It's a Girl's World

Vacation!!!

2010-06-30T15:26:00.000-05:00

We're on vacation!!! We got up at 3:15 AM... that's right... 3:15 AM... yesterday morning fly out at 6:40. We had two of the most uneventful flights ever, and arrived in Rapid City at 9:30. It would have taken us 19 hours to drive, so this was a much easier trip! The girls were perfect on the trip. When I see other children out, I am so thankful for our children! They really are great girls- I don't know how we got so lucky!

Anyway, Dave and Pat met us at the airport and took us to breakfast. Then we made our way to Bear Country USA in Rapid City.

This reminded me of a northern version of Exotic Animal Paradise, for all you Springfieldians! We saw reindeer, elk, and lots of bears! It was fun!

Later that evening, we had dinner with 4 generations of Simpsons and got to meet Maegan's fiancé, Steve. More to come tomorrow!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Happy Father's Day!!

2010-06-20T18:38:00.023-05:00

I have a great dad.

He has always been there for me. He attended every piano recital, band competition, and play that I was in. He cooked me breakfast and let my sister and me do his hair! (I wish I had pictures of that!)

He and my mom took me on great vacations every summer!

More importantly, he instilled faith and values in me that I hold to this day.

I never had to look for love in the wrong places because I knew that my dad loved me.

Don't get me wrong- we fought like cats and dogs (especially during high school!) But now that I am a parent, I understand why I had to be in at 10:00 (when the rest of my friends could stay out until whenever,) and why I couldn't date until I was 16 (even though the rest of my friends starting "going together" in fifth grade!) All of his rules safeguarded me against getting into lots of trouble!

And for all of those reasons (and more) I am so thankful for my dad!

In the same way, I am so grateful that my girls have a great dad.

From the beginning, he has been wonderful. He has changed as many diapers as I have, has given more baths than I have and has been spit-up on just as much as me!

Even though he claimed he couldn't hear the baby monitor, he would get up in the middle of the night when I gently nudged him (or kicked him as I screamed, "GET UP!!")

Nowadays, he can sing all of Madison's steel drum songs, knows all of Madison's lines from her plays, and greets Ella's endless drawings like they are expensive masterpieces!

He is better at slowing down and playing with the girls than I.

He doesn't sweat the small stuff. He knows what is important.

Just like my dad, he is instilling in the girls faith, love, courage and compassion.

The girls will never question his love for them because he tells them literally over and over each day. More importantly, he shows them that he loves them.

For that, I am eternally grateful!

So, to the two best dads I know- HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! I love both of you!

I'm an aunt!!!

2010-06-15T21:32:00.002-05:00

Many of you know that my sister and brother-in-law adopted twins from Ethiopia. Dax and Fiona came home in March, but since I have been such a bad blogger, I haven't mentioned them! Here is a short video that Steve made for them. Believe me, you will see more of them on this blog! Enjoy!

Happy, Happy Birthday Baby!

2010-06-14T16:00:00.016-05:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet baby girl Ella! I can't believe it's been six years since you joined our family!

For being such a tiny, petite girl now, you made your entrance to the world in a huge way! You were 9 lbs, 7 oz, and 2 weeks early! You were off the charts! I was so happy to bring you home on my birthday- what a fabulous birthday present!

This has been a great year for you. You went to Kindergarten this year, and it was so fun being at the same school together. I loved peeking into your room and seeing you hard at work, or chatting with your friends! You came out of your shell this year and made lot of really good friends.

You also showed us what a smart girl you are. You learned to read (at your own pace, of course) and we found that you are very good at math! Of course, we knew you would love art and music- PE, well that's another story!

You still do everything when you feel like it. That's how you have been your whole life and I don't expect that to change anytime soon- if ever! I have a funny story about GT testing for you when you are older! You are a girl who knows what you want and when you want it. That will get you far in life, so stick to it!

You make me smile everyday, and I am so glad that God chose me to be your mother! I love you! Happy Birthday!

One Proud Mama!!

2010-06-13T15:17:00.001-05:00

It was so fun to have the girls at school with me this year! Actually I moved to their school
last year, but whatever! This is the only year that we will all be together because Ella started Kindergarten this year, and Madison will be moving to the 5th grade, which is a different building, next year. So it was fun while it lasted!

One of the best things about being at school together is that I am able to attend all of their events that take place during the school day. I got to go to spelling bees, parties, field days and all kinds of fun events!

One of the last events I got to attend was Madison's 4th grade award ceremony. Each teacher gave out the top awards in their class. Madison received the Reading award and an award for getting A's in all subjects all year long.

After she won those awards, I put my camera away and thought it was over. After all of the class awards were given out, the principal announced that there were two awards left, the Principal's award. This award is given to one boy and one girl
for having good grades, excellent citizenship and being an all-around great student. The student is nominated by someone and then the principals talk to everyone the student comes into contact with, and they decide on the winner. You might guess from my build-up here that Madison won the award! I was shocked and I didn't even have my camera ready! Luckily, others were taking pictures!

Here are some other pictures from that day!

With the boy who won the award!

With her heavy metal!!

With her FABULOUS teacher!

With the principals!

And with me! I'm one proud mama!!
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Christmas... or running until I couldn't run anymore!

2010-01-03T15:04:00.002-06:00

I used to complain about being busy. When I was in college, I griped about having to get up for an 8:00 class, going to chapel at 9:00 and then having one or two other classes during they day. Sometimes, I would not even get my afternoon nap! I was busy!

When I first started teaching (as a single woman) I had to teach all day and then grade papers in the evenings. The only free time I had was on the weekends! How did I ever manage?

After getting married, having two kids and a full-time job, I realized what busy was. But this Christmas, busy became almost unbearable. Our family didn't have a night at home from Thanksgiving until December 18. What we were doing was enjoyable, but boy, was I exhausted!

Basically, we watched Madison perform all Christmas! She was in her first community play, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, which I will post more on later! Plus, she performed with her school choir and steel band. In addition, we had all kinds of church activities. Besides our regular band practice and services, I directed the Christmas service, which took a HUGE amount of my time! After Christmas, we took our annual trip to Springfield, which was fun, but also tiring. So, I guess I am trying to say that it is time to go back to school so that we can get some rest! Well, I'm tired of thinking about this, so here is a slide show for you! Merry Christmas!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Thanksgiving!

2009-11-29T20:04:00.007-06:00

We had a great time over the Thanksgiving break. It has been a long and stressful fall, so I really needed the break. In fact, I'm not really ready to go back, but to school, but I will!

My entire family comes to our house for Thanksgiving. I love when we are all together! I cook dinner and everyone acts surprised that I can fix the meal (even though I've been cooking it for about 7 years, I think!) We always eat WAY too much (I start on Weight Watchers again tomorrow) play games and shop. I accidentally poisoned my mom with MSG, but she recovered quickly! Sorry Mom! We even shopped on Black Friday, although we decided that was a HUGE mistake and won't do it next year! Anyway, a fun time was had by all. Here are a few pictures to prove it! =)

Madison sang with some carolers! They were. um, not very good!

