LaLa's Land

Bring Yana Home!

2011-02-24T11:49:00.001-06:00

More Beautiful Children

2011-02-24T11:36:00.002-06:00

Help bring this precious girl home

As many of you know, my sister has become a warrior for adoption and particularly adoption through Reece's Rainbows. The little girl pictured above has a forever family just waiting to her home! Please donate and help them bring her home soon. She's such a doll, isn't she?

Have You Helped?

2011-02-14T23:15:00.003-06:00

Have you donated to precious Elizabeth yet?

Please! Please! Please!

Help this beautiful little girl!

Grab This!

Save Elizabeth NOW!!!

Please HELP!

2011-02-13T20:53:00.004-06:00

Grab This!

There is a little girl named Elizabeth that needs your help! She is beautiful, smart, and happy! She was born with down syndrome in a country where her mother was either not allowed to keep her or didn't want her. She was placed for adoption and at age 5, when she had not yet been adopted, she was sent to live out the rest of her life in an institution. She does not belong there. None of these precious children across the world from us deserve to be institutionalized but it happens every day. We cannot save every child, but there is hope for Elizabeth. She has a forever family that is ready to bring her home. (This is where you come in!) They need a little help with the funding.

Did you know that if everyone who clicked on this blog each day contributed $5.00 that the Clark's would have enough money to bring Elizabeth home in just one day? I don't have many readers. It does not take much. That is a coffee or lunch at Subway. It is the stickers you buy for your child at Target or the beer you have at happy hour after work. $5.00 could change the life of a beautiful little girl and her waiting family.

Please help save Elizabeth!!!

A Great Giveaway for An Even Greater Cause!!

2011-02-02T10:08:00.002-06:00

Go over to A Perfect Lily and enter to win some great prizes! An iPad, an awesome camera, a tutu outfit made by my fabulous sister and much, much more!!!

Amanda is 2

2011-01-27T13:42:00.006-06:00

Amanda woke up sick on her 2nd Birthday.

Dear Amanda,

Today you are 2. The last 2 years have been so full of joy. You are a bright star. You are strong-willed, independent, and so sweet. You talk very well and love to tell your big sister to "go to time-out!" I think that you are one of the prettiest little girls ever. Your smile makes me smile every day. You are a wonderful daughter, little sister to Olivia, and big sister to Hanna. We all love you so much and wish you a HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY!!!

Love,

Mommy

Some of my favorite "Amanda-isms"

"Where bop is?"-Where is my bop?

"What?"-in response to me when I call your name

"E" before everything-"E BaBa," "E-Bop,"etc...

"Mommy, I spilled"-When you threw up

"B-Bob"-Sponge Bob

"Dori"-Dora

"Me-Mouse"-Mickey and Minnie Mouse

"I sing"-you want to listen to your kids CD in the car

"Rush Teeth" or "Rush Hair"-Brush Teeth or Hair

"Rella" and "Tinkabell"-Cinderella and Tinkerbell

"An-E-mole"-your stuffed animals

"Babies"-your blankets

"Abbie"-Hanna

"Chaps-Chip"-Chapstick

"E-Un-Get"-Hungry

"Yo-Gut"-Yogurt

"Manana"-Banana

"Sauce"-Apple Sauce

"Fing"-Swing

"I jump high"-I want to jump on the trampoline

"Cup-Caaaaake"-Strawberry Shortcake

"Buggies and Bunnies"-Poopy Diaper

"Meek Up"-Make Up

"Op-it"-Open it

"Scootch"-Move over

Liv's Art

2011-01-26T20:52:00.001-06:00

Liv loves to play with my phone and I found this in my photos.

4 Wheel'in

2011-01-24T12:40:00.001-06:00

Those of you that know me, know that I am afraid of ATV's but this is just a kiddie 4 wheeler and Amanda couldn't really reach the peddles. She just looked so cute sitting on it. She can be girly and outdoorsy~ A perfect blend!

Visit from Nate

2011-01-19T20:48:00.003-06:00

We kept cousin Nate last weekend and Liv was so helpful. She loved feeding him. It was neat to have a baby boy around for the weekend too !

Feeding Nate again!

Hanna and Nate having some playtime!

Best Friends!

2011-01-18T09:48:00.003-06:00

Abbie is rock'in her 80's layered pants!

Hanna says "I will pull your hair!"

And Abbie says "Then I will bite your toes!"

