Home Is Where Our Story Began

A little rain couldn't even stop us!

2007-09-05T13:34:00.001-06:00

It only took us eight years to make the forty five minute drive to Vacherie Louisiana. So, when my husband has the weekend off not even the rain could stop my plans. We packed a picnic of fabulous Curry Chicken Salad and pb&j's for the kids and headed off to Oak Alley Plantation.

We had a wonderful time learning a little more about Southern living, and seeing these 300 year old oak trees was breath taking.

My children had just has wonderful a time sloshing around in puddles, and wishing that I would give them permission to climb just "one" of the big beautiful trees.

We left a little more soggy then when we came , but the rain felt good and rejuvenating as having the whole family together. It was what we needed a weekend, a picnic, and these memories.

Remembering the days

2007-08-30T08:14:00.000-06:00

Two years ago today I woke up in Houston exhausted from traveling 19+ hours to be out of harms way from Hurricane Katrina and I was devastated to think of what could happen to the place that I had called home. The fear of the unknown and I was saddened to think about what could be happening to my little comfort zone. You see this place is unique, when our husbands are off at school and work it is the other wives who keep you sane and happy, and when you are miles away from family they become your family. This is the place that life lessons where taught by people who loved this place.

Our time in the place where everything is always bigger had to end. We had to face reality of our current situation. So, the girls and I boarded a jet plane, and the boys had their first road trip. It is where Caden learned that it was OK to pee outside, and it quickly became the highlight of his trip. The girls and I were welcomed with open arms back to the place that housed us for a long eighteen months.

But I longed for the quirky, dirty old city that I had once called mine, so we packed up and headed back south. And once again I felt that feeling of really being home. It is like no other unless you have lived here and truly experienced life here. I love our home and my New Orleans and I didn't really understand this until I spent some time away because of the hurricane.

When we moved here I cried, but now when the thought of our family leaving this city enters my mind I want to cry. This has been a remarkable, memorable, and wonderful experience in the land called NOLA.

Help!

2007-08-27T15:39:00.000-06:00

I am having a gathering of friends over to my home for dinner and a swap. I love to host and have people in my home. It is exciting to me to think of preparations, such as food, table decorations, and having my home extra clean for guests.

I am not a big game player, so I am looking to you creative women for help. So, if you have a game that is fun, easy, and is able to be played with about 10-15 people let me know.

If I choose your game...I will then send you, one of my favorite things.

New opportunity

2007-08-23T12:46:00.000-06:00

I always felt that it as my right of passage to be able to enjoy the time when all of my children would be in school. I would have the time to go to the gym, the grocery, run my errands sans children, but I am feeling my heart strings being tugged a little to tightly. My nest is empty, and it feels unnatural.

So, when the opportunity arose, and I jumped even before consulting Richard to watch this little beauty. It is pure joy to have her in my home for the few hours that she is with me. I get to once again rock a sleeping baby in my arms. Yippee!

My thoughts

2007-08-15T17:40:00.000-06:00

I got an email from a friend inquiring about when we are going to put our house on the market. Such excitement to know that someone is interested in MY home. Yet so sad to think that soon it will be occupied by different owners. Someone else will hear the pitter-patter of little feet on my tile floor. Someone else's keys will turn to open the front door.

My time in my beloved "city beneath the sea" is coming to a close. Nine years of living in the deep south. I keep asking myself have I seen, have I done, have I eaten, have I experienced all that this city has to offer? My answer is always NO, and I probably won't accomplish all of things that I would like to in the next ten months that I have left.

I did decide today... I will walk away from this city, and my house with lots of memories. It is the place where two angels where given to me, I learned I could do things on my own, I learned how to be a better mother, a better wife, a better friend, I found courage that I didn't know I had, I learned I could rely on others, I found strength that I didn't think I had, I learned to go outside my comfort zone, and most importantly I learned that I all I really need is MY little family.

This city, this NOLA of mine will forever be apart of my life and my heart. I always hope that my heart flutters a little faster when I see a Fleur De Lis, or when I hear a little jazz music. I hope my children will always respect this culture that has been apart of their little lives. I hope that I will always be called Ms. Allison, and my children will do the same to whom they come in contact with. Most of all I don't want to ever forget this journey, and the people that I have met along the way. I will not forget this Louisiana home.

First Day Jitters

2007-08-13T19:44:00.000-06:00

The excitement and the jitters that come with starting the first day of school were the emotions that were at my house this weekend. As I compiled and completed the list of endless school supplies that were needed for both kids, and making sure their uniforms were in order for this morning.

I was so relieved to walk into the new school with a sense of peace. Hannah is fortunate enough to have five of her good friends in her homeroom class, Mrs. Thomas. Caden seems to have a great teacher, Mrs. Ritter. Giving Caden a kiss and a hug goodbye he said, "Mom I am really going to miss you, and I am really scared." After, reassuring him and wiping the tears from his eyes I walked away hoping he would make a new friend, and have a great first day. I then walked to Hannah's class to tell her Caden's room number, so she could know where to get him after school. I kissed her and told her I loved her, and her cute eyes filled to the brim with tears, and I knew that was my cue to exit. I then proceeded to cry in the breeze way hoping that my two children were going to be OK, and that my decision to change to this school was right.

I am so grateful for our tradition of giving father's blessing before school starts. I was really amazed at how it touched my children. Hannah and Caden had tears in their eyes when their Dad was finished with their blessing. I know that what was said comforted them today, when things weren't so familiar.

I also kept up my tradition of making Chocolate Chip Cookies for the first day of school. This is something my childhood neighbor used to do for all of the neighborhood kids.

Here is my new favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe

1 lb butter

4 Tbs vanilla

3 beaten eggs

2 Tbs baking soda

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 cups brown sugar

6 cups flour

4 cups chocolate chips

Bake at 350 5-7 min

When I picked the kids up they both agreed that it was better than the other school. I know we will have our ups and downs, but at least the first day jitters are over.

