Mattie Moo's Mom

Birthday Almost Here!

2006-12-27T18:18:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it! This time last year I was padding around the house waiting for the clock io strike 12 so I could be admitted to the hospital. I had no idea what was waiting to emerge other than the fuzzy images from a 20 week ultrasound and trust in old wives' tales about heartburn and hair growth. But here we are one year later with a sweet young boy sporting an 8 toothed smile and walking many steps in a row! We are truly blessed!

Santa Claus Has Come to Town

2006-12-20T18:18:00.000-08:00

Last week Mattie Moo got to meet the Big Guy, the Main Man, Santa Claus! There was neither tearful trepidation nor wide-eyed wonder, but the exchange was made with healthy skepticism. I am not sure what he whispered in Santa's ear but Santa gave him a wink and a hearty Ho! Ho! Ho!

Moo was also fond of the elves!

One More Reason Daddy Is Thankful

2006-12-09T09:26:00.000-08:00

Do you see that throwing motion? Did you notice he is using his left hand? Well, Moo's dad did! He is thrilled! He thinks he may have a future major league pitcher on his hands. I am not filing any scouting reports just yet, but it is fun to see Moo enjoying his toys and wanting to play with us! I am a little nervous that Moo can't yet discriminate between balls and other items, so I am constantly on the alert on the chance that other flying objects might come hurling at me! Of course Wechsler loves Moo's new talent and is looking forward to some spirited games of fetch!

Good Morning!

2006-12-09T09:17:00.000-08:00

What a Moo-riffic way to start your day! This is what we see every morning between 6 and 7 am! Moo is a great sleeper, and he loves his bed. He has learned the art of entertaining himself a bit, which allows Mom and Dad a little more time to rest before we start our day.

As I have the night shift -- to allow time for Moo, Randy and Wechsler to make their way to sleepy town -- I sometimes sleep through the morning rituals of bottles and food. I generally drag myself out of bed in time for a diaper change and the start of Dora the Explorer (Yep, that song is stuck in my head all day, everyday!)

I know there will likely come a time when we will have to coax Moo out of bed or threaten all of his toys and privledges to get him to face the day, so I will take the opportunity to enjoy our sunshiney boy!

Getting to Know You - Christmas Style

2006-12-09T09:14:00.000-08:00

I am a sucker for these. I had never seen this one, so I HAD to fill it out! Hope you are enjoying the beauty of the season!

Welcome to the 2006 Holiday Edition of Getting to Know Your Friends and Family. Send this quiz to those you love. You will most likely get some suprises in their answers and you will get to know them better. Have fun.

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot Chocolate

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? One unwrapped present, under the tree and goodies in your stocking!

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? I like both, but have white now

4. Do you hang mistletoe? None up this year, but I like it!

5. When do you put your decorations up? When I can talk Randy into getting them out of the attic!

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Sausage Balls

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child: Granny Hadden's Sausage Balls and Sausage Pinwheels (Until I went to college, she only made them at Christmas!)

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? From a mean kid in the third grade who wanted to spoill everyone's fun.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? All gifts on Christmas Eve and Santa's gift is waiting for you on Christmas morning

10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? Lights and colorful ornaments

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Love it!

12. Can you ice skate? I have before, but it has been a while!

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Matthew (even though he arrived 3 days late!)

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Celebrating Jesus' birthday and spending time with family and friends

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Christmas Crackers and Peppermint Ice Cream

16. What is your favorite holiday movie? Christmas Story and Elf

17. What tops your tree? an Angel

18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? Giving

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? All I Want for Christmas Is You

20. Candy Canes? Definitely!

Happy Holidays!

ROAR!!!!!

2006-11-02T18:12:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween from our little Dragon! We didn't get much candy, but we sure had fun! Mattie was a good sport about his costume, although he did make an attempt or two to chew his claws!

As it was cold, we stayed in and watched the treaters! Mattie loved all of the excitement. I made Mummy HotDogs and had snacks ready for tired treaters and their parents! Granny and Poppy came by to see Moo and enjoy the kids.

Happy Anniversary, Randy!

2006-10-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

Four years married!

...and they said it wouldn't last!

It was a rainy day then too! I hear that's lucky. I know I am lucky to have him!

Old MacMooMan

2006-10-19T18:31:00.000-07:00

So can you tell he loves animals? He really is a farm boy at heart!

Poppy and the Moo

2006-10-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

Here is a look at post-surgery Poppy! The doctor still won't let him pick up the Moo (He has a 5 lbs limit and Moo is well over 20lbs), but lap sitting is always allowed! Moo loves talking to Poppy and showing off his overalls and tennis shoes. Poppy has been scouting out pumpkin patches and is even talking about teaching Moo to carve a pumpkin! I don't think I will be able to watch that!

Bad Blogger!

2006-10-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have been a very bad blogger! I am sorry! Not sure where time has gone or what has happened, but I have not been sharing the quality time with my computer as I should.

I think part of the problem is that I used to type while Moo was sleeping, but now going to bed does not mean instant sleep. If I stay too long in the chair, Moo takes to gnawing on the side of his bed and doesn't even want to consider a visit to sleepytown! Also, I just can't get enough of my crawling, pulling up, smiling boy, so blogging just doesn't get it done!

Hmmm, let me bring you up to date:
Foods eaten: 2nd Foods by Gerber
Teeth showing: seven
New Tricks: Crawling, pulling up on furniture, blowing bubbles on faces, babbling

Other than that, keep watching for his Halloween costume, updates on our trip to a pumpkin patch, and other fun stuff. Poppy and Great are healing nicely, and we think Moo is medicinal! See you soon!

Snot a good day...

2006-09-06T19:02:00.000-07:00

After 8 and a half months of excellent health, the Moo has managed to catch a cold. His little nose just runs and runs! Of course, a stuffy nose makes drinking from a bottle taxing and food lose its flavor, so meal times don't hold their usual joy.

On the other hand, Moo is smiling and happy. He is a little more cuddly than usual, but he loves to crawl and play and hear stories too. He is sleeping soundly now, so hopefully his Dad will too!

