Mo' Joy

Camp Creative Wednesday class... scrapbooks!

2012-01-28T04:32:00.000-06:00

So, I located a whole new crop of Camp Cre8ive (I like using the "8"!!) pictures. And since I will be starting a new group next Monday, I thought maybe I could get us in the mood by looking back at what the Wednesday group did with their Halloween scrapbooks. I laid a big ol bunch of supplies on the table from which they could choose. This included letter stickers, funky tape, ribbons, "jewels", etc.

That, for me as a kid, would've been a dream!! To come into a room and not have any idea what tools I'd be using, have the all supplied to me, and tell me to get after it. I swoon!

Because I know I will eventually get my group down to the girls who really, really love it and want to be there, I offered it again, and first dibs went to the girls involved last go round, fall 2011.

Ol Emma Lou is coming back. So is Lexi, and Molly Ann and Ramie Jo.

These two are diehards!! Emma Claire and Angel Grace both remind me of me when I was a kid. Absolutely absorbed!!

Maddi is coming back as well. Then there are some who are moving on to soccer, guitar, piano, whatever!! That is what happened to me at 13 when I had to make the decision to stop dancing after 10 years in order to pursue my deeper love of sports. It happens. I just can't wait to see what girls "come out in the wash" as being the ones who absolutely LOVE this!

I kinda wanna help mentor them. You know, from a creative standpoint. Never settling for a "so-so" social studies project. Or thinking long and hard with assistance of a color wheel and fellow "artists" before choosing the new color for a bedroom makeover.

I also look forward to seeing how they change and mature and grow. Already, I have picked up on some of their different creative styles. Some are more sloppy, and free. Some are meticulous and linear.

I am shocked that my Paigey Poo isn't coming back. She is quite the equestrian, so I would imagine her mama is having a tough time getting her to and from. But look at those feathers... is that not an artist?! I love ecclectic style. Paige definitely has that!

And look at that table. It inspires me NOW... two months later! I just love paper crafts.

Ramey Jo is coming back. She is my jackrabbit. Get er done fast. Then go play! That's her motto.

Sarah will be back to help me as my art assistant. The girls loved her and she understood what I needed from her as far as the help to set up, dismantle, and give more assistance to the younger ones as needed.

There are snacks at each class. This is a nice break midway through, especially if we need to wait for a background to dry or glue to set. Ummm, you didn't think I'd have carrot sticks, did you?!

Angel Grace LOVES her some art!! ANd her Halloween scrapbook showed she has talent in that area as well. Her mom now has a precious keepsake from Halloween 2011! Made by Angel Grace.

I don't give the girls a whole lot of help. In some cases, none. I provide a project and inspiration. I will sometimes show them my example, then let the wild dogs run!

I like that every kid has a totally different final product.

I mean, look at these. I think all of these are by second graders.

And then, the aftermath. I keep it somewhat together, but have to put it away for the next project to be introduced the next week. Oh, and the fact that I LIVE here!

So, I await my full class of students for the 2012 winter season.

And we often had one little straggler who joined in after the group left and she was picked up from daycare. I may let her in on the group this year. She has shown me a true interest in art, and actually, she is pretty self motivated and has definite ideas about where she'd like to see her projects go.

And this was mine. I love that when a season/ holiday is over, so are my recorded memories, tucked away for viewing at a later date.

ANd with that, if you happen to be a local yocal, I have a few spots left. I intend to do classes for 8 weeks, (Feb/ March), then, take a little break and do another 8 weeks. There will likely be an art camp in the summer.

And the moment many of you adults have been waiting for.... next MoJoy ART RETREAT...

March 2-4. Details on the projects to follow. Or if you think you want to attend and have an idea of what you "hope" we'd be doing, shoot me a comment and I can make it happen. I have that kind of pull! Ha. All food, supplies, and lodging provided. I can take 10 this time. So, holllla.

It's the Jones Family Reunion... Thanksgiving 2011

2012-01-27T05:00:00.000-06:00

THanks to Rebecca, for recounting her daughter's party for me. I appreciate the break from bloggin while I am down here on vacay! But, as I look back through old pics to find the posts that never came to fruition, here's the next one on my list. It was Thanksgiving Day. It just kind of cracks me up that I am posting about Thanksgiving in January of the next year. Oh well. WHatev.

Having family over is always fun for me, because the girls have new people to hug and love all over them, and new exciting folks to help me keep them entertained.

Enter Jenn. Jenn married my cousin, Drew, about two years ago. I have loved having her in the fam, because the kids like to hang out with her when we are all gathered. And believe me, as much as I love my kids, that is always a welcomed thing!

It was no small miracle that I was able to get Ellie to wear her Thanksgiving shirt and put her hair up in an almost kinda cute way.

Aunt Betty Lou came through again this year with tutus for the girlies. Good ol Betty Lou.

