Nunc Scio quit sit amor

Queen of Hearts and Alice in Wonderland Costume Set GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-10-22T06:41:00.000-07:00

Queen of Hearts and Alice in Wonderland Costume Set GIVEAWAY!!!!

Wordless Wednesday -- Young Love

2009-10-07T11:28:00.000-07:00

I need sleep

2009-10-03T06:25:00.001-07:00

In a major way.

Small Talk Six -- What I hope to NOT teach the kiddos

2009-10-03T06:24:00.003-07:00

Six things I say that I don't want the kids to repeat.....

Being a new mom (again!) I say this one often lately
1. Mommy's losing her mind.

Other common phrases you can find me saying
2. That's Crazy
3. WTF (especially when I'm upset about something -- but truly not that often)
4. Anything I've said about a certain In Law in vents.
5. *muttering* Stupid (fill in the blank here)
6. Craptastic.

Yeah I'm not a huge cusser, but when I do, its usually do to serious anger and I bring out the WTF.

So, what about you? What do you say that you don't want your kids to repeat?

For more, visit Momdot

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Well Okay -- Not quite Wordless.

A true miracle captured. Fresh from the womb - Miss Calleigh.

For more Wordless Wednesday visit: 5M4M,

She is here

2009-09-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

After preterm labor issues, blood pressure problems, and multiple other not so fun things, Calleigh is here and she's healthy.

Born August 25th, weighing 6lbs 3 oz and 19 inches long, we welcomed our third and last daughter.

Thanks for all the thoughts. I have tons to catch up on that didn't get done while we awaited her birth. It will take me a while to get back in the game I'm sure. Still recovering from my c-section and coping to life with 3!

For now, I'll leave you with a few pics. Enjoy.

34 weeks

2009-07-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

That is our current goal with this pregnancy.

Once we hit that, then we will set our sights higher.

Keep baking Calleigh. Keep baking.

Will post more info shortly

PSF -- Sisters

2009-06-26T07:45:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

From Day one, You've been attached.

You've loved each other.

You've shared talks with each other.

You've plotted together.

You play together

You irritate the snot out of each other.

AT the end of the day -- You curl up and Fall asleep together, no matter how mad you were before bedtime.

And in 8 weeks (or so) you will share all of the above with a new little sister.

For more PSF, click HERE

I'm so upset

2009-06-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

We took Izzie to the dr today for a routine repeat lead check. Her last two levels had shown a significant decrease and we were in the safety zone. BUT they wanted to keep checking every 6 months to make sure things stayed okay.

I was NOT worried about this test.

I guess I should have been.

We are up 3 points from the last time and back over the "safety" zone.

I just don't even know what to think.

Wordless Wednesday -- 6 years

2009-06-24T06:37:00.000-07:00

We had a great Weekend!

2009-06-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated Father's day to all the Dad's out there.

Busy today, so no Tackle it Tuesday post.

Love is in the air

2009-06-19T15:00:00.001-07:00

Tee Hee.

I'm off for the weekend.

My anniversary is Sunday, along with Father's day. Will catch up with the blog world Monday!

Toddler Madness

2009-06-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

As posted Here, Some days Just don't end well when you have a toddler.

I decided I should follow up with pictorial evidence of that "bad" day and also, Stephanie know you have proof that your daughter isn't the only one who loves permanent markers!

Izzie's Artwork. After bath. Gotta love Sharpies.

And on her legs

AND the allergic reaction to the Dawn, she had poured all over her head

Who Is...

2009-06-19T08:07:00.001-07:00

This little lady who has replaced my baby faced baby girl?

Welcome Third Trimester

2009-06-19T07:59:00.000-07:00

I try not to Whine. I know that I am extremely lucky to be pregnant. To be able to carry this baby to delivery. When so many of my dear friends cannot.

I try to revel in each little kick, each tiny detail of the life growing inside of me, because I know this is the last time I will experience this miracle.

But, unfortunately, once the third trimester hits, especially it seems the more children you have, there is just so many aches, pains, and other things to whine about.

So I've made myself a promise. For each gripe/whine I have, I'll come up with a positive too. We are talking pregnancy here folks, so there might be some TMI.

SO

The WHINE's

Peeing 5 drops every 30 minutes.
Sciatic pain
The unability to get comfy to sleep for long stretches of time.
Pelvic pressure
Braxton Hicks. Fake contractions. FAKE my hind end.
3rd Trimester headaches

The YAY's

Feeling baby girl moving.
Knowing there is only 10 weeks (or less) until I meet the new little one.
Getting to sort through baby goodness again.
Big Boobies! (The best part of pregnancy/nursing)
No PUPPPs this time!
An excuse to eat WHATEVER I want, WHENEVER I want. (and finally feeling like doing just that)

PSF -- Who Needs a Son?

2009-06-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Dear Sweet Caity. You are Our first born. Our sweet girl. But you, my dear are a TOTAL TOMBOY. It is so fun to watch you as you grow and see JUST how different you are from your sister. To see your personality blossom.

While Playing with Izzie outside, you discovered several DEAD crawdads in the yard. My assumption is that they either crawled up from the neighbors pond OR one of the cats brought them over as gifts.

Why most children (especially girly girl ones) would run screaming from this discovery -- YOU relished in it and had to have a cup to keep your "crabs" in so you could show grandpa.

Following your crustacean discovery. You went on the search for more offensive creepy crawlies -- ICK.

WORMS

Ladybugs

You are a Connundrum to me sometimes. I never know what you will come up with next -- but I love every day of finding new discoveries with you.

For more PSF, click HERE

Beware

2009-06-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

We drove by the hospital the other day and Caity remarked that that was where we "got Izzie from"

I told her that that is where we would bring Calleigh home from too. Her response

"Only if she's clean though, mama."

So Beware of hospitals giving out dirty babies.

Wordless Wednesday -- Looking back

2009-06-17T06:42:00.001-07:00

On the last time I had a new baby in the house

For more WW posts, Check out 5 Minutes for Mom, and 3 Kids n us.

Happy Birthday Tip Junkie!

2009-06-16T13:32:00.000-07:00

Tip Junkie is Turning 2 AND Going DOT COM!

To celebrate, they are hosting a 5 day bash of awesome prizes.

Check out what you can win today by visiting HERE

I personally would love to win

Prize #3 -- A Car Seat Cover of my choice from ChubbyBaby

I love the Pink Hawaiian print one!

OR

Prize #5, the Open heart name with birthstonesFrom AF Designs.

How awesome would that be to celebrate my 3 girls!

What prizes would you want to win?

Tackle it Tuesday -- FOOD

2009-06-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

This weeks Tackle is.......... FOOD.

Let me explain. I will have a repeat c-section with this baby (Hopefully she arrives on the scheduled date -- but knowing my babies, she will come earlier)

I try to have a good bit of prepared foods frozen, so that when we get home, we can just take out of freezer, toss in oven and voila dinner. Without much work.