Summer Time

2007-08-12T19:09:00.001-06:00

Summer time in the "Big Easy" somehow has quickly come and gone. It seems like the school bells were just ending and now they are just again beginning. Here are a few highlights of the summer.

Hannah and her friend Megan did a week Cheer leading camp
Caden did a baseball camp
Addie attended camp at her Pre-school, John Calvin, for two weeks
Hannah then did Acorn Camp at Chapelle High School for two weeks
Went swimming many times at Elmwood
We then flew to Las Vegas then drove the two hours to St George
Addie learned how to swim all by herself We played many hours in the pool Saw the movie Ratatouille
Drove to Bountiful
Went down the Alpine Slide and the Alpine Coaster
Went rock climbing
Went to Cherry Hills
The girls got pampered at the Cosmetology school
Caden learned to ride his bike Caden and Hannah learned to Rollerblade
Went to the Nordstrom sale (need I say more)
Saw the movie Hairspray not once, but twice
Went swimming at the new Bountiful Rec center

Caden lost his first tooth. Both the Bountiful and the NOLA Tooth Fairy visited him Saw the Bountiful Fireworks
Caden had his first sleepover with his good buddy Carson
Hannah had many sleepovers with her friends from school, but most of all her dear friend MckenzieCelebrated my 32ND birthday
Went to the Blog party
Ran through the fountains at the Gateway
Read 3 great books
Hannah read 6 books this summer. I am so proud of her.
Ate at my favorite restaurants that they don't have here in NOLA: Cafe Rio, Paradise Bakery, and Rumbi's
Our fun has continued as we have made our way back home. We have continued to swim almost daily and to play with our friends.

It has been a great summer for us. It seems to have gone by so fast. I guess when you are having fun with the people you love the time just flies by.

The other side

2007-08-09T20:06:00.000-06:00

Is the grass really greener on the other side? Are the people more friendly? I am hoping so, because we are about to start the school year yet again, but this time it will be at a new place with new faces that are unknown to my littles. Am I crazy for doing this the last year we are in NOLA? I hope not. I hope it will be a transition that will go smoothly, and it will be one that is memorable for both of them.

So, here is to a new year at a new school in hopes that the grass is really greener, and the teachers are more willing to teach, and they are allowed to be children more frequently.

I just hope that it is all that I am and they are hoping it will be.

Confession

2007-08-07T13:02:00.000-06:00

After the morning routine of breakfast and cartoons for my three littles, and even before I retreat to the shower with my pumpkin spice shampoo. I sit here at my computer looking into the lives of my friends and even some strangers that now feel as close friends. I long to blog with this group of amazing women who I have laughed with, cried with, crafted with, cooked with, agreed and disagreed with, parented with, and I have even shared good mail with, but I still hold back. Why?

I am a simple person. You will never have to use a dictionary to figure out what I am trying to say, or you will never have to ask your husband what was "she really trying to say here". I don't use fancy language like many of the women that I admire, and I may not use correct punctuation. You will know that I love my husband dearly, my three children are glued to my side, my friends are my life, and NOLA is home.

So, if you think you can live with this then check back, because I think I want to be apart of this world called blogging.

Happy Birthday Babe!

2007-05-13T13:38:00.000-06:00

Today is not only Mother's Day, but it is also my sweet husbands birthday. I have been joking with him this week that Mother's Day trumps his birthday, but it has been fun for our kids to share this day with the both of us. I am so lucky to call this man "mine". Still to this day I wonder what I did to deserve him in my life. I would like to share just a few things why I love him.

1. He has great blue eyes
2. He loves me
3. He is very patient
4. He makes up his own version of songs
5. He does laundry really well
6. And he folds good too
7. He cuddles with me
8. He dances with our children
9. He is a very hard worker
10. He always gives me a kiss every morning before going to work, even if I don't remember
11. He is very calm
12. He knows every song and who the artist is
13. He is passionate about his work
14. He puts our family first
15. He has a beautiful smile
16. He loves ESPN
17. He loved getting up with our kids in the middle of the night to rock them
18. He understands when I need to be me, and not just a mom
19. He still tries to speak Portuguese when he can
20. He loves to buy ties
21. He enjoys running when he has the time
22. He is very athletic
23. He is a very good teacher
24. He is a goal setter and achiever
25. He is very dependable
26. He is a wonderful listener even when he's tired
27. He is my very best friend
28. He loves to read, but unfortunately it is only Urology books right now
29. He is a good son
30. He is a good example
31. He drinks Diet Coke
32. He makes sure he kisses the kids each day and tells them he loves them

I hope you have a wonderful day. I love you more than words can express.

Happy Birthday!

Spt- Most Treasured Item

2007-05-01T08:03:00.000-06:00

This week's challenge was to show & tell one of your most treasured items. The catch (Yes, there is a catch) it must be smaller than a deck of cards. I instantly thought of something that I cherish with all of my heart, and that is my wedding ring. I absolutely love my wedding ring! Richard, for our tenth anniversary surprised me with a new wedding set. Every time I look at my ring I am reminded of things we have accomplished together. We survived Medical School, we had 3 children, bought our first home, started Residency, evacuated from Katrina, moved back to NOLA, and I couldn't imagine doing all of those things with any other man. I am so blessed to have him in my life. That is why my most treasured item is my wedding ring. It is not only beautiful, but it is a constant reminder of how lucky I am.

Gerber Daisies

2007-04-23T20:04:00.000-06:00

A year ago three dear friends of mine traveled from San Antonio, Virginia, and Pennsylvania to meet me back in my home to see the wrath of what Katrina had done to our NOLA.

