At Last...Our Sweet Gracie

Destin Florida

2011-06-05T18:12:00.001-06:00

Ready for the beach

Me & Mommy

New Buddy, I make friends everywhere

Another new buddy, in the greeen. I'm not sure but I think she's from Ethiopia like me.

Wheeeeeeee

I'm having a blast

Me & Daddy

Somebody made this cool sandcastle

Fit for a princess like me!

Yeah I'm a cool chick, chilling on the beach, un huh!

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-27T22:05:00.000-06:00

Gracie got lots more eggs in the backyard, so cute but unfortunately hubby thought he was recording and the freaking camera wasn't even on. Good grief, always look for the red light.......helloooooooo

Easter Sunday

2011-04-27T21:47:00.000-06:00

Pretty Princess

Me & Mr. Wabbit

My dolly has on a dress exactly like mine!

In Deep Thought

After church, knocked out

Easter Egg Coloring

2011-04-27T21:19:00.000-06:00

I like this color!

So excited, let's get started!

My turn next, I got it now!

See, piece of cake.

You're so silly momma

Ooooo weeeeee we did it

Ahhh my masterpiece, that's a G on there in case u were wondering

I love Easter eggs!

JATS Fairytale Classics

2011-04-05T21:31:00.000-06:00

These books are so awesome. Gracie's favorite is Cinderella........of course :)

Don't Sleep & Drive

2011-04-01T23:22:00.000-06:00

Gracie's Christmas

2011-01-01T15:24:00.005-06:00

Tne Night BeFore

Christmas Program

2010-12-15T09:39:00.000-06:00

Now she'd been singing Jingle Bells for 2 weeks to anybody who would listen. In the store, in the mall everywhere. Then she sits on the stage and just looks around. Good grief.

Right after this pic, she broke one of the ornaments on the tree. I could have dug a hole and hid in it until after the holidays. Luckily no one was around and hubby swept the broken ornament over to the side.

Christmas Pics

2010-12-11T11:34:00.001-06:00

Ahhhh it's that Time of Year!

2010-11-11T21:05:00.001-06:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Dewberry Farm

2010-11-05T10:21:00.002-06:00

Finally the blog allowed me to start posting pics again. Don't know what was wrong.

I Don't Wanna Go to School!

2010-09-16T08:47:00.000-06:00

I don't wanna go to school but I'm grining from ear to ear and can't wait for daddy to take me.

2010-08-24T06:42:00.001-06:00

First Day of School

2010-08-23T15:52:00.002-06:00

She was so excited, hubby had to hurry to work so we didn't get as many pics as I wanted.

div

Cheeeeeeeeese let's get this show on the road!

Hey were are you guys going, you're not staying with me?! She looked sad but my big girl didn't cry :)

The Princess meets her Princess Tiana

2010-08-04T11:02:00.003-06:00

OMG is it really you Princess Tiana

Look I have your picture on my shirt!

I can even do the frog hop,ribbit ribbit

I have your dvd, books, tons of clothes with your pic on it, really!

I Love You Princess Tiana!

Gracie does Disney & Universal!

2010-08-04T10:08:00.009-06:00

Picture Time!!!!!

2010-07-12T15:24:00.013-06:00

This is my absolute favorite, luv this pic! So sweet

We'll end with a lil sassiness :)

Water Park

2010-05-30T10:29:00.007-06:00

Gracie luvvvs the water. Somehow I'm gonnna have to get her swimming lessons.

Making friends with a little freshy.

On the way it was pouring down raining, but we kept going. By the time we got there the rain had stopped thank goodness.

We did a quick clothes change and went to the other side of the park to play.

She had so much fun, Mom & Dad did too. But her energy far outweighs ours:)

Random Cuteness

2010-05-19T23:40:00.003-06:00

Playing is a tough job but somebody's gotta do it!

Happy Mother & Anniversary Day!

2010-05-09T15:47:00.005-06:00

2 years ago today I laid eyes on u in the flesh. You were the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen in my life. Oh how daddy and I loved you. I will never know why God thought I was special enough to be your mom, but I'm so glad he did.

Look at my sweet baby angel, but you didn't stay that way long. My goodness you grew so fast.

I will always be there to catch you my sweet girl, at least that is my wish.

Now look at you so big and strong. Hardly my little baby anymore at all.

I love this picture of you. It makes me smile but also a little sad. You look so grown up. How I wish I could protect you from any and all hurt that you may experience in your life. Daddy and I love you soooooo lil girl. God thank you so much for choosing us, we'll do everything we can not to let you down.

Gracie's Swingset Wheeee!!!!

2010-04-19T17:56:00.004-06:00

The beginning of a ruff journey

Finally after many,many, many hours the finished product!

Gracie giving her daddy a hand :)

Ms. G checking on her dad's progress from the window.

Can't wait till it's finished, she had to do a lil pretest.

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-04-05T13:35:00.005-06:00

I'm coming for ur eggs bunny, look out!

Yes, yes these will do nicely.

Sorry froggy, but I must confiscate these from ya.

