The Clark Family

Why I've Been Absent

2009-12-31T00:22:00.024-06:00

Making odd birthday cakes...

For a very special birthday boy! Happy 5th Birthday Tristan!

Playing in the backyard:

Visiting the Mississippi State Fair:

Aargh! Gimme all yer Candy! Happy Halloween!

Reagan is gettin' so big, and is such a ham!

Santa's Wonderland @ BassPro Shop:

Snoozing in the car, because we spend a lot of time there.

Santa came to Daddy's work party:

Momma's a crazy coupon queen and wears Colton Man out at Kroger:

See? (Mega Sale, I love you. Please come back soon. Kiss kiss!)

Made Taco Soup! Delish!

Tristan was a Donkey at the birth of Christ...or at least performed it with Oscar-worthiness!

Anything for Pizza, right?

Showing off some of our newest fashions:

Playing in the snow:

A quick trip to Vicksburg:

Aunt Heather's Graduation:

Faux-hawks and ponytails:

Christmas at Big Papa's:

The boys' Christmas musical:

Decorating (and eating) some pre-made cookies 'cause Momma couldn't get her act together this year:

Christmas @ Grammy's:

Christmas @ Memaw's:

Cookies & Milk for "Santu Clos" (Tristan spelled it that way himself.):

Christmas Day:

It's been an insanely crazy & hectic year, but so full of sweet, happy memories. I hope you had a GREAT 2009 and I look forward to sporadic posting in 2010! ;)

Just Because She's Beautiful

2009-10-16T02:43:00.001-05:00

The Contents of my Purse (Part 2)

2009-09-04T00:48:00.002-05:00

Ladies & Gentlemen...It's time for another FUN installment of "What's in that bag?!?"

Have things changed since last time?

a Replacement button for a new pair of pants (Oh, c'mon, haven't you ever left the house with the tags on?)
half of a cashew
$3 gift card from Toys 'R Us for Tristan's upcoming birthday (Geoffrey's Birthday Club)
"It's All Too Much, So Get It Together" by Peter Walsh (OfficeMax sent this to me for FREE! Blogging perk!)
a Purple Sharpie
a CD of pictures of my Pretty Princess
a Pink Headband (Not mine, by the way...)
Fun Cards from The Park on Lakeland Drive
My Old & NEW Entertainment Books (Ah, choices!)
a Pink & Brown Diapees & Wipees Case
and so much more!!!

When I bought the current purse I'm using, my brother's girlfriend said, "What a cute BEACH BAG!" Haha...LOL...ROFL...Yeah. It's my purse.

Stay tuned for our next episode! :D

He's AMAZING!

2009-08-05T09:25:00.002-05:00

My husband is a better housewife than me.

I remember when leaving him alone with all the kids used to worry me. Not for their safety--but for his sanity!

Now, I'll leave for a few hours and come home to sleeping children and a spotless house!

How did he do that? (I think he's SUPERMAN!)

And where can I find a job making as much $$$ as him so he can stay home with the kids?

Actually, that would never work because he won't use coupons. :D

A Little "Pick-Me-Up"

2009-07-19T00:36:00.002-05:00

A loathe and despise my feet. They used to be so pretty until I got fat and pregnant...three times! Now they're big and ugly and my toenails are funky.

An old man stopped me today to tell me that I have

"THE PRETTIEST LITTLE TOES".

Thank you, strange man. Thank you very much.

My, Oh, My! How Time FLIES!

2009-07-15T12:28:00.000-05:00

My Bebe Girl is not a baby anymore. She's a .... duh duh duh....

TODDLER! AAAHHH!

I am sad. It just went by too fast. I guess knowing (or believing) that she is my last baby made this first birthday harder than her brother's first birthdays.

We had the party at the park, and everything was pink & brown--OF COURSE! I had to go all out with her outfit: I made her a pink & brown tutu and appliqued a onesie to say "1". I was looking for the right tiara and found it at Babies 'R Us on clearance for 99 cents (and that made it PERFECT!).

Opening presents:This is a picture my mother painted for her, but Colton's big head is in the way:

This is when everyone was singing "Happy Birthday". She got a little shy.

I did not let her get crazy with the cake like I did with the boys. She stayed nice & clean.

But, boy, does she like cake!

I'm still trying to get a good picture of the three of them...

Mom & Son's Rodeo

2009-07-13T11:55:00.007-05:00

My church has the most AMAZING preschool department. Notice I didn't say "nursery". These children are not babysat while at church. They are taught about Jesus and the bible. They are encouraged to be creative. They are loved.

The director of the preschool program is Ms. Dianne--and she is truly a woman of God! You know the Fruits of the Spirit? Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control: She's got 'em all.

Going above and beyond, the preschool ministry hosts two springtime events: a Father/Daughter Tea Party and a Mom & Son's Rodeo.

I first went to the M&S Rodeo in 2007 with Tristan. Colton was a baby and stayed with Memaw. It was such a delightful day with my Baby Love:

Delightful right up until I tripped and fell while holding him. I landed on top of him on the asphalt. His poor little head was swollen and bleeding. Not to mention I am now "The girl that fell." Great way to end the day!

I was unable to attend last year because of this:

This year, I was able to go with BOTH of my sweet boys!

There was horse riding:

There was train-riding:

There was more horse riding:Since Colton's birthday, he has been pretty moody and wary of the camera:

It hasn't been a problem for Tristan:

I'm looking forward to next year!

I've Been a Bad, Bad Girl.

2009-07-11T22:51:00.006-05:00

I fell off the wagon.

Allow me to quote myself: "I look forward to getting back into the habit of posting!"

I made that statement on April 4th and have posted only 3 times since. I was scolded today by my longtime friend Datche who, despite mine and many other's urging, refuses to join the social worlds of Facebook and MySpace.

I'm going to take a cue from my friend Jenny and outline some upcoming posts to keep my self on task:

Mom & Son's Rodeo
Reagan's 1st Birthday
Our Garden
Vacation 2009
July 4th Festivities
Reagan's Photo Shoot @ USM

In the mean time, check out my Money-Saving/Mommy Blog and my Bundles of Joy Baby Gifts website.

Easter 2009

2009-04-13T12:37:00.008-05:00

I did not get a single decent picture yesterday! And my Chitlin's looked so stinkin' freakin' CUTE! I will definitely be reenacting at some point so I can get them in their adorable outfits and cooperating--Like, without buckets full of eggs and candy!

Hooked on Phonics

2009-04-06T11:28:00.002-05:00

My Tristan Man is learning how to read! It's really incredible to see the transformation he is going through right now. He's such a big boy, but he's still My Baby Love!

He's known his alphabet for a LONG time, but only recently have we taught him about the sounds that go with the letters. He is fascinated! He asks me questions all day long and he's really figured out how to put the sounds together.

We were eating out the other night and he read his first words unassisted and unprompted!

"ON TAP" he says.

You can guess what was "on tap". Oh, my!

He'll love that when he's a teenager and we tell him his first reading experience was associated with Miller Lite! LOL!

Where'd They Go?

2009-04-04T02:17:00.005-05:00

Nowhere! Did you miss us?

We're still here, and I'm not really sure why I haven't been blogging on this page. I check it pretty regularly to see which friends have updated their blogs. I even read through some older posts the other day and remembered how much I enjoyed documenting little funny stories, posting pictures, and just writing.

Colton Man turned 3 last month--UNBELIEVABLE!!!

From this:

to this:

I mean, can you believe he's got a mustache already?! LOL! :D

And, wouldn't you know--he specifically requested that chocolate chip cookie cake on the left and he didn't eat one single bite of it!

Bebe Girl is just getting so big! Her 1st birthday is right around the corner!

I look forward to getting back into the habit of posting!

Introducing...

2009-03-03T15:42:00.004-06:00

Ainsley Rae Clark

Born Monday, March 2nd, 2009

@ 1:17 PM

7 pounds

21 inches

My newest Niece! Ain't she purdy?

Reagan wanted to get to her soooo bad!

Splish Splash

2009-01-19T13:16:00.003-06:00

Update on 2009 Pursuits

2009-01-19T12:44:00.003-06:00

It's been a little over a month since my post about the things I would like to be this year and going forward. I thought I would update with some of the ways I've been working on my list.

I've read my Bible everyday this year. I know that doesn't sound like a lot 19 days into 2009, but it's a big deal to me. Everytime I usually try to instill a quiet time into my days, I phase off within a week. They say 21 days makes a habit, so I'm almost there. Two years ago, my church followed a plan to read the Bible in a year. I did not participate then, so I'm using my old bookmarks and doing it this year. I must say, there are things I never knew were in the Bible and I'm a bit confused about some of it. But that's the learning and growing part. I read at night before going to bed, which is different than most, but that's what works best for me. A really cool byproduct: I'm sleeping better. It's like I focus on what I'm reading and I forget about to-do lists and whatnot. (Qualitites pursued: Perserverence; Maybe Christ-Like?)

