Wii-itis!!!

So, we got the Wii from Santa and have had so much fun playing it. It really has been a great way to get the family to do things together. However, I think Len and I have a case of Wii-itis. For those who have not had a Wii experience it is pain caused from too much bowling. Our elbows and shoulders are very sore:) On another note, I am so happy that Christmas is now over. The decorations are down and the gifts have been put up. I love the holidays and have enjoyed the break, but we really do much better on a schedule.
Please say a quick prayer on Monday morning as I am having surgery. I am pretty nervous!

Friday Fill-In #44
1. Shopping____ is my favorite form of therapy.

2. If you get my voice mail you'll hear ME!_______ .

3. My favorite product EVER is __Bathos' hullaballoo_____ .

4. I see something _green______ .

5. When I'm grumpy _don't talk to me______ .

6. ___Taking lots of baths____ is my strangest habit.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to The 25th annual Christmas party with family friend_____, tomorrow my plans include _hanging out with my family and cooking____ and Tuesday, I want to OPEN SOME GIFTS:)_____!

More Baking!!

Maclaine and I have been very busy making all sorts of holiday goodies this morning. We have made ham rolls, sausage balls, reindeer cupcakes (very cute), deviled eggs and gingerbread houses. I am so thankful that school is out until Jan. 8th and I do not go back to work until the 7th. This is a much needed break! Right now, I am also thankful that the weather is warm enough for the neighborhood kids to play outside! They have been so stir crazy with the rainy weather lately. I do want it to be cold for Christmas and then on Jan.1, I want 60-70 degree weather! Here are some pics of our baking.

SUPER SHOOTER

Our Saturdays are busy with basketball for both kiddos. This is Maclaine's first game. She was so excited that she scored 6 points!

Holiday Baking

Today, Maclaine and I began our holiday baking. She loves to help cook now that we have matching aprons! On our list for today: sausage balls, peppermint snowball cookies, brownies and taco salad for dinner.
I have a question. I followed the cookie recipe word for word, step by step and my cookies did not look at all like the picture. How do you keep the cookie dough in a ball formation while it is cooking? Every batch we made they always spread out. So frustrating.
Next week we have plans for chocolate covered pretzels sprinkled with peppermint:) I love this time of year and all the good food that it brings.

My Celebrity Look Alike

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree...

Start Drinking....NOW!

This is our third year with a live Christmas tree. To date, we have had some Griswald-ish experiences with trees. The first year, our house was on the market and I didn't want something huge. We picked out a great tree, but after cutting some off and getting it in the stand, I realized that the top was about eye level. It reminded me of the Charlie Brown tree. Last year, Len found us a great deal on a 9ft tree at Home Depot. It was the most beautiful tree. The only problem was that for some reason, it NEVER drank any water. By the second week it was completely dead. I couldn't even turn on the lights. So last night we bought a tree from the boy scouts. It was late at night and very dark, but this tree looked great. It was leaning against a pole and appeared to be 7-8 ft. They even measured it and thought that it was 7 ft. Once we got home, I found the price tag hidden inside which said this tree was 10 ft. It wouldn't fit in our large stand. Once we had a bigger stand, Len and I could hardly get it through the door. If you remember the scene in Christmas Vacation where the limbs go flying everywhere...that is what happened. This tree is HUGE for my little den! Now, here is my question: I am scared because once again, the tree stand is still full of water. Shouldn't a tree that big be gulping it up? I cannot have another dead tree in a week. We cut some off the bottom and I am at a loss as to what else to do. Any suggestions?

Somebody stop me...

So this week I began noticing that everywhere I have been there is Christmas music playing. This is playing mind games with me (I think that is the point!). In Krogers, I instantly got into a holiday baking mood (highly unusual). At the mall and Target I felt my pulse rise and I became slightly panicked...Christmas is obviously very close and there aren't alot of crowds yet and I haven't really done my holiday shopping yet SO I BETTER START NOW!!!!! I love the holidays and the great music and all, but I cannot find enough time to take another job to pay for all this madness! Does anyone else suffer from this disorder?
The other problem I am facing is that I am finding more things to buy for me than the people on my list! To all the retailers out there: You got me, Okay. Now please, please stop accepting my debit card!

Kids are so funny!

Now that I am a school nurse, I have the cutest "patients." Today a little 7 year old came to the office and was holding her head. Here was how it went:

Her: Mrs. Haley, I need help.

Me: What is wrong with your head?

Her: I bumped it in music class.

Me: let me look...I think it is going to be ok.

Her: No, it's not...I think I am unconscious.

Me: (trying not to laugh) We will get some ice and you will be all better.

How can you not love taking care of kids? They are so cute and funny without even trying to be! Just thought I'd share.

Thankful Thursday!!

I AM SOOOO THANKFUL THAT TOMORROW IS FRIDAY!!!

I started my new job on Monday. Everything is going relatively well(beside being slightly overwhelmed and stressed). I am hoping that next week will calm down. I have now changed my position at Vandy to PRN (as needed), meaning that I will still work 2 nights a week just shorter hours. YIPPPEEE!!
Poor Len is getting frustrated with playing Mr. Mom, but I must say that he has been so good to me as I have not been a very easy person to live with lately. We are looking forward to this weekend when Mason is turning 7 on Sat. and Len is turning 36 on Sun. So be sure to wish them Happy Birthday!
Saturday Len and I are going to an "adult halloween party" and then at 9pm are going to the downtown Franklin "ghosts and gore" tour. I have wanted to do that for years and I am so excited.

