Tales of a Domestic Diva

He Speaks. Part 2

2012-02-04T10:46:00.004-06:00

The next mornings devotion (following the 21 Day Fast from the YouVersion Bible app) was the explanation of the Daniel Fast and where it comes from. Daniel asked to be fed only vegetables and water and not feast on the king's food. His body became lean and impressive to the king...and you probably know the rest of the story. Not realizing what I had signed up for, I had to do some research about the Daniel Fast, and there is plenty of information out there. Luckily, I was on fire to do this. I know God answered my prayer. Not only did He answer my prayer of '"should I be fasting, Lord?" He also answered the "Can you hear me?" question in Daniel 10. I was ready to pour my heart out and listen intently to what He had to say to me.

After a grocery shopping trip with a basket FULL of produce (broccoli, apples, bananas, oranges, strawberries, baby carrots, lettuce...lots of lettuce, squash, bell peppers, sweet potatoes and even kale!)

The purpose of the fast is to be disciplined with what we eat as an act of service. To humble ourselves before God. Hunger reminds us to pray. Our desire for sweets, meats and dairy remind us to pray. I have never spent so much time in prayer. I prayed every time I prepared myself something to eat within the boundaries of the fast. I could only have water to drink! Which was hard for a coffee, tea, soda, lemonade, juice...anything but water girl. I kept reminding myself that water is all my body needed to stay hydrated. I likened it to the living water Christ offers; a sort of 'back to the basics' mentality; both physically and spiritually.

I had asked God to reveal to me what it was he had planned for our family. I not only wanted to see his hand working in my situation; I LONGED and still do to see his face. I wanted to journey through the fast knowing God would show himself faithful to give me clarity...about something. Anything.

He speaks. Part 1

2012-02-01T11:37:00.003-06:00

Over the last several months, we have been in a season of waiting. My sweet husband is working a job that serves us well in the meantime, but we know it is not a long term job. To say we are grateful for this job would be a severe understatement! God is so in tune with what we need, even when we don't know it. As we have been 'waiting on the Lord' to direct our path, we have been so thankful even though we can't see what lies ahead. Jon's current job was given to him by a friend of ours who owns a company in our hometown. Jon works in the lab mixing chemicals (he wears the body suit and goggles). He goes to work at 6 and works until 2:30. Most days he picks Price up from school at 3:10 p.m. During wrestling season, he officiates in the evenings on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and all day on Saturdays.

Through our season of waiting, I have done a lot of praying. On a Wednesday, December 28th I believe it was, I was praying in the shower. I call the shower my prayer closet. I do A LOT of praying in the shower! I was asking God, maybe lamenting a bit; talking to him about wanting direction; wanting to see His hand moving in our uncertainty. I asked "God, should I be fasting? What should I fast? How long? What should I do so I can hear your voice clearly in my life and in our season of waiting? Lord, do you hear my prayers?"

The next day, I was sharing with Jon how through the uncertainty of knowing what God had in store for our future, I have not ever felt fearful of the unknown. Later that night I woke from a terrible dream about a snake slithering around my feet. I remember saying in my dream "if the snake bites me on my foot, I will lose my foot. If it bites me on my hand, I will lose my hand..." Adrenaline was racing through my veins. My heart was beating fast. Instantly, I fears went from dreaming about a scary snake, to things that were completely irrational. Fears for my children's health, my health, our safety and lives. Crazy things that I don't normally think about. A spirit of fear had overcome me. Knowing immediately that this type of fear was NOT of God, I reached for my iphone on the nightstand. I opened my Bible app. The bright screen made me squint my eyes as I adjusted to its light. At the top of the screen it said "The Daniel Fast" Knowing I needed God's word to calm me, I tapped the scripture reading; never mind how I ended up on a Bible Plan for a 21 day Fast! Daniel chapter 10. Daniel sees a vision of a messenger. It frightens him (I could relate to that at the moment). In verse 10 the vision touches Daniel, and in verse 12 he says "Don't be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer." Oh my goodness!! Chills ran down my arms and back. These are God's words to me in response to my prayer yesterday!.....

Verse 14 "Now I am here to explain what will happen to your people in the future, for this vision concerns a time yet to come." Verse 19 "Don't be afraid, for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!"

I felt the ever present Holy Spirit comfort me in my fear. It seemed more than that even. A calm and a peace indescribable washed over me. I re-read the passage; and again. I was shocked and humbled and amazed at how personal God is. HE SAW ME IN MY FEAR. He came with his Holy Spirit to comfort ME. I fell asleep picturing God being aware of everything (even bad dreams) that concerns me. I slept soundly in His love that night. I woke excited to read the next day's devotion of the Bible plan I had 'stumbled' upon at midnight. Just 2 days ago I had been asking God in the "prayer closet" if I should be fasting. He obviously answered with a resounding "Yes, child!" And so it began.....

Tasty Tuesdays

2011-12-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

Confetti Pinwheels

1 pkg of Pillsbury flaky croissants
1 jar nacho cheese
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 pkg green onions, chopped

Spread out croissant. Mash together the perforated lines to make it one large rectangular dough. Spread on nacho cheese within 1/4 in of the sides. Sprinkle entire dough with bell peppers and green onions. Roll the dough into itself starting from the longest side of the rectangle, NOT the shortest, so that it looks longer than it is thick. Press the fold together and smooth it out. Cut into the log at a 1/2 in to 3/4 in thick. Lay pinwheels on a cookie sheet. You should be able to see the insides of the pinwheel...it looks like confetti; go figure, haha. Bake according to package instructions, or until golden brown. Enjoy!

Makes a great appetizer, brunch, game day snack or item to bring for a finger food get together.

Tasty Tuesday

2011-12-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

BBQ Chicken Pizza

1 pizza dough, or prebaked pizza crust
1 jar favorite BBQ sauce, (mine is the Head Country hickory smoke with the yellow label.)
1 pkg cheese for pizza
1 pkg pre cooked fajita chicken
1 red bell pepper
1 green bell pepper sliced into small strips

bake pizza dough for 7 min or so (if not premade), remove from oven, spread on BBQ sauce, top with chicken, bell pepper and cheese. Bake for another 7-10 minutes until dough is cooked through. Yummy with ranch dressing on the side and sweet tea : )

Thankful

2011-12-05T13:53:00.003-06:00

I always pictured myself as a stay-at-home mom. I was for five blessed years with Price. I treasure those days and I am grateful for them. When Jon's career made some changes, so did our budget. I found myself in need of a job to help cover expenses. We had our house on the market, but no real plans of what to do next. It all depended on when our house sold and what the circumstances were at that time. We felt a little adrift, but God is so good and always so faithful.

In a passing conversation with our pastor at our church, he asked "what are your plans when you sell the house?" I honestly didn't know. I disliked saying those words, because I am 'the girl with a plan'...always. He offered the house the church owned as a rental for us. I thought 'well that is certainly an idea.' After talking to Jon, we truly felt a peace about leaning in that direction. One day, I called Ezell, (the pastor) and asked him if I could take a look at the house. He met me over there and while we were visiting, he said, "you know, we are looking for a secretary for the church. It is just part time, 20 hours a week, but in exchange, you can live here rent and utilities paid." I couldn't believe it! God, yet again, had provided. There was a precious lady at the church who was available to keep Maggie Beth during the 5 hours a day that I would be working. She and Maggie Beth are at work with me during the day. I am able to take Price to school and pick him up. I can attend field trips and school events when I need to. When my kids are sick, I take off work, no questions asked.

All this sounds great, but the reason I love working at the church is because the people I work with are God loving, generous, kind, hard working, diligent but laid back, funny, sweet, caring and wonderful people. Like myself, they are not perfect, but no one expects perfection. There is such grace and love in these sweet people. When I say 'people' I mean the pastor, his wife who is the children's minister, youth pastor, elders and deacons. They pray for my family, this church and each other. They seek God's will for the direction of the church. They put God first and family second and the job third.

I have found it so refreshing to work with people (for over a year now) that are consistent. Sure, there are 'bad' days, or when people are a little more on edge about something, but that is where showing grace comes in. It has been so important for me to work with people who are uplifting and thoughtful. I am blessed beyond measure to have a friendship with my co-workers. It truly is important to the success of a job, particularly the job of a church. Not many people can say they are happy to go to work. I miss staying home sometimes, but I also know God has a purpose for me as the secretary of our church. My path crosses regularly with the needy, hungry, broken, sick and lost.
I am so thankful to God for his provision and his path for me. Though in the days of feeling in limbo, I know he is working all things for good. I am thankful he saw the bigger picture; the one with me as the church secretary for a precious church that loves the Lord. Great is his faithfulness.

Tasty Tuesday

2011-11-29T08:00:00.001-06:00

Ham and Cheese Yummies

1-2 packages Pillsbury flaky croissants
1 package sliced American cheese
1 package deli sliced smoked ham

Open croissants. DON'T tear into triangles. Two triangles make a rectangle shape. When you unroll the dough there will be 4 rectangles. On each rectangle mash the perforated lines together and spread the dough out just a bit. On one end, place a slice of cheese. Top with ham. I use 2-3 pieces, kinda mounded. Fold the empty side of the rectangle over the ham and pinch edges together, enclosing the hame and cheese. Bake in oven at 375 for 11-15 minutes. Ovens vary, so just watch for the croissant to be golden brown and not doughy.

I know this 'recipe' is all too basic, but you can get as fancy as you wish. This is simple enough for a Saturday lunch at home with the familyor a quick meal before soccer as the kiddos are doing homework. Its even good for new take on a sandwich for a kid's lunch at school. Just don't pack it when its warm, or it gets soggy in its steam. Wait until it is room temperature to pack it.

Try mesquite turkey, your favorite cheese and a slice of tomato. Add bell peppers, pickles, Swiss cheese, or pepper jack. Use deli sliced roast beef and a drop of your favorite sauce. The possibilities are endless. My kids have fun with this and they always eat better when it is something they have created!

Tasty Tuesday

2011-11-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

Chicken in Southwestern Cream Sauce

6 chicken breasts
1 jar of your favorite salsa (I use mild Pace thick and chunky)
1 can sweet corn, drained
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 pkg cream cheese

Place chicken in slow cooker. Pour salsa, corn and black beans on top. Cook for 6-7 hours on low. Throw in the cream cheese an hour before dinner time. Mix cream cheese until smooth before serving. We had Spanish rice on the side and a salad.

Tasty Tuesdays

2011-11-15T08:00:00.002-06:00

Creamy Tortellini Soup

4 and 1/2 cups water
1 can vegetable broth
2 packets McCormick alfredo mix

mix these items in a slow cooker. whisk until smooth

add:
2 cloves minced garlic
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp oregano
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 and 1/2 cup mushrooms

mix and let simmer for 5-6 hours

add 2 cups dry cheese tortellini (I used the frozen ones, and dumped in a little more than 2 cups ) to the crock pot, let cook for 45 min-1 hour.

Add:
1- 12 oz can evaporated milk
6 cups torn fresh baby spinach leaves
sprinkle individual servings with shredded parmesan cheese.

This was a delicious meal. It was a teensy bit spicy for my kids to eat. Price kinda wrinkles his nose at mushrooms, but Jon and I really enjoyed it. Fortunately, my in laws took the kids to eat dinner, so Jon brought home a bottle of red wine and we dined on the creamy tortellini soup alone....ahhhh. Might also be good with french bread loaf for dipping.

What's that I hear?....Nothing!!