I painted a birth announcement for my Sister-In-Law Heather, who's having a baby next month. (I forgot to take a picture, so I'll post one later.) I painted it to look like her crib set, and I'm very please with how it turned out. (Qualities pursued: Creative & Artistic)

I threw the baby shower for aforementioned SIL (with help from other SIL, MIL, & StepMIL). She had a good turnout and good great gifts. Moreover, I think we had a lot of fun playing games that I came up with. (Qualities pursued: Thoughtful, Generous, Kind; Creative & Artistic)

I've been working very hard on how I discipline my children. I'm not against spanking, but I'd like for them to want to desire to do the right things for other reasons than fear of a whoopin'. I've put a lot of emphasis on "That makes Momma very happy" or "I'm very proud of you" rather than consequences. Sometimes it works (Tristan is having less potty accidents), sometimes it hasn't (Colton spent four hours cleaning his room yesterday). I want to yell less. I'm not sure why that is usually my first response, so I'm working through that. (Qualities pursued: Patient; Loving)

I cut my bangs in an attempt to creat a different look for myself. Oh, I created a different look alright--not one I'd like to keep. More aggravating than the iffy appearance is the extra time it takes to fix them. Ugh. (Qualitites pursued & failed miserably: Stylish)

Check out my other blog. (Qualities pursued: Thrifty)

Well, this post sounds like I'm tooting my own horn which doesn't pursue the "Humble" quality, but I'm really just trying to hold myself accountable to the goals I set for myself.

Scattergories

2009-01-03T02:32:00.002-06:00

Rules: IT'S HARDER THAN IT LOOKS! USE THE 1ST LETTER OF YOUR NAME TO ANSWER EACH OF THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS. THEY HAVE TO BE REAL PLACES, NAMES, THINGS--NOTHING MADE UP! TRY TO USE DIFFERENT ANSWERS IF THE PERSON IN FRONT OF YOU HAD THE SAME 1ST INITIAL. YOU CAN'T USE YOUR NAME FOR THE BOY/GIRL NAME QUESTION. Have Fun!!

1. What is your name: Brie
2. A 4 Letter Word: Bozo
3. A Boys Name: Bill
4. A Girls Name: Bonnie
5. An occupation: Bartender
6. A Color: Burgundy
7. Something you wear: Bra
8. A Beverage: Booze
9. A Food: Banana
10. Something found in the bathroom: Bathtowel
11. A place: Boston
12. A reason for being late: Bathing
13. Something you shout: BOO!

All Dressed Up

2009-01-02T22:38:00.003-06:00

It's a good thing I like candid pictures!

I finally get an opportunity, and my camera wasn't ready.

Sweetness...

Perfection!

My silly boy

My sillier boy

I couldn't get him to sit still, but he's so darn cute!

Christmas @ Big Papa's

2009-01-02T22:25:00.002-06:00

Christmas @ Grammy's

2009-01-01T19:12:00.002-06:00

Random December Joys

2009-01-01T18:41:00.004-06:00

A chubby baby in a diaper--one of life's simple pleasures.

Christmas Cookies

Martha Stewart, I am not.
But I like them anyway!

A rare day of me & my eldest out alone.

"Woody" getting ready for his Christmas program.

Playin' Around

She likes her toys!

Her bangs are getting so long!

Christmas @ The Ag Museum

2009-01-01T17:35:00.002-06:00

Look who was sleeping when we arrived:

Before I proceed, I have to explain the significance of this next picture. We go to the Ag Museum for many of their events. The boys love riding the train, the ponies, and the carousel, and there are usually activities as well. Most importantly they are Family-Friendly...except for Halloween apparently! When we went for Halloween in 2007, there were ghosts and monsters and it was suddenly a very scary place! They were even jumping out and grabbing kids! 14 months later, Tristan was terrified to go near anybody. He was very suspicious of Santa. Tristan tried to tell Santa what he wanted for Christmas from 20 feet away. I explained that Santa couldn't hear him and he needed to know what to get Tristan for Christmas. Tristan finally walked over to him and blurted out "Cars & Dinosaurs" and hightailed it outta there! I barely even got a picture! It was funny, though.

Me & my babies in the HUMONGOUS rocking chair. We cannot get a good picture all together...

Tristan & Daddy. Oh, and Mr. Catfish.

The boy with no personality. As if.

Snow Day...Forgive the Tardiness

2009-01-01T16:38:00.004-06:00

Our Home

Me & Bebe Girl with socks for gloves

Our Snowman measured about 8 inches

A Bundled Colton

Tristan trying to catch snowflakes on his tongue

What Are You Allergic To?

2009-01-01T16:33:00.001-06:00

I love listening to my baby boys when they don't know I'm there. They say the funniest things:

Tristan: Colton, I'm allergic to ants. What are you allergic to?

Colton: Um...I think, I think I'm allergic to CROCODILES!

I just about wet my pants!

Big Papa says Colton gets it from him. :)

Want To See Something Beautiful?

2008-12-19T14:21:00.002-06:00

Venting!

2008-12-18T19:02:00.002-06:00

I was watching Martha Stewart's talk show (on DVR, so it may have been from a couple days ago) and Melissa Etheridge was on. She was talking about how much she loves Christmas--but not because of the religiosity. Because of the festivities.

What?

If you are not a Christian, why would you celebrate the birth of CHRIST?!?!?!

I know this is nothing newsworthy, but it just chaps my hide. I don't want the British celebrating our Independence Day and I don't think everybody should celebrate Christmas "just because".

Short rant, I'm just a little irritated by it.

My Rut & My Exit

2008-12-16T14:04:00.003-06:00

I'm in a rut. A pouting, whining, poor-me rut.

And I'm ready to get out.

I'm not usually a "New Year's Resolution" kind of girl, but I have a different view this year. I see an opportunity for a fresh start and I feel motivated.

Instead of coming up with traditional resolutions, I'm making a list of ways I want my children to describe me as they grow:

1. Christ-like
2. Joyful
3. Creative & Artistic
4. Thoughtful, Generous, Kind
5. Inventive
6. Playful
7. Stylish (And that's OK!)
8. Funny and/or witty
9. Loving
10. Patient
11. Humble
12. Hopeful
13. Perserverent
14. Content
15. Thrifty

Those are in no particular order, except for the first one. Throughout the next year, I will be referencing this post and sharing my progress. I can't exactly mark it like a to-do list, but I will endeavor after each quality with the same enthusiasm.

Look What I Did Today...

2008-11-24T18:07:00.002-06:00

Before:

After:

Halloween Pics

2008-11-08T17:06:00.007-06:00

Tristan was only 6 weeks old on his first Halloween and I didn't feel compelled to dress him up. On his second Halloween, he was a pumpkin. Pretty generic, I know. But he was so cute, and we cut the Jack-O-Lantern to match!

Colton wore the same costume for his first Halloween.

I had to finish the tradition with Reagan, but she couldn't just be a pumpkin. That was too boring for my Bebe Girl. So she was a Pumpkin Princess, complete with Tiara, Tutu, and Magic Wand! I even made the tutu myself!

When I asked the boys if they wanted to be Buzz & Woody from Toy Story, I received the double reply "I wanna be BUZZ!" I knew we were going to Freedom Ridge Park on Thursday the 30th and our church's Fall Festival on Halloween night, so I decided they would take turns being each character--but I must say that Colton is a natural cowboy :)

Reagan was not happy about being out so late.

Tristan & Colton with their cousins: Austin, Caden, & Kenzie.

The scariest thing I saw on Halloween:

Totally kidding--he's gorgeous! You know it!

Our sleeping beauty just couldn't take anymore.

Hope you had a Happy Halloween!

Party of Five

2008-10-30T14:05:00.004-05:00

These are the very FIRST pictures of all 5 of us (Thanks Dad!)! And Reagan is six months old!!! How sad is that?!?!

She's so doggone kissable!

Handsome men...

Me & My Man

Me & My Princess

And this is what you really get when photographing three small children.

I Want to Be Needed

2008-10-20T10:52:00.003-05:00

My baby boys are not baby boys anymore. How do I make this "growing up" thing stop?

We were getting in the van the other day. They usually get in by themselves, but there was a box I had to mail in the way of the door. I said to the boys, "I'll come help you if you need me to."

Tristan: "I can do it myself."

Colton: "I don't need you Momma."

And then he proceeded to say it over and over and over. He says everything over and over, but this particularly hurt. Brought tears to my eyes, as a matter of fact.

Too Much Bragging

2008-10-15T01:21:00.002-05:00

For five months, all I talked about was how "good" of a baby Reagan was.

"She sleeps so good!"

"She has a great routine."

"She's sooo much easier than the boys were!"

It's been five nights since I have slept in my own bed. :(

She wakes up every 15 minutes now.

She wants the swaddle.

She hates the swaddle.

She wants to eat.

