Sneek a peek at the Beardshalls

Integrations and such

2011-06-06T22:55:00.004-05:00

I've been in the middle of a huge Websphere Portal integration (IBM) for several months.... Its been "challenging"... So you might have wondered where I've been, dear readers.. I am not far- but I am "busy"... I miss the following... Natchez, Mississippi... Frequent Manicures and Pedicures... Screwing off and my free time... Taking days off that really werent warranted- but I "needed".... HAHA Cooking frequently...... Volunteering for my favorite charities or local civic clubs like @The Houston Heights Womans Club.......... I've taken up some other vices.. We spend most weekends at the Houston Racquet Club... We play lots of tennis ......... We swim............ We sign little ones up to swim........... We have a glass of wine whilst little ones swim....... We try and catch up... My favorite days? A quick brush of hands while were cooking dinner.... A little more code that wasnt planned to be ready- "integrated" and ready for Show and Tell..... Not having to work my programmers like dogs......... My little ones hugging my neck- and saying- I LOVE YOU MOMMY, I BELIEVE in you MOMMY.... Reconnecting with old co-workers and friends.... I am blessed... I love to hear from you! Amydell

Recent article about the Pumpkin House

2010-12-02T10:44:00.004-06:00

I keep wondering why I dont "feel" like pulling EVERY LAST decoration in the attic out this week!?? Maybe its because we spent so much time on the house last year for the home tour? I did get a wonderful email from the head of PR for the Houston Heights Association- @Susan Love-Fitts with a scan of the article. Cathy Gordon, a freelance writer for Houston Lifestyles Magazine did a great job capturing the story- and we couldnt be happier with it! Thanks to everyone that helped us make last years home tour a fun event for the Houston Heights!

The pumpkin house is ready for Halloween!

2010-10-26T23:29:00.011-05:00

We're getting ready this week for one of the best holidays we spend in our home, Halloween. I'm warning you- don't get jealous now - Brooke and I spent most of last weekend hot gluing candy corn to anything that didn't move in the house. (I think the dog may even have some on his ear : ) These cute little candy corn wreaths are now melting in the 80 degree Houston heat on our front doors.

We also enjoyed grabbing some tree branches and hot gluing candy corn on them to make them look like a candy corn tree. (She loved that in fact!)

The kids got to visit the annual Greenwood King Pumpkin patch and pick out their favorite pumpkin. Always lots of fun- although they are getting a little too old for it now :(

This Friday, I'm co-hosting a "witches luncheon" for the Houston Heights Woman's Club @ Stella Sola. The event is lots of fun (a membership drive for our ladies group) and a chance to get out of the office early on a Friday and party on down with some other like-minded grown up witches ;) This year- Ill be handing off my title of "bad witch" which was bestowed upon me by a good friend last year. Lets just say- if you get the "honor" of a title (ie: good witch or bad witch) you get the privilege of hosting the upcoming years event. I think someone should have set my "friend" straight! Aggie football, tailgating, trick or treating, Halloween kids party and hosting a ladies luncheon all in the span of three days makes me think I need to take a ride on my broom now and head on outa town!

Houston will be a great place to be this weekend though- lots of fun things going on around the Heights and cool people to do it all with!

Have a spooky time and stop by for some candy!

Conduct? It's such a strict word

2010-09-20T11:50:00.011-05:00

We've been battling conduct grades the past few days. I'll be honest-I expected this day to come. I wanted nothing more than to raise a high spirited, confident, smart, beautiful little girl- and that's what we got... I wasn't planning on the other things that come along with being all of those things.

Before we got to first grade, she was the thoughtful-shy-and Witty girl. Now she's the beautiful, free-spirited, "I don't feel like reading" girl.. She's much rather paint or draw that read.. She'd much rather run and play than sit and study her site words.

Last week- she was given a citation at school for cutting in line in front of another student, and then later for smacking someone for making fun of her for getting in trouble. It's so hard to teach a kid to see the wrong in cutting in the first place, which led to the teasing and smacking. She's a hard one to raise. She kind of likes to dive into life- and "cut the crust off" as she see's fit.

Alternately- Bryce is pretty happy reading, playing video games and doing what we ask of him, as long as it doesn't require him to compete with his sister. If there is competition- it is usually heated. It's easier just to avoid all forms of comparison-although we did call out that ALL of Bryce's conduct grades have been excellent. (Which wasn't appreciated by the daughter.. AT ALL!) So, after being grounded for a week-she seems to be doing better. Although- a grounding for her is like a grounding for the entire family. It means no TV on at any time, no computer, no sweets, nothing but reading, eating dinner, laying out clothing for the next day and going to bed. It stinks! I hope that she'll remember those consequences the next time her high-spirit seems to get the best of her better judgement!

We've been spending lots of time in College Station, tailgating for home games. We had the pleasure of joining our friends Marylou and Brent for the Aggie Coaches night, before the season started

Had such a fun time spending time with them and with the Aggie Yell Leaders! Whoop! :)

Heres hoping for a better week and no bad conduct grades! I'll keep you posted!

Texas ranks No. 1 for business - CNBC - Houston Business Journal

2010-07-14T15:31:00.000-05:00

Texas ranks No. 1 for business - CNBC - Houston Business Journal

Technology Parenting

2010-06-11T10:15:00.007-05:00

September, 1972- Richard Nixon was in office, the first episode of The Price is Right was hosted by Bob Barker and the Vietnam war was in full swing. My mother was in the hospital, and had been for some time, recovering from injuries she sustained in a car accident. She's got a baby on the way, no nursery-outfitted to the nines, no "Babies R'us", no big deal. Thats just how she "rolled". Times were much simpler, right? But were they just her version of simple? Flash forward to 2004, when we had our twins. Similar story, but my mandatory "incarceration" in the hospital on bedrest was to "cook" my twins a little longer and was very unexpected. I had the ability to get online wirelessly in my hospital room (Thank you Memorial Herman!) and have delivered a littany of baby products ranging from wireless baby monitors, Baby Einstein videos that were "statistically proven to make them smarter!", vibrating bouncy chairs, bottles, binkies, blankies, all backed up by customer reviews and forums with thousands of comments from parents who had recently purchased the same products.

What a difference 32 years makes! Being a mom in 2010 vs. 1970's (from an information perspective) is the difference between drinking from a water fountain vs. a fire hose! The pressure to navigate the gauntlet of technical parenthood and make the right decisions is just one product review away from failure! Its amazing that my brother and I made it though our childhood without my parents ability to share socially with countless, faceless, consumers who had an opinion about what they were about to buy.

Its not easier to be inundated with information- its just more to wade through and think about. Thoughts?

Really? You hate heavy whites? Wine.. that is....

2010-05-11T18:51:00.005-05:00

I've had it up to here with people complaining about Chardonnays and Viognier's, etc... There was a time, when my palette was much less developed- and at that time- I may have fallen for a Sauvignon Blanc or Muscadelle... I'm just so past that! I think you should be too. Houston summers SUCK! (I mean- well...) they are torture! We have to get by any way we know how- in the heat! These are a few whites that will help you get settled into summer and deal with the 90+ degree days. Here are my TOP 5 picks for "entry into summer" wines.. These are picked based on my taste buds- and some on Bills- but we typically agree- a bottle of "everyday" wine should not cost you more than $15-20 dollars, but more closely to $10-15. As my friend Chris Pietre would say, "dont hate, just participate!" I'd love to know what you think too! 1.) 2008, (Oakville California) Simpson Vineyard, "Miner" Viognier Well rounded, plush, vibrant fruit (not tart) Apples, pears 11.00 Specs 2.) 2006. (Sonoma County) Parkers Estate, Chardonnay Reserve Beautiful, some oak, apple and honey. Perfect for "front porch" entertaining- or with a grilled piece of Salmon. 14.00 Krogers & Specs 3.) 2007 (Santa Ynez, California) Bridlewood, Viognier Reserve Moderate acidity, sugar, honey, oak (light) excellent "food" wine. Brie and honey. 19.00 Kroger (Probably cheaper at Specs) 4.) 2008 Bottled in Santa Rosa, Ca., Kendall Jackson, Vinters Reserve, Tropical, oak, pineapple, mango, citrus- but not "bite-y"... Perfect Sunday afternoon in the yard wine. 11.00 Kroger 5.) (no year) Candoni, Prosecco Brut. yummy! 14.00 any close Kroger! Enjoy!

And then they were 6.... Wow! ;)

2010-05-06T08:34:00.000-05:00

2010-04-26T16:07:00.000-05:00

Sara Bareilles - Grooveshark - Listen to Free Music Online

2010-03-12T09:34:00.000-06:00

Sara Bareilles - Grooveshark - Listen to Free Music Online

Mashup!

