Adam and Erin...Plus Two

our favorites: a fancy giveaway!

2011-10-02T17:17:00.000-06:00

Weigh-In Wednesday

2011-02-16T21:36:00.004-06:00

Uhhhhh....yeah, let's not. Lots going on...only worked out two days...did not eat "healthy", even in the broadest sense of the term. Hopefully, once I get over the stress and anxiety and my world stops spinning, I will be able to recommit to this goal of getting fit. Here's hoping....

Weigh-In Wednesday

2011-02-09T17:09:00.002-06:00

I am following the lead of a friend of mine...Weigh-In Wednesday. But, I will not be revealing actual numbers because, as we all know, that is just too dang depressing! I will, however, disclose pounds/inches lost. I don't have anything to report, as I just started Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred yesterday. But, I did record my measurements and weight, and I look forward to seeing those numbers drop! Anyone else want to join in on this journey? Post up!

I Love Coupons!!

2011-01-21T15:36:00.002-06:00

This past Wednesday, I did my first couponing trip to Wal-Mart. As I matched my coupons to the products and put them in my basket, I got very excited. When I was walking toward the checkout, I was so giddy and couldn't help but smile...I was so excited to see what the total would be!

I got 3 tubes of toothpaste, 4 travel first aid kits, 2 bottles of heartburn chewables, 4 containers of Greek yogurt, 3 packages of Japanese noodles, and 2 packs of dental floss.

Grand total: $3.24 !!!!!!

I was smiling from ear to ear! I also had to buy some socks for Adam, and the cashier said, "What? No coupon for the socks?!" I just laughed.

I can't wait to see what other deals I can find!

My Goals for 2011

2011-01-04T14:22:00.003-06:00

Personal:

Read through the Book of Mormon in a year
Read at least 30 books
Eat well
Complete P90X
Track health/fitness goals
Blog regularly :-/
Tackle 12 DIY projects (one a month)

Marriage:

Once-a-month date night
Once-a-week lunch dates
Twice a year marriage "retreats"
Read four books together
Flirt everyday! :-)
Be more in love than ever!

Children:

Once-a-month outing with Daniel by himself
Play as a family at least three times a week (games, Wii, etc.)
Read together everyday
Go to library story time
Start preschool at home with Daniel
Go on at least one "field trip" a month
Take more pictures and videos!!
Have FHE every week

Ministry/Friendships/Family:

Have at least one family over for dinner each month
Write one encouraging handwritten card or letter twice a month
Be more involved in ministry/service opportunities
Get together with both sides of extended family at least once-a-month

Financial:

Continue to be full tithe payers
Become more coupon savvy
Complete all items on our current Financial Goals List

*Pay off Malibu

*Pay off all credit card debt

*Build up Emergency Fund

2010 Recap

2011-01-04T09:36:00.002-06:00

January: Hello 2010! Adam's 29th birthday. Daniel's 2nd birthday--"Cars" theme, held at The Little Gym.

February: We found out we were pregnant with Olivia on the 14th...Valentine's Day!

March: I have no idea what happened in March!! All I know is Adam was still in school and i was at home with Daniel and another little boy, Rhonson, battling some serious nausea. Thank you Preggie Pops!

April: A trip to the Audubon Zoo with Gigi and Poppy.

May: Vacation to Florida (without Daniel). Missed him like crazy, but had a wonderful time...Thanks O'Neal Legal! After three long years, Adam graduated from LSU law school on Firday, May 28th. Woohoo!!

June: On June 4th at 2:30p we found out that we would be welcoming a baby girl! Celebrated my 26th birthday on June 6th.

July: I barely passed my Glucose Tolerance Test. MNO where I learned how to make cute bows for my baby girl! Adam took the bar exam on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, July 26th, 28th, and 30th.

August: Continued with prenatal doctor visits...had to start going for an ultrasound every to weeks to check my fluid (it was low).

September: Hosted book club at my house for And Only to Deceive. I had a great time! Continued taking Daniel to story time at the library and went to a special musical presentation. he really loved it! Jane took my maternity photos!

October: We found out Adam passed the bar on October 8th!!! October 22nd was my original due date, but Olivia was born by C-section on October 15th. We love our little ladybug!! jane took her newborn pictures the next week. Adam was sworn in on October 21st. Halloween: Daniel was an LSU football player, and Olivia was a ladybug!

November: Olivia's had her first trip to Pineville the weekend before Thanksgiving. We celebrated Thanksgiving with Adam's family that weekend because not everyone could be there that Thursday. Spent Thanksgiving Day in Pearl River with my family. My BIL got my sewing machine at Wal-Mart on Black Friday after almost being bit by some crazy lady!

December: On December 2nd, we picked out our Christmas tree...our first tree in 4 years!! My friend Lisa and I went to the midnight release of the Eclipse DVD. Olivia was blessed on Sunday, October 12th. Tons of Christmas parties. We participated in a photo shoot for a friend who crochets hats and scarves. On the 21st, we took the kids to Bass Pro to get their picture taken with Santa. On the 23rd, we went to the Lafayette Science Museum for a Star Wars exhibit...Daniel was amazed! On Christmas Eve, we went from Baton Rouge to Madisonville to New Orleans to Pearl River and back to Baton Rouge. We spent Christmas morning at our house, then headed off to Pineville.

It has been a long crazy year, but we look forward to what 2011 has in store for us!

So Much For NaBloPoMo...

2010-12-07T21:00:00.006-06:00

Obviously, I didn't make it all 30 days. You go out of town for a few days, and everything falls apart. Oh well, maybe next year! We have been pretty busy lately, which is to be expected this time of year. We picked out our Christmas tree and decorated it--pictures to come (once I re-decorate the tree). We wrote Daniel's letter to Santa, in which he asked for a train, a bike, and "some other toys". For now, here are some recent pictures.

Holiday Wish List Meme

2010-11-23T23:20:00.002-06:00

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme

TodaysMama and GameStop are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What is your holiday wish for your family? To be together and happy!

2. What is your Christmas morning tradition? We have breakfast and open our presents, wearing our new pajamas that we opened on Christmas Eve.

3. If you could ask Santa for one, completely decadent wish for yourself, what would it be? A house!

4. How do you make the holidays special without spending any money? We have family movie/game nights, listen to Christmas music, and drive around to look at Christmas lights.

5. What games did you play with your family growing up? As kids, my brother and I would sit in the hallway and play Hi-Ho Cherry-O, Chutes and Ladders, and Candyland. Nowadays, we play Trivial Pursuit at nearly every family gathering!

6. What holiday tradition have you carried on from your own childhood? We leave Santa presents unwrapped so the kids immediately see them when they wake up.

7. Where would you go for a Christmas-away-from-home trip? I would love to go to Europe for the holidays!

8. Check out GameStop and tell us, what are the three top items on your GameStop Wish List this year? An Xbox Kinect, Playstation Move, and more controllers!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-17T23:05:00.002-06:00

No Excuses

2010-11-16T20:38:00.000-06:00

Guess Who's One....?

2010-11-15T21:28:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the old picture...I can't find my camera cord to upload a recent one!!

One month, that is. It's our little ladybug!!! It's hard to believe that she has already been with us for a whole month, then again it is hard to believe she has ONLY been with us a month. It seems like just yesterday we were off to the hospital to have her, but it seems like she has been with us all along. Of course we are still making adjustments, but she fits so naturally into our family. Some of her one-month milestones are:

Lifts her head while on her tummy
Responds to sound
Stares at faces
Can track objects
She even rolled from her tummy to her back twice! (probably a fluke, I know)
Loves being sung to (especially Jewel's version of Twinkle Twinkle)
Has a love/hate relationship with her nuk-nuk (pacifier)

We love this girl and look forward to watching her grow!!

Dreamer

2010-11-14T22:22:00.002-06:00

DREAMS by Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreams

For if dreams die

Life is a broken-winged bird

That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams

For when dreams go

Life is a barren field

Frozen with snow.

I love this poem. When I first read this poem in middle school, it made such an impression that I memorized it and to this day have not forgotten it. I think it would serve me well to remember this poem more often and really try to live by it. Dreams come and go, they change, they remain the same. Some are childish, some are unrealistic, some are achievable. When I was younger, I dreamed of being a famous singer...mind you, I am terribly shy and would only sing into my hair brush in the safety of my bedroom. When I was in high school, I dreamed of getting a soccer scholarship and studying to be a doctor. When I was in college, I dreamed of getting out in the least amount of time possible!! When I got married, I dreamed of being a mother. After becoming a mother, I dreamed of placing in a triathlon and becoming a certified personal trainer. While watching Food Network everyday, I dream of going to culinary school and becoming and ~~even more~~ amazing chef. Now, some of these dreams have come true, some haven't...yet, and some never will. But I think it is important to always remember our dreams and keep reaching for them. I look at my children, and I just want them to know that they can do anything, be anything, achieve anything they desire. This poem makes me realize I need to be a better example in this area, and try to realize some of those dreams I put on the back-burner. Now, where is my hair brush???

Almost Missed a Day...

2010-11-13T23:36:00.001-06:00

I said almost. Pretty tired and feeling like crap today. Hopefully tomorrow will be better!