Blah!!!

2006-08-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am not a fan of the ITV thing so far. First of all, the screen is about 45 degrees to my left of the camera, so in order to see the students who are talking to me, I have to turn away from the camera. UGH! Second, I can often not hear the people at the other sites or wonder what they are doing or saying unless they tap in. This is awful! I hate not getting immediate feedback! I am hoping it will get better as I get more used to this whole class by CB style! I keep wanting to say "over" and "10-4 good buddy!" The bright spot -- the device that is used to display overheads and such is called ELMO, and we all know that Mommy and Mattie Moo LOVE Elmo!

I am also beginning to notice that I do not have nearly enough photos of the Moo! May have to rectify that tomorrow! I know everyone would much rather see photos of him rather than ones like this one taken by my pal Bryan Hill!

Back at it!

2006-08-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

Tonight begins my new semester with Murray State. This semester I am teaching Group Processes (Which it seems I am ALWAYS teaching) and Multicultural Issues. What is interesting is I will be teaching the later by ITV (which means I will be broadcast from Hopkinsville to the other Murray Locations.) The upside is that much of this class will be independent study for the class members whihc lessens the time needed for lecture. The downside is the ol adage about cameras adding 10lbs. I am hoping there are not too many cameras on me!

I hope for a good semester. I am looking foward to having both classes in Hopkinsville as I can spend a little more time with the Moo before he goes to bed. He is so fun and silly. He can crawl in a military style and will soon be all over the house. Looks like I can no longer prolong the ol carpet cleaning. I think Wechsler is saddest to see Moo on the move, although I know Wex will grow to love the affection and the dropped food that Moo will bring to his life.

Will try to post photos soon. I keep having this fantasy that I will be making some scrapbook pages, but so far no luck! I just admire my lovely purple quickutz for its beauty not its functionality. (Love that QVC TSV!)

Funny Face

2006-08-15T18:43:00.000-07:00

I love his funny face covered with drool! He is wiggling and wollering all over the place. While he can't yet crawl, he can roll anywhere he wants to go. Did I mention I think he will be crawling soon. He has almost gotten the choreography down -- ALMOST! He loves playing on the floor where he can get in on the action and closely examine all of his toys. He has even done some time in the playpen and thinks that is pretty fun too! Of course his favorite "toy" is Wechsler. Wex is always good for a laugh with the Moo! We have to be careful to make sure beards and tails are not yanked, but otherwise Wex is a good sport. I guess he rests firm in the knowledge that his reflexes are a bit faster than the Moo's...For Now!

Cutting More Teeth

2006-08-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

Moo has become quite a Toothy Boy! Not only does he have the two teeth you see here, but there are three more making their way thru his top gums! He has been only mildly annoyed by these new developments and enjoys showing them off when he smiles and trying them out on our fingers and noses! Watch out! This boy's got bite!

Cool Tools!

2006-08-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

Look at just one bit of cool gear they have for babies now. This floppy seat allows Moo to go shopping without a worry about getting germs from the seat! Toys can be hung from it for entertainment purposes. Of course, MOo thinks it should face the other way so he can watch items being placed in the cart! Oh well, you can't have everything!

A Year without a Great Guy

2006-07-30T19:10:00.000-07:00

A year ago today we said good bye to a great guy, my uncle Tommy. Pictured here with his fiancee Revell, you can see he was a man of fashion and good taste. He loved to bring smiles and to laugh. He valued family, faith, and friendship. Although his battle with cancer was relatively short, he never gave up or forgot his manners. As a brother of Sigma Alpha Epsilon he lived by the code of the True Gentleman.

The True Gentleman is the man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an acute sense of propriety, and whose self-control is equal to all emergencies; who does not make the poor man conscious of his poverty, the obscure man of his obscurity, or any man of his inferiority or deformity; who is himself humbled if necessity compels him to humble another; who does not flatter wealth, cringe before power, or boast of his own possessions or achievements; who speaks with frankness but always with sincerity and sympathy; whose deed follows his word; who thinks of the rights and feelings of others, rather than his own; and who appears well in any company, a man with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe.

—John Walter Wayland

I miss him very much and think of his often...wondering what he is doing in Nashville, then remembering he is gone. I am sorry he and Moo did not get to meet, and I hope I will be able to instill in Moo the qualities of the True Gentleman in Tommy's memory.

We've got our own sitter....well almost

2006-07-26T19:03:00.000-07:00

Of course, most of you know about Ms. Cassie, but I am talking about the MOO!!!! He is almost able to sit up without assistance! Obviously we sever as spotters, but I don't think he will need our help with that much longer. He loves to be able to play with toys and inspect the world from a seated posititon. Will get photos up soon, but wanted you all to know of his progress!

Another week

2006-07-22T19:46:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am going to get better at this! Not sure where the week went. I was in Louisville on Friday for a supervision training. This one was very informative -- a rare treat. Work has been hectic 'cause Peggy's receptionist has been out so Randy has had to pull double duty. WSH is always steady, and class time at Ft. Campbell is over half over. I think maybe the heat scrambled my brains a little bit.

As for Mattie Moo, nothing stops him! Not even his parents making him wear hats that belong to his stuffed animals. He can roll just about anywhere he wants to go. He can clap with joy. He even began to blow raspberries on Randy's leg today. He is now eating applesauce, rice cereal, sweet pototoes, and squash. He is still a good eater, and he is getting active and needs the fuel! I have a sneaking suspicion there will be another tooth emerging soon, so stay tuned!

A Feminine Hygiene Funny

2006-07-15T19:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, so is this what I have to look forward to? I doubt any child of mine will have hair that curly, but he might be creative enough to try turn minipads into a fashion statement! Oh well, just another joy of motherhood!

Week at a Glance

2006-07-14T19:43:00.000-07:00

Not much to report this week, but a round up seems in order!

As for the Jack and Jill... Randy and I shot 70 the first day and 73 the second. Not good enough to make the cut, but the pork chop sandwiches were good and the weather was nice. I could blame it on the slow play or the tee times, but quite frankly, Randy and I had not practiced, and the putting fairy passed us by! Oh well, maybe next year!

