tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381416100682557192011-12-09T20:43:38.828-07:00Life Through the Eyes of a MotherJanicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.comBlogger3711100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-37537073738922374082011-12-09T20:43:00.000-07:002011-12-09T20:43:38.837-07:00

This evening, Jackson received his Tiger Cub green belt!!!  We are so very proud of him.  It has been four months and he has yet to not want to go to tae kwon do!!!  Pretty awesome for an activity we usually go to three times a week! Getting ready to recite the ten tenants. (so far I can only remember five of them) "Hi Mom!!!"  Getting his new belt from Master Overstreet (owner and head

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-57845591012322144002011-12-06T09:00:00.000-07:002011-12-06T09:00:05.061-07:00

Yes, you read that right.  We have snow and plenty of it.  Sure, it's no Wisconsin blizzard, but it's enough for the town to shut down.  Frankly, I really don't care for it right now.  Most of my friends think I'm terrible for not liking it, but I was hoping for one tour in a location without snow.  I figured, being only a couple hours from Mexico, I wouldn't have this problem! Anywho, the kids (

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-77812896793721757322011-11-08T18:57:00.000-07:002011-11-08T18:57:27.605-07:00

I thought about trying to play catch up with all the photos I have, and I decided against it.  I simply do not have the time.  Both kids are in preschool.  I am teaching music at their school.  Jackson has soccer three times a week and taekwondo three times a week.  I work with our churches children's choir on Wednesday nights.  The kids have AWANA on Sunday nights.  And somewhere in there, we

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-54638666976419982062011-06-24T07:29:00.000-06:002011-06-24T07:29:12.918-06:00

So, there was something big we wanted to get Jackson, but were really hoping to wait until his birthday or Christmas.  Unfortunately, that isn't until November and we decided we just couldn't wait any longer.  So, yesterday, Jackson got his super big boy bike!!! Initially, we planned to just go to Walmart, but, being unsure of the correct size bike for him, we headed to a local bike store to get

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-83320548697187727962011-06-16T11:51:00.000-06:002011-06-16T11:51:26.563-06:00

The wind has FINALLY died down and you know what that means???  Sand sledding!!! The kids and I went out this morning.  Still working on getting Molly to actually sled instead of just playing in the sand.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-79823876314386608972011-06-14T16:41:00.000-06:002011-06-14T16:41:55.455-06:00

This past Sunday, we headed up to the Old Apple Barn and enjoyed some ice cream in the beautiful weather!  What a blessing it is to be able to drive up into the mountains and get some relief from the heat! I was also excited to be able to get Molly back into pigtails!!!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-84612664724249586582011-06-11T17:52:00.000-06:002011-06-11T17:52:59.050-06:00

Today, we purchased the Playstation Move along with the game Eyepet!  Jackson and Molly had played this once at their cousin's house and had a blast.  Today was no exception.  They had loads of fun with their eyepet "Fuzzy."  Now, if I could just stop them from kicking and trying to jump on Fuzzy, he might stop scowling at them.  :)  Fuzzy also seemed to really like sitting on Molly's lap.  He

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-26610851970418199612011-06-11T15:34:00.000-06:002011-06-11T15:34:26.202-06:00

Molly was very excited to get a new PINK baseball bat!  We had to go test it out! I LOVE his batting face!  Cracks me up every time! Time to hit the playground after batting practice!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-41229050174472969022011-06-06T14:34:00.000-06:002011-06-06T14:34:51.798-06:00

Even though it has been pretty hot out, we really needed to get some fresh air.  We picked up a picnic blanket at Walmart, ran through the McD's drive-thru and headed off to the zoo!  We all had a wonderful afternoon!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-41393045798996480142011-06-05T18:35:00.000-06:002011-06-05T18:35:38.951-06:00

This afternoon, Jackson decided he wanted to do some P90X with Jason!  Molly just wanted to be a monkey! Check out those muscles! So strong!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-19632823022956070272011-06-05T18:25:00.000-06:002011-06-05T18:25:32.755-06:00

On our way to Las Vegas, we stopped for a night in Phoenix.  And what's a trip to Phoenix without a stop at Ikea!!!  It was even more exciting this time, because we were able to drop off BOTH kids in Smalland!  Jason and I got a whole hour of shipping child free!!! Among several other items, we picked up this need paper roll holder!  The kids love having a (what seems to be) endless roll of paper

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-51522025243433568812011-06-05T18:21:00.000-06:002011-06-05T18:21:56.976-06:00

