Life in the Baby Lane

summer fun

2009-08-04T07:33:00.001-07:00

Bachelorette #...oh, who's counting any more

2009-07-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

Whoa, it is late and there are lots of ladies here!

This one will be a bit different. I am not going to post a summary but an opinion only blog. Hope you still enjoy.

Jillian's squeal counter: #1: running to Kiptyn, #2: running to see Kiptyn the night of their date, #3: When she was about to take a bit of escargot, #4: Running to see Reid, #5: When she saw Reid on the night of their date, #6: Hugging Ed (I thought she was going to reunite with Ed with a squeal, but nope, she waited for the hug, a sign? We will see...) #7: On the bike with Douche Bag (Wes will no longer be referred to as Wes, but Douche Bag, or DB)

7 Total Squeals

Kitpyn's Date:

Their date bored me. Kiptyn is just missing something. And, what in the world, I must be nieve, but can't you have an overnight date without having sex. Overnight dates are their only time without the cameras. Why can't you just talk and hang out? No sex required, right ABC?

I don't think Kitypn is as into her as she is into him.

Reid's Date:

"Soy Grande"...Reid's spanish. He must think very "big" of himself...

"Look at where her hand is??? She's trying to find his snake"...Thanks for that observation Mrs. S!

They are so cute. I loved his eye contact and they are just cute together. It was awkward when Reid was talking about why he thinks they work. He seemed to be rambling and reaching for things to make her happy with his answer. When the overnight card comes, he leaves the answer to her. She, again, turns him down. It feels like she said the same thing to Reid that she did to Kitpyn. Poor Reid, he was gentlemanly with the situation, but you could tell he wanted to take the overnight together.

I like Reid and I like Reid for her.

Ed's Date:

His date contained the least about of squeals. Is this a good/bad sign, I don't know. I thought their date started off on the boring side, but I liked seeing Ed's fun side. He didn't have good eye contact, well, actually, neither of them had good eye contact with each other. She gave him the same speech regarding the overnight date. I love his response to her overnight date shutdown. He said he just wanted more time with her...sweet! Her response...She is going to use it to get to know him more. What in the world? Double standard? Why couldn't she "Get to know" the other guys too?

They seemed to have some sweet moments during their overnight time. Sweet times...

"You are my favorite part of Spain"...Ed...ahhhhhh

DB's Date: (DOUCHE BAG ALERT! WHY IS HE STILL HERE????? Grrrr...)

I would love to type out his whole little speech about Spain and his music and his Spanish followers...BARF!!!!

"Tell me how sexy I look Baby, feed my ego"...DB

"Relationships are all about bendin, and nothin can break if it can bend"...DB

"Let's just say, hypothetically, you were to move to Canada, what would you say?...Jillian; response..."That would be crazy"...DB

Their date caused many involuntary mouth vomits. He is so gross. I am glad that Jillian is seeing the awkwardness and I am glad that DB is acting so awkward. I was so glad to hear Jillian call him out on how the show will benefit his music career. She also called him out on his lack of affection. I'm proud of Jillian during this date. It is about dang time for her to get some cajones and stand up for herself.

Oh, he just said, "I mean, ah, ah, ah, I'm not here to hurt you, but I'm going to be true to myself, and Numero Uno is most important here."

"Um, I think we should"...his response to the fantasy suite...DB!!!!!!!

Yay! Jillian finally stood up for herself and opened her eyes regarding his crap.

I was disappointed with ABC's teaser drama. There is enough drama in this season without them editing the crap out of the show and make us, the loyal viewers, think there is MORE drama than there already is. ABC, give us moms' a break.

I dropped my jaw at the Rose ceremony when DB said, "If it's me, you boys know I'll be back home having lots of sex."...DB

WARNING...LADIES IN AUSTIN, KEEP YOUR LEGS TIGHTLY CLOSED IF YOU SEE WES OR ANYONE THAT LOOKS LIKE WES. WE DO NOT, I REPEAT, WE DO NOT WANT HIM REPRODUCING.

Roses:

Ed, so sweet, think he will be in the final 2

Reid, think he will also be in the final 2

Kiptyn

Yay! Yay! Wes is gone, the wicked Wes is gone! (sing with the wizard of oz, the witch is dead...)

His stupid interview in the limo. His girlfriend should be ashamed of herself for being with a guy like that. I am scared for girls that there are guys like that out there. Single girls beware. Yikes.

Jillian, we are proud of you.

The Bachelorette #8...Lots of girls here for this one!

2009-06-29T19:18:00.001-07:00

My couch is full, as well as my tummy, and we are ready for the show!

Philadelphia, PA: Reid

Their date went so sweetly. Reid seems so into her and his family seemed to approve of her. Did it frighten you that the brothers said they think he is still single because of commitment issues?

Valencia, CA: Michael

Quick impressions: His mom is too sweet. Love the twin switch...didn't work!!! Loved Jillian picked that out right away. Sweet!!! His dad seems like a really awesome, down to earth, realistic guy. Loved how the brother said they want to be young husbands to have time with their wives and be young fathers.

His dad asked her to tell 3 things about yourself that you are most proud of: Jillian said, "Laugh at pretty much everything. I Love to see good in everybody. My energy or work ethic."

Nice kiss at the end. I think Jillian's commitment to him grew after meeting his family.

San Diego, CA: Kiptyn

(side note: Jillian...Please stop squealing.)

LOVE the hot tub joke! Was a little nervous with the food/wine test. His sister is in love with the black...black hair, black shirt, black nails.

Quote of the night: Kiptyn's sister, "GET HER PREGNANT!"

First, Kiptyn seems so much more laid back than the rest of his family. His mom really grilled her about working for your happiness and making your marriage work no matter what. Also, his sister seemed hesitant about Kiptyn and her.

What was up with the hot tub swimming with the mother watching. Odd.

Carmel, CA: Jesse

(Do all these scenes from Cali make you want to move out there?)

What's up with burly man brother? Seems like a jerk if you ask me!

When the mom and Jillian were talking, the mom seemed like a counselor. I am just not feeling this family. There seems to be tension. Even Jesse and Jillian seem distant.

Whoa, the dancing and band playing seems out of left field. They seemed like they were way more laid back. We all think he will be going home.

Austin, TX: Wes

She saved the worst for last. I really hope that she figures him out already. What a douche. Upon her arrival he didn't ask her how she was doing or anything, he starts with the fact that he is introducing her to his other family...his band. Uggg. Jillian is just the giddy little girl watching him sing, and yea, he is good, but seriously, get off the show. And please people, don't buy his music.

Dum....Dum....Dum....

Jake is back. He wants to tell her that Wes has a girlfriend. He is a little hesitant to share this, so Wes called Tanner...that was a weird person to call.

I think I just threw up a little in my mouth...Wes is such a pile of dog poo. Someone needs to kick him in the nuts. Jake, finish him off!...or as S said, "Put on your shit kickers and your nut huggers and take care of him."

When Jake came into the picture...Awkward! "Wes has a girlfriend. Her name is Laurel" Jillian is immediately in tears. Oh her poor little face. I love Jake.

Ok, now Wes is in Jillian's room. She asked him if there was anything he needed to tell her. He immediately gets defensive. Not a good technique. He is such a weasel. Poor Jillian.

Man, when Jake walked in to the room, he was ready to lay Wes out. Wes is one sly dog. If Jillian can't see through Wes' sneaky behavior, she is crazy. But man, Jake seems like such a stand up guy. And the tears. Oh my goodness, why is he not still on the show?

And she goes to meet his parents. I'm done with him.

And the show keeps on going. Now ED IS BACK. Holy Moly! She really likes him. Whoa...

I think he said a key word for Jillian, re prioritize. I really like him a lot. He seems really genuine and I like that he knew he messed up. Yea for Ed. I'm glad that she is letting him come to the rose ceremony.

Rose Ceremony:

We think Jesse and Michael are going home. Let's see if we are right.

(Side Note: Did you guys feel the tension when Ed walked into the rose ceremony? I actually felt bad for him.)

Reid

Kiptyn

Wes.....UGGGGGG.

Poor Michael and Jesse. Oh I hated seeing Michael hug her goodbye. His fair well taping, heartfelt and a tear jerker.

Next week, Spain. Maybe Wes will get crushed by a bull.

The Bachelorette #6

2009-06-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

Michael wants a little "smoochie smooch" hoping to get a private car with Jillian. But she misses Ed. Sorry Michael, probably won't happen! Who gets the date????..... Robby!!! Yay..... Stace likes him the best!!!

.....

Thanks Stacey for those words! I am in a bit of a grumpy mood tonight, so tonight's post may be a little different than normal. Bear with me!

....

Robby's Date:

Their date seemed a little odd. Jillian said that she doesn't need to know if he is ready to settle down, but she needs to know if he wants a family. Don't you need to settle down before you start the family? Then, Robby said that he has everything he needs to be successful, but he is in-between jobs. Is that a bit of kilter for ya'll?

Uh-oh, the train is stopping. I think he is about to get kicked off the train. Jump and roll, Robby, jump and roll. She is giving him the boot. Bye-bye Robby. Poor guy. What a way to go. And I thought I was having a grumpy day. He just had to watch the train with Jillian go away with all the other bachelors waving at him from inside.

Were you surprised by Michael's response to Robby going?

"If there was anyone here with a hidden agenda, it would be me. I just finished working on an album...I have nothing to loose and everything to gain."...douche bag Wes

I really think that Wes is a plant. Like a bug in the system thrown there by ABC to stir up some controversy.

"The fame I get from this, it is almost like I taste it, like I eat it...I'm getting excited, this is fun right here. I'll always have JIllian wrapped around my little finger." Seriously? He is either totally wasted or a plant. ABC, you guys are so obvious.

Group Date: Tanner, Wes, Michael, Jesse, Jake, Kiptyn

I like Michael. Tanner needs to get over his foot obsession.

(Side Note: I love that Reid was asking the train staff about what he should do for his date with Jillian. Oh, and Stace says she likes his mouth...Yummy!)

She is having some one on one time with Jake. I like him. I like that she is looking past his perfection and giving him a shot. They are so cute together.

Kiptyn was the first guy with enough guts (and good timing) to kiss her! She seems to have a stronger thing with Kiptyn than a lot of the other guys.

I think Tanner is gay. To pull down your britches in front of a bunch of dudes and one chick, gay.

"I just don't want to see somebody's package yet" Good girl Jillian.

Does he travel with foot rub stuff? He freaks us all out. If you don't think so, this should help you...

"Now that I felt how soft her feet are, I want her to meet my family. I want the rose." He is either a hardcore freak or ABC planted him too. This season seems way less "real" than any other.

Jesse is starting to stand out more to me. I don't know why he didn't before, but he seems like a genuine guy who is really into her. Plus, he looks like a good kisser!

Yay! Michael is so sweet. Are you guys not just loving this more emotional side? We already know he is super funny and fun and enjoyable. There is an awkwardness between them, but he seems like a sweet guy. I don't know if he is right for Jillian, but I like him.

(Side Note: are any of the guys standing out, in a good way, for Jillian? I don't think so.)

Oh, the crap is about to hit the fan. Tanner just admitted to telling Jillian about how one of the guys had a girlfriend. Now Wes is opening his big planter mouth to everyone about his agenda for getting on the show. Why aren't all the guys kicking his A$$ right now? Hello, someone pull out the Kung Fu Panda moves and take him out!!!!!

Kiptyn got the rose.

Ok. Jillian just listened to Jake spill his heart about how much he likes/loves her. The odd part was when he hugged her. It was weird because of the look in her eyes, which were open. It seemed like a goodbye hug. Hmmmm...Thoughts?

Reid:

We like Reid. Finally, a guy who stands out!

Rose Ceremony

Kitpyn and Reid already have roses

Jesse

Wes

Micheal

Overview: Reid really stuck out in this episode. I like him for her a whole lot! I am still really annoyed that Wes is still there. Why aren't the guys telling her? Tanner, why wouldn't you tell her that? It is just plain annoying now. I don't really like any of the other guys for her, well, maybe Jesse. What do ya'll think of the guys who are left and who is good for her?

I like Reid the most!..... Side note.... Stacey's thoughts! "That's what you get for having me proof your sh*t!!!

The Bachelorette #5

2009-06-15T18:24:00.001-07:00

Another girls night at mi casa!

This episode is full of drama. We better find out who has a girlfriend.

3 dates: 2 1-on-1 dates and 1 group date

Date #1: Michael

"Oh my awesomeness"...Michael.

Their date started off fun with the zip-lining and some fun conversation but then moved to dinner where the seriousness was brought out. Jillian asked him why he signed up for the show. He opened up about his breakup and closing down the romantic side of his life. He really seems to be a sweet guy, but I just wonder if he is mature enough for Jillian. Silly is fun but it only lasts so long. I was impressed with him on this date. I think he stepped up the serious. Obviously...he got the rose!

We were all wondering why it took him so long to kiss her. It was so sweet though, he kissed her on the side of the mouth! Overall...good date!

"Burgundy makes you think of silly thoughts. Bordeaux makes you talk about them. Champagne makes you do them!"

Date #2: Tanner, Ed, Wes, Kiptyn, Jesse, Robby, Jake, Reid, Mark

Although this date started off fun on the snow mobiles, it was Jillian's mission to get more info about the guys with alleged girlfriends. First she interrogated Robby. (ok, they had sweet talk too.) Next up was Tanner, the snitch. WHY IS HE NOT TELLING HER WHO HAS A GIRLFRIEND. Grrr. If you are going to be a snitch, be a snitch, not a pansy.

Uggg, Wes is now sitting with Jillian. I just threw up a little in my mouth...Wes is talking about his cd. Yuck! Jillian is so wrapped up in him. He might be a good guy, but it is not coming off on the show. He is pimping himself out on the this show to promote his career. I have to say, they had a good kiss. I think I saw some snow melt underneath them!

Kiptyn was next up, after everyone had some shots on the ice bar, to have alone time with Jillian. Nice for him it started with her asking him to touch her butt. He's lovin it! Some of the ladies think he is the one with the girlfriend. I just love how Jillian smiles when she is with him. He is so affectionate with her. It melts your heart.

Reid and Jillian just don't seem to have it.

Ed. Oh Ed. Should he stay or should he go now? If he stays it could be trouble, if he goes it could be double...ok, sorry, I got that song in my head. His job needs him OR ELSE...! Jillian just gave him the rose. She must really like him. That is going to be hard for him!

Side thought: Is the drama of Jillian crying in the elevator going to be because Ed decided he needed to leave and not be because someone has a girlfriend? Hmm...I'll have to wait and see.

Side thought #2: Paps, you still reading this far into it? Love that you read my blog!

Date #3: Jesse

I'm not into the beginning of Jesse's date, nor am I really feeling Jesse anymore.

Quote of the night: "You have like that quality of your voice...someone could listen to you, and lets say you have your own radio or talk show, and put someone to sleep...you have that sweet sexy quality voice."...Jesse

He got the rose. Whatever. I'm over him.

Ok, Jesse's date is over. Now Ed is pacing around. I am so pissed that ABC played up the scene of Jillian crying to be that one of the guys had a girlfriend. Hello! It was because Ed had a job....

On to their conversation. So sad for Jillian. Did you see her bite her lip to hold back tears? So sad. I feel bad for Ed too, but seriously, can he not work from there? Poor thing.

Jillian, in the words of Greg Behrendt, He's Just Not That Into You. The girls here think he might come back. I don't think he is into her, but they think he is a stoic man who really likes her but can't show how much he cares. Whatever. Not into her...NEXT!

The Rose Ceremony:

She is skipping the cocktail party and going straight to the roses. We all think Tanner is getting the boot (haha get it, the boot, and he loves feet!)

Roses:

Michael and Jesse already have roses.

Reid

Kiptyn

Robby

Jake (surprised she picked him before Wes)

Tanner (there are a lot of WTF going on in my house) I cannot believe she picked him!!!

Wes (we thought she might let Wes go. She made it seem like it was really hard to let Mark go.)

Like the music, eh?

The Garden

2009-06-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

Before Christmas, my brother Dennis built me a beautiful garden. The things we planted, swiss chard, rosemary, onions, carrots have grown great. Now it is time to plant new stuff. Here is the garden!

Every afternoon we go water our new seeds and old plants. This was the clothing choice o' the day!

So happy so see things growing!

Other view of the garden.

You can kind of see the cilantro growing.

This is either tomatoes or okra.

Ok, this is either the okra or tomatoes. I can't remember where I planted what. Guess it will be a surprise!

Gage and I planted 2 pumpkin seeds. We also planted 3 corn seeds, which are growing, but I forgot to take a picture of them....poor corn.

That's it!

The Bachelorette...#3...Bring it on!

2009-06-09T18:01:00.000-07:00

Love having my girls bachelorette watching party! Love you girls!

Surprise...the guys head to Vancouver, BC, Jillian's hometown.

Date #1: 1-on-1: Kiptyn
Ok, so they ran to meet each other and totally had an awkward peck kiss. She does seems super excited to see him though. They will be kayaking to an open market. She wanted to race and did you hear her squeaking while rowing? It was really sweet seeing them shop together, that is something a girl wants...someone to share the daily activities with.

Sidenote: not a fan of Kiptyn's shoes.

After shopping at the market they went "home", don't know if it was really her house, and made dinner. I loved how Jillian was a control freak in the kitchen...totally like me. You want help, but when someone starts helping in a different way than you want it...Yikes! That is where the wine comes in!

