Planes, Trains and Ponytails

I Don't Believe It........!

2010-08-01T23:15:00.004-04:00

Where has the summer gone? Can it really be August already? It has been such a busy summer with camps,amusement parks, the zoo, baton twirling, and horse riding! In just 3 weeks school starts again, it seems like the kiddos just finished up! Let's

This summer both kiddos were able to go to camp! Teddy just loves it! He can't wait to get there, and play! His favorite thing is water day. He also got a chance to swim in Uncle Tom's pool this summer. He had so much fun swimming, and riding in Uncle Tom's truck! He is so happy go lucky, the simplest things please him!

Emma rode in her first little horse show at the barn, and won 1st place for walking and trotting! Horses seem to be her passion! She really looks like she was born to ride. She also started twirling baton with her friend Hope. They did their first little show on Tuesday, and did an awesome job!

It's really something how Em and Ted have grown over the summer. They are turning into beautiful children, with wonderful personalities. I am so blessed to have them, and be their Mom.

Lions, and Tigers, and Bears.....Oh My!

2010-06-19T21:33:00.003-04:00

Yesterday the kids and I went to the zoo.....Yes, I drove on the Schuykill, and hell did not freeze over....I swear! It was Emmy and Teddy's first time ever at the zoo, and they were so excited! The whole way there they kept talkinb about what they wanted to see, and Teddy said he wanted to see cows of all things! Em wanted to see the zebras, because they were the closest thing to a horse! They would run over to all of the exhibits, point, and squeal with delight!

It was a very fun day, Teddy slept the whole way, and Em talked about her day until pulled into our driveway! So glad we got a membership, it is going to be such a great summer!

MAY!

2010-05-09T20:03:00.003-04:00

As you all know Teddy was scheduled to have surgery last wednesday at DuPont Hospital for Children in Delaware. I am happy to report is doing well, he came home friday. He is having some pain,and spasms of the bladder, but so far so good!

Last Sunday we had a party to celebrate Teddy's road to recovery. It was so nice to have all of our close family and friends to come and celebrate with us! We feel so blessed to have all of you!

This process has been hard, but was made easier knowing we had tons of friends and family in our corner. We appreciate it very much!

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2010-04-19T17:46:00.005-04:00

There has been a lot going on in our day to day life. As you all know Teddy is getting closer to his surgery date. It's only 2 weeks away, we have now started breating treatments everyday to keep his lungs clear of junk. With the weather being so inconsistent we are having ashthma troubles....Keeping our fingers and toes crossed we can get his lungs all clear before May 5th. Teddy seems to be taking to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles these days....his favorite Turtle being Michaelangelo. He has been running around the house saying "Turtle powper". He is really funny, he takes two little tennis rackets, and sticks them down into his diaper pretending he is a turtle......He is a total crack up, and we get a lot of pleasure watching the wheels of imagination constantly turning.

On a positive note, Emma has decided to throw a "Road to Recovery" party for her brother. We have lots of family and friends coming out to wish Teddy well. She is becoming a second mommy to her brother. Telling him everything is going to be okay, and holding his hand through his breathing treaments. It is really a comfort to know that they are best friends, and lean on each other for support. They are truly amazing children, and she is one amazing big sister!

As April is coming closer to an end, we are looking forward to the month of May....There are so many positive things coming our way!

Moments to Remember.......

2010-04-15T21:20:00.004-04:00

Last night we took the kids to Chik-Fil-A for dinner, and Merrily the clown was there painting faces, and making balloon hats for the kids. Emma and Teddy were very eager, and excited to have their faces painted. Emma had hers painted like a tiger,and Teddy wanted to look like a cow (his new obsession being the Chik-Fil-A cow)

This morning, when I went to clean their faces they were upset. Teddy pleaded with me to let him wear his to school so he could show Mrs. Ellis (his teacher). Why not? After all so many of us stand in front of the mirror every morning "painting" faces so to speak, so why couldn't they go out with their painted faces. That is exactly what they did. I had the cutest little tiger and cow by my side today!

They are only little once, and now is the time to make our memories. It made me think of the lyrics to a song called "Moments to Remember", though summer turns to winter and the present disappears, the laughter we were glad to share will echo through the years.

Room for 2....Uh Maybe 3.

2010-04-07T20:56:00.004-04:00

For the past week Teddy has taken up residence in my bedroom. It started last week when Em decided to tell him there were ghosts in his room (what a nice big sister prank...NOT). I am beginning to wonder who the butt of this joke really is Teddy or me......I vote me! It has been complete murder trying to get him to go back to his room. He shakes, and throws a fit that could honestly make the hair on the back of your neck stand straight up , and then some.

Every night now, his smiling face looks up at me from my bedroom floor, and asks "What movie are we watching tonight Mommy?". This is seriously " Three's Company" gone seriously wrong, don't remember telling him to come and knock on my door! For now the little guy feels secure, and thats all that matters. However, Mommy is seriously thinking of proper punishment for that wildly hysterical sister of his!

An Act of Kindness

2010-03-30T07:55:00.003-04:00

Our family has been blessed with having lots of friends whom we care for. However, yesterday, we received an act of kindness from a family we are acquainted with, but do not know very well. Ths family took it upon themselves to make us brownies to let us know they were thinking of our family during Teddy's difficult time. This family is also going through their own family medical cirisis, and it just touched us that they took the time to think of us, while they are going through their own issues. For this we say Thank you so very much from the bottom of our hearts. What a wonderful community we live in.

National Kidney Walk

2010-03-25T21:12:00.001-04:00

This year I have decided to walk in the National Kidney walk on October 3, 2010 at the Philadelphia Zoo. My son Teddy is my inspiration.

Teddy is a 3 year old little boy with grade IV kidney reflux, he has 60% kidney function on his left side which refluxes, and 40% kidney function on his right side, which is supposed to be his better side. Teddy was diagnosed with kidney reflux when he was 8 months old. In April of 2008 Teddy had a deflux procedure done to help minimize the swelling in his kidneys, unfortunately this procedure failed.

Teddy is our special gift from above, and goes through each day with a smile on his face! Could you please help sponsor me in this walk? To view my personal page and get more information on kidney disease click here.

Results Are In

2010-03-24T22:21:00.005-04:00

Last monday Teddy had his renal scan done. He did very well, but the results were not good. He has 60% function on his left side, and 40% on his right which is supposed to be his "good" side. We are in shock, to see Teddy you would never know this was happening to him. He is such a happy little boy. We go to see the doctor next week to figure out a plan of action. Please keep our little man in your prayers.

Fashionista......

2010-03-13T15:33:00.004-05:00

Anyone who knows Emma knows, she is a little diva. Very particular about everything she does, and she is only 4 years old! Her knew obsession is tube socks.....Yes, you read that right tube socks! Now, she is insistant on getting a skirt of some kind just so she can wear her tube socks!

Friday, when we were getting ready for school, Miss Thing looks at me and says, "You aren't wearing that to take me to school?" and I say "Wearing what?" and she replies "Those sweat pants, and that shirt, you can't taking me to school looking like that, It's embarassing. I think we need to make you go on "What Not to Wear" so you can get some fashion sense."

I am totally dreading the teenage years! If she telling me I need to learn how to dress now, she might be signing me up for botox then!

Husbands Just Don't Get It!

2010-03-10T19:52:00.005-05:00

As usual my husband and I got into it over the fact that he shouldn't have to do much around the house because he works, and I am home. He just doesn't get it! He goes to work comes home, and he leaves his job!

I have no nanny, no sitter, and no one to come in and clean my home! I DO IT! I also run the kids to school, gymnastics, horse riding, and karate. I do the grocery shopping, the meal planning, and the cooking! ME! There are also times when I am a nurse, a psychologist, and a teacher. Then when the husband comes home I have to listen to him complain about the one job he has, and how I could run a tighter ship! My brain is totally FRIED!

There are days I feel like giving up! This is toughest job in the whole world, and yet the most unappreciated job there is! Those moms on television make it look so easy, but it's not! As moms we could use a little support, and understanding from our husbands! Which may include loading the dishwasher, or taking the kids somewhere.