This week, I've started on my Freezer stash.

The list: (So far)
Spaghetti Sauce -- 3 bags
Meatballs -- 2 bags
Chili -- 3 containers
Beef Stew -- 2 containers
Chicken Noodle Soup -- 2 containers

Next up: Casseroles, Burritos, Pancakes/Waffles, Chicken Pot Pie, and who knows what else I'll come up with between now and then.

What are you Tackling this week?

For more Tackle posts, click Here

Ever have one of them days......

2009-06-16T06:41:00.001-07:00

Where nothing is going right, everybody is irritating you and you SUCK at parenting.

That was my Monday.

The girls fought and whined all day. Didn't listen well.

Izzie got into the sharpie, and colored her arms and legs.

Caity sprayed windex on everything.

And it just continued once we got home.

Izzie poured half a bottle of Dawn on her head. Which was fun to clean off lemme tell ya. Then she broke out in a rash *Can we say allergic to Dawn* So I gave her benedryl and prednisone -- of which she dumped half down the toilet and told me it was "Nassy"

She tried climbing onto the bathroom sink and fell instead. Nothing hurt, just scared her.

The day ended with me wanting to pull my hair out, and Izzie screaming herself to sleep because she hadn't had a nap and was exhausted.

How was your Monday?

Our Weekend

2009-06-15T06:42:00.000-07:00

Was Hot. And Fun. And DID I mention HOT?

Saturday the girls had a birthday party to attend. A swimming birthday party. Great idea in the 90 degree heat, right? Not so much. Ever stood outside in 94 degree heat while watching kids splash around in a pool that's big enough for your foot?

Now, ever done it 28 weeks pregnant?

Yeah. Not so much fun for mama. But the girls had a great time. And after a 3 hour party and running around with other kids, they slept WELL that night.

Yesterday was the usual, church, followed by lunch at Papaw's, and then home for cleaning (Laundry)

Not Me -- I'd never

2009-06-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

This meme was created by MckMama

So I see this meme everywhere and I finally decided to participate. Who me, a slacker? Never.

I did NOT hide in the laundry room this weekend, so I could eat an ice cream sandwich without sharing. Nope, not me.

I did NOT let the kids run around naked all day because I was too lazy to keep redressing them.

and finally,

I did NOT forget to wash DH's workclothes over the weekend and then give him a semi-clean pair of pants this morning, claiming they just came out of the dryer.

For more Not Me Mondays -- check Here at My Charming Kids

A new Take on Excercise

2009-06-13T06:47:00.000-07:00

Most parents know that excercise is the key to staying in good shape (eating right too of course)

GE, yes the appliance gurus, have come up with an amusing take on excercise this summer. Dubbed Strong as steel, each excercise uses a GE kitchen appliance. Check out the video below, featuring Alison Sweeney, from the Biggest Loser.

You can check out the latest in GE appliances by clicking Here

Good Kidney News!

2009-06-12T13:15:00.000-07:00

I spoke to our urology specialty nurse yesterday to schedule Caity's future appts/tests and also to double check on what we need to do for Calleigh, since some of Caity's issues are hereditary (but have thankfully skipped Izzie)

Anyways -- While on the phone, she gave me some good news! Dr. Reddy had analyzed the latest results from our urodynamics test. AND There was great improvement made. Her bladder capacity has DOUBLED since we started the drugs. Her output volume has doubled as well (which means less urine to back up into the kidneys)

This is awesome news! Of course She still has kidney damage, she still has an abnormal bladder -- but to see results of any kind is AWESOME.

We'll be doing a kidney/bladder U/S soon to make sure no further damage has occurred since the last one.

As far as Calleigh goes, we will do an u/s at around 6 weeks to check her bladder/kidneys. BUT if all looks well between birth and 1 year, we will hold off on the VCUG until 1 year. WHEW. This makes me so happy!

My Stash...

2009-06-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

Stephanie over at Adventures in Babywearing posted pics of her carrier stash and asked fellow bloggers to do the same.

My stash is not near as impressive as most, and parts need replaced (Thanks to certain people not returning things they borrowed) But here goes.

The Pouch -- With Caity, I had a WAHM made pouch with a fabric I wanted. Of course it was ladybugs.

I loaned that pouch out to a cousin, and never got it back.

With Izzie, a friend from an online group sent me a Cortez and Co pouch. This was super handy with itty bitty Izzie, who rode in it comfortably for 5 months and then it was stolen out of our car along with other stuff

I also tried a wrap for the first time with Izzie. It was a Sashawrap, I got for really cheap. Not as awesome as other wraps, I'm sure, but it held my 5lb'r comfortably and was easy to learn to use.

My current favorite carrier -- The Beco (I have the 4th Gen). I struggled with whether or not to buy one due to the cost adn the fact I had other carriers that worked. Best decision I ever made. I love my Beco. I still use it to carry Izzie (yes at 28 weeks pregnant)

Misc. Carriers not shown (I can't find pics right now)

Mei Tei -- Another of those that was loaned out and never came back.
Solid Black Hotsling
Solarvail Ring sling

For Miss Calleigh I plan to replace the mei tei and probably get an Ergo.

Dearest Calleigh

2009-06-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

My uterus has expanded to quite a large size. This means that you can come up out of my pelvis and have a little more room (and relieve a little pressure). I promise you won't be disappointed. There will be new things to kick!

Dear Darling Toddler.

2009-06-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

When mommy tries to put you down to bed at the same time every night, she does so for a reason.

1) You need sleep.
2) You will be comfortable in your own bed.
3) Mommy needs a break

If you decide that you know better than mommy and do NOT want to fall asleep at your scheduled bedtime the following will happen when you "stay up with daddy"

You will crash & burn on the couch, in a very uncomfortable position.

And then I will be forced to take pics and blog about it and have future blackmail material to show your friends and boyfriends.

This is what the house looks like.......

2009-06-11T13:03:00.000-07:00

when Daddy falls asleep while "watching" the kids and Mommy is not home.

If you can't tell from the pics, the girls wreaked havoc on my clean living room. There was food/toys/trash all over.

The Shoes....

2009-06-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

I feel the need to explain the shoes.

Izzie obviously, inherits all clothing/shoes/etc outgrown by Caity. And of course, Calleigh will inherit all of the above as she grows into it. (Calleigh will also get all the goodies from Cousins Lexi and Emmy)

So, most of Izzie's shoes are previously owned. But not all.

My dear toddler has an addiction. She's had it for a while. One of her first words was SHOES. So every time someone (Nana, grandma, Aunt G, etc) see's Shoes on sale/clearance, they must buy them for her.

Same can be said for the older daughter too.

I, personally, am responsible for purchasing 4 pairs of shoes for Caity in her current size. 2 dress shoes (1 white, 1 black), 1 pair of sandals, 1 pair of tennis shoes. The rest are compliments of other family members.