I am no longer the program coordinator for the Hopkinsville Rotary Club. I am now the Sgt. at Arms! This means I am also on the Rotary Board. My first Board meeting was filled with financial statements and allusions to events of which I had no knowledge. I guess I will get the back story later. Or maybe not -- I am the only XX chromosome there!

Work is steady and classes are going well. Randy is doing a good job with keeping the office running smoothly and the appointment book filled.

Mattie is super. He is sporting TWO teeth and a great smile. He has had lots of time with the grandparents. He can now roll forward and backward! He eats applesauce, rice cereal, and sweet potatoes. He tried Bananas but is not a fan. If he keeps up at this rate, I will have no reason to accompany him to kindergarten and do tasks for him!

Randy's Hole in One!

2006-07-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Randy hit a hole in one on number 11 at the Country Club, and no one saw! It was so sad, but I am happy that he did it! I believe him! Maybe he can do it again this weekend as we play in the annual Jack and Jill tournement. Nevermind that we haven't practiced. I guess we will rely on a little bit of luck!

Doing your part!

2006-07-07T06:08:00.000-07:00

See Scrapbooing can really help you fight the forces of darkness! Thanks Michele!

Dot's American Restaurant

2006-07-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

Yummy! I love this place. Where else can I get a fabulous meal at a reasonable price and have someone hold my child so both Randy and I can have a hot meal? Well that is just the kind of guy that Lee Moore, owner of Dot's, is! I love the fun atmosphere, the crispy fried chicken, and the DELICIOUS desserts!

Hope and Lee are great people and wonderufl restauranteurs! I am glad to know them and proud to call them my friends! I think I know what I want for dinner tomorrow!

Happy Birthday, Great!

2006-07-04T19:58:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I have always had plans on the 4th of July. ALWAYS! That is because it is my grandfather's birthday. (Oddly enough, my other grandfather's birthday was February 14, so we had two holidays covered!) As we have all gotten older, our festivities have moved from lake outings filled with boating and swimming to more laid back afternoons of family and food, but the man of the day has always been the same. This year as he celebrates his 91st, I realize the need to appreciate our time together and reflect fondly on our past traditions. So here are three cheers for Carl Hadden! Hip Hip Hooray and Happy Birthday! I love you, Granddaddy!

Tooth Spotting

2006-07-02T19:54:00.000-07:00

Houston, we have teeth! Or at least part of a tooth. I have a feeling its neighbor is quickly approaching! How exciting! I have yet to capture it on film or memory card, but I assure you it is there! Moo is private about his tooth though, so I will have to work to get a photograph! I now have to watch my fingers and chin! They were Moo's favorite teethers, but now if I am not careful, he might draw blood! Just wanted to share the news!

Six Months and Counting!

2006-07-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

Here he is! Six Months Old! I can hardly believe it! It seems like only yesterday we were waiting for his arrival, but on the other hand, I can't imagine what like was like before him! I love that he is little (if you call 18 and a half pounds, 28 inches long little), and I am in no hurry to grow up. A friend of mine keeps telling me that her child of a similar age is holding his bottle, rolling over all of the time, crawling, solving quadratic equations, you name it! I reply that we are going to kindergarten with Mattie to roll him back over (he can only roll from back to front) and chew his food for him (although we have seen two little white bumps that may mean teeth are to come). I am in no hurry for him to bound around or babble on. I am enjoying having a baby! I read somewhere once that you spend the first two years of your child's life trying to teach him to walk and talk and the next 16 wondering why they won't sit down and shut up!

I love you, Moo! These last 6 months have been like a dream! You and your dad make me feel like the luckiest mom in the world! Sleep tight, precious angel!

Rice, Rice Baby and other tales of triumph!

2006-06-24T19:55:00.000-07:00

After our trip to the ER and subsequent doctor's visit. Moo is back to normal! He is now on Nutramigen a hypoallergenic formula that is predigested or something like that. He wasn't too keen on it at first, but with a little bit of rice cereal in it, he is a little more willing. The doctor also gave us the go ahead to try rice cereal off of a spoon. Mattie is pretty good at this whole thing and is slowly but surely getting more down his throat than down his shirt. On the 30th, we go back for our regular visit, and we will start other foods. I have been stocking up on Totally Toddler stain remover.

We also made a trip to Louisville to see Randy's Mom and Grandmother. As you can see, Randy's Grandmother ("Granny Annie") enjoyed a little time on the floor with the Moo! They giggled and played so hard, that Mattie slept all the way to Bowling Green. He even slept completely through a feeding -- and that NEVER happens! Aunt Carol, Uncle Randy, and their new dog Lexie came by. Lexie and Wechsler enjoyed meeting each other. Wechsler was tired from the trip too! It has been a while since he has been on such a long journey. He did get a few road snacks and that made him happy!

Then Sunday came and with it Randy's first Father's Day. We spent the afternoon at a luncheon at Granny Peggy and Poppy's house. Cousin Maggie even made a surprise visit. Moo was great at the party but fussy before Church and when we got home from the Luncheon. We are expecting a few teeth in our future! We think Randy liked his new Calphelon pans and Black and Decker tools! I think he was surprised with such a good haul! Will update more when I get photos back. Moo made it to the big Summer fun fest at Granny Peggy's and to his first swim party! He is quite the water baby!