2011-11-14T10:01:00.004-06:00

I was changing sheets and folding laundry on Friday. I could hear Maggie Beth in her room digging through her beaded necklaces and talking to her babies. I kept about my merry way, enjoying the smell of a pumpkin spice candle and Clorox (the smell of order and bliss in my opinion). Suddenly I heard the sound that pierces every mothers heart: silence. I quickly dropped what I was doing to find my dear daughter elbow deep in the toilet. She had unraveled the entire roll of toilet paper and put it in the potty! To my horror, the toilet paper had absorbed most of the water in the bowl. I fetched a plastic bag and began removing the toilet paper by the handful. I even had to reach down into the neck of the toilet to pull out globs of wet mushy toilet paper. My gag reflex is very sensitive when it comes to the toilet (flashbacks of pregnancy with Price). All this time Maggie Beth is right by my side saying "what happened?" When I felt the job was sufficient enough to try to flush the remaining mess, I held the plunger in one hand and crossed my fingers with the other. Luckily, it all went down okay and things were back in working order. I addressed Maggie Beth in a firm voice and said something like "We don't put that much toilet paper in the potty. It makes big mess and can break the potty." Maggie Beth is very sensitive to discipline; especially with me. First the alligator tears began to well up in her eyes, then her bottom lip began to protrude, then finally an audible cry. I said what do you say? "sorry" as she rubbed her chest in a circle (sign language for sorry). I picked her up and said "I forgive you."

Some may think I should have followed up with a time out, but I felt she had understood her wrong doing. I am trying to parent with my spirit. Not that it gives my kids an out, but I try not to think too much about what the parenting book says, or what my friends would/or think I should do, but tap into the Holy Spirit and let him help me evaluate my kid's heart and actions and let him lead me. I want to make a connection with their heart when I discipline and not just make the flesh obey in the moment. More on that another day....

Tasty Tuesdays

2011-11-08T10:18:00.003-06:00

Tasty Tuesday's will be coming back for a few weeks. I have family tested a few new finds and would love to share them.

Reminder: I am a crockpot, simple casserole kind of girl. You won't find any fancy dishes around here. Honestly, I look at the ingredient list and if I deem it too long, then I move on...I mean, who has time to hunt down crazy items in the grocery store or 'specialty market'? Simple, yummy and kid friendly are what appeal to me!

Starting next week, I will post a recipe every Tuesday. I would love to have your feedback.

Happy fall friends!

Seriously?!

2011-11-08T10:12:00.003-06:00

One cannot say for sure what the weather will hold in Oklahoma. Record lows in January. Record snowfall in February. Crazy wind and hail in April/May along with tornados (May 24th). Rediculous heat in July and August. Earthquakes in November and more tornados! The extremes are wild around here ya'll! This chart explains it well.......

sweeeeeet!

2011-10-17T14:13:00.000-05:00

I sent a love note in Price's lunchbox last week. I never dreamed he would send one back for me to find when I cleaned it out.

I love love love his tender heart. Precious boy.

Car Accident : (

2011-10-08T12:53:00.002-05:00

Time is flying by much much faster than I appreciate. I feel I blink my eyes and the days go wizzing past me. Since I last posted, a lot has happened. I was in a car accident. It was a residential street and a woman ran a stop sign. I spun around in the street and ended up the opposite direction I was driving. You know the statistic that says accidents usually happen close to home? I was just 2 blocks from my drive way. I was fine and turns out the other person was my college room mate! She had just picked up her daughter from pre-school and was taking a different route home than usual, and never saw the stop sign. Fortunately, her daughter, her almost 2 year old son and unborn baby are all okay. I am too. I am still seeing a chiropractor (our friend Dr. Chris) and he continues to work out any kinks that come up.

The accident totaled out beloved swagger wagon. The insurance company came back with a fair offer and some amazing church friends gave us a gift to help with the purchase of a new van. The timing was more than perfect for my one year bonus from the church. God is so faithful to see us through every circumstance.

We found a 'new' van. We traveled to Broken Arrow the day of OU/TX; actually pulled into the parking lot of the dealership at kickoff. Jon said "I never thought I would be sitting in a dealership parking lot about to buy a minivan of all things, at the kickoff of an OU/TX game" Haha!..there is a reason God doesn't let us see what our future holds : ) The vehicle was a burgandy Toyota Sienna, just like my other one, just a different color. After test driving the van and paying for the car in full with cash : ) we made it to a sports grill for lunch. The kids were with us and they did AMAZING! Real troopers!! Maggie Beth rode with me in the van and slept the whole way home. As we hit the city, it began to rain. A nice soaking thunder and lightening storm. OU stomped a hole in Texas and we pulled out the Wii Dance Party game and had a nice family evening. It was a perfect end to an already great day.

The 'new' Swagger Wagon

Hello Kitty

2011-09-24T14:20:00.003-05:00

My Warrior pirate and my Hello Kitty princess in her pajamas and sparkly pink slip on shoes.

We took it to the doughnut shop. Leaving it in the car was not an option.....pick you battles.

The bag goes to Wal-mart. It had to have a special red sticker on it when we went in so they would know we brought it in with us and weren't leaving the store without paying for it.

Yaya bought Maggie Beth a Hello Kitty backpack. Boy, does she think she is some kinda cool now that she has a backpack like Bubby has. So now every time we leave the house she thinks she needs to take it with her like Price does when he goes to school. In public, she gets many smiles and comments about how the bag is as big as she is, which makes her walk with a little more swagger.

The Character that is Maggie Beth

2011-09-08T13:24:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures that give you a peek into our Maggie Beth. She is a character for sure. She keeps us laughing and guessing what she will do next....

Never say 'never'

2011-09-05T13:21:00.000-05:00

That would be my daughter...wearing Dora pajamas, holding a Dora doll, drinking from a Dora cup and watching Dora the Explorer. Never say never people....Never say 'never'

Best friends

2011-09-03T13:20:00.007-05:00

I grew up an only child. I had a half brother and sister who are 9 and 10 years older than me. I vaguely remember them living with us, but even when they did, it was for a short time. I did have cousins who were like my siblings. I loved being an only child, but there were times I wondered what it would be like to have have someone close to my age who lived with me. I would see my friends fight with their siblings, but then at the same time, it was like they had a built in best friend. That is how I see Price and Maggie Beth. Though they are 4.5 years apart, they play together. Every morning through the monitor, I hear my children saying good morning to each other. What a precious way to start the day. They are always calling each other to play or asking where the other one is. They like to sit by each other at the dinner table and play in the covers of our bed. Price will pour a drink for himself and his sister. Maggie Beth will grab 2 bowls when I am dispersing snacks, knowing her brother will want one too. They roll around on the floor, Price gives horsey rides and as you can see from the pictures, they are also partners in fight crime! Maggie Beth loves wearing his clothes and putting on his shoes (which, she has a shoe fetish anyway...) Price is great about sharing treats and taking turns with special toys. A friend once told me that a sibling is a gift. Some may say it divides love among children, but true love doesn't have to be divided; it multiplies. What a blessing it has been to watch these two little people develop a relationship!

Limbo

2011-09-01T10:51:00.003-05:00

A year ago, Jon started his own insurance business; Molder Insurance Group. With much time, effort, blood, sweat and tears, he poured himself into serving others and meeting their insurance needs. Sounds dramatic and a little cheesy, but it is true. His phone rang non-stop. He met customers on demand and worked long hours. I have no doubts the business could have been successful, but insurance had lost its luster and he hated the daily grind. Jon is the hardest worker you will find, but he hated waking up everyday to deal with the claims, the complaints, the paperwork and spending time on quotes that never got issued. We also found out that the insurance business is like a fraternity of sorts. If you were not a "legacy" so to speak in the industry, then those who are will try to keep you down. It all turns out to be a good thing though! Jon found out early on that insurance is just not for him. You have to have a certain 'personality' for it. Jon was not willing to 'tweak' applications to get a lower premium, or as one guy suggested Jon "whore himself out to get business"....uh, no thank you.

Jon had been contemplating closing the office since spring. He knew for sure it was the right decision by June. Come July, he made the decision official. He notified his partner and sent out a letter that stated August 26 as the official closing date. Just in the short amount of time (a month or so) that he has not written insurance, he is a totally different person. He is eating better, sleeping better, is happier, looser, friendlier, more relaxed and much less stressed. There are still obvious concerns regarding money and a career path, but there are a few options available.

Seeing God's hand in the last year and a half has got me excited about where things are headed. We are renting a house from our church. I am working part-time there and get to spend everyday with Maggie Beth who is just down the hall in the church nursery with a precious woman who loves Maggie Beth like she is her own granddaughter. I get to take Price to school and pick him up. Jon has NEVER gone a day unemployed, and now is no different. Our friend, Ryan owns a manufacturing company. He hired Jon for a temp job through the end of the year. We are currently waiting to hear about a job Jon has applied for at Union Pacific Railroad. He has had both a test (which he passed) and an interview. We should know more tomorrow, so more about that later.

In the meantime, we see how God is providing for our family while we wait on Him. We will trust and obey whatever he leads us to do.

Can it be?

2011-08-10T13:11:00.003-05:00

I can't believe summer is coming to an end. My little man is growing so fast. Tomorrow is his first day of first grade! Princess is 20 months old. She is full into discovering her independence. Price watched the Harry Potter movies this summer and we might end it with a bang this weekend by watching the final movie in 3D. Maggie Beth has is a complete and total fish. She loves being submerged in water and shreeks like a dolphine when its time to get out. This was my first summer to work (part time), but none the less, it was different than summers past. Price and Maggie Beth spent Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday with a women from our church they call Gogee. We didn't go to the lake near as much as we normally do. It was too hot to be out, even in the water. These record high temps (108-111 degrees) day after day have been a real drag! The grass and my flowers are dead. Maggie Beth cries every time we head to the car saying "hot, hot." Price is constantly asking to play video games and most of the time I say yes. There is nothing else to do. We have crafted, colored and read books until we are all sick of it. So, though I can't believe it is time to go back to school, I have to admit that Price and I both could not be more thrilled! He misses his friends and the routine of school days. Here's to hoping fall will bring more smiles than summer 2011.

Sassy 6's? Really?

2011-07-12T14:37:00.003-05:00

Over the last couple of months I have noticed a change in my lil man. He has always been busy, feisty, creative, sweet as sugar with just enough ornery in him to keep me on my toes. But lately the debates are constant, the begging, whining, fussing, and bad attitude are almost more than I can take. I kept wondering what the problem was. I had talks with him about what might be the issue, spent more time with him alone, made more clear my expectations and consequences of unacceptable behavior and consulted my mom about what she thought might be the deal.

We came up with a few things. Maybe he is starting to show more jealousy with Maggie Beth. She is walking, talking and doing the adorable things that 18 month old babies do. She captures everyone's attention and maybe he is starting to resent it. Maybe?

Maybe he is bored with summer. This is the first summer I have been working even; though its only 3 days a week. He is probably missing the routine and social aspect of school and so he is 'acting out' of boredom. Maybe.

Maybe it is the "first half of the year is harder than the second half" theory. Meaning, the first 6 months following a birthday shows more challenges and behavioral adjustments than does the second half of the birthday year. I must admit I find this to hold some truth. Maybe that's it. ??

Well, just out of shear desperation for some insight into a 6 year old's head, I googled 6 year old development. The results were astonishing to me. I read that the 6's are as infamous as the terrible 2's!!?? But often times worse. WHAT?? I must say I was feeling a lot relieved at this time, but a little peeved that no one bothered to inform me of this most pertinent information! I read on. Come to find out, sassing, random crying fits, teenage attitudes that show up out of NOWHERE are all completely normal for a 6 year old. NORMAL, I said, not acceptable. So that left me with the question: What do I do about it? One person's advice (a mother to 4 children) was to "brace yourself and ride out the storm" Oh geez. Not exactly what I was hoping for, but okay.

