The kids and I took a "nature walk" today and stumbled upon this guy sun bathing. We were on a bridge and he was down below. That was a huge highlight for us today! Matthew said "COOLEST THING EVER!!" lol :-P
It's not common to see a huge snake just lazily lying around in the open (here anyway!). We have lots of snakes, they just tend to be shy ;-).
This was with my zoom all the way out, not the best photo but hey it's a photo!
I thought it was a water moccasin until I started researching, turns out it is commonly mistaken for one. It's not venomous though.
We were quiet for awhile so we didn't scare it, but once we started talking in normal levels he slithered off under the rocks.
Broad-banded Water Snake
Nerodia fasciata confluens
Nonvenomous
As with all snakes seen near water in the Harris County area, the harmless Broad-banded Water Snake is often incorrectly referred to as a "water moccasin." This is because of its generally dark coloration and its irritable disposition. When threatened, Broad-banded Water Snakes will behave like all other local harmless water snakes of the genus Nerodia. They will usually coil up and flatten out their head, making it look arrowhead shaped. However, head shape cannot be used to tell venomous snakes from harmless ones. They will also vibrate their tail, let out large amounts of foul smelling musk which smells like a skunk, and strike out repeatedly at whatever is threatening them. This defensive behavior often causes them to be mistaken for the venomous Western Cottonmouth. Since they are not venomous, though, treatment for the bite of a water snake usually involves no more than soap and water and a Band-Aid.
You will notice that Broad-banded Water Snakes do not have the wide, dark "raccoon mask" facial stripe seen on the cottonmouth. This stripe can also be seen from a good distance, making identification less likely to cause the snake to feel threatened.
Broad-banded Water Snakes are often found in yards when they attempt to find new water sources, especially if the yard is watered on a regular basis. Regular watering also attracts frogs and toads, which are a favored food item for these snakes. With these points in mind, you may want to consider watering the yard slightly less frequently if you do not want to attract these kinds of wildlife into your yard.
www.houstonherp.com/BroadBandedWS.html
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
My Mother, The American!
American!
We moved here in 1980 and my mother spent years as a legal alien of the US. She was always nervous to take the test.
My parents have heard a few horror stories where one spouse (the legal citizen) dies and the legal alien is forced to go back "home". Well, after 28 years and 3 kids this is "home".
So she went and took the test, passed, and she traded in her British citizenship for an American one.
Today she is Proud to be An American!
Go mom! :)
We moved here in 1980 and my mother spent years as a legal alien of the US. She was always nervous to take the test.
My parents have heard a few horror stories where one spouse (the legal citizen) dies and the legal alien is forced to go back "home". Well, after 28 years and 3 kids this is "home".
So she went and took the test, passed, and she traded in her British citizenship for an American one.
Today she is Proud to be An American!
Go mom! :)
Monday, April 20, 2009
Lessons From A Dandelion
Lessons From A Dandelion
The following isn't by me, but by another "Donna". I really enjoyed reading it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lessons From A Dandelion
By Donna Doyon
I recall as a young child bringing bouquets of brilliant yellow flowers to my mother. It didn't matter that the stems felt sticky or that both my parents cursed the presence of these flowers in the lawn. I thought they were beautiful!
And there were so many of them! We spent hours picking the flowers and then popping the blossoms off with a snap of our fingers. But the supply of dandelions never ran out. My father or brothers would chop off all the heads with the lawn mower at least once a week, but that didn't stop these hardy wonders.
And for those flowers that escaped the honor of being hand-delivered to my mother or the sharp blades of the lawn mower, there was another level of existence.
The soft, round puffs of a dandelion gone to seed caused endless giggles and squeals of delight as we unwittingly spread this flower across the yard.
As I worked in my garden last week, pulling unwanted weeds out of the space that would become a haven for tomatoes, corn, peas and sunflowers, I again marveled at the flower that some call a weed. And I thought, "If only I had the staying power of a dandelion."
If only I could stretch my roots so deep and straight that something tugging on my stem couldn't separate me completely from the source that feeds me life. If only I could come back to face the world with a bright, sunshiny face after someone has run me over with a lawnmower or worse, purposely attacked me in an attempt to destroy me. If only my foliage was a nutritious source of vitamins that help others grow. If only I could spread love and encouragement as freely and fully as this flower spreads seeds of itself.
The lawns at my parents' homes are now beautiful green blankets. The only patches of color come from well-placed, well-controlled flowerbeds. Chemicals have managed to kill what human persistence couldn't.
I hope you and I can be different. I hope that we can stretch our roots deep enough that the strongest poison can't reach our souls. I hope that we can overcome the poisons of anger, fear, hate, criticism and competitiveness. I hope that we can see flowers in a world that sees weeds.
