5, 4, 3, 2, 1....we're on vacation

Yay! Today is finally here! We're off to the hill country today! Our bags are packed.  Our snacks are ready and cold drinks are on hand.  Traveling isn't so much an ordeal anymore.. although Cade did want me to pack his things in a pink bag because Nana and Maxie have pink ones.  I told him in this house- the bags are red!

Yesterday I found a great swimsuit, super cute sundress and super soft pajamas.  I havent' bought new pajamas in forever.   It's one of those things I need to do more often.  Just like getting new make-up.  Just to feel more girly.... that was my goal!  I feel like always wear the same thing to do everything and to go everywhere. Now I have a few more options and will feel more put together--- and that makes me happy!

Well. We will post pictures of our adventure when we return Thursday. We're off to have some fun!!

Home Sweet Home

Traveling with a toddler is getting much easier these days. Although, I did stop 3 times in under 45 minutes on they way home, it is nothing like it used to be when Cade was a newborn/infant.  It would take me forever to get anywhere! 

I hate stopping when I'm traveling by myself, but when it comes to Cade, I'll do anything.  Especially if it involves a nap in the near future!  Even if I have to stop 3 times on they same road, in the same town, and listening to the same Barney episode....a nap is a nap! What?! Need that blankie...let me stop and get it for you, tuck you in and put Froggy riiiight next to you.  lol.

The past few days Cade and I have spent in the hill country visiting Stephanie and Grandma. We arrived on Wednesday afternoon and spent the night in Austin. Thursday morning we loaded up and drove to Fredericksburg to see Grandma. We had a great visit. We did our usual trip to DQ for ice cream and a quick trip to Wal-Mart because for some reason we always need something from there. It was kind of a rainy day but during the dry spells the kids played outside and worked hard at covering the entire sidewalk with chalk.  Grandma said she could watch the kids so I could run down town for a little bit.  While I was gone she baked cookies with the kids. I think she had fun even if they hover over her... it's amazing they even turn out! That evening we went to the farmer's market in town and sampled tons of fresh veggies, wines, and cheeses. I bought an awesome feta cheese/olive oil spread, a loaf of white bread, and two purple bell peppers. We came home and made a delicious salad for dinner and ate almost the whole round loaf of bread at dinner. I wish there was a farmer's market here like the one on Main Street. Live music, gourmet food and fresh, home grown fruits and veggies to sample. I LOVE it.

We headed back to Buda Friday morning after a quick stroll through the shops in downtown Fredericksburg. We made it home after 1 o'clock and then we loaded back up and took Maxie to gymnastics. While she was there Cade and I went to the city park in Buda and then to Cabella's. You could seriously spend all day in Cabella's. It's huge. Cade and went through the exhibits, had a snack in   the restaurant, and then played in all of the camping tents.  We remembered to pick up a Pig Tail Meat flipper for Travis and some fishing hooks for Cade's rod. Travis is dying to take Cade fishing, so I'm guessing in the next few weeks he'll have casted his line for the first time! I'm sure he'll catch a BIG one for sure!
So, now we're home after one last stop at Julie's house this afternoon which put us home at 10:30 tonight.  Hopefully we'll get a good night of sleep.................................. yikes! it's 11:30.  g'night!

If I could write a letter to me

There is a trend going on in the blogger world these days to take a moment and write a letter to yourself... You start from a certain point in your life and write to the present.  I read a few entries on random sites and was moved by some of the entries... So I thought I'd give it a shot and hopefully pass on the idea to my friends and other random people who might come across this page.

Middle School Tara.
It's the day before your 13th birthday and  you are getting braces.  You are really excited about this.  Finally something to make you "cool" and "fit in" with the rest of the crowd but consider waiting until after your birthday party....your teeth are really going to hurt from those tight, shiny, yet colorful braces.  You'll have the hardest time picking out the color of bands you want but trust me, clear is best.  Once they are removed you'll have the next best thing... a permanent retainer. You'll have many not so nice things to say about this permanent piece of metal in your mouth... just remember floss is your friend.  You are going to be going to high school soon and will be leaving behind some really good friends, but hold on to the red head named, Julie. She'll be there with you through all the hard times and show you what true friendship is all about.  

High School Tara,
You're going to be in the marching band. Try your best, maybe even practice playing your instrument. Don't worry about Chemistry. You'll run into your teacher many years from now and tell him that you haven't balanced a chemical equation since you took his class and he'll laugh.  Oh, and you won't use Geometry either.  Boys will be boys and none are worth keeping around. You'll work at Chili's from 1993 to 2000. You'll meet one of your best friends, Kristine.  She'll be wearing a really cool color of nail polish and you'll notice.  You'll be instant friends after that.  You'll continue working at Chilis' after HS and will transfer to one in Austin. You'll meet Paul and finally understand the meaning behind "keep Austin weird!"  Your friendship will be one you cherish forever.

College Tara,
You'll take classes at ACC and apply to a few colleges. You'll get accepted to SWT and UoH.  You'll choose SWT. Paaaaaaaaaaararrrrty.  Just kidding Mom!  You will go through some roommates and live on your own some.  Keep your eyes open on campus because you'll spot your friend from High School,  Becky. You'll reconnect and spend a few years rooming together. Eventually she'll move to Boston but she'll be your tour guide to the city and even take you on a trip to San Fransisco/Napa Valley.  Later on in life, she bring you back tokens from her travels across the seas.  Your favorite with be a child size kimono.  Be sure to get familiar with the Internet. You'll be able to connect with a lot of people from all over, some you'll even really care about.  Match.com will one day change your life.  Your senior year you'll get a phone call that brings you to your knees.  Papa dies and your heart breaks. But don't worry. He will visit you in your dreams and you'll be so happy you saw him again. You graduate and make your parents proud! 

23 - 29 year old Tara
Thanks to your friend Susan, you'll get your first teaching job in Sugar Land. You'll teach Kindergarten and pick out your "favorites" but know that in the end each of those kids needs you.  You'll question moving back to Austin because relationships end and you want a change, but you never leave. You'll turn 25 and make a wish as you blow out your candle to meet someone who loves you for you.  A week later you do.  You'll talk to him for hours that first night. You'll meet him and two days later you'll see him every single day after that.  You'll fall in love under the stars and he'll ask you to marry him under those same stars a few years down the road.  Your parents won't believe you when you tell them you're engaged....Travis will always surprise you. You'll get married at the same church your parents did and where Papa is buried.  The wedding will be amazing. You'll find out a month later your expecting.

Pregnant Tara,
You are shocked. You just peed on a stick and it's blinking and alarms are sounding off -you're pregnant. Are you ready for this? NO.  But who is.  Your sister will tell you that there will never be the perfect time, and you'll never have enough money.... this will stick with you.  You might want to sign up for the class, what to expect after your water breaks. It's good to know this sort of information. Drag your husband along.  When in need, call Julie.  Your water will break on the rug as you're walking to the bathroom...and seriously you don't have to go to the hospital right away... if you do, your husband will fall asleep and you'll be awake, and mad that he's asleep.  So just wait it out for as long as you can.  Remember that there is a button on the side of the bed to push if you start feeling contractions. Don't press it too many times...but know that if you do, Travis will be there for you to move your legs for you. 

