Just Bcauz

And a New Month Begins

2012-02-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

I can't believe January is already over. Where did the month go? As if time didn't move too quickly last year, this year seems to be stuck at full throttle and we're only on the 2nd month. It feels like entire days pass by between blinks.

It's hard to believe Katie is two months old today. As I type that, I realize it's even harder to believe that I have an almost 8-year-old as Abby turns 8 a month from tomorrow.

Since time seems to be flying at such a rapid pace, I'm determined to do a better job of capturing the moments. I'm in awe of friends that do such a good job of this (and always have). I think about things just after the moment has passed and kick myself for not acting sooner. I've even started carrying my camera in my purse in the hope that I having quick access will improve my reaction time. Thus far, I've seen no improvement, but I'm holding out hope - it's still early in the year :-)

The Heart Grows

2012-01-31T14:26:00.000-05:00

I must admit something that I'm not sure I've fully admitted to anyone before... growing up, I was certain that I only wanted to have one child as an adult and I would NEVER have more than one child. EVER. Why? I had plenty of friends with siblings - older, young, twins. And, as an only child, I couldn't imagine forcing my own child(ren) to grow up knowing (or thinking) that Mom or Dad had favorites. Thinking of friends' families growing up, only a single family comes to mind that never showed favoritism to any of their children (at least to those of us on the outside). They had three children and I was blessed enough to be friends, on some level, with each of them during high school. Even in high school, I was always in awe of the support they each received from their parents and it was never apparent that Mom or Dad had favorites. (Disclaimer - I have no idea how the children actually felt, at that time or now.)
Fast forward some years and I begin to realize how difficult life can be as an only child. I recognize the events, the bonds and the lack of comrades to share in the aging of your parents. Thankfully, I haven't even begun to get into the thick of that last one, but I know it's coming, eventually. Amazing how time and experience can change one's perspective.

So, that NEVER became MUST. That MUST had a BUT. I must have more than one child, BUT how will I be able to show each of them that I love them [the most]? This BUT weighed particularly heavy on my mind and heart during the months leading up to Katie's birth. I knew I was going to have to face that scenario and there was a deadline of sorts. The deadline has come and passed and I was *thrilled* to discover that God had me covered. At 1:15pm on Thursday, December 1, 2011, He placed His hands on my heart and stretched it ever so slightly... just enough to make room for Katie. I was certain I would be forced to divvy up the existing territory inside my heart to share between Abby and Katie. I had no idea that God would resolve my concerns by growing my heart just enough.

Thank you, God, for allowing me to experience your goodness and grace in my life. Please help me to demonstrate this goodness and grace in my own life as a wife and mother.

Getting Back into the Swing of Things

2012-01-24T12:22:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that Katie will be 8 weeks old in just two days. It doesn't seem that we've been home for nearly that long. It seems like it was only yesterday and I was totally distraught with Katie's jaundice and weight loss. But, we survived, just like Abby's stay in the NICU nearly 8 years ago.

I've loved having the chance to spend time with my family over the past few months, especially since Mike is now a stay at home dad. I'm so proud of him for making that tough decision. It took a huge leap of faith and shows his amazing strength and courage. Thursday morning is going to come all too soon for us and I'm feel very blessed that I won't be having the same back to work anxieties that I had when I went back to work after Abby was born. I can remember dropping Abby off at daycare the first day and crying in the car the entire way home (I decided to take her to daycare for a half day the day before I returned to work so I could adjust). And, when I got home, I cried more. When I picked her up around lunch, I cried tears of joy. But, I realized she was ok and so was I. That did make the next day a whole lot easier, but I was still upset. This time, I don't have to worry about strangers at a daycare. I don't have to worry if she feels loved or if she's having to cry for long periods of time before someone tends to her needs. I know that her daddy, my husband, will be caring for her the entire time I'm at work... showering her in love and affection and teaching her all sorts of fun stuff. Knowing all of that will make Thursday so much easier. Don't get me wrong, I'll still shed tears, but not nearly as many.

I kept telling myself before Katie arrived that as soon as I was released, I would start exercising on a regular basis again. Uh, yeah, well... Thursday marks 2 weeks of being released to exercise and (as of right now) there has been no exercising. Hopefully, going back to work will be a motivation for me to exercise again (most likely as a form of stress relief). I am happy to report that I've lost all the baby weight and a little more. Since yesterday was a teacher workday for Abby, we all got dressed up and went out for lunch to Mellow Mushroom. Abby picked out my clothes, not realizing that some things fit and some things don't (oh, the closet of a mommy). She happened to pick a pair of pants that were tight before I got pregnant. I was ecstatic to put them on only to discover that they are even a little loose now. Yahoo! I can only imagine how good that will feel once I start moving my tush again.