These 2 little squirts love to be together. They do things like try and bite each others toes, lick each others faces, and poke each other in the eyeballs. They are destined to be best friends forever! (Isn't that how all great friendships start off?)

My Little Stinker!

2011-01-17T15:42:00.004-06:00

Who could I possibly be referring to?

This little person got up from her nap today and ran into her sisters room. I called her name several times and got no response. As I walked back to check on her, (hearing my footsteps) she called out "No Mommy! Stop!"

Why?

She was covered in her big sister's make-up! Little Stinker...

My Happy Hanna!

2011-01-15T12:00:00.002-06:00

Little Fashionista!

2011-01-13T08:11:00.002-06:00

My gorgeous little girl!

Parties! Parties! Parties!

2011-01-12T10:42:00.004-06:00

Reagan turned 3 last week and had a great party at Chuck E Cheese on Saturday. The girls had so much fun. I think Reagan was in shock about how much fun it was! And Olivia is just hit or miss on the smile these days. They had games and pizza and tickets and prizes on the brain!

It's hard to tell but Olivia, Reagan, and Amanda are all in this car. The 3 Muskateers!

Amanda and Reagan

Getting ready for Maddy's Purple Princess Party!

My Purple Princess

Olivia and the birthday girl, Maddy!

MooLaLa

2011-01-11T12:54:00.001-06:00

I just signed up for a cool new program called MooLaLa. It is similar to Groupon or Living Social deals but also gives you the opportunity to earn cash back on your coupon purchases. Check it out here.

"Nanny" (Hanna) at 4 Mos.

2010-12-22T20:55:00.002-06:00

"Nanny," as we like to call her, had her 4 month well check today. She is doing well and meeting all of her milestones. Her head measurement is 41.5 cm and is in the 50th-75th percentile. She weighs 11 lb 6 oz and is in the 10th percentile for weight (this is normal for my babies until about age 3) and her height is 23.5 inches and the 25 percentile. She has the smallest head of the 3 girls at this age, she is the tallest and about on par with her sisters in the weight area at 4 months. The doctor loved how smiley she was and had fun tickling her feet and listening to her giggle.

All 3 kids had some form of treatment today. Olivia had her flu mist, Amanda her flu shot booster, and Hanna her DTAP, Polio, Prevnar, and HIB shots. Olivia wanted the flu mist (not a shot) but was pulling away and hesitant when the nurse brought it in. So...Amanda went first and took her shot like that "champ." She let out a little shriek and then was up and at 'em again. Olivia decided if Amanda could take the shot like that, she could take her flu mist and all went well. Hanna cried when she got her shots but fell asleep immediately and was fine afterwards.

As a treat, the girls got to have lunch with their daddy. They were so happy and are looking forward to Christmas this weekend!

Merry Christmas!

A Perfect Lily

2010-12-17T11:19:00.003-06:00

I found this blog, A Perfect Lily, through my sister's blog. Patti is doing great things for orphans with down syndrome. Go to her blog now to enter to win an iPad. What a great gift for you or someone else! And you would be helping wonderful kids find a forever home!!!

Ho! Ho! Ho!

2010-12-05T20:31:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas

Daddy Daughter Date Night

2010-11-30T10:39:00.001-06:00

Olivia and Adam were invited to go to a Longhorns game last weekend. They had a great time and the girls loved "being cheerleaders" and meeting the real UT cheerleaders. As most of you know, the Horns have really embarrassed their fans this year but at least for this game, they made us proud. It must have been the new little cheerleaders!

* I know Liv has gotten a lot of blog face time lately, but I promise more pics of Amanda and Hanna to come!

Olivia's Thanksgiving Program

2010-11-22T21:59:00.001-06:00

The kids were so cute all dressed up as pilgrims and indians. We got to see their show and then they had their feast. So much fun!!!

More Cheer

2010-11-22T21:56:00.003-06:00

The Trophy!!

Go Dragons!

2010-11-19T10:18:00.003-06:00

Liv cheered for the Round Rock Pee Wee Dragons this fall. I took tons of video but very few still pics. These photos are from her last game of the year. The team played at the Round Rock HS stadium and the girls cheered on the sidelines. Liv was so excited that the parents would be watching from the bleachers instead of the sidelines. The Dragons pulled off a sweet V-I-C-T-O-R-Y!