I was hesitant to be going home for the first time since I had evacuated from the storm that had changed the city that I had called home for the past 6 1/2 years. It had become home. I had delivered two babies at Tulane and Richard graduated from Medical School and started his Residency. It was a church on Academy drive that made every Sunday special even without Richard around on most Sundays. It is where friends are cherished. This is the place where we became a family.

As I prepared to meet my friends I was preparing myself to see my house for the first time in less than a year since the storm. I was expecting to see the flowers that we had planted prior to the storm be long gone and replaced by weeds. I remember driving from the airport to my home with butterflies in my stomach. I didn't know what I was going to see once I drove down my street. As I approached my house all I could see were some"resilient" pink Gerber daisies that my Hannah and her Grandfather had planted earlier that summer. They had survived the storm.

I was recently reminded by a friend that things in NOLA may still be off, but yet they may be just as beautiful as ever.

As NOLA is having it's rebirth my appreciation for the city is also having a rebirth. I now look at buildings that were damaged by the water not only as brick and mortar, but for the memories that lie within the walls. Tulane is not just a hospital that is rebuilding, it is where two of the greatest things in my life got their start.

I hope that I can always have a Gerber daisy in my garden to remind me of resilience and rebirth.

SPT Shopping Spree

2007-04-17T12:25:00.000-06:00

This challenge was fun for me! I enjoy shopping...probably too much, but I especially love to shoe shop.
When I was little I would opt for a pair of new shoes rather than a toy for my Birthday or Christmas. As I have gotten older my love for shoes as only increased. It is the only part of my body that has stayed the same size. A dear friend once said to me "I may not be able to control what my body looks like, but I can control how my feet look". Maybe that is why I have over 60 pairs of shoes.
Unfortunately, I have passed this passion of mine down to my two girls. They get more excited than I do when I bring home a new pair of shoes. In their eyes it means this is another pair of shoes they get to clunk around in.

So, this challenge led me to not only think about new shoes, but it made me purchase a cute pair of peep toed sandals.

Thanks Lelly!

Two Week Overview

2007-04-16T12:30:00.000-06:00

Where does the time go? I feel as if I never have time to post all the pictures or things that are happening in our little family.
The kids and I spent a fun filled spring break together that consisted of movies, late nights, play dates, and a brief trip from Uncle Aaron.
I am so grateful for my brother-in-law Aaron for coming into town and installing our plantation shutters. He also installed a new kitchen faucet, added more shelves to the girls closet, and fixed the base board in our half bathroom. Our time in NOLA is coming to an end and we will be putting our house on the market in the next six to eight months, so it was nice to be able to get somethings crossed of our to-do list.

Easter:
We had a wonderful holiday! It was wonderful to carry on traditions of coloring Easter eggs, making sugar cookies, and the annual hunt. It was also wonderful to discuss what Easter is all about with my children. Our primary did a wonderful job of discussing Jesus's resurrection (they gave each child an egg that was filled with a piece of red cloth, a rock, and a sacrament cup). It was wonderful to hear them explain each item.
I am so blessed to be a part of this gospel and to know that my family will be together forever because of the love of our Savior.
I took the kids to Jean Laffite Preserve to do a little hiking around the swamp. We were hoping to see a little wildlife (alligators), but the weather did not permit. We did have fun playing a game of "Simon Says", and climbing on the cypress trees. We will definitely go back when the weather is warmer. The kids headed back to school, but it was short week. Hannah had a field trip. I was able to accompany Hannah to the Audobon Zoo. It was a beautiful day! We enjoyed watching the Orangutans beg for food, and climbing on monkey hill. Field day was enjoyed by all. Hannah and Caden had a field day where their classes engaged in friendly competition with other classes. Caden's class took 1st place in the Kindergarten division and he came in 3rd place in the sprint. Hannah's class was 2nd in the 2nd grade division. They were able to come home with ribbons and medals which they were very proud to talk about and display. Caden also had the honor of being one of two kids in his class to be the balloon holder, he was really excited about this.

Addie even had a great time snapping random pictures of my feet, the grass, my stomach, but she did manage do get a good one of me in kids colors. Kindergarten's colors were orange and white second grade was yellow and brown, so white and yellow is what I wore to cheer them on.Hayden B. this picture is just for you. Let's hope I can get better at blogging, so I don't have to do this again.

SPT - Easter

2007-04-10T09:10:00.000-06:00

This challenge didn't happen in my Sunday best with my kids sporting their matching attire, but it took place during our annual hunt.

As a child my Grandpa and Grandma Bev would put on our annual hunt, and it was the best! I can always remember being so excited for this event. He would always call my Dad and Uncle the night before and tell them to bring extra cash and coin for tomorrow. My dad would always ask why, but he would just say "you'll see".

The hunt was in their yard and it seemed so big and magical with trees, a creek, bridges, and lots of bushes. The hunt seemed to last for hours and what seemed like hundreds of plastic eggs that were hidden just so little eyes could see. These eggs were not only filled with candy, money, but with notes that allowed you to collect a dollar from Uncle Roger or five dollars from my Dad. It was these eggs that made the hunt that much more exciting especially as I got older.

I have always loved Easter egg hunts thanks to my grandparents. I hope that someday when we are around family again my own children will experience what I had as a child, but for now the hunts are simple. I hope that in their eyes they are as grand as they are in mine.

Blogger is not allowing me to post my picture. I will try again later.

Do I play well with others?

2007-04-03T09:25:00.000-06:00

I am a wooer-- it stands for winning people over. I enjoy the challenge of meeting new people and getting them to like me. Strangers rarely intimidate me. It actually energizes me. I am drawn to them. I want to learn their name, ask them questions , and anything else that I can during our conversation. I really enjoy initiating conversations with strangers. I find satisfaction from breaking the ice and making a connection with someone new. There are no strangers, only friends I haven't met yet. That is why I took my picture in front of the Louis Armstrong International Airport. I love flying. It gives me a chance to meet a perfect stranger and woo them. My husband is perfectly content to put his headphones on and close his eyes just so he doesn't have to talk to anyone. I on the other hand am the one that wants to know your destination, how long will you be there, is it business or pleasure? Once my connection is made I am content. Wooing is just part of who I am.