We took advantage of a tour bus trip to the Hoover Dam.  Along the way, the bus stopped at the famous Las Vegas sign so we could all get out and take photos! Jackson was checking out the GIANT pipes that pumped water through the dam. Even though the Hoover Dam is a huge source of power for Nevada and Arizona, all of Las Vegas is actually solar powered!  Cool, huh? I can't believe I drove

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-53340441253028923312011-06-05T18:06:00.000-06:002011-06-05T18:06:25.050-06:00

We were very excited to have the chance to go to a Brazilian Steakhouse!  Children 6 and under ate free and they had a 15% military discount!  Can't beat that!  We had done some shopping earlier in our visit, so the kids were decked out for dinner!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-31345068066436536982011-06-05T17:51:00.000-06:002011-06-05T17:51:02.456-06:00

After having to stand in line and be good most days, we decided the kids needed the chance to run!  We had passed a playground on an earlier trip to the Cheesecake Factory. Jackson also said he really wanted to go bowling.  Unfortunately, this bowling alley didn't have the ramps that the kids are use to using, so they just had to use brute strength! Thank goodness those lanes are so durable

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-59035314454353804532011-06-05T17:11:00.000-06:002011-06-05T17:11:38.425-06:00

Next stop, Circus Circus!!!  To be more specific, the Adventuredome!  It's a completely indoor theme park!  I think the kids would have spent all day every day here! This was Jackson's favorite ride, the Frog Hopper! And the BC Bus was Molly's favorite ride! After seeing Jackson go on the Frog Hopper seven times, Molly finally decided she was up for the challenge. Yes, it really did go up

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-13068145014715227662011-06-05T17:00:00.000-06:002011-06-05T17:00:23.112-06:00

One of our first stops on our trip to Vegas was the Mandalay Bay Shark Reef.  We all had a wonderful time!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-24017580365642573712011-05-10T18:43:00.000-06:002011-05-10T18:43:45.513-06:00

So, last week I learned how to make sopapillas.  Ever since, I have been going sopapilla crazy!  Yesterday, I ventured into creating stuffed sopapillas.  I started off simply by using store bought meatballs. I think they turned out fabulously!  A little spaghetti sauce and they were perfect! Next up, taco sopapillas!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-42136070486011400722011-05-10T18:35:00.000-06:002011-05-10T18:35:08.812-06:00

Jackson has been wanting a trampoline for quite some time.  We told the kids that they needed to save their money to get one.  I found a "My First Trampoline" at Sam's club and, after looking it up online, I discovered Sam's had an amazing price on it!  So, the next time I had the chance, I grabbed one (and the kids helped pay for it).  I really like this trampoline.  It isn't as huge and

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-48045480864111460582011-04-30T12:38:00.000-06:002011-04-30T12:38:37.766-06:00

This morning was the annual AWANA Grand Prix!!!  Jason and Jackson worked on their car together.  They went down the track four times (once on each lane).  There were awards for speed and then for design.  Jackson won first for speed AND design in his division!  We are so proud of him.  His little ant car did great! Jackson's is in the red lane on this one. This time he's on the blue lane.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-18486969883302184932011-04-29T21:42:00.000-06:002011-04-29T21:42:02.219-06:00

After discovering that I did, indeed, know where our tent was, Jason and Jackson had the brilliant idea to camp out  in the backyard.  I'm not sure who was the most excited for this idea. It took a while to get the tent set up, but there it is!  Initially, it was just going to be Jason and Jackson, but after Molly came crying to the back door with her pajamas in one hand and her stuffed bunny

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-774914739141273242011-04-28T16:43:00.000-06:002011-04-28T16:43:06.986-06:00

 Even Benny got in on the action!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-40446461130545093252011-04-28T16:26:00.000-06:002011-04-28T16:26:28.472-06:00

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-73055049465414171092011-04-25T18:28:00.000-06:002011-04-25T18:28:35.828-06:00

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-9560172579239744072011-04-25T18:18:00.000-06:002011-04-25T18:18:01.698-06:00

Check out their mad basketball skills!!! Ok, so maybe they don't have mad skills.  But I think they're pretty clever. :)

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-38862339453030151942011-04-24T18:15:00.000-06:002011-04-24T18:15:13.976-06:00

Thank you Papa and Reen for giving me children a ridiculous amount of chocolate.  :)  They each received a solid half pound chocolate bunny!  This evening we let them break out the bunnies.  I greatly under estimated their love for chocolate.  After a while, I just had to cut them off.  Yeah, we'll see how well they sleep tonight! This was Molly NOT sharing her bunny with Daddy. :)  This girl

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-31236434674367353962011-04-24T16:08:00.000-06:002011-04-24T16:08:27.480-06:00