OB Appt. Update

2009-06-11T08:12:00.000-07:00

28(ish) weeks!

We are up to 134 lbs! (so a total of 19 lbs gained so far)

I am measuring right on at 28 weeks. (Weird to me because I usually measure 2 weeks bigger -- but no complaints here)

Baby's HR was in the 150's again (even after the glucola)

I PASSED the GTT test -- YAY for no GD.

Next appt. in 3 weeks, and they'll probably do an u/s to check my cervix length to make sure I'm not showing any signs of another premature labor!

My Goal -- a 6lb baby (Both the older girls were 5lbr's.) Preferably a 37 weeker or later -- but I suppose I can't be too picky.

All in all things are looking good. No PUPPPs this time (thank goodness) and so far no contractions. Of course this pelvic pressure is enough to make me nuts. Miss Calleigh has decided she likes to stay deep down low.

Tackle It Tuesday -- Girls Shoes and GTT

2009-06-09T09:43:00.001-07:00

This Tuesday, I'm tackling two things.

First up -- My home project. Tackling the girl's addiction, that they did NOT get from their mom, no matter how typical it is for women.

The really sad part -- Those are just the ones in their current sizes -- NOT all that they own.

My other tackle today:

The 1 Hour Glucose Challenge Test

Baby Report!

2009-06-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

Just a few quick updates on bambino.

We are 26.5 weeks pregnant. Things are going well.

I get to do the wonderful fun Glucose Tolerance Test next week! So excited for that.

Almost done with her bedroom too! And we've been getting everything else ready.

My Daddy's Here!

2009-06-01T09:15:00.001-07:00

We all went to dinner last night and visited a bit. AND he brought my desk from when I was younger with him for Caity! SHE loves it.

We had a great weekend. Got lots done!

My Daddy is coming to visit!

2009-05-29T07:47:00.001-07:00

He called Wednesday night to let me know he'd be here Sunday. He's making the drive from VA!

I'm so excited. Haven't seen him since last April when he came down to meet Emmy!

So we'll have a busy week I'm sure.

We're getting down to the wire.

2009-05-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

IF Miss Calleigh is born at the same gestation that Izzie was, we've got about 9 weeks to go. There's a slim possibility she'll come earlier and of course the possibility she'll come later.

SO. I've really go to get cracking on finishing up everything that needs done.

This list will keep me accountable.

Things Left to Buy:
1. Carseat -- Our original choice is out of stock currently at the two places we were going to buy from. It is in stock at other online merchants -- but for a pricier tag, PLUS more shipping. I'll pass.

2. Bottles/ Pacifiers. -- Just planning on picking up a Playtex starter kit and a few types of paci's (NUKs, Avent, Mam, and Soothie)

3. Diapers -- I need to stock up on more of these. Both cloth and disposable.

4. Breast Pump Parts. I need new tubing/valves etc for my Ameda since SIL has returned it. At least I won't need a whole new pump now.

5. ~~Diaper Bag -- Really considering splurging a little for a Skip Hop Duo -- but so far have not been able to make myself hit Order.~~ WOOTY Woot! DONE. I just got my new Skip Hop Duo Deluxe for $4.69 out of pocket! I can live with that.

6. SOCKS -- We've lost almost all of our baby socks.
Things left to do in the house:

1. Finish setting up Bassinet in my room.

2. Wash blankets/bedding

3. Get swing from mom's house so we have it.

4. Sterilize Bottles/Paci's (In case we need them)

5. Pack hospital bags.

6. Finalize plans for where the girlies will go

7. Anything else I've forgotten.

Fellow Bloggers....

2009-05-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

Reposted with Permission.

Please if you can either donate or put up this post to spread the word and help this little boy. I know medical bills are daunting, even with good insurance, and I know the Joys *dripping with sarcasm* of traveling far away for medical treatment.

The following is a copy of Beth's post from her blog, Manic Mother

Ezra is in our thoughts and prayers.

I don’t even know where to start this post…its going to be hard to write, as I am already choking back tears and haven’t finished the first sentence. I am taking some hours away from the hospital, to write this and to try to clear my head.

As many of you know my youngest son was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) 2 days ago, the day my world fell out from under me.

We took him to the Dr. the other day because he was bitten by either a spider or a tick. Shortly after we noticed the bites we saw he wasn’t feeling well, kind of lethargic, and not eating much, he also was limping in one leg. I assumed he was having a reaction from the bites.

They did an x-ray of his legs to make sure he hadn’t fractured anything as a precautionary measure. The x-ray showed he had some abnormalities in his bones.

We are in the grocery store and I get a call from his pediatrician, he tells me I need to take him to the ped. oncology tomorrow. That it could be cancer. My world is spinning now, we walk away from our filled grocery cart, and head back home. Panic starts to set in.

It still is not making any sense. Ezra has been a perfectly healthy baby. He shows none of the typical symptoms of ALL. Besides being pale (but we all are), and the limp that just showed up. He is healthy, or so I thought. How do you go from a limp to leukemia?

After seeing the pediatric oncologist we are still hopeful, since he also says he doesn’t see any of the symptoms. So they take some blood and we are on our way.

That night we get a call from him, and our told to take him to the ER. We rush our baby off in the middle of the night. At the ER my husband and I have to endure things no parent should ever have to see, I don’t think I can go into detail. Just imagine blood curdling screams from your baby, like nothing you have ever heard.

We are told later that night that it probably is leukemia. Still have to wait for final lab results though. Sure enough he has cancer. Holy shit, my baby has cancer.

He is doing good so far, he had surgery to place a port in his chest so they can administer the chemo, and that went well. He has had 2 rounds of chemo already, and is staying tough.

His spinal test came back negative, meaning the cancer had not yet spread to his spine and brain…we caught it really early.

Thank you spider.

The type of leukemia he has is the most treatable type, it has the highest remission and cure rate. Silver lining perhaps?

That doesn’t take away from the fact that he now faces 3 years of chemotherapy. 3 years.

Here is where we need your help.

We are by no means financially well off. I stay at home with the boys, and my husband works PT and goes to school FT. We live off of his little pay and student loans.

We also share a car.

We can’t afford a new one…or even a used one. I am going to be taking Ezra to the Dr. 2-3 times a week, there is no way we can share a car, with my husband having to go back and forward from school and work. Not to mention if he gets a fever I have to take him to the Dr. ASAP.

His insurance should cover all of his medical bills. Its just the other things we can’t afford.

We also need to make my home more suitable for Ezra, I need to have the plumbing, and ac serviced to make sure it is clean. Any bacteria infection can kill him. We just don’t have the funds to do so. Yes, my family is helping out some, but their means are limited as well. Not to mention much of their money will be spent flying down to help me (they live in MN).

I am a proud person, I do not like being a charity case. But given the current situation, I am swallowing my pride, and asking for any help you can give.

Even if its only a dollar, I would be thrilled.