2010-01-25T12:23:00.002-06:00

It's hard to believe my last post was in September! There have been many things in the works over the past few months- and taking the time to search and explore has opened several new avenues in my life. For one- the house seems to always be clean ;) a meal is mostly always on the table, if not, plans to get one are in the works mostly as a family. I'm exploring my inner foodie, and inner organizer.. (don't ask me where that's going, I still haven't figured it out!) The last of the home tour decorations will come down this week. We were featured in a few write up's as well as in local newspapers and magazines that are specific to the Heights. Last week we visited a local place Thai Spice, on 19th street- and there were a few Heights magazines laying on a bench by the door. Bryce casually said as we walked by them "hey mama, there's our house!" He enjoyed it as much as we did I think! We're busy making plans for the twins summer camps and activities and our yearly visit to Gulfshores Alabama- to stay in Beck Flacks fun and ultra cool condo at the Beach Club. I cant wait- and find that I'm getting spring fever already.. its only FEBRUARY!! ;) I'm also trying out some new technologies like building a website for the Heights Woman's Club (www.houstonheightswomansclub.com )and Google WAVE. It seems like a very useful technology. Esp. for project managers.

Checking back in!

2009-09-06T23:48:00.003-05:00

I havent posted much lately. There have been lots of things going on. Life has proven again to only be as fun as the moment you are in! ;) For starters, my children started kindergarten two weeks ago. They were so precious with their little back packs and thermos's and uniforms... Brooke exclaimed as she left each morning for school "kindergarten is COOL"-- I love that she is so challenged and so receptive to this huge change in her life. Bryce on the other hand isnt as thrilled. He likes the new school- but cant seem to keep his yap shut long enough to keep his "green car" on the performace chart- in GREEN.. It is often "yellow" and apparently "yellow isnt perfect"... So-- thats whats up with the kids. On another front- I've closed the door on another chapter of my life. There were 40+ workers laid off this past week- and I was one of them. They let several project managers go- leaving the bare bones to run the projects. Im wondering if this is just the beginning of some significant cost savings mesures? In some ways this result makes me feel lucky. I was early enough to get a package and a gentle nudge out the door. I hope all behind me are so lucky. So, I'm taking a little time to re-set and figure out what it is that I "want" to do next. I'm thrilled that the economy seems to be in a up cycle and I am in the heart of energy country. There probably wont be much idle time spent.. so I'll enjoy it while I have the gift of that. Otherwise, things are well with us. We spent our first weekend up at Aggieland this weekend, watching A&M beat the hell-outa New Mexico State. Was a fun weekend- filled with friends, a few drinks and kids getting back into the football season. They always love being there- and I love that my beautiful, smart hubby enjoys our time spent at Aggie football! Take the time to write when you can.. I enjoy hearing from you! amydell@gmail.com :)

A little advice (to myself...)

2009-05-11T15:17:00.008-05:00

I am a moderator for a group of ladies in the Heights who are all participants on an online forum called Heights Kids. This morning- someone posted that they thought they "couldn't do anymore without losing their minds..." With kids, partners, pets, jobs, etc.. You'd think that we as moms and partners couldn't be pulled in any other direction.... Honestly- I got home last night from a day trip to see my mom for mothers day- and all day long was about everyone else... I am happy to share my love, family and time with my parents- they wont be around forever. I want my kiddos to know them. But, after getting home and having spent the entire day on Saturday "decluttering" my living rooms built in shelves, I found that most of the cleaning on the second floor didn't get done.. and lunches weren't made, and dinner wasn't made, and there were at least 5 loads of laundry that needed to be done, not to mention the laundry still needing to be folded and put away. Dishes that needed to be unloaded, and re-loaded... Well, you get the picture... Just one evening in the life of a busy mom. When the anonymous poster posted their "gripe" this morning- it really resonated with me... I started to type a response and as I formulated it- I was given a gift- that I needed to listen to my own advice... Remembering the things that make me "loose my mind" and the things that help me "destress" really helped me get past the fact that I was literally bawling last night when I realized how much I had to get done before I left for work this morning. Here is the list I sent her: - ) any additions are welcome! ;)

"1.) Stop thinking that no one can do things better than you. Let it go. This will relieve a lot of stress.. (I have to work on this EVERY DAY!) Let your partner help you accomplish things, and don't go back and re-do them. Be at peace that its done!

2.) Pick one night a week or one day on the weekends to get things done for yourself. Even if you are grocery shopping or doing something like dropping off dry cleaning- which is about you and your partner, do it ALONE!, drive with the windows down, music cranked up- and sing at the top of your lungs... This also relieves stress, and gives you some fresh air! ;)

3.) At least once a week- work out an alternating "responsibility" morning.. That means your partner gets to dress them, feed them, make lunches, drop them at school, and you get to pad to the shower 45 mins earlier.. or take a walk before you have to greet your "other life" at the office.

4.) At a very early age, make your kids pick up after themselves- make them drop their plates in the sink, make them place milk they haven't drunk in the fridge. Make them pick up their pajamas and drop them in the hamper or on the floor of the laundry room. Make them place shoes and socks in a SUPER EASY place to find (mine is the drawer in our downstairs TV Armoire) All of these things will help you in the future.

5.) Make lunches the night before- not the morning of- its too stressful to get them, you and your husband out the door and to be remembering at that point your out of bread!

6.) MAKE A GROCERY list and HANG IT ON your fridge door! As you run out of things, get the kids to remind you to write it on the list- my twins love this little game, and they feel like they are contributing to the grocery buying process. If we're out of something- its because they "forgot" to put it on the list. If we have something- its because the "magic mommy grocery shopping fairy" took "Their" list and bought what they asked for. This avoids a lot of hassle in the mornings... Also helps our partners take responsibility for things they need, and avoids unnecessary trips to the store.

7.) Lock the door to your bathroom at least once a week. Soak your toes, paint them... A fresh coat of paint always makes people wonder how you found the time... and it takes all of 30 mins... and its FREE!

8.) Drink wine... lots of it... ;)

9.) Keep your girlfriends on speed dial. I have a GF in college station that texts me once a week and asks for a "phone date"... Its usually after we've put the tike's down for the night, and usually WITH a glass of wine and usually on my patio. or front porch. Take the bug spray and the bottle of wine. The stress this relieves is immeasurable.. ;) The "brutality" of bitching about life, kids, partners etc. is not as bad when your talking to someone else that is going through it!

10.) Keep date nights- religiously... Remember, you and your partner really liked each other before you brought the tike's into the world.. Even if you don't "go out" make sure the kids are in bed and you are able to spend some time together each day... (BTW- This is our greatest challenge... )

11.) Don't be too hard on yourself. EACH of us goes through this... Its just so damn hard to be perfect.. Not only are you trying to do it for you, your job, your partner, but now your trying to do it for a kiddo/s too. I fall short all of the time... I have 2 HUGE baskets full of laundry that have been sitting on the floor of my study for 2 weeks now- WAITING to be folded! (Maybe that's where all of my underwear is?? ;) -- I walk past them each morning and say to myself, "this wouldn't have been sitting here, 6 years ago.." But realistically, I had nothing else to do before the twins came... Now, I have PLENTY to do!

12.) Its okay to be greedy and spend time alone or doing things you love.

13.) If you cook, and do the dishes, your partner should be bathing and getting kiddos ready for bed. If you cook, and he/she wants to do the dishes, then you get the kiddos ready for bed. You shouldn't have to do both...

14.) If All else fails, listen to this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at_lUnFjXg8 Lastly, you will have breakdowns, you will have difficulties, you have to learn to laugh at yourself, your situation, and the impossibilities that life throws at you. I promise you one thing.. Your kiddos wont remember if the clothes were folded or the dishes were done the morning after dinner was made... They will remember things like you reading to them, bathing them, tucking them in, etc.. They will also remember whether you were sane or not... So take care of yourself! ;)" Happy Mothers Day to all of you moms that I missed talking to yesterday! ;)

Annabelle

2009-04-23T17:06:00.001-05:00

IMG_6379, originally uploaded by amydell.

When you were born, you were so tiny and red.. Look at you now, almost 5 years old, beautiful and smart. (I can say that, I'm your mother!)

I wanted to name you something that meant something to me.. I know that this is a poem about death- but more than that- its about love... The kind of love that lasts forever...

ANNABELLE LEE

Author: Edgar Allan Poe

It was many and many a year ago,
In a kingdom by the sea,
That a maiden there lived whom you may know
By the name of Annabel Lee;
And this maiden she lived with no other thought
Than to love and be loved by me.

I was a child and she was a child,
In this kingdom by the sea;
But we loved with a love that was more than love -
I and my Annabel Lee;
With a love that the winged seraphs of heaven
Coveted her and me.
And this was the reason that, long ago,
In this kingdom by the sea,
A wind blew out of a cloud, chilling
My beautiful Annabel Lee;
So that her highborn kinsman came
And bore her away from me,
To shut her up in a sepulcher
In this kingdom by the sea.
The angels, not half so happy in heaven,
Went envying her and me
Yes! that was the reason
(as all men know, In this kingdom by the sea)
That the wind came out of the cloud by night,
Chilling and killing my Annabel Lee.

But our love was stronger by far than the love
Of those who were older than we
Of many far wiser than we
And neither the angels in heaven above,
Nor the demons down under the sea,
Can ever dissever my soul from the soul
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee.
For the moon never beams without bringing me dreams
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;
And the stars never rise but I feel the bright eyes
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;
And so, all the night-tide, I lie down by the side
Of my darling, my darling, my life and my bride,
In the sepulcher there by the sea,
In her tomb by the sounding sea.

How would I taste to a Cannibal? :)

2009-04-14T10:37:00.001-05:00

Created by Recipe Star

"Go Celts!"

2009-02-16T10:29:00.001-06:00

IMG_6187, originally uploaded by amydell.