This is Ella's reaction to seeing Santa... yes, she's 5!

Right after deciding NOT to jump in the bounce house... right before we asked for our money back!

Madison loves Aunt Tamra and Uncle Jason!

Drinkin' with Grandpa!

Dad and Tamra

Mom, Dad, Ella and my diva, aka Madison!

I think I look like my dad in this picture!

The girls!

Mom and Dad

Happy Thanksgiving!

It's Been Awhile!

2009-11-24T18:54:00.002-06:00

So I haven't posted anything since Ella's birthday... in June! What can I say?? This has been an incredible busy period in our life! We had a great summer, but it went by way too fast! We have been incredibly busy with school and church this fall, so I haven't had much time to blog! I did just get a new laptop, so I plan to blog more frequently- look another excuse! Oh well. I am turning over a new leaf and promise to be a better blogger, so check back soon! In the meantime, enjoy a few pictures from the fall!

2009-10-03T09:56:00.000-05:00

I just found out I can update my blog from my phone. This might change my blog for good!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

She's How Old??? What???

2009-06-29T20:18:00.008-05:00

I absolutely cannot believe that my baby is five! Where has the time gone? By the way, the girls are aging, but I am not! :)

We had to celebrate Ella's birthday a day early because of the crazy Sunday that we had on her actual birthday. First, we had our regular 2 services to sing at, followed by a dinner to help out the breast cancer walkers, followed by a long band practice, followed by our Turning Point service. Plus, we were going on vacation the next day so I also had to pack! Whew, I'm tired just thinking about it now! So, Ella got to open her presents from us and eat her cake a little early.

Do you like her new haircut? That is the fix to her cutting one side of her hair into a mullet. I cried when it happened, but the professional haircut is growing on me.

Ready to open presents!

She's a girl after my own heart... SHOES!!!

Ella feeding her baby she named MacKenzie.

Ella got a Hannah Montana Dance Like a Rockstar video that came with a Hannah Montana wig. Somehow, Madison ended up with the new wig, while Ella got one of the old ones (can you tell?)

Happy birthday Ella!

(Stay tuned for a birthday party post coming soon!)

I'm a Proud Mama!

2009-06-24T15:37:00.005-05:00

Madison did a great job in third grade this year, and it showed on awards day! She received the English award and the music award for her class. She also made the A honor roll all 9 weeks (one of two in her class and about 12 in the whole third grade.) She was also commended on the Reading and Math TAKS. Yeah Madison!

Receiving one of her numerous awards!

Madison and her teacher, Mrs. Wesson

Have I mentioned that I'm sooo happy to be at the same school?

Madison's Got (more) Talent

2009-06-19T14:32:00.004-05:00

Madison was in her school talent show again this year. This year she chose to sing a Hannah Montana song called " You'll Always Find Your Way Back Home." She chose her outfit- her words- teenage clothes, which was a fun change from the school uniform. There were only three singers in the entire K-4 talent show, and two of them were from our church. We've got lots of talented kids there (who are lucky enough to get stage experience at church!) Anyway, without further adieu, I give you Madison!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

By the way, this is the last performance EVER in the OLD gym with the audience sitting in the MOST uncomfortable bleachers EVER created! HALLELUJAH!!

2009-06-12T17:33:00.005-05:00

Yes, I know it's summer and I should be updating quite frequently, but frankly... I'm being lazy! A lot happened at the end of school, so I do have lot to report!

I got to go to Madison's field trip this year. Oh wait, I was teaching there and took my own class too! It's great to be at the same school. Anyway, I had 11 parents going, so I split up my class and took Madison and her friend around the museum. (Quite a difference from last year when I had to beg to get one parent to attend!)

Every picture I took of the girls looks something like this... They "posed" for every picture!

This is the saloon. There was a giant stuffed bear behind me and the girls were scared. Let's hope they always stay this scared of saloon-type buildings.

This was the printer's building. When you think printers, you think magazine and then models and then posing, right? That's what these girls think!

Madison was scared of the schoolteacher in the one-room schoolhouse. She even had one "student" stand in the corner with his nose in the circle. Ahhh... the good ole days!

We had a great time... but we were pooped in the end!

The Graduate

2009-05-23T13:44:00.007-05:00

Ella is officially grown-up. She decided that about two weeks before her preschool graduation. She really did look grown-up on the stage in her cap and cat (her words, not mine!) I was pleasantly surprised! Plus, while other kids on the stage were ripping each other's caps off, she sat with her legs crossed, told other people to be quiet and told other kids to wave at their parents. She forgot to strike her pose after getting her certificate, but she went right back to her mark and smiled! It was really cute. So, next year, Madison, Ella and I will all be a the same school! I can't wait to drive to one place in the morning (and of course I will enjoy not writing the check for childcare each month!)

Before the graduation

She can always find the camera (and the light!)

Singing her heart out!

The Tiger class

Something was funny!

Getting her diploma from Mrs. Crissy

Mrs. Tricia- the Tiger teacher

Ella with Mrs. Lesa and Mrs. Crissy

Sisterly love (for the moment anyway!)

Grandma and Grandpa even came in for the big occasion!

Finally, enjoy the video of Ella "helping" her classmates and getting her diploma!

Ella's Graduation from Kristen Simpson on Vimeo.

My Latest Hobby

2009-05-17T15:09:00.007-05:00

In my free time... (insert laugh here) I have found that I enjoy making videos. When I come into lots of money... (insert laugh here) I plan on starting my own video making business! Anyway, here is a video that I did completely on my own- from the shooting, to the editing and everything in between. We played it at church for Mother's Day. Enjoy!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Ella's Baptism

2009-04-20T19:29:00.003-05:00

Ella told her babysitter that she would have to wear goggles when she got baptized. She doesn't want the water to hurt her eyes.

She might be considering converting to a religion that sprinkles...

Or maybe she'll just bring her equipment for the big day!

AHH... Hot Springs

2009-04-19T20:24:00.004-05:00

So I am very relaxed tonight. We just returned from a weekend with my family at Hot Springs. We did... NOTHING!!! And it was so much fun! We talked, ate, played games, ate some more, watched the rain on the lake, played some more games and stayed up way too later! It was a blast. (See below)

I feel so fortunate to have such a wonderful family!

Revelation Song

2009-04-13T20:06:00.002-05:00

Yesterday for our Easter service, most of our praise team sang "Revelation Song." It was very powerful and a little different from what we have done in the past during special services.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

LTC (or organized chaos)

2009-04-12T17:45:00.014-05:00

We survived our first LTC experience! For those of you unfamiliar with this, LTC, or Leadership Training for Christ is a convention for 3rd through 12th graders. The kids compete in various events ranging from art, writing, leadership, drama and bible reading. Madison competed in 4 events: Drama, Chorus, Puppets and Bible Quiz. I coached her drama group and chorus group. We practiced every Sunday, which was fun, but I'm definitely glad to have my Sunday afternoon nap time back!