I am hoping this post on my blog can help my husband understand all of my roles in life! It makes me tired just reading them!

To Jammy Party, or Not To Jammy Party?

2010-03-08T21:04:00.005-05:00

Em came to me this past weekend and said she wanted to have a "real" pajama party. In September she had a pajama party, and her friends came in their jammies, played games, and watched a movie, and went home at 7pm. Now she wants a party where her friends actually come and stay. The first thought that comes to mind is "OY VEY". Is she that big already? Where did that little baby go?

There many mixed emotions about this. On one hand I say go for it, what could it hurt. and then I think about all those girls running around my house, and the ghosts of pajama parties past comes for a visit! YIKES!

Today, she went and bought her invitations....Guess we have to give in, and let her grow up some. What could happen (said with much sarcasm)? It's not like four and five year olds are going to put each others underware in the freezer right (coming someone who has experienced this)?

So guess I am going for the gusto, and letting this happen. May God have mercy on my soul......and my head, and my ears, and please, please, please, could you go easy on my sanity?

GOOD NEWS.....So Far!

2010-03-06T21:22:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Emma and I went to CHOP to see the urologist to see what kind of treatment he had in mind for Emma's grade 3 kidney reflux. He was a little concerned that Emma was being treated this week for an UTI, but he says he thinks the outcome of all of this is positive! Let me tell you, this is the first shred of hope we have had since we were told she had kidney reflux!

However, the doc would like her to have a renal scan to make sure there is no damage. He says that if the test comes back normal, Em can stay on profrolaxis antibiotics, and that most grade 3 reflux cases resolve themselves! THANK GOD!

Let me tell you, I had visions of being told my daughter would need some kind of surgery, or that the reflux was worse than first reported. After hearingwhat the doctos had to say yesterday, a partial weight has been lifted off!

NNotice , I said partial weight. Now, all we need is for some kind of relief for Mr. Ted, and the world will be a wonderful place.

Thank you all for continued support Emmy and Teddy! We feel so blessed to have each and everyone of you in our corner!

Lucky Mom

2010-03-03T17:30:00.002-05:00

Tonight I was watching Emma and Teddy play together. They were playing so well, and laughing hysterically at each other. It made me realize what a lucky mama I am. It was really rough in the beginning with them 12 months apart. It is really starting to get easier now! It is amazing how much they love each other!

Tonight Emma was crying because her tummy hurt, and I heard Teddy talking to her. When I came around the corner Teddy was hugging Emma saying "It's alright Sissie". That little bit of comfort he gave her brought a smile to my face!

My wish for them is to alway be as close as they are now, and to always be there for one another in good times and bad. They make me one very proud Mom!

One Foot in the Grave

2010-03-02T12:29:00.005-05:00

Life has taken a new turn i here in the last few weeks, since the discovery of the BBC series" One Foot in the Grave" came into my home! What is this show that has been taking up so much of my attention?

The series follows the many exploits of Victor Meldrew and his wife Margaret. Victor is forced into retirement, and now has to find things to fill his day, which include driving his wife absolutely crazy! The world around Victor drives him completely mad, and he is the type of person everyone wishes they could be, saying the things we all think about saying and never do!

There are definitely some moments in the series that I can really relate to! My husband is a 30 year old Victor himself, and wishes the world was according to how he saw it. However, it's not always the case, and we both find that we are both being sucked in to what we call our "Victor Meldrew" addiction!

One Foot in the Grave is my DVD pick for this week! The series is available on Netflix.

Kidney Reflux.......GO AWAY!

2010-02-28T20:55:00.003-05:00

Wednesday Emma had her VCUG at CHOP in King of Prussia, and our worst fear was confirmed, she has kidney reflux too! When we first received the results Dan and I just looked at each other and said "Both of them"! It came as quite a shock! On the bright side we know that this is treatable, and the issue can be corrected. However, we wish that both Emma and Teddy did not have to go through any of this at all!

For now both Emma and Teddy are on antibiotics to prevent infection. Our concern with Emma is the fact that she has had four UTI's in a year, and was hospitalized for one. Teddy has to have a renal scan done to make sure his kidneys are not damaged, because he hadn't been on any medicine in two years following a procedure to correct the issue. We have since learned that his procedure fixed the reflux on his right side, but that his left side did not respond.

So now our goal is to get these two kiddos well. Hopefully one day this thing called kidney reflux will be a thing of the past, and a very distant memory!

Snowy Days, How They Have Changed

2010-02-24T17:09:00.006-05:00

So once again the area is having snow dumped on it, which means no school for the kids, and lots of togetherness (hopefully my children survive it). As I was watching the snowfall, vivid memories of past snow days came fluttering back.

I can remember being so excited when that first snow flake fell from the clouds. Then every child in Chester County would watch WCOJ on channel 7, and anxiously await Art Douglas say your school would be closed! I can remember being so excited when he said "Coatesville Area School District, closed".

As adults it's funny how it has all changed. WCOJ is a thing of the past, and so is Art Douglas' voice. We don't look forward to the snow as we once did. I know today I found myself grumbling like my parents used to when school would be cancelled.

Ah, how things change when you grow up. As children we used to play in the snow, and as adults we are now the ones shoveling it. We are the ones having to put the millions and millions of layers on our kids to go outside to play, and are the ones that are frustrated when after all the work it took to get them dressed, they decide to come in after being outside only five minutes.

Even though having another storm is very frustrating, and pretty annoying, our children are making their own memories now. Will one day look back at 2010 and the endless winter with many memories of snowforts and friends!

A Grandmothers Gift

2010-02-22T21:07:00.007-05:00

Today my thoughts shifted to my grandmom, she has been gone for nine years, but my thoughts often float to her. There are so many memories of my childhood that include her, and how lucky I was to have her in my life! She taught me so much in life! My brothers and I were the youngest of her 17 grandchildren whose ages ran from 50 to 16 at the time of her death!

When I was a little girl my dad's sister Marie who I called Aunt Em(she was called this because one of my favorite movies was the Wizard of Oz) would watch me while my parents worked. Aunt Em and I would often spend our days with Grandmom, and we would often go on car rides to Shady Maple or my favorite Kitchen Kettle and take a ride on the horse and buggy. I have to say my fondest memories of Grandmom were when we sat in her sitting room, and listened to the tapes she played on her tape player.

Listening to her music I would try to imagine what was happening when back when. I can still hear the voices of Bobby Vinton, and Connie Francis filling the room! It was magic to me, and those old songs have so many memories tied to them! When the Glenn Miller Orchestra would play Moonlight Serenade I could picture the men coming back from WWII as their wives and girlfriends were greeting them as they came off their ships. It all seemed so real to me! Grandmom would tell me stories as these songs played about the 1920's and what it was like trying to feed children during The Depression in the 1930's. Her stories were brought to life with the voices behind those beautiful songs!

When I was 18 Grandmom died at the age of 91, but those memories of her have stayed with me, and now as Emma, Teddy, and even Dan and I all listen to the music together, we talk about Grandmom, and I share the stories with them that she used to share with me.

PS: I have decided to share some of those songs with you!

Happy Birthday Lois!

2010-02-19T20:32:00.003-05:00

For those of you who know my mother-in-law Lois, she is very straight forward and to the point, and doesn't mince her words! We have a very unique relationship for daughter-in-law and mother-in-law. However, that was not always the case.....in the beginning she (unknowingly) intimidated me just a wee bit. Afterall Dan is her only baby. As time went on we have formed a very loving and special relationship, and she is like a second mother to me. I know this is a week early, but I would like to say Happy Birthday to the most wonderful mother-in-law any daughter-in-law could ask for!

Lend Your Voice to Mans Best Friend!

2010-02-13T22:40:00.005-05:00

Okay everyone, I always swore that my little mommy blog would not turn into one of those blogs that would rant and rave about little annoyances. However, there is something that I really need to vent about! That HUGE something is the cruelty to animals. I have put it off way to long, and now as my husband would say my hot headed "Italian" temper is coming out!

There are number of animals in this country and all over the world that are used for gambling and money making purposes. A number of them are in fact dogs.

