Tuesday, December 1, 2009

TASTY TUESDAY

Glazed Ham in a Bag

5 lb cooked ham, thawed
3 tbs concentrated orange juice
1 tbs dijon mustard

Rinse meat. Pat dry. Place in a cooking bag (like one used for a turkey, normally found in the ziplock section of your grocery store). Cut 3 slits in the ham about 2 inches deep. Place ham in the bag. Combine OJ and mustard in a small cup. Mix well. Spoon some of the mixture into the slits of the ham. Pour the rest on top and spread over ham. Seal bag with the twist tie. Poke 4 holes in the top of the bag. Place in slow cooker. Cover. Cook on low 6-8 hours. Slice ham, serve with juices.





I served this for Christmas dinner one year. It got rave reviews and was hard to convince people that it was so easy! I served it with baked potatoes, green beans, salad and rolls. The meat is so tender and is great the next day for cold cuts or reheated! Go ahead, volunteer to bring the ham for the holidays!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

TASTY TUESDAY

Spanish Okra

1 lb stew meat
1 cup chopped onions
2 cups sliced fresh or frozen okra (I use frozen)
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
6 cups cooked brown rice

Place all ingredients in slow cooker EXCEPT RICE. Mix well. Cook on low 6-7 hours, or until stew meat is cooked through and tender. Cook rice when ready to eat. Serve okra mixture over the rice. Goes well with a crunchy cold green salad. This meal is always a home run with my family! Bon appetite!

Saturday, November 21, 2009

A Special Spot

A Special Spot
My son is the light of my life. The other morning, he came to my room...early. Jon had already left so Price crawled up on Jon's side of the bed and made himself cozy under the blankets. He comes toting all of his sleepy time items. HIS pillow (made of a special minky material), a "buzz", his blankie and a bear from Nana and got them all situated under the sheets with him. He rolled over and put his hand across my shoulder, whispered "I love you, mom" closed his eyes and went back to sleep for about 45 minutes.

It was cold outside. It was cold upstairs and even chillier downstairs. I turned up the heat on the thermastat and asked Price if he was hungry for breakfast. He is like his Mama and wakes up with a grumbly tummy, so of course he said "yes." I whipped out some waffles and some hot cocoa mix. In our kitchen is an island of sorts. Really, it is a rectangular table that is countertop height, right in the middle of the kitchen. I bought a little metal chair from a garage sale down the street for $2. We needed the table for the extra workspace, but it has turned out to be useful for so much more than that. It has become a very special spot for our family. Though small, this table is suited for so much. We use it as a place to mix special treats, chop fruits and veggies and make playdough. We use it often as a spot to put dinner out to serve guests informally and our sacks of groceries land here when they arrive home.

My favorite use for this little table is the time spent here with Price and Jon. Many times in the morning, like the one described, Price will climb up in the chair and watch and talk to me while I move about the kitchen. He eagerly helps me prepare dinner or awaits something hot and tasty from the oven. That particular morning, I made hot cocoa and listened to Price tell a story about events from the night before. We sipped our drinks and chatted, ate waffles and had a few giggles. I could not help but hope that this special spot would remain just that; a place where we could connect as mother and son. My mind flashed forward to a Saturday morning when he is 10, 14 or 17 years old. Would he come down, eat some waffles and chat with his mom about the football game the night before? Or the date he had? Would he still choose to pull up that little metal chair and tell me funny story?

Jon and I have had great talks over this little table too. Sharing a bowl of popcorn in the evening or a cup of coffee in the morning, we will chat at this special spot. The kitchen is the hub of our home. Most days there are three meals prepared and cleaned up there, in addition to snacks, unloading groceries and emptying and loading the dishwasher. It is also where I do most of my praying (while working of course). In that moment I had with Price the other morning, I prayed for this special spot. I wanted to capture that moment and all it meant to me in a picture.

I like my kitchen. I am not talking about the decor, wall color and so on, I like the feel of preparing to serve and serving my family. The smells from the oven, the laughter that fills the room when we are all there together there and the music coming from the radio in the sun room while we dish up our plates, eat and clean up meals make this place the heartbeat of our home. I am so thankful for this special spot and pray that it will be that way for years and years to come!
My little guy with his cup of hot chocolate.
Price; in the middle of telling a story.


Tuesday, November 17, 2009

TASTY TUESDAY

Crispy Ranch Chicken

4 chicken breasts
1/2 cup butter, melted
3/4 cup cornflakes, crushed
3/4 grated cup parmesan cheese
1 pkg dry ranch dressing mix

Pre heat oven to 350 F. Combine crumbs, cheese and ranch mix. Dip chicken in butter, coat with mixture. Place in baking dish sprayed lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 50-55 min, until chicken is cooked through. So easy!

Monday, November 16, 2009

Poppy and Price

"Poppy" is what we call my dad. Price is his biggest fan and I think the reverse is true aswell. We see my parents often, but lately we have seen more of my dad, for many reasons.

1) My mom hosts a Bible study on Monday nights at their house, so I usually invite Poppy over for dinner while my mom has a house full of women. He comes over around 6:00 and will stay until Price is about to go to bed, around 8:00. They spend the evening boxing, wrestling, playing football and soccer (in the house)! Last week they played pictionary. Sometimes they watch a movie. They are best buddies. I can't help but get tickled when they start laughing out loud at each other! It is so sweet! (Price is in his undies because he works up such a sweat!!) Price has my kickboxing gloves and Poppy has oven mits! Ha!


2) My dad is the ultimate handyman! He seriously can fix anything! My hubs is great at lots of things, but fix'n stuff is not his specialty. Poppy has helped us with a "things that need to be fixed" list (running toilet, hanging shelves, a new threshold in the garage door, tightening door knobs, fixing a broken drawer in Price's bathroom, removing closet doors to be painted, maintaincing our AC unit, replacing our hot water heater...) Whatever Poppy is working on, Price is always at his side! Always!


3) Knowing Price gets out of school at noon, Poppy sometimes will call and see if we want to go to lunch. We met at Subway last week. We sometimes call and invite Poppy and/or Yaya for lunch at our house too. My mom did the same thing on Friday and took Price to McDonald's. Price loves these little surprises!

4) My dad often chooses to spend his time hanging out with Price when he gets the chance. On Wednesday, my dad came over and spent the day with us. He replaced the door knob on our storm door. Jon brought pizza for lunch and then me, Poppy and Price went to the cemetary to place flags on the tombstones of Price's great grandpa's who served in WWII. Poppy explained to Price that Grandpa Beaty was a Navy sailor. He stayed on a big ship on the ocean. Price was intrigued and had lots of questions. We then told him about his Papa (my mom's dad) who was an Army soldier. Price wanted to know if Papa carried a gun and shot bad guys. Price had a look of pride on his face as my dad explianed the best he could in 4 year old terms that his great grandfathers were heros. Of course Price did not fully understand their service and sacrifice, but in his mind his grandpa's were tough, brave, "warrior super heros who defeated the bad guys." What boy wouldn't be proud of grandpas like that?!




It was a proud moment for me aswell. I must admit, I choked back tears at some points during the outing. I recalled stories I had heard from both of my grandads. I prayed for our armed forces that are currently serving. I thought about what it would be like if Price ever decided to serve our country through the military. Overall, I felt proud of the heritage Price has through his great grandpas. Not only serving America, but what he may get from them as people too. It was a good day to reflect on and honor two very special men I knew and loved.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

TASTY TUESDAY

Classic Family Meatloaf

1.5 lbs extra lean ground beef
1 can condensed tomato soup, divided
1 pkg stove top stuffing mix for chicken
1 egg lightly beaten
1 onion chopped (I don't use a whole onion, use your preference)
1 tsp dried thyme leaves
1/4 cup chili sauce

Pre heat oven to 350 F. Mix meat 1/2 cup of soup, stuffing mix, egg, onion and thyme. Mix well. Scrub your hands clean and do it the old fashion way...get them dirty! Press evenly into 8x4 loaf pan sprayed with cooking spray. Bake 55 minutes. Heat remaining soup and chili sauce in small saucepan. Spoon over meatloaf just before serving. Great with mashed potatoes and a veggie of your choice. We like carrots, green beans or broccoli around the Molder house. Pick your fave and dig in! Yum!