Not only is that the mantra of my Alma Mater- but the guy in the middle was quite a cutie! ;) Maybe it was the red socks I was attracted to? Or the salt & pepper hair? Regardless- I enjoyed being out and about with some of my "peeps" at yesterdays Celtic festival, in the Heights. The Scotch Eggs weren't bad either! (This was my first try- I was a virgin Scotch egg Irish-lady" ;) My obviously German children needed to know where their mama's peeps come from- so this was a great festival for them. They think all of our men run around in brightly colored skirts- and that we have jumpies on our church grounds! Not a bad way to get them indoctrinated! ;)

Three Musketeers!

2009-02-15T23:48:00.001-06:00

IMG_6158, originally uploaded by amydell.

Look what our daddy just built! AND, we even got to "help" ;) Take that, Hurricane Ike! ;)

I'm Tired!

2009-02-02T22:22:00.002-06:00

I'm wondering why I lay in bed and hear my children (4 year olds) in the next room?? ITS FREAKING 10:30! Aren't they the least bit tired? I certainly am- and I'm pretty sure I didn't have the exhausting recess they did today or the jaunt around the park with the nanny. Needless to say- we're exhausted. We've pretty much been cursing our friends who have "insta-parents" who hover over their children at the slightest mention of maybe wanting to go and grab a Starbuck$ or maybe when the baby needs changing... I'm going to vomit if I hear how one more of them ran to "Vegas" for the weekend with their spouse" or ran off to the spa with their girlfriend for the weekend... Where do these parents come from? Mine can barely make it through a football weekend without bringing them back to us mid-way through a weekend! Our kids are our greatest joy- and our biggest responsibility- all at the same time, ALL of the time!! Geesh- that's a lot of pressure! They've tested for the G&T program next year (in Kinder) and they are right on track to start up this coming fall. We've basically been planning on this since their birth... No one tells you when you have a baby how expensive or heart wrenching or exhausting-wait I think I already used exhausting-- it is... Not to mention with TWINS! They never let up... We're trying to keep our spirits up by telling ourselves- "its only an 18-25 year commitment"- 5 of which we've completed-- but I don't think it will ever end!! (Not that I want it to...) It will help when we all get over the bird flu that the kids brought home from school, no doubt! In the mean time,, I'm just going to wallow in self pity- and despair... and wish a "fairy-spa-mother" would drop some fairy dust on me- complete with a hot rock massage, mani-pedi, and a facial.. Just an entire weekend of silence and solitude. No yelling about who stole who's Lego or endless questions about why the moon is round like cheese or why birds feathers fall off... Ahhh.. the joys of motherhood. x2!!!

McClain Family Christmas

2008-12-22T11:22:00.001-06:00

IMG_5963, originally uploaded by amydell.

Shot 2- with the whole group. (And this isnt even the whole family!)

Christmas with the siblings

2008-12-22T11:20:00.001-06:00

IMG_5952, originally uploaded by amydell.

This past weekend, several generations of my family gathered at mine and Bills house in the Heights to enjoy a Christmas brunch. Lots of children, lots of fun and lots of mimosas! ;) Merry Christmas McClains! ;)

Brooke and Bryce Christmas 2008

2008-12-21T00:00:00.001-06:00

Brooke and Bryce Christmas 2008, originally uploaded by amydell.

Merry Christmas!

Brooke and Bryce Christmas 2008

2008-12-15T13:58:00.001-06:00

Brooke and Bryce Christmas 2008, originally uploaded by amydell.

Merry Christmas to All! ;)

Thanksgiving Ying & Yang

2008-11-24T16:53:00.006-06:00

Before my parents divorced when I was 1- they had been married for 12 years. They had lots of stories of how wonderful their lives had been together and how great my older brother was, yada, yada, yada, then.. well the rest is history. I often wonder how my life would have been had my mother and step father not raised me and loved me dearly. To say that nature over nurture is correct or vice-versa- really doesn't make much sense to me. I have two walking, talking, screaming, sassing pitre dishes of individuality marked with likenesses too large to quantify, in my home on a daily basis, for 4 years. They can be as different as night and day- often banding together to wear their father and I out on an almost nightly basis. When it really comes down to it though- they are the wonders of our existence- the center of our "beings", our Ying & Yang... Who we are makes us all different- where we come from makes us alike too. So, on this Thanksgiving week- I have a lot to be "Thankful" for! Most of all- my children and darling husband- and equally so, the experiences that brought me to this place. Bad or good- they got us 4 here, to this place- happiness, thankfulness, fulfilled.

This is my list of 10 quick things I can think of that make you both so different, special and unique:

Brooke:

10.) You fake cry- often, even when you KNOW we KNOW that you are faking

9.) You do the "tee-tee" dance, with wild abandon, lest we experience a "world change" in the 30 seconds that you are gone from the room.

8.) You love to run, jump, play and laugh- like no other I know.

7.) You love life (even at the age of 4!)

6.) You are the "girliest" girl I know!

5.) You smile and every face in the room lights up.

4.) You sass like Paris Hilton, without a credit card!

3.) You hate shoes (which is weird, because I thought that was in every girls D.N.A.?)

2.) You will do ANYTHING to sidetrack your brother. (Even if it entails fake crying)

1.) You hung the moon for your daddy and I.

Brycie:

10.) You are the most sensitive, of sensitive boys on earth

9.) You would rather be close to a train than any other toy you posses

8.) You still like for your sister to be close to you when you go up a dark flight of stairs or go to your room, she is your stability.

7.) You are a passionate forehead kisser- (for fear of "germs!")

6.) You love to be tickled & proclaim- "I'm Done!" when you want us to stop :)

5.) You are a fantastic "helper"- and often set the table, remove your dishes from the table and love to vacuum. (thank you God, for at least one family member who loves to clean as much as I do!)

4.) You're beyond unhappy when you get sick, and usually no one can make you feel better than your sister

3.) You compliment like no other... In fact- you often tell me "You look gorgeous mommy"- even when I'm in a robe and house slippers.

2.) You love mac n' cheese- more than anything and would eat it for every meal if you could

1.) You are the stars and the moon for us- you shine like no other boy ever has. You have just the right amount of "puppy dog tails & snails"- and we adore you!

I love you!

Mom

Loved this!

2008-11-10T17:28:00.002-06:00

Great post by http://chizumatic.mee.nu/

2008-11-05T14:09:00.003-06:00

Not the end of the world It's easy to let yourself go in despair and start thinking things like "We are well-and-truly fucked" or "This is the worst of all possible outcomes". But it isn't true. I think this election is going to be a "coming of age" moment for a lot of people. They say, "Be careful what you wish for" and a lot of people got their wish yesterday. And now they're bound to be disappointed. Not even Jesus could satisfy all the expectations of Obama's most vocal supporters, or fulfill all the promises Obama has made. I think Obama is going to turn out to be the worst president since Carter, and for the same reason: good intentions do not guarantee good results. Idealists often stub their toes on the wayward rocks of reality, and fall on their faces. And the world doesn't respond to benign behavior benignly. But there's another reason why: Obama has been hiding his light under a basket. A lot of people bought a pig in a poke today, and now they're going to find out what they bought. Obama isn't what most of them think he is. The intoxication of the cult will wear off, leaving a monumental hangover. And four years from now they'll be older and much wiser. A lot of bad things are going to happen during this term. But I don't think that this is an irreversible catastrophe for the union. I've lived long enough to absorb this basic truth: the US is too large and too strong to destroy in just 4 years. Or even in 8. We survived 6 years of Nixon. We survived 4 years of Carter. We even survived 8 years of Clinton, God alone knows how. The President of the United States is the most powerful political figure in the world, but as national executives go his powers are actually quite restricted. Obama will become President, but he won't be dictator or king, let alone deity. He still has to work with the House and the Senate, and he still has to live within Constitutional restrictions, and with a judiciary that he mostly didn't appoint. The main reason this will be a "coming of age" moment is that now Obama and the Democrats have to put up or shut up. Obama got elected by making himself a blank slate, with vapid promises about "hope" and "change" -- but now he actually has to do something. Now he has to reveal his true agenda. And with the Democrats also having a majority in both chambers of Congress, now the Democrats really have to lead. And they're not going to do a very good job of it. It's going to be amusing to watch. And the people who fell for the demagoguery will learn an invaluable lesson. Oh, the Democrats try to blame failure on Republican filibusters, of which there will be many. But that's always been a factor in our system, and many people believe it's an important check on government excess. The tradition in the Senate is that it is supposed to be a buffer against transient political fads, and the filibuster is a major part of that. If the Democrats go all in, and change the filibuster rule, then they'll have truly seized the nettle with both hands and won't have any excuses any longer. That's why they won't do it. It's their last fig-leaf. But even with the filibuster rule in place, they'll be stuck trying to deliver now on all the promises implied, or inferred, during this election. The Republicans can only filibuster on bills the Democrats have already proposed. And it ain't possible for the Democrats to deliver what's been promised. Gonna be a hell of a lot of disillusioned lefties out there. A lot of people who felt they were deceived. A lot of people who will eventually realize that the Obama campaign was something of a cult. Disillusionment will turn to a feeling of betrayal. And that will, in turn, convert to anger. In the mean time, Obama and Congressional Democrats will do things that cause harm, but very little of it will be irreversible. I would have enjoyed watching lefty heads explode if McCain had won. But we're going to see lefty heads exploding anyway; it's just going to take longer. In the mean time, those of us who didn't want Obama to be president have to accept that he is. And let's not give in to the kind of paranoid fever dreams that have consumed the left for the last 8 years. Let us collectively take a vow tonight: no "Obama derangement syndrome". Obama is a politician. He isn't the devil incarnate. So what are the good sides of what just happened? 1. It is no longer possible for anyone to deny that the MSM is heavily biased. The MSM have been biased for decades but managed an illusion of fairness. That is no longer possible; the MSM have squandered their credibility during this campaign. They'll never get that credibility back again. 2. Since the Democrats got nearly everything they hoped for in this campaign, they'll have no excuses and will have to produce. They'll have to reveal their true agenda -- or else make clear that they don't really have any beyond gaining power. 3. Every few decades the American people have to be reminded that peace only comes with strength. The next four years will be this generation's lesson. Now, a few predictions for the next four years: 1. Obama's "hold out your hand to everyone" foreign policy is going to be a catastrophe. They'll love it in Europe. They're probably laughing their heads off about it in the middle east already. 2. The US hasn't suffered a terrorist attack by al Qaeda since 9/11, but we'll get at least one during Obama's term. 3. We're going to lose in Afghanistan. 4. Iran will get nuclear weapons. There will be nuclear war between Iran and Israel. (This is the only irreversibly terrible thing I see upcoming, and it's very bad indeed.) 5. There will eventually be a press backlash against Obama which will make their treatment of Bush look mild. Partly that's going to be because Obama is going to disappoint them just as much as all his other supporters. Partly it will be the MSM desperately trying to regain its own credibility, by trying to show that they're not in his tank any longer. And because of that they are eventually going to do the reporting they should have done during this campaign, about Obama's less-than-savory friends, and about voter fraud, and about illegal fund-raising, and about a lot of other things. and 6. Obama will not be re-elected in 2012. He may even end up doing an LBJ and not even running again. One last thing: I'm not saying I'm happy with this outcome. I would much rather have had McCain win. But this is not the end of the world, or the end of this nation. We've survived much worse. And now we need to show the lefties how to lose. Our mission for the next four years is to be in opposition without becoming deranged. UPDATE: One other good thing: no one will be spinning grand conspiracy theories about this administration's Vice President being an evil, conniving genius who is the true power behind the throne.