A Very Scary Day by Mattie Moo

2006-06-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

Today was a scary day for me. Mama is beginning to run low of milk and was wanting to supplement with a formula. She called the doctor and he recommended two different formulas. Mama must have picked the wrong one, because no sooner has I put it to my lips then I began to spit it out. Within minutes, I had red and white splotches around my mouth and I began to breathe funny. Mama and Daddy dropped everything and took me straight to the hospital emergency room. As they waited I got sicker and sicker. I threw up and began to get red and splotchy all over. At times I would rattle when I breathed. Mama and Daddy were brave even though we were there 4 hours. I cried at most of the procedures, but at other times I was smiling and fun. They held me and told me I would be alright. They took my blood, gave me a steriod shot, and took 4 x-rays and said I would be okay. I am still red and will have to take the steroids a few more times (think this will hurt my chances of playing baseball?) Granny and Poppy came to town to see me at the ER. I am home now. I have eaten a little of Mama's brew and am resting comfortably. Please say a prayer for me (and for Mama and Daddy) as we look for other feeding options. Love and Red Splotches,
Mattie Moo

Mattie's Secret to Sleeping Success

2006-06-05T20:09:00.000-07:00

We have set up a little routine for Mr. Moo, and we think it helps him get ready for that sleep he does so well!
6:30 bottle
7:00 nap
7:30 watch Wechsler chase the toy, laugh raucously
8:00 play on the mat
8:30 wrestle on the big bed -- more tickling and laughter ensues!
9:00 watch Baby Mozart -- wait to see if the plot changes!
9:30 bath
9:40 bottle and repeated recitation of the Going to Bed Book
10:00 Sleepytown!

Of course, he doesn't wear his robe every night, but I thought he looked quite debonair. If only he had an ascot!

Sad for me, Happy for you, Middlesboro!

2006-06-03T19:56:00.000-07:00

It is almost here. Phil and Barbara are really leaving in one week. I am very sad, but I am trying to enjoy them while they are still here. I look forward to meeting Jeff and Shelly and the journey they will make with us. I sent them a card of welcome. I also sent a card to Barbara and Phil's new church with a letter of introduction. This is what it said...
Greetings to you, the Congregation of Covenant United Methodist Church!

I feel confident that it is with a heavy heart that you say good bye to your own, Pastor Bowling. He is most likely going to share his gifts and blessings with another church as he has been called to do, as is the way in the Methodist practice.

I too am bidding adieu to my minister, but my loss is certainly your gain. On June 18th you will be blessed with the leadership of Dr. Philip Hill, and what blessings he has to share. Brother Phil has certainly been an asset to our community in the 9 years he served at St. John. He is an inspirational speaker, knowledgeable theologian, compassionate caregiver, and gifted teacher.

I have faith that Mrs. Arnett will be thrilled to have his strong and powerful voice in the choir loft, because he is a beautiful singer. Mr. Coston will be glad for the support and dedication he has to nurturing young believers and bringing others to the faith. I can tell you that Brother Phil brought our newborn son into the faith and brought my husband and I back to it.

In addition to his ministerial work, Brother Phil is an avid outdoors man and fisherman. While in Hopkinsville he served as the DJ for the high school soccer games and the assistant coach of a high school tennis team. His wife Barbara not only teaches a popular and active Sunday School class and coordinates the snack suppers for the Sunday night youth group meetings. She is a chemistry and biology teacher, “hardcore” scrap booker and card maker, photographer, and apple pie baker! So you can see, we are not only losing a minister and his wife. We are losing dear friends.

I know you will grow to love Phil and Barbara as we do, and I am writing to ask you to please look after them. They will be sorely missed at St. John and in Hopkinsville. On communion Sunday when you sing “Here I Am Lord,” please think of us. After you hear Brother Phil sing it, you will understand. I am sure Brother Phil has big shoes to fill, but standing at 6 foot 7, he may have just the feet for the job!

Best wishes and blessings on you all!
Yours in Christian Love!

Getting His Feet Wet

2006-05-27T20:29:00.000-07:00

Well, what an exciting day! Mattie Moo took his first step toward becoming a swimmer! We put on his swim trunks (which do not require a diaper), his groovy hat, his cool dude shades, and a bit of sunscreen and headed over to the YMCA to test the waters!

Mattie did not cry or scream (and neither did Randy). In fact, it was a very pleasant experience for all concerned. Now that we know swimming can be fun, we are sure to do it again soon. I know Granny and Poppy are anxious to see us down at the lake for some splashing good fun.

I am so glad that Randy is thinking of getting some swimming lessons so he can feel safe and comfortable in the water with Moo. He even mentioned a pool for the backyard! I say, one step at a time!

Creative Chaos? -- I think not!

2006-05-21T20:23:00.000-07:00

Look at this mess. Is it any wonder I can get nothing done? I have so many supplies that I can't find anything. I am not feeling any kind of flow in this new room, so I don't know where to begin when it comes to organization.

I lost my previous space to Mattie Moo, which I was happy to concede, but now I am finding it darn near impossible to document his memories. The current state of things was originally created when the doctor took me off work with a week to go in my pregnancy (not that I would have been woring but 3 days with the Christmas holiday there), and Randy wanting to keep me occupied. The smaller table was added after Moo arrived so I could watch him while I cropped -- this never worked -- All of his seats were too big for the tables and the tile floor was too cold! Now with Moo being awake so often and wanting company, this arrangement has become little more than a dumping ground for supplies I purchase and sketches I make. Randy and I looked at a craft table, but it just wasn't working for me!

I am not ready for the Clean Sweep people to come in because they will want to take my stuff. I sometimes suffer under the delusion that I will add on to my house and have a fabulous craft room, but that will be no time soon. So, if you have any ideas or know of any organizational gurus, please let me know! I have scrapbooking to do and no where to do it!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2006-05-21T19:43:00.000-07:00

Yep, here I am -- a 33 year old! Wow! I don't feel that much different. Do I look that much different? Yep, I am still carrying some of the baby weight I hoped would be gone by now. (Diet starts tomorrow!) Some days I don't bother to curl my hair. But I guess I think I look healthy and happy.

Had a great weekend. Shared lots of quality time with the Moo. Won my tennis match, I mean won BIG -- 6-0; 6-0. Woo Hoo! Had two great meals with family and two awesome desserts -- cranberry cheesecake and banana pudding pir -- thus sealing the deal for the diet tomorrow! Got some cool gifts and funny cards! Got to greet my fellow church members and guests before the services today. Have been asked to teach my Sunday School Class. Like Joe Walsh says, "Life's Been Good to Me So Far."