Monday, November 2, 2009

A Happy Halloween

Halloween was lots of fun this year! It all started Friday morning with a party at Price's preschool. Price was an army man.

That night, Jon and I went to my cousin Evva's Halloween party. It was at her and her husband, Clint's house. I was a pumpkin and Jon was Peter Peter pumpkin eater. Okay...so it's not that exciting, but it was easy and our "costumes" were comfortable; which is very important these days.
Saturday, we went Trick or treating in our neighborhood with my niece and nephews. We had good time watching the kids run from house to house collecting candy. Afterwards, we went to my parents house for dinner and football games. The kids played and played and played!!! It was LOTS of fun! Here is a pic of YaYa, Poppy and the grandkiddos.
My guys and me.
My beautiful sis and me. Brett, Piper, Price and Blade. Good times!
Overall, it was a great and memorable Halloween!







Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Laundry Room Makeover!

Maybe its all part of nesting....or maybe I get a ridiculous 'high' from knowing things are tidy and organized! I think it is a mixture of both. Pregnancy and the quickly approaching D day has caused me to kick things into high gear. My dear husband has received the brunt of my crazy behavior! LOL!

I like to decorate....not that I am good at it, I just enjoy the transformation and then living with my visions. I know it's weird. Jon has yet to understand my need for paint, white trim, organization, no clutter and decor that is 'pleasing to the eye' (at least in my opinion). When we did the master bedroom makeover, I literally felt more peaceful going to sleep and waking up in a room with a pleasing paint color on the walls, clean white trim and a furniture arrangement that was functional. We cleaned out all the closets and drawers; getting rid of unused clothes, shoes, jewelry, ties and hats. Everything has its place! I love that feeling!!!!

Anyway, the latest project took me to the laundry area. Jon seriously looked at me like he was thinking about having me committed when I told him I wanted to get the laundry room painted this weekend! Ha! He loathes painting, but knew I would keep dropping hints about painting the laundry room until it got done....and I can't do it.....so.....he ponied up! Like every other room in our house, we have to start with the trim. He primed and painted it white, then painted the walls Queen Anne Lilac from Sherwin Williams. I knew the laundry room was the one place I could put a color on the walls that I probably would not use anywhere else in my house. I wanted it to be colorful but soft, crisp and clean. He started painting around 3:00 pm and by 8:00 pm, I was doing laundry in my pretty laundry room.

I love the way it turned out. It is not a big area at all! It is located in our garage, but I spend so much of my time doing laundry (at least a load or two a day) and Maggie is not even here yet! I wanted the laundry room to be a place that I enjoyed, even though laundry is not my favorite thing to do. Again, I have yet to get my point of view across clearly to Jon, but he did it none the less, just for me! For that I am so thankful! He did a GREAT job!!
Here are some pics:
Trying to convince Jon that it is "fine", but I want it to be "pretty"
Jon had some help. Price said "I love to paint" and Jon emphatically replied "You did NOT get that from ME!"
The laundry room after everything is put back in place. It may not be a drastic makeover, but it is much better than before!I plan to get hooks to hang under each letter as a place to hang "delicates" to dry! Ya know, over in the concealed corner of the laundry room instead of out in the open garage!!!



Tuesday, October 27, 2009

TASTY TUESDAY

Blue Ribbon Cranberry Chicken

3 lbs of chicken, (thawed, cut into cubes)
16 oz. can whole cranberry sauce
8 oz. bottle Russian salad dressing
1 pkg dry onion soup mix
1 pkg extra wide egg noodles

Rinse chicken, pat dry. Place chicken in slow cooker. In a separate bowl, combine remaining ingredients EXCEPT NOODLES. Mix well and pour over chicken. Cook on low 6-7 hours or until chicken is cooked through and tender. Cook pasta. Serve chicken mixture over the noodles. Good with a side salad and garlic toast.

Price loves this meal. Jon agrees it makes good leftovers for lunch. Enjoy!

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Another week down!




Yeah! I have made it to 33 weeks! I am taking the medication less frequently as it seems that rest and drinking lots of water are helping to keep the contractions under control for the most part. Sleep is becoming more elusive. Comfort is not really the problem so much as waking up really thirsty around 2:30 or so, then fade in and out of sleep until around 6:30.

I have received lots of hand-me-down clothes for Maggie. I am so thankful! I am enjoying folding and smelling all the baby clothes as they come out of the dryer. So fun! I have purchased 80, yes 80 hangers and I need more!! Most sizes are anywhere from 0-6 months old. A few 9 month outfits, but all are so adorable!

Leslie, a long time friend, used to own a baby boutique. She can whip out hair bows at lightning speed. This last week I purchased ribbon and clips and she has made nearly 30 bows for Maggie! She makes many different styles; some are simple, some have knots and some with a little bit of bling. I am so excited to get them on a bow holder in Maggie's room.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Good Day

Yesterday, I made a visit to the doctor. She said things were the same (which is good) and to keep resting regularly and try to stay off my feet as much as possible. The appointment went well. I have gained 17 pounds, and I think all but 3 of them are in my posterior! Oh well!

After the appointment, I met up with my BFF, Molly for some much needed girl talk. Our boys are just a year apart and Macy is just over 2 years old and so darn cute! We met at Chick-fil-A. I miss that place. The kids played and we got to chat for a bit. When the boys decided they were ready to go, we headed to Molly's house for some more play time. Price and Garrett played soccer, army men, dinosaurs and super heroes...that's what little boys are made of!

Molly and I sipped coffee and talked and laughed. The rain spit down on the windows and the orange, yellow and red leaves would rustle in the wind and fall every so often. We snacked on yummy pumpkin bread and refilled our coffee cups. Her house is so warm and inviting. Pictures of her kids and their art are sprinkled around the house. Lamp light and throw pillows make you want to snuggle up stay for a long time. I enjoy walking around her house and noticing any new additions since my last visit.

We talked about our children, parenting, housekeeping, God, babies, bible studies, gardening, decorating, arranging furniture, grocery shopping, our admiration of mutual friends and so much more. She gave me two boxes of clothes; some for Price and some for Maggie. I intended to leave around 3:00 or so, but did not leave until 4:45! That put me right in OKC traffic coming home. It was raining so there were lots or wrecks on the interstate. I don't think I EVER went over 28 mph until I reached the turnpike! It took us exactly 2 hours to get home! Price slept for the first hour. All the way home I thought about what a good day it had been. A safe trip to the city, good news from the doctor, breaking bread with dear friends, fellowship in a precious God loving home and good conversation. Price and I chatted and sang the second hour in the car. I laughed at him playing the drums and dancing in the back seat, which only made him do it more. We had PB&J for dinner and drank hot chocolate while we watched The Polar Express and snuggled under a quilt on the couch.

"Thank you Lord for a good day and all your simple blessings."

Monday, October 19, 2009

TASTY TUESDAY

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

3 lbs frozen meatballs (I like to use the italian seasoned, but there is the regular style too)

1 jar (9-10 oz) sweet and sour sauce

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 medium red bell pepper, cubed

1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained

White rice



Combine all indredients EXCEPT PINEAPPLE in a slow cooker and stir gently. Cook on low for 6 hours or so, longer if needed. About an hour before serving, drain pineapple and dump into slow cooker. Stir gently. Serve over white rice with a side salad and oriental dressing. Makes good leftovers too. Enjoy!