If you don’t have a dollar (I know I don’t) , please help out by blogging about this, tweeting, stumbling, etc. I have seen how Mommy bloggers rally to help each other out in times of need, and I know you will all do the same for us.

I am putting a paypal button in this post for donations, and there will also be one up in my sidebar, which I know works. I don’t know if this one will work, its so confusing and my head hurts, but we need help ASAP so I am trying to muddle through this.

Please help in anyway you can, thanks so much, and keep the prayers and thoughts coming.

Wordless (not really) Wednesday

2009-05-27T06:28:00.000-07:00

So its not quite wordless. It's a cute video of Miss Izzie.

For more WW posts, check out Momdot, 5MFM, and 3kidsnus

We had a great day yesterday

2009-05-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

We met up with some of the wonderful mommies, daddies, and Kiddo's from our "playgroup" for a BBQ.

Good Food, good friends, good fun, what more could we ask for. Well a lack of rain would have been nice, but who can be picky!

Caity's favorite part was picking blackberries out of the patch (Thanks for taking the kids picking Jamie!)

Izzie loved playing with the ponies along with the other little ones.

And Me. Well I got to talk with other mommies (both preggo and not) and get some fun adult time, while the DH's kept a watch on the kiddo's outside!

Can't wait for our next meetup!

Now this is love

2009-05-21T07:02:00.001-07:00

Izzie is currently giving me all the parts of the chex mix she doesn't like.

I feel so important LOL

You see that,

2009-05-20T13:49:00.000-07:00

That handy dandy lil widget along the left side of my blog.

The one that says 108 days to go.

Well it Lies.

It's really more like 101 days IF we schedule my section for exactly 39 weeks (which I don't see happening)

So what does that mean. It means that really I am in DOUBLE DIGITS before Miss Calleigh arrives.

We have a winner

2009-05-20T11:31:00.000-07:00

The winner of the Tilty Sippy cups is

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

4

Timestamp: 2009-05-20 18:31:24 UTC

Comment #4 was placed by: Kim

Kim, I've emailed you, please get back to me with your address so I can ship your cups out.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-20T09:57:00.001-07:00

Linky - Doos

2009-05-20T06:33:00.000-07:00

Above is a list compiled by the ladies at MOMDOT with a huge list of bloggers. Check them out!

Tackle It Tuesday

2009-05-19T08:15:00.001-07:00

Still tackling this --

That'd be growing a baby.

This week I was gathering stuff up for a yard sale. So I tackled cleaning up the dreaded downstairs. Yes its that bad.

But I do have three boxes of stuff that is either going to be sold, given away (stuff for Emmy) OR stuff that just needed to be trashed.

Sigh...

2009-05-15T08:16:00.000-07:00

I'll have to add to this later, as I have too much to do right now. But things at work are bad.

REALLY bad.

And I might have to start thinking about frugalizing even more on the chance that I no longer have a job. Scary time to think about that now.

But the Lord will provide.

Thank you walmart lady

2009-05-13T17:25:00.000-07:00

Wow. Judge much?

I transferred Caity’s prescriptions to the walmart pharmacy close to us. It’s easier to get them there than traveling to the other side of town. OR dealing with Aetna’s mail order place further.

So when I went to pick them up, first the pharmacist wants to do a consult. A consult for drugs that my daughter has been taking for oh 9 months or so. OK.

Then she tells me, that she wanted to be sure the drug was correct, because that drug isn’t commonly used in A) Females, and B) Children.

So I inform her that yes it’s the right drug, yes it’s the right dose, and yes I know there are possible side effects. I also informed her that I also know that IF we do not go with this experimental drug treatment, we are looking at at least one kidney transplant. And that IMO as Caity’s mother, the risks of the drug are far less than the risks of needing a new kidney and having to wait for it OR further damage to the currently “good” kidney.

This isn’t my first encounter like this, but it was far more annoying this week. Maybe it’s the pregnancy hormones, but until you’ve been in the position to make a tough choice such as this, you shouldn’t make assumptions or say Well I would do this.

Yes, there are risks; yes it is possible that our daughter will not be able to have her own children(though highly unlikely). That’s better than her having no future at all. We'll cross that bridge when we come to it. But I'm not sorry for the choices I've made.

Cookies are a well balanced

2009-05-13T10:08:00.001-07:00

Lunch, right?

I'm just not hungry today.

Nothing sounds good.

So I snagged a few of Izzie's cookies and I'm settled. That counts right?

Guess I'm off to find something suitable for lunch.

Wordless Wednesday -- Silly Girl

2009-05-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

It is such a shame.

2009-05-13T06:51:00.000-07:00

Apparently, a new strain of the "COLD" virus has hit our home.

I've been told this strain is lethal.

I've been told that this particular COLD could not in anyway be the same COLD I had a few weeks ago. Because obviously I am still living. Do I not understand that this strain is LETHAL.

Nobody has ever been this sick before.

If you hadn't guessed it, Jay caught a cold and is as usual being a "MAN SICK" male about it.

What did you get for Mother's day?

2009-05-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Me,

I got these beautiful handprint flowers Lovingly made by Caity and Izzie

And my MM&M mamas, Jenny and Jennie!

I Got this awesome keychain

And I also got some orangey roses and DH got me sonic for dinner LOL

Dear Husband

2009-05-12T19:09:00.000-07:00

When I take my sore back to the kitchen and announce I am cooking dinner please watch the kids.

That DOES NOT mean let them run amuck and underfoot in the kitchen.

Doing so results in whiney kids, an irritated wife, and no dinner.

Thanks much,

Your loving wife.

Tackle It Tuesday -- More baby stuff

2009-05-12T10:07:00.000-07:00

Nope. Sorry. No pics today. I know. I suck. Too bad.

But this weeks tackle was more baby stuff. I finalized the nursery plans. I have bedding on the way. It matches the already painted room.

I went through the 3-6 month clothing and sorted it for washing (once I catch up with laundry again)

I sorted the 6-9 and 12 month clothing and put them in marked bins by size and season to make it easier to go through later.

I pick up our carseat at the end of the month.

A friend has offered us her unused stroller and I graciously accepted (Hey its free -- who cares what color it is)

So there you have it. I've been tackling the baby stuff again -- What have you been doing?

For more Tackle it Tuesday click here

And the Dr. Says....

2009-05-12T10:06:00.001-07:00

I've gained 5.5 lbs since last appt. Which makes a total of 13lbs so far.

Measuring at 24 weeks (so right on)

Everything looks great.

HR in the 150's. BP is great.

In other news, my OB is going on vacation the second week of August -- this means that I will likely go into labor then LOL. That's only a half joke. With Izzie, my OB went on a cruise to Mexico and at my appt. two days before she left, she joked that there was no way I'd go into labor while she was gone.

Guess who was born that weekend.

Her plan is to start checking me at 32 weeks to see if I might go early again. Earlier if I have contractions

Caity's First School Play

2009-05-12T07:10:00.000-07:00

This was from last weeks Spring program.

