Knapp Snaps

Before and After

2011-03-05T20:23:00.001-08:00

When I became a Rodan and Fields consultant my kit came with the Anti-Age regimen. I gave it to my Mom to try out. She is a great candidate because she didn't really have any skin care products she used. (And she's still a beautiful lady!) She has been using the products for two months and she admitted to me that she hasn't been faithful to using it AM and PM seven days a week. But, after looking at her before and after pics I was amazed at the lines and wrinkles diminishing! Her skin looks more even and smooth too. Just imagine if she uses it everyday!

I took these w/ the same camera just different rooms so the lighting is the only difference.

And NO Photoshop!

BeforeAfter

Now if I can "see how she rolls" with the AMP MD and watch those lines melt away quicker!

Rodan & Fields Consultant

2011-01-04T19:05:00.000-08:00

Okay, I know I don't need another thing on my plate, but....I really like this skin care line and hope to share it with others. A while back I wanted to try and find a new skin care line because I am in my 30's and I was still breaking out like I'm in my teens! My sis-in-law had just signed on with Rodan and Fields and was telling me how great the products were. These are the same dermatologists who make Proactiv. So, I tried it and loved it and have been a preferred customer for six months and have now decided to be a consultant!

I'd love to talk with anyone who want to know more about this new and up and coming business. It's great to get in on the ground level of direct sales, especially with great products like these. Or if you want to know more about the regimens, contact me.
Here are my websites for product and the business. On the ".com"/product website, there's a great tool to use to see which regimen will work best for you. Or you a combination of them like I use!
http://www.jknapp.myrandf.com/
http://www.jknapp.myrandf.biz/

Start the new year off with a new you!

Take care of the skin God gave you!

Student Gifts

2010-12-18T07:34:00.000-08:00

What do you get 19 students for Christmas on a teacher budget? A scholastic book bought with points earned and a white board w/ marker! We use individual white boards like these in class almost daily. So, each student got their own monogrammed for a gift.

To make 32 1'x1' white boards, go to a home improvement store and get a 4'x8' piece of washboard ($12) and ask them to cut it into foot by foot squares. How easy and inexpensive!

I borrowed a Cricut machine from another teacher to monogram the boards. And after using the machine I know what I want Santa to bring me for Christmas! It was so easy to use and fun to play with. The possibilities of gifts kept running through my mind of what you could make with this machine!

The students LOVED them and immediately asked to write on their boards and continued to ask the rest of the day if they could write on them. Hopefully, they will enjoy them for a long time!

Reindeer Ornaments #2

2010-12-11T18:50:00.000-08:00

For Christmas gifts from my students to their parents, we made reindeer handprint ornaments. I made these with a class a few years back, see earlier post here. A few changes from earlier are using red glitter glue and smaller ornaments. They turned out cute then and they turned out cute again. These are blue plastic ornaments from Wal-Mart. I think I like the blue and brown better than the green ornaments done before. This was just one of many school projects that has consumed my evenings lately. But, hopefully it's something the parents will treasure for years to come.

Kindergarten Fun!

2010-11-30T19:24:00.000-08:00

This school year as been busy settling into a new grade, new school and new schedules. I am truly blessed to be teaching at a great school with wonderful parents and students. Kindergarten is fun and tiring! We are half way through the school year and I'm finally feeling like I'm getting in a groove of things. I keep telling myself that next year will be easier and not having to create so many things, but just "add to".

Austin is just down the hall and I get to see him during the day which makes it great. And Coop is just a few miles down the road at his school. It's great all being close together.

Thank you God for this job and opportunity to make a difference in so many peoples lives!

First Day of School

2010-09-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

It's that time again and school has started. Austin is in First Grade! Here he is with his sweet teacher Mrs. P. Best thing is we are at the same school this year! We see each other at lunch and usually on his way to PE. It's great getting those sweet hugs and kisses through out the day!
Everyone's ready for their fist day of school!

Coop with his game face on!

Precious boys! Ready for the first day of school.

Snow Days

2010-04-06T17:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we tell the boys not to expect snow in Alabama at Christmas time and each year Mother Nature proves us wrong! They have been lucky enough to have snow during the winter time. Cooper actually enjoyed being out in it this year. Here are a few pics from 2010 snow days!

What a sweet looking little Dwarf! Which one is he...Grumpy, Dopey, Happy...?!

Second Christmas

2010-03-23T20:00:00.000-07:00

We had our second Christmas with the Austin side of the family at New Years. We had to wait for everyone to get back from their travels, but it was well worth the wait! Angie hosted this year and we pigged out on traditional snack. This is a traditional snack that started with my Mother's family and we still carry it on today. Lots of delicious sweet and salty snack foods and of course Slushy Punch!

LoLo was super excited to get a "Shelia's House" of Northwoods mall. JK! This is the main mall in the town that we grew up in. She really didn't know if she should laugh or act like it was nice. It was a joke! We have several gag gifts that get passed around at Christmas time.

We were all given adorable hand-made scarfs. These were all made by a lady that we go to church with. Little did we know that she had this wonderful talent! We all loved them!

Christmas is just as fun the second time around!

What!? A NEW post! YES!

2010-03-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm finally posting! Yea! After returning from Xmas we discovered our laptop had crashed. That's the second laptop to crash--NOT BUYING A GATEWAY AGAIN! So, now we've had this new HP and got a wireless router. I never knew how much I would enjoy at $40 piece of electronics!

So, here are a few pics from Xmas in Nashville. We all loved being with the fam. The boys loved Jami and Tim's new house. Especially, the elevator and movie theater. But, they truly LOVE their cousins and spending time with them. Austin cried again this year when we left. Merry Belated Christmas!

Six Flags

2009-08-28T21:17:00.000-07:00

This summer we took Austin and his friend Brooks to Six Flags for a day. It was an interesting trip up there. First the boys were VERY excited and kept asking "Are we there yet?!". And one boy had to take a potty break IN THE CAR IN A CUP, because of course we were stuck in Atlanta traffic.

They both liked to drive the cars. I rode with Austin and he cracked me up on how intense he was to "stay on the rode". He couldn't reach the gas, so I pushed the pedal and he drove.

They both loved Thomas Town! Even Sir Toppham Hatt was there! Austin is checking out his hand and the wheels are spinning in his head---"his fingers are together and don't move, mmmm?"

We stopped in time to watch the Wild West Show. It was a nice break to stop and cool down!

And we found some Characters to pose with, especially the one in the middle!

Hopefully they have good memories of the day. I know Austin talks about going back with Brooks! (That is if Six Flags doesn't "fold under" with the economy!)

Christmas In July!

2009-07-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

Rebecca and I hosted a Christmas in July party last weekend. It was so much fun! Thanks Rebecca for opening up your house and hosting with me!
See Rebecca's blog for more!

Our Little Graduate

2009-07-09T11:01:00.000-07:00

Austin graduated from PreK in May. He has grown so much this year and is ready for BIG school. Here's our sweet graduate in his cap and gown!

With is proud Mommy and Daddy! (And his proud teacher!)

He was #8 in "Say the Number" song.

He was Friday in "The Days of the Week" song.

A sweet smile for the family!

He was April in "The Months of the Year" song.

