Katie Makes Her Own Pizza

I think most all of the kids enjoyed this field trip to CiCi's Pizza. We walked in to a table full of raw pizzas, ready to be assembled and cooked. The owner took 5 children at a time to make their very own pizza. Some kids piled on all the toppings and then there were a few that would rather just have a cheese pizza. Here are a few pictures of the whole experience:

Katie dug right in and started putting on the toppings. Surprised, she wanted to put pineapple and mushrooms on her pizza.

We got to go back into the kitchen area and watch the pizza go into the 500 degree oven. Would you believe the lady asked us if we would like to push the pizza onto the conveyor belt? We passed on the experience of staying right by a boiling hot oven, didn't sound all that safe.

Katie really liked her pizza and it looks pretty good. She decided she didn't like the pineapples, but liked everything else. By the time she was finished, I was shocked to see that she ate half of it.

After all the children ate, they hit the game room. Katie had to try one of the games. Her and her friend, Me-Me aka Mary Holman, are pretending to drive.
The Twilight SeriesI finished "Breaking Dawn" and I have to say that it was a very good read. It did keep you in suspense all throughout the book. I have to admit that I did get my feathers ruffled from time to time until I found out later that it didn't end up the way I thought it would, suspense. I was cheering for Jacob up to the very end, but I guess over all he did get the girl per sa. I don't want to give everything away, so I'll leave it at that.
First, I have to get something that I've pondered off of my chest. We were at Bridge Street, doing a little shopping and waiting to be seated at P.F. Changs, when I went inside Barnes and Noble. I knew I wanted to get "Breaking Dawn", but I had a difficult time finding the thing under fictional romance. I even looked under horror, but nothing. I was beginning to wonder if they even sold the series. Then, there they were. What puzzles me is what makes publishers think this series is just for teens? For one thing, I wouldn't consider this a teenager's novel. In fact, I wouldn't encourage the read for teenagers. Is it because there are teenagers in the stories? I think kids have enough to think about with raging hormones. I don't know about boys, but girls fantasize a lot and some may have difficulty keeping fiction and non-fiction separate. I am glad that Stephanie Meyer kept some morals in the story. At least Edward and Bella got married before they became intimate with one another and I'm relieved Bella was practically dead before she was transformed into a vampire. Overall, I'm very pleased to have had the change to read the whole series. "New Moon" comes out on DVD March 20th, I believe, right before "Eclipse" comes to the theaters. I'm very excited to see how the movies will go along with the books.

Mom's Birthday Luncheon
We had a really nice lunch with mom yesterday. We all met up at "The All Steak Restaurant". Katie loved seeing Nia again. Robin and I have got to get the girls together more often because they love playing with one another. Katie gets upset when she doesn't get to play with Nia long enough. Here are a few pictures:






Tim Hawkins
Last night, I laid up on the bed, surfacing the web, while Doug was sleeping. I had both kids in bed sleeping, so I had time to myself. I checked out Max Lucado's daily devotional and his latest news. I remembered God Tube, so I pulled it up to see what was the most popular Christian video this week. I saw the name Tim Hawkins and it was listed that he was a Christian comedian. I thought I could really use a laugh, so I checked him out. I had my head phones on, but still managed to wake Doug up. I guess the bed was shaking so hard from me laughing. He is a comedian that takes older songs and changes the words. He is really good at it. To kick off Valentine's week, I decided to post this parody of two loves "Samson and Delilah."

Right away, I have to tell you that he's not gay. He's pretending to be a Sunday School Teacher, mixed with silliness. I'm so glad God allowed me to discover Tim. I will be excited to see more of his skits and musical parodies.

Tim Hawkins

I so needed this laugh today. He is so true! Enjoy

I don't know, if I could ever get use to the new Monopoly game. A round board game is unheard of. I mean where do you go to jail and how do you teach your child to count back money. I learned to count money by playing this game. Now, they use a credit card.

Field Trip
Well, tomorrow is Katie's field trip to the pizza place. Whoo hoo! Katie is so excited. She loves going on field trips. I'm just relieved that it's on a Friday, so Doug can watch Colton for me. I'll post the story and pictures as soon as I can. After lunch, Katie and I have a hair appointment. I'm having at least an inch cut off of Katie, I don't care what she says. My hair has gotten so long that I've got to get it trimmed up. I have to say I've enjoyed having my hair so long because it's easy to throw it up in a ponytail or clip and go in the mornings.