NEW JOB FOR ME!!!

Well, as if I wasn't busy enough, I have just gotten another job! Yep, that will make 3...4(if you count being a mom). So I will continue working part time 2-3 nights a week at Vanderbilt and I will work every morning from7-12 at BGA as an administrative assistant, then I am working for 3 pharmaceutical companies after hours and weekends as a nurse educator for the patients receiving those meds. I guess I am fixing to see what kind of multi-tasker I am. I can promise one thing...my house will probably go to pot!! So, keep us in your prayers that I can keep it all together!

As far as other things go...we had a great fall break spent up in Cashiers, NC. It was fabulous to get away. We went to a rustic inn that had no tv, phone, cell access, etc. It was very relaxing to get away from all that stuff. I can finally sit down a week after our horseback trail ride without feeling the pain that the saddle left on my behind!! I really had fun on the ride but don't see myself as much of a cowgirl!

Next week, my "baby" (Mason) turns 7...I am amazed that he is that old. He is loving first grade and flag football. Anyway, I will post more on that next week.

The Question of the Day!!

Please offer advice...what is the going rate for the Tooth Fairy? We have not officially lost any teeth yet, but I know that day is drawing closer. I would prefer to give only a dollar or two, but I'm told that the rate is much higher than that! So, what have ya'll done?

Your Five Factor Personality Profile

Extroversion: You have low extroversion. You are quiet and reserved in most social situations. A low key, laid back lifestyle is important to you. You tend to bond slowly, over time, with one or two people. Conscientiousness: You have medium conscientiousness. You're generally good at balancing work and play. When you need to buckle down, you can usually get tasks done. But you've been known to goof off when you know you can get away with it. Agreeableness: You have medium agreeableness. You're generally a friendly and trusting person. But you also have a healthy dose of cynicism. You get along well with others, as long as they play fair. Neuroticism: You have medium neuroticism. You're generally cool and collected, but sometimes you do panic. Little worries or problems can consume you, draining your energy. Your life is pretty smooth, but there's a few emotional bumps you'd like to get rid of. Openness to experience: Your openness to new experiences is low. You're a pretty conservative person, and you favor what's socially acceptable. You think that change for novelty's sake is a very bad idea. While some may see this as boring, many see you as dependable and wise.

The Five Factor Personality Test

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful that I have a son and along with that means that as a mother I deal with all kinds of stains. Today, I am thankful for stain removal spray. I know this is ridiculous, but the sprays make getting those stubborn old stains out much easier. Anything that means less work for me is something I am thankful for!

I am also thankful for drive-thru fast food. I can also tell (b/c my pants are too tight) that I have been utilizing drive-thru way to much! Our days are super busy and we are never at home, so without this wonderful thing we would be hungry! On another note, without this we would be richer, skinnier, and my car would stay cleaner.

The last think that I am thankful for this week, is medication. I know that these are random things, but they have been huge in my week. As you know, last week a spider bit me in a less than convenient place. It was so infected and was extremely painful. It is amazing how just 48 hours of strong antibiotics and Lortab can make such a difference! Besides being pleasantly "drunk" on Lortab(just ask Laura about that!) the bite went away remarkably fast. I am thankful that we don't live in the early 1900's or that ole bite might have killed me. Think about childbirth without epidurals...oh my!!

Update

Well, HS musical on ice was so much fun...the girls squealed and sang, which was hilarious to watch! Sorry, no pics to post...I didn't have my camera. Mason had his first flag football game yesterday and had the first touchdown of the game then he threw a long pass for another TD! That was exciting to watch and a nice change from baseball.
We are sad because our Rebels lost to Vandy, but that win for Vanderbilt will make for a better week at work. We had a nice weekend with Len's family in town and we are so happy that his sister, Sara, has moved to Nashville. I think I shall be calling on her to babysit for some long , overdue dates with my hubby!!
Sorry that this post is about a bunch of nothing, but it was all I had.

High School Musical On Ice

Well, the night is finally here...Maclaine and Olivia are going to HS Musical on Ice. Should be fun. I'll hopefully have some pics to post tomorrow!

I give up!

Okay, I don't know what I did to deserve this week, but it must have been bad. The whole week has been like a black cloud is following me...so stay far away!
Here are some of the things making me crazy right now: After weeks of praying so hard for rain I got a surprise...2 windows that have let the water come seeping in and down my walls (imagine...bubbled paint, water spots on the ceiling, pot full of water), then I woke up the next morning to find that a spider(I think) has bitten me in a less than convenient place. Major pain in the ... hopefully you get the picture. Well it kept swelling and hurting so I went to the doctor and the meds are making me so sick. 2 calls (this week!) from the school nurse regarding my kiddos. This time it seems that Mason fell and they thought he had a broken leg. So another trip to the doctor. Thankfully he just pulled his groin. While driving to work today, the electrical things in my car went haywire. That means no speedometer, rpms, etc. AAAGGHH!!! So you can understand why I want this week from you know where to hurry and end.

Pitiful

Last night at church we did a mock Bible Bowl. I have never participated in the adult challenge before last night and boy was I embarrassed. I was seated across from both of my children and caught myself cheating off of them! I was actually watching them as the questions were being read and I could see which card they were fixing to hold up. Well, I was confronted this morning by Maclaine. The conversation went as follows:
Haley: Laine...I am so proud of how well you did last night in the Bible Bowl!
Laine: Mommy you did good too!
Haley: Thanks..I had fun watching you and Mason.
Laine: Mommy, why were you always staring at my cards?
Haley: HUH? I wasn't staring at your cards, I was just watching you.
Laine: No you weren't...you were cheating off of me!
Haley: What? I didn't cheat.
Laine: Then how come you always held up the same cards as me?
Haley: Okay..I was cheating just a little, but only because I knew you would know the answers!
Laine: It's okay...you did your best!

