AuBlog Anyone?

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

This is the face I got when I told my husband I wanted to go to Africa for 9 days. While he so wonderfully stayed here. With our boys. And went to work.

This is what he threatened me with if he said 'yes' if anything went wrong while I was gone (all the crazy stuff happens when the significant other leaves town. always. don't tell him that until my plane has taken off, though.)

Ok, this is the face that I love and that has totally supported my trip to the Village of Hope. He is A-MAZING. This is the face that has the kind of love that lets the sole caretaker of your two little babies go to another country for almost 2 weeks and does everything he can to make it happen for you.

This is the face of the 2 year old that is going to be a quite sad when he realizes he's not actually going on the big plane too.

This is the face of the 9 month old that will never remember that his mommy wasn't at his church baby dedication because she was visiting orphans in Ghana. Maybe if he does remember he'll know his mommy hates that part, but I dedicate him every day.
....he better not walk while I'm gone either.

My husband is quite awesome, and these boys will love having so much time with him. But, he might appreciate some of you checking in on him to make sure everyone is still sane come next week.

See...they have a blast together. They'll be just fine!

For more info on my mission go to www.heartbeatforhope.com.

Church Baby Dedication Decor - Sneak Peek

2012-01-24T09:59:00.001-06:00

A much needed boost

2012-01-21T15:16:00.002-06:00

I have two kids now, yes, but THIS was still a nice feeling of knowing we're not alone in this 'motherhood' thing!

My attempt at a creative snack

2012-01-20T11:40:00.001-06:00

Banana
Apple
Pretzels
Mini chocolate chips

9 Months

2012-01-13T08:04:00.000-06:00

Simon turned 9 months on Wednesday. I say this every month, but I can't believe he is so old already! I love those teeth!

He is still super sweet, giggly, and smiley.

He could care less about his 'baby' toys, and only wants to play with Henson's stuff. So basically they both play with cars all day long. Being the second time around, though, I already know all the names of all the cool trucks, cars, and construction vehicles. Simon is so blessed.

Simon is also getting longer and leaner now that he's much more mobile. His stat %s have lessened slightly, but he's still really long. He's cruising and even trying to let go of things and take steps. I told Lucas he has to make him stop progressing while I'm in Ghana for 9 days so I don't miss it. We're awesome parents.
He loves, loves, loves water (bath time, of course), and anytime he hears water running in any area of the house he is after it as fast as possible. If he is denied, tears follow. One of the rare times that happens.

Finally, here is the 9 month comparison.

SATURDAY!

2012-01-11T22:15:00.000-06:00

If you, or anyone you know is planning a wedding, or interested in great event vendors in OKC, come out next weekend

JANUARY 14TH 11AM-3PM

to The Savvy Bridal Fair!

IT'S FREE!!

www.thesavvybridalfair.wordpress.com

Simon's First Christmas Through Pictures

2011-12-27T09:15:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas from the Rosses!

2011-12-24T09:00:00.002-06:00

8 Months and Officially Mobile

2011-12-11T16:27:00.005-06:00

Simon turned 8 months today, and it celebrates one whole week of changing Henson's life. Yes, Henson has realized that Simon can now crawl and get his cars, and intrude on his space all by himself. Simon is thrilled.

He is also pulling up.
I will admit I have had a few flub moments this past week because I have not been ready for this quite yet. I'm rallying, now, though. I'm good. I'm good.

(Oh, and see how short that outfit is on him? That is 6-12 months. See that box? Those are 12-18 month clothes. Those are now in Simon's drawer and I put all 6-12 month away because they are too small. He'll be taller than I am by the time he is three! But, then I won't have to climb on top of my cabinets to reach the good plates anymore.)

I'm not going to lie and say I wasn't a little terrified by the idea of this in the beginning.

2011-12-06T17:30:00.000-06:00

But it couldn't have gone better.

Boy cousin sleepover:

Screaming at the dinner table

CARS Movie on the pullout

Cutest cousins ever

Henson and Bode slept on a pallet TOGETHER in Henson's room. Asleep by 9:30 and I didn't hear a peep all night. I think the success is because I'm awesome, but I think they deserve soooome credit for being pretty amazing themselves, I guess.

He doesn't make everyone feel merry and bright.

2011-12-02T16:15:00.002-06:00

Take one.

Take two.

7 months

2011-11-12T10:17:00.006-06:00

Simon is 7 months as of yesterday.
No crawling yet, but he can turn in a complete circle on his tummy, get to his tummy from sitting, scoot backward, and get one knee up and under him before he falls.
He says 'mama' and 'ba' and has discovered squealing and clicking his tongue. He's getting the 'high five' down and can clap.

I am much better at documenting on the blog that his baby book. For those that have blogs, I'm thinking they should make an easy way to turn your blog into a keepsake book, or something. Much easier and more realistic that baby books and scrapbooking (which I gave up long ago). Anyway...