Surprise

Colton gave me a little surprise this morning. As you know, he has been teething again and it's been somewhat of a challenge. With all the swollen gums, red and tender to the touch has come to a rejoicing (temporary) end. For the past month, I've been keeping an eye on the little tooth that was expected to pop through at any time, next to his two top teeth. As I was acting silly to make him laugh, I noticed something that I wasn't expecting. Something white by his two bottom teeth. He cut a tiny white tooth through on the bottom. Yay! Automatically, I rubbed my finger across the area on the top of his mouth to check the tooth that has given him so much grief. My eyes all big, I could finally feel it. Yay! Colton has two new teeth, making 6 teeth total.

My Top 15 Favorite Romantic Movies
Love is in the air and this is the month to celebrate. I wanted to pass along 15 of my favorite love movies to you. I couldn't come up with just a top 10. In fact, my head kept coming up with more names, but I knew I couldn't list a top 100 favorites.
"An Affair to Remember" starring Cary Grant & Deborah Kerr
"Sleepless in Seattle" starring Meg Ryan & Tom Hanks
"In Love and War" starring Sandra Bullock & Chris O'Connell
"Return to Me" starring Minnie Driver & David Duchovny
"Made of Honor" starring Patrick Dempsey & Michelle Monaghan
"An Officer and A Gentleman" starring Richard Gere & Debra Winger
"Titanic" starring Leonardo DiCaprio & Kate Winslet
"While You Were Sleeping" starring Sandra Bullock & Bill Pullman
"Sabrina" starring Harrison Ford & Julia Ormond
"Roman Holiday" starring Audrey Hepburn & Cary Grant
"The Holiday" starring Cameron Diaz & Jude Law
"A Walk In The Clouds" starring Keanu Reeves & Aitana Sanchez-Gijon
"Pearl Habor" starring Ben Afflack & Kate Beckinsale
"The Wedding Planner" starring Matthew McConaughey & Jennifer Lopez
"The Proposal" starring Sandra Bullock & Ryan Reynolds

I'd be very interested to see your list of favorite love stories. What would be on your top 15 favorites list?

Ruby Tuesday Valentine's Special
Three-Course Meal for Two $40
Your meal would include an appetizer, featured entrees and dessert to end the evening. I think this is a great opportunity for us. I think I'm going to call and see if I can take advantage of this deal, if they will let me "Get To Go."
This special deal will only last February 12-14. To view the featured menu, CLICK HERE.

Chocolate Cheerios Marshmallow Hearts

For you chocoholics, have you picked up your Chocolate Cheerios from the grocery store? It's delicious! Colton and I love them. I received a recipe from Betty Crocker this morning for a Valentine dessert called "Chocolate Cheerios Marshmallow Hearts."

Chocolate Cheerios Marshmallow Hearts Recipe
Crust
1 cup Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
1 cup Chocolate Cheerios® cereal, crushed
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups miniature marshmallows

Topping
2/3 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 bag (11.5 ounces) milk chocolate chips
4 cups Chocolate Cheerios® cereal
Candy sprinkles, if desired

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Line bottom and sides of 13x9-inch pan with foil. In large bowl, mix all crust ingredients except marshmallows with electric mixer on low speed until crumbly. Press firmly into bottom of pan.
2. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until light golden brown. Remove from oven. Immediately sprinkle with marshmallows. Return to oven; bake an additional 1 to 2 minutes or until marshmallows just begin to puff. Cool while preparing topping.
3. In large saucepan, place all topping ingredients except cereal and sprinkles. Heat over medium-low heat just until chips are melted and mixture is smooth, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in 4 cups cereal. Immediately spoon warm topping over marshmallows; spread to cover. Sprinkle with candy sprinkles. Cool completely, at least 1 hour.
4. Using foil to lift, remove mixture from pan; remove foil. With deep 2 1/2-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out 18 hearts. Store loosely covered.

Beth's New Book

The long wait has come to an end, Beth Moore's new book, "So Long, Insecurity" is out on bookshelves in stores today. She's got a book signing tour soon to Atlanta, Birmingham and Houston. According to her website, she'll be in Birmingham Wednesday, February 10th. To get dates and times of the book tour Click Here. I'd like to get a copy.


Colton UpdateI've got a real quick update on Colton. He just took 2 steps without holding on to anything or anyone. YAY!!! Katie and I applauded and cheered him on. He didn't know what was going on. Watching us both clap and cheer, he began clapping as well.