Classic funny!

2008-10-20T09:59:00.003-05:00

Feeling certainly ~ uncertain

2008-10-07T10:23:00.006-05:00

All is not well in the world of financial turmoil. I arrived at work yesterday to the announcement mentioned in this article. We're for sale Now, I've been through this before- and you'd think that after going through this quite frequently in the past- I'd be "better" with the uncertainty. In honor of my past loves, and "not so loved" I'll list for you half my resume- It makes for a good chuckle.. 1.) 1999- Union Carbide/Bought by Dow Chemical 2.) 2001- Red Sky Interactive / Purchased by Agency.com 3.) 2001 - Compaq / Purchased by HP 4.) 2008 - Reliant Energy / ?? (Sniff, sniff) October has never been a great month for me. I wonder why? So what now?

Houston on the mend

2008-09-24T11:31:00.003-05:00

I dont know what I was thinking this morning when I left my house... Most times, I hop onto Main St. and jump to I45 for a 3 minute drive to my office garage. Typically this takes no more than 7-10 minutes depending on traffic. Not this morning! It took me at least a half hour to get to work! Grrrr...!!! Not fun when you arent expecting it- and certainly not fun when your trying to get in at a decent hour!

One bright side of the story is I got to see my beautiful city from a different angle this morning and it was BREATHTAKING! ;) It was hard to capture just how pretty it was on a camera phone- but you get the drift. Thank you Houston for making me so happy!

Day of Giving Back

2008-09-23T18:08:00.006-05:00

Have I told you lately how much I love working here? When they say they want "giving back to be a part of our core values" they MEAN it!

Here's a list of the values that each employee must live by:

Values We Live By How we act: Acting with absolute integrity Collaborating, supporting and respecting one another Communicating openly, honestly and frequently How we work: Creating value for every customer Ensuring a safe, healthy and enjoyable workplace Caring for our environment and communities How we create value: Developing a highly motivated, valued and diverse workforce Optimizing our financial and physical resources Simplifying and improving our processes continuously

Pretty Princess

2008-09-23T17:46:00.004-05:00

Just thought I'd share how cute this was. Thank goodness for camera phones! This shot was taken of Brooke at the Children's Museum last week in College Station Texas- since we were "evacuees" we ended up trying to find fun things for the kids to do each day. This was her favorite (dress up)

Did I also tell you that we found quite a bit of refuge in Chick-fillet? in College Station? They ROCKED! We basically went there each day for lunch and the playground, oh, and to get some work done too! (Bill spent all day there most days) WE LOVE THEM! Thanks Chick-fillet!

Looks Like the JPM Chase Bldg is on the "fix"

2008-09-23T17:42:00.004-05:00

Check out this pic I took from my car yesterday on the way home. Look closely-there still remain a lot of boarded up windows!!! They have replaced over half of what was broken out on the South side of the bldg. This shot was taken of the West side of the bldg. going down Travis Street in downtown houston.

The privacy of strangers

2008-09-22T12:36:00.004-05:00

We've fared well through the storm- now its back to business. I cant help but take a few moments though to mention a post by a complete stranger about my neighborhood and our home. I'd like to set the record straight that we left town FOR A WEEK on Saturday, had no electricity through the week we were gone. We returned home and had to deal with the sad loss of one of our beloved family pets, the loss of most of our trees and our fences. All of this coupled with the fact that my 4 year old twins had no available childcare other than moi and my precious husband worked from a Chic-fillet for the week we were gone! (Thank God for wi-fi, electricity and a playground which allowed me to work a little as well!) All of this made for a tough week! (I've edited this post to speak to the sincerity of a reply I got from my earlier rant on Houstonist.) I appreciate your writing me back. I appreciate your explanation. Stepping down now (off my soap box, that is!)

Hurricane Ike

2008-09-12T07:44:00.007-05:00

Hey y'all- we've gotten tons of calls and emails wanting to know if we'll leave town for the storm. We've decided to stay around Houston. We're not in a mandatory evacuation area, in 77008. The storm looks to be speeding up a little (5mph) but breaking up a tiny bit. Check out this website for updates.

Yesterday- Reliant let us go about noon. They shut down the whole Houston & Corpus Christy operation Friday. Here are some shots from downtown about 1pm yesterday. There were lines of people lining up for the buses to take commuters back home from all of the suburbs. You never really see lines like this. I guess everyone in Houston got released around 12:00? Check out the lines at the gas station I stopped in at. They were out of regular unleaded too! (That was Thurs @ noon!)

Will post more as the day progresses!

Working Moms Syndrome

2008-09-10T10:45:00.003-05:00

I had to post this latest article by Michelle Malkin. Again- She hits it on the head with a well written article about the inequity between liberal and conservative working mommies in the newsroom. Obviously you can draw your own conclusions- but isn't it funny how we, as parents, just tend to do the best we can? Slighting Palin for "needing" to spend more time with her new baby who has Downs Syndrome isn't the least bit fair. The liberal media is acting as if there aren't TWO parents present to take care of family life. If she were working in a highrise in Corporate America, she would be incredibly busy. We do the best we can! Laura Ingraham handed one of these criticizers his ASS on her talk show! AWESOME!

Best Pic this week!

2008-09-09T17:40:00.002-05:00

I couldnt resist! Check out this cute little fella! (this is not my kid by the way.)

Stealth Socialism

2008-09-08T10:11:00.001-05:00

Great article- Barack Obama's Stealth Socialism- "He's disguising the wealth transfers as "investments" — "to make America more competitive," he says, or "that give us a fighting chance," whatever that means. Among his proposed "investments": • "Universal," "guaranteed" health care. • "Free" college tuition. • "Universal national service" (a la Havana). • "Universal 401(k)s" (in which the government would match contributions made by "low- and moderate-income families"). • "Free" job training (even for criminals). • "Wage insurance" (to supplement dislocated union workers' old income levels). • "Free" child care and "universal" preschool. • More subsidized public housing. • A fatter earned income tax credit for "working poor." • And even a Global Poverty Act that amounts to a Marshall Plan for the Third World, first and foremost Africa."

1 Day of Vacation and his Jeep will never be the same!

2008-09-05T11:07:00.004-05:00

Little Brycie wanted an Art Car- after seeing them in this years Art Car parade here in Houston. I decided to give him one ;)

Gig Em!