I'm so slow

2011-11-11T15:01:00.000-06:00

Last weekend:

OC Homecoming

Good friend, Kevin Peters' wedding
(so what if I am posting a pic of me with my friends who moved to Abilene and now live next door to each other making me totally jealous and missing them like crazy. They were at the wedding. That is the picture. There.)

Paul Simon in concert. Ii was so excited about this concert. He is one of the most original, genuine, and creative musicians out there. He has been able to top charts and please the masses as well as continually creating new music and sounds making for a very diverse collection of works while still keeping his music personality.

Now, notice the proximity of me to Paul.

NO-TICE.

This little lobby concert occured because of technical difficulties in the Civic Center auditorium. Paul wanted to apologize to the audience for the delay. Umm...apology accepted! Lucas noticed a friend standing at the ropes in front of the setup about 30 minutes before the real concert was supposed to start. He asked him what the deal was and he has the inside scoop before anyone else knew because he had been back stage. Therefore, we got these amazing spots. I could have stretched out my arm and touched him. Why didn't I do that!?! Ugh. I mean, this man is a genius! Such a bonus to just getting to see his original concert.

From our house to yours:

2011-10-31T19:58:00.000-05:00

Comparison - 6 months

2011-10-28T19:08:00.004-05:00

I hear all the time how much my boys look alike. I don't really think they do. What do you think based on them each at 6 months?

I will very likely be doing these often since all their stages/months are the same. And I expect you opinion every time. You've been warned.

I needed this today.

2011-10-27T14:20:00.001-05:00

Visit to Great Grandma Lashley's

2011-10-23T14:02:00.001-05:00

Henson & Grandma Lashley - 2010Henson & Grandma - 2011

4 Generations

Grandma making Simon laugh:

Forget the sunny, magical Orlando. We've got the windy, redneck Frontier.

2011-10-20T17:07:00.002-05:00

It's been a month. I guess I have to accept it.

2011-10-17T16:08:00.000-05:00

I turned 30. One month ago. There have already been several times I have claimed to still be 29. Not necessarily on purpose...maybe a little, but mostly just can't believe it. I had a sinus infection on my actual birthday, and the kids both got sick with that nasty, nasty stomach bug for about 5 days following. Good entry into this next decade. I think that is really why I haven't noticed the change in age. My life is still pretty much the same. Wonderful, but just life, ya know?

Anyway, it's not so bad. I'm ready for the thirties. Bring it.

I did get to celebrate though:

My hubs got asked to MC the national Sonic Corp. conference in Vegas a week before my birthday, so we made a 30th B-day trip out of it too.

I touched a sting ray at the Mandalay Bay Aquarium.

We ate good food and went to see Ka, an awesome Cirque show.

The week after my b-day, Lucas and my friends surprised me with a great dinner downtown. Great times.

Thank you to this guy for everything. Glad to be spending my birthdays with you.

Birthday Baker

2011-10-15T14:14:00.001-05:00

I have tried before to let Henson make cookies with me, but he was terrified of the Kitchenaid. (how dare he!)
It had been awhile since I tried, so today being Grammie's birthday, I thought we would try again. He was very excited and a great helper. Especially when the dough was finished...

Always the best part of making cookies.

Making sure the finished cookies were up to par for Grammie.

Birthday cookies delivery...and eating Grammie's birthday cookies...

Happy birthday to a wonderful Grammie! We love you!

~Henson & Simon

A milestone Saturday

2011-10-10T11:06:00.003-05:00

Simon had quite a Saturday.

1st time in the highchair & first time eating baby food
(The actual eating of the food was on video. Green beans were a hit.)

This is his "I'm humoring you, but you all are crazy" face.

And, the milestone you dream about from the day you find out you are pregnant with that precious little person:

1st time riding a tortoise.

Next thing you know he will be hunting his first crocodile.
*sigh*
They just grow up so fast.

Brothers

2011-10-05T21:41:00.001-05:00

Morgandi, I discovered my kids' "dork face"!

Henson @ 29 months
Simon @ 5 1/2 months

(P.S. Thank you to their adopted YaYa for these adorable matching shirts.)

TODAY!

2011-10-02T10:57:00.002-05:00

Eat at any OKC metro Johnnie's Charcoal Broiler TODAY, Sunday, October 2nd, and a % of sales will be donated to Heartbeat For Hope!

How our shag rug was made

2011-10-01T10:20:00.001-05:00

Voila!

If you would like to order one of our custom shag rugs order now. Available every 2 months. Colors dyed to your specifications.

Ok, now everyone just act natural.

2011-09-27T15:10:00.003-05:00

Perfect.

The polite way to eat an oreo

2011-09-23T14:44:00.003-05:00

*Bite*
HENSON: (pinching the cookie between his pointer finger and thumb) "Oh, thank you, Oreo."

OREO: (in a high-pitch voice sounding a lot like Henson) "You're welcome."

