The Great Christmas Surprise

As I was flipping through my camera just the other day, I realized that I neglected to share with all of you our BIG Christmas toy surprise!

I have waited for years for this moment. This was the first year that Ben and I had perfectly picked out the top-notch present that we knew our girls would flip for. I dreamt about what their faces might look like. I flashed back to my childhood memories and the amazing surprises that awaited me on Christmas morning. I could barely go to sleep the night before, I was so excited!

Now, being the professional parents that we are, we ordered it much in advance, to accommodate the needs for shipping, and just-in-case-we-hate-it-ness.

It arrived, in the box, and we loved it. It sat in our garage for about month, until one fateful Monday night. Except not just any Monday night - THE Monday night - you know, the last Monday night before Christmas.

And it occurred to me that maybe we ought to put it together - just to make sure it worked. So here is my tool-efficient husband, hard at work...

He got it, oh, I don't know, 95% put together, and I realized - IT WAS THE WRONG ONE!

Sure, it was black, and yes, it was sort-of the same car, but it was the EXACT picture I had seen on line. It was missing the ginormous orange boom box speakers on the back.

I quickly rushed to the computer to find out what had happened. Much to my surprise, Wal-mart (our purchaser of choice because it was $10 cheaper) carried the older version, but Toys'R'Us (those tricky little devils) sold the fancy shamcy hybrid ones.

Enter devastation.

Oh, I told Ben that it was fine. We could just keep the one he had spent the past 3 hours building, but he must have sensed the disappointment in my voice, because the next morning, it was back in the box and in the back of the pick-up.

One crazy mama on a mission, two packed out toy stores, three "We just sold out"'s, and a word with the manager later, we were back to the grind.



Only this time, it was just as I had imagined it.

And my girls were over the moon about it. They followed a string we had attached to the bottom of the Christmas tree, and made their way outside where the beautiful Cadillac Escalade awaited them.



Although I never anticipated that this little guy would be so amused by it. Should'a sprung for the three seater.



Typical man. Can't give over control of the steering wheel. Get use to it girls.




Oh, the hours and miles we have already put on this thing, and we've done it all in 50 degree weather and below.



Oh, and just for the record, yes, I am glad we have our orange boom box speakers - except turns out, you need 2 C batteries for them to work. And those are still on my shopping list.

My Life In Bulletts

• After my last post about chocolate chip cookies, I made these. Oh.My.Word.
• I have zero cooking motivation right now (clearly not including chocolate chip cookies). My poor family has gotten the weirdest meals lately.
• I have been going to Boot Camp every single morning for the past four weeks, and I am so proud of myself. Did I mention that it is at 6:30 in the morning?
• I am consigning at our local, but GIANT consignment sale next month. And I am so flippin nervous about all the steps I have to do to get my clothes there. Maybe I should just donate them, and regret it later, like I do every other year.
• While attempting a Chick-fil-A outing with my three darling children the other day, I actually went in, de-winter clothed my children, and sat down - only to realize I had left my car RUNNING!
• Three days later, while driving to the library, I had to call my big brother to come and bale me out because I had run out of gas on the side of the highway.
• Last night, I went out to get something out of my car, and realized that I had left every single door, including the trunk wide open after our return home from preschool. Don't worry, I later calculated that it had only been that way for a mere SIX HOURS!
• I have resolved to never leave my house with my many children. I am clearly not capable.
• I wish I could include a job update for you guys in this random list. But we are waiting for (and expecting) God to do a BIG miracle before that can happen. Will you pray for that?
• Ben got sick yesterday, and while I was running around taking care of the young-ins by myself, making noodle soup for him, going to the store for Sprite and crackers, and fetching the newspaper and remote for his enjoyment, I kept thinking to myself - when I grow up, I want to be a sick husband.
• Ben and I have won (from completely different sources) two free date nights for next week. I think God is telling us something.
• I want a fancy camera.
• And a vacation.
• Oh, and more chocolate chip cookies.

Give me one good random-ocity!

Cookie Connoisseur

So there is this awful rumor going around about me, and it just isn't true.

I've tried denying it, I've tried proving them wrong, and I've even tried to find the source of this heinous act of blasphemy, but it just doesn't seem to work.

And its starting to get on my nerves.

Except I kinda enjoy the attention too.

I know its confusing, just try and keep up...

Whats the rumor you ask?