The convention was held this weekend and there were about 6,000 people in attendance. I was amazed at how many people were roaming around the hotel. I kept thinking about the people who just happened to be staying at the Hyatt this weekend. There were people everywhere! We could not get on the elevator because of all of the people. In fact, everyone just used the staff stairs to get everywhere- it was amazing!

We had lots of fun! Madison had a great time spending the weekend with her friends, and she had so much fun competing. She did great too! Her drama and chorus got gold medals and her puppet and Bible Quiz group got silver medals. I'm so proud of her!

LTC live (our dress rehearsal at church the week before the convention)

Warming up for chorus

Singing "This Little Light of Mine." They sang "We Will, We Will Rock You" with the words "His life, His Love Will Rock You," along with all of the words rewritten. It was sooo cute!

The dinner of champions!

Thank goodness for the DS. Ella had to spend quite some time sitting around!

Getting the bald spot in her puppet fixed!

Ella and me (is that right????)

Packing up to go home

Getting her Bible Quiz medal

Madison and her puppet coaches

Her drama group's reaction to finding out they got gold!

Here's her drama. I had to put together LTC live from church with the actual convention, so ignore the cut. There's also a lot of background noise from the convention that I couldn't get rid of. Oh well, enjoy!

LTC drama from Kristen Simpson on Vimeo.

My Little Bedhead

2009-03-13T21:10:00.004-05:00

Ella's hair has always been...interesting. I'm too lazy to look for pictures tonight, but trust me when I say that from 6-18 months, some section of her hair was always sticking up. While her hair is a beautiful color, it is very fine and does not always want to lay correctly. So it was no surprise when we woke up to this...

After a lot of water, some clips and a little hairspray, we ended up with this!

I'm Sick and Tired of People Being Sick and Tired!

2009-02-18T12:42:00.003-06:00

Since November, we have had the following illnesses in our house:

-2 fever viruses (no medication available)

-1 case of strep throat

-2 stomach viruses

-2 cases of the flu (one type A which is the medicine resistant variety)

-1 case of pneumonia

I am the only person who has not been sick this year! I am knocking on wood as I am typing this. I am sick of people being sick. Is that wrong???

Right now, Ella has a virus in which she runs a fever in the afternoon and evening, which means she is contagious the next day! I have missed more school days this year than I can count and I just started at my new school this year. Oh well, if anyone questions me, I have the doctors' notes to prove why I have been absent! :)

I sure hope she gets better soon, but isn't she cute when she sleeps?

I'm Back... For Real (and my little stylist)

2009-02-16T19:39:00.004-06:00

I have been a very bad blogger recently. However, I am back... for real this time! First, I have addressed my Facebook problem (I am currently on step 8 of the 12 step process.) Secondly, for reasons you don't need to know, I have not had a computer downstairs. I realize that it is only 16 steps upstairs, but after a long day of dealing with third graders, those steps were more than I could handle. Today, however, I bought a cheap computer desk to place downstairs. I put it together on my own this afternoon. While it took me twice as long without Steve (I had to do every step twice- once the wrong way before I could see the correct way,) it also saved us two or maybe three arguments. Steve and I get along wonderfully, until we start to redecorate a room or put together cheap furniture! :) So, anyway, I have access to my laptop downstairs. I know- a laptop should be able to be moved, but ours can't. It's a long story!

On to my funny story for the evening.

I went in to check on Madison, who was taking a long time in the shower. She was crouched down with the shampoo and conditioner reading the backs of the bottles. She said, "Mom, I am following the stylists tips exactly." She then proceeded to show me how to apply the conditioner from "the root to the tip."

When she got out of the shower, she said that tomorrow she needed to apply the "shine product to make her hair shiny and more manageable." She is sooo my sister!!

The First Step is Admitting You Have a Problem

2009-02-13T18:45:00.005-06:00

My name is Kristen...

and I'm addicted...

I admit it. I am completely addicted to Facebook and it has made me a very bad blogger. It's very difficult to keep up with 100+ friends. I have joined a group of girls who lived in Anissa's hall in 1990, my freshman year of college. I have found my next door neighbor from Kindergarten. I have reconnected with friends from Tri-Sigs and you know I have to keep up with the church people! :) So, I am making the commitment today to rejoin the world of bloggers. Please accept my apology and here's a cute picture of the girls.

WOOHOO!!!

2009-01-28T10:16:00.005-06:00

PLUS

MINUS

EQUALS

HAPPY SNOW DAY! Now I'm off to drink my coffee, park my rear end on the sofa, and enjoy my day!

Look at What Grandma and Grandpa started...

2009-01-25T16:44:00.006-06:00

Here are my grandparents. This is their engagement picture.

I love this picture!

My grandparents had four children. Those children had 11 children.

And those 11 grandkids have produced this... (and we're missing at leat 8 kids!)

Wow!!

Jason...

2009-01-17T12:26:00.014-06:00

My brother-in-law has perfected the art of messing up Christmas pictures. Allow me to prove my point.

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

Exhibit C

And so on...

Apparently, he has been working with my sister...

The girls (and the rest of us) love him, so I guess we'll keep him around. :)

Plus he is the only one who can get into the itty, bitty chairs to make Clipos!

She's at it again!

2009-01-11T18:30:00.006-06:00

I'm thinking of changing the name of this blog to Madison sings... :) She is very quick to point out that she has the most labels on the sidebar to the right. Oh well, she has done lots of neat things recently.

She was asked to sing a solo in our Christmas service this year. She was in heaven! She really did a great job, if I do say so myself! After the service, which Steve and I also sang in, people came up and said "Your daughter was amazing. Everyone else did well too, but your daughter was incredible!" Someone thought they brought a child in to sing for us. She even got a card from a music professor at Pepperdine who said that it was never too soon to start recruiting good singers! :) Enjoy!

Merry (very late) Christmas!

2009-01-10T15:24:00.003-06:00

Here are a few of my favorite Christmas moments. Hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

The Third Time (was not) a Charm...

2008-12-24T20:49:00.006-06:00

Ella, who is 4 1/2, had three chances to visit with Santa this year.

The first one came at preschool..

That is Grandpa sitting with Santa...

The next one came at church...

That is Madison with her friends...

The last chance came yesterday at Bass Pro. That's right, Springfield folks, we drove 40 miles to Bass Pro. I got to eat at Steak 'N Shake so it was well worth the drive! :)

That is Madison by herself. Ella would not even stand in line with us.

Even Steve and I got in on the fun. (Yes, I know my make-up is outrageous. It's stage make-up.)

I give up. Maybe when she's 12...

I Got Him!!!

2008-12-24T15:27:00.004-06:00

As I mentioned in my last post, my much older husband turned 40. We surprised him with a party Saturday night, and he had absolutely NO idea this was coming! Madison even kept the secret from him! Dave and Pat got to be here for his birthday too, which was appropriate because, as they said, they were there 40 years ago! Here are some pictures from the evening.

We really did surprise him!

The cake that turned everyone's teeth black!