Baby Sister

2010-11-10T18:04:00.002-06:00

Hanna LOVES Olivia. She smiles every time she hears Olivia's voice or sees her face. She is cooing (mainly at Olivia) but sometimes for mommy too and is quickly learning how to defend her property against her big sister, Amanda. Amanda loves to steal Hanna's blankets and pacifiers (even if she has her own in hand!). She can roll from her stomach to her back and of course does this because she hates tummy time! She still has her blue eyes! Adam's grandma Margie had beautiful blue eyes and passed away about a month before I got pregnant with Hanna. We like to think that she has Margie's eyes and maybe she will have her soothing, melodic voice too! (She won't be getting any singing talent from me!) She is just as precious and special as her 2 big sisters and we are thankful for her everyday!

Halloween Fun

2010-11-03T10:39:00.001-05:00

All About Hanna Michael

2010-11-01T09:30:00.003-05:00

My precious Hanna is almost 11 weeks old now. She weighs 9lbs 8 oz and is 21 inches long. She is a little squirt. She is the sweetest, quietest little baby girl. She loves to smile and LOVES to look at pictures of her big sisters. She immediately breaks into a smile when she sees her Ya-Ya (Olivia) or Beezy (Amanda). The girls are all adjusting to one another well and Amanda is finally calling her sister "Hanna" and not Abbie. (Sometimes!!!)

I have been very blessed!

My Beautiful Mess

2010-10-22T14:37:00.001-05:00

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-18T19:59:00.002-05:00

Olivia's class took a field trip to a pumpkin farm. I took the other 2 girls and we took our annual pumpkin patch pictures! They were not so easy this year...

My Little Fisher-Woman

2010-10-18T19:56:00.002-05:00

Adam took Olivia fishing and she caught this 1 lb bass on her pole. It broke the pole but it was her catch and she was so proud. She made Adam clean it and bring it home. She has not eaten it yet, but that is her plan!

Where?

2010-10-06T20:41:00.002-05:00

My dad pointed out that I have not "blogged" in quite some time. I am guilty of several things. The first being that I am busy with my 3 girls. I also got an iPhone and have been on the computer less and less. In addition, there has not been much going on in the Shingleton household. (For this, I am thankful!) The following are some updates on the girls:

Olivia:
Liv is cheering for the Round Rock Dragons this football season. She is good at cheerleading and has won an award the last 2 weeks for cheering the entire game without sitting down or whining. (This award is from her coach, not me!)

She is in her last year of preschool and loving her class and her teacher Ms. Amy.

We are going on her first field trip next week to a pumpkin patch in Marble Falls and she cannot wait!

Amanda:

Amanda is talking up a storm. Some of our favorites are: "I know" and "It's Oh-Kway!"

She is in a play group now with 4 other friends who will attend the same preschool next year. They have fun playing together and I am so glad she is getting to know some children her age.

Amanda is taking a children's music class and loves playing the instruments and singing along to the fun songs. She is very friendly and "talks" to all the other children and their moms!

Hanna:

Hanna is growing so much each day. She loves her bottles and bath time. She is working on her smile and seems to be another "daddy's girl!"

We have been so blessed with these beautiful girls! I plan to do better with my blogging and look forward to sharing more of our adventures via this blog!

Mom

2010-09-18T18:06:00.005-05:00

My mom died 2 years ago. September 18, 2008 at 5:43 a.m. I guess you can call this post a "cop out" but my sister's post was so beautifully written and the pictures were so perfect that I decided to just link up to her post. I encourage anyone who has not read it to take a trip over to Elissa's Blog: Sounds Like Life to Me!

This was our last picture together. Amanda was in my belly and mom knew she was a little girl to be named "Amanda" after her. I know this picture may be hard to look at, but to me this is reality. Ovarian cancer is a silent killer and September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month.

I Love To See You Smile...

2010-09-16T14:44:00.000-05:00

Even if it is just gas!

LOVE.

2010-09-09T21:54:00.002-05:00

Sisters!

2010-09-03T12:03:00.000-05:00

Amanda Shares with Hanna

2010-09-02T20:27:00.002-05:00

Amanda decided to share her toys with Hanna. Hanna is not quite ready for toys yet, but it's the thought that counts.

Cousins Blake & Thomas

2010-08-26T10:46:00.001-05:00

My Girls

2010-08-23T11:41:00.001-05:00

Abbie Loves Her Sissy

2010-08-16T13:05:00.002-05:00

Elissa always teases me and calls me the baby whisperer. I am not a baby whisperer by a long shot but Abbie does smile at me every time I get her in my arms. She has started cooing at me too. We tried to catch her big grin last night but just managed to get this cute pic!

