Top 15 Christmas Gifts That Keep Giving

Christmas Wishes From The Mullins

Make a scrapbook - it's easy!

Elf Yourself

We Did

*Click Above*

Silencing The Choo Choo Train

It used to be quite deafening as it roared through our backyard many years ago. As I was putting Londyn down for a nap, letting her soothe herself as I held her bottle, she fell sound asleep. It was then, I began to hear a sound that would bring back almost a decade of memories. Back in 1998, Craig moved into a very old, rent house. Soon after he moved in, he realized he had signed his life away by committing to a one year lease (that turned into three years). This is when the sound of the pipes began. The choo choo train would make it's travels through the back yard close to 4-5 times a night with the most atrocious, deafening roar of a train. Shortly after we married, I soon discovered my sleep would be toilsome. However, I did get used to the train after a while. It would still wake me up each time it passed, but I was soon able to fall back to sleep for the entire 3 years we rented this house. (The neighbor's baby was not bothered by the deafening sound because he heard it while in the womb). Our next move, to the 1st house we had ever built, rendered the same sound of the passing train but much more at a distance. Nevertheless, although it was not quite as deafening, we were very much aware of its presence as it passed. Now that we have relocated back to NB and have just settled into the 2nd and last home we have just built, the train still passes. Now it is such a sweet, peaceful chug of a choo choo train. I guess this is where we belong....as long as we can still hear the train in the distance. It has not been silenced. Peacefully sleeping now.

I Can't Leave The Bathroom For Even One Minute

I just had to post about this so when my little Londyn Paige is grown she can read about the stories her mom kept about her little life in The Princess Diaries. At bath time, I can't leave the bathroom for even one minute. You see Londyn loves to take baths and for some reason yesterday, (I can't blame it on sugar) but she was absolutely out of control. I keep her contained in a blue, plastic laundry basket to keep her safe from the sea of water that is overtaking the basket as it floods though the holes while she takes a bath. For some reason yesterday, was a little different from past baths she has taken. She was absolutely out of control. With all of her chubbiness, rolls and thunder thighs she was thrashing about, slipping and sliding and even getting on her knees and hands. She ferociously splashes the water with her hands and nearly has a breathing attack in the midst of all of this fun. The funniest thing is when she grabs the sides of the basket to pull herself up to a standing position, she looks like a Sumo Wrestler about to attack his opponent. I'm outta here, to find out more about aikido, judo, jujitsu, karate, kendo, kung fu, sumo wrestling & tae, just in case my girls have any more surprises/laughs for me.

The Goodness I've Been Hiding From My Family

It's All About Personalizing

Another worthy note of interest to the readers of my blog,
check out Christine's (my sister-in-law) new and improved website.

I love how she has chosen to personalize her blog.

It's quite the reveal!

BudgetPrices, Closeouts, Markdowns, Reductions

CALL IT WHAT YOU WILL.......

Wanting everyone to be in the know; like I am. I nabbed some really exciting deals when I purchased over $400 worth of amazing, educational toys for the little ones X-mas (including, cousins, cousin -in- laws & friends) for under $80. That was for a whopping 21 items ordered. Take note, this online store is very proud of their offerings based on the original retail prices of most of their items. I was able to get some of the more expensive items for just $1. At least this gave me something to blog about because a post is better than no post according to the blogging queen.

That Sweet Sound

Thanksgiving Day Surprise!

It finally happened today. It was such a sweet, sweet sound. I was holding Londyn Paige, as I was talking to my mom on the phone about their lovely Thanksgiving day feast (that we missed out on this year.) As usual, Londyn begins babbling, demanding that her voice can be heard.
This is the sweet sound we (my mom & I) heard next,

"Mama", "Mama".

*UPDATE*
My sister, Holland, stop by on her way to Austin and delivered this tasty, Thanksgiving dinner; my mom made. Craig and I were sitting around all day missing pumpkin pie & everything else that makes a holiday feast delightful. Yes! that's a whole pumpkin pie you see in that there pic. We can't wait to devour it ALL UP. Alexis, on the other hand, is feeling like the pits, still.