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-59032505510036272212011-04-24T15:55:00.000-06:002011-04-24T15:55:45.953-06:00

I bought a bubble blowing machine at the last minute.  It was a total hit!!! Sydney found Jackson's camera.  I'll be curious to see what photos we find. This is cake #2.  I think it still turned out great! Some how, Molly managed to blow out each candle one at a time.  And the middle one even went out first! This was our friend's little girl, Madison.  She is just so adorable!!!  I had

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-19127884143827629272011-04-24T15:38:00.000-06:002011-04-24T15:38:36.094-06:00

So, it is the day of Molly's birthday party and what do I wake up to find???  Benny has eaten a large part of Molly's birthday cake!!!  What a way to start the day!!!  (he also managed to snag two cupcakes, too)

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-74729071917154398052011-04-22T20:54:00.000-06:002011-04-22T20:54:52.066-06:00

Molly's party isn't until tomorrow, but we had a few presents for her to open on her birthday! We bought her a Disney Princess sleeping bag.  She was a little excited. Papa and Reen's presents came yesterday so I saved them for her to open on her birthday.  I love the clothes they got for her!!! We let her sleep in her sleeping bag tonight!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-3723582433881935032011-04-22T20:26:00.000-06:002011-04-22T20:26:34.025-06:00

 Getting some fresh air (still with her pajama's on) on Molly's birthday! An airplane was flying over and Jackson told me "I waved at the people in the plane cause that makes them happy!"

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-65289158194191955142011-04-22T20:15:00.000-06:002011-04-22T20:15:55.620-06:00

Lately, I have found myself noticing little adorable things around the house.  Here are a couple things the caught my eye over the past couple days. Molly dragged her doll bed all the way from the playroom into her room so that her bunny could take a nap next to her. Jason and Jackson have been playing catch a lot more lately.  I think the size difference in their gloves is adorable.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-84916602738316448022011-04-22T20:05:00.000-06:002011-04-22T20:05:00.328-06:00

I love being able to send my kids outside to play.  I especially love when they decide to dress up for the occasion!  Not only is Jackson wearing his Superman costume, he also has brand new Captain America sunglasses! And Molly just wouldn't be Molly without a tutu.  This time, she added the butterfly wings so she could fly around the yard.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-59702635346694049872011-04-22T19:53:00.001-06:002011-04-22T20:18:15.374-06:00

This isn't really the best photo of them,  (had to take a quick photo before we started singing) but I was just SOOOOOOOOO proud of my little singers.  I can't even imagine the joy on Jesus' face as he listened to these little ones since "What A Mighty God We Serve" and "God Is So Good."  I was doing my best to direct them, but by the end, there were tears welling up in my eyes.  To hear them

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-38046443519594720322011-04-16T09:35:00.000-06:002011-04-16T09:35:49.197-06:00

This week, Jason has been working to make "catch" time for Jackson.  Every day, when Jason gets home from work, he and Jackson head out to the backyard to play some good quality catch.  Jackson is getting better and better every day.  Even with his leg brace, he has great form!  See for yourself.  (We also get a kick out of his tongue hanging out every time he throws the ball.  Jason says this

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-7541529679159491462011-04-15T10:04:00.000-06:002011-04-15T10:04:57.306-06:00

I'm having visions of my brothers and a large wicker chair. For those who don't know, my brothers spent much of my childhood enclosing me under a wicker chair.  I am amazed I am not more afraid of confined spaces. :)  But I love my brothers!!!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-35096957774501999502011-04-15T08:52:00.000-06:002011-04-15T08:52:53.804-06:00

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-56929466599610212822011-04-15T08:41:00.000-06:002011-04-15T08:41:24.907-06:00

After Jackson got home from the hospital, it was a pretty relaxing evening.  He spend most of it laying on the couch watching TV. Today?  Well, aside from the brace on his leg, you would have no idea he was ever hurt!  He has been wrestling Benny.  I just told him to not stand on a chair.  Seriously?  Isn't he suppose to be tired and resting?