Six More Weeks of Winter Weather

According to Punxsutawney Phil, we have 6 more weeks of Winter weather because he saw his shadow this morning. I hate to hear this news because the South has underwent a very cold wet Fall and Winter months. I'm so ready to see some sunshine for longer then a few hours at a time, one day out of the week. Sometimes, I have to stop and remind myself that I'm not in Seattle, Washington.

It was a little sunny yesterday around 11:00, so I got to pick Katie up at Covenant's playground. Mrs. Katie giggled and asked me, "it's a little warm to get out for a few minutes. Right?" I think the temperature made up to 48 degrees. I laughed at her because all the children had on their Winter coats, playing around on the equipment. Us Alabamians are not use to the extended cold weather for so long. It's gotten to where my bones hurt, it's so cold here. My thing is, if it's going to be this cold then I want it to snow. Let it snow, melt and be done with it. The poor squirrels have our yard covered just about every day, getting food. I think I counted close to 10 just in our back yard one morning. They were scurrying around remembering where they buried that one acorn.

Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day in just in a few more day. Do you have your special someone a gift or plans for a romantic dinner? While Katie was in school, Colton and I took this opportunity to get our shopping finished. Yay!

Doug and I have been trying to get a hold of our diet and loose a few pounds, so I haven't been cooking per sa. I'm just afraid I'll loose control and there you go. I've lost a little weight, but not near enough because I haven't been able to get the kids out to do our walking. Ugh!

Saying that, Katie's Valentine party is the Friday before Valentine's weekend, February 12th I believe. I had planned to make her class message heart cookies, but went out on the wide world of web to look at all the different ideas. Oh my gosh! I had entirely too much fun. There are soooo many cute ideas out there that now I'm thinking about changing my mind. One of the blogs, I check in every now and then, Bakerella, had the best idea.
Are these cute or what? These delicious looking kisses are made with Oreo cookies, cream cheese and chocolate bark. So simple and your own personal touch. For the recipe and directions, click here.

These are too pretty to eat. Again, these will be so simple to make. The roses are made from colored rolled fondant. If you're not familiar with fondant, I would purchase the white and just get the food color dye that you would prefer. For the recipe and directions, click here.

I thought these Nutter Butter Balls just looked yummy. They are made with Nutter Butter cookies, cream cheese and chocolate bark. I think Doug would like these. For the recipe from Bakerella click here.

I'm getting really hungry right now. Can you tell? lol! I have to stay in control until it's time to cook at least one of these scrumptious looking desserts.

Emily

I just received some disturbing news. You might remember . . . a couple of years ago, I asked for prayers for a church member, Emily M., that received a lung transplant due to complications from dealing with Cystic Fibrosis. She healed great and was able to move back to Texas with her family.

Well, she came down with Pneumonia this past month. She wasn't getting any better, so she was flown to UAB Hospital for further treatment. Because she couldn't get over it in TX, they to put on a ventilator. Once at Birmingham, she seemed to improve. She had some issues with a blood clot in her pic line, some digestive issues, some bleeding in her stomach due to an ulcer. By the following Wednesday, January 27th, Emily's heart rate dipped really low. Couple of hours later, her heart rate went to 200 and her blood pressure sky rocketed. After the emergency crash team worked her, they were able to get her regulated. She was finally looking okay as far as her vitals, until a nurse came in 4 hrs later to check on her. She checked her pupils and the did not dilate or respond to the light. They immediately took her to do a CAT scan and discovered she had a brain hemorrhage. Emily had left this world to be with the Lord.

Emily fought a tough battle and won. You heard me, all she wanted to do was live her life with her family and be there for her little girl, but her body was so weak from the years of battles. She lived such an inspiring life. I would like to encourage you to read her blog about how she lived with C.F., relying on God and her faith. Click Here to read more. She has a new body form now. One that's not riddled with disease and complications. She's happy and in the presence of God Almighty. The ones that need your prayers right now is her husband, daughter, Faith, and other family and friends. Thank you!

Weekend
We had a few people over for supper Saturday night. Ryan is planning to leave for NC in a couple of days. We won't be able to see him again until sometime in July. When he'll start moving some of his possessions back home and getting ready to go back to school. He asked him and his parents over for supper, just to visit one more time. We had chicken tenders and fries, nothing real big.