His favorite song "Blues on Kazoos".After getting his diploma.

He was given the choice of where to eat after graduation. Of all the places he could pick he choose Chick-Fil-A. But, he wanted one far, far away! I love this little man and can't wait to see the adventures he will have in Kindergarten!

Austin's 5th Birthday

2009-06-24T07:50:00.001-07:00

Austin turned 5 in April! I know, I know, it's a little late! But, better than never.
So, he decided to have a baseball party. This was his first BIG party. Usually we'll just have family and a friend over for supper and cake. So, this time he got to invite friends from school and church over to play. Austin was so excited! He's such a social boy anyways and just Loves to have friends over to play. Ever since he could talk he would invite people over to his house by saying, "You come to my house?"

Here's little bother, Coop, playing right along with all the big kids.

The Birthday boy with his game face on!

The parent had the "cheap seats". Lawn chairs lined both sides of the house to watch the games.

Austin and friends playing in the sandbox.

Pappy joined in the fun too!

As a take home gift, each child received a bag of Cracker Jacks with a song attached. Thanks to Mom's creative mind, she came up with new words to "Take Me Out to the Ballgame". The song thanked them for coming and told them there was more to come. A couple weeks after the party each child got a thank you note with a baseball card pack, completed with a piece of pink bubble gum. The cards were of each child at the party.

Chocolate baseball cupcakes!

Yellow cake baseball diamond!

Of course we had ball park food! Hot dogs, nachos, peanuts, boiled peanuts, and popcorn!

Graduation Party

2009-05-22T15:16:00.000-07:00

Lauren graduated this year and will be going to college. She is a dear friend and a great babysitter. But really she is family! We wish her the best!
The boys call her Lo-Lo. It all started with Austin when he was little and just learning to talk. So, the name has stuck and always will! We love you Lo-Lo!

We hung lanterns outside to welcome guests as they arrived. And when they left, the lanterns lit their way out (they're solar powered)!

This table was a perfect place for everyone to sign scrapbook paper and leave a nice sentiment for Lo-Lo to read later. (And always remember!)

Lo-Lo wanted cupcakes and not a cake, so that's what she got! Decorated with themed colors they were more like decoration themselves.

The mantel was decorated with more lanterns and was a great place for guests to place their gifts. After dinner and a slide show, Lo-Lo just pulled up a chair and had fun opening her presents. Her friends are a HOOT and were like children playing with all the wrappings and bows.

Each table had a lantern glowing on it, with candy to munch on through the night. These lanterns were a great buy at only $1 from the dollar store. You never know what you'll find there!

We had a great time throwing this graduation party for Lauren! She even picked the menu (of course, it's her party!). We had salad, lasagna, baked spaghetti, bread sticks, lemonade, and sweet tea.

Playing Catch Up

2009-05-18T06:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, so these next posts may be late and out of order, but better than never!
Here are a few pics from the Easter Egg Hunt at church. Group pics---aaagghh! Someone is not looking, smiling, doing something silly, but I guess that's how it always will be. Maybe it is really capturing their mood at that moment! Enjoy!

A Roller Coaster

2009-04-27T20:01:00.000-07:00

I feel like I've been on a roller coaster of emotions this past week and need prayers. It began several weeks ago with the planning of Austin's 5th Birthday party. This was is first "real" birthday party; inviting friends from church and school, theme, food, cake, fun, treats, etc. All was going well and we were busy getting the house ready, food, and decorations ready.

Then on Tuesday of last week Charlie got a phone call that two of his football players had been killed in a car accident. Life stopped and changed. Our hearts sank and the flood gates opened and prayers went up. The mood in our house was different. Daddy was now occupied with more pressing issues, obviously. I tried to keep the household going and party planning.

With last Friday passing, so did one of the funerals. May God bless this family and comfort them!

Then Saturday came with the big party. Everything went smoothly and the excitement was high! Austin LOVED having all his friends over to play! He is my social boy and likes to have someone to play with. I thank God for the five years He's given Austin to us and pray for many more to come.

Sunday was a day of peace, worship, and a much need Sunday afternoon nap (that almost made us last for PM service)!

Monday came with much anticipation of the memorial service at Faulkner for the two players. And knowing that was coming set the solemn mood. Until I found out that my grandmother had been put in the hospital Sunday night. Then worry set in. The boys and I found her still in the ER when we got to the hospital Monday morning. She was moved to a room later and we are now just waiting. Waiting to see if she begins to improve or not. She has Alzheimer's, is 88 years old, has not been eating or drinking much or at all, fell Sunday morning, and is just getting over Shingles.

So as Monday comes to a close, I feel that I've been on an emotional roller coaster. Charlie has one more funeral this Friday. Please pray for comfort and healing for this family!

I can't imagine the emotional roller coaster that Our Lord and Savior was on. Healing the sick, blind, rejoicing with the believers, being spat upon, teaching, praying, preaching, and trying to make others understand. The emotions I feel are nothing new. They are the same He felt. And He is our strength that will help us through it all.

It wasn't me thinking!

2009-04-13T14:54:00.000-07:00

Referring to the previous post...it wasn't me thinking, it was God! After moving rooms around, I began to clean out a closet in the old office, now playroom. While doing so, I found something strange on the side wall of the closet. There are shelves on the inside of the closet and when I pulled everything off on of the shelves, there it was. Some dirt on the wall. I proceeded to brush the dirt off and found a tiny hole, a pin hole size. My heart dropped into my stomach! I knew exactly what it was, thanks to my sister-in-law having trouble with these at her house too, TERMITES.

We set up for someone to come take a look and tell us what was going on. Sure enough, we have termites, but have caught them early enough. This small hole is the only visible sign of them and we are having the house treated next week for over $800.

I mention all this to say, I truly believe that it was God motivating me to start moving rooms around a week ago today. Who knows how long this problem would have gone on unnoticed! God knew it was time. Time to move rooms, time to clean out closets, and time for tax money to be coming in. All in His timing!

I guess that's why He laughed too when I had big plans for this past weekend. Finish cleaning out rooms, school work, birthday party work, graduation party work, grocery shopping, making curtains, painting dresser, making Easter lunch, etc. Because he had other plans for Charlie and I. We've been sick for days with food poisoning. Yes, it was my cooking--some chicken on last Tuesday and we both took leftovers to lunch on Wednesday.

So, we are trying to get better. Just weak and sore. Thankfully, that night of the chicken, the boys were being picky and didn't want to eat what Momma made for supper. My final words before allowing them to get up from the table were "This is all you get to eat tonight! You can eat now or go to bed hungry! Don't ask for anything else to eat tonight!" And they both got up and never complained. Do you think they knew something! ;) Like Charlie said, out of the thousands of meals that you've made and we've only gotten sick from one, that's not bad. But, that's one too many for me!

So, we will hopefully get caught up this week on everything and celebrate Easter another weekend!

What was I thinking!

2009-04-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

I've had the idea for a while to switch some rooms around in the house and yesterday I started the project. Mind you it's just me and the boys at home and Austin had been throw up sick Sunday and we went to the doctor yesterday with Coop and he has an ear infection and pink eye! So, with the blessing of my hubby as he walked out the door for work he said, "I'll do whatever you want." (Meaning moving the big stuff.) So I set to work right away and cleared out Coop's room, the nursery.