Dan and I adopted our 8 year old cocker spaniel last year from the S.P.C.A in West Chester. We were informed that she was used as a breeding dog, and that she could no long produce a "profitable" number of puppies as she once could, and was surrendered to the shelter. When she came home with us she was in terrible shape. She had a cataract in her eye the vet believes was caused by some kind of trauma, a horrible ear infection, and a prolapsed uterus from having at least 2 litters of puppies a year. Her ears we are told will never be better because whomever had her before us never took care of them! She has thickened ear canals, that can only be fixed with surgery, and because of her age the vet is afraid it could stress her! We would later come to find out that Lissie was rescued from a puppy mill. She was used so some cruel and heartless person could make a little cash selling her offspring! What is this country of ours coming to?

Who can also forget Michael Vick? He used dogs as pure entertainment! How entertaining to watch dogs tear each other apart limb from limb, so a bunch of good all boys can sit around and shoot the breeze while winning some money if the dog they bet on won the fight! Some celebrity he was. He got a small slap on the wrist, and our own Philadelphia Eagles signed him this year! Some punishment for murdering what is supposed to be "mans best friend" What a joke!

We also use greyhound dogs for gambling purposes! These animals start when they are 18 months old, and by the time they are 3 years old they are retired. Most of them are in poor shape from abuse when racing is done with them! It's a total and utter disgrace! Dog racing is not just an issue in the United States, but in England as well.

As "dogs best friend" we should be protecting them not using and abusing them for monetary gain! They are living breathing things just like us, so where are their rights? We need to be their voice, and stop the cruelty! There is no sense in it!

Thank you so much for listening to my rant. For more information on dog racing in the UK (if interested of course) read Annette Crosbie's blog.

Theodore

2010-02-13T00:00:00.004-05:00

Tonight Dan and I had to force Teddy to take his medicine for his kidneys. I hate it, and don't how much more of it I can take! All the tears, and screaming, I really feel for him! I wish I could take it for him. It is so awful, and wish that we could get his renal scan scheduled so we can find out exactly what is going on! He is only 3 years old, no child should have to put through pain and suffering. Teddy always has a smile on his face, and has such a terrific personality, and I thank God everyday for making him such a wonderful little boy! No matter what he will always be the shining light of my life!

Justice for Emma and Luna

2010-02-11T22:26:00.004-05:00

Emma and Luna two family pets were found shot to death in Pennsybury township. This is dispicable act! The person or persons who committed this crime should be tried for first degree murder! It's bad enough human beings murder each other, but now they have to hurt two innocent animals that did nothing to them!

If you have any information on this crime please contact The Chester County SPCA 610-692-6113 ext 213.

Blizzard of 2010

2010-02-11T21:58:00.007-05:00

The Philadelphia area was hit with it's first blizzard since 1996! Emmy and Teddy loved watching the snow fall. I have it say it does look very pretty on the trees, but, Yes, there is a but. I can surely do without seeing anymore of it for the rest of winter!

Dan shoveled yesterday for hours! Poor Lissie (our cocker spaniel) hates the snow! She can barely walk in it, and doesn't like to get her feet at all!

I don't ever remember the national guard being brought in to keep people off the roads, but in '96 I lived out in the middle of nowhere and when the first snow flake hit we lost power! We have a has over 70 inches of snow this winter! We are supposed to get more Tuesday into Wednesday! Where is it all going to go?

The kids are dying to get out and play in it! I feel a little guilty not letting them go out, but they will get lost in it! Maybe tomorrow we can get out and have little fun now that we are out from under the snow!

Teddy!

2010-02-09T22:06:00.004-05:00

After many months of pushing, and switching doctors we finally got the test done for follow up on Teddy's kidney reflux! Teddy went to DuPont Hospital today, and had a VCUG done as a follow up on his deflux procedure almost 2 years ago!

Dan and I had been uneasy because the doctors didn't think there was a need for the test, but after a year and a half of pushing, we finally got it. The result today was that Teddy still has grade 4 reflux on his left side, and that his right side is clear of refulx. However, because the doctors had a need to be right for so long he has to have a renal scan to make sure he has no kidney damage.

The emotions that are being felt right now are shock, frustration, and anger. I think it's mostly anger right now that I am feeling! These people went on for months that it was constipation, potty training issues, not sure if he really has reflux, to finally the parents namely mom is a "nut job"! I just don't get it! Today we find out that he really does have a problem, and that Dan and I were right on with our instincts!

We are not going to dwell on the past, we are just happy that we finally have some anwers about Teddy! The question now is what do we do know for him! Teddy is g0ing to be taking primsol which is an antibiotic that treats infections of the kidneys and bladder until we get the results of his renal scan which has to be scheduled. From there we determine what kind of treatment will be best for him which could range from antibiotics to surgery.

For now keep Theodore Roosevelt Miller in your prayers! He is one tough little guy!

Karate

2010-02-05T22:59:00.004-05:00

In December Teddy won a free month of karate at Family Martial Arts Center in Downingtown. Last saturday he was very excited to give it a try. When we got there, he didn't want to do it, we tried everything! Nothing seemed to make him want to go out onto the floor with the other children. Finally, he said he wanted Sissie (Emma) to go out with him. To make a long story short Emma is now taking karate with Teddy. Both of them really seem to enjoy it! They look really cute in their uniforms too!

Hannah Who....

2010-02-05T22:47:00.003-05:00

Sadly Emma has said good-bye to her BFF Hannah Montana. Yes, Hannah was quickly replaced by Taylor Swift! Can you believe it! Don't get me wrong, Taylor is a nice girl and all, it just seems a little odd listening to Emma sing Love Story, and You Belong to Me instead of Best of Both Worlds, and Life's What you Make it! Taylor has even taken Hannahs place on her bedroom wall!

Hannah you are in our heart, but not forgotten! After all she is growing up, and will look back in time at the many fond memories you gave her!

Bloggitty, Blog, Blog.....We Have Some Serious Catching Up To Do!

2010-02-05T22:37:00.005-05:00

Dear Blog,

How have you been? I know it's been awhile. Have been so busy here in the land of Mommyhood, that it seems that I have forgotten about you. Can you find it in your HUGE cyber heart to forgive me?

Yours Truly,

Lesley

P.S: A few entries will immediately follow!

First Day of School!

2009-09-15T23:10:00.005-04:00

Time has flown by so quickly, there are two pre-schoolers living my house now! I can't believe it, Em and Ted have both gotten so big.

Emma had a great day of school on Monday! She said she loves her teachers, and was very excited to take her lunch box with and eat at school with her friends! So hard to believe that she will be 4 years old this year!

Ted did great too! He ran into his classroom with lots of enthusiasm. And the little booger didn't miss me for a second, he looked back and said "bye mom"! His teacher said he an awesome day today!

So proud of my little guys!

Do You Remember Where You Were.......9/11/2001?

2009-09-10T22:02:00.002-04:00

It's so hard to believe that the Twin Towers went down 8 years ago. I will always remember what I was doing that day 8 years ago. My mom was at work and asked me to bring her lunch that day, and I was getting ready to leave, she called to tell me I couldn't get into the unit she was on because the VA was on lock down, just as she said that, I saw what was going on on the television, and I looked over at my brother and said "is this a movie, or is this for real?"

That whole day felt like we were living in a different time period. It felt like a dream, and that any minute I would wake up from. My thoughts went back 60 years to how those poor men and women who were attacked during Pearl Harbor. I couldn't help but think how could this be happening it's 2001?

Life seemed to go on after that fateful day as Americans each of our lives was changed in some way. One thing is certain, as the anniversary of this tragic day comes and goes each year, we will always remember where were and what we were doing on September 11, 2001.

The Other Woman!

2009-09-01T16:28:00.004-04:00

Dan and I have been keeping a secret now for the past 6 months, and it is that he is having an affair! Yes, Dan has taken up with our cocker spaniel. It was very discrete at first, but gradually he and the dog have developed feelings for one another!