*Bite*
HENSON: "Oh, thank you, Oreo."

OREO: "You're welcome."

And repeat until the cookie is delicately devoured.

Even superheros need their 'Auggie' and sippy cup

2011-09-20T16:14:00.002-05:00

just have to figure out how....

....ahhhh...there we go.

So it begins

2011-09-18T20:39:00.007-05:00

This photo tells me two things:

1. Henson had his first day of Sonshine School on Thursday.

2. Henson needs a haircut. Badly.

The shirt/backpack matching was unintentional, but looked great for the photo. Though, green has always been his signature color.

Neither of us had any tears at drop off (yay us!), though I was the real threat there. I think he and I were both very ready for him to start going to school. I think he is getting so bored with me at home.

We are both going to love this!

5 months

2011-09-15T10:48:00.001-05:00

Sunday marked month 5 for this not-so-little guy. I just cannot get enough of him! Simon is the sweetest, calmest baby.

He loves to be held, but sleeps great on his own (can't live without that!).
He is pretty low key, but likes to observe the action.
He FINALLY started rolling over during "wake-times" last week. He seems pleased with himself for waiting until HE was ready.
He started cereal, but so far is unimpressed. He definitely prefers his bottle (as if you can't tell by the pic).
His first real "trick" is giving kisses, which mostly happen just before you lay him down at night. Love it!

He does like his brother, but I honestly think his brother likes him more. He is SO ready for a playmate, and sometimes Simon ends up in tears because Henson is so 'in-your-face' excited.

I just can't get enough of little man!

Sweet Simon kisses

2011-09-04T18:52:00.002-05:00

Pain brings progress. But progress can also bring a big mess that ends in you throwing away your shower curtain and some Lightening McQueen underwear.

2011-09-03T14:48:00.001-05:00

Well, we're three weeks in to this whole potty trained thing, and this guy is doing fantastic. No accidents since week 1 and our only issue is that for some reason he has to try to go potty A LOT right before he is supposed to get in bed...hmmm...amazing how bed triggers the bladder.

This is how I found him today after he told me he had to go. Whatever helps you get the job done.

Welp....Thursday, about an hour after his dad leaves town for 5 days, THE accident happened. Yes 'THE' accident. I hear Henson get out of bed during his nap, which never happens. I go to the door and he has locked himself in, but I can smell something horrific through the door. I had to pick the lock and I will spare you the details of the source of the smell, but we went straight to the bathroom to clean him up.

After a huge stack of wipes....and a pair of underwear in the trash later...I got him back to bed.

When I went back in to the bathroom to make sure I didn't miss anything I noticed the shower curtain. Dun, dun, DUN!

Yeah, somehow he backed up against it without me noticing. Nice.

That is now in the garbage bin, and give me a chance to update my bathroom. Always a silver lining.

So I decided to go with something that would stand out. If this doesn't scream comfortable, spa-like bathroom I don't know what does:

Well, I actually decided that was a little too daring for me. So I went with this fabulous gem:

This is my warning

2011-09-02T21:18:00.002-05:00

You know how you will somtimes watch a movie just based on the title, not knowing anything else about it?

And you know how sometimes you watch movies that make you cry, and you're not really sure why you do that to yourself but you can't stop watching?

This is my plea to you, especially if you are a parent:

DO NOT WATCH "RABBIT HOLE".

And, ESPECIALLY don't watch it alone when your two little boys are sweetly asleep in their beds.

Don't even ask my why I continued to watch it in a curled up ball of a weeping mess. I can't answer that question. But, now you have my warning.

He, like, totally digs her

2011-09-01T08:02:00.001-05:00

Henson looooooves Ava. He talks about her all the time and lights up and gets so excited every time he sees her.
But, I mean, wouldn't you? Look at that face! Plus she is just the sweetest, yet spunky, little thing.

I am liking the looks of this future...

2011-08-24T09:08:00.001-05:00

He's Got Potty Power

2011-08-18T09:52:00.001-05:00

As of Monday morning this boy is diaper free.

By lunch he had it.
Day 1 sticker chart.

By Day 2 the excitement and newness of this supposed "big boy" activity had worn off but he never turned back. He would bust out in songs from this lovely little number, which we watched several times on Monday. Whatever gets the job done.

I'm all about the "cold turkey", "rip the band aid", "short term pain for long term gain" approach, so first thing in the morning he threw away his own diapers and we're not looking back. Not even at night time. Our laundry bill will prove that next month, I'm sure. But today he woke up dry, and I am rewarding myself with a shower.

It's a comparison. Sue me.

2011-08-12T20:47:00.001-05:00

Yes, I realize every child is different. Yes, I realize it is good to be an individual. Yes, I love both my children for their differences.

But...I'm going to compare them anyway.

This is what Henson was doing two years ago today.