Carmak/Mowgli even sang for Steve!

The sign says it all. Happy Birthday!

Old Man and the Fire

2008-12-15T19:14:00.004-06:00

My much older husband turned 40 this Saturday. We made him a special breakfast and sent him off for a well-deserved massage.

Ironically, the portable in which his classroom was located burned down the same day. It's like he got his birthday wish! :)

New glasses (and a photo shoot)

2008-12-06T21:22:00.004-06:00

As I mentioned before, Madison got new glasses over the Thanksgiving vacation. They are sooo cute and she looks great in them. However, they are very in style for 2008/2009. I also had glasses that were very in stylish... in 1984. Now I look back at those huge frames with the curved temples (side parts- I googled it:) and think, "Mom, why did you let me get those!" I am too vain to post a picture of me in those glasses here, but trust me, it was not a pretty picture! Anyway, I think there is a possibility that Madison may look back in 2033 and think, "Mom, what were you thinking?" Anyway, I think she looks adorable.After she came home with her glasses I asked to take a picture of her.

This is what I got...

I don't know where she gets it... :)

Thanksgiving in 60 seconds

2008-11-30T18:32:00.007-06:00

Here we go...

My family came to visit. Aunt Tamra set the table.

Call me Martha... actually I am a Rachel Ray fan, but dinner was not ready in 30 minutes!

Dinner was wonderful. Even added two new recipes this year!

Tried to take our family photo outside, but it was too windy.

Decorated for Christmas. (Yes, Ella is in her Tinkerbell costume. That's not odd is it?)

Danced with a star (Grandpa...)

And each other.

Shopped for Christmas dresses.

Got new glasses. (More on that in another post.)

Hope your Thanksgiving was as wonderful as ours!

I'm Thankful For...

2008-11-27T21:36:00.010-06:00

I'm thankful for this...

and this...

This...

and this!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Fever Free... for now

2008-11-17T19:08:00.005-06:00

My whole household has been fever free for 22 hours as of 7:00. I haven't been able to say that since Friday, November 7. Isn't that sad???

I'll leave you with two of my favorite fall pictures of Ella. Happy (fever free) fall!

My parents have a picture of me doing exactly the same thing when I was little!

What a Difference a Week Makes

2008-11-16T13:39:00.013-06:00

**This was a post I wrote yesterday. I was just waiting to get my pictures organized, so I didn't post it. I spoke too soon....

After 6 days of running a fever, Ella is back to normal. See below...

The one good thing about this illness is that she has learned to use a thermometer. It took four and a half years, but she no longer screams when I take it out of the drawer!

On a side note, Steve has the flu, but is doing amazingly well. He even took Madison to a party today! Go figure!

** So that's what I wrote yesterday. I wasn't singing this morning, so Steve went on to church while the girls and I slept in. I got up and was starting to get ready when Madison came down and said that she didn't feel well. That's right- you guessed it-, she's running a fever! She's actually doing ok this afternoon, but around here, you never know!

On the plus side, I have a new appetizer for Thanksgiving from the Barefoot Contessa. I also have a ton of Thanksgiving leftover ideas from the Food Network!

Santa- We're Working on it...

2008-11-09T15:26:00.012-06:00

When Ella first met Santa, she loved him...

It was downhill from there. (I love Santa's face in this picture!)

Here is last year's picture. Who's missing?

So we're working on it. It's a good thing that Ella has such a wonderful (and bossy) big sister to help her with her fear!

So, being the bossy- I mean wonderful- mother I am, I made Ella take an oath promising to sit with Santa. Come on- I want a good picture! :)

Down For the Count

2008-11-08T20:14:00.005-06:00

We're not quite knocked out, but we definitely are down! About 30 minutes after e-mailing a friend that no one else was showing symptoms of strep throat, Ella started projectile vomiting... all over our bedroom and bathroom. On the plus side, Steve and I now have clean sheets, a freshly washed comforter, blankets, towels, a spotless bathroom and freshly steam cleaned carpets. On the down side, we did most of this from 9:30-2:00 in the morning. It was a lovely night! So we've taken two different kids to two doctors visits in two days and they have two different viruses. Parenting can be sooo fun!

This is how we looked for most of the day. Fortunately, there were new iCarly episodes and a brand-new iCarly movie on tonight!

We're saving for medical school!

2008-11-07T18:35:00.005-06:00

Madison went to the doctor today, and when he asked what was going on with her she said, "I have strep throat. My three friends that I play with have had strep throat, and I have it too." I then tried to explain that she complained last night that her throat hurt, she started running a fever yesterday, etc. Twenty minutes later, the doctor came in and said, "She has strep throat."

She's just happy that she's free to eat all the ice cream she wants for a couple of days!

Happy Election Day!

2008-11-04T17:26:00.003-06:00

As Promised...

2008-11-02T18:18:00.010-06:00

See.. I told you I'd be back!

The girls had a really good Halloween. It was a year in the making (literally.) Last year, Madison was Sharpay from High School Musical. She and her friends planned to be all of the characters from the movie and they planned to go to our Creekside fall festival together. This year, since Halloween was on a Friday night, our church decided not to compete with football, and not have the festival. The kids were so upset because they had worked on this plan for a year! So, we decided to invite everyone over to our house to trick-or-treat in our neighborhood. It was so much fun and the kids had a great time. I love Halloween because it's the one night out of the year where your entire neighborhood gets out! As it turns out, I was actually glad our festival was cancelled, because the evening turned out to be so much fun!

OK- here we go. WARNING! Lot's of pictures below. Grandparents will want to keep reading, but I'm not sure anyone else will!

This was our group. Notice the two themes!

The Peter Pan themed group. Yep, he's in tights! :)

The High School Musical group.

Ryan and Sharpay

Gabriella and Sharpay

The blondes!

Even Allie got in on the fun. (She pooped on someone's sidewalk, so Steve had to leave the festivities to clean it up!)

Our kids don't do things in the traditional way. Instead of walking up to the door and saying "Trick-or-treat," our kids walked to the door and sang "We're All in this Together." A few people knew what that song was, but most didn't! It was really funny!

This was towards the end, so they were petering out a little!

Peter Pan was a gentleman!

Ella spent most of the night in this position. The rest of the kids would run to the door, turn and start yelling, "Come on Ella, Hurry up, Let's go Ella," etc. If you know Ella, that method does not work with her. That only made her go slower. It was funny!

This was about an hour into trick-or-treating. Notice the wings, headband and jack-o-lantern are gone!

Finally, the loot. This was a small portion of what the kids got. It will disappear, and it won't all be eaten (if you know what I mean!)

I'm going to try to do a better job of posting, so come back soon!

I'm Baaack...

2008-11-01T20:08:00.010-05:00

Changing schools AND grades is hard! Don't get me wrong- this has been the BEST move I've ever made, but it hasn't left much free time for things like... say... blogging! So, let's get started.

Madison was the star of her latest PTA program (if I do say so myself.) Here is a sample of her break-through performance as "Kid #9."