With things settling into a new normal around our house and in our lives, I plan to begin blogging again on a regular basis. "Plan" being the key word... who really knows :-)

Welcome Katie

2012-01-12T23:54:00.000-05:00

After my test run with digiscrapping, I took the plunge tonight and tried my hand at digiscrapping a few pages documenting Katie's arrival to our home and family.

I'm still getting the hang of it, but I've discovered that this can be terribly addictive... oh, so addictive. I'm going to have to limit myself on this stuff or I'll never stop. This could become dangerous.

Digiscrapping, Take 1

2012-01-09T09:18:00.000-05:00

I've been inspired by my high school friend, Susie, to give digiscrapping a try. Admittedly, I have tons of paper scrapbooking stuff shoved into drawers and cabinets around the house, but I can never find the time (or space) to sit down and complete a project. No, really. I have a 60% complete scrapbook of our trip to Disney World from 2003 or 2006...it has been so long, I don't even remember. :-(

We bought Abby a netbook for Christmas to replace our really outdated family computer. As the mom, I made the executive decision to download a trial of Photoshop Elements to see how hard digiscrapping really is. I must admit, it was super easy and all of the design pieces were FREE! I could never say that about the paper stuff.

Now, I will admit I've only done one thing as a test, but it only took a few minutes and I'm really looking forward to doing a lot more. I just need to get all the pics off the cameras and my iTouch :-)

Here is my first ever digiscrap - a pic of Mike and Abby from Christmas morning:

I can't wait to find some fabulous freebies online and get started with Christmas and Katie's arrival.

New Year Survey 2012

2012-01-01T21:43:00.000-05:00

I posted this survey at the beginning of 2010 and I thought it might be nice to repeat with each new year.

1) What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before?
I gave birth to my second child
2) Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I doubt it. To be honest, I don't even remember my resolutions from 2011. Sad, but true. I'm hoping to stick to my guns a little better in 2012.
3) Did anyone close to you give birth?
My niece, Jocelyn. My friends Jennifer and Katie. Oh yeah, and me!
4) Did anyone close to you die?
No.
5) What countries did you visit?
The United States, of course.
6) What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?
Patience. I've never been a very patient person, but I'd really like to develop that characteristic.
7) What date from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
December 1, 2011: the day our second daughter, Beverly Kate, was born

8) What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Having faith even when a situation seemed hopeless
9) What was your biggest failure?
Losing my cool with Abby

10) Did you suffer illness or injury?
Thankfully, no.

11) What was the best thing you bought?
I didn't buy it, but Mike gave me a Hobo wallet for my birthday...and it is fabulous.
12) Whose behavior merited celebration?
Mike - he made the decision to be a stay at home dad for our girls... and that took awesome strength and faith

13) Whose behaviour made you appalled and depressed?
The person will remain unnamed, but there are some opinions that should remain private. I'm glad I don't let other people dictate my life anymore... it is so much more fulfilling now.
14) Where did most of your money go?
Bills and kids
15) What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Growing our family
16) What song will always remind you of 2011?
There are so many... but probably When I Die Young by The Band Perry
17) Compared to this time last year, are you:
- happier or sadder? happier
- thinner or fatter? thinner
- richer or poorer? richer in faith
18) What do you wish you'd done more of?
Spending time with God

19) What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worrying
20) How did you be spend New Year's?
Watching the ball drop on TV while rocking Katie, then watching Annie with Abby until she fell asleep on the couch
21) Did you fall in love in 2011?
Everyday
22) How many one-night stands?
None (ever)

23) What was your favorite TV program?
Parenthood
24) Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I can't think of anyone that I actually hate. I'm not a fan of that word. But, there are people that I am much less fond of now than a year ago.

25) What was the best book you read?
The Big Stone Gap series

26) What was your greatest musical discovery?
Adele
27) What did you want and get?
A stronger marriage

28) What did you want and not get?
A more comfortable financial standing
29) What was your favorite film of this year?
The Help
30) What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 33 in 2011 and spent the day like any typical weekday...at work.
31) What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
No one thing would have made that big of an impact on my satisfaction

32) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?
Pregnant chic
33) What kept you sane?
Mike
34) Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Lysa Terkeurst

35) What political issue stirred you the most?
school diversity

36) Whom did you miss?
Friends and family that aren't nearby
37) Who was the best new person you met?
Holly on the beach retreat
38) Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011:
God's plan is only revealed when He knows you are ready.

39) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
"God's right there, even when you can't feel Him, I promise you that He still cares."

Our Newest Addition!

2011-12-02T02:47:00.000-05:00

Please join us in welcoming our newest addition... Beverly Kate Slawter.

Katie was born on Thursday, December 1, 2011, at 1:15 pm; She weighed 10 pounds, 9 ounces and was 21 inches long.

Thankfully, the c-section went very well. I got a kick out of hearing everyone say, "She's a big girl," as soon as Katie was delivered. I would have never imagined that she would be bigger than Abby, but she beat her big sis by a whopping 7 ounces.

A huge thank you to everyone for your thoughts, prayers and support for our family during this exciting adventure. It really means the world to the four of us.

I promise to post pics in the coming days...

Still Waiting

2011-11-17T09:16:00.000-05:00

No, I haven't fallen into a black hole. I just haven't been accessing my laptop very often and it's really hard to blog from my iTouch :-)

I ended up being taken out of work on October 25th. For whatever reason (baby's placement, asthma, etc), breathing became a real struggle and I found the only relief was in lying on my side. It wouldn't have been so bad, but it happened every 2-3 hours. Not ideal for working at my desk or in a meeting. Thankfully, the breathing issues seemed to improve in the past day or so, but that has been replaced with plenty of other "she's almost here" side effects.

I had the ultimate in bad experiences at the doctor last Friday. When I arrived for my appointment, I was expecting to see the doc that is scheduled to deliver me. As the nurse was taking my vitals, I noticed that his name was scratched out on the paperwork and the doctor I detest was written in. At that moment, she was taking my blood pressure. My eyes started tearing up and my blood pressure went from my normal 114/68 to 151/98. Immediately, the nurse knew something was wrong. She was so sweet and told me not to apologize. I had a right to see the doctor I wanted to see. I told her not to worry about it... but when Mike found out, he stood up for me and made sure the appointment was corrected. The practice manager apologized and rescheduled me for Monday morning since no other OB physicians were in the office on Friday afternoon. When I arrived on Monday, I was able to see my doc and my blood pressure was back to normal :-) My doctor even apologized for the Friday fiasco. I thought that was very kind, since it really wasn't his fault.

While at the doc on Monday, my fears were confirmed... looks like this little princess might not be so little when she arrives. Just like Abby, I've gone from measuring on target to measuring 3-4 weeks ahead in the past couple of weeks (same time this happened with Abby). Because I'm having the c-section, they don't "need" to perform an ultrasound to confirm.

On a lighter note, I'd like to thank the fabulous women in my church family. They were so sweet to have a shower after church on Sunday and Abby was able to attend. Another friend in Sunday School is also pregnant, so we had a joint shower. It was so nice to see Abby enjoy the shower... she and a friend helped distribute my gifts and she coordinated the trash bag.

With only two weeks to go, Mike and I are trying to focus on getting everything ready around the house. I'm a procrastinating perfectionist by nature (don't ask how that works... I've always been that way about everything), so you wouldn't know by looking around the house that we have a baby due in two weeks. But, I know it will work out...

A Tearful Time

2011-10-12T12:34:00.000-04:00

Don't be alarmed... nothing has happened to truly warrant the tears. But, I think these crazy pregnancy hormones are seriously kicking into high gear this week.

I'll admit, my moods have been less than ideal throughout the past 7 months or so. But yesterday afternoon and today seem to be the absolute worst. I wanted to cry this morning while making lunches for me and Abby. Why you ask? Oh, because I was making peanut butter/maple syrup sandwiches and ended up having too much leftover. A downright catastrophe!

Even sitting at my desk, I find myself feeling teary, even about nothing. No kidding. Just sitting here doing work (writing test cases) and I notice the screen get blurry. I didn't even realize I was crying.

Boy, I hope this is just a passing thing and it goes away soon. I have too many weeks left... I'll be a complete basketcase if this keeps up.

Counting the Days

2011-10-11T14:28:00.000-04:00

I was reading a blog post from Lysa TerKeurst of Proverbs 31. She reminded me that Christmas is only 74 days away. {Gasp!} With all the preparations for baby #2, I'd almost forgotten about Christmas. In my mind, Christmas comes long after her expected arrival. Then again, not so much.

I believe this will be a Christmas of total simplicity. I do have every intention of getting the tree up in the first couple of weeks of November. Once that is accomplished, I'm hoping to get the rest of the house decorated before Thanksgiving as well.

As for Christmas cards, I think I may give up and just use labels for the mailing addresses. With a newborn and sleep deprivation, I don't think Mike or I will have the energy or the desire to address countless Christmas cards this year. Just signing them will be an accomplishment.