After reading further, there were some great tips about how to handle 'the sassy 6's.' Some will stretch me as a parent. A few suggestions were:

* to address the behavior completely separate from the child, saying such things are "slamming the door is not acceptable." instead of saying "you know better than to slam the door."

* Discipline mainly to obtain the desired behavior and leaving the moral lesson out of it (for now). No preaching. Apparently six year olds can be pretty stubborn. If parents feel they are disciplining their 6 year old often, then when every actions is backed with a moral lecture, it's just to much for them to take in. Address the behavior, speak clearly the offense, the consequence and then follow through.

* Check your emotions at the door. Try very hard not to communicate anything through your tone or facial expressions ONLY WHEN DISCIPLINING. No raising voices, using sarcasm or showing anger of frustration of any kind (which doesn't work for any age really, but apparently the 6's are a precursor to the teen years, which I am sure is hard to restrain on the above listed behaviors, so I suppose I could use all the practice I can get). Kids this age like to see their parents get as upset as they are about something. Even if its not about the same thing; ie, Timmy mouthed off and now his evening play date is cancelled. He is now throwing a fit. Mom is getting frustrated with Timmy's reaction to his consequence, so she begins engaging Timmy with his fit. She is yelling over him, threatening further consequences and so on....Timmy, even though upset, has won his mother's attention and now she is feeling the same anger he feels even though over completely different things.

* Praise their good behavior. This seems obvious, but it is easy to overlook. There needs to be a distinct difference in the reaction to good behavior and poor behavior. When a child is doing what they are supposed to, a parent needs to be as willing to acknowledge and praise that actions as much as they would discipline a bad behavior. Smiling, laughing, listening, engaging conversation, asking questions, participating in play, high fives, tickles, hugs and kisses are easy ways to acknowledge desired behavior without saying anything. When this happens children will DESIRE to please their parents and know it is possible to capture their attention without acting inappropriately. If necessary, put a reward system in place.

These are just a few ideas. Some seem obvious, especially if you don't have a 6 year old, but this 'phase' Price is going though has really thrown us all for a loop. I remind myself often that his behavior is separate from who he is. He is so sweet. He is a wonderful and loving big brother. He makes friends easily and has many leader qualities. Price is so creative and likes generally likes to please.

I am hoping the structure of school will help. There are changes on the horizon (more on that later) and I would like to get through this point in development with Price so we can approach future transitions a little more smoothly.

Back Blogging

2011-06-28T14:56:00.002-05:00

I am going to apologize in advance for the flood of blog posts that will soon come rushing into your inbox from Tales of a Domestic Diva. I will be back blogging for a bit. I was once using my blog as a regular way to 'journal' about life, marriage, parenting, friends, trips and laughs along the way. I have had much change in my life over the last year, so my focus was turned to things that needed my attention more. Now that I have found a more settled routine, and since I blog mostly as a way to scrapbook (I certainly don't make time for that!) I want to post about some things that happended awhile back...so here goes!

Beaty Grandsons

2011-06-20T14:28:00.000-05:00

How cute are these boys?! These are the Beaty grandsons. Price, who is my skinny little baby bear on the left and Blade, my brother's boy who is the extra tall and extra tan one in the middle and Brett, my sister's boy who is the only bondle haired blue eyed one of the 6 grandkids.

Bryce and Julie were in from Amarillo this weekend, so my parents hosted a cook out and set up the slip and slide for the little ones to play. What fun. I love these boys so much!

"What's up Cuz?"

2011-06-17T10:22:00.000-05:00

I have posted many times about my family. Not just my nuclear family, but my cousins, parents, nieces and nephews. Family is so important to us. We love the chaos, the laughter and especially the memories and traditions. My kids (or Price anyway) have taken on this same love of family and all that goes with it. We list the names of family that we love, which takes FOREVER and we love to pray for them; especially when someone needs healing or comfort. We rejoice for family when someone succeeds, and we get excited about when they are excited. We try to ward off jealousy whenever possible and encourage each other to do our best. Don't get me wrong, competition is certainly not on the back burner around here; we just give each other good practice in being a graceful loser and a humble winner : )

It is an honor to be part of a family and be involved in each others lives. That is why I love seeing my nephew Brett and Price have such a fun loving relationship. They play so well together. Brett is quiet and reserved. Price is very outgoing and theatrical. Brett is passive and Price is straight forward. Brett is more bashful and seemingly compliant and Price is vocal and "an independent thinker"; which is just a nice way to say stubborn. (I love it though; it keeps me on my toes.)

Listening to the two of them is really cute. The story line they come up with for their adventures and creative play is hilarious. Recently, Brett came to spend the night. I love to let them play, work out their differences and get out as many toys as they want. I give them food and beverage when they ask for it, and I Velcro costumes when they need me to. Maggie Beth and I keep busy doing our own thing in the kitchen or reading books. The boys love to be in a world all their own without much interruption or instruction from me; and I love to just listen and watch from a distance. The fun from this sleep over was somewhat well documented. I just want to remember how cute they were and how sweet and simple life was when it was enough for them to take great pleasure in the small things....snow cones, pup tents, video games and buttery popcorn!

Kanakuk 2011

2011-06-10T12:07:00.000-05:00

Breakfast in the Ozarks before heading to Kamp

Excited to get going!!!

We are ALL excited for Price!

That is one happy boy!

Waitng his turn to say his name and meet his counselors...

"Price Molder from Oklahoma!"

His counselors, Sean and Cash

Tee pee #1

Snow cone!

Meeting up with Price after a week of kamp!

Price recieved the "Heart Award"

The boys of tp 1

Cash, Sean and Jason. Turns out, Jason goes to school in Norman!! Hoping to meet up with him at an OU football game!

This summer was Price's first year at Kanakuk. I was both a kamper and a counselor at Kanakuk and have been counting down with excitement for the day that Price would go. It is kind of funny how it came about. I logged into the Kanakuk website, but my password would not work. It suggested I call the number listed and ask for assistance, so I did. While talking to a sweet woman about my faulty password, I inquired about kamp and how quickly the terms were filling. She asked if I had children that were going to kamp. I said "no, our son is 6, and I know the beginning age of a kamper is 7, so we are so excited for next summer....is it even possible for him to go when he is 6?" The woman said she would get me in contact with the appropriate person and gave me a phone number. I called and with in 15 minutes of talking to Kimmi, the registration person, I was faxed an application and started filling it out. Within a few days we were purchasing kamp clothes, a trunk and toiletries. Price was excited!

We went to Branson on a Friday. We spent the night with my aunt Tammie in her time share at Big Cedar Lodge. Price swam and we had dinner at Steak and Shake (a family tradition during a kamp trip). The next day, Tammie was going to K-West to volunteer 2 weeks as a nurses aid. We got to hang out there, eat lunch and see the fun things at K-West. Price was way to excited to wait. The waiting was starting to make him grouchy! Finally, at 2:00, we went back to the car to get all of his kamp gear and take it to K-Seven, where he would be staying. He was so eager, I thought he might fly away with anticipation! The counselors were chanting and cheering behind the gate....and Price was about to explode with joy! He practically ran when they opened the gates and the flood of kampers and parents walked through the entry. I was a little choked up. First, because I was recalling my time at Kanakuk. The emotion, worship and the love at kamp is thicker than the Ozark humidity. I was so happy that Price was going to experience all of that for himself. I was also thinking "this can't really be happening...we have been looking forward to this since he was born. How can it be here already?!" I was more emotional about this day than I ever was about the first day of Kindergarten; or any other first for that matter. The counselors were crazy enthusiastic as they met each kamper. Price was the youngest one at kamp. He was in Tee Pee One. Yes, I said Tee Pee and yes, they are REAL Tee Pee's. Price thought the sleeping quarters were pretty cool. He put on his swimsuit as Yaya and I made up his bed. The counselors got him a snow cone. Tammie and Kara were there to wish him well and share this exciting first with Price. Kara was the designated photographer.

When it was time to go, Price didn't hesitate. He said "goodbye Mom, see you in a week!" My mom and I stopped just outside of the Kamp gates and prayed for Price and his counselors. I almost made it to the car but the lump in my throat was too much to hold back the tears. I cried a moment and then drove the next hour in almost silence. I wasn't sad. Just knew the next week would be filled with "I wonders" I wonder if he is having fun. I wonder if he is feeling homesick, I wonder if he has tried something new, I wonder if he has made friends. You get the idea. I could send Price emails that would be printed off and given to him each day, but I knew he would not write to me since he is so little. There is no communication except in the case of an emergency. I would miss my little guy so much. I missed him already. I choked back another set of tears as I watched the sun go down on our drive home. I remembered the sound of the dinner bell, the songs and chants and games played in the dining hall, the worship music that fills up kamp during K-Life and the smell of shampoo that lingers as little people shower and get ready for lights out.

I did miss my little guy so much. I prayed for him constantly. Since Tammie was at K-West, which is just down the road, she and Kara would walk through K-Seven to see if they could spy on Price. Sometimes they would find him and send back a text message letting me know what he was doing. One time, they had just finished doing the huge slip and slide. Another time they had just done the zip line. I would check the website daily hoping to see pictures of Price. Most everyday there was at least one. I would try to read his face and pray even harder that he was enjoying his first summer at Kamp.

When it was finally time to go get Price, my mom and dad, me and Maggie Beth left on a Thursday morning. We spent Friday swimming and playing at a hotel in Branson. I was like a kid at Christmas the night before we would be going to get Price. I couldn't sleep. I woke up before my alarm went off and the time seemed like it was moving slowly. We were to be at kamp at 7:30 a.m. When we pulled up to kamp, I could hardly contain myself, though trying to play cool of course. I walked into kamp and from a distance I saw Price's counselors. Like little ducks in a row they came filing out of the kuk (boys) side of kamp. He saw me and almost looked like he didn't recognize me. He hugged my neck, but let go really quickly to embrace his sister. Maggie Beth was glad to see him too. She had missed him like crazy. There was an awards time. Price received the Heart Award. I was so proud of him. He talked about kamp all the way home. He did the chants and told stories. I couldn't stop hugging him.

We are anticipating next year! He will be at K-Seven again. I have applied to be a nurses aid during that same week to help pay for his tuition. We have the Kanakuk Family sticker on the back of the minivan. I will do everything humanly possible for him to continue to go to kamp. It is incredibly fertile soil for kids to grow in their faith. There is nothing magical about kamp itself. It is Christ in the people at kamp that make it so amazing! I could not be more thrilled that God has started this journey with Price through Kanakuk.

Marval May 2011

2011-05-25T12:28:00.000-05:00

My little stud!

Princess at the pool!

1-2-3-jump!

Sharing popcorn with Poppy before bed.

Powered doughnuts for breakfast...in bed.

2011-05-15T11:40:00.000-05:00

This girl cracks me up. She is fiesty, sweet, sassy, hilarious, random, quirky, cuddly and the most awesome little gal I've ever known. We are so blessed to know her.

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-10T09:55:00.000-05:00

MB's OU apparel

Laughing with Kassity
Being Silly with Momma

Poppy reading to Magpie for entertainment (the baseball game had lost her attention)

Magpie got a carmel apple sucker from Aunt Kim...yummo!

My wonderful Momma

The boys, checking out the game

Best buddies

Kass playing with MB
Maggie Beth and 'Poppa'

Yaya and Poppy with four of the 6 grandkids. Brett, Price, Kassity and Maggie Beth

My precious babiesIt is crazy how much my kids love their Yaya and Poppy
We went to a University of Oklahoma baseball game for Mother's Day this year. It was so fun! My sister, Kim, her husband Randy and their kids Kassity and Brett went too.

This is our Boomer Sooner Family!

Go OU!

I'm 30!?!?