This was a fun performance because this was my class as well!

By, the way, the little boy at the beginning is the son of my suite mate my freshman year at Harding. We didn't know each other before we went to Harding, and she left after our freshman year to marry the guy from Red Oak, TX, that she had been dating. We ran into each other 11 years later at our kids' Kindergarten carnival. Isn't that amazing? It's a small world, so you should always be on your best behavior! :)

See you tomorrow for a Halloween post... really... I'm not lying... tomorrow!

It's Been Awhile...

2008-09-01T19:04:00.006-05:00

Like I said when I started this blog adventure, I would be a great blogger during the summer, but when school started all bets were off. Guess what... school has started!

I made a wonderful move this year to a new school- Madison's school which is located three minutes from our house. It is a completely different school from where I was teaching and I am in heaven. I am so thankful for my hellish year last year, as it forced me to make this move. Here are some pictures from our last few days of summer/first days of school.

I took approximately five loads like this... and that was after purging!

Ella helped... we called it helping anyway! :-)

My "new" (very old) room. They are building a new building right behind our school. The cranes and heavy equipment right outside of my room are not a distraction for my kids at all!

Outside of my room on the first day.

Outside of Madison's room (2 doors down from my room!) It's been a lot of fun getting to see her during the day. I even got to eat lunch with her on Friday!

Ella on her first day of preschool. She has the cutest frog backpack and lunchbox!

That's all for now... See you for a Halloween post! :-)

Bakin' Pee

2008-08-16T19:04:00.010-05:00

OK- the song is called "Breaking Free," but Ella still has a little trouble with some of her sounds and calls it "Bakin' Pee."

Steve and Madison sang together at the first "Creekside's Got Talent" talent show! I am still amazed that Madison gets up in front of people and sings her heart out! She doesn't act scared at all! Plus, I'm a little jealous that she gets to use real microphones. All I had was my hairbrush! She didn't memorize her words either (I wonder where she gets that), so they had sheets of paper rustling throughout the performance. We'll work on stage presence later! Here is a sampling of their work. For you die-hard Madison fans (grandparents), I'll get you the entire footage later!

Here Comes the Bride... (and the cutest flower girl you've ever seen!)

2008-08-11T15:25:00.006-05:00

Madison had a wonderful weekend. She got to be in the wedding of Katie, one of her first babysitters. She got to wear a beautiful dress. It matched the brides and it really was pretty! The wedding was gorgeous too!

The only hitch to the whole wedding came at the rehearsal dinner. We were finishing up our meal and had just eaten dessert. I had noticed some flashing red lights outside of the patio area, but I thought a car had been pulled over. I left to take Ella to the restroom. All of a sudden, the bathroom door opens and Steve is in the doorway saying, "We have to get out of here- hurry!" I had no idea what was going on, so I grabbed Ella off of the potty (fortunately, she was finished) and ran outside. Unfortunately, since Ella was on the potty when I picked her up, I flashed the whole restaurant with her bare bottom. Apparently, while we were in the restroom, the waiters came in and said that there had been a bomb threat called into the restaurant, and everyone had to evacuate the building! Katie and Corry will have a great story to go along with their perfect wedding!

Enjoy the pictures!

2008-08-11T13:39:00.004-05:00

I Survived!!!

2008-08-09T12:44:00.012-05:00

I did it!

I survived my first sleepover.

OK, it's not my first sleepover, but it is my first sleepover as a parent!

We had four sweet girls over to our house Wednesday to celebrate Madison's 8th birthday. Since her actual birthday wasn't that great, I was really hoping the sleepover would be better. It was!

The girls arrived and we made individual pizzas. Most of the girls made theirs nice and neat, but one had to use ALL of the sauce, which made her pizza almost inedible!

After pizza, Madison got to open her presents. She got a Webkinz- again, I wish I had thought of that! Her friend has a matching puppy!

She got LOTS of HSM and Hannah Montana dolls. She got a pool for the dolls to play in and the girls spent a lot of time playing with the pool.

She also got a soccer ball, so the girls went outside and played soccer for awhile.

The only drama came before soccer. Not everyone had shoes to play in, so Madison was letting girls borrow her shoes. Words were exchanged over tennis shoes, and three girls ended up in tears. I quickly turned on "teacher mode" and got to the bottom of the disagreement. After the appropriate people apologized, everyone was fine. All over tennis shoes, go figure!

After soccer, I gave manicures and pedicures to all of the girls. I have never painted that many nails in my life! They turned out very cute and all of the girls liked the crazy colors I chose! :)

We also made soap- yes, I said soap. This was a spa party after all! The girls had a lot of fun (with the exception of Madison sticking her hand in the hot soap after I warned her about it!! :) They got to make different colors of soap in the shape of purses, shoes, dragonflies, etc. They turned out really cool! I told Steve I might take this up as a hobby and he just laughed at me. Oh well. I'll make him a bar of soap and he'll feel better about it!

Around midnight, the girls laid down for the evening- yeah, right. Since our bedroom is right below the media room, we could hear every move that they made. For the most part, they laid down, but I did have to go up there a couple of times. Madison said they went to sleep around 2:00 am. I was out by 1:30, so I have no idea what happened! :)

The next morning, we had cinnamon rolls and it was time to go home!

Madison said that this is "what an 8 year old girl dreams her party will be," so I think it was a success.

I'm still tired, so I'm off to take a nap!

The Simpsons go to Springfield

2008-08-07T09:04:00.011-05:00

I know... I know. My last name is Simpson and I'm from Springfield. I'll go ahead and give you a minute to laugh...

Anyway, we had a great time visiting my family. It was a much more relaxing trip than last time! Here we go...

We always celebrate the summer birthdays- me, Madison and Ella- with a dinner. My mom made the biggest chocolate cake I have ever seen! Seriously, 8 people ate on it at 3 meals and I'm not sure we finished it! I didn't take a picture of it, but it was delicious!

My dad retired (suddenly) from Missouri State University this year. When my mom retired a couple of years ago, Tamra, Dad and I were able to throw her a surprise party that really surprised her! My dad didn't get that however. He got this digital photo frame with pictures of his retirement parties. (Notice the lovely cross-stitch piece on the wall behind him. I made that in jr. high!)

Don't feel too bad for him. We really surprised him on his 60th birthday!

My parents kept the girls a couple of nights and they had sooo much fun. They went swimming, watched Disney channel, played and played and played! They also took them to the Butterfly Palace in Branson for their birthdays! Madison got to go through twice because Ella was too scared to go in. Worked out well for Madison!

Steve and I really enjoyed staying up with Tamra and Jason (without little girls walking in trying to come up with ways to stay up with us!) Tamra and I watched So You Think You Can Dance, Days of our Lives, Jon and Kate Plus 8, etc., while Steve and Jason played X-Box until all hours of the night. We also dyed each other's hair. Did we do a good job?

We also worked on Tamra's blog. If she gets it up and running, I'll put a link to the side of mine! No pressure Tam!