Who would have thought another woman would take my place in my hubby's heart, but it has happened. Dan used to come home and give me a peck on the cheek, and ask how my day had been. Now it is all about Lissie! He comes home gives the dog a peck, a belly rub, and asks her how her day was! How the hell hard do you think her day was....She's a damn dog! The dog has even claimed my side of the bed! What should I do? I mean look at that dog, and that cute little face, how can I deny her the things I love so dear....especially my side of the bed!

Good Bye Summer 2009!

2009-08-30T22:09:00.010-04:00

It feels so weird that summer is coming to a close! It has been a summer of 9 straight days of rain, one of my children riding their first roller coaster, awesome trips, friends, and lots of FUN! We even had a one trip to the ER for Mommy, and it wasn't because one of the kiddos was hurt!

As summer is coming to a close the reality of having TWO pre-schoolers is setting in! There will be new memories to be made, and many firsts to be had!

Good bye Summer 2009, and Thanks for the MEMORIES!

ATTITUDE!

2009-08-30T21:45:00.004-04:00

Never in my life did I think that the attitude that comes with raising a little girl would come so soon! Recently Emma has developed this little tude.....Wait! HUMONGOUS tude whenever I say anything to her, that usually ends in her saying "Whatever" with her rolling eyes, and letting out huge breath!

My mother's voice keeps popping into my head saying " I hope you have 10 girls with an attitude as big as yours."

Thanks Mom.....I got those 10 girls all rolled into one Emma Louise Miller! By day she is a little angel, by night she turns into Emma Miller devil child! This has seriously made me wonder what the teenage years are going to be like, and will we BOTH survive it? Will we survive age 3 and will we even make it to 4?

June In Pictures!

2009-06-30T22:51:00.011-04:00

Lots of Water Fun!

Sesame Place June 8th and 13th 2009!

Emma and Colleen riding The Vapor Trail at Sesame place....They are in the third car!

Good-bye to the month of June you certainly have a been a "roller coaster" of a month!

No Cook Playdough

2009-06-18T12:49:00.002-04:00

For the last 2 weeks all it has done is rain, rain, rain, and rain some more! We have been utilizing a lot of craft stuff, and we made no cook play dough.For all of you Mom's that are looking for something to do here is the recipe:

1 cup white flour

1/2 cup salt

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tsp alum

food coloring to be creative

1/2 cup water

Mix first 4 ingredients well. Add food coloring to water. Gradually add small of water until mixture is consistency of bread dough. Store in airtight container or ziploc bag to last a long time!

And Now A Word From Our Emma

2009-05-27T00:22:00.003-04:00

The other day at dinner Dan and I were talking about his day at work, and all of a sudden Emma pipes up and says "Daddy will you please be quiet, I am trying to think"

Needless to say we laughed pretty hard!

Wordless Wednesday: Ted's First Trip To The Barber

2009-05-27T00:09:00.002-04:00

Memorial Day Weekend 2009

2009-05-26T23:36:00.011-04:00

This year we decided to take the kids to Dutch Wonderland for Memorial Day weekend. Lois (mother-in-law) gave me a season pass this year for my birthday, so off went with Yia-Yia in tow (my mom).

First, of all it was sooooo HOT and HUMID, but so much FUN! The kids really enjoyed the whip! Teddy could seriously ride the whip all day long, and he would be a happy camper! The other rides not so much! Emma loves the turtle whirl, she, Daddy, and Yia-Yia rode that 3 times! Surprisingly, for a holiday weekend the lines were not long at all!

The only mishap of the day was when our neighbors called to tell us that could not get into the house to let Lissie out! Total panic! Everything worked out, and they ended up going through a window to get into the house to unlock the door so the poor dog could go out and pee! Next time we promise not to lock the storm door so maybe you guys can actually get into the house through the door, and not the window! Both kids slept the whole way home!

On Monday Teddy went to stay with mom for a night, and spend time with his favorite person in the world....Pop-Pop.....Could this be because Pop-Pop is always loading him candy, and all sorts yummy snacks? Emma hung around the house, and played with her new friend Alex who just moved in down the street!

It was just a nice, fun, relaxing weekend!

Great Wolf Lodge

2009-05-17T20:16:00.006-04:00

This post is very long overdue! The last weekend in April we took the kids to the Great Wolf Lodge in the Poconos. The trip was awesome! They have an indoor water park, and tons of things for the kids to do! Em and Ted were in heaven! We would totally this to people with kids! Here are some pictures of the our trip!

Somewhere Over The Rainbow!

2009-05-17T19:54:00.003-04:00

Monday marks the anniversary of my Aunt Em's passing. She was one of my favorite Aunts. When I was little girl Aunt Em was my babysitter, we used to all sorts of things. One of the things we used to do was watch re-runs of " I Love Lucy" and "The Golden Girls. Her laugh used to fill the room, she was always in the mood for a good joke or a prank, which I used to play on her often.

One of Aunt Em's favorite things to do was watch old movies, and our favorite movie to watch together was "The Wizard of Oz". Which is how she became known to me as Aunt Em(everyone esle called her Aunt Sissy). I used to call her house Kansas, and her poodle was Toto. I remember standing in her backyard saying"Auntie Em, Auntie Em a twister"!

She was such a warm person, who would always end every phone conversation with "Don't forget to give my little doll babies a kiss". Aunt Em is very missed, but we know that she is "somewhere over the rainbow" sharing her wit, kindness, and a game of cards with everyone she meets!

Brother and Sister Love!

2009-04-04T23:26:00.002-04:00

My Name Is......

2009-04-04T23:12:00.002-04:00

For those of you who don't know Ted's full name is Theodore Roosevelt Miller II. He is named of Dan's father who was born on Teddy Roosevelt's birthday. Anyway when we really need to get Emma and Teddy's attention we will call them by their first, middle, and last name. The other day Em was being her typical "brasin raisin" self. This is how the conversation went.

Me: Emma Lousie Miller, please settle down!

Emma: My name is not Emma Louise Miller. I'm Emma Roosevelt!

All I can say is that is my Emma!

Parent Teacher Conference

2009-03-28T20:15:00.003-04:00

Thursday was my first experience with parent teacher conferences as a "parent"! Needless to say I was very nervous about what Mrs.Ellis was going to say about Emma because we never know what is going to come of that child's mouth. Standing in the hall waiting my turn was total agony! Mrs. Ellis said she is very proud of Em's progress thus far, and feels her vocabulary is very good for a 3 year old! She also said that Emma is very chatty at times and a complete pleasure to have in class! We are very proud of Emma!

Our New Baby!

2009-03-20T20:19:00.003-04:00

We have been trying to get Dan to get a dog for a long time. Today we adopted a 7 year old cockerspanile from the SPCA named Lissie! She was a breeding dog, and her former owners left her at the shelter because they had no use for her anymore! She has found her forever home here, and is a muched loved new addition to our family!

Awesome Give Away!

2009-03-13T12:51:00.002-04:00

Shannon at You Ott 2 Know is giving away a slender tone ab toner($99 value)!

click here to check it out!

All "Growed" Up!

2009-02-15T12:35:00.007-05:00

There has been a lot of change here this week, and though it is all welcomed change....It is still kind of sad realizing that my babies are starting to be "growed up" as Em would say.

The first big change happened when Emma gave the binky up, Well okay she didn't willingly give it up, but she hasn't asked for it in days, which is a "HUGE" accomplishment for her. Then on last Sunday we took Em to pick her new "Big" Girl bed, and they delivered it on Thursday. She was so happy and excited to pick her bed, and new sheets. We have now entered "The High School Musical" zone!

Now, for my baby boy! He now has little man hair! Daddy took him to get his haircut on Friday, and he came home with a whole new style! I do have to say he looks like a little stud! Teddy also experienced giving Valentine's out for the first time at school! Teddy was invited to his first Valentine's Day party yesterday, boy did he have an awesome time! I went to give him a kiss, and he pushed me away and said " NO, Mom!".

It so hard to believe that we are leaving the baby stages behind and turning into independent toddlers!

Mommy and Me Tea

2009-02-11T13:07:00.004-05:00

Yesterday at Emma's school they had their Mommy and me Tea. It consisted of little heart shaped cakes, and pink lemonade. The hightlight of the day was the kids singing their Valentines songs. They did an awesome job, were all very proud!