Hot Natchez Nights

2008-09-04T01:29:00.002-05:00

I've just returned from Natchez, Mississippi- the state of my darling husbands "raisins". Although- Gustav tried to ruin our trip to visit my dear Aunt Margaret- the storm didnt sway us! My friend from college and I ran over for a few days of touring Antebellum homes, site seeing and just plain fun! We had it alright! We had three days of little or no electricity. Prior to loosing said power- we toured Longwood, Stanton Hall and tried to make a dash for a couple more, but got stopped by the fantastic Mint Julep's at Dunleith. (I kid you not, I could have never left that place by the sheer fact that those darn Mint Julep's are so great- to add insult to injury, the food at the carriage house at Stanton Hall was AMAZING! They have been written up in Southern Living- and it is NO JOKE- the Fried Chicken looked DIVINE! I had the Fried Oyster salad and butter biscuits. Added on a little custard sauce with praline sauce too. If you ever find yourself in the city of Natchez, don't miss "city market" where we spent our last morning this morning with a platter of hot scrambled eggs, and grits and bacon. I feel like I need to run a marathon for the food alone I consumed this week! Check out my Flickr feed for a few shots from our little jaunt, enjoy!

Thank Goodness for wonderful friends!

2008-08-18T18:27:00.005-05:00

So, I have a way of collecting sweet, fun, Southern friends who melt my heart with affection for my children! Not to be left un-appreciated, I had to send my friend Leah a cute ecard to thank her for some adorable Converse shoes she picked up for the baby B's this past weekend! What a thoughtful gesture! (And YES, mama! I will ALSO WRITE HER A NOTE of thanks too! ) ;) Check out the Jib Jab I sent her here! Check out the cute punkin pies too!

"Volunteerism" should only be called so when it is done by choice!

2008-08-13T09:15:00.007-05:00

The American way seems to have shifted from "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country" to- "I want what I want, and I WANT it now!"- another example bubbling to the surface here, is how people don't understand the difference between working for something and being handed something! It seriously makes my mind want to explode! I'm beginning to detect a pattern here... Moving on- the kiddos had their first day of school this morning with their new teacher Mrs. Perry. She had some grooving tunes playing for their arrival (Itsy Bitsy Spider set to Schoolhouse rock type music) Very cool! Kids RAN in- and said- "LEAVE! I wanna play!" Ahhh.. being a parent is relentless on the heart...

Michelle Malkin- where have you been all my married, conservative life?

2008-08-12T18:15:00.004-05:00

I may have found my long lost sister- Michelle Malkin! Geeze, could there be a more spot on chick to enjoy reading? ;) Check out her post here on the mortgage crisis and a local SFO newspapers write up on a poor, "helpless" mortgagee. Rock RIGHT ON Michelle!

Our Country's future

2008-07-10T13:17:00.004-05:00

As of late, there has been a lot of conversation in my home about the future of our country, thus the future of our children as they grow up in the United States. We've got friends that live in various countries as Ex-Pats and seem to be very happy. I say "go for it" while you can! Recently, B read a book (America Alone: the end of the world as we know it) that I've only skimmed a scant few pages of. Its terrifying. (Of course my father in law suggested it to B)- not to terrify him, but rather to inform, I'm sure. It got me thinking, and I remembered an email that had circulated several years ago- and thought I would include it here. Its worth the read, although it is lengthy. It can be found here

WORLD SITUATION - A LETTER TO MY SONS (article in full)

This was written by a retired attorney, to his sons, May 19, 2004. Dear Tom, Kevin, Kirby and Ted, As your father, I believe I owe it to you to share some thoughts on the present world situation. We have over the years discussed a lot of important things, like going to college, jobs and so forth. But this really takes precedence over any of those discussions. I hope this might give you a longer term perspective that fewer and fewer of my generation are left to speak to. To be sure you understand that this is not politically flavored, I will tell you that since Franklin D. Roosevelt, who led us through pre and WWII (1933 - 1945) up to and including our present President, I have without exception, supported our presidents on all matters of international conflict. This would include just naming a few in addition to President Roosevelt - WWII: President Truman - Korean War 1950; President Kennedy - Bay of Pigs (1961); President Kennedy - Vietnam (1961); [1] eight presidents (5 Republican & 4 Democrat) during the cold war (1945 - 1991); President Clinton's strikes on Bosnia (1995) and on Iraq (1998). [2] So be sure you read this as completely non-political or otherwise you will miss the point. Our country is now facing the most serious threat to its existence, as we know it, that we have faced in your lifetime and mine (which includes WWII). The deadly seriousness is greatly compounded by the fact that there are very few of us who think we can possibly lose this war and even fewer who realize what losing really means. First, let's examine a few basics: 1. When did the threat to us start? Many will say September 11th, 2001. The answer as far as the United States is concerned is 1979, 22 years prior to September 2001, with the following attacks on us: Iran Embassy Hostages, 1979; Beirut, Lebanon Embassy 1983; Beirut, Lebanon Marine Barracks 1983; Lockerbie, Scotland Pan-Am flight to New York 1988; First New York World Trade Center attack 1993; Dhahran, Saudi Arabia Khobar Towers Military complex 1996; Nairobi, Kenya US Embassy 1998; Dar es Salaam, Tanzania US Embassy 1998; Aden, Yemen USS Cole 2000; New York World Trade Center 2001; Pentagon 2001. (Note that during the period from 1981 to 2001 there were 7,581 terrorist attacks worldwide). [3] 2. Why were we attacked? Envy of our position, our success, and our freedoms. The attacks happened during the administrations of Presidents Carter, Reagan, Bush 1, Clinton and Bush 2. We cannot fault either the Republicans or Democrats as there were no provocations by any of the presidents or their immediate predecessors, Presidents Ford or Carter. 4. Who were the attackers? In each case, the attacks on the US were carried out by Muslims. 5. What is the Muslim population of the World? 25% 6. Isn't the Muslim Religion peaceful? Hopefully, but that is really not material. There is no doubt that the predominately Christian population of Germany was peaceful, but under the dictatorial leadership of Hitler, that made no difference. You either went along with the administration or you were eliminated. There were 5 to 6 million Christians killed by the Nazis for political reasons (including 7,000 Polish priests). (http://www.nazis.testimony.co.uk/7-a.htm). Thus, almost the same number of Christians were killed by the Nazis, as the 6 million holocaust Jews who were killed by them, and we seldom heard of anything other than the Jewish atrocities. Although Hitler kept the world focused on the Jews, he had no hesitancy about killing anyone who got in his way of exterminating the Jews or of taking over the world - German, Christian or any others. Same with the Muslim terrorists. They focus the world on the US, but kill all in the way - their own people or the Spanish, French or anyone else.. [5] The point here is that just like the peaceful Germans were of no protection to anyone from the Nazis, no matter how many peaceful Muslims there may be, they are no protection for us from the terrorist Muslim leaders and what they are fanatically bent on doing - by their own pronouncements - killing all of us infidels. I don't blame the peaceful Muslims. What would you do if the choice was shut up or die? 6. So who are we at war with? There is no way we can honestly respond that it is anyone other than the Muslim terrorists. Trying to be politically correct and avoid verbalizing this conclusion can well be fatal. There is no way to win if you don't clearly recognize and articulate who you are fighting. So with that background, now to the two major questions: 1. Can we lose this war? 2. What does losing really mean? If we are to win, we must clearly answer these two pivotal questions. We can definitely lose this war, and as anomalous as it may sound, the major reason we can lose is that so many of us simply do not fathom the answer to the second question - What does losing mean? It would appear that a great many of us think that losing the war means hanging our heads, bringing the troops home and going on about our business, like post Vietnam. This is as far from the truth as one can get. What losing really means is: We would no longer be the premier country in the world. The attacks will not subside, but rather will steadily increase. Remember, they want us dead, not just quiet. If they had just wanted us quiet, they would not have produced an increasing series of attacks against us over the past 18 years. The plan was clearly to terrorist attack us until we were neutered and submissive to them. We would of course have no future support from other nations for fear of reprisals and for the reason that they would see we are impotent and cannot help them. They will pick off the other non-Muslim nations, one at a time. It will be increasingly easier for them. They already hold Spain hostage. It doesn't matter whether it was right or wrong for Spain to withdraw its troops from Iraq. Spain did it because the Muslim terrorists bombed their train and told them to withdraw the troops. Anything else they want Spain to do, will be done. Spain is finished. The next will probably be France. Our one hope on France is that they might see the light and realize that if we don't win, they are finished too, in that they can't resist the Muslim terrorists without us. However, it may already be too late for France. France is already 20% Muslim and fading fast. See the attached article on the French condition by Tom Segel. [6] If we lose the war, our production, income, exports and way of life will all vanish as we know it. After losing, who would trade or deal with us if they were threatened by the Muslims. If we can't stop the Muslims, how could anyone else? The Muslims fully know what is riding on this war and therefore are completely committed to winning at any cost. We better know it too and be likewise committed to winning at any cost. Why do I go on at such lengths about the results of losing? Simple. Until we recognize the costs of losing, we cannot unite and really put 100% of our thoughts and efforts into winning. And it is going to take that 100% effort to win. So, how can we lose the war? Again, the answer is simple. We can lose the war by imploding. That is, defeating ourselves by refusing to recognize the enemy and their purpose and really digging in and lending full support to the war effort. If we are united, there is no way that we can lose. If we continue to be divided, there is no way that we can win. Let me give you a few examples of how we simply don't comprehend the life and death seriousness of this situation. - President Bush selects Norman Mineta as Secretary of Transportation. Although all of the terrorist attacks were committed by Muslim men between 17 and 40 years of age, Secretary Mineta refuses to allow profiling. Does that sound like we are taking this thing seriously? This is war. For the duration we are going to have to give up some of the civil rights we have become accustomed to. We had better be prepared to lose some of our civil rights temporarily or we will most certainly lose all of them permanently. And don't worry that it is a slippery slope. We gave up plenty of civil rights during WWII and immediately restored them after the victory and in fact added many more since then. Do I blame President Bush or President Clinton before him? No, I blame us for blithely assuming we can maintain all of our Political Correctness and all of our civil rights during this conflict and have a clean, lawful, honorable war. None of those words apply to war. Get them out of your head. - Some have gone so far in their criticism of the war and/or the Administration that it almost seems they would literally like to see us lose. I hasten to add that this isn't because they are disloyal. It is because they just don't recognize what losing means. Nevertheless, that conduct gives the impression to the enemy that we are divided and weakening, it concerns our friends, and it does great damage to our cause. - Of more recent vintage, the uproar fueled by the politicians and media regarding the treatment of some prisoners of war perhaps exemplifies best what I am saying. We have recently had an issue involving the treatment of a few Muslim prisoners of war by a small group of our military police. These are the type prisoners who just a few months ago were throwing their own people off buildings, cutting off their hands, cutting out their tongues and otherwise murdering their own people just for disagreeing with Saddam Hussein. And just a few years ago these same type prisoners chemically killed 400,000 of their own people for the same reason. They are also the same type enemy fighters who recently were burning Americans and dragging their charred corpses through the streets of Iraq. And still more recently the same type enemy that was and is providing videos to all news sources internationally, of the beheading of an American prisoner they held. Compare this with some of our press and politicians who for several days have thought and talked about nothing else but the "humiliating" of some Muslim prisoners - not burning them, not dragging their charred corpses through the streets, not beheading them, but "humiliating" them. Can this be for real? The politicians and pundits have even talked of impeachment of the Secretary of Defense. If this doesn't show the complete lack of comprehension and understanding of the seriousness of the enemy we are fighting, the life and death struggle we are in and the disastrous results of losing this war, nothing can. To bring our country to a virtual political standstill over this prisoner issue makes us look like Nero playing his fiddle as Rome burned - totally oblivious to what is going on in the real world. Neither we, nor any other country, can survive this internal strife. Again I say, this does not mean that some of our politicians or media people are disloyal. It simply means that they absolutely oblivious to the magnitude of the situation we are in and into which the Muslim terrorists have been pushing us for many years. Remember, the Muslim terrorists stated goal is to kill all infidels. That translates into all non-Muslims - not just in the United States, but throughout the world. We are the last bastion of defense. - We have been criticized for many years as being 'arrogant'. That charge is valid in at least one respect. We are arrogant in that we believe that we are so good, powerful and smart, that we can win the hearts and minds of all those who attack us, and that with both hands tied behind our back, we can defeat anything bad in the world. We can't. If we don't recognize this, our nation as we know it will not survive, and no other free country in the World will survive if we are defeated. And finally, name any Muslim countries throughout the world that allow freedom of speech, freedom of thought, freedom of religion, freedom of the Press, equal rights for anyone - let alone everyone, equal status or any status for women, or that have been productive in one single way that contributes to the good of the World. This has been a long way of saying that we must be united on this war or we will be equated in the history books to the self-inflicted fall of the Roman Empire. If, that is, the Muslim leaders will allow history books to be written or read. If we don't win this war right now, keep a close eye on how the Muslims take over France in the next 5 years or less. They will continue to increase the Muslim population of France and continue to encroach little by little on the established French traditions. The French will be fighting among themselves over what should or should not be done, which will continue to weaken them and keep them from any united resolve. Doesn't that sound eerily familiar? Democracies don't have their freedoms taken away from them by some external military force. Instead, they give their freedoms away, politically correct piece by politically correct piece. And they are giving those freedoms away to those who have shown, worldwide, that they abhor freedom and will not apply it to you or even to themselves, once they are in power. They have universally shown that when they have taken over, they then start brutally killing each other over who will be the few who control the masses. Will we ever stop hearing from the politically correct, about the "peaceful Muslims"? I close on a hopeful note, by repeating what I said above. If we are united, there is no way that we can lose. I believe that after the election, the factions in our country will begin to focus on the critical situation we are in and will unite to save our country. It is your future we are talking about. Do whatever you can to preserve it. Love, Dad [1] By the way on Vietnam, the emotions are still so high that it is really not possible to discuss it. However, I think President Kennedy was correct. He felt there was a communist threat from China, Russia and North Vietnam to take over that whole area. Also remember that we were in a 'cold war' with Russia. I frankly think Kennedy's plan worked and kept that total communist control out, but try telling that to anyone now. It just isn't politically correct to say so. Historians will answer this after cool headed research, when the people closest to it are all gone. [2] As you know, I am a strong President Bush supporter and will vote for him. However, if Senator Kerry is elected, I will fully support him on all matters of international conflict, just as I have supported all presidents in the past. [3] Source for statistics in Par. 1 is http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0001454.html [4] The Institute of Islamic Information and Education. http://www.iiie.net/Intl/PopStats.html [5] Note the attached article by Tom Segel referred to in footnote 6 infra, the terrorist Muslim have already begun the havoc in France. (The note was not attached to the E-mail I received. Gene) [6] I checked this article with two sources - Hoax Busters and Urban Myths. It does not come up as a Hoax on either. I also then E-mailed Mr. Segel and he confirmed the article was his. [7] "I don't think the Army or any branch of service runs any type of war any more. It's done by senators and congressmen. There are too many civilians involved." Returning Iraq veteran, Sgt. 1st Class Greg Klees as quoted in the Cedar Rapids, IA Gazette on May 13th, 2004. [8] There are 64 Muslim countries. This does not count countries like Spain that are controlled by the Muslim terrorists.