On Sunday, we went to church. We usually have to be at Creekside on Sundays, so this doesn't happen very often. This quilt names the founding members of the South National Church of Christ in 1931. My great-grandparents were founding members and the girls are standing under their names.

We went to lunch after church. We wanted our waiter to get a picture of all of us. Mom gave him her camera first and got a great picture. I gave him my camera and got this...

Meet Jennifer, the waitress who dropped a fork and was picking it up while our waiter took the picture! :) Also, notice Ella on the end!

After lunch my mom took me shopping for my birthday. I'm like the homeless person you give food to instead of money because you want to make sure they use that money for food. She won't give me money anymore because she doesn't think I will spend it on myself. (She's right- the girls look so much better in their clothes!) Anyway, it was tax-free weekend, so I cleaned up!! She kept saying, "You haven't met your budget yet. You can get something else!" I have no idea what my budget was, but I had fun! Thanks Mom and Dad!

On Monday, Dad took Tamra and me to lunch. This has become a tradition for us. We get some time alone with Dad and he gets to enjoy a good meal at a girlie restaurant! :)

Ella was in rare form while we were there. She only got about 6 hours of sleep the night before we left and she refused to sleep in the car. She also missed her nap several days, so she was really tired. She spent a great deal of time looking like this...

We had a great time and look forward to seeing you all soon!

The Dad of Daughters

2008-07-30T21:54:00.004-05:00

I walked upstairs the other day and saw this...

I looked at the TV and saw this...

For those of you who don't live with tweens, Steve and the girls were watching Hannah Montana: The Best of Both Worlds Concert in 3-D!

He's a great dad! :)

Swimming... What More Can I Say?

2008-07-29T09:26:00.023-05:00

This is why she's so skinny! Constant motion! :)

This is what Ella does while we are at the pool- sing and turn. Most of the time, I don't even have to watch her because I can hear her!

The Little Mermaids

2008-07-27T19:58:00.023-05:00

We've had a really hot summer (we're almost reaching Vegas temperatures this week!) I am so grateful for our neighborhood pool. The girls would live in the pool if they could. However, it's quite an ordeal to get packed, dressed and down to the pool that is 100 yards away. See what I mean.

First, we get dressed. It's always hard to pick which bathing suit to wear, and Madison doesn't want Ella to look cuter than her! Go figure!

Then we pack.

Let's see if we've got everything...

Floaties... check

Noodles... check

Swimming rings... check

Beach ball... check

Sunscreen... check

Sunscreen stick... check

Beach towels... check

Madison's goggles... check

Ella's goggles... check

Scuba breathing apparatus thingie... check

Diving rings... check

Barbie... check

Barbie's swimming pool... check

Crackers... check

Grapes... check

Small water bottles... check

My water bottle... check

Cell phone... check

Garage door opener... check

Pool card... check

Then we say goodbye to Allie here...

And here...

It's a looong walk to the pool.

Most days, we have this Jr. Olympic sized pool to ourselves!

Madison lets us in.

Sunscreen time...

Madison jumps in everytime. She was too fast for my camera!

Ella moves a little slower!

Let the fun begin!

This picture will probably end up in a senior slide show someday! :)

My secret strategy behind all of this swimming plays out in the afternoon... naptime and quiet time... for all of us! I took some cute videos of the girls swimming, but I'll save that for another day!

If Only I Could Sing Like That... sigh...

2008-07-24T22:49:00.007-05:00

I remember sitting down in praise team practice many years ago next to a new girl that I was supposed to sing with. She was like a freshman in high school at the time. The minute we started singing however, I wanted to stop and just listen to her! I remember turning to her and saying, "Wow, you have a really pretty voice," (and then feeling very inferior!) Since then, she has been through a very prestigious music conservatory and is in the process of auditioning to get her music/Broadway career started!

Last Saturday, Steve and Megan sang at a wedding together. It was absolutely beautiful. Steve as you all know, has a fabulous voice and can sing anything that is given to him (and I'm not the least bit biased!) Anyway, here is a bit of their song. People raved through the reception!

PS. Here are a couple of cute pictures of Ella from the wedding. Madison was not there becaue she was at one of her two parties last weekend.

We Look Like Celebrities!

2008-07-22T19:55:00.005-05:00

I saw this on another blog and thought it was fun! You upload a photograph of yourself (or your unsuspecting husband) and it will tell you the celebrities that you most resemble. However it left off one of my celebrities- Jani Lane, the lead singer of Warrant. See...

Let me explain... Bobby something, the guy I sat next to in chapel at Harding turned to me one day and said, "Do you know who you look like?" I immediately thought of the most beautiful star I could think of. He said "The lead singer of Warrant." I had no idea who Warrant was, so the next time I was at the mall, I went to find a CD of Warrant. I was shocked when I saw this guy on the cover of the 80's hair band CD. When I looked closely, though, I was amazed at how much we looked alike! I'm not sure if I should be offended, or if he should! :) All I know is, I'll take Candace Cameron over him any day!

2008-07-22T19:53:00.003-05:00

MyHeritage: Celebrity Collage - Family pics - Family tree search

2008-07-22T19:49:00.003-05:00

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebs - Collage - Morph

She Likes You... She Really, Really Likes You

2008-07-21T22:03:00.008-05:00

Ella "writes" all the time. She uses more paper and loses more of my pens than I can count! She was writing in her journal the other day, so I asked her what it said. This is what she wrote.

And of course it ends (as all videos of her do) with her saying she wants to watch herself! She's truly a digital kind of girl! :)

Metro Mamas Outing

2008-07-19T20:59:00.018-05:00

A group of young moms from church have formed a group called Metro Mamas. Somehow, I got included in that group... thank you Ella for making me a "young" mom! Anyway, we went to a place called Extreme Jump this week and let the kids run themselves ragged so they would take a great nap in the afternoon.

Ella wouldn't play when we got there. She said, "This place smells like stinky feet." (She was right!)

Madison and Caitlin loved this slide!

This was a big Velcro wall. You were supposed to get a running start, jump as high as you could and stick the ribbons on the wall. Ella however, chose to walk up to the wall and place the ribbons about the level of her head. She chose to decorate the wall instead.

Our crew going up the slide

This is pure joy...

A lovely view of the girls!

Ella "babysat" Quinn. Whenever he got too far away, she would just put her hands around his neck so that he wouldn't run away. We probably won't put that on her babysitting resume!

This picture was taken in between the arguing and bickering!

This final video is of Ella and JD playing air hockey. JD had some serious help in this match. (That's his friend in the middle of the table.) Fortunately, Ella doesn't know what air hockey is, so in her mind, she wins!

Steve was Bored...

2008-07-17T21:51:00.002-05:00

Send a JibJab Sendables® eCard Today!

Lazy Days of Summer

2008-07-15T21:33:00.008-05:00

So, we have been staying up SUPER late and getting up pretty late in the mornings. I beat the girls up yesterday and when they got up, they looked like this...

I LOVE SUMMER!!!! :)

Eight is Great... sort of!