How terrible to be caught by my daughter! We laughed this morning at how amazing children are and how much they know (more than I give them credit for!)

Answered Questions

Kelli tagged me to answer these questions, so here you go:

1. Who was your best friend? My best friend was Kelly Rayburn, Jessi Dunn, and Tammy Hood

2.Did you play any sports? I did not play any school sports, however I used to be a competitive water skier/swimmer. (does that count?)

3. What kind of car did you drive? I started out with a cute red Escort GT, then right before my senior year I upgraded to a Honda Accord.

4. It's Friday night, where were you? Out cruising Columbia with my friends looking for cute boys. We would drive through the movies then down through Krogers parking lot to McDonalds and then turn around in their parking lot and do it again!!

5. Were you a party animal? Considering the huge party animal that I am now, I'll let you decide!!

6. Were you considered a flirt? Not at school, but possibly around town.

7. Were you in the band, orchestra or choir? NO, NO, NO

8. Were you a nerd? I sure hope not, but I'm sure at some point someone probably thought I was. What a terrble question!

9. Were you ever suspended or expelled? I only got in trouble 1 time and had to go to demerit school, but the rest of the class got into trouble too! I think we all decided to skip the class

10. Can you sing the fight song? Absolutely not.

11. Who was your favorite teacher? The one I married...HEHEHE

12. Did you go to the prom? Yes, with my boyfriend, Byran Farris. It was at Opryland one year and I can't remember where it was my senior year.

13. If you could go back, would you? Well, since I go back most every day I guess I should answer yes, but if I had to go back and relive HS I would say that no, I have no desire to ever go back to those days!

14. What do you remember most about graduation? That I had surgery 2 days before and my stomach was so bloated and sore. When I sat doen, the button popped off my dress so I had to leave my gown on the whole time! I did not go to any parties afterward and there were only about 56 people in my class. Trey Pratt was one of them!

15. Where were you on senior skip day? I don't remember if we had one that year, but if we did, I must have just stayed home.

16. Did you have a job your senior year? No. Not during the school year, but every summer I worked at the hospital.

17. Where did you go most often for lunch? The cafeteria...I loved their chili. We did not have an option to leave for lunch.

18. Have you gained weight since then? I'd say so...If only I appreciated my figure more.
(this computer just started writing in italics and I can't get it off)

19. What did you do after graduation? Went out to eat with my family, then probably went out with my boyfriend.

20. What year did you graduate? 1995

21. Who was your senior prom date? Byran Farris. We dated like 5 years. TOO LONG!!

22. Are you going/did you go to your 10 year reunion? No, it was on Mason's birthday and I didn't want to see any of them anyway!

Oh my aching bod..

This is week 2 of my attempt at running. As of now I am up to 1 mile running and 1 mile walking. Slowly but surely it is getting better. I have noticed that I have lost about 3lbs and that I have been so out of shape! My legs and butt are so so sore. Anyway, I got up this morning at 5:30 before work and ran and am amazed at how great I feel. Just thought I'd share what is going on in my life!!

Super Duper Cute!!!

Oops!

A few months ago at Maclaine's kindergarten check-up, her doc suggested that she might need glasses b/c she had some trouble looking at their eye chart. I thought the whole time...You aren't an eye doc and your chart is stupid and she has no trouble seeing. Well, I decided to get baseline eye check ups for the whole fam and ended up needing them myself. Yesterday was Maclaine's appt and boy do I now feel like the worst mom ever. It turns out that she is very farsighted and has bad eyes. Her prescription is so strong that he wouldn't give her glasses that she really needs yet b/c it would probably make her sick. So, now she has 2 cute pairs of glasses and I am having trouble looking at her and not feeling guilty. I tried to look through them and they are so strong that I couldn't see anything. Bless her heart. Who knew that parenthood could make you feel like the worst person ever. I asked her why she didn't tell me that she was having trouble seeing and she replied "Mom you are always at work" (double whammy.)

overwhelming

Well, today is Len's last day of summer and I think he is not very happy about that. I cannot believe it is over. We did have one of our best summers yet...I think. Between travel baseball for Mason, basketball camp for both, fishing, lake trips,and the beach we have been very busy. I am excited and overwhelmed about having both of the kiddos in school full time this year. I got my 07-08 planner yesterday and have been filling it out only to find that it is completely stressing me out! That is not good. On the other hand, how nice it should be to have my days that I am off work FREE!!! I have dreams that I will go to the gym daily, TRY to take up running (not holding my breath on that one) and keep up with the laundry and house work. In Len's eyes I will have no excuses. I have news for him...there are certain things mommies must do to keep sanity in the home. For example...manis/pedis, catching up on 6 years of missed tv, bubble baths, naps...you get the picture! Well, I must quit dreaming and get back to work.

Thankful Thursday...

Okay, today I have alot to be thankful for but right now I happen to be very hungry. I have worked all day and came home to an empty fridge and messy kitchen. I an thankful for good food! I know that sounds stupid, but right now I would give anything to have a great home-cooked meal that I didn't have to cook! He he. I have so many great memories of my family sitting down together for dinner. Unfortunately, that doesn't happen much in my family.