Pet Peeve

2010-11-12T17:15:00.002-06:00

I really hate blog giveaways that have 10,000 ways to earn extra entries. What if I don't have a Twitter account? Or if I don't want to comment on another post? Or follow your friend's blog? Or vote for your husband's co-worker's friend's cousin-once-removed's whatever in a contest? Why can't everyone just enter once and take their chances?

By the way, I just won a giveaway where I "earned" 4 such extra entries..... :-P

Wordless Wednesday...A Day Late

2010-11-11T20:36:00.004-06:00

Long Day

2010-11-10T22:22:00.002-06:00

It has been a very long day. Daniel has tried my patience and brought me to tears...then he turns around and makes me smile. My house is a mess. Every time I thought I would have a few minutes to myself, one of my beautiful, well-behaved children would start crying. I had a cold chocolate chip pancake and chips and queso for dinner. Dr. Pepper helped me hang on to my sanity...if only by a thread. A hot bath and a Nora Roberts book helped restore a little bit more of that sanity. Singing Olivia to sleep made my heart happy. Now, sleep is calling my name with hopes of a better day tomorrow.

Patience

2010-11-09T22:25:00.002-06:00

My husband always tells me, "Patience is a virtue," to which I reply, "It's one that I don't have." It's one that I feel like I have even less of lately. Unfortunately, I am the kind of person who wants what I want when I want it...and that is usually right now. This is especially true when it comes to cleaning the house. Like any good wife, I save some of the work for my hubby. The worst thing he could possibly do when I ask him to do something is say, "In a minute." Why?? Because someone will drop dead if the dishes aren't done right this second? Because the earth will stop spinning on its axis if the trash isn't taken out before the next commercial break? No....because I'm me, and I will have a super mega anxiety attack of sorts if it isn't done when I ask. And because I just know that if it isn't done right this very second, it probably won't get done at all. Reasonable? No. Crazy? Perhaps... I guess it's a good thing he loves me anyway.

I find this post very ironic. Why, you may ask? Because I am also the world's biggest procrastinator. I'm just a walking contradiction...

Dream Home

2010-11-08T22:09:00.002-06:00

This posting every day business is exhausting...I have no idea what to write about, so I went to the NaBloPoMo website to check out their prompt for today: What would your dream house look like? Where would it be? Who would live there with you?

I don't necessarily know what my dream house would LOOK like, but I definitely have some requirements. First of all, a HUGE kitchen complete with state-of-the-art appliances, gas stove, double ovens, lots of counter space, plenty of cabinets, a pantry, and a bar/seating area. The next must have on my list is an amazing master suite. A large bedroom with room for a king-size bed (yes, Adam, a king-size bed), a sitting area for reading or whatever, LARGE closets, and plenty of natural light from big windows. The master bath would have to have a large jacuzzi tub, a separate shower, and most importantly, his-and-her sinks! Sorry babe, but you make such a mess when getting ready in the morning! Next, the craft room! Or should we call it my haven...a place where I can go and create without worrying about little hands getting into everything! I would also want a large family room with plenty of seating and large windows, a game/play room for the kids, a theater room, plenty of guest rooms for visiting family, an in-house gym, an outdoor kitchen, a covered patio area, a pool with a hot tub, a tennis court, a sport court, and plenty of land and trees.

Where would it be? I don't know...

Who would live there with me? The hubs, the kiddos, maybe a pet or two...

Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that this is a DREAM house :-P

Meal Planning

2010-11-07T22:12:00.003-06:00

I am going to tell you a secret...we are fast food junkies. And believe me, it is NOT because of the amazing food quality. Let's face it--between being pregnant, chasing after a 2-year old, and trying to keep my house from looking like a tornado passed through it, I rarely had the extra energy to worry about what we would eat for dinner, much less actually cook dinner. It was too easy to just stop on the way home from running errands or have Adam pick something up on the way home from work.

Here's the funny thing--I LOVE to cook. I love looking through cookbooks for ideas, and my TV is eternally tuned to Food Network (well, either that or Lifetime). I think part of the problem (aside from the lack of energy) is my tiny kitchen. Also, I am somewhat of a procrastinator...which leads to nothing being defrosted or not having all the ingredients I need. So, to try and remedy this problem, I have decided to try meal planning.

I have heard that meal planning will help you eat better and spend less. That is reason enough for me!! I came across this show on BYUtv called "The Food Nanny". Her approach to meal planning includes theme nights. She assigns every night a different theme, and you plan your meals accordingly. I like this idea because it gives me some parameters to work within. So, without further adieu, here is my meal plan for the week:

Monday (Comfort Food): Gumbo
Tuesday (Italian): Chicken Piccata
Wednesday (Fish/Meatless/Breakfast): Pancakes
Thursday (Mexican): Tacos
Friday (Pizza): Frozen Pizza (don't judge me!)
Saturday(Grill Night): eating at Mom's
Sunday (Traditions): Buttermilk Herb Chicken

I hope that this will help end the age-old question "What's for dinner?"

On another note: I am in desperate need of some quick, kid-friendly lunch recipes. All Daniel wants to eat is hot dogs, chicken nuggets, and cheese sticks. So, if you have any ideas, please send them my way! Thanks, in advance!!

LSU, Gumbo, and Random Tidbits

2010-11-06T19:33:00.002-06:00

Random Tidbit #1: After last night's lame post, I tried to get some sleep to no avail. I chalked it up to the UTI, but I ended up passing what I believe to be a kidney stone. I'll spare you the details and picture...yes, I took a picture--but only to send to my mom to confirm the identity of this mysterious, jagged, little pebble. Anyway, after getting that out of my system, I felt much better. Unfortunately, I am now having a nagging pain in my right lower back. More kidney stones or all in my head??? I don't know...

Random Tidbit #2: A friend of mine (I won't mention any names--Jimbo) was just talking to me about kidney stones and drinking too much caffeine (which I do). Yes, I think you jinxed me. Yes, I blame you. :-P

Random Tidbit #3: Going to Wal-Mart early on a Saturday morning is a good time to go. I am not ~~stupid~~ brave enough to go to a store with 2 kids by myself yet. Since Adam can only accompany us on the weekend and the kids are already up at the butt-crack of dawn, I thought we would get up and go. Surprisingly and thankfully, it did not start to get crowded until we were checking out.

Random Tidbit #4: I love gumbo. I mean, I REALLY, REALLY LOVE gumbo. But, in all my years, this born and bred southern girl has never actually cooked gumbo. So, since we were grocery shopping this morning, I decided, on a whim, to buy the ingredients and try it out. It wasn't great, but it was pretty good. I will just have to tweak the recipe next time...

Random Tidbit #5: Just call me Doubting Thomas. I admit it...never in a million years did I think LSU would beat Alabama. Don't get me wrong. I am a Tiger fan through and through...come on, my son can spell Tigers before he can spell his own name. But, based on previous gameplay, I just didn't think it would happen. I did, however, actually enjoy watching this game. There were still frustrating points, but there were also some really exciting ones too. In short, GEAUX TIGERS!

Random Tidbit #6: I love cold weather. I am so glad it finally showed up in Louisiana. It always makes me think about the holidays and the smells of the season. <insert shameless plug> My favorite is my Holidays scented candle from Lagniappe Candle Company. The mixture of pine, cinnamon, and cloves always makes me think of curling up on the couch with a chunky sweater, wool socks, a warm blanket, and a steaming mug of hot chocolate...with marshmallows, of course.

Random Tidbit #7: I think I am going to go back for seconds of gumbo....

I Got Nothing...

2010-11-05T22:38:00.001-06:00

Tired. Caffeine headache. UTI. I am going to bed with my antibiotics, Tylenol, and cranberry juice. Lame, I know...hopefully tomorrow will be better :-)

Thankful

2010-11-04T20:26:00.003-06:00

I am thankful for my two beautiful, healthy, happy babies. I am thankful for my wonderful, loving husband. I am also thankful that he is an incredible father. I am thankful for our families who love us and are always there for us, ready to lend a helping hand. I am thankful we have a roof over our heads and food on our table. I am thankful for our amazing friends who are always there to put a smile on our faces, bring us a hot meal, or help us out when we need it. I am thankful for my mom (for more reasons than I can list here)...she is the most amazing person I know. I am thankful for my health. I am thankful for the knowledge that families can be together forever. And I am ever so thankful to my Heavenly Father for bestowing all of these wonderful blessings upon me.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-03T20:51:00.002-06:00

Election Day and Photo Comparison

2010-11-02T20:49:00.003-06:00

Today being Election Day, we fulfilled our civic duty and voted. We ventured out in the yucky, rainy weather to cast our votes with both kids in tow. Daniel was excited to go into the voting booths with us. He really enjoyed getting to press the "Cast Your Vote" button. Olivia, trooper that she is, slept through the whole thing.

Now, on to the photo comparison. As I mentioned in an earlier post, when I first saw Olivia all I could think was how much she looked like Daniel. Every day there is a face or expression that just screams Daniel...especially when Olivia got her first bath the o

ther night (will post photos soon). Anyway, I thought I would post Daniel and Olivia's hospital photos for comparison.

Same mouth, same nose, same eyes (even though you can't really tell in this picture), almost identical hair color...I am simply amazed by how much these two look alike! What do you think?