His brother, however... refuses to roll over during playtime. Instead he chooses to do it in his bed ONLY. And when he is asleep. Then it wakes him up. At 5:30am. Then I go in and turn him over. Then he turns back over. Then I turn him back over. Then he retaliates again. You get it.

I put him on the floor every time he is awake and nada. He is a week younger than Henson was this day two years ago. I'll give him a week before I take sides.

My "Not So Little" Baby

2011-08-11T16:57:00.013-05:00

"97% in height, 90% in weight...I'm big. What. It happened, okay?"

The hair is also 4 months.

**I would also like to add, that you hit 4 months and decided that was the first day that you would wake up talking, instead of crying. So, I cried instead.

You also think it's super neat to roll over, but only in your bed during sleep times. I sneak in and roll you back over. We repeat this about 5 times until you finally give up.
Rolling over is super neat, but doing it during play time is even neater.

Last night happenings

2011-07-22T08:25:00.001-05:00

Under the table art
Superheros are hard to catch clearly on camera

Dinner and a movie

Naked outdoor play time (it's the only way these days)

Clean up

Video games and comic books

He has given his blessing

2011-07-19T20:54:00.004-05:00

Well, we have made the transition to "big boy bed" as of Saturday night. Henson spent the day with my parents so we could take down the crib, put it back together to go in Simon's room, take down the crib Simon was in that we borrowed, move in the big bed, and return the borrowed crib.
Yes, we could have put him in a big bed BEFORE our second child arrived to save some of that effort (Lucas' effort), but I needed to know Henson was contained until my sanity was contained.

Anyway...he has done great. *

A couple of days before the big move he gave his consent to little bro to carry on with the crib. He made him promise to kick the rails, sleep in it short-ways, and learn to love a blanket ("Auggie") so much that you would die without it - and sure couldn't sleep without.

Next up: POTTY TRAINING BOOT CAMP **

*Not pictured: me bawling in the bathroom over a moved crib.

**I'm sure I'll be crying over this one but for an entirely different reason.

We're startin' a folk band

2011-07-10T13:01:00.001-05:00

Inside/Outside

2011-07-08T12:43:00.001-05:00

Beth and I have been good friends since Freshman year of college. We were in Theta together, went to Vienna together, worked together for two years after college, and here and there after that. She is wonderful!

Simon and I got to meet her sweet girl, Gemma, today. She and Simon are just 2 1/2 months apart, though it looks like more (Simon the chunk). He weighed 2 pounds more at birth than Gemma does at 3 weeks. She is so precious!

12 weeks

2011-07-06T15:51:00.001-05:00

To the dads:

2011-06-27T09:52:00.001-05:00

Happy *late* Father's Day to my dad:

And to my kids' dad:

I imagine this conversation to go something like this...

2011-06-16T09:08:00.006-05:00

SIMON: "Pssst....Henson. You see that person flashing that light in our
faces over and over again? I really think she is a little ca-razy, if you get what I'm talkin' bout. She blames it on lack of sleep pretty much all the time, but I'm beginning to wonder how long that excuse can keep up since I've been sleeping through the night for almost two weeks now."

HENSON'S thought bubble: "Man, she's been using that one since I came
around. I'm just glad to finally have someone to gang up on her with.

Comparison

2011-06-13T12:36:00.003-05:00

Me - 2 months............... Simon - 2 months

Henson - 2 months........... Simon - 2 months

8 weeks

2011-06-06T16:00:00.005-05:00

I can't believe we have already had this little man 8 weeks! He is really starting to make sounds and he smiles a lot. He is really easy going and loves his big brother.
And, he is SO cute!

Blue Bubbles, Baths, and Brain Freeze

2011-06-02T20:45:00.013-05:00

So ready for this time of year.

I love summertime!

Simon's Baby Pictures

2011-05-23T08:46:00.001-05:00

At 2 1/2 weeks

Photos by Mandy Stansberry Photography

Smiles this great can only be because of one thing

2011-05-21T21:32:00.001-05:00

Fake kicking your uncle/dad in the face while being pushed "really high" by your Boppy.

Henson feeling dad's pain

So great.

Rockin' the 5th Week

2011-05-17T20:47:00.003-05:00

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-10T12:30:00.008-05:00

It was so surreal to celebrate Mother's Day with my children. Not just one, but two kids.

I love that my mom and grandma live so close that we get to celebrate with them. These are two amazing women. I hope that I can live up to their example as mothers and Godly women.

4 generations

My awesome presents:

from the hubs

from the 2 year old

from the infant
(I new he was special, but this is one talented 1 month old)

(the inspiration for Simon's art piece)

I have heard people say life gets better with age. I now know why people say that. Each stage of life is better than the last, and this is definitely the best so far.

Happy Cinco de Mayo! With Love, A Future Hearththrob

2011-05-05T12:43:00.003-05:00

Belated Shout Out

2011-05-03T15:03:00.005-05:00

I wanted to give credit to my amazing cake baker, Katie.