The Turkey Is Safe

It's 10:30 p.m. and I've finally had the chance to sit down & rest since, last Wednesday, a week ago when the girls came down with sinus infections. Since then, we've been back to the doc this past Monday and then back again today. Alexis has been spilling her insides since she woke up this a.m. She is running a 102.7 temp and can hardly manage to keep anything down. Late this afternoon, I noticed she had not visited the potty since early in the a.m. So, I managed to get her to slowly sip on water until she produced for me. I did not want to have to take her to the ER to get IV fluids and botch this lovely evening before Thanksgiving. We are all sick. Therefore, I refuse we are not having Thanksgiving tomorrow. I'm simply too tired. I told Craig, I decline to go to the store, fight the shoppers, cut in front of shoppers with my cart and have them make snide remarks (out loud & under their breath) about how I cut them off. Because, then, I would have to follow them around the store and HAPHAZARDLY run into the back of their ankle with my cart and then repeatedly say how sorry I was. (My dear friend shared this scenario with me, you know, about running into the back of the person's ankle with your shopping cart because you accidentally cut in front of them with your shopping cart) Justice was served! This friend of mine will also be out shopping early on Black Friday. "Buyers beware!" Needless to say, I'm worn out and I will still be taking care of my three kids, Craig, Alexis & Londyn. So, Mr. Turkey, you are indeed safe at our house this year.

gobble gobble

YO, What Up?

Can anyone tell me what happened to the http://www.wantnot.net/ website? Let me enlighten YOU. It is imperative that I visit this site daily? It is a day-to day habit, an addiction. I'm so HOOKED! This is absolutely nutty, but I must be apprised of it daily. See, this lady (she's so pretty) tells me about steals and deals that I must know about. Just trying to save a penny today. Please.....I don't really shop, I've just got to know if she has a deal listed there that me and my family can use either today, tomorrow, next week or any day thereafter.

Chow

Words Of Our Lives

"Back to Sleep"

Balance

Brachycephaly

Cranial

Doc

Flattening

Orthodics

Repositioning

Reshaping

SIDS

Symmetry

Absolutely Riveting

Remembering this post from last week. For some reason I visited Shutterfly to see if they had anything new, as far as designs, since I visited them last about two years ago. I found droves of treasures there. I went through numerous picture albums that I created since Craig and I married and our 1st daughter Alexis arrived. See my Flickr sidebar over there ---------> for new, "Old Pics". They brought back timeless memories including, 1st Time at Zoo, Our 1st Home, 1st Beach Trip, 1st Zoo Trip, Mommy & Lexi Pics and countless other 1st time pics. Enjoy!

"Yummy Treats"

">"Swing swing, Swing swing...."

I'm disheartened by the fact, that I did not have my camera with me today! I took Alexis & Londyn to the city park to play late this afternoon. Yes, late this afternoon, since Alexis would not stop begging me to take her. She begged Craig and I all weekend long to take her.......but we were too busy of course! (I know all of the parents understand) This A.M., Alexis said, "Mom I don't mind if it takes you a LONG time to get ready to take me to the park." "If it takes you a long time to put your makeup on, that's fine with me too." You see, she remembered from yesterday that we promised to take her today! She must of been dreaming of this all night! The reasoning behind my need for a camera and the cause of my dismay is, THIS was Londyn's 1st time to ride on the swings! She loved them. She laughed and giggled and for a moment it looked as if her eyes were smiling at the enjoyment of the back-n-forth motion and the joy of a new wonder. This took me back to a moment in time, to the memories we captured of Alexis's 1st time at the park and her 1st swing ride. When I sang to her, this very same song, "Swing swing, Swing swing, Swing swing, Swing swing, SWING!" OH, If I Could Of Captured It On Video! Even better, I captured the moment in my heart and soul! What a little treasure.

Linger Longer.......Just Saying

I snatched Alexis's & Londyn's charmingly, cute HALLOWEEN "Fall Harvest" costumes from Disney Shopping for, let me tell you guys, less than what I could pick them up at Wal-Mart. The quality of these are amazing and there is no way someone could "BREW" them up for the amount I paid (mind you they were already 60% off), including free shipping and an additional 15% off thanks to Want Not. Now, for the reasoning behind why they were so cheap! First, they knew they were being shipped to the state of Texas. Second, now I can afford to equip them with a built in air supply to cool my children down. I'm hoping that the cool, crisp autumn air will linger longer, just saying.

The New Autumn Air

Welcome To Our New Home

Autumn is a second spring, when every leaf is a flower.

The Princess Diaries, To Be Continued.....

We are off to New Braunfels this evening. When will I return?

Could be a week, few weeks or 1 month.

Chow

Alexis Lynn Is A Mega Girl toooooooooo........

Be Careful What You Wish For......

OHHHHH, how I detest combing through this tangled maze of a rats nest infested in my daughters hair. NO, she does'nt like it either. As you can see in the pic, she looks less than trilled about the inevitable that is just about to get underway. She will sit between my legs as her head is jerked back-n-forth for what seems like hours until soft, lustrous hair is revealed. Thanks to aunt Holland and her tip off to use Biosilk streamed throughout her hair to help soften and loosen the entangled mess. For all of you who have wondered why Lexi's hair is always pulled pack into a pony tail, now you know! It's a preventative measure to keep this from happening once more!