In the deep recesses of my memory, I recall the days before parenthood... when I actually helped friends wrap their gifts and I had all of my Christmas shopping completely finished before Halloween. This year, I'll be lucky to even go Christmas shopping. Thank goodness for Amazon.com and Super Saver Shipping!

A Whole New World

2011-10-11T08:15:00.000-04:00

Our family dynamic will be changing soon, as baby #2 arrives. But, before then, we're shaking things up a bit in preparation.

From the beginning, we've been a two income household. For those of you who share in this, we all know that it can be difficult to manage at times because there are only so many hours in the day and balancing work and family x2 can be a real challenge. Don't get me wrong, I don't think having one parent at home makes family life easy, but some of the challenges are different.

With our newest addition scheduled to arrive in about 7 weeks, Mike and I have said a lot of prayers over the past few months and really sought God's guidance on where to go from here. While it won't be easy (nothing important ever is), we've decided to become a one income household (maybe 1.5). With the expenses of daycare, before school, teacher workdays, summer camp, etc., it seemed almost silly to hold on to those expenses just to have two incomes (those little things sure do add up in a hurry).

Abby was super excited when we told her... until she realized that we would have to make sacrifices in other parts of our budget. This weekend was an experience as satellite ended and she was relegated to broadcast TV, Netflix and Wii. Of course, once she realized she could watch nearly all her shows from the very beginning on Netflix AND Wii games can be rented from Redbox, the shock seemed to wear off quickly. Sadly, Mike and I are still adjusting to the lack of DVR (that's right, I'm spoiled and I like being able to record a show and fast forward through commercials). I'm sure it will get easier with time :-)

When we first started discussing this major decision, I wondered if I'd feel jealous since Mike would be the one staying home. But, with the decision made, I realize that jealousy isn't really a concern. I'm so excited that Abby and baby #2 will have the chance to be home with their daddy and that I have a job that typically doesn't require travel or long hours... so I'll be home with them as soon as school gets out (Abby). And we're both looking forward to avoiding daycare and the germs that breed in that environment. I don't think daycares are bad, but I do think that some parents send their children to daycare when they should be kept at home (fever, diarrhea, etc.) and everyone ends up suffering.

So, as our newest adventure begins, feel free to offer any words of wisdom.

A Planner's Dream

2011-09-30T13:46:00.000-04:00

When I was pregnant with Abby, I was told at around 35 weeks that our baby was going to be big...real big...10 pounds big. The doctor highly recommended a c-section due to potential complications with babies that large. At first, I was totally heartbroken. I really, really wanted a natural childbirth. I felt robbed, like part of my womanhood had been stolen from me. But, I quickly came around when she advised me of the complications, including breaking the baby's collarbone in order to deliver. No way was my baby going to be born with a broken bone on purpose!

My due date was February 26. With only 4-5 weeks remaining, they scheduled the c-section for the first available date, March 2. That meant I waited anxiously on February 29 (yep, it was leap year in 2004) and hoped that I didn't just happen to go into labor that day.

Fast forward a little over 7 years. With the anxiety of my first c-section long gone, I'm all for having one this time around. I'm a planner and a perfectionist, so being able to choose the date, the time and the doctor? That is a no-brainer. I was a little surprised at my visit this week that the doctor went ahead and forwarded the request to have my c-section scheduled. But, I'm thrilled to get everything planned and it's nice that I already know what to expect.

When the scheduler called, the first date she offered was in November. I asked if I could wait until December. My reasoning? Don't laugh... I like the birthstone for December better. Very mature, right? It's as a good a reason as any other. (No offense to November babies.) As for the doctor and the timing, I couldn't be luckier. Because the schedule hadn't been set for December, I had first dibs on both. Woohoo!

Earlier this week, I found another benefit to having a c-section... explaining childbirth to my 7-year-old. Out of the blue, Abby asked how the baby would be born. Easy - mommy will go to the hospital and the doctor will give her a lot of Tylenol (to Abby, Tylenol is a miracle drug). The doctor will make a small cut on mommy's tummy, take the baby out and give mommy some stitches. Mommy and the baby will stay in the hospital for a few days and then come home. I'm certain Abby could have handled more details, but I wanted to avoid future conflict...specifically "that call" from a parent or teacher because Abby has help an impromptu childbirthing class for 2nd graders. No. Thank. You.