Happy Day!

2007-03-29T08:45:00.000-06:00

I have stated that this transition back to NOLA has not been easy on my family. My children have not been welcomed with open arms back into their school. A few of Hannah's teachers would not even help her bridge the different curriculum's of Utah and Louisiana together. The teacher stated "it was not her problem to help her."

We have shed several tears and have had several tummy aches about school. As a mother my heart was breaking to see my children going through these challenges and not be able to step in and magically make them all better. I was trying to be their biggest cheerleader, but at times I too wondered if it was the right decision to return (not that we really had a choice). As the term went along things started to get better, we sort of feel into our groove.

I am happy to report (for my journal documentation only) that Hannah made it on the Honor Roll and Caden was Student of Month for the month of February. I am so proud of both of my children for all of their hard work and dedication to schooling. I know it has not been an easy transition for them. They are both great kids and I am so lucky to have them along with their little sister, Addie, in my little family.

SPT Challenge

2007-03-27T07:59:00.000-06:00

This week's challenge: Spring Fever. I couldn't resist taking a picture of my feet. I love when the weather gets warm enough to slip my feet into a pair of flip flops that have been beckoning to be worn all winter. It is now that time of year when my feet will always have polish on them and ready to be put into any of the several pairs of sandals that I have in my closet.

Paradise, and then back again!

2007-03-26T14:41:00.000-06:00

We had the wonderful opportunity of spending the last 8 days on the wonderful Island of Maui. We were lucky enough to accompany Richard's parents on a Banking Convention to the Grand Wailea Resort & Spa. It was great to return to the beautiful island that I spent my honeymoon on ten years ago.

Highlights of our trip

Getting the girls hair braided on the beach (worth every penny)

The Breath taking view from the lanai

The water slides at the pool

The Tarzan Swing

Jumping on a trampoline in the ocean

Drinking Pina Coladas poolside (that is something I could get use to)

Went to the Whale Museum in Lahina

Went to a Luau

Learned how to Hula

Saw an amazing sunset

Meet up with my parents, and went on a glass bottom boat to the Molokini Crater

Caden and Richard tried Sport fishing while on the boat. They did not catch anything since it is currently whale season.

Went snorkeling while at the crater

Had the wonderful opportunity to see lots of fish, whales, dolphins and turtles

Addie flirted with Captain Tom

I spent a luxurious day at the spa getting a facial, massage, manicure, and pedicure

The kids enjoyed seven wonderful days at the pool. They loved getting the new color wrist bands each day to add to the tally. They would try and guess what color would be next.

I can't believe our time has come and gone from the land of paradise. I have such wonderful memories of the days spent with my family. This Island will not only be a place I came when I was first in love, but it is now a place that my children will love as much as I love it. I think they will love it maybe for different reasons, but for whatever reasons they do love this place called Hawaii.

Update

2007-03-20T17:39:00.000-06:00

I (Jenny) got a phone call from Ms. Allison. She wanted to report that she is out of the blogging network this week, but will be back next week for the SPT challenge. Did I mention she is soaking up the sun in Hawaii??? So jealous. Hope you have a fabulous time and get a great tan!

Who is this person?

2007-03-06T14:44:00.000-06:00

Wow, what a challenge this has been for me today...thank goodness for digital cameras. I sometimes am not satisfied with the person looking back at me. I wonder if I am good ENOUGH.

Am I a good ENOUGH wife

Am I a good ENOUGH mother

Am I thin ENOUGH

Am I pretty ENOUGH

Am I a good ENOUGH friend

Do I serve others ENOUGH

Am I good ENOUGH in my calling

Am I thoughtful ENOUGH

Do I express my love to my family ENOUGH

I am trying to be ENOUGH in my eyes, and be proud at the reflection looking back at me.

I have to add that one of my favorite features is my hair. I get compliments on it very frequently.

Putting your best foot forward

2007-02-27T13:42:00.000-06:00

I took Lelly's challenge of interpreting putting your best foot forward. When I look down at my feet I don't see anything pretty like Angie's, but I do feel a sense of gratitude for these Fred Flinstone feet of mine. They have traveled with me through ten different countries, and across the continental US. They also, carried the burden when I was pregnant three different times. They allow me stand and cook for my family, exercise, play at the park with my children, dance, play a game of footsie, and let me feel sexy in a pair of strappy-high heeled sandals.

These feet of mine may be rough, calloused, usually barefoot, naked without polish, but on those rare occasions, I love the fact that I have these feet of mine that allow me to feel alive.

Friends

2007-02-24T10:55:00.000-06:00

This week as been wonderful. It not only was Mardi Gras, but our good friends, the Bushmans, were in town to clear out their home and put it back on the market. They have not lived in the Big Easy since the hurricane. The Bushmans have been our friends for eight years. At times I wonder how our two families became such good friends. Shannon is nine years older than I am. Her kids are no where near the same age as my children are (when we moved here Hannah was just 7 months old), but for some reason we just clicked right from the start. We have celebrated every holiday together from Thanksgiving to Easter even including watching most super bowls with them.

We were able to watch their children grow up and they were there when we added to our family. She instantly took Hannah when Caden came into our lives three weeks early. I was there when she had Bailey three weeks early. Richard was able to stay the night, because Addie was only five months old at the time. Bailey was born on her sister's birthday, so we did an impromtu party for Maddie.

Riley and Maddie became our family's favorite babysitters. The nice thing was whenever we would double date one would stay at their home and one would come to my home. Her kids would also play with mine and be fun with them even though there was a large age and interest difference.

My kids adore their children and Addie and Bailey are two peas in a pod.