30 year old Tara
Life will never be the same and it's ok. Realize this.  Sleep doesn't happen much. Husbands don't always hear a crying baby.  You'll catch up on nights when mom and Julia step up to the plate and keep your little one over night.  It will take awhile to get to that point but just know it will happen.  Let it happen. Give your baby a bottle. Better yet, give the bottle to someone else and you get out of the house.  Try to smile. Being a mom is hard but your little boy is going to love you.  It's ok to have a messy house. Your house isn't as messy as your neighbor's house or your neighbor's neighbor....it's not even messy.  So let it go. It's hard, but let it go.  Date your husband. Remember your friends.  Don't get caught up in the have nots. Know that God has a plan and that things are going to work out.
32 year old Tara
Cade is 3 1/2.  He is closer to 4 than he is 3.  He makes sure that he makes you happy when he goes potty. Or happy when he doesn't hit you even though he just said he was going to.  He will want to watch Imagination Movers, Bad Hair Day a hundred times and then once again just because he wants to bounce on the couch while they sing.  He will grow one inch in under 2 months.  He loves to sing, dance and play sharks and alligators. His favorite thing to say will be "rude butt."  Try not to laugh when he says that over and over again.   Spend time with your husband and do things for him... don't expect perfection.   Hold hands and when times get tough just remember where you came from. Say I love you more.

I heart JULY

We had a great weekend at the Miller Household.  Friday, Julia picked Cade up for a day and night o'fun.  Apparently too much fun since bedtime wasn't until after 10!  Oh well, it gave Travis and I an entire day to spend together. So since we had the house to our self we decided to head downtown and eat at Red Onion and then try out Sprinkles Cupcakes....except as soon as we entered on to I-45 we decided that we should probably make other plans since it looked like we were about to enter a black cloud of death.  So we u-turned and headed North to The Woodlands.  We stopped by  the Carter's store to get Cade PJs; they were ridiculously cheap so we stocked up.  Since it was storming by the time we left Carter's we decided to eat lunch right next door at Pie Town for a decent sandwich and soup.  On the way home we hit up the Redbox.  We rented Sherlock Holmes (zzzzzz) and Duplicity (zzzz).  For some reason I fell asleep in both.  Must have been the rainy weather that took it out of me.

Once the weather cleared out we decided to go to Alicia's Mexican restaurant for tortilla soup.  Afterwards we went to Starbucks for a coffee and discussion on where to take our vacation.

Vacation! Wow. I thought I'd never leave the house this summer.

So, here's our plan.

17th Circus with Maxie
18th head to Austin with Maxie (stay over at Stephanie's and maybe have a date night downtown)
19th Fredericksburg (visit Grandma and try out a new restaurant)
20th back to Austin dropping Cade off w/ Uncle Travis and then Travis and I head to Bastrop Lost Pines Resort
21st pick Cade up and head back to Lost Pines for more fun
22nd head home stopping at Blue Bell Creamery in Brenham

Travis had a almost 50k in airline miles so we swapped those for a one night stay at a luxury hotel and since Travis does so much "business" with Hyatt in downtown Houston, we were able to get a fabulous deal on an additional night stay.  Woo-Hoo!   I can't wait to go!

Saturday was a much prettier day so Cade and I went to Sprinkle's cupcakes (my favorite cupcake place now) and Paper Source. 

Sunday we went to church, then headed to the movies to see Toy Story 3.  That was Cade's first "real" movie.  He did awesome.  He actually fell asleep on the way to the show but I was able to keep him asleep in my arms/lap until the movie started.  It worked out perfectly.  Then we headed to the Red, Hot and Blue Festival on The Waterway.  We walked around and decided to grab a snack and cool off at Cheesecake Factory.  Afterwards, we went back over to the festival and waited.....as patiently as we could for the fireworks to start.  It was a great show.  Cade loved the pink ones (big surprise).  

Fun weekend..... now Monday is here.   Not much planned for today. We have gymnastics tomorrow and then we're packing up and heading to Fredericksburg to see Grandma on Wednesday.   We'll be back Saturday and leaving after church on Sunday to go up to Buffalo for the night.   Lots of traveling going on...but it sure beats staying at home.

Later this month July 30-August 1, I'll be going on a retreat to Camp Allen with the girls from my quilting group.   Looking forward to working on Cade's baby book.  I hope to at least finish his 1st year.... so behind on that.

The next baby I (hopefully) have will have their book already assembled and all I'll have to do is insert pictures.  One thing I did do for Cade was post a calendar in his room so all I had to do was write down his developmental milestones.... I did that for almost 2 years.   I think once he started walking I was over it.... but I'm glad that I did it because it's fun to read about when he first smiled or when he said Mama for the first time. (all that hard work paid off say mama, mama, mama, mama, mama).   


I'm off to HEB to get groceries and goodies.

The ESL test is finally behind me. Now I just have to sit and wait for results.  It took me over 4 hours to answer 70 questions.  I'm not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing.  I am just glad it's over and hoping that I passed.  It would be nice to have that certification to add to my resume.

Speaking of resume.  I didn't get the teaching position I was hoping for.  I guess it's just not meant to be.  I do love the school I'm at right now; but I was hoping for a pay increase.  It would have been nice to have that extra money.  I talked with a friend today and she told me about starting a 529 for Cade. So I'm going to look into that and set something up where my paycheck goes to Cade's college fund.  I'll be less worried once I see that start to grow. 

So now that my studying days are behind me, Cade and I have done some fun things this week.  We started off by visiting Julie and her 4 boys, then Tuesday was gymnastics and story time at the Library and today we met up with a group of friends at the splash pad.   Tomorrow we might hit the $1 movies and then meet a friend for her birthday lunch.

The rest of the week is up in the air. I'm dying to go out of town and I found a great deal at the Magnolia Hotel in College Station, $80/night with milk and cookies at bedtime!  I know it's Aggie Land but just to get out of the house and GO SOMEWHERE.. would make this gal, happy.

I don't think Travis is up for it... maybe Cade and I will go!  He LOVES cookies!

Oh, I love a rainy night....

I've been waiting all day for the rain to come.  There was a teaser of shower this morning, then a few sprinkles around lunch and full sun until this evening when the storm clouds rolled in.  At first I couldn't tell if it was thunder or if I was hearing or the loud, obnoxious 4x4 truck across the street that gets fired up every week; but soon enough I heard the first drops hit the window and now I'm in a dark house watching the sky light up!

Today I took Cade and his pal, Micheala to Toddler Time at the library. It was so cute! Stories, finger plays, and dancing!  They loved it! I'm going to take Cade next week after Gymnastic for the pre-school session and then again on Thursday for the Toddler Time.  Now that Travis has his new sleep schedule I find it easier to be out of the house until noon....and this will certainly help fill up our morning.  This afternoon, Travis took Cade to the pool in the neighborhood.  I think he enjoyed it! I need to sign him up for lessons.  He has yet to go underwater in all of  his 3years of being in water.