Their conversation together was sweet. I just am not sure if I am sold on Kiptyn anymore. I think he seems a little nerdy, corky, I don't know. What do you think? Of course, the talking was followed by kissing. Seemed a little awkward, like he wanted to jump down her throat and she wanted to look cute! All the ladies on my couch agree that their kissing is just weird, but that she really likes him.

And the rose goes to...drum roll please...Kiptyn.

Group Date: Tanner, Jake, Robby, Wes, Ed, Michael, Reid, Juan, David

This date starts at a curling place. Hello, Michael, the break dancer, was so funny. The evening progresses where the guys get into 2 teams to compete in the curling. The losing team will head back to the hotel room, the winning team gets the date. I totally want Michael's team to win because he is just so sweet...lots of hugging sweet words. The girls think he is just a friend.

Douche Bag quote of the night: "Curling is about flexibility, balance and touch, and I've got all of them."...Juan

Winning team: Robby, David, Jesse, Jake, Juan, goes on a historic boat for dinner. Did Jillian really wear Michael Jackson gloves on the boat, and please, Jesse, loose the hat!

Jake and Jillian had the first one on one conversation. We think that he looks like a blond Tom Cruise, but way cuter. He really is the sweet, nice guy. Seriously, are we supposed to feel bad for Jake while he is complaining about being too perfect?

Next, Jillian has one on one time with Jesse, on a bed. They had another awkward kiss. Was he holding his breathe? All these kisses are just weird.

Oh man, now David has time with Jillian. She is looking a little toasted. He is currently talking about her "a$$"...AWKWARD!! This is totally a train wreck, he is talking about her tata hanging out. Oh man, he went in for a kiss and she gave him the cheek. He did not like that and let her know. Thank goodness Jillian sees his disrespectfulness. He is going home!

Douche Bag quote #2: "Why the hell wouldn't you kiss me after you hear the word $%^#"...David

After the totally awkward conversation, where Jillian seems totally frazzled from her chat with David, she brings out the rose. The rose goes to......Jesse.

Date #3: 2-on-1: Mike and Mark

Nice, this date scene shows the guys getting ready, could have lived my life without seeing Mark in his boxers... ewe no butt. When the guys see Jillian, Mike runs to greet her and Mark stays back like a stray little puppy. They get to go on helicopter ride...get ready, I have a lot to say about this little trip. First, Mark didn't let Jillian in the helicopter and neither did Mike. Jillian sat on one side, which meant only Mike was the only one getting to sit next to Jillian. Then, Jillian was holding Mike's thumb, not his hand, his thumb. Seriously, Mark is so stoned, like eternally stoned. He is going home.

I am really not into listening to their one on one conversation. I am just sick of hearing the guys try to "win" and tell her all the things she wants to hear. It just seems fake and annoying.

The rose goes too...Mark. Stace totally called that one because Mark was talking about how he got his heart broken and Jillian totally falls for that!

Rose Ceremony: Loved Jillian's dress! Ok, Wes is creepy. Jillian seems to really like him, but I am pretty sure he is going to be the one that has the girlfriend. Jakes alone time with him was sweet, but a little weird. I am glad that he talked to her about her comment regarding him being himself.

Tanner is having one on one time with Jillian...ahhhhhh...he is the one that will tell him who is a dirt bag! Name names Tanner! This conversation really messed Jillian's mood up. She told the guys that the cocktail party is over and that the rose ceremony is about to begin.

Chris and Jillian are chatting: Jillian's heart is broken about the douche bags in the house. If the guys really do have girlfriends, then ABC needs to take some money out of Jillian's bikini budget and do some background checks on the guys and investigate them a little further.

Jillian confronts the guys. The guys look like high school students who cheated on a test. Holy Moly guys! Just say who has a girlfriend. Oh, Tanner just got really mad. We think David has the girlfriend. He seems to be backpedaling a lot! Tanner is so mad that Juan is looking at him. This whole scene is just weird!

The roses go too...

Kiptyn, Jesse and Mark already have roses

Reid

Robby

Michael

Wes

Jake

Tanner...WHAT?? At least he didn't have the foot thing going this episode!

David and Juan are going home...thank goodness! Poor, poor clueless little David. He just needs to watch the show and see how he comes off to other people.

Ok, our Bachelor look-a-likes:

Ed: Denny Duquet (gray's anatomy)

Mark: Ray from 90210...you remember, Donna's boyfriend

Jake: Blond Tom Cruise

Wes: Collin, the cocaine addicted painter from 90210...Kelly's old bf!

Michael: buzzed-head kid from A Few Good Men...anyone know the name?

Beefaroni Dinner=Bath

2009-06-08T15:56:00.001-07:00

Gage didn't get into it as much as Jillian, but he was still happy...and wet from his daily garden watering session.

Let the mess begin...

Oh she is so happy being so messy...

Another day, more outdoor play

2009-06-05T11:53:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the kids playing outside. Gage was killing the bugs and apparently, from on of the pictures, Gage saw one on his sister's head. Nice! Enjoy!

The Bachelorette #3

2009-06-01T18:05:00.000-07:00

Another Bachelorette watching party! YAY!

This episode will include 3 dates; 2 1-on-1 dates and 1 group date.

Date #1: Ed

Their dates begins with a helicopter ride along the coast and ending on the top of a building. That's when she smacks him with the adventure...zip-lining down the building. He handled it well, didn't pee his pants and, of course, they had to get into their bathing suits and swim.

Oh, seriously, they have an underwater camera? That is just poor form. Kissing was happening. After the kissing and underwater camera they went to the top of a hotel for dinner.

Jillian,"I love that I popped your helicopter cherry!" Tasteful.

Ed seemed like a nice guy. I kind of liked the way that he didn't feel so comfortable opening up to Jillian. You could tell that he was nervous. It was just so sweet how he was holding her hand and telling her his feelings about family...then that kiss...oh, he seems like a nice guy.

And he gets the rose, with lots of sweet words to go along with it.

Ok, I just have to throw this out there, why do they not show any video from the guys living in the house? That is what I want to see.

Date #2: Reid, Wes, Mike, Michael, Tanner F, Mark, Brad, Robby, Tanner P, Kiptyn, Juan

So this date was weird. The guys dressed up in odd western clothing. What did ya'll think of Tanner's leopard print vest?!? How funny is it that there was a gay cowboy scene? Oh man, these guys are not going to win any awards for their acting skills. Brad and Jillian's kiss...nerdy. I loved how Brad reinacted it. He is so funny!

"That was the worst kiss I've seen since 1988"

Robby perhaps had the best kiss, he was so sweet.

Ok, Wes just pulled her away to tell her that he felt like she kind of cheated and that he wants to start weeding these other guys out. Cheesy, he kissed her on the cheek.

Here is the gay cowboy scene between ...it was so funny. They were great sports!

After the acting, they went to a wrap party. Here are my quick thoughts...I like Reid. He seemed like a really nice guy, genuine. Juan, not so much. Not a fan. Tanner, and the hot tub, rubbing her feet on his face...dude, he needs to go already. Robby seems like a super sweet guy. Ok, she brings the rose into the hot tub, where is she going to pin it? Ahhh, Robby got the rose. He seems like such a sweetheart.

Date #3: Sasha

Ok, I seriously love Jillian's denim romper. I am totally not into this date. We had to rewind the tv 3 times to hear the story about his accident. I feel bad for him, but just not into it. What is with all the guys not getting their hearts broken. Odd.

3 out of 3 girls don't think he will get a rose. Jillian says...NO ROSE.

Oh great, Wes is singing...the girls like it...I'm NOT a Wes fan. I love Tanner making fun of them. OH MY GOSH, do ya'll think Wes playing the guitar for Jillian was sweet or staged. I just don't know. His face looked genuine. You have to let me know what you think of Wes. I just don't think it is there. Why did he play the same song again? That is just weird. One hit wonder?

Rose Ceremony: David is letting her know a little more about him. I don't know if I am scared of him or if this situation is bringing out the worst in him. Then Juan interrupts their one on one time. I just don't know who I like least.

Tanner,

"I'm not her for an agenda, I'm her to suck on some toes and I'm here to meet some Jillian. I mean, I totally love feet, but I want to get to know Jillian before i get to know feet."

"It was like ealkdfjoweiht...I want to suck on these toes...(insert suckling action here)...Those are beautiful feet. I want to kiss em, suck em, touch em, rub em, feel em, tweeze em."

David is about to explode...Dun Dun Dun...commercial break! It is really hard to focus on her one on one time with the other guys because I am waiting for David to explode. I do, however, have an easy time focusing on Kiptyn.

David's quote of the night, "Stop being a cheese-ass and go home."

Total shocker, Robby just said to Juan, "I agree 100% with what Dave said, but we will talk about this later!" I would totally take Robby's impression of Juan more seriously than I would of David's. Hmmmm...

Roses:

Ed and Robby already have roses.

Jake

Reid

Mark

Jesse

Tanner P...Jillian, get the foot dude off there!

Wes

Juan

Michael

Kiptyn

Michael

David

Poor Brad. Poor little Brad.

Thoughts?

Bachelorette #2

2009-05-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I know it is late. I will be better. Had a great, but busy week and haven't had a chance to watch the show yet. Oh, I just finished the Jon and Kate Plus 8 season premiere. Do any of ya'll watch that show? I have been keeping up with it since it started and it just breaks my heart. When Kate was saying that parents of multiples have a way higher divorce rate and she wanted to beat those odds...tear...

Ok, now on to the Bachelorette!!!

Shocker...they open the episode with Jillian in a bikini. I think this is a sight we need to get used too. The men were introduced to their mansion...aka a bunk house. I love that they do this to the guys. Keeps it real. There will be 2 group dates and 1 individual date. On each date there will be a rose, if you get it the guys gets to move into the mansion with Jillian. If the guy on the 1-0n-1 date doesn't get a rose, he goes home.

Group Date #1: Michael, Brian, Brad, Sasha, Tanner P., Wes, Ed, Mathaeu

The date starts at the pool. Her first 1-0n-1 time was with Michael. He just seems weird and girlie. She totally left him in her room, mid-conversation to go downstairs to get the rose. Tricky tricky girl...she leaves the mansion. The whole time, Michael is waiting around like Rapunzel....Enter Mike Harris! This date is finally getting fun. Give the guys a competition. The guys pair up and jump into a mini coup. They had to go through a bucket full of keys to open a lockbox to get their car key.

I have to admit that I like Brian, the IT guy from Atlanta. I am not a fan of the Tanner/Michael car. They should get pulled over. The car most likely to kill each other, Brad (love his tattoos!) and Wes. The thing about this date, she is wasting all this time getting to know the guys by making them drive all over LA. I have driven in LA and the traffic is horrible. It is a big city. I wonder how long this all took. OMG...I just saw one of the guys wearing cowboy boots with his bathing suit! So far the adventure has taken them to a kitchen where they changed in to tux, a jewelry store where they picked out a necklace, and finally to a bank vault where Jillian will be locked inside with her winner! That makes me tired just thinking about!

Ha! The team I thought would kill each other, and were in last place most of the time, was the winner...Brad and Wes (the musician from Austin).

Wes won! Oh, the necklace Brad picked was my least favorite. The necklace Wes wanted, the one with the balls, would have gone perfect with her dress! I don't like Wes for Jillian. There is something about him when he is talking to her that I just don't like. Hmmm. What do you think? The clentcher for the loosing guys, the guys that lost got to watch the date on tv. Wes got a rose and now he gets to move into the mansion.

1-0n-1: Jake the commercial pilot from Dallas...I LOVE HIM!!!!

Jillian picks him up wearing this fun strapless, short black fringe dress and red knee-high boots. She looked so cute! She takes Jake to a western store to get him a new outfit. I like them, they seem so cute and fun together. Awww, he just said, "Oh boy, I am gonna fall for this girl!" Sweet!

After they get Jake a totally country shirt, they go to the House of Blues where Jillian pours them a drink and then dances on the bar! He can dance too! He is two-stepin with her! This guys is great. If she doesn't pick him in the end I might have to punch her in the face! They are having great conversation and he totally just planted a nice kiss on her lips in mid-sentence. Don't you just want a guy to do that? To be so eager to kiss you that he can't stop himself...ahhh, how nice it must be to be Jillian!

Final surprise: Martina McBride. They danced and giggled and in the end, he got the rose! Oh man, they look like they are very kissing-compatible!

Group Date #2: Jesse, Mark, David, Mike, Simon, Kiptyn, Juan

This date, according to Jillian, is for the boys. They will be playing basketball with the Harlem Globe Trotters. David, Mr. I-can't-get-the-words-out-of-my-mouth-when-I-first-met-you, seems like he lost his stutter and is a bit of a cocky-pants. Oh, and what about Juan, who totally picked her up to let her dunk and then dropped her on her face! Gentle butterfly my butt.

Out come the HGT! Man, they are good and they are tall! And they know how to shake it! I think it would be fun to go see them. Hello...the HGT guy picked Jillian up and let her hang on the rim, then they left. The bachelors just stood there, until Juan had to come redeem himself to get her down. The HGT picked David to have some one on one time with her. Man, he has tattoos too, nice!

...Mike, just put on a speedo and jumped in the ocean...I am feeling like this date is lasting forever. Now they are back at the house, or somewhere where they are taking shots. Man, the guys do NOT like Juan. I don't think I am a big fan of Juan either. Now on to Kiptyn, never had his heart broken? Interesting... And then they kiss. A lot. Juan get the rose on this date for his speedo in the ocean adventure.

No Date: Julien, Robby the bartender from TX, Reid, and Tanner

Rose Ceremony: Jillian totally picked up on Tanner's foot fetish. Uggg, I don't like Wes anymore. Robby, one of the guys who didn't get a date, was having one on one time with Jillian and Wes, who already had a rose busted in on his time. Jerk. And are you guys picking up on how much aggression David has with all the guys?

The twist, thanks ABC, is that the guys get to vote for one guy to leave the house. Remember when they did this last season to that girl who was kind of a potty mouth, well, she got a rose instead of getting kicked out. Man, the guys are acting like sissies. Suck it up and write down some dudes name.

Juan was voted to get kicked out of the house. BUT, totally stupid, Jillian can save him by giving him a rose. Why did they even vote? Of course she gave him a rose. Whatever.

Roses:

Wes, Jake Mike and Juan already got roses.

Jesse

David

Sasha

Mark

Michael

Tanner P...SERIOUSLY? Jillian, what are you thinking?

Kiptyn

Reid

Robby

Tanner

Rod

Going home: Simon, Julien, Brian, and Mathue (ahhh, he was getting teary. Maybe he is on steroids. No, just kidding, he seems like a teddy bear under that tough, muscly body.)

So, here are my questions for you.

Is David aggression just a guy thing or is it too much?

Do you think Wes is there for the wrong reasons and did ya'll pick up on his weird vibe when he talks to Jillian?

What do you make of Kiptyn saying he has never gotten his heart broken?

Jillian's Clothes

2009-05-28T18:01:00.000-07:00

Go here and check out where Jillian gets all her clothes...they did their research!

Yay! The Bachelorette...#1

2009-05-19T18:41:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to watch this show right now. I was going to have my infamous bachelorette watching party, however, the lovely weather has proven to be quite the opposite on my sinus'. Allergy season is upon us in this great state!

As with previous season, I will not be blogging in detail for the first few shows. There are just to many men, and as a single mom, I don't want to spend all my free time after the kids go to bed on my laptop. Also, if you happen to find out where Jillian gets her clothes, send me an email or post a comment. I know we have a lot of Jillian's Clothes Fanatics out there...let's feed our shopping additions!

I love listening to her describe herself, she said, "I am not drop dead gorgeous, but I'm cute and I have a big heart!" I could so see myself being friends with her...Jason, eat your heart out!

Ummm, seriously, are they showing her in 15 different bikinis and then washing her car Jessica Simpson style? Hello, we know she has a hot body. Let's move on.

Hello Men! Yummy!

Quotes to remember:

"There is a big party of me that is a one woman kind of man"... Michael, the dance instructor

"A jumpsuit, she would love this." (Yikes)...Kyle the Graphic Designer...He also said:

"Why is Jillian going to fall in love with me? Because I look good. I smell good. I make love good." I think he might stick around for a bit. I'm interested.

"I'm Greg, but I go by BillBro. On a scale from zero to BillBro, a perfect 10. Yea, I said it."...Greg the fitness model

"One thing I am really excited about Jillian is that she is looking for her best friend and that is my philosophy, exactly. I'm looking to marry my best friend"...Love Him...Jake, the commercial pilot.

After her one-on-one sit down with Chris where she talked about all things from her quote, "You have to slay a few dragons before you find your prince!", her heartbreak over Jason and her optimism about Mr. Invisible, they bring out the men.

I am not really going to blog about this part, but let me just say that I am going to keep my eye on Kiptyn. He has me intrigued.

Men who intrigued me:

Kiptyn

Bryan the High School teacher and coach from Dallas

Jake, the Commercial Pilot from Dallas

John the Branding Consultant from Boise

Mathue the personal trainer from Wichita, KS. He came out with the signed cowboy hat. Cutie!

Men who are already annoying me:

Brian the IT Consultant from GA who called her "Hot tub Harris". Dude, bad form. (Ok, during the mix and mingle he called her a "sexy little minx". Ugggg. Douche bag!

Julien, he said, "You better not break that girls heart"

Adam, the Olympic cyclist who said he wanted her first 5 mins.