Sunday, October 18, 2009

32 Weeks!

Yeah! I have made it another week! I have an appointment on Wednesday, so we will see what the doctor has to say about how things are going. I have had some serious pain and pressure in my pelvic area. I looked up this symptom of pregnancy on the internet and apparently it is very common! Great! I did not have this with Price, but am glad to know it is a weird normal of pregnancy! I guess it is the bodies way of preparing for delivery. Hormones called relaxin and progesterone cause ligaments and joints to stretch to allow room to deliver baby. God thought of everything when He created the miracle of childbirth!!!

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Little Giggles

Price is so cute and funny! Here are a few stories about things he says and does that make me giggle:

A couple of days ago, I picked up Price from preschool and told him I had a special surprise. He inquired about what it was and so I told him we were going to McDonald's for lunch. He was so excited (obviously, we don't go there very often). I pulled up to the drive thru. Price said, "Mom, I want to go inside." I told him that there are lots of people who are sick and that the Play Place had lots of germs. I explained that we would play inside some other time, but for today, we were going to take our chicken nuggets home. I was looking at him through the rear view mirror. He cocked his head abruptly, eyebrows pulled together with a frown and said "What?!! Then why did you make me get a flu shot?!!"

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We made a quick trip to Wal-Mart the other day. When we left, we passed by the fresh flowers. Price said "Mom, I wish I had some money. I would buy you some flowers." He said it kind of bashful and and with a flutter of his long eyelashes and just enough of a smirk to flash his dimples. I swear he knows what he does to me! I am such a sucker for him!!!!

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A few nights ago, Price and I were talking about what it means to be married. He said he didn't want Maggie to ever get married because the man would take her to anther house. I explained that is what is supposed to happen and that he would have a house of his own someday too. He teared up and tried to talk through his throat being all choked up. "But I love this house! I don't ever want to leave." "Oh, okay, well...maybe when you grow up, you can live here. Daddy and I will move somewhere else." Honestly, the thought warmed my heart. I was raised in the house that my dad was raised in. I liked the idea that Price might have a family here. Apparently he did too. "Okay!! I will live here and you can live in baby Bennett's house!!" (our friend's house down the street). "I will call you when the pool is ready and you can come over and swim!!" He was so excited and relieved to have figured out something that worked well for everyone. "Okay!" I replied with a giggle.

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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Down, but not out!

Okay, so I feel very touched that people have noticed my lack of blogging. I have been preoccupied lately to say the least. Here are a few updates in a nutshell:

1) We have not had the internet at home for awhile, so blogging has not been convenient, considering it has to be done from my parent's computer. Luckily, the internet is making a come back in the Molder home and I will be blogging regularly just in time to keep you updated on Maggie and her much anticipated arrival.

2) Speaking of Miss Maggie Beth, she is under a great deal of pressure! Literally! Like I did with Price, I have started having contractions WAY too early! This time though, they are stronger and more frequent. I made a quick trip to Labor and Delivery about 2.5 weeks ago and got IV fluids and a couple shots of meds to stop the contractions. At last weeks doctor appointment, I was put on "limited activity," which means for every hour up, I have to be down for two!!! Kinda hard to do with a busy 4 year old boy. Price has been amazing though. We have not made a big deal at all about my having to be down. I set him up for a couple of hours of entertainment (movie, army men, Leap Frog Computer, coloring books...) and he doesn't really even notice that I remain parked on the couch. Friends have been vacuuming my carpets and my mom helps me to take care of the laundry. Dr. Hager (my OB) also said that my contractions have pushed her way down into my pelvis. She is "really low," which is causing concern that my water will break. If that happens, there is no turning back. Maggie will have to make her debut when she is not "fully cooked." I am 31 weeks. I count my weeks on Sunday's. Every week is a small battle won! Dr. Hager is wanting me to make it to at least 36 weeks (37 is considered full term, 40 weeks goes up to my due date, Dec 13). Therefore...."limited activity."

3) Last Thursday evening, I started getting a head cold. I didn't hesitate to start taking meds. I don't wait for illness to consume me, I want to kick it square in the tail and send it pack'n! By Friday night, I was in bad shape. Saturday was a little better. I discovered the miracle of Sinus Wash! For something so disgusting, it is amazing. I highly recommend it for those suffering from a head full of mucus.! Honestly, it is great. By Sunday, I was feeling better. Today, I awoke to a dreadful pain in my left cheek, ear and behind the eye. I am concerned I have the start of a sinus infection. Apparently there is such thing as "rhinitis of pregnancy," which causes pregnant women to suffer from habitual sinus problems. This is the second round of this stuff in a month.

Though I am down (trying to ward off contractions and fighting a head/chest cold), I am not out! I will do whatever it takes to keep Maggie cooking. To be honest, it has been good practice for me and Price. He is having to do a little more on his own (even though he doesn't realize it or why). I am having to let many things go that would normally NOT go undone; such as beds being made, a few dishes in the sink, my crazy scrubbing of the bathrooms, and toys strung out all over the living room...all day long! This is good practice, because like now, when Maggie gets here, I will not be able to hop up and meet Price's every need when he asks. I will not be able to keep a spotless home, keep up with laundry and cook meals every night. I just might have to consider taking a shower a productive day! Ha! I remember feeling that way when Price was a newborn.

I have longed to be pregnant, and believe me, I am thankful for every moment. Physical limitations and all!!! I love carrying her around with me and feeling her move. Sadly, she will probably be our last baby. My last pregancy. The last time my body does anything so amazing. I am not in any hurry for it to be over. I count it all JOY!

Friday, September 11, 2009

She has a name!

As of Saturday the 29th of August, our daughter's name is officially Margaret Elizabeth Molder. We already affectionately call her Maggie Beth or Miss Maggie. It is precious to hear Price call her by her name. He is not great at his "th" sound so it sounds like "Maggie Beff"....so cute! He stills talks to my belly button daily! Its like he thinks it is the speaker into my tummy where Maggie can hear him. A couple of days ago we were at the grocery store. While I am inspecting apples to put in the bag Price lifts my shirt, belly button exposed, and proceeds to ask Maggie if she likes to eat apples! Feeling mortified that my tummy is bare in the produce section, I gently back away, lower my shirt and smile at Price (not wanting to embarrass him). I look out of the corner of my eye and see a middle aged woman with an adoring grin on her face and she says "what a great big brother he is going to be."

I wish Nana could meet her and know her name. I am sure she does though. I would like to think that when heaven rejoices over birth and the "big events" of life or maybe even the small ones; that not do the angels sing, but loved ones that are there in heaven get to share in that joy as well. I don't know, but I can hope.

Jon said that if we were to name her after someone, it would only be fitting to name her Maggie. Not only do we like the name, but if a name comes with certain attributes, why not name her after the strongest, kindest, most loving and affectionate women either of us has known? And then we named her Maggie Beth! So there ya go!

We drove over to announce the decision to my mom. She cried...no, she wept with joy! I know she would have loved this baby girl regardless of her name, but obviously this name holds a special place in her heart. We are all excited to have a name for her. She is loved. Soon we will get to meet her!

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Place your "Vote" here

Yes! I am still alive. It has been a few weeks since I have last posted, but we have been so busy. We have been working on the nursery, which is coming along nicely! I am fluffing my nest! In other words, organizing, painting, getting projects done and making room for another little person in our house. So fun!!

A few updates:
I am now 6 months pregnant; starting my third trimester! I feel fantastic. Price talks to the baby all the time. I know when she is born she will stare at him with wonder; finally able to put a face with the voice she knows so well.

We have not yet chosen a name. We are deciding between two names. Eden Elizabeth Molder, nickname "Edie." This is the name we had picked out if Price had been a girl. The other name is Margaret Elizabeth Molder, nickname "Maggie." This is Nana's first name. Elizabeth is the name of my great grandmother (my dad's grandmother), an amazing woman of God. I pray for our baby girl and Price every morning, so I am waiting to hear from God about what name HE has for her. I am hoping God will do for me what he has done plenty of times in the Bible....say "You will have a child and you shall call her______." Ha! Well, one can hope! I will let you know what we decide. She will at least have a name by the middle of December...and it just might take that long!