Tonight we sliced opened our delicious seedless watermelon from the farmer's market... it was so sweet and juicy!  I sliced up half of it and brought it over to my neighbor's house and then as I'm walking back to my house the neighbor across the street is walking over to give me home grown tomatoes.  I thought that was pretty neat...

Well... time to study only one more day until my ESL test.

"The Texas Ball Did It"

This morning we somehow managed to sleep until 8:20, which would have been a great thing if we didn't have to be at gymnastics at 9. Luckily Cade LOVES gymnastics and was all about getting out the door.  I'm proud to say we made it and had 5 minutes to spare! Go Mom Go!
Cade did great in class. I watched from the upstairs viewing area as instructed by Cade himself.  Today they worked on the balance bean, roll overs, hand stands and of course their "tah-dah!"  Today I realized that Cade's little buddy (Kade) from church is our class....so happy he has a friend there!

During rest time Cade and I were watching Toy Story One. We came to the part where Buzz was being chased by a runaway globe and gets knocked out of the window and into the neighbor's yard. I asked Cade if he knew what had just happened to Buzz and he says, "the Texas ball did it!"


Lately whenever my mom watches Cade he'll pull out her United States puzzle that has way too many small pieces that some how all manage to not get lost. Cade can point to Texas, Florida, California, Oklahoma, and a few others. He also has quite an ear when it comes to announcements or ads on the radio/tv that mention a state's name, "they just said California!"  I'm pretty impressed.

Tomorrow is Kid's Day at our church. I'm looking forward to meeting up with a few of the members and of course letting Cade wear himself out enough to take a nap....he is holding out on me! No naps make for a long day... but we some how manage to make it to bedtime with little to no tantrums.

---  food/recipe update--

The VOO (vegan overnight oats) I made last night were super yummy! Sweet and creamy!

Tempeh enchiladas had a very unusual texture- but were good.  Travis actually ate 2 to my 1.  I guess he was a fan!

Tomorrow will be Eggplant Parmesan with fresh corn on the cob.  

Happy Birthday Mom!!

For Father's Day we made a day trip up to Buffalo to see Travis' Dad.   We made up there by 2, ate lunch and then the boys headed outdoors to do "guy stuff."  While they did their thing, I had the chance to catch up on important things like... Real Housewives and Cupcake Wars.

It was a pretty short trip but I think everyone had a good time.  We headed home around 8 and Cade was asleep before we got to the Interstate.  

This morning I had my monthly appointment with Dr. Yezak.  My back is still feeling good.  I had a slight twinge of pain in my hip but since his adjustment earlier today I'm doing just fine!  He did tell me that he didn't like my shoe of choice-- actually I think his words were, if you wear those shoes again I'm going to cut off your feet.  So, I guess flip flops are a no... or at least a no on days I have to see him. ;)

This afternoon Cade and I went to the Farmer's Market downtown to get some produce and of course to see Travis.  We picked up a ton of veggies and a few pieces of fruit.  I'm planning on making eggplant Parmesan and tempeh enchiladas for dinner this week and green monsters in the mornings.   I also made my first batch of Vegan Overnight Oats tonight.  In a bowl I mixed oats, 2 mini bananas (smashed), 1/4 tsp vanilla, 2 tbs chia seeds, and 3/4 cup almond milk. In the morning I'll top it off with a touch of maple syrup.  VOO is another recipe from OhSheGlows.

Tomorrow we are going to gymnastics.  Cade has been imitating Maxie's back bends all day.... monkey see, monkey do.   Should be a fun morning!

sneek peek

Our friend Erin took our family pictures last weekend.  We went to Montgomery and strolled around town. She is such a talented photographer!  So lucky she captured these precious snapshots!  More are to come in the next week or two.

Weekend/Father's Day

What a great weekend! Stephanie and her family came into town for a quick visit. It was great seeing them and hanging out at the house.  Friday we took the kids to get their picture taken at Portrait Innovations in Champions.  The picture turned out so cute!  I will scan it in and post.

Travis took off today so we could spend time together.  We dropped Cade off at my mom's so he could play with Maxie and then we went to Gringo's for 'ritas and chips. Then we went back to my mom's to celebrate Father's Day. My dad cooked out- ribs, chicken, and sausage.  He enjoyed using his new grill gadget- a pig tail food flipper. It's the perfect tool for flipping meat on the grill. It hooks the meat and with a twist of the wrist it flips the meat over. It's pretty handy and for $10 a must have for all men.  Cabella's in Buda,TX is one of the few outdoor stores that carries them. Thanks to Stephanie's Travis for picking one up for my dad! He bought the last one.... so they are now officially sold out! I hope they get more in because I know someone else who had their heart set on one. 

After dinner we headed home with one tired little boy! I love carrying him to bed.  I'm off to bed. It won't be long before I hear his little feet run across the floor, come into our room, and say pick me up mama.... Hopefully tomorrow he'll sleep in and not be SO eager to get up before 7. 

Today Cade had his second gymnastics lesson.  He did really well! He even told my sister that he made a new friend... but he doesn't have a name.  At least it's a boy!

Today in class, they focused on having fun, jumping, ta-das and lot's of hanging from a bar with legs up and with legs out.  I think he likes it- so glad we joined.

After gymnastics we headed to the gym for playtime for Cade and Pilate's for me.  This was the most intense Pilate's class I have even taken.  I thought my legs were going numb at one point... but once I was up on my toes I had feeling back in them.  Kind of a weird feeling-- kind of like jello. 

Tomorrow we're headed to the splash pad at market street.  I took Cade there the other day and he loved it.  Hopefully a friend or two will join us.

Afterwards, I'm going to attempt to bake cookies!   I found a new website called abbynormally.com.  The cookies look just like chocolate chip... except they are "green" as in "healthy".

1/2 cup pureed avocado (about one medium avocado—thrown in the food processor)

1/2 cup honey
1 egg
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/4 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped dates/raisins
1/4 cup chopped pecans/almonds

Preheat oven to 375.
Mix pureed avocado, and honey until “fluffy”. Add in egg.
Sift flour, baking powder, and salt, then add to the honey mixture. Add in vanilla and mix.
Fold in chocolate chips, dates, and nuts.
Spoon onto lightly greased baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Keep in mind that honey browns more easily than sugar.
Dang it, looks like I'll be making my daily trip to HEB to pick up an avocado and some honey.  I'm all out.... whah.

Tonight I dropped Cade off at my mom's house for the night. He always goes back and forth on wanting to actually sleep over but somehow today I talked him into it. I think it was something along the lines of, "Nana bought you new Cars underwear..."  That did the trick and now I have the house to myself for a few hours before Travis comes in from work..... Every night (with exception to Sundays) he wakes me up with  his darn phone light.... .... argh! It's not the truck engine rumbling, or the garage door opening up, or the opening and closing of our doors... it's the darn phone light......I think I need a sleep mask.