(yes, I am claiming her as "mine" that I share graciously with others).

I have her on permanent retainer for the boys' birthday party.

She is so talented, and so sweet!
Henson's 1st birthday cake:

Once again, she created a masterpiece for Henson's 2nd birthday:

Fabulous. I want to throw parties just to have an excuse to get a cake!

It's Love

2011-05-01T21:22:00.002-05:00

Any way you look at it.

1 Week

2011-04-18T22:56:00.005-05:00

My Simon is 1 week old today. Cutie tootie.

He has already grown 1/2 an inch since his birth day (90-97% in height; where do I get these long babies??), and is almost back up to his birth weight (he lost almost 10% in the hospital due to a "tied tongue" - got that remedied a day later and he has eaten great ever since).

Home

2011-04-15T09:53:00.001-05:00

Simon Charles Ross

2011-04-13T09:32:00.001-05:00

Born 4-11-11

7:52 AM

8lbs 9oz, 21 in.

2011-04-08T08:12:00.001-05:00

Five years already??

Happy anniversary to the man I can't imagine sharing my years without.

Race Car Party

2011-04-07T07:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday, Little Man!

2011-04-06T08:35:00.000-05:00

"Hey! I'm two!"

Happy birthday to my sweet, funny, onery, talkative, active, two year old boy! I love you!

Last Girls' Night

2011-04-05T10:51:00.003-05:00

Last night was my last girls' night before Simon arrives. We went to Flat Tire for some fried pickles, awesome burgers, and smores. Yum!

The countdown: 6 days

Simon's Shower

2011-03-29T16:12:00.001-05:00

36 weeks

PW's AMAZING cinnamon rolls

Made by the FABULOUS Mandy Stansberry

BF, Anna was able to come up from Texas.

Love this pic and the girls in it.

My friends had this quilt made for Simon

The best niece in the world made this picture for Simon (I will show it's place of honor in his room soon).
It reads "Simon... I LOVE YOU BABY."
Melt my heart!

My family

Beth & I's preggo shot - she's due in June

And...my wonderful friends and hostesses!

Thank you to everyone who made Simon's shower special.
(and to Mandy for taking pics!)
I can't wait for him to get here!

37 Weeks

2011-03-27T21:06:00.001-05:00

Nooooooow I'm Ready

2011-03-24T20:57:00.004-05:00

Having another kid is a great excuse to buy

this bag.

I wanted something non-diaperbag-y and this was it. In emerald green.

Fabulous.

It has three seperate zipper compartments - me, Henson, Simon (if you didn't make that connection)- and all the other stuff you can read about it (check out the additional views).

Fabulous.

Cousins

2011-03-16T09:04:00.000-05:00

I'm a little disappointed.

2011-03-14T07:12:00.000-05:00

I had a wedding this past weekend - the last before Simon arrives one month from tomorrow - and I don't have any sausage ankles to prove it like I did last time .

So, no pictures of my un-pedicured feet. Don't be too sad.

Now, I can just sit back and wait for little man #2 to arrive, enjoy my month off before wedding season hits, and pray for an easy baby, easy big brother transition, and everything being easy from now through the next 18+ years. Sounds good.

Simon - 33 weeks

2011-03-03T21:32:00.005-06:00

The cord is kind of blocking him here, but you can still tell what he looks like! I can't wait!

Don't judge me quite yet. I hope I'm on to something.

2011-02-26T16:46:00.002-06:00

So, apparantly 22 months is some kind of super boost month for every kind of child development. Trying every single word possible, thinking you are too big for the high chair, learning some of those important educational things at double the speed, among other things. Those "other" things being testing the limits of ev-er-y-thing. Primarily the limits of my patience.

Thursday my cute little son presented me with the parenting challenge of how to handle a "flop on the ground, screaming tantrum because they don't want to leave or do what you ask" fit in the middle of the mall, followed up by a nice, hard slap across my face. And, as you can imagine, the hotness that overcame my face was not because of the sting of the slap.

And though I don't regret at all how I handled that situation, I can tell you that I was elated when an angel in uniform rang my doorbell a couple of hours later. That angel delivered this directly to my door.

It was a sign. Maybe a sign that I ordered this book a few days before and the FedEx guy was on time, but a sign that I took as a good one anyway.

Now, I was partially hesitant to tell you the book because that means the product should show up in my child. That's the idea, anyway, right? Well, just don'e judge me quite too soon...

I'm off to go give my child some choices and be empathetic to those wrong ones.

Sadly, it needed to happen.

2011-02-18T21:02:00.002-06:00

My child's hair was looking more like an adult wig than a 22 month old's hair.

I really loved it, actually. But when he is having trouble blinking because his hair is getting caught in this eyelashes, it's time for a haircut.

Fresh home from the salon - almost naked, sportin' the converse, a hair-covered sucker, a nice gut, and a new 'do'.