Here is the preschool class doing "Mr Sun"

She was a little shy about being on stage

Got over that quickly

And Soon was singing like no one was watching (just like she does in the shower, you know)

It was a very very cute program.

I had big plans for this week.....

2009-05-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

But I've been hit by the Sciatica bug,PLUS Izzie has an upper respiratory infection and thus, didn't accomplish much yesterday/today.

I did however accomplish a lot over the weekend.

Friday:
Cleaned Living room -- Folded all laundry, cleaned table off (lots of junk on it)
Organized mail, dusted.

Saturday:
Cleaned our bedroom
5 loads of laundry
Cleaned both bathrooms
Took out all trash.
Made OUr bed

Sunday
6 loads of laundry
Put away girls clothes.
Packed up remaining winter clothes to go into storage.
Organized some more of Calleigh's clothes
Made kids beds with fresh sheets and clean comforters

My list for this week, which I hopefully will be able to accomplish

clean Playroom/Nursery
Clean Kitchen
Finish Laundry (I seriously think there's another 8 loads *I'll note here, that I fell
behind on laundry, and am washing regular laundry AND the newly unpacked summer wardrobes
for everyone*)

I also hope to get some craft time in. I want to get started on

Calleigh's nursery letters and her blanket. Plus a few other things.

it's Raining, It's pouring

2009-05-11T20:55:00.000-07:00

and if we get anymore, I think we'll float away

This is right off the front porch

Driveway

Calleigh's first presents

2009-05-08T06:15:00.000-07:00

Came from Aunt G!

A sweet dress, 2 short sleeve onesies, and a long sleeve onesie, plus some adorable pants.

Thanks Aunt G!

PSF: Kiss Kiss baby sissy

2009-05-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Funny looking pics, eh!

Izzie has become obsessed with my "baby sissy" belly.

She loves to pat it, talk to it and love on it.

On this day, she was pulling up my shirt, kissing my belly saying "Kiss kiss baby sissy"

I just knew it would make a great photo op for our scrapbook.

For more Photo story Friday click here

I Love Old Navy Clearance

2009-05-07T11:08:00.000-07:00

I got the girls matching Christmas shirts/onesies for this year (Caity's is just red, they didn't have an exact match in her size) for .97 a piece.

Izzie & Calleigh's

Caity's chirstmas shirt PLUS two pair of pants for Calleigh (1.50 a piece)

Fleece pants (0.97) and a long sleeve onesie for Calleigh (1.99)

All in all I spent $20.25 and walked away with 11 outfits for Calleigh, and a shirt each for Cait, Izzie, and me.

Awesomeness NEWS

2009-05-07T10:51:00.001-07:00

Chris and Jessica brought home their new bundle of joy this week.

Derrick was born on Monday and is 7lbs. He is Andrew's biological half brother and they are hoping that they will be able to adopt him as well.

I am SO happy/excited for them right now. And I got to snuggle newborn squishiness.

Which of course, only made me wish it was September.

Thursday Thirteen : Baby style

2009-05-07T10:32:00.000-07:00

Thirteen things we need before Miss Calleigh's Arrival.

new carseat
new breast pump
A few bottles (for the occasional babysitter)
Pacifiers (if she decides she wants one)
crib bedding
(that matches the playroom)
socks (where do they disappear too?)
Diaper Bag (Izzie's is trashed after 2 years)
A stroller (but that's not important until Spring next year)
Baby Monitor (we didn't use one with Izzie and gave away Cait's before Izzie was born)
A new Boppy and covers
Baby bathtub (if I decide not to just use the sink)
A few crib sheets and bassinet sheets.
Breast pads for mama!

Dh's Uncle

2009-05-07T07:09:00.001-07:00

arrived from TX yesterday and surprised us.

One thing that annoys me

2009-05-06T04:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, I guess I should say One of the MANY things that annoy me.

Is the people who think that I am/should be disappointed that this baby is another girl.

I've heard a number of comments such as

"I'm sorry its just another girl"
"Are you going to try for a boy?"
"Bet you are upset its not a boy"
"People would buy you gifts if it was a boy"

Yes people, its another girl. But she is just as loved and wanted as her sisters are and were. Am I disappointed, well I can't say that I didn't want a boy, but really, the idea of 3 girls, 3 sisters, when I had none, well it kinda warms my heart. And I know girls.

So No, I'm not disappointed. No we won't try for a boy, this is it folks, the baby factory is closed after this one.

And as far as the gifts go -- I can't think of anything I could possibly need that I can't get myself when I want too. If friends and family want to get something for our girl, I'll be grateful and appreciative as I was each time in the past and will be in the future. If not, no hurt feelings.

Wordless Wednesday -- 22 Weeks

2009-05-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

And my first Bump pic on the blog. With Izzie, I took a belly pic every 4 weeks, with this baby, I'm trying for every 2 weeks. I may or may not add the other bump pics I've taken so far to the blog later. But 22 weeks is a good starting place, I think.

Find more Wordless Wednesday at 3 kids n us, 5 Minutes for mom, and Momdot

Mother's Day Goodies

2009-05-05T10:29:00.001-07:00

Don't forget to enter for your chance(s) to win fabulous prizes at

5 Minutes for Mom's huge Mother's Day giveaway

Tonight

2009-05-05T08:33:00.001-07:00

Is Caity's first Spring program at school.

She's a flower.

That's all I know.

I'll be back tomorrow with pics and a story I'm sure!

Tilty Sippy Cups - A review and Giveaway!

2009-05-05T07:18:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Momselect and Tilty cups I bring you this post.

But first..... Let me tell you a bit about the product.

Anyone with babies and toddlers knows that like a bottle, a good sippy cup is hard to find. You want something easy to use for your child, something they will drink out of, and preferably spill proof and easy to clean/assemble.

These days, of course, there is also the concern over BPA and its use in most bottles and sippy cups.

What makes the tilty cup different?

For starters, it is ingeniously designed so that your baby/toddler doesn't have to lean back much to get their drink out of the cup.

Other Specs about the tilty cup:

9+ months
7oz
Dishwasher Safe (Top Rack)
Polypropylene
BPA Free
Dye Free
PVC Free
Easy to use in a car seat or stroller

What I love about this cup -- Both of my girls took to it immediately. Easy to clean, easy to fill and close, and we only had leaks when Izzie decided she wanted to shake the cup up and milk came out the top. The cup is easy for children to grasp onto, even as young as 9 months. Miss Emmy caught on quickly too.

Do you want to try Tilty Cups? I have a 2 pack to give away to one lucky winner.

Giveaway Details:
I'm leaving this one open two weeks. So entries will be accepted until May 19, 2009.

To enter, first you must visit Tilty cup and tell me something about the cup, the company, or the makers behind the cup.

For extra entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog
2. Blog or Tweet about this contest and post a link in the comments.

The other bit of excitement around here

2009-05-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

Baby Kitties!