All Ready Now...I Think!!

Well, summer is all but over and the back to school countdown has begun. I am shocked that they are both in "real" school! I am so excited for them(or maybe for me, since I WILL BE ALL ALONE!!). Today, Len played golf so the kiddos and I finished up some school things. Maclaine got her cute little inverted wedge haircut that I think looks so great on her and Mason got his trusty buzz. He looks more like Len everyday! Then we went out for our back to school lunch and finished our morning at the library. Yes, that would be to find the books they are required to read over the summer...nothing like procrastination. So, with only 15 books to go, I think we are getting there.
Our next hurdle is getting them back into a good bedtime routine. How does everyone else do this? Over the summer, we completely fall apart. The kids have been staying up watching movies until 10 (or later:() and not waking up until around 9:30-10. I have enjoyed that part, but I can see that waking them up at 6:45 is going to be rough for everyone involved.
Anyhoo, I am still looking for a job to fill my free time, so any ideas would be welcome! (as long as they don't involve nursing). Also, Laura and I have been playing tennis and we need some competition. Can you believe that a fellow parent asked me what "league" I play in. She wants me to be an alternative for her team! That is funny because Laura and I have our own elite team that can only play at the courts no one goes too and only during the hours that no one else wants to play (we would hate for everyone to fight over having us on their teams..Hehehe) In other words I SUCK! But, I do look cute since Len bought me the cutest little tennis outfit!
I learned last year that tennis apparel is the dress code for mothers at BGA. So, this year I plan to fit right in!
Happy last days of summer to all...

THANKFUL THURSDAY!

Thanks for this idea...I have been in a blogging slump and needed some ideas.

1. Today I am very thankful for health. Our family friend is in surgery right now for 2 brain tumors that he was diagnosed with last week. They are extremely aggressive and the outlook is not good. He is already having strokes and seizures. So, with that on my mind, Health is such a blessing. I am thankful that we have medical advances that can help so many people.

2. I am thankful that Len has given up something that he dreaded for so long...GIRLS BASKETBALL. Every year this subject has caused our marriage/family alot of tension. He is truly much happier and has been able to enjoy a great summer with us!

3. Cell phones. How did we used to make it without these? I have a semi-panic attack if I realize that I don't have mine with me whenever I am out. It is not that I use it much, but it is a comfort just knowing that it is there!

My Favorite Things

I have been tagged to do a "my favorite things post" like Oprah. So, here is a few of the things that I consider "My Favorite!"


1. Every morning when I shower I have 2 things that get me started in my day. If you have thick hair then Frederick Fekkai hair products are great. I prefer the olive oil glossing line. It leaves my hair soft and shiny. While I let the conditioner sit in my hair then washing off with Philosophy wash/shampoo/conditioner is a must. They have great scents and are great for travel because they are everything you need in one bottle! My favorite scents seem to be the one's centered around food (cinnamon buns, strawberry milkshake, etc.), bet that suprised you, huh?

2. Once that shower is finished, many of you know that I have a love affair with my CHI flat iron! It has saved me from many a bad hair day. I look back at pics of life before the flat iron and am thankful everyday that this product is mine!

3. I love Ann Taylor LOFT. I like how their clothes are trendy, but more for people my age. They are also my favorite because their clothes tend to run big on me... any place that I can wear a size smaller is always going to top my list!!

4. I know that this is absolutely the dumbest thing, but I really do love my minivan (shoot me now!) I never would have guessed that I would ever be a mini van momma, but it does make life with kids much easier. Now, it definitely isn't my dream car, but it is my practical car!

5. Since I am talking about the car, I have told ya'll about "mandy", my new best friend!! She is my GPS guide and saved my marriage during our trip. Love this!!!

6. One more thing, I need to thank the man who came up with portable DVD players and SONY for their awesome headphones. ANOTHER MUST WITH KIDDOS!

7. I have been asked by Len at times to end my love affair with Target. It is an addiction that I just can't break.

8. I really enjoy reading. A great time for me is to go to Barnes and Noble and look around. Ever notice how peaceful and relaxing it is in there? I love light and easy books to read and currently like Jennifer Weiner books. I recommend her if you enjoy girly books. Another great author is Emily Giffin.

9. While I am out, I must tell you that a really great place to eat is The Puffy Muffin. They have great salads and tortilla soup.

10. Old Navy pajama pants are my uniform when I am at home. I could never be a stay-at-home mom because I don't think that I would EVER have any reason to get dressed in anything other that comfy pajamas!! I have been known to take the kids to school in them on my days off, which Mason hates. I hear this "Mommmm, just get your real clothes on...plllleeeaase."

11. Yankee Candles. My favorite scent is clean cotton because it makes my house smell like a spring day and a clean house (ha ha). Around Fall, I love Harvest (think pumpkin pie baking in your oven!)

12. My jacuzzi bathtub, bath beads, and a great candle....enough said!

13. Miraclesuit swimwear! This is embarrassing, but if you have children you know that things are always as firm as they should be AND if you have big boobs then you really know how hard finding cute swimsuits is. I love anything the sucks me in and love that according to their motto whenever I slip into my slimsuit I "instantly look 10 pounds thinner in 10 seconds!" Anything that can do that is worth my $$$. Along that same line is my favorite slimming secret for under my clothes...SPANX. So now you all know my secrets!

14. I am running out of my favorite things. I have to include my family. I love my hubby and think he is sexy when he is dressed up for church and work.(something about business attire gets me!) I have my favorite boy and girl and dog and that is all I really need.

