Day 3 of Vacation

More Baseball & the San Antonio Riverwalk

Today started off a bit more lazy than yesterday. The kids and I chose to skip the Junior Varsity game and just slept and hang out at the hotel until about 1:30 p.m. We walked to the pool but the water was still way too cold to be swimming. And the weather here is far cooler than I expected to begin with. It was cloudy almost all day and it sprinkled and/or rained on and off most of the day. We did make it to the second baseball game of the day where the BTW Hornets lost 6 to 4. It got real cold towards the end of the game so the kids and I stayed in the car while they finished the game. They were pleased that they could climb all over a car and not get in trouble. Got to love a rental car.

Speaking of rental car, Jason hit a rent-a-fence with the car! He just simply did not see it (no shit). Well I freaked out because of the noise and him slamming the breaks and then he laughed because I guess my reaction was hilarious. Thankfully it didn't so much as scratch the car but I was convinced there was a $1,000 dent in the damn thing.

Anyhow, after baseball we came back to change clothes and then we headed off to the San Antonio Riverwalk. We had dinner at a Mexican restaurant which was a nice change of pace from the Wendy's we've had nearly everyday. And the best part was an after dinner boat ride on one of the river boats. Our boat was named Miss Emily.

The kids enjoyed the ride despite not being able to fully understand the tour guide due to his accent. But their enjoyment also wained once the rain set in. Thankfully the boat driver pressed the throttle a little faster but not before we were wet and cold. We all ended up laughing hysterically because we were held captive and cold no one was paying attention to the tour guide anymore. I don't think he appreciated it when everyone was laughing and talking over his presentation...especially the part about how he accepts tips for a job well done. Oh well.

Here are a few pics from today's journeys.

Elle & Derrik at dinner.

Me & Doc (photo courtesy of Dakota)

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

Dakota checking out the architecture.

Day 2 - Family Vacation

The Zoo, BTW Baseball and The San Antonio Spurs Game

Today started off early with breakfast at the Ramada Inn (note: we were not able to take advantage of five star lodging during this trip) and then we were of to the zoo while Dad golfed. The San Antonio Zoo was impressive and even I had my breath taken away by the Hippos. I don't recall ever seeing one in real life and these were pretty up close and personal.

We made it back in time for a luxury dinning experience at Wendy's and then headed off for the baseball game (which the BTW Hornets won 5 to 4). After baseball we hurried back for a quick shower and then jetted off for the Celtics vs. Spurs game. It was my first NBA game and while I found it to be entertaining, it was challenging to see all the action from the nose bleed section. And Elle fell asleep well before the end of the game so I enjoyed the effects of a lack of circulation to my arm from holding her. But oh how I enjoyed the snuggles. Here are a few pics of today's journeys.

One of the amazing hippos.

The Zoo Train

At the baseball game with their new friend Derrik.

Spurs lost by 2 points at the buzzer.

Day 1 of Vacation

San Antonio Bound...Day 1 of the 2008 Family Vacation

The bus ride down to San Antonio.

Gaming at Dave & Busters.

Our 2008 family vacation destination is San Antonio. Doc's baseball team was headed south to play baseball against some Texas teams so we elected to tag along for a mini family vacation. Dakota rode the bus with the team and his daddy while Elle and I took a direct flight to San Antonio. She was such a trooper, lugging around her princess suitcase and walked nearly 100% of the time. I was SO thankful because I was lugging my purse, her backpack, my suitcase and a car seat. I really don't know how single parents do it and I applaud them (on my feet clapping).

Shortly after checking into the hotel, the whole group loaded back onto the bus and headed out for dinner at Dave & Busters. The kids had a great time and they won enough tickets that Dakota was able to get a purple stuffed dolphin that he's named Squirt and Elle got a stuffed Dora the Explorer. And you know I'm ecstatic because we don't have NEARLY enough stuffed things around our house. But I must say that it satisfied Dakota greatly. Apparently he was pretty pissed that he didn't get a stuffed monkey when they stopped at a Love's gas station in Atoka, Oklahoma.