When I was a little girl, I longed for soft wavy hair. Now, I'm glad I have straight hair since I've never had this problem. Watchfully waiting to see what Londyn's hair is going to do. So, I don't have to play this game of cat-and-mouse with her too.

Starting Kindergarten", "1st Day Of School" TheseHaveBeenTheHeadlinesOfLate

Receiving a myriad of emails from friends as they announce their child's 1st day of school this week. No one in the Mullins household started school this year. Boy WE'RE relieved. We stir, uhmmmm around 10:30 am EVERYDAY! It was also apparent today at the "red slide pool" that school had started, as there were but a few children present from 7:15-9 pm. (when it's cooler, a lot cooler to go swimming) I know, we will be well prepped next year when school comes knocking on our door! For now though, we are enjoying staying at home, rising late each morning, running errands, playing at the park, going to the down-town shops, relaxing at the beach, getting our favorite coffee milkshakes and heading to New Braunfels on the weekends. All the while, not having to concern ourselves about getting back to Rockport or going to bed early because school is now in session.

Skidboot

Better Than Fine Cars & Motor Boats

What A Wonderful World

Better Than Fine Cars & Motor Boats

What A Wonderful World

Precisely

The Best Way To Spell Love is "T-I-M-E"

The best use of life is love.
The best expression of love is time.
The best time to love is NOW!

I'm Making A Friend Out Of You

Overheard yesterday at the "Red Slide Pool".....

Envision, Alexis hobbling her way over to a girl she painstakingly sought out as she scanned the sea of children at the aquatics pool as she was looking to make an "amigo" to swim with. Subsequently, it appears the girl was trying to get away from Alexis as she tried to swim away without warning. Suddenly, she stops, turns and says, "What?" Alexis, then replied in a deep, raspy voice, "I'm Making A Friend Out Of You"! The next thing I know, they are endlessly, swimming sidekicks.

My Sheep

Alexis Lynn asked Jesus to come into her heart; to be her Lord & Savior on July 17, 2007. This got me thinking about life and the purpose of "my" life. I did not realize the purpose of my life until I had children. After graduating high school, I immediately went to college to obtain my degree and find the purpose of my life; surely this accomplishment is what gives you your purpose. Right? WRONG! It was during my college years that I met my husband, Craig. The moment I met him, I KNEW, I was going to marry that man! (He did too....shhhhhh) From the instant we met we were inseparable; he is truly my best friend. Although past relationships did not endure, I always knew (deep, deep down) they were never meant to be! ****For, God gives us the desires of our hearts!**** Needless to say, I got hitched to the man of my dreams, I obtained my BA and a great job!!!! Surely, I must of found the purpose of my life by now....Nope, still empty! (I must mention, although I had not discovered the purpose of my life, I was still extremely happy and very much in love with Craig) Craig and I then decide to build our 1st house. Wow! Now we were new home owners. Surely, I must have purpose in my life. Still, no purpose! Eleven months after we closed on our new home, I gave birth to our 1st daughter Alexis Lynn and then again 4.5 years later Londyn Paige arrived. I found the purpose of my life in my children! This purpose, ordained by God, is to take care of my sheep. To teach them about Jesus and to raise Godly daughters who fear the Lord. The purpose of my life is to make sure my sheep, (including Craig) that their names are written in the Book of Life.

Give Her A Brake

Alexis Lynn is our little improviser. Once she gets her mind set on doing something, it's as good as done. She's been busy working on constructing a "Parking Lot" for all of her road racers that have lots of SPEED! If you see her working on a parking lot near you..... Give Her A Brake!

I'm Going To Canada On A Bus

We've all been suffering from a sinus infection for the past twelve days. So, I take the girls to the doctor on the 1st day symptoms appear; runny/stuffy noses, fever, sore throat and ear pain. The doc sees the girls for one second and says, "I think they have a virus that will have to work itself out. I would continue to use over-the-counter medications to relieve the stuffiness and pain." One the fifth day, mind you it's Friday, we all still have stuffy noses and the whole nine yards mentioned above along with GREEN TREASURES! After making a call to the docs office they finally agree to call in a RX to help relieve the cough/congestion after 1st asking if I wanted to bring the girls back into the office! WHAT? And pay another $15 copay???? Needless to say, we were back in the docs office the following Monday and the girls now had an infection that required antibiotics. Since our sickness appeared to be lasting more than seven days and the girls were now on antibiotics, I made an appointment to see my PCP, paid another copay and pick up a prescription from the pharmacy for myself. OH, did I mention Craig, too, had a doctors appointment. We are copaid and coinsurance out! That's why I'm taking the bus to Canada, to get our meds a whole lot cheaper.

