Olive Oil!

This is a very humbling post because I know some of you out there will read this and think...Duh! But, I was baking cupcakes for our Jr. High Girls Slumber party tomorrow night and I was out of oil (all I had was olive oil-cause thats what Italians stock up on!). So, I figured...what the heck I will give it a try. Needless to say, the fire alarm almost went off and I think the bottom of the cupcakes could seriously injure someone if I threw one! 

Yep, thats a testament to what a great cook I am. Good thing Scott likes sandwiches...ALOT!

But, since I am obsessive about having a photo (I know, I tried, but couldn't hit the publish post button until I added one!) There is something I did have success with...and it is pure SIN & will lead most people down a path of destruction. And, the only ingredients are LOTS of Sugar, Peanut Butter & Chocolate. Can we say...PMS!

Yes...that is one missing in the middle!

Props to the Pooch!

I have been feeling a little guilty lately about the lack of attention my sweet (horse) dog Rusty gets these days. When we first got him (about 6 years ago) he was Scott and I's baby. He did everything with us, slept in the house and as a puppy even milked us into letting him in bed with us. Yeah, I know...

But, after the first kid, and then the second kid...his living quarters have changed and his attention has been a bit squelched. Don't get me wrong, he is still pretty spoiled. We built out the garage that he has now taken over and we love him to pieces, but lets just say he hasn't been in any more family photos since this one....

She Scolded Me!

I got scolded by my big sister today for not blogging in so long. Which is funny because she knows more about me than I probably know about myself. But, apparrantly she needs it in blog format to be totally filled in.

I have been having "issues" because when I blog I feel the need to get all creative with photos and such (I guess its the graphics lady in me) and if I can't accomplish that in a timely manner I just say forget it.

It's not that I dont have anything to say, you all know I can chat it up with the best of them, but its this requirement I have given myself to make this all fancy. So, my attempt will be to blog more frequently. With pictures or not and see how it goes.

We had our ups and downs in 2008 (unfortunately a few downs) but I am seeing through all of it and looking to the faithfulness that God has shown us time and time again. I am anticipating great things in 2009! 

The kids are growing so much every day. Nathan finally got potty trained and it's been really nice only changing diapers for one little munchkin. Here are a few pictures from Christmas...just for the heck of it (cause I have issues and I can't post without them!)

ONE!

Yes, all her hair fell out and came in blonde.

I can't believe my baby is one today! She is sooo fun. Her personality is contagious and for the most part she always has a smile or a kiss to share. Last year at this time, I was in labor with a 9lb. + baby and it wasn't quite as easy of a labor as it was with Nathan who was 5 weeks early and 7lbs+. But, it was all worth it, she brings so much joy to our home. I knew I was in for trouble when she started walking at the end of her 8th month. She is a busy body and a half which is probably good for her sake so she can keep up with her brother. I love the relationship that is developing between them. Nathan is beginning to get protective of his sister and they have such a special love for each other. I am looking forward to watching her grow, but sad it is happening so fast!

Princess Party

Rachel is turning one on Saturday, but we did an early birthday party for her. It was a princess party for our little princess. Rachel wasn't feeling so good on her birthday, so she wasn't her chipper little self, but it was still a lot of fun. I got some ideas offline and they were a hit. We made: Magic Wands (pretzels with white chocolate tips & pink sparkles), Chicken Crowns (compliments of Burger King) Jewel Salad (with raspberries, cranberries & walnuts...yum) Pink Princess Punch, Medieval Chicken, and Ring Pops, it was so fun. We also had face painting (thanks to Sara, Joe's sister) and the kids played in the bounce house most of the day. I can't believe my baby will be one tomorrow. She is so lively and fun...what a blessing I have been given in her! Enjoy the pics...

rachels 1st birthday

Monchhichi

There are very few things that I am sentimental about. But, My Grandma Burnett has these two monkey dolls at her house that she has had since we were little kids and we always played with them when we went to stay there! I still want to take them home with me when I go to visit because they remind me of her and I don't get to see her very much. Anyways...I about jumped for Joy in the middle of the grocery store today (yes the grocery store) as I walked by an aisle of Monchhichi dolls. I am so excited and hope I have the diligence to keep mine as long as my grandma has. I might even let it sleep next to me tonight for old time sake!

Slacker!

Thanksgiving 2008

I have been totally slacking on my blog lately, but I fully intend to get back in the swing of things. I have to admit...I have been swept away by facebook. It's totally addicting, but not as rewarding. A lot has gone on since my last real post, but it would take forever to catch up, so I will just start with where I am at right now. Thankful...I have to say Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays and this one was great. This year has been up and down for our family, but God is always so faithful and that is what I am most Thankful for. The unending, unconditional faithfulness of the Lord in our lives. He has given us soooo much!

All I have to say now is....I Can't believe it's december!