NaBloPoMo

2010-11-01T22:20:00.002-06:00

This month is National Blog Posting Month, or NaBloPoMo. The challenge is to post something, anything, every day for one month. Seeing as I have been such a blog slacker lately, I figure this would be a good challenge to take on....so, here we go. At least if I can't think of anything to write I have some pretty cute kids I can post pictures of. Stay tuned...

Better Late Than Never.....Right?

2010-10-23T20:58:00.007-06:00

Dr. Kleinpeter, Olivia, and Daddy

Olivia is here!! She made her debut on Friday, October 15th at 11:08am. She weighed in at 7lbs., 1.8oz, and she was 20 inches long. When they first showed her to me, I immediately said, "She looks just like Daniel!" But, I will let you be the judge.

Being as this was a planned C-section, there is no interesting labor story to tell. Everything went very well, and we were so happy to come home! Daniel went to stay with Gigi and Poppy for a few days so we could have some time to adjust to having little Olivia around. And Grandma came to stay with us to help out since I had strict instructions to take it easy, not lift anything heavier than the baby, and rest as much as possible...not to mention I was still on pain meds. It was such a blessing to have her here helping with laundry, cleaning, cooking, etc. We are so thankful to have this sweet baby girl as a part of our family!

Daniel and "HIS" Golden Girls

2010-08-23T09:42:00.003-06:00

Last Saturday, Daniel had the opportunity to have his picture taken with a few of the LSU Golden Girls. I have to say, I was a bit nervous because you never know how Daniel will react to strangers. Most of the time he will yell, "NO!" and look away and hide his face, but there a precious few times where he will smile and converse and just be incredibly sweet. Luckily, this was one of those times. He walked right up to those girls with a huge grin on his face and started chatting them up...he even smiled for the picture! Hallelujah!!! I think he was as taken with them as they were with him...he was sad to leave. Notice he is holding his Mike the Tiger in the picture. Afterwards, he kept asking to look at the picture with "his" Golden Girls!

Wordless Wednesday and a Daniel-ism

2010-08-04T18:56:00.008-06:00

The "baby bump" at 29 weeks.

Today, while on the way to Wal-Mart, Daniel stated that we needed to get a toy for Olivia. He then proceeded to tell us that Olivia wanted Diesel 10 (one of the engines from Thomas and Friends). If he has this kind of conniving logic already, I can only imagine what is in store for the future...

Win a Silhouette!!

2010-08-02T17:54:00.001-06:00

This is an amazing little machine!! If you want to win, check out this site.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-28T08:17:00.001-06:00

Couldn't Have Said It Better....

2010-07-27T12:16:00.001-06:00

I have been feeling like this a lot lately, but couldn't put it into words...so I won't even try!

Check out this post:

http://wendingourwayhome.blogspot.com/2010/07/on-being-on-hiatus.html

Water Baby

2010-07-26T20:49:00.003-06:00

My little man is becoming a regular water baby. Friday night, we went to my sister's house and she bought a little alligator pool for Daniel. He was so excited when she added the bubbles that he said, "This is a cool pool!" When it was time to get out, I stripped him down to dry him off when he decided he wasn't finished yet...thus the next picture. I have more pictures (unsuitable for web publication) that will be used as blackmail when he starts dating! :-)

This last picture is from our ward Pioneer Day activity. Daniel played in the water from the time we got there until the time we left. I forgot my camera, so my friend Janel sent me some pictures she took. Daniel is the one on the back of the alligator with his head turned away. He had so much fun that he didn't want to leave, even when they turned off the water!

On another note, Daniel has gotten to where he likes to be rocked before going to sleep at night. At first I thought it was a nuisance because he used to be so good about going to bed on his own.
But tonight, while I was rocking him and listening to his primary music, I thought to myself, "It doesn't get any better than this." Pretty soon he won't want me to rock him anymore, so I am just going to enjoy it while it lasts. I love my sweet boy!!!

Weekend Update

2010-07-20T18:44:00.009-06:00

This weekend began on Friday with Aunt Michelle and Uncle Jake coming in town to take Daniel on his first excursion to Chuck E. Cheese. I wish I had brought my camera, but I'm afraid the only picture I would have gotten was one of wide-eyed amazement. When we first walked in, Daniel didn't know what to think. Games and music and pizza and candy and prizes.... He got to play a few games while waiting for the pizza to come, then ate some pizza and played some more. He didn't want to leave, but he got excited when it was time to turn in his tickets for prizes. He ended up with two cars, an inflatable hammer, and 8 mini Tootsie Pops. Let's just say he was in heaven! And to top it all off, Aunt Michelle and Uncle Jake got him a new train too!!

On Saturday, Adam was busy studying for the bar, so Daniel and I stayed home to clean. I am definitely in nesting mode and desperately trying to get things organized. I cleaned out the cabinet where I kept my crafting supplies and found some things I had completely forgotten about.

We then hauled the cabinet to the curb (it was cheap and falling apart), then we proceeded to rearrange the living room and take the big green chair and ottoman out of Daniel's room. I didn't have the forethought to take a before picture, so those of you who don't know what it looked like before, sorry. But I am liking the new arrangment. I like to change things up every now and then...it is therepeutic for me. Next task: Daniel's room.

Our Sunday was nice and quiet. We had a good day at church, and while Daniel was napping, Adam and watched a movie. Very relaxing.

And yesterday, I decided to tackle cleaning out my closet. I was halfway finished (I had everything taken out, just had to go through it and put it back in) when the rod holding all of Adam's clothes fell and dumped ALL of his clothes onto the floor of the closet! I had to call Adam (in the middle of his studying) to pick up the part we needed to fix it so I could put everything back. In the middle of all this, I could only think, "Why do I bother??" Anyway, I got it all sorted and put away, and now I have 3 garbage bags waiting to be hauled to Goodwill.

And Daniel has a newfound talent....coloring on things he shouldn't.

On another note...World Market, oh how I love you! Raspberry syrup for my lemonade and Baci for my tummy!!

Mom's Night Out, Boys' Night In

2010-07-15T20:01:00.003-06:00

Last night, I had the opportunity to go to a Mom's Night Out where we would be making bows. Last time they did this, it was at my house, but I wasn't really into it seeing as I only had Daniel. But, I have a newfound interest in this, so I was super excited! When I left the house, the boys were busy enjoying Daddy-Daniel time and playing trains. Adam even built a large track so Daniel could "ride the rails".

When I first arrived, I was admittedly a little nervous. I am good with paper crafting, but I have never ventured into the realm of ribbon/fabric and sewing. There was a little bit of sewing involved, but, thankfully, it was mostly hot glue! We started off easy by making baby headbands out og knee-high stockings. Very simple, and you can attach different bows to it, so it is also very versatile. I will definitely be making more of these in different colors. Then, we did the lace flowers. I love how vintage-looking they are. I also made a felt flower with a button center...now I just need to get a small clip to glue it to. Lastly, we moved on to making the boutique-style bows. This was the hardest for me, but after doing it once, I think I can handle it. I was happy with how it turned out, but I definitely need to practice more!

To make things even better, when I got home, I dug through all of my scrapbooking stuff and found a plethora of ribbon!! If only Hobby Lobby would get some more alligator clips in stock... I am excited to try making different styles, so let's just hope that Olivia has some hair!!

Aquarium, T-Ball, and Bubbles

2010-07-12T20:28:00.005-06:00

This weekend, Mommy and Daniel went to stay with Gigi and Poppy for a few days. On Friday, we were off the the Aquarium in New Orleans. Daniel was so excited that it was all he could talk about for days! He would say, "We are going to see fish and sharks and sea turtles!" On the way there, we passed a Lucky Dog vendor...I was so excited because I have never seen one in person, much less eaten one, so I had to snap a picture.

Daniel was immediately mesmerized by all the different fish he saw in the aquarium. He would just watch and stare while saying, "Look at this! Look at that!"

Gigi and Daniel had a great time exploring the Aquarium together.

After leaving the Aquarium, we stopped for a few minutes on the Riverwalk so Daniel could gaze out over the Mississippi.

After our long day, it was time to head back to Gigi's house for some much needed R&R. Daniel slept while Mommy and Gigi went to Hobby Lobby...can't get much better than that! After getting some ribbon to make bows and a new Cricut blade, we headed to Wal-Mart in search of potty training pants for Daniel...more to come on this adventure later!

On Saturday, Daniel was itching to get outside and play in the backyard...something he doesn't get to indulge in often at home due to our living in an apartment and lack of fence. Anyway, he wanted to play baseball. When Daniel plays baseball, it ends up being more like golf, so Gigi got him a T-ball set. This worked out much better! He is getting pretty good! He even fields his own balls!!

When the sprinklers came on to water the grass, Daniel decided he wanted to put on his bathing suit....even though Mommy knows he won't get wet. He has major issues with getting water in his face or on his head...but he loves being around the water. He just runs around it instead of through it! After that got old, Daniel moved on to the bubble gun. That is one of his favorite toys!