She refuses to eat.

She screams for the paci.

She spits the paci out.

I'm done bragging about her. Except about how BEAUTIFUL she is.

That won't make her ugly, will it?

Little Texas Longhorn

2008-10-12T22:47:00.003-05:00

This is Reagan in her Longhorns cheerleader outfit--it's a bit too big...

Sweet Daddy is wrapped aroung that teeny tiny pinkie finger!

And this is Reagan's favorite activity: Spitting!

She's smiling cause Texas won!

The Fair

2008-10-11T19:42:00.004-05:00

It was hot. It was muggy. It was exhausting. And I am sunburned.

But the boys had a great time and we got some good pictures!

Checkout my princess!

Just a Post

2008-09-30T13:26:00.006-05:00

Things are busy right now.

I'm teaching a class Sunday mornings in the preschool area at church.

The class I'm attending on Wednesday nights has a good bit of homework.

I have a new blog.

Tristan had his 4th birthday and party.

Reagan has had a fever and a recurring rash.

Something about the age of my children right now is very demanding as well. It was easier when Reagan was a newborn--I know that sounds weird, but it's true.

I'm a little zapped, so I'm just going to post some pictures now.

The Boys doing watercolor pictures from Bass Pro Shop.

I love her dark eyes!

I love it when they're closed, too.

Just gettin' so big so fast.

Bows make me happy.

This is Reagan's Big Pawpaw (T.C.'s Dad).

This is her Grammy (T.C.'s Mom).

Transformers sounded like a good idea before we discovered they come apart into a hundred little pieces when you just BREATHE on them!

My sweet Punkin boy, all tuckered out.

IF YOUR LIFE WAS A MOVIE, WHAT WOULD THE SOUNDTRACK BE?

2008-09-22T15:26:00.002-05:00

So, here's how it works:
1)Open your music library. (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc.)
2)Put it on "shuffle"
3)Press "play"
4)For the first question, type the song that's playing.
5)When you go to a new question, press the "next" button
6)Don't lie and try to pretend you're cool.

Opening Credits: Fast Car by Tracy Chapman
Your birth: Wait for You by Elliot Yamin
Waking up: Build Me Up Buttercup by The Foundations
First Day At School: Fever by Beyonce
Getting Driver's License: Single by Natasha Bedingfield
High School: Tomorrow from "Annie"
First Love: Same Old Lang Syne by Dan Fogelberg
Breaking Up: Don't Fear the Reaper by Blue Oyster Cult
Graduation: Push by Matchbow Twenty
College: Home by Michael Buble
Wedding: The Way I Am by Ingrid Michaelson
Birth of Children: Cupids Chokehold by Gym Class Heroes
Career: Dance by Garth Brooks
Final Battle: God Blessed the Broken Road by Rascal Flatts
Death Scene: Dream On by Aerosmith
Funeral Song: Brick House by The Commodores
End Credits: Baby Come Back by Player

That was too fun! I used my playlist from the bottom of this page. Some songs were perfectly appropriate--Michael Buble wants to go home from college--others were not--Cupid's Chokehold for the birth of my children??

Copy and paste, I'd love to see what you guys come up with!

Zip It, Zip It Good!

2008-09-18T14:10:00.002-05:00

When T.C. and I got married over 7 (!) years ago, I had a friend take the pictures. Our wedding was very ~~cheap~~ budget-friendly, and she was in my photography class at Hinds. Bad choice. I still love her to death, but the pix were bad...some were nonexistent.

Ever since, I have wanted to have bridal portraits made. I kept putting it off, having babies and all. Since Reagan's birth, I have been intent on losing the weight and having my picture taken in my wedding dress.

Last night, I got it out of the closet.

Colton says,"You got pretty dress Momma?"

"Yes, baby."

I pull my gown out of it's plastic house.

"It's a princess dress!" he exclaims, after a gasp.

As I step in, he asks,"You put on your princess clothes, Momma?"

"Yes, Baby."

"You a princess, Momma," he declares.

Actually, I'm the Queen.

But the point of the story...

It fits and it zips. I can't breathe in it, but who needs air?

Hopefully, I'll have some pictures taken soon and I can cut off this mass of hair!

The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly

2008-09-11T14:15:00.006-05:00

The Good

At around 6pm on September 11, 2004 I began experiencing the contractions that would eventually (and I do mean eventually) lead to the birth of my baby boy Tristan.

The Bad

At around 9:30 am on September 11th, 2001, I was obliviously preparing for the lunch crowd at my waitressing job when another employee arrived and told me there had been a plane crash in New York. We turned on the TV just in time to watch the second plane hit the second tower.

The Ugly

While I am so thankful for my son, it is a day of overwhelming sadness. Thousands of Americans died--not fighting for their country, not standing up for a cause, not knowing they were in harm's way. I grew up around the military and have always had a strong sense of patriotism, but I had never thought about being murdered just for being an American. My thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and families of those lost on 9/11.

A Woman on a Mission

2008-09-10T09:41:00.002-05:00

This is the kind of woman I want to be:

A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls.
She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.
When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Proverbs 31:10-31

Except maybe for the "She gets up while it is still dark" part... ;)

What's Up, Doc?

2008-09-07T00:30:00.002-05:00

Reagan and Tristan had doctor visits on Friday (Can I just pause a moment to tell you how much I LOVE our pediatrician!!! He is so great with the kids, he's knowledgable, prompt, just wonderful! Fabulous!).

Reagan is four months old already! She weighs 14 pounds, 10 ounces, and she's tall for her age. She got three shots (ouchie!). She screamed, of course, but calmed down pretty quickly. She's been a little fussy and I've been pumping her with Tylenol every four hours!

Tristan went for his four year (my baby, sniff, sniff...) check-up. He weighs almost 40 pounds and is 41 inches tall, tall for his age as well. He got his blood pressure taken, his finger pricked, and he even got to teetee in a cup! I think he had FUN at the doctor! LOL!

New Blog Page

2008-09-03T16:54:00.003-05:00

I have a new blog page!

There will be blogs about managing money, time, kids, the household, and more!

Please check it out!

Look Who's Getting SOOO Big!

2008-09-02T10:08:00.005-05:00

Last night, we got the "baby" toys out of the attic. You know, rattles, plastic key rings, chew toys (for lack of a better term!). The biggie was the walker. Reagan was a little skeptical at first. But then she had fun!

The boys thought it was Christmas morning! They even got Pooh Bear to teach them how to crawl. :)

Waiting

2008-09-01T11:56:00.000-05:00

It is so strange to sit here and wait for a natural disaster to strike.

It’s a little bit like waiting for my scheduled c-section, except I knew I was getting something wonderful then. Now, I have to wonder about our safety, our home & belongings, my friends, whether we’ll have electricity and such.

I’m hoping I’ve overreacted and it’ll just be a little rainstorm by the time it reaches us. Hoping.

I just saw the first pictures from the coast. There was a car floating away. A Volvo, I think.

I’m as prepared as I can be. So I wait.

Are you ready?

2008-08-28T16:15:00.004-05:00

I was caught off-guard by Katrina...But, oh, Gustav, I will be ready for you.

I will have all the backyard toys put away.

I will have all my laundry and dishes clean.

I will have my laptop and cell phone charged.

I will have a full tank of gas and full gas cans in the garage.

I will have heat-and-serve meals cooked before your arrival.

My pantry will be fully stocked and my freezer will be overflowing with ice cubes.

I have enough candles and batteries to power the neighborhood.

I have a DVD player in my minivan for moments of desperation.

Yes, Gustav, you have met your match! (Now, just go to Florida and leave us alone!!!)

Don't Worry, Be Happy

2008-08-27T14:01:00.003-05:00

I've had a bad morning. I tend to overreact when a bunch of little things go wrong (like the eggs falling out of the back of the van and breaking in the garage!), so I need to think about things that make me happy.

Music that you can't help but sing along with or dance to, no matter how stupid the song is...turn up your volume for this!
Getting presents for no reason (Thanks for my new purse Chrissy!!! Love it!!)
Football season, both for my enjoyment and that of my husband
A summery skirt or dress that flatters my body
Favorite movies that I know line-by-line but never tire of watching
Being able to find something I was looking for
Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies (or pretty much any chocolate for that matter :D)
A bright sunshiny day that's not too hot
A rainy day that's not too hot ;)
Blank paper and the ideas it invokes
My family (immediate and extended)
Underwear that fits just right and stays put
Getting a good deal
My babies...even if they were part of the reason I got upset in the first place
Taking pictures that turn out good
Picnicking

There's more, but Reagan just woke up and I'm feeling better now!

The Aforementioned Bruise

2008-08-26T14:59:00.002-05:00

Told you it would be bad.

If you're wondering what I did, see this blog.

See how I was all fancy slipping a "link" in there? hehe...

Hooray!