2011-04-25T13:15:00.000-05:00

I don't know how it happened so fast, but 30 is here! I don't feel sad or even older. I don't feel I have hit a mile stone or even a bump in the road. I simply feel shocked that time has flown by so fast. I look forward with great excitement to what my 30's has in store. Many of my lifes "major" decisions have been made and it feels like we are coasting (in a good way); just along for the ride. Sure, there will be changes, but for the most part, I feel settled. Not in the physical necessarily, but I am certainly more comfortable with who I am, what I believe and why. 30 is going to be good!!

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T13:59:00.000-05:00

I love Easter. Not because of the happy pastel colors or the first signs of spring. Not because of the beautiful colors you find all over the mall that shout 'summer is coming!' (I enjoy those things too), but I love Easter because it is a celebration of Jesus Christ sacrifice and the power he had to slay death and offer life everlasting! It is in Him, we find the hope of new life and life eternal. I love how the message of Christ goes along with all that is glorious about spring. It seems to go hand in hand with Jesus message of renewal....

I also must admitt I like dressing my children up in coordinating outfits. The rain was kindof a damper, but it was much needed. I had not originally planned on Maggie Beth wearing the bonnet. One, because I had cute bows to put in her hair, and two, we were going to be inside, and three, not much use for a sun bonnet if its raining. Well, Maggie Beth spotted the hat and that was the end of that. She insisted on the hat and was upset at my attempts to distract her and take it off her head. Nope. She was wearing the hat! Okay then, lets move on to pictures....

This isn't what I had pictured for an Easter photo, but we waited a little too late and had to take what we could get as we would be running late for church (which is never okay with my husband). Price thought he had picked a good spot for the photo op so I didn't want to change it.

Me and my lil Easter bunny!

My lil man

It was cool and raining.

Hunting for Easter eggs at Yaya and Poppy's house

Price was sweet. He didn't find quite as many eggs, because he was helping to ensure Maggie Beth found some too. Awww

She likes this 'game'

Price and Maggie Beth with cousins Brett and Kassity. Piper and Blade are in Florida and we missed them bunches....maybe next year!

3rd annual Molder Easter Egg Coloring!

2011-04-23T13:39:00.001-05:00

It has been my tradition to host Easter Egg Coloring on my side of the family for the last 3 years, and this year is no different (except for the terenchal rain and cool temps) which moved the activity inside. The crowd was small, just KK this year. We missed all the others! None the less, we had a good time.

MB and KK get it going!

Price joins in with his fantastic creativity!

Tball!

2011-04-12T13:26:00.000-05:00

I have enjoyed being a "soccer mom," but now its time to be a "baseball mom!" This is Price's first year to play tball! He is excited. His coach's name is Jody, who is the father of another player and friend, named Lainee. He is excellent at getting the kids to listen and teaching them the basics of tball while at the same time instilling some skill and good habits.

A little one-on-one with Jody

First tball game

Run Price!

So fun!

Flower Beds Coming Soon!

2011-03-28T15:09:00.006-05:00

I am notorious for making flower beds! My husband knows this about me and he loves me anyway. I get a flowerbed project in my head and remain full steam ahead until it is accomplished. My method?

1) outline the desired scale and shape of the flowerbed with red spray paint.

2) make 'corrections' with black spray paint.

3) have Jon spray inside designated flowerbed with round up to kill grass

4) use tiller to loosen dirt and get as much grass out as possible

5) Put in a border of some kind

6) I should lay down a weed barrier...but I don't

7) Add dirt mounds to make it more interesting, natural and prettier

8) Plant flowers

9) Put down mulch

10) stand back and admire

Turns out my camera kept pointing the lens to the little girl in the brown and pink outfit that kept following her Daddy around. Wish I had got some of the work we did, but there will be before and after pics later : )

Spring Break at the Lake

2011-03-24T12:43:00.000-05:00

If you know us, then you know we love the lake. Even though its too early to get in or even on the lake right now, there is still so much to do at the resort where my parents stay.

Eating dinner; yum, yum!
These little hands have a big grip on 'Poppa's' heart!

Maggie Beth and my Dad

Poppy and the lil ones

Riding the train! Toot Toot!

Me and my peachy pie!

Just play'n

Boys and nature

Price and his buddy Gage.

My Pricer

Flying kites!

Cruising on the "go-go"

Sweet treat!

My sweet treat!

We had a blast and are looking forward to more fun this summer!

Woot Woot!

2011-03-20T20:12:00.003-05:00

Spring has sprung at the Molder's house, a few days early, but none the less, we are full force into soaking up the sunshine, putting on the sunscreen, licking up the popsicles and getting d-i-r-t-y! My kiddos love playing at the park next door and around the block. Price is a monkey and loves to climb all over the place while acting out scenes from Batman...or as a army guy saving the world...or as a firefighter to the rescue. Maggie Beth loves to roam. She will get lost just watching her feet as she walks aimlessly into the abyss. We left on Thursday and spent the weekend at the lake. It is spring break so Price is out of school. Poppy went down the night before and we left after I got off work. Price loves "the river" as you may have heard in blog posts past. This weekend, he was able to exercise a little freedom. Boy, oh, boy. He thought he was big stuff. He has a friend named Gage, who is 9 years old that he likes to play with when he is there. Gage's grandparents have a spot at the resort too. Price and Gage would ask to play at the park. I would say yes, but asked Price to check in with me before he and Gage went anywhere else. Price did great! He was very responsible at coming back and asking me to go play on the firetruck (vintage truck parked at the resort for children to climb and play on). He would come back with Gage and ask to play out in "the field." Every 10 minutes or so, I would go check to make sure he was where he said he was going to be; and he was. The boys rode bikes, played superheros, flew kites, did crafts at the art room, and watched a movie at the drive-in theater on Saturday night (on the golf cart). They walked the Trail of Terror and drank juice boxes. At the end of the day, Price was filthy and tired. After he filled his tummy and cleaned up, he crashed hard every night. Maggie Beth was very laid back, but very busy...kinda like another Margaret I once knew....mmm. She walked a mile in her sandals everyday. She collected rocks, picked flowers, went for stroller rides, threw stones in the river and rode the golf cart with whomever was willing to take her. We were all so excited to start up the lake season again. It is special to all of us for different reasons. Poppy likes to fish, Yaya likes being away from her schedule at home, Price loves the adventure, Maggie Beth likes the new scenery, I like the laid back feel of the whole weekend and Jon likes being on the boat. Whatever the reason, this is the season for "the river!"

Girls Weekend

2011-03-16T11:32:00.002-05:00

Mary Kathryn is a gift God gave me my first couple of weeks of college. I seriously don't want to think about what college would have been like without her. She is a very dear friend. She is married to her high school sweetheart too. They have 2 adorable children (ages 1 and 3) and live in Texas. The other day, I got an email from her about having a girl's weekend. She brought to my attention that of all the times we have seen each other over the last 8 years, we have always been with our husbands and/or our children and it was high time for a girls weekend!! Amen to that! We coordinated dates with our husbands for a weekend that was free. Amazingly, it didn't take much effort! We are on for the weekend of April 1-3. We are staying in a hotel in downtown Okc. We plan to sleep in, take LONG showers, read a book, have uninterupted girl talk, eat some meals in complete and utter peace and quiet (no fetching dropped silverware or refilling sippy cups), watch a movie, go to bed (without bathing other little humans first), sleep ALL NIGHT and do it all over again before going home! ahhhhh. If we get anything else in, that will be a bonus. I AM SO EXCITED!!!

awww...love that.

2011-03-15T20:38:00.000-05:00

Today, I planned a day to go to the zoo with my kiddos. It was a trick getting out the door. No really, it was quite a feat. I had to finish up a few things at the office before I left (luckily "the office" is right across the street from our house). I zipped back home, backed a diaper bag and intened on getting lunches packed too. Maggie Beth who we sometimes have nick named "the lil un-doer" was in full force. The was getting things out hand over fist while I was gathering items for the outing. I couldn't find my wallet. I looked everywhere. Meanwhile, Price keeps asking, "when are we going to the zoo?" "Its only 9:30, give mommy a second buddy" I would say. After calling Jon and my mom to see if they had seen my wallet, I remembered the last place I had it was at Wal-Mart the night before. I decided to call and check. Yes, it was there! Omg, now to see if the contents had remained....yes indeed...$123 dollars in cash and all my cards! I loaded up the kiddos to fetch the wallet. The associate said it was found in the parking lot. There are good people in the world! Must have fallen out when I was loading my groceries. Now back to the house because I decided it would be better to take the wagon so both kids could ride instead of the stroller for Maggie B. Big mistake. I locked myself out of the house. The car was loaded and I couldn't leave. My keys were locked inside. Luckily, my husband chuckled when I called for help, which helped to lighten the mood. He came to the rescue in a HUGE way! Not only did he unlock the door for me but while inside he exchanged his dress shoes for tennis shoes and hopped in the driver's seat of the swagger wagon! He was coming with us?! awwwww....love that. He jokingly said with the way my day was going, he thought I could use some help. Okay. I'll take it. Not only did my man come with me and the kiddos to the zoo; he got us in for free! His buddy works there and let us in. He was a champ toting bags, pulling the wagon, changing diapers, buying tokens for the carousel and jumpy thing. He fetched lunch and lemonade and gave a days worth of shoulder rides to his children. I was so thankful for his presence. It was a beautiful day and we had a great time together.

Cool day with Dad

2011-03-12T12:37:00.000-06:00

It was too cold to do much, so Jon took Price to Wal-Mart and they built an elaborate leggos jet. Price got a little impatient for the the completion of this activity so he could play with the plane, so Dad did most the work at the end. But they had a great time.

Gogee

2011-03-09T11:23:00.000-06:00

The precious woman who keeps Maggie Beth on Mondays and Wednesdays has made room in her schedule to keep her on Tuesdays! Yippee! There are so many reasons this makes me happy. For one, Gogee is a grandma (Gogee is what her grandkids call her). She is so sweet to our Magpie. She rocks her, sings to her, reads to her, hugs and kisses her, teaches her cute little tricks and everytime I walk in on them, she is on the floor playing with her. All of these things seem like an obvious way to play with a baby, but I think it is very hard to find someone who will. Gogee is always concerned and checks on MB when she is sick. She laughs at her cute moments and appreciates her temperment and quirks and doesn't try to change her. She just goes with the flow. I am so very thankful for Magge Beth to be in the hands of someone who loves her while I have to be gone to work. Even though I am gone only 20 hours a week, it is good to know she is being loved on and cared for in my absence. I thank God for Gogee and what she means to our family.

Beautiful

2011-03-06T18:15:00.001-06:00

Oklahoma weather gives us 70 degree days in January and sometimes it snows in March. The weather is diverse and random, but I love it. A month ago we were literally knee deep in snow and the schools and town were all but officially shut down. Now here we are, 70 degree days and the local stores are putting out their spring flowers for anxious people like me to buy. Though I have bee successful at holding off on the planting, Jon and I have been working on creating a flowerbed at the "dollhouse." I drew out a plan with spraypaint, he tilled up the dirt, put up the border and added top soil. I am excited to get my hands dirty and start adding some curb appeal to our humble abode. xoxo spring!

Yay!

2011-03-01T10:50:00.000-06:00

So so so excited to announce that my brother and sis-in-law and my niece and nephew are moving back from Florida! They have only been gone since August, but we have missed having them close. Though they are not moving back here, but to Amarillo Texas, I am glad they are only 4 hours away; which makes it easier to see them for holidays and birthdays and special events! So happy for that!