10 Weeks and Counting

2011-09-25T09:25:00.001-04:00

We have a little less than 10 weeks until we *plan* to welcome our newest addition. Even though I'll have a scheduled c-section, there's no guarantee that this little princess will cooperate, but I'm hoping that she does. I have NO interest in going into labor unexpectedly and rushing to the hospital for a c-section... I much prefer picking the date, packing my bag a day or two before, enjoying a nice dinner the night before, dropping Abby off at school that morning, having the baby midday, and seeing Abby's excitement when she meets her baby sister that afternoon after school. I know, I want it all, but who can blame a girl? If I'm going to be gutted like a fish, I might as well get some benefit out of it, right?

I've made a ridiculously long (and tedious) list of things we need to get done before baby #2 arrives. All of it isn't specific to the baby, but I'd like to get around to it before she enters the world. Once I made the list, I immediately realized that we ONLY have 10 weeks!!! It just looks so daunting, hanging on the cork board in the kitchen. For me, I tend to get defeated by lists like that, so I tried to divide it up into rooms or areas of the house. Don't get me wrong, it's still really long, but I think I can make it through a lot easier if I can focus on one room/area at a time. It would be nice if I'd have the energy to do stuff every night when we get home, but by the time I've been up for 12+ hours, homework is done, dinner is prepared and eaten, I'm ready for some down time. Maybe we can make some serious progress on the next few Saturdays and it won't seem so bad.

With less than 10 weeks to go, I've started looking at birth announcements. I absolutely love that many companies run promotions with Shutterfly and we've racked up quite a few credits to our Shutterfly account. I love the options we have with the products on Shutterfly and I know the quality is excellent after our Christmas cards last year.

10 weeks to go also means that I'm having to learn to delegate more readily at work. While I love the idea of delegating (and completely understand the necessity), I tend to avoid it a lot of the time. Part of that is the control-freak in me (admitting is the first step) and the perfectionist part of me doesn't make it any easier. But, knowing that I'll be out of work for at least 2 months, I know that I need to make sure my normal tasks can be handled by someone else without a lot of confusion or questions. It does make things a little more stressful right now, but I think it will be worth it in the long run.

Easy Pumpkin Muffins (again)

2011-09-24T08:15:00.000-04:00

I posted about the Easy Pumpkin Muffins I stumbled on around this time last year. Click here for the original recipe.

I've been craving the muffins again as we were teased with fall weather last week and as the calendar moves closer to the end of the year. But, I've sworn off chocolate during my pregnancy, so the original recipe just wouldn't do.

For Abby's recent Bake Sale at school, I decided to change things up a bit and use white chocolate chips instead. The result? Fabulous pumpkin muffins! For a few of them, I also sprinkled some brown sugar on top before baking... a wonderful idea that I will definitely remember for next time (I don't think it would be as good with the regular chocolate chips, but it's a perfect addition with white chocolate).

As if this wasn't enough, I'm contemplating making them again (without any chips) and filling with white chocolate ganache. Of course, that takes a little more time and preparation, but I can just imagine how tasty they would be.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-09-23T13:15:00.001-04:00

For today...Friday, September 23, 2011

Outside my window... the rain has let up, at least for a little while.

I am thinking... about all the things that I'd like to complete before the baby arrives.

I am thankful for... my loving family. Even though we don't always get along in perfect harmony, I'm thankful that we are a family.

I am wearing... clothes. Reassuring, I know.
I am remembering... how uncomfortable pregnancy becomes during the last trimester.I am going... to eat my lunch in a few minutes.

I am hoping... for a healthy family.

On my mind... peace.

Noticing that... the more you worry, the more there is to worry about. I need to stop worrying so much.

Pondering these words... "I want," versus, "I need."
From the kitchen... frozen pizza? I'm looking for an easy meal tonight.

One of my favorite things... sleep (which I can't seem to get enough of lately).
View more daybook entries here.

Education Opportunities

2011-09-23T12:24:00.000-04:00

Less than a month ago, I attended an information session at Abby's school that included the superintendent of our school system... so I knew something important would be discussed, but had no idea what. That evening, they announced a proposal to convert Abby's elementary school from K-5 to K-8 to address expected overcrowding of the only middle school in that portion of the county within the next few years. Studies have shown that students in the K-8 environment tend to have a better overall experience (learning and social) than the "standard" K-5 and 6-8 environments.

I was really impressed to hear about the proposal and the opportunities that would be available to the students at her school going forward --> 1:1 laptops for every middle school student; science, technology, engineering and math theme for the entire school (the elementary started applying the theme this year); dedicated path to Early College program with NC State for STEM theme; no typical transition to middle school.