The following isn't by me, but by another "Donna". I really enjoyed reading it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lessons From A Dandelion
By Donna Doyon
I recall as a young child bringing bouquets of brilliant yellow flowers to my mother. It didn't matter that the stems felt sticky or that both my parents cursed the presence of these flowers in the lawn. I thought they were beautiful!
And there were so many of them! We spent hours picking the flowers and then popping the blossoms off with a snap of our fingers. But the supply of dandelions never ran out. My father or brothers would chop off all the heads with the lawn mower at least once a week, but that didn't stop these hardy wonders.
And for those flowers that escaped the honor of being hand-delivered to my mother or the sharp blades of the lawn mower, there was another level of existence.
The soft, round puffs of a dandelion gone to seed caused endless giggles and squeals of delight as we unwittingly spread this flower across the yard.
As I worked in my garden last week, pulling unwanted weeds out of the space that would become a haven for tomatoes, corn, peas and sunflowers, I again marveled at the flower that some call a weed. And I thought, "If only I had the staying power of a dandelion."
If only I could stretch my roots so deep and straight that something tugging on my stem couldn't separate me completely from the source that feeds me life. If only I could come back to face the world with a bright, sunshiny face after someone has run me over with a lawnmower or worse, purposely attacked me in an attempt to destroy me. If only my foliage was a nutritious source of vitamins that help others grow. If only I could spread love and encouragement as freely and fully as this flower spreads seeds of itself.
The lawns at my parents' homes are now beautiful green blankets. The only patches of color come from well-placed, well-controlled flowerbeds. Chemicals have managed to kill what human persistence couldn't.
I hope you and I can be different. I hope that we can stretch our roots deep enough that the strongest poison can't reach our souls. I hope that we can overcome the poisons of anger, fear, hate, criticism and competitiveness. I hope that we can see flowers in a world that sees weeds.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
11 things
I was tagged by Mark aka DoodlesNPoodles www.flickr.com/photos/31097516@N04/3442900777/ to do 11 things about myself. Thanks Mark :) I've done a couple in the past so I hope I haven't repeated anything, but if I have forgive me! ;-) I am terrible about these things.
PS This photo was taken of me a few years ago on a park that my sisters and I used to frequent as children. Good memories!
11 things about me
1. I was born in England and have dual citizenship. We came to the States when I was 5. I would never go back to live, but it is fun to visit.
2. I have boy/girl twins, and they were born almost a full hour a part. I had a regular birth and an emergency c-section in the same day. In my wildest dreams I could never imagine my first hospital stay being quite so eventful, lol.
3. I've got a "British" sense of humor, and I am prone to dirty jokes and very cheesy comedy cracks me up. I can't help it!
4. I love Tex-Mex, my rear end does not. >.<
5. I love all animals and insects, except mosquitoes and ants. They can go straight to... well you know.
6. I am a Scrabble fanatic. If I was stuck on an island with only one game and one person to play it with, that would be the one.
7. I once was pulled over by a police officer for turning into the wrong lane. I tricked him into thinking I was a British foreign exchange student to get out of the ticket (I was 18). I guess my accent was believable. I know, it was terrible of me. I was poor and desperate! lol
8. We only had one breed of dog while I was growing up, Chow Chows. I loved them as a child but I would never own one as an adult with children around.
9. My husband told me that the day he met me he knew I was "the one". Which, when I think about it, is pretty awesome. I didn't feel the same way but I was 5 years younger and had no idea what I was looking for yet. (I did think he was sweet and cute though!)
10. I am stubborn and can be a bit bossy. I blame it on being the first born (1st of 3 girls-my poor dad) and being a Virgo. I am very "Virgo" in many ways. I am very easy to get along with though! I just tend to be the one doing the pushing and prodding in groups and at home. It has it's good and bad ends.
11. I worked as an office manager for 2 years. Unless I am desperate I never want to work in an office again. It was far too monotonous (it was busy though!) and is not for me at all. On the plus side I did meet some great people while there :-).
PS This photo was taken of me a few years ago on a park that my sisters and I used to frequent as children. Good memories!
11 things about me
1. I was born in England and have dual citizenship. We came to the States when I was 5. I would never go back to live, but it is fun to visit.
2. I have boy/girl twins, and they were born almost a full hour a part. I had a regular birth and an emergency c-section in the same day. In my wildest dreams I could never imagine my first hospital stay being quite so eventful, lol.
3. I've got a "British" sense of humor, and I am prone to dirty jokes and very cheesy comedy cracks me up. I can't help it!
4. I love Tex-Mex, my rear end does not. >.<
5. I love all animals and insects, except mosquitoes and ants. They can go straight to... well you know.
6. I am a Scrabble fanatic. If I was stuck on an island with only one game and one person to play it with, that would be the one.
7. I once was pulled over by a police officer for turning into the wrong lane. I tricked him into thinking I was a British foreign exchange student to get out of the ticket (I was 18). I guess my accent was believable. I know, it was terrible of me. I was poor and desperate! lol
8. We only had one breed of dog while I was growing up, Chow Chows. I loved them as a child but I would never own one as an adult with children around.