It all started in college, when I baked my usual batch of chocolate chip cookies. I served them to my family, they oo-ed and ahh-ed (like any good family should), and I took a few back to the dorm with me. I set them out by the hall microwave (the common grounds of any dorm hall), with this simple note -

"Enjoy! - Love, Meredith (Rm. 104)"

It wasn't five minutes later before I had a knock on my door. I opened, only to find a chocolate breathed skinny freshman girl, begging for the chocolate chip cookie recipe.

"Uhhh, it's just the recipe on the back of the bag."

To which she replied, "Liar!"

And I've been hearing it ever since. Maybe not with as much animosity as that timid freshman, but I hear it a lot. From.....

"I've used the recipe on the back of the bag, and my cookies don't taste nuttin like that."

to....

"C'mon, just give us the secret ingredient."

and even....

"Fine! I'll just ask your husband." (Good luck with that one. He probably doesn't even know where I keep the spatula. Or even the use of a spatula. Or even the word spatula.)

And since that fateful February day, when I was first given the title, "Liar," I have made at least 500 dozen of these delectable morsels.

And I PROMISE I use the recipe on the back of the bag.

I make the dough....



And it makes these cookies....

They are pretty yummy, firm on the outside, but goo-ey in the middle.

I have to hide them far enough from the front of the counter, or this happens....

This particular batch went to hubby's work. I made the mistake of sending a few dozen last Christmas, and I receive subtle "hints" from them every once in a while.
I'm starting to limit my candidacy process, though. Its come down to this...

• I will make them upon the request from ANY pregnant woman.
• I will always make them for my husband or father-in-law.
• And for the rest of you, you can make your check out payable to "Meredith - the prettiest cook in all the land."

One Year Later

January 20, 2010

January 20, 2011

My, how they have changed. Except for their coats and gloves - those are still the same.

Interview with a Toddler

What is your name?
"Ellie Kate. I can spell it for you if you want."
except she usually leaves out one "l."

How old are you?
"Ummm, three, mom."
oh good, because I almost forgot.

Who is your best friend?
"Kaityn and Peyton."
to which I told her, 'hey, that rhymes.' To which she gave me a 'mom, stop being such a dork' look.

What is your favorite color?
"If daddy asks, hes my best friend too."
clearly still caught up in the previous question. But hey, what about mommy?

What is your favorite thing to do outside?
"Swing. And that's all."
She may or may not have been saying 'that's all' to the questionnaire. I chose not to believe that.

What is your favorite thing to do inside?
"Play with beautiful dolls. Just like the ones that Morgan has."
I have no idea what she is talking about.

Where are we going to move to?
"A new home."
Was really hoping for some sort of handwriting on the wall here. Thanks for nuthin, kid.

What should our new house look like?
"Pink and purple with a kitty kat and a swimming pool and lots of snow."
Keep dreamin.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
"4."
Awwwww....

What is your favorite food?

"Pancakes and goldfish."

Not surprising.

What do you want for your birthday.

"A pink car. Actually, lets go to the computer and I'll just show you."

And I can thank her daddy for this ridiculous-ness.

What food do you wish mommy would never serve again?

"Those yucky vegetables. Like potatoes."

She really does hate potatoes. Weird.

***********************

Just a little insight into the mind of my almost 4-year old. Did I really just say that I have an 'almost 4-year old? Excuse me while I go cry in the corner.

My heart

You are good, you are good, when there's nothing good in me.
You are love, you are love, on display for all to see.
You are light, you are light, when the darkness closes in.
You are hope, you are hope, You have covered all my sin.

You are peace, you are peace, when my fear is crippling.
You are true, you are true, even in my wondering.
You are joy, you are joy, You're the reason that I sing.
You are life, you are life, In you death has lost its sting.

Oh, I'm running to your arms I'm running to your arms.
The riches of your love will always be enough.
Nothing compares to your embrace, light of the world forever reign.

You are more, you are more, than my words will ever say.
You are Lord, you are Lord, all creation will proclaim.
You are here, you are here, in your prescence I'm made whole.
You are God, you are God, of all else I'm letting go.

****************************************************************

Today, Lord, I need you to be good. So good that I forget my bad. I need you to be love. I feel unlovable. I need you to be light. So bright that I reflect some of you. And I need you to be hope. Because I feel like giving up.

Today, Lord, I need you to be true. I need you to be peace. I need you to be joy. I need you to be life. I want to sing from the mountaintops, for no other reason then because you have fulfilled those things in my life.