So, Tag You"re It!!!!

SO, SO FUN

So the trip is over and we had a blast. We extended the vacation as long as possible. Monday we went to Chattanooga and spent the night then headed to Atlanta for 2 days. We went to the Georgia Aqaurium and saw several fun July 4th festivities. On Thursday morning Len got us up at 4 am to head to South Carolina. I think he was more excited than the kids!! We got to Hilton Head that morning and played on the beach every day. The weather was amazing and the kiddos LOVED the ocean. They "boogie boarded" all day and then crashed early every night. We have finally figured out the secrets to traveling with children. 1. Leave very early(coming home we left at 1:45am and traveled all night while they slept. We were home by 9:30) 2. Each child gets their own portable DVD player (with headphones) and lots of new, unseen movies! 3. Mom and Dad got their own new toy...GPS system for the van!! Len and I are always guaranteed some good fights when travelling. I bought a GPS for the trip and "Mandy" got us exactly where we wanted to go!! (Mandy is the name of the voice I chose. Hehe)

OH HAPPY DAY!!

This week we are leaving for a long overdue vacation. I am very excited about this trip. We are going to Atlanta for 2 days and then on to Hilton Head. I can't wait to see the look on Maclaine's face when she sees the ocean for the first time! With all that has gone on over this last week with my dad, we are looking forward to spending some good family time with them.

SUMMER FUN!!

I have so many memories of me and my little sister playing outside in the water sprinklers when we were younger. Last night while we were watering our yard I heard the kids squealing. When I saw them playing in the sprinker, I was reminded of younger days. They were having so much fun! I am thankful for those moments where we are able to just let go and have fun, and my kids did just that last night!

Just another night at work...

So most of know you where I work (I have to be careful not to give out too much info), well I definitely encounter ODD things all the time. Here is something that happened to me last night that I have NEVER encountered.
It begins like this:
Phone rings
I answer...Hello V. R. (initials of where I work. I would actually say the name), this is Haley
The man says "Is this the naughty confessions line?" (Okay, now I didn't know how to respond. So many of my patients have confessions to make i.e. I am going to hurt someone or myself etc.. and a part of me thought this might be a higher up at the office calling to see how we respond to patients.)
Me: Well if you need it to be, then sure.
Him: Well, today I have been extra naughty. (Caller sounds like he is 40-50 yrs.old)
Me: You have? Do you want to talk about it?
Him: Yeah, I think I need a spanking.
ME: Oh...
Him: Yeah, a real hard spanking.
ME: Sir,
Him: I've got a big, wooden paddle here. Wanna listen?
ME: Not really, Sir,
Him: Should I spank myself really, really, hard?
ME: Okay, I am not going to continue this conversation. I am hanging up.
Him: Is the Monica?
ME: No sir, this is not.
Him: OH S..., CLICK!
Okay, so in case you didn't figure it out, that was evidently someone calling a phone sex line. I have had people threaten to kill me and many other bad things, but none quite as funny as this one. After I hung up we laughed the rest of the night.

Summer Reading

As you may already know, I love to read a good book. I have noticed that when choosing a book to read, I tend to go for the ones with the cutest cover (weird, I know). Well, I have just finished 2 great books and I wanted to share. Jennifer Weiner wrote them and I really recommend her if you are looking for some easy summer reading. In Her Shoes and Little Earthquakes are so fun to read and the are easy to relate to. So...now I need another book to read and here is where I need help. If anyone has read any good "chick-lit" books please give me some recommendations! It has to be something I can relate to (women going through marriage, raising kids, working, etc.), murder mystery, short chapters, and just not a book that you have to concentrate too much on.

Yum, Yum, Yum

Okay girls, I've found my new favorite restaurant...The Loveless Cafe. It is on Hwy 100 near Bellevue and is famous for its biscuits. The lady making the biscuits has been featured on Martha Stewart! Anyhoo, they are delicious. They serve breakfast all day and have good country cooking for dinner. I recommend giving them a try.

enough already

I am so sick of hearing about Paris Hilton and her woes. It drives me crazy that money gets all the rich and famous out of their troubles. Well, sorry sista...you're going back to jail. I am so happy to hear that the judge is ordering her to finish the entire sentence. So what if she is on the verge of having a "mental breakdown." Enough of the excuses. Okay, now I am done venting. Have a great night!

LIFE COMES AT YOU FAST...

Yesterday, Len and I celebrated 10 years of marriage! I cannnot believe how fast it has gone. Our first 10 years of marriage were eventful and included things like: our first house, graduating college, having children, raising children, school, buying our second and third house, etc. We are anticipating a much calmer next 10 yesrs. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful spouse. I am so proud of what we have and who we are becoming. I know you are wondering what romantic things we did for our big day...sorry to disappoint, but we went to a sports banquet for one of his athletes at the Franklin Rec Center and then off to Wal-Mart to buy Mason some baseball pants. We did splurge and stop by Sonic to finish our date with a slush! Pure Romance!!!!

100 things about me!