2008-08-24T15:11:00.002-05:00

I haven't lost anymore weight since a few blogs ago, but I've noticed a difference in the way things fit--or the fact that I can actually fit into things I haven't worn since before my last pregnancy.

I got dressed Friday, looked in the mirror, and thought, "I'm starting to look skinny again!"

I did, however, eat three pieces of cake yesterday...oops.

Happy Birthday T.C.!

2008-08-23T22:40:00.004-05:00

Today was T.C.'s birthday. I just wanted to take the opportunity to tell everyone how much I truly appreciate him. He works so hard for us, and he has made me a better person. He's taught me so many things: how to cook (:D), what's really important in life, and how to love.

The first time I called him on the phone, I never realized what it would lead to. 9 years together, 7 years of marriage, and three kids later, I only wish I had called him sooner.

And watching him as a father has only made me fall in love with him all over again, but stronger than I could have imagined.

He is my best friend, my love, my soulmate.

Tag, You're IT!

2008-08-19T09:47:00.011-05:00

I was tagged by Ashley, a newly married, even more newly pregnant, sweetie from church.

Here are the rules of the game...

1. Link to the person who ‘tagged’ you!

2. Post the rules on your blog!

3. List 6 random facts about yourself!

4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post!

5. Let each person know they have been tagged by commenting on their blog!

6. Let the tagger know the entry is posted on your blog!

Random Fact #1:

I was a cheerleader. First, I did peewee in 6th grade. Ah, the simpler times. We bought pom-poms at Wal-Mart, we wore white canvas Keds, one of the mom's made our skirts out of what felt like white denim, and our bloomers were as big as diapers.

I wanted to do it in Junior High, but it was so expensive! We never had the extra money, so when I started working, I saved up. I had enough money to try out for Senior Year and I made it! I cheered for basketball though, and our squad was very small. One of the other girls became, and still is, one of my very best friends.

I liked this uniform better, but it was "last year's" uniform, so we didn't have potraits taken wearing it.

Random Fact #2:

I like writing poetry. I haven't done it in awhile, but I have a journal with a few dozen poems. Some are desperate love poems written about boys I can't even remember, Some are mildly depressing (you know, insecure teenage girls...).

But here's one of my favorites, that I find very uplifting:

I am but a candle on a dark and silent night,

Trying to make a stand, leading others with my light.

The wax melts lower and lower, but the flame is ever bright.

If you want to blow it out, you must try with all your might.

I do not fade easily, for God, the Father, is my wick.

I keep my Lord and Savior at the center of my candlestick.

Instead of trying to defeat me, use my light to lead your way.

Keep this candle by your side, for the flame is here to stay.

For even when the fire on my candle is no more,

I will have lit your candle, and led you to the Lord.

Random Fact #3

This is no surprise...but I was a good student. I made very good grades and I was involved in a lot of extracurricular activities. Yes, even a bit of a teacher's pet.

Student of the Month

School Spelling Bee Champ--lost at the District level :(

Graduated with Honors

Random Fact #4

This was my graduation present from my father, and it was so much fun!!

Random Fact #5:

My favorite car in the world is...drumroll please...

1989 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24

This one isn't mine, I couldn't find my pictures of mine. I loved my car! Yet, it left me stranded on a daily basis. We couldn't ever figure out what was wrong with it. Sadly, I had to trade it in on something more reliable.

I made T.C. promise he'd get me another one one day!

Random Fact #6

My due date was January 19, and I wasn't born until February 14 (Yes, I'm a Valentine Baby!). I've had a hard time with punctuatlity ever since that day... My mom reminds me regularly how miserable I made her! LOL! I weighed 8 pounds 14 ounces, quite the chunk!

I am tagging:

4. Erin Thomas

Yesterday

2008-08-18T08:12:00.004-05:00

Interesting things that happened yesterday:

Tristan pointed out some horses in a pasture. He's been learning about Creation at church, so I asked him if God made the horses. (Picture this next sentence dripping with three-year-old attitude) "He made everything."
I survived my second week teaching preschool aged Sunday School.
I went to my mother-in-law's to celebrate her birthday.
I took some cute pics of Reagan (below).
I told Tristan we were going back to church last night. He asked why. I told him so we could learn about God and praise Him. Very exasperatedly, Tristan asked,"Well, where is He?!" Like he's been learning about this dude and talking about him--when does he get to meet him?
I was late getting to evening church, stayed through two songs, and then got a page that Reagan was crying. I know from past experience they will only send that page if your child is freaking out and they can't get them to calm down. Reagan is teething really bad and she just doesn't like her routine being messed with. So I scooped up all my kiddies and we left.
I killed my arm shooting a bow for the first time. Actually, it was the third shot that did. ("Use this one," My husband says...) I think there's going to be a horrific bruise.
Reagan went to be at 8:30pm and didn't make a peep for four hours.
The boys were in the mood to sing songs last night before bed. It's so sweet hearing their little voices sing. Itsy Bitsy Spider, Take Me Out to the Ballgame, Jesus Loves Me (A Colton Favorite), and more.

All in all, a decent but busy day! Check out this little doll:

Reagan's Faux-Hawk

2008-08-17T16:52:00.002-05:00

Miss Priss was born with a headful of hair, but has rubbed the sides and the back bald. Made it easier to play 80's punk in the bathtub.

Gettin' Jiggly Wit It

2008-08-15T21:48:00.004-05:00

I've been dieting off and on for a couple of months now. At my postpartum visit, my weight was 147. I set my goal at 130 for now, less after I'm done breastfeeding. I lost about 12 pounds (depending on the day!) and have 5 to go. I could do it pretty easily if I would stop snacking so much.

The problem, however, is this extra skin around my midsection. It's all flabby and stretched--almost disgustingly so! Even so close to my goal weight, I look heavy. Things snapped back in place after the boys, but I guess number three was too much.

A tummy tuck is not an option (only because of the money, because if I had the money--it would have been done already!!). I'm just wondering what else I can do to tighten things up. Oh gosh, I guess I'm actually gonna have to exercise. Like, *GASP* sit-ups and crunches! Ouch!

This is interactive--Leave me some advice please!

2008-08-14T10:49:00.002-05:00

My daughter is a thumbsucker. I'm not sure how I feel about that.

On one hand, I love that she is self-soothing and can put herself to sleep.

On the other hand, I'm very concerned about it becoming a long-term thing. Neither of the boys sucked their thumbs. They loved their pacifiers, though! When they turned two, I took the paci's away. No big deal. But I can't take away her thumb!

Most websites say it's fine for babies to do this and you shouldn't be concerned until they turn four--but it would be so much harder to make her stop then. I feel like I could pretty easily discourage it now before it's a habit.

What do you think? Do any of you have experience with this?

Cheap, Cheap, Cheap!

2008-08-12T14:37:00.002-05:00

I've always been cheap.

Most of my clothes and the kids clothes came off a clearance rack.

The most common brand in my pantry is "Great Value" by Wal-Mart.

I'm fanatical about using my "Entertainment Book".

I've always clipped coupons, but didn't usually end up using them because I thought it was cheaper to just buy the store brand.

Well, thanks to a friend from church, I have discovered a group of women who have taken coupons and frugality to a whole other level! Now, I'm clipping every coupon I see, buying multiple copies of the newspaper to get such coupons, printing coupons, and getting things for FREE!!! These women have done the research and asked the questions that I never knew to ask! By combining coupons with sale prices, and taking advantage of stores that offer rebates or cash register rewards, you can get things for free or nearly free. They have also monitored the non-sale prices and sale prices to know when items are at their rock-bottom price, and how those prices cycle so you know when to expect that rock-bottom price.

So check out some of the links on the right and see for yourself! Caution--it's addictive!

Thanks Suzanne!

I am sooo tired

2008-08-09T06:03:00.004-05:00

I haven't been getting much sleep lately. My brain keeps me awake 50% of the time and the kids take the other half.

I've been trying really hard to keep Reagan in her crib and out of our bed. Tristan and Colton both slept with me as babies. They still climb into our bed almost every night.

I was trying to use some new training underwear for Colton to sleep in (Waterproof my tush!!!), and he's been soaked with urine every night. Clean him, change his clothes, and, by that time, he ain't going back to his bed. Last night, we went back to Pull-ups.

Although I should, I don't go to bed before T.C. gets home on nights that he closes. That's around 11pm. After chatting and bathing, I don't get to bed until midnight or so.

Last night, Reagan kept me up until 1am. Then Colton woke me up at 3am. Then Reagan cried again at 3:30am. I had to take T.C. to work today at 4:30am.

It's 6am, and I'm blogging. Something is seriously wrong with that...

Gorgeousness!!!

2008-08-07T18:38:00.006-05:00

In All Fairness

2008-08-05T11:45:00.006-05:00

You've heard about Tristan and Reagan's entrances into the world. It would be so cliche' to forget about my middle child...