Copay/Coinsurance For 1 Week

Office Visits $393
RX's $188

She's Waiting For Us

Blu

(1989 - 2007)

They say memories are precious and I guess that is true,

I never wanted memories, I only wanted you

I love you my dear one with all me heart,

It makes me sad that we are apart

So by St. Peter's heavenly gate,

Some day I will meet you there,

So for me patiently wait.

Hugs and Kisses

Enough Already!

OK, OK, OK EVERYBODY!!! I'm sorry I haven't been posting on a regular basis. For the past couple of weeks, I've have been absolutely LAZY had NO time to post. I keep receiving those "Peeping Tom" emails from those of you who peek at my blog, every now and then, and then send a NASTY urgent email request to post again. That's it, I'm closing down my website More posts coming soon...........

" Gurgling, Grunting & Giggling "

Londyn Paige's Third & Fourth Month

The past few months have been amazing! We've changed dozens of diapers, given hundreds of feedings, answered countless cries, and dried even more tears...and the journey is only beginning. Londyn is now 4 months old and weighs 15 lbs. She now tries to sit up, reaches for objects and rolls from her stomach to her back. She's more lively than ever. She's becoming more aware of what we are SAYING as she notices the tone of our voice and the stress we put on particular words like, NO! We love engaging in conversations with her as she babbles right back, we call them early chats. Londyn loves to look at herself in the mirror as she smiles from ear to ear. She brings her hands together and reaches for nearby objects, stretches out her legs and kicks forcefully and occasionally brings her "BIG TOE" to her mouth for a quick nibble. She definitely notices when we are no longer in view as she cries to bring us back in sight. Alexis and Londyn have an enormous bond of sisterly love. Londyn keeps her eyes glued to "Big Sister" most of the time.

Milestones:

June 11, 2007:
Laughs & Giggles

June 20, 2007:
Discovers Feet

June 24, 2007:
1st Train Ride

July 6, 2007:
1st Cold

It Just Looked Pretty & Tasty Too

See Explanation Below...

Remember my post back on April 18, 2007 about "What I Ate For Breakfast?" I had just embarked on a new life style change (NOT A DIET)! Well, it's now been over two months since I simply started eating differently and I've lost 25 lbs. (I don't starve myself and I never go hungry) I've also implemented a little bit of exercise in the evening as the gang and I take a stroll through the neighborhood as I schlep around with the stroller in tow. I'm planning on exercising moderately to get the rest of the weight off (at and even quicker rate) once we get my elliptical trainer out of storage in a month or so. It's so encouraging when you see the pounds melt away by eating the way you were designed too. I just had to post the yummy oatmeal we ate for DINNER the other night! It consisted of : "Old Fashioned Oatmeal", Dash of Cinnamon, Sweetened with Honey & Covered with Bananas & Walnuts! It just looked pretty and it was quite YUMMY!!!!

What A Nasty Little Post

Take a look at THIS!

I feel the agony you men go through loosing all those pieces of hair. That sinking feeling in your stomach with each and every cherished strand lost. My hair is falling out like crazy too. The same thing happened three/four months after I had Alexis. At least I know it replacing itself with new growth, so I guess I really don't know how all of you men really Feel!

Soup Recipes: "Of the Week", NO, "Of the Day", No Wait,,,"Of the Second"

I have two Soup Recipes for y'all! YEP, Two! Both of these recipes MUST be classified as "Recipes of the Second" because they are in a class of their own and nutritious too. They are YUM "O" as Rachael Ray would say, however they are not hers (sorry everybody)! You will NOT be able to wait until they are done to dig in and eat the entire pot. Enough said, here they are:

LENTIL AND SPINACH SOUP

1 small package dry lentils
1 small onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 carrot, sliced
1 cup chopped tomatoes
Water or chicken stock (I used chicken stock)
1 bunch fresh spinach

Sauté onion, garlic, celery in olive oil; add chopped carrot; chopped tomatoes and simmer 5 minutes; add lentils and 4 cups water or stock; cover and simmer about 30 minutes or until lentils soft; add a bunch of spinach and simmer 5 minutes; serve with Parmesan cheese

MINESTRONE

1/4 lb turkey bacon
2 medium onions, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 sliced carrot
1 cup chopped cabbage
1/2 chopped turnip
1 cup spinach
1/2 peas
1/4 cup chopped parsley
6 cups vegetable stock or low-fat, low-salt chicken broth
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp basil
1 cup cooked white beans

Sauté vegetables and then add broth and spices; cover and simmer for 45 minutes; add 1 cup cooked beans; serve with Parmesan cheese

Both recipes are from the book, Healthy for Life (A must have just for the recipes)

Dad, You're Great

We had a Wonderful Father's Day Weekend. Dad went fishing early in the morning til mid afternoon with his buddy, Lee Ferguson. Craig was then presented with all the Father's Day goodies Alexis made at school. Alexis & dad spent the rest of the afternoon swimming at the "Red Slide Pool"! As you can tell from the pic, Craig is a very "HAPPY" father! By the looks of her unruly hair, it appears that Alexis had a great time swimming too!