Woooo this egg hunting can be tuff work for a princess!

Back inside with my huge bounty!

This paper is on just a little too tight.

Ahhhh I love my sugar high!

Yardwork Part II Pics

2010-03-22T11:57:00.004-06:00

Uhhh those need to go over here dad!

Swiper no swiping! Ur tooooo late I already pulled the petal off!

This is so much fun, but I'll still discuss my fee later. A swingset perhaps???

Such a Good Lil Helper

2010-03-14T13:11:00.002-06:00

Surprise Party

2010-03-11T21:28:00.006-06:00

My little artist at work but still time for cheeezzzz

That's Grandpa in the background.

Cousin luvvv, awww so sweet.

This is my sister in law, her kids gave her a surprise birthday party. She is also the angel that introduced me to my hubby! That's my husband's brother(her hubby)

Gracie and her gang. She had so much fun at the party.

An artist work is never done.

Mega Block Masterpiece

2010-02-15T12:27:00.006-06:00

Gracie luvs her mega blocks, she can play with them for a good long while befor becoming bored.

She's obviously very talented, maybe she'll be an artist heehee.

High 5 from Daddy for a job well done!

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-14T14:57:00.002-06:00

Daddy gave out Vday yummies today after church. Momma felt well enuff to go too!

How do I get this darn paper off so I can get to the yummies!

I can't wait to dig into this candy daddy. Look out world for my sugar high!

Thanks daddy I wuv my Vday beary beary:) Momma loved her beautiful card and candy too.

We Are The World 2010

2010-02-13T10:14:00.002-06:00

I couldn't help but get a lil misty eyed when I saw Michael & Janet. I think everyone did a wonderful job for Haiti.

My Nephew's Wedding

2010-02-01T17:49:00.005-06:00

My ultra handsome nephew got married this weekend to a New Orleans princess! I was so happy for them I could burst. Since the day he was born he has possessed such a beautiful spirit. I know they will be very happy together.

Here's Gracie coming back from the dance floor with her Uncle Victor. My sweet girl danced the night away!

Lovely cake New Orleans style. It was yummy too.

This is my sister in law, niece, Gracie girl and me. I looked kinda ruff but feel blessed God allowed me to make it there.

What a beautiful bride. She sweet as can be too.

My Big Bro and beautiful niece.

January Fun!

2010-01-20T23:43:00.005-06:00

A Prayer for Haiti

2010-01-20T09:02:00.001-06:00

This was sent to me and I just had to share it. Lord those poor people.

Lord, I just want to say THANK YOU, because this morning I woke up and knew where my children were. Because this morning my home was still standing, because this morning I am not crying because my husband, my child, my brother or sister needs to be buried out from underneath a pile of concrete, because this morning I was able to drink a glass of water, because this morning I was able to turn on the light, because this morning I was able to take a shower, because this morning I was not planning a funeral, but most of all I thank you this morning because I still have life and a voice to cry out for the people of Haiti. Lord I cry out to you, the one that makes the impossible, possible, the one that turns darkness into light, I cry out that you give those mothers strength, that you give them peace that surpasses all understanding, that you may open the streets so that help can come, that you may provide doctors, nurses, food, water, and all that they need in a blink of an eye. For all those that have lost family members, give them peace, give them hope, give them courage to continue to go on! Protect the children and shield them with your power. I pray all this in the name of Jesus!!!

CONGRATS TO CELESTE & HER GIRLS!!!!!!!

2010-01-14T10:26:00.006-06:00

God has again showed up and showed out. Go on over and see His latest Blessing!

A Lil Christmas B4 New Years

2009-12-31T13:26:00.004-06:00

Dreaming about Christmas, notice the santa hat she's sleeping with. Ahhh that's my baby girl!

It's time, It's time!!

Ooooo I know I can make a mean gumbo in this kitchen!!!

I think I may have a musical genius on my hands:)

Thanks so much to all my Auntie Santas. I wuvvv uuuuuu so much!

Lil Swiper

2009-12-24T14:13:00.002-06:00

I luv this pic, Gracie's trying her best to get to those presents!!

Santa 2009

2009-12-22T21:33:00.003-06:00

Look at my sweet girl saying cheeze right on command. Not a tear in sight.

2009-12-13T13:09:00.001-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Snowbunny

2009-12-04T18:31:00.005-06:00

Today we had a snow in Texas, It was magical. I was so happy there was still some left when Daddy got home so he could take Gracie out in it.

She had a blast!!! The snowman is a lil weak looking but u get the point.

This was earlier before daddy came and took her out to play. Yayy daddy!

Party Time!!!!

2009-11-29T21:23:00.009-06:00

My Baby Girl is 2yrs. Old Today!!!

2009-11-29T01:49:00.002-06:00

The Gracie Girl is 2yrs.old today and she is splendid in every way. She's potty trained, sassy/spunky as all get out, and is talking more and more each day. She is our joy!!!! It's just gonna be cake with Mommy and Daddy today but we're gonna make it special for her. I'll be back with pics later today. Happy Birthday baby girl, Daddy and I love you more than we could ever say.