Princess Dance Camp

2010-08-10T14:11:00.002-05:00

Olivia and her friend Brooklyn went to Princess Dance Camp last week. They had such a good time. On Friday, they had a recital for the parents. The girls did the most adorable dance and they all looked so cute.

Friday Night Fun

2010-08-09T07:43:00.002-05:00

We had Reagan and Abbie spend the night on Friday night so Elissa and Steve could celebrate their 5th wedding anniversary. The girls had so much fun playing and having a sleepover, even though they all slept in separate rooms. (Reagan and Olivia fight like sisters so sometimes we have to keep them on opposite sides of "the ring." They love each other with that "no holds barred" kind of love!) Anyway, I didn't get any pictures of the girls playing, but I did take an adorable shot of Liv holding Abbie and Adam teaching Abbie to root for the Astros. She was doing a little fist pump and we were sure she said her first words, "Go Astros!"

Long Time...

2010-08-05T11:29:00.002-05:00

I haven't blogged in over a week. We haven't had too much going on and I haven't taken many pictures and most of my blogs revolve around pictures. Here is what IS going on...

Liv got her ears pierced last Saturday. She has talked about doing it for several months but has never actually gone through with it. Last weekend she randomly told me that she was ready. I agreed to take her but only if she actually did it. And she did! She was so proud and she looks so cute with her blue stone earrings!

Liv has been going to dance camp this week and she started cheerleading. You would think that she would be worn out, but she is still full of energy and sass!

Amanda is talking more and more every day. She says "Head-O" (Translation: Hello) which is my absolute favorite. She will no longer ride in a stroller and just wants to keep up with her big sister.

I am still rolling along. Tired and ready for #3 to arrive, but also just trying to enjoy my summer and my girls!

Raising Money for Down Syndrome in Honor of Abbie

2010-07-28T09:27:00.006-05:00

Can you resist this little face? (Not mine, ignore that!)

On May 12, 2010, my gorgeous niece Abbie was born. As some of you know, she is enhanced! She has an extra chromosome which means that she has Down Syndrome. On October 24, there will be a Buddy Walk in Georgetown benefiting Down Syndrome. Our team is called Abbie's Army. I encourage you to join our team, donate to our cause, or both!!! The link below will tell you more about Abbie and allow you to make donations. If you would like to join us in the walk, please let me know and I can send you the registration information. Thank you in advance!!

http://www.active.com/donate/buddywalk10/ELindse7+

As of today, we are at 40% of our goal. It would be so great to meet and/or exceed our goal early. This is a fabulous cause for the most fabulous little girl!

Go Astros!

2010-07-24T19:48:00.001-05:00

Adam took Olivia to her first Astros home game tonight. She loves the Astros almost as much as her dad.

Liv At The Museum

2010-07-23T18:28:00.004-05:00

I have not talked to my little lady in 4 days and I miss her so much. She decided that it was easier on her not to call us. We have been getting daily updates from Adam's parents, but nothing directly from Liv. These are some pics of her at the museum. Looks like fun!

My Little Pony

2010-07-21T21:02:00.000-05:00

Amanda brought me a rubber band yesterday and put it up on her head. She wanted a ponytail. We tried. I think she looks like Pebbles with a side pony!

Liv's First Day with PaPa and Happy

2010-07-20T09:07:00.007-05:00

Liv is spending this week in Houston with her PaPa and Happy (Adam's dad and step-mom). Yesterday they took her to NASA. I received lots of pictures via e-mail of their trip. It looks like so much fun. My favorite is the one of Olivia in the space helmet. I remember wanting to be an astronaut when I was young and I bet Liv will feel the same way after her day at NASA! I miss her, but it looks like she is having plenty of fun and staying busy!!!

Singing in Church (Or Not?)

2010-07-19T07:36:00.004-05:00

All of the kids that attended VBS last week were invited to wear their t-shirts and sing in church on Sunday. Olivia was so excited. She talked about it all weekend. When it was time for the kids to go up front, she was one of the first to go. She got in her place on stage and the music started...

She burst into tears. I had to go up front and she ran off stage and into my arms. I asked her several times if she wanted to try again but she refused. Oh well, maybe next year!