The crib wouldn't fit out the door together, so I took it apart half way, just to manipulate it out the door. Once that room was clean, I moved the office stuff in Coop's "old room". And then moved toys and shelves to the old office. I did break a desk, that I wanted to get rid of and Charlie wanted to keep. It was not on purpose, but as soon as it broke I thought, Charlie's not going to believe this! I ventured up to the attic for an old table, brought it down, cleaned it, and put it together.

Charlie came home from work and did the big jobs. Took the broken desk to his truck to throw away, put the crib and changing table in the attic. All that's left to do is clean out closets and organize.

I think Cooper was in the most shock! His "room" is gone, his bed is gone and now he's sleeping with his brother! I kept asking him if he wanted to sleep with Bubba in the big boy bed and he answered NO. Both the boys did GREAT sleeping together. Cooper stayed in bed and Austin loved sleeping on the top bunk. We had told Austin that he couldn't sleep on the top until he was 5, so only three weeks away til 5 and in his words, "I can't believe I can sleep on the top bunk and I'm not even 5!" Small thrills!

I'll take pics of the "new" rooms when all is said and done. So, what was I thinking? Spring Cleaning, I guess!

Spring Break

2009-04-02T13:07:00.000-07:00

We actually did something for Spring Break this year! We usually just stay at home, but this year we took a beach trip. Charlie is from Panama City, so that's were we went. He knew his way around, saw old friends, and visited his former church home. The boys have never been there so it was neat for Daddy to show Austin where he grew up.

Austin & Cooper loved the water and sand. They were content staying out there for hours just digging in the wet sand and making tracks with monster trucks. We stayed at a great resort on Bay Point and will want to stay there again.

Boys look a pirate ship! They finally did notice it when the cannon went off!

Did you know...

2009-03-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

that Mr. Q and Miss U are married! A couple weeks ago, while learning the letter Q, we had a wedding. Because, as you all know, Q and U are always together! We decided that they will get married, so they will stay together as we spell "Qu" words.

The wedding announcements went out and names were drawn to see who would be the Mr. and Miss. The children were excited all week and couldn't believe they were going to have a wedding in their classroom! All the other boys and girls were attendants in the ceremony and wore QU words around their neck. The ceremony was performed by the preacher at VP and parents, grandparents, and staff all attended the wedding. After a brief ceremony the reception began. All the normal wedding food such as, nuts, mints, strawberries, grapes, crackers, cheese, punch and of course wedding cake.

The students really enjoyed this memorable event. And hopefully from now until forever they will remember that when spelling a "Qu" word, Q and U are always together!

Let it Snow...Let it Go!

2009-03-06T11:56:00.001-08:00

Who would have thought that after spending two hours at the park today, in the warm sunshine, wearing short sleeves and shorts, and getting a little sun burnt; that it was SNOWING here six days ago! But, I have to say that it's been GREAT! The snow was fun and it was also nice to see it go. How people live in that all the time...I do not know. Here are a few pics from playing in the snow. Cooper wasn't liking it at all. Last year he loved it! He finally stayed by the porch and enjoyed watching everyone else play.

Good Food, Good Friends

2009-02-21T05:07:00.001-08:00

We had Mexican night at home, last night, with good friends who were visiting. We made this yummy Touchdown Taco Dip, Creamy Chicken Enchilada, and Corn Salad.
Ms. P made Dump Cake for dessert.
We need to do this more often with friends!

Touchdown Taco Dip
(A new Pampered Chef favorite recipe!)

1 can (16 oz.) refried beans
1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsp taco seasoning
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, thinly sliced green onions, sliced olives, chopped lettuce

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread refried beans over bottom of 2 qt. dish. Mix cream cheese, sour cream, seasoning, and garlic pressed. Mix well. Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over beans. Top with grated cheddar cheese. Bake 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted. Garnish with addition toppings and enjoy with tortilla chips.

Dump Cake

In a 9x13 pan put in the following layers:
1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple with juice
1 can cherry (or blueberry) pie filling
1 cup chopped pecans
1 yellow cake mix, dry
1 stick butter, melted and drizzled over cake mix

Bake for one hour at 350 degrees.

Enjoy!

Valentine's Fun

2009-02-19T14:00:00.000-08:00

Just a few fun pics from Valentine's before we went out to eat. And please notice that Coop's best smile is when he's suppose to be silly!

Anna's Baby Shower

2009-02-10T14:32:00.000-08:00

When planning this baby shower, we knew that we did not want to go with the ordinary pastel baby colors. For one, that theme as been done plenty. Second, Anna is not your regular prego girl! She's stylish and cute even with a big belly. And because they aren't finding out what they are having until it comes, we went with zebra stripes and bright pink and blue.

The invites above were made on the computer, with zebra scrapbook paper and bright pink & blue ribbons.

As a unique guestbook, everyone signed the back of this large wooden picture frame. On the front it's Shabby Chic with a cute baby saying. Anna had a great idea for all the guests to write their name and address on an envelope. This saves her a lot of time when writing Thank Yous!

This is what the table looked like. We used gift bags, tissue paper, balloons, and baby bottles for table decorations. The baby bottles were filled with candy in the coordinating colors and tied with zebra ribbon.

These were the delicious petit fours handmade by Mom. She does such a good job and they were yummy!

And another finishing touch was the corsage. These were handmade by another talented lady at church. And Anna will find a use for these items later on too!

Maybe this will give you an idea for your next baby shower!

To Fringe or Not To Fringe...

2009-01-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

That is the question! About two weeks ago I made these curtains for our bathroom. I had a pattern, but didn't really follow it :). Just took measurements and used the instructions as a "guide". They call for fringe along the bottom. What do you think, leave it plain or does it needs a little something at the bottom?

Before:

After:

Coop's Birthday Party

2009-01-05T13:20:00.001-08:00

A couple days after Cooper's Birthday we had a little party for him. Just family and a friend over for dinner after worship on a Sunday night. We celebrated just like Lightning McQueen at the race track with chili dogs, Frito chili pies and chips & dip. Easy and yummy!Cooper finally opened up his first gift after a little help, but then was just happy to have a new Mack truck. He didn't want to open anything else up! Slowly he learned the process...you get to keep opening up gifts!

A card that plays music!!! That's a fun gift by itself, who needs more?!

The fun crowd of kiddos. I think someone had just gotten in trouble...no smiles!

This is the first character cake I had made. It was intimidating at first, but turned out cute and was easy. So, if anyone ever needs a Lightning McQueen cake pan, let me know!

Happy 2nd Birthday Coop!

Girls Christmas

2009-01-01T14:50:00.000-08:00

For our girls Christmas this year we decided not to exchange gifts. Instead we would just go out somewhere nicer to eat (that is nicer than say, Cracker Barrel...it's been our staple restaurant meeting place). So, we settled on the Restaurant at Bass Pro Shop. We had a yummy dinner and then were able to walk around and shop for the boys. Thanks girls for a great night out!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T10:19:00.001-08:00

Sick Birthday Boy

2008-12-23T08:59:00.001-08:00

The 18th was Cooper's 2nd Birthday and he was a sick boy. We have had colds and got over those with little trouble. Then it was the throw-up and diarrhea virus and got over that within a week. Then it was an ear infection and he's taking medicine for that. And now it's back to a cold and breathing treatments. Welcome to Winter!