My Lil Indian

2009-10-31T19:50:00.009-06:00

We had such a fun Halloween this year. We picked up G's costume when we were in S. Dakota on vacation this summer.

I was forced to take a couple of shots with her pacy and lovey then we put them away for the night.

We went down to the Town Square and we had a blast most of the stores were giving out candy and all of the kiddos looked so cute in there costumes.

Look at this lil cowboy getting fresh with my lil indian.

We saw another cute lil indian and her parents let us take pics.

My baby girl had such a good time and we did too. Can't wait till next year.

Potty Training Woes

2009-10-25T14:57:00.003-06:00

I know potty training is one of the most difficult rights of passage for a parent! But Gracie takes the cake. She's shown all the signs of being "ready".

Gracie will pull her diaper off dry or wet walk over to the potty, sit on it and do nothing. She'll get up after a few minutes and run away. If we try to put her back on she howls and howls.

If we let her go around bare bottom she'll hold it for hours. As soon as I put on a diaper or panties she goes. I've tried putting the diaper in the potty no go. The child is as stubborn as a mule.

The other day she was sitting on the potty and daddy called when I gave the phone to her she got so excited she started to tinkle, she immediately tried to get up. I had to hold her down on the potty. She tried to stop the flow by holding her legs tight and arching her back but it was already coming full force. When she finished she got up and looked at me like she was so pissed off, literally.

Good Lil Churchgirl

2009-10-11T14:30:00.004-06:00

Hubby and Gracie went to church today and when they returned Hubby said G was an angel in church. No loud outburst, excessive fidgeting, nothing. I was so proud. My sweetums is growing up!

She made sure to take her 2nd favorite lovie to keep her company.

Trying to escape with illegal contraband (my cell phone)

Practicing her Holy Ghost shout!

Momma's so proud of you sweet baby, maybe next Sunday I'll be able to go too.

Our Little Princess

2009-10-08T23:34:00.005-06:00

This is Gracie new favorite accessory. She found it while rummaging through her drawer. I got this at my baby shower and all this time she's refused to wear it, now she doesn't want to take it off.

My sweet girl seems like she's growing up overnight. She is busy, busy, busy. I feel bad for her because she's probably so bored being at home with me all the time. Because my legs are still not up to parr, we're kinda stuck at the house, unless dad is home to take us somewhere.

Her newest caper is pulling off her bottoms & diaper. Doesn't matter if the diaper is wet, dry or full of poop she's trying to get it off. Tomorrow we'll be ducktaping the diaper on. I've tried to resume potty training but that's not going too well either lol.

Sorry sweet baby, I feel like your stuck with a mommy who's not up to snuff. Seems like all you hear is stop baby, no baby, get down baby, pleeze give mommy a break baby. Know that mommy is doing all she can to get better as soon as she can. Luv U

Yeah mommy and you better make it double quick because I am running thangs around here!

My Bro

2009-10-06T11:10:00.006-06:00

My brother died 14 years ago today. It is so hard to believe it's been that long. I still think about him almost daily. He is responsible for me being the woman I am today. He was 14 when I was born and I became "his" baby. Throughout my life he constantly told me I was beautiful, smart, could do & be anything I wanted. He was my number one cheerleader. Whenever I had a problem I would call him and he would have the answer. When I was around 7 or 8 I guess, lots of the kids on the street were getting bikes. It wasn't in my mom's budget so I had to do without. Kids can be cruel as you know and I was often teased with you wanna ride my bike and I would say yeah sure and they would say sike and ride off, typical kid crap. Anywhoo, one evening I was sleeping on the couch and my brother woke me up, when I opened my eyes there was a brand new turquoise bike with a white seat with pretty flowers on it! I said am I dreaming!!! He said nope this is all yours baby girl. He was working part time while going to college and he saved up and got me that bike. He was an incredible brother and an even more incredible man. Okay, just one more story. My brother was a high school band director. I spent my spring break with him one year and they had a big parade downtown that his band was marching in. I got to walk beside him in the parade with his fabulous band playing those great sounds, the majorettes doing their thing and the drum majors stepping high and proud. I can't describe how I felt walking next to my big brother, my chest was so stuck out so big. I was sooooo proud to be his baby sister!!!
Alright I'm gonna stop because of course I'm getting weepy. Judge, I miss you so much. How I hate you didn't get to see Gracie, you would have loved this little girl! I'll try my best to always make you proud. I Love You.

Fall Pumpkins

2009-09-26T19:55:00.007-06:00

Daddy & Gracie were telling me to get a move on slow poke.

Today we went to 1 of our favorite stores that has neat fall & Christmas decorations. As you can see Ms. Gracie was thrilled.

I thought this tree was gorgeous, a mini version would look awesome in Gracie's room.

Ahhhh skipping through a forest of Christmas trees, magic!

This is her goofy cheesy smile.

Gracie is in LUVVV with her new shoes. I had to put them back on when we changed into her pjs. A budding Fashionista I'm sure. She's texting Grandma to tell her about them.