Where Is My Beautiful Header?

I noticed the beautifully adorned "Header" is missing from my blog! So, I'm in the process of trying to contact the lady who designed the template to find out WHY it disappeared. However, her WEBSITE is temporarily unavailable (just my luck). So in the mean time, I will try to contact her or look for another cute template which is IMPOSSIBLE to find on the Internet. Crying Now!!!!

A Grandios Experience

We are glad to be back in Rockport after being out of town for the past 10 days. It sure was exhausting managing a two month old. I was pleased that Londyn stayed on her sleeping schedule despite the disruption of her daily schedule. Aunt Harmony accompanied us for an entire week as she drove us around New Braunfels to all of our many stops. Our mission is now complete! I will let everyone know what we were up to in a future post.

Milestones: Two Months, "Ah-Ah, Ooh-Ooh"

It's hard to believe that Londyn Paige is now two months old! With so much to do each day, it's often hard to reflect on how much has happened since our little one arrived. Londyn has developed quite a little personality that is so sweet! She's so much more alert and interested in everything going on around her. All in all, she is a very HAPPY BABY! With out question, Londyn Paige is a "Morning Baby" as she awakens full of joy "cycling" her arms and legs while she coos, gurgles and smiles. She sleeps gobs during the day but is awake for longer periods of time throughout the day. She still sleeps through the night except to feed (since 2 weeks old). She plays on her tummy for short periods of time to help strengthen her for crawling. She has exceptional head control and is quite a squirmer while she's being held. She can be quite a little screamer when she wants to be fed or held! She loves to hold onto her blanket as she clinches it tightly in both hands, pulls it up to her mouth and chews. She has discovered the world of noise as she plays with her baby rattle noticing that she can make the noise all by herself. She has become aware of LOUD SOUNDS as she suddenly becomes startled, starts to cry, or becomes very silent with her eyes all-a-glow. Her ability to follow objects with her eyes has significantly improved immensely. She loves to watch her big sister, Alexis as she responds when she hears her voice and follows her every move. Mom and dad are truly touched by the love a second child brings. We can't imagine our lives without our precious, Londyn Paige.

Milestones:

April 26, 2007:

Holds Head Up, Coos ( "Ah-Ah, Ooh-Ooh"),

Responds By Smiling

May 02, 2007:

Rolls On Her Sides

May 15, 2007:

Tries To Pull/Lift Up

"The Doozer" A Groovy New Ride

Alexis has a "groovy" new ride. Again, her creative thought never ceases to AMAZE US. The other day she was running playfully about on her umbrella stroller as she professed to be taking her bunny on a car ride to the store in her Doozer!!!

Tihs Frkeas Me Out

My husband, Craig asked me the other day if I authored all of the entries on our Blog. I didn't really know why he was asking this as I replied, "Yes, I draft all of the entries on our family blog site, why?" He then gave me some much needed kudos stating that I write pretty good, but he had noticed a few MISSPELLED WORDS! This Freaks Me Out! I have always had a hang-up about whether I'm using the correct punctuation (in the right places), word usage and whether I've msipleled wdors when I write. When a thought enters my mind, I immediately jot it down and post it to my blog site. As I'm composing, it seems that my fingers go a hundred miles an hour as my mind tries to keep in step with the pace. When my Magnum Opus is completed, I tediously scrutinize what I have just written for any recognizable errors. After proof reading a zillion times, I come to the conclusion that I have come across and touched up all of my errors and that my blog is all set to been viewed by fellow bloggers and friends. Now that my typos have been brought to my attention, I need to bring everyones attention to an email that I received from my friend Michele. This email has given me the inner strength I need to get over my complex about writing without any errors.

This is the email from Michele:

Acrcndiog to resecarh at Cimdrgabe Unierivsty, it deson't meattr what oderr the lertets in a word are, the only ionramptt thnig is that the frist and last lttrees are at the right palce. The rset can be a toatl mess and you can sitll raed it wutihot a pboelrm. This is becsuae we do not raed every letetr by itself but the wrod as a whloe. save me to do a revision

So there you have it. If you can decode the email above then you will be able to pardon any errors you may stumble upon in my writings. Although, I do my best to post without errors (there will be some) I will no longer be so disheartened about it.