I read someone else's blog and they challenged people to do this. It is harder than you would think. So, I am going to tell you 100 things about me and give you the same challenge...good luck!
1. I am celebrating my 10 wedding anniversary this week.
2. I have a new obsession with Toegoz sandals and would love to have a pair!
3. I am a sweet-a-holic and would have no troubles with my weight if Icould give up sweets!
4. I drive a used mini van, which makes me happy because everyone eho sees it knows that I am a mother.
5. I have another obsession...houses. I should be a realtor b/c I love moving and looking at how other people decorate their homes.
6. My favorite magazine is Real Simple.
7. I love celebrity gossip.
8. My favorite tv show is Brothers and Sisters. It always makes me cry.
9. I have a younger sister named Amy who is 4 years younger than me AND PREGNANT AGAIN!!!!
10. I went to UT Martin for my first year of college and then transferred home to finish at Columbia State so I could marry Len. Not many people know that I don't have a bachelors degree.
11. I also wish that I had gone back to school and gotten that bachelor's degree.
12. I love to travel...but haven't had that opportunity to see many places.
13. I am embarrassed to say, but I love 80's music...think Michael Jackson, Madonna, etc.
14. I only became a nurse because my dad told me to.
15. I am tired of being a nurse...I really wanted to be a flight attendant!
16. I have been pregnant 3 times...I lost my first to a miscarriage at 3 months. I still have trouble dealing with that.
17. My favorite thing to drink is fruit tea. AND I prefer Coke products over Pepsi.
18. My favorite candy is hot tamales.
19. I would like to own a set ofsatin sheets one day...don't ask why!!
20. I have 3 wedding rings. Yes, I love diamonds!!!
21. My home is usually always messy. I prefer "lived in"
22. I hated sports before I met Len...I still only like the one's that the kids play, but I pretend that I enjoy then for my hubby.
23. I am trying to learn how to play tennis..Len just bought me a cute tennis outfit, which I am sure will at least make me look like I know what I am doing.
24. I grew up in the Methodist church.
25. Len baptized me 11 years ago...I never told my parents.
26. My first car was a 93 Ford Escort GT. It was red.
27. I can drive a stick!
28. My favorite colors are pink, black, and blue.
29. I failed math in college!
30. I have only had 2 speeding tickets. One of which req. driving school.
31. I am a really good water skier. I can barefoot, trick ski, and jump.
32. The Parent Trap is my all time favorite movie.
33. `I have never smoked a cigarette in my life.
34. If I was to choose my last meal...it would be lobster..I love seafood.
36. I am very self conscious of my body. I do not have good self esteem.
37. My favorite memory of married life was when Len and I would go to BGA high school football games, then go out for a late dinner, then I would come home,take my bath, then we would lie in bed and watch the local sports show that would recap every local game. corny!
38. I take baths several times a day. No, I don't have OCD. A bath is my cure all remedy.
39. I don't like cotton underwear.
40. I love to read a good book. I recommend the Jennifer Weiner series. I usually pick a book by it's cover.
41. I have a shopping obsession with Target.
42. My other favorite store is Ann Taylor Loft.
43. I am very worried about money.
44. I had my first kiss at the age of 14 (I think).
45. I am a good listener and a loyal friend.
46. I love to go to lunch with girlfriends.
47. We owned a convertible last year. It was a Chrysler Sebring.
48. I used to pick which sports team I rooted for by who had the best colors.
49. My grocery list hasn't changed in 10 years.(picky husband)
50. I have worked as a nurse in labor and delivery, surgery, NICU, and psych.
51. Psychiatric nursing is scary, because I start to diagnose myself and friends!
52. I have always been jealous every time Len has a female assistant coach.
53. I am terrified of dying.
54. I turned 30 this year...and it was one of the best days of my life.
55. I only went to private schools when I was younger.
56. My favorite lip stick is Neutragena plum passion gloss
57. I have a secret...if my nails look good, it is because I use glue on nails!
58. I have always wanted to go to New York City.
59. I love to take pictures of my children. I think that I could be a great photographer.
60. I have trouble dealing with my anger at times, and have been known to "lose it" which makes me so sad.
61. I wish that my husband was more outgoing and would go places with me more often.
62. If I had to disappear, I could probably be found at the lake house. It is so peaceful there.
63. I hate to do dishes and laundry.
64. I love to cook, but no one in my family will eat it!
65. I had the ugliest, biggest bow on the back of my wedding dress. It was right at my butt. I loved it because no one would notice how flat my butt really is!
66. I got engaged when I was 19 years old...I sometimes think I was too young. I wouldn't change my spouse though!
67. I am really good at science and English.
68. I have suffered from depression in my life and was on antidpressants for 1 year.
69. I almost died after having Maclaine.
70. My children are the greatest joy and frustration in my life. Yet, I wouldn't change anything.
71. My dream car is a volvo.
72. My mother is my best friend, second to my husband.
73. I love to play games with groups of friends. My favorite is balderdash.
74. Len will attest, I am terrible at card games. Any thing involving numbers freaks me out.
75. I have only had dogs as pets. Cats are too sneaky.
76. My favorite boat is a Mastercraft. If my dad sells his, I want to buy it. It sounds awesome when you start it up.
77. I won many first place ribbons when I was on the swim team. Breast stroke is my best event.
78. I would love to own a Coach purse. A knock off would do just fine too!
79. I like to drive really fast.
80. I love to search for good finds at Goodwill. Len and I go there and see who can get the best stuff for 5 dollars.
81. Baskin Robbins ice cream makes any bad day instantly better.(my dad tought us this philosophy growing up)
82. Speaking of philosophy, I love Philosophy beauty products.
83. My favorite church song is "I'll Fly Away"
84. I sleep on the right side of the bed. On my stomach/side.
85. I am very thankful for SPANX products. They are like instant lipo!
86. I don't like eating breakfast.
87. I love the smell of coffee, but don't expect me to drink it.YUCK!
88. Sometimes, I think it would be a good learning experience to move out to the middle of no where and start life over.
89. My dream car right now would be a Sequoia, or a BMW.
90. I love to sew, but don't know how to make many things. Juat baby bags, purses and simple curtains.
91. My daughter and I love frozen coke icees. I drank one most every day that I was pregnant.
92. I have a bracelet that I wear most every day with the serenity prayer on it. I have to read it quite often throughout the day. My mom and my sister also wear the same bracelet daily.
93. My theme for this stage in my life is "SIMPLIFY"
94. I am a constant worrier about so many things. Tops on the list are money, my children, marriage, work.
95. I used to play the suzuki violin. I quit after my first recital where I was embarrassed because I only knew how to play row, row, row, your boat... everyone else was playing classical pieces.
96. I hope to retire by the age of 45-50. (or younger)
97. I have never had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
98. I wear a shoe size 8.5
99. I love tulips, pink tulips are my favorite flower, followed by pink anything..Never red roses. They are just too generic.
100. I am glad I am done...this is harder than it looks. But the 100th think about me is that I love to go to my childrens programs, games, etc. I am constantly amazed by them and how talented that they are. They are so precious and I love it when they make me laugh!
Who's Next???