One thing I forgot to get pictures of was the "train tracks" Daniel and Gigi drew on the front porch with chalk. When he saw that the tracks he drew last time had been washed away, Daniel told Gigi, "Get the green and yellow (Crayola) box." Man, that boy has a memory like an elephant!! He even remembered right where she kept it! Poppy made Daniel's favorite meal for dinner...spaghetti and meatballs. He ate it up and then proceeded to ask for some brown cookies (Oreos)! All in all, it was a wonderful weekend, and we were sad to leave. I know Daniel is looking forward to his extended stay in October when Olivia arrives. We love you Gigi and Poppy!

On another note, Daniel loves his cousin Halle so much that he just had to climb in the Pack-n-Play with her!

Baby Bumps and Pillow Pets

2010-06-27T19:18:00.003-06:00

It has occurred to me that, throughout this pregnancy, I have neither posted nor taken and pictures of my baby bump. I know, I am a slacker. But, anyway, here it is....that baby bump at 23 weeks, and Daniel giving Olivia a kiss:

Daniel has a new favorite...hie Pillow Pet! Of course, he had to have a tiger, and of course, he named it Mike!

A tired, tired boy.

Wordless Wednesday...times 2

2010-06-16T20:40:00.003-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-02T19:51:00.001-06:00

How Stupid Can You Be???

2010-05-28T22:44:00.000-06:00

Updates

2010-05-24T20:09:00.007-06:00

Lots of things have been going on since I last posted. First and foremost, Adam graduates from law school on Friday!! It has been a long time coming, and we are so proud of him! Now he just has to pass the bar.... Daniel is growing like a weed. He is definitely not my little baby anymore. Unfortunately, he has developed his father's fashion sense.

As for baby #2, we will find out the sex on June 4th, as long as the little nugget cooperates. A few weeks ago, I had a dream that we had a short 8lb 14oz baby girl...and she looked like the Michelin Man. A couple of nights ago, I had a dream that we were at the ultrasound, and the baby was kicking like crazy. They said, "Oh, it must be a boy." And sure enough, it was. I really don't have a feeling for this one like I did with Daniel...I just knew he was a boy. I guess we will just have to wait and see.

Two weeks ago, Adam and I had the opportunity to go on vacation alone (courtesy of his boss). This was the first time we would leave Daniel for an extended period of time. He stayed and Grandma and Grandpa's house. After a long day of flying and driving, we arrived in Hutchinson Island, FL. We walked around the resort and checked out the pool and beach. Our room was beautiful.

There was even a cake waiting for us! Along with two glasses of milk (his boss knows we don't drink)!

We had a great view of the beach from our room. It was very windy while we were there, and the water got more and more rough as the days went on. We didn't spend much time at the beach because, even though it was hot, the water was very chilly.

We arrived on Sunday afternoon, and Sunday night I was in bed crying because I wanted to go home and see my baby!! We were seriously looking for ways to go home early! But, after the hormones died down and I got a good night's sleep, I felt much better and was able to enjoy myself.
We ate at this amazing Italian restaurant every single day! I can't believe I am admitting this, but we ate around 4:30pm every day so we could get the early bird special!! Hey, it was buy one entree, get one for $.99! Can't beat that! We did a little bit of sightseeing, but we mostly just relaxed and enjoyed some down time. One of the things we went to see was a lighthouse in Jupiter. I thought it was pretty cool, but I was singing a different tune after climbing 104 narrow, winding stairs while being 4 1/2 months pregnant! But, let me tell you, the view was amazing!!

Notice the difference in picture-taking abilities in the next 2 pictures....just sayin'. :-P

It was nice to get away for a while, but it was definitely nice to come back home. We met Adam's parents in Opelousas to pick up Daniel. When he first saw me, he got a huge smile on his face and said, "That's my mommy!!" It warmed my heart...I must have hugged and kissed on him for a good 10 minutes before we got in the car to go home!

I think that is about it for updates...thanks to constant nagging from my mom, I am going to try and make it a priority to keep up with this blog! Love ya mom!!

Arizona Immigration Law

2010-04-28T22:11:00.003-06:00

From Adam:

As many of you know, I'm about to graduate from LSU Law. I've had to deal with many ignorant, liberal professors and classmates for the past three years. Now, I'm having to listen to their incessant repeats of the Obama media-machine's misinformation about the Arizona immigration law that was passed on April 23, 2010. Its time to actually tell the truth about the immigration law (yes, I have read the actual text/language of the law). I've provided the link to the SB1070 that was signed by the governor of AZ.

My first impression of the law is that the person that was writing it counseled with attorneys that had/have training and experience in criminal and civil rights law. The law is very well written to track and follow the language of the US Supreme Court's caselaw about what law enforcement can and cannot do. Now, I'll discuss the Obama media-machine's misinformation.

1) The law does not promote/endorse/encourage civil rights violations through racial profiling or any other means in any way/shape/form. To understand this, you must know what racial profiling is. Racial profiling is governmental interest in someone based solely and entirely on the color of a person's skin. The AZ law does not allow this.

2)The law does not create a new "Nazi" state of requiring people to maintain their "papers" on them at all time. The Supreme Court did this in 1968 in the case of Terry v. Ohio by requiring us, the people, to provide basic identifying information to law enforcement when stopped and questioned. In fact, in each state in the Union it is a crime to refuse to provide basic identifying information (or provide false information) to police when requested to do so. (Mind you, we the people have to "present our papers" every time, or almost every time, we get on a plane, cash a check, swipe a credit card, get pulled over while driving, attempt to buy alcohol or cigarettes, get a job and the list goes on. Where are the people complaining about the "civil rights violations" against we the people? No where to be found. Hmmm... curious.)

There is other misinformation out there, but I think it would be best to actually explain what the law does. That way people reading this will be able to recognize the lies from the Obama media-machine when they hear them.

1 - The law requires AZ law enforcement to enforce federal immigration laws. It should be noted that while Congress cannot require a State to enforce any federal law, States can voluntarily choose to enforce federal laws through state laws.

2 - Law requires law enforcement to have made a lawful contact with an individual (an example would be a traffic stop for speeding). If during that lawful contact the law enforcement official has reasonable suspicion (the standard for requesting identification information from Terry v. Ohio) to believe the person is not lawfully within our borders (that means they didn't enter the country through Customs or Border Patrol), the officer can request verification of the person's immigration status from the federal immigration authorities.

3 - If that person, determined to be illegal, is convicted of a state crime as a result of his lawful contact with state law enforcement authorities, then after his sentence is completed he is to be turned over to the federal immigration authorities.

4 - The state officer has the authority to simply turn the person over to federal immigration authorities once illegal status is confirmed.

5 - The statute provides for legal action against the officer and the agency he works for by the person questioned if the officer violates the person's civil rights when he detains/questions the person.

6 - The law makes being an illegal alien in AZ defacto trespassing. (Since its trespassing when we enter public or private property w/o permission or unlawfully and we're citizens, why should be it any different for non-citizens?) The law specifically exempts persons who have valid immigration status from this section.

7 - Makes it illegal to smuggle human beings for commercial purposes. Federal law has done this for over 100 years.

8 - Makes it illegal to impede the normal flow of traffic in order to hire or pick up people for hire off the side of the street. Makes it illegal to enter a vehicle for purposes of being hired if the vehicle is impeding the normal flow of traffic. (Notice its the impeding of traffic that is being illegalized.)

9 - Makes it illegal for an illegal alien to apply for or obtain work in the state of AZ. (The federal government made this illegal decades ago. Enforcement seems to be a problem, though.)

10 - Makes it illegal to knowing transport, harbor or conceal persons who you know, or reasonably should know, are illegal.

The people in AZ are in favor of this law by an overwhelming majority. The last Rasmussen (sp?) Poll I saw was 60% of Arizonans in favor of the law. Funny thing is the poll a day beforehand had 73% of people nationwide in favor of the law, even if it led to some civil rights violations against persons who are lawfully here. The point is that AZ is doing what it needs to do to protect the people legally and lawfully within its state boundaries by enforcing federal laws that are already on the books.

Now that you have the facts, you can educate those ignorant souls around you.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-17T09:55:00.003-06:00

WHO DAT!!!

2010-02-07T21:47:00.003-06:00

I ain't got no complaints, cuz ain't nobody gonna beat them Saints!!! Black and Gold Superbowl!! Bless You Boys!!!! 31-17

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-06T20:42:00.002-06:00

Family Picutres

2009-12-20T22:24:00.004-06:00

This past week, my talented sister-in-law, Jane, took our family pictures. However, Mr. Daniel was not a happy camper and did not cooperate at all. (This is what happens when he stays up until 11p the night before because of your husband's work Christmas party and still wakes up at 7:15a...needless to say, when when finished the shoot, Daniel fell asleep on the way home and ended up taking a 4 hour nap!!) Even though he was pouting the whole time, some of my favorite picture are the ones where Daniel is fussing. It doesn't bother me that we didn't get a great family portrait because these pictures tell the story of how the day really was...fussiness and all.

This is my favorite picture!

I will post more soon, but Blogger is being stupid. I will try again in the morning.