2008-07-14T13:35:00.022-05:00

I was going to post a super-happy birthday post (see pictures below,) but I decided instead to tell what really happened on Madison's birthday. If you would prefer to believe that her day was perfect, skip this post and go directly to the slide show!

July 12 started with a bang! The girls were still awake after midnight for some reason! Around that time, I heard them getting in trouble with Steve for being up and out of their bed. I heard them swear that they were only going to the bathroom... likely excuse! Ahh, summer hours. Anyway, the next morning, the tired family got up to start the "Day of Madison!" Unfortunately, we had to run to the store and had to attend a wedding, which wasn't exactly in her plans for the day. We had also had a praise team party the night before, and had life group the next day at our house, so the playroom needed to be cleaned. That did not fit into the "Day of Madison" either! So, in between arguing about cleaning the playroom, arguing about getting dressed for the wedding and arguing about going to the store, we did manage to get a few "happy" birthday pictures. (See below.)

Madison did enjoy opening her presents. She got some diving toys for the pool, a Gabriella doll that sings along with a microphone, a Webkinz with some clothes and a 3-D Hannah Montana poster to color. She was very excited about her Webkinz which she named Tory. Whoever came up with the Webkinz idea is a genius... a stuffed animal with a code to play a game online! Why didn't I think of that? Oh well... Madison also bought a sticker maker and a foil paint project with the $8 she got in the mail from Grandma and Grandpa Brock.

After we returned from the wedding, I made Madison's birthday dinner of spaghetti with bolognese sauce. Her big treat was that she got 3 pieces of bread! She's a girl after Aunt Tamra's heart! :) Then she got her "plain Jane" French Vanilla cake with white icing. Seriously, no chocolate...

The day ended on a positive note, and we are in the process of planning her party...... a sleepover! Hopefully, that will run more smoothly!

Happy birthday Madison! I love you... really!! :)

2008-07-14T13:34:00.003-05:00

10 Years Ago Tonight...

2008-07-11T22:28:00.007-05:00

10 years ago tonight, we were married at East Grand Church of Christ in Springfield, MO. 2 girls, 2 houses, 3 moves, 3 cities, 1 dog, 8 job changes (WOW), and 3 churches later, we're still going strong! I'd do it all again in a heartbeat! I love you!

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

2008-07-09T20:28:00.010-05:00

We enjoyed a lovely, cool evening with Dave and Pat at the Texas Rangers ballpark last night. Actually, compared to Vegas it was cool. We had great seats- 18 rows up along the third base line. We had to watch the left-handed hitters because they hit several foul balls our way!

Before the game- and the cotton candy!

During the cotton candy...

After the cotton candy!

Kit, Katie and Anta enjoyed the game with us.

The girls LOVE sports!

Finally, enjoy Madison's 7th inning stretch!

The All-American Girls get American Girls... and a boy

2008-07-08T21:57:00.007-05:00

While we were gone, Dave and Pat took the girls to see Kit Kittredge: An American Girl. Madison loved it (that's an understatement!) Madison also loves the fact that everyone thinks that she looks like Kit. Pat, the girls doting grandmother :) took Madison to the American Girl store to get Kit. These dolls should be birthdays and Christmas for the next two years! :) Anyway, Ella got the blonde-hair, blue-eyed Bitty Twins. Ella has always had imaginary twins named Katie and Anta, so now she has dolls to match. Here are the American girls with their dolls!

What Happens in Vegas... Ends Up on my Blog

2008-07-05T15:58:00.025-05:00

Steve and I are basically boring people, so we have nothing to hide, even what happened in Vegas! Last Tuesday, we left the girls (for the first time in 8 years!) with Dave and Pat, Steve's parents. We picked them up at the airport, said our goodbyes to the girls and made a run for it! OK, OK, I'm a big talker. I knew I was going to miss the girls terribly and we ended up talking 4-5 times a day! As much as I missed them, however, Steve and I had a great time. I actually got to experience multiple meals without going potty once!

We got off of the plane at about 9:30 pm, and stepped out into the 148 degree heat! Well, it wasn't exactly 148 degrees, but Dallas felt downright chilly compared to Las Vegas!

We stayed at Planet Hollywood, which was very cool. When we got there, the check-in guy asked, "Are you married?...To each other?..." Gotta love Vegas! Anyway, when we said that we were there celebrating our 10th anniversary, he upgraded us to the newly renovated 21st floor overlooking the Bellagio fountains and the Paris balloon.

This was the view from our window during the day... (don't I look like my mother in this picture???)

and at night...

The first night, we were starving so we went down to find a restaurant in Planet Hollywood. Everything was packed except for- you guessed it- the Mexican restaurant! That's right, we left Texas to eat at a Mexican restaurant! Like I said before, I got to eat my food without going potty once, so it was a fabulous dinner!

We spent our days braving the 111 degree heat (I'm not exaggerating this time), walking up and down the strip. The strip is like one of those hallways that keeps going and going. It looks like a short distance between hotels, but once you start walking it gets farther and farther away! Here are some pics from the different hotels.

Steve at the Venetian canals

Outside of the Paris hotel

Steve outside of the Luxor

Paris- my favorite!

On Wednesday, we got tickets to see Wayne Brady. He is absolutely hilarious. He must be super smart too. It's one thing to do improv, but to do it while singing (amazingly, by the way), imitating a celebrity, and dancing... He was incredible!

After the show, we went backstage to meet Wayne. Here's a picture of our meeting.

OK- I made that part up. Pretty good, huh? His show is called "Making It Up!" by the way! That's the clean version of the title. Use your imagination... I'm way taller than him in real life too!

On Thursday, we went to see the aquarium at Mandalay Bay. There was a tunnel that you walked through and watched the sharks swimming above you! I kept thinking how much the girls would have loved it!

We did try our luck at the slot machines. The first night we were there, I spent $1 and ended up with $16. However, Steve lost $10 at the same time, so we didn't do too well! I did pull a slot machine on the street and won a bright red sweatshirt with "Tropicana Hotel" on the sleeve. It is just lovely!

One of the best things about our trip was sleeping in. I don't even know when we got up in the morning! It was wonderful!

It was a great trip, and I hope we don't wait another 10 years for another "grown-up" trip!

They're Going to Miss Us... (we think...)

2008-07-01T08:59:00.005-05:00

See you after Vegas...baby!

Celebrate Freedom (or a tale of two sisters)

2008-06-30T20:05:00.021-05:00

We went to Celebrate Freedom this weekend. It is a huge Christian concert with lots of things for kids to do. We went Friday and listened to a bunch of bands that I didn't know. We did stay (late) for the David Crowder Band. They were really good and I was glad we sat through the hour long sermon asking you to invite Jesus into your heart to hear them!

We planned to stay for the fireworks- Madison was going to be brave and actually watch them. However, the fireworks didn't take place until Saturday night- oops!

The girls enjoyed dancing to the music. We had to keep yelling over the music at Ella to quit lifting up her shirt (at the Christian concert), but that's another story!