We always evacuated from hurricanes with them. For Ivan we made it to Baton Rouge in 9 hours and decided to turn around and have a big slumber party at their home instead and ride out the storm that luckily vered East. For Hurricane Katrina we went to Houston together. We had fun ice skating, eating, and spending time together. They even did our laundry after Caden threw up in the car. That was just the kind of friends they are. This week felt normal knowing that Shannon and her family were in their home on Platt St. and I could stop by and bring her a Diet Coke, just like old times. Having them in Arizona just isn't the same, but I know that we will always be close friends because when they walked in the door the other night bringing me a Diet Coke, because they had just filled there tank with gas our conversation never skipped a beat and it was like they had been here the whole time.

We had a wonderful dinner at Ruth's Chris Thursday night. Maddie came to babysit and Riley stayed to watch Bailey at their house. We laughed and talked and were the last ones in the restuarant to leave.

That is what I love about real friendships. It's like things haven't missed a beat even though we haven't seen each other for a long time. Things pick up where they left off. Old "inside" jokes are still funny along with new ones that have come about with the recent Mardi Gras festivities.

Letting the good times roll

2007-02-21T15:00:00.000-06:00

Laissez les bon temps rouler ( let the good times roll) is just what we have been doing this Mardi Gras. Monday we packed our dinner of PB&J's for the kids and Chicken sandwiches for Rich and I, along with the king cake that I stood in line for that morning at Randazzo's for 45 minutes. Yes, I did wait in line to just get a king cake, and it was well worth it. We then made our way uptown for the the Lundi Gras celebration. Our ladder box was raised our chairs placed, and we were ready for all the beads and cups we could handle. Our kids loved shouting to the krewe members "throw me something mister".
It was a great night to be back in NOLA celebrating on St Charles Ave. We woke up Tuesday ready to do it all over again. This time we headed to Metairie with our great friends the Bushmans who were in town for the celebration. We had great seats in the police section (I guess it does pay off to have friends). We had a great time laughing at our selves trying to convince the krewe members to give us "big beads". We ended up with 2 Mardi Gras bags full of beads and 1 garbage bag that is half full. We did end up getting some "big beads". Our family had a great time experiencing Mardi Gras. It is like nothing else in the world. I hope we can celebrate Mardi Gras forever.

A dollar, a parade, and pizza

2007-02-17T15:14:00.000-06:00

What would you do with a dollar? Would you buy your favorite carbonated beverage at your stop of choice, a candy bar, something at the dollar spot at either Target or Michael's, or would you download a song off of i-tunes? My children chose to use the money that they received from their great grandparents for Valentine's Day to give them the freedom to wear normal clothes to school on Friday. Yes, they had to pay to wear jeans and a T-shirt instead of their normal school uniforms and they were very happy to do so. We were running out the door and so they wouldn't take their backpacks off.

Mardi Gras is in full swing with it being the weekend before Fat-Tuesday. Addie had her big Mardi Gras parade at school. Her teachers made the whole class Mardi Gras shirts to wear during the parade and they were in the traditional colors of purple, green, and gold. They were instructed to bring a bucket full of beads to throw. The children had a great time going around in the parade circle throwing beads and dancing to the music. They marched back to their classroom for a party and one last king cake. Addie was so excited because everyone got the baby in their king cake donuts.

Richard got home early from working in clinic so we decided to take advantage of him being home early. We took the kids to the Pizza Shoppe. This pizza place lets the kids make their own pizza. The pizza isn't the best, but my kids seem to have a great time making their pizzas and playing with extra pizza dough kind of like play-doh.
What a great day of wearing normal clothes, catching beads, making and eating pizza.

Valentine's Happenings

2007-02-14T21:20:00.000-06:00

Today I have tried to figure out what Valentine's Day means to me. I have never been big on the whole thing. It just seemed like another day to me. I always seem to express to the people in my life how much I love them and how much I appreciate them, but I really want to make each day or holiday with my family so much more meaningful. I want to make lasting memories with my kids. So, today was the perfect day to start, and it doesn't get any better than chocolate fondue. I had strawberries, bananas, pretzels, and graham crackers. The kids had such a great time using their fondue forks to get their favorite and dip them into the melted chocolate. The kids ended up sitting on top of the table so they could get to the chocolate better. Hannah liked the strawberries dipped in chocolate the best.
Caden liked the pretzels and the graham crackers the best. Addie liked the strawberries and didn't like the bananas. Can you tell from her face?
So here is to a new view on a holiday that I use to think was just like any other day. I hope my kids will remember the chocolate fondue and I hope that it can become a new tradition in our home. It was so fun to hear the laughter, see the chocolate from ear to ear, even in Hannah's hair, and to know that the mess on the kitchen table was well worth it.

I would also like to document 14 things why I love my husband:

I love that he loves me
I love his deep singing voice
I love his blue eyes
I love how he is such a hard worker
I love how he lets me talk, even when he doesn't want to listen
I love how he loves our children
I love when he tells me exactly what I need to hear
I love that he is calm
I love how he is self-confident
I love how he always tell me he loves me
I love that he believes in me when I don't think I can
I love how he makes up songs
I love how he cuddles with me
I love that he is my best friend

I love you babe! Happy Valentines Day!

Tagged by Chanel

2007-02-14T14:04:00.000-06:00

6 Things that make me happy:

My husband, he is wonderful
My children's art projects. I love having them hung around my house
Diet Coke
My friends... I don't know what I would do without all of them
Vacuuming...it is therapeutic
Getting my haircut or colored. It makes me feel like a new women

A choice, a field trip, and bowling

2007-02-12T14:16:00.000-06:00

Friday I was scheduled for a 9:00 highlight appointment that I had scheduled for weeks, and I am in desperate need of, but it was also Addie's first field trip on a big yellow school bus. I could not miss the opportunity for a fun filled morning, so I cancelled my appointment and joined Addie and her classmates. Our first stop was visiting the big Clydesdale's Horses (they come in town every year for Mardi Gras).