And most importanly, Lord, I need you to be here. I need you to be more, and I need you to be God. I am not sure I can let it go on my own. Help release the things I hold so tightly in my grasp. I want to be more like you.

Today, my Jesus, I run to the comfort of your arms. You love me unconditionally, and I feel safe. Sustain me, grow me, and make me uncomfortable. I want more of you and less of me. I love you, but I want to love you more.

The Best Blogs You Aren't Reading

If you are anything like me, you are always looking for a good, new, and fresh blog to read. Not just any ol' blog, but one that makes your tummy jump when you see a new post on your blog feed.

You mean, your tummy doesn't jump? Ok, so maybe I am a blog nerd, I suppose there are worse things to be called.

Anyway, as part of my New Year's resolut-ing, I decided to 'trim the fat' and remove the blogs from my reader that didn't really excite me, didn't captivate me with their posts, and blogs that frankly, I skipped over.

I was left with some really great ones. Some from my IRL friends, and others from my bloggy friends. All great, and all must reads.

But I decided I wanted to share some of my favorites with YOU!

But before I do, here is my humble opinion, of the criteria of a good blog:

1. They blog consistently - like at least 4 x a week.

2. They walk a similar road as myself. Sorry, but I just don't want to read about "the hot senior guy that asked out Ashley A." just as much as I don't want to read about, "my 50th high school reunion." Nope, I find blogs most interesting when they are from young moms, like myself, trying to make a way in this journey of life.

3. It is very entertaining. Makes me laugh. Makes my cry. Makes me want to read some more.

And that's it. You got those three things and we are good to go.

Oh, and before I introduce you to my lovely faves, I should also preface by saying that while I enjoy the likes of some of those oober-bloggy moms, I left them off my list because, well, you probably follow them anyway.

And I like to be concise. Well, sometimes.

So here they are, my list of the best blogs that you probably aren't reading, along with a short synopsis of my personal take on these blog-tastic ladies.


Tales of the Trees.



Megan will have you laughing until your side hurts with the ironic events that happen within her life and the sarcastic tone in which she captures it all. I mean, only she could have me in stitches over a nasty-haired subway worker, a greasy shirt, and why she no longer eats cold-cuts. You'll adore her, while thanking her for all the calories burned while giggling for hours.

The Link Home.

Katy is a nearly newlywed, a teacher, and now an expectant mom, trying to make sense of her journey ahead. She highlights decorating, photography, coupon-cutting, and sometimes just the everyday happenings of her life. She seems to love her life and the many blessings within. And I am sure she would appreciate some well-meaning tips from all us veteran moms. (And if she doesn't, then whoops, maybe she should ignore my past 6 comments.)

The Glamorous Life of a Housewife.

Whitney is a breath of fresh air in a world full of confusion and chaos. She is as sweet as honey and can captivate you with her amazing decorating, lavish party-throwing, and enchanting toddler-raising - all on a medical student budget. Her words make you feel like you are looking into a Norman Rockwell painting and she will leave you wanting more. She makes the stay-at-home mom look good.

Go check these out, maybe add them to your blog-feed, and then come back and thank me for bringing these sensations into your life.

Oh, and join in on the fun, and create your own list so that we can all relish in the joy of your favorite blogs.

Happy blogging, friends!

My purse.

This is my purse.

Nothing special. Just a rainy Monday impulse Target purchase.

What is special is what lies within the purse. Well, maybe not 'special' as much as strange, peculiar, and a little eye-opening.


Are you shocked that ALLLLL that fit in that seemingly small purse?

Yea, I was too.

Well, just try and look past that as I divulge myself to you - mind, body, and purse.

I'll start with the high points.

I have recently started the 6-week challenge boot camp. I absolutely adore everything about it. Except the early morning alarm-clock, the sweat, and the fact that I can't even do one decent sit-up.

I mean, its so bad. But it is getting easier, so I'll take.

The work-out often involves push-ups, and during the first few days, I was having a hard time keeping my hands firmly planted on those slick MMA mats. So Ben suggested I wear these, and I do. And for some reason, I keep them in my purse.



What mom purse isn't complete without these? I am not real sure why they are in there, but they have been for at least a week and a half.

This is the motherload. Next to the Bible, it is the most important book in my life. In it contains my random thoughts, endless grocery-lists and meal plans, occasional doodling by my children, and reminders of important dates and events. It travels everywhere with me. Kinda like a plastic blankey.