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-72284044098013052792011-04-15T08:35:00.000-06:002011-04-15T08:35:55.534-06:00

Even princesses and ballerinas like to wrestle!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-59621623893929893162011-04-15T08:19:00.000-06:002011-04-15T08:19:57.109-06:00

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-49572605357437225712011-04-15T08:15:00.000-06:002011-04-15T08:15:13.965-06:00

We even got to do some "face time" with Grandpa and he sang Happy Birthday to Molly.  She loved every minute of it! Having face time with Grandpa! He is apparently VERY silly! Tag Jr. from Mommy and Daddy! New ballet slippers from Grandma and Grandpa! And a new princess dress! She also got another tutu and matching headband.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-32613812055835531392011-04-08T16:46:00.000-06:002011-04-08T16:46:58.201-06:00

Since Grandma is here, we are going to be having a small early birthday celebration for Molly!  I order cakes for my kids big birthday parties, but for this, I wanted to make something myself.  I think it's cute and I kept it simple.  All we need is the giant "3" candle to put in the middle!  Looking forward to enjoying it tomorrow!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-76550156182170958372011-04-08T16:41:00.000-06:002011-04-08T16:41:40.199-06:00

For usually being a light sleeper, she sure didn't have a problem falling asleep right on the couch.  We were even able to get some cleaning done around her and she never moved!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-44019240123976962592011-04-01T19:43:00.001-06:002011-04-01T19:49:45.015-06:00

What a week it has been!!! First, I had shoulder surgery. Then, both Jackson and Molly got pinkeye. Next, Jason got a stomach bug. Then I got a stomach bug. Then I got a cold. Then Jason got another stomach bug. Through all of this, Jackson is still having night terrors and has been screaming up to eight times a night. I am quite certain I would not have survived this week with my sanity in

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-2349596903362435652011-04-01T19:42:00.000-06:002011-04-01T19:42:44.862-06:00

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-30416207810210863502011-04-01T18:32:00.006-06:002011-04-01T19:44:52.730-06:00

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-50270458319672908532011-04-01T18:29:00.003-06:002011-04-01T19:45:39.684-06:00

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-48829250402150661092011-03-23T17:40:00.000-06:002011-03-23T17:40:07.652-06:00

As I slowly but surely clean my house, I wanted to bring in a little sunshine to brighten up the place.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-2380361390450571902011-03-21T19:06:00.000-06:002011-03-21T19:06:22.889-06:00

I decided to test out having short hair on Benny.  Living in New Mexico with a long, thick coat of black hair just can't be comfortable.   When I picked him up, I could hardly believe it was my dog!!!  He looks like a puppy again!  It will take a little getting use to, though.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-21491732183205307682011-03-21T18:53:00.000-06:002011-03-21T18:53:31.069-06:00

This past Saturday, we had an Dining-out and Awards banquet for Jason's group.  I realize there is no photo of myself and Jason, but a friend did take one with her camera and has assured me that I will be getting it via email soon. I'm not going to go through explaining all there is to know about a Grog (google it), just know that we had one and it was gross.  Here are some photos of some "

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-57722236724425805582011-03-21T18:40:00.000-06:002011-03-21T18:40:10.877-06:00

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-67376161034746433202011-03-20T20:04:00.001-06:002011-03-20T20:04:22.818-06:00

She really didn't want me to take her photo, but I just couldn't help myself.  She looks so pretty.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-52312981150350796992011-03-16T15:20:00.000-06:002011-03-16T15:20:30.395-06:00

Taking advantage of the sunshine!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-85979718194391027602011-03-16T15:08:00.000-06:002011-03-16T15:08:39.088-06:00

Princess Batgirl???  (yes, she is wearing her Cinderella costume on under that) My own little superhero squad! Off to save the day!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-43173407386452581082011-03-16T15:03:00.000-06:002011-03-16T15:03:18.479-06:00

I couldn't help myself.  She can't hate me forever, right?

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-66020345868685537182011-03-14T09:46:00.000-06:002011-03-14T09:46:04.627-06:00

Generally, I do my best to empty pockets before starting up a load of laundry. Apparently, I missed a pair of Jackson's pants.  The wash machine survived and, surprisingly, everything from his pockets survived as well.  I couldn't help taking a photo of all I had found.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-89574708995111100022011-03-14T09:40:00.000-06:002011-03-14T09:40:41.100-06:00

After having nearly a year of not being able to do anything with Molly's hair, I have finally decided it was long enough for Pebbles Pigtails!!!  I'm not sure I have ever seen a girl so excited to have her hair done.  I think she looks adorable and I am looking forward to many years of playing hair dresser with my little doll.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-69196503019967084422011-03-14T09:32:00.000-06:002011-03-14T09:32:13.261-06:00

Hello Sunshine!  I would say I had missed you, but I live in New Mexico now, so you never leave.  I must admit, there are days when I miss the gloomy overcast of a midwestern winter.  But that all goes away when it isn't even spring yet and the temperatures get into the 70's regularly!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-70197442026928479902011-03-14T09:19:00.001-06:002011-03-14T09:47:34.421-06:00