***WARNING***Graphic Content***

I breastfed Tristan for five months. I'm one of those women who doesn't have a cycle when I'm breastfeeding. After I stopped, my cycle had trouble regulating. In April, they gave me a set of pills that force your body to cycle. Worked once. Then no cycle again. They gave me the pills again. Instead of getting a period, I got pregnant! T.C. was on a business trip when I found out, and I didn't want to tell him over the phone. I just left the test in the bathroom and asked him to go wash Tristan's face off. Once again, he was surprised!

Tristan was only 10 months old when I got pregnant, so I was concerned about having two so close together, how Tristan would respond, and how I would handle it. We didn't tell anybody for awhile, and Hurricane Katrina came. I was so sick and miserably hot--no electricity for 5 days.

At Tristan's first birthday party, his last gift was a shirt that said "Big Brother". It got quite a reaction and it's one of my favorite memories!

I had another good pregnancy. Cravings: Frosted Mini-wheats and Taco Bell Meximelts. We were due on April 10, but planning a C-section on April 3.

My baby shower was March 11. The next morning, I got up to use the restroom, and a very large amount of blood gushed out of me. I woke T.C., we grabbed Tristan, and we raced to the hospital. I was having very mild contractions, but the bleeding discontinued. They gave me medicine to stop contractions and kept me overnight. I was sent home with medicine and was put on bed rest. My mom came to stay with us to help out--but she didn't have to stay long. We were going to bed on Tuesday, the 14th, and I starting bleeding again. Back to the hospital. More medicine and monitoring. When the doctor came in the morning, they decided the best thing was to go ahead and deliver. So, Colton was born on March 15th at 12:47pm. He was four weeks early and weighed the same thing Tristan had weighed at full-term! He did have trouble breathing, so he was admitted to the NICU and stayed there for two nights. That time was so hard for me--to see him with all the tubes and wires, to not be able to hold him, then trying to breastfeed him. It was very difficult, but he was worth it!

Colton's middle name is Foster, which is T.C.'s mother's maiden name. Colton was so mellow compared to Tristan, we weren't even sure he had a personality until he was six months old! As it turns out, having them so close together has been wonderful! They are best buddies, even though they fight. They play together all day long. And Tristan was so great with him as a baby. He would throw a burp cloth over his shoulder just like me and help with anything he could.

Today, Colton is a true boy's boy. He is rough and tumble, clumsy crazy, and loves anything typically associated with the male gender. And his hair is always a mess!

The Contents of My Purse

2008-08-04T11:27:00.000-05:00

My purse is huge. Rather, my purses are huge. I think most people could use them as overnight bags. I'm bound to have back problems when I'm older.

I was digging in my purse this morning trying to find a pacifier. In frustration, I just turned it upside-down and dumped it all out. I busted out laughing! Besides the usual wallet (which is pretty fat considering our current lack of funds!), here are some interesting items:

A Tide-to-go pen (It really works!)
A plastic leaf that Colton ripped off a tree at church
A CD folder (with some of Tristan's favorite music)
An Epinephrine Injector Pen
My digital camera (always with me)
Keys to my momma's house (She'll never be rid of me, no matter my age)
Smarties and one blue M&M
The title to our broken Honda Passport (it is for sale)

And some things that I always carry:

A large coupon file
My Entertainment Coupon Book
A calendar/planner
Kleenex
Make-up
A pill box
Snacks
Pens, keys, sunglasses...

You get the idea.

T.C. asked Tristan where his sippy cup was yesterday. Tristan said, "It's in Momma's purse." Yeah, right next to the kitchen sink! :)

Looking Back

2008-08-01T11:11:00.005-05:00

Since I've only been blogging a year or so, I thought I would go back a little...kinda like a memory blog. I've been feeling somewhat nostalgic lately.

We found out we were pregnant with Tristan in January 2004. I already knew it (I get lower back pain about three days after conception), so I stopped at the store on the way home from work and picked up a test. When I got home, T.C. was playing some world domination computer game and I went straight to the "test-taking facility". When I called T.C. back there, his mind was still racing with conquering tactics and he was shocked when I held up a little test with two stripes. I like surprising him!

We were a little scared at first due to the fact that we miscarried with our first pregnancy, but our excitement was uncontainable. Some of the best things about early pregnancy: talking about names, looking at all the little baby clothes, and the naivety of how perfect your child will be.

Our pregnancy ticked by wonderfully. No major issues, just lots and lots of eating. Cocoa pebbles, Snickers bars, and sushi--those were my cravings. And it showed!

On September 11, T.C. got home about 6pm. I told him that I'd been having some mild cramps. After an hour, I realized they were contractions, coming rhythmically and getting stronger. They had told us in childbirth class that we wouldn't be able to eat during labor at the hospital, so the first thing I did was eat a huge bowl of beef stew and about a dozen Oreo's! (I don't like being hungry!) As we sat cheering on our Texas Longhorns, I timed contractions. By the time the game ended, I was in pretty good pain and the labor was undeniable. We waited a little longer and called the nurse. Hospital, here we come!

We checked in around 2 am, only to discover that I was less than a centimeter dilated! Unbelievable! So we rested and just let the contractions do their job. They broke my water around 9am. The contractions grew stronger, but, to my dismay, the cervix wasn't changing very much. I finally took an epidural at 12pm. Shortly after that, we were informed that Tristan was having heart decelerations with the contractions, and a C-Section may be necessary. I was only 5 centimeters and not progressing. A healthy heart rate for a baby is 140. I remember looking up and seeing Tristan's at 88 and knowing that was it. The doctors and nurses came running in and scooted me down to the operating room.

He was born at exactly 3 pm on September 12, 2004. He was cone-headed, squishy-faced, and the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen. An hour later, he breastfed as if he'd been doing it for months. The next day, he was entertaining a roomful of people--smiling at two days old, and it wasn't gas! He is the most expressive baby I've ever known! Tristan's middle name is Allen. It is my dad's middle name, T.C.'s dad's middle name, and several grandfathers' middle name.

Seriously, he's a day old here.And 6 days here.

This is my baby now!

And he's still expressive :D

My, How Time Flies!

2008-07-29T11:21:00.003-05:00

My new baby girl is 3 months old today! She's smiling, cooing, even giggling a little! I just can't believe how quickly all my children are growing, and knowing that she's my last one has made it really hard. The day will come when I can't even pick them up anymore (sniff, sniff).

Here are some recent pictures of Reagan:

Got Milk?

2008-07-27T23:49:00.000-05:00

These are, in no particular order, reasons why I LOVE breastfeeding:

1. My boobs are bigger.

2. I never have to make bottles.

3. I never have to clean bottles.

4. The breasts are easier to pack and take with us. :)

5. Breastmilk doesn't stain clothing like formula.

6. I get such a sense of PRIDE everytime the pediatrician seems astonished at their growth.

7. I love feeling like I still provide my baby with everything they need even though they are no longer in my womb.

8. I am amazed how well the human body functions--breastfeeding is a great example of supply-and-demand.

9. The baby stinky is, well, less stinky with breastmilk.

10. The truly unique bond I have with my babies while I'm breastfeeding them is simply beautiful.

11. Feeling like I have a superpower. ;)

12. Funny moments that I can't capture on film because they would be obscene.

13. Freaking people out in public, like they think I'm just gonna pop it out right in front of them. Trust me, I'm discreet and covered.

14. Offering advice to other women who are breastfeeding.

15. Saving $$$!

But the very best thing about breastfeeding, for me, is when my sleepy-but-not-yet-asleep baby releases the breast, pulls away, stretches, and makes what I call "drunken milkface". It's a squished but smirky smile with milk dripping down their cheek and droopy eyes and the complete satisfaction of a full tummy. All my children have done it, and it's one of the highlights of my motherhood experience!

Do I Work?

2008-07-22T20:34:00.001-05:00

I was talking to my Colton Man today, and he asks,"Dada go work?"

"Yes, Baby, Dada went to work."

"Momma don't go to work?"

How do I explain to a two-year-old that I am working every moment I am breathing? That every time he cries, wakes up at night, wants to eat, uses the bathroom, or needs tending, I am logging hours? My overtime payment is kisses and hugs--much better than time-and-a-half, don't you think?

Things My Children Say

2008-07-18T13:05:00.001-05:00

At the park yesterday, Tristan said, "I actually want some water." What three-year-old says "actually"? The same three-year-old that told me, "Momma, I realized that I put my shoes on the wrong feet."

I was going to the bathroom a couple days ago, and Colton tells me, "Let me know when you're done, Momma." Can you tell he's potty training?

T.C. spilled something in the kitchen while he was cooking and yelled, "Dadburnit!" Colton asked, "Dada burned it?" Well, no, but that is what he said!

Even Reagan, without speech capabilities, can be funny. When she's crying because she's hungry, it's a definite "Wah, Wah." When I start lifting my shirt and unsnapping my bra to feed her, the "Wah, Wah" changes very distinctively to "Ooooh, Oooh!" Just like her daddy (haha).