Recap....in Pictures

2009-12-20T21:48:00.005-06:00

These are from Celebration In the Oaks in New Orleans. We went with Gigi and Poppy. The whole ride there we had been telling Daniel about the choo choo train that he was going to ride....he is obsessed with trains, so he was very excited. He kept saying, "Ride choo choo train....we go ride choo choo train." Well, we get there, and due to the ridiculous amount of rain we have had, the train wasn't running. My heart sank, and I wondered what I would tell Daniel...I dreaded having to tell him. I was able to stall with a few rides on the carousel. Still wondering how to tell him, we walked past the little ladybug roller coaster, and I got an idea. But, as I was reading the sign, I saw he was too short, and my hopes were dashed. I was telling Daniel we couldn't ride because he was too short, and the an running the ride said he could go as long as a parent went with him. Hallelujah!!!!! We headed for our "train" ride, and Daniel had a blast! Thank goodness for roller coasters!

This is my Obi-Wan-Ke-Daniel.

Chillin' during the Saints game.

Zoey...my mom's cat.

My cute baby...fun on the swing.

Hey Jealousy.....sitting in Halle's carseat.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-16T13:53:00.001-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-09T14:05:00.002-06:00

TodaysMama Meme

2009-12-08T14:28:00.003-06:00

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme
TodaysMama and Provo Craft are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What 5 items are on your holiday wish list this year?

a job for Adam, a house in the near future, a sewing machine, a Cricut expression, and a sibling for Daniel
2. What is your favorite handmade gift you have received?

Hard to choose...I would say the awesome goodie basket my sister gave me last year.

3. What handmade gift have you always wanted to tackle?

Homemade cocoa mix in cute jars or mugs
4. What was the best Christmas gift you received as a child?

probably either my Barbie Dream House or my CD player
5. What items are on your kid’s wish list this year?

from his mouth: a puppy and a ball. I think he would love anything Thomas or Cars
6. What is your favorite holiday food?

I love ALL holiday foods! I kinda prefer the "real" food over the desserts.
7. What will you be hand-crafting for the holidays?

I will be lucky if I get my Christmas cards done...I have some left from last year that never got mailed....OH, I made an ornament wreath (thanks for the idea, Lauren!)
8. What is your favorite holiday movie?

A Christmas Story
9. Favorite holiday song?

O Holy Night sung by Martina McBride
10. Favorite holiday pastime?

Getting to hang out with family and playing games.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-18T13:44:00.001-06:00

New Haircut

2009-10-24T10:00:00.002-06:00

He's not my little baby anymore!! :-(

Our Week in Review

2009-10-22T21:18:00.009-06:00

We have had a pretty busy week here at the Huddleston homestead. Last Saturday was the big game...LSU vs. Florida. While the outcome wasn't what we hoped, we at least have a cute picture of our little tiger stomping on a gator!

On Monday night, our friends, the Mangums, hosted FHE/baby shower at their house, complete with bonfire, hot dogs, and s'mores! Daniel was mesmerized by the fire...and made me a VERY nervous mommy. Luckily, he never got too close. He loved running around with the older boys...he was always trailing behind, but that didn't bother him one bit!

I have started watching my niece Halle twice a week so her mom can go back to work part-time. I was a little worried at first that Daniel might get jealous or feel a little neglected, but that is totally not the case. He LOVES that little girl! As soon as she gets to our house, he yells, "Baby!!" and holds his arms out so he can hold her. He likes giving her hugs and kisses thoughout the day. If she gets upset or starts crying, Daniel is the first one there to see what is wrong. Once I was in the kitchen when Halle started crying, and Daniel came and grabbed my hand and led me to her saying, "Baby Halle. Baby Halle." He is like her little guardian!

Today, Halle had a little projectile vomiting episode. Daniel got so upset that he started crying. Picture me sitting on the couch holding Halle, she spits up all over herself, me and the couch. Daniel freaks out. I put Halle down, and I am trying to clean Halle, the couch, and myself all while Daniel is crying hysterically trying to get me to hold him. In the midst of all the drama, sweet Halle is laying on the couch with a look on her face that says, "Ahhh, I feel so much better!"

On Wednesday, Daniel and I went to the Pumpkin Patch with our friends Janel and Kate. He had a blast! When we first got there, Daniel headed toward the small petting zoo. There was a cow, pony, goat, pig, some rabbits, and a turkey (I think). He loved getting up close and personal with the animals.

Best Buds.

Next was a little eductional bit about pumpkins, but I didn't hear it because Daniel wasn't interested...he was more interested in riding the mini tractors. After that, the kids had the run of the place. There was a field where you could pick out your pumpkin.

There was also a huge inflatable pillow type thing that you could jump on...of course we had to check that out!

And endless photo-ops...

Almost 3 feet tall!!

The gang.

A tire swing made to look like a horse...clever.

Two more random pictures...then bedtime.

Chillin' in the ball pit.

Talking to himself on Aunt Kristi and Uncle Steve's phones.

Big Brother Role...

2009-10-13T06:51:00.001-06:00

Daniel has taken on the role of big brother for his sweet baby girl cousin, Halle. Check it out here.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-07T13:39:00.002-06:00

Our Week...

2009-09-18T15:04:00.002-06:00

On Tuesday, we had a kiddie pool play date at a friend's house...complete with leftover potluck lunch! I don't know what is with Daniel's face in this picture, but I thought it was funny!

Daniel and Kate jumped right in...it took Liam a little longer to warm up.

On Wednesday, we hung out at home. Daniel is obsessed with the movie CARS. It is on repeat in his room all day long. He doesn't necessarily watch it all day, but it just has to be on. My mom even has a copy at her house because we forgot it at home and Daniel threw a fit! He ran up and down the hall screaming, " I want Cars! I want Cars!"

On Thursday morning, we walked the LSU Lakes with Aunt Jane and Halle. Daniel did surprisingly well...he usually hates being in the jogging stroller! He laughed hysterically when he saw some funny squirrels chasing one another, and when we saw soemone walking with a dog, he immediately sat up and said, "Puppy! I want puppy!" Talk to your daddy about that one, boy!

Here it is Fridy already. Trying to straighten the house and one minute, they are helping you clean....

The next, they are making a mess!

I love this crazy kid!

On another note, does anyone have any idea why these pictures are posting all fuzzy? They don't look fuzzy normally.

Random Pictures

2009-09-09T21:06:00.004-06:00

This is why Daniel was cranky when he woke up from his nap....he fell asleep before he ate any of his lunch!

Adam and Jake after working hard on mudding and priming Jake's music room...complete with recording studio.

Playing MegaTouch with Gigi

Playing Track Mania witht he boys...this kept Daniel occupied while we were making candles.

Cuteness!!

Park Date

2009-09-09T20:59:00.003-06:00

Showing Daddy his owie.

He did laps around the park pushing this dumptruck.

Checking out what is on the other side of the fence.

Such a daddy's boy!

Thanks Marianne!!

2009-09-09T20:56:00.002-06:00

My sister-in-law's mom embroidered these for Daniel. Thanks Marianne!! He loves them!

Candle Making

2009-09-09T20:27:00.004-06:00

Scents

Color Blocks

Cutting the wax

Pitchers for heating the wax

Melting the wax

Our first orders!!!

Prepping the containers

We've got candles!

Some of the finished products...actually, these are samples to give out. Ignore the one with the gouge at the bottom...my sister did that!

Our first money in the bank!!

Open For Business!!

2009-09-04T12:29:00.006-06:00

My sister, Michelle, and I have decided to embark on our own little business venture...Lagniappe Candle Company! 100% handmade paraffin wax blend candles, homemade chocolates, spa essentials, gift baskets, and more!! We have lots of scent/color/container options to choose from:

10 oz. Apothecary with Lid, $9.00

3.5 oz. Glass Straight-sided Votive, $4.00

8 oz. Tin with Lid, $8.00

We are also offering a 6-pack of votives with scents of your choosing for $22.00.

Available Scents: Spiced Vanilla, Baby Powder, Amaretto (my personal fave!), Angel's Whisper, White Tea & Ginger, Coconut & Lime Verbena, Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin, Lavender & Vanilla, Gardenia, Bird of Paradise, Hawaiian Pineapple, Lemon Verbena, Honeysuckle

Delayed Scents**: Dreamsicle, Irish Cream, Hazelnut Biscotti

Colors: You can have any candle in any color you wish at no extra charge. If you would like multiple colors (vertical stripes, horizontal stripe, marbled, or chunked) there will be an extra $1.00 charge.

Additional Containers: If you have a glass container in your possession that you would like to have made into a candle receptacle, we can handle this request for you. The cost is $1.00 per ounce of scented candle wax used in the candle.

**Delayed scents will be arriving in 10 days, and at that time will be available for candle-making and delivery.

Last, but not least, lots of love to Jane for creating this awesome logo!! We love it!

If you have any questions, would like to place an order, or would like to see/smell samples, feel free to email us at lagniappe.candles@bellsouth.net or give me a call, or leave a comment!

Bug Bite and a Shiner

2009-06-22T14:05:00.002-06:00

The day after we got back from my mom's house, Daniel woke up with a huge, swollen red dot on his cheek...a mosquito bite! Poor baby, with that sensitive skin! To top it off, the next morning he was riding Daddy like a horse and fell off...only to get a shiner on the other side! We better not take him in public or people might start to talk! ;-)

The Big 2-5

2009-06-22T13:56:00.002-06:00

On June 6, I turned 25...a quarter of a century old...whoa! We went to my mom's house to celebrate, and she got my favorite kind of cake...Chocolate Doberge!!