What I think I fail to remember (and should) on a daily basis is that although it is my job to protect the innoocence of my children from early childhood until they are old enough to understand, we can no longer continue to be "innocent Americans" that take for granted our security in a relatively safe country. We cant expect that our America will remain this way. We cannot turn our backs or insulate ourselves from what is happening in our own back yard (ie:France, Spain, England) and expect that changing course or complete troop withdrawl will solve anything in regard to our freedom, it will do nothing but hinder our movement around the globe and places that once were safe for Americans to travel to will be no longer.

What are your thoughts? I'd love to hear them.

Be Not, Afraid of who you are~

2008-06-04T14:50:00.004-05:00

"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.” ~Dr. Suess ~ *Thanks Pete Seale, for reminding me not to be afraid! ;) Dell

Social Media, who is missing the boat?

2008-05-28T16:18:00.004-05:00

In the past few weeks- I've been tasked with looking into how SM can help the company I work for in the areas of channel marketing as well as retention of customers and leveraging our colleagues to reach out to others and "spread the good word". - wow! I couldn't have known the depth or the weightiness of that request- I'm glad I didn't! This article is one that really hits the nail on the head for social media guru's such as Jeremiah- (look left and click on his blog!) and people who are using SM to reach out to others from a grassroots perspective. If only the people who are speaking about and using SM could articulate it and the necessity of it to the leaders of our corporations... We try- and someday- we'll hit the right nail- and drive it right in! I'm lucky. I work for a relatively small company (in the whole scheme of things) and having a constant influx of incoming employees helps with the whole idea of being "connected". We simply will not- (cannot) ignore the importance of social media in the space of business. When you look at companies like Starbucks, McDonald's, and Apple there is a presence that makes them more of a way of life than a company. You're not just getting a cup of Joe at Starbucks- you're buying an atmosphere, and experience. The really lucky ones can accomplish this type of brand presence and its not come by easily. The influx of wi-fi and wireless hubs into the Houston area is staggering! Companies WANT you to come, stay a while and "connect"... Hard to believe- but my favorite little wine bar is one of those places! (Luv you- Corkscrew!) Why, you can even step up to the counter at McDonald's and buy a Big Mac and get your wifi-on while you eat. Seriously- the problems this presents are more than just lack of attention to driving while you whip out your Blackberry whilst getting on the 45 to head downtown from the Heights- (umm.. personal experience??) to getting some guy to ask you out on a date and LEAVE the damn thing in the car while your eating dinner (thanks for that little nugget Chrissy!) I cant IMAGINE dating now! The "need" to know right now- has trumped the idea of a little "mystery"- (Have I mentioned that I'm thrilled that I no longer am in the dating arena?? ;) Attention to details like calling in advance (The Wednesday rule) - have kind of flown out the door with the Tweets ;) Still- I believe that there is value in this new marketplace. I think that although it deafens some folks to the necessity of social grace- (which, inevitably some folks will always possess a deficiency of) it also connects us like no other generation has ever experienced. We're lucky- now lets figure out how to unleash this in the marketplace.

So CLEARLY Brilliant!

2008-05-21T13:31:00.000-05:00

"So what, if anything, can businesses do at this juncture? They can begin by searching out people within the organization who understand what’s going on. In almost every case, they’re there. Make friends with them. Make friends with the marketplace again. Start listening. Find your voice. Then start talking as if your life depended on it. It does." WOW! http://www.cluetrain.com/book/

Adorable little Family

2008-05-20T22:53:00.002-05:00

Oh little "wee ones" - will you always hold eachothers hands?

Will you always love to steal bubble gum out of my purse- and claim that you "accidentally swallowed it"?