I just know its going to break Caity's heart when they are old enough to go to new homes.

The 2 white ones and the black one were born to Athena. The little white/black one was found by SIL abandoned and our mama cat has taken it in and is nursing it. Our babies are 5 weeks old, the little one is somewhere between 2 and 3, best guess on our parts.

Tackle It Tuesday

2009-05-05T06:42:00.000-07:00

We're getting back in the groove of things now that the new house is mostly assembled and unpacked (just don't look downstairs, okay?!)

So this week, I tackled something that I didn't want looming when its 100 degrees outside, I'm as big as a whale, and chasing both girls alone.

I tackled the sorting of the baby girl clothing.

Yes. The good thing about having another girl, is that I don't have to buy very much in the way of clothes. We're extra lucky in that we get all of Lexi and Emmy's hand me downs too! See, there's an upside to having 5 granddaughters, mom!

So what started out as this:

And more boxes here:

IS now washed, stain free, and tucked away in the baby's dresser OR hanging up in the closet.

Please Note: This is only the Preemie/NB, and a few 0-3 month items. I have not yet finisehd the 0-3 nor delved into 3-6 or beyond. I'm not super mom.

For more Tackle it Tuesday visit 5 minutes for mom

And we have...........

2009-05-05T06:23:00.000-07:00

A NAME.

Anyone who knows Jay, knows that he is very particular about names. He came up with our boys name this time in 2 days flat of finding out we were pregnant. A girls name. Well.........not so much.

But finally, finally, he's come around and we've settled on a name we can agree on.

So it is with great pleasure I announce that the latest womb dweller is going to be:

CALLEIGH NICOLE

Meet our new addition

2009-05-04T06:55:00.001-07:00

Isn't she just adorable. :)

She really enjoyed hiding her face and playing with her umbilical cord during the ultrasound.

Life is hectic

2009-05-04T06:39:00.000-07:00

and I've had internet issues at home again, leaving NO time for me to blog. But AT&T Finally (I hope) has our internet and phone up and running with no issues, so I'm trying again.

A few updates before the rest of the posts come.

#1 Caity started school in April! She loves it. She has so much fun and can't wait to go each day. We're kind of at a stand still with her urology issues, waiting on a future appt with her URO for a new medicine -- but it is not recommended to take that specific medicine in the summer time.

#2 Izzie is doing well. Her lead levels are in the normal range and her anemia seems to be holding in check.

#3 The new baby is another GIRL! Yep, we just keep going on with what we know. She is set to arrive in August via Repeat C-section.

2009-03-30T06:27:00.000-07:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Real Enemy
David C. Cook (March 2009)
by
Kathy Herman

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Suspense novelist Kathy Herman is very much at home in the Christian book industry, having worked five years on staff at the Christian Booksellers Association (CBA) in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and eleven years at Better Books Christian Center in Tyler, Texas, as product buyer/manager for the children’s department, and eventually as director of human resources.

She has conducted numerous educational seminars on children’s books at CBA Conventions in the U.S. and Canada, served a preliminary judge for the Gold Medallion Book Awards of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association , and worked as an independent product/marketing consultant to the CBA market.

Since her first novel, Tested by Fire, debuted in 2001 as a CBA national bestseller, she's added thirteen more titles to her credit, including another bestseller, All Things Hidden.

Kathy's husband Paul is her best friend and most ardent supporter and manages the LifeWay Christian Store in Tyler, Texas. They have three grown children, five adorable grandkids, a cat named Samantha—and an ongoing fascination with hummingbirds. They also enjoy world travel, deep sea fishing, stargazing, and bird watching and sometimes incorporate all these hobbies into one big adventure.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Brill Jessup just became the first female police chief in Sophie Trace, Tennessee, and is riding on the credentials of a stellar eighteen-year career on the Memphis police force. She may be a pro at finding clues, but she tends to ignore the obvious in her personal life. And she would rather work than deal with the bitterness she feels about her husband Kurt's infidelity. Kurt, is weighed down by her unrelenting anger as he struggles to let God redeem the stupidest mistake he ever made. He is genuinely contrite and making every effort to show his commitment to Brill. But she hides behind her badge and her bitterness, deciding that moving her family away from Memphis is the only change she needs to make. So why can't Brill get over this anger?

Before she ever has time to unpack her boxes, people start disappearing. Lots of them. Seven people in seven days To complicate matters, a local legend has many residents believing that the cause is unearthly─tied to the “red shadows,” or spirits of the departed Cherokee who once inhabited the land.

While Brill draws on all of her experience and instinct to solve the case, she must confront an enemy that threatens everything she holds dear─one that cannot be stopped with a badge and a gun. She is forced to confront the real enemy.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Real Enemy, go HERE

So A Little bit of a surprise

2009-03-27T11:07:00.000-07:00

If you happened to notice, though I have not changed my ticker yet, yes I know I'm bad.

We discovered that we are 3 weeks further along than we originally thought! Making me almost halfway through this pregnancy!!!

We go in April 14th to try to find out the gender and check babies kidneys

Late to the Party

2009-03-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

But check out 5Minutesformom's Big blog party.

Find new blogs to read, join a chance to win prizes. Have fun!

These are the Prizes I"m most interested in

* Ergo
* $50 gift certificate to Target Stores (there's more than one donated, by the way)
* Baby Dipper Bowl and spoon set

IF these are taken, anything suitable for a 5year old, 2year old, or newborn would be wonderful!

So For visitors, A little about me, I am Kris, 27, wife to Jay, and together we have two daughters, Caity, who is 5, and Izzie who is 2, and we are also expecting baby #3 who is due Sept. 5th!

New Snuggle Creme

2009-03-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about the new Snuggle? It's called SnuggleCreme and is available in two scents, Sweet Almond and Jojoba Essence. Leave your clothes soft and smelling fresh!

A Cousin's Promise

2009-03-24T05:57:00.001-07:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Cousin's Promise
Barbour Books (March 1, 2009)
by
Wanda Brunstetter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Wanda enjoys writing about the Amish because they live a peaceful, simple life─something she says we all need in this day and age.

Using the knowledge her Amish friends have shared with her, Wanda has also produced several children’s titles in the Rachel Yoder─Always Trouble Somewhere series, an Amish cookbook, and a devotional collection entitled The Simpler Life, which was released in July 2008 and celebrates the virtues of the Amish lifestyle. Wanda and her husband are members of the fellowship of Christian Magicians.

Wanda is also a member of the North American Association of ventriloquists, American Christian Fiction Writers, and the Northwest Christian Writers Association. She lives in Washington State, where her husband pastors, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish settlements across the country.

Other books by Wanda are A Sister's Test, A Sister's Hope, and A Sister's Secret

ABOUT THE BOOK

Wayne Lambright who, crippled after a tragic accident, feels himself unworthy of her love; and Jake Beechy who, after having abandoned her to explore the English world, returns to renew their courtship.