Happy Birthday Momma

2009-09-25T13:05:00.003-06:00

My mom is 79 years young today!!! I love you momma, thanks for ALWAYS being there for me and for just being you.

In His Time

2009-09-24T13:55:00.004-06:00

Time is just flying by. I can hardly believe that it's almost October, the summer is gone. This has by far been the most difficult summer I've ever experienced in my life. I'm still amazed that I went from being functional to almost completely disabled virtually overnight. Thinking that I wouldn't be able to be an active mom to Gracie gave me nightmares. I visited a slew of doctors and received scary verdicts. However, I am so happy that my God has laid his healing hands on my body. Last week I couldn't walk 2 steps without my walker now I'm walking completely unassisted in the house. My legs still spasm some when I'm out, anxiety, but that is improving as well. I've been off work for over 2 months, this has been a nightmare.
Again I thank God that there is an end in sight. Do I wish this could be over right now this instant sure but I'm thanking God that He's working it out in His time. I love you Lord.

Prayer Warriors needed!!

2009-09-09T19:55:00.002-06:00

Everyone that reads my blog, please put this beautiful boy and his family in your prayers. We all know God will show up and show out!
http://immeasurableblessings.blogspot.com/

Sounds of Bliss

2009-09-07T22:03:00.003-06:00

Funny Face Girl

2009-09-07T12:14:00.003-06:00

God I luv this kid!!!

Just Life

2009-09-06T12:14:00.002-06:00

Life has been really stressful around here. I can hardly believe where I'm at healthwise. However, I will keep praying for healing and trusting in God's Grace.

Grandma went back home today and Gracie & I miss her already. We're gonna have a tough time without her.

Guess we'll just keep dancing in spite of our blues.

On a happy note, my arm has healed enough so that I can make my famous spaghetti. That always puts my sweetie in a good mood.

Flasback, Inspired by Stacy & Mel

2009-08-15T17:17:00.004-06:00

HideNSeek

2009-08-11T23:50:00.007-06:00

This is Gracie's favorite hiding spot. She's totally unaware that we can see her.

I received this card at 1 of my showers. It plays Louie Armstrong's What A Wonderful World. Gracie discovered it & fell in luv. She'll open it up & just dance around & around. My kid knows good music, nooooo gangsta rap for her.

Happy Birthday Daddy

2009-07-31T10:40:00.006-06:00

Today is my daddy's birthday & I just wanna say thank you so much for taking good care of me & mommy. I know at times it's not easy, especially with mommy heehee. Thank u for stepping in & doing all the cooking, cleaning & even my hair. We really appreciate it daddy so Happy Birthday & we Love u soooo much.

I added a few pics from our lil party. Yummy cake momma:)

Sprinkler Fun

2009-07-30T21:19:00.004-06:00

Hubby & G had a lil summer fun with the sprinkler. It's so easy to amuse kids. Hubby made the neat planter & of course G tried her best to unplant the flowers.

Hmmmm I didn't realize how much she has that pacifier. Might be time to retire Mr. Passy

Sweet Cheeks

2009-07-22T13:06:00.006-06:00

Here's my sweet girl enjoying some watermelon. I wish she loved veggies as much.

She's also still sportin the "my momma's arm is broken hairdos"

Wow

2009-07-19T14:11:00.001-06:00

I stole this video from Tami's blog, this little girl is incredible!

My Achy Breaky

2009-07-18T19:43:00.003-06:00

Some of you know i've been having problems with my leg. After many, many test they "think" it could be piriformis muscle syndrome. I'm receiving physical therapy but I have a long way to go.
On Friday I was coming out of the Sprint store, my leg started to feel stiff so I put Gracie down and held her hand. All of a sudden my leg just gave out & I fell straight down off the step into the parking lot. Praise God I had enough presence of mind to let my baby's hand go as I was falling. I slammed into the ground and broke my left arm, I also got a giant knot under my eye but that's going down now and I'm left with a nice black eye. When I looked at my arm I was mortified it looked like a broken piece of spaghetti. I'm surprised the sight of it didn't make me faint.
I was in front of the store so many people ran out to help. One of the salesladies picked Gracie up who was surprisingly calm. She kept looking at me like whatcha doing down there momma? I was able to call hubby and I also called my job to see if someone could come and take G. I knew they wouldn't let me take her in the ambulance. I did all this laying flat down on the ground. There was some lady there who was rather loud, she kept saying I'll take your baby in my car and follow the ambulance. Uhhhhhh lady I'll lay here till the cows come home before I let a stranger take my baby out of my sight. Fortunately 2 of my sweet coworkers arrived and quickly whisked Gracie away. They didn't want her to hear my screams as the paramedics were moving me & my arm onto the stretcher. It was excruciating!
Quinn arrived at the hospital looking frantic. The people at the Sprint store sent him to the wrong hospital. Nevertheless, he made it and thanked my coworkers for staying at the ER with G until he got there.
Despite me taking my pain meds i'm still in an awful lot of pain, especially at night. Please, if you can, say a prayer for Gracie's pretty banged up Mom.