If you look over to the right, just under my profile, you will see a place where you can "vote" for your favorite name. I am curious to see what the favorite will be.

I will post pics of her nursery when it is done...it is getting so close to being finished! Now all we need are lots of clothes and bows...the fun stuff!

Monday, August 3, 2009

Little Fish!



We really enjoy having a pool! Price swims nearly everyday. He has improved so much in his swimming abilities this summer. I am very proud of him! He can swim really well! He gets diving rings in the shallow end, jumps off the diving board and swims to the ladder. His favorite thing to do is ride on Jon's back to get the diving rings from the deep end. So cute!




We like to take a swim in the evening. Jon hooks up itunes to the outdoor speakers and we crank up the music. Sometimes we swim while waiting for dinner to cook or while Jon is grilling. Other times we like to eat dinner then take a dip in the pool. Either way, we have alot of great family time swimming. Here is a video of Jon and Price getting rings...and another of Price jumping off the diving board! (Sometimes when the mood to swim hits with urgency, there is not time to retrieve a swimsuit. In this video Price is wearing his undies to swim. Jon however is wearing a swimsuit! ) We love summer!






Thursday, July 30, 2009

6 years!

This Sunday, Jon and I will be celebrating our 6 year anniversary! Most people say their married life "have been the best years of their life," but I am not going to say that. Jon and I have had our fair share of tough times and bumps in the road...

Actually, in keeping with the analogy, we have had more than "bumps." We have driven off the road, rolled our marriage vehicle and crashed into a tree! People were "injured" and things at times have seemed to be a total loss. But, through prayer, forgiveness, communication and reconciliation, we have made it through. We have learned to let each other be who we are. See the potential in each other and encourage it. I have seen both of our priorities shift for the better, greater good of our marriage and family. We have grown spiritually and are more sensitive to each others needs and love language.

I would not trade those tough times for anything! We are better off for having experienced them and come through on the other side. God has been faithful to see us through raising a child, Jon's changing career, moving towns, finding our church home, deaths of family, miscarriages, financial strain, life's everyday stresses and now the anticipation of having another sweet angel in December.

I thank God for my husband! There are so many things I love about him! I think the goal of marriage is to help, respect and take care of each other. I can say with 100% certainty that I love Jon more today than I did the day we got married. We don't FEEL love for each other every single day, but we continue to learn to CHOOSE love, ACT with love, SPEAK with love...even when we don't FEEL love. Loving even though we have flaws, isn't that what true love is anyway? I am so glad Jon is willing to frequently overlook mine!

It is not a secret; I am far from perfect and so is Jon, but we are perfect for each other!!

The Playlist is a collection of songs that mean something to Jon and me. We started dating in 1998! These are just a few songs remind us of each other and different chapters in our relationship.

Monday, July 20, 2009

Flashlight Adventure


Price was scheduled to go to VBS with Nanny (Jon's mom) this evening and he wouldn't get back until after his bedtime, which is normally 8:00 pm. By the time he takes a bath and reads books, it is late when he finally gets to sleep. So, this afternoon I encouraged Price to rest on his bed. I was hoping he would fall asleep, and he did.

Since he slept for an hour and a half this afternoon, I told him when he got home from VBS, we would go for a walk in the dark with our flashlights. After a snack and a bath, he grabbed two flashlights and we headed out.
He was so cute! He listened to the crickets and started making up a story about "the mystery of the golden cricket!" He would shine his light on everything in the street...a smashed golf ball, shoe laces, sticks, grass growing in the cracks, water puddles, rocks and lots of other things! They look so different and interesting in the dark! He would shine his light up in the trees, on stop signs and mailboxes (continuing to add to his story). He stopped at a large area of concrete in the street that was all chipped and broken. Very excited, he called Jon and I over to check it out. "Look, it is the footprint of triceratops! Isn't that amazing?" he said as he kneeled down to touch it like a real treasure.

We had fun! I love this adventurous age. Combined with Price's imagination, these types of outings end up being great entertainment!

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Reconnecting



My mom and dad have a place at Tenkiller that they visit nearly every weekend from April to October. My parents invited Price to come with them for a couple of days. They left Friday at noon and are on their way home as I type this blog. I was looking forward to a weekend with my hubs, but I had no idea....

Friday afternoon, I went to his office and help do some work. Even though he doesn't say it, he likes it when I am there. I can tell by the look on his face. Later that afternoon, I stopped by Sherwin Williams to pick up some paint to finish painting the trim in the nursery. I took it home and started painting. Jon came home around 6:30 and we decided to go eat. We went to BJ's. It is a local hamburger/pizza/sandwich place. After discussing our thoughts on having a daughter due in December, we wanted to revel in it a bit, so we went to Wal-Mart to check out all things pink. Jon kept selecting outfits that were not pink, which I liked. She will need a good variety of clothes, not just pink. I made a stop by the grocery side of the store and picked out some icecream!

Saturday morning we got iced coffees from McDonald's and then drove the town checking out garage sales and then stopped by the Farmer's Market. When we got home, we worked together on insurance stuff while we watched Mama Mia! I enjoyed it; Jon endured it for me. We stopped by some friend's house and picked up a huge bag of maternity clothes that are being given to me to wear for the next 4 months or so! Cute clothes that I am so thankful to borrow!
We got Chinese take out and came home to watch another movie as we vegged out with full tummies. Around 4:00 we jumped in the pool. I fell asleep on a raft. I loved every second!
I hopped in the shower while Jon went to wash my car (I like it when he does that)! We went on an insurance appointment together just outside of town, then headed back for dinner around 9:00. We went to A&E Grill, sat out on the patio, had great conversation and enjoyed the cool summer night.

Sunday morning, Jon went for a bike ride and I stayed home and got around to head to the city. We left around 9:30 and had brunch at Bellini's. Again, we opted for the patio. It overlooked a pond with two water fountains, geese, green grass and lots of landscaping. The weather was beautiful! We had a delicious breakfast. We sat there for close to 2 hours. We laughed, casually talked about future plans and told stories that neither of us had heard (after 12 years of dating/marriage it surprised me there were things about him I did not know). We left and went to the mall. We strolled through the entire mall, grabbed a Starbucks coffee and headed home. When we got home, we took a nap and waited for Price to get back.

We had a whole weekend...face to face, great conversation, no interruptions, lots of laughs and memories made. I often forget about the real person behind the man who comes in and out of our house. He pays the bills, takes out the trash, wakes up early and works hard. I know he feels the same about me. He often forgets about the real person behind the woman who takes care of the household, spends her day with the kiddo, cooks, stays up late and does the laundry. I love my husband, that will never change! I am so thankful that I still get butterflies for him. I love hearing his voice and opinions.

This weekend, I got a fresh look at his dreams and plans. I was inspired by his passion. He is an excellent father, friend, brother and husband. We didn't take a fancy vacation but what a weekend! I loved the quality time I got with Jon. It has recharged us as a couple. Things were good before this weekend, but there is alot to be said for reconnecting. Maybe even more so when there were no obvious signs that we needed it so badly! We did,we just didn't know it!

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Baby GIRL!

Tuesday, Jon and I went to Oklahoma City for my doctor's appointment. We were also meeting with an ultrasound technician to get measurements and make sure that all is well with baby. We were both hoping that we would be able to find out if our sweet pea was a boy or girl. When called back to the ultrasound room, I laid down on the table and prepared for the ultrasound. Jon stood to my left, the ultrasound tech, named Tammy and the screen were on the right. The lights were turned off and instantly we saw our precious baby. The profile was so distinct, and to me, looked alot like what I remember from Price's ultrasound picture.

She measured the head, located the bladder and kidneys, and did measurements on the bone lengths and saw the chambers of baby's heart. It is amazing to see the little heart just pumping away! She started trying to get an angle that would tell us if we were looking at our little boy or our little girl. Sweet little modest thing kept running from the ultrasound wand!