Daniel...a budding musician.

Trying to fill Daddy's shoes!

Video Games and the Aquarium

2009-06-22T13:49:00.003-06:00

Playing video games with Uncle Chris

The obligtory shark's mouth picture.

Baby and mommy at the Aquarium.

Bouncing Tigers

2009-06-22T13:36:00.003-06:00

There is a place in Baton Rouge where Daniel loves to go and play. It's called Bouncing Tigers. It is a huge inflatable playground...and they have two rooms--one for smaller kids and one for bigger kids. He loves to run around and play...especially in the ball pit.

Here he is on the pirate ship.

Taking a snack break.

In the ball pit.

Again, on the pirate ship.

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-06-21T14:35:00.001-06:00

A little late, but here it is. We went up to Pineville for the weekendto relax and watch some UFC fights. We went over to Adam's brother's house and spent some time outside with Daniel. That boy loves being outside, no matter what he is doing!

Daddy and Daniel walking up the driveway.

Daddy and Daniel on the 4-wheeler.

Eating snacks and watching TV.

Just staring...

After the weekend in Pineville, we spent actual Memorial Day at the Rabalais' house for a barbecue. We grilled steaks, burgers, and hot dogs, and had potato salad, chips, and yummy watermelon. In between cooking and eating, we took turns playing Rock Band. This is Daniel singing. Actually, in this picture he is kinda eating the microphone...but later on in the day, he actually did sing!

Daniel's 12 Month Pictures...Finally!

2009-06-10T13:27:00.003-06:00

Finally, when the boy is 16 months old, here I am posting his 12 month pictures...long story. Anyway, this is my 100th post...how fitting is that?!?

Can you guess which one is my favorite??

Pooh Bear Visits Barnes & Noble

2009-06-08T22:20:00.003-06:00

Winnie-the-Pooh came to visit our local Barnes & Noble a while back. Daniel LOVES Pooh bear, so of cuorse, we had to go. He wasn't too interested in story time, but as soon as he caught a glimpse of that bear, he was hooked!

Pictures at the Park

2009-06-08T21:34:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago, Daniel and I met up with some friends at Highland Park. I then went on a little picture-taking spree...enjoy!

Brennan on the slide.

Daniel will climb all the way up this thing by himself, but he will wait at the top for me to slide with him...he won't slide down by himself.

Kate sliding.

Daniel checking things out.

Ayden hanging out with the boys.

Brennan with his truck.

My baby Daniel...I guess he kinda isn't a baby anymore, is he?

Kate on the swing.

Daniel in thought.

How much longer is mom going to have this camera shoved in my face??

I think this picture is funny...Daniel's hair blowing in the breeze.

Juice break at the park...what more could a boy ask for?

Ian didn't like me taking his picture.

Daniel playing in the sand. If you look closely, you can see the Cheeto residue around his mouth :-P

Swim. Bike. Run.

2009-06-08T21:15:00.003-06:00

Rocketchix, May 3, 2009Swim.

Bike.

Run.

Finish.

I Won!

2009-05-14T13:43:00.002-06:00

I entered a contest online a while back, and I actually won something.

The Couture Baby Giveaway

2009-05-13T19:27:00.004-06:00

Well, since I am surrounded by pregnant women, I thought I would let you all know about an awesome giveaway. Head on over to Finding Joy in the Journey to enter the giveaway for a personalized onesie from The Couture Baby. They have some super cute stuff!

Help Whip Cancer

2009-05-11T11:05:00.004-06:00

Through its Help Whip Cancer® campaign, The Pampered Chef® joins forces with the American Cancer Society® to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer education and early detection programs. Throughout May, Pampered Chef® Consultants raise money from the sale of exclusive pink products, hold Fundraiser Cooking Shows and tell others about the importance of regular breast cancer screenings and checkups.

This is a cause that I feel very passionately about. This affects women everywhere...mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts... We need to do everything we can to help find a cure.

If you are interested in helping this cause, please let me know. You can go to my website and order exclusive pink products available only during May, or you can host a Help Whip Cancer fundraiser show where up to 25% of the sales will be donated to the ACS for breast cancer research and early detection programs. I am even donating all of my profits this month to this wonderful cause. Please join the fight against breast cancer!

My Little Meddler

2009-05-11T10:45:00.003-06:00

Daniel likes to dig in cabinets...especially our bathroom cabinets. I don't think I need to say anything else.

He likes Post-its too.

Splash Park Fun

2009-05-11T10:31:00.004-06:00

Last Friday we went to the Splash Park in Gonzales with our playgroup. Daniel had a blast! He was a little wary of the water at first, but after I held him in the sprinklers, he was good to go. He was running around checking everything out and was still a little nervous...he would run through if he had a hand to hold. The best part...it's FREE!! I can see us spending a lot of time here this summer!

This is the aftermath...he pooped out just a few minutes down the road.

Food Network Magazine...

2009-05-11T10:23:00.003-06:00

...rocks my socks! The latest issue has a special section on burgers, and from the moment I saw them, I knew I had to try them! We made the "Dallas Burger" last night, and it was delish! Even Adam "I don't eat coleslaw" Huddleston liked it...and brought leftovers for lunch today! It is a burger covered with BBQ sauce (we made Bobby Flay's recipe), then homemade coleslaw(also Bobby's recipe) and pickles on a bun. It was so yummy!

Hmmm...seems like I have been posting about food quite a lot lately. I will have to work on that!

Zeppoli and Strawberries

2009-05-06T19:37:00.005-06:00

Zeppoli are my new favorite thing. Don't know what they are? If you have an Olive Garden near you, go find out!! According to their menu, they are "Soft, traditional Italian doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar, served with chocolate sauce for dipping." I have a better definition...HEAVEN! Daniel and I went to Olive Garden with my sister and brother-in-law last night and got some zeppoli to bring home for dessert...because I am obsessed. Between last night and today around noon, I ate them all--by myself. I didn't even share with Daniel, much less Adam or my sis or BIL. I know what you are thinking...how could you eat all that by yourself?!?! TRY THEM! That sweet, doughy goodness is just as good the next day! Diet = in the trash, Zeppoli = in my tummy = pure bliss!!! Anyway, I scarfed them down so fast, that I barely used any of the chocolate sauce...but don't worry! I put that stuff to good use with the LOUISIANA strawberries I bought today.

Disclaimer: These heavenly nuggets are quite addictive...We have ordered them twice, and Adam has yet to taste of their yummy goodness. You have been warned!

Free 8x10 Photo and Chicken

2009-05-06T11:27:00.003-06:00

Today only!! Free 8x10 photo from Walgreens.com . Use the coupon code MOTHER. Just in time for Mother's Day. I am getting this one...thanks Jane!

Also, go to www.oprah.com/kfc and print your coupon for a free 2 pc. grilled chicken meal complete with two sides...enjoy!!

Three New Additions

2009-05-05T09:02:00.003-06:00

Yesterday we received three new additions to the family! Adam's sister Ali gave birth to baby Kaleb around 3am yesterday morning. Adam's sister Kristin and her husband Steve became foster parents to two beautiful 19 month old twin boys yesterday afternoon. Congrats to everyone!!! We have pictures of the twins who came to visit last night, but little Kaleb lives in Oregon, so we don't have any pictures of him yet.

This is Michael and Daniel playing in the ball pit.

This is Michael.
And Connor.
I think Daniel was a little jealous...but he was having fun too!

15 month stats...

2009-05-05T08:53:00.003-06:00

We went to the doctor today for Daniel's 15 month checkup. He started screaming the second the nurse came in to measure him, and it only got worse when the doctor walked in! Everything looks good...he only gained a pound since we were there last. He weighed 24lbs 4.5oz (55th percentile), he is 31 and 3/4 inches long (75th percentile), and I don't remember the measurement of his noggin, but it was big--95th percentile! In short, my big head baby boy is doing great!

IRONMAN 70.3 NEW ORLENS

2009-04-07T15:16:00.006-06:00

Sunday, April 5, 2009

My morning began bright and early--well early, not exactly bright--at 4:30am. I hadn't really gotten a good night's rest, pre-race jitters and all. So, now it was time to begin my preparations for the day...get dressed, last minute bag checks, and trying to force down some breakfast. After about a quarter of a bagel with peanut butter, my stomach couldn't handle any more. So, I proceeded to pack the car and head to transition with Maggi, my cohort in crime.

We get to UNO, find a parking spot, gather our gear, and make our way toward the transition area...imagine a parking lot filled with 3000+ bikes and people and gear and.... We found our bikes (which were actually racked pretty close together--#1711 and 1803) and begin to lay everything out. Towel to dry off after the swim, shoes for the bike, helmet, sunglasses, shoes for the run, socks, hat, water, banana. Now it was time to grab my wetsuit, swimcap, and goggles and make my way to the swim start to pick up my timing chip. There were shuttle buses bringing people from transition to the swim start, but the line was ridiculously long...so we decided to walk...it was about a mile away. The crowd walking that way looked eerily like a throng marching to their untimely end.