Our next stop was to the post office to mail their valentines. They had been playing post office in school, so this was a fun way for the children to put what they had learned in the classroom to good use. Our final destination was to Cafe Du Monde to get Beignets and chocolate milk. Addie had so much fun eating her Beignet and sitting at the table with her friends. Some of her classmates' beignets did not have enough powdered sugar on them, so they just poured real sugar on them instead.It was such a fun morning to see Addie enjoy her first field trip and her first time on a yellow school bus. I think she liked riding the school bus more than anything else. She said "it was so bouncy it made my tummy jiggle".
Richard had the whole weekend off, so we asked the kids what they wanted to do as a family and they chose to go bowling. We headed off to bowling alley just in time to get one game in before it was turned over to the leagues. Addie was a little disappointed that she still doesn't fit into bowling shoes, but it didn't seem to hurt her game seeing how she bowled a 100.

It was a great weekend. We topped it off by making and frosting our valentines cookies. What fun!

Tagged

2007-02-09T16:31:00.000-06:00

I have been tagged...Thanks Jenny. I will attempt to try and find six unusual things about myself.

I am very afraid of Indian reservations. When I was a little girl my dad use to tease me and say that "Indians liked blonde headed little girls". We use to travel to Arizona all the time during my childhood, and each time I would hide under a blanket. Still to this day I don't like traveling through reservations.
I take extremely hot showers and I usually come out of the shower looking like a lobster.
I have a hard time falling asleep without cuddling with Richard. Some part of my body has to be touching his. When he is on call I usually have to resort to taking Tylenol PM to get to sleep.
I dislike to be alone.
I make weird faces while putting on my makeup.
I was not able to nurse any of my children, but I did try all three times. I still feel a little guilty about not being able too.

I now tag Jordan, Rebecca, and Jill

100's day, King Cakes, and a recipe

2007-02-08T13:13:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was the 100Th day of school for Caden's Kindergarten class, so I was asked to come and help them make their trail mix. The mix included raisins, marshmallows, gummy-bears, goldfish, teddy grahams, jelly beans, Cheerios, animal crackers, conversation hearts, and M&M's. They got to have ten of each item to make a hundred items to go into their mix. It was a fun way to teach the kids to count by tens.The teacher asked me if I have every Wednesday morning available to come and help out with the class, so from here on out I will be helping in Ms. Becks class instead of getting stuff done around the house. No, I actually enjoy spending time in my children's class. I like seeing how they interact with other children and there teacher.
Addie got the baby in the King Cake and as tradition goes she had to bring the next King Cake to school. She was so excited I think she even slept with the little plastic baby. Everyone has the opportunity to bring a King Cake before Mardi Gras. (I have to add I let my guard down and let Hannah do Addie's hair for school. It actually looked pretty good).

With valentines being just around the corner. I know this is probably your weekend for baking with your kids. I have a fabulous sugar cookie recipe that I would like to share with my fellow bloggers. I make it for all special occasions Christmas, Valentines, Easter, or anytime that I just need a good sugar cookie. Some of my fellow NOLA people may have tasted these a few times.

Sugar Cookies:

1 cup sugar

2 eggs

1/2 shortening

1 cup sour cream (don't use light or fat free)

1 tsp vanilla

1 tsp soda

1 tsp salt

2 tsp baking powder

4 cups flour

Combine top five ingredients. Put dry ingredients on a plate and then add to wet mixture very slowly. Chill for a few hours. Roll out cookie dough using a little flour and powdered sugar. Bake at 375 for 8-10 min.

Frosting:

Half a bag of powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla

1/2 stick melted butter

Milk use to desired thickness. Add a little bit at a time.

Enjoy!

Recap of the Week

2007-02-02T11:12:00.000-06:00

Wow, I can't believe it is Friday already! I will try to give you the run down of what has been going on in the Matern home since my last post.

Hannah was a Hundred Year Old Lady for One Hundred Days

I went and saw Catch and Release with some Girlfriends
Hannah gave a great talk in Church on Faith in Jesus Christ

I was able to take dinner to a friend who had just lost her father to cancer

Addie and I attended the Pottery Barn Kids Story Time (she had a blast playing with all the toys)

I received some great good mail that made my day, and boosted my spirits from Shawna and Amy W. Thank you! Thank you!

I checked the kids out early from school for an appointment with Dr. Mom....They needed a little extra TLC. Dr. Mom had cupcakes waiting for them to frost and decorate
Richard taught Caden how to tie his shoes, so that he won't get a bad mark on his report card

There was a lot of laundry, vacuuming, and cleaning during all of this, but the week is finally winding down. Hannah will go with her Gymnastics team to LSU to watch them compete. I am hoping to catch a flick with a friend, so all and all we are still trying to find our groove here in our old/new home. The kids are trying to make the best out of this situation, but I think they too are counting down the months until Richards residency is over.

Back to the Gym

2007-01-26T09:53:00.000-06:00

It was Hannah's first time back to Elmwood Gymnastics Center on Wednesday since the Storm. It was one of those moments for me that I had to stop and take a deep breathe before entering the doors. I still remember getting Hannah's phone call from the gym that her practice had been cut short due to the severity of the storm, and I needed to come and get her as soon as possible.

It has been a year and a half since her little body has tumbled across those mats, so in small way it is a new beginning for her with this team. She will be competing in February (she is a little disapointed that she is not able to go to NY...she missed the signups) and is on a busy workout schedule MWF from 4-7:30 and Sat 9-12. I just hope that we can keep up with her homework.

We are excited that we have made this full circle, and are grateful that she has a place to go to do gymnastics.