So back to Cade, he is officially potty trained. We've done it all. No. 1 and No.2 in the potty! Maybe that was TMI but when you're a parent you'll understand. Pottying is a BIG deal and I'm so glad that we have that under our belt.

Tomorrow morning after I pick Cade up we're going to ride the carousel at the mall. That was his reward for "telling me" he has to go potty. Each time he "told" me he earned a quarter.  4 quarters equals 1 dollar/1 token to ride Wilbur the pig.  We'll probably do a little shopping too.  Sunday is picture day.  Family pictures and Cade's 3 yr old pictures taken by our friend Erin.   We're looking forward to that!

Well it's time to study then bedtime... morning will be here before I know it.


I'll post tomorrow night after I make stuffed peppers with black beans and quinoa.  yum!

food fotos

Tonight I made pecan crusted salmon with a mixed green salad topped with a homemade vinegarette.  Both recipes I found on ohsheglows.com.   This is easily one of the best meals I've ever made.  Even Travis called me from work to tell me how much he loved it.  

Adapted from Dreena Burton’s Eat Drink & Be Vegan ‘Back-to-Basics’ dressing.

 Dressing Ingredients:
2.5 tablespoons balsamic, white, or red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or regular mustard
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Ground black pepper to taste
1/2 minced clove of garlic (optional)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Directions: Toss all ingredients into a bowl and whisk! Makes about 1/2 cup of dressing.

** I did not have the apple cider vinegar and I forgot to add the EVOO and it still turned out sweet and tangy.  This dressing is better than store bought. and so simple to make.  Definitely something to keep on hand when you want to impress your special someone**
  

                                             My own Salad creation
In a large bowl add Spring Mix in the bag salad mix, 1 mini can of mandarin oranges (drained and rinsed), a handful of blackberries, feta cheese, 1/2 of an avocado chopped, and chopped pecans.  I just eyeballed the amount of each ingredient.  Add dressing- toss and plate.

Here is the recipe for the salmon.  


1/4 cup butter, melted
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 1/2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped pecans
4 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
4 (4 ounce) fillets salmon
salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, for garnish
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
In a small bowl, stir together butter, mustard, and honey. Set aside. In another bowl, mix together bread crumbs, pecans, and parsley.  Brush each salmon fillet lightly with honey mustard mixture, and sprinkle the tops of the fillets with the bread crumb mixture.


Bake salmon 12 to 15 minutes in the preheated oven, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with a wedge of lemon.
 
**I baked ours for 20 minutes**

'nastics

Today Cade asked me if he could go to a 'nastics class.   Being the cool mom I am, I told him I would look up a place and see what I could find.  Well there happens to be a place just up the road called Woodlands Gymnastics.  They offer free trial classes for toddlers... how perfect.   So we went at 5:30 for the "twinkle stars" class.  Cade had 15 minutes of warm-up/stretching, followed by 15 minutes of gymnastics.  

Cade did great!  I sat and watched him from the viewing deck.  He completed all the activities with a smile on his face and a pep in his step.  

For some reason I can't upload a video to my blog.

Check back later for it....

We will most likely enroll him in a class that meets once a week and pray that there will be some boys in the class too.

Cade is in need of some boy time! It seems as though all of his friends are girls.... which is fine but he needs some guy time.   All this wanting to dress up, sing Carrie Underwood, and listen to the P-I-N-K color song over and over again has me a bit worried.   :)

So friends with boys please have us over sometime.   Friends with girls please hide the dress up clothes.

5 things about Cade

1. Well, the potty fairy has come and gone. She brought Cade a cool blue pool with a slide like he requested. He has been dry since we started with one or two minor accidents. So I'm really proud of him. He still isn't telling us he has to go but he is much more willing to go....so yay Cade.

2. Today we went to Subway for lunch. We're in line paying and he looks at the people behind the counter and says, "they're stuck back there." He just couldn't figure out how they were going to get "unstuck" from behind the counter. He has said this once before at Frost bakery....too cute.

3. Cade is addicted to iPod apps. He constantly wants a new game. Today I found him in the App Store selecting a red, face monster game. Ummm, thank goodness he doesn't know the password. I need to find him a new hobby....

4. I taught Cade his or as he says "not mine, yours" phone number. I had him in the tub the other day and wrote down the numbers using the washable crayons. I had him point and say the numbers to me. I told him those were the numbers to call mama on the phone. So I started to sing them and he repeated them back. Such a proud Mom this week.

5. Cade moved his bedtime up to 730. I love it. I don't love 630 in the morning...but this morning we used it to our advantage and took a walk with the dogs.

potty fairy

Yesterday we headed over to Amanda's for some pool time fun! Cade is hoping to get a pool with a slide at the end of the week..... it all depends on how his potty training goes.

With the help of my good friends, Susan and Kristine I have reintroduced potty training to Cade. The past 2 nights one or the other has called and pretended to be the Potty Fairy. They use their own, unique Fairy-ish type voice and somehow create magic over the phone line.

This morning I filled Cade's bathroom with balloons and wrote a note from the Potty Fairy.

He has been dry all day. ALL DAY. That's pottying every hour from 7am to 8pm. Tomorrow I'm going to try to go a little longer but I'm so proud of him. I hope this is the end of pull ups and the beginning of big boy pants!

Tomorrow he will wake up to find ribbon curls and another note. Maybe he'll even be dry over night. Let's hope!

Ten things

1. Summer has officially started for me!

2. This past weekend Cade and I rode up to Austin with my parents (yes it was a long drive, but I don't remember complaining about it). Saturday evening Maxie preformed in a dance recital. She did an amazing job! She has grown up so fast and her dancing has really improved since last year!

Here she is in her ballet dress and her trophy.
maxie's first dance recital.

Macey did an awesome dance to this song, Storm by Lifehouse.

3. Keep your fingers crossed about a pre-k position that just opened up! It would be perfect for me!

4. Cade is going to be visited by the potty fairy. She is going to take away the pull ups and leave a wrapped gift for him to open if he's dry. I hate to be like this but he will just stand there looking at me and tell me he just peed in his pull up. ahhhh so frustrating.

5. If you haven't driven through the town of Roundtop, you need to. My Dad decided to take a "short cut" through Roundtop on our way to Austin. I would have loved to have stopped to take some pictures but of course that didn't happen.

6. Travis has been gone since Thursday working on his Dad's roof at the farm. The guy that designed the farm house had a real clever way of building it. He basically threw up some boards, found whatever kind of fastener and pieced it together. That might be good with other types of structures but not a house. Travis has spent probably 30 hrs working on tearing down the old roof and puttin the new one on.

7. I'm still doing my green smoothies. I've increased my elliptical/treadmill time and added more YOGA to my weekly schedule. I'm definitely feeling better and I can tell a difference. =)

8. I can't believe LOST is over. Actually I'm kind of glad.... I will finally know how it ends.

9. For some reason I keep thinking about Papa lately. I really wish I could go out to the ranch and clean up the place.... I haven't been out there in over a year, if not longer. The song House that Built Me by Miranda Lambert reminds me of him and his house.