Jon had his head stretched out over me, studying baby's every move. Tammy said, "Yep, looks like it's a girl." I quickly pulled my hands to my head, whacking Jon in the face and said "What?! Really?!" I looked at Jon and he was smiling. I started laughing and crying. "I said are you sure?" She said "yes, look right here..." and sure enough, as clear as Price was a boy, this Princess had the girly parts. It felt like the world stopped as I saw her type "It's a girl!" on the ultrasound picture. She printed out the pictures for us to take home. Jon and I kept looking at each other with the cheesiest grins!

We texted our parents and told them we knew what we were having. They all tried to get it out of us, but we told them they had to wait until dinner. We met for dinner at a local Mexican food restaurant. We all got there about the same time. We settled into our seats and then Jon stood up with the camera and said "Let me get a pic of everyone at the announcement." He stood at the end of the table and held up the camera. He said "1-2-3-saaaaay 'it's a girl!'" He had set the camera to record video, so we could capture the reaction. The table erupted with noisy excitement!

My mom looked at me and said "What?! It's a girl?!" I answered "yes" then she started to cry. My dad has a soft spot for his little girls, so he teared up at the thought of another one to love on. My mother-in-law could not believe it. She kept asking "Are you serious?!" I must have assured her 3 or 4 times that we were not joking. Jon is the oldest of 4 boys. (He has 44 first cousins and 40 of them are boys!) It is a very rare occasion that a girl is born with the Molder name. When Kari finally believed we were not pranking her, she started to cry too. My cousin Evva kept saying "I knew it. I knew it was a girl all along!" Jon's dad and brother pretty much didn't react at all, but that is to be expected from those two.

Price was excited, but got tired of all the attention and questions people were directing at him. This morning, he came into the living room with a smile, crawled up next to me to cuddle and said "Good morning Mama and good morning little baby girl" as he patted my tummy (his voice jumped an octave higher when talking to the baby). So sweet!

We are thrilled!!! I cannot wait to stock up on bows, pink clothes, baby dolls, princess outfits and tu tu's! Jon has already mentioned how expensive prom dresses are. He also said he will be asking for a gun for Christmas. Ha! Jon has had a big smirk on his face for the last 24 hours. He is a proud daddy, just like he was when we found out our first born was a son! We are so excited. What an unexpected surprise!! I happily receive my new title as Queen because there is definitely a new Princess in the house!

I have been trying to upload the video for 2 days and it just won't do it! I will keep trying.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Nana











I have tried to blog about Nana since her death on June 29. Every time I sit down to write, I can't find the words or see through the tears. So here are a few of my thoughts; things I remember most and learned from Nana.

Trips to Woodward:

1. Me and my cousins would frantically find our shoes as we turned the last corner to get to Nana and Papa's house. Parents would issue warnings about not opening the door until the car stopped, and when it did we would race across the lawn and through the kitchen door to tackle Nana. Her small frame was always able to hug all of us at once.

2. She had stocked up on all the gandkid's favorite snacks. Frosted Flakes, Lucky Charms, Cheetos, Fruit Roll Ups, Capri Sun juice boxes, Kool Aid and ice cream! Nana always had the best stash of play dough, markers and every crayola color under the sun.

3. Papa would give us $20 as a gift and we felt like we had won the lottery! Nana would then take us shopping and buy A LOT more than $20 worth of clothes, shoes and accessories. When we got back to their house, she would tell us to model our new clothes for Papa. Papa thought we bought all those clothes for $20 he had given us and he would be beaming with pride at his grandchildren and their new wardrobe. Needless to say, we went home with the $20 in our bag.

4. Nana had the most beautiful collection of night gowns. She would let us put them on. My cousin Bridget would carefully use safety pins to make them fit better. Rubber bands make good rosettes and all sorts of clips would add flair. After hair and make up were finished, we would command the attention of all the adults in the living room and have a runway show. Even though we might loose some of the adults to conversation, Nana was front and center, complimenting every design and clapping for each "model."

5. Nana had some sassy high heels that we LOVED to play with! Black shiny pumps, snake skin pumps, peep toe shoes with heels so high we could not help but feel like a lady. Mine, and I think everyone's favorite pair of Nana's pumps were the purple ones! We (Bridget, me and Evva) would fuss with each other about who would get to wear the purple high heels! Nana would peek into the guest bedroom where we were playing with her night gowns and shoes. Even though EVERY shoe was pulled out of the closet and no longer in its original box; the room was strewn with silk night gowns of every color and length, she would smile the way only a Nana can when she is looking past such a MESS!

6. Every summer each grandchild would get a week with Nana and Papa by ourselves. Sometimes Evva and I would choose to go together. At night, Nana would lay down with us until we fell asleep. She would whisper several times in the dark "Always remember that Nana loves you very much." We would hold hands and she would squeeze so hard that it made my fingers feel cold. But even then, I knew it was because she loved with everything she had.

7. When it was time to go home, Nana would stand at the front door and would hug my parents first and would always save hugs for me until the last. Most of the time I was crying because I didn't want to leave. She would kiss kiss kiss over and over and hug so tight the air left my lungs and I literally could not breath in! But even then I didn't want her to let go! I loved her so much! Her and my sweet Papa would stand out in the yard and wave until we turned the corner.

Chickasha:

1. We had to rotate houses between each of the girls (Abby, Merita, Tammie). We never broke the cycle and we always kept track of where Nana and Papa were going to stay while in town. They would show up and everyone would be waiting at the house of whoever's turn it was to have them. When we saw the black Lincoln, (later it was red) coming down the street, we would go running out the door and into the driveway to greet them.

2. Nana and Papa lived 3 hours away, but every Thursday they would come to town to watch Evva and I cheer the Jr. High football game that night and then watch Bridget cheer and Bryce play football on Friday night! They would be decked out in purple and gold and CHS gear. Rain or snow, they were here! Every week!

3. We loved it when Nana and Papa finally moved here in 1998. They were here for my last year of high school. Nana would make the most awesome hamburgers for lunch. She would tell us to bring a friend and we were always proud to do so. She made everyone feel welcome, loved and cared for. Most of my friends felt they were surrogate grandchildren to Nana.

4. On that note, I have to mention that Nana was "Nana" to everyone! All mine and my cousin's friends would call her "Nana." She would introduce herself as Nana and if someone asked her her real name (which is Margaret or Maggie) she would say with a sweet smile "Nana." When people would ask about her, they would not say "how is YOUR Nana", they would simply ask, "How is Nana doing?" Even my mom's friends called her Nana. After a long time of calling her "Nana" most would ask, "what is Nana's real name?"

5. If you knew Nana, you would know that she did not believe in acting her age. She always wore the latest fashions, carried the most trendy purses, bought cute jewelry, listened to and loved country music, and had as many shades of blush and lip gloss as I do. She went to a George Strait concert about 18 months ago and she wore a suede vest with fur on the collar and her jeans tucked into ug boots with faux fur on them aswell!

6. Bryce went to OSU, Evva and I went to OU, Andrea and Kara went to OSU. Nana was for whatever team she was watching at the time! Always. I really don't know what team she liked the best. I honestly think she liked them both equally and only Nana could pull that off! She yelled "Go pokes" and "Go Sooners" with matched passion. Leave it to Nana to achieve the impossible! LOL!

7. She didn't miss anything! She went to cheer competitions, soccer games, pageants, homecoming, and posed for prom pics. She went to sorority Bid Day for her granddaughters, OU and OSU football games and basketball games. She went to Jon's UCO wrestling matches and graduation, wedding showers, baby showers, birthday parties, backyard parties, baptisms and birth of every great grandchild! She helped unpack dishes when Jon and I bought our first house. She was there with a hug and a big proud smile after closing.