Mom was sounding really down earlier that morning because the lens in her eye was acting weird. She had eye surgery not too long ago in both of her eyes. She has been so happy because she only needs reading glasses now. Well, she came down with a cold a few days ago and she feels that the cold got in her eye. Since then, she's had difficulty seeing. Looking out the one eye, she sees something fuzzy and it doesn't move. Along with the fuzzy, she has a lot of floaties. It very frustrating for her. She was going to get ahold of her doctor this morning. I told her that she needed to get her mind off of her eye, her and dad needed to come over and spend the day with us. We enjoyed every one's visit.

Sunday, Millard and Peggy took Katie to the movies. "Alvin and the Chipmunks, The Squeakual" was playing. Katie really liked it! Her favorite part was when one of the chipmunks passed gas. FIGURES!

Prayer Request

I have an update on Barry B.'s brain tumor. He had surgery Monday or Tuesday, the doctor got most of the tumor out. Unfortunately, they couldn't get all of it. Please continue to keep him and his family in your prayers. Thanks!

She's Only 4

Katie and I went trudging out into the still freezing weather, to complete her "Operation Kids Project" to Haiti. Now, try to explain to a 4 year old that buying items for a child in another country of a different origin. All you get are questions galore. "Is it for a boy or a girl? What does she look like? Where does she live? Why does she need bandaids? Is she hurt? What's an earthquake?" I didn't have a picture to show her what the children of Haiti looked like, so I think I made a mistake by describing them as having the same skin color as Katie's friends, Nia & Mia. I was trying to explain how they had dark skin. She understood. Unfortunately, she thought we were buying these things for Nia and her hispanic friend, Mia. Then she asked when we were going to Mia's house. Ugh! I tried to explain to her about the devastation of an earthquake. I don't think she could grasp all of what I was trying to tell her. She doesn't like to watch the news with her daddy and I, she says it's too boring, so she missed all the Haitian pictures and videos. I'm hoping to get online and find pictures for her. I think she would have a better understanding, if she could witness something visual.

We were suppose to fit all these items in gallon bags. I knew right away, it was going to be a challenge to get a blanket & pillow to fit inside a gallon bag. Thank goodness I found 2 gallon bags by Ziplock. I wished they sold 5 gallon bags because I think everything could have fit perfectly. I had Katie sitting right by me, helping because this was her project. She was so worried that she wouldn't be able to write her name on the card. Now that Katie can write her name well, she wants to write it on everything.

It was bugging Katie to death because she didn't know what the little girl's name was that we were helping. "What's her name? Why don't you know her name?" Doug told her that we needed to come up with a name. With a brillant idea look on her face, she said "I know what we'll call her? We'll call her Katie. I think she'll like that name. What do you think mom?" I agreed. She seemed so much more relieved now that she had a name. My Katiebug is something else.

Saturday Plans
We are planning on having mom and dad over for the day to watch the Senior Bowl, starts at 3PM. It should be pretty exciting to watch. Later tonight, Kevin, Maryann and Ryan are coming over for supper. I'm just hoping mom and dad can stay that long in order to join us. We bought a whole bunch of chicken tenders and fries. Doug's going to dip a few in wing's sauce. Normally, we dip them in "Frank's Wing Sauce." This time we're dipping them in "Budweiser Wing's Sauce."

Ryan's going back to NC, so we wanted to visit with him one more time before he left. He has been catching up on his deer hunting, day and night, the whole month he's been home. Katie loves it when Ryan comes to visit because he puts her on his shoulders and walks her around. Her head nearly hits the ceiling when he does it. Ha ha!

We're In Trouble!

Snap To It Girl Cheer
I believe Doug and myself are in trouble. I say this because my daughter, Katie, has taken my words and is turning them into a very catchy cheer. Last night, she was mumbling something and I wasn't paying too much attention. I thought her clapping in a pattern and snapping her head up and down was cute. This caught my attention, so I stood there in the bathroom as she was getting ready for her bath and listened to the cheer. "Snap To It Girl! (clap, clap, clap . . . clap, clap, clap)" as her head snapped back and forth. Where did she hear this I thought at first and then it dawned on me. I asked her, "where did you hear this cheer?" All shy now, "I don't know." (giggling) I asked her if she got it from me. She giggled some more. Now, let me back up. In the past I would give Katie some instruction and if she was off in Katieland (pretending not to hear me), I'd clap my hands and say "snap to it girl." Me saying this seemed to get her back to earth. I don't know if it's a girl thing, but she daydreams a lot. Like any child, she thinks the wind is blowing and it's not mama telling her to do something at all. What's sad is how she was able to take my words and turned them into cute cheers. As I was drying her hair, she told me to say the cheer with her. I had a hard time keeping it together because all I wanted to do was laugh, which would have been fine with her because that's all she did was laugh. Ugh! Man, are we in trouble!