So, Cooper had a leftover cupcake from Shelby's party with candles in it on his Happy Day. He blew the candles out but wanted nothing to do with the cupcake!

Handprint Reindeer

2008-12-05T20:22:00.000-08:00

For my students' gifts to their parents for Christmas, I wanted to do a hand print ornament. I'm such a sucker for any artwork done in hand prints! So, we did a trial run tonight on the reindeer hand print. My niece is spending the night and so we had a craft night!

We used the big plastic ornaments from WalMart, brown acrylic paint, black sharpie, brown paint pen, hot glue, red glitter, ribbon and wire. First we painted their hand with the brown acrylic paint and pressed it upside down onto the ball. After it dried we used the brown paint pen to draw antlers. Then used the black sharpie to draw eyes, mouth and hooves. Then a dot of hot glue and red glitter, pressed onto the got glue, for a nose. Lastly, we wrote their name and year on the back and added ribbon and wire for hanging.

What do you think? It looks kind of plain to me, does it need more embellishments? Also, when going back to the tree to take pics, Austin had already picked all the glitter from his reindeer's nose! Any suggestions on a better glue? I really would have liked to use good ol' Elmer's liquid glue...but couldn't find any in the house (plenty of glue sticks!).

Here's a cute poem I found to type and add to the wire, to hang on the ornament.
This isn't just a reindeer
As you can plainly see.
I made it with my hands
Which are a part of me.
It comes with lots of love
Especially to say
I hope you have a very,
Merry Christmas Day!

Happy Anniversary...and Thanksgiving!

2008-12-03T15:30:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since my last post so here's an update!

Charlie and I celebrated our 9th anniversary! We had a nice dinner & shopping without kiddos. Here are some pics from our honeymoon to Disney. If ever someone says Disney's not the place for a honeymoon...they are WRONG! We had a blast! Flew to Orlando, rented a little silver convertible, ate great places, went on rides, relaxed, shopped, ate great places, went on rides, relaxed, shopped, ... Anyways you get the point!
We look so young and thin! Good Times! Charlie felt silly having his pic taken with characters so, he picked up the bacon! Snow White's thinkin' this guy is crazy!

Here' a pic of our entire wedding party and the preacher. Yes, Charlie had a LOT of guys. In fact there were two guys per girl attendant. It made for a full stage. But, what a wonderful day; being surrounded by friends and family.

We had a Happy Thanksgiving in Prattville with Charlie's parents and his sister and family. Austin loves when his cousins come down. He practically lived there for a couple days while they were in town. We ate very well and already packing on a few extra holiday pounds! Time to charge up the ipod and get back on the treadmill!

A Visit with Santa

2008-11-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics from our visit with Santa. We weren't sure what Cooper would do this year. Last year he cried, Cried, CRIED! This year we were happy to find out that he would sit on Santa's lap, but he would not look at the Big Man. The only time he did look at Santa was when he was holding a piece of candy up towards his beard/face. Enjoy!

Halloween '08

2008-11-04T13:51:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the absence in blogging! We've been busy with life and football games. Here are Halloween pics! The boys were cowboys, but really they were more like the Apple dumpling Gang! They really enjoyed themselves and were cuties! We went to Trunk or Treat at the Church building.

And on Friday we surprised Mimi & Pappy by showing up at their house. We sent the boys up to the door all dressed up as regular Trick or Treaters. When they opened the door and saw their two little cowboys...they were very excited. Austin enjoyed the rest of the night answering the door and handing out candy.

What are we teaching Cooper!!! The second child does get away with more much earlier! This year is the first time Austin's had play guns and he's four. Coop gets to play with them too and he's almost two! Doesn't seem fair, but what do you do? Any suggestions!?

Breakfast Yummies!

2008-09-28T11:53:00.000-07:00

These two recipes were perfect to take to class for our breakfast snacks on Sunday. If you weren't there, try them they're YUMMY!

Just like in the education field, if you see an activity, art project, routine, etc. that you like you OWN IT! Meaning take it and make it your own. Because in education you want everyone, students and teachers, to succeed. So, OWN these recipes, make them your own and pass on to someone else who may benefit from them! I'm sure these treats would brighten any teachers, co-workers, or bosses morning!

Breakfast Casserole Muffins
1 lb. hot sausage, browned and drained
6 eggs
1 cup biscuit mix
2 cups of Half and Half
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 cups grated cheddar cheese

Spray 24 muffin cups with cooking spray. Place drained sausage evenly in the cups. Mix eggs, biscuit mix, half & half, salt and pepper together. Pour evenly over the sausage. Top with grated cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Serve immediately.

Variation---To make mini muffins, divide sausage evenly in 3 mini muffin tins (24 mini muffins in one tin=72 muffins total). Decrease baking time to 15 minutes.

Donna's Cinnamon Things
2 pkg. crescent rolls
2 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 cup sugar
Topping:
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 cup butter

Cover bottom of 9x13 pan with one package crescent rolls. Whip together cream cheese, vanilla, and 1/2 cup sugar. Spread on rolls. Cover with other package of crescent rolls. Melt butter and pour over top. Spread around to cover evenly. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Let cool and cut into about one inch square pieces.

**They make crescent roll dough now in sheets! (Still in the can.) Which was wonderful to use for this recipe so you didn't have to pinch the seams together to make a flat sheet of dough.

Corn Salad

2008-09-23T14:22:00.000-07:00

For a Mexican fellowship meal I brought Creamy Chicken Enchiladas and Corn Salad. Several have asked for the recipe. It may not be Mexican, but we really like it with our enchiladas!

Corn Salad

2 (15 oz.) cans whole kernel corn, drained

2 cups grated cheddar cheese

1 cup mayonnaise

1 cup green bell pepper, chopped

1/2 cup red onion, chopped

1 (10.5 oz.) bag coarsely crushed chili-cheese corn chips

Mix the first 5 ingredients and chill. Stir in corn chips just before serving.

Yield: 8 servings

Hope you try and enjoy!!

Coach Daddy

2008-09-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

All of our Saturdays have and will continue to be spent at the football field. We go to support our team, our alma mater, our friends, and our Daddy. Just wanted to let you know Coach Knapp/Daddy that we love you and the job you are doing! You're great at it!

Ladybug, Ladybug

2008-09-15T19:10:00.001-07:00

This summer I was asked to do a girl baby shower cake for one of my moms from school. She's not up for the girly, girly baby stuff and she did the baby nursery in ladybugs. So this is what I came up with for the cake. The ladybug was a smaller cake on top, perfect to take home to big brother and dad. And for all you Delta bugs out there, thought you might appreciate too!

School Starts

2008-09-06T08:03:00.001-07:00

Get Up Sleepy Head! We started school this past week and, other than being tired, everything went great. It is nice to get back into a routine. And the boys were sooo excited to see their friends again! Austin is in my class this year and it's been interesting so far. I'm trying my best to be firm, fair, and consistent, and not hold him to a higher standard. He's done very well, it's me I'm worried about!