8. Nana played hard! She had a one on one relationship with each of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She would always find her way to the floor (normally when there was no one in the room to stop her) to play with her great grandchildren. If Price wanted to bang on pots and pans, Nana would do it. She would build tall buildings out of blocks, just for the 5 seconds of joy that it gave Price to knock it down. Price went through a phase of loving MAC trucks. Nana was proud to impart knowledge because my Papa owned a trucking business. She would sit out on my parents front porch with Price and tell him about all the trucks that passed by. Price would get excited and start yelling and hopping around each time a truck came. Nana would get all worked up too! My mom and dad and I would stand back and laugh at her genuine enthusiasm which always matched or exceeded Prices. She would laugh at herself too, shrug her shoulders with her hands out and say "Well, he likes trucks!"

9. Just 5 days before Nana passed away, she was sitting in the chair at my parents house. Price and I came by to see her like we did everyday. When we got there she started asking Price all about wrestling camp and what he had learned. Price showed her a few of his new moves and she watched with with pure adoration. I made my way to the kitchen to make lunch. When I came out with the plates, he was sitting in the chair with Nana and she was reading him a book. She had him snuggled as close as she could get him, arms around Price, watching him speak every word. She would read part of the book and then in true Nana fashion, she would stop and ask questions about what he thought would happen next or talk about the details of the illustrations on the page. He smiled and giggled at her interpretation of the pictures. Price always savored her undivided attention and this day was no different. After they finished the book, I called him to the table to eat lunch. He grabbed another book and climbed back into her lap for more. Nana smiled at me out of the corner of her eye and opened another book. Fortunately sandwiches were being served for lunch, so it wasn't getting cold and it could and would have to wait.

10. Nana was always whispering "I love you bunches." or "I love you very much" when we would get hugs from her. We had hand motions that went with the words and ended in blowing a kiss. One Christmas, she made each of the great grandkids a teddy bear with a press button of her voice saying "Always remember Nana loves you very much." Well,all of us grandkids were feeling jealous of the bears that our children got, so we requested one for next year. Sure enough, the following Christmas, she recorded one and put it in a teddy bear for each of us..."Always remember Nana and Papa loved you very much"

It is hard to summarize Nana. I would have to say it is impossible to list all that she has done and all the ways that she loved her family. She is truly an original. There has never been a woman like her and I dare say there will never be another one like Nana. She rejoiced at our successes and she cried when we were heartbroken. She loved no matter what the cost. She was passionate, her love pure and her heart open! She was devoted to her Lord and spoke truth from his Holy Word to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She left a legacy that I can only hope to match.

I miss her! I miss her hands, her hugs and all her questions. I miss walking into my mom's house and seeing her face light up when we walk through the door. I missed the way she called me Whitney Dawn. She could make me feel so confident about being a wife and mother. Her wisdom always reminded me to not sweat the small stuff. I miss her simply being present. I am happy she is with Jesus. She is reunited with Papa and she waits for us to join them in heaven. She can breath deeply and walk without tiring. Though it seems like it wasn't long enough for those of us who loved her, she had a full life. I long to be with her someday, so I guess the best way to close is not to say "goodbye" to Nana, just "goodbye for now."

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Zapped!

I have to admit, I feel great, just like I did when I was pregnant with Price! But there is one thing that has surprised me in the last week...and that is my inability to tolerate heat! I love summertime and everything that goes with it. I have never been one to complain about Oklahoma's oven roasting temperatures or shied away from being out in it. But I must confess, the heat is zapping me of all energy and fun in the daytime sun.

I was walking from the grocery store to my car today, and the muscles in my legs and arms were burning with weakness. The heat radiating from the concrete made it hard to breathe. Once in the car, AC on full blast, I felt worn out! Sounds silly, right? It does to me too! I NEVER imagined that being only 4 months pregnant would make me feel SO different in the heat!

My shrubs need to be trimmed (they are starting to block the view of the backyard from the living room window). I just know I don't have the stamina to tackle it! Price and I swim in the pool before 11 a.m or after 6 p.m. because it is too hot to be out side in the midday. Bike rides only happen before breakfast or after 8 p.m. because Mama is a wimp!

So we spend the afternoon reading books, watching movies, coloring, painting, practicing letters, playing with play dough, doing puzzles or going to the library. It is working out fine. Price is a real trooper. He doesn't even know the reason why we stay inside all afternoon; he hasn't thought twice about it, so I don't feel bad.

As long as I stay cool, I feel wonderful! I just had no idea that I would be so zapped by the heat...and we haven't even reached the "dog days" of summer yet! LOL!

Friday, June 19, 2009

It's a date



Price and I have had many busy days lately. Today, we just stayed home. This afternoon, Price found his way upstairs and into my bed. He doesn't take scheduled naps anymore, so I was surprised he made himself comfy and went to sleep. I had to capture the moment.
On the rare occasion, that Price sleeps during daylight hours, he usually does not make it back to sleep at his usual 8:00 bedtime. So, I made some dinner (that he was obviously not thrilled about) and after he ate, I surprised him with a treat....MOVIE NIGHT! Jon was gone this evening, and since Price had a nap and I knew he would have the stamina to make it past bedtime without any meltdowns; we went on a little date. We made a trip to Dollar Tree to get some Mike and Ike candy and then on the the theater. We watched the movie UP. Very cute and funny (a little emotionally deep for Price's understanding, but good none the less).

At the theater Price chose to sit in my lap during the movie, even though the whole row was empty! Who can turn that down!? I know my days are numbered of having Price wanting to sit in my lap, choosing to hold my hand and asking me to come "snuggle" him in the middle of the night. I could not help but hope that as the years pass, it will not be anything unusual for Price and I to hang out together and do things that good friends would do. I pray that when he is 11, 16, 21, 40...that he will still want to spent some quality time with Mom. May there be MANY MANY more dates to come!

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Blooms are Heirlooms







About 6 months ago, my parents sold their house and moved to another location in town. I was raised in the house they sold. It is the only home that I ever remembered. Not only was it the place where I spent my childhood, but when my parents bought the house, it belonged to my grandparents (my dad's mom and dad). My dad was raised in that house too. I have a picture of him at his high school graduation in that old house.

My parents sold it to a developer who planned to move the house to a new location and then use the land where the house was to put up a shopping center (strip mall with businesses and such). Friday, the developer called my parents and told them that he had tried everything to get the house moved, but the Department of Transportation was blocking his every option. They were going to have to tear the house down. He then told my parents that he knew the house had been in our family for a long time and if there was anything that we wanted, we could go get it. He left the door unlocked for us to go in.

Saturday morning, we went to the house. I went in. I was so sad and happy at the same time. The paint on the walls looked so warm and pretty. It smelled like home. The sunshine poured in through the large windows and looked so refreshing. The sound of my feet on the floor and the squeaks in the doors were so familiar, like they had been seared into my senses. I closed my eyes and wished there was another place in world like this that made me feel so comfortable and safe.

I could not help but have a cleansing cry as I walked out of the house. My mom hugged me and my dad teared up. After that, we began what we had come there to do...get flowers from the flowerbed. There were three hydrangeas. One had been there since my grandma planted it in 1962. The other two hydrangeas and an azalea, my mom had planted after my Papa's funeral 10 years ago. We also dug up a peony plant that belonged to my grandma and then was moved to my parent's house.

We loaded and transported the plants to my house. My mom, dad and I worked to get the flowers settled into my flowerbed. My mom very sincerely said "I pray to God they make it." I said "Yes, lets do! Lets pray they make it." We all took off our gardening gloves. My mom, me, Price and my dad held hands and lined up in front of the flowers. My dad began to pray. He thanked God for creating the flowers and for the special person (my grandma) who they had come from. My dad began to cry and could not finish praying. I was crying too. My mom then prayed that the flowers would take root, survive, thrive and continue to be a joy to our family for many years to come.

Over the last few days I have been giving my flowers a major dose of TLC. I have been checking the soil, keeping an eye on the leaves, watering, and watching the sun to make sure they are not getting too much sunlight.