A Little Girl's "BIG CATCH"

See The Catch CLICK HERE

I've Been A Great Mom This Year, My Family Says It's So!!!!!!!!

Eyes Wide Shut

It has taken me two full days to recover from the other night. So, this is the post I should of posted yesterday, but I had to wait until today because my Eyes were "Wide Shut"; or that's how they felt at least. Two nights ago, it all started at 1:00 AM as I was sleeping downstairs on our futon couch. At the foot of the couch was a palate where Londyn was sound asleep. I was peacefully SLEEPING and enjoying every minute of my beauty rest knowing in a few hours Londyn would start stirring and sucking on her fists for her next feeding. Suddenly, I was awoken by rolling thunder and howling winds. This is when the nightmare began. Well it wasn't really a nightmare, just an interruption of the rest I so cherish with every breath. The storm that blew in is not what has distressed me so, it is what lies just beyond our living room out under the covered back porch. Her name is Blue! She is our 18 year old Blue Heel er. She is TERRIFIED of THUNDER STORMS. She can sense a storm coming EVEN before the winds start to pick up, the dark clouds roll in & the rain starts to pour. Her heart rate increases, she starts panting profusely and she paces back-n-forth. Not so bad huh? Just wait!!! Then the BARKING BEGINS and it DOES NOT END for three hours. Since I'm such a light sleeper, I was not able to fall back to sleep amidst all the adverse sounds. So I just laid there for about an hour trying to coax myself into falling back-to-sleep by trying to "Close My Eyes To" all the BARKING. I even got up several times to tell her to hush and gave her a few "soft" swats but she would not stop BARKING. I then made my way upstairs to wake Craig up thinking he could "YELL" at her and tell her to hush in his stern, deep, commanding voice; because she ALWAYS listens to him RIGHT? Well, I tried & tried & tried & tried to wake him up. Since opposites attract and being the sound sleeper he is once he hits the sac, he would not wake up! I then decided to try plan "B". So I scurried through the bedrooms drastically and frantically looking for the receiver to Londyn's baby monitor. Finally, I found it. Since Londyn was able to sleep during all the horrendous barking, I set up the baby monitor right next to her and I made my way upstairs to Alexis's bedroom to sleep in her bed (the bed she has not slept in in EVER). Finally, for one second, I thought I could get some sleep and wake up in a few hours when Londyn starts to stir. Nope, the nightmare did not end, it continued & continued & continued as I laid in bed listening to every bark (one right after the other) being broad casted over Londyn's baby monitor receiver. It continued for 3 hours until the storm passed; then Londyn began to stir. So I tiredly made my way down stairs to feed her. (I Was So Tired) I can remember several times nodding off and then with a jerk of my head telling myself to wake up. My eyes were so heavily burdened that even though I was awake My Eyes Were Wide Shut.

Going Green Anyone?

After listening to all the hype on Fox News and various other (more liberal) news programs about "Going Green" and saving the earth, I've also decided to "Go Green!" We'll, kind of!! Did anyone get a chance to watch Oprah last week? I usually don't have time to watch televison, but one day last week I just happen to have time to watch. "Lo and Behold" it was a show about "Going Green". I almost turned the television off but something caught my attention and it was very interesting. Now, I don't feel as passionate about "Going Green" like all those crazy liberals do. You see, the earth has never meant to be saved. I believe in taking care of the earth by not littering (because God sees you), keeping the house clean, planting trees, using fluorescent light bulbs to reduce my electric bill 25-30%, recycling, etc. Anyways, the earth will be destroyed one day and then made new again when Jesus come back. So I'm really not that worried about global warming and trying to save the earth by "Going Green". Nor do I care about only using 2 square pieces of toilet paper, being a tree hugger, using my own eco bag to go grocery shopping, or purchasing power offsets. Now back to The Oprah Show..... The show highlighted a segment about a family who suffered from asthma and allergies. The family did some extensive research on the internet and found that many of our cleaning supplies contain chemicals that can cause us to get sick. They started using "All Natural Cleaners" and mysteriously their ailments disappeared. Craig and Alexis also suffer from allergies, so I decided to check out their WEBSITE. They generously offered Oprah viewers a 33% discount to try their products. The only item I thought would be worth trying was their Basic H2™ Organic Super Cleaning Concentrate. (This little 16 oz bottle creates an unbelievable 48 gallons of super-safe, really powerful, double-concentrated, all purpose cleaner. We challenge you to use it up any time soon to clean everything from spilled milk, to bug guts on the window, to splattered spaghetti sauce. Now go, get cleaning.) So there you have it, the 16 oz bottle will mix a whopping 48 gallons of cleaner and it only cost $10.15 (with the discount) so I also threw in The Get Clean Spray Bottles that are so cute; #2 for $4.50. I decided I didn't want to pay double to purchase their dishwashing and laundry products. I know I'll get plenty of use out of the cleaning concentrate since I'm always wiping all kinds of kid stuff off the countertops & coffee table that bear a resemblance to Bug Guts.