Juan the General Contractor who started speaking Spanish and whose mother wants grand kids. Too much cheese for me.

Greg, AKA BillBro...he annoys me for many reasons but this on is because he asked her to "hug it out" twice.

Men I just felt bad for:

David the trucking contractor from Dayton, OHIO. Poor guy, couldn't get a full sentence out. He needed a shot or something. Awkward! (btw, Brian redeemed himself. He totally lost it when he met her, but he seems like a really nice guy!)

The English dude who talked about his mother's teabags

Josh, the 25 year old lifeguard who looks like he was 40 years old. Sun is not your friends ladies, spray on tan and sunscreen are your friends.

The 25 men have arrived and met their lady in waiting. Let the drinks come aplenty and the word vomit begin. I have to admit, I hate this part. I hate the rush, the time stealing, the testosterone challenges, and of course the twist. Chris comes out to let them know that she will not have to choose from 25 Bachelors, he prances out 5 new bachelors for her to add to her collection. I have to add Tanner to my list of guys who annoy me. He makes Texas look bad by talking about his foot requirements. He needs high arches, nice toes. I think he might be gay. Ugg, she thinks he is cute. Jillian, NO!

Rose #1 goes too David from Dayton, the guys who froze up during the first meeting.

The rest of the roses go too:

Jake

Jesse

Wes

Mathue

Michael

Robert

Reed

Simon (the Englishman with the tea-bags)

Kiptyn...YAY!

Mike

Brian D

Sasha

Julien

Tanner...DOWNGRADE!!!!!

Mark

Brad

Tanner F

Final rose goes too...

Juan...Boo!

Until next week, give me your thoughts!

What in the World

2009-05-10T08:57:00.001-07:00

I can't believe I haven't posted since March. Yuck. I'll be uploading some new pictures soon. Plus, I am totally going to be blogging about The Bachelorette. Hello, Jillian is the Bachelorette. Wouldn't miss that if you paid me! Check back soon for more pictures!

Jillian's Clothes

2009-03-04T06:09:00.002-08:00

I have good news and I have bad news. First, I am a googling maniac and awesome. Put those two together, and you get answers (and tickets to the Twilight movie premiere in LA).

You can get the info from Jillian's dress at her final rose ceremony here.

Bad news, they aren't selling it anymore, but there is always EBay.

I am still unable to find the purple dress that Jillian wore, the one with the dangerously low, open back. If you find it, go ahead and buy it for me in a size 4! Luv ya!

After The Final Rose...Part 2

2009-03-03T19:39:00.001-08:00

So here's the deal. I am over this season. I feel bad for Melissa. I think she is super sweet and I wish her the best. I think Jason, like every man and woman, has the right to not be into you. Better to tell her than to sting her along and delay her chances of healing and finding herself again. It is reality tv. There isn't a really great way to break someone's heart, especially when it is all played out on tv. I think Jason and Molly will be really happy together. I hope they take things slow, but am sure they will be fine.

How are you guys handling all this? What are your thoughts now after having some time for it to sink in and to see the second after the rose?

Oh, and have you noticed how I have changed the music up more this week. I am trying to keep it with the mood of the show. The Rascal Flatts and Robin Thicke songs are for Molly and Jason, but the Over It song is on Melissa's behalf!

Now, the next Bachelorette...

YEA!!! ABC has redeemed themselves. Jillian is the new Bachelorette! Double YEA!!!! LOVE HER! So yes, I will be back to watch the Bachelorette. But as for the Bachelor...I'm done-zo!

The Final Bachelor...I'm Nervous!

2009-03-02T18:39:00.000-08:00

Ok. I can't write in detail about the bachelor. Why? Because me and CDS were supposed to watch the bachelor, but we got to talking. Talking. Talking. Talking. So, here it is, 11:45pm and I didn't really watch the bachelor. I did however, watch the After the Rose.

How could Jason do that to Melissa? Did it seem to staged? Do you empathize with Jason? What did you think of Molly's reaction?

Jenn...I totally agree with your comment on the previous post. How could he do that? Let me know what ya'll thought. I am too mad to blog about it.

Jason, if I knew where you lived I would totally wrap your house...JERK!

Link for Bachelor Spoilers

2009-02-26T13:35:00.001-08:00

I will be blogging about this in a few days, but wanted those of your readers who are dying to know more about Monday's show to get prepared. Go here if you want a spoiler.

IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE ENDING OF THE BACHELOR, DO NOT GO TO THAT LINK. There, don't say I didn't warn you. I will be posting a blog later, so hold on to those comments until then. Can't wait to hear what you think about all this speculated drama.

Good Grief!

PeePee Dance

2009-02-24T13:03:00.001-08:00

Today Gage went potty at school, two times! This is a first as he was a little scared of the big potty before. He is doing so good. To celebrate we got a sprite and peepee candy!

The Bachelor...Women Tell All

2009-02-23T19:24:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, this episode was a let down. Jason was a really good bachelor, therefore, there wasn't a lot of drama and tears and screaming at the reunion. Sure, that is good for the girls and for Jason, but for the watcher, it was boring. Plus, how in the world am I supposed to focus on anything else besides next weeks episode. I really don't know if I can stand waiting for next weeks show. And, it is going to be 3 hours. Ya'll that is a lot of tv! Goodness, if you guys find someone who has a time machine, tell them I need to borrow it so I can watch next weeks show now!

I am really excited to be watching tonight's episode with Kristen P! Yea!

Jason and Chris are sitting discussing the women:

Jason and Megan. Oh, they are talking about how surprised Jason was by her kiss on the General Hospital set. It was so funny how after the GH date all the women were so emotional. HELLO!!! You madeout with all of them and expect them to be happy. McFly, girls don't work that way. No!

Chris called Jason and Jillian's makeout scene something that cinemax would want.

Never Before Seen Footage:

Naomi and Jason's date. Jason's horse gets spooked and he totally pulled a Clint Eastwood and jumped off the horse.

I loved seeing the General Hospital Date improv scene. Total drama and love that Jason kills himself at the end.

I was surprised how hard Chris was pressing Jason for details about the overnight dates. I was glad that Jason kept it classy and didn't share details. Good job DJ J!

Trista and Ryan: How sweet are they and expecting baby number 2! Ryan seems like such a sweet, handsome and loving man! Oh, and I love that Trista wants Melissa for Jason.

Charlie and Sarah. I have to admit that I didn't watch this show so I really don't care about them. Moving on...

The Bachelorettes are back...dum dee dum dum

Bringing out the crazy: Megan. Natalie. Lauren.

Let's start with Megan. Were ya'll surprised at how she handled herself. I totally thought she would pull the trashy, cussing woman card again. I was glad that she appeared more low key and retrospective. Good job Megan.

Natalie...oh, that poor, clueless girl. She is the first one in the hot seat. I am so glad they showed the "I love bears" conversation again. It screams DITZ! Oh, and then they make it even better by showing the limo scene. It was embarassing. Her talking in the hot seat just makes her sound worse. I am sure she is a nice enough girl, but it seems like she is sreaming...take me to a counselor so I can figure myself out!!!

Jillian. Ahhhh, I love Jillian. Great name too! Man, wasn't it hard to watch the recap of her and Jason's relationship? So sad! After listening to what she says, I just love her. Natalie could learn a thing of two from her. I think you should marry your best friend. Of course there should be more, but you need that. Yea, Chris just asked her if she would be the next Bachelorette...and she said yes! I WOULD LOVE A SEASON WITH HER AS THE BACHELORETTE!

Now it is Jason's turn in the hotseat. Now, I am really not going to go on anymore. There just wasn't a lot there. I am just so ready for next weeks shows. Holy Moly! I just can't wait to see what happens. Does he pick DeAnna? Does he pick Melissa? What about Molly? Why is the After The Rose Ceremony so emotionally difficult? Why no audience? Oh man, this is driving me crazy. Don't spoil it for me if you "think" you know! Oh man...

Brace Yourselves For The Bachelor

2009-02-23T09:15:00.000-08:00

I am bracing myself for the Bachelor. Tonight is the Girls Tell All, which I will blog about this evening. However, next week, I think we are going to get a true shocker. I know they always say, In The Most Dramatic Rose Ceremony Ever, well, this time I think it is true.

Please don't post any spoilers on the comment sections. I want it to be a surprise. I will say that I have a neighbor who told me I will be shocked and it won't be good. Oh goodness ya'll. Why can't people go along with how the show is supposed to work. Go on the show. Make out. Go on dates. Fight with the girls. Fall in love with the boy. Boy proposes. Get married. Have babies. Live happily ever after. Is that so hard?

I will be prepared for next weeks show with a bottle (or two) of wine, some girlfriends and a box of tissues. I will warn you know...next weeks show will most likely bring out the "WTFs" in me, but I will try to be on my best behavior. Oh dear, I am already getting anxious about this. Dang DeAnna. I think she is going to screw up everything.

If you haven't been spoiled, leave a comment as to what you think will happen...I'd love to hear it!

The Bachelor Recap #7...Overnight Dates!

2009-02-16T21:05:00.000-08:00

Holy Moly Ya'll. It is 7:45pm and I am actually camped out on the couch with my MacBook blogging while watching the Bachelor. So, as long as there isn't bad weather and my TIVO freaks out, I'll have this posted tonight. Yea for me!

This is the overnight dates for all three remaining girls; Molly, Melissa and Jillian. My prediction is that Molly will be out. Also, this is apparently the show that DeAnna comes back. I am not going to believe it until I see it though.

Right now Jason is recapping his relationships with the remaining woman. With Jillian he wants to see the passion. With Molly he was glad that her family approves of him and wants to see if he will take it to the next level. With Melissa, he wants to have a serious conversation about why her parents wouldn't meet him and why they weren't there for her.

Queenstown, New Zealand...Overnight Dates

#1: Jillian

Their date starts with a helicopter ride over these amazingly beautiful cliffs in New Zealand. They then park it on a blanket and have some great conversation about each other. They seem really at ease together.

After their picnic, they met up at the beautiful little winery. Let me just get this out of the way, how awesome are Jillian's clothes. Right now she is wearing this sweet/sexy little pink dress that looks like it should be on Legally Blond. She needs to get ahold of me and give me her hand-me-downs!

OME! If I hear Jason say one more time about how he wants to see the passion with her or he wants to see if there is more physically, I am going to throw one of Gage's cars at the TV. She is a hottie Jason, just go makeout with her. The passion will be there. Goodness boy, keep it in your pants!

Ok Jason, I am now witnessing the passion. She has just accepted the key to their room! I love how ABC is playing the sexy elevator music...Jillian just said that it is going to be a long night and she hoped he could "Handle All This Fire!" LOVE IT!

Of course, when they get to their suite, they head straight for the hot tub. WHAT AM I WATCHING. I think it switched me to a porn movie. The music got fiesty. Their are two people straddling each other in a hot tub...oh wait...It is still the Bachelor. Whoa. It is getting hot!!! I am feeling a bit uncomfortable watching this

#2: Molly

Their dates starts off with bungy jumping. I'm out...If that were me, I'm out. Just watching them wiggle to the edge is making my stomach nervous. Jason totally screamed like a total girl!!! Oh goodness!

After their jump, they go eat. That is when Molly pulls out the list of questions. Some of the questions are silly, but they answered the little things.

(Side Note: It just went to commercial and they showed that one where the couple is riding the bike. How gross it is that the woman has the LONGEST armpit hair. Gross-o-lo!)

Jason is wanting to see the more serious side of Molly. He knows they have a lot of fun together, but needs more. Their conversation seems a little hard to come by. Jason noticed some things about her family, specifically the space between her parents. He was concerned that there maybe be a problem with her letting her guard down with him. Once they started talking about her guard down, it became awkward, almost like Molly knew she wasn't the one but still needed to tell him that she is falling in love with him. I don't really know what to make of that conversation. It seemed odd.

Her final question was of her asking him to spend the night with her. So, off the head! Their date started off in the bathtub. Really, this show is getting a little slutty. Somebody's going to get pregnant!

#3: Melissa

I LOVE their reunions. They seems so happy, genuinely happy to see each other! It is so sweet to watch. I think she is the one!! Their date started out on Winston Churchill's boat on a lake. It was just beautiful out there. They then get back on dry land, only to get into some hot pools. I feel bad for Melissa having to talk about her parents. You know it has to be hard for her to have missed out on that.

Their date then moved on to a nice restaurant. I am a little sick of them talking about her parents though. Let's move on...

The suite. When Melissa was reading that card, Jason was totally blushing. So they went off to their suite at the Matakauri Lodge. She opens up to Jason and tells him that she loves him. It was so sweet. He looks at her so tenderly and with so much compassion and love and happiness. She is totally the one!!!

The Rose Ceremony:

While the ladies are walking to their spots, Jason is watching the video messages. Each tells him how much fun they have with him and how much they want to be with him. When he was watching Melissa's video, it looked like he was going to cry. He better not send her home!

Rose #1: Melissa (YEA!!!!)

Rose #2: Molly

Going home: Jillian (OH MY GOODNESS, I CANNOT BELIEVE IT!!!!!!)

Jason just walked her out and sat her down on a bench. He tells her that he has never met anyone like her. But that their lives are just too different. It is so hard to watch Jillian open up so much and show her emotions for him. Jason must feel horrible doing that to her. Poor Jillian. She is one strong and impressive woman.

Next Week:

The Reunion and Woman Tell All.

Favorite couples of seasons past.

And, the final show.

When is DeAnna coming back? Ok, here she is. She goes to New Zealand. I am not a DeAnna fan...Of course, ABC tells us that it will be the most dramatic episode EVER. Dum Dum Dum!

Love the farting noise while Molly and Jason were in the tub. I am totally cracking up here!!! Love bluppers!

"Yucky Arms"

2009-02-16T09:40:00.000-08:00

First, you might want to go down to the bottom of the page and turn the playlist off. In case you don't catch what Gage is really eating, he is eating Lucky Charms. He calls them, "Yucky Arms".

Valentines in the ER...and NO, I'm not dating the ER doctor

2009-02-14T17:55:00.000-08:00

Seriously, I'm not dating the ER doctor. That would be the only valid and acceptable reason to spend the evening in the ER. So, here is the story of my VDay, and please, I am really warning you that this is TMI! Like, hardcore TMI. Don't keep reading and then say, I should have stopped because I now know too much about Linsey's bowels.

Ok, here it goes. On Tuesday morning I woke up with some serious tummy issues and diarrhea. This continues throughout the week and then gets worse Friday night and into Saturday. So, I head on over to the local ER where the nice doctor tells me that I need bloodwork done and an IV of fluids. Two hours later I am feeling better and head back home. Thankfully my friend Alicia was there with her two girls for the weekend. She watched all the kids while I was gone. Hopefully things will get better for me!

Hope your Valentine's was a bit more romantic than mine!

The Bachelor Recap #6...hometown dates

2009-02-09T18:57:00.001-08:00

Darn it. I totally watched the bachelor on monday and blogged about it. However, I didn't post because I wanted to proof it. Then I forgot and here it is Thursday and I am just now doing it. Darn it! Anyways, here it is...

First let me say that when I found out the President was going to be speaking at 7pm I almost had an accident. I had to immediately check my tivo to make sure that one, the bachelor was still coming on and two, that I was going to tivo the entire show. Peace was with me because the bachelor is on and we get to see it all! Yea! Good planning President Obama!

This is the hometown dates! I am watching the previews, which by the way are lasting forever, but I really think I like Melissa for him the best. I for sure don't like Naomi and am also not really a fan of Molly. I like Jillian because she has my daughter's name, but also because she is so fun. I think Melissa is the best match for him. We shall see!

Hometown #1: Kelowna, B.C. Canada...Jillian

(let me take this opportunity to send a shout out to all my Canadian readers! What's up, eh?)

After their reunion, which included a slow motion running hug, kisses and romantic gazes, they went to a winery. Jillian opens up to him that her mom suffered from depression when she was growing up. It was touching to see her get so emotional about the struggle her parents had in their marriage due to the depression. I think it was good for Jason to know that about her and see a softer side.

Jason met Jillian's parents, cousin, cousin's boyfriend and possibly her grandmother. Her mother gave a sweet, but cheesy toast to Jillian and then asked to take Jason aside. She actually had a typed out list of questions to ask him. So funny...I can envision the family sitting together before he showed up and created that list of questions! After the interrogation (not really, she was actually really nice to Jason) Peggy went to talk to Jillian. Glen, her dad, seemed so sweet. He got emotional just talking about Jillian. I am sure that Jillian's father has created rather large shoes for her future husband to fill, he seemed like a kind and loving man.

(Side Note: Is anyone getting tired of the side pony on Jillian? She always has her hair like that.)

The Granny came! What a class act! I think she had love-at-first-sight with Jason. Shortly after, Jason left and got ready for HM Date #2.

Hometown Date #2 Grand Rapids, MI...Molly

They meet at a country club. Random. Don't really picture Jason as a country club type of guy. I have only been watching Molly's date for a couple of minutes and I am already done with her. Sweet girl, but I think she NOT going to last. Could she have put any more pressure on Jason by repeatedly commenting on how she does not bring guys she dates home because she cares so intensely about what her parents thing? Yikes! Then, double yikes, Molly's mom brings out head gear. Oh my! Poor Jas.

The head dresses come off and the momma takes him to draw Molly's picture, really? Her dad gives his approval to her and a bit of advice. He told her that if she doesn't make it to the end, don't cry in the limo. Ha! That made me laugh. I'm glad he doesn't want the type of daughter that cusses out the camera guys while balling like she just witnessed the murder of her dog. Good guy.