We got to the swim start (around Bayou St. John), picked up our chips, and settled down just in time to hear Irma Thomas sing the National Anthem. That was pretty cool. At this point, Adam got there and began to take a few pictures. After forcing down another quarter of a bagel, I put on my wetsuit and made my way to the corral. I tried to find anyone I recognized, and I came across my friend Jessica. We smiled, gave each other a big hug, and got ready to get in the water. Maggi and I stayed toward the back while Jessica moved to the front. The horn blew and we were off. I swam a few yards and started to panic. What the hell was I doing?!?! This was a nice little pipe dream, but actually doing it?!?!? I did the breast stroke and back stroke for a little bit, until I was able to calm down and catch my breath. I found my groove and felt pretty good. I wasn't very fast, but I was steadily moving forward. Things were good until I heard the next wave of swimmers start. I knew they would catch up to me soon...and they did exactly that. I was hit in the legs, the side, and punched in the face. I stopped for a second, regained my composure, and kept going. Now, pretty much since the start of the swim, I have had to pee. I tried to go while swimming (hey, everyone does it), but it just wasn't happening. Finally, I reach the end...Ponchartrain Beach is in sight! I work my way through the crowd and start walking out of the water. I take my goggles and cap off and get the first half of my wetsuit off, then I hear someone calling my name. I look up and see Adam with a huge grin...what a wonderful sight! The Bickmore's were also there cheering me on! I get out of the water and, to my surprise, there are volunteers helping people get their wetsuits off...Thank Goodness!! Those suckers are hard to get off! So, I lay down in the grass and the volunteer pulls it right off. Woohoo! The swim is done!

Now into transition to get my bike. I put on my shoes, helmet and sunglasses, take two bites of my banana, and walk my bike to the mount/dismount line.

I'm off and feeling pretty good. I see Adam again...big smile. I can do this. On the first part of the bike, I felt pretty good. There were lots of people around cheering; I was cruising. Then, the people thinned out, and I was alone. I still had to pee...I was trying to go on the bike (yes, people do that too!). It wasn't happening, but there was nowhere to stop. I kept going. I then saw Chris McCormack heading back in on the bike...what a beast!! I then hit the overpass on the interstate...I don't remember hills like this on River Road!!! I push through it...we get off the interstate on Chef Menteur Hwy. and enter the Cajun boonies. Finally, around mile 18, I see an aid station...with a portapotty. Anyone who knows me knows that I LOATHE portapotties, but a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. As I get closer, I hear, "No water! No water!" What?!?!? How can you not have any water at an aid station??I stop anyway so I can pee. What a relief!! I get back on the bike and I feel like I am cruising...and then IT hits...the WIND!!!! It slowed me down A LOT! My back was killing me. My neck and shoulders were so tight and I couldn't stretch them out. We were riding through Venetian Isles and I was praying for God to give me strength because I was about ready to get off the bike and give up. I was done. But then I remembered a quote I read on the BR Tri website..."Pain is only temporary. Quitting lasts forever." Lance Armstrong said that...I think he might know a little something about pain. I pushed through...well, more like endured. So close to being done and here come the two overpasses...back to back. As I approached the first one, I saw people getting off and walking their bikes up. The thought crossed y mind, but I decided to keep on going. My knees were screaming at me to stop, but I refused to let this bridge get the best of me. I cruise down the hill...ahh, what a relief! But ahead is the second, taller bridge. Damn! I don't know if I will make it up. I see even more people getting off and walking their bikes up...NO! NOT ME! I drop to my lowest gear and push and pull...just like spinning--right!! Finally, I reach the top...all of the volunteers are cheering. "Good job! Only a little further!" It sure felt like a hell of a lot more than a little further.

I finally made it back to transition. The first thing I noticed was that most of the 3000+ bikes were already back...that sucks. Oh well. I rack my bike, take off my helmet and shoes, take another bite of my banana, put on my socks, shoes, and hat, and head out on the run. At about mile 1, there was a couple sitting on their lawn with a bowl full of Kentwood water bottles on ice. They asked if I wanted one; I gladly accepted, thanked them, and went on my merry way. At about mile 2, I felt blisters erupt on both of my heels. I started to walk. I then looked at my watch, did some mental calculations (as much as I was capable of by ths point), and began to cry. I realized that there was no way in hell I would be able to finish this thing in 8 hours. Now "what's the big deal?" you might ask. Well, 8 hours is the cutoff for "official" finishers. If I don't make it, I'm not an official finisher, I don't get a medal, it was all for nothing...at least that was how I felt. That same quote came back to my mind..."Quitting lasts forever." I am not a quitter. This course will not beat me. If I have to crawl across the finish line at midnight, I WILL FINISH!!! So, I pressed on.

I would jog a little, walk a little, and jog a little more. Around mile 6, I looked down to check out my blisters. They were bleeding through my socks and shoes. People were amazed I kept going, but "Pain is only temporary." A little while later, a girl came up to me and asked if I had a cell phone. She wanted to call her boyfriend to come pick her up because she was quitting. I told her I didn't have one, and she couldn't quit...she had come this far. She kept going...I was proud. I jogged a little more, then settled on the fact that I would have to walk the rest of the way. At mile 10.5, there was another aid station. They had cookies! Hells yeah!!! I hadn't eaten since the bagel before the swim. Cookies sounded like heaven! I ate two, chugged some gatorade, and went on my merry way feeling rejuvenated. One of the volunteers noticed how sunburned I was and asked if I wanted any sunscreen. Seriously dude?!?!?! I think it is a little late for that. Stupid me forgot to reapply sunscreen in T1 and T2...and I was paying the price now. Oh well...onward! I passed a cop who said they were opening the roads to traffic because 8 hours had passed, but we could keep to the sidewalks and still finish, medal and all. I was so happy at this point, and all I could think was, "It's a damn good thing you didn't quit!" So, here I was, walking down Esplanade wondering where the hell Decatur St. was and thinking it couldn't get here fast enough! Finally, I get to the corner of Esplanade and Decatur, and I see Adam! I was so happy to see him. He had been running back and forth between the corner and the finish looking for me. I had take so long that he was worried something had happened to me. But, I wasn't finished yet. I still had about 5 blocks to go. Adam ran ahead so he could get a picture. I told him I would start jogging with one block left. One of the guys I had met on the run (and by run, I mean walk) was walking toward the finish ahead of me. I started to jog. As I got to him, I patted him on the shoulder and said, "We didn't come this far to walk across the finish! Let's go!" We both ran toward the finish line. I gave Adam a thumbs up for the picture as I crossed, heard my name announced, got my medal, gave my friend a sweaty hug, and breathed a HUGE sigh of relief. I DID IT!! Holy s**t!! I DID IT!!! I am an Ironman!

People along the way asked if I would ever attempt another half or full Ironman and I said, "Hell no! This was enough!" But now, I'm thinking "Why not?"

Adam was so excited that he wants to sign up for IMNO 2010. We will see what happens.

Now, here I am, the Tuesday after, and I'm not that sore. The thing that hurts the worst is my sunburn. Adam said it looked like second degree burns. I was shaking so bad because of it. Adam even skipped school yesterday to help with Daniel because I was in so much pain. I still hurt today, but not nearly as bad...A word of advice for the future, DON'T FORGET TO WEAR SUNSCREEN!!!!

Only In Louisiana...

2009-03-28T13:42:00.002-06:00

Only in Louisiana is there a race called the "Fat Boy 5K". Only at THIS race is there a man playing the bagpipes at the start line. Only at THIS race would I be passed at about mile 1.5 by a man riding a unicycle and wearing a pink hat. Only at THIS race are you greeted at the finish line by chocolate milk, Krispy Kreme donuts, Moon Pies, and sausage dogs...and of course the free beer truck. And only at THIS race did I set a PR for a 5K...30 minutes flat!! Woot woot!!!

Birthday...the final chapter

2009-02-03T21:58:00.005-06:00

This past Saturday, we went to my mom's house to celebrate Daniel's birthday for the third and final time. He was so excited! He got a fun little push toy from Gigi...he spent the entire day walking around the house and backyard pushing that thing around!

Aunt Michelle and Uncle Jake gave him this cool rocking zebra that he can sit on. Needless to say there was cake too! I think Daniel has had more cake in the past week than anyone should in their first 3 years of life!!! He got his own little "smash" cake to play with.

Daniel and his Gigi.

Sweet birthday boy.

The adults played horseshoes in the backyard...I got better by the time the fifth game rolled around! All in all, it was a good day. Daniel was so tired that he fell asleep before we made it out of the neighborhood! Happy first birthday my sweet boy!

Muddy Madames

2009-02-03T21:42:00.003-06:00

My friend Maggi and I decided to do the Dirty Diva Adventure Run as a team. The race consisted of a 3 mile-ish course with some obstaces along the way. The first was and NFL-style tire run. Next, you had to crab walk through a muddy puddle. Then, you had to crawl through water under a row of beach balls. Then came the hay...we had to jump over a large bale of hay and hop a few small hay hurdles. Then army crawling through a sand pit. And the grand finale.....we had to put on a pair of extra large tighty whities and run through the finishing chute!! We had a blast! They will be doing the race again in the fall, and you can bet I will be there.