Coop's lovin' every minute and passes out in the car everyday before we get out of Montgomery. It's nice having Fridays and Mondays off. We are able to run errands and relax and then enjoy Daddy's football games on Saturday. I don't know how you girls do it working 5 days/8 to 5 and have a family to care for. I'm not sure how I did it just a couple years ago. Guess you do what you have to do!

The first day of school 2008!

Salvating Saturday

2008-09-01T06:54:00.001-07:00

I've been doing some cleaning out of my cooking magazines. They were taking up almost an entire shelf and it wasn't going to shrink any time soon, so I came up with a plan. Go through every magazine mark the recipes that I like and tear them out and put it in page protectors. Then take all of the recipes and organize in a notebook under desserts, appetizers, main course, salads, etc.

It has really opened up some shelf space and now I can find those recipes that WERE SO GOOD and only made once because I couldn't remember which magazine it was in. Needless to say, I've enjoyed imaging these dishes in my head as I've read through the mountain of magazines. And we've enjoyed many new and old savory suppers. I wanted to share a new recipe that we really enjoyed this past Saturday. After making this dinner, I realized it would be a perfect dinner to make in smaller 8x8 dishes and share half with someone and still have supper for your family! Or invite company over for a visit!

Baked Beef Stroganoff Casserole
2 pounds ground chuck
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
1 (14.5 oz.) can beef broth
1 (10 3/4 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup
1 (16 oz.) container sour cream
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
8 ounces wide egg noodles, cooked and kept warm
2 tablespoons butter
1 (3 oz.) can French fried onion rings

Preheat over to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 13x9x2 inch baking dish.

In a large skillet, cook ground chuck, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is browned and crumbles. Drain.

Return meat to skillet and stir in Worcestershire, mushrooms, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.

Combine hot cooked noodles and butter, stirring until butter melts. Combine noodles and meat sauce. Spoon into prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes Top evenly with fried onions and bake for 10 more minutes.

**Note: I left out the extra mushrooms because the hubby doesn't care much for them and I only used about 1 1/2 ground chuck not 2 and it was still VERY yummy.

The perfect pairing to this main dish was Peggy's Corn Casserole! I know, I know...my husband said I was a casserole freak! But he followed up with "I Love It!":)

Peggy's Corn Casserole
1 stick butter, melted
1 can creamed corn
1 can whole kernel corn, drained
1 box Jiffy corn muffin mix
8 0z. sour cream

Mix all ingredients together. Pour into a 9x13 greased baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.

These were soooo yummy together! A green pea salad would have really topped the meal off, but I would have been the only one eating it!

Hope you try these and enjoy them as much as we did (and are still are, the leftovers are yummy too)!

Swim Lessons

2008-08-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

I just now downloaded pics from my camera of events from last month! So, here are Austin's swim lesson pictures. He really enjoyed himself and made new friends. It's such a small world the people you bump into and they know others you know and you've got a connection!

Looks like he's ready for Olympic diving! Legs are together and nice arm extension!

Austin and his new friend that he made!

Coop wants to know when it's his turn for the "wa-wa"! He was such a good boy to play in the hot sun for two weeks while Bubba got to swim.

Am I Crazy when...

2008-07-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

we go to a store and they have all the school supplies out and I get really excited? Walking through the store today I had to stop by the school supply aisles and look around. The boys don't need school supplies yet but, their momma does! Or I think I do. I had to really contemplate and have self control on whether I needed a new notebook, folders, dividers, pens or not. I just get so giddy this time of year to get NEW fine point Sharpies in all different colors! Is it the teacher in me or are there others who like school supplies as much as I do? And the idea of New crayons that are sharp and in 72 colors just makes me want to buy a coloring book and color with the kiddos. Crazy as it may be but sometimes the simplest pleasures are the best! And while the boys napped today I put those new supplies to good use and organized all my lesson plans for the year in page protectors and a cute notebook!

Neat Picture!

2008-07-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here is a neat pic from mission trip, I "stole" it from someone else's pictures online. But, it's all the kiddos on the mission trip from smallest to tallest. Cooper is at the front, then Trace and then Austin. Just thought it was a cool picture of all the kids!

Mission Trip

2008-07-22T12:50:00.000-07:00

The boys and I returned from the Mission Trip in Gray, GA last night. We are TIRED! In fact nothing got unpacked last night and as of 2:51 today nothing is still unpacked! We've been laying around and sleeping all morning. To be going and going for four days and changing time zones, we've been wiped out. But the trip was wonderful as always.

Austin was so excited to know he was going back to that white church building, it is a white trailer that's their building, and getting to ride the big bus. We left Friday and Todd O. rode with us. We got there right as they were finishing lunch, so we ate quickly and LoLo (Lauren O.) took Austin with her group door knocking. Mom wasn't feeling well, so she was made to go back to the hotel and rest while Cooper took a nap. I stayed at the building and helped Peggy in the kitchen cleaning up lunch and getting supper ready.

This was not easy for Mom to "leave her post" and go and rest, but she did after she saw that she wasn't going to win. Mom and Peggy do such a great job organizing the food and preparing delicious food! They really know how to pinch pennies when feeding such a large group for several meals and for several days.

Then Saturday was more door knocking and this time Cooper and I went along in the morning. In the afternoon, Mom rested again with Cooper and Austin and I stayed and helped. Saturday evening we went to a members farm which reminds me of Palmetto Bible Camp. There's a big lake and a large covered picnic area. Everyone relaxes, plays games, fishes, and we cook out for dinner. Then there's devo, in fact they have devo every night prepared by some of the adults or youth. This night we divided up into girls and guys and had a time of sharing. The older ladies were asked to share something that has helped them along their Christian walk. Some gave verses, others stories, and some advice. It's always a great bonding time when Christian women open up and share some of themselves. We did something similar to this two years ago in Dawson, GA and I still remember what others said and how connected you feel to them afterwards. It was no different this time, what an awesome way to get to know your Church family better!

Sunday came and the little auditorium was packed, more chairs had to be brought out! The preacher was so excited to have a filled room! After lunch we set up our classroom outside. We did the same thing we did at UCC, but outside and under tents. There is only one classroom inside which was being used for the toddlers and the small fellowship room was being used for crafts. That's one of the fun things of mission trip, you don't know what to expect! We had several visitors that night but I'm sure it will grow with each night to come!

Monday was service project day, we stayed until after lunch on Monday and then returned. Good thing too, Cooper started running a fever and Monday night Austin did too. They both have runny noses and fever today still. Who knows where it came from. But, when I asked Austin last night what his favorite part of the mission trip was he said door knocking. How it just fills my heart with joy to hear that! I was sure he would say staying in a hotel or swimming in the hotel pool, but door knocking. I hope he always feels that way about spreading the Gospel. Pray for the rest of the group that will keep working until Wednesday night VBS and then drive back. And pray for continued success of the Gospel being taught in Gray, GA!

A Little Trip with Austin

2008-07-14T14:21:00.000-07:00

Welcome Home Paw Paw! After being gone for a month in Israel, we were the welcoming home committee at the Atlanta Airport. Dad didn't know we were coming...he thought that it would just be Mom. It was great to see him again, though he did look different-30 lbs. lighter and with a beard. I don't think I've ever seen Dad in a full beard until that day! We visited with them for lunch then Mom and Dad brought Cooper back to Montgomery with them and Austin, Charlie and I went on our next adventure.