She is my mom's sister. I think she may be the closest in age to her. If I am wrong, I apologize to all the sisters in advance. JinJin is the baby of eight.

As the girls were dishing out love to Aunt Betty Lou, the mother hens (and Drew) were in the kitchen getting everything ready for the food line.

And with the mother hens, we had our family representative, Todd the Bod, who is always the one who contributes on behalf of the Groves family. We have our roles. And this ain't mine!

Way back when I took these pictures, there was some significance to what we were watching TV. But, today as I look at these old photos, I have NO IDEA what that was we were so into.

Nope. Still no clue. But, might I say those trees on my mantle look fabbbb u looouuusss!!

Cute pic of Ellie Sue and Jenn. Hey, Jennifer... you still reading my blog?

HUH? If so, I'll send you a copyof this picture. Gotta leav a comment though!

I decided to pour something on something here, strictly as a means of getting a photo op, I am quite sure And little did I know, Todd was being a comedian in the background.

These two were pretty much the busy bees on this Thanksgiving Day. Mom is funny. "Anything you want us to bring, Mom?" "Noo, not really. Maybe just a pork loin, the ham, a turkey , and your green bean casserole. But basically everything else we can handle."

Jussttt kidding mom. (no I'm not).

I think Jenn made something from the Paula Deen cookbook. And Aunt Bonnie brought the WORLD'S BEST PEANUT BRITTLE!!!

Aunt Bonnie had all grandSONS. In fact, the family is full of grandsons! So, this is their chance to love on baby girls.

And they take full advantage.

They do a lot of bribing (with tutus and such) to get all this swee loving.

They've even been known to let the girls do their make up and nails to have a little one on one time.

I remember back in the old days when my cousins and I would play football for most of the day on Thanksgiving Day. We called it the Turkey Bowl. We haven't done that in years. Mostly because we are all old and out of shape. SOrry. Joel Olsteen would say we are healthy and strong and lack nothing, but we are presently working back to our old selves. (I've been watching some of his old sermons tonight). Anyway, we have let this tradition fall by the wayside. We are going to have to get it rejuvenatd for the next generations.

Maybe when all these littles get a bit older, we will tell them the stories of yore.

This is my cousin, Stevie. Or, ahem, I believe he prefers STEVE these days. When we played the Turkey Bow, he was Stevie!! He's now a big shot nurse and teaches at the university level , so I suppose STEVE is how it goes now. Or maybe even Mr. Jordan!

This is Cherry Sue. Her middle name is Suzanne. The beginning of a long line of Susannes.... Melanie Susanne. Ellie Susanne. and who knows who may be next.

Speaking of Ellie Susanne.... check out that amazed face.

All the big folks seemed to enjoy the feast.

As did the little peeps.

I just love being with family. I am proud to be from such a large and closeknit bunch.

Who takes home lots of foiled up leftovers. Cherry, do you still read my blog? Comment and I'll send you a copy of this picture.

The sisters are a hoot when they are all together. I can only imagine what it was like growing up with six girls in a single house. Much like right here where they were all fighting over the ice maker. Jin being bossy. Betty Lou making sarcastic and hilarious remarks. Mary being just totally obstinent and likely, Aunt Bonnie being the moderator.

These are the remaining four sisters. Jinnie, baby of the bunch, and all the sisters have a story to tell about how spoiled she was. Mary who I have to guess was the party animal. Bonnie who was a homemaker and hairdresser forever and ever and ever (also mom to Cherry and Kelli, and who had the home in which I would go stay every summer when I was young...she let us ride our bikes to Dairy Queen), and Betty Lou who is always the funny girl.

Yep. Always fun to get the crew together. Once more... Tracey, leave a message if you read my blog still, and I'll shoot you a copy of this cute picture of your boys.

Peace out, peeps. Stay tuned for a totally random post again tomorrow.

Makenlea's party.

2012-01-26T05:30:00.002-06:00

Hey... it worked!! She caved!! So, the following is a guest blog from Rebecca, Makenlea's mom.

Hello Everyone! This is my first time ever to do a blog post so bear with me. (It isn't as easy as it seems it would be) Melanie asked me to be a guest blogger after she graciously hosted my daughter's 9th birthday party. After many months of admiring Melanie's talent of painting, I thought that it would be a fun time to have my daughter's party in her art room, with Melanie sharing her talent of painting and instruction with Makenlea and a few of her friends. As we made plans about the party, Makenlea's love for horses created the theme. So with horses in mind, Melanie picked for the girls to paint glittered horseshoes. Todd kicked off our morning with donuts. The girls enjoyed them very much, but I think Lizzie enjoyed Gabbi feeding them to her the most.