Tomorrow's plans include a trip to the San Antonio zoo for the kids and me, golfing at The Republic Golf Club for all the coaches, baseball at 3:30 p.m. and then we're off to San Antonio Spurs game this evening. Should be a busy and exciting day!

More later...

Nearly Lost It

So, I had my annual OB/GYN appointment today which is always such a fun time. What the (insert bad word) ever! Surprisingly, the Doc was on time today and I was pleased that I didn't have to sit for nearly an hour with a disposable paper table cloth draped over my legs. I was not pleased that Aunt Flo decided to arrive early this morning because that added all sorts of extra pleasure to my experience. Needless to say, I was ready to get back to work.

So I walked into the parking garage in an expeditious fashion because I can't seem to walk unlike I'm in a freaking relay race. During my final 20 yard sprint to the car, my high heels hit a slick spot on the concrete and I went down...almost.

My purse dropped from my shoulder and I immediately slapped the side of a 1990's model Lincoln Towncar in hopes of it breaking my fall. Miraculously, it did. And I prayed that the owner of the champagne colored ride wasn't behind the wheel or else I was about to get my ass kicked for ramming into the their car. But the best part was the elderly lady driving slowly in search of parking space who's jaw dropped to the floor as she witnessed my display of grace. And she rolled her window down to see if I was okay! Since when do the elderly have to be concerned with falling 30 somethings?

2008 - 10 Year's and Counting

March 7th marks the date of our wedding one decade ago. Words cannot desribe the gratitude I have for my husband and for the year's we've shared and those yet to come. I won't spend too much time on the mushy gushy stuff here but sitting here behind my computer screen, I'm jumping for joy!

Let it be.

Do you ever feel that there are some things not worth fighting over? Take this for example.

To school today, Elle wore cute pink stripped tights under a cute sweater dress to match. At the end of my work day, I stopped by Drysdales to pick up a western shirt for a kid's birthday because he's REALLY into western shirts. While I was at the store, I discovered a cute red t-shirt imprinted with sparkling text that reads "Untamed". Given Elle's demeanor, I found it to be an appropriate buy for my little girl. Untamed like a wild horse, and as beautiful and strong as one.

So, we get home and she insists on wearing the new shirt. And unfortunately, she also insists on wearing the tights instead of some other pants. And then she finds her dress up shoes (which she calls her clap-clap shoes because of the noise they make). And THEN, she finds her Disney princesses fanny pack. And she wore the whole ensemble parading around the house.

I won't say what Jason said, it's not appropriate. All I have to say is...at least she's wearing panties.

Home Owners Association

So I went to our 1st homeowners association meeting last night. Most of you know that my typical behavior is one of an extrovert and naturally I like to "get involved". But my life is so full that I wasn't certain about whether or not I'd volunteer to serve on the board. And I kid you not, less than two minutes into the meeting some ass from the back row (picture a late in life man with overalls, a trucker's hat, no hair and mildly obese) pipes up over the presenter and everyone else in the room stating that he cannot understand why we need a homeowners association! While the polite lady up front tried to education him on the purpose of such an incorporation, he continued to cut her off and rudely interject that it cannot cost that much damn money to upkeep the grass at the entryway. Clearly he wasn't getting it.

Meanwhile I was having flashbacks to my high schools days when I used to get in people's faces for being so openly ignorant. While everyone else in the church was smiling and bowing their heads to roll their eyes, I was getting puffed up. I was ready to tell that bonehead that he should have read his friggin' covenants when he bought his damn house because it clearly states that the subdivision would have a homeowners association (among other things that he was clearly unaware of). And of course he argued that he didn't ever receive a copy of the covenants even though we all know you have to sign the stupid thing when you close on a house.

So I didn't sign up for the board because I don't want to get in a fist fight with a 55+ year old man. I'm WAY too mature for that. ;-)

Typical Man

There's really nothing to say...you all get the point.

Kindergarten Biography

Dakota's Classmates made a list of things to they like about their fantastic friend. Here is a list of his peer review. Simple, but flattering....especially the first one that says "He's good at cleaning up". WHATEVER!