Kodak Moment Of The Year

ENTER HERE

*****(then scroll down to bottom of entry to view pic)*****

"He" Took Wonderful Care of Londyn Paige

Londyn Paige was hospitalized on Monday, April 23 after coming down with a 102 degree temperature. She was admitted to Driscoll's Children's Hospital in Corpus Christi where she under went extensive testing including a spinal tap to identify what was making her so sick. She was later diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. We were informed that this type of infection is very rare for an infant who is only six weeks old. She began continuous, intravenous antibiotic treatment and was discharged from the hospital Wednesday, April 25. We are still waiting for the results of her ultrasound to make sure that the kidneys are "dumping" correctly and that there are no structural problems. She will then follow up with additional testing to make sure that her urine is not "refluxing" back up into the kidneys. If this happens, it will require surgery to repair and correct the problem.

We would like to thank all of our friends and family who prayed for us.
Jesus took care of our daughter and surrounded us with a wonderful hospital staff, friends & family. There is definitely "POWER" in prayer & God is good!

There's A "Blue Angel" In Heaven

John 3:16 (click here)

For God so loved the world,

that he gave his only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in him

shall not perish,

but have everlasting life.

****see previous post from last weekend (The Blue Angels) (click)****

I Met "Sanjaya" At The Grocery Store

Alexis and I absolutely love American Idol. We are totally hooked and addicted. It controls our lives five months out of the year. It's comparable to a Good 'Ole game of college football against, let's say, Texas and the Oklahoma Sooners. (He he he) Each Tuesday & Wednesday evening we find ourselves glued to the best seats a stadium living room has to offer; a gliding nursery recliner (mine), the matching ottoman (Alexis's) and our 42" Plasma TV 27" Toshiba TV as we settle in to watch American Idol. The ottoman is appropriately sized for little children and comes customized with the added benefit of rocking back-n-forth (perfect for keeping kids entertained). Of course, my daughters face is two inches away from the television screen the entire time we are watching except when it's halftime the commercials come on. Now, during a commercial, most people would find themselves making a trip to the fridge to get another cold beer refreshing bottle of water and another bag of chips. But not our family......it was during a commercial that we MET Sanjaya at the grocery store. Alexis loves to play grocery store with her "Wal-Mart" branded shopping cart (even though we are shopping at HEB) So, immediately after Sanjaya sang the worst chareokee ever his rendition of "Let's Give Them Something to Talk About" (followed by a commercial).....she decided to go to the store. Alexis began shopping around the store living room for some much needed items. As she made her way down the isle past the coffee table she stopped to talk to an employee the "worker guy". She said, "Hi, what's your name?" I replied, "my name is Amber, what's yours?" She then proceeded to say in a very serious manner, "Hi, my name is Sanjaya, nice to meet ya." (not the usual Jerry, Lee, David or John) I bursted out laughing hysterically and could not contain myself. Alexis proceeded to look very intently at me with her beady brown eyes wondering.......WHAT was so funny!!!!

What I Had For Breakfast

I just embarked on my new Healthy for Life challenge. This is NOT a diet. Rather, it's a lifestyle change to eat healthy for life. Since having my second child, I have quite a bit of weight to loose (30 lbs to go). I needed to loose the same amount of weight after the birth of my first daughter, Alexis Lynn. I accomplished loosing the weight by religiously working out on my elliptical trainer five miles a day, 7 days a week for two months. I don't want to slave to a work out program in order to loose the weight. Therefore, I've opted to follow Dr. Ray Strands, Healthy for Life Program. Dr. Strand is a world renowned MD and nutritional medicine doctor.
His program teaches you why diets don't work and how to develop a healthy lifestyle that has a side effect of Permanent Fat Loss. This is obtained by eating a low-glycemic diet, moderate yet consistent exercise and cellular nutrition. This is much different than the yo-yo diets of present that consists of eating a low-fat, low-caloric, high-carbohydrate diet.

Vegetable Omelet -

1 whole egg (range fed chicken eggs),

2 egg whites,

chopped vegetables (mushrooms, green & red peppers & onions)
Fruit Bowl -

fresh fruit (oranges & grapes)

The Blue Angels

Craig & Alexis attended the Air Show in Corpus this past weekend to see

The Blue Angels.

Alexis was amazed to see how BIG planes really are.

View Slide Show here

Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep

See explanation below.......