As the girls got started painting, many decisions had to be made. (i.e background color, horseshoe color, etc). Then the fun began!!! The colors of the rainbow were the many choices we had. Mo taught the girls how to mix colors on their brush to make many different shades, instead of just a solid color. (makes the painting less boring in my eyes)

My mom and 2 sisters came along to help out with transportation, not realizing we would put them to work helping kiddos paint. Thanks DaneDane, ToneTone and Memom for the help.

Backgrounds are in progress as you can see. The girls were excited to be able to create their own individual masterpiece.

This is my niece Aubrey. She is working on blending her background to a perfect shade of green/yellow.

This is the birthday girl Makenlea. Memom is helping her get those "hard to paint" edges.

This is Kaitlyn, one of Makenlea's friends. She decided to go with the dark colors for her picture. It turned out really cute in the end. She visualized something that I never would have.

We had 1 girl get sick and was unable to attend, SO DaneDane decided to not let the canvas go to waste. She decided on a beautiful mustard color for her background. Gabbi decided that she would sit in Dane Dane's lap and watch her paint.
As everyone worked on their canvases, we were able to visit, tour Mo's BAH (which is more beautiful in person than in pictures). The kids loved everything about the house. They all went home asking for spiral staircases and art rooms. Across the table, you can see Ellie had joined in on the party. She knew exactly what she wanted from the beginning. Next to Ellie is my youngest niece Abigayle. She and Ellie could be twins with their wardrobe and actions. She, like Ellie, thinks she is a "Big Girl". Once she got done painting her horseshoe, Ellie announced that she would be dancing in her room and Abigayle was very quick to join her!!
My niece Valerie, is working on her masterpiece. She is the perfectionist of the family. Everything has to be perfect!!! She was in HEAVEN in the art room!! I can see her having a room just like Mo's one day.

Miss Abi painting those edges with a little assistance from her mom.

It was just about at this time that Gabbi is admiring Dane Dane's picture.

In just a few seconds, she decided to add "The Gabbi Touch" to DaneDane's picture. It was HILARIOUS!!!

We all laughed sooo hard as she gently added her touch to the painting. She never looked up. She painted it exactly like she wanted . The entire picture ended up black with shades of all other colors on top of it. When she thought the had enough paint, she stopped painting.

This is Makenlea's painting before the horseshoe was painted and glittered.

Here we have the cookies that were made for Makenlea's party. We, as a group, enjoyed them later at Orange Leaf. I brought Ellie and Gabbi one of each design so they could have their own. Special thanks to Danyale Rushing for making these special cookies for Makenlea.

Gabbi continuing to work on her masterpiece. (I think she thought Dane Dane's was boring)

Then Gabbi decided it was cookie time. She stripped her shirt off and made herself a bib out of a napkin. The cookies were a hit with Gabbi. Gabbi's stamp of approval.

Ellie decided to go with a rainbow horseshoe. Why should she be limited to one color Right???

Lauren was Mo's assistant for the day. She helped the girls with their painting and cleaned up our mess when we left.

Makenlea, Madalyn, Avery and Kaitlyn started to add color to the horseshoes.

So guess who came over??? The famous Emma Lou. I was telling Mo that we got to meet Todd, Ellie, Gabbi, KK, and Lizzie. The only thing that would make the day complete would be if Paula stopped by. So, Mo gave her a call and she happened to be out and about. She even had Emma Lou with her!!

Ellie's rainbow horseshoe! I think it is very unique!!

Here is the group with their finished products. Mo taught them how to do the swirls over their pictures to add finishing touches to them. They were a little scared at first, but after the 1st one was done, they were all on board. From L to R: Abigayle, Aubrey, Valerie and Jenna Kate (Makenlea's 1st cousins) and Avery (Makenlea's best friend since birth.) Avery's mom and myself are kind of like Melanie and Paula BFF's!!!!!

We add Kaitlyn (a friend from school) and Makenlea with this picture. I was so excited how they all have their own touches to the paintings. They were able to decide what they wanted and be individual!!!

Just what her picture say "Smile" is exactly what she was doing. She was so excited all day long. Mo asked each of the girls to pick a word to paint on their picture. Smile fits Makenlea perfect. It is soo easy for her to put a smile on anyone's face. She has soo many other words that describe her that she could have picked, but smile fit the best for this special day.

Then we have Madalyn and Anna. Madalyn is a friend of Makenlea's from church and Anna is a friend from school

The group of girls with Melanie!!
And of course, we always have to have silly pictures. Ellie was able to join in on this picture. Gabbi was MIA with KK.

The famous "PauPau" came by to meet all of us. I was excited to finally be able to meet her in person, instead of knowing everything about her from blog land!!

Here we are!! Not thinking this picture would make the blog, we decided to act silly also. You know, we had to get the "hand on the hip Mary Allison" pose in there.

This is Valerie's final painting. Her word was perfect for her. She has soooo many dreams and I hope and pray everyday that they all come true for her.