**If you cannot tell, I took these pictures before the music (and the tears) started!

Love These Girls!

2010-07-18T09:30:00.001-05:00

The girls are learning to play together so well. The sharing thing is coming along...not perfected, but coming along. Olivia is always boss, which as the oldest I can understand! HAHA! I just love watching them play and have fun together. Sisters are the best!

VBS Day 5

2010-07-18T09:13:00.002-05:00

Game Time!

VBS Day 4

2010-07-15T21:21:00.002-05:00

VBS Day 3

2010-07-15T07:29:00.002-05:00

I didn't get a chance to post this yesterday (the real day 3). I tried to get pictures of Olivia but every time I came near her with the phone camera she would cover her face and scream "NO!" So, I only got a picture of Amanda during the musical finale. She loves going to be with the big kids at the end of her day. She dances, sings and of course smiles!

VBS Day 2

2010-07-13T21:35:00.002-05:00

Olivia is having so much fun at VBS. Today as I was going back and forth between stations, I passed Liv's group doing this water play exercise. They were all so cute.

I decided to pick Amanda up from the nursery before today's musical finale and am so glad I did. She LOVED it. She danced and clapped and smiled the whole time. She definitely loves music and dancing.

Vacation Bible School Day 1

2010-07-12T14:36:00.003-05:00

Olivia had a great time at her first day of VBS. This is Olivia and her youth leader, Kiersta. And yes, that is a cup on her head. They were doing a demonstration about God's love.

Mommy Time

2010-07-11T22:10:00.003-05:00

Adam made dinner tonight and cleaned the dishes. After we ate, he told me to go to our room and relax. He watched the girls and got them to bed. So I...Decided...To...Have A...MOVIE MARATHON!!

Is there a better way to spend Sunday night than with Edward, Bella, and Jacob?

I think not!

Liv and Nate

2010-07-11T22:06:00.001-05:00

My little mama and her baby cousin Nate!

Amanda and Reagan at the Outlet Mall

2010-07-10T20:10:00.003-05:00

While Liv was at her play date on Wednesday, Amanda and I met Elissa, Reagan and Abbie at the outlet mall. The girls were good so we let them ride one of the rides. Amanda loved it but Reagan wasn't so happy about having to share a ride with her cousin.

First Haircut

2010-07-08T16:14:00.002-05:00

Amanda's bangs have gotten so long. I really didn't want to cut them because a) I want them to grow out but she won't keep clips in her hair to hold them back b) I remember after Olivia's first haircut, she looked like a toddler and not a baby anymore. All that said, I had to do something. People have been asking me, "Has your baby ever had a haircut?" Her bangs were constantly in her eyes. I washed her hair and trimmed her bangs last night. Since I did the cutting, it wasn't such a shock and she still looks like my baby! I let her have her own fruit bar last night too since she was such a big girl during her haircut. She was so proud!

Girls Just Want To Have Fun

2010-07-07T20:56:00.002-05:00

Olivia was invited to play at her friend Maddy's house today. She had such a great time and came home in a good mood. We had a very pleasant afternoon (no fits) and she practiced her cartwheel (she needs a lot more practice), talked about iCarly, and played with play dough. It's amazing what a little girl time can do for a little princess! Maddy's mom sent me this adorable picture of the girls.

Maddy, Liv, Brooklyn

Little Mama's

2010-07-06T09:43:00.001-05:00

Olivia and Reagan just couldn't get enough of baby Nate! Little mommy's in training. They were so cute.

July 4th

2010-07-05T09:02:00.010-05:00

We woke up on July 4th morning and I decided to bake a festive cake. I got almost through all of the ingredients and realized that we were out of vegetable oil so I had to use butter. The cake turned out pretty flat but no one complained about the taste. I guess that's all that matters!

I took the girls to the festival in the park in Georgetown. This was our (Olivia and mommy) 3rd year to go, but Amanda's first. Amanda LOVED the petting zoo. I could hardly keep track of her.

Liv on the other hand....

enjoyed the rides much more than the animals.

And it just wouldn't be July 4th without face painting, American flags, and sno cones!

Happy Independence Day!

2010-07-04T10:16:00.000-05:00

Introducing Nathan

2010-06-29T21:07:00.003-05:00

On May 24th, my brother and his girlfriend welcomed a baby boy, Nathan Frederick Fink. I have been so excited. Brian is such a good daddy and he and Amanda are in love with their new son!