10. The potty fairy is coming.

TOT

We'll see if I can get a full TEN on Tuesday...

1. I am still drinking my GREEN smoothies- usually two a day. I just upgraded in my greens to Kale.

2. I'm starting to do more YOGA. I just had my first one on one with Summer @ Dr Yezak. office. I could actually feel my muscles this morning.

3. I'm up to 50 minutes on the elliptical which is 4 miles for me. I need some good work out music to keep me going.

4. Only 3 more Mondays until school is done for the year!

5. Travis is turning 33 next week! Saturday I'm throwing him a party out at Sam and Charlie's house. I figure that would be the perfect place since the all the toys for the BIG boys are out there! Can't wait!

6. Cade is still potty training. Today Travis put him in underwear and apparently he was dry most of the morning until I got home. Then he had an accident.... boo. I hate to force it but I wish there was just a button to push to make him just go on the potty! So my thought is just let me use the pull ups until he is ready. I've heard that one day it happens...

7. Thursday will our 4th wedding anniversary.

8. Travis and I need a vacation. I want to go to the hill country and just be with him like old times.

9. Why do I hate laundry so much. I guess I don't hate doing it; I hate putting it away. I can finally see my dresser.....

10. Wondering who will be next friend to say she is pregnant! Will it be you? ;)

Since I haven't updated in forever I give you:

My top 5 On Thursday

1. I started seeing a nutritionist at Dr. Yezak's office last week. She has me on a green smoothie plan and mostly raw diet. You may be wonding what a green smoothie is? Great question. A green smoothie gets it's name from the green vegetables that you add to your smoothie. For instance: spinach, kale, collard greens, etc... At first you may think that this would never EVER ever taste good....but it does. I make two a day and I haven't complained once.

Here is a basic recipe you can try yourself. 1-2 bananas, frozen strawberries, 1-2 tsp flaxseed (ground), tsp of raw honey (not from honey bear), frozen peaches, and 1-2 cups of fresh spinach. Blend it all up and enjoy! Surprisingly filling and oh so good! You can't even taste the spinach.

The other part of the plan is raw. Eating organic when possible. Eating greens, nuts, lentils. I'm slowly introducing myself to new things. I never thought much of almonds but that's been my number one snack all week. I also tried Ezekiel bread, which is a sprouted whole grain bread. I really enjoy the cinnamon raisin bread toasted. Even Travis enjoys it.

Next week I'll add Yoga to the mix and continue my sessions at the gym. Still looking for a partner....

2. We (as in Travis) moved the daybed into Cade's room. Hopefully he'll sleep there all night. He has the tendency to wake up around 3 a.m. Slam his door. Run across the living room. Open our door. Slam our door. Run to my side of the bed. Climb over me and fall instantly back to sleep....sometimes with his feet in my face.

3. Tomorrow our dog Lucy has a play date with Zack the pug. Travis and I both noticed that she seemed to be depressed. She's always trying to get in the car and go with us wherever we are going. When we mention another dog's name she tilts her head and perks her ears.... So when I told my friend Mary about Lucy she was all for getting our dogs together. So hopefully this will get Lucy out her funk.

4. I only have 15 more teaching days of school this year!

5. Travis and are debt free! woo hooo!

So there you have it! 5 things on Thursday. good night.

Yes, I still blog.

TEN on TUESDAY....or almost Tuesday.

1.Cade is 3. Although I have no pictures to show of it. He is 3 and we had a fabulous party to celebrate his BIG day.

2,Our Dell laptop is busted again. I will never buy a Dell again. We have only had for a little over two years and we have already sent it in twice, only to have it break down again.

3. The quilt I have been working on is coming together. I have the borders left to sew and then probably some sewing to do by hand. I should be done by spring break. I'm making this quilt for my grandma. I don't think I've ever been so excited about giving something to someone....

4. This week we're going to see Kenny Chesney at the rodeo! Should be a great show!

5. I start volunteering this weekend at our church- Northside Christian Church. I just love our church!

6. I made the best bruch the other day for my mother in law. She works so much during the week that she never quite gets the chance to come down during the week....so I offered to make brunch so that she could come down to see Cade. I made Mixed Berry Galette- it was so yummy! You'll want to make two doughs when you make this dish! I also made a sausage, egg and cheese dish a recipe from a friend at school. The table was set with our "good" silverware and I even served our OJ in ourWaterford pitcher.... and she noticed! Can't wait to make the Galette for my parents-- they were both out of town this weekend and missed out. =(

7. A certain person in my life has been a little nicer lately and that makes my day a little better.

8. Loved that I got to spend Saturday on the couch with my husband. We watched Benjamin Button, which was really good. Cade took at trip to Conroe with Julia.

9. Say a little prayer for a precious, little toddler named Layla Grace. Go to laylagrace.org for more information.

10. Chacos Tacos with hubby in just a few.

the sweetest thing

Tonight after putting Cade down for the night I walked out of the room and stood by the door. A few minutes pass and then I hear the sweetest thing coming from his room.... he is saying his prayers all by himself. It was the most precious thing I heard all day.

The sweetest image flashes through my mind... two little hands and a bowed head.


He is the best.


rest well.

Cade has left the building

Oh thank God for mother in laws (and mothers). I have the day all to m self today... minus the sleeping grouchy pants in my bed (Travis). So far in my 38 minutes of being alone I have: successfully sewed 3 strips of fabric, ironed and pressed the pieces. I have flipped the channels and seen bits and pieces of shows without a goofy character or annoying music playing. I'm about to go to Kroger and get a few basic supplies and then let my day unfold from there.

peace and quite.... love it!

"It's not what you make, it's what you save."

I heard that on the radio this morning on my drive to work and loved it.

TOT

10. Cade calls his sunglasses- hey babies-- just like his dad
9. Cade is closer to 5 than he is birth-- thanks Travis for bringing that up.
8. Looks like I can start getting my resume. I'm officially looking for a full time teaching job.
7. I'm ready to see just how cold this artic blast is going to be.
6. Travis bought me a bible. Now I can stop whispering to travis that I don't have one every time the Pastor says to open YOUR bible.
5. Yay for Husbands that take off just becasue the weather is going to be REALLY cold tomorrow....we are still hoping the mayor will send home non-essential city employees so we don't have to burn our own time.
4. I want to know why dvd players never last..... argh.
3. Sometimes friends reveal more than you really want to know. TMI is TMI.
2. It's really taking me some time to think of ten things.
1. This morning at our staff meeting during our daily prayer, I looked over at Cade and he was praying with his hands together, head bowed and eyes closed... the sweetest image ever.

"I'm on the good list"-- Cade

Cade had a great Christmas.....once he had his juice cup and actually came to see what Santa had left. He eventually did wonder over to our front room and see that there were indeed toys left but it wasn't until he put his cup down that he actually saw what was there..... silly little boy!