Last night, I was checking in on Katie and Colton. It was precious, they were cuddled together in the corner of the room, playing. They were surrounded by blankets, pillow and toys. They were having a ball and Katie was pretending to tell Colton secrets. Apparently, he thought her secrets were hilarious because he would start chackling. The more secrets, the more laughter. It's a wonder if he's side didn't hurt from laughing so hard. One thing I enjoy is watching them play. They play so good with one another and she loves to make her brother laugh. It's just hard to get into her thick skull that there are limits because Colton is still a little baby. I have to say, she is getting some better.
I believe Colton misses he's sissy when she's not around. When he does see her, he's little eyes light up and he begins jumping up for joy. He gets mad, if he is in the Living Room and Katie goes to her bedroom, to play. He wants her with him at all times, but she's not allowed to play with her toys in the Living Room. Unfortunately, it was a mommy and daddy rule. Katie has so many toys that are really tiny and we fear Colton will get a hold of one and choke on it. So, it's best Katie's toys were not allowed in the room. However, Katie likes to play with Colton's toys too, so it works out.

Four Basic Food Groups

Katie is learning about her food groups. The other day, they covered the meat/poultry/fish group. Today, they studied about the bread group. Her homework was to try a new food and report if she liked it or not. Well, Doug and I have always made it a rule since Katie was a baby that she would have to try different foods at least once. If she didn't like it, it wouldn't be forced on her. If she did like it that would be great. It was very hard for me to come up with a new food for her to eat. There's not much she hasn't tried that I would feel alright with. I mean I would never force her to try buttermilk or sauerkraut. Yuck! Like me, she has to smell everything new before she even thinks about putting it towards her tongue. Even then, she'll stick the tip of her tongue ever so gently to taste for good judgment.

Yesterday, I dropped her off at ballet and went to Walmart to come up with an idea because I was at a lose. Finally, there it was . . . Mangoes by bushels. I've never had a mango before, so this would be a good experience for the both of us. I really didn't know how to pick a ripe one, so I went by instinct and picked one like I would a peach (soft & reddish color). As soon as we got home, I peeled, cut up and put in the fridge to get cold. I can't believe I've never had a mango before, they are so sweet. I think I might like them better than a peach. I think Katie was surprised how sweet they were as well. We both liked it very much and we will be having them more often now.

Katie's class will be taking a field trip to Ci Ci's Pizza to complete the food group study in a few days. Mrs. Katie had to get a head count as to how many students and parents will be attending. I really don't prefer Ci Ci's Pizza, not my favorite, but it's cheap. Now, I just have to send in the money and written approval for Katie to attend.

New In Electronics
The new IPad from Apple was revealed today by none other than Steve Jobs. Actually, I was surprised to see he was well enough to unveil the new computer himself. I guess his cancer treatments are going well. The pad is specifically for reading books, playing games and watching videos. Pretty cool!


Massive Toyota Vehicle Recall
Have you noticed the massive vehicle recall from Toyota? This isn't helping the economy out at all. Plus, all the people that own these cars/trucks. The halt in production are on 8 different models of Toyotas because to the accelerator and the mechanics to go along with them. It's a very serious deal from what I understand. There have been reports about the accelerator sticking. I would be scared to death, if that happened to me. The recalls include the top-seller Camry since 2007. Also included are as follows: '09-10 RAV4, Corolla & Matrix, '08-10 Sequoia, '07-10 Tundra, '05-10 Avalon, and '10 Highlander.

100th Day of School

Today marks the 100th day of school; therefore, all the students of Covenant School are encouraged to dress up like a 100 year old man or woman. Katie loved this idea until she got to school. She was up bright eyed and bushy tailed this morning waiting to dress up in grandma Jerry's stuff. As the morning went on, it got to where she said the glasses hurt her hair. She wouldn't leave the glasses alone,when I put them on her. She'd take them off and put them back on. The way she was putting them on, they would stick in her already pulled back hair. Of course, it hurt putting the glasses on this way. I'd tried to fix them and I'd see her do it again. Ugh! Children! Finally, I told her to put them in her backpack until we got to school. As soon as we got to school, I had a hard time getting her to put the glasses on because she said they hurt her hair. Whatever!