9. My husband told me that the day he met me he knew I was "the one". Which, when I think about it, is pretty awesome. I didn't feel the same way but I was 5 years younger and had no idea what I was looking for yet. (I did think he was sweet and cute though!)
10. I am stubborn and can be a bit bossy. I blame it on being the first born (1st of 3 girls-my poor dad) and being a Virgo. I am very "Virgo" in many ways. I am very easy to get along with though! I just tend to be the one doing the pushing and prodding in groups and at home. It has it's good and bad ends.
11. I worked as an office manager for 2 years. Unless I am desperate I never want to work in an office again. It was far too monotonous (it was busy though!) and is not for me at all. On the plus side I did meet some great people while there :-).
Defeated
My hubby was reading an article in a magazine a few weeks ago. It was about this game, Settlers of Catan. He suggest we get it and play with the kiddies.
So I ordered it from Amazon (btw I love Amazon :P). It came this week and we've been playing it.
So far we've each won a game. Matthew and Michael love it, Moira enjoys it but gets distracted easily. I can take it or leave it. For me it's a bit boring.
Michael really seems to love it though. He's always asking us to play with him! I do like that it is different every time you play. There's some strategy and some luck involved.
Matthew is obsessed with collecting ore. That's rather funny.
This picture is totally set up. I won the game (first time, woo hoo) and asked them to all look dejected, lol.
They are too good! hee hee
So I ordered it from Amazon (btw I love Amazon :P). It came this week and we've been playing it.
So far we've each won a game. Matthew and Michael love it, Moira enjoys it but gets distracted easily. I can take it or leave it. For me it's a bit boring.
Michael really seems to love it though. He's always asking us to play with him! I do like that it is different every time you play. There's some strategy and some luck involved.
Matthew is obsessed with collecting ore. That's rather funny.
This picture is totally set up. I won the game (first time, woo hoo) and asked them to all look dejected, lol.
They are too good! hee hee
Fast Food Nation
In my small"ish" SE Texas college town we have too many fast food places to count. We even have double of several of them. In the last year there's been at least 4 new ones crop up. You can smell the grease in the air as you drive by.
I'm not immune to the draw... in fact this photo was taken at the local Jack In the Box drive thru. By me. >.> The kids got out of school early and I thought it would a fun "treat". We tried the Burger king first, but the line was so long (hmm) that we turned around and went to the JITB.
I've had periods where I am completely anti- fast food. Then, eventually, I come around again and dive in.
I have to admit the thought of french fries nowadays totally turns me off. But I do like a good burger!
We are trying to eat healthier more "whole" foods these days. But darn these fast food places everywhere you turn! The good news is the prices are getting so high these days it's easier to pass on them. For the four of us it can go up to almost 30 dollars depending on what we get. Far too much for "fast food" junk IMO!
I found some interesting things on the internet:
Did You Know?
*At many fast-food restaurants, a single meal gives a disproportionate share—sometimes more than 100 percent—of the recommended daily intake of fat, cholesterol, salt, and sugar.
*In the United States, an estimated 65 percent of adults are overweight or obese, leading to an annual loss of 300,000 lives and to at least $117 billion in health care costs in 1999.
*A recent study showed that children who drink sodas and other sugar-sweetened drinks are more often obese and that this risk increases another 60 percent with each additional beverage consumed.
*McDonald's, which operates 30,000 restaurants in 119 countries and serves 46 million customers each day, earned $15.4 billion in revenues in 2002. On opening day in Kuwait City, the line for the McDonald's drive-thru was more than 10 kilometers long.
*India's fast-food industry is growing by 40 percent a year and is expected to generate over a billion dollars in sales by 2005. Meanwhile, a quarter of India's population remains under-nourished—a number virtually unchanged over the past decade.
*China is now home to 800 KFCs and 100 Pizza Huts.
*Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, the world's two largest soft drink companies, are the thirteenth and twentieth largest advertisers in the world; together, they spent $2.4 billion on ads in 2001.
*Coca-Cola sells more than 300 drink brands in over 200 countries and employs 60,000 people in Africa alone. Its net revenues reached $19.6 billion in 2002—with more than 70 percent of its income originating outside of the United States.
More information here:
www.worldwatch.org/node/1489
I'm not immune to the draw... in fact this photo was taken at the local Jack In the Box drive thru. By me. >.> The kids got out of school early and I thought it would a fun "treat". We tried the Burger king first, but the line was so long (hmm) that we turned around and went to the JITB.
I've had periods where I am completely anti- fast food. Then, eventually, I come around again and dive in.
I have to admit the thought of french fries nowadays totally turns me off. But I do like a good burger!