Shoe Shopping

2009-02-06T14:45:00.004-05:00

In the last couple of weeks Teddy has really gone through a growth spurt. Today I noticed that his shoes had gotten too small, off to Stride rite we went. Anyway Teddy has also been potty training this week, and doing very well to say the least for only being two, he does not want to wear a diaper. So honoring this we just were briefs, and went out. While I was looking at sneakers, Emma and Teddy decided to go over and play with some of the toys that they have in the store. All of a sudden I hear the store clerk squeal, and start laughing really hard. I looked over my shoulder to see what was going on, and to my horror, my son had stripped himself down completely naked, and was running around the store! I couldn't believe my eyes! This is something that happens to someone else! As I get closer to him, I realize the reason he had taken at least his pants off was because he had an accident, and needed clean pants, and underware. Needless to say it all turned out okay, after several apologies to people in the store for my little streaker, we bought Teddy his new shoes, and headed straight for the door. 18 can not come fast for Teddy, there will be tons of stories for me to tell ALL of his girlfriends!

Innaugration Day Through A Three Year Olds Eyes!

2009-01-20T20:52:00.004-05:00

The excitement was very high in our house today, watching Barack Obama being sworn into office. My mother-in-law was especially pumped up. Emma loved watching everyone, and everything that was happening! She constantly asked questions, like who's that, what is that place, and what's going on? She was really into the festivities. We were really surprised today when Emma's questions were answered, that she would actually repeat the answer as if she were taking a little test!

When the Obama's were walking the Bush's to their helicopter for their last tour of Washington, Emma out of the blue yells "Bye bye President Bush!", and then looks over at her Grandmother and me and says, "I think I am going to like this Obama guy!" We couldn't help but laugh! It was truly an amazing day for all of us in this country. I hope with the new administration we will see some good times ahead.

Emma Say What?

2009-01-19T23:09:00.003-05:00

As most of you know the Eagles lost yesterday's game. We are not very big football fans in this house, but my mom has been staying here to give us a hand, and she likes football, and gets pretty caught up in the game like one of the boys. She and Emma curled up in the recliner yesterday to watch the Eagles. In the 3rd quarter when a touch down was made my mom yells "Yeah Eagles, give them hell"! My three year old then yells "Yeah, Give them hell". My mouth drops 90 miles to the ground in shock that Emma said this. There were so many emotions going through me, I wanted to laugh, and at the same time strangle my mom. Eventually, you get over it, and then you blog it!

Thankful For Friends and Family

2009-01-12T22:40:00.003-05:00

Since my surgery we have had a lot of help around here that we are very greatful for! My mother-in-law was here last week, and went home Sunday. Now, my mom is here, and the kids are really loving Jia-Jia being here! This morning Em, and Ted made cookies with Jia-Jia while I slept. She gave Ted a piece of paper towel to wipe his hands off with, and he stuck it in his ear! Yes, and it is lodged in there! Tomorrow, we go to the doctor, to have a piece of paper towel taken out my son's ear! Needless, to say Em could not wait to tell me everything that happened this morning while I napped.

I am very greatful for all of my wonderful friends this week! There have been so many calls to see what we need, and where they can help. Dan and I both want to extend a HUGE Thank you to all of you! We feel very blessed to have such wonderful friends as you, and would not get through this rough patch without you guys! Thank you so much!

Recovery!

2009-01-11T00:11:00.003-05:00

This week has been a very crazy..to say the least. Monday is a blur, basically because that was the only calm day this week. On Tuesday, we hosted playgroup, and a Tastefully Simple party (on the same day, and I am the newest consultant). Wednesday monring at 7:15 am Dan took me to Paoli hospital for my surgery. I had a total hysterectomy. While I should be jumping up and down, because my monthly BFF will no longer be visiting, and screwing things up, I'm not. Basically because, it hurts, and I don't quite feel like jumping! Thursday, was spent ringing a call bell, every hour because, I had to pee! It is so much fun trying to pee after a cathetar is taken out of your body! WOO HOO! Did I mention how loopy I was from the morphine? Friday, the loopiness, and the frequent urgency subsided, and the doctor discharged me! YAY!
Today was pretty much spent relaxing just enjoying being home! My expectation of how I would feel, and how the doctors said I would feel is really different. I feel okay, just a little tired, and soar. With some time it should get better, and everything else was just a little bump in the road, that one day, we can all laugh at!

Mother's Keeper

2009-01-04T12:55:00.002-05:00

Emma has hit a stage where she wants to correct Teddy for everything he does that he is not supposed to do. When this happens we ask "Emma who are you in charge of? " and she replies " I am in charge of Emma!" The other day as Teddy had decided to take a crayon and scribble on my wall, this was the following conversation:

Me: Teddy you are not supposed to color on Mommies wall!

Emma: Mommy who are you in charge?

Me: I am in charge of Emma and Teddy.

Emma: No, Mommy is in charge of Mommy!

Needless, to say that I was speechless after that

Bringing 2009 In With Friends

2009-01-03T18:49:00.006-05:00

This New Year's Eve was a lot of fun! We celebrated with our close friends Desi, Carlos, Lauren, Kalen, and their children. It was an extra special New Year's eve because Anneli (Lauren and Kalen's daughter) turned 3 on New Year's Eve, and Ciro (Desi and Carlos' son) turned 2 on New Year's day! We also celebrated a new birth to our gang Miles Kalen was born on October 21! Needless to say we were all celebrating a lot of momentous things while bringing in the new year. I do so hope that this can become some kind of tradition over the years! It was an awesome New Year's Eve, and it was extra special celebrating with our friends.

Emma's Future In Photography

2008-12-28T22:09:00.004-05:00

Emma's favorite Christmas toy this year seems to be the Fisher Price digital camera. She has been taking pictures everyday since Santa brought it! This little girl will hop out of no where and yell "Say Cheese!". Watch out Brangelina there's a new Paparazzi photographer in town, and she's only 3 ft tall!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T19:18:00.005-05:00

This was the best Christmas todat! It was our first Christmas in our new home, and the kids seemed to be really excited about Santa this year.

Yesterday started off very icy, however we were still able to make it out to the grocery store for some last minute food items that we needed for Christmas dinner. All day Emma was very excited about Santa coming, and Teddy fed off her excitement, which was totally awesome! After the grocery store the kids and I went for our annual Christmas eve lunch, which we do every year. All during lunch Emma was still a buzz about Santa! When we got home, Emma had received her very own personal video mail from Santa! It really seemed to make the day magical for her. After dinner, the kids and I listened to Christmas music, and baked some cookies for Santa to have as a little snack when stopped by for his visit. The kids were so excited at bedtime that it was hard to get them to bed, after a phone call from Grammy saying she spotted Rudolph's shiny red nose flying over her house, the kids went to bed.

I have to say I was packed full of excitement this morning waiting for Emma and Teddy to wake up! Every hour of last night was spent waking up and looking at a clock! Finally at 5:30 I heard a stir in one of the bedrooms....YAY! Emma was up and Ted would be sure to follow in a few minutes ! When Ted got up about a second after Emma he was the first one to practically knock everyone over, and run down stairs! He was like a little Lightning McQueen running over to the Christmas tree, clapping his hands! Emma was so excited she couldn't speak, then finally she said " He came, He really came!" The magic of that whole morning will forever be engraved in my memory. After our dinner was in our bellies, and our guests had gone home, Emma was playing around her backpack. She pulled out a little package, and brought over to where I was sitting, and said here Mommy, I made you a present. She does little things like this all time, so I thought I would just play along. Much to my surprise when I opened up the package, there really was something inside this time. Emma made the cutest little Santa handprint ornament, and another one with her school picture on it! A tear came to my eye, when she said " Merry Quismas Mommy, I wuv you !" Needless to say she got the biggest bear hug any Mom could give, and I have to say I got the most important gift anyone could get this Christmas.....My wonderful husband and cildren, whom I adore to the ends of the earth!

Kit Kittredge:An American Girl

2008-12-19T21:24:00.003-05:00

The kids and I watched Kit Kittredge: An American Girl. It takes place during the depression era, and is a very clean family movie. Emmy and Ted were glued, they sat through the WHOLE movie, I kid you not!