BarBQ Princess

2009-07-11T08:54:00.004-06:00

We drove up to my mom's for the 4th. Gracie luvvvd the BarBQ, she cleaned her chicken leg like a pro LOL.

After she polished off her own meal she decided to help my brother with his.

Gracie got so excited seeing my nephew's dog Pilar.

After being assured, multiple times, by my nephew that she wasn't a biter I allowed G to pet her.

This pic was actually taken before we left home and yes that is a christmas item she's holidng:)

Sleeping off her meal

Ridiculously Cute!!!!

2009-07-10T13:18:00.001-06:00

11th Wedding Anniversary

2009-06-28T12:45:00.006-06:00

And now we are three with a life that is...what's the word, ahh yes SWEET.

Can't wait to see what the rest of our lives will bring. Happy Anniversay my Love.

Goodbye Michael

2009-06-26T10:36:00.003-06:00

RIP Michael, may you finally find the serenity that eluded you in this lifetime. Your musical genius will be terribly missed.

Praying for You and The Girls

2009-06-25T17:36:00.000-06:00

Third time is the Charm!

My Sweetums

2009-06-22T21:13:00.002-06:00

Just thought I'd post a few pics of my sweetums cause it's been a few days.

She adores strawberries, so we have them as a treat almost daily.

Of course she & Daddy are both fans of my famous spaghetti.

Summer

2009-06-10T19:01:00.004-06:00

Don't cha just love summer!

Praying for You & The Girls.

2009-06-08T18:42:00.001-06:00

Bear Country USA

2009-06-07T21:50:00.006-06:00

I almost forgot to post these pics of this bear park we visited in S.Dakota. At first I thought the admission price was too high but it was well worth it.

We saw HUGE bears and they would come right up next to the car, a few times I got so engrossed taking pics that I forgot the windows were down, not too smart. Fortunately I didn't end up being Smokie's lunch.

Gracie & Rufus just loved the baby cubs. She was so excited and kept pointing.

They were soooo cute & rambunctious.

Heyyyy look who I found, it's Rudolph on vacation! Cya in December Rudy.

And as always, no matter where we go, no matter how far or remote... I ALWAYS find a Christmas store. Hehehehehe

A Jazzy Evening

2009-06-05T21:59:00.004-06:00

Yesterday we went to "The Square" for an evening of live jazz & family fun. Ms. Gracie was in her element because she got to run all around without restriction.

Such a lil ham.

Gracie loves music, she's breaking it down here. My camera with video broke, I must replace it ASAP. Pics just don't do her dance moves justice.

The guy lurking in the background kept trying to play with Gracie, hubby was slightly annoyed.

He turned out to be ok though, these are his cute kids that were playing elsewhere at first. Once they saw Gracie they all played around for a lil bit.

And guess what?? They were Ethiopian, what a coinkidink.

Minnehaha Park/Gooseberry Falls

2009-06-04T21:14:00.004-06:00

Minnehaha Park was a gorgeous park in Minnesota. The houses in the neighborhood were beautiful as well. Hubby said oh it would be so nice to live here. Uhhhh not when it's 20 below, no thanks hubby.

The weather just continued to be unbelievable. Gracie had so much fun running around in the park. We wanted to ride the bike carriages but we didn't have time.

At Gooseberry Falls the weather was chilly but the scenary glorious. Of course hubby had to climb down into the danger zone.

This was the Split Rock Lighthouse off Lake Superior. We were a little disappointed about the scaffolding. It was freezing here. Gracie and I got back in the warm and toasty car while hubby climbed down a gazillion steps to get some pics.

Nickelodean Universe/Wall Drug

2009-05-31T14:13:00.007-06:00

We loved Nick Universe as much as Gracie did. They had lots of neat rides for G and everything was so bright & festive.

This little bus ride went up much higher than I expected. Eeeeek

I was hoping G would get a picture with 1 of the Backyardigans but all they had available was Sponge Bob who I do not like....at all.

Yeehaawww, Hubby channeling his inner cowboy. You can take the man outta Texas but.....

This horrid monster came to life and scared the bejeezes out of Gracie, hubby thought it was funny, I was NOT amused.

South Dakota

2009-05-30T18:38:00.009-06:00

Here we are at the monument. Hubby had been there before as a child. It was my first trip and I really enjoyed it. The weather was unbelievable. Can't wait till they add our beloved President Obama up there:)

Here's a greedy lil praire dog. I guess we're on the same diet plan LOL.

They've been working on this Crazy Horse monument forever. Hubby says it's they same as it was when he saw it 20 years ago.

Paddle boating on Lake Sylvan. We were their first customers. Took me forever to get in the boat, me and my bright ideas.

Lovely scenery though.

Gracie was howling with laughter at this woman and her dog. No idea why.

Neat tunnel on Needles Hwy or Iron Mountain can't remember which.

Rock tunnel on Iron Mountain, look closely and you can see the "Big Heads" they're framed by the tunnel.