Nighttime NOLA

2007-01-22T21:55:00.000-06:00

They may seem like just ordinary beds, a place to close your eyes and hopefully dream of something wonderful, but these beds have turned into one of the things that I am thankful for being back in my house. Lately when I have tucked my children in for the night, and hope they are settled for the evening . I have had the opportunity to have some alone time with my older children. Caden, my son, will ask if I will talk with him for a few minutes. He will then proceed to tell me about his day at school, how he misses his old school , his friend Carson and being his mother I try to assure him that everything is going to be OK. I kiss him goodnight for the second time and he begs for just a few more minutes to talk, so I kneel back down and listen to him some more. I am finally able to move to the last child who has now decided she can no longer fall asleep in her room because her little sister talks too much and is bothering her, although I think she just was making an excuse to have some time alone to talk instead of having to go right to sleep. She is now in my room to let Addie fall asleep by herself without anyone to talk to. I kiss Hannah goodnight and she asks me to lay down with her for just a few minutes. She then rolls over and gives me the play by play of the day. I am so grateful for these beds that I am able to kneel by to hear my son tell me about his troubles and his triumphs. For my bed that I am able to lay down beside my oldest daughter and have her tell me of her day.

I really have enjoyed being in MY HOUSE and have everyone in THEIR BEDS. I truly love my kids and spending precious childhood time with them in our very own space.

I can't express how grateful I am to each of my new blogging friends. Today I received two pieces of good mail one from the queen Jill and the other from Dana. Thank you! It was so nice of both of you to think of me.

Happy Birthday Tasha!

Last Chance

2007-01-16T11:23:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to give everyone one last opportunity to get their recipes in today. I appreciate all you have already contributed. I am excited to get them compiled, so be looking in your mailboxes soon.

How 'bout dem Saints!!!

2007-01-14T21:31:00.000-06:00

I'm not so sure you are aware, but I bet your husbands know that the Saints knocked off the Philadelphia Eagles yesterday and will be going to the NFC Championship Game (1st time in Saints history) in Chicago next week. The curse of the Dome has been lifted!

Football in NOLA is something very exciting right now. The people here are going crazy about black and gold. I spent thirty minutes in line at the Black and Gold store to get my kids shirts to wear to school. The uniforms were covered and the colors of the Saints were proudly worn . Addie even got to participate and wear her Saint shirt to pre-school on Friday.

This football team has given this city hope when it has had none. It has rebuilt a place that once held refugees instead of fans. As the sign says on the Super Dome "Our Home. Our Team. Be a Saint".

I would also like to add that I got to some good mail this weekend. Angie was sweet and sent me a nice Welcome Home package. Somehow I feel as if we have been friends for years. She knew just the right words to say and just the right things to put in the package. I feel very blessed to have met her. Thanks again. I love it!