Cloning

2008-07-15T12:07:00.008-05:00

I just wanted to show everyone where my boys got their looks.

Me = Colton

T.C. = Tristan

Envy

2008-07-12T18:08:00.001-05:00

I am completely and totally JEALOUS of my gorgeous little girl! She has the perfect skin tone and that dark hair--She looks good in every color I put her in!!

I grew up being told I could only wear certain colors because of my fair skin and red hair (and my mother's short time with BeautiControl Cosmetics...). It's only as an adult that I have decided to wear whatever color I feel like--be it good or bad for me-- and that I've come to appreciate my unique hair color.

I'm happy for her, really, but a little envious as well.

How I Make $$$

2008-07-11T20:13:00.001-05:00

I'm selling my hair. It's time for a change, it's hotter than freak around here, and what a cool way to make money!!

http://thehairtrader.com/viewlisting.asp?lid=249167

Not that I'm expecting any of you to buy it, but you can check it out. Maybe you have 12 spare inches of your own to sell...

I'm Still Here

2008-07-08T00:59:00.005-05:00

Obviously, I haven't been blogging much lately. Three youngin's keep me pretty busy. We've also had company this month.

I got to meet my youngest niece, Lydia, at the end of June.

Then I got to FINALLY meet my oldest niece, Molly, tonight.

And they are both fantastic!

I also was busy doing stuff for my mom's 50th birthday. We had a party and I made her a "tribute" DVD with pictures from her life and some special songs.

We had a nice Independence Day (see pictures...).

T.C. is working all overnight shifts this week, so I probably won't blog this week either.

Sorry to disappoint!

He Makes Me Laugh

2008-06-24T01:00:00.001-05:00

My Colton Man is a boy's boy. He's rough as a bulldozer, he's loud, and he's always covered in bumps, bruises, and scrapes.

Last night, me & my mom took the boys to Little Caesar's to pick up a couple pizzas. Colton goes straight to a little vending machine with bouncy balls and starts trying to get one out. Tristan tells him, in a very matter-of-fact 3-going-on-30 way, "You need money." Colton took a minute to absorb the information. He then proceeds to SCREAM loudly and repeatedly, "I want MONEY!!!!"

I tried to scold him for screaming, but, the whole scene was so hilarious, I couldn't keep a straight face....

He's crazy, and he makes me laugh.

Click!

2008-06-12T22:34:00.000-05:00

I believe that a picture is worth a thousand words. I spend half my time behind a camera trying to catch every moment on film.

But I have yet to capture even a smidgen of the beauty that is my daughter. The pictures are cute, but they are nothing compared to seeing her live. She is absolutely stunning--a true knockout! I stare at her in awe and disbelief that I aided in the creation of this gorgeous child. I know every parent thinks their child is beautiful, but seriously--my little girl IS! Ok, so my boys are pretty good-looking, too!

My flash will continue to pop, my shutter will not cease to click, and, maybe, just maybe, I'll strike gold in the form of a picture.

I'm Hungry

2008-06-11T19:38:00.002-05:00

I want to lose 17 pounds. Diet & Exercise...they suck.

It's day two, and I'm starving. And I'm not even dieting very strictly! I'm just trying to cut most of the junk food and eat fairly sensibly. Don't come near me with a Snickers--you may get hurt.

As far as exercise, anything that involves movement is better than what I've been doing for the last 6 months. I did a Bangra Masala workout yesterday. I can do most of it, but bouncing with breasts full of milk is not fun. Quite painful, actually. I had to modify some of the moves, and I'm sure they're less effective my way. I might try riding my bike a little, but I'm afraid it may hurt my incision site.

I'm gonna go feed my kids now--and try not to steal their mac & cheese...

Our Weekend in Bossier City

2008-06-10T15:19:00.006-05:00

One of my dear friends got married this weekend. Her name is Chrissy, and we met in 2003. She came to train me in my new position at Best Buy. We really connected from the first moments, and, when she transferred here to take a job at our store, we got to be really good friends. Neither of us wtill work there and she has since moved back to the Shreveport area. We have stayed in touch and I was honored to be a part of her wedding party on Saturday.

We left the boys with my mom and took Reagan with us. She did great on the way there, but she fussed through the rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner. I think she may have had the same stomach bug that the boys had last week. We went to the Boardwalk on Saturday and ate yummy burgers from Fuddrucker's.

The wedding was beautiful! The bridesmaids each wore different colors of the same style dress. Chrissy's dress had a beautiful corset-style bodice that laced up the back and a long train off the full skirt.

Hopefully I will get copies of some of the wedding pictures, but for now I just have a few we took ourselves. Doesn't Reagan look adorable in her fancy little dress?

I'm a Mother of 3

2008-06-05T15:26:00.000-05:00

Everything in my life is a family affair.

When I shower, someone is in it with me.

When I eat, someone wants a bite.

When I use the restroom, I have an audience.

My king size bed occasionally holds five people.

90% of my chores are done with a baby in my arms.

I haven't put on real clothing since Monday.

Against expert advice, I gladly hand out snacks in exchange for a moment of silence.

Taco Bell has become gourmet cuisine.

I sleep in two-hour intervals.

I think the burp cloth is permanently afixed to my shoulder.

Irony is me yelling, "Stop YELLING!"

This blog was typed with one hand and took four hours.

I'm a Mother of 3, and I love every moment! :)

Deliver Me

2008-06-01T13:46:00.001-05:00

Reagan is napping and the boys are wrapped up in Monsters, Inc., so I am attempting a real (long) blog.

More details on Reagan's birth! The morning went so well. We slept ok, woke up on time, and everything was packed and ready. We even left the house early enough to stop and get T.C. something to eat at Whataburger (nothing for me after midnight--boohoo!). The last song we heard in the car was Daughters by John Mayer. I swear!

We arrived at the hospital, and they were already ready for us. We went straight to the room, did the regular prep stuff, and then waited for Dr. G to show up.

Family started arriving. The boys were happy and excited.

Honestly, I was a little terrified at how well things were going. And it's very odd to just show up to have a baby without being in labor or having any problems. I talked to the anesthesiologist about some issues I had with the boys--itching and nausea--and she said she could help. They gave me a happy little sedative as soon I got into the operating room.

The surgery began right on time. I had talked to Dr.G about wanting to see as much as possible, so when it was time to pull her out, they dropped the drape and helped me lift my head. I actually got to see this child coming out of my abdomen! It was so awesome! She immediately peed all over Dr.G. Then, he asked if I wanted to see my uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Sure! It was very interesting. After T.C. took Reagan out of the room, I actually took a nap on the operating table. It was the best c-section I've had--maybe because Dr.G finally showed? or maybe because it was all scheduled and controlled without any emergency situation? It took a lot longer than the others. I got my tubes tied and they cleaned up my scar and made it prettier.

After the surgery, they put you in a special area to recover. They watch your vitals and see if the spinal is wearing off. It feels like forever, but it's usually an hour or two. The worst part is not being able to see your baby. They just cut 'em out and whisk 'em down the hall.

After you've recovered enough, you go to the room you'll be in for the duration of your stay. Baptist has these fantastic double rooms. It's like a bedroom and a living room with two full bathrooms. So when family visits, there's plenty of space and you can close the doors in between the rooms for a nap or a visit from the nurse. It's great.

Then, I learned that I was about to pay for everything going so well. As I explained in a previous blog, Reagan was not breathing very well on her own. She was admitted to the NICU. "Not again," I thought. It was so hard when Colton was in there. The baby doctor came in and told us she had a pneumomediastinum (and then proceeded to answer a call on her cell phone leaving us in a minute or two of panic!). After she explained what it was, she told us that it would only take a ocuple of days to fix itself. Thank God! I went to see Reagan that night, but I couldn't hold her until the next day. I started trying to feed her later that evening, but she had an IV and wasn't really interested. Walking from my room to her every couple hours after the surgery was very difficult, especially when I couldn't get her to eat. I had the nurse ask the doctor if we could turn the IV down, and it worked like a charm.

She got to come to my room after a few nights in the NICU. No tubes or wires! She was still a NICU patient, so they checked on her frequently.

We were so glad when it was time to come home. We missed our boys! I've been in more pain this time, but I'm getting there. No sit-ups yet, but I'm performing all of my normal daily functions. I still have to remind the boys to be gentle with me. My postpartum visit is in 8 days--after that, it's diet and exercise time. 125, Here I come!!

Good New & Bad News

2008-05-28T12:01:00.000-05:00

The GOOD news--My computer is fixed! I am reconnected with the outside world!

The BAD news--I lost everything on it.

I will be blogging again soon, but I've spent two hours working on pictures, and two of my three children are hungry.

Yes, She's Here!

2008-05-10T16:18:00.002-05:00

I have experienced enough in the last two weeks to write at least a hundred blogs. Today, I'm just sticking with a basic update.