Soccer

2011-02-20T10:44:00.000-06:00

Its that time of year again! Spring soccer! Price really enjoys playing and we enjoy watching him play. He has a great coach who came from Russia as an exchange student to play soccer at the local college. There he met his wife and they have a son, who is Price's age. He is great with the kiddos and is very knowledgable about the sport and communicates well the rules and skills of the game. I hope Price likes soccer for a long time. : )

2011-02-08T16:20:00.000-06:00

The Magpie walks!

2011-02-06T10:28:00.000-06:00

It only took her 14+ months to walk, but she is doing it! Yay! We were over at Yaya and Poppy's house during one of the snowy nights. I got the kids out of the bathtub and ready for bed. She decided to really caputre our attention and began to walk from the chair to the ottoman then to the couch. Once she figured out she could do it, she made this triangle pattern for half an hour; and each time she did, we would cheer for her! Price was so excited for her! We all giggled at the way she walked with her hands up by her head to keep her balance. She was so wobbly!!! I thought every time she took off she would plop down in the middle of her stride, but she kept going like she was making her way across a boat caught in a hurricane! Though obviously unsteady, she was so proud of herself and her new ability. This event happened just 2 weeks after her ear tubes. The doctor said she would start begin walking and start talking more after surgery. He was right.

Snow Days!

2011-02-04T10:11:00.000-06:00

I love snow! I like the way it falls, I like being inside with a pot of stew filling the house with yummy smells and warming the bellies of my family. I like baking cookies with Price and reading books to Maggie Beth. We do these things often, but there is something so cozy about doing it when the snow forces us to stay inside! I have had to work these days too, so it hasn't been all fun and games, though going to the church office gives me a place to catch my breath and feel refreshed for day 2....day 3... and day 4 of no school! Price wants to play outside, but he can only go in short spurts because the wind chill is near zero and too dangerous to stay out for too long. Of course, Maggie Beth cries everytime he gets bundled up and walks out the door. She wants to go too. Though its been fun, I will be ready to see the grass and city streets clear of all the snow when it does melt away. But until then, we will enjoy these snowy days!

First sleep-over!

2011-01-23T10:54:00.000-06:00

My nephew Brett turned 5 and had a fun birthday party at Andy Allagators. Well, Price and Brett didn't want the fun to end, so Brett with his precious high pitch voice and folded hands under his chin asks (begs) for Price to "spend the night"....."pwease!" Oh my, how can I say no? I talk to Price and let him know that he will be there all night. He seems fine with that. Brett and Price have a dramatic embrace and celebrate all the way to the car, making plans about what they will do when they get to Brett's house. I was a little nervous because my parents are the ONLY people Price has stayed with overnight without Jon or myself being with him. Around 9 p.m., my sweet sister sends me a picture on my cell phone of the boys all tucked in and ready for bed. When morning comes, I meet Randy half way to get Price. He is so proud of himself for spending the night, and is already asking when he can do it again. "I already miss Brett" he says.

Wow!

2011-01-18T10:08:00.000-06:00

Am I crazy? It seems Maggie Beth is already benefiting from her tubes! She is sleeping better and eating better. She is happier during the day. Wow! I rejoice for her!

Surgery Day

2011-01-14T22:03:00.003-06:00

The surgery went great! Jon was a nervous wreck and was anxious to get his daughter back in his arms. She was screaming when we went back to the recovery room (common side affect of the anesthesia. It makes them disoriented and frieghtened). She really calmed down once we got her in the car. She slept all the way back home and was ready to eat when she woke up. She slept for another 2.5 hours this afternoon!

Ear tubes, coming soon!

2011-01-09T21:31:00.003-06:00

Frida,y MB and I made a trip to an ENT. She had a hearing test before we saw the doctor. The audiologist said there was in fact hearing loss (which is reversable) and that her ear drum was not functioning properly because of all the fluid behind it. When we saw the doc, he confirmed those results and scheduled her for surgery next Friday January 14th. Maggie Beth is his youngest patient that day, so she will be his first surgery, that way, she won't have to go too long without food or drink. Her procedure is at 7, we are supposed to be there at 6, so we have to leave the house at 5 a.m.! Sheesh! I am glad we get to just get up and get it over with though. We are praying for her to respond well to the tubes and that my little angel will be getting the relief she needs to feel better. Now, I just need to figure out the details of how to get Price to school......

What is going on?!

2011-01-05T12:23:00.003-06:00

Since a week before we left for Durango, Maggie Beth has been sick. She had the classic signs of an ear infection (runny nose, cough, fever, not sleeping well and the obvious sign of pulling at her ears). After 10 days of Amoxacillin, and no improvement, we moved on to Omnicef. With high hopes it would work, we took that antibiotic for 5 days. After continuing to run a fever, we returned to the doctor's office. Maggie Beth still had an ear infection!! On to med #3. This time it was Augmentin. Twice a day for 10 days, we wrestled our beloved daughter aiming to get a dropper full of chalky white medicine down the hatch. Finally, after nearly 4 weeks of medicine, the doctor gives the all clear! No more ear infections! Yay! .....

But it is short lived. Maggie Beth starts running a fever again Dec 19. High fever. 104.5 We go back to the doctor on the 22nd. This time, it is not her ears. No one knows what is causing the fever. Our wonderful doctor and P.A. are concerned and very thorough. They do a catheter to test her urine for a UTI. Negative. They do a flu test. Negative. They order a chest xray. Nothing. We are thankful all these things came back normal, but what is causing our baby to be so sick? We really start praying and asking God to heal her and to make her better for Christmas day. 48 hours later, she is fever free....

December 28th, I come home from the church, and Price has a fever! Oh My Gosh!!!! His temp is 104 through the night. For the next four days he runs fever every 4 hours (as soon as the Motrin and Tylenol start to wear off). Saturday night, Maggie Beth is back at it again. This time with a runny nose. What in the world?! I take her back to the doctor on Monday. Ear infection. This time we get a referral to an ENT. She is back on antibiotic and Price is still running fever in the evening, but doesn't have a fever through the night or during the day. Weird.

My sick children; they make the world fall off its axis...(okay, not really, but that is what it feels like). No one is sleeping well in our house. No one but me has an appetite (Braums Rocky Road Ice cream is so comforting). Maggie Beth is cranky, Price is whiny and Jon is grouchy. I am a zombie, totally going through the motions of the day, just focused on making it to 8 p.m. without having a breakdown! Wow! Doesn't this make you want to come hang out with us?

Durango

2010-11-25T09:17:00.002-06:00

The plan was to leave early in the morning (2 a.m.) Wednesday for Colorado. Jon called Tuesday mid morning and said "do you want to leave this afternoon? Maybe 4 or so? I am ready to get out of town!" I was excited to go to and had most everything ready to leave. So, I agreed and off we went. MB took a nap. Price played his Leapster. We stopped in Elk City to eat at McDonald's for dinner. I put the kids in their pj's and off we went. We stopped again about an hour later for a potty break. The kids watched the Polar Express then fell asleep. We stopped again at Loves for gas. From there I drove us into New Mexico. We stopped at a Days Inn in Tucumcari to stay the night. The kids had a midnight snack of cheese cubes, blueberries and Price chowed half a jar of pickled okra. The night was sort of restless because Jon is battling a head cold, Price coughed alot during the night and Maggie Beth was just confused about where we were I think.

None the less, we were up and at'em by 7. We had waffles at the hotel and hit the road again. We made our way through NM. The kids did so awesome!!! MB was content watching Praise Baby videos and Elmo. Price watched them too, played his Leapster and colored. He played silly games with Maggie Beth that made her giggle. We stopped at a Walgreen's in Albuquerque to get more meds for Jon and take a potty break. Around Cuba NM, I climbed in the back and made turkey and cheese sandwiches, chips and apple slices for the fam. We ate and kept driving on. Price got all kinds of thrilled when we spotted snow on the sides of the road! When we got to Bloomfield, it started snowing! Yay! : )

We pulled into Durango and were so taken with its charm and beauty. What a lovely town!! Our hotel is wonderful. Price and Jon hit the hot tub last night. We walked the town and ate at Tequila's Mexican Restaurant. We came back to the hotel room for hot chocolate and a game of checkers. The four of us snuggled in the king size bed and watched Beauty and the Beast on TV (the whole thing). Then off to bed. So far the trip has been sweet. Not sweet as in "cool" but sweet as in special. Jon and I have been so blessed with our little family.

I'm Ba-aaaack!

2010-11-18T10:26:00.003-06:00

After exactly a 3 month break from writing, I am back to blogging! I will catch you up on the details of why I was unavailable to blog about my life the last few months, but for now I will just give you the short version:

1) I was packing our 2,800 square foot house to move!

2) I was garage selling our stuff....lots of stuff!

3) I was hauling stuff to Goodwill

4) I was moving what was left into a 2 bedroom, 1,000 square foot house

5) I was unpacking and settling into our new residence

6) I started a part-time job at our church as the secretary

7) We are preparing to take a family road trip over the Thanksgiving holiday

8) I am planning Maggie Beth's first birthday party! (OMG!!!! Can it be possible?)

(Sigh)......it has been a whirlwind to say the least, but we have been so blessed through it all! I can't wait to update you on what God has been doing the last several weeks!

Summer of Super Heroes!

2010-08-19T23:42:00.002-05:00

Watch out bad guys, Price is here to save the day! This has been the adorable summer of super heroes! I never now what character will come down the stairs next! He has Spiderman and Iron Man costumes, but the ones that get worn the most are the ones with a "P" on them. He makes up his own super hero names and powers. Of course no hero is complete without spectacular sound effects, and Price is NOT short on those! The pows, booms, bangs, wacks and pops flow freely throughout the ENTIRE day! : ) He is definately "all boy" and I LOVE IT! This ittle man is most certainly my hero!

Kindergarten

2010-08-11T00:03:00.000-05:00

Price is going to Kindergarten! I feel like someone should pinch me because it just doesnt seem possible! He looked so cute in his little plaid shorts, polo and deck shoes. He took off out the door with his backpack and lunch box in tow.

Jon gave Price big hugs before school like he always does, but this time he held onto his boy a little longer. YaYa came over to see Price and then rode with me to take him to school. I was fine all morning until it was time to hug him and say goodbye. HE was fine. I, on the other hand, walked down the hall from his classroom like a weeping bafoon! I am so happy he is growing and learning and getting his little wings. I was emotional because I kept thinking "where does the time go?"

He has a wonderful teacher! Mrs. Walker is a sweet lady with a daughter Price's age. Price is social and loves to learn. He has always enjoyed being around other children. I am so proud of him. He is smart and friendly and loves structure. He is going to LOVE kindergarten!

Maggie Beth is 8 months

2010-08-02T21:49:00.001-05:00

Maggie Beth is 8 months old! She is a little sweetheart! She sits up really well. She leans forward on her hands and knees and rocks back and forth. If she tries to get something out of reach, she falls down on her tummy and will eventually get frustrated and roll over onto her back. She has one tooth and another is just below the gums. She gets excited when she sees drinks with straws, icecream and popsicles. She gets most excited when she sees Price! She says Mama, Da da, and Bubba. Though she may not know she is calling us by our "names" she has got us all covered! Watching Harley makes her giggle. She claps her hands when I say "pat-a-cake" and cries if I leave the room. In church, she sings. She says "aaaahhh" the whole time the band is playing. It is so darn cute! She LOVES bathtime, swimming in the pool and splashing her little hands in water on her high chair tray. She very much dislikes getting strapped into her carseat, but is fine once she is all buckled in. Her favorite snacks are graham crackers, nilla wafers, Gerber puffs and most any fruit. She eats best during lunch and she is a pro at the sippy cup! She naps at 9 am., 1 p.m., sleeping about 1 to 1.5 hours each time, and goes to bed around 8 p.m. She wakes around midnight and 5 a.m. to nurse and sometimes wakes between times wanting her bink (which makes for one tired Mama). Her day starts around 7 a.m. Maggie Beth is cuddly, sweet, dainty, smiley, happy and vocal. We love and adore our little angel baby!