Recently, Jackson discovered that it is possible to have cake when it isn't anyones birthday!  However, he still hasn't figured out that there is such a thing as just "cake."  All cake is birthday cake to this little man!  So, when I suggested we make a cake, he was right there with the birthday decorations!  I figured it wasn't really hurting anything so we baked a birthday cake! During the

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-18912416845726883262011-03-14T09:05:00.000-06:002011-03-14T09:05:24.905-06:00

Jackson loves to play dress-up.  He doesn't, however, care what it is he is dressing up in.  Having a princess for a little sister meant princess dress-up clothes.  It was cute and funny at the beginning, but now I decided it was time he had some more "manly" clothes to dress-up in (however, this doesn't keep him from being a princess once in a awhile). So, I went to my friendly neighbor

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-10582273671054742212011-02-28T16:36:00.000-07:002011-02-28T16:36:49.454-07:00

I recently created a Monday through Friday schedule for the kids at home.  I got tired of hearing "I want something to eat" and "I want to watch a show" every five minutes.  So I created a schedule so I could show the kids when they would be able to have a snack or watch a TV show.  I also took advantage of this schedule to throw in some other activities such as a reading or puzzle time.  

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-18614037957947765572011-02-27T16:46:00.001-07:002011-02-27T16:46:06.266-07:00

This morning, when we were about to get ready for church, I picked up Molly and discovered a rather unpleasant smell.  But it wasn't a normal little kid bad smell.  I intended to just wipe her down with some wet wipes until Jason discovered the smell somewhere else.  It was a bottle of scotch-guard carpet cleaner and it was leaking on the carpet.  Not long after his discovery, I figured out why

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-47084981284095369302011-02-27T00:52:00.000-07:002011-02-27T00:52:03.048-07:00

Friday night, our local Relay for Life team had a fund raiser at the high school.  They challenged the Harlem Ambassadors to a "friendly" game of basketball.  I was excited to be able to take Jackson, just the two of us, since usually that's the sort of thing Daddy gets to do.  We had so much fun!  We arrived early and were able to find seats right at the front.   In case you haven't already

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-25735104340128010702011-02-27T00:21:00.000-07:002011-02-27T00:21:59.679-07:00

The weather is getting beautiful and we are getting outside!  And, for these kids, the great outdoors means bubble time!  Of course, Benny loves to get in on the bubble action as well.  Jackson couldn't wait to get outside.  Molly...well...she just might be a vampire with the way she reacts to the sun. :)  I suppose that just means I won't have to worry much about sunburns.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-70958156842716134082011-02-22T09:58:00.000-07:002011-02-22T09:58:39.058-07:00

I must say, New Mexico weather never ceases to delight me (except the random snow and cold for a few days).  Lately, it has been getting into the 70's!  This would be sometime I am not at all use to.  Shorts in February??? Anywho, we couldn't spend a beautiful day indoors.  So we headed out to the zoo. Feeding the ducks and swans. This is what I get for saying, "smile!" They held hands

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-32121240487937971952011-02-20T18:00:00.000-07:002011-02-20T18:00:10.894-07:00

Yesterday, Jason and the kids discovered the carnival was in town this weekend.  We had agreed that, if Mommy was feeling better, we would all go Sunday afternoon. Well, Mommy was feeling better, but Molly now has the flu.  :(  Poor girl.  So, the boys went to the carnival and Daddy promised to bring home some ice cream for Molly.  Thankfully, that made her happy. The boys heading off to the

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-66691132717117166232011-02-16T12:19:00.000-07:002011-02-16T12:19:20.184-07:00

As most moms know, sometimes you just go through the day on autopilot.  Today started off as one of those days.  Kids were playing happily.  Then came lunch time.  I decided to take it easy and make a couple kids TV dinners.  As I was about to put them in the oven, it struck me.  "What a yellow meal!" You know how you're suppose to eat different colors?  Well, whoever designed this meal did NOT

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-81830382885218221102011-02-16T12:14:00.001-07:002011-02-16T22:24:20.923-07:00

We just recently started to bring Molly to the Lowes Build-and-Grow workshops.  Jackson has been going with Jason for months.  Here are some photos of the kids hard at work! I love how Jackson concentrates with his tongue hanging out!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-67548290284744483192011-02-16T12:06:00.000-07:002011-02-16T12:06:10.984-07:00

Apparently, thanks to rolling power outages in Western Texas, our gas lines went out. (Yeah, I don't really get it either).  So, starting Thursday, February 4th, we had no gas and therefore, no heat.  I have a wonderful friend with an electric fireplace (we use to think that was silly.  not so much now.) who let me and the kids stay at their house over night.  Friday came and still no gas for us