My 100 list

2007-01-10T20:36:00.000-06:00

1. I have hazel eyes

2. I love to cook, but hate to decide what to make.

3. Don't like to be alone

4. Love Diet Coke, and usually stop and get one before 9 a.m

5. Was on the dive team in High School

6. Afraid of reptiles

7. Love to read

8. Spent four months in Europe

9. Traveled to 10 different countries

10. I was only 18 when I did #8

11. I have migraine headaches

12. Learned to snow ski when I was three

13. Was a tomboy when I was little. I didn't understand why girls were not allowed to take their shirts off.

14. I had my own motorcycle

15. Love to travel

16. I married my best friend

17. Hurricane Katrina was one of best things that could of happened to my marriage

18. Broke my ankle walking down a flight of stairs in High School

19. I don't like seafood

20. I want to run/walk the Crescent City Classic before leaving NOLA

21. Love lightening and thunder

22. Love falling asleep listening to the rain

23. I hate to camp

24. Love to water ski

25. My best friend in Jr. High and High School is now my sister-in-law

26. I wanted three kids just like the family I grew up in

27. I didn't like ketchup until I was pregnant

28. I cry at commercials

29. I think being on time is very important

30. I love to vacuum

31. My car is usually on empty (this drives my husband crazy)

32. I love to talk on the phone

33. I love to strike up conversations with strangers (IE. on an airplane)

34. Don't like to public speak

35. Can't sing, but love to sing in the car

36. Very rarely do I ever forget a face or a name

37. I love Fleur DE Li's. I think even more so since the storm.

38. I love the smell after it rains

39. I have to have a shower before leaving my house

40. I love Nielsen's Frozen Custard, and frequent it often when in Utah.

41. Love to fly

42. I hate yard work, but love flowers

43. I love shoes

44. When I was little I wanted shoes more than toys

45. I am a worrier

46. I love clocks

47. I love clean sheets

48. Had gallbladder surgery when I was only 18

49. Lived away from family most of my married life

50. Best thing I could have done for my family was move away

51. I am very good at keeping in touch with my friends

52. I Love the smell of newborns

53. Have kissed all of my kids bare bottoms (I love their bums)

54. My older brother was my best friend growing up

55. I hate math

56. I hate to grocery shop

57. I love to DE-junk

58. I Love to entertain

59. I love Peanut Butter M&M's

60. I love to date my husband

61. Favorite Colors are Pink and Brown

62. I have a hard time getting teased

63. I love Grey's Anatomy

64. I love to watch T.V. in bed, and have missed it for the last 18 months

65. Went on Pioneer Trek, and loved it!

66. My favorite movie is Sweet Home Alabama

67. I enjoy exercising, but have a hard time finding the time

68. I Love Creme Brule

69. Would love to skydive before I die

70. I love to cook meals for other people

71. I love cooked spinach with vinegar

72. I love soup (It's a comfort food)

73. NOLA was were I met friends that I hope to have a lifetime.

74. I hope to serve a mission with my husband someday

75. Hearing my children laugh is one of my greatest joys

76. Hearing them say I Love You is my greatest joy

77. I love to get dressed up

78. I am not very creative, but am pretty good at trying to copy

79. When I am sick I still have to get up and get ready for the day

80. I love to wear my husbands scrub bottoms

81. I love to cuddle

82. I love to watch movies in the dark

83. I hate to iron

84. I love my house to be clean

85. I love to be barefoot

86. My grandparents were great examples to me

87. My brothers nickname for me is doughie

88. I am not computer savvy

89. I would have a massage all the time if it was in the budget

90. Love pedicures

91. Fell off the counter when I was two and broke my elbow and my wrist. I was talking on the phone.

92. I hope to never have to evacuate again

93. I hope my kids leave NOLA with a little Southern Accent

94. I love my wedding ring
95. I am very grateful for the power of prayer

96. I wrote a letter to Bo on Days of our Lives in the fifth grade.

97. It was very important to me to get my college degree...I wanted to be an example to my children

98. I sometimes can be a nag ( so my husband tells me)

99. I love to have my kids photos taken

100. Hallelujah I made it to 100

Day of Firsts

2007-01-08T23:02:00.000-06:00

It's my first day of school. I'm a little scared, but I'm prepared. I brushed my teeth, I combed my hair, and I waved bye-bye. It's my first day of school.

It's my children's second time to have a first day of school this year. It was my second time crying and my second time making my traditional 1st day of school chocolate chip cookies. We went from no school uniforms to the fabulous Birney green, three recesses to one, being able to walk to and from school to carpool lanes. Thank goodness the children are resilient and try to find the good in every situation. I think I was more worried than they were until it was homework time it took us three hours to complete Hannah's second grade work. I think she was a little overwhelmed, but plugged right throught it like a true champion. I hope and pray I see better days for myself.

Caden just marched right in like he had been there from the begining. He did get a firm reminding to tuck in his shirt.

Addie on the other hand stated that her teacher talked to loud which is ironic for my loud mouth chatter box. It is very comforting to know that she is attending the same school that both of her siblings went to.

Richard also started back to work today at Tulane it was his first time back since the storm. He mostly filled out paper work, and tried to get his ID's for some of the new hospitals. He also needed to get finger printed for the VA, but was unsucessful. We will see what happen tomorrow, because he is on call.

Here is to a day of many firsts lets just hope they are a little less tearful for mom.

Recipe Exchange

2007-01-05T16:28:00.000-06:00

OK, Ladies. I need a project to keep me busy the next little while why my husband is getting busy with work and while I'm trying to find my groove again. I love to cook, but I also love to collect recipes. Five years ago I did the first recipe exchange here in NOLA. It became something we did about every six months or so. It was so much fun to collect recipes from our group of friends.

I thought it would fun to have a recipe exchange here on the blog. If you are interested in participating please email two recipes by Jan 15, 2007. I will then compile all of them and get them to you via email or good mail. I have added on my sidebar a place to submit your recipes (thanks Jenny). So, have fun everyone! Whether you feel that you can cook or not everyone as a recipe or two that each one of us would love to have.

I also wanted to thank Tasha for the wonderful good mail that I received today. Not only were the things inside the package fantastic, but the sweet card of encouraging words was even better. I would also like to thank to Chanel for the nice "Welcome Home" card that she sent (I forgot to take a picture I am still a little new to all of this). I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends.

Welcome Home!

2007-01-04T21:41:00.000-06:00

We arrived in our house monday night, and totally de-junked the house. It took 11 garbage bags to clean out all of the closets. The toy room was given the clean sweep and the new toys were put away. It is amazing how much your children's interests change in 18 months.

The new fridge arrived, Addie's mattress came, phone service is now working, Directv fixed the satelite, and my children came enthousiastically off the plane wanting to see the house they had left behind. Addie was so excited to have a new "Big Girl's Bed" that she screamed when she ran up stairs for the first look at her new bed.

Many things have changed over the last 18 months, my style of clothing, my kids toys, but not the feelings I have for my house and the memories that we have had here. I hope that the next 18 months will be for rebuilding, making new friends, learning to love the city and the culture more, learning to cook some more Southern food, learning to love the Church on Cleveland Place instead of the one on Academy Drive, eating snowballs, finding more good restaurants, and listening to the sounds of a Southern rain.

So, Welcome Home.

Posting for Alli

2007-01-02T16:48:00.000-06:00

Allison is without internet this week--Bummer! They are in the process of hooking everything back up. They made it safely back to New Orleans last night. I spoke with her today and they are making headway cleaning out closets (they got rid of 10 bags of clothes!), setting up beds, waiting on their new fridge, and organizing all their stuff. Hopefully, they will be up and running soon.

Visit to San Antonio

2007-01-01T17:18:00.000-06:00

We got our "Chuy's" experience

We got to Doug & Jenny's house late Saturday night. We traveled through a terrible snow storm the night before. It was very scary driving through a blizard dragging our uhaul. Luckily, we made it to a hotel before the roads closed down in Albequerque, NM. Several people were stranded on the highway from all of the snow. Saturday we drove another 10+ hours and finally made it into San Antonio around midnight.

Here we are at the Alamo. This is one of the stops we wanted to make in San Antonio. I had heard so many things about it, I wanted to see it for myself. It was much smaller than I imaged it would be. We also took a boat tour ride on the riverwalk.

Today I went on a walk with Jenny & Angie. It was FREEZING cold. I think the temperature was about 32 degrees. So, I not only got to go to Chuy's in San Antonio, but got to go on Jenny's daily walk with her. We left the Clouse's around 11am to head on back to New Orleans.

I did it!

2006-12-30T20:53:00.000-06:00

Jenny started me a blog at her house. She is forcing me to do one. Richard and I are on our way back to New Orleans after spending 18 months with my parents in Utah. He has to report back to Tulane's urology program on Jan. 8th. I am spending the next few days unpacking our uhaul and trying to adjust to our new life here again.