I love today!

2011-02-14T18:05:00.002-06:00

Lucas and I spent the weekend in Dallas where I spent the majority of the time doing nothing but laying in a hotel room watching movies and pigging out. It was fabulous. We also had to visit IKEA, of course. This was to be our Valentine's, which is just how I wanted it.

But, since Lucas had a show tonight he came home early from work to see us and also brought me a fun necklace and this letter:

I love him!

And I love today! For Valentine's dinner my other main man and I went through the McD's drive thru and had a picnic while watching Cars. Perfect.

Grateful

2011-02-11T14:10:00.002-06:00

I wish that it didn't take struggles or hard times to remind me of all the things I am grateful for. But it usually is the times when life slaps you across the face to wake you up to reality.

I had a little scare on Tuesday and ended up in the hospital with contractions 2-3 minutes apart. After almost 7 hours later I went home with good test results and a list of regulations for me from here on out.

Baby Simon is just fine, and I'm perfectly fine now - just needed some rest and de-stress time. I realize now that I actually am almost 31 weeks pregnant and I can't go full force at 90 miles an hour right now. Not that I would have ever chosen to have to be reminded in that way.

I am grateful for my health, my husband, my 22 month old precious boy that is already here, and the little brother on the way. I am grateful for family who is always there to help, and good friends who are willing to drop everything to be there. I am grateful for the house we live in, the safety in knowing we are taken care of in everything by HIM.

2011-02-04T11:11:00.003-06:00

Last night I gave Henson a "big boy" pillow to put in his bed with his new "big boy" pillowcase - cars, trucks, motorcycles = giddy.

I wasn't sure if it would stay in his bed or not, but when I went in to check on him he was sleeping on top of it.

This morning I went in to get him up after already hearing him talk for awhile. He immediately began talking to me about his pillow, but then I was kicked out of the room! He frantically started jabbering and pointing out the door saying "there, mama! bye, bye, mama!" until I left him alone in his bed with his beloved pillow.

He stayed in his bed, with the lights on, by himself, no other toys, just his blanket and pillow, for another 15 minutes. I got to make my coffee and check my email. It was great!

This afternoon he saw the pillow in his crib and was crying to go "night,night" an hour before nap time.

I was actually really surprised at this strong reaction TO A PIL-LOW. But I'll take it!

This is the pic I tried to sneak back this morning to get and was promptly lectured again to leave him alone.

(Notice the finger pointing me out the door.)

Desperate times...

2011-02-03T09:02:00.004-06:00

...call for whatever it takes when your Weatherbug reads 0 degrees outside. Even if it is "Buzz" when it isn't even 9am yet...for the 4th time in 3 days - per Henson's request.

I don't handle being secluded inside, involuntarily for more than a day, very well. Although, this morning I had very good intentions of being an engaging, creative mom. I got up before Henson woke up and took a shower for the 1st time in...well, let's just say what was the point the past couple days, and changed the sheets on my bed. Got H up, made breakfast, played some games...and then you already read where we are in our day right now.

Oh well, I'll have some decaf coffee and be ready for a more productive round two after Buzz and Woody make up and return to Andy. Have another great snow day!

Have you ever had one of those days?

2011-01-26T13:29:00.002-06:00

Where you just feel like pondering the meaning of life?

Rumor has it..

2011-01-24T13:48:00.002-06:00

...there is FREE breakfast at Chick-fil-a TOMORROW at both Edmond locations. It lasts until 10:30 and there is no coupon or purchase necessary.

Just passing it along. I'm all about free.

Continued...

2011-01-20T18:16:00.001-06:00

Now, as a somewhat of a follow-up to the previous post...

I have to first say that of course we are not forgetting about little Simon. We are so excited to meet him!

Second, I have to say how wonderful my husband is. If the previous post isn't proof enough, he is already a fabulous father. Henson adores him, and for good reason.

He also puts up with me. So that gives him an automatic pass into Heaven.

But, for just that bonus that puts him over the top amazing...he surprises me for Christmas with sweet, creative, and loving things like this:

SIMON'S SONG

I Remembered!

2011-01-18T22:27:00.002-06:00

A mere 12 weeks later...I remembered to take another preggo picture.

Sorry, Simon. I promise I don't forget about you. How could I with you constantly kicking me in the bladder.

I had a little mini breakdown the other day in front of Lucas. It went something like this:

Lucas: "Did I do something wrong?"

Me: "NO! GOOD GRIEF! I'M PREGNANT AND HAVE A COLD!"

L: "Ooook...I know. You just seem like your upset with me about something."

