually take B&B to playgroups, just because they always seem to pick up a cootie-- but I like to frequent the MNO's just to see who's lurking on our message boards and who is participating. ITs all good fun. I think they made plans to go to the Black Lab: -- in a different life- I worked across the street from there- (Red Sky Interactive) -- which was a part of the "DOT COM" crap -- and we claimed the Lab as our place to drink and eat-- FREQUENTLY! Oh Houston- what a place... Did I mention that mom came into Houston for New Years and our 8th (count em!) anniversary? We watched the kiddos and we went to the SKYLINE for a night out. It was fun. Bills boss and wife came and our bestest friends D & L came too. Fun fun! ;) I'm hoping this week will slow a little bit- I'm working on deadlines and I'm out the door now to eat a few dumplings with Bill. I need to work on a project- and get back here with enough time to finish that up for "the man" this afternoon. Write more later.

The Natural

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Originally uploaded by amydell.

Nuf Said! ;)

I'll be grown...

GQ
Originally uploaded by amydell.

Before you know it! I hope its not out of the ordinary to sneak into their room at all hours of the night-- just to stare at them. I mean for GODS SAKES- he's PRECIOUS! And- he's growing more each day. Look at those Converse- his Grandma got him! I want to give them some sort of "anti-growing up" pill. They seem to say more and be more aware each day. My sister in law is expecting her twin boys in just a few weeks! Whew! I dont envy the work she and my brother have ahead of them! I thought B&B would kill us! How did we live through that? ;) But look at em now! Little people- that cant make us more happy than they do!!!

Precious

Precious
Originally uploaded by amydell.

Shes growing at an alarming rate. Before I know it, she'll be sassing me and letting me know how little I know. The relationship between her and Bryce is adorable and they each learn to give just a little more each say and share each adult in their lives with each other. They break our hearts they are so cute! :)