This is a great invention. I never leave home without it. It allows me to transport any restaurant napkin into a bib for my children. Saved me many an outfit.

Oh, the hair bows. They end up in here, and I am not sure how they get there. Its kinda like when the dryer eats my socks.

Speaking of socks, I always carry two pair. Just in case we decide to have an emergency Chick-fil-a outing and just in case my children are wearing flip-flops. No child of mine is going barefoot on that filthy plastic. Hey, just be glad I let them go in to that germ-infested pool of filth called the play-place.

Yeah, I am that mom.

The 21st century form of child entertainment. I have countless children's books downloaded and I whip it out in cases of emergency. (Emergency = boring doctor's office waiting room, in line at the bank, amidst the women's section of our local department store)

And now I would like to transition to the low points.

Like a half-eaten Lara bar.

That I promptly threw away, I promise.

And the pacifier holder and a pacifier. Not working in harmony.

I mean, the idea was to keep the pacifiers clean in there. I'll add that to my list of New Year's Resolutions.

And just in case the Ipod dies or gets thrown to the side, I whip these out.

It is amazing the stories that have been told using a baby, a fireman, and a chair. My children have quite the imagination.

And last, but certainly not the least, the crown to my third molar.

Don't worry, it was only a temporary one, and I am keeping it so that my dentist can put it back on tomorrow. Don't be afraid, I promise it is the only bone I have within my purse.

Well, that's it. My purse. I must admit, I was a little nervous, but now that we have reached this new level of transparency I feel much better.

Helpful Hands

"So, how do you do it with 3 kids under the age of 3?"

I get that question a lot.

Mostly from random strangers in line Chick-fil-a, but occasionally from an expectant mother or a too-tired, no-make-up wearing, just-found-out-she's-expecting-her-third child friend. Its at this point that I take the time to welcome her to the club.

And then we join hands and say a quick prayer for our sanity.

But the truth of the matter is, its not so bad. Yes, we have our days. Yes, I have moments in which I totally lose it. And yes, I have to spend a few more minutes in the bathroom covering up the bags under my eyes. But raising three children under the age of three is a lot of fun, and I am not only surviving - I'm thriving!

Those of you who faithfully read my blog, know that none of our pregnancies were particularly planned, and when I discovered I was pregnant with my second just 8 months after giving birth to EK, and seeing that plus sign again just 7 months after giving birth to P, I kinda figured my life was over. At least life as I knew it.

I never imagined I'd be able to get any housework done. I never dreamed I'd get a hot meal of the table every night. And I even had images of setting off the smoke detectors in my house, just so I would have an excuse to get out of the house and smell some fresh air.

I needed some help. No, not like psychological help, although my ideas of the smoke detector probably doesn't convince you of that. I just needed some tangible help. Like a maid service, or a personal chef, or maybe even a chauffeur. Problem was, there was no way I was going to get any of those things. I had to be creative.

So I looked around my house, and you know what I found? Three small children - desiring their mommy's attention, and eager to please.

So I put them to work. *insert evil laugh here*

I started by buying some great storage containers, labeled the contents of each, and took a picture and plastered them onto the storage containers. Not only would my children be able to put their own toys away, but their rooms suddenly looked decent at all hours of the day.

Ellie Kate and Peyton not only fold towels for me, but they probably fold them better than I do.

And emptying the silverware actually gets fought over in my house. (just make sure you remove all sharp objects first).

It may not be EXACTLY how I would put them away, the job gets done - a job that has to be repeated at once a day in this we-use-the-dishwasher-way-too-much house.

I also love the sorting skills my children get to practice while participating in this exercise.

While I wish I could tell you that I had the opportunity to mop everyday, it just doesn't happen. So in the meantime, my girls get a get wet washcloth and "wipe all those nasty germs."

Since putting those helpful hands to work, I not only get more accomplished during the day, I get to do my housework with sweet giggles and tiny fingers working alongside of me.

So I am all ears, what chores do (did) you veteran moms give your young-ins? I am always looking for a few more chances to eat bon-bons throughout the day...

The Pear Patrol

First, it was Clementines.

Then, it was Cantaloupe.

And now, its all about the pears.

They love them so much, they won't even share a bite....


At their peak, they ate 12 in one day....

Our over-consumption of pears has made our food budget sky-rocket. Hope this isn't any indication of their food intake during their teenage years!