The JT & Gracie Show

2009-05-28T03:40:00.004-06:00

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

ET Travel Group Reunion

2009-05-28T01:27:00.010-06:00

This is our fabulous travel group. We had a reunion in Minnesota and it was so much fun. On top of seeing everyone again plus their other kiddos, Gracie found/reunited her true luvvv.

Hope is as sweet as she is beautiful.

We ate at an ET restuarant Fasika. The food was not bad but he honey wine was awesome. Yummy

Gracie trying to get her sweetie's attention....again.

We Met Lucy!

2009-05-24T21:00:00.003-06:00

Today we met the world famous, unmatched spunkiness, a vision of complete loveliness Lucy. I was so excited, I felt like I was meeting a rock star.

It was Lucy' face that I first saw, that started me to thinking wow I wonder could we do this. She started us on our journey to my sweet Gracie.

She was just as I imagined, sweet with just the right amount of spit fire to go along with it. She and Gracie are busy bees so it was hard to get a face on shot of them but you get the jest of it.

I absolutely can't thank Stacy enough for taking time out of her busy weekend to meet with us. I meant more than I can say. If your ever in Texas, look us up.

Celeste's Big Day

2009-05-17T15:33:00.002-06:00

Everyone reading my blog please send up your prayers for Celeste, Helina & El Shaday. Tomorrow is the BIG day!

Buzzin Cuzzins

2009-05-12T16:44:00.004-06:00

We spent Mother's Day with hubby's family. We had a great time. Gracie got to see all of her cousins and she had a blast running around playing. The kids were older but my sweetums held her own.

This is Tatyana doing her best ANTM pose. She told me all about her baby brother that's in her mommy's tummy. Kids are so smart these days.

The lil guys were great with G. Calvin and Christian were both sweet as can be. Calvin (orange shirt) was especially loving and kept picking G up and giving her hugs. Ahhhhh

1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

2009-05-09T14:15:00.002-06:00

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

1 year ago I held my sweet, sweet baby in my arms for the first time. Life will never be the same. Being in Ethiopia was completely awe inspiring. Believe it or not there are many times that I miss being there. I often wonder how A. is. I pray that she is well, happy and loved. I hope she knows that we think of her often and love her for the incredible gift she gave to us.

My Only Child

2009-05-07T13:09:00.003-06:00

Hubby and I having been wondering if we should adopt again. I don't know if Gracie should be an only child. I grew up pretty much as an only child because my siblings were so much older than me. I do remember being lonely at times, but I wasn't unhappy. There are lots of things to consider mainly finances. When we went international the first time I was working full time. Now I only work part time so I can stay home with Gracie. Financing it would be a challenge for sure. I'm not comfortable with domestic adoption so I don't think we would go that route.

Perhaps I'm feeling this way because this is our travel week. I can't believe last year this time we were in Ethiopia picking up our baby girl. Hmmmm we'll continue to discuss it and see what we come up with.

Must be a Mistake

2009-04-30T21:37:00.004-06:00

Last weekend I entered Gracie in a small, local beauty contest. Well actually I left her pic and application in a collection box at a baby store. The judges or whoever were going to contact the finalist for the actual pageant to be held next weekend. Two of my coworkers have already been contacted (tomorrow is deadline). Can you believe they have not called me about my sweet girl. THIS IS AN OUTRAGE!!! Surely there is some mistake, who would not want my beauty in there contest. Hubby said I didn't leave a good enough pic. I used this one:

I think she looks adorable in this picture. You don't get the picture back so I didn't want to leave any professional ones. I'm just dumbfounded and a lil pissed if you want to know the truth. Hubby says good because he didn't want me to turn her into a little Jon Benet Ramsey. Men can be so crazy. I'm just really outdone. Who's judging this thing Stevie Wonder. Maybe it's a good thing if I'm this upset and it was just the prelims LOL.

But seriously, come on look at that face!

I Give Up!

2009-04-27T15:53:00.004-06:00

After 3 days of screams and tears I've quit the potty training. Gracie was not able to reclaim her glory days of potty success. She refuses to use it now. I'll try again in a couple of months. I feel so defeated. Gracie on the other hand is delighted. This is her face after I told her we're stopping.

Ok I cry Uncle......Maybe

2009-04-26T21:43:00.004-06:00

The last few days my sweetums has really been out of sorts. I took her to have photos made and she was all over the place. Wouldn't sit still so the photographer could get a decent shot. She absolutely wouldn't listen to a thing I said. The photographer said all kids in that age range are that way. I suppose.

The potty training has gone completely offtrack. I had to start physical therapy last week for a bum shoulder & back problem. While I'm at PT hubby doesn't put Gracie on the potty, he'll just put her in a diaper or pullup. Now when I try to put her on the potty she screams like I'm killing her. Yesterday she carried on so bad that I just gave up and put diapers on her. Today I didn't even try.
EDIT: Hubby wants everyone to know that this poorly groomed yard is NOT ours. Gracie is standing in a neighbor's yard. There, happy hubby.