Jones Clan

2010-07-26T23:10:00.001-05:00

Jon's aunt Pat (Kari's sister)

Brandon and Price

Bradley

Price and Uncle Josh (Jon's brother)

Jon's cousin Brandon, and his wife Lindy

Jon's cousin Steven

Steven's girls, Sara and Katie

Our pool

Jon's family is a huge gaggle. His mom is one of 8 children. Most of them have at least 3 children, so Jon has alot of first cousins. Most of his cousins have 2 children, so the family tree keeps growing more branches. Today, the Jone's clan participated in a softball tournament in Amber for a fundraiser. After winning the first game and losing the next 2, they all went to eat at Mazzios Pizza and then cam to our house to swim.

Drive in movie

2010-07-23T12:31:00.003-05:00

learning....

Got it!

Jon took Price to see Toy Story 3 at the drive-in. I packed popcorn, grapes, and string cheese for snacks so my men could munch during the show. While waiting for the movie, Price learned how to do the "Texas stinks" sign that all Sooner Born children learn to do. It did rain a little, but they sat in the cab of the truck and had a great time! Yay for good summer fun!

Adoration!!

2010-07-23T10:55:00.002-05:00

Maggie Beth LOVES her big brother! He will simply walk into the room and she grins ear to ear!! When he plays, she looks at him like he is the most amazing thing she has ever seen. It is complete adoration!...and so stink'n sweet to see the love the have for each other! These pics were taken while she was watching her "bubby."

I mean really....he is pretty adorable!

Lake Rats

2010-07-19T21:30:00.000-05:00

Uh-Oh! Watch out!

YaYa wants one now too!

Bryce, Joshua and Price

Tam Tam, YaYa and Babby!

Maggie Beth's first dip in the lake!

Poppy's First Mate

Over the weekend, we went to the lake with our extended family! It was a blast!!!! My mom, aunt Tam and aunt Abby; Abby's boyfriend Barry, Evva, Clint, Keelyn and Bryce. Bridget, Caleb, Joshua, Isaac and Micaiah. My dad, me Price and Maggie Beth. My mom's cousin from North Dakota, Roger, his wife Chris and their 4 children; Matthew, Aubrey, Alexa and Jaden. 11 children total! We went out on the boat, swam in the lake, and played on Jet Skiis. After Price had his first ride on the Jet Ski, he said "Mom, that was SO fun! I have to get one of those!" We laughed and had a great time! Precious memories were made this weekend. So fun!!! : )

Proverbs 22:6

2010-07-12T08:46:00.002-05:00

"Teach your children to choose the right path and when they are older, they will remain upon it." Proverbs 22:6.

This scripture has been like a broken record in my head the last month or so; I can't escape it! I think about it, chew on it and pray it for myself as a Momma leading innocent little lambs. I have asked God what to do with it. How does He want me to apply it? We have created a habit of having a devotion in the morning over breakfast (about 5 minutes) and Price recites several memory verses and prays most nights before he goes to sleep. I kept feeling though that there should be a deeper level of learning and understanding for Price. He is capable. He has a child's heart. He is sensitive to things concerning God. As a result, I have put together a little study of the Bible in chronological order. Each day has a Bible story, activity and scripture. We will continue the scripture memory and I am on a hunt for a new devotion to start with the new school year. More than anything, I pray God blesses this time we share together in the Bible. I pray He captures my son's heart with his Holy Word, and this begins the start of a lifelong hunger and thirst know his heavenly Father. I pray Price grows in wisdom and that his heart longs to be like Jesus!

July 4th

2010-07-05T21:26:00.001-05:00

My babies on a rainy, humid July 4th. Precious American children.

7 months!

2010-07-02T15:15:00.003-05:00

Happy 7 month birthday to Maggie Beth! What a sweet little gift from heaven!!

End of the road

2010-06-30T07:39:00.003-05:00

So, I know many people say they will never buy a minivan. I was one of them. But after having baby #2, it just seemed like the natural thing to do. We were all a little cramped in the Murano when we had to load Price's school bags, soccer stuff, Maggie Beth's baby stroller, diaper bag and anything else we needed to tote along with us. I also wanted to be able to pick up Price's school friends or cousins and bring them home with us or go to the park. In order to do that, we needed more seats. Anyway, last Saturday, we sold the 2007 Nissan Murano. It was a little sad. I really liked that car. It was dependable and I loved having the leather seats (very practical with children). We have found a 2000 Toyota Sienna that seems to have been taken good care of. It has cloth seats and is "older" but it is going to work great for out family. The best part of all is that it eliminates our crazy expensive car payment! Yay!

So its the end of the road for the Murano. I am sure I will be driving a minivan until my kids start to drive themselves around; and at this point, I will get something sweet and sassy to drive around! Pics of the van coming soon.

Small Group

2010-06-29T10:15:00.000-05:00

Jon and I are very blessed to be a part of a wonderful church here; New Life Christian Church. There are a group of young married couples with small children that meet every Wednesday evening. We hosted the June family night at our house. We had fun! Jon grilled, the kiddos swam and we got to fellowship and laugh with great friends! Kathrine and Wesley......

.......some of the guys Jon and Maggie Beth

The Lafevre's

Megan and the girls

John and the Kopec kids

Chris and Addi

My lil guy Toni and Landry Ash and Mr. B

Big Tank Box

2010-06-25T10:06:00.000-05:00

Who needs fancy expesensive toys? My parents got a couple of new chairs that were delivered in huge boxes. We brought one home for Price to play in and it has been a big hit. He decorated the inside with buttons (garage sale stickers) so it could be a spaceship, army tank or a airplane. He has had fun playing with it in the garage. He is so cute!

Well....

2010-06-20T14:25:00.002-05:00

My aunt Tammie organized a fundraiser for a little girl named Audri who is fighting cancer. The event was called "So You Wanna Look Like a Cheerleader?" It was a bootcamp of sorts for women of all ages. Anyway, I was getting ready to leave for that event one evening last week and this is the conversation that took place:

Me: "Hey bud, Mamma is going to leave for a little bit. Daddy is staying here you with you and Maggie Beth, okay?"

Price: "Where are you going?"

Me: "I am going to workout."

Price: "What are you going to be doing for your work?"

Me: "I am going to exercise!"

Price: "YOU EXERCISE???" (accompanied by the most confused look I have ever seen on my son's face.)

Me: "Well.....I do now!"

Needless to say Jon got a big laugh from this dialogue. And now that the soreness is finally gone (5 days later!), I have been doing some form of "exercise" everyday. So there.

Big Boy Bike Rider!

2010-06-20T13:48:00.003-05:00

Price learned how to ride his bike about a month ago! A nearby vacant house offered a long driveway, off the steet, to practice. Between Jon, me, Yaya and Poppy and Maggie Beth: Price had a crowd to encourage him. On occasion a passerby or neighbor would share the moment with some cheers aswell! He took a few tumbles, but one big crash in particular sent us home to clean up the blood and fetch a few band-aids. Though he was a little nervous about getting back on the bike (new knee pads, elbow pads and helmet from Yaya and Poppy helped), he got back on and is now loving his newest mode of transportation yet again! What a fun and exciting milestone for a little guy!!!

Father's Day 2010

2010-06-20T10:02:00.000-05:00

Happy Father's Day to a wonderful Daddy!
Breakfast in bed!
(Price 5 years, Maggie Beth 6 months)

2 lil fish!

2010-06-15T21:39:00.002-05:00

Maggie had her first experience in the pool recently. She loved it! Now we have 2 little fish-children. Price took right to the water. He was cautious of the deep end (which is good), but now he is swimming and jumping in down there too. We enjoy such great family time in our backyard. I love summer!

TASTY TUESDAY

2010-05-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Super Salmon

Salmon Filets, thawed
butter
lemon
Cavender's all purpose Greek Seasoning (found in the spice aisle)
foil
cooking spray

Heat oven to 425 degrees. Lay out foil and spray with cooking spray. Place salmon on foil. Spread butter on filet like you would a piece of toast. Sprinkle with Cavender's Seasoning. Put 2-3 slices of lemon on filet. Fold foil so that the fish is completely enclosed. Bake in oven or on the grill for 15 minutes. Remove when done. (Fish should flake easily with a fork at the center when it is done). Serve with a flavored rice and some veggies. Our favorite "go to" veggie is broccoli! Enjoy!

Pre K Grad

2010-05-20T21:45:00.002-05:00

Price, with his precious teacher, Mrs. Worden

Price "graduated" preschool! He had a super cute little program, complete with gown and tossing of the cap at the end of announcing the pre-k class of 2010. As each child crossed the stage, they said the child's name, their favorite thing about pre-k, what they wanted to be when they grow up, and what award the teacher gave that child.

They announced "Price Molder. Price's favorite thing about pre-k was working at centers. When Price grows up he wants to work with his Daddy. Price is being given the "Most friendly" award." Awwww. Jon and I were both a little misty eyed. So sweet.

I have a feeling the next 13 years are going to fly by! sigh.......

TASTY TUESDAY

2010-05-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Garden Stew

4 green squash
4 yellow squash
3 cans stewed tomatoes, drained
salt and pepper

Wash and thinly slice both the yellow and green squash (cut so that the pieces are round). You may wish to cut them into small cubes. Whatever floats your boat!

Place squash into a large pot of boiling water. Let boil until squash is tender when poked with a fork, then drain.

Return squash to the pot. Add the three cans of stewed tomatoes. Do NOT drain juices. Use a knife to cut tomatoes into smaller pieces. Let simmer. Stir often. Add salt and pepper to taste.

I love serving this as a side dish with a salad when Jon grills chicken. In the fall and winter, we sometimes have it as a stew with saltine crackers. Mmmm Mmmm. Tasty!

Keelyn Rose

2010-05-15T22:03:00.001-05:00

Welcome to this world baby Keelyn Rose! We already love this baby girl so much! She and Maggie Beth are 5 months apart. My cousin Evva and I are 4 months apart and we grew up alot like sisters. We have SO many great memories together; thanks to our mothers. We vacationed, played and spent the night together all the time. We fought and loved like sisters. Today, Evva is one of my best friends, and I am so thankful for our relationship. I hope our daughters grow up to love each other the way Ev and I do. Here is the first pic of Maggie Beth and Keelyn. The first of MANY!

Strawberries!

2010-05-12T17:17:00.005-05:00

It starts like this. A dainty little white flower.

Soon, it starts to take the shape of a strawberry.

Eventually it turns from a greenish white to a beautiful red!

Look at all the treasures.....and the ones yet to come!!!

Yummy! Doesn't that look delicious??!!

This is what I picked today! The plants will yield this many strawberrys every two days or so for the next couple of weeks!
Maggie Beth in her jammies watching Momma pick strawberries. Too bad she can't have any yet. We are sharing these with our friends in small group tonight.

Our backyard has a strawberry patch. It was here when we moved in and has brought such great joy to my family! The strawberry happens to be our favorite fruit (cantelope is a close second). About this time every year we enjoy this sweet red seeded ball that grows in abundance from our plants. It is a fascinating process to watch. When we notice the first white flower, Price goes out everyday to "check on the stawberries." We have made, stawberry jam, strawberry icecream and strawberry shortcake. We also like to share them with neighbors. Most of the time we can't resist but to bring these tasty little fruits inside for a good rinse under some cold water and then eat them right away! What a treat God has given us, soley for our enjoyment....yummy strawberries!