A: "I AM FREAKING OUT! THAT'S WHAT! DO YOU REALIZE THIS BABY WILL BE HERE IN LESS THAN THREE MONTHS AND WE HAVEN'T DONE A SINGLE THING TO PREPARE!?! IT'S LIKE WE DON'T EVEN CARE ABOUT HIM! WHERE IS HE GOING TO SLEEP??? HOW CAN I KEEP HENSON 100% SILENT WHEN THE BABY TRIES TO SLEEP??? HOW WILL I EVER SLEEP WITH 2 KIDS???? WHERE ARE WE GOING TO PUT ALL THE STUFF??? PLUS, I HAVE EVENTS COMING UP! PLUS, I'M SICK RIGHT NOW! PLUS, HENSON WON'T QUIT THROWING THINGS! That's what I'm upset about."

L: ................"Ok."

I feel much better now that got all of that out of my system. At least this week. Poor Lucas.

Looking for a piano?

2011-01-15T13:29:00.004-06:00

We are selling ours for a great deal!

Click here for info.

21 months

2011-01-06T10:17:00.002-06:00

"Aw, mom! Please tell me you're not going to post me on your blog in just my undies and awesome Spiderman house shoes! Can't be naked in peace anymore."

DISCLAIMER: This next section is primarily for my "baby book" purposes.

At 21 months Henson has decided a highchair is so uncool. I still try to get away with it most of the time, but a kid table is in his very near future.

He is also getting better at his sentences: "That's a ____." There is a _________". "Where did it go?", "Ummmm, let's see.", etc. "What's that?" is definitely the favorite, going on about three months now. A foreshadowing of the "Why?" phase. Can't wait.

As much as I try to get him to color, he would still much rather just organize the crayons, or bit off the tips. Lucas might continue to be the only artist in this house.

Pizza is by far the favorite meal. He usually talks about it when he wakes up until bedtime when it is inevitably mentioned in his prayers before bed.
He is also getting much better at using his utensils, and insists on eating everything in a bowl.

He is still obsessed with cars, trains, trucks, planes...anything that includes transport, really. I never thought I would know the names of so many different kinds of trucks, cars, and parts to all of the above mentioned vehicles.

Alright, that should do enough for my memory, I hope. Love you, little man!

You Know You Want SONIC For Dinner

2011-01-05T14:02:00.006-06:00

From 5-9PM today, Jan. 5th,

SONIC DRIVE-IN

on Memorial Road & Bryant

will be donating a % of EVERY ORDER to Heartbeat For Hope which will go directly to help support the precious children of the Village of Hope in Ghana, Africa.

Cheddar Bites - yes, please

Vanilla DP, easy ice - yes, again

Grilled chicken wrap - I'm getting verrrrrry hungry (but what's new right now.)

2011-01-04T11:14:00.003-06:00

Eat at HIDEAWAY PIZZA in Edmond today!

Mention HEARTBEAT FOR HOPE when you order!

More info HERE!

Eat Out NEXT WEEK For A Good Cause

2010-12-31T08:07:00.000-06:00

My how Christmas has changed

2010-12-25T22:34:00.002-06:00

I assume like most people, when I was as kid I counted the days until Christmas with much anticipation of all the awesome presents. Now, that I am kind of an adult with my own kid who can actively participate in opening presents with great exclamation, too, my perspective on Christmas excitement is different, but even better. I barely even know what I got for my own presents because Henson was having so much fun opening his. (I do love the presents I got - thank you family! I promptly dug back through all of mine once I got home just LIKE a kid.)

Ross Family Christmas first half of the day...

Lightning McQueen house slippers

Uncle Marcus scored getting Henson a Power Wheels Lightning McQueen car. H loved it so much he hugged it before it was even out of the box.

Lucas's grandma supporting the 2 Movie Guys

Lashley Family Christmas second half of the day...

Grammie & Boppy scored getting Henson a train set. He insisted on opening it immediately, of course.

Ended the day watching the 2Movie Guys Christmas Special:

Papaw and Henson taking in all the hilarity.

We had a great holiday! My favorite gift was from my wonderful, and sneaky, husband who wrote and recorded a song for new baby, Simon. Love it so, so much.

This just makes me giggle

2010-12-16T20:19:00.000-06:00

I still love you, Bryan!

2010-12-10T13:52:00.000-06:00

Hours watching CMT waiting for his videos, and hours & hours of belting out his songs my room, shower, car, anywhere, my dream came true for the first time in 1996 when I got to see Bryan White in concert AND meet him. I seriously almost died.

Meeting Bryan White in 1996.

Then, last night, my I got to die all over again when I met him again with my cousin, Sarah. I felt 15 all over again (and we maaaay have been acting a little like 15 year olds too...).

Now, Angel was supposed to come with us, but had a sick kid at the last minute, so we decided we had to take her anyway.

She also got to meet Bryan!

Angel couldn't contain herself and rushed the stage.

We had a blast swooning over Bryan! As we left we MAY have passed him on the sidewalk. And I MAY have said "well done" to a grammy award-winning artist. And then I MAY have had a beet red face and uncontrollable laughter afterwards.