Ok, so maybe I do like Molly for Jason.

Hometown Date #3 Lake Elsinore, CA...Naomi

Someone, please tell her that "important" should be pronounced with a T!!!!! (pet peeve, sorry) Jason meets her mom, dad, sister, younger brother, niece, nephew and half-sister. First comes the hula hoops. Poor Jason, he can't hula hoop...hope that isn't an indicator of his beneath the sheets moves. Heehee! Second comes the dead dove. OME!! ARE YOU SERIOUS? Jason, run now, run as fast as you can!!! Let us all have a moment of silence for Rosy, the dead dove.

Seriously, Naomi is a goner. Pack up now and lets get to Melissa's date...

(I do have to mention, before moving on, Hector, the father, sits Jason down to give him the christian spiritual conversation. He got pretty intimate on the topic, but then the mom interrupted them and took Jason away for some one on one! She then sits down with him and discusses the premonitions she has and how Naomi is strong psychically. Then she moved on to reincarnation. Hmmmmm...no wonder Naomi's parents got a divorce.)

Hometown Date #4 Dallas, TX...Melissa (YEA DALLAS!)

Their reunion was by far the best! They were so giddy happy lovey dovey. Love it! Love her! She gave Jason a gift, which she made, and it was for Ty...a tooth fair tooth holder. Major brownie points! Then the floor drops a bit. Her parents did not feel comfortable meeting Jason with all the cameras. Poor Melissa. Suck it up folks, she needs this! I thought it was actually really nice because the friends she brought him to meet were married and had kids. I thought it was going to be more of a bunch of young girls drooling over Jason, but was glad that it still had the family vibe to it.

The girls split and googoo over how great she feels with Jason. The guys split and talked about Melissa. The guys had only good things to say about her. It was really sweet because the talk about her like they would talk about their little sister. So sweet!

A red flag for Jason was the fact that her close friends didn't really know her parents and vice versa. Jason and Melissa were the only ones, from all the hometown dates, that got alone time together after the "family time". She had to explain to him that her parents are very private people, don't know her friends, didn't go to any of her games. Sad, but then they kissed a bunch, so that made it better!

Rose Ceremony

#1: Molly...she looked like she was wearing my BCBGMaxAzria dress, which I have in blue and wore to the Twilight Premiere. I wore it better! :)

#2: Jillian

#3: Melissa

Bye bye Naomi. Poor thing, but they just weren't compatible. At least not to me, the viewer of the Bachelor.

(deanna, are you even coming back? deanna, are you there?)

Falling Whistles

2009-02-09T13:42:00.000-08:00

go here to read about my unexpected outing on Saturday evening

The Bachelor Recap #5...2 hours?!?!?!

2009-02-04T17:33:00.001-08:00

I can't believe this show is 2 hours. Man, I'll try to keep it short and too the point. I had another Bachelor watching party. Cindy, Dylana, Liz! I love you girls so much. Thank you for coming over to watch the show. I love that we have yet to watch an episode! Our chats mean more to me than you know.

Ok, Final 5! Molly, Jillian, Melissa, Stephanie, Naomi. All the ladies will be traveling to Seattle. This episode was running slow for me. Like super slow. Like they should have cut out some of the jealous chit chat of the women and made it an hour show instead of 2 hours.

It was sweet to show the reunion between Jason and Ty. He is always emotional when they meet again. So sweet! Can I just mention that Seattle is so beautiful? Well, it is!

Date #1: Melissa

(side note: Naomi is whining because she didn't get the first one on one. Naomi, stop whining and guess what, IMPORTANT has a T in the middle, it isn't impor-ant!)

Not a big fan of Melissa's dress, it kind of squished her boobs funny. Poor Ty and poor Jason. He is totally having a child meltdown moment. So, he calls Melissa (LATE: not good) and tells her to get in the car and go to his house. When Jason comes down Melissa is in her boob squishing dress, so she changed into her stretchy pants. I love that because we all know we have our stretchy pants!

Another side note: Melissa played with her ice cream for like 5 minutes and never ate a bite. Their date is giving me a weird vibe. I don't have a good feeling about her and Jason's future. Oh and I just saw her tramp stamp!

Date #2: Stephanie, Jillian, Molly: starts on a boat, then a radio station, then dinner/drinks at the hotel

Stephanie get the first alone time. I like her, I think she is sweet. But tonight she was looking a little to Trani (transvestite) for me. She had on a with fur vest and lots of rings and makeup.

At the radio station the girls are sitting in another room where they cannot hear. However, Melissa and Naomi are at home listening to his answers, including the one of who was the best kisser. That had to hurt the other girls who were listening. The kissing questions leads to a blind kissing test to see if he could figure out who is who. That is a totally loaded event! Lucky for Jason, he got it all right. Good job Jason!

Jillian got the second alone time with him. She opens up to him and let him know that she came here for the experience. Wow! That surprised me. I wonder if she is there for the right reasons and don't know is she is ready to be a stepmom and wife. We shall see! I want to see him in her environment.

Date #3: Naomi

I am over Naomi. Their date started on a sea plane and then moved to a large sporting good store. I am annoyed by her hair, why is it always in her face. I am annoyed with her hood. Why do you need to wear a hood indoors? It isn't raining. It isn't windy. Take the hood off. Did that bug ya'll or am I being mean?

Ok, so the next day he comes to the girls hotel room and pull Jillian aside. He wants to make sure she is there for the right reasons. I love her again! She seems so fun and loving and real. It makes me think they are good again. She is Molly's biggest competition. I feel like those two girls the leaders of the pack. I will place my bet on Molly and Jillian to be the final two. Anyone with me?

I am not a cussing girl, but when the h-e-double hockey stick is DeAnna coming???

I think either Stephanie or Naomi are going home.

Rose Ceremony:

All the girls look great...except Naomi. I did not like her blue/black faux two piece dress and I hate those two bunches of hair that she constantly keeps on either side of her face. I also wasn't a big fan of Stephanie's dress. Jason surprised the girls and says that he needs to ask one girl more questions. It was Naomi and I really didn't think he asked her that much. He asked if she was ready for this lifestyle. That was it. Really, I thought he would have asked more or voiced more concern.

And the roses go too: Jillian. Melissa. Molly. Naomi

Stephanie is going home. Jason wants to say in front of everyone:

You are...the most amazing person I have ever met. And I think we are all better people for meeting you here. You are a beautiful person, outside and in. I'm so glad to have met you.

She is one amazing woman. I hope she is the next Bachelorette or better yet, finds a man that will make her a princess. She is one classy lady.

Next time... Jason travels to the girls hometowns.

The Bachelor Recap #4...and it keeps getting better!

2009-01-28T18:09:00.001-08:00

I am so excited to be sitting on my couch, watching the Bachelor while blogging on my new MacBook. I am the proud new owner of an Apple! Yea...!

Ok, here we go. There will be 3 dates with roses, a 1 on 1, group and a 2 on 1.

For the 1 on 1 date the girls will have to write and perform a song for Jason (remind you of last season?). Impressions...Molly is to silly, Stephanie is a total pageant girl and Nikki is control freaking out because she is so anal! I don't know how she is going to be as a mom...maybe that will relax her a bit! Shannon is rapping, oh no!

STEPHANIE...DID SHE REALLY WEAR THAT AND SING THAT???? Nikki sang a song that she would want to sing to her baby. She did good, but that wasn't really the point.

1 on 1: Jason and Molly (she won the song sing-off) --"Let's stay home tonight at my place"

I am so glad to see Jason have a regular (non-slut) date. This would so totally be my kind of date. Eating fast food while sitting on a blanket on the floor - Love it! How cute, next the go outside on a blanket, next to a tent and make smores. Yumm-o! Ok, I have to admit, at first I wasn't a Molly fan, but hearing her talk kind of make me like here more. I just don't know if she is ready for Jason's life. She does get the rose and a kiss...lots of kissing!

The date is dragging on and it is getting late. Of course psycho Shannon is lurking in the dark waiting for Molly's return. She is so crazy. Do we really need to hear the moaning going on inside the tent? I think not! Jason drops her off in the morning. She totally struts inside in his clothes. Did you get the feeling she walked in to show off? That had to rub the girls the wrong way.

Group Date: Jillian, Lauren, Shannon, Megan, Melissa and Naomi --"Want to Play Doctor?"

Do you notice how many girls are wearing scarfs this season? The go to the set of "General Hospital". That would be fun, but I don't know anything about soaps. So, this show quickly goes back to "slut-dates". They are going to do a kissing scene. Of course, psycho Shannon offers to do the first kiss. I really don't like this date. I don't think it is fair to kiss him in front of other people, I don't like it at all. Not at all! Totally awkward! I loved Jillian's crazy blond wig. She is so funny!!!

Ok, this is Megan's scene. She is in a little black nightie thing. I seriously DO NOT like her at all. She attacks his face. Like, totally attacks his face!!!! I think it is safe to say that she has a lot of pent up sexual energy. Bye Bye Megan (please don't give her a rose, please!!!).

After that, they go to a nightclub to hang out. Naomi is sitting by herself, so Jason steps in and takes the damsel in distress downstairs to talk. Good move Naomi! Way to get alone time with him. I really like Melissa. She had a really hard time with this date and seeing the girls kiss Jason. She seems so open and ready to be with Jason in a sincere way. I think Megan and Melissa are total opposites. Do you agree? Oh my goodness. Megan had one on one time with Jason and he didn't kiss her and she really, really wanted him to kiss her. She is crazy. Does anyone like her? I vote that Shannon and Megan go bye bye!

Lauren and Jason have one on one time. Now, last week, Jason and Lauren had some chatting time where Lauren ratted out how mean Megan is. That was why there was so much drama at the rose ceremony. So, tonight, she was bad mouthing Megan again. Not really a topic I would want to keep bringing up on all my one on one times. I'm not a Lauren fan either.

Ok, now Melissa has some one on one time. I like her! She immediately starts crying. That would so be me! She shared that the date was hard for her because she realized that she really likes him. It was so sweet and innocent and honest. ARGGGGGGG! Psycho Shannon interrupts their one on one time!!! She forces the next one on one time with him. (Someone bring out the straight jacket!) (Someone, get a restraining order...she keeps saying "you can't let me go, I'm not letting you let me go") She really just blew her snotty nose in front of him, and picked her nose. Yuck. Their kiss was so weird. Rejected.

Naomi got the group date rose.

2 on 1: Stephanie and Nikki (I hope Nikki goes home)

I really don't know who is going to go home. Nikki is so OCD, but Stephanie seems a little to formal for him. Once again, the girls get fancy, picked-out clothes. So pretty woman (again)! Jason picks the girls up in this amazing old school car and go to a fancy restaurant. They begin by bringing out a ballroom dance instructor to learn to waltz. Stephanie was totally in her element but poor Nikki was not looking so hot! Poor Jason didn't look that comfortable dancing with Stephanie because she looks so elegant and professional. OME! Nikki just stole Jason from Stephanie..Oh no she didn't! Stephanie just stole him back from Nikki. I feel the claws coming out! It was almost becoming a game of stealing the man candy.

I was surprised at how Nikki was really sticking her neck out there with opening up. She told Jason for the first time that she was in a serious relationship for 11 years. I couldn't believe that she hadn't told him about that relationship before. Then he gets one on one time with Stephanie. I like her, but at times she is a bit to much. Too passionate. Too focused. Too in control. Too much!

Dum Dum Dum...he has the rose....and it goes too

STEPHANIE!!!! Yea! You could totally tell that Stephanie was just devastated for Nikki. Stephanie is a truly genuine woman. At the end of the night, she finally get her kiss.

Rose Ceremony:

I love Jillian's dress. Super sexy purple strapless dress with a dangerously low cut back! Love it, Love her! I really hate Shannon's dress! It was like a crocheted white top with red layered bottom. Not good! Lauren gives him way to much crap, almost like a little, annoying sister! Bossy! She is so going home.

Roses go to: Melissa, Jillian, I KNEW IT!!!! I totally new he wasn't going to give out the last rose. His choices were Psycho Megan, Psycho Shannon or Bossy Lauren. I have ESP!!! Yea for Jason to not give out a tag along rose! Ohhh, Megan is about to blow up the beeping machine! (Molly, Naomi and Stephanie already have roses)

Going home: Megan (yea!), Shannon (yea!) and Lauren (yea!)

Next week, he gets to see Ty and brings the girls to Seattle. (HELLO? When does DeAnna come back?)

Until next week, let me know our thoughts?

Milestone

2009-01-23T13:39:00.000-08:00

Today was a big day! Gage has been more interested in the Elmo Potty this week, often asking to go "Pee-Pee on Elmo". So, I have been taking advantage of that, as well as his new found talent of removing his clothes. He has even gone into his bathroom, alone and without prompting, to use the potty. Come comes back so proud of himself and we do the Pee-Pee Dance. Today, he was enjoying his nakedness and went into the bathroom, alone, and shut the door. Then, we hear a cry type scream. My mom goes in there to find poo-poo in the potty. Holy Moly Ya'll! My kid pooped on the potty all by himself. This was a first! So, he got extra candy for that task. Hopefully I can keep encouraging the potty training at his speed and we can say bye bye to the diapers and hello to the big boy undies!

The Bachlor Recap...#3

2009-01-22T17:41:00.000-08:00

(Please enjoy the music of my current most favorite cd!)
(Oh and don't forget to subscribe to my blog and get email notification of new post. They don't send junk mail and it is pretty cool...just look to the right and put your email in!)

What in the world is taking me so long to post these dang bachlor recaps?!?! I don't have a good answer, except that when I had my Bachelor viewing party on Monday night with Cindy and Dylana, they stayed until 11pm and we never turned on the tv. Then, on Tuesday I watched the Practice and Grey's after the kids went to bed. Last night I talked on the phone with my stepmom for 95 minutes and then watch Gossip Girls, Season 1, in my bed. So, I have priorities. Sorry to leave you hanging.

Ok, here we go...

This was episode #3 which consisted of 1 group date and 2 1 on 1 dates.

Stephanie

Date #1: Jason and Stephanie (formerly known as Botox Face, I will cease calling her that because now I actually really like her...for a couple reasons. #1, she was wearing my favorite jeans...MEK. #2, she seems like a really sweet and lovely lady who I want to be happy and find love!). So, for their date they went to the beach where, (not really a surprise because we saw it in the preview from last weeks show...thanks for the spoiler alert ABC) Jason surprised her with Sophie. It was her 4th birthday and did their reunion just not make ya'll ball? I was emotional, it was just too sweet. They did lots of fun things at Legoland, someplace I would love to take Gage and Jillian one day. The thing that got me on this date was that they did not show the end. They showed Sophie drive away on the limo, Jason and Stephanie hugging each other and then BAM, they move on to the group date. Did they kiss? Did they eat dinner? Did they get in a fight? We will never know. I think we should contact the editing department at ABC and let them know there was a problem!

Date #2: Group Date: Shannon, Naomi, Melissa, Carrie, Jillian, Nikki, Erica, Megan...there may be more, but that is what I could write down.

I like to call this the "Slut Date". Not because of the girls that were there, but because of what they did and how they did it. They went to make a mold of their bust...aka their boobs. Now, it was for a good cause, breast cancer, however, they had it set up like a porn movie. They girls would go behind these sheer curtains, which were back lite so you could see their silhouettes very definitely...like, I could tell which girls were cold! Then, once they were covered, Jason got to go back there and help apply the gluey paper stuff over their boobs and help smooth it out. Seriously, that was slutty. Not a fan of that date.

Some things that stuck out. I really do not like horse teeth girl. She is psycho. I think that Nikki is way to up-tight, controlling and inflexible to be a mom, stepmom, or good girlfriend at this point. Melissa, the DCC told Jason she had a breast reduction...odd moment there. He ended up giving Jillian the rose for that date...YEA!!!! I love Jillian.

Megan

I am not a fan of Megan, she is, like, totally, a complete and, like, utter airhead. Example, she asked if a woman could breastfeed after she had a mastectomy. Really? Megan, in the words of my son, "Stop talkin' ". Megan also has a very unattractive potty mouth.

Date #3, Jason and Natalie

Poor Natalie. She is just so not Jason's type. She is a trophy wife type of girl. She was late for the date (I was not a fan of the shoes she picked out either). They had a pretty woman style date...are you seeing a trend? She had the fancy necklace, a private jet, a helicopter ride, then Vegas.

When Jason wants to see if he could get her to get more personal, she responds...

"I love bears."
Jason: "What kind of bears...?"
Natalie: "I love all kinds of bears."
...crickets....crickets...crickets...

Needless to say, she left without a rose and was sent home to curse out the limo camera guy. Nice.

Rose Ceremony: Drama with Megan...shocker. Lauren told Jason that Megan is mean. Shannon (teeth girl) pukes under the pressure.

In the end, Erika and Kari went home.

Until next week...let me know your thoughts. And seriously, when is DeAnna coming???

Amazing New Feature

2009-01-19T13:10:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is great! I recently heard from my neighbor, Dylana, about a feature where you will get email notifications when I have a new post. On the right side of the page is a spot to add your email address. Once you subscribe and activate your email, you will then receive notifications of new post. How great is that!?! I love my bloglines, but you actually have to open that, so this is way easier. Go subscribe today and be the first to read all my posts! Yea for Feedburner!

Oh yea, I am SO excited about the Bachelor tonight and have loved all your posted comments!