Tenkiller Kickoff 2010

2010-05-12T17:05:00.004-05:00

This last weekend we took a family getaway to Tenkiller with my parents. Jon, me and the kids stayed in a cabin and we had a great time! Price loves all the activities there and we did most all of them; basketball, mini golf, crafts, playground, throwing rocks in the river, riding bikes, boat ride, driving around on the golf cart, campfires, fish fry...The pool was not open yet, but will be on our next visit!

I was raised on the lake. Jon was not, but he really enjoys it the most when he can jump in to cool off and then go for a ride on a ski or tube. We weren't able to do that this trip, but we have kicked off the lake season 2010 with much enthusiasm. We plan to be back again several times over the summer. This was Maggie Beth's first trip. Price was so excited for her. He showed her around and told her all the things "she is going to love when she gets bigger."

I love this time of year. So much family time and good memories to be made on, in and around the water! We are looking forward to it all!

First Haircut!!!

2010-05-12T17:01:00.006-05:00

That's right, Maggie Beth got her first hair cut last week (at 5 months old)! It was done by Carol, the same wonderful lady who gave Price his first haircut (at 6 months old). Maggie Beth had a few long pieces on top that were looking a little scraggly and wild. She did really well and her hairdo is looking much better!

my babies

2010-05-11T17:54:00.001-05:00

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

TASTY TUESDAY

2010-05-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

Aloha Chicken

5 lbs chicken breast, cubed or sliced into strips
sprinkle of salt
1 cup frozen orange juice concentrate
1 cup coconut milk (usually found in the asian food section of your grocier)
1 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup sesame oil
white rice
large can cubed pineapple, drained

Rinse and pat dry chicken breast cubes (or strips). Place chicken in a dish and lightly salt the chicken. Place the dish of chicken in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Use this time to mix together the oj, coconut milk, soy sauce and sesame oil.

Remove chicken from fridge. Drain any juices from the chicken. Place chicken in crockpot and pour mixture on top. Stir well.

Cook on low about 7 hours.

Serve over hot cooked white rice with chunks of pineapple.

Since this is an Asian dish, it may not appeal to everyone. I can say that I am not a big fan of Asian food, but this is quite tasty! My hubs loves it! It is good for any season and most any occasion! Enjoy!

TASTY TUESDAY

2010-05-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan

4-6 boneless chicken breast
1 egg, lightly beaten
3/4 cup italian seasoned dry bread crumbs
1 jar of favorite pasta sauce
1 cup shredded mozarella cheese

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Dip chicken in egg, then coat well with bread crumbs on both sides. Spray a glass dish with cooking spray. Arrange chicken in dish and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Remove from oven. Pour pasta sauce over chicken, then top with cheese. Bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until chicken is done. Serve over spaghetti pasta with a side dish of mixed garden veggies and bread sticks! You'll think you're at Olive Garden!!

Tasty Tuesday Ammendment

2010-04-29T20:52:00.002-05:00

Okay, so my last Tasty Tuesday was the 4x4 stew. Here are some things you should know.

1) This recipe, as you can tell by the 4 lbs of hamburger meat, makes a TON of food. Great for watch parties, family get togethers and any other reason you may have to feed a multitude.

2) The beauty of this recipe is that not only is it simple, but you can do 2x2, which is two of everything, or 3x3, or even 1x1, which is ideal for just 2 people.

3) I use the mild rotels. But for those of you who are prone to heartburn, you might want to do half rotel, half diced tomatoes. Just experiment and see what suits you. Using all rotels, especially the original rotels, makes more of a very spicey chili rather than a stew.

4) My mom adds red kidney beans in aswell, so if that interests you, go for it!

So there ya have it! I hope you enjoy! ; )

TASTY TUESDAY

2010-04-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

4x4 Stew (Four by Four)

4 lbs hamburger meat
4 cans ranch style beans, drained
4 cans minestone soup
4 cans rotel (use mild rotel if you want to tone down the spice.)

Brown hamburger meat and drain. Mix in other ingredients and simmer in a large stew pot. Serve with saltines. Sour cream and shredded cheese is good as a topper! Makes plenty and is always a hit as a game day meal! About 3 more months until kickoff!

Field Trip 2010

2010-04-23T20:17:00.006-05:00

Yaya testing out the sling.... Maggie LOVES it!!! Then we started our adventure.
She stayed in it the whole time we were at the zoo. Maggie + sling + lovey + paci = happy girl!

We stopped to have a picnic lunch. Price was enjoying an orange.

Me and my precious treasures. What a gift from God!

Yaya and Maggie Beth Riding the Tram at the zoo. Very informative.

Okapi! Price was so excited to see these. "They are Diego's favorite animal!" Very unusual and beautiful creature. Price and I talked about how God is so creative!!!

Giraffes. They are my favorite!!!!

Yaya and Price feeding the parakeets!

We went on Price's preschool field trip to the zoo today! It was great fun!! Yaya went with us, which was even more fun! Maggie Beth went too. Price had a blast and Maggie was an absolute angel! She loved being toted around in the sling. Price loved seeing all the animals and was a little cutie. The weather was gorgeous!!! It was a fabulous day!

Rice Cereal

2010-04-21T14:29:00.000-05:00

So, Miss Maggie Beth has reached another milestone! She is eating rice cereal! She is slow to enjoy it at first, but the last few bites she opens wide like a little birdie. She is starting to get the hang of it. I can't believe she is eating from a spoon already! Time is flying by so quickly....sigh.

My friend, Mrs. Oklahoma

2010-04-20T10:55:00.004-05:00

Congrats to my sweet friend Alyssa Siler, who won Mrs. Oklahoma on Saturday night! It was so much fun to cheer her on! Alyssa has a daughter Hayden who is almost 4 years old. Hayden has Cystic Fibrosis. Alyssa entered the pageant with the hope of winning to become a voice for CF. Not many people can say they know such a beautiful person who is just as beautiful on the inside. She has many many talents!! Alyssa is a good and loyal friend. I am so proud of her!

You can check out her blog at www.mrsoklahomaamerica2010.blogspot.com

The Mrs. America pageant is in Arizona in September. Tuscon here we come!!!

Price is 5!

2010-04-20T10:47:00.007-05:00

Happy Birthday signs posted for Price to enjoy when he woke up! We also put red crate paper all over the kitchen, but didn't get a picture of that...darn!

Jon, Maggie Beth and I suprised Price at school and brought McDonald's for lunch. Fun!

Price got to have his "leader day" on his birthday. He took his "nina bear" and a picture for show and tell and brought cupcakes for snack.
Price chose to eat at Braums for his birthday dinner. He and Jon enjoyed a banana split.

Price had a bowling party with his cousins and friends.

Nanny made the cake!

My little man is growing up so fast! I can't believe he is 5 years old! He is funny, loving, caring, tender, feisty, animated, creative, polite, encouraging, intuitive, sensitive, strong, imaginative and always a joy! He is my sunshine and constant source of laughter. Our lives are richer because of Pricer!!! Here are some pictures from his birthday celebration!

TASTY TUESDAY

2010-04-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Teriyaki Chicken

6-8 Chicken breast
1/2 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (can add a pinch more to satisfy your taste)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder OR minced garlic
white or brown rice

Place chicken in crockpot. Whisk other ingredients, EXCEPT RICE together in a bowl. Pour over chicken. Cook on low about 7 hours. Cook rice. Serve with chicken. Goes well with a side of stir fry frozen veggies dinner rolls. Enjoy!

TASTY TUESDAY

2010-04-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

Easy Ravioli Bake

1 jar of your favorite tomato pasta sauce (26-28 oz)
1 pkg (25-28 oz.) frozen cheese or beef filled raviolis
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
grated parmesan cheese

Heat oven to 350. Spray bottom and sides of rectangular baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 3/4 cup sauce in dish. Arrange ravioli in singer layer over sauce. Top with 1/2 of remainging sauce, then 1 cup of cheese, another layer of ravioli's, other 1/2 of sauce the 1 more cup of cheese.

Cover with foil. Bake 40 minutes. Remove foil. Bake another 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and hot in the center. Let stand about 10 minutes before cutting. Sprinkle with grated parmesan. Enjoy!

* can add pepperoni between layers if using cheese raviolis

*good recipe to make ahead of time, store in the fridge and have ready to put in the oven. Bake as directed!

Awww!

2010-04-06T13:30:00.003-05:00

This morning at 6:00, I was in Maggie Beth's room nursing her when Price came in and we had this exchange:

Price (whispering): "Mama?....Mama?"

Me (sitting in the dark with my head resting on the back of the chair): "Yea, buddy?"

Price: "Are you sleepy Mama?"

Me: "Yes a little bit. Maggie didn't sleep well, so I'm a little tired. Why are you up so early?"

Price: "I am a little hungry." He says as he rubs his tummy and lifts only one eyebrow.

Me: "Alright, bud. I am going to finish feeding Maggie Beth and I will be right down to make you some breakfast. Okay?"

Price: "Okay." He tip toes away, but returns about 30 seconds later.

Price: "Mama. Daddy is here! I going to ask him to get me some breakfast so you can rest!" as he gives me two thumbs up.

Awwwww! He is so sweet!

TASTY TUESDAY

2010-04-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Tasty Tuesday is not all about the recipes, but mostly about easy ideas to help feed your family some yummy meals! Here is one idea for those of you who simply need a new idea to bring to the dinner table.

Soup and Bread Bowls

One package Bear Creek Soup Mix (found in the soup aisle at most grocery stores) There are many different mixes to choose from. Broccoli Cheddar, Creamy Potato, Chicken noodle and an enchilada soup. We have tried and enjoyed them all! Be sure to check the back of the package because it will give you lots of ideas to add to your soup to make them more interesting.

Enough bread bowls to feed whomever might be eating with you! (you can call a day ahead to most bakeries and order fresh bread bowls to be picked up. I know both Wal-Mart and Homeland do this).

We like to use this meal for a quick after church meal or even one we can whip out when we have guests. I served this for Christmas with my in-laws this year. We were tired of turkey and dressing and lots of heavy food, so I did this instead. It is tasty and inexpensive and most importantly EASY!

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T20:24:00.006-05:00

My niece Kassity, nephew Brett, and my Pricer!

Coloring Easter eggs!

My sister, Kim, and Maggie Beth, just up from a nap!

Me and the kiddos on Easter morning!

I love Easter! Spring time, sunshine, grass turning green, flowers starting to bloom, trees budding....all signs of new life; starting fresh! This is what Christ Jesus offers us in His death and resurrection! Praise God! Jesus is Risen! His grace is for me!

Family walks

2010-04-04T12:54:00.008-05:00

This starts the half of the year when we get to go on fun family walks. Last year, it was good exercise for me being pregnant and all. This year, Price likes to drive his truck or ride his bike (tricycle, which we are hoping to take the training wheels off soon). Maggie prefers to be in a sling. On this particular outing, Jon volunteered to do the honor of toting the princess. I love this part of our day. After tummies are full and dinner is cleaned up, but before we wash up the kids for bed is when we treat ourselves to this outing. Its lots of fun and something I really look forward to.

Sweet reunion

2010-04-01T20:18:00.012-05:00

My friend April used to live down the street from me when we lived in Edmond. We had our babies just 3 months apart (Price and Addison). I spent many many afternoons at her house when Price was little. We attended the same church, mom's groups and shared many of the same friends. Our kids liked playing together as much as we liked visiting. Many evenings after our babies were in bed, we would run to Target or Wal-Mart on a grocery/necessities run or sometimes just to browse around without our children. Sometimes we would go to Starbucks. Most every time we would get totally lost in conversation about motherhood, marriage and faith.

April moved to Colorado in May of 2007. I was so sad to see her go. She has two daughters and gave birth to a son since their move to Colorado. My family moved from Edmond in March of 2008. We are good about keeping in touch. I send pics via text and we chat on the phone and keep up with each other through facebook, blogs and email.