Will you always say "I love you so much that my heart breaks" any old time?? :)

Will you always like pink nailpolish- little belle? and leave it on for precisely 15 minutes after I polish your tiny little nails, then ask me to re-do them?

Will you always try and sneak into mine and daddys bed at 2:45 am- just to "have a snuggle"?

Will you always proclaim- "mama- I AM a big boy- I'm almost bigger than daddy, and someday- if I eat my ve-geee-tables, I'll grow up to go to A&M" ;>

I hope you always will do these things, I hope my documentation of these things serves as a constant reminder of these sweet, precious times with you- my lovely family. I cherish you- (all three of you!)

Each day is another delight- another realization that you are in fact growing and are the family I always dreamt of.

There Aren't Enough Words...

2008-05-20T13:50:00.005-05:00

Crushingly, over the past few weeks, there have been several instances of heartbreak for me. Not the kind of heartbreak that collapses you- but the tiny little "tink, tink, tink" of a hammer and chisel that in some cases can bring down a mountain. I had a dear childhood friend recently (a next door neighbor and his dad) that I grew up with, that were senselessly murdered. Its a long drawn out story- but my point is that its amazing what the mind will remember when someone from your past is brought up again. You'll be going along with your busy hectic schedule and all of the sudden- "WHAM"- your mom calls and tells you about something tragic. (She emailed me actually) Heres an exerpt from the notes we exchanged: Obviously- we grew up in the country- so keep that in mind as you read it! ;)

"Ugh- I just got done reading the article about David and "Big David" -- and

I'm really choked up... I can remember fishing with him

on the banks of our stock tanks and he would always catch

grasshoppers (or at least help Lisa and I) and eventually, we'd

end up in the tank swimming and getting yelled at because there were

always snakes sunning themselves and you were afraid

we'd get bit. I can see him in my mind, running around in the

pasture with him when I was little. Thirty acres was the world to us

three. Even more than that was the additional land we would run

around on over their side of the fence. ;) I remember when dad

got so pissed when we went up on the holding tanks for the oil well?

(Im sure that was mine and/or Lisa's idea) I think that was the only time

I remember us ALL getting our asses beat! Dad was having NONE of that! Remember Dot (the truck? was that the name?) we'd all crawl up in her

and I can see David turning the wheel with Lisa and I sitting next to him

on the long vinyl, cracked bench seat that would poke our legs with the

jagged edges and we would pretend we were driving to far away

places... Like Bryan- I suppose? ;) We would climb trees and he would hold my hand to help me up

them and to climb up on "mountains" of brush that daddy would

stack before he burnt it off- we would pretend we were adventurers. His daddy was always pretty quiet- and soft hearted. I

remember being over at their house a very few times growing up -

and although I think I had an idea that Big David didn't have much

(neither did we for that matter!) I could always see his love for little

David. He adored his son- would have given anything for him. I don't

ever remember him yelling at little David for much- just to get inside for dinner

or yelling across the pasture for him to come home at dusk. What

I see in my mind is this wiry little kid with platinum blonde hair that flew

in the air by the end of the summer because his daddy would buzz cut

it at the first of the summer-and it would grow out. I remember him being

able to whistle with grass blades, and Lisa and I never could.

(I think Lisa got some remedial training in that department- because

she eventually learned to do it too I think- but I never did.) He could whistle

with two fingers too- we never could- it always made us jealous- and he

would be patient and still try and teach us how to do it, I can see him smile

this huge white toothed smile, right now, laughing at us. I guess we were

probably about 7 or 8? I can remember him crawling through the

barbed wire fence, mostly barefooted and wandering over to the back shed

when dad used that as a house for his tools and stuff. Remember,

I would wander down there and watch daddy and Little David would

wander over too and just hang out and have the occasional

question about what daddy was doing. He never did have anything bad to say about anyone-unless he was complaining

about Lisa and I (we probably weren't playing nice or something.) I don't

EVER remember him not having a smile on his face. I always thought of him

as an angel.. (And Lisa and I were the devils ;)-- (I mean that jokingly ;)

I don't know that we three played much together after we were past about 10-and

I know he had a much different life than I've had- but there's something to be

said about the children we spend our time with growing up. We grow

up- but those sweet memories are always there. I'll always have good memories

of our childhood. Its unfortunate that his and his daddy's life had to end

so abruptly and so violently. I cant tell you that I wouldn't have handled an

email from my daughter the same exact way. He did what he HAD to do as a dad.

He should always be her hero. I know intimately what I would do to save

my children from even the slightest pain. I wonder what will happen with the

kids now that they are gone? I pray they don't place them back with their mother.

That would destroy everything he stood for in getting them back in a safe place

where he could raise them surrounded by love and safety. I love you- Amydell" Additionally- I got a call from mom that a high school buddy died from breast cancer. She was a couple of years younger than I am. I'm telling you- not because I want to depress you- but because I want you to breathe today- I mean REALLY take a deep breath and whisper sweet songs to your kiddos tonight when you tuck them in. I really want you to hug someone you love and smell their hair and grab their hand when they dont expect it. Tell those you love how much you do love them and really be happy that you had today. Today will be a memory tomorrow and all we really have is today. On another note- just a few weeks away is Fathers Day!! I wanted to post a few pics of the kiddos at their first Astros game last night. It was a fun game- although the 'stros lost to the Cubbys. The kids ate hot dogs and popcorn and drank sodas. Bill and I split a beer. Bryce couldnt figure out WHY the train didnt just chug around Minute Maid Park the whole game. (or just once!) - which incidentally doesnt happen unless a batter hits one out of the park. Me thinks they are a little stingy with the train!!! ;) There arent enough words to explain how much I love this little family, this little life of mine and this great big town, Houston.

My God! 3 Democrats running for election?

2008-05-13T23:03:00.004-05:00

Is it just me- or are there three Democrats running for election to the highest elected office in the land?

2008-05-13T09:56:00.001-05:00

Swimming Through Space

2008-05-12T22:17:00.006-05:00

Today was the day! My wee-ones had their first swim lesson! I was able to find a local gal that is going to teach them privately- at a local pool that doesn't open until after Memorial Day. She is AWESOME! Little did I know at the time- some folks at work had been passing around her info- and she is the "gal-pal" of one of my co-workers! So- it all worked out splendidly! She took the "b's" on - for 10 lessons and arranged to meet me tonight to have their first lesson! She was kind, gentle and happy- but firm- which I think is necessary with two- 4 year olds. She even mentioned that next lesson- we may want to step to the side- and wait in the wings- while she schools them. UGH! Wasn't dropping them off with Mrs. Cooper (Their PK3 teacher) enough- last year? I wanted so badly to be the "hover" parent- but I know that my mom wasn't that way- and I'm pretty sure my mother in law wasn't either- and somehow- B & I survived our childhood- relatively unscathed- so I backed off. So- Here's the video of my princess ROLLING over like a champ-while her brother screams from the other side "GET ME OUT MOMMY!"

This is how Faith first teaches them to float.

This is how she teaches them to kick and blow bubbles.

One lesson down- NINE to go!

I remember growing up- my dad would keep me in the summers. One of the reasons he picked the house he did off Meyer St. was because it was basically a block and a half from the neighborhood pool We all (all 5 of us) would walk to the pool each day (alone) and walk home for lunch, a nap and go back almost always in the afternoon for another swim upon my dads arrival home from work. Those are great memories- I even life guarded at Seabrook pool when I was 17 for a short part of the summer. It was lots of fun. I wouldnt trust my children to walk outside my front door now without supervision- but hey- those were different times I suppose. Seabrook was just a sleepy little fishing town with a bay- (This was WAY before Tillman ever hit the scene and built the Kemah boardwalk. Just the same- I love those memories. Good times, good times!

Dear Laura

2008-05-11T23:47:00.002-05:00

How I've grown to love you over the past year and a half. You've befriended me and had countless glasses of wine with me- you've been a confidant and friend. (Thank You!) I know how hard it is to be 25, (you are TEN years my junior my love) and I remember ultimately 11 years ago- how my arrival back in Houston sparked many turning points in my life. Most of which led to extreme failure, after failure- (relationship wise) and it seemed that I would never reach my stride with a man and a job- but I did... There were people who made promises to me- which led me back to Houston in the first place- from a "dead-end career" with Delta- and there were people that I fell madly in love with- that I look back on now- and know could never have loved me back... I led to a lot of loneliness. I say this- because I want you to know that I've been there. You are unique- but you're feelings are not. Everyone my dear- reaches a turning point in their life- that leads to paths which previously were unclear- each a building block to the next. Hang in there! Know and love yourself- know we are here to love you and honor your friendship. ITS HARD to be new in the 4th largest city in the country- and know your place immediately. You will- with time. Get to know yourself. Get to know what YOU like. You may never have another opportunity! When fate sends the person of your dreams to your door- they usually aren't waiting to "get to know you"- they want you to have figured out where you are in life prior to their arrival. - Children and adulthood dont help this evolution much- so take the time you need now to get to know what your dislikes and aspirations are- you may never have another quiet moment in your life to hear yourself talk! (Believe me- I feel this way now!)- Know that you are loved! and certainly not alone! Dell~

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Darlings!

2008-05-08T17:22:00.001-05:00

IMG_4987, originally uploaded by amydell.