We are trying to eat healthier more "whole" foods these days. But darn these fast food places everywhere you turn! The good news is the prices are getting so high these days it's easier to pass on them. For the four of us it can go up to almost 30 dollars depending on what we get. Far too much for "fast food" junk IMO!
I found some interesting things on the internet:
Did You Know?
*At many fast-food restaurants, a single meal gives a disproportionate share—sometimes more than 100 percent—of the recommended daily intake of fat, cholesterol, salt, and sugar.
*In the United States, an estimated 65 percent of adults are overweight or obese, leading to an annual loss of 300,000 lives and to at least $117 billion in health care costs in 1999.
*A recent study showed that children who drink sodas and other sugar-sweetened drinks are more often obese and that this risk increases another 60 percent with each additional beverage consumed.
*McDonald's, which operates 30,000 restaurants in 119 countries and serves 46 million customers each day, earned $15.4 billion in revenues in 2002. On opening day in Kuwait City, the line for the McDonald's drive-thru was more than 10 kilometers long.
*India's fast-food industry is growing by 40 percent a year and is expected to generate over a billion dollars in sales by 2005. Meanwhile, a quarter of India's population remains under-nourished—a number virtually unchanged over the past decade.
*China is now home to 800 KFCs and 100 Pizza Huts.
*Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, the world's two largest soft drink companies, are the thirteenth and twentieth largest advertisers in the world; together, they spent $2.4 billion on ads in 2001.
*Coca-Cola sells more than 300 drink brands in over 200 countries and employs 60,000 people in Africa alone. Its net revenues reached $19.6 billion in 2002—with more than 70 percent of its income originating outside of the United States.
More information here:
www.worldwatch.org/node/1489
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Mommy
I think she has babies in this tree. I saw her and when she saw me she ran halfway up the tree.
Then she proceeded to spin around and make noises at me, while swishing her tail around wildly. I thought it was cute and funny but I know she was probably ticked at me, LOL. She definitely had the "go away" stare.
She's a pretty thing though!
Here's a little bit about baby squirrels.
Baby squirrels are born in the spring, without fur. They're blind, and weigh in at one or two ounces each. There are usually four in a liter. The mother will keep the young in the nest and nurse them until they're ready to venture out of the nest, on their own. This is usually in eight to ten weeks. You may see a mother squirrel move her babies, she will carry them by mouth, one at a time.
Then she proceeded to spin around and make noises at me, while swishing her tail around wildly. I thought it was cute and funny but I know she was probably ticked at me, LOL. She definitely had the "go away" stare.
She's a pretty thing though!
Here's a little bit about baby squirrels.
Baby squirrels are born in the spring, without fur. They're blind, and weigh in at one or two ounces each. There are usually four in a liter. The mother will keep the young in the nest and nurse them until they're ready to venture out of the nest, on their own. This is usually in eight to ten weeks. You may see a mother squirrel move her babies, she will carry them by mouth, one at a time.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
April Fools!!!
The kiddos got out at noon today. Moira was ready with a million ways to "fool" us today.
She ran around saying "hey mommy I see a bug in your hair" "Hey what's that on Abby's foot?" "Hey you have something hanging out of your nose!"... Etc Etc.
She tried to get me with the "Hey what's that on your shirt" trick- you know the one. They point at your shirt, as you look down you get a finger coming up at your nose. I saw that one coming, lol.
Matthew didn't seem very interested in any of it but that girl kept it up until she went to bed!
By the way this photo is of her hair after I finished goofing off with it. She wanted a photo of it, lol. It was just a high ponytail that I flopped over her forehead.
She ran around saying "hey mommy I see a bug in your hair" "Hey what's that on Abby's foot?" "Hey you have something hanging out of your nose!"... Etc Etc.
She tried to get me with the "Hey what's that on your shirt" trick- you know the one. They point at your shirt, as you look down you get a finger coming up at your nose. I saw that one coming, lol.
Matthew didn't seem very interested in any of it but that girl kept it up until she went to bed!
By the way this photo is of her hair after I finished goofing off with it. She wanted a photo of it, lol. It was just a high ponytail that I flopped over her forehead.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Prophecy Fulfilled
I've read and seen some amazingly negative (and downright scary) things written about Barack Obama's introduction to our country as president.
I'm a seeker of optimism and light and I was thrilled to find this out on the 'net. It's good to see optimistic views, and uplifting to realize that there are good spins to every negative one.
I am actually saddened at some of the reactions (Particularly the Doomsdayers). It seems everyone is always looking at the end, when we are living right now. Enjoy this life, seek the positives! There are so many positives in this world, today, right now. If we all lived 300, even 100 years ago our eyes would be wide in shock at how good we have it now.