Had no candles this year, but did get a really cool hot dog cooking machine. I have most everything I need, so not really sure what to wish for. I am sure if I had wished, they would have related to health and success for those I love! And maybe another big win at tennis! Ah well, there is always more practice and always next year! At the tender age of 33, I hope to have a lot more birthdays in my future!

Election Day

2006-05-16T20:08:00.000-07:00

Wowee! What a day! I went to exercise my right this morning and voted today! In our town there were some big winners! I am pleased that two of my fellow church members were elected to their desired positions and one is the lead contender for the run off election to come in the fall. Congrats to Livy, Lynn, and Jason! Other friends were victorious in their primary bids -- way to go, Jim and Marby!

I have to say I am glad we will get a reprive from the ads and yard signs. I know it is part of the process, but I have to say a month of that seems to drag on forever. I guess we are on a break until October.

I am glad to live in a country where I am free to cast my lot and have my voice be heard. Hope everone else took advantage of their privledge too!

Happy Days

2006-05-15T20:04:00.000-07:00

When I get the blues or someone in their infinite stupidity gets me into a darn near incurable case of the meanie reds, I have to get myself some happy thoughts -- stat! Had a run in with a rude MD today and it got me in a mood, so here are a few cheerful ideas that get me back to my chipper state:

perfectly painted nails
banana popsicles
Gilmore Girls marathon
homemade rice krispy treats
receiving a handmade card
a walk with Moo in his Stroller
enjoying a yummy meal you helped prepare
an afternoon nap
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
comments on my blog
a really good sermon
a totally brainless magazine
polka dots
hitting an ungettable tennis shot

There, now don't you feel better!

Let It Sno - a lover's lament

2006-05-12T19:57:00.000-07:00

Where has it gone? Summer is almost here, but the tell-tale signs are nowhere to be found. This saddens me. As a kid I looked forward to it. When I could drive, it was where I spent a great deal of my summer income. But I guess it is to be no more.

The local Tropical Sno shack that was once in the Big Lots (formerly Walmart) parking lot seems to be a thing of the past. Once again I will miss the icy goodness and cool refreshment I used to count on. From Banana plus Bubble Gum to Cotton Candy and Red Hot plus Green Apple to Fresh Strawberry, these sweet memories are all that sustain me. I think I would even settle for some Tigers Blood or Peach without Cream if it meant I had access to that frozen delight.

Sure I go to Kroger and buy Banana Pops, but it isn't the same. I even caught myself today trying to crunch up some ice then chase it with a swig of lemonade to recreate that familiar sensation, but to no avail. I have even considered scouring the internet for a French Mouli and a block of ice so as to attempt to make this delicacy for myself, but I know it would not compare.

I know there will be a stand at our local fair, but I have a hard time paying an exorbitant entry fee for something that used to be part of a nightly car ride. I guess this will just be one of those things about which I reminise as I sit in my rocking chair at the old folks home. I will recall fondly the shack's shabby exterior, the obligitory picnic table out to the side, and the thrill that the instillation of the drive-thru brought in the summer of '89!

The Things Moo can DO!

2006-05-08T20:03:00.000-07:00

Wow! I can't believe it. I know I will say it many times, but my little boy is growing up. From this fragile little ball that needed constant attention and adoration to this stout little man that has so many skills and talents at such a young age. Here are just a few of the things he is doing now....
1) Smiling -- and not just when he has gas
2) Laughing at loud -- especially when feet are being kissed, ribs are being tickled, and funny words are being said
3) Holding his head up -- rarely does he flop around any more. He is starting to enjoy his Bumbo seat
4) Sleeping thru the night. Of course, he has been doing this for a while, but I still love it.
5) Watching some tv -- he loves Sesame Street and Baby Mozart!
6) Holding toys -- he loves his link-a-doos and a few of his stuffed animals
7) Responding to his name -- sometimes.
8) Sucking on his hands and fingers -- hopefully bink will be reserved for emergencies only!
9) Kicking -- toys, his captain's chair, whatever
10) Holding hands and fingers -- wow does he have a grip!
11) Going for rides in the stroller wearing his cool dude shades
12) Eating nicely at a restaurant -- I am savoring this while I can
13) Enjoying church

More on this later!

The First Saturday in May

2006-05-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

What a great day to be from Kentucky! It's almost Derby day! I think I will bet on Sinister Minister, since that is the only name I can remember. There is one that is something like "Rob and Bob" or maybe that is the name of a scrapbooking line. Well, the first Saturday in May is also National Scrapbooking Day. As I have said, I will be cropping from home, but I am going to hit the sales at my favorite store, SCRAPLANET! They are even opening an hour early, so Moo and I may get an early start. Or maybe we won't but as long as we are home by 4ish to watch the horses run, it will be fine!

Got some bad news today. Our minister is being transfered to another church. In the United Methodist Church this is commonplace, but I don't know if one is ever ready to let friends go. I know Brother Phil and his wife will be back often to visit, as their elder son has a farm and a house here, but it will not be the same. Phil and Barbara are the kind of people who don't mind if you just drop by for a visit. (Or at least they are so polite they have never complained about me popping in!) Barbara is a lively part of our scrapbooking club, and at times Brother Phil has taped the QVC scrapbooking days for us to watch while we crop. He even does a pretty got David Venable impression. They have been so good to our family in good times and in bad, and they have been a strong force of positive growth and change in our community. I know I have to give the new guy (or gal) a chance, but I sure will miss them. I am glad I have made other good friends at church to lessen the sting of it all.

The things you do for love

2006-05-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

Hmm, we've al done'em. Things we swore we would never do for anybody, especially not for that special someone. But here we go.....for that special someone we will break all of our own rules and fall short of all of our expectations. Well, that is a bit dramatic. What I mean is what have you done that you said you would never do or thought you would never do?

I am at one of those places. I am missing the National Scrapbooking Day crop for two of the men in my life. Saturday is NSD, and I am usually front and center at an all day crop (or at least I have been for the last 4 years!) But this year I am not going. May 6 is also Randy's first Saturday off since we brought Moo home from the hospital. He is so looking forward to getting up a golf game in the morning and having a spot of family time in the afternoon. I could try to find a sitter, but I know I would miss my cuddle time with the Moo! Hey, if it is pretty, we may even go for a stroll before the horses run.