For us personally, this is a HUGE opportunity. Because Abby was transferred to her school, she is allowed to remain there until the end of the school's grade levels. That means she will be able to stay through the 8th grade. I love that she can stay with the same friends and classmates for that long. I never had that growing up and I think it's really important.

Abby is very excited about the expansion at her school. She really likes the school, the staff and her classmates. She had already started asking what would happen after elementary school...she was very aware that the kids at her school would go to a nearby middle school, but that she most likely wouldn't be able to go to that same school. Knowing that she can stay makes her really happy (and Mom and Dad are happy too!) Of course, I've explained to her that a lot of things can happen in the next 3-4 years, so don't get too focused or excited.

And the ultrasound says...

2011-09-17T08:08:00.001-04:00

We had another ultrasound this week to take a peak at our baby's size. Since Abby ended up being 10 lbs, the doctors wanted to check on baby #2's progress.

As of this week, she's on target for the estimated due date of December 7. We still plan on having the c-section around December 1st. No need for that pesky labor stuff if it isn't necessary, right? At this point, she is 2.5lbs with normal measurements, fluid, etc. And, I did have them confirm that she is a she! You just never know :-)

Thankfully, I've been able to keep my weight in check this time around (at least up to this point). Hopefully, that will continue through until the end. *finger crossed*

Beach Bums

2011-09-16T10:56:00.000-04:00

We haven't had a family vacation since our weekend at the beach at the end of February to celebrate Abby's 7th birthday. We decided to have one final vacay as a threesome before *baby* arrives and Labor Day was the perfect time... the last hoorah for beach bums, not too preggers and we get a freebie without having to use vacation for Monday.

This was the third time staying at a friend's condo in Carolina Beach. I've gotten better each time about packing, but I still end up packing too much. I need to figure out a better method...because the next time we got, it will be the FOUR of us and we all know how much stuff babies need.

Abby and I went down on Thursday night and Mike met us on Friday. The weather was perfect the entire weekend. We only saw rain as we drove back on Monday afternoon.

Friday, Abby and I walked along the beach. Once Mike arrived, we had lunch at the Trolley Stop (I've heard people rave about their hot dogs, but we weren't impressed). We went to the Kure Beach Pier, and of course the arcade. With our help, Abby had over 200 tickets and walked away with a harmonica (still not sure why Mike suggested that to her), a locket and air heads. Oh, the joys of being a kid. That evening, we had dinner at Bowman's in Carolina Beach and I have to say it was probably some of the best Calabash style seafood we've ever had! I would have happily eaten lunch and dinner there for the rest of the vacation. After dinner, we cruised the Boardwalk area (in the car) and walked the fireworks at the beach. Abby loved it until the end when it was REALLY loud (she's very sensitive to loud noises).

Saturday, we took our usual day trip down to Myrtle Beach to walk around Broadway at the Beach, but only after fresh, hot donuts from Britts. The number of donuts isn't important :-) These are the BEST donuts I've ever had...even better than Krispy Kreme. Seriously. Once at Broadway, we started our shopping excursion. Abby loves spending her money in the stores at Broadway because they have so much more than what she typically sees at home. She bought herself another Tervis Tumbler and lid. I have a feeling she'll have a good collection in the next couple of years. It took me a lot longer to choose my Tervis Tumbler... but I ended up with one that I love. We enjoyed walking through the shops and Abby's choice for dinner was Planet Hollywood. The best part about dinner was the light-up mug that came with her drink. Mike and I were really impressed with the food and loved that there wasn't a wait.

Sunday was a lazy day. We had a late breakfast that wasn't all that great. At least we're figuring out which places are fabulous and which ones are worth skipping. We spent a few hours at the pool and a few more at the beach. I finally got some sun on my pale skin (I can't remember than last time I actually had tan lines...I'm just not much of a sun worshipper). Abby enjoyed the ocean and found tons of shells - thanks Irene! For dinner, we headed into Wilmington to try Rucker Johns. Another hit. They had plenty of variety and everyone loved their food. After dinner, we played a round of mini golf. They failed to mention the fire ants throughout the course and the swarms of mosquitoes...until after they took our money :-( That was the fastest round of 18 holes every played, I guarantee. Each of us made at least 1 hole-in-one and Abby had a blast. After that, everyone needed a dose of Benedryl. We made a pit stop at the Boardwalk on the way back to the condo and I lucked out with some pumpkin pie fudge. (This is my absolute FAVORITE fudge flavor, but it's usually hard to find outside of the fall.)

On Monday, we were greeted by the HOA plumber for the condo. Never a good sign. He had some unexpected repairs to do. Luckily, we were getting packed and ready to return home. We stopped at The Sawmill in Wilmington on the way home and it was fabulous.