I'm So Excited

I've been searching for a way to publish a record of what's On My Nightstand and I finally discovered it! I'm so freaking excited and I know it may be stupid but it really makes me happy. I'd seen several examples from other blogs but they were all using a different blog tool so I couldn't figure it out. So, I went in search of a blog, any blog, that could show me the way.

Enter: Library Thingy

And not only do they catalogue your books in a community sort of fashion, but they have a handy dandy widget that provides you with the .html you need to use it on your own blog. Holy crap, I'm off to read so I can update my Library Thingy again soon!

Good night.

Miss Kristy's Valentine's Recital

Our Little Valentine

They let us parents come in during the last 10 minutes of class. It wasn't a recital per se but they got to dance for us instead of just to the mirrors. Elle did very well and paid attention to the teacher the whole time. She was beautiful. Her brother leaned over to me part way through and said "She's doing a good job Mom". He was so proud.

Follow up to WTF..my apologies.

Okay, I feel better now. They canceled soccer and I couldn't be happier. I was beginning to wonder what planet those coaches were from. I apologize for my earlier outburst.

WTF?!?!

Sorry to be so crass but seriously...Dakota is supposed to have soccer practice tonight. Am I the only one who's noticed that it's 30 degrees outside with a wind chill that makes it feel like 20 degrees? WTF? I mean, isn't it child abuse to make a kid play outside in temperatures like this? I don't even like to go outside if it's less than 60 degrees. Sigh...

Valentine's Day

What a great day it's been already and it's only 8:35 a.m.

Jason woke the kids before he left so they could be with me when I walked into the kitchen to see the red tulips and ballon that I got for Valentine's Day. And he couldn't be a better husband...not because of the flowers and balloon but because he also thought of his children and got them each a gift for Valentine's Day. Naturally, I had already bought them something from Mom and Dad just assuming that I'd need to cover our bases. But he surprised me by showing them love with his very own gift (and some morning tickles and kisses).

I ran all over town locating a PS2 for Doc since his son accidently broke the old one. He was quite pleased as well.

Today is off to a good start. I will be attending Dakota's school Valentine's party this afternoon and I'm sure that will be entertaining as well.

Happy Heart Day everyone!

Empty Nest for the Weekend

One would think that I'd appreciate a 24-36 hour period without my children. I had high hopes of all sorts downtime and "me" time (like reading, crafting, hot baths) and in reality, this is the first time I've slowed down all weekend (minus potty breaks and sleeping). The kids were still here on Friday night but I was busy volunteering at the Women's Expo for a few hours. I made it home at a reasonable hour but Dakota had a buddy spending the night so the kids were quite satisfied entertaining themselves and not their dad and me. Saturday morning I was off to dance with Elle while Dad did drop off of the playmate and hung with Dakota. A couple of short hours later, we were shuffling them off to their grandparents so they could road trip to see their great-grandparents. Don't get me wrong...great grandparent visitation is a good thing. But I suddenly felt so alone!

We made a stop by the Indian Art's Festival to pay a visit to our friend Matt Bearden. Then Jason had to work a basketball game so instead of continuing with my lonesomeness, I loaded in the car to accompany him at the courts. I was mildly entertained for a few hours and then finally we broke free for a grown up dinner over sushi. We utterly enjoyed our time together and found some conversation about topics unrelated to our children (although they were mentioned many times as well). But guess what? My lame ass got sleepy by 9:30 p.m. ! I wasn't even up for a stop at Barnes and Nobles on the way home (which was a familiar stopping point for us pre-kids).

Anyhow, we went to church today (skipping the stop at Wee Worship), and Jason went golfing while I worked out, visited a family member at the hospital and grocery shopped. And now, we're off to Bible study and I'm still over two hours away from seeing my kids. :-(

I guess this is a testimony to the fact that no matter how much they bother me when they're present, they're so much more appreciated when they're away. I guess I should make a list of all the hobbies I'll find to fill the void when they move away from home. Thank God that won't be any time soon.

Baby Needs Shoes...not really, just sympathy orders.

WESTWOOD ELEMENTARY PTA is having a fundraiser. You can shop online! Westwood Elementary receives profit from the sale and Dakota will receive prize credits.