The Bachelor Recap According to Linsey...Episode 2

2009-01-15T06:53:00.001-08:00

Oh man. I don't know if I could handle the emotional drama and psychological warfare these ladies put themselves through on this show. Seriously, it would be to much. Ok, on to the show!

Jason decided to play it cool and surprise the girls poolside to see what they are like without being able to prepare for his arrival. How convenient that he chose the pool (where they would be half naked and wet) to meet them. If he wants to see the real them he should have come late at night when they are in their stretchy pants, their hair in a nest on the top of their head and their faces dotted with zit cream. But hey, this is tv, so I will let it slide.

They all are chatting around the pool, ladies taking him away, Jason doing the same. The awkward moment goes to Botox Face, who, made margaritas for Jason and herself and then proceeded to stand, awkwardly, next to Jason and the girl. Good plan, however, Jason never looked at her. Maybe he couldn't see her, but I did feel bad for her. The twist, I know, you are shocked there would be a twist, was that...dum dum dum...there would be a rose given away. The receiver of this rose would get a one on one date that evening with Jason. It went to Jillian. Now, I don't know most of the girls' names on this show yet (hence the use of botox face), however, I really like Jillian, and she has a fabulous name!

Jason and Jillian: Their date was awesome. They went on a date to some architectural dream of a building where Robin Thicke sang to them. Oh man, Robin Thicke is a hottie. I first saw him on Oprah (when I used to watch that show many moons ago). You should be listening to him now, if not, turn up yo speaka' sista'! (A bit of getto slang for you!) Jillian got the first kiss...how dreamy!

Jason and Melissa: The second date went to Melissa (the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader). I like her too. Their date started off good, they were walking on the beach where they came across a table with wine and yummy things. Their conversation was good as well. She wants to be a teacher, 1st grade, and loves kids, wants a family. My concern with her is her age, but hey, everyone is different. Then came the blimp. Really, if I guy asked me out, I said yes, and then I found out we were going to ride in a blimp...seriously, a blimp, I don't know how I would feel about that. Helicopter, yes; private plane, yes; stretch limo, yes; blimp, um, that is weird. What did ya'll think? She got a kiss too, regardless of the blimp.

Oh, some interesting things about Melissa. This is her first date (kiss) in 3 years. Man, Dallas boys, she is a cutie. I don't know why she hasn't dated.

Then came the group date. It had Natalie, Kari, Molly (who said her talent was kissing...slutty), Nikki (who had one boyfriend her whole life for 11 years and has only kissed him), Naomi, the chubby girl with long hair, Megan and two more girls I can't remember. They had a "Pretty Woman" style date. They went to a ritzy store where they got to pick out their outfit. It was weird, but hey, it is ABC. I don't remember a lot about this date, so I will move on.

Rose Ceremony: Sharon and Raquel (the stalker waiting in the car) went home.

Next Weeks Questions: When is DeAnna coming? Will he keep her there? Why is he keeping horse teeth girl? Will I start really liking Botox Face after I see her with her daughter? Seeing the previews of that almost made me cry! It was so sweet. Ok, let me know what you thought!!!

Tackle!

2009-01-11T12:12:00.000-08:00

The Bachelor

2009-01-07T06:42:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love to escape life and enjoy the ridiculous drama of the Bachelor. This season will prove, once again, to be full of cattiness, make-outs, breakups, tears and surprises....I would expect nothing less from ABC!

Jason...originally on the Bachelorette with DeAnna. (Side Note: I am still mad at her. She got mad at Brad for not picking her at the final rose ceremony, but then accepts a proposal from Jesse, which she then proceeds to dump after they were living together...that ain't right). Jason is a single dad whose wife divorced him a few years ago. I said before, and I will say again, I think he has some kind of issue. Maybe anger, maybe jealousy, but something.

I am not going into all the women because, well, I have kids and there are just to many to talk about. I will mention a few, but not by name because I am too lazy to look at the website. If I were to say "botox face" would you know who I was talking about? Sad story, but seriously, ladies, lets us that as an example of when to say no to the plastic surgeon. What about the "vision board girl". There is always one of those, the older(est) girl on the show who, although seems somewhat normal has become a bit crazed in her quest to find a man. Plus, I think she goes to yoga too much! I LOVE the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, maybe not for Jason, but just because I loved her in the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders show! Of course, we can't forget all the drama between stealing Jason away, the drunk ones, the dancers and the ones with written words for their love Jason...OH, what about the stalker, teeth girl. She was the dental hygienist...watch out for that one Jason. I don't really have a favorite yet. There was a blond teacher that I liked, I think she taught history. I vote for her!

Two twists this season: They had a box for the girls to vote out someone they think "isn't right" for Jason, when in reality, they are going to vote off the prettiest one who poses the most competition. ABC knows what they are doing in the create drama department. The girls ended up voting out the single mom of a 14 month old (that is Jillian's age). However, the plan backfired in their face as the twist was really that the votes gave her a rose instead of giving her the boot. I didn't like that twist at all. Not a fan of that girl, and not a fan of the elimination voting box.

Second twist: DeAnna will return. Ya'll, I think he is going to pick her. I do. I don't know exactly what I think of that, or her, or them, but I'll ponder my thoughts and fill you in.

Ok, I am off. Promise to have more pictures and details as the show goes on. I am just not a fan of the beginning. I don't like all the drama and competition. I like to watch the dates and get to know the girls and how they work with Jason. So, let me know your thoughts, favorite and opinions on all the Bachelor!

To Make You Laugh

2008-12-22T19:53:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you come across a picture that just puts a smile on your face. This picture came up on my mini-slide show that sits on the corner of my desktop and did just that!

This was my first Mother's Day, 2006...priceless!

Nathan, Gage, Josh

Santa

2008-12-17T13:37:00.000-08:00

I had a talk with Santa (AKA my husband while we were at Toys R Us) and this is what he is bringing the kids for Christmas!

Jillian: Gage:

The Sound of Pitter Patter...

2008-12-17T13:20:00.000-08:00

Is coming from Miss Jillian Grace! 2 weeks ago, on Saturday, Dec 6th, Jillian started taking a few brave steps on her own. It is so sweet and so cute, but also a bit scary with a 2 1/2 year old zooming through the house. Her is Jillian (and Gage) in our playroom!

Out of the Mouths of Babes

2008-12-15T17:51:00.000-08:00

This was a conversation I had with Gage tonight while I was making dinner and he was watching the end of Polar Express:
Gage, "Mom, I'm happy!"
Me, "Oh, Gage, that is so great! I'm glad you're happy."
Gage, "Mom, you're pretty"
Me (almost in tears because he has never said that before), "Thank you so much Gage, that is just too sweet"
Gage, "Mom, I like this tv"
Me, "I am so glad you like the television, is this a a good movie?"
Gage, "Yes"

Sometimes my heart could just explode!

Gage and his cars

2008-12-15T17:26:00.000-08:00

Gage has zero intersted in learning his ABCs, he does however, know the names of all of his cars! I love this video because he gets into his monster voice. He is so cute! Oh, and yes, he is wearing Cars pjs. At the end I get him to say his name by calling him Bob!

A No Good, Rotten, Bad Day...

2008-12-11T17:34:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have those? They don't happen to me often, but today was one of them. Everything was just off. Hubby, off. Kids, off. Me, off! If you felt the same, know you are not alone. Some days are just suck-o!

I'm taking a Tylenol pm, going to bed, and saying a prayer that tomorrow will be a brighter day for all.

LA...Day 2

2008-12-07T13:25:00.000-08:00

FINALLY! I am moving on to day two of our LA, Twilight Premiere trip details. If you missed Day 1, click here.

We all woke up at K&K's aunt and uncles house, lounged around, ate and beautified ourselves. Then we were off to face a day full of fashion, food and fun!

Here we are outside aunt and uncle's house...looking lovely, eh?

Me, Kassie, Gina and Kallie

The aunt and uncle gave us directions to the Santa Monica pier and through Malibu so we could see some sights and shop. The landscape in Cali is so different from Texas. There are mountains and ocean and green, it was beautiful. A major downfall was the fires that were running rampant to our south and our north. It made the air very smokey. Just rolling our windows down on the car for a second, it smelled like someone was blowing bbq smoke in our face. It was bad. Plus, all the weaving around the mountains was making us car sick...it had nothing to do with my superb driving!

Here are Kallie and I stopping to get some "fresh" air

Our first stop in Malibu, CVS, of course! Mama needs her Diet Dr Peppers. We also stocked up on breakfast bars, Cheetos and potato chips, among other goodies. While shopping we encountered some very nice firemen. We got to chatting about the fires and our travels to Cali. After we checked out and were heading to our car, one of the firemen stopped us asking if we could all take a picture together. Flattering...yes? A little weird...yes.

Next we were off to the Santa Monica Pier. None of us anticipated the warm weather, so we were not in proper warm weather beach attire. Needless to say, we stayed about 10 minutes, used the potty, bought cheap shirts for our kids and were out of there!

Me and Gina

Kallie and Kassie

Kallie, Me, Gina and Kassie

On our drive to our hotel, we passed Gage Ave...the first st listed.

Oh how I missed my babies!

Down town LA

We got lost on the way to our hotel and ended up in ChinaTown.

Finally, we made it to the Roosevelt HotelThe view from our window, that is Kodak Theatre

Our room!That night we had an amazing dinner at Dolce.

Me, Gina, Kassie, Kallie

While we were there, we met 2 of the members of Dolce Group. We asked for recommendations for the nightlife there. We wanted to shake our tail feathers! They, so kindly, recommended Le Deux, a club they own. So, we took a picture outside the building and headed back to our hotel.

Kallie, Kassie, me and Gina

We had to hit the pool area of the Roosevelt, because, HELLO, they filmed part of 90210 there!

Gina and Kallie, poolside!

Me and Kassie

Then we headed to Le Deux...ya'll it was the best night ever. The people were so awesome. They loved us because we were from Texas. Apparently some California people do not think that other California girls are all the nice and friendly. We, on the other hand, complimented lots of lovely ladies and gentlemen and seemed to win them over. Worked for us!

Here are the fire dances on the roof of the patio bar area.

Me and Kallie on the outside dance floor

Kassie and Gina...I love Gina's expression!

Sisterly love...Kallie and Kassie

So, after we took our pictures with the firemen, we made a checklist of other things/people we wanted to get pictures with. We wanted to take a picture with a biker, but we figured just the bike would do!

Me and Gina

Kassie and Kallie!

Oh Lord, if you are wearing high heels and are told that the club is only 2 1/2 blocks from your hotel, it is ok to walk there. HOWEVER, ladies, take this warning, get a cab home, or store some flats in your clutch. I don't know if my feet will ever be the same!

I'll move on to day 3 - Twilight Live - soon!

Thanksgiving 08

2008-12-05T17:33:00.000-08:00

We had a very nice Thanksgiving over at my mom and step-dad's house. It is so nice going over there with kids that aren't infants. Because there is actual land to move, it helps that Gage is 2. He really enjoys his time there. So, here is our Thanksgiving in a blog post...Family, Food and Fun!

Jillian and Grandma

(Jillian isn't in to many pictures because she blessed her mommy with a 3 1/2 hr nap!)

Jay, my step-dad, and his brother Carl

getting ready for some FOOTBALL!

Gina and Chris, my brother Dave and me...and my sweet brother who ruined this otherwise lovely picture!

Love you Chris!

Gina and Josh The chefs in our matching aprons,
Gina, Mom and me!
My Sweet Potato Pie...so good!

Seriously, make this one for Christmas!

And my homemade butternut squash tortellini!
All the spread

More Yumminess!

Gina guarding the food!

Jillian is ready to eat!

The fun...

Grandpa with the grand-babes on the golf cart

Josh and Gage enjoying the fresh air

Don't you just love Gage's Romo jersey!?!

Nathan, Gage and Josh, in awe of the tractor

Josh, Gage and Nathan getting ready for...

The tractor ride

Grandpa and Gage driving

Nathan and Josh riding!

Gina dancing to the Jonas Brother's halftime show

Tub time...Josh, Gage and Nathan
These are some tired eyes!

Gage had been up the night before from 1:03-4:44am...It was bad!

I tried letting him cry, bringing him to bed with me and then just letting

him cry some more. So, needless to say, after the full day of fun

at Grandma and Grandpa's house, he was ready for bed!

Amy Howe's Photo Session

2008-12-01T20:14:00.001-08:00

Amy Howe is fabulous and took some more A-mazing pictures of the fam this weekend. Here are my favs, which are pretty much all of them! Enjoy! (Check out the other pictures she took a few months back here!)

Halloween in November?

2008-11-24T06:57:00.000-08:00

No, it just took me that long to post these pictures. For Halloween, the family piled in the car and drove 3 streets back! Ha! We pulled a Britney Spears (you know, driving with the kids in your lap!). We were invited to a street party, where they had lots of goodies, including pizza, a cheese tray, candy and a variety of beverages!

Here is Jillian, the little ladybug!

Here is Gage in his hated dragon costume. He was so not into wearing a costume this year, especially one that had to be on his head. I thought he looked so cute though! It was a shame to take it off, but hey, choose your battles, right?

After the party, Dave and Gage trick-or-treated their way back to our house, where Jillian and I were passing out candy. Gage just loved Halloween. Everything is still scary, he still sees ghosts and scary cats/dogs/bears/houses/witches/everything! It was a fun night!

LA Trip...Day 1

2008-11-22T13:29:00.000-08:00

Here is my trip in a nutshell. I cannot start day one without first telling the week proceeding this glorious vaca. It all started Thursday, Nov 6th...a week and a day before our take off. I was sick, like, can't talk, tight airway, want to lay down, SICK. So, after the kids went to bed, I drove to our local ER for some treatment. I was diagnosed with bronchitis, given a ZPack and shot in the rump and sent on my merry way. After all, I couldn't get sick, my baby girl was having her first birthday party, we were enjoying some out-of-town family and I was leaving for LA soon! Not time to get sick. I began to feel better.

Next, was Saturday, Jillian's birthday party, which was amazing. I will post pictures of that after I get done with the LA trip. However, on this day of celebration, my little guy woke up from his nap (yes, he is napping again...Praise the Lord!) with a croup cough and a fever. So, I drove down to our local ER, got him some steroids, watched Madagascar and had dinner with about 16 family members.

Then came Monday, Jillian's 1 year check-up. She got 3 shots and got so upset when the doctor was checking her out that she threw up. It was a pitiful appointment, but you got to do it!

Next up is Tuesday, when my sweet baby girl wakes up from her afternoon nap with a croup cough and a fever. I once again drove to the ER, got her a dose of steroids and came home to go to bed.

Thursday we were back in the ER for another dose of steroids for Jillian because her cough came back and she had strider. NOT FUN! I felt like I should have gone to dinner with the ER staff after visiting there so many times. It was pitiful!

Here is my sweet, sick little Gage in Grandma's arms at Jillian's party.

Here is Jillian giving us her shy face in her super cute and warm new hat!

In between all the doctor visits I did manage to do some serious shopping for the trip as well as get a spray on tan. I didn't think my pasty-whiteness would fit in well in LA, so all the girls went. I was a bit mortified at the outcome, but the lady did say it would be DARK the first day and settle in the second day.

Night of getting attacked by the misting lady!

Friday morning we were off. Gina came over to finish our last minute packing...we did this to save on our checked luggage since they charge you your first born child now!

Gina and I at the airport! LA HERE WE COME!

We met up with Kallie and Kassie at the airport as well. Our tans looking much better than earlier in the week, don't you think?
My first celebrity sighting...at the DFW airport's, Blue Mesa Grill

(Girls, this place is good!)

Our last meal in DFW!!! (me, Kassie, Gina, Kallie)

Me and Kallie, about to board the plane!

Gina, up about 10 rows from us.

But that didn't stop us from getting together on the plane!

We landed, alive and happy and got our sexy ride, a Chrysler 300...RED!

Gina and I

Kallie and Kassie...

don't we look like those auto magazine models, just with a lot more clothes on?

After getting all our luggage in the car, which was a feat in itself, we headed out to meet up with Kallie and Kassie's aunt and uncle. We were ready with our maps and some seriously good tunes, and were on our way. It was one of the most fun experiences we had in Cali. It took us about 2 hours to drive 16 miles. We didn't go over 10mph for 90% of the trip, but we danced and flirted our hearts out. I think I burned about 1000 calories on that drive. It was a true LA-rush-hour-traffic experience.

We ended up meeting that aunt/uncle at The Grove, which is a great outside shopping center. And what did we see...

Tons of Twilight movie posters

Gina, me, Kassie, Kallie

The Grove is starting their Christmas decorations. It was so pretty.

After eating at Maggiano's I was exhausted. Seriously, I could bearly keep my eyes open. The week leading up to this trip wore me out. Plus, the time change didn't help. We got in the car around 9pm, but to us, it was like 11pm...way past my bedtime!

Kassie and Kallie were doing good after their Starbucks fix!

We got settled in the aunt/uncle's house, Gina and I in the guest room, Kallie and Kassie on their own couches in the den and we slept good! It was a great start to our trip, lots of fun and crazy times. Which, as it turns out, was the theme to this girls trip!

More to come on Day 2 soon! Hope you enjoyed!

Jillian's Birthday

2008-11-20T09:38:00.000-08:00

I am working on several posts right now. However, I wanted to get something out there about Jillian's first birthday and her party. You can go to her Gigi's blog to check out pictures. I will be posting lots more soon!