Next, we went to the Georgia Aquarium. It was really wonderful! We all enjoyed the different sea creatures and seeing so many fish so close-up.

The next day we got up and went to Six Flags! By this time in our trip Austin had had fun staying in a hotel, going to the airport and riding an escalator at the mall! This was his first trip to Six Flags. It was neat to see him enjoy the same rides we did as children. He wasn't as thrilled to see all the Super Heroes as we thought he would. The picture below says it all!

By the end of the day he was one tired boy!

4th of July

2008-07-08T16:37:00.000-07:00

We traveled to Nashville to celebrate the 4th with family. We had a great time swimming, eating, and just relaxing with family. We celebrated Grandma's Birthday after grilling out a delicious dinner. She just laughed at the sparkler in her birthday cake!

Cooper finally loved the water and when it was time to get out, he threw a fit, of course. It made for some great pics!

We tried to get a picture of all the grandkids while they were all together. We probably took 100 pics and have 2 good ones. I thought I'd take advantage of the boys being dressed up and the pretty flowers and get some good ones of them. Well, Coop was not in the mood to sit still and say cheese...oh well.

Charlie got hooked on Guitar Hero. He enjoyed playing it outside on the big screen and we all felt like we were at his concert. And if you know Charlie then you know how he can really ham it up. We all got a good laugh and the neighbors probably did too!

The morning started off with a parade through the neighborhood which ended right in front of Jami's, Charlie's sister, house. So, we enjoyed seeing the police, fire truck, and all the kids riding their decorated cars, bikes, motorcycles, mowers, wagons, etc.

Here are the grandkids! All looking pretty good and sweet as always!

Splish, Splash

2008-06-30T09:59:00.000-07:00

Saturday was Gracie's Birthday Bash! It was a great day to have a pool party. Complete with pizza, soda, cookie cake, take-home goodies and of course great friends! Austin had FUN jumping in and swimming around. Though he wasn't as brave as Peyton to jump off the diving board! Maybe next time!

Naked Baby!

2008-06-24T19:33:00.000-07:00

Last week I went to get Cooper up from his nap and this is what I saw, a NAKED BABY!

He had been awake for a while, but I didn't rush in to get him out of bed. I was selfish and wanted to get a few more things done around the house without interruption. Needless to say, I won't be selfish again...Coop was havin' a good time and had taken off his diaper. He was just in a diaper for his nap. He was talkin' and playin' and peein' in the bed! I had to take pics for future use! But, who could get mad at that cute little face! He just wanted out of bed!

Bugs & Bible

2008-06-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we found this strange bug on the back porch. So, today it was still there. Charlie had already gone to work, so I took pics of this bug and sent them to him asking what it was. He emailed me back and said "just pick it up and throw it into the bushes, it's just a stick bug". A stick bug!! I've never seen one that looked like this before! Then I turned to Google and found a neat site where people submit their questionable bugs and they reply with what it is. And sure enough it was a stick bug. To be more exact it was a Two Striped Walkingstick or some call a Witch's Horse or a Devil's Riding Horse. Anyways, it's actually two stick bugs mating...the little one is the male and the larger one is the female--that figures ;) And I'm glad that I didn't pick it up and throw it because it can spray you in the eyes with something that will burn and make you have blurry vision for hours. So, we'll let Daddy take care of this. Well, we came home from Church tonight and it wasn't in its same place so Daddy will still have to investigate the porch tomorrow before we venture outside. Anyways, we learned a little more about bugs today and now maybe you have too!

I'm constantly amazed at Austin's memory! He will just start talking about something and it takes me a while to figure out where he's coming from. On the way home tonight he said, "Mom you remember being on that stage? You know you were crying." Then I recalled the recent K4 Graduation program my class did at school. "Yes," I replied. Austin continued, "You know Mom you don't have to cry on stage. Your kids will be okay. Just pray to God!" How true--from the mouths of babes! I did cry that night when I had to speak my farewells and thank yous. Just pray to God and he'll take care of those children. Those whom I may never see again and just pray that there's been a seed planted. And I should have prayed that I wouldn't cry and blubber over my words! :) But, it amazes me that that's what he remembers about that night--seeing his mother cry on stage. So, another simple lesson learned from a 4 year old...Just Pray to God.

First Haircut

2008-06-06T16:44:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, Cooper was given his first haircut! Below are pics from the big event. He has such fine blond hair which go great with his blue eyes. Now he looks like a little boy and hopefully won't be mistaken for a little girl anymore.

Before

During & After

Gran-Gran's New Place

2008-06-03T12:06:00.001-07:00

Several weeks ago we had a "house warming" for Gran-Gran and her new place. Everyone was asked to bring a bottle of Boost as her gift and admittance to the party. I don't think Gran-Gran realized that everyone was bringing her the same thing, Strawberry Boost. At least she's stocked up for a while. Here are pics from the event. She was very weepy that day and was asking everyone to take her back home to her house. She seems to have finally settled in and is getting use to the routine. But, she still gets very confused on days and what's happening when, details, etc. Most of that though is from the disease and some old age. Please continue to pray for her and Mom, as she's caring for her while Dad's out of the country.

Happy Day!

2008-05-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my Birthday, 32nd! I went though some old pictures and found some to reminisce over the years. Pictured above was my best neighborhood friend Sharon. We were having a Birthday party for my Cabbage Patch doll Wilda Lee Austin!

I liked this pic for two reasons. One because it shows that I have had long hair and second because of who I'm holding. For those of you who go to UCC you can probably tell who it is... Todd Oliver. His mom Peggy use to babysit me when I was little, then I babysat her kids and now Todd and Lauren babysit my kids. We'll see how long we can keep this going!

This is a class picture from a field trip in 1986 to the Battery in Charleston. I'm at the top in the pink shirt. I really thought this was a neat pic because who knew that 12 years later my husband would propose to me in that very same gazebo! We have a print of this park and gazebo that hangs above our fireplace.

And those of you who know my family...thought you'd like this pic. Again I have long permed hair! Allen's got the comb back hair and Dad still has hair! And Mom looks pretty as always!

So, enjoy this look back and I'm looking forward to 32 more fabulous years to come!

Get-A-Way to the ATL

2008-05-19T12:57:00.001-07:00

For Mother's Day I was given a Get-A-Way trip to wherever to go shopping and relax with just my hubby and no children. What a wonderful gift! It does seem kind of odd to give a gift of no children around for Mother's Day, but sometimes that's just what a Mother NEEDS! So, this past weekend Charlie and I set out for Atlanta for good food, shopping and relaxation. And we did just that. Though on the way back home we sat in ATL traffic for an hour, but we started counting all the different license plates and 16 was the final count. Then I got out the camera and started taking pics. I'm sure those in the cars beside us thought "Crazy tourist, taking pictures while stuck in traffic". But, it was fun and the only pics of the weekend. On our way home the sunset was just beautiful. A perfect ending to the perfect weekend. Thanks, sweetie, for an awesome gift!