Katie and her friend, Olivia. Katie wasn't too thrilled having her picture taken at school. Blah!

Getting ready for next year's school year, Covenant School is having their annual Open House on February 7th from 2PM-3PM.

Daystar Church in Cullman has a project going on right now. They are collecting aid for Earthquake victims in Haiti. Covenant School's students are helping out. They've given the students a list of items to get for boys and girls. We are to fill up a gallon ziplock bag with gender listed on it. The deadline for Covenant students are not until February 5th, so I'm sure if you want to participate with the church, there's plenty time. If you'd like more information, send me a comment.

Great Weekend

I had a very enjoyable birthday weekend. I want to thank all of you for the warm and cheerful birthday wishes! I really do appreciate my family and friends remembering me on my special day.

I received a couple pair of beautiful shoes, Doug is too good to me. A fabulous pink purse that I picked out. I've never owned a purse that wasn't either black or brown. You talk about getting out of your comfort zone (lol), but I absolutely love it.

Some of you know, I've been using Doug's grillin' apron around the house while I bake. I've been keeping my eyes open for that perfect apron just for me. The only ones I could find were of solid color and very original. I loved Laura's apronshe received for her birthday, but I didn't want to get one exactly like hers. Well, Saturday night as we were waiting to be seated at P.F. Chang's for my birthday supper, we walked over to a new shop at Bridge Street. I don't know how long Le Gourmet Chef has been here, but I really like this little shop. It reminds me a little of a World Market. I didn't have long to shop in this store, but I found the apron that I've been looking for. It's says: "Queen of Everything." Doug giggled at me when I read it to him. Below is a picture of it.

We waited an hour and a half, close to two hours, before we were seated in P.F. Chang's. Oh, it was so worth the wait! I just love this place. We decided to get something different this time, so we ordered Mongolian Beef and Combination Lo Mein Noodles(shrimp, chicken & beef). I recommend it all! It was very good. I've never had Lo Mein Noodles before and I think I like them better than fried rice, it's not so filling. We are definitely ordering this again the next time. We also ran into some old friends of ours, while we were at Bridge Street. We all wanted to have a little catch up time, but unfortunately there was no time for that. (sniff sniff) When I worked, we all would get together at a different spot for dinner and play catch up. I enjoyed those times so much. Now, it's hard for us to get together.

Look What Colton's Doing
Peggy had her two step ladder out in the kitchen and Colton found it. The little booger climbed right up just like he knew what he was doing. He has never done this before, he acted so proud of himself. Of course, we cheered him on and I think Peggy took a picture of him trying to climb up again. He's been a little crabby and I can see a tooth coming through, so that's probably a lot of his problem. It's the top right tooth by his two front teeth. One thing I don't miss is teething. He pretty much doesn't want to do anything but for me to hold him. Poor baby.

Katie's School Update
Katie continues to improve at school. In fact, Mrs. Katie told me today how much she is impressed on Katie and how she is growing up in her school work. She's been doing a lot of work on her own now without any assistance from Mrs. Katie and bringing home a lot of smiley faces. She can count up to 40. She recognizes some of her letters, sounds and most of her numbers (up to 10).

Great Finds
I must of lost some inches in my waist, can't really see it, but I could put on a pair of pants this morning that I haven't been able to put on for some time now. Whell, I couldn't get them on unless I was laid out on the bed trying to pour myself in them. (lol) So, today we go back to the diet. I've seen advertised on TV "Jello Mousse." I noticed our Walmart had them in stock - - you talk about sheer decadence. I got the dark chocolate mousse and it is delicious! What's so wonderful about it is it fits great with my Weight Watchers plan with only 60 calories and 2.5 grams of fat (1 pt). Jello has other flavors if you're not much for dark chocolate like chocolate indulgence and caramel creme. I highly recommend them!

Of course, I saw this at our local Walmart, thought of my Texas relatives and decided to get it. Ha Ha! Love you guys!

Do you have your BCS Championship t-shirts yet? I would love to know what yours says, so please comment and let me know. I've seen so many different ones here. Soon after the game, I got Doug a shirt. I don't like it as well as mine though.