April was in Oklahoma this weekend. Both her and her husband's family live here, so it is difficult for her to squeeze in time for anyone else. Thankfully, I was able to get some time with her and the kids! The girls are beautiful and have grown so much. Asher is very cute and keeps April busy (as boys tend to do)! We got to catch up while the kids colored with sidewalk chalk. Price was at school so he was not there, but April did get to meet Maggie Beth for the first time today.

Ilove how true friends are always able to pick up right where we left off. Its seemed as if I had just seen her yesterday. When our time together came to an end, I thought about a song I knew as a kid....

"Make new friends, but keep the old

one is silver and the other, gold.

A circle is round, it has no end

that's how long I want to be your friend."

Thank you God for good friends.

Our routine these days

2010-03-31T10:06:00.005-05:00

6:15 Maggie wakes, eats, change her diaper
6:35 Hang out with Jon in the living room with Jon and Maggie
6:50 Price in the shower, get Maggie dressed
7:00 Get Price dressed, eat breakfast, get things ready to go to school, make beds
7:45 Maggie down for a nap, do a preschool devotion with Price
8:00 YaYa takes Price to school
8:05 Take a shower, have a cup of coffee
8:20 Pick up around the house
8:35 Maggie wakes, plays on the bed while I dry and fix my hair and put on make up
9:15 Play with Maggie
9:25 Prepare a bottle of breastmilk for Maggie, feed, burp and hold her
9:50 Get supplies together and pump while Maggie plays on the floor by me
10:00 Read to and rock Maggie, change her diaper
10:15 Put Maggie in her crib, pick up the bedrooms
10:20 Put paci back in for Maggie
10:25 Put clothes in dryer, put another load in the washer
run dishwasher
put ironing board and iron away
wipe down the kitchen
put dinner in the crockpot
do Bible study lesson
sort laundry

11:50 make a sandwich for lunch, fold a load of clothes, start another load
12:30 treat myself to a cup of icecream, sit on the couch!!
1:00 Maggie wakes, feed her, change her diaper
1:20 Play with Maggie, tummy time, jumpster
2:00 Fold clothes, start another load, check the mail, vacuum the den
2:35 Jon comes home to bring me the car, I take him back to work
2:50 Pick up Price from school, go to Sonic, deliver a drink to a friend, go by Verizon Wireless
4:00 Get home, feed Maggie, change her diaper, get Price a snack
4:20 Maggie goes down for a nap, fold a load of laundry, put laundry away, hang with Price
5:15 Start making side dishes for dinner with Price
5:45 Serve dinner and clean up, then play with the kids
6:30 Put Maggie in the bathtub, baby massage, diaper, pj's, feeding, lullabies and off to bed
8:00 Help Price brush his teeth and get pj's on, review site words from school
8:15 Jon reads a book to Price and listens to his prayers.
8:30 lights out for Price
I clean up downstairs and get the house ready for the next morning
9:00 watch TV with Jon and check my email. Jon falls asleep on the couch!
10:15 Go to bed!

Of course our routine varies, but I jotted this down throughout the day, just so that someday I can look back and see how I spent my time. I will do this again in a few months. I love this phase in my life and I don't want to forget what it was like.

TASTY TUESDAY

2010-03-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

Italian Chicken and Pasta

1 envelope "McCormick Slow Cookers Italian Herb Chicken"
4-5 boneless chicken breast
2 cans stewed tomatoes
1 can tomato paste
1 package penne pasta

Mix stewed tomatoes and paste and seasoning together in a bowl. Put chicken in crockpot. Pour tomato mixture over chicken, coating each piece. Cook 7-8 hours on low. Serve over cooked penne pasta. Goes well with a side of green beans and/or a salad and garlic bread.

*this recipe is on the back of the McCormick seasoning packet!

** I often sprinkle my green beans with a splash of seasoning salt while they simmer on the stove. It gives a little zip to the regular green bean taste. Price loves it!

Reaching!

2010-03-29T21:12:00.003-05:00

Saturday was the first time that Maggie started reaching and playing with the toy that is strapped to her carrier. It is so sweet to see her chubby arms and little fingers discovering the things around her. I love watching her face. I can see her eyes light up while she is learning how to use her little body and making the connection between what she can see with her eyes and what is in her hands! She is a precious miracle.

On the way home from school today, Price said "Mom, look, she is playing with her toys!" I replied, "Yes, I know! She is learning to use her hands! Isn't that cute?" He leaned over, touched her face and said "I am sooo proud of you, Maggie!"

2010-03-23T20:55:00.003-05:00

Tonight I was making dinner and Jon picked up the camera and took this picture. I am glad he did. I want to remember that I used to cook dinner with Maggie in a sling and Price sitting close by, eager to help. These are the days!

House for Sale

2010-03-19T16:02:00.002-05:00

News flash! The Molder's house is on the market! Okay, so for some of you this might come as a shock, but it is something Jon and I have been talking about for some time now. In the last month, it seems that all roads are leading us to sell our house. There are SO many behind the scenes explanations for this, but here is the short version.

1) Both Jon and I value the time that I get to spend with our children. I was privileged enough to have almost 5 years with Price as our only child. We spent everyday together exploring the world around us. I am so blessed to have been able to have that time with him. He is now in pre-k and I just don't know where the time has gone. Now there is Maggie Beth. I look forward to walking with her through all of her "first" moments and being the one to watch and help her grow over the next few years before she starts school. Because this time with my babes is so important to me, Jon and I have decided to sell our house.

2) Jon is an insurance agent, so his income varies according to his commissions. Because of this, he sometimes takes on side jobs to help increase cash flow. He referees wrestling in the fall and umpires baseball in the spring. He works so hard for our family. He too, of course has dreams of his own. I know someday he would like to buy out the book of business he works so hard to create. We would like to position ourselves to do just that over the next few years. Because this is Jon's dream, we have decided to sell our house.

3) We have debt. I know most people do. We have a car payment, Jon's student loans, a bank loan, recently accrued medical bills from the birth of Maggie Beth, and of course our current house. We want to OWN everything with out name on it and not OWE anyone, not even a mortgage lender. Because of this, we are going to sell our house.

4) We lived in a 1,500 square foot house in Edmond. Our home now is 2,600 square feet! It is alot of space to keep up with. I know that my life now is demanding with 2 small children, but I don't see it getting any less busy as my children grow. I want to spend more time living in my house than cleaning it, so....we want to sell our house.

5) Junk junk and more junk! The more space we have, the more room there is to fill! I want to simplify! The answer? Buy a smaller house and sell the big one! Actually we will have to do it the other way around! ; )

6) More dough to play....or more play dough, which ever way you want to say it! We would love to have the cash flow to pack up the kids any ole time we feel like it and get out of town! Whether we are beach bound jet setters or weekend warriors on the lake just a couple hours away; we want to be able to claim family time when we want it. In order to have this luxery, we will need to sell our house!

I know there will be critics. People who say we are currently "living the dream." We have a good marriage, two great kids, big house, swimming pool and so on. But, my dream is to be a stay-at-home- mom. Jon's dream is to own his own agency one day. Our dream is to spend wonderful moments together as a family. In order to live OUR dream we must sell our house! I am thankful God has planted this seed in both me and Jon. I have to admit, I was the one dragging my feet the first few times Jon mentioned it (I cringed soley at the thought of packing)! But here is the truth, my home is wherever my man and my children are. My job/mission/calling/ministry are the same no matter where our address may be!

I went through a process of swollowing my pride. Afterall, society tells us we move UP the ladder, right? Not "down"!!! People will talk and they might make up their own reasons why "the Molder's are selling their house" Friends might think we have gone crazy! I sometimes think so too! In reality we are creating a freedom for ourselves and our children. Through a series of study and prayer, God has changed my heart! I am loving the thrill of this adventure! Though we are not moving across the world (not hardly, we plan to stay in Chickasha...I think), there is a great adventure, and even more than that, there is great JOY in trusting what we feel God is leading us to do. You got it....SELL OUR HOUSE!!!

A Beautiful Day

2010-03-13T20:06:00.005-06:00

Today was a great day! We worked out in the yard as a family. Jon used a chainsaw and cut down limbs that had broken in the trees during the ice storm. I cleaned out the flowerbeds. It was so exciting to see all the new growth hiding under the leaves from last fall! Spring is coming!!

Price played in the yard. He brought out his big dump truck and hauled things around the yard. He played army men and Star Wars. He rode his tricycle and helped Jon. Maggie was entertained in her activity center and loved watching Price. She kicked around in her bouncy seat and smiled at me while I put mulch in the front flowerbed. It was so great to be in the sunshine, enjoying family and getting some spring cleaning done in the yard!

Good Sleeper

2010-03-09T21:13:00.003-06:00

When I was pregnant with Maggie I prayed she would be a good sleeper. Well, over the last month my prayer has been answered. Maggie will rub her eyes, yawn, maybe fuss a little or sometimes she will just get very quiet and still when she gets sleepy.

At 2 months old I began putting her down in her crib when she was sleepy. She would cry for a few minutes, then I would console her without picking her up (normally shushing in her ear and patting her bottom) and then walk away. I would repeat this process until she would fall asleep. A couple weeks into it, Maggie Beth decided she was ready to take a paci! Yeah!!! That made things even easier!!!

Now, when Maggie gives me signs that she is sleepy, I rock her for a few minutes, put her down and she lays in her crib without a peep and slowly and peacefully goes to sleep. She loves her room and her bed. Just taking her in there and sitting in the rocker calms her. She does this for naps during the day. At night, she enjoys a bath, lavender scent massage, fresh diaper and clean pj's, snuggles with mama and being fed. My sweet angel falls asleep quickly and comfortably in her bed (on her awesome minky sheets).

I am so thankful for this answered prayer.

Holding down the fort

2010-03-05T11:37:00.002-06:00

Jon left for D.C. on Tuesday for an insurance conference (sounds fun, huh?) and I have been here "holding down the fort." To be honest, Price hasn't really noticed Jon has been gone. Jon usually leaves before Price goes to school, and is normally home just an hour or so before Price goes to bed...but I have noticed.

I miss my man! We don't get alot of time together, but I really enjoy the time that we do get and I have missed having Jon here to chat and watch TV after the babes are asleep. The house has been easier to maintain, (to Jon: sorry honey but its true...picking up after you is half the battle), but it is not a fair trade! I am ready for Jon to return home! Its just not the same around here without him!

Best Big Brother

2010-02-28T22:28:00.005-06:00

I am so proud of Price. He had been our only child for 4 and a half years. We had hoped that he would adjust well to having a baby in the house, but we could have never imagined that he would be such a wonderful big brother! He loves to greet Maggie when she wakes up in the morning or from her naps. He talks and smiles at her and enjoys giving her hugs and kisses. He talks to her while I change her diaper and loves to play pat-a-cake with her. He sings to her, "reads" books to her and sweetly sssshhh's her when she cries in the car. He introduces her to people at the grocery store, bank, library and church. Price calls her "my Maggie" and "precious girl." He loves to point out toys, clothes and shoes that he thinks she would like. He talks about all the things he wants to teach her; like riding a bike, writing her name and learning to swim. Price likes to take a bath with Maggie and help wash her hair. He is so sweet to her. He honestly has not shown ANY jealousy. He loves his baby sister so much. He often says "I am going to protect her and we are going to be best friends." It warms my heart! One day when we were at McDonald's, I asked Price to "watch Maggie" while I walked about 10 feet away to put our things in the trash. When I turned around, Price was standing with his arms spread out, acting as a road block in front of Maggies carrier. He said "I kept her safe, Mom." He is the best big brother!