Prophecy Fulfilled - Barack Obama Poster
This inspirational poster describes Barak from the Old Testament in the Bible, and also explains the Biblical meaning of Hussein. An excerpt from the poster reads:
"Hussein is of Biblical meaning: good and handsome. So you see, Barak was destined to be a good and handsome man that would rise like a flash of lightning to win victory in a battle against overwhelming odds." We do not claim ties to any political party, but we are happy and hopeful that this will be an amazing change in U.S. history.
http://madeinethiopia.net/littleafrica/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=230_231&products_id=270
Hibiscus
I planted 2 of these peach colored Hibiscus last year and they have proven to be very hardy. The flowers are striking too! I wanted red but they were out so I "settled" for these... turns out I like them better! :-)
Sharing IS Caring!
Michael, doing what Michael does best. Being cute and silly. Totally can embarrass me, but you know what? I wouldn't have married him if he was anyone else. Irony is great isn't it? ;-)
<3 that guy!
<3 that guy!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Edgar the Spider
In our house spiders are important little creatures. We catch and release here when possible. The only ones I am likely to squish would be the toxic ones, but those are so good at hiding I don't have to! :-)
The kids spotted a spider hanging out under a banister while we were out yesterday. Michael told them about Edgar- just a silly made up story. By the time he was done all the kids respected the spider and had lots of questions about it.
Very cute moments!
The kids spotted a spider hanging out under a banister while we were out yesterday. Michael told them about Edgar- just a silly made up story. By the time he was done all the kids respected the spider and had lots of questions about it.
Very cute moments!
Moira's Art
She drew this... It's me and her daddy she says. They'll grow up saying we were mushy. I'll take that over the alternatives any day.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner for St. Patricks Day
Proof that I *can* cook when I am willing!
Dinner today :-) YUMMY!
www.ehow.com/how_4787242_beef-cabbage-dinner-patricks-day...
Dinner today :-) YUMMY!
www.ehow.com/how_4787242_beef-cabbage-dinner-patricks-day...
LOL
I am such a cruel mom!
KISS YOUR BROTHER MOIRA!!
Matthew: NOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Parenthood can be so fun! ;-)
KISS YOUR BROTHER MOIRA!!
Matthew: NOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Parenthood can be so fun! ;-)
My brand of Entertainment
I heard the hubby headed my way. As he sauntered in to the kitchen I made a really loud
HI YAH !!!!
and promptly slammed the knife into the cabbage.
His eyes got wide and then he shook his head and laughed at me. Then I took a photo, naturally.
Life is good!
HI YAH !!!!
and promptly slammed the knife into the cabbage.
His eyes got wide and then he shook his head and laughed at me. Then I took a photo, naturally.
Life is good!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Trouble... staring me in the face
These two are always up to SOMETHING! Together, always.
I truly think they were destined to be together in this big world. It's amazing how they clicked right off the bat and are practically inseparable.
Charley's just the chump they play with when they are sick of each other. Not that he cares anyway.
I truly think they were destined to be together in this big world. It's amazing how they clicked right off the bat and are practically inseparable.
Charley's just the chump they play with when they are sick of each other. Not that he cares anyway.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Friends or Foes...
When my babies were under 6 they were best little buddies. They were always together, playing and being cute. Always making me smile, rarely stressing me out.
People sometimes look at me like I am crazy, but raising twins up to school age was SO fun for me. Sure, I liked breaks occasionally and some days were rough. But overall I really loved that time with these two kids.
After they started school and started really forming their own sense of self things got harder. They have opinions, they have their own ideas!
They are both SO very different in so many ways.
Moira is the dreamer, the artist, the free spirit. She's easy going. She can be moody, just like most females can. But overall she's just an easy going, happy spirited kid. She can be stubborn about things. She's also a born charmer. She knows how to flash a smile or give a kiss just as the right time. Overall she is a very easy child to parent.
Matthew is our hard liner. There has to be an answer for everything, there's no gray area in his mind. He's very strong willed and opinionated. He doesn't accept easy answers, he wants specifics and he wants to see the proof. He's a very good kid, very ethical. He is the one you could trust with anything. He's got a strong sense of right and wrong, and he sticks to the rules. That is, the rules he agrees with.
I admit it's harder to parent Matthew. His personality makes it harder on both of us, as parents. I think because he really pushes us to our maximum. He questions us on everything, he talks constantly. He is VERY smart. When he latches on to an idea and won't let go he can drive us up the wall. I equate him to a bulldog, he just holds on and persists. LOL
I see more of my personality in him than Michael's. He's strong willed like I am, very intelligent like his father. He'll do well as an adult I think. Moira is laid back like her daddy!
Keeping in mind that he and I will butt heads I always try extra hard with him. My father and I butted heads my entire childhood. I try to laugh off as much as I can.
Parenting two kids that are so very different has given me varying perspectives on parenting. There are no hard lines, there are no steadfast rules. You do your best and make mistakes. Learn from the mistakes. I laugh when I need to. I poke fun at myself and I have also used some times I am frustrated with the kids to poke fun at the situation.