Flowers

2008-05-15T16:14:00.001-07:00

Today was our last day of school! It's been a wonderful year teaching part-time. But, it's also been a big adjustment teaching part-time and teaching 4 yr. olds. I've learned a lot and have plans to revise many techniques and curriculum for the next year. The parents this year were fabulous! (And that alone can make or break a school year.) Here are some pics of the beautiful flowers I was blessed to receive from students and parents. Because flowers will only last for so long...I used my time alone (the boys were napping) to unwind after a long day and took pics. I'm thinking of doing canvas prints or blowups and using them for art in the house. And of course I'll name the prints just like the professionals; they would be--Gerber Cole, Taylor Daisy Madison, Rose Jordan and Hydrangea Gracie (not pictured yet, someone woke up from nap!) Silly as it may sound, I would like to remember these gifts and students in a special way. Hopefully, naps will last longer next time and I'll get the Hydrangeas pictured. Enjoy God's creation!

Zoo Field Trip

2008-05-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago Austin's class and mine took our last field trip of the year to the Zoo. It was perfect weather and especially fun since Daddy got to come along. Here are a few pics from the Fun Day!

Ballgames

2008-05-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our Ballgame Evening! Two students in my class play tee ball and Shelby plays coach pitch. I always try to show my support to students and parents in activities outside of school. So, Grant and Braden both had a game yesterday one at 5:30 and one at 6:00. It was the perfect opportunity to hit them both. We went to Grant's first at 5:30 then watched part of Braden's at 6:00. Then we left those fields and caught the last 20 minutes of Shelby's game. Here are some pics from the games. The sunset was beautiful last night and the weather was perfect for a night out. Enjoy!

Motorcycle Cake

2008-04-28T13:30:00.000-07:00

I love making my boys birthday cakes! When Austin told me he wanted a motorcycle cake, my wheels started spinning. I went to the Internet to look for ideas, but they were all in the shape of a motorcycle. So, when I found toy motorcycles at the store they were wrapped up as a birthday gift. Then once Austin opened the present, I put the motorcycles away and told him they were decoration for his cake and once he blew out his candles he could take them off the cake and play with them. He was fine with the plan.

I baked a large sheet cake and two small oval cakes. The oval cakes were attached with icing and then shaped into the hills for the cake. The "dirt" for the track was made from Graham Cracker crumbs. This was a fun and easy cake to make. And it was yummy too!

Austin Turns 4!

2008-04-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

Austin turned 4 on the 24th! I can't believe that my baby is 4!!! He woke up Thursday to a surprise present waiting for him in the backyard. Sorry, that's his breakfast still in his mouth.

After an eventful morning, we went on to school and celebrated with homemade cupcakes, which Austin helped make. He was especially helpful at cleaning the icing from the beaters!

At home that night we fixed his favorite meal, Red Spaghetti! It was yummy as always.

Then the next day, Austin got to have a friend come over and play ALL DAY! They had so much fun and played outside on the new swing set, riding the jeep, playing in the sandbox and playing with the big box the swing set came it. They even had a picnic outside for lunch. Then that night for supper we invited all the family over for supper and birthday cake. So, we celebrated for two days, but what fun we had and what great memories Austin has made.

Good Food

2008-04-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

This is a pic from a formal that I took pictures for last week. Looks Yummy!

If you are looking for that perfect Cinco de Mayo recipe here's a good one that makes a bunch!

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened

2 Tbs. water

2 tsp. onion powder

2 tsp. ground cumin

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

5 cups diced cooked chicken

20 (6 in.) flour tortillas

2 cans (10 3/4 oz. each) cream of chicken soup, undiluted

2 cups (16 oz.) sour cream

1 cup milk

2 cans (4 oz. each) chopped green chilies

2 cups (8 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese

Beat the cream cheese, water, onion powder, cumin, salt and pepper until smooth. Stir in chicken. Set aside. In a separate bowl combine the soup, sour cream, milk and chilies. Pour a slight amount of the soup mixture into the bottom of two greased 13"x9"x2" baking dishes.

Place 1/4 cup chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll up and place seam side down in dishes. Pour remaining soup mixture over enchiladas.

Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

Then Enjoy!

Whenever I try new recipes they are labeled "A Keeper" if we like it. This one is a definite Keeper, especially if your having company over.

Gran-Gran Moves In

2008-04-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

My Grandmother has moved down from Florence to live with my parents. She has dementia and she does not need to be alone. She's had trouble with driving and her medicines. This was an obvious decision for my parents yet, difficult. They have cared for my other grandmother in the same way several years ago.

But, Gran-Gran says she is only here for a few weeks to visit. This is going to be a long and stressful journey for those involved. Gran-Gran is a wonderful lady who is wise and spunky.

So...say an extra prayer that the right decisions can be made and life will continue as it should.

Here's Gran-Gran with the boys.

Easter Cooper

2008-03-24T08:32:00.000-07:00

Coop's an Easter Cutie!

Easter Austin

2008-03-24T08:26:00.000-07:00

Austin's Easter Fun, Enjoy!

Easter Bunny Delivery

2008-03-24T08:18:00.000-07:00

Look what the Easter Bunny brought these good boys!

Spring has Sprung!

2008-03-17T19:26:00.000-07:00

We've been hearing chirping noise by the front for a few days. And the other night when we turned the porch light on a bird was flying all around the light and the door. So, the next day Detective Dad went to check his suspicions out. And he was right (as always :) ) there was a bird nest on the decorative flower hanger on the front door. So, hopefully we'll be able to keep up with them and they won't leave too soon. Austin is super excited about this wonderful act of Spring!

BTW...today was my follow-up dentist appointment and all went well!!! Dr. E gave me the "happy gas" and it was the best. I told him to mark it on my chart, that's what we'll do every time he's got to get in there and do work. I hadn't had happy gas since I was a little girl and had forgotten how wonderfully it worked. I'm really not sure that I should have been driving so quickly afterwards, I still felt a little tipsy for quite a while. Then my mouth was numb and now that's gone and I'm just a little sore. Whoever invented that stuff should have their own holiday...it totally relaxed me and I had no stress or anxiety. Although, I think I was so calmed and relaxed that I may have lost control of some bodily functions! But, that's for you to ask me about later...not for public knowledge.

Easter Egg Hunt

2008-03-11T13:51:00.001-07:00

Coop's loves getting in the action. But, he wanted to throw the eggs down and then stood there and watched the egg break and the candy fall out. He'll learn one day!
My wild and crazy boys!
Austin showing off his favorite egg.
Coop picking up an egg he just threw down.
Austin and his "Derrick Zoolander look"!

Just a few pics from the Church Easter Egg Hunt. Enjoy!

Big Girls Don't Cry

2008-03-04T16:23:00.000-08:00

Alright, the ring tone on my phone is Big Girls Don't Cry by Fergie. And now after going to the dentist yesterday I feel that I need to change it. I don't mind going for a cleaning, but if they're going to get in there and do work I've got to really get my mind ready. So, they have two cavities to clean and fill. The first one goes great and quick. But the second, not so much...after about five shots to numb the nerves still no luck. Mind you after each shot and waiting a few minutes Dr. E goes back to work trying dig and drill out the yuck... and I STILL FEEL PAIN! Finally after an hour and half Dr. E decides to fill it with a temp. and we'll try again in a week. So, I keep myself together checking out, getting my new appt., but when I go to the lobby and Charlie asks how everything went I just break down and cry. Austin said "Mom stop crying, you're making Cooper cry". So, sobbing and trying to tell him all the details through a half numb mouth was pitiful. I was just so disappointed that I've got to go back and do it all over again in a week. But, just to say how nice Dr. E is he came out into the parking lot to check and make sure I was alright. Then he called at home later last night to check again. And by 8:30 I had most of my feeling back into my mouth. So, maybe Big Girls Do Cry...only at the dentist!