I think everyone had a great time, but I was ready for my own bed after a few nights away :-)

All About Me (her)

2011-09-01T10:20:00.000-04:00

One of Abby's first homework assignments was to fill a brown paper bag (think lunch bag size) with 4-5 things "All About Me." She had the weekend to think this over and made her presentation to the class on Monday.

"Bubba"
Bubba, who I think has been renamed since he originally came to our house, was a treat from my parents when they took Abby to see the circus a few years back. He's a white tiger in a cute purple purse. The purse didn't go to school, but Bubba had huge "awh" factor.

Family Portrait
While we were at the beach for Abby's birthday, we had a kind stranger snap a family portrait of us...including our beloved beagle, Bojo. Although Bojo is no longer with us, we still consider him to be part of the family. Again, major "awh" factor, but Abby was quick to let everyone know that he's in heaven now, so he is OK.

Harry Potter
Abby is really excited for us to read the first Harry Potter book together, so she took her newest treasure to share. We've gotten out of the habit of reading together and I think this will be great fun for both of us.

Mr. Wuf
You can't be a Wolfpack fan without showing Mr. Wuf some love. Abby took a small representation of her passion and Wolfpack pride!

Big Sister
Abby couldn't leave off one of the biggest things to happen in her life. She's so excited about becoming a big sister. She has a magnet that can also be part of a necklace or bracelet that says it all, "Big Sister"

In addition to the items inside the bag, Abby also had to decorate the bag. She chose a flower scene for one side and a huge heart with "I love Mom and Dad" on the other.

Happy Early Birthday to Me!!!

2011-08-31T10:37:00.000-04:00

My birthday is just two weeks away, but Mike gave me a fabulous surprise last night. When Abby and I got home, there was a package at the door. Abby, always hoping for something in the mail, ran to find out who it was for. It was addressed to me, but I didn't order anything. I know better than to get snoopy around my birthday, so I had her take it upstairs to Mike's office.

When he got home, I overheard the two of them "plotting" in the dining room. When we sat down to dinner, the package was in my chair and all the labels had been removed. (Obviously, my attention to detail would have given the surprise away if the labels had remained.) I opened the package to find a scarlet Hobo wallet in the Lauren pattern. I was so surprised! I had been fawning over this particular wallet for a while, but couldn't bring myself to actually buy it. Most of my wallets cost less than $20, so this was way out of my comfort level.

Abby had no idea what was in the package and couldn't understand why she wasn't consulted. Mike explained that sometimes you let the birthday girl pick her gift and just surprise her with it. Abby seemed ok with that and even mentioned the gift in her blessing before we ate.

I think Mike thought I was crazy when I asked him to smell my new wallet. Yes, it has a smell... leather. As soon as Abby was tucked in for bed, I plopped in my chair and started moving all my *stuff* into my new wallet. I love all the pockets and zippers. I've got room for all kinds of things now. I'm also thrilled that my keys and phone will fit in the wallet so I can just grab and go when I need to. I'm sure this will really come in handy when I start toting a diaper bag again :-)

The End and New Beginnings

2011-08-30T08:38:00.002-04:00

Last week was a whirlwind week for Abby. Although school didn't start for our 2nd Grader until Thursday, the entire week was one "event" after another.

Monday
Abby spent the entire day with a good friend of mine (her daughter and Abby are also good friends). Of course, her kids tracked back in to year-round school this week, so it was just Abby and Lisa. Abby had a blast and loved visiting for the day. She got to walk to the elementary school to have lunch with her own friend and all of them went to the neighborhood pool after school. Shortly after we arrived home, Abby's brand new backpack was delivered. More on that later.

Tuesday
Abby spent the morning with her papaw (my dad). The went for breakfast at The Flying Biscuit, toured the Rose Garden and walked around the NC Museum of Art. For the afternoon, Abby and I had her new backpack monogrammed, went to the Y pool for a little while and attended Meet the Teacher. She was so excited about her new teacher, Ms. Fox... she's a Wolfpack fan! Seriously, this was the first thing Abby noticed when she entered the classroom.

On a side note - meeting her teacher made me feel really old because she looks a lot like my niece, Aubrey. Abby thought so too. Of course, Aubrey is old enough to be a teacher, but I guess I just haven't encountered this before. All of Abby's other teachers have been teaching for 15-20 years and don't look like any of nieces :-P Abby's teacher does seem very nice and very organized. She also seems to truly enjoy children.