Both of them are growing with a great sense of humor. They also know they have flaws, like we all do. Matthew can look at me sometimes and say "I'm talking too much and driving you nuts, huh?" and I can look at him and say "Oh yeah, you are" and we both start laughing.
That's what I want, honestly and humor. I want them to be honest with me, and I want to be honest with them.
We all know we are imperfect in this house, but we love one another- flaws and all.
This photo was taken of them tonight. They wanted to sleep in Moira's room together. They either love each other or want to run away from one another.
I truly hope they grow realizing we love them both equally and that the sibling rivalry is low. I want them to love each other and be friends. They are likely to be it for each other, sibling wise.
They have their moments of friendship and play still, and I know they love each other. It's a sweet thing.
People sometimes look at me like I am crazy, but raising twins up to school age was SO fun for me. Sure, I liked breaks occasionally and some days were rough. But overall I really loved that time with these two kids.
After they started school and started really forming their own sense of self things got harder. They have opinions, they have their own ideas!
They are both SO very different in so many ways.
Moira is the dreamer, the artist, the free spirit. She's easy going. She can be moody, just like most females can. But overall she's just an easy going, happy spirited kid. She can be stubborn about things. She's also a born charmer. She knows how to flash a smile or give a kiss just as the right time. Overall she is a very easy child to parent.
Matthew is our hard liner. There has to be an answer for everything, there's no gray area in his mind. He's very strong willed and opinionated. He doesn't accept easy answers, he wants specifics and he wants to see the proof. He's a very good kid, very ethical. He is the one you could trust with anything. He's got a strong sense of right and wrong, and he sticks to the rules. That is, the rules he agrees with.
I admit it's harder to parent Matthew. His personality makes it harder on both of us, as parents. I think because he really pushes us to our maximum. He questions us on everything, he talks constantly. He is VERY smart. When he latches on to an idea and won't let go he can drive us up the wall. I equate him to a bulldog, he just holds on and persists. LOL
I see more of my personality in him than Michael's. He's strong willed like I am, very intelligent like his father. He'll do well as an adult I think. Moira is laid back like her daddy!
Keeping in mind that he and I will butt heads I always try extra hard with him. My father and I butted heads my entire childhood. I try to laugh off as much as I can.
Parenting two kids that are so very different has given me varying perspectives on parenting. There are no hard lines, there are no steadfast rules. You do your best and make mistakes. Learn from the mistakes. I laugh when I need to. I poke fun at myself and I have also used some times I am frustrated with the kids to poke fun at the situation.
Both of them are growing with a great sense of humor. They also know they have flaws, like we all do. Matthew can look at me sometimes and say "I'm talking too much and driving you nuts, huh?" and I can look at him and say "Oh yeah, you are" and we both start laughing.
That's what I want, honestly and humor. I want them to be honest with me, and I want to be honest with them.
We all know we are imperfect in this house, but we love one another- flaws and all.
This photo was taken of them tonight. They wanted to sleep in Moira's room together. They either love each other or want to run away from one another.
I truly hope they grow realizing we love them both equally and that the sibling rivalry is low. I want them to love each other and be friends. They are likely to be it for each other, sibling wise.
They have their moments of friendship and play still, and I know they love each other. It's a sweet thing.
Art......
I have a broad definition of art, as do most of us I assume.
I'm artistic in many ways. I've always loved decorating my house, rearranging furniture, scrapbooking or making cards. I love color! I enjoy photography and (small scale) photo editing. I'd like to improve on all of those as time goes on.
One that I've always wished I was good at was painting and drawing. I've always felt that was a "gift". Not everyone can sit down and draw whatever is in their head, or even something on a picture.
I can draw to a degree, but I'm not a gifted artist in that regard. My husband is. He's very good at that. It's something I admire.
Over the weekend I bought some watercolors to play around with. Although I am not the most talented it is fun to dabble.
I'll never be gifted with it, and it will never come easy for me. But it's fun regardless! I might get a bit better with practice, although I never expect to do anything amazing.
This is one of my first attempts at watercolors. I think I might enjoy colored pencil better. My hands aren't as steady and I am not great with the brushes! I do need practice though, so I won't give up just yet. :)
I learned from this one. Shading... I need to start from the center next time. Additionally, brush sizes. I can utilize the various sizes better than I did today. There's other things but no need to list them all.
Enough rambling. That's my story for the day :-P.
I'm artistic in many ways. I've always loved decorating my house, rearranging furniture, scrapbooking or making cards. I love color! I enjoy photography and (small scale) photo editing. I'd like to improve on all of those as time goes on.
One that I've always wished I was good at was painting and drawing. I've always felt that was a "gift". Not everyone can sit down and draw whatever is in their head, or even something on a picture.
I can draw to a degree, but I'm not a gifted artist in that regard. My husband is. He's very good at that. It's something I admire.
Over the weekend I bought some watercolors to play around with. Although I am not the most talented it is fun to dabble.