Same old thing

2008-02-29T06:48:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the break is posting. Not too much interesting has been going on here, just the same old thing. Coop's sick again with ear infections, so now we're talking tubes in the ears. So, I'd love some advice on this if any one's done it before with their children. I don't want to put him through that if it's not going to be worth it.

Charlie and I had a date night out not too long ago. And it had been too long since the last one. It's great getting out without children and ordering a dinner not sharing it with anyone! We're going to be doing it more often now that we've been reminded of how relaxing and fun dating your spouse can be.

Breathing Treatments

2008-02-12T21:57:00.000-08:00

It's 12:00 in the AM and I'm waiting for 12:30 to give Coop his next treatment. The Dr. yesterday gave him two treatments in the office and sent us off with four prescriptons to fill. Needless to say, three hours later and $424 poorer we were home and getting more medicine. A bright side is that Cooper met his deductiable today for prescriptions and now we'll get % back!

But, we are doing treatments every three hours through the night and then every four tomorrow and then on a needed basis. Coop had two ear infections too. And now he will get a breathing treatment every night for six months and then we'll check it all out again.

Big brother has been coughing ALL DAY! He told me today that his chest was hurting...I felt so bad, we've all had those coughs that make us hurt and to do it for hours and hours... He also told me "I have a crab in my throat". Don't you just hate getting those "crabs" otherwise known as "frogs" in your throat! So, everyone's doctored up and sleeping...hopefully I'll be too soon.

Mom's coming to watch the boys for me today because my class has a field trip to see Seussical at Davis Theatre. And we're having our Valentine's party tomorrow after the field trip. And I just took the last batch of cookies out of the oven for tomorrow. It's great having family close by to help out. I just couldn't see having a sub or someone else take my class on a field trip.

Anyways...I think I'm going to go unload the dishwasher or something to pass the next few minutes til I wake Coop for meds.
Thanks for all the concerns and prayers, they are comforting and needed.

My Cowboy

2008-02-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Alright, it sounds like I'm going to have to change the pic of my cowboy. He's been harassed with emails from his HikeFest/BK Renegades guys. I thought it was a cute fun pic, but the guys thought otherwise. So, no more Heath Ledger and Broke Back Mountain inuendos. Enjoy the new pic!

Cooper has gotten sick just overnight AGAIN! He's had a runny nose and nothing more wrong. Then after supper last night he started coughing, being fussy, and his breathing was a little more noticable. So, I gave him a breathing treatment and thought we'll head this sickness off. He woke up at four crying that "hurt" cry and VERY labored breathing, so I gave him another treatment. Then we woke up at 6:30 with the same and a 100 temp. He got another treatment and Tylenol (which he then threw-up as he was coughing). All that to say we've got the earliest Dr.'s appt. for 2:00 today. He's just my sick baby! I'm wondering if he didn't heal completely from two weeks ago?

Coop Update

2008-02-04T15:31:00.000-08:00

Cooper seems to be ok from the recent crib fall, but while that was going on he started wheezing again. Oh, the thoughts of Nov. came flooding back! But, we knew more this time what we were doing. He had to do breathing treatments every four hours for two days and then three times a day for a couple days. He doing much better now. Thanks for all the prayers! So we've taken it easy and are trying to get this household well.

Here's my soapbox about sickness at church. If you're a teacher at UCC, please ask your supervisor to keep Lysol wipes and spray stocked in your classroom. And then as teachers USE IT regularly. I know at school everyday we spray the classroom with Lysol and usually twice a week, or more, all the children will help clean with Lysol wipes. Shouldn't we be as careful at church? It makes me so discouraged when the toys they've played with, drooled on, and handled are just put back to sit in that sickness for the children to use in a couple days. Even in the K5 class I'm teaching, I want to spray and wipe down the tables, supply boxes, chairs, etc. after class. Just a little sanitizing here, please!

Just a little exciting news, I had my first $1000 Pampered Chef show! A nice accomplishment in the business.

Cooper and the Crib

2008-01-29T15:25:00.000-08:00

Today at school Cooper got out, fell out of the crib! I'm not really sure how it happened exactly. The babies sleep in double decker cribs where the side rails go up and down like a garage door. He sleeps in the top and somehow he managed to lift the rails up and the teachers heard him crying. They go in and find him standing on the floor!!! So, did he fall down and cry? Did he fall down, pass out and then wake up and cry? And then he threw-up in the car on the way home. So, we are keeping a close watch on him. I've called the Dr. and they told me what to watch out for. It's just so scary. Please keep Coop in your prayers. And his mommy to keep her mind from wandering and thinking the worst.

Those Devilish Eggs!

2008-01-26T19:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, now I know why they are called Deviled Eggs, because they are the devil to peel! Maybe it was because I was peeling FIVE DOZEN! Everything would be going along great and then there would be one that just wouldn't want to give up its shell. Therefore some have a few scars and wounds. Next time I volunteer to make deviled eggs, I'm having a peeling party. So, don't be surprised when you get an invite. And for those UCC people coming to the teacher's appreciation banquet Sunday night, no complaints about the eggs. Just know they were each touched with love and a few devilish thoughts! Enjoy.

Young At Heart

2008-01-19T20:31:00.000-08:00

"I'm so EXCITED!" Austin said as he slapped his little hands to his cheeks when he saw the snow. We bundled up as quickly as we could and the first thing he did was stick out his tongue to catch snowflakes. Then he was even more excited and said, "It really is snowing!" He and Cooper's first snow made me feel young at heart. They were soooo cute playing in it. What great memories were made today!

If you don't have anything nice to say...

2008-01-15T14:00:00.000-08:00

I took my 4 year old class to see Winnie-the-Pooh today at ASF. It was really good! All the students seemed to enjoy the performance. Austin and Olivia from the 3 year old class came too and they were able to sit through it and enjoyed it. I just got discouraged afterwards when a parent commented "Well that was...interesting". I don't know if they were expecting Disney World costumes or what, but the actors did a wonderful job! That one comment just let all the air out of my sail. Everyone was excited, worked hard organizing the trip, and no thanks. I won't let that one keep me down, that's why as teachers we have to expose children to all the arts and opportunities because their parents won't do it. And teach children at a young age that "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all".

Anyways, here are some Christmas pictures because I'm just now getting on this blog spot thing.

They helped brighten my day looking back at them, maybe they'll brighten yours too.

The First One

2008-01-14T08:33:00.000-08:00

Okay, after hearing all the girls talk about their blogspots, I've finally created one too. This is all new to me and I really don't know what I'm doing. But I should have plenty of time to work on it today. I'm keeping the boys in trying to get them better. Especially Coop! I don't want to go through what we did two months ago with him. Now I feel like the over protective mom when he gets the slightest cough, runny nose, etc.