Willkumm to the lush and lavish Amish country where Wanda Brunstetter's new romantic series, Indiana Cousins, begins with A Cousin's Promise. Loraine Miller finds herself torn between the love of two good men.

When a horrific accident cripples Wayne Lambright, he finds it difficult enough to take care of himself, much less Loraine Miller, his future bride. Will he sacrifice his happiness to give her a better life?

Having already been jilted once, Loraine is terrified of yet another rejection. But does she love Wayne enough to marry him, for better or worse? When her old boyfriend Jake Beechy returns from exploring the English world, he hopes Loraine will give him another chance.

How will God work to give Loraine the desires of her heart? To which man will she pledge her love and loyalty - for better or worse, until death they do part?

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Cousin's Promise, go HERE

Meet the Bean

2009-03-21T06:03:00.000-07:00

Isn't he/she cute!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-11T08:25:00.001-07:00

Won't be wordless this week.

My great grandmother died last night. So I'm a little verklempt right now.

Happy 2nd Birthday Baby Girl

2009-03-05T07:38:00.003-08:00

May the next year treat you well as you blossom and grow.

Congrats Chris & Jess

2009-03-04T09:19:00.000-08:00

On the adoption of Andrew! It's been a long time coming and I couldn't be happier for you!

Wordless Wednesday -- Surprise!

2009-03-04T09:18:00.000-08:00

Double Minds

2009-03-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Double Minds
Zondervan (February 1, 2009)

by
Terri Blackstock

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Terri Blackstock hasn’t always written for the Lord. Just over a decade ago she was an award-winning secular novelist writing for publishers such as HarperCollins, Harlequin, and Silhouette. With thirty-two titles published and 3.5 million books in print, she found that she was miserable. The compromises she had made in her career had taken their toll on her spiritual life, and she yearned to renew her relationship with Christ.

After much soul-searching and wrestling with God, she finally told the Lord that she would never write another thing that didn’t glorify Him. Thinking she might never be published again, she began planning ways to supplement her income, while she worked on her first idea for a Christian novel.

Because she enjoyed reading suspense novels, she tried weaving a faith message into a fast-paced page-turner with ordinary people in jeopardy. When Christian publishers expressed great interest, she realized that a secondary job would not be necessary. God was paving the way for her to enter the Christian publishing world.

Since that time, she’s sold 2 million Christian novels. She has over thirty Christian titles, many of which have been number one best-sellers. Her latest book, Dawn's Light is part of her popular Restoration Series. True Light, reached number one on the Top 50 of all Christian books the first full month it was in stores. Night Light was the winner of the 2007 Retailer’s Choice Award for General Fiction. Other reader favorites include her Cape Refuge Series, her Newpointe 911 Series, her SunCoast Chronicles Series and her “Seasons” books written with co-author Beverly LaHaye.

Terri is literally a native of nowhere since she was raised in the Air Force, She makes her home in Mississippi. Terri and her husband are the parents of three adult children--a blended family which she considers one more of God's provisions.

Terri has appeared on national television programs such as “The 700 Club” and “Home Life,” and has been a guest on numerous radio programs across the country.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Struggling to succeed in the Nashville music scene, talented singer/songwriter Parker James finds the competition fierce – even deadly. A young woman’s murder, industry corruption, and a menacing stalker draw Parker into danger and intrigue. Nothing is as it appears, and unraveling the truth challenges everything Parker believes about her talent, her future, and her faith.

The young girl with the Bohemian style was on the floor where she’d fallen, between Parker's computer case and her file cabinet. She wore a long, flowing skirt—lavender, the color of calm—and camel-colored Uggs. She lay on her back, her long, wavy blonde hair matted with blood.

For struggling singer/songwriter Parker James, the music business has just turned deadly. Her desk in the reception area of a busy recording studio has become a crime scene, and Parker finds herself drawn into a mystery where nothing is as it seems.

Unraveling the truth puts her own life at risk when she uncovers high-level industry corruption and is terrorized by a menacing stalker. As the danger escalates, Parker begins to question her dreams, her future, and even her faith.

Double Minds is a double treat—combining a compelling suspense novel with an inside look at the world of the Christian music industry in Nashville. Terri Blackstock grabs readers at page one and keeps them riveted until the final plot twist is untangled.

You can preview a Book Trailer on her site HERE

If you would like to read the first chapter of Double Minds, go HERE

Yep....

2009-03-03T08:34:00.002-08:00

Look to the Left. You see that.

That my dears is the latest shocker in my life.

And the reason I've been to sick to blog

Triaminic

2009-02-23T13:37:00.000-08:00

Triaminic has come out with a new Sick Day guidelines list to help us mom's out. If you'd like to see these guidelines, click Here

You can also get a coupon for your next Triaminic Purchase by visiting Triaminics site OR clicking the following image.

While your browsing the cold/flu medicines, why not check out the newest product for your kids

These thin strips deliver the perfect amount of medicine in an easy manner -- perfect for when you are in a rush or out and about.

Wordless Wednesday -- Check these out

2009-02-18T08:03:00.000-08:00

FOr more Wordless Wednesday check out MOMDOT

Flowers

2009-02-13T08:16:00.001-08:00

Yep I just got some delivered to me at work.

Say it with me now....Awww.

Izzie's Best Friend (and cousin)

2009-02-13T07:14:00.000-08:00

Izzie just loves Miss Emmy. They get along fantastically. SO much so that Emmy usually has to attack Izzie with kisses and face suckage

Occasionally a little hair pullage

But mostly they just play together

See Dad -- Your granddaughters get along famously (Much like their mom and dad did back when we were kids!)

PSF -- The making of a Bedroom

2009-02-13T07:02:00.000-08:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Photo Story Friday : The making of a Bedroom

I know I've been MIA (hey I did warn you) But I've been busy building a house. Or rebuilding I guess is more accurate. So today's PSF is to show that while I've been offline -- I acturally did accomplish some stuff.

This story picks up AFTER the removal of the old sheetrock and flooring and the putting up of the new sheetrock.

First -- You put on the paint. Picked out by oldest child.

Paint the whole room

Add wall decor

Add some flooring. Put up trim and add beds

Make sure to add a couple of dressers too

Hang Curtains, Add comforters, and Voila -- It's a bedroom

Keep on the look out for the playroom next :D

For more PSF, click here

Cry In The Night

2009-02-11T06:33:00.001-08:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Cry In The Night
Thomas Nelson (February 3, 2009)
by
Colleen Coble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Author Colleen Coble's thirty novels and novellas have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Romance Writers of America prestigious RITA award, the Holt Medallion, the ACFW Book of the Year, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers' Choice, and the Booksellers Best awards. She writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail and love begin with a happy ending.