I don't know if I should give up or just push through it. She looks so pitiful when she's crying to get off the potty. She's also teething right now. My poor sweetums is just having a tough time of it. Well tomorrow starts a new week so we'll see what comes.

Baby Legs

2009-04-20T22:26:00.004-06:00

Soooo the potty training is going pretty good I think. Gracie most certainly has a long way to go but I think she's doing well. During the day she's bare bottomed so I wanted something to cover her legs so they wouldn't get chilled. I know, I know but sometimes the house is cold. Anywhoo, I found Babylegs online but they were really expensive even on Ebay. Fortunately I found a website with instructions on how to make your own. I went to Walmart and bought a pack of knee hi socks cut the feet out and voile Babylegs!

I asked Gracie how she like her new babylegs & as you can see by this face she was unimpressed.

I Love My First Family

2009-04-14T16:36:00.000-06:00

Change from Damian Steinberg on Vimeo.

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T14:17:00.005-06:00

We had a lovely Easter today but this morning it was almost disastrous. I was so excited for my sweetie to wear this lovely frock that my mom bought her for Christmas. I got ready to put the dress on her and realized the nutjobs at the store forgot to remove the security tag. OMG I was outraged. I know that the true meaning of Easter is not bunnies and cute frocks but still I wanted her in that dress.

Praise God after a lot of effort Hubby was able to get the tag off. He broke a pair of scissors in the process but he got it off.

Thanks for saving the day daddy, I feel like a princess in my dress.

Auntie Chris thank you soooo much for the purdy, purdy socks.

Our church service was awesome. The spirit of the Lord could be felt throughout.

The Hunt is On!

2009-04-11T19:38:00.005-06:00

Gracie attended her first Easter Egg Hunt today. Daddy got off work early so he could go with us. We had so much fun.

The first go round Gracie only got 2 eggs, man those lil gangsters were ruthless. One lil girl snatched an egg up just as my baby was reaching for it.

I was robbed, I was robbed!

The second go round, Daddy and I made sure she got her fair share:) Thanks daddy, here's a lil something for your trouble.

It threatened rain all day but not a drop fell thank goodness. Can't wait till next year.

Random Cuteness

2009-04-09T20:46:00.002-06:00

Just a few pics to show off my sweet girl. She is growing sooooo fast. Talking more and more each day and despite her not being in the terrible twos yet her favorite word is nooooo. She is my JOY.

PooPoo in the Potty!!!!

2009-04-05T10:50:00.004-06:00

OMG my Potty Princess is off the hook! She's been doing so well but hadn't yet done the big poop. This morning as soon as she finished her Malt O Meal I put her on the potty and within minutes I heard the little music. I thought it was her normal peepee but I took a peek and boomshakala boom boom we had chocolate thunder! (ok a lil gross I know. I am soooo proud of my baby girl.

Don't worry, I wouldn't want to spoil anyone's dinner but you get the idea. LOL

PeePee in th Potty!!!

2009-04-01T14:52:00.004-06:00

WE'VE HAD SUCCESS!! I was letting Gracie run around bare bottom today and she started kinda pulling at her "sweet pea" so I said come on you wanna go potty. She got off the couch and marched to the bathroom. She stopped in front of the potty and said Elbow, I said yes Elbow potty go on, she sat down for about 30 seconds and stood back up, I looked and behold we had PEEPEE IN THE POTTY!!!! I was floored. I did the biggest & goofiest potty dance ever. I'd turned the music off a few days ago and forgot to turn it back on so I made my own music.

Oh and did I mention that today was the FIRST day I actually put Gracie on the potty. Before, I'd just been letting her play around with it while she watched the Elmo Potty video. She's inspecting her excellent work.

Now of course I realize that the "blog effect" will probably get me and I'll most likely be wiping pee & poop off the floor for the next several weeks but I don't care. I'm proud as 10 peacocks today. Gone Gracie Girl!

Potty, Pics & Princesses

2009-03-27T18:59:00.007-06:00

Soooo I obtained my 2nd weapon in my potty training arsenal, an Elmo potty dvd!! Gracie luvvvss her Elbow (as she calls him). When she sat down for lunch today, I eased Elbow in and she laughed & squealed with delight.

Afterwards, Gracie gingerly assisted Elmo onto the potty.

He couldn't perform so she threw him to the floor. Pooooor Elmo, I would never be so harsh.

Bored with the potty saga, Gracie donned her pink crown, jumped on the table and did an impromptu dance & shout number. Oh boy this is gonna be a lonnnng road.

He's Done Enough

2009-03-27T11:37:00.001-06:00

Now if this doesn't get you on your feet and praising God, you don't have a pulse! Awesome.

Lookie what we got today!

2009-03-24T17:14:00.002-06:00

To be continued......

Oldie but Goodie

2009-03-24T00:02:00.003-06:00

I ran across this video while looking for lil gems to put on my new Itouch. Wow, my baby has grown so much since then. This is daddy tickling her funny bone. She's a hoot.