Reagan was born on April 29 at 7:47 a.m. The delivery went well, but she had some respiratory distress and was admitted to the NICU. She was diagnosed with a pneumomediastinum (That could possibly be misspelled...) which is an air pocket in the chest. Not in the lungs, but the chest cavity. Basically, one of the air sacs in her lung burst leaking air into her chest. This put pressure on her lungs and heart making it harder for to breathe. She was on assisted breathing for a short time. The burst air sac heals itself and the air pocket has to be absorbed over a couple of days. She was monitored in the NICU and allowed to join us in our room after three days. She's fine now, and there won't be any recurring problems. We came home last Saturday.

I uploaded pictures that very day, and somehow killed my computer in the process. I am typing this on my mother's computer. That is why I haven't posted anything--I do apologize.

Unbelievably, her hair is black! Lots of it, too. She's a little over 7 pounds, and her skin has an olive tone to it--she doesn't look like my child!

Now, I just neeed to get my computer fixed so I can show her off some more!

I Am SOOO Spoiled

2008-04-28T10:55:00.001-05:00

I haven't cooked in days.

The chores have been pared down to a bare minimum.

I have slept in everyday and took a Saturday afternoon nap.

And I have beautiful pink toenails and soft feet. My momma took me to get a pedicure!

I have a lot to do today, though. Gotta get all the laundry done, sweep, vacuum, clean the kitchen. I have to pack the boys stuff to go stay with my parents.

I am cooking tonight. I've had a craving for chicken stir-fry! Then I have to starve for about 24 hours...

Tomorrow is the big day! I can't believe she's gonna be here! Most of this pregnancy has been logistical--budgeting, planning, decorating--it's not yet hit me that I'm having another child! And it's really odd to know exactly when she's coming.

I will post pictures when I get back home! I know, the suspense!

I Am A Vault

2008-04-25T15:24:00.000-05:00

Absolutely no dilation. Looks like everything's a definite for Tuesday. My surgery is scheduled for 7am. I have to be there at 5:30 am. It's early, for sure, but I don't expect to be sleeping soundly anyway.

My mom has offered to keep the boys tonight--oh yeah!!! I rented two movies--one scary and one bloody action flick. T.C.'s gonna cook us some shrimp (yummy!), and I will get to sleep all the way through the night!

Oh, and Tristan had his first T-Ball practice last night. It was too precious for words! He runs around with the other kids trying to catch the ball, but he's so polite he will almost always let someone else get it. The first time he got a grounder, he walked it back to home plate instead of throwing it. When it was his turn to bat, he looked very bored and said, "I have one of those at home." Running the bases was hilarious. He liked kicking up dirt more than anything else, and the first time around he didn't touch a single base. I told him,"Baby, you gotta step on the white bags." So, now he won't call them bases--they're "white bags."

My mom also got Tristan a "Cars" calendar earlier this year. I write his T-Ball stuff on it, church, and, most importantly, his baby sister's arrival. He told me, "Four more days 'til we go get sister cut out of your belly, Momma." Amen!

I had a Nightmare

2008-04-24T11:01:00.003-05:00

I had this crazy nightmare last night.

I can't remember all the details, but something was wrong with Reagan or the pregnancy. The doctors performed an emergency c-section with me under general anesthesia and T.C. was not allowed to be present.

When I wake up from surgery, I find out that they did not tie my tubes. We have to schedule another surgery for that.

Then I discover that they used staples to close the incision. I was very upset about this because I have already had two c-sections with NO staples. I don't even know what you call what they did, but it looks better than stitches or staples. It was basically just tape, I guess.

Here's the funny part: They bring Reagan to me all dressed in pink and looking beautiful. When I go to change her diaper the first time--She's a BOY! Because I was asleep in surgery and T.C. wasn't in the room, nobody mentioned that she had a penis! And all I had packed was little girl clothes, so that's what they put on him. Plus, we had already submitted all the birth certificate and social security information. P.S.--I don't like the name Reagan for a boy!

I thought I was all prepared for this delivery, now I wonder if I should pack some baby boy clothes just in case! Gracious, I think I might lose my mind waiting for Tuesday to get here!

My Dilemma

2008-04-23T14:02:00.000-05:00

I have a to-do list a mile long, but I am soooo tired.

There are certain chores I have to do no matter how exhausted I feel--laundry, dishes, you know, the basics. And I'm pretty on top of all that.

I'd really like to have as much done as possible before her arrival, but I also know that this may be my last chance to rest for awhile. T.C. left for work an hour ago, and I've done nothing but websurf and watch Finding Nemo.

What would you do?

Cooling My Heels

2008-04-21T11:53:00.000-05:00

I made all this fuss about Reagan arriving early, and now she's got it in park. Everyone keeps saying,"You still haven't had her?" I am only 37 weeks, but I understand with all the hype.

Everytime I walk into a gas station, the attendant says,"About to pop, aren't ya?" Let me add that to the list: "Things NOT to say to a pregnant woman!"

Dr. G

2008-04-18T13:55:00.003-05:00

I started seeing Dr. G in the spring of 2002 with our first pregnancy. We unfortunately miscarried, but Dr. G, was really great and supportive during that time.

When I became pregnant again in 2004, Dr. G saw us through almost 10 months of pregnancy--all of which was perfect and without incident. When my labor began on September 11th of that year, I learned that Dr. G was on a hunting trip in Kansas. After 21 hours of labor and a baby with an inconsistent heartrate, I was taken to the operating room for an emergency c-section performed by an associate of Dr. G's.

When I became pregnant again in 2005, I had another uncomplicated pregnancy until week 35. The placenta began to separate and I was having preterm contractions. After keeping things handled for a few days, the bleeding became uncontrollable and I was once again taken to an operating room for an emergency c-section. All of this occured while Dr. G was on vacation.

We now have a scheduled delivery date of April 29th with Dr. G. At my appointment yesterday, he tells me that he will be out of town the latter part of next week and the weekend. I'm guessing that's exactly when I'll have her.

Another Week

2008-04-17T20:34:00.001-05:00

My big brother, Jeremy, was in town again this week. We discovered Liberty Park in Madison. The kids loved it and had a fantastic time, even when Papaw made Emmy puke from spinning the tire swing. LOL! Jeremy and his three kids stayed with our parents at their new house, which was much easier for me this time!

We worked on the other upstairs bedroom this week. It needed more work than Reagan's Room, so obviously it's taking more time. There was more drywall repair and there was a built-in desk and shelves that desperately needed replacing. T.C. spent most of the day building the new shelf unit (and playing with his new router!). He's off two more days before Reagan's scheduled arrival, hopefully that will give us enough time to install the built-in, paint, and do finishing work.

The boys got some mosquito bites on their faces, so they look like we beat them. Their eyes and ears are puffed up and Tristan forehead looks like he's a caveman or something. His hand is all chubby, too.

I wonder what life will be like when we're not remodeling, and we have no medical issues to deal with. Boring? Relieving? Unimaginable.

Pros & Cons

2008-04-12T14:18:00.000-05:00

So, Reagan may or may not come before the 29th. Everything looks good and I'm not dilated. I think the main reason the doctor anticipates an early arrival is simply because Colton came early. I am now further into this pregnancy than I ever got with Colton.

I'm incredibly tired and sore, but I'm trying to be positive about the possibility of Reagan staying put for another 17 days. I'm a "pros & cons" kind of girl, so here's my list:

Pros (of an April 29th delivery):

1. No rushing or emergency type stuff. Just show up for surgery.
2. Financially, it would be better then.
3. We could finish the other upstairs bedroom before she gets here.

Cons:

1. I'm not getting any sleep (but I don't know if I can count this--I mean, am I actually gonna get any sleep after she's here?). My brain runs 90-to-nothing, I'm uncomfortable, my legs are cramping, and I flip back and forth from one side to other all night long.
2. I could be recovered sooner for Tristan's T-Ball and a wedding I will be a bridesmaid for in June.

Even with all my preparation, I have no way of knowing how things will actually work out once she's here. I'm scared that I won't be able to hold my boys after the surgery. T.C. will only be off for a week, and that doesn't give me much time to recover. Putting them to bed will definitely be the hardest part when T.C. closes (He doesn't get home until 11PM.). And they currently wake up mulitple times each night.

No point in worrying about it, I guess. Truly, my excitement outweighs my worry anyway! I wonder if she'll look like me and if she'll have red hair.

He's Bumpy!

2008-04-11T12:43:00.001-05:00

If you know us well, you know that my Tristan man is made of glass.

He's allergic to penicillin products, ibuprofen, and an antibiotic called Clarythromicin. He is extremely allergic to fire ants and has a dramatic sensitivity to mosquitos. When he gets sick, he gets very sick. Fevers fly high and infections abound. He takes Benadryl like candy and has been on a nebulizer twice. We have to carry Epinephrine at all times in case of anaphylactic shock. I still treat his sensitive skin as you would a newborn--washing clothes before he wears them, using baby detergent and baby soap.