He ended up getting quite a few things- a home depot work bench, a farm animal set, new wooden blocks, and a new bike. The Grandparents and the rest of the family did their part in spoiling him too... lots of clothes, books, a tricycle and hot wheels....even a remote control car that is supposedly safe (for the house). haha.

10 on Tuesday

1. Cade seriously needs a haircut!

2. We had a mini Christmas party at our house this morning. We baked and decorated sugar cookies and them we even constructed a gingerbread house!

3. My dad is doing well after his heart procedure this morning. His heart fell out of rhythm a few weeks ago. The doctors were able to shock back into rhythm with electrical pads... one shock did the trick. Thank the Lord.

4. I've almost got everything wrapped for Christmas. I need to still get stocking stuffers for Travis and one more little thing for Cade and then I'm done.

5. I love Christmas. I love the lights. I love the music-with exception to a few songs/performers. I love being with my family and I love, LOVE, Love my tree.

6. Travis and I are having a date night tonight. We're going all out..... beer and tunes after Cade goes down. Might be fun... and like old times.

7. This past weekend Cade and I went to Fredericksburg to see Gigi! We had fun looking at her tree, opening presents and touring downtown at night. The lights are so pretty on Main Street. I love the old town feel of Fredericksburg-- it feels like home to me!

8. I had dinner with my good friends Paul and Stuart while I was in Austin. We had some good laughs at the table- especially about "as seen on tv gifts". All I know is that I LOVE my Snuggie.

9. I'm going to be sad in 3 days when Christmas is over and my decorations will come down soon after.... boo.

10. Merry Christmas to my dear friends and family.

TOS ten on saturday

Ten On Saturday.

Well for start I actually captured Cade smiling in a picture and his face isn't squished together. So this one is going in our Christmas cards.
2. I celebrated my 32nd birthday on Monday. A whole 32 years.... geesh where is the time going. My family watched Cade so Travis and I could celebrate with Becky and Andrew at Cyclone Anayas.... Poinsetta Margaritas are so yummy!

3. Since turning 32 (yes, just in the last week) my eyesight has gone from 20/20 to 20/15. I went in for an exam on Thursday and had to get eye glasses for driving. I don't mind wearing them....but I'm not happy with the frames I picked out. I liked them in the store but now I just feel like I should be living in the 50s or have a bee hive. So I'm hoping in the next few months I'll either A) win the lottery and buy a pair of Kate Spade designer frames B) find a coupon for some cute-r frames that won't cost a fortune C) lose my glasses or that they happen to be destroyed by the 2 year monster living in my house or D) my eyes will self correct and I will no longer need eye ware.

4. I am spoiled. I have 2 snuggies and YES I'm wearing one now. My hands and arms are perfectly warm as I type away on my laptop.

5. Christmas is 13 days away. I still have so much to buy but I'm kind of in that place where I just want to say enough is enough.

6.Today I volunteered with our Church to deliver Angel Tree gifts. Wow, that was eye opening. It's so easy to take what you have for granted until you see how others are living. So glad I went.

7. Two weeks ago it snowed! Cade loved it! He ran inside and said MY HANDS ARE FREEZING. It was so cute!

8. I'm wanting the new Pioneer Woman's cookbook for Christmas. I love cookbooks and actually use them.

9. I'm planning on going to Austin on Saturday- Monday. Hopefully I can run out to Fredericksburg to see Grandma before heading home. I miss her!



10. Time for bed.... I was up before the sun today and I'm sure tomorrow is going to be an early one again....

Thankful for....

wanted to take the time to list a few things that I thankful for....

hugs - the kind that sneak up on you
friends- the ones you talk to daily or every once in awhile but it seems like it was just yesterday that you spoke
babies- Cade is such an amazing little boy. love him!
kisses- butterfly ones, eskimo ones- pecks- any and all
sunny days
chilly nights
putting up the Christmas tree even if it's November
Church
comfy shoes
My Sister and her family
Grandma
Travis-- love him and he loves me even when i'm in a mood
red birds
parents that have dinner at your place
new friends, old friends, computer friends, face to face friends, phone friends, once a week friends, daily friends, facebook friends and..... YOU.

what a girl wants

1. a brownie pan

I've always loved slicing into the pan and taking out the middle piece.

I don't really care for the crispy edges or rounded corners. I like the ewey gooey middle.

2. anything cupcake

especially cupcake liners.

not your plain grocery store kind.

but something extraordinary like the ones found at

http://www.fancyflours.com/

3. the snuggie

i can't tell you how many times I've wished that my comforter, blanket or throw would cover me up and keep the tops of my arms warm as I typed on my computer. And with all of the designer prints available, I'm sure there is one to suit everyone....well everyone with cold arms.

4. the roomba 560

buyhappier.com

if you have wood, tile or concrete floors this has to be the miracle device that could save your relationship with your significant other. I'm mean who wouldn't want to program a little iRobot to sweep your floors daily and want nothing in return. not even an "i noticed you swept, thanks."

sounds like a sweet deal to me.

5. a 12" skillet

a chef's must have.

6. oven mits

....we have one pair of mits....

that's not really getting the job done... I want to be able to open one of the two drawers where one might find an oven mit and actually find one....or many for that matter.

7. An Emergency Hammer

Because you never know when you might need it.

As an added bonus it has a built in knife that can cut through the strap of a seatbelt.

pretty handy if you ask me.

8. Jelly Roll

As in fabric.

super cute and trendy fabric.

9. A punch bowl

new or old works for me.

a ladle to match would be nice too.

10. A fun new OPI nail polish

ToT

1. Cade's imagination is really in bloom. For example, he pretends to hand you a coffee, let you take a sip and then puts the coffee down on the table for you.

2. Travis and I are going on a date on Sunday. Finally.

3. Cade is dressing up as the mail man this year. This was the only costume that wasn't too costume-y. He seems to not like anything different that the norm. So a blue shirt with a patch on it that says, US Postal and blue pants make it seem like an everyday outfit, instead of something special.

4. I learned to never put a whole chicken in the crock pot with a cup of liquid. The whole chicken fell apart and there were bones everywhere.... ick. So I tossed it. Next time I'll try adding just a bit of liquid and see where that leads me.

5. Last Saturday Cade and I went to the Ballunar Festival. It was great weather and a lot of fun. Thanks Becky for letting us tag along.

6. I love how Cade loves to listen to Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood on the iPod....and how he always wants me to sing with them....... so cute! Then of course there is Islands in the stream by Dolly Parton that he somehow knows the intro to.

7. I love the show Glee.

8. hulu.com is awesome!

9. I'm going to be making homemade brownies this weekend.... The recipe is from a local bakery out in Montgomery....they are famous for their pies but brownies top their list too.

10. I'm ready for my girls day out next Friday.

road trip

This past weekend- Cade and I loaded up and headed west to Fredericksburg. We had been planning this trip for months....it's become a tradition to head to Wildseed Farm this time of year. The pumpkins are gorgeous and the weather is always fantastic! Wildseed hosts a Monarch butterfly tag & release ceremony each October which draws in a huge crowd of people.

Here are few things I learned about Monarchs.