When we first got to the race venue, it didn't take long for Adam's inner child to emerge...he went and signed up for the race too!! He had a great time too! Check out those tighy whities!!! :-P

The Champ...GSP!

2009-01-31T23:46:00.000-06:00

Baby's First Haircut

2009-01-26T19:21:00.006-06:00

We cut Daniel's hair for the first time on January 21st.

This is the before...

These are the after...

Let me just say that I was scared to death during this entire process. Daniel doesn't exactly sit still for extended periods of time. I cut the back...in between minor freak-outs. Adam cut the top while I held Daniel. The whole time I was hyperventilating and saying things like , "No, you have too much! Don't cut that much! He's gonna end up with a weird, uneven cut!" In the end, it turned out pretty well, I think. It took another session for a few touch-ups, but the bottom line is that I survived...oh, and Daniel did too!

Daniel's First Birthday, Pt. 1

2009-01-26T16:32:00.002-06:00

This past Friday, my brother, sister, and brother-in-law came to visit. They brought Daniel's birthday present with them...an inflatable CARS ball pit. He loves it! It has an inflatable ramp that runs around the outside, and Daniel is fascinated when the balls roll down the ramp! This is a view from above.

Last Saturday we had Adam's family over for cake and ice cream for Daniel's birthday. This boy LOVES cake! He ate his piece and the rest of mine!
He wasn't to sure about all the singing!!

He went straight from the high chair to the bathtub. When we drained the tub, there was a nice brown ring from all the chocolate icing!

Funny Story...

2009-01-23T15:51:00.005-06:00

This afternoon I fell asleep on the couch. The next thing I know, Daniel is sitting on the couch with me. He pulled his toy dump truck over to the couch, turned it over, and used it to help him climb up! That's my little smarty pants!

Twilight Quiz...

2009-01-23T12:22:00.000-06:00

Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!

Pampered Chef Mystery Host

2009-01-22T10:10:00.004-06:00

I am having a Pampered Chef Mystery Host show. If any of you are interested in placing an order and being entered to win the hostess benefits (i.e. FREE PRODUCT!) head on over to my website. Click on "Order Products", enter my name as the hostess name, and place your order.

www.pamperedchef.biz/erinhudd

There are lots of ways to get extra entries too! For more info, just email me or leave a comment.

Thanks for all of your support!!

A New Recipe

2009-01-12T19:20:00.003-06:00

I tried a new recipe for dinner tonight. The recipe was called the "lighter blue plate special" in the January 2009 issue of EVERYDAY FOOD magazine. It was meatloaf, buttermilk mashed potatoes, and green beans. In the meatloaf, you mix in finely chopped carrots, celery, and onion, 1 egg white, and breadcrumbs, then you brush it with barbecue sauce. It turned out well...Adam really liked it. I think it needs a little more seasoning next time, but it was good. The veggies help keep the meatloaf moist...you can't really even taste them, Jimbo...I promise! So, if you are looking for a lighter, healthier meal, give this one a try. You can find the recipe here.

Post-Holiday Update

2009-01-08T11:14:00.008-06:00

A little late, but here it is. After travelling back and forth from Baton Rouge to Slidell to Pineville for about two weeks, we finally settled back in at home on New Year's Day. Daniel was so excited to be back at his own house that he got in his suitcase and started unpacking it for us! We started out on Christmas Eve with my side of the family. We went to my mom's, then to my grandmother's, then back to my mom's.

One of the funniest moments was when my brother opened his Secret Santa gift from my sister and brother-in-law. It was a huge box of Stove Top Stuffing from Sam's!

He was speechless...later, when they brought out his real gift, he was really speechless!

That evening, we paced up the car and headed off to Pineville to do Christmas with Adam's family. I thought I would take some pictures of the food to show everyone what Christmas dinner for 48 people looks like...

That's a lot of rolls. And there is another pan in the oven.

Yes, that's 8 pies...and that isn't even all of them.

Two HUGE bowls of mashed potatoes. And what you don't see: two large pans of dressing, three turkeys, and two hams, plus other sides.

This is Christmas morning with some of the Huddleston crew. They do Christmas morning with the individual families, then Christmas dinner, then Grandpa reads the Christmas story from the Bible, and then Christmas gifts with the entire family that evening.

The younger kids watching THE PRINCESS BRIDE.

The majority of people in Pineville went home with more than they came with...and I'm not talking about presents. We had sicknesses ranging from respiratory infections to bronchitis to pneumonia to RSV. Luckily I avoided these bugs, but Adam and Daniel did not. Adam had a respiratory infection and Daniel had a lot of congestion and a bad cough. (We just found out today that Daniel has another ear infection in the same ear he had one in right before Christmas!) Anyway, aside from illness, we all had a great time. It was wonderful to see all of Adam's siblings and their families. We stayed up late just about every night either talking or playing games or both. One of my favorite moments as the girls' night to go see TWILIGHT. We all were wearing either TEAM EDWARD or TEAM JACOB t-shirts...I, of course, was wearing TEAM EDWARD. Pictures to come. While in Pineville, we accomplished an amazing feat. We corralled 48 adults and children (ranging from grandparents to a 6 month old) to take family pictures. The photographer, a self-proclaimed coon-ass, took charge and told everyone where to go. I think the pictures turned out pretty well considering... I mean, getting that many people to cooperate is pretty impressive. I will post some of them when we get them. After our long travels, we were happy to be home, sleeping in our own beds. Adam is busy working and preparing for the start of school on Monday. I am busy with Daniel, training for the race, and with my new calling...secretary in Relief Society. Needless to say, we are pretty busy over here! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday!

I got drafted....

2008-12-17T21:24:00.001-06:00

....sort of. I got a new calling at church...more info to come after Sunday! I was recently released as the second counselor in the Young Women's presidency...they didn't waste any time did they? ;-P

When It Rains...

2008-12-15T13:37:00.002-06:00

...It pours! Daniel just got over a virus and, after our trip to the doctor today, we've discovered he now has an ear infection. Can't we catch a break?!?! I want my sweet, happy baby boy back!

Book Club

2008-12-12T08:52:00.002-06:00

Last night, we had our book club meeting, and I have to say that this one was my favorite so far...even more so than the one I hosted. I didn't realize I had so much to say about this book. The more we talked about it and analyzed it, the more I realized how much I truly did enjoy it. We read NIGHT JASMINE by Mary Lou Widmer. At first, I wasn't going to read it because it was checked out of the library and cost $23 at Barnes&Noble. But, then I learned why it was so expensive...when the first edition sold out, the book was still very much in demand, so MLW decided to invest her own money to print more copies. Then, Hurricane Katrina came and washed away her last 2500 copies...the book was unavailable for a while until she was financially able to have it reprinted. So, I didn't mind spending that much on a book...and it turned out to be a really good story. You can read the synopsis here. I don't want to say much on the off-hand chance any of you might read it...and if you have the chance to read it, you should.

Let it snow...

2008-12-11T11:35:00.003-06:00

I was rudely awoken by a phone call from my sister this morning. She asked if I had been outside yet, to which I responded, "Uhh, no...I'm still sleeping." She told me it was snowing, so I shot out of bed, opened the blinds, and sure enough there was snow covering the ground. I was so excited!! This is the most snow I have ever seen in my entire life!!! Growing up in Louisiana will do that for you. Adam and I threw on some clothes, grabbed the camera, and went outside to check things out...Daniel was still sleeping. We went down the street to Jacob and Jane's apartment just to make sure they knew the good news...they didn't seem as impressed as I was...I think they have seen snow a time or two before :-) Anyway, when Daniel woke up, we bundled him up and brought him outside to see his first snowfall. As you can see in the pictures, he didn't exactly know what to think...

Sick Baby Boy

2008-12-11T11:27:00.002-06:00

Poor Daniel has his first real illness. We thought he was getting over it, but he seems to have a re-emergence of runny nose, coughing, and generally not feeling well. He is not his usual happy self. I just hope he can kick this before we leave for Gigi's house for Christmas.

9 month Pictures

2008-12-08T11:10:00.001-06:00

6 month Pictures...Finally!

2008-12-08T11:05:00.002-06:00

We finally got Daniel's 6 month pictures back. Can you guess my favorite?

Christmas came early...

2008-12-04T15:33:00.003-06:00

Santa visited us early this year. We bought a new camera from one of the Black Friday deals at Circuit City. Woohoo!!! I am so excited...I have been complaining about my old camera for quite a while. I will post pictures soon. On another note, Santa brought something else with him too. It's called herpangina, and Daniel's got it. Basically, he has fever and ulcers at the back of his throat, which means he isn't eating or sleeping very well...so neither am I :-( This is the first time Daniel has been sick and it is killing me. This is caused by a virus, so there is nothing we can do...we just have to "wait it out". It breaks my heart to hear him crying and see him in such pain knowing that there isn't anything I can do about it. Well, I know you mothers out there have probably dealt with this before and feel my pain. I just hope he gets well soon...I want my happy baby boy back!!

UNloading camera, Pt. 4

2008-11-28T18:39:00.003-06:00

Daniel had a blast playing in this box rather than with his toys...go figure!

Daniel loves to swing at the park.

Mohawk Daniel.

A very messy eater.

Mohawk Daniel chewing on Sense & Sensibility.