I know there will be many more crops in many more Mays. There will even be days when Moo will be off doing his own thing and i will be left looking at my scrapbooks and missing him. Scrapbooking is not only about preserving memories but making them too. This year I am going to use NSD to make a few memories with the ones I love!

Five Things

2006-05-01T20:15:00.000-07:00

Have seen this elsewhere, so decided to try it too....

FIVE THINGS IN MY FRIDGE
1) fig jelly
2) off brand turkey
3) milk - chocolate and white, but I only drink the chocolate - small glass at night like a little cocktail
4) Kraft Cheese
5) Poppyseed Salad Dressing

FIVE THINGS IN MY PURSE
1) Coupons for diapers and baby wash
2) My checkbook (I think -- I need to reorder checks though)
3) Lipstick
4) Bic 4-color pen
5) Business card from Dot's, my new favorite restaurant (in case I get the urge for takeout!)

FIVE THINGS I WATCH ON TV
1) QVC (It is the happiest place on tv)
2) Gilmore Girls
3) Paula's Home Cooking
4) HUFF
5) Something good on one of our movie channels

FIVE SHOWS I HAVE NEVER WATCHED
1) Oprah
2) Lost
3) Amazing Race
4) Ghost Whisperer
5) Dr. Phil

FIVE MOVIES I COULD WATCH OVER AND OVER
1) Shag: the Movie
2) Anything Harry Potter
3) Legally Blonde (first one not the second)
4) Minority Report
5) Breakfast at Tiffany's

FIVE JOBS I HAVE HAD
1) Warehouse worker at a blue jean factory
2) Congressional Intern
3) Nanny/Babysitter
4) Bookeeper at a bank
5) Psychologist/Professor

FIVE BOOKS I HAVE READ THIS YEAR
1) In Her Shoes (Good in Bed was better)
2) Million Little Pieces (I bought it cause it had candy on the cover)
3) What to Expect the First Year
4) Supply Saavy Scrapbooking
5) The Going to Bed Book (to Mattie every night)

FIVE BOOKS I LOVE
1) Beach Music
2) Hand Hand Finger Thumb
3) Guess How Much I Love You
4) Skipping Christmas
5) all of the Harry Potters

FIVE EXTRA ACTIVITES
1) Tennis Team Captain
2) Rotary Program Chair
3) Subsitute Sunday School Teacher
4) Scrapbook Store Design Team Member
5) Adopted Golfer

FIVE THINGS I DO EVERY DAY
1) Brush my teeth
2) Put on Lipstick
3) Hug Randy
4) Kiss Moo
5) Pet Wechsler

What about you?

Girl Power

2006-04-26T20:35:00.000-07:00

Okay, last night I was congratulated by one of my students who saw me auctioneering at the Hopkinsville Rotary Auction. She was amazed that they let me on the air, not because I am loud and obnoxious, but because our Rotary really is a BOYS CLUB! She was amazed that I had broken the glass ceiling.

I am not sure what to say to this. Last year I simply let the club know that I wanted to be an auctioneer, and I was put on the schedule. I think I did a good job, but I also sent the committee chair a thank-you note, and bam, I am back in the saddle again.

As a child I longed to sit at the table and auction items. I would lie in bed with the radio turned down low and dream of the day I could be the one asking for bids on Burger's Country Hams and Dry Cleaning gift certificates. To be an auctioneer was my primary motivation for joining the club, although I am so proud of our student loan program and other worthwhile community services. The Hopkinsville Rotary Auction is the Largest Rotary Auction in the world. Last year we raised $270 in one week! It is amazing how generous our small community can be! I have to say, being passed the microphone is everything I dreamed it would be.

I am glad I can be a role model and still have fun. If you are in the listening area, you can hear me tomorrow night on AM 1230. Call in and bid. It is much more exciting than eBay!

Hoppy Easter

2006-04-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Mattie's first Easter. No, we didn't have baskets or egg hunts, but we did go to church (see photo) and to grandmother's house for a family meal. The sermon was so good that Mattie kept crying out "Amen" (or at least, that is what I am telling myself those noises were), so I listened to some of it in the Narthax, but I enjoyed the lesson all the same.

Maybe next year we will have all of the other stuff, but it was nice to be able to focus on Easter's true meaning without the commercialism getting in the way (she says as she stuffs her face with one more Cadbury egg). We are so blessed to have found such a nice church and church family. I hope Mattie will learn to appreciate what it is to grow up in church. He is certainly ready though. Yesterday he received two bibles (add that to the two he received at his birth, and this child has got the New Testament covered!)

Blessings to you all!

Happy Spring

2006-04-14T20:42:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day in the neighborhood! I am loving these warm spring days. Moo loves to go for walks in the stroller wearing his cool dude sunglasses. I will get a photo of that soon!

Went to the doctor and got a good report. Apparently it is true -- pregnacy and child birth are not diseases! Of course, graceful here did manage to slip and pull down one of the cabinets in the office! Nothing broken and no bumps or bruises on me! Yeah! Totally embarassed though!

Otherwise, a great Friday with the Moo! We are getting into a routine, and I am appreciating getting to spend a whole day with my sweetie. So what that all of my errands didn't get done. I am starting to understand the whole Zen of this parenting thing!

On another happy note, we now have ALL of the channels that Dish Network offers to people of all ages. This means, I can now watch Starz! Yipee! Not sure how Randy got it, but it is only $4 extra a month -- which to me works out that if I watch two movies every month that I had wanted to rent, it will have more than paid for itself.

Okay, enough of this -- I need to make sandwiches for the church Easter egg hunt!

Hope everyone is taking full advantage of this beautiful Spring weather!

Damn it, Jim! I'm a doctor, not a juggler!