I'll never be gifted with it, and it will never come easy for me. But it's fun regardless! I might get a bit better with practice, although I never expect to do anything amazing.
This is one of my first attempts at watercolors. I think I might enjoy colored pencil better. My hands aren't as steady and I am not great with the brushes! I do need practice though, so I won't give up just yet. :)
I learned from this one. Shading... I need to start from the center next time. Additionally, brush sizes. I can utilize the various sizes better than I did today. There's other things but no need to list them all.
Enough rambling. That's my story for the day :-P.
Scrabble
This is a favorite game of ours. Michael and I have challenged each other many times over the years. We are both stiff competition for one another!
We've started playing with the twins. It's a good game for them at their age. Matthew, not surprisingly, is already a small pro! He has it down.
Moira is more of my wild card. She likes to entertain and be cute while we wait for her turn. There's times when she asks me to help her. But she's getting better. For her it's mostly a concentration thing. She likes to goof off, lol. (see the other photos! :P)
We have fun with it though!
We've started playing with the twins. It's a good game for them at their age. Matthew, not surprisingly, is already a small pro! He has it down.
Moira is more of my wild card. She likes to entertain and be cute while we wait for her turn. There's times when she asks me to help her. But she's getting better. For her it's mostly a concentration thing. She likes to goof off, lol. (see the other photos! :P)
We have fun with it though!
My downfall....
Easter candy.
Specifically Cadbury's Royal Dark Mini Eggs....
Oh my word. I can eat them until I turn green. The crispy candy coating. The smooth, sweet chocolate.
It will be a good thing when Easter passes.... My tush is not happy with my mouth at the moment.
Specifically Cadbury's Royal Dark Mini Eggs....
Oh my word. I can eat them until I turn green. The crispy candy coating. The smooth, sweet chocolate.
It will be a good thing when Easter passes.... My tush is not happy with my mouth at the moment.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Azaleas
My Azaleas are starting to bloom.
We've had a solid 4 days of hard rain here, and another day forcasted.
They are eating it up! This coming week should be absolutely gorgeous with all the flowers blooming and about to bloom.
We've had a solid 4 days of hard rain here, and another day forcasted.
They are eating it up! This coming week should be absolutely gorgeous with all the flowers blooming and about to bloom.
Hair cut and a dog
Sophie decided she wanted in on the hair cutting session. I'd almost finished Moira's hair when SophSoph (what we usually call her) jumped up on Moira. She stayed there through the blow drying too, lol.
She loves blow dryers, my other two hate them!
The pic is grainy but oh well :).
She loves blow dryers, my other two hate them!
The pic is grainy but oh well :).
Eye Remover
Someone has a sense of humor at Wal-Mart.
This is the receipt from my "eye makeup remover pads".
That can't be a mistake!
LOL
This is the receipt from my "eye makeup remover pads".
That can't be a mistake!
LOL
Friday, March 13, 2009
She's breaking out!
Today I was quietly concentrating when I hear Abby grumbling. I also hear a light clanking sound.
When I hear things like that it isn't to be ignored. She is up to something.
I found her at the front door, attemtping to open it. Yes, she was trying to TURN the doorknob on the front door, with her mouth.
She grumbled and sighed (oh yes, she sighs) some at me and would not leave the door.
Turns out the door to the backyard was closed and she couldn't get out to pee. Oops!!
It's been raining and VERY cold here the last few days so we had closed that door to force them to "let us know" so we can watch them when they go out (otherwise we have mud everywhere).
When I hear things like that it isn't to be ignored. She is up to something.
I found her at the front door, attemtping to open it. Yes, she was trying to TURN the doorknob on the front door, with her mouth.
She grumbled and sighed (oh yes, she sighs) some at me and would not leave the door.
Turns out the door to the backyard was closed and she couldn't get out to pee. Oops!!
It's been raining and VERY cold here the last few days so we had closed that door to force them to "let us know" so we can watch them when they go out (otherwise we have mud everywhere).
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Do they float?
(Isaac) We want to see if they float....
(Matthew) Come on let's see if they float!!!!!
(Moira) Do they float?!
(Sound of running water)
Kids in unison: YAY THEY FLOAT!!!!!!!!!!!!
(Plasticy clanging sounds and more running water)
My curiosity gets the better of me and I grab my camera and go in the bathroom where they are.
Four kids, over the sink, jumping up and down with glee.
(Alec) They really float!!!
What I see:
Legos, floating in the sink.
Yes, they really float!!!!!
As I walk away, they continue to play in the sink.
(Moira) YAY we are gonna make a crocodile float!
(The boys) Ahhhhhhh!!!!!
(Matthew) Come on let's see if they float!!!!!
(Moira) Do they float?!
(Sound of running water)
Kids in unison: YAY THEY FLOAT!!!!!!!!!!!!
(Plasticy clanging sounds and more running water)
My curiosity gets the better of me and I grab my camera and go in the bathroom where they are.