After everyone was tucked in their beds for the night, I made my way downstairs into a dark living room with a BIG surprise. This was left by someone with a BIG Imagination. Our eldest never ceases to amaze us with all the things she comes up with and all of her improvisations. This BIG ball has also been held up against her belly as she states, "look how big my belly is, there are ten babies inside." She also plays tag with this BIG ball. As she rolls the ball towards her, she immediately turns and runs the other way.....ball following. When the ball runs into her she says, "tag your it." (as she speaks for the ball) There's no fighting and they always take turns.

Is A Lizard Faster Than A Human Being?

I told mommy that I could catch the lizard I found outside this morning. Mommy said that lizards are really fast and that I probably wouldn't be able to catch it. I told mommy that I'm faster than a lizard because I'm a "human being". Mommy ended up catching it for me and I demanded that she let me hold it. Mommy went to get her camera to take a picture. OUCH.....then he bit me! My mom came running as I screamed out, "Mommy, He's biting me." My mom almost had a heart attach as she sprinted to come help me and nearly dropped her new Digital Camera on the hard floor. That lizard clamped down on the side of my thumb with his mouth and mommy had to pry it open with her fingers. Now he's in my Discovery Box! Now, I'm trying to figure out what I can feed him since my mom says he likes things that move....THINKING NOW!

Londyn's 1st Bath & The Belly Button That Would Not Fall Off

Londyn's belly button took one month to fall off.

We had to give her a sponge bath everyday to keep her smelling sweet!

Milestones & Two Winter "Sleep n Plays"

Londyn is one month old and weighs 9 lbs. 7 oz. My, my, my, how time flies by when you're sleep deprived. It seems to me, when one is extremely tired, that time would go by as slow as molasses. Londyn sleeps through the night (at 2 weeks) and only gets up to feed. I'm having to get up every 3-5 hour to feed her which is preventing me from getting a restful, deep sleep during the night. Londyn is a really good baby though. When she is awake, mostly throughout the day, she is an absolute joy. She loves her cradle swing and occasionally enjoys sitting in her calming vibrations chair. She is a very strong baby who tries to stand while being burped and is gaining good control of holding her head up. Oh, did I mention that she burps like a grown man! He he he.... She is becoming more aware with each passing day and has started to respond to us by smiling.

Alexis had a hard time adjusting to someone new in our family for about the first week or so. She began to find ways to hurt herself. She caught on extremely fast that when the baby cries she is immediately picked up and attended to. I finally had to tell her, "when you get hurt, mommy doesn't want to hear about it." Suddenly it stopped just as mysteriously at it had begun. Alexis enjoys being a Big Sister and loves to do that "sweet thing" (cradling Londyn in her arms and snuggling.)

Months before our bundle of joy arrived, I received a generous amount of winter outfits that I gave away (to other expectant mothers) because Londyn was due in the month of March. Now, we all know that the month of March is more like the smoldering, hot months of May-September! NEEDLESS TO SAY, several weeks ago I met up with my elementary school friend, Esther who so generously gave me some of her 6 month old daughter, Hannah's adorable clothes. Did I mention, most of them still had tags. The overloaded bags were stuffed with several winter outfits including two sleep n plays that fit Londyn. So, Londyn was kept warm during the two winter days of April.

Happy Easter(click here)

The Night Before Easter

EASTER STORY COOKIES

(To be made the evening before Easter)

You need:
1 c. whole pecans
1 tsp. Vinegar
3 egg whites
pinch salt
1 c. sugar
zipper baggie
wooden spoon
tape
Bible

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.

Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested He was beaten by the Roman soldiers. Read John 19:1-3.

Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross he was given vinegar to drink. Read John 19:28-30.

Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10:10-11.

Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin. Read Luke 23:27.

So far the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 c. sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him. Read Ps. 34:8 and John 3:16.

Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus. Read Isa.l:18 and John 3:1-3.

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid. Read Matt. 27:57-60.

Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.

Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed. Read Matt. 27:65-66.

GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed. Read John 16:20 and 22.

On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty. Read Matt. 28:1-9.

He is Risen!

Nothing But Love

We welcome with love,
our tiny new blessing,
a gift from above .….. LONDYN PAIGE MULLINS March 8, 2007
7 lbs 15 oz
21 in. long
2:42 p.m. Introducing my new baby sister......Londyn A.B.C. and 1.2.3 ...Someone new to play with me! Precious is she & oh so sweet Tiny hands & adorable feet Given to us by God above A darling daughter for us to love. From the top of her head, to the toes on her feet, Our new little girl, has made our lives complete! Jump ropes swings and teddy bears, Pretty ribbons for her hair. Giggles, hugs and love to share, Oh the joy a daughter bears!