How can it be? My precious little ones are growing before our very eyes! They laugh- they giggle- they sass- they say bedtime prayers and sing "Jesus loves me-this I know"- and they love cake and cars and bicycles. They cant wait for mommy to get home from "her skyscraper" and they see the word "Reliant" or a logo and say "mommy!!! THATS YOU!!!" -- Happy birthday!!

The Spell is Broken~

2008-03-08T07:27:00.004-06:00

Sunday afternoon has long been one of mine and Bills least and most favorite days of the week. We relish the lazy, late hour that we typically rise <7> and curse the fact that its the last day of the weekend! When we lived in our last house- we were so close to a busy street that didnt allow a leisurely glass of wine on the patio while watching the kiddos play on their playground. We've recently reinstituted a standing Sunday afternoon "drop on by" policy with our neighborhood friends- and let me tell you- its the highlight of our week! No time- just later in the day on any Sunday- when its dry and warm out. No pressure and on a lucky day, I may have made a pot of red beans and rice or have something to snack on. This quote reminded me of the recent afternoons spent in the yard! ;) How timely! "The hour is late, the flames are dying down, the embers glow, the glasses require recharging. A guest rises to leave and the spell is broken. Realization dawns that it is another day and we have to face once more the problems of reality. But if I have been able to beguile you for an hour or two into forgetting the pressing problems of today it will have afforded me infinite satisfaction."-Major General Sir Rupert Brazier-Creagh (Ed Preusser's grandfather)

"I" Disease

2008-02-22T23:20:00.003-06:00

When I was small- my step dad frequently would ridicule me for using the word "I" too much. Over the years, because of this ridicule, "I" (for better or worse) have in turned used this nugget to judge how self centered people are. In general- there are levels of self centeredness- typically, people who cant or wont pronounce others names properly upon meeting them are put in the lowest rung of general awareness of anyone but themselves. (My name is quite different- so frequently I'll use this as a "listening test" to see if people are even listening.) If I say "Hi, I'm Amydell" and you return a quick "hi, Amy, I'm so & so"- its pretty obvious you're more interested in telling me your name than getting mine right! 2nd on the tiers of self centeredness are women who latch on and refuse to be good friends- or that have no idea what it means to be a good friend. Recently I received an email from someone we considered a friend for a while and every sentence in the email began with "I"-- She is a person my old dad would have diagnosed with chronic "I" disease! What to do about it? Move away from it. There's nothing to gain from being friends with her. Although, I do feel sorry for her!

Grieving the Loss of the "Details"

2007-08-17T02:40:00.000-05:00

I don't know if its 35 (shhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!) that's looming in the near distance or comfort in my skin- but I feel better than I have in a long time. Things just seem to continue to go well for me. "Life is what you make of it"- right? RIGHT! Life gives you Lemons, make Lemonade", right? RIGHT! Work- still continues to suck an unbelievable amount of my time!! What "time" was to me a year ago- no longer equates. Something as simple as this blog- for instance- has become the "monkey on my back" ;) I want to write more, I want to journal more, I want to capture each day (if even in a small way) that proves I lived it! There was an article in the Houston Chronicle a few weeks ago by Leon Hale, that captured my "almost 35" year old feelings as if I were 80! He talks about the possibility of being given the chance to be 21 again- and what he'd do differently.

"So what would I do different? First, on my 21st birthday I would begin keeping a journal. Every night I'd record where I went and what I did and with whom, even if the day has been routine and dreary. I would do that until I got old again. Reason this is important to me, I figure I've forgotten at least half the detail of the years I've lived. I've forgotten hundreds of names, places, events, remarks made, kindnesses done, wounds dealt. I grieve the loss of these details. They would be of huge value to me now. They represent a large part of my life, and they're gone. It's like half of me is already dead. "

I am attending a funeral later today- of the brother of a dear friend. 29- collapsed and is gone. Doesn't really equate to me. No mother should have to bury their child. It goes against the laws of nature. All we have is now. So- I'm committing to write more, love more, breathe more, listen more, be outside of the box more, smell and really taste the wine more, hug my kids more, kiss the B's goodnight more (all three of them!) and live. I'm just sorry it took me 35 years to get to this place.

I had lunch with a girlfriend from work and she made a comment that resonates with me. She mentioned some other co-workers that spend much of their time being miserable. (She's been there for 5 years-so she knows quite a few people.) I want no one who knows me to feel that way about me. If you were to remember me, I would want you to say things like- "she lit up every room she walked into", or "she loved her children and her family" or- "I've never met a funnier person"- because isn't laughter what ignites our souls? Its one of the wonderful things that ties us as humans. I'd also want you to say- "she cared about her community, restoring old houses, her kitties, the way she looked, the way she presented herself." or "she cared what I had to say." So, I'll continue to work on those things- in the forefront of my every days and I'll live those things in honor of people who cant, wont, didn't or will never have the opportunity to.

Checkin in Chicken-

2007-06-05T21:43:00.000-05:00

HOWDY all! Its hard to believe its been 6 months since my last post! Work is good (great mostly), life is crazy (kids just turned three in May) and I'm busy with life. It really is a life change moving from a work-from-home situation to going back to corporate America. There's politics, there's lots of late nights and little ones who expect me home. They have transitioned very well-- just as kids do, from what I've heard. I read an excellent article today in Newsweek about working mommies and the "diverse" relationships they have with their nannies and children's caregivers. Check it out. Let me know what you think. Let me know how you are! Amydell

I've blinked- and lost 3 months!

2007-01-25T22:47:00.000-06:00

Corporate America is keeping me quite busy! I have to say that I'm enjoying what I'm doing quite a bit- although its hard to be away from the kids so much. It is nice to be able to talk with grown ups about things other than eating their mac-n-cheese and poo-poo. I've been working on some pretty major projects and one of them is about to launch this Friday, not that that will allow any down-time. I dont think there is such a thing at this juncture! Too much to learn- too little time to absorb- before moving on to the next thing.

Kids had a great Christmas- and we really enjoyed spoiling them rotten! They each got an electric car and lots of toys. It was probably the most memorable holiday of my life. Thats what holidays are for- making memories and spending time with family.

On that note- my grandmother died about 3 weeks ago. It was very sad. She was 91. She had a grand- long life and lived every minute to the fullest while she still could. Its scary- to get old. Let's not- and say we might... :) I'll pass- thank you!

What else? I've been swatted by my local mothers group for making a comment back to a poster that basically was trying to make any working mom on earth feel bad. Not just working moms either- but also- anyone who works hard for a living and has something to show for it. It was pretty uncomfortable- I wonder if she'll be at the MNO this next week- so I can smack her? FREAKING LIBERALS!

Hope you all are well! Post sometime soon so I'll know you are alive!

Corporate America- Here I come-

2006-11-08T00:10:00.000-06:00

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

2006-09-25T14:14:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-09-18T12:52:00.000-05:00

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

2006-09-18T11:49:00.000-05:00


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

2006-09-11T10:52:00.000-05:00

(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!

2006-09-11T10:08:00.000-05:00

“"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

2006-09-04T13:14:00.000-05:00

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;

2006-09-03T16:28:00.000-05:00

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

2006-08-29T13:58:00.000-05:00

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

2006-08-28T00:07:00.000-05:00

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

2006-08-27T23:42:00.000-05:00

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"

2006-08-24T22:52:00.000-05:00

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

2006-08-23T18:27:00.000-05:00

“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

2006-08-23T11:09:00.000-05:00

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

2006-08-21T12:02:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-08-03T22:53:00.000-05:00

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!!!

2006-07-26T11:10:00.000-05:00

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

Some things I dont miss about NYC

2006-07-25T22:54:00.000-05:00

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"

2006-07-25T14:52:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-07-19T23:05:00.000-05:00

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!!

2006-07-04T22:54:00.000-05:00

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

2006-06-28T00:17:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-06-14T15:26:00.000-05:00

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'

2006-06-08T10:22:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-06-05T22:55:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-05-30T16:09:00.000-05:00

fussy guss, originally uploaded by amydell.

Nuff Said! ;)

Memorial to today

2006-05-29T13:35:00.000-05:00

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"

2006-05-23T10:27:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-05-22T13:54:00.000-05:00

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

Thanks Daddy!

2006-05-10T15:56:00.000-05:00

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 :)

2006-05-09T20:26:00.000-05:00

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

2006-05-08T18:17:00.000-05:00

CIMG7755
Originally uploaded by amydell.

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

Rate My Life

2006-05-08T13:54:00.000-05:00

This Is My Life, Rated
Life:	7.3
Mind:	7.3
Body:	8
Spirit:	7.6
Friends/Family:	7.1
Love:	7.3
Finance:	7.3
Take the Rate My Life Quiz

Lemon Herb Chicken

2006-05-08T13:30:00.000-05:00

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

2006-05-01T12:51:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-04-28T17:59:00.000-05:00

CIMG7812
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!

2006-04-25T15:44:00.000-05:00

CIMG7778
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?

2006-04-07T19:07:00.000-05:00

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~

2006-04-04T18:45:00.000-05:00

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~

2006-03-29T23:48:00.000-06:00

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!

2006-03-29T22:49:00.000-06:00

CIMG7505
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

2006-03-27T09:32:00.000-06:00

CIMG7590
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

2006-03-20T22:31:00.000-06:00

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