• a male monarch has two spots on the lower part of the wings, the female does not.
• a monarch butterfly travels thousands of miles south to Mexico when temperatures drop in the Northern US
• monarchs travel 25-30 miles a day.

Here are few pictures from our day at the Farm.

gigi & maxie

maxie, age 8

Cade sitting on a pumpkin. He loved talking on the "phone" or what is also know as a gourd.

Fun times at gigi's house.



My second cousin Erica and her little girl Blair, and her Mom Helen met us at Wildseed Farms. Helen lives in town and Erica leaves in Fulsner, TX (near Katy). I had told Erica about the butterfly exhibit several weeks ago and am so glad things worked out to where she could meet us out there. Once we connected we walked around and enjoyed the fresh air and the surroundings. We enjoyed lunch at the farm and then we headed back into to town to put the kids down for a nap.

While Cade napped and Maxie made cookies with Gigi, I headed downtown for some good old fashion fun-- shopping. Then I met Erica and Helen at Rather Sweet for a coffee and dessert-shortly after it was back to reality.... nap time is over way to quick these days!

When I made it back to Gigi's we loaded up and headed home to Buda. Somehow we got lucky and Travis #1 took over watching the kids and Stephanie and I went out on the town.... Buda's very own Italian Restaurant. It was pretty authentic and just what I needed after a long day in the sun!

This weekend the crew is heading down here for Travis' grandma's birthday. Hopefully I can sneak Maxie away for a little fall festival fun!

Happy Cupcake Day to you

Today was one of those days where nap time wasn't going to happen, which is fine and I almost prefer it that way...although I do like that extra "me" time when Cade does decide to nap. BUT like I said, today wasn't a nap time kind of day. So I got to thinking what would be fun for Cade and I on this no nap time kind of day. ...hmmm. Only one thing popped into my head....CUPCAKES.

I got online and did a search for cupcakes. Of course, Martha Stewart's site pops up. I narrowed down the search and found "the one"--Billy's Vanilla, Vanilla Cupcakes. I checked the ingredients, made a list of what we needed and we were off to get the goods.

When we got home I measured everything out so that when my little helper came around he would be able to pour and stir with ease. Since this was going to be a semi-messy job an apron was going to be an necessity....besides I was wearing a black shirt and we all know how flour and black shirts don't mix. Here is a picture of my cutie in an apron! (Note to self- by Cade a boy-ish apron for Christmas).

Cade loves helping in the kitchen. Reminds me of when I would "help" my Dad on Sunday mornings with pancakes or biscuits....he would always wear a towel over his shoulder when he was in the kitchen..I always thought that was pretty handy. I also remember helping my Grandma make chocolate chip cookies. She had this really colorful mixing bowl that she would use every time........ hopefully Cade will one day remember the times he helped me or Travis in the kitchen....

Here's my little helper. He lines with precision.

The cupcakes turned out light and moist. The homemade frosting was so easy and so delicious. These cupcakes are a must have for fall!

And since you homemade cupcakes aren't an everyday thing in the house....we put a candle on it and made up some silly song...it was a hit with Cade.

Dear Husband,

In case you missed my FB post. I decided to leave you post here.

This link will lead you to what I think could quite possibly be perfection....actually six of those links would be absolute perfection....especially on a night like tonight...but since C&B is way far, far, far away we're having soup in our boring soup bowls....without the fun miniture handles.

Love,
Wifey


P.S. Our oven needs one of these...

a few of my favorite things

1. I found this really cool freezer gadget online- freezcube. It tells you when your frozen food is expired. \ I'm always in question when it comes to how long something has been in the freezer. Sometimes I can't even remember buying some of the things in there. I usually just take a peek for an expiration date or just toss it all and restock.

2. I just love all of the fall flats that are out this season. I usually get two basic colors, red and black... right now DSW has all of their flats on SALE.

3. My favorite songs: Matthew West- going through the motions, Matt Kearney- closer to love- Jeremy Riddle - sweetly broken, Lady Antebellum- need you now and Carrie Underwood- cowboy cassanova.

4. Hmmm... I guess I'll put Travis down for number 4. Even though there really isn't any order to this list.... So, yeah. Travis you're one of my favorite things. Cade too. =)

5. Definitely loving the change in weather. Not loving my chapped lips.

6. I love my new chicken tortilla soup recipe. We are turning on the crock pot tomorrow and having date night at home with ritas and all.

7. We had free chic-fil-a sandwiches tonight for dinner. You just can't beat free!

8. I love the new season of fall shows! Finally something to watch!

9. I love that holiday market is only 41 days away!! Which also means my girls day out is 41 days away.

10. Loves that Cade loves shirley timple even if i don't. There is something about little girls singing that he just loves! Animal crackers in my soup is his favorite youtube video right now... so long cuppycake girl.

and there you have it.... a list of random stuff.

This and That

Tonight I finished sewing Cade's napmat. For a first attempt and having not used a pattern....I'm pretty please with it. Of course even after lesson I can't sew a straight line, but I'm thinking Cade really isn't going to notice that.

To make one for your little one you'll need: 2 1/2 yards of fabric, thread, a Kindermat and fusible velcro. I simply opened my fabric (I used a flannel) and folded it over the mat. Cut up one side of it and then removed the excess material. Then I sewed up both long sides. I then made a 1" hem on the ends. I placed my Velco within the the 1" hem and fused it to the material using my iron.

Simple and easy AND washable!

Next time I'm going to try to add an additional blanket cover and then maybe a pillow and a handle/strap. BUT for now this one will have to work.

I had Cade try it out this evening. I told him this is your nap mat, lay on it, and go to sleep. So he laid down, closed his eyes and started to snore...... so cute!

Such a fun age!

I'll post pictures tomorrow. I'm hitting the sack early tonight.

Oh and my dad is doing better. He says his pain is better and the numbness is going away. So hopefully the injection will take full effect by morning.

update

So I'm a little behind on all of the happenings going on with our lives.

Travis and I joined a new church this past weekend- Northside Christian Church. It's the perfect fit for both of us. Cade loves it and we've already met some wonderful friends.

Cade is on his way to being fully potty trained. He hasn't started being verbal about telling us he needs to go but he will usually go when I ask him to. We're still wet when we wake up but we're not as wet as we used to be.

I'm super excited that all of the fall shows are starting. Looking forward to GREY'S, Desperate Housewives, and DWTS. Those are must sees every week.

School is going great. I love, LOVE, love the kids. It's going to be a great year with this bunch.

Wednesday is the big day for my friend Susan- she's delivering her twins! Hudson and Luke will arrive around noon! We're praying for Susan and Brandon as they enter a new chapter in their lives together.

I finally bought some new curtains for the living room. I went with a soft green-- on the lime side. I am a "red" accent kind of person but have just got burnt out on it...I came across some awesome accessories at Z Gallery in a fabulous green color and decided that this was the change I was needing to make- so I bought a few things- candle holders, napkin rings, and potpourri mix all in this vibrant green color. I love it!