We love you, Bryan!

The 20's

2010-12-06T13:07:00.006-06:00

I am now 20 weeks and Henson is 20 months today. This means only 4 MORE MONTHS until he is 2 and my child count becomes 2. I'm not going to think about either right now. Procrastination is key.

Happy 20 months to my car organizing little toot.

Every kid has to go through this, right?

2010-12-02T08:11:00.000-06:00

Last year he wasn't aware enough to be terrified. But this year....he made a mental check on his new, but will ever be expanding, "things my parents forced me to do just to log on a computer somewhere, and have no seeming concern for my feelings and I will make it come back to haunt them later" list.

Buying SCENTSY helps Heartbeat

2010-12-01T14:07:00.002-06:00

Beginning TODAY you can purchase any SCENTSY product from HERE and 20% of the sale will be donated to Heartbeat For Hope!
These aromaful wickless candles make great gifts: Christmas, birthday, hostess, etc.
So buy up from December 1st - December 31st!
Thank you to Scentsy independent consultant Lacey Harkins for her generosity in donating a portion of her sales!

(Orders needing to arrive by Christmas must be ordered by December 18th)

Looking a lot like Henson...

2010-11-29T08:46:00.001-06:00

...has been here. This is how he decorates for Christmas. I love what he's done.

Very festive.

It Happened

2010-11-28T20:59:00.001-06:00

To the shock of Lucas, he actually DID turn 30. On Thanksgiving Day, actually.

And if you remember THIS, we celebrated pretty well already. But, we did have a party with each side of the family, and then a surprise dinner at Sumo last night.

They're going to be best friends, right??

2010-11-24T22:25:00.003-06:00

Baby boy #2 is on his way.

I also have to throw out there that I have been calling this baby "he" since the day I found out I was pregnant. Just sayin'.

Does this not eerily look like an adult leg? And look at those toes! Good grief!

And this kid has nooooooo clue what he has coming for his second birthday this year. I can say with 100% certainty he doesn't think it's going to be a teeny, tiny person that never leaves... These boys are going to be so much fun. I can't wait!

When the kid is away...

2010-11-18T22:33:00.002-06:00

...the banjo will be played.

My child left tonight for the land of milk and honey - Minco, OK - for two whole days. I have the best in-laws.

My husband leaves tomorrow for two whole days.

What will I be doing for two whole days?

Sorry, I had a "run around the room, squeal at the top of my lungs" moment to recover from real quick.

I might take a few minutes out of my bed, crawl away from my oreos and chips, pause my movie marathon to blog about it. But probably not.

Seeeeeee ya!

For Sale

2010-11-16T09:09:00.000-06:00

Welp, our house is for sale. Sign in the yard and everything.

We have loved this house! We just need to find something that will better accommodate our growing family.

For specs and more pics go HERE and enter #442498.

Eat at Johnnie's TODAY!

2010-11-07T08:05:00.000-06:00

Eat at any OKC metro area Johnnie's location TODAY and mention Heartbeat For Hope when ordering. A percent of sales will be donated to H4H!

Seize the Deal

2010-11-02T07:54:00.000-05:00

You might already have Groupon, but here is another savings site for metro area deals. Copy and paste this link.

http://www.seizethedeal.com/users/new/t5PaZ51Y6

Inaugural Trick-or-Treating Verdict

2010-10-31T22:58:00.013-05:00

Good.

First hit

waiting...

shrieking with excitement
(mostly because he saw Boppy, but still)

The costume
(Steve Martin - 1978)

Next stop - Kevin Ogle's house, of course
(also, a Steve Martin fan)

Busting open some chocolate on the way to the next party.

Our adult theme for the annual Stansberry Halloween Party was 'Something You are Scared Of: Nothing Stupid or Cliche'
(I may have added the tag)

Lucas went as a one-day expired product, and I went as someone having multiples. (No offense to anyone, but that terrifies me.)

Happy Halloween!

She Saved Me the Trouble

2010-10-29T09:12:00.002-05:00

Kate said everything I wanted to.

Poor Thing

2010-10-28T08:23:00.003-05:00

The first (and possibly last if I don't remember to do this again) preggo picture with baby #2.

15 weeks

Advice Needed

2010-10-18T08:37:00.000-05:00

So, I am trying to decide if I should try to move Henson to a big bed before baby #2 arrives in April.

I was thinking that if I DID do this I would try around February to give him a couple months to get used to it.

BUT, I don't want to push it too soon. I know it takes certain cognitive development for this transition, but I think by then he could be ready.

Thoughts from people with experience would be appreciated.

Just what I was looking for to go bankrupt for beauty.

2010-10-16T08:20:00.000-05:00

Walmart sells this TOWEL HOLDER for a mere $1680. Not $16.80, but $1,680.

This thing better wash, dry, and style my hair everyday, clean the bathroom everyday, and get out of the bathroom to cook me dinner every night.