Love Love Love!

2010-06-28T12:27:00.000-05:00

Birthday Request

2010-06-27T12:57:00.003-05:00

Aunt Sissy took Olivia and Reagan to see Toy Story 3 last week and Olivia loved it! She asked me to help her write a note so I wouldn't forget to give her a Toy Story 3 cowgirl toy for her birthday. It was so cute. I took a picture so I could always remember her first "birthday list!" She also included Amanda on the list. I would like to say it's because she was thinking of her sister, but I really think she wants Amanda to have one so she doesn't have to share! :) Sisters!?!

Note: Her birthday is over 2 months away. This child is excited. She asks me everyday..."How many days until my birthday?"

Just Kick'in Back

2010-06-26T21:40:00.002-05:00

The girls decided to put their feet up, relax, and watch some Dora. I wonder where (or who) they are learning this behavior from?

She Was Definitely Born With It

2010-06-25T09:28:00.001-05:00

She loves make-up at 16 months old. I could not have taught her that! It is what it is. She is just a girly girl. I love it!

This Jeep Must Have Over 100K Miles

2010-06-24T09:08:00.001-05:00

My dad (aka Gramps) passed down this battery operated jeep to Olivia about 2 years ago. My little brothers both played in it, Olivia still likes it, and now Amanda is adding to the odometer. Olivia took the close up of Amanda in the jeep. She is quite the photographer. I loved it!

The Archie's

2010-06-23T08:42:00.002-05:00

When we were in Dallas a few weeks ago, we got to a chance to go see our friends the Archie's in their new house. Tate and Amanda are just 30 days apart and we joke that they will have an arranged marriage. They are too cute together. Olivia really looks up to Tate's big sister Karsen too. Karsen is 8 and according to Olivia, the coolest!
**I just noticed that Olivia has her eyes closed in every picture. Typical! HAHA!

Amanda's First Movie

2010-06-22T19:22:00.001-05:00

I took the girls to Baby Day at the Alamo Drafthouse. We saw Shrek 4. It was a good movie but ended up very stressful on momma!

Meeting Mack

2010-06-18T10:42:00.003-05:00

The credit union by our house had an event 2 weeks ago. Mack Brown was there signing autographs and taking photos. We couldn't pass up the opportunity...even though we had to wait over an hour in the blazing heat! Hook 'Em!

Babysitting Fun

2010-06-17T09:23:00.003-05:00

Elissa and I came up with a brilliant idea. We watch each others kids while the other goes to the grocery store. I felt like I accomplished so much more shopping without kiddos. No one asking me for a cookie or a drink or why I was looking at a certain product!

The girls were hamming it up while Elissa shopped on Tuesday.

They stuffed their shirts with balls.

Amanda provided the musical entertainment...

And Abbie, as you can see, had her own plans!

Take A Look

2010-06-11T13:09:00.003-05:00

Check out our new site! Just click the link below...

The Shingleton Agency

Hula Girl

2010-06-09T10:34:00.002-05:00

My Aunt Karen got Olivia a hula hoop. I had no idea how much she would LOVE hula hooping. She has been practicing and can now get the hoop to go around her about 6 to 8 times. Pretty soon she is going to be a professional hip shaker!!!

It's All About the Shoes

2010-06-08T09:58:00.002-05:00

I cannot get Amanda out of these Sleeping Beauty heels. She screams when I make her take them off and leaving the house has become such a "joy" because she can't wear her heels. Olivia got some new shoes that I can't get off her feet either. She has been asking for Sketchers Twinkle Toes for about 2 months and we finally gave in. She has been wearing her shoes all day, everyday and she sleeps with them in her bed. I am more of a purse girl myself (I might have even slept with a purse in my bed before), so I just don't get the shoe thing!

They Don't Even Know Who Garfield Is

2010-06-07T08:13:00.004-05:00

I had to get a baby shower gift so I was forced to take the girls to Toys R Us. (It's closer than Babies R Us.) I told them before we went in that we were getting a baby gift and that was it. After much begging, I let them ride the Garfield car since they had good behavior while we were inside. Note: Disregard the bag in Liv's hand. I am a sucker. I know! Good thing Amanda can't bargain with me yet. Liv is destined to be a lawyer or a sales person. She can somehow convince me of almost anything!