Typically, Colton is more the "unbreakable" child. His nose runs a lot, but that's about it.

That's why I was so shocked this week when he broke out in HIVES! He had a fire ant bite, but there was no localized reaction to it. He had two mosquito bites that were obviously bothering him, so I became very afraid he'd contracted West Nile virus or something. When I took him to the doctor, it turned out he was allergic to the antibiotic from his sinus infection last week. He has taken this same antibiotic multiple times, and Doctor Joe says that most allergies just develop over time. As soon as we stopped giving him poison twice a day, he cleared up.

I see our doctors more than I see our friends!

I Need to Buy Some Bows!

2008-04-08T11:12:00.000-05:00

We had a doctor’s appointment on Monday with an ultrasound. Reagan weighs 6 pounds 3 ounces right now and has a head full of hair! Baby, fluid, and placenta all look good.

I was convinced I was having contractions, so they hooked me up to a monitor--and nothing! You’d think I would know by now!

So even though everything looks good, my doctor doesn’t think I’ll make it much further. We’re just taking it day-by-day.

T.C. keeps telling me that she needs to stay put and keep growing. "Then you carry her!" is what I keep thinking!

Oh, and he really wanted to get into trouble with this statement: "6 pounds, 3 ounces, huh? So that’s all the weight you’ve gained, right?" GRRRRR!

Reagan's Room

2008-04-03T12:30:00.000-05:00

It’s DONE! Sans closet doors, but done.

And I LOVE IT! You know how you might plan something and work on something and then are totally disappointed when you finish? Not the case this time.

In fact, the only thing that didn’t turn out well the first time was the letters on the wall spelling out her name. First, I painted them pink and didn’t like it. T.C. sanded them for me. I then painted them brown and painted dots like her bedding. It was way too busy. Sanding them already made them look dull because they weren’t solid wood (more like particle board with a coating of some kind), so I bought new ones and just went with the dark brown. Much better--and I only wasted about ten bucks.

I really love the birth announcement that we’re going to hang on the hospital door! I was surprised at my own abilities. I painted it to match her bedding. (By the way, her name means "Little Ruler.")

Another thing I really like: I painted foam door hangers to utilize as closet dividers. They are painted like her bedding as well. I wish I had thought of it when the boys were babies.

No Rest for The Weary

2008-04-02T12:34:00.000-05:00

Tristan started running a lowgrade fever this past weekend. Sunday night at 10:30PM, it skyrocketed to 104.4. After speaking with a nurse on the phone, we had to wake him up to sponge him down with a cool rag. We gave him Tylenol and made him drink some water. Surprisingly, he went back to sleep after all that, but he slept in our bed (Something we’ve been trying to eliminate!) and was later joined by his little brother. They squished me like a vice all night and applied warmth like a heating pad on an already warm Mississippi night.

So, after a night of little sleep, I had to take T.C. to work at 7AM because I had an OB appointment. After I dropped T.C. off, I headed to my parents house. My dad was going to babysit the boys. Tristan still wasn’t feeling well and didn’t want to go, so I just left Colton (he’s the handful anyway!). Headed to the doctor and got there late. They were pretty on top of things though, and I didn’t have to wait long at all. Even got to see an old friend in the waiting room!

My doctor doesn’t think I’ll make it to the 29th. I’ve been cramping and contracting a lot since Thursday. He also made it sound like most women don’t go full-term once they’ve had a baby preterm. He went ahead and did a strep test that they don’t normally do until after 36 weeks, but I’m not dialated at all yet. We are having an ultrasound on Monday to see how big she is in preparation for an earlier delivery. He also wants to look at the fluid and the placenta (because that’s what went wrong with Colton). I think the 15th sounds like a good day to have a baby! :)

Anyway, immediately after we left the doctor’s office and got in the van, Tristan puked all over himself. I cleaned him up and changed his clothes, and he actually seemed to feel a little better.

I went back to my house to get some more clothes before picking up Colton. I pulled out of my subdivision onto Spillway road and >BOOM!< my window shatters into a million tiny pieces. The guys weedeating had thrown a rock. I pulled over and talked to them and was instructed to go to the Reservoir Maintenance office. We filled out an accident report and they were going to pay for it, but I spent the whole rest of the day covered in glass. My $1 in the vacuum machine barely got it all of my seat and arm rest, let alone the floor!

Crazy day and I wonder--How does stuff like that happen to me? One mintue earlier or later, and no broken window! The window was replaced yesterday morning in our own garage. If you have auto glass needs, I would definitely recommend Safelite. They had the cheapest price, free mobile service, and had the window in stock the fastest. The serviceman came exactly when promised and was very nice and professional.

Colton had his two year checkup yesterday and looks like a perfect little boy. They both have a sinus infection, though. More anitbiotics.

I was so relieved that I had no errands to run today! I have lots of chores and projects, but somethimes it’s really nice to just be home!

Check, Check, Check

2008-03-25T12:32:00.000-05:00

My hubby worked so hard this week! I helped, but I wonder how much of what I did helped and how much just slowed him down. It’s the first time I’ve ever painted.

The swingset is up and running. It was a HUGE pain! The screws it came with were not long enough. I had to go buy some. Then, the swings it came with were not long enough for the boys to reach. Plus, they were hard plastic and the boys kept sliding off the seat. We had a toddler swing and a flexible swing already in the garage, so we put them on instead. They don’t match, but they work way better!

Reagan’s room is fully remodeled except for new closet doors--and that’s my fault. I tried to save a few bucks and bought some that didn’t work. A trip to Home Depot tomorrow should fix it. There’s a beautiful tan color on the walls and bright white trim everywhere. A new ceiling fan. All the outlets and lightswitches have been replaced. New brushed nickel knobs and hinges on the doors. It’s gorgeous. It’s like walking into another house when you walk into her room.
We’ve got all her stuff in her room, too. Clothes are hanging, diapers are stacked, and her bed is made. We pulled the infant swing, the infant rocker, the baby bathtub, etc. out of the attic and cleaned everything. I have a final shopping list for tomorrow, and a few craft projects for finishing touches.

I’ve even got the bassinet set up in our room with clean sheets, tiny little diapers, and a box of wipes.

Colton put his own touch on the freshly painted rocking chair--if ya know what I mean.

It feels really good to have her room done, but there’s 3 more bedrooms, the formal dining, the living room, the stairs, the halls, the laundry, two bathrooms, the exterior, WOW...

Busy Busy

2008-03-19T12:24:00.000-05:00

The last month has been a crazy time for the Clark family.

My brother came to visit right after my birthday with his three children. Originally, he was supposed to stay with my parents at their new house...But their house wasn’t ready yet. So the parents, the brother, the niece and the nephews, plus us--that makes 10! And I wanted to prove to my big bro that I could cook, so I made all my best dishes--for 10 people--for 10 days.

Soon after his departure, my parents were able to move into their new house! Yippee! (It’s nice to be able to walk around your own house in your undies!)

Some of my friends threw me a baby shower on March 1st (THANKS KRISTI & DATCHE!!!!), which was great! One of the games involved sniffing diapers and guessing what was inside--so funny!! My friend Chrissy came from out of town for the occasion and stayed with us. Reagan received lots of wonderful gifts!

When my brother was here, his daughter was sick. She passed it on to Tristan, who passed it on to Colton, who passed it on to T.C.. $400 in doctor visits and prescriptions later, I’m the only who managed to avoid getting sick--Praise GOD!

Bass Pro Shop threw us another baby shower, which totally surprised me! I was overwhelmed at their kindness! With the two baby showers and a little shopping of my own, we are prepared to have a little girl enter the house...Well, as prepared as we can be!

T.C. is remodeling her room now, but his 103 degree fevers and bloody noses have slowed progress a little. Hopefully we’ll have it done this weekend. Just needs painting, new closet doors, and new hardware. Then I can decorate!!! I am SOOO excited about the brown and pink!

We had Colton’s birthday party on Saturday--I can’t believe he’s two already! We got him a swingset, but couldn’t get it put together in time. He’s clueless though. He was with me when I bought it and had no idea what was going on. That’s another project for this weekend...

I’ve had a couple of baby doctor visits. Everything looks fine. I’m anemic, but I’m always anemic when I’m pregnant. No surprise. I have to take some yucky pills, but that’s okay.

I’ve gotten a lot of things accomplished lately. My hospital bag and Reagan’s first diaper bag are packed and ready. I replaced a broken part of her car seat and washed it. All of Reagan’s clothes, blankets, burpcloths, etc., have been washed and sorted by size. I’ve gotten all the boys summer clothes out of storage. Lots of other insignificant things that will make my life easier after delivery.

My brother is coming to visit again next month, but he will at my parents’ house. Tristan starts T-Ball next month. And, of course, Reagan will be here next month! So, I don’t see a lot of rest in my future!