Emma was even asking questions about certain parts of the movie. Dan and I were amazed at how interested they both were. Emma, was very concerned about a little girl in the movie whose house had been foreclosed on. In this particular scene they were taking her bed, and Emma asks "Why are they taking here bed? Where is she going to sleep?" We explained to her in 3 year old language what was happening, and she says "I can share my bed if it 's okay."

I highly recommend this movie, it was very cute!

Happy Birthday To My Little Angels!

2008-12-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Emma Louise the day you were born was a very happy day! I will never forget the first time I held you in my arms, it was glorious moment in my life! Daddy and I couldn't believe how beautiful you were, and still are. Your "no nonsense" personality was apparent from day one. You are a very sweet and special little girl! Daddy and I love you very much!

Theodore Roosevelt Miller II, always my little clown, and knowing where you wanted to be, deciding to make your debut during Emma's Birthday party, and arriving 5 weeks early. You were a tiny little thing weighing in at 6lbs 1oz! The nurses told us your name was too big for such a tiny baby, but we told them you would grow into it! You are a wonderful little boy, and you keep life hopping around here! You remind me very much of your Grandfather, Daddy and I named you right. Stay as laid back, and happy as you are! We love you!

To my little loves I say Happy Birthday and many more to come! Daddy and I love you both very much!

A Way of Saying Thank You !

2008-12-14T10:13:00.001-05:00

Remembering Grandmom

2008-12-10T15:55:00.002-05:00

As I look back through my life there have been many special women in my life, but none as special as my Grandmom, Mildred Nyce DeCarlo. Grandmom had an extraordinary life, she gave birth to six children, survived the depression, worked her fingers to the bone during World War II, and saw 15 Presidents take office. She always had a cookies in the cookie jar, and jellybeans at Easter.

Grandmom was born April 8, 1909 in Conshocken, Pennsylvania to James and Estelle Nyce. The only girl of four children. She left school in 1924 to work and Married my Dominic DeCarlo in 1930. She had six children between 1931 and 1943. In 1948 my grandfather died of cancer, leaving Grandmom to raise all six children alone. She never remarried! In her lifetime there had been many heartaches she lost 2 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild to accidents, but never let that get her down.

My fondest memory of Grandmom was on my 10th Birthday when she had bought me a cake, and had the waitresses at the restaurant we were eating bring it to me and sing Happy Birthday! Grandmom was very easy to talk and we often talked about her younger days as a flapper, and many other moments of her life! Her best piece of advice that she ever gave to me was " to be the best person that you can be, and that will take you far in life".

Grandmom died December 10, 2000 at 91 years old! I miss her today just as much as I did when she died. I often look at my own children and see a little piece of Grandmom in them, and often think at how much she would have enjoyed them. Her legacy lives on through me and my children, and I take her words of wisdom with me from day to day!

It's Par-Tay Time!

2008-12-08T01:46:00.004-05:00

Yesterday we celebrated Emma and Teddy's birthday! For anyone who does not know Emma and Teddy are not twins.....They were born on the same day one year apart! Every year we celebrate with one BIG Birthday Party! Yesterday was no different than the year before, only there were about 20 more people there, and we had it at our house!

We packed about 70 people in my house...it was great! The kids did stuffed animals, in shifts mind you, but they all seemed to have a GREAT time! This was my favorite party to date! The house was so packed my I couldn't tell which were my kids! After everyone went home...Emma told me that she had a really fun time, and in her words "That was cwazy mom!" It was an awesome funfilled day! It was most special because it was Emma and Teddy's first birthday in their new home with their many new friends that they have made! Thank you all for making this day such a special one for Emma and Teddy!

Emmy's Birthday Present

2008-12-02T21:02:00.003-05:00

Emma received a Birthday present in the mail today from her Aunt Ginny and Uncle Jim in Florida. She was so excited. As she opened the gift, the necklace inside fell out. As proud as can be as Emmy says " Mommy Aunt Ginny sent me a box with nothing in it....I love it!"

Hey Emma, forget toys this year for Christmas, Daddy and I will just wrap the boxes!

Niagra Falls....In My Basement!

2008-11-30T16:21:00.004-05:00

Yesterday a pipe broke on our washtub while we were out. The water leaked everywhere, and I do mean everywhere! It went down into our heating vents to flood the storage room in our basement! It was an absolute mess! Here are some pictures.

Four Years Later!

2008-11-26T18:31:00.007-05:00

Tomorrow Dan and I will be married 4 years....I can't believe it! It seems like yesterday that we met in the computer lab at school. I went over to sit at a computer, and accidentally whacked Dan in the head with my book bag....He just kind of looked over and smiled at me, as I said "I am sorry". That day is still so vivid in my memory...it gives me goose bumps just thinking of it. There were so many fun times before we were engaged...Dan propose on July 5, 2003 in Havre de Grace, Maryland during their Fourth of July fireworks, and the rest is history....We married on November 27th, 2004, 3 years to the date of our first meeting. Looking down the aisle that day and seeing Dan was the one of the happiest days of my life....I have never looked back! We have been together 7 years and they have been full of so many happy and sad times. We have gotten through them for better or for worse!

Happy Anniversary Dannybear! You are the LOVE of my life!

Fun In The Snow!

2008-11-22T18:05:00.004-05:00

Yesterday Emma and Teddy helped me shovel the driveway! It was so weird to see snow yesterday, we had a lot of fun. Teddy wasn't too sure about the snow at first, but Emma couldn't wait to get out in it! Afterward we all enjoyed a great cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows!

Elf Yourself

2008-11-19T22:43:00.002-05:00

Thanks Nancy at Three's Company for the Elf yourel ecards, this was a lot of fun!

Emma's "Mr. Hanky"

2008-11-18T21:26:00.005-05:00

After months of trying to get Emma to do #2 in the potty it has finally happened on a "regular" basis. She is so proud of herself when she goes, that she insist we all come into the bathroom to look at what she did...ah to be 2 again.? After we look at it, Em will flush it down the toilet, and proudly say "Bye poopy, see you next time!".

Tonight we went out for supper, and right on schedule Emma told us she had to go to the bathroom (which we are very happy she does). After she was done, Emma comes out of the bathroom, and proudly yells across the restaurant to Dan "Daddy, I went poopy!". How Dan kept a straight face is beyond me, because I know my face felt flushed.....Let's just say Mr. Hanky has been a proud and defining moment Em's life!

Santa It's Only November, But You are Seriously Stressin' Me Out!

2008-11-13T20:21:00.004-05:00

In April for some reason I decide to take on the responsibility of being the Breakfast With Santa chairperson at Emma's pre-school. Can you sucker? In the back of my clueless mind, I figured this would be a piece of cake....WRONG! Since July Me and one of the other mom's at the school have been trying to get donations from local businesses, and we have gotten a lot of good ones, like an American Girl doll to raffle off, and a Bowling party from Palace Bowling. Why so stressed you ask? The breakfast is only 3 weeks away, and there is still so much to be done! Programs have to be printed, decisions, and more decisions have to be made. I seriously got my first gray hair over this. This is the first year that the school is doing a continental breakfast instead of cooking pancakes and sausage. We are hoping that this goes over well, but we just have to wait for December 13th to find out don't we. It is very worrisome to me about volunteers to help during the breakfast, we haven't gotten many offers yet, and I am worried about the amount of help we will have for that day.

Emma said to her dad the other day " Don't bother mom she's stressed over Santa Clause". It gave us a good chuckle!

A Urinal For Toddlers.....Who Knew!

2008-11-09T21:27:00.006-05:00

Yesterday Ted literally went in and sat on the potty chair and peed....yes he is a typical male with bad aim, but for 23 months I thought it was a pretty good try. Never gave it another thought, just figured he did it by accident. However, he did it again yesterday afternoon! A very shocking moment, the thought never crossed my mind that he might be ready for potty training. Now, he won't wear a diaper....We went to to Target yesterday and bought him some little boy briefs, and let me tell you he looks so darn cute! I don't want to push him to use the potty, but if he is interested maybe we should give it a go? Any advice would be great!