Happy Birthday to Meeeeee

2009-03-20T00:21:00.010-06:00

Today is my birthday and I'm 29 and holding! That's right I'm the female version of Benjamin Buttons. Unlike my graceful blogsister Andrea, I'm not going down without a fight LOL. And speaking of fights, the battle of the bulge has me in a headlock. The above photo was taken a few short months ago and now I couldn't get in that dress with a vat of vaseline and a crowbar. Soldier on I will, undaunted to the land of health & size 10 jeans. Anybody out there done the Dr. Siegel Cookie Diet???

Hubby bought me the much longed for and coveted Itouch. Ahhhhh, I can't tell you how much I adore this little machine. Now I have loads of video and pics of Gracie to show around at work. I know all of my coworkers will be so pleased;). It also has amazing apps available that can be downloaded to make it even more incredible. I am in luvvvvvvvv.
Honestly though every birthday from here on out will be filled with unequaled joy and beauty because God saw fit to let me be Gracie's momma. I am still amazed by His grace because I have certainly done nothing in my life to warrant this gift. When I look in my baby girl's face sometimes I'm overcome with so much love and emotion that it's just overwhelming. She makes me want to be a better me.

Hippity Hoppity

2009-03-18T20:14:00.005-06:00

Hubby put out the Easter decorations today, yes we are that family that decorates for every holiday:) Ms. Gracie came out to have a look around and inspect her daddy's work.

Jammin to the Purple One

2009-03-17T17:44:00.005-06:00

Gracie showed her love of music early remember this. She's steadily expanding her repertoire, now it includes Prince. Auntie Na, we have another Prince fan! I keep trying to catch her moving & grooving while standing up but I always miss it. Stay tuned....This Lil Diva is destined for stardom.

The Zoo

2009-03-15T22:14:00.005-06:00

Last week hubby and I took Gracie to the zoo. Now I have never been a big fan of the zoo and I haven't been in many, many, many years. However, I thought my sweetums would enjoy it so off we went.

I did enjoy the carousel ride. There's was a slight breeze as we went round & round which was desperately needed because it was hot as heck out there.

I told hubby your getting too close to the vicious billy goat, back up. He just rolled his eyes at me as usual. I'm just a bit overprotective;)

A lil sugah for daddy. Gracie is such a lovebug. She gives the best kisses & hugs. The poor baby is just drowned in kisses all day from daddy and I so it's good she enjoys it.

I felt sorry for this poor elephant. He had to do so many tricks just for a few crumbs of bread.

SuperStar

2009-03-06T18:36:00.007-06:00

Today I took Gracie to an indoor play area and we had such a blast. When we first arrived there was another mom there with her 16month old son. I was showing Gracie how to climb in the play area & the other mom said oh this is her first time it'll probably take 3 or 4 visits before she gets the hang of it, that's how long it took my boy. I thought uhhhh well your son is obviously a mere mortal, Gracie is a SUPERSTAR! Honey chile within 15 mins she had taken charge of the play area as you see in the above video. Yes maam that's my
SuperStar!

You should've seen me crawling through this little play area, I foolishly wore a dress and I'm sure the site of my overly ample behind was quite comical, Lord I've got to lose some weight. Anywhoo, the things we do for our kiddos.

Thank goodness my baby girl is a brilliant SuperStar, she learned the ropes super quick and I didn't have to keep hiking Big Bertha up through the play yard. As you can see her cute little tush is far more appealing than her Moms.

Fourth Photo

2009-03-01T14:12:00.005-06:00

I was tagged, well not really personally but a global tag:) This is Ms. Gracie after her first birthday party. She was opening her gifts, which according to some breached party protocol. I had no idea that it was customary to open gifts at the party.We were running short on time because we had to drive 4 hours for Ms. Maddie's christening happening bright an early the next morning. Anywhoo, Gracie loved all of her gifts and had a great birthday party.

Now go to your fourth folder of photos. Post the fourth photo you find there and explain it.
No editing allowed. (I am tagging anyone who might want to see what turns up for them :)

The Flu Monster

2009-02-21T11:14:00.003-06:00

I am sick as a dog with the flu. I've been sick since Tuesday and I'm not getting any better. Man oh man I don't know when I've been this sick. There's not one part of my body that's not aching and on fire. I've missed the 48 hr window for Tamiflu so I guess I'll just have to ride it out. If anybody knows any home remedies please share. Despite my best efforts to shield my sweet girl, she's developed a runny nose and a slight cough. God I pray it doesn't get any worse. I called the pediatrician and they said to give her Benadryl for the runny nose so that's what I've been doing. This seriously sucks!
Oh a happier note, here's a pic of my 2 sweeties at the park the other day.

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T13:48:00.003-06:00

We celebrated VDay a couple of nights early. We knew the crowds would be horrendous tonight. We had a nice dinner and took in a movie. Sweetums did pretty good during the movie. It was only a couple of other people in the theatre so it worked out great.

My baby girl looked so cute in her red & white. She even sat relatively still while I put her ponies in.
This morning daddy gave her, her first Valentines candy & a lil Snoopie stuffed animal.

Thanks Daddy, I love it!

Ummmmm chocolate is the best, yummy for my tummy