Seller: Dakota Doctor

Seller ID: wes1654

Thank you for your support.

ALSO AVAILABLE...Cookie Dough and miscellaneous bread and dessert mixes are also for sale via my brochure. For more information, contact my mom.

*****Note from Mom

So, I noticed that the brochure actually discourages door to door selling (picture a big circle with an line thru it like a no-smoking sign). Naturally any good parent wouldn't send their child into the neighborhood to take on the sales task by himself. But I seem to recall that it was these face to face cold calls that helped me learn my communication skills. I mean, what better way to practice casting away ones fears and teach a kid that life is full of rejection? It worked for me and I feel all the tougher for it! I think he and I will knock on a few doors when the weather permits. I'm such a rule breaker!

Valentine's Day Quandry

Valentine's Day is only 11 days away and like every year, I'm stumped on what to give. And this year, it's not only my husband's gift that has me stumped but also my son's teacher and beyond that lies the confusion of who all I should be buying for in the first place. So I'm writing this in hopes that one of you might be able to offer my some sound advice on unique or cool (and reasonably affordable) Valentine's gifts for someone besides your sweetheart.

As you all know, I'm homeroom mom for Dakota's class. Homeroom Mom gets the pleasure of coordinating a Valentine's Day party for the class. I was able to round up an appropriate amount of junk from Oriental Trading for the kids, although I'm more confused about the gift for Miss Smith. And I can't decide if I should buy his other care providers a little something...and then there's Elle's daycare provider who I adore but we don't really do Valentine's with her. Blah, Blah, Blah.

A friend of mine told me about a local lady that sells cookie boquets for only $15 which seems like a steal to me given my lack of baking skills (plus they're super cute).

As some of you know, I've become real interested and involved in making hand made greeting cards. So I thought of taking some of them and packaging them up to give away as a gift. Only my problem is that I've hardly learned how to let go of my creations. It's not that they're irreplaceable and I know that a hand made gift is utterly thoughtful, it's just that they take up so much time that I often feel like I need to hold onto them just a little bit longer.

Speaking of gifts, I have to share with you a random act of kindness that I was treated to on Thursday. I came home after work and started my standard routine of changing from work clothes, etc. I ran to mailbox to pick up the mail and was surprised to find a package from Amazon. I wasn't sure what it was because I couldn't recall a recent purchase from them. When I opened the box, I found a new book titled When Heaven Weeps by Ted Dekker. The packing slip included a gift note from my dear friend Dilene (who has been a mentor of mine in so many ways including my spiritual journey). She simply bought it and had it mailed to me as a way of telling me she misses me. How freaking sweet is that?!?! So I've decided to do the same thing for someone. And I hope that they'll pass it on. Maybe you can do it too!

Elle's First Day of Dance Lessons

Today was her debut on the dance floor. Well, at least a traditional dance floor. Elle started tap and ballet and as you can see on her face above, she couldn't wait to get started. While I anticipated a bit of shyness and timid movements, she was quite comfortable and seemed to fit in nicely.

This photo was taken at home after class. She just can't seem to rid herself of the attire.

During class and working on her tap. Notice the flex in her foot! Not bad for a first day.

And here is our ballerina. She did quite well and made us proud. Her sweet brother walked up and gave her a hug afterwards.

Craft Project

My friend Krystal started a monthly eNewsletter centered around craft projects you can do with your kids. I am really excited about it because it's rare that I have time to research ideas myself. Her first eNewsletter featured a Crayola project using old discarded broken crayons.

I tasked Elle with going up to the playroom to pick up all the broken crayons she could find.

Mind you, there were plenty because she like to test her physical strength by breaking them in half any time she can get her hands on them. The next step is to unwrap all of the paper from the crayons. While this sounds simple enough, it was actually a long and tedious project. Elle's patience quickly wained while Dakota remained my trooper and helped until the very end.

After peeling the paper, we loaded the naked crayons into muffin tins.

Then bake them on 250 degrees for about 15 minutes and the end result is these really cool multicolored funky shaped "crayons" you can use when coloring. The final product was so cool, Dakota ended up taking three of them to school as his "show and tell".