Four kids, over the sink, jumping up and down with glee.
(Alec) They really float!!!
What I see:
Legos, floating in the sink.
Yes, they really float!!!!!
As I walk away, they continue to play in the sink.
(Moira) YAY we are gonna make a crocodile float!
(The boys) Ahhhhhhh!!!!!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Den After
The paint color is called "brass tack". It's a brown base with greenish/golden tones. It goes very well with the room. It also looks good going from room to room (since every room is a different color lol).
The lamp on the center table near that window is actually red, but it looks orange or some other strange hue in the pics.
I became sick halfway through the project so it took a few days more than I had hoped, but at least it's done!
You can see the "befores" and more "after" on my flickr stream.
The lamp on the center table near that window is actually red, but it looks orange or some other strange hue in the pics.
I became sick halfway through the project so it took a few days more than I had hoped, but at least it's done!
You can see the "befores" and more "after" on my flickr stream.
splinter hemorrhage
For the past year or so I've noticed these strange splinter like things under my nails. It's an off and on thing, usually on my pinky finger. They aren't "real" splinters, but they are bits of blood that come to the surface.
I never thought much about it but I "googled" it yesterday.
Of course now I am a little freaked out. I found NOTHING good about them. My main concern is Rheumatoid Arthritis, which apparently this can be linked to.
My grandfather suffered from RA miserably, and one of the drugs he took ultimately took his life. It scares me.
I'll be seeing the Doctor on Friday morning.
*Hoping I am just paranoid*
I never thought much about it but I "googled" it yesterday.
Of course now I am a little freaked out. I found NOTHING good about them. My main concern is Rheumatoid Arthritis, which apparently this can be linked to.
My grandfather suffered from RA miserably, and one of the drugs he took ultimately took his life. It scares me.
I'll be seeing the Doctor on Friday morning.
*Hoping I am just paranoid*
TREATS
Michael was looking around for snack food tonight. First of all, he isn't a snacker. Second of all, I don't typically buy treat type foods. (You'd never know by looking at me though >.>).
ANYWAY!
He started complaining because:
1) I went 30 minutes down the road JUST to buy their dog food. It's GOOD food!
2) He found that I bought a bunch of soft dog food, instead of just dry. I buy soft when it's on sale because Charley won't take his pills without me concealing it! :-0
3) To add insult to hubby's injuries... he saw the bag of treats that you see in this photo and thought it was dried fruit treats for HUMANS.
He was not thrilled. On top of all that he'd been feeling bad and asked me to pick up some chicken and rice soup for him. I was at Target so I got what they had available.... chicken/veggie/noodle. I bought 4 cans. He counted up the soft dog food containers... 16 in total (did I mention they were on sale?) and was not pleased I only brought 4 cans of soup home. He compared himself to the 3 dogs and told me he wished I loved him as much >.<.
But really, who eats THAT much soup? I don't have ESP!!!
I guess I was a bad wifey this week. I'll ask for my flogging now, thank you. I can do no good!
Hubby, I beg for your forgiveness. I am not worthy!!
ANYWAY!
He started complaining because:
1) I went 30 minutes down the road JUST to buy their dog food. It's GOOD food!
2) He found that I bought a bunch of soft dog food, instead of just dry. I buy soft when it's on sale because Charley won't take his pills without me concealing it! :-0
3) To add insult to hubby's injuries... he saw the bag of treats that you see in this photo and thought it was dried fruit treats for HUMANS.
He was not thrilled. On top of all that he'd been feeling bad and asked me to pick up some chicken and rice soup for him. I was at Target so I got what they had available.... chicken/veggie/noodle. I bought 4 cans. He counted up the soft dog food containers... 16 in total (did I mention they were on sale?) and was not pleased I only brought 4 cans of soup home. He compared himself to the 3 dogs and told me he wished I loved him as much >.<.
But really, who eats THAT much soup? I don't have ESP!!!
I guess I was a bad wifey this week. I'll ask for my flogging now, thank you. I can do no good!
Hubby, I beg for your forgiveness. I am not worthy!!
peach tree blooms
Our backyard peach tree is blooming. The peaches never plump up but the flowers are pretty.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Junebug... I eat you!
See her junebug toy?
She was flinging it all over the place and catching it. Rolling around on the floor with it. Throwing it half way across the room. Pouncing on it.... LOL.
She was flinging it all over the place and catching it. Rolling around on the floor with it. Throwing it half way across the room. Pouncing on it.... LOL.
Typical Dog play
Typical Dog play
Originally uploaded by **~Donna~**
See how Charley starts to do something then just mostly ignores them? LOL
Typical of him :P. He would chase them if they stole something he really wanted.
Columbine- Origami Blue/White
One of the flowers I got from the Rose Emporium last week. One just bloomed! They are so pretty, and they like shade so hopefully they do well in our yard.
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