Next Monday is my Grandma's birthday. I'm thinking about when I'm going to go up to see her.... I know we're making a trip mid October but I really want to get out there to see her now. I miss her!

Tomorrow my dad goes in for a steroid shot in his back- OUCH. The drs are hoping this will give him some much needed relief in his right leg (it's numb knee down- and now swelling is occuring in the ankle). I'm hoping it's a simple procedure and that he will be home by noon. They had an MRI sort of scan done last week and determined that his disk is degenerating and the nerve is pinched between the disks. Poor guy! He does seem to be doing better and the therapy is helping... but there is just no feeling in his leg. I had that happen when my foot falls asleep...so I can only imagine what he's been going through the past month. I just want him back to normal.

Cade has started praying at night- He/We used to do it all the time and then he wouldn't say them. So I slowly getting back into the habit of saying a goodnight prayer. We pray for our family and friends/his friends and such.... the other night he said "dear God, help Grandad feel better..." It of course was said in a two-year-old voice- which is just about the sweetest thing to listen to. Hopefully our prayers will be answered.

that's all for now.... it seems like I haven't had a full night of sleep in forever... so I'm calling it a night.

tara

update

I have been meaning to update this for awhile but never had a quiet moment but today is different- my mom has Cade and my husband is asleep. So just a quick update before I have to be Mama or Wifey again.

Travis and I have BIG news........ we saved $200 by switching electric providers. Reliant was killing our budget the past few months so we made the decision to drop them and go with a company that would cut our bill nearly in half. And it did. Our nearly $400 bill went down to $190 for the months of JULY and AUGUST. I can't wait to see what next month will be..... (well. I take that back. I really can wait). powertochoose.org

Julie called today and announced that she just had her 4th little boy- Nathan Thomas (although she hasn't decided for sure on the name). He was 7.7lbs with red hair. I don't know how she does it with 4 boys! She's amazing!

Today would have been my Papa's 88th birthday. He was an amazing man. I'll never forget they way he smiled, or the way he talked. The way he would laugh at Grumpy Old Men or how he would say, "Sure is Good." From when I was just a little girl to when I was an adult he would always beat me in the first hand of dominoes only to let me somehow win the next time.....and he always knew which dominoes you had in your hand...he loved that game. Thanks to him I have happily beat Travis several times! Thank you for the memories Papa. I love you and miss you.

Cade is doing great. I think he has hit a growth spurt over the last few weeks- his appetite is growing he can't seem to get enough to eat! His vocabulary is huge as is his imagination these days. He is really into puzzles, books and blocks. He loves saying "S-T-O-P, STOP" at every stop sign he sees. He knows all of his uppercase letters and can count to 13- and then jumbles up the rest of the numbers to 20. He is constantly saying or doing something that takes you by surprise. He is absolutely growing up WAY too fast. This past week we met Cade's teachers. He loves them already. He keeps telling me that miss G and miss J have ears and hair.... I think he's going to have another wonderful year at ELP.

Tomorrow is mama day- well for a short 2 hours so I can get my haircut and run a few errands. So thankful that Travis can watch Cade so I can get my hair done. Sunday is church at Northside Christian Church. This will be our second time there. Last week we enjoy the service- similar to Fellowship but much, much, much smaller. It's nice.....so we shall see if it's a fit!

Travis recently got his HAM radio license. He has been fooling around with it for a month or so. My dad is also an operator- builds his own equipment and talks to people from all over. Pretty neat hobby for both.

That's all for now......

row, row, row your boat

Travis' friend Pete came down from Alaska and stayed with us last night. He is actually on a month long road trip- traveling all over the Western states in his jeep. We decided to dine in and have chicken enchiladas with a frozen margaritas- he claims he has never had one of those. But he also claimed he stopped drinking...... 45 minutes ago. For dessert we served good ol' BlueBell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream and cherry cobbler. He pretty much loved it.

Afterwards we were sitting around visiting and I got this GREAT idea to go up to The Woodlands and take the water taxi around Lake Woodlands (I'm guessing that's the name of the body of water around the mall). We loaded up and made our way down to the water. We boarded the boat and took off.... at a snails pace.

While on the "tour" I learned that deepest part of the lake is between 4-5 feet. Which is great information to know in case the boat should ever sink while on it....which I guess would never happen because I'm pretty sure the boat is taller than 5ft. Hmmm. So remember if it tips or sinks just get out of the boat, try not to panic, and simiply stand up.

The tour takes between 35-45 minutes. However, you are able to board on and off at certain points of the tour. We stayed put but next time I want to kill some time I might jump off at one of the many restaurants that over look the waterway. There is also this awesome water/splash pad for the kids just behind the new wine bar Crush. It also has a fountain similar to the one at Bellagio in Vegas where the water dances to music. I think there is a water show every 10 minutes.

Another bit of info the Capitan mentioned to the passengers was that the Anadarko building is the tallest structure between here and Dallas.....uhhh, isn't that pretty much obvious since there aren't any other major cities between here and there... it had a huge WOW factor on the boat.

After our tour we strolled around the waterway and found the water park and let Cade play for a bit. He loved that water jumped from place to place and that it changed colors. He was squealing with excitment!

After that water park we headed home and had our nightly run in with bedtime and then were up bright and early. Pete head out mid morning to Austin. He is supposed to visit the UT tower, the Capitol, Salt Lick, Hey! Cupcake, and Cabella's before heading to his next destination. He should have a great time seeing those sites.... after all it is Austin!

Anyway, it was a fun night. I'm glad we did something we normally wouldn't have done...and look at all of that useful knowledge we learned just by going down the stream.

10 on Tuesday

1. I love the song Big Green Tractor by Jason Aldean. It reminds me of the days when Travis and I were dating and spending every other week up at the farm. Now those days are limited to every few months but it nice to remember the days when things were just the two of us.

2. Cade is cutting his two year old molars and giving us (mostly me) a hard time about it. I have the bite marks to prove it and a bruise on my nose from him throwing things. I hope these teeth come in quickly and my sweet boy returns.

3. My neighbor is teaching me how to sew some really cute toddler dresses. She's planning on showing her collection at a craft show in September. She wants me to put my frames in.... hmmm that's a lot of painting but I think I'm going to do it.embellishedframes.blogspot.com

4. Naptime was over way to fast today.

5. My back is doing better. My nerves are better. I still feel a little twinge every now and then but I'm doing much better than I was a week ago. We shall see what the dr says next week. I go for my yearly check up this week and I'm hoping for a good check up there as well.

6. Travis built us a pergola. It looks great and the best part about is that we now have shade on the back porch.

7. 5-8 weeks before the baby boom hits Spring!

8. Cade is living in his VBS shirt. I wash it everyday. He wants to eat. sleep. play in it...everyday. The only thrill he gets from me washing it is throwing it in the washer... which he confuses with the dishwasher. hah.

9. My Grandma said the following while we were at her house last week- The cows coming home mean that it's going to rain..... not because they want food....

10. Is going to plan a night out on the town with my hubby- Perry's sounds good to me.