2006-04-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

When we last left our heroine, she was pouring over the days events...Weather, her son's baptism, what it all means. Since then, however, her life has switched into high gear. Those little things she had been letting slide have now popped up, demanding attention. Those commitments she thought would fade away like her junior prom date were now now back with a vengeance. Design Team work for Scraplanet, Rotary Programming (of which she is the chair), Rotary Auction planning and working, and Tennis Team Captain (yes, she has a match in two weeks and has not returned a serve since September) -- they are all there. No one walked off with them while she wasn't looking. No one thought it would be fun to pick them up and run with them.

And then there is the fledgling practice. Well, contracts have been secured with Cumberland Hall (what was originally to be 1 hour of supervision has now become that plus 4 hours of group therapy and any needed psychological testing) and Western State Hospital (2-4 hour mornings a week of admissions interviews). I am also seeing patients privately at an outpatient clinic and at the Children's Advocacy Center. And then there are the classes I teach for Murray State two evenings a week (one in Ft. Campbell and one in Madisonville).

Oh, did I mention that the time changed, so now my husband has the world's worst work schedule? That's right -- Mondays - 8am to 7:30pm; Tuesdays - 8am to 2pm; Wednesday - noon to 7:30pm; Thursdays - OFF; Fridays noon to 7:30 or 8pm; Saturdays and Sundays - open one day (7am to 2pm) and close the other (noon to 7:30 or 8pm). Now this is if there are no tournaments and if his boss doesn't accidentally schedule something that creates a conflict. He also likes to find some time in there to play a little golf.

Of course, the dog still has to be picked up from dog school and walked regularly. Someone has to stay with the baby. I am still pumping for milk every 3 to 5 hours. I am in charge of bath time and bed time, but if Moo sleeps a little later (and he does as he takes after his mother), I am also responsible for the morning feedings too 4 mornings a week! Whew! I love my baby and would surely hand off some of these tasks, if only there was someone to take over.

Okay, just reading this makes me tired. I am off to get a little rest before I start it all over again!

After the Storm

2006-04-03T21:10:00.000-07:00

The storm has come and gone, and we are okay. The incliment weather seems to have brought with it new found energy and zeal in our sweet boy!

He is inches away from rolling over. He is touching and holding the vaious toys on his playmat. He is smiling and cooing at us a lot. He is holding up his own head a great deal of the time. He is loving being naked during bath and changing time. He is entertaining himself more and more daily! He is beginning to look for Mommy and Daddy. It is hard to believe that mere months ago he just laid there and either looked or cried.

Yesterday was Moo's baptism. It is a little bit odd that on the day weather worked a miracle in his life it was so destructive to the homes and lives of friends and neighbors in our area. The Lord works in mysterious ways!

Such a fool!

2006-03-31T20:22:00.000-08:00

Okay, I did it and what an idiot I am. I broke my own rule! I thought I was doing it right, that I was justified. I thought my voice was calm and my point valid.

But I was wrong. There is never a good time to enlighten your husband to a habit he has that concerns you. It doesn't matter. It makes no difference that I thought I was being helpful or that changing this could improve the well being of our child. Who cares that other people seek out and pay handsomely for my advice and counsel? I will now pay the price for stating the obvious!

I couldn't leave it alone. I couldn't smile and think of the cortisol that is building up in his body causing him to retain fat. I couldn't turn a deaf ear or a blind eye. So now I will suffer.

So, note to self -- Let it go and leave it alone. No good deed goes unpunished. As the great one, Dumbledore, says, people are much more apt to forgive you for being wrong than for being right!

A Week of Firsts....

2006-03-29T20:19:00.000-08:00

This week marks a week of firsts for me. I have gone back to the gym for the first time since this time last year. Moo and I went to our first Mommy and Me class (which had me breaking out into a sweat!). I saw the first color explosion in the trees in my neighborhood (talk about a riot of color! Whew wee!!) Tomorrow will be my first day of >8 hours of office work since the arrival of the Moo! Sure I have had several practice runs without him, but to be away from him that many hours in one day is a bummer. I will work from 8 to noon, take a 2 hour break with my sweetie, then head back to the salt mines til my class ends and I can haul butt back from Madisonville from my class. I have a sneaking suspicion that class may be cut short!

But with Spring coming, so does promise! The promise of warmer weather, longer days, pretty flowers, greener grass (and for me, greener bank account), and better still, summer! It is that time of renewal that I have been missing as I recuperate and settle in to this new phase of my life. I can't wait to see what other exciting firsts are to come!

My Favorite Things

2006-03-28T20:44:00.000-08:00

I have heard a lot of sad things today... sick babies, sick friends, people passing away...really crummy stuff. It has been bringing me down, I must say! So in the spirit of cognitive restructuring, I have decided to take the advice of the Sound of Music and remember a few of my favorite things, cause then I won't feel so bad!

Holding Moo
Moo Smiling
Petting a Clean Wechsler
Bear Hugs from Randy
Banana Popsicles
Cotton Candy Perfume
Bare Escentuals
Scrapbooking Day on QVC
Long Hot Showers
Freshly Shaven Legs
Finishing a Scrapbook Page
Bojangles Chicken
Boat Rides on Barkley Lake
Harry Potter Books
Sunny Days over 75 degrees
Capri Pants
Funky Shoes
Flannel Pajamas
Driving a Convertible
Trips to Scrapbooking Stores
Grilled Chicken Salad from Rafferty's
Ferrell's Double Cheese Burgers
Sleeping In
Acing a Tennis Serve
Gilmore Girls
Elmo
Rice Krispy Treats
Ice Cream where you Mix the Stuff in
Manicures and Pedicures
Black V-neck T-shirts
Philosophy 3-in one body wash and Purity Made Simple
Max Factor Lip Finity
Ham and Pineapple Pizza
Sunscreen that smells like coconut
Long Walks
Zebra Cheesecake
A funny, clean joke
Hearing a great song on the radio

Hope you will share a few of your favorites too!

Nesting again?