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-60157186635486900812011-02-16T11:51:00.000-07:002011-02-16T11:51:54.582-07:00

Even though Alamogordo is completely unprepared for this much snow, it is still beautiful.  I suppose one benefit to living in a town so unprepared is that everything shuts down.  Everyone stays home.  We just get to enjoy it! it still snowed for at least another 24 hours after these photos were taken.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-4201184888553484152011-02-02T10:14:00.000-07:002011-02-02T10:14:56.628-07:00

Snow, snow, EVERYWHERE!  I think today could be called "the white out of 2011!"  Being a Wisconsin girl, it really doesn't seem to bad outside.  However, being that I live in a town that is completely unprepared for clearing snow off of roads, today was a snow day for everyone.  We really wanted to go snow tubing, but that wasn't going to happen, so we're making the most of our time at home.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-65304500090818837982011-02-01T11:31:00.000-07:002011-02-01T11:31:21.035-07:00

I think I can confidently say, I have NEVER been so excited to see snow!!!  It was 67 degrees out just a couple days ago.  I was glad that I actually kept Jackson home from school today.  If he had gone, he probably wouldn't have had the chance to play in what little snow we got.  I'm not sure who had more fun.  The kids, or the dogs!  :) Only here could a kid ride their bike when it's

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-35584200928260085862011-02-01T08:29:00.000-07:002011-02-01T08:29:36.081-07:00

Even when we spend the entire day in our pajamas, get a little messy from lunch and baking, and really need a hair cut, I think my kids are adorable! Jason spent the past couple days in Colorado, so we did our best to have fun without him.  Usually, that seems to involve baking.  :)  I had a real hankering for cookies but had no chocolate chips.  So I was pleased to discover I already had all the

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-85741022759740225072011-02-01T08:17:00.000-07:002011-02-01T08:17:24.902-07:00

Very shortly after the Packers won the championship to go on to Superbowl XLV, I had to hit up the internet to get more Packer apparel!  Jason had nothing to wear (not that he even cared) and Molly's cheerleader outfit was still an 18 month.  I tried to use the Packer Pro Shop, but the fans blew up that site pretty quickly and the whole thing went down.  So I had to settle for amazon.  I

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-60409995774793609612011-01-26T16:37:00.001-07:002011-01-26T16:47:39.562-07:00

My Sunday school class at church has been working more and more towards spending time together aside from Sunday mornings.  This morning, a bunch of us moms got together for some quality play and talk time.  I am almost always up for an excuse to get the kids out of the house so, this morning, we packed up a picnic lunch and headed to Almeda Park for some playtime!  We had a wonderful time and

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-89408636555284075752011-01-25T13:45:00.000-07:002011-01-25T13:45:12.536-07:00

Sickness seems to be taking up residence in our home.  Not content to stay in one person, it seems to take it's turn with each of us, over and over again.  Currently, it is focusing on me and Molly.  Molly is a tiny little basket case when she is sick, but she maintains her ridiculous amount of cuteness none-the-less. Jackson has school this morning, so I took advantage of the quiet time to

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-77489457435274801742011-01-25T13:25:00.001-07:002011-01-25T14:34:11.835-07:00

Jackson is turning more and more into a Daddy's boy.  He is happy to watch "the game" with Daddy and even loves to play Hide-and-seek with him as well.  So it is really no surprise when Jackson wants to cuddle with Daddy on the couch.  I'm pretty sure Jason is over joyed with this stage in Jackson's life.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-10210761685957994982011-01-24T16:09:00.001-07:002011-01-24T16:15:35.666-07:00

These photos were taken moments after the Packers beat the Bears to move on to Superbowl XLV!!!!  I have a team flag, license plate, license plate holder, toddler cheerleading outfit, and a t-shirt coming in the mail. :)  I tried to go to the Packers Pro Shop online.... but the fans blew up the site.  First, it was super slow, and then the entire site went down.  I've always cheered on the

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-28738660129335446502011-01-22T13:28:00.000-07:002011-01-22T13:28:44.948-07:00

Jason has been taking Jackson to our local Lowe's Build and Grow workshops for the past several months.  The kids get an apron, goggles, and (after completing their project) a patch to go on their apron. Today, I finally decided to bring Molly, too.  She wasn't as into it as I would have liked, but we all had fun and the kids look ridiculously adorable and proud of themselves!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-36899828487123051832011-01-22T13:20:00.000-07:002011-01-22T13:20:32.664-07:00