Super Sunday

Today was such a great day! Mason has been asking to visit Winstead Hill on Columbia Ave. for some time now, so with the beautiful weather we are having we decided to check it out. It was very interesting learning about the battle of Franklin. Next, we went to the Harpeth River and played around ( I suggest going to see this area ) It is so peaceful to hear the waterfall! We have had a great day, and I just wanted to share it with you.
PS.. Maclaine has conquered riding her bike without training wheels!!

Favorite Quote

"Live in such a way that those who know you but don't know God, will come to know God because they know you".

My Dad and Me

I love this pic of Maclaine and Len. She loves it when he takes her fishing at the pond behind our house. Recently I received a phone call from Len while I was at work regarding a tangled up fishing line (Maclaine's) and a hook stuck in a finger (Len's). Yep, he yanked it really hard and it shot back into his finger...so he goes around to our neighbor's houses needing help removing the crank bait from his finger. Ouch! They were able to pry it out, but he ended up needing a tetanus shot (or as Mason called it "technical shot")! So if you are ever fishing with my family...BEWARE...we are often referred to as the "Griswald's".

Hallelujah!!!

Alot has been going on these days with the McKnatt family. I have so many things to be thankful for and I wanted to share them:
1. We have made it through our first year of elementary school with only 1 tardy (Len's fault!).
2. Soccer season is over!! Maclaine did great some weeks and the others she could have cared less!
3. Len has made the tough decision to step down as varsity head girls basketball coach. He will take over the MS boys basketball program and continue with HS baseball. I think this will be huge for us as family. We have missed having him home so much. Thanks Len!!
4. Maclaine had a great evaluation by her preschool teacher... Yes, we realize that she is bossy, but I prefer to look at it as being assertive!!
5. I have some of the best friends (you all know who you are!) I have never been so happy in life and I know that it is from the support that you all give. I feel like I can be open to you all and have gotten great advice. God has blessed me so much!
6. My title as Room Mother ends this week !! Yippee! I was suckered into that position and have never had to give so many parties in my life. School has changed alot since we were there! That is a full time job itself.

Letting go

Yesterday I took Maclaine to BGA for rising Kindergartners day. All this time, I really have not thought that sending her to school would be that bad. However, when she and the rest of her class went to take the tour, and I was left sitting in the cafeteria, I noticed that my heart had the same ache in it that it did when Mason started school. That feeling is an ache that just hurts way down deep inside. For those who have school age children you know what I'm talking about. Anyway, I cannot believe how fast they are growing up. I have listened to Kelli's CD (which Len is tired of because I ALWAYS end up crying!!) and most of the songs are centered around being a parent and letting go. Is anyone else having trouble letting go?

My Bad Habit...

So here it is...my worst habit: doing the laundry and not putting it up! Does anyone else have this problem? I do not mind to do the laundry, I do not mind folding it, BUT I cannot stand to put it up once I'm done! I am ashamed to show ya'll this, but this is what I've done all afternoon, and for some reason today I chose the dining room table to stack it on. I am embarrased that I have piled it up this far, but I guess that I hope Len will take a hint and help put it away! So, now I've let you all in on my terrible housekeeping habit...Your turn to share your worst habit!! Who's first? Haley

My Favorite 3 Spots

Okay, this took alot of thinking, but I have it figured out...
1. Tims Ford Lake. My parents have a cabin here and it has been a source of many memories. I used to go here when I was a child every weekend during the summer and now it is so fun to be able to take my children. They have become water lovers because of that. Our favorite thing is to go for boast rides and to watch them tube and ski.


2. Bozeman, MT. No pics of this, but look at Kelli's blog and the pic of the snow capped mtn. reminds me of Bozeman. Not too great a memory here (It is where my dad had his heartattack) but is was absolutely the most beautiful, serene place I have ever seen. It was where the move "A River Runs Through It" was filmed!

3. The Bahamas. Only been there once, but I would give anything to be there now with Len relaxing on the white beaches. The water there is soooo crystal clear and blue. Very relaxing!!