Twilight Movie Premiere and After Party Pictures

2008-11-18T10:25:00.001-08:00

UPDATES!: I posted this blog this morning while we were packing/getting ready. I have added the names of the actors we saw and will be posting TONS more pictures and details of the whole trip soon! It was A-mazing!

Here are some of the pictures from the trip. Enjoy and check out the Twilight Series Theories website for more fun pictures and info. Will post more later!

Gina and I with our MAC makeup done!

Let me just say that false eyelashes take some serious getting used too!

My final look

Kallie and Kassie's final face!

In our limo on our way to the best night ever!

Gina, Me, Kallie and Kassie outside the Village Theatre

Fans lined up

Here Kallie and I are being denied access to walk the red carpet. Still cool!
It was a sight to be seen

Me, Stephanie Meyer (the author of the Twilight series), Kallie and Kassie

Me, Kallie, Taylor Lautner (Jacob), Kassie

Seth Green and me

Seth Green and Kassie...yes, he wore fangs!

Me and Rachelle Lefevre (Victoria, one of the bad vampires)

Kallie, Rachelle and Kassie

Kallie, Kassie, Peter Facinelle (Dr. Carlisle Cullen) and me

Peter is married to Jenny Garth (Kelly from 90210) and yes, we got a picture w/ here too!

Kallie, Jenny Garth, Gina, me, Kassie

Kallie, Gina, Kassie, Lance Bass, me

...I SERIOUSLY CANNOT BELIEVE I CUT OFF THE VIEW OF LANCE BASS!!!!

GRRR to my big head!

Gina, Kallie, Kristen Stewart (Bella), me and Kassie

Me, Kassie, Kellan Lutz (Emmett)...who is also on 90210, Kallie and Gina

Justin Chon (Eric) and Kallie

Kallie, Kassie, Jamie Foxx, me and Gina

Kallie, Kassie, Gil Birmingham (Billy, Jacobs dad), Me and Gina

Kallie, Edi Gathegi (Laurent, another bad vampire), me and Kassie

Kallie, Solomon (Sam) and Kassie

Kassie, Kallie, Catherine Hardwicke (the Director of Twilight) and me

Kallie, Kassie, Billy Burke (Charlie), me, Jeffrey Dean Morgan (Denny from Grey's) and Gina

Kassie, Me, Ashley Greene (Alice), Kallie and Gina

Gina, Kallie, Anna Kendrick (Jessica) , me, Kassie

After the premiere and after party, this was the look...

Lots more pictures and details to come...

What! DeAnna and Jesse Broke Up?!?!

2008-11-03T18:38:00.000-08:00

What is the world coming too!

First, check out their website here and make sure you watch the YouTube video. Let me know your thoughts on all this!

Read Here

We should all buy Team Jesse shirts.

Thanks for the tip Michelle!

My New Rocker

2008-11-01T20:00:00.001-07:00

Look at that face!

State Fair of Texas 08

2008-11-01T19:09:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back I went to the State Fair of Texas with Gage, my friend Lauren and her daughter Meryn. We had free parking, only had to pay $1 for admission, since we brought 3 canned goods.

Gage and Meryn

We met my friends from college, Heath and Janelle, with their daughter, Ella.

They are professional St Fair go-ers and they recommended the dog show and we were not let down.

Here are Gage and Ella...holding hands. How sweet is that!

Love it!

And then the rain came...

And came...

And came...

We managed to get a corn dog and a funnel cake, and then it was time to go!

We had fun but were soaked.
Lauren and Meryn

Me and Gage

Gage is done...noticed his new cars!

The moms!

Most Amazing Invitations Ever

2008-10-13T06:52:00.000-07:00

Since Gage's first birthday, we have been going to BabyCardExpressions. This is where we got Gage's birthday invite, Christmas cards, Jillian's birth announcement and now, Jillian's First Birthday invitation. Stacey does so amazing work and really caters to your needs. Plus, she has such a quick turn around time. I have nothing but great things to say about here.

As you can see, she is amazing...

This is the card with all the pictures, from birth to current. Don't you just love it?!?! And how cute is that red pettiskirt!?! I highly recommend her for any holiday that can be captured on paper! Check her out here! Tell her I sent you!

How to Boo Someone

2008-10-12T06:44:00.000-07:00

This is a tradition our neighborhood participates in. Have I mentioned how much I love our neighborhood? I am posting this so that you all will start it up in your area. It is too easy!

Here's what you do:
1. Go to Target/Dollar Store (where ever) and buy 2 pumpkin baskets.
2. Fill them with candy and little goodies.
3. Inside each you also put a copy of the poem below (with instructions), and a piece of paper that says, "BOO".
4. Then proceed to follow the instructions below to keep the Boo-ing going!

The air is cool the season fall
Soon Halloween will come to all
The spooks are after things to do
In fact, a spook brought this to you“BOO” is a shield from witching hour
Just hang it up and watch its power
On your front door is where it works
It wards off spooks and scary jerks
The treats that came with crypted note
Are yours to keep, enjoy them both
The power comes when friends like you
Will copy this and make it TWO
Then others here among our friends
Will give warm fuzzies that do not end
We’ll all have smiles upon our faces
No one will know who “BOO”ed whose places
Just one short day to work your spell
Or a big ZAP will strike your tail
And don’t forget a nifty treat,
Like something cute or something sweet
Please join fun, let’s really hear it
And spread some “BOO”s and Halloween spirit.

Here's what you do:
1. Place BOO in your window for neighbors to see (after receiving a BOO).
2. Pass two "scare" packages on to your neighbors who haven't been "BOO"ed yet including poem and BOO pictures.
3. Watch to see the fun spread around the neighborhood.

Weekend at the Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was so nice. We invited Nathan to come to our local pumpkin patch with us (Josh was out of town). We had so much fun. I wanted Gage in a cute Halloween shirt, but he insisted on wearing his Mickey Mouse pj top instead. Hey, pick your battles right?!?!

The Family!

My Pumpkin Princess

My Pumpkin Heads!

So Happy!

Nathan sitting next to his favorite pumpkin

Jillian and Daddy

Jillian and Mommy

Nathan and Gage

Hay Maze

Bounce House

Fall Upon Us

2008-10-07T09:40:00.000-07:00

I love Fall! Right now my windows are open, the air is fresh. We are going for tons of walks. Gage loves to look at all the Halloween/Fall decor in peoples yards. He started this ritual last year, where he has to walk up to every ones door and check out their pumpkins/scarecrows. He proceeds to turn around to look at me, put his hands on his hips and YELL, "MOOOOMMMM, Come HERE!!!" I of course tell him know because I don't want all of our neighbors to think I am casing the joint. It is all fun though. Here are our decorations for the fall!

I thought this angel was just to sweet. From Hobby Lobby!

Our scary haunted house

With hanging bats and spider!

Our Mantel

Our entryway table

Outside!

I am waiting a bit longer, but Market Street has these 40lbs pumpkins that are huge. I want to buy one, cute off the top, seed and gut it and then put Jillian in it to take pictures. How cute would that be!

Hope you all are enjoying the Fall, and make sure you decorate your houses!

Shoes?

2008-10-05T16:55:00.000-07:00

What do you think of these shoes for this dress?

Build it and they will come

2008-10-04T09:28:00.000-07:00

And Gage said it was good!

Little Arts

2008-10-04T09:24:00.001-07:00

Gage is adjusting so good in school. I now walk him in, let him hug his teacher who is waiting at the door, say goodbye and tell him to put away his backpack. He happily does it all! Every morning when he wakes up I ask him if he had any dreams.

The answer is the same, Yes!

I ask who he dreamed about. To which he replies, Ms Jenny, Ms Paige and Ms Jennifer (Jenefiner)...sometimes he might throw in another kids name, but he always says his teachers names!

Sometimes there are also dinosaurs or bears. He is just so cute.

Here are some of his masterpieces!

Queen Jillian!

King Gage

Today I bought...

2008-10-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

These, they are like heaven on my feet!

And this. I am possibly going on a super fun adventure that would require a super hot/fun/sexy dress. I love this one and think it looks better on me b/c I am not a stick.

Baby Model

2008-09-27T19:24:00.000-07:00

I few months ago I received an email from a church friend about a need for baby models. The company is Secure2Me blankets. It is a mom who saw a need and fixed the problem. The blankets are pretty cool. So, I took Jillian to the mom's house and had a photo session. The only problem is that Jillian's pictures weren't used. Mine was however. Go here to see. I am towards the bottom. Jillian is under the blanket nursing, but seriously, my kid is cute. It was fun, though and the blankets really are great. I can't wait for the weather to cool off so I can use them!

Viral Rash

2008-09-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

Last week Jillian had her first ear infection. We all have been struggling with allergies and hers just backed up into her ear. I don't know if this is in relation to that or something else, but now she is getting over a viral rash. Gage had one of these this summer. They aren't contagious but are not cute...at all. My poor baby girl. Here are some pitiful pictures! She is getting over it though and it is looking much better, but it was all over her body, not just her sweet face!

Bunco Babes!

2008-09-23T17:36:00.001-07:00

Let me start by saying that I love love love my neighborhood. It is such a good community to live in and raise your kids in. It helps that all three schools are within walking distance from our home. So, one of my neighbors, Stacey, is our Bunco Queen. She is our organizer and keeps us in line, and quite a crazy lady herself...good crazy, fun crazy!

Instead of playing Bunco this last meeting we went out on the town. Halla! We ate dinner and then danced till way to late. It was a good group of girls and I think we all had fun! Here are some pictures of the night.

Here is the whole group and some individuals! (too many to name!)

Then they started to place some fun dance music, and hello?, we aren't going to sit on our rumps and let that good music go to waste. So we danced! DANCED I said!

After dinner we went to our local dancing establishment to work off dinner and have a good time. Had fun ladies, hope you did too!

Painting with the Lifegroup Girls!

2008-09-22T14:16:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago I planned for my lifegroup girls to go to the local pottery painting place and have a little girls night. I was late. It was one of those nights when your hubby is being a little bit less then easy...you ladies know what I mean. That was a nice way of saying that my lovely husband was getting on every nerve in my body and I wanted to ship him off somewhere far away but I needed him to stay home with the kids so I could go out! It was one of those nights. They happen, marriage is sometimes hard! What can I say.

So, a girls night was much needed and anticipated. Here we are!

from l to r:

Kayla, Jody, Maria, Jen, me, Jen (with baby Reese)

I will have to show you guys some of the pieces I am working on. They are going to be great! Lots more posting to catch up on!

Nap, oh Nap...Where are you?!?!

2008-09-17T19:33:00.000-07:00

Gage is not napping.

Help

Have you seen his nap any where?

If so, please return it to him quickly.

He is on a 4 week nap strike. Imagine my little man picketing around his room with a sign that say, "Oh No! I won't go...nig-night that is!"

Ya'll, 2 1/2 year old are meant to have a nap. Gage missed this point in his womb class because he has decided that he only wants to nap 2-4 times a week. Who is this hurting? Jillian. He is getting more aggressive and "wrestler-ish" with her. I am also struggling. That 3-5 was my time during the day to nap/read/rest/whatever.

Have any of you gone through a long nap strike? I am hoping we will get back on track but we are on week 4 of the nap strike and things are not looking good.

Any advice?

Happy Birthday or Whatever

2008-09-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

Last week I turned 28. For the past 2 years, I have been pregnant on my birthdays. So, this was the first birthday in the past 3 years that I wasn't pregnant. Funny, huh? Ok, maybe not, but here is my birthday recap! I started my birthday morning at the dentist, not fun, but much needed. I will post more on how my condition the following 2 birthdays have given me teeth closer to a ninety year old sugar addict, but that is another post. After coming home from 1 1/2 at the dentist, I came home to find this:

Fun presents from my mom, Dave and a very excited 2 year old whose hopes were held solely on devouring that sweet little cakes!

Dave, Gage and me...the one with the half numb face!

Gage is just so cute! I am pretty positive he thought this was his birthday and that "happy birthday mom" was a mistake! He was so excited to have the candles on the cake, light and on his high chair. He had so much fun with it that I relite a candle and let him blow it out on his own piece of cake!

That is the face of pure joy!

My gifts from my mom were the super cute cookbook holder, measuring spoons (I was in dire need of them, I only had one lonely tablespoon and a 1/4 teaspoon), a wallet to match my super cute purse, and an engraved bottle of wine!!!

The rest of the day was spent with Dave. We dropped Gage off at school and went to BN where Dave bought me this because, well, it was my bday:

Not a good book. It is like a bathroom read. No real point, or climax or end. It is more whatever than anything else. It was the thought of this gift that counts! We then ate lunch at one of my favorite places, picked up the Mister and then hung out until our dinner that night!

We met some friends at Fireside Pies. This is a great pizza place that has yummy food and tasty sangria! Yumm-O!

me and Dave

The girls from l to r: Kassie, me, Janelle, and Kallie

(K and K are the Twilight girls from the NY trip)

Here is the group with all but one hubby!

One of the presents from Dave was to have a personal chef come to our house and cook us meals for 2 for 10 nights. What a treat! It was like have my own person (male version) Rachel Ray! His name is Chef Tim and he did a great job. If you live in the DFW area you should contact him if you think you could use his services. He does meals like he did for us but also does private parties and dinner groups. I am sure I will use him again!

The above picture is Chef Tim at work, below is some of his gear. He brings everything, and I mean everything he needs for dinner and cleanup. My house was as clean when he left as when he came and my fridge/freezer was fully of yummines!

Finally, we celebrated my b-day with my mom, stepdad, brother and his family on Sunday. I bought this Tres Leches cake from the greatest local grocery store by our house. It was pretty good, but I don't think I am a tres leches kind of girl.

Here are the cousins about to head outside:

from l to r: Josh, Gage, Nathan

Nathan and Gage running hand in hand. Nathan is SO good with Gage!
Super Fast Josh
The grandkids with their grandparents...watching the COWBOYS! Halla!

My bro and sister bought me this: I can't wait to watch it...oh, and i love the new 90210!
While my dad and stepmom, Kim, were in town with the family this summer they bought me this: So great! I love it. It is from Sam Moon, the greatest accessory store EVER! My mom bought me a matching wallet which is great b/c I didn't have one! My dad/stepmom also bought me a great Sledge shirt. I am not familiar with the designer prior to owning a shirt, but they have some super cute stuff!

Anyways...HAPPY BIRTHDAY to ME!

the end

Fabulous Four

2008-09-04T09:06:00.000-07:00

So, here are the fabulous four! from l to r: Me, Cindy (aka the Bunny Whisperer), Dylana (another great neighbor) and Gina (my sister(inlaw)).

We went out this past week for a some shopping (where we all bought this for our next girls night out, and Cindy and I bought a gold locket bracelet), nice dinner and movie. We dinned at the Cheesecake Factory where we split this wonderful apple heaven!

Then we went to see House Bunny. Not so great, but I did laugh a lot. How can you not laugh at a movie that says things like:

Your eyes are the nipples of your face...

My ass cheeks itch

And this movie included 2 boob punches...what else do ya'll want in a film?

Here we are at the theater!

There are lots more stories to post about the fabulous four and our wild nights out, but more to come!

Was she serious...

2008-09-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

Go here...but brace yourselves...

1st Day of School

2008-09-02T18:01:00.000-07:00

Today Gage had his first day of preschool. Where has the time gone? I feel like not that long ago he was a tiny babe rolling around on the floor and here we are today, dropping him off at school.

Here is a family picture right before we left...

I had to run some errands this morning (working out and car washing) and when I came home it was a mad dash to get myself freshened up so that I could help prepare Gage for school. Well, when I emerged, I asked him if he was ready to go to school. He replied, "No. I Not." Not good. However, after some convincing with Cars and the promise of new friends and time on the playground, we were in the car...all smiles!

Walking in!

Almost time for mommy to say goodbye! I did good ya'll, no tears. I was really just excited for him to have fun and meet new friends. This is a big adventure for him...plus he is only there for 2 1/2 hours!

Of course daddy joined us for the big day! My two boys!!! So cute!

I tried to get Gage to pose on the wall with one hand on the wall and the other at his side, but this looks more like a frisking!
The hallways to his classroom!
It was so sweet. This is one of his teachers, Ms. Paige. She was sitting on the floor by the door to the classroom greeting each child with a hug and a chat with a bear. Gage gladly climbed into her lap for the picture! Right past them is the EXIT door which leads to the playground. Gage kept asking her to go play. She said that first they were going to the room and play with playdo and dinosaurs. That was enough for him.

He marched his butt right in that class, put his backpack down and played with the playdo. I even told him bye first! Didn't care! My brave little man!

They have a window in the classroom that has leafs all over it. The parents can look into the class but the kids can't see out. Well, I watched Gage play for a bit, doing great. Then he realized they were about to shut the door and I wasn't in there. This was his face...
His other teacher, Ms. Jenny came to his side, so I decided to leave before I saw any meltdown. When I picked him up, he was all smiles!
Even happier when Grandma gave him his sprite and a new Cars car, Chuki. Gage calls her "turkey". It was a great first day of school!

He came home, took his nap, woke up super happy and ate a good dinner. What more could a mom ask for! I hope he is still excited about school on Thursday. I'll let you know!

Paula, Randy, Simon...Eat your hearts out!

2008-08-28T19:51:00.000-07:00

It is moments like these that make my heart happy! By the way, this is the first time I have really heard Gage sing a song. Who cares that i have no idea what he is saying. I think it is something about the sun!