I was so excited to finally have a successful family movie night.  I've been wanting them for a while, but they kids just didn't have the attention span for it.  So I thought it through and made these arrangements: 1. Movie night it to be located in Mommy and Daddy's room so as to avoid toy distractions. 2. The movie selected shall be no more than 60 minutes in length. 3. Lights well be left ON

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-76485232117264413322011-01-20T14:59:00.000-07:002011-01-20T14:59:05.196-07:00

Temporarily having two dogs running around the backyard has made it a little more difficult for the kids to play out there, so we haven't been able to be outside as much as we might light.  This afternoon, we decided to head out there as soon as we got home!  Jackson was happy to be back on his bike!  Apparently, it was a great photo op for Jackson! Molly?  Not so much.  She rode her bike

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-55937686908103655132011-01-20T11:58:00.000-07:002011-01-20T11:58:23.770-07:00

Many of you will think this is silly, and some of you will completely understand.  I have had the chance to get a few things to make my life a little easier and more enjoyable. First, this adorable little docking bay for my ipod.  I love listening to music when working in the kitchen.  Many time I am able to put music on the TV, but, if the kids are watching something, I get stuck listening to

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-16804783741287782152011-01-20T11:43:00.000-07:002011-01-20T11:43:56.103-07:00

Jackson had been asking to go bowling for several weeks.  Jason and I aren't able to bowl with my bad shoulder and his broken finger, but the kids had a blast! Molly liked showing off her bowling shoes. Final score- Jackson: 112 and Molly: 90 After a very brief nap, we headed to a playground.  Yes, Jackson still goes everywhere in his cowboy boots.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-19228256521767924932011-01-20T11:25:00.000-07:002011-01-20T11:25:03.012-07:00

Molly got an adorable princess puzzle from Uncle Matt and Aunt Irene for Christmas.  (there were actually two puzzles).  First, we put together the puzzle. Then, you take the puzzle pieces out in a certain order and stack them.  Below, you can see that they become a castle! Then, we painted the castle!  Molly loves it and is very excited to put the castle in her room.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-68393428446124627252011-01-20T11:02:00.000-07:002011-01-20T11:02:44.490-07:00

As many of you know, Jackson is crazy about anything that is up!  Airplanes, hot air balloons, stars, the moon, etc.  So I'm amazed it took us this long to take him to the Space History Museum and Imax.  We were very excited to be taking him to the Hubble Imax show.  Molly came, too, but I wasn't so sure of how she would do. We took a look at a couple of rockets before heading to the theater.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-31348772787591938482011-01-11T15:59:00.000-07:002011-01-11T15:59:20.501-07:00

 He hates to be away from his people, even if he's only in the backyard. Working very hard at sitting and STAYING.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-78284492346761865652011-01-11T15:53:00.000-07:002011-01-11T15:53:21.480-07:00

Finally got to spend some quality fun time outside!!!  Jackson is surprisingly awesome with a hula-hoop!!!

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-50297976187141803042011-01-08T17:32:00.000-07:002011-01-08T17:32:26.768-07:00

This afternoon, this kids had the fabulous idea to go to the zoo and Daddy had the spectacular idea to get ice cream! Here are some fun photos from todays adventures. Feeding ducks and swans. Running from pigeons. Climbing. Feeding acorns to a bear. Jumping like a frog. See a cute little capybara family. Smiling turtles. And enjoying some quality bonding time

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-28603285255439986592011-01-07T16:18:00.000-07:002011-01-07T16:18:00.903-07:00

I know I already have a post similar to this, but I just couldn't help myself. She's just so stinkin' cute! She loves to do the dance on the sugar plum fairies! As for "Princess Peanut Butter," that is apparently her newest name. My Mom gave her the nickname, Peanut Butter, and that has stuck for quite some time. Yesterday, however, it was expanded upon, to Princess Peanut Butter.

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-63101469960138163142011-01-06T21:29:00.004-07:002011-01-06T22:00:15.366-07:00

I realize I didn't post yesterday. Like I said, life happens. I do, however, intend to try to have 365 posts in the year. So you will obviously get some bonus days once in a while. This, however, is not one of those days. :)Today was a crazy one for me. Jackson went back to school. Molly had gymnastics. Then I had to take the kids with me while I waited at the base welcome center for some

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-84927532469926151962011-01-04T15:14:00.003-07:002011-01-04T15:25:35.106-07:00

For those of you who haven't already figured it out, Molly LOVES to do ballet. This started several months ago and I wasn't sure if it would just be a phase or if it would truly be a love. As time goes by and she continues to spend most days in her tutu, I am beginning to think it's love. Our local Academy of Ballet starts at 3 years old. She doesn't know anything about it yet, but I think