Prayer Request
I have a couple special prayer requests. I spoke to my sister, Susan last night. Jon, her son, has a knee that's swollen with infection. It's an injury he sustained a few months ago that's having a hard time healing because of his condition. He's not diabetic (not even borderline), but he's on medication to keep him from going that way. I hope this makes sense. Anyway, like any other teenager, he failed to keep the antibiotic cream on it and now it's set up with infection. The doctor, Sue took him, said if it gets worse or if it busts, he'll have to have surgery to get the infection out. Sue is all upset, especially if he'll need surgery in order to get over this. Please remember him in your prayers.

A man I know, Barry B. was just diagnosed as to having a brain tumor. It stretches out and down in his head. They don't know if it's cancerous or if it is operable. Barry is a (approximately) 45 year old husband and dad of two. I'm sure his wife is very upset because their friend and mine, Shannon P.(I've asked for prayer a while back), started out with a tumor in his brain. Unfortunately, Shannon passed away 10 months after his diagnosis. I ask you to please keep them lifted in your thoughts and prayers.

The Twilight Series
I finished reading "Eclipse" the other day. The beginning was a little slow, but quickly got very exciting. You talk about hard to put the book down for a second because something was happening every two to three pages. I'm still hopeful that Bella will reconsider the value of life and realize Jake is her soulmate. I know a lot of you feel Edward and Bella are destined for one another, but I'm partial to Jacob. Edward and Bella's love is just a fantasy in their own minds. It will never result to anything unless she's dead aka transformed. It's not a real love, in my eyes. They could never have a normal life with one another and still have ties to the true loves of her life (Charlie, Renee, Jacob and other friends). I know I would rather cuddle up to a warm body with a beating heart than a hard, stone cold nothing. The only thing she's attracted to Edward is his breath and good looks (lol). After reading the book, I've been teasing Doug a little about being my werewolf. Oh la la! I think he likes the idea somewhat. (tehe) Now on to the last book of the series, "Breaking Dawn." I've already started reading a few pages and I'm very excited to see how this tug-of-war love affair comes to an end. Until then . . . ta ta!

A Tear

The first few days at the beginning of the school year, Katie would walk to her classroom by herself, while I watched her. She seemed pretty comfortable doing it. All of the sudden, she was upset every school morning because she had to walk to her class. Eventually it came to me walking her to class every morning. Thinking positive, I thought I had better enjoy it while it lasted. I know there will be a day when she would want me to drop her off a block away from school. I hope she'll never be embarrassed with me to be that drastic. Well, this morning I didn't know whether to get emotional (cry) or jump up for joy. As soon as I put the car in park, Katie jumped out of her car seat and announced, "I can walk to class by myself mom. You don't have to come." (sniff, sniff) I made it a big deal. I praised her, "you're such a big girl to want to go to your class by yourself." She was all smiles. Being a big girl is a very BIG deal around the Mason household. All Katie wants is approval by mom and dad. If she feels that she's not getting enough approval from us, she'll flat out ask if she is acting like a big girl. Of course, I'll see the need and go in to praising and recognition on her success. As I watched Katie walking to her class this morning, she stopped half way and waved bye to me. (tears whaling up in my eyes) I'm so proud of her. Now, we've got to wait and see if Katie walking to her class by herself, with mama watching her, will last. Next year will be a big blow, if she doesn't get use to the idea of going to class on her own. I say that because I've made friends with a lady that works at the Primary School and she told me that all children are dropped off at the front door. A school worker will unload the child out of the car and walk them to class every morning. It would be better for me, but I sure hope Katie will adjust.

Happy 46th Anniversary

Happy Anniversary to Millard and Peggy!

It won't be too many years before they will be able to celebrate that "Golden Anniversary." YAY! With their anniversary landing on a week day this year, we took them out to eat last night. I haven't ate at a Longhorn Restaurant in a very long time. Mmmmmm! I had their ribeye with potato and salad. Oh, it was so good. Colton was sitting by me, so I shared my slice of bread and a few bites of potato with him. Colton just doesn't know when to stop eating. I fed him a 7 oz. bottle on our way to pick up Millard and Peggy. As soon as we got to the restaurant, I fed him a stage 2 jar of apples and summer peaches. Yum! This was a new taste for him and he really liked it. Thinking he was satisified, I cleaned him up and took his feeding bib off. Then, he saw the bread. It was a pretty big slice and he nearly ate it all. LOL!