2006-03-26T20:34:00.000-08:00

What is this strange compulsion I am having to get my house clean and organized? Usually I try to tidy up before the housekeeper comes on Tuesdays, but this feels different. I want things arranged, put away, together. I am filling trash bags and putting them in the outside bin. I am trying to get my new scrapspace in usable condition. I am even making some projects. I am decorating. I (with help from Randy) got "Mattie Moo" hung in the nursery, mounted a display in the scrapbook room, and reshelived all of the baby books. I have even taken a wild fling at writing in Moo's baby book. I was thinking that tomorrow I might go through his closet and get all of the clothes he can't wear anymore and put them away. Am I going insane? Or does my body know that I am heading back to work soon and will not have the time to pursue such projects? Or maybe it is Spring Fever finally kicking in. That would be nice. I would love some warm fresh air to blow the cobwebs out of my brain and out of our house.

Of course, I know I should have started on all of these projects weeks ago, but alas, I too this poem to heart...

I hope that my child
looking back on today
remembers a mother who had time to play.
Children grow up while you are not looking.
There'll be years ahead for cleaning and cooking.
So quiet now cobwebs.
Dust go to sleep.
I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep.
~ author unknown

Hey, at least (unlike when I was pregnant) I have not gone out with the desparate need to purchase FIVE jumbo packages of toilet paper!

Can I Get Workers Comp for This????

2006-03-24T21:34:00.000-08:00

I thought I was having a heart attack today. My right arm was in a great deal of pain. Then I realized, I have strained it from carrying around the darn carrier! This is beginning to make me wonder -- am I on the go too much?

I know my husband thinks I am, but I have Cabin fever big time! I can't sit in this house much longer. I do try to avoid crowds and keep him away from sick people, but on the other hand, I figure the more we get used to public places, the better he will behave when he gets older. I have a mom friend who always comments about how she cannot take her child to restaurants, and I always wonder if it is not because the child hasn't practiced.

No I am not going to let my child give you indigestion while you eat or ruin the movie you paid 1/2 a week's salary to see, but don't be surprised if you don't see us out and about, although, next time I think I will take the stroller!

Baby Sittin' Blues

2006-03-22T20:13:00.000-08:00

I have had three glorious months at home with my son! They have been pretty great. I never would have thought that I could enjoy hanging out so much with someone who doesn't talk! But once again, I have turned into one of those women. The same thing happened when I got married. I was never going to be one of those people who asked unmarrieds why they didn't have a fella, but put a ring on my finger and watch me be the national spokesperson for wedded bliss! I still can't believe that I ever questioned whether I wanted to live la vida married. And now here I am -- weeping freely at the prospect of leaving my child with a babysitter four days a week. There is a part of me that would love to just stay home full time or take a few odd jobs every now and then, but short of hitting the powerball or winning one of those Food Network contests, that is out of the question.

So now I am on the hunt for the perfect babysitter. I didn't think my requests were too unusual or demanding, but apparently I was wrong. I have had people tell me there is no way they can be here by 7:30 or would rather me come to their house (yeah like I can get in my car with a baby, drive to there house, get my baby situated, get back in my car, and drive back to work before 8:00!). Or the want twice the going rate or they want to leave by 2pm! Ugh this is a nightmare. But I keep my fingers crossed and my prayers said that God will send us someone very special for our special little guy! I know these experiences will make me cherish those days off I take to be with the Moo. My mother always recounted with fondness my experience with the babysitter. Wonder why she didn't tell me it was so hard for her?

Goodnight Telephone???

2006-03-21T21:22:00.000-08:00

So what is the problem? As a mother I have been trying to instill the classics in my child, so we began reading Goodnight Moon. But now I am concerned. Why you ask? I am wondering why we do not say good night to the telephone. If you are at all familiar with this important piece of children's literature, then you know the first page reads: "In the great green room there was a telephone and a red balloon and a picture of a cow jumping over the moon...." In the course of this bedtime story, you point out all of the things in the room and say good night to them, but not to the telephone. Worse still, you say good night to 'nobody,' but not to the telephone. I feel bad for the telephone. I have posed this concern to several friends, some of whom are librarians, others whom I consider very astute individuals, and no one can tell me. In fact, they contend they have never even noticed this sin of omission! Of course, I wonder why a kids really needs a telephone in his or her room, especially at a young age, but if it is there, should be not say good night? So today, I rise in defense of telephones! Say good night to yours!

Am I really a mother?

2006-03-19T20:45:00.000-08:00

I have officially been a mom for 11 and a half weeks! There are times I cannot BELIEVE that the good folks at the hospital really let me bring this child home. (Quite frankly, I am still in awe that the people at the pet store so blithely allowed us to bring home Wechsler the wonder dog all those years ago!) But Mattie Moo is wonderful! He is so loving and sweet, even at this young age. I can't believe Randy and I got so lucky! Maybe the people at the hospital knew what they were doing after all.

I am amazed at the changes that have happened in our little man in such a short time. He has already grown from 8lbs 1 oz to over 14 lbs! I still get a little misty each time he out grows an outfit. He is already smiling regularly (and not just when he has gas!), and the doctor says that anyday we can expect him to roll over. He has almost even got this how sleeping through the night thing down.

I have to say, I am having to eat a lot of my words! (The same thing happened when I got married!) I never believed the stories about losing your memory once you had a kid, but sure enough, I have shown up in stores TWICE with a baby in tow, but NO purse. I also never thought I would be one of THOSE WOMEN who just wants to hang out with her kid and watch Sesame Street all day, and I darn sure wasn't going to get sucked into buying theme toys, but I have to say it has taken every ounce of self restraint I have not to buy the Go to the Doctor Elmo! (The only reason I haven't is that it is rated for 18 month olds, and Mattie, while advanced, is not even 3 months!)

In any event, I think I am going to like this whole mom thing! I know I can get better with some practice. I am trying to savor every moment and NOT get caught up in wishing and longing for the time when he can [insert an advanced developmental milestone here]. I do love this little guy and want to do right by him, no matter what. (I guess that is why I make sure he has a steady supply of breast milk even though he has no interest in being breast fed!) Hey, maybe that is what being a mom is all about!