As for the potty chair however, it just won't do. His little noodle is too short to go down inside, and Babies r Us does not sell the deflector for the potty and poor Ted just kept taking his pointer finger trying push that noodle down, and would look at us in confusion so..................we had to buy a new potty just for a little boy. But the part that kind of made me chuckle was when googling potty chairs it was discovered that they make a urinal just for toddlers....yes you read that right, a urinal for toddlers! You can purchase this urinal for a mere $40! It just kind of boggles the mind, wonder who thought that up because the concept make sense.

Pump It Up

2008-11-09T19:37:00.002-05:00

Today we took the kids to Pump It Up a new moon bounce on East Union Street in West Chester. It was an awesome place with lots of cool things to do.....even a rock wall. Emma had a blast. She went from moon bounce to moon bounce! It was hard to get her to go home. Thanks Chester County Moms for Setting this up for all of the mommy bloggers! The kids had an awesome time!

New Kids on The Block

2008-11-06T17:20:00.005-05:00

What an amazing night of old school entertainment! Those New Kids On The Block still got it!

Channels 3 and 6 were there interviewing people going into the concert. The Wachovia Center was absolute mayhem last night! It was literally bumper to bumper getting off 95, and just about every car was going into The Wachovia Center.

Natasha Benningfield was the opening act, and she was great. I loved her, and would actually pay just see her next time she is in Philly.When the New Kids came on stage the whole place literally shook with all the screaming, and cheering! It was an amazing night....Wish I remembered my camera.

Thank you Dan for such a great anniversary gift!

The Right Stuff

2008-11-05T16:57:00.000-05:00

Tonight is my big night! Dan is taking me to see New Kids on The Block for our anniversary! I have been looking forward to this for months...and my night is finally HERE! I am sure there are people out there saying Why The New Kids? Well, let me explain some....Back in the late 80's early 90's they were to me like Hannah Montana is to Emma.....GODS! The bed sheets, the lunch box, and the dolls were in my possesion....I owned it all, but I never got to see a concert. Always wanted to go, but never got to. My wonderful husband is making my dream come true tonight, and love him very much for it! So far it has been a GREAT week Obama is going to the White House, and New Kids on The Block are in Philly.....What more could a girl ask for?

Election 2008 Coverage

2008-11-05T04:50:00.000-05:00

For those of you who fall asleep tonight during the election coverage, I plan on staying up tonight with a note pad, and some extra strong coffee, to bring you election updates! Stay tuned.......

John McCain-Kentucky,Tennessee,South Carolina, Oklahoma, West Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas,Louisiana,Texas,Kanasas,Nebraska,South Dakota, North Dakota, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and Alaska=146 Electoral Votes

Barack Obama-Vermont,Maine, Massachusetts,Connecticut,New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, D.C., Illinois,New Hamshire, Rhode Island,Penssylvania, Ohio, New York, Virginia, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Minessota, Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, California, Oregon, Washington,and Hawaii=349 Electoral Votes.

Get Out and Vote.....Then Go To Starbucks For A Free Coffee !

2008-11-03T18:07:00.003-05:00

Starbucks is giving free coffee tomorrow to those who vote. For more information click here. If you vote in an area that does not give voting proof, they will simply use the honor system, and give you your free coffee! How easy is that? GO VOTE!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T19:55:00.007-04:00

We had a lot of fun Trick-or-Treating tonight! When we started out tonight, I figured the kids would only be up for a few houses, I totally misjudged them! They walked for three blocks tonight with a group of their friends! They just wanted to keep going,going,and going, like little energizer bunnies! It was an awesome Halloween!

Wordless Wednesday-Painting Pumpkins!

2008-10-29T04:20:00.004-04:00

Blah....Weekend......

2008-10-27T15:44:00.004-04:00

This weekend was the absolute pits.....We were all sickity, sick, sick! Emma and Teddy both had pink eye, and Dan and I both came down with the flu! Yes, we did have our flu shots, but we still got the flu! This past weekend was spent putting eye drops in eyes, blowing noses, and watching movies. Thank God for Blockbuster online! Mr. Flu you had just better go away, so we can trick-or-treat on Friday night......One of my favorite things I look forward to all year!

Highland Orchard

2008-10-24T11:02:00.006-04:00

Yesterday Emma's pre-school class went to Highland Orhard. They went on a hay ride, and got to pick some apples! After they had a tour of the orchard they had apple cider doughnuts (yum) and apple cider for snack! We had a great time, it was heartwarming to see how much fun all the kids were having!

Heaven?

2008-10-20T00:30:00.004-04:00

Emma my curious 2 1/2 year old asks me today "What happens to you when you go to heaven?". For you to understand where that is coming from, I have to do a little bit of explaining. My uncle passed away today after a long battle with cancer. The right words were just not coming to me. So, then I ask her....well "what do you think happens when you go to heaven?" She proceeds to say...."You feel better there, and get to eat lollipops all day." Very impressive, considering this is really the first death in the family close to her. It was so hard to try and explain this her, because you want to answer their questions, but you don't want to scare them in the process.

This was just one of the moments in parenting when you wish the child came with a manuel. Happily she likes the idea of going somewhere and eating lollipops all day. It is just so funny how curious kids can be.

World Series Here We Come!

2008-10-17T07:34:00.008-04:00

Teddy and his Daddy love the Phillies. This year Teddy would sit and watch the games with his Dad, and he would clap and cheer! We had his pictures taken on Wednesday in his Phillies shirt, that he would probably sleep in, and wear all the time if we let him! Needless to say Dan is very excited about the Phillies going to the World Series, and Teddy will really enjoy watching the games with his Dad, and having that "male bonding time".

GO PHILLIES!

Memories From Parkesburg!

2008-10-08T20:31:00.010-04:00

Bath time!

Brining Emma home!

Bringing Ted home!

Halloween with our pals!

Emma's First Birthday Party!

We make settlement on our house in Parkesburg on Friday.....We wanted to share some of our favorite memories! Hope you enjoyed them!

Wordless Wednesday-Hey Mom, Look I Can Dress Myself!

2008-10-08T20:18:00.003-04:00

Are Tires Really Exciting?????

2008-10-08T20:04:00.005-04:00

Dan had new tires put on the van today....and to be honest I really don't understand what is so exciting about that! He was like a kid in a porno store ready to ejaculate! When the van was done he asks if I notice anything different about it, and gets really offended because my response was "No, I don't everything looks the same". The only thing he was missing when he strutted off was long flowing hair to flip out of his face in disgust! A tire is a tire, there is no excitement in that......maybe if he said " I just bought you a new BMW SUV with a DVD player, and a GPS, I would get excited.....But tires are pretty damn boring in my book. Sorry Dan.

Ted Ate The Paint

2008-10-05T19:13:00.003-04:00

Friday, we had an apple stamping playgroup at our house. The kids had a lot of fun, especially Teddy! This was Ted's first time painting, and he had an absolute ball! However, we did have one little problem......He also like eating the paint! By the time we were done Ted had a blue mouth! He had a lot of fun, and that is all that mattered!

SHE LIKES IT, SHE REALLY LIKES IT!

2008-10-02T12:57:00.006-04:00

Emma had her first day of school without the "binky". She forgot to take it with her today, and Mrs. Ellis said she did a great job! We knew she could do it!

Emma talked a mile a minute when I picked her up today.....She kept saying what a fun day she had at school today. It was "Mommy we played outside" and "Mommy I got to paint today".

The best part was when she said "Mommy I love school"!

What relief we finally LOVE IT! We are very proud of her today! WOO HOO EMMA!

Wordless Wednesday-What A Little Man My Baby Has Become!

2008-10-01T18:35:00.004-04:00

Teddy at 1 day old

Teddy 21 months old!

Inurance Companies.....SUCK!