Thanks Krystal for sharing your talents with us. And if anyone else wants to sign up for her eNewsletter, you can email her.

H. E. Double Hockey Sticks Begins

So why am I complaining? I do it to myself. I signed up as a volunteer on a Tulsa Area United Way Community Investments panel (on top of everything else) and now I've signed both children up for spring sports. I re-enrolled Dakota in spring soccer and I'm hoping 2008 is nothing like 2007. In 2007, we froze our arses off in 20 degree weather with negative degree winds and poor Dakota cried he was so cold. But fall soccer was such a positive memory that we're doing it all over again (only spring...and friggin' colder).

And Elle expressed some interest in dance lessons. So naturally, I did an impulse stop at the dance studio less than a mile from our home to inquire further. Only $135 later, I have a recital costume purchased as well as five week of classes pre-paid. But oh how beautiful she will be. The recital is May 31st if you want to come. Just let me know.

Did you know that my mother (Nana Ellen) was a professional ballerina with Tulsa Ballet Theater several (okay, many several) years ago. She danced for them for a short time before my father swept her off her feet and eloped with her after a few short days of courtship. But alas, they're in love...

More ballet and tap pics to come... and more freezing cold soccer pics to come as well. What the H.E. Double Hockey Sticks was I thinking?

Glamour Girl Cont...

Just two days following the powder incident, Elle came downstairs (after I had her dressed and ready to leave for school), and informed me that she had painted her toes. Oh heavens. Well naturally I wanted to take a look at the feet first so I could compliment her pretty toes and THEN I would head upstairs to see what the carpets looked like.

Well here is a photo of her feet. Her right foot had purple on the big toe and the second toe. The third was a combination of purple and pink, and the remaining toes were featured in pink. The other foot was a completely different shade of light pink. She got very creative with her color options. And fortunately, the carpet was spared. Just a little purple polish was found on her pant leg but overall, she stayed "in the lines" exceptionally well.

- confessions of a Glamour Girl's mom.

She Does Love a Sparkle

So, Nana Ellen bought Elle some glamour girl kit that includes all sort of make up and accessories and came complete with shimmery powder. Little miss independent took it upon herself to open the entire baggie of shimmery powder and then proceeded to adorn herself with the contents of the entire bag (not kidding)!

Below is a photo of her when I first discovered her. Notice that in both photos she has down cast eyes and refused to look at the camera. What you don't see is that she has it EVERYWHERE. It's in her hair, on her chest, ALL over her face and sprinkled here and there on her legs (she had taken her pants off).

The final picture is of my hands after just picking up the baggie to dispose of it. That's some powerful powder! There are some professional dancers out there that would kill for the contents of that glamour girl kit. :-)

Dakota helped vaccum the carpet and when he touched it, you could see the glittle fly.

Christmas 2007

Christmas this year was fabulous and as you can see, it pretty much wiped everyone out. In fact, this photo was taken post Christmas at mom and dad's lake house. Even Buddy was exhausted which is pretty rare.

We celebrated Christmas a few times over this year. We did a small one at our house with my sister and her family, my parents and my in-laws, another with the Doctor's, another with the Gernhardt's and Zahn's and yet another with Santa Clause. It goes without mentioning that the kids loaded up on many gifts. Topping this years' list was a new go-cart for Dakota and a new Barbie Jeep for Elle; courtesy of grandparents.

The best part of the holiday was that we got to spend plenty of time with family and especially with our own children. I was fortunate enough to have taken some remaining vacation days and was off work for about 11 days. We've watched lots of movies and I've got plenty of book reading in. I read a good one titled Oh My Stars by Lorna Landvik (author of Angry Housewives Eating Bon-Bons). It's worth your time.



I've included a few other Christmas photos worth a look see. Hope your holiday was blessed with lots of joy and from all of us Doctor's, Happy New Year!


Tree Hunting.






Gabby & Dad


Shara, Kara, and Sam (friend of Kara)


Mom X2



Guess who?


Tindall Gift Exchange



Auntie Sissy and Elle


Gernhardt Siblings...showing the love.