I have thought a lot about my grandma in the last week. She loved flowers. You name it, she could tell you about it. If you didn't know the name of it, she could tell you. I truly believe I got my love of flowers from her. My knowledge is not near as vast as hers, but I do very much appreciate their beauty. My dad told me she would be so proud to know these plants mean so much to me. I feel they are more than blooms...they are heirlooms.










Tuesday, June 16, 2009

TASTY TUESDAY

CHICKEN SALAD SANDWICHES
2 large cans all white meat chicken
miracle whip or light mayo
1 bunch purple grapes
3 red apples
1 can crushed pineapple, drained
1 loaf whole wheat bread

Open cans of chicken, drain and put chicken in a medium size bowl. Shred chicken with a fork to break up large chunks. Add miracle whip or light mayo by the tablespoon. Mix well with chicken between each dose of mayo until satisfied with the moisture. Rinse and cut grapes in half (use as much as you like). Add to chicken and mix well.

Rinse and cut apples into very small pieces (it may not take all three, again, use as much as you like!). Add apples to chicken and mix well. Open the can of crushed pineapple. Drain as much juice from the can as possible. Remove pineapple from the can. Again try to remove as much juice as possible (too much juice makes for soggy sandwiches). Add as much pineapple as desired to the mixture. I love pineapple so I add the whole can.

One way I can tell if I want to add something is to smell the bowl of chicken salad (I know its weird), but I can tell if it needs more apple, grapes, pineapple or mayo by smelling it.

Pile chicken salad on to your bread and enjoy! We sometimes like to lightly toast our bread before making the sandwiches. It is the very best on deli croissants! This meal goes really well with a side of fresh cantaloupe and strawberries! Yummy!

Thursday, June 11, 2009

My Hubby's Birthday


I love this man and I love celebrating his birthday! We don't make big plans or give extravagant gifts; and sometimes we don't give presents at all. I love Jon's birthday though. I like to give long hugs and sweet kisses to my man, send text messages and voicemails that tell him "Happy Birthday," and meet up with him for lunch.

It has been a long standing tradition for me to make his birthday cake, so Price and I did that yesterday morning and I left all the decorating up to Price. Price picked out a chocolate cake and cream cheese frosting that he wanted to be dyed blue with lots of "sparkles" (which are sprinkles) on top. We spent the evening at my parent's house. They made dinner and we brought the cake.

I suppose I like Jon's birthday for the same reason I enjoy celebrating Price's...I get to reflect on who he is and what he means to me. I think about what has happened over the last year and pray for the year to come. I am so very thankful that God created Jon. I am thankful for the day he was born. I pray for many more birthdays and God's blessing over my dear husband.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

TASTY TUESDAY

CRANBERRY CITRUS SALAD
2 cups fresh cranberries, chopped (I use the bagged Ocean Spray cranberries in the produce aisle)
1 large can mandarin oranges, mostly drained
2 stalks celery, chopped =about 1 cup
small red onion, chopped =about 1/3 cup
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
a pinch of ground ginger-to taste
10 oz pkg of fresh spring salad mix
1/3 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil

In a food processor or "chopper", chop cranberries. Transfer to a medium size bowl. Open mandarin oranges. Use 2-3 tbsp of juice from oranges and add to cranberries. Drain remainder of juice and add oranges to the bowl. Stir in chopped celery, onion, sugar, lemon juice and ginger. Mix well and add more "pinches" ginger as desired. Cover and put in fridge for at least an hour to chill, or up to 2 days.

THIN slice or chop the mint and add to salad. Toss. Add olive oil. Toss. When ready to serve, top with cranberry mixture.

Helpful Hint: Add olive oil, then cranberry mixture on top of the salad when its ready to serve, or the lettuce gets soggy. If you want the mixture to be a little more sweet, add sugar in tiny doses and taste until it suits you.

I made this salad for a pot luck at our church and it was a hit! I made it again for Thanksgiving dinner. Even though it makes a FANTASTIC summer salad, it was pretty and perfect for the holidays. The cranberry/citrus topping is the dressing. You can add sliced roasted almonds if you prefer. I hope you enjoy this recipe! Its YUM!

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Amazing!!! Just Amazing!!

Our precious little jumping bean!!

"You made all the delicate inner parts of my body
and knit me together in my mother's womb.

Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous-and how well I know it.

You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion,
as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.

You saw me before I was born
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.

Every moment was laid out
before a single moment had passed."

Psalm 139:13-16

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Feel'n GOOD!

I figured I better blog something about my pregnancy thus far. I didn't keep a journal with my pregnancy with Price and so doing it again nearly 5 years later is like doing it for the first time..sort of. Little bits and pieces come back to me as things happen, but I wish I had kept something to reference back to being pregnant with Price.

First, I have to admit that I am one of the very lucky ones when it comes to feeling good during pregnancy. During the first few weeks, I had bouts of nausea and fatigue, but nothing like some women I know. I got sick 4 or 5 times with Price, but I have yet to loose my cookies with this pregnancy (other than having the stomach virus, but I don't think that counts). I would nap regularly in the beginning weeks and go to bed around 8:30 or so, but I think that had a lot to do with the progesterone supplements I was taking 2 times a day.

I am 11.3 days pregnant and feel so good! About a week ago, I felt my energy come back. I was back to my normal morning routine. I whipped my house back into shape from weeks of neglect and all just in time for summer! I often forget that I am pregnant. I don't have many reminders! I am not wearing maternity clothes or feeling sick or tired. HUNGER reminds me that there is a sweet pea in there who needs nutrition. Just last night about 4:30 am, I could not stand the hollow feeling in my tummy any longer. I made myself a half of a PB&J and a glass of milk, then went back to sleep! Frequent trips to the bathroom during the night (4 is the record to date) have not yet let up, but luckily I don't have any trouble getting back to sleep.

I go for another ultrasound tomorrow! Yay for seeing baby Molder again (I think its a boy!) We won't find out tomorrow, but maybe at the 15 week ultrasound.? I would love to have another son! I would be the Princess among 3 fabulous men! I enjoy the world of trucks, dinosaurs, baseball and dirt...a lot of dirt! I would also love to have a daughter! Bows, pink clothes, nail polish and baby dolls...I dare say, either way....WHAT A BLESSING!

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

TASTY TUESDAY

Smoked Turkey and Tomato Pizza

1 can Pillsbury pizza dough

1 can small can Hunts tomato sauce

1/2 to 1 tbs of Italian seasoning (to taste)

1 pkg shredded cheese for pizza

1 pkg deli sliced smoked turkey

2 large tomatoes


Preheat oven according to directions on pizza dough. Spray cookie sheet with cooking spray. Spread out pizza dough on cookie sheet, pinching the edges to raise them slightly, then place in the oven while it preheats (about 5-7 minutes).


Slice the tomatoes and open the can tomato sauce. Remove pizza crust from oven. Pour tomato sauce on top of pizza crust and spread evenly. Sprinkle Italian seasoning evenly on pizza sauce. I usually don't measure the seasoning, so just use your best judgement. Just remember that the seasoning cooks out into the pizza so it won't take as much as it would seem.


Sprinkle with 3/4 of pkg of cheese. Place turkey on top of the cheese. Use as much or as little as you want. You can cut it, shred it or lay it out whole...whatever presentation you want to use. Place tomatoes on top of turkey. Sprinkle the remainder of cheese on top. Cook according to directions on the pizza dough package.


Check to make sure the bottom is browned before you remove it to eat. I also like to cut into the center to make sure that the dough is done all the way through. We eat this meal with a fresh side salad. This pic was taken about two weeks ago when I made it for the fam. It may not look that "pretty," but its YUM!


Thursday, May 21, 2009

Douple Oops!

So I was over at my Aunt Tammie's house visiting my Nana and we were hanging out in the front yard. I brought over Price's bicycle and he was riding around in the street, then back up into the driveway. We set Nana up outside in a comfy chair so she could watch Price. After he worked up a good sweat, we ran to the snow cone stand and brought them back to Tammie's to share with Nana and Jean (the sweet lady who helps to take care of Nana).