2008-09-30T18:33:00.005-04:00

I got a call today from my O.B.'s office stating that my last appointment was not paid for. Naturally, I am thinking this is odd....I ask how much did the insurance covered.....They said NOTHING, because.....Are you ready......I don't EXIST! Taken back, I go really, that is impossible because you are talking to me! The lady on the other end goes....No, I just talked to your insurance company, and they say you don't, so how do you want to pay?.....What a MORON! I am in total disbelief! Is the person on the other end of the phone just plan stupid, or is she just having bad day?

Now, we go through verifying that they have the right insurance card, and that the numbers on the card are right......What a waste of time! The whole time my brain is spinning like 90 mph! I want to yell so bad....YOU are an idiot.....BLUE CROSS SUCKS ! We ended up getting it all straightened out, and everything should be paid for....hopefully! Keep your fingers crossed.

Happy Birthday Dan!

2008-09-26T00:00:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday To You! Happy Birthday To You! Happy Birthday Dear Dan....Happy Birthday to You!

Happy Birthday! I love you, and hope you have a GREAT day!

Give Away Winner!

2008-09-20T08:00:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to Shannon at you Ott 2 Know! She is the winner of the Crayola giveaway!

Hannah Montana Is In The House !

2008-09-19T21:11:00.003-04:00

Emma had a great day at school today with no crying! After school we went to get her Halloween costume....now all summer she kept saying she was going to be Cinderella, but then Hannah Montana came into our lives ! Now Em says she is going to be Hannah Montana, so we got her costume today.......and she is already the little "diva". We are so proud of our costume that we have done everything in it today, and I mean everything.....Hope it makes it to Halloween!

Ted's First Day of School!

2008-09-17T12:55:00.006-04:00

Teddy getting into the van to go to school today!

Ted in the van putting his seatbelt on.

Today was Teddy's first day of school, and let's just say he was a complete "boy" about it! His favorite part was snack time! He loved dancing with the scarves, and playing on the see saw ! Teddy had a great first day! Mommy and Daddy are just so amazed at the little man you have become, keep your winning smile, and A list personality, and you will do wonders! Happy First Pre-School Day Teddy! We love yeou very much! Here are some of the pictures we were able to get of the LITTLE MAN!

One of Ted's favorite things the slide!

My First Give Away

2008-09-15T11:25:00.004-04:00

Okay, I have decided to offer a giveaway. My first giveaway will be a Crayola Super Bright Color System.....If you post a comment here by Friday September 19th, You could be the lucky winner of this awesome product! All you have to do is tell me why you think your child would enjoy this and a winner will be chosen by random on Saturday September 20th! Good Luck to all of you !

The Best of Both Worlds!!!

2008-09-14T21:32:00.004-04:00

Well Emma has a new phase in her life....Hannah Montana! She absolutely LOVES Hannah Montana these days....I am so glad that this is a fun phase. Well anyway today we went to Toys' R' Us, to get Teddy a new bike helmet, and of course as always each them came out with a new toy....Teddy a little Hummer, and Emma her got her very first Hannah Montana doll! She was so excited the whole way home......I kept hearing "It's the best of bof words" coming from the back of the van! Even Teddy got into the action......He knows a pretty girl when he sees one!

When we got home Emma insisted on watching her "Hannah Montana: the Best of Both Worlds" DVD, naturally the new Hannah Montana doll was singing too! It is so amazing how their little imaginations work!

Emma's First Week of Pre-School!

2008-09-12T07:49:00.006-04:00

Tuesday was Emma's first day of Pre-School. She was a little nervous but did okay. She went in and sat down, and began to play. However, Teddy had a huge problem with us leaving Emma behind! He cried outside the door of the classroom saying "Emma back". I felt bad for the little guy! Emma looked so darn cute when dropped her off, she picked out all of her clothes, and she had her Hannah Montana book bag in toe. She did great, until it was time to go to Lunch Bunch......I was given a call to come in and get her early because she began to cry, and was not eating her lunch!

Yesterday was her second day it went much smoother. No phone calls to pick her up. Emma even went potty for the teacher. ! I was so proud of her.

There has been no time this week to absorb that my baby has started school! Eventually, I know that it will sink in......and I know that I am a little sad because I miss having her around.....She will do great! I know it! Congratulations Emma on your first week....Daddy and Mommy are so PROUD of you!

Awesome Give Away!

2008-09-08T22:45:00.006-04:00

Shannon at You Ott 2 Know has an awesome give away this week! If you leave a comment on her site by Sunday, September 14th you could a win the first book from a new series of books being released by Precious moments! Visit Shannon's site to find out more!

Pre-School Tomorrow

2008-09-08T19:49:00.008-04:00

Emma September 2007
Emma and Anneli September 2008

Emma starts pre-school tomorrow, and so does her friend Anneli. It is so hard to believe that they are getting so big, and as of tomorrow they will both officially be pre-schoolers! Good luck tomorrow girls! You both will have an awesome time!

Anneli September 2007

SOLD!

2008-09-07T20:58:00.004-04:00

We got word this weekend that someone made an offer on our house. If all goes well we will be saying good-bye to our house in Parkesburg October 10!

I thought this would feel exciting, but I am a little sad. Parkesburg is where we brought both kids home from the hospital. We have so many memories there, but it is time to move on from our first home together as family. I am sure we will make many new memories here.

Good-bye Parkesburg house, you were apart of so many wonderful thing in our life. Thanks for the memories!

Chuck E. Cheese

2008-09-07T20:52:00.003-04:00

Today we went to Chuck E. Cheese with Sarah and Heidi. Emma and Teddy had a blast, especially Teddy who discovered that if you walk on the skee ball machine it is a lot easier to throw the balls in. Emma had an awesome time on the slide, and in the tunnels. Of course the day wouldn't have been complete without pizza, pizza, pizza, and more pizza. This was a fun way to end the weekend.

Rainy Day

2008-09-06T20:41:00.004-04:00

The kids and I made the most of our rainy day today. We went to the grocery store this morning to stock on the thing we will need for the week, Em starts school on Tuesday so we had to get snacks and things for her lunch. We bought some new movies today too! The kids were very excited to get Hannah Montana: The Best of Both Worlds. Emma and Ted were so excited...Hannah Montana is a new fad here in the Miller house!

Afterwards, Dan hooked up the "old" Nintendo and we played video games. It felt like old times, and the kids had an absolute ball. Then it was off to bed. It was just a nice way to relax, and recuperate for tomorrow's trip to Chuck E. Cheese with friends!

Is The Week Over Yet?

2008-09-04T22:36:00.004-04:00

This has been the week from h-e double hockey sticks....for a lack of something better to say. The weekend started off great, we went to Milky Way Farm and had ice cream, and on Sunday we went to our new church.....by Monday when Emma puked all over Bob Evans that was the clue it was all down hill from there!

Emma had given no obvious signs that she was not feeling well, she was her usual perky, stubborn self (if you know Emma you know that this description is pretty accurate.)-Emma is a "Miller" for sure! We decided to go and have breakfast at Bob Evans...with all the geriatrics I might add, for some reason my family seems to be drawn where the over 50 crowd seems to hang out, and I don't know why. When the waiter brought our food Emma was the first to dig in (this should have been my first clue something was up, because she hardly eats). She ate everything, and then all of a sudden it all poured back out again! Poor Emma, just cried, and said " I spilled out my belly". My heart went to her, and Teddy just kept eating, how that boy could keep eating was beyond me. We got out check, and went home.

To make a long story short...We have been to the Dr's 3 times this week, needless to say we our now his favorite patients because I am sure 90% of his salary this week came from us! Tests beyond test, beyond test was done....My butt print is now a famous fixture in the waiting room at Chester County hospital. Needless to say Emma a bladder infection.....How my kids get these is beyond me...but they do. To make matters even better, Emma had a reaction to the antibiotic they gave her, which landed her for an overnight in the hospital, where they had to put an IV in to hydrate here, and give her something else for her infection.....We had lots of fun....NOT! The poor kid was frightened, which at 2 years old is very understandable. Thankfully she only had to stay one night, and was discharged this morning.......I honestly don't know how people do it......I know I wanted to cry along with Emma everytime she had something done to her. In the end everything turned out okay, and Em is fine now. It has just been a stressful week!

Labor Day

2008-09-01T00:20:00.002-04:00

Happy Labor Day!