Peggy, Katie and myself wanted to go to the mall after dinner. I was telling Peggy how much Katie has grown this past Fall. She just shot up over night. Before school started, I purchased size 4 clothes to at least last until next Spring. Who knew she would just up to a size 5 by Christmas. Doug was really getting on me because her pants looked like your basic "high waters." I had a hard time trying to find something descent for her to wear for church that morning. Ugh! I thought surely Belk would have a good sale going on right now with their Winter clothes, but you never know. It wasn't that long ago when we went to the Belk in Decatur and their racks of 5's were a little skimpy, especially dresses. I'm so glad we went to the one in Huntsville because I was able to get some great deals on her clothes. I even checked out their Easter dresses and she liked this one(white sleeveless, scalloped edges with pink and green embroidery). It was advertising as being 30% off and Peggy gave me a coupon for an additional 20% off the total price. I was so tickled to go ahead and get her an Easter dress. I wished I could have found a picture to show you. In the past, I would have Katie wearing a smocked dress for Easter, but she is getting older and not that fond of smocked dresses like she use to be. There was another dress that I really liked. It was a sleeveless ivory, with three different colored silk flowers along the waist and full skirt. Here's a picture of it.

It was very simple but elegant. Unfortunately, Katie liked the pink and white dress more.

The Children's Place is beginning to be one of my favorite children's clothing store. I got a jumper dress for Katie, so cute!

I purchased a long-sleeved pink shirt to go underneath. She has pink tights to wear underneath, so I go the lace capri tights for her wear underneath during the Spring months. I loved the patch bermuda shorts, they had for girls. I thought they would look so cute this Spring/Summer on Katie with a pink t-shirt. I showed them to Katie and she turned up her upper lip. Whell! I just turned back around and put the shorts up.

Aren't these shoes adorable? Peggy really liked these shoes the best for Colton, so she got them for him.
I liked the high top canvas shoes, but I couldn't put these football looking shoes down. I fell in love and he has so many footall outfits that these would look great with. Also, I grabbed Katie a fleece night gown for $4.99. They were originally $12.99. I should have gotten one for next year. Right now is a great time to take advantage of a lot of their Fall/Winter clothes for $4.99 each. You've got to check them out. Click here to take advantage of The Children's Place Monster Sales.

Movie's in Review
Doug brought home "All About Steve" and "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" for Katie and myself. Doug knows what a big fan I am of Sandra Bullock. I have to say, I enjoyed watching "All About Steve." Sandra does really good in comedy movies. I even heard Doug laugh a time or two over on the couch. If you would like just a silly, goofy movie night, I recommend this movie.

Last night was the tenth time Katie watched "Cloudy with a . . ." I didn't watch it, but I guess it's a slow starter. I say this because at first, Katie said she didn't like it that well. Next thing I know, she's asking us if she could watch it again.


"The DRs" Tips on Getting that Perfect Massage at Home from Your Partner
THE MASSAGE SPOT

MOST KNOTS ARE FOUND IN THE NECK, BETWEEN SHOULDER BLADES, LOWER BACK

LOWER BACK - USE THUMBS & PRESS UP (APPROX. 5 LBS) IN CIRCULAR MOTION FOR THE LOWER BACK AREA; START OFF WITH LIGHT PRESSURE & THEN ASK THE PERSON IF THEY WANT IT DEEPER.

SHOULDER BLADES – REST YOUR FOREARMS ON THE MID-BACK (NOT THE SPINE AREA) AND JUST LEAN IN

NECK – TAKE YOUR HAND AND CUP THE BACK OF THE NECK. START OUT WITH THE PALM OF HAND PUSHING DOWN THE NECK AND (INTO A LIFTING MOTION) LIFTING UP THE NECK. DO THIS OVER AND OVER. IT WILL EVENTUALLY RELEASE THOSE KNOTS.

WARNING – WATCH THE SPINE AREA & AVOID ALL MAJOR SCARS

What Shall We Do Today?
With today being Martin Luther King Day, I had planned to take Katie and Colton on a picnic. The temps are suppose to be in the mid to upper 50's, but it seems that the fog is going to hang in there. So, I might have to come up with another plan. Katie doesn't like the days I have to clean. She wants me to sit with her all day and play. I feel guilty when I have to say "no," but things have to get done. I am hoping today might be a little different. I guess it's harder for little kids on cool Winter days.

Praise Report

I've got a praise report to pass along to you. Chase, car accident victim, had a wonderful report from the Trauma doctor regarding his injuries. He shows no signs of damage to his liver and lungs from the accident. Praise God above for answering so many prayers. The doctor released Chase from his care unless he needs to see him again, if there is a problem. Chase went back to work last Monday and says that he is feeling great. Thanks again for all the prayers!