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-46573180591750950522011-01-03T23:27:00.004-07:002011-01-03T23:32:41.205-07:00

So, I don't know what life is like for Sugar in her own home, but thankfully she does VERY well with kids. Apparently, tucking her baby dolls into bed isn't enough for Molly anymore. She is now resorting to tucking the dogs in. I suppose it's better than trying to ride on them. I didn't get a photo of it, but she even tucked Benny in with her stuffed puppy. We caught that one before Benny

Janicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13950746887423291820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-40490708667899309242011-01-02T22:14:00.003-07:002011-01-02T22:56:32.208-07:00

Yesterday, our first visitor of the year arrived! Her name is Sugar and she's delightful! Sugar is an adorable Brittney/Lab (I think) mix that we are dog sitting for, for the month of January.Since we were just getting home from St. Louis yesterday, we had decided to keep Benny at the kennel one more night. So today was Benny's first time having Sugar in the house. I think this is going to be

Janicenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-22664743053768872582011-01-01T21:18:00.000-07:002011-01-01T21:18:32.207-07:00

So, along with several of my friends, I tried (really hard) and failed at my blog photo a day challenge for last year. I did alright with 229 posts, but it's a new year and another chance to start that challenge.  So, here goes nothin! I have decided to not fret so much over whether the photo was taken that day or not.  Life happens and frankly, I DO have more important things to take care of

Janicenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-40627999356580065272010-12-24T10:09:00.001-07:002010-12-24T17:46:36.560-07:00

I'm really too tired to blog right now, but it has been a while and I had some fun photos to post. Jackson has been noticing the fact that we don't have snow at home.  We can't complain since it has been around 70 degrees most days.  So, we flew to Papa and Reen's house.  (Next year, Christmas in New Mexico. It's freezing up here!) After a few days of just cold (no snow) God finally sprinkled

Janicenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-23436725208592481932010-12-12T15:39:00.000-07:002010-12-12T15:39:38.484-07:00

So, today was a big day!  It was the day of our church Christmas musical!  I was SOOOOOO excited for every minute of it. It started off with singing Happy Birthday to Jesus and Away in a Manger.  Then, it was time for my preschool choir to take over.  They had two songs to sing, Wasn't That a Mighty Day and Behold That Star.  Aside from Jackson knocking the girl next to him in the head and a

Janicenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-17512429189509304772010-12-11T13:18:00.000-07:002010-12-11T13:18:58.542-07:00

Yesterday, I was thrilled to have our new washer and dryer delivered.  I can honestly say I have never, until now, been excited to do laundry.  I'm still looking forward to the day that my "Rosie" ( housekeeper robot) can fold and put away my laundry for me. I wasn't the only one in the house excited for our new gadgets!  Jackson is MORE than happy to help me put the clothes in the washer, move

Janicenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-5091637652996653502010-12-10T08:20:00.000-07:002010-12-10T08:20:52.309-07:00

This is a little bit delayed, but this past weekend was our churches kids Christmas party!  Wow, was I not ready for this!  I have never seen so many crafts in one place at one time!  It was fantastic!  Even Molly got in on all of the action. I had signed up to take photos of the event, so it was nice that Jason could be there for part of it.  Otherwise, the church would have gotten a hundred

Janicenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-46981892807325529552010-12-03T11:30:00.000-07:002010-12-03T11:30:45.144-07:00

"Can I help, Mommy?" is music to my ears.  And I have been hearing it from Jackson.  Usually it involves cooking, which really shouldn't surprise me.  :)  Today, he decided he wanted peanut butter and jelly for lunch and he was going to make it himself.  Much to my delight, Molly joined right in!  Molly pulled up and chair and Jackson got a step stool.  Molly got the peanut butter.  Jackson got

Janicenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-63368463248925307572010-12-02T22:24:00.000-07:002010-12-02T22:24:07.119-07:00

This evening, Jackson had his school Christmas program.  I was all revved up for the show.  I got great seats.  Forth row center.  I planned to have Jason on camcorder duty and I would have my camera.  As I rushed out the door and drove to the show, I had the nagging feeling something was going to go wrong.  Boy was I right!  As we sat waiting for the show to begin, Jason turned on the camcorder

Janicenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-238141610068255719.post-78697227160175352152010-11-29T16:57:00.000-07:002010-11-29T16:57:01.646-07:00

This afternoon, we headed out to walmart and Molly got a new hat and mittens.  She has been wearing them around the house since we got home.

Janicenoreply@blogger.com0