So, I found two unused Barnes & Noble gift cards in my wallet from Christmas and ordered a surprise for Abby scheduled to arrive before school started. When we finally arrived home on Tuesday night, Abby had mail. (Abby loves receiving mail and always hopes to have something, even though she rarely does.) She had a postcard from her new Sunday School teachers AND a package. After multiple attempts at opening the package, she ended up asking her dad for help. He quickly showed her the "Pull Here" tab. It totally reminded of the Far Side cartoon "School for the Gifted."
Once she opened the package, she found the first book in the Harry Potter series. She seemed very happy. You see, we had gotten the book from the library and started to read it together, but couldn't renew it because of the wait list. I figured, why not buy it for her. If she enjoys it, we can buy the rest of the series.

Wednesday
Since there was no Y camp this week, Abby's been here and there. For Wednesday, she attended a sort of "mini" camp at a local community center. It's right around the corner from my office and the price was right. It doesn't hurt that Mike actually worked at the center when he was in college and later when he worked for the City Parks and Rec department. Abby was a little bummed there wasn't a pool...because the Y has two pools, but I think she managed just fine. Once I picked her up, she was all smiles and told us (willingly) about everything she did. It sounded like she had a great time.

Thursday
The First Day of Second Grade. Here's Abby's brand new backpack.

For the past six months, she's been begging for a messenger bag. I have no idea why, but who am I to question a girl's sense of style? I didn't want to waste a bunch of money on a bag that wouldn't last, so I agreed to let her have a messenger bag from L.L.Bean. The only problem...the bags aren't very small (and Abby is). But, she's determined to make this work. We've agreed that this will be her backpack until middle school and Mom & Dad won't be buying another one until then. She's fine with that and so proud of her new bag. We're both really happy with the monogram, even though it cost a ridiculous amount!

The first day of school was awesome (Abby's word). She loves her new teacher and I think it's going to be a great year.

Bringing Back Memories

2011-08-15T16:07:00.001-04:00

Over the weekend, we fired up the Wii and watched a Veggie Tales movie. My sister-in-law introduced us to Veggie Tales years ago when Abby was a baby. Her first Veggie Tale movie was a gift from her Aunt Kim and starred Madame Blueberry. Abby loved it. Over the weekend, I remembered back to our old townhouse preparing food/bottles for daycare in the kitchen as Abby happily enjoyed breakfast in her high chair while watching Madame Blueberry.

As we watched Veggie Tales over the weekend, Mike explained to Abby that she'll be watching stuff like this again, but with her little sister... who WILL NOT be partaking in the likes of A.N.T. Farm, Hannah Montana, iCarly or Shake It Up.

Then, we reminisced about the shows Abby enjoyed all those years ago (I know, it's only 6 or 7 years, but it seems like a lifetime ago)... Bear in the Big Blue House, Jojo's Circus, Doodlebops, Little People (VHS tapes that were worn out), Little Einsteins. I guess we'll be entrenched in kiddie shows all over again, and this time it's likely it will be a whole new set.

'The Help' has arrived

2011-08-10T09:22:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited that The Help is being released today. I read this book last year and couldn't put it down. I recommended to everyone I could think of and still regard it as one of the best books I've ever read.

I was very impressed about the background of the movie when I stumbled on a review this morning on the Raleigh News & Observer's website... read here.

Summer School

2011-08-07T13:08:00.001-04:00

Summer school ended on Thursday night for Mike. He's getting even closer to graduating and I'm so proud of him. He'll be taking a full class load in the fall semester, so I'm praying that he has the strength to make it through another successful semester. I love how excited Abby is for him. She can't wait to yell and scream for her daddy when he walks across that stage. (I can't wait either, but your kid is so much cuter than your wife.) Hopefully, she'll remember all this in 11 years when it's time for her to go to college.

2011-08-06T23:07:00.001-04:00

Let me step up on my soapbox... Tax Free Weekend. If you don't have Tax Free Weekend where you live, don't be too jealous. It is estimated that NC will lose between $12 and 14 MILLION in tax revenue this weekend by having a Tax Free Weekend. The idea is to stimulate the economy (and combat the lost revenue to businesses in SC and VA because they were hosting Tax Free Weekend long before NC). No, that money wouldn't have made a huge difference in balancing the State budget that was just passed, but it would have helped a number of agencies and programs that received significant cuts. And, let's be honest, if your child has a school supply list, you aren't deciding whether to buy school supplies or not based on Tax Free or Taxed. And, if your budget is so tight that having the Tax Free Weekend is the only way you can afford to buy school supplies, we need to address that as a separate issue... because you shouldn't have to choose between school supplies and feeding your kids or school supplies and paying the power bill.

Ok, I'm stepping down now :-)