During the day, I noticed how different the girls are. See what you think!

Madison with Bob and Larry.

Ella avoiding Bob and Larry.

Ella enjoying the concert.

Madison enjoying the concert.

However, they were alike in one way. Notice the time on the clock- and then notice how alive everyone looks!

Gotta love night owls!

I Went in for a Trim...

2008-06-29T15:46:00.002-05:00

2008-06-29T14:51:00.007-05:00

I went in for a trim.... and look what happened! Actually, I was ready to chop off my hair. I realized this week that I hadn't actually fixed my long hair in about a year, so it was time to get rid of it! After all, what's the point of having long hair if you just pull it back in a bun or ponytail every day?

I looked into donating my hair to Locks of Love, but you have to cut 8-10 inches and I only cut 6. My hairdresser used the razor blade on the ends, so it looked like we had killed an animal underneath my chair. I guess it looked like we had sheared an animal- that sounds better. If only I'd had my camera... sigh....

Anyway, I like it and I think it's going to be quite easy to fix in the mornings! That's the most exciting part! So leave a comment only if you like it. Remember- if you can't say something nice.... :)

PS. I took all of these pictures in my bathroom watching the screen of the camera in the mirror! Aren't you impressed? :)

We Owe You!

2008-06-26T21:25:00.016-05:00

We had a great time with my sister and brother-in-law this weekend. We packed about 3 days worth of events into a day and a half.

First, Tamra and Jason drove in just in time to catch Madison's big drama production. Tamra even sped through the entire state of Oklahoma to get here in time!

This picture will serve as a reminder to Steve and me to drive to Springfield to see your child's band performance or football game or dance recital or track meet- whatever the case may be! We owe you!!!

On Saturday, we took in two Zoe group worships, swam, shopped, ate and watched an entire episode of "So You Think You Can Dance." Whew.............

The next picture is another reminder of a way that we will "owe" Tamra and Jason.

That's right, Ella is playing another musical instrument given to her by Tamra and Jason. Fortunately, this one has a volume button and an off button, however, this is something we will remember in the future! :)

All in all, it was a great weekend and you all can visit anytime! See you at your house in July!

So You Wanna Be a Star ... star... star... star

2008-06-24T09:28:00.031-05:00

Madison went to Midlothian's drama camp last week. She LOOOOVED it! She got up every morning ready to hit the stage- I don't know where she get's it! :) Anyway, she got the coveted role of "Pig 1" for the big performance. Unfortunately, the microphones were not working (and there was a screaming baby behind us), so I can't post her speaking. However, they did a cute dance at the end, so here are some pictures and a couple of videos of her dancing.

Starring as pig 1...........Madison Simpson

Ella and JD enjoy the show!

Curtain call... time for a longer shirt!

First things first... check out your audience. Aunt Tamra was frantically waving, but Madison couldn't see her.

Here's the dance. I left it running at the end because of the boy behind her. He even does the robot!!!

Ella's "Wii" Moment... if you know what I mean!

2008-06-19T20:57:00.007-05:00

I think Ella's reaction to yoga is quite common... and funny!

Notice what is next to her as she is exercising........

her empty bowl of brownies.............

She Got Skunked!!

2008-06-17T19:36:00.008-05:00

Last night I went to the kitchen to get a glass of water around 11:00 pm, when I heard Allie bark. I thought, "That's strange. She never barks...." However, it was 11:00 and I was tired, so I went back to bed. Steve went to the door about 5 minutes later to check on her for the night. He opened the door, she stuck her nose in and both floors of the house immediately filled with the smell of skunk. Apparently, Allie saw a skunk, barked at it, and got sprayed. She smelled horrible- and the house did too! Steve found a solution of stuff online to get rid of it. Now if we could just find a way to get it out of the house......

The girls watched from the safety of the kitchen!

$4 Goes a Long Way

2008-06-17T15:13:00.003-05:00

Who new $4 could get you so much? Steve took Ella to Dollar General today to spend her birthday cash from my parents. He threw in an extra dollar to buy the lovely stroller.... which is just what she needed because she only has 3 others! :) Ella and her baby say thanks!

2008-06-17T15:05:00.003-05:00

I have great in-laws- here's proof! :) Yesterday while I was cooking myself birthday brownies from scratch, not a box (Mom would be proud), the doorbell rang. I was greeted with these beautiful flowers from Dave and Pat. They are absolutely beautiful and smell great. You were so thoughtful and I appreciate it! Love you and see you in July!

Ella's First Birthday (Party)

2008-06-16T20:03:00.026-05:00

Steve and I decided that 4 was a good age to start the birthday bash thing! Madison had her first party at 4 as well.

We had Ella's party at a park in Midlothian and invited her best friends from church. The kids played while the grown-ups talked. The kids ate dirt (Oreo cookies, vanilla and chocolate pudding with gummy worms on top) while the grown-ups tried to keep dirt off the kid's clothes. JD was the best! (See below! :) Ella got great presents, including the cheerleader outfit that she asked everyone for and a Hannah Montana guitar with a microphone. We had a great time!

I can't believe my "baby" is 4!

The kids loved eating dirt..............

........especially JD!

She got her cheerleader outfit! (Thanks Kennedy and Hunter!)

Being a rock star is very hard work!

Happy Birthday Ella!

2008-06-16T19:53:00.008-05:00

Field Day

2008-06-16T19:53:00.007-05:00

Who knew that a girl who hates to sweat could clean up at Field Day? Here are the stats:

Jump Rope- 1st place

Bowling- 1st place

Sack Race- 2nd place

Three-Legged Race- 2nd place

Indy 500- 1st place

The Indy 500 was a race between all of the 2nd grade classes, and Mrs. Stanford's class won! Her class got doughnuts the next morning for winning! Enjoy the slideshow!

Madison's Got Talent

2008-06-16T09:03:00.010-05:00

After auditiong several second graders, Madison chose her friend Caylynn to sing with her in the talent show. Seriously, I walked in while she was on the phone with a friend only to hear her say, "Thanks for trying out. I will let you know if you make it."

Anyway, the girls tried out (for the teachers) and MADE IT!! We were all soooo excited! There were a variety of acts: lots of pianists, several dancers, a karate guy who broke a board over his head, and even a pogo jumper! Madison and Caylynn were the ONLY singers. We were very impressed and she did a great job. She does not appear to be nervous, even when singing in front of 400 kids, which is amazing to me. Here is a video of the girls singing.

I've given in...........

2008-06-15T23:02:00.010-05:00

After about a year of stalking other people's blogs, I have decided to give in and start a Simpson family blog. I can only think of about 8 people who will be interested in what's going on in our lives, so this blog will be dedicated to those 8 people! :) I'm definitely not a writer so there will be lots of pictures on this blog. Since I'm not much of a photographer, you'll have to deal with my so-so pictures! This blog will probably be updated quite a bit during the summer, but once August gets here, we'll see.......

Anyway, I'll leave you with a picture of the cutest blondes in the world!