If you were to know my Aunt Tam, she has a heart the size of Texas and as good as gold! Honestly, she is one of the most giving and helpful people I know. She loves to laugh and has a great sense of humor. Not much bothers her, which leads me to my story....

The shrubs in the front yard were wildly out of control! Nana made a comment about hoping the shrubs get trimmed, and I said "I'll do it! It is a beautiful day...let me go get my electric trimmers!...I'll be right back." Price and I drove to the house and got the equipment. On the way back, I called Evva. I knew she was in town and so I told her "Your not going to believe what I am about to do. I am on my way to Tam's to give the shrubs a haircut. You should come watch this! If you get there and can't find me, I am lost somewhere in the flowerbed!" She laughed and said she was on her way over.

I started trimming the shrubs. I cut about a foot or more down to level the top and I ran into Christmas lights from 3 years ago! Evva and I were laughing so hard! I trimmed and Evva and Jean filled 6 trash bags. The trimmer is electric and I was navigating my way through a forest of shrubs. Well, I turned around with them and cut the extension cord! I immediately thought "Oh dear! Jon is going to be mad at me!" Tammie went to fetch another extension cord and about 30 more minutes into trimming, I cut that one too! Evva finished the job with some manual clippers, while I called my mom for another extension cord. I told her the story of my two accidents and asked her if Evva could borrow it! She said, EVVA could, but I should be fired! LOL! After about two hours start to finish, we were done and the shrubs looked awesome. There are even some spots for flowers (I told Tam is she would give me some cash, I would go get and plant the flowers).

We cleaned up the sidewalk and put away our tools. Tam had bought us some dinner, so we went in to eat. While we were eating, Evva and I made our plans to finish the south flowerbed. Yes, that is right, we only got finished the small flowerbed on the north side by the entry. We are meeting at my house for lunch, then going to Tam's house around 1:00 to finish trimming the shrubs! I am looking forward to it actually...sunshine and good exercise doing yard work.

P.S. Of course, when I told Tammie about the second severed extension cord and she laughed! Luckily, Evva's hubs, Clint is a handyman. They said they have a few spare cords they could give us to replace the ones I broke!!! Yay!

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Great day!

Yesterday, I had a doctor's appointment (now with my regular OB and not my fertility doctor...Yay!) Everything was great! I again got to see my sweet little angel on ultrasound and his/her little heart is just beating with life! Since my trips to the doctor take me all the way to north OKC, I made plans to visit my dear friend and her kiddos.

Garrett is 11 months older than Price, and sweet Macy is just a couple months from being 2! We met up at the park and the kids played on the toys. Molly brought nets for the boys to try to catch tiny fish, tadpoles or crawdads in the pond. They got dirty and had lots of fun! After a few tries at climbing the rock wall, we headed out of the park to get snowcones! Price of course chose yellow, Garrett got a Super Man snowcone and Macy got strawberry...RED... and it was everywhere! So cute! LOL!

Molly and Macy headed back to their house and the boys and I ran to go pick up some pizza. They were playing some silly game in the back seat and were belly laughing at each other! (I couldn't help but think that I remember the announcement of Molly's pregnancy with Garrett. Jon and I visited our friends in the hospital after he was born and now here he is, nearly 5 years old, buddies with my boy. Our friendships have been such a blessing!)

Anyway, we got back to the house and ate dinner outside in the backyard. The boys jumped on the trampoline and put on a rock show. They are so darn cute! Price fell asleep on the way home. I had to put him in the tub because he was so dirty. The bath water turned a light shade of brown under all those bubbles (a great way to tell if you have had an adventurous day)! Price and I talked about all the fun we had and how thankful we are for such great friends! Can't wait to do it again!

Monday, May 18, 2009

Stomach Bug Recovery

Yesterday was the pits!!! Price started complaining of a tummy ache around 9:00 a.m. By 10:00 he was throwing up. He had 4 bouts of vomiting before 1:00 p.m. and by that time I started to feel kinda sick myself. Price had a low grade fever. He laid on the couch, drank fluids and watch lots of movies. My mom brought over some Sprite for Price and some Resolve Carpet Cleaner.

Around 1:30, I started throwing up. Price was so sweet. He put his hand on my back and kept asking me if I was okay. I could not speak, but gave him a nod through teary eyes. He got me some of his Sprite and repeated the words I had been telling him..."You need to drink something, sweetie!" I had another spell around 4:30 and even though I took Tylenol, my fever stayed around 101 until around 9:00 p.m.

Jon was umpiring baseball games at the ball park, so he got home around 7:00 or so. He mowed the lawn until dark. He then got Price ready for bed and went to get some tacos to eat for dinner (bless his heart, he ate them in the car as not to make anyone more sick at the smell). When he walked back in the door, Price was on the toilet (now sick from the other end), he was crying, and poo was everywhere! I was about 5 steps away, throwing up in the living room!! Between heaves, I was trying to tell Jon where to find the wipies for Price.

Jon was a CHAMP!!! He cleaned up Price and and the bathroom. He emptied out my trashcan and cleaned up the carpet where I had...well you get the idea. He changed Price's sheets and got him back to bed then took out the trash!!!! He stepped into the most chaotic scene and handled it so calmly and compassionately. He was so patient and loving to Price and I.

I know it might sound weird, but I had a crush on my husband that evening (you know, those butterflies and giddy feelings). His helpfulness was so attractive. He stepped in and so tenderly took care of his family. He never got overwhelmed or aggravated at all he had to do or what was happening around him.

We all slept well and are feeling much much better today. Though selective about what to put on our tummies, we are well on our way to recovering.

Monday, May 11, 2009

Announcing....

Our baby! Jon and Price and I are expecting another baby in December (around the 14th to be more specific)! We are elated! Some may know our history with our quest to have another child. After 2.5 years and 4 losses, fertility appointments, tests and medications... we are thrilled to announce the baby that we, by faith believe will be the little one that makes it to our arms just in time to celebrate Christmas! Truly this journey has tested my faith and continues to do so. I know it sounds cliche, but it has all been worth it.

About 3 months before I found out I was pregnant, Price, out of the clear blue started praying for a baby. He would ask God to "give us a baby that can spend the night." The first few times, I was surprised, but eventually it started to break my heart. I wanted to have hope, but each month would feel so defeated and disappointed.

About a week after I found out I was pregnant, I was consumed with worry (not of God, I know...hence the faith journey! Ha!) We had not told Price about my being pregnant at this point. We were in the car on the way to McDonald's and he said "Mamma, I am so excited!" I said "Oh yeah, about what buddy?" Price said "about the baby God is going to give us!" I cried...no I wept! I knew that God was comforting me through the mouth of my babe!

So, here we are. I feel pretty darn good. Sleepy sometimes and nauseous when I wait to long to eat. No complaints, for sure. We have had three ultrasounds of our baby. At 6.2 weeks we saw a heartbeat! Again at 7.3 weeks! Today at 9 weeks, we not only saw our baby's sweet heart just pounding away, we saw its arms and head moving around. It looked alot less like a peanut and much more like a baby! (The miracle of growing babies will never get any less amazing to me!)

Price is so excited! He talks to the baby and about the baby. Jon and I don't say much to him about it. We follow his lead when he mentions it. It is still a long wait to talk to him about it too often. We will prepare him more as D day gets closer!

THANK YOU to those who have been so amazing! Specifically I want to mention, Molly, Alyssa, Dinae and Ashley! All who have encouraged me with hugs, prayers, thoughtful cards, scripture and listening ears! What a blessing!

We are thrilled, hopeful and looking forward to the journey that leads us to the day we meet our baby! Of course this pregnancy will be journaled about right here on the blog, so update yourself when you feel like it! Love and Blessings to all!

"You will keep in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in You."
Isaiah 26:3

xoxo



video of our ultrasound today!