Spring Is Here

I am so happy that spring seems to finally be here. This has always been my favorite time of year. For me it reminds me of new beginnings. Flowers and trees come back to life and are so pretty. I also begin to feel more alive after going through dreary winter days! I enjoy flowers in my garden, and this year I think I've planted more than ever. I never know how they will turn out...one year they bloom and the next they just look like weeds. Last year, my irises did absolutely nothing and today when I walked out in our back yard I was shocked! They finally bloomed and even better...they are gorgeous!! Just thought I'd share some pics.. Have a great spring day.

Looks Can Be Deceiving...

Before I begin venting, I know that I am so blessed to have two beautiful and healthy children. I love them dearly. I took this picture this morning before church. It was a beautiful day and so far the morning was uneventful (getting everyone ready for church usually involves some tears.) The kids looked so cute and were behaving so nice. This picture shows a brother and sister who SEEM to love each other. Well, today ended up being one that I'm ready to be over. All day long it has been either one or the other (on occasion both) whining, pestering, crying,etc.. about the dumbest stuff. I can handle most things, but the whining drives me and Len crazy! So, I was wondering how my friends handle these types of behavior.

On another note, wasn't today absolutely gorgeous!! We have enjoyed having the afternoon to play outside. Haley

YUMMY...

So...we had only been home for about 15 minutes today when the kids, who had been outside playing, came busting through the house running up the stairs as fast as they could. They were frantickly (is that a word?) looking for "green money". Laine was yelling to Mason "it's okay I still hear the music". What? Then they came down and ran out the door. I had to see what was going on. For the first time in their life, they decided that the ice cream truck would no longer pass them by. They had come up with $4 and were not going to lose this opportunity. So they waited at the end of the driveway for what seemed like an eternity and went nuts when he drove by. It was so cute. They had a hard time deciding on if they should get a Dora, Spidey, or Spongebob ice cream. After all the deliberation, they ended up with a cherry popsicle! Yum, Yum.

Cheetalicious!!!!

Today was so much FUN! It was all about the girls today (sorry boy's). As you know Maclaine and Olivia are celebrating their 5th birthday on Monday. Today, for Livi's birthday we went to Libby Lu's, which is a little girls heaven on earth. Livi was so brave and now has "holes in her ears"(according to Laine). I wasn't sure if she was going to go through with it, but she managed to tough it out. I asked Laine if she wanted to get her ears pierced after watching Livi, and she said "I want holes in my ears, but I think I'll get it done in a few years"! (Good answer,Laine...daddy would have killed me!!) Livi decided they should get the "trendsetter" makeover. After it was all said and done, they looked sooo cute! Then it was off to lunch at Chili's and on to more shopping. What else can a girl want? Thanks Laura for sharing this day with us and for your friendship. P.S. Maclaine loved her Cheetah Girl look so much that she fell asleep with her hair still up!
It occurred to me earlier in the day that it was exactly 5 years ago on May 3, that Laura and I decided that it was time to lose the maternity clothes and get some new things at Target. So, with the babies (only 8 days old) we headed to Franklin for some shopping. We had a great time, but it was around 2:33 that afternoon that I had the absolute worst headache of my life. Less that 1 hour later I was being rushed to Vanderbilt by ambulance because my brain was hemorrhaging. I was told that I might not make it through. I did not know it, but Vandy's waiting room quickly filled up with our friends from Southern Hills before Len even found out that I was there.(long story...) I was so blessed by our Lord that I survived an event that I was told only 15% of people survive and less than that are okay after. 5 years later, I am healthy and feeling better than ever. How blessed am I? So, thanks to my Lord for letting me live to see this day, thanks to my family for their love, thanks to my many friends for their support. I love you all. Haley

Right Before My Eyes...

Right before my eyes, my baby is blossoming into a beautiful little girl. She turns 5 this week and I can't help but think just how fast the years are going. It is a bittersweet moment in time for her mommy. I wish I could hold that sweet baby that loved to hold her "blank" and be rocked to sleep every night, just one more time. On the other hand I am so excited as I watch her mature into the next phase of her life. She loves (and is suprisingly good) playing soccer, playing with her many friends, pestering her brother, imitating her mommy, and trying her daddy's patience. I never thought I could love someone so much. Today, she and I planted our flowers for her upcoming "garden party." She chose to have a theme of pink(her favorite color) in our garden this year. So Maclaine....here's to you HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY!!! Haley

At times like these...

My heart goes out to all those families who have been affected by the VT massacre. It is at times like these when I think about how uncertain life is. I am so guilty of taking my health, my children, hubby, friends, etc.. for granted and assuming that we will all have long happy lives. I cannot begin to imagine what it must feel like to lose a child. So, to all my family and friends...I hope that we all take a little more time each day to give that extra hug or kiss and never forget to let people know how much they mean to us.

Reasons to Smile!!

Hooray!!

Hey girls! I can't believe that I'm blogging!!HA, HA! I need help, I can't figure out how to post photos ard link to my friends, etc. I feel so stupid. Yes, you may add me to your links. HELP!! Have a great day everyone. Bye.

Wow!!

I just hosted a girls game night with all my friends from church. I learned for much tonight... first, I decided that it was time to learn to blog, second I learned what a fardingbag was!!! The last thing I realized was how blessed my family is to be in a congregation made up of such wonderful people. I am so much better of a person when I am around my church friends. They are amazing people and I love them all. I am sad because several are moving, but excited for them and their new adventures!! On another note, I am not content with my choice of career at this point in my life and am looking to make changes in order to be home with my babies and hubby more...help!! Any ideas? God has blessed me with so much more than I deserve. I love each one of you so much:) Haley