My Little Betty Crocker

2008-08-28T19:40:00.000-07:00

The other day I was in charge of making dinner for one of the couples in our life group who just had a baby. I make my regular stuffed shells and banana bread for any couple who had a baby. I use this 30 min meal recipe, along with my beloved banana bread for any couple who has had a baby or requires a meal because it is easy to make multiple batches. One for the couple, one for me, one for my mom/brother/neighbour...you get the point. My mom was putting Gage to bed, and Jillian was requiring a hip to perch on. Once my mom came out, she captured these photos! I know I will cherish them for many years to come! These are the moments to remember...

Notice where Jilly's fingers are...

And where are her fingers now...you don't have to teach them these things people!

They just know!!

Don't you just love my apron...I got it here! Tell them I sent you! I keep it proudly hanging on my pantry door, and do you notice what is hanging there with it?

Jillian's matching apron! Ya'll, I get teary ever time I see this. How sweet is it??? I just love it! I went to do a little shop-walking at our new Market Street grocery store and found it! You can find your own Jessica Steele items here!

My Little Betty Crocker!

To many more kitchen dates my sweet baby girl!

Meet the Teacher

2008-08-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

My baby is growing up. Today was Gage's meet the teacher at school. How sweet and sad is that! I have been reading all the packets of paperwork they have given us, done the shopping for clothes and size appropriate backpacks, sent in the payment and bam! The time has come. So, with Jillian snug at home with Grandma, Dave and I took Gage to meet the teachers.

We had to take a family photo with us, here it is:

Here is another cute one...

I didn't get any pictures at meet the teacher. I would have totally been that mom, you know, the one who looks like a tourist because she is taking pictures of every third step her child takes, but I forgot my camera. Once inside the new wing for the 2 and 3 year olds...mighty fun!, we went to his classroom where we were greeted by his teachers Ms. Paige and Ms. Jenny. They both seem so happy. And isn't that the greatest description of a teachers. They seemed happy to be on the floor, happy with the kids, happy with the parents, just happy!

Gage started to get anxious as we neared the classroom. I am sure he was anticipating the departure of the parental unit, similar to when I leave him at church or at the gym child area (from which he graciously required me to exit my training session because he decided he "want to go home"). However, mom and dad were by his side the entire time. Not goodbyes, only hellos! He clung to my leg for about 1 minute before he realized there were way cool toys in there. We met other parents and kids who will be in his class. All seem great! I can't wait for my little Mister to start building those friendships.

I signed up for the multicultural snack, the relative read and the parent volunteer days, all of which I wrote on my hand, which have been washed about 100x since then. Did I write them down on a piece of paper first, NO! I hope they send out reminders! I need to invest in a planner.

School starts on Tuesday, Sept 2nd (2 days before my 28th birthday!). I will take all kinds of crazy pictures then. Until then I will leave you with this lovely picture of Gage trying to hug (tackle) Jillian. She is going to have to be a tough girl!

toddler backpacks

2008-08-26T17:45:00.001-07:00

For Gage's 2nd birthday, my mom got him this super cute Stephen Joseph backpack...

We use it for all sorts of things, a diaper bag for when he goes to church, to hold all of his Cars cars in, to put snacks and toys for road trips, whatever. I love it so much because, well of course, it is cute, but also because it is a good size for him. I hate seeing those little toddlers with big kid sized backpacks. Not good for their backs. I loved his so much in fact, that I bought Miss Jillian one!

Now she has her own little back for church.

Well, tomorrow is the open house at Gage's school. It is hitting me. My baby is starting preschool! Is he ready? Am I ready?!?! I hope that he has fun, makes some friends and maybe even learns a little something.

Side note: Today was a horrible day. I was up all night feeling horrible...stomach bug going around and I had caffeine a little to late. Gage woke up at 4:30AM. Are you serious? Yes, I am. He didn't go back to sleep either. He was AWAKE at 4:30am. I let him cry, rocked him and finally sat him in front of the tv. I was in bed most of the day. The kids were a little crabby because I don't think they feel so hot either. So, please pray for a good night and rest of the week. Pray that Gage starts taking his good naps again, which he hasn't been doing for about 2 weeks now, and pray that we get healthy. Amen!

am I to old for a tutu?

2008-08-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

Ha! That post title makes me laugh. I have always been a lover of dance. I just got out of practice. I took dance classes as a child and even hip hop classes in college...but just a few. I just got done watching Step Up. It was a good movie, which got me thinking. Why don't I start taking dance classes again? I mean, I love to go out dancing with my neighbor friends (and most of all my sister-in-law...love you Gina). We even went out last night to our local dancing establishment, from which I am still recovering...

At the end of the movie, the questions is asked, are you living your life? Well, I am, but am I doing something just for me? Kind of would be my answer, but maybe there could be more. Who knows! I googled adult dance classes in my town and found a place 2.6 miles from my house that has adult classes. How great is that! I will call tomorrow.

So, my question remains, am I to old for a tutu?

Back to School Shopping

2008-08-19T11:04:00.000-07:00

Well, Gage isn't really going back to school, but he is starting school. How fun is that! I can't wait. I think he is really going to enjoy it. He will only be going on Tuesday/Thursday from 12-2:30, but the preschool is great and he will increase his brain power. So, in leau of going to school, I did some serious shopping at the Children's Place. That is my favorite store for boy and girl clothes. Here are some of my favorite things!

These are Jillian's...I LOVE this hat!!!

Here are Gage's! Very educational shirts don't you think!

Then I ran into Journey Kidz and bought these totally awesome shoes! Love it!

Of course I had to get me something. I mean, I am going to have to drop Gage off at school. And, lets be honest, I don't want to wear my stretchy pants all the time. So I bought these from Gap. They are great because the back pocket is low, which makes your butt look perky! Love it! They are at my sweet alterations lady because they were made for giants, but I will get them soon!

Happy Shopping!

Sisters' Day

2008-08-17T07:48:00.001-07:00

Having grown up with 3 brothers, sisters' days never happened. This summer by dad, stepmom and their 3 kids, Ali, Jack and Kitty spent the summer here in Texas. We had lots of days at the pool and many large and noisy dinners. I was able to take my sisters out for a girls day. We started the day at a super girly place, where they were treated to a mini-mani/pedi, an up-do, a toe and finger ring as well as the treat of smelling like cotton candy and having so much glitter applied they could be seen shimmering from outer space. It was a treat to watch them enjoy being pampered. Here are the pictures!

from l to r: Kitty, me and Ali (this what their finished look)

Ali in the car
Kitty in the car
Ali and me...don't worry, I was at a red light!

nailed...check!

Ali getting her toes done!
Kitty in heaven...she was so cute!
feet...check

Ali getting her updo

and kitty...
finished product

Then it was time to hit the runway!

The next stop was to our local pottery painting store where we all picked one item to paint. I love painting pottery, it is so relaxing. Kitty picked out, what else, but a kitty.

I painted a cross for Jillian
And Ali picked this star box. The finished product was great!

Had fun girls!!! See you in December...

New York - Part Two

2008-08-17T07:08:00.001-07:00

Finally! I am finally posting about the second and final day of the NY trip...took long enough, eh? (That's for my Canadian kin folk! Halla!)

Day 2 started way to early...remember, we didn't close our dancing maniac eyes until about 3:30am and our alarm was set at 7am. I was never the type of person to stay up all night or even until the wee hours of the morning, so mama needs her sleep. 3 1/2 hours of sleep is more like a nap then a good nights rest, but hey, were are in the city that never sleeps, right? Lets just say I paid for it the rest of the day...and the next...and the next! :)

We woke up so early so that we could get ready, see some sights and then head to Borders to prepare for the podcast. So, here are the sights!

Time Square

The girls! from l to r: Kallie, me, Kassie

Cab ride back to our hotel

The beautiful New Yorker Hotel

After some freshening up, we met some volunteers for the website who were going to help us through the day. Here we are.

Then it was off to Borders. Man, what a bookstore! They have a great meeting area in the back for events just like this one. Let me take a moment to explain the purpose of the NY trip. My friends from college created a website where they discuss all things Twilight. On their website, you can listen to their podcast. A podcast is just like listening to a talk show or an interview on your computer. There is not a camera, just our pretty voices. They have asked me to be a part of some of their podcast, and others they do on their own. One of their volunteers, Becca, organized a trip to NY where we would get together with other Twilight website owners and tones of fans to do a live podcast. That night, in NYC there was a concert with Blue October and a chance to meet Stephanie Meyer, the author, for the book release. About 100 guest came to listen to the podcast (which was set up panel style). MTV was also there. It was pretty cool! If you guys want to listen to a podcast go here. You can also go here or here for more NY trip stuff.

The sisters who started it all...Kassie and Kallie
Becca, the fabulous volunteer who put all this together!
The panel

Kim from MTV was there!
America's Next Top Models anyone??
Meeting the fans

Interview with Borders
more fans

What a day! I was exhausted. We still had 2 more flights, which of course were delayed before we could get back home. We were on one plane for 5 hours...and ya'll it was a 2 hour flight. Not fun.

Funny story and then I am done. One the final flight back to DFW we were all seated in different areas...no business class here. Bummer! I was in the middle seat between a man and a women. Behind me there was a mom with 2 boys, one on her lap, around 2 and one in his own seat, around 4 years old. Now, our flight going into ATL was delayed, however, the flight we were supposed to connect to in ATL waited for us. They were delayed an hour at the terminal, then they sat on the plane for anther hour until we finally ran on board and then the took off. So, these kids behind me were behaving so well considering what they had been through. However, once we took off the sweet sleep that they boys were in vanished. The 4 year old starts screaming and the mom is trying to calm him while keeping the 2 year old in her lap asleep. Long story short, I ended up holding the 2 year old (pretending it was my sweet Gage) for the 2 hour flight. I felt so bad for that mommy, what else could I do! We made it home, save and sound. I have finished the 4th book in the series. Like it a lot, but didn't love it. And, I just read that the release date for the movie has been moved up to Nov 21st! Holy moly!!

New York...Part Uno

2008-08-07T08:11:00.000-07:00

Holy moly, I have to stop making 24 hour trips to NYC. The last time I went, I flew to NYC with my friend Alicia to go to our friend, Kasey's wedding in CT. We spent one night in NY and, although we had fun, were totally exhausted. This was a similar trip...fun and exhausting.

Kallie, Kassie and I met at the airport to fly Airtran. Let me take a moment to fill you in on how e all know each other. When I met my husband, Dave, in college, he was friends with Kallie's husband, Scott. Since Kallie and Kassie are sisters, we all became friends. Actually, Dave has been roommates with both of their husbands and we were all involved in each others weddings. Super fun! Now, back to the trip. I have never flown Airtran before, but their lines were always annoyingly long, but the staff friendly. After we all waited in line we finally got to our gate. Because we booked separately, we had scattered seats. I went to the ticket counter and saw this life saving sign, "Business Class Upgrades Available" praise the Lord! We upgraded all of our seats for both flights (dallas to atlanta and atlanta to new york). That is the way to fly.

Here we are after the upgrades had been purchased!! Happy girls!

from l to r: Kallie, Kassie, Me

Kassie, sittin pretty in her seat...oh, "adult" drinks are free in business class, something Kassie and I responsibly took advantage of. The man next to her really took advantage of this, like, if I had that much to drink that would either be wheeling me out in a chair or would have called security to come and get me!

Kallie in her seat! She was a bit further away, but we still chatted!
Yea, bad camera shot, this was before the one drink I had, I promise... But really, I felt like a kid with ADD on this flight. I was like cheerleader happy/annoying. We were just so excited. I am sure the men in business class were a little, ok a lot, less enthusiastic about having us up there, but hey, you only live once!
Another comment about Airtran, and don't get me wrong, it could have totally not been their fault, but I have never sat on any plane longer than I had to sit on theirs. We landed in Atlanta and had to wait on the plane for like an hour...yea, the back of the plane was about to start a riot. I heard a lot of cursing, we were very thankful to be in the front!! We thought we might miss our connection, but thankfully that was running behind as well. We were even able to grab lunch at Charlie's. This flight, we all sat in the front row!

Here is our first cab ride (of many) in NYC!

I get car sick, so I sat in front!

I am feeling a little pressed for time. Because all of our flights were delayed, thanks Airtran and the airports who caused that, we were rushed to make our reservations. I arranged for us to eat at the lovely Mesa Grill, a Bobby Flay establishment. So, Kallie checked us in that the New Yorker Hotel. It was so nice. They were so helpful. When I stayed in NY before, my hotel room was about the size of my bathroom, this was not the case this time. We had the best room with the best few and enough room for all of us and our stuff. I asked the man who checked us in if they had a fridge in the room, he said it would be $20. I am still pumping for Jilly, but just decided it wasn't worth the money. However, when we came back from dinner, there a little fridge sat! How great. The New Yorker rocks!

Kallie enthusiastically checked us in...

I was annoyed at the delays so Kassie made me stand by this bear...

I love this picture of Kassie. I made her pose for a picture so she wouldn't be left out. So, she decided to check her watch...only goof ball didn't have a watch on. This was her face after that moment...so funny! A totally Kassie moment.

We made our way up the our floor...27!

Apparently Kassie is the only one who likes to be crammed into a tiny elevator with a bunch of people and no air because she is the only one smiling!

Mesa Grill
Oh, the lovely Mesa Grill. It lived up to all my expectations. First, we were greeted by a very nice looking male host. I mean, he was like a pretty man, not just hot, but pretty. We got drinks at the bar, I had a mojito, Kassie had the margarita and Kallie had some cactus pear drink. Oh, we got an insider tip to got to Le Souk for dancing from the bartender ladies...more on that later!

Kallie and I in front of the restaurant!
The restaurant host gave us the best table in the house. We were on the second floor at a table right in the corner of the balcony. We could see the entire restaurant including the kitchen! What a treat! from l to r: Kallie, Kassie, Me

Our view of the kitchen

This was a rosemary biscuit...yum-o!!

this was another tasty treat, a swirled cornbread muffin

For our appetizer we got the Goat Cheese :Queso Fundido" and the Tequila Cured Salmon with Crispy Squash Blossom Salad. Two things about this salad, one I ordered it because I have always wanted to try a fried squash blossom. If you guys get the chance, you should try this, it was so good. Second, Kallie mentioned that in the past, she wasn't a fan of salmon. However, we all loved this salad. The salmon was so delicious and tender. It was great. And the goat cheese...I could have left after the appetizers and been a happy women!

After this we ordered the New Mexican Spiced Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with a Sweet Potato Tamale, let me just say that the New Mexicans know how to rub their pork! We also tried the chili relleno...I could have done without this one but wanted to try it b/c I just saw it on a Throwdown!

This is our cab ride home!

We got back to our hotel for a wardrobe change and to freshen up for a night of dancing. Remember, our bartenders told us about Le Souk. Well this is what we saw. There was just a false alarm, but man, let me say that the NYFD has some H-O-T-T-I-E-S! We should have taken a picture, but missed the opportunity.

Here is our going out look: from l to r: Kassie, Kallie, Me

The pictures of the evening end here, but the story hasn't. After we got dressed we went back down stairs, passed the hot firemen and tried to get a taxi. We weren't working it and couldn't get any of them to come over our way. However, I noticed a nice stretch black limo dropping off some kids who looked like they just ended their spring break partying. I asked the driver if he could take us to Le Souk. At first he said he was going the other way, but then he must have had an epiphany. Like, hey, i might be able to make some money off this chick! He asked how much I will pay him, I give him my offer and we are in the limo. It was crazy. It looked like an alcoholic had raided our limo and left all of his drinks behind. There were like 4 bottles of something on the floor and cups of who knows what everywhere. Let's just say it is forever embedded in my brain. This memory is made better because it was Kassie's first time in a limo. We had the dance music pumpin, the windows rolled down and we were taking in the city. It was a nice ride, even the parts where Kassie and I were sliding all over the seats. It was like they greased them up or something.

So, we arrive at Le Souk, which, once again, was suggest to us by the bartender who look to be like girls we would hang out with. Whoa! Culture shock. It was not like any dance place I have ever been. It had a totally bollywood theme with the 3 ft tall bong type things. People were smoking out of them, and I found out that it was flavored tobacco. The only cool thing was the bartender guy was from Austin, TX. I wasn't into the guys or the dancing or the drinks or the music. It just wasn't my scene.

We leave that place, find another taxi and decide to go to a trendy place. We told the taxi to take us to Bungalow 8, however we ended up at Marquee. We wait in line there like little puppies in the window waiting for the door man to let us in. While we were waiting we saw Mario Lopez walk in with a girl who looked like she was 16. Let's just say that I don't know what all the hype is about in regards to him, if there is any hype. I'm not a fan. However, we finally get picked to go in and $60 later, yes it was $20 a piece...What What??, we got in! The dancing was great, the music was good but it was so crowded. Kassie got slapped in the face a few times by some girl who thought she had to dance with her hair. Let me just say, girls, leave the head whipping off the dance floor. You aren't a member of the Pussy Cat Dolls!

It turned out to be a night to remember. We got back to our hotel, showered and went to bed at 3:30am. Yug! We set our alarm for 7am....

I will post more on day 2 soon!

NYC Here We Come

2008-07-31T07:24:00.000-07:00

I am about to make a mad dash to the airport. Nordstrom's was great! Will be wearing the shirt. Will post pictures soon. You can listen to us live tomorrow by going to Twilight Series Theories Website. We will be on around 11am Texas time!