On another note: I went to the "said" baby shower last weekend and as I was leaving a lady stopped me and asked me for my maiden name. When I told her she said "I knew it! I would know those cheeks anywhere!" Turns out she was my preschool teacher. She said that she kept looking at me and just knew that I looked familiar. I have not seen her since preschool but she recognized me. Either I haven't changed much since preschool or my cheeks make a big impression! (It was actually really neat to see her and I was honored that she recognized me. At least she didn't say "Wow, you look old!)

I Think She Likes Him

2010-06-04T13:33:00.002-05:00

Our neighbor, Jake, came over a few days this week while his mom was at work. Jake is almost 10 and is not too interested in hanging out with 4 year old girl, but he didn't have a choice. Olivia wanted to do everything Jake did. They played video games, drew pictures, and wrote notes. Olivia even enjoyed watching Animal Planet on t.v. Jake was a good sport and let Olivia hang out.

Splash Park Fun

2010-06-03T09:32:00.002-05:00

We had a great time at the Splash Park yesterday. I think Amanda wins the "most fun" award. She wouldn't even come to the picnic table to eat her lunch. She played the entire time which resulted in a 3 1/2 hour nap afterwards. (I am not complaining!)

More Pics from Liv's Last Week of School

2010-06-02T08:01:00.002-05:00

I was able to take Reagan with me to Olivia's final school program for the 09-10 school year. She loved watching the kids sing and fit right in with Liv's friends and classmates.

Maybe She Was Born with It...

2010-06-01T18:20:00.002-05:00

I haven't taught her to love purses and baby dolls and strollers and accessories...I think it's genetic!

Prayer at School

2010-06-01T01:12:00.003-05:00

On one of Olivia's last days of school her class and several other classes put on a program for the parents. Before the program began, the school director announced that we would begin in prayer. She said that Olivia was going to be leading the prayer. I looked around wondering which Olivia it would be since I just knew it couldn't be "my" Olivia. It was "MY OLIVIA!" She led the school in prayer and her mama was so proud. I asked Olivia how she was selected and she said that she volunteered. I somehow knew it. My girl is anything but shy!

Bathing Booties, I Mean Beauties!

2010-05-19T11:13:00.002-05:00

Amanda and Her Uncle Brian

2010-05-18T21:12:00.002-05:00

Uncle Brian came to Austin last weekend to visit the new baby, Abbie. Olivia and Amanda love Uncle Brian and were so excited for his visit!

Our New Niece/Cousin

2010-05-14T19:56:00.003-05:00

Abbie Ryan Lindsey

May 12, 2010

3:16 a.m.

6lbs 3oz.

19 1/2 inches

Resourceful Little Thing!

2010-05-11T07:49:00.007-05:00

Amanda, like her big sister at this age, refuses to eat without a utensil. We took her to eat after my doctor's appointment on Monday and started her off with some Cheerios. As you can imagine, it is pretty hard to eat Cheerios off the table with a fork or a spoon but she figured out a way to eat them without using her hands anyway!

Tip of green crayon goes into the center of the Cheerio

Ensure it's stuck in the "O"

Here it goes...

Yummy! Wax and Cheerios. Good combo!

So proud!!!

*She ate every Cheerio using this method. We tried again later to see if she would do it again and sure enough...it works with yellow crayons at home too!

Speaking of being resourceful...the little girl is talking so much now. She says things that are so "useful" to know!

"Mommy"
"Daddy"
"Ya-Ya" (Olivia)
"Thank you" (sounds like Tack Q)
"Sorry" (sounds like So Wee)
"Please" (sounds like Pree)
"Cheese" (whenever she sees a camera aimed at her, she says Tease)
"Bo Bo" (all dogs and some cats are Bobo's, the dog we dog sit is nicknamed Bobo so she thinks all dogs are Bobo)

She shakes her head yes and no! She is opinionated and knows what she wants and does not want! (Imagine that!)

Olivia was counting cotton balls the other day and Amanda copied her saying her numbers 1 through 4!

And my favorites....when you ask for a kiss, she comes over and says "MMMM MWAH" and when you ask for "So Sweets," she comes over and gives hugs and then says "Awwww!" I cannot believe how quickly she is growing up.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T09:28:00.008-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all my favorite mommy's out there! I have been so blessed with my 2 precious girls and cannot wait to meet my #3 in August!

Isa 66:13 As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem."
Ezek 16:44 "'Everyone who quotes proverbs will quote this proverb about you: "Like mother, like daughter."