AWARDS:
2004 More Than Magic winner for Best Inspirational Romance
Without a Trace, Thomas Nelson
2004 American Christian Fiction Writers Mentor of the Year

ABOUT THE BOOK

The highly anticipated novel that delivers what romantic suspense fans have long awaited-the return to Rock Harbor.
Bree Nichols gets the shock of her life when her husband-presumed dead-reappears.

Bree Nichols and her search and rescue dog Samson discover a crying infant in the densely forested woods outside of Rock Harbor, Michigan. Against objections from her husband, Kade, who knows she'll become attached, Bree takes the baby in. Quickly she begins a search for the mother-presumably the woman reported missing just days earlier.
While teams scour the forests, Bree ferrets out clues about the missing woman. But she soon discovers something more shocking: Bree's former husband-long presumed dead in a plane crash-resurfaces. Is he really who he says he is? And should she trust him again after all these years?
An engaging, romantic suspense novel from critically-acclaimed author Colleen Coble.

If you would like to read the first chapter of , go HERE

Thank you AT&T

2009-02-09T06:55:00.000-08:00

For finally figuring out why I had no DSL at my new residence. It only took about 20 phone calls and over a month to figure it out -- but Thank you for finally getting it resolved.

It's always nice to actually RECEIVE the service you are paying for.

Against All Odds

2009-02-09T06:46:00.000-08:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Against All Odds
Revell (February 1, 2009)
by
Irene Hannon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Irene Hannon is an award-winning author who took the publishing world by storm at the tender age of 10 with a sparkling piece of fiction that received national attention.

Okay…maybe that’s a slight exaggeration. But she was one of the honorees in a complete-the-story contest conducted by a national children’s magazine. And she likes to think of that as her “official” fiction-writing debut.

Since then, she has written more than 25 romance and romantic suspense novels that have sold more than 1.5 million copies. Her books have been honored with the coveted RITA award from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romantic fiction), the HOLT Medallion and a Reviewer’s Choice award from Romantic Times BOOKreviews magazine.

Irene, who holds a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in journalism, juggled two careers for many years until she gave up her executive corporate communications position with a Fortune 500 company to write full. She is happy to say she has no regrets! As she points out, leaving behind the rush-hour commute, corporate politics and a relentless BlackBerry that never slept was no sacrifice.

In her spare time, Irene enjoys hamming it up in community musical theater productions. A trained vocalist, she has sung the leading role in numerous musicals, including “South Pacific,” “Brigadoon,” “Oklahoma” “The King and I” and “Anything Goes.” She also regularly performs with a six-person musical review troupe and is a cantor at her church (where she does NOT ham it up!).

When not otherwise occupied, Irene loves to cook and garden. She and her husband also enjoy traveling, Saturday mornings at their favorite coffee shop and spending time with family. They make their home in Missouri.

ABOUT THE BOOK

For FBI Hostage Rescue Team member Evan Cooper and his partner, dignitary protection duty should have been a piece of cake. Unfortunately, Monica Callahan isn’t making it easy. Estranged from her diplomat father, who is involved in a sensitive hostage situation in the Middle East, she refuses to be intimidated by a related terrorist threat back in the States…until a chilling warning convinces her that the danger is very real—and escalating. As Coop and his partner do their best to keep her safe, David Callahan continues his work—triggering an abduction that puts his daughter’s life at risk. And with every second that ticks by, Coop knows that the odds of saving the only woman who has ever managed to breach the walls around his heart are dropping. Because terrorists aren’t known for their patience—or their mercy.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Against All Odds, go HERE

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING:

4 ½-star, “Top Pick” rating from Romantic Times BOOKreviews!

"Brava! Award winner Hannon debuts the heroes of Quantico series with a wonderful
array of believable characters, action and suspense that will keep readers glued to each page. Hannon’s extraordinary writing, vivid scenes and surprise ending come together for a not-to-be-missed reading experience.”
~Romantic Times BOOKreviews~

“I found someone who writes romantic suspense better than I do. I highly recommend Against All Odds as one of the best books I've had the privilege of reading this year. This is a captivating, fast-paced, well written romantic suspense destined for my keeper shelf. I loved this book, and highly recommend this author."
~Dee Henderson~ Author of the O’Malley Family Series

Merry Christmas

2008-12-17T08:15:00.000-08:00

We have a new house

2008-12-17T07:46:00.003-08:00

And so I'll be a touch MIA while getting it ready to move in to and moving in. I'll post further details later -- Got a phone call to make right now.

Wordless Wednesday -- I love you BABY!

2008-12-17T07:45:00.001-08:00

Label Daddy saves the day (and my sanity)

2008-12-11T09:54:00.000-08:00

As most busy moms, I have a hard time keeping track of all of my girl's thing. I'm very particular about the girls and their exposure to germs due to their health problems. So of course, we keep our sippy cups and binkies to ourselves. Imagine my horror when picking them up at the church nursery one day to find they'd been drinking out of some one else's sippy cup all morning. *GASP* Seriously, this bothered me. So I went home, steralized their cups and pulled out my magic Sharpie.

Unfortunately sharpie only lasts so long, usually just long enough for you to stick the cup in the dishwasher. So I was on the lookout for something better. And I found it.
I had the chance to reveiw some awesome new labels from Label Daddy, a new business owned by two dads! The labels are awesome! Seriously they stick like glue -- I have washed every cup/plate, etc I attached htem too and they are still stuck there, like they were the first time I put them there.

The labels are available in several pretty colors and of course are personalizable!

Label Daddy's Labels take care of my problem for me. I put Caity's name on her cups, her extra clothes, everything that would get mixed with other children's things. And the label's stick and they stay!

These labels have saved me so much sanity. I find that I can use them for anything. My newest use was sticking them on the bins for Caity's laundry. Now she'll know which is her bin to put away. I'm definitely ordering some for Miss Izzie too.

And one of my readers will be lucky too. Label Daddy is sponsoring a giveaway for my readers. So Follow the simple rules and try to win.

1st and foremost you must go to the Label Daddy site and tell me what labels you would love to have.

For extra entries:
* Blog about this giveaway and link to both Label Daddy and my blog
* Follow me on Twitter and Tweet about this contest
* Add me to your blogroll

Label Daddy has also given us a coupon code to share. If you enter Daddy4 in the coupon code section, you will receive 10% off any order placed.

YAY JC!!

2008-12-10T08:59:00.000-08:00

I can't believe your little one will arrive in the world today!

I'm so excited. Can't wait to meet him or her!

I still say girl. And I say you deserve that!

Much love to you! I can't think of anyone more blessed!

Macy's Friends and Family Savings Event!

2008-12-07T15:55:00.000-08:00

From Wednesday December 10th through Monday December 15th, Macy's is offering everyone use of their employee discount.

That's right, an extra 20% off for everyone!

Download the Macy's Friends and Family Coupon!

There's a nwe bambino

2008-12-05T09:16:00.000-08:00

in the family.

Ok. So not really family. But we are such close friends, we might as well be family. And alas that is where I disappeared to yesterday.

Welcome to the world Baby Bry.