NYC Fashion

2008-07-29T18:10:00.000-07:00

First, let me say thank you all for your input on the my clothing selections! How fun it is, I am like your own dress up doll! Keep the opinions coming and make sure you check back to see the pictures.

Ok, my favorite option so far is #1, the shirt from Nordstroms. Well, they did not have my size at my local mall so they told me I could have them ship it from another store and not pay the shipping fees. Great, right? Not when it gets rejected. I'm not talking about cutting up your credit card rejected, I'm talking about the store messed up and canceled my perfectly paid for order rejected. Seriously? That was my favorite shirt. I spoke with Kathy, the very nice customer service lady, who said she would check things out and call me back. I politely, because she was being so helpful, told her that I NEEDED this shirt for a VIP NYC trip. She is going to call me back. Man, I hope I get it in time. If not, I will survive...and in another fabulous shirt, might I add!

Next, I bought the railroad striped jeans from Gap...fit super cute by the way, however, why are all pants made to fit super-model-tall women? What is a 5ft 4in girl to do? Well, I marched my short behind over to the alterations place and told her my story. I was with Dave and the kids, which help because they are so dern cute, and they couldn't have been more helpful. My pants will be ready tomorrow for only a $4 rush fee. Sweet Vietnamese lady! I told her I loved her and she replied by telling me that she loved my kids. How sweet.

So, hopefully Nordstroms will know what is good for them and rush that shirt to my house pronto! If not, Anthropologie it will be!

Going 2 NYC

2008-07-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

I am leaving for NYC this week with two college friends, Kallie and Kassie. They are creators of the Twilight Series Theories website. Ya'll know what a Twilight lover I am. Well, they have graciously asked me to join them on some of their podcasts, where we discuss all things Twilight. Well, we all leave for New York City where we will do a live podcast from Madison Square Garden. Hello! How awesome is that. So, I need your help. I have 3 shirt options and I need to narrow it down. Here are the choices, let me know which one I should wear!

#1 from Nordstroms

#2 from Anthropologie

#3 also from Anthropologie

All of these tops will most likely be paired with these pants!!! Let me know which one I should pick! I can't wait for the trip!

While we are talking about fashion, let me share with you my new perfume! It is so yummy. I bought St John's while shopping in Nordstroms - they are having a big sale! I have worn Shi perfume since college and still love it, but needed a change!

If you are into hats, which normally I am not because I feel like I am reliving my Blossom watching days, but I bought this hat which I hope to wear in NYC. It is so cute I couldn't resist.

Ok, I'm done. Let me know which shirt to wear, and remember, MTV might be there!

Randoms

2008-07-26T07:12:00.000-07:00

(you might want to go the very bottom of the page and pause the music so you can hear the videos!)
We have stayed pretty busy this summer, much more so than I expected. It has been fun though. Gage is at the age where going places is more of an adventure than a burden and Jillian, well, she is still small enough to take on trips but the need for 2 naps limits her outings. Thankfully my mom is here to give us that freedom. I am still working on posting on more vacation and many other summer pictures. Until then, here are some videos of the kids.

The first is of Jillian crawling today. Each day she is getting stronger, faster and braver. I'm going to have to start watching out for her as I caught her at the entertainment center this morning...all those lights, all those buttons, it must look like baby heaven! The second is of Gage saying he wants to watch Gerald McBoing Boing. It is too funny not to show!

Milestones

2008-07-25T05:58:00.001-07:00

*Jillian has 5 teeth and is working very much on getting the 6th tooth out. She has 3 one top-about to be 4, and 2 on bottom

*On Wednesday, July 23, 2008 Jillian started crawling, like inch worm crawling, not all fours crawling

*On Thursday, July 24, 2008 Gage went peepee on his Elmo potty for the first time. I was putting him to bed and he was stalling hard. Leo. "Kuk"...aka pacifier. Pool. Outside. He is giving me his list of demands hoping that one of those will stick and he can delay going to bed a bit more. I didn't give in to any of those, but did offer the opportunity to say goodnight to the pictures in the hallway. It is a nightly tradition to say goodnight to the family in the pictures before bed. While doing so, I felt a warm sensation on my hip...GREAT, I am getting peed on. Gage said, "peepee". I said, "Yes, let's go get you cleaned up." I really don't know what was wrong with the diaper, it appeared to be on right, but while changing him up, he says, "Elmo, Elmo?!?!" We have this Elmo potty chair. I assumed this was another stall tactic, since he has asked for it before but could never get the pee out. This time, praise the Lord, the pee came out! I was so excited, but have heard that you could scare the pee and it stop coming out by to much enthusiasm, so I kept it cool, but obviously excited. He looked down and said his favorite thing, "Whas that?" I told him it was the pee pee. Then he said, "water" and tried to stick his finger in it! Yuck. For he reward he got to call his grandma! It was a great moment. Now, I need to get a jar, the Potty Jar, and put candy in it! This is a good first step to potty training. We will see if it keeps up!

4th of July

2008-07-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

For the 4th of July we drove out the lake to spend the night with my parents in their new pimped out trailer. We had a lot of fun swimming the kid pool and eating a lot of food! Enjoy the pictures.

I didn't get a picture with all four of us, so here are these two!
We are one blued eyed family!

Gina (my sister-in-law) and me

It was pretty hot, but under the cannopy, it was nice! Gage enjoys his apple juice.

This pool is so cool. The boys loved it. We bought one and took it to the river with us. You can get yours here.

Chris and Jay, getting ready for dinner

the food

Chris and Gina...aren't they cute!

Fryin' up some catfish

the boys were pretty tired so they got in our car to watch a movie

Nathan and Uber

and again

Uber, this is such a good picture. What a cutie!

Josh

Gage

Jillian and Me

and again

I LOVE this picture of Jay and Jillian!

Mom and Jilly

and again! Jillian kept pretending to be shy and lay her head on my mom.

We had a nice weekend with the family. It is nice because Gage is getting older and a bit easier to travel with...sleeping wise. We will have to go out there again when the weather is cooler!

Book Club

2008-07-19T19:54:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am struggling with the book for this month. We are reading Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons. Have ya'll started it? Let me know if it gets better.

I'm Back...Houston Trip

2008-07-19T19:31:00.000-07:00

I have been out of the blogging loop lately, but I am back. We have been on a lot of trips so I need to catch up on all those. I will start with our Houston trip. We went to visit the grandparents there. Dave went to South TX to visit family and then we met in Houston. That meant I had to make my first road trip with the kids by myself. I was a little nervous about this, but God bless the mini-van. Seriously ya'll, go buy one. Even if you don't have kids, it is the greatest thing!

We spent Friday through Monday in Houston and enjoyed the pool and hanging out with family!

Enjoy the pictures!

Daddy and Jilly

Mamaw and Pawpaw with JillyGage and mommy slipping our feet in for a dip...Gage is pointing out a plane.
Stretching out after the 4 hour drive.
Cuddle time. Love it. Gage has let me rock him to sleep, something he hasn't let me do since before he turned 1!
Jilly has a strong grip on Aunt Jenn's hair! Jilly and Aunt Jenn

Ready for the water.

"Mom, enough pictures!"

Enjoying the pool! I miss it.

Jilly and her Aunt Samantha
I love this picture of Pawpaw and Jillian

When i first brought Gage in the pool he wouldn't leave my side. A few minutes later he was kicking and blowing bubbles and scooping his hands. My big boy. We start swim lessons next week, I can't wait. I think he is going to do really good!

Family Pool Picture (June 08)
The Divas!
The Studs!

Down time!

Pawpaw and Gage
Mamaw and Jillian

What a sweet face!!!

More to come. I have 2 more trips to blog about and lots of other goodies to fill you in on!

Bachelorette...Final Rose!

2008-07-08T07:14:00.000-07:00

I am a little sad that this will be my last post on the Bachelorette. Reality TV is funny that way. It gets you integrated into a strangers life, making you feel as though you have become their friend, and then, it is all over. We are left wanting to know the rest of the story, but we don't. Thanks to all of you who have been reading and posting your comments. They have not gone unread. So, what will life after the Bachelorette bring...how 'bout life with Big Brother which starts July 13th (Dave and I's 6 year anniversary!). So, set your tivos and come back for more. I don't think I will commit to posting every time it comes on, because it is a 3x per week show, but will most likely post after the evictions!

Now, on to the good stuff. Tonight is the "DeAnna's Hometown" dates, one last one on one date, and the final rose ceremony. The previews are showing the guys have the hometown dates together...are you serious? That is totally awkward!

Let's get started! I vote for DeAnna to pick Jesse!

Side Note: I am watching the show with Dave. He just said that it is so sad that one of the guys is going to loose...awwww! Dave is tapping into his inner woman!

I love how they show the guys coming out of their hotel room, standing on their balconies, all dishevelled. Right now they are giving a little recap of Jason and DeAnna's journey. He seems like a sweet enough guy, but I hate how he holds her chin when he kisses her. Jason seems like a sweet guy with a great family. My main concern for him is his history with his ex-wife and the fact that he has a son. Also, I wonder if Jason is really connected to Seattle. That is a long way from where DeAnna's family is. Would Jason be willing to move himself and Ty that far away from his family?

Now is Jesse's journey. I love that he called himself the skinny white snowboarder! He has really evolved as a man though this journey. I also love how they have grown as a couple, from friends to more! I appreciate that in him, and I also think his family is so genuine!

DeAnna's Hometown: Newnon. They will meet her dad, sister and brother. DeAnna was saying that when Brad came to her hometown, her family was really nice and accepting of him. Her family is not going to be like that with these guys. They are going to be tougher on them.

Jason is first to meet the family! He came bearing flowers for DeAnna and the family. It has to be hard for the guys to have to walk behind the footsteps of Brad. Jason is explaining that his ex-wife meet a man that she wanted to spend her time with and left Jason and Ty. That is a blow! Her dad has the same concerns as me, is DeAnna ready to step into a family? Not that Jason isn't a good guy or that he doesn't deserve love, but I don't know if D is ready for that. Jason had a one on one with her sister, then her dad. He is looking her dad in the eyes telling him that he "is in love with your daughter." He just asked her permission to propose to her! Her dad seemed surprised and said that no one has ever asked that before! He also said that, "if she chooses you, you have my blessing." Man! That was sweet, but I hope Jesse wins it. There is still something missing or off with Jason and DeAnna.

Jesse is up now...he just said "Rad!" I love this guy. He did get a hair cut. He seems really nervous, like really nervous, when he first met her family. Her dad seems a little turned off by his hair! My stepdad would be turned off by that too! Jesse is obviously not the typical guys she has dated, which to me is a good sign. Her type of guy didn't work for her in the past! Jesse is going to have one on one time with her dad. They seem concerned about his future with snowboarding. What is life like after snowboarding? As Jesse is talking to her dad about past relationships, his future with DeAnna and their plans, he is just so real! I love that! Her dad did say that if Jesse and DeAnna didn't come and visit, they would send the 6 ft 4 in nephew to hunt them down.

DeAnna and her dad are talking about the two guys. Her dad seems to like Jason more. He thought he was more genuine when he was talking about his feelings for her. DeAnna seemed visibly upset when she heard that Jesse didn't as for permission to marry her!

They did things a bit different. They got to meet her dad, sister and brother yesterday. Today, they get to come over again and meet the WHOLE family. The catch is that both the guys will be there...an attempt by ABC to get more viewers?? Don't really think that is very kind. Jesse looks equally as nervous as he did yesterday! When the guys see each other...Awkward! Jason is turning on the charm, Jesse is not as comfortable!

Ok, this show is 2 hours...I'm going to wrap it up!

D went back to the Bahamas to have the last one on one dates with the guys. Guess who shows up!!!!...JEREMY!!! I wished it would have been Graham. He had to open up and let her know his feelings, to which she tearfully rejects him again. Ouch.

Jesse's date: private island...lots of kissing!!! Jesse gave her a book of thoughts that had pictures of them from their dates and sweet little sayings. Girls, that is a good gift for our guys!

Jason's date: scuba diving...not lots of kissy kissy... Jason gave her a hand crafted board game. All the questions had to do with their times together and his feelings for her. Totally creative guys!

Both the guys shop for rings. The ring guy asked Jason if this was his first time, to which he answered no. Not good. When Jesse was about to go to the ring store, he almost threw up. How sweet is that!

Ok, this is my bachelor theory. Whoever gets out of the limo first gets the ax!

First out...Jason. The meet and have a nervous small talk. Then Jason gets down on one knee. D says, No, I can't
Crickets, crickets...

It seriously looked like a soap opera, seriously! D let him know that she was in love with someone else. Were ya'll scared of the look Jason was giving her? I thought he was really going to hit her!

Yea! She is going to pick Jesse! I was right!!!

Jesse's up! J: "...and the thought of not being with you kills me...I want to spend forever with you...DeAnna Marie Pappus, will you spend forever with me!?"

So sweet!

D says yes and the kiss and say I love you like 20 times.

Closing: D says with a hug smile as she is hugging Jesse, "I can't believe I am going to marry the guys with pink shoelaces!"

I love it.

Ok, I am off to watch, After The Rose!

Book's for July and August

2008-07-02T15:08:00.000-07:00

These are the books I have picked out for July and August. I will post some questions toward the end of the month. Feel free to post your comments there. If you need a filler book, check out Nicholas Spark's A Bend In the Road.

July

Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons

August: Same Kind of Different As Me

Bachelorette...Spoiler Alert: GUYS TELL ALL!

2008-06-30T17:46:00.000-07:00

from l to r: Me, Dylana, and Cindy (aka: the bunny whisperer)

The much anticipated guys tell all was last night. I have to say, it was a bit of a let down. I was at my friend/neighbor, Cindy's, house along with another friend/neighbor, Dylana. It was good to have all the fun girl talk. I think we paused this show more to have our own conversation than we did actual discussing of the show!

Let's start with a comment from Cindy. She wondered if Chris Harris was gay, to which I replied, no because he is married. She did point out that he has woman hands and doesn't like that on men...........now all I can focus on is his hands!

Moving on...All those men...they aren't bad on the eyes.

Poor Twilley. I feel bad for him for how he clammed up on the show, but he looked pretty good on this episode.

They are showing all the scenes where they all gang up on Jeremy...

Jeremy in hot seat: "Captain D-Bag" says Robert. Trust me, I could come up with way worse names for Robert than I could for Jeremy. Jeremy seems to be handling himself pretty good in the hot seat. All the guys are up in arms because he would interrupt their one on one time with DeAnna. I am not a fan of Ron, but I did like what he said, :

Ron: in a group environment there are different rules. We weren't there to win a prize, a piece of meat.... No matter what we have all seen of Jeremy, get back out there. I thought that was really sweet of him to say. I think Jeremy will be the next bachelor!

Wine break:

we finished the bottle of barefoot wine. IT was good. Now we are on the Oops wine that smells like butt and kind of tastes like it too. Dylana says she needs to hold her nose when she drinks it.

Moving right along, they are now showing when Jeremy had to say goodbye, he gets a little emotional seeing that again! Even though I don't really like him, I feel for him. He seems like a good guy and I hope, like Ron said, that he moves on and meets someone new. I hope he is the next bachelor!

Jer: "I still don't know if I can look at her"

Graham is up next:

Graham is up on the hot seat! It is hard to watch the playbacks of him. Oh, the bench scene. Oh, the letter...

He said that he made a lot of effort for her, but he wanted her to say it was a "we" problem, not a "me" problem. Love that he said he was more of a Jimmy Kimmel fan instead of an Ellen fan. (in case you don't remember, Ellen said that he would have communication problems and that DeAnna should watch out for that...Ellen if very intuitive!)

Graham is trying to defend himself by saying that since he allowed her to meet his family, it took a lot of him opening up. That is a good point, but why the Eeyore moments?

They are now going to discuss the letter: BORING, he just said it was how he felt, the last week of their relationship, he thinks it would have meant the world to her, if she read, and that he opened up...I wanted them to read it!

DeAnna is in the hot seat: like the dress, don't like the belt.

Man, that has to be hard for her to look at Jeremy and Graham.

Jeremy to D: when did you know i Was not the one for you?

D: It wasn't until I was on a date with Jason and Jesse that I knew I was in love with them. As it got further and things progressed, my heart didn't. I wanted there to be something there so badly...OUCH!!!

Graham to D: what happened to you two?

D: he was always the guy that I couldn't have. (She seems so over Graham now. Did ya'll notice that?)

They are totally arguing, but they need to makeout. "You are pissed," says Chris. She things G is acting like it doesn't matter to be here. I really thought Graham handled himself pretty well out there. He seemed like he was really trying to explain his side without placing blame on DeAnna. DeAnna, in my opinion, did not agree with me. She seemed to get really mad at him for some reason. Interesting. Maybe I was wrong about her being over him!

Chris Harris: Did anything romantic happen with you and the guys while in the house:

Jeremy came to her room to give her a kiss

Paul took a bath in her tub while she was away.

They are once again talking about the BBQ Blowout which I will ignore because I am so over that!

I love the bloopers! We got to see Ryan (the virgin) juggling and dropping a ball on his manliness, DeAnna burping, Chris Harris making DeAnna crack up about Sean's mullet and Ron making fun of Sean's martial arts obsession.

Deanna: I am happy, I am in love and I am engaged!!! (Jeremy looked like he would throw up.)

Can't wait for next week. My prediction is that she will choose Jesse. I still feel like Jason might have some underlying issues.

Until next time, comment away!