Church Picnic

2010-05-03T20:26:00.002-05:00

New Business

2010-04-28T19:08:00.004-05:00

Adam (and I) have officially started our Farmer's Insurance business. If you are interested in saving money on your insurance, please e-mail or call us!

*Yes, this is my shameless plug!!!

Georgetown Red Poppy Festival

2010-04-27T15:38:00.006-05:00

Georgetown has a Red Poppy Festival every spring while the poppy's are blooming. I have always wanted to go, but this is the first year we actually made it there. (I admit it, I am a sucker for arts and craft vendors!) Below are some pics from the festival!

Amanda after some chocolate covered rice cakes!

The kiddie train

Sandy-the sand woman!

Not the red poppies, but beautiful pink roses!

IN OTHER NEWS:

The vampire cat has struck again !

Getting Ready For Disney on Ice

2010-04-26T12:04:00.000-05:00

The Bracamontes'

2010-04-25T21:26:00.005-05:00

Our friends, Chris and Ceci, were in town last week from Bejing, China! We got to hang out at Chris's parents house one night and everyone had a great time playing games, cooking out, and catching up.

Aunt Ceci and Amanda

Heather (Kasper), Me, Liv, Tanisha (Johnson), and Ceci (Bracamontes) holding Amanda

Tanisha, Liv, Ceci, and Amanda

Uncle Charlie and Aunt T with Amanda

My Loves!

Oh Happy Day!

2010-04-24T20:58:00.000-05:00

Biking to School

2010-04-23T09:11:00.002-05:00

My little girl is growing up so fast. Her teacher told me that all the little girls in class have been talking about riding their bikes to school. One of her friends rode on Wednesday and Liv has been begging me to let her ride to school too. So today, even though it is humid and muggy, I obliged. We gave ourselves 25 minutes to go about .55 miles and we made with a minute or two to spare! She was so excited and wanted all of her friends to see her on her bike. (Adam had to pick us up because they don't have a bike rack or bike storage at school.) Pretty soon she will be riding without those training wheels and I won't be able to keep up!!

Disney on Ice

2010-04-22T08:53:00.004-05:00

Adam took Olivia on a date last night. They went to see Disney on Ice. I took some adorable pictures of Olivia in her Ariel outfit before they left, but I will have to post those later. The picture that I am posting today is Olivia with all her loot after the show.

I have taken her to several shows and concerts and know how much she loves them! This was Adam's first time taking Olivia to a show on his own. I think her excitement got to him because he would never usually buy her so many treats all at once. It must be that cheesy smile and her batting eyelashes. (That always seemed to work for me with my daddy! *wink wink*)

They had a great date and stayed the whole time!!!

Liv with her large Flounder stuffed animal, cotton candy, singing & light up Ariel magic wand, and Tinkerbell pixie hat!

Cheese!

2010-04-21T19:34:00.002-05:00

Every time Amanda sees my cell phone, she says "Teeese!"

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

2010-04-19T20:04:00.001-05:00

Elissa's Baby Shower

2010-04-16T11:25:00.002-05:00

Elissa, Aunt Karen, Joelle w/Witt, and Me

Liss, Liv, and Me

Cutting the Cake

Yum!

Art Lessons with Aunt Karen

2010-04-15T09:10:00.003-05:00

My Aunt Karen is an artist and art teacher. Olivia loves doing art and especially loves Aunt Karen. They worked for about an hour on Monday and did several projects.

Free Style!

Learning about mixing colors...

One of the final products was this painting of bluebonnets. Olivia actually did this all by herself. She practiced first and then made this card.

Hanging Out, Watching Dora

2010-04-14T13:09:00.003-05:00

Reagan does not like to be snuggled on too much, but she let Amanda cuddle away while they watched Dora this morning! So sweet!

I Want To Learn...

2010-04-13T08:56:00.001-05:00

Amanda really wants to learn to ride a 2-wheeler like her big sister. I think she has a little time...but she looks cute trying!

Kids Will Be Kids

2010-04-12T09:21:00.002-05:00

Don't read me my rights. This is just a little girl being a little girl.

Elissa and I were trying on clothes in the maternity shop last week and Olivia and Reagan (you know who's idea it was originally) asked about the maternity pillow they have for women trying on clothes. They wanted to try it on, so we let them. Bad choice, maybe? But they were being good and it was just innocent fun!

Happy Sunday!

2010-04-11T09:27:00.001-05:00