This concludes our birthday party blog post. I know Makenlea will always remember her 9th birthday. Thanks sooooo much Melanie for doing this for her. You were able to take time out of your busy schedule to host this wonderful memory for her. It was a chance for little girls to be able to express their "creative bones" without the pressure of not making a mess. All of the girls had a BLAST!!!! I know I will never forget Makenlea telling me late that night "Mom, this was the best birthday weekend ever". I know you have 2 little girls who are lucky to have you as their mom. Thanks for a great day and a great time!!!
Rebecca

Ellie's Room Christmas decs

2012-01-25T02:30:00.000-06:00

It's like finding a dadgum hidden prize egg 2 months after Easter!! I am looking back through my pics and seeing what I loaded that never got its story! And voila... Ellie's room at Christmas. Just like Gabs's tree, I add a few each year to the queen's.

I bought this tree three or so years ago at the Festival of the Trees, pre decorated. I tried to just pull it down out of the attic this year without taking anything off of it last year. And once we wired the top of the tree back to the bottom, I decided, never again. To you who asked whether I take each ornament off.... yes.... EVERYSINGLEONEOFTHEM!!

This is that spot in Ellie's room that was meant for a bunk bed/ play area. However two things have occurred. ONE: I bought eight bunk beds for upstairs and learned that I HATE making bunk beds. ANd TWO: there is always something preoccupying this space! A tree, or now... a teepee.

So, I suppose it will remain loftless.

I really did love Ellie's room as much as Gabs's, I just forgot to take phots along the way. So, that's it for this Wednesday afternoon. I have a whole blog ready to post if the blog' star/ birthday girl's mama, REBECCCCCCCAA, would hurry up and write the words to it. I have asked her to guest blog, since it was her kid's birthday party and I love seeing what someone else has to say about my pics. So, please comment today, and BEG Rebecca to come out of hiding and write a blog for us. Rebecca, Rebecca. Rebecca... that's me chanting!! Come on peeps, encourage her on!!

Gabbis Room

2012-01-24T04:48:00.000-06:00

Ready to be bored silly? Well, as you already know I am in Norlando and I have no way to upload new pics. Poor ol Granddad is still in the hospital, and I am computer illiterate, so bear with me as I plod back through old pics I never blogged about. And by old... I mean CHRISTMAS decorations!! Gabbi's room! This is the wreath I had on her door. I added a few new things from last year.

I kinda have a problem with that... I collect, and keep on adding to. This little rocking horse looked just right up on top of this bookcase. I think this is his annual home.

And because I filled her built ins with snowmen, the collectible figurines were moved here. I am one to like a change, so they are going to stay hereas well. SOMEONE needs some new light bulbs in their chandelier.

So, as you may or may not remember, I do snowmen in GG's room. Ellie's is done in Santas.

I think all that white and light blue and pink look awesome with her walls and bedding.

So, if it's pink or lightblue or lime green, it usually makes the cut for Christmas decor in Gabs's room.

This little elf up there is a new addition this year. Isn't he cute? And I added that JOY canvas that was used in a craft booth last year and didnt' sell. I think it was meant to be, because I love the word JOY and I love that it is pink and teal, so it NEEDED to be with Gabs for Christmas.

I think that little red bird is new this year too. He has some hot pink accents, but because I do the owls in there, and everything is just a little bit nature-y, I thought he could live in here too.

These guys are oldies but goodies. Nevermind the frame in the backgroud with a tilted photo of my girls because I need to trim that 4x6 but just absolutely NEVER get around to it!

Now, onto the tree. I LOVE this ornament. It's about 12" or so tall and came with a similarly sized Santa one in a two pack at Sam's about 3 or4 years ago. I have never used it because I never had a place to use it. But this year, I got brave and decided there was no such thing as a "too big ornament", so on the tree it went.

And I love to add a few new ornaments every year, so this year, I added a couple of Gabs's favorite things. First off, puppy ornaments.

And then, because i t was her first year of ballet, she got this dancing giraffe. Of course, I date EVERY ornament!! Doesn't every psycho?

This little polka dotted "G" is new. I could NOT resist!

That baby shoe was from her first Christmas. The fuzzy snowman and little sweater girl were cheapies from Target this year. I think they are so cute!

And look closely. There's Miss Tink! Gabbi really loves Tinkerbell. She is an oldie but goodie.

There's another little ballerina tucked in there. She has glittery tutu.

And another leotard with feathers. I mean, a girl only has ONE first year of dancing, right?!!

OH. And maybe one more. Love that manicure, Mo!

Gabbi had my favorite tree!! I LOVE that tree. It is so full and fun and bright and girly! It glitters and sticks out all over the place. I think it has tons of personality!

I happened upon this tree topper last year (it was a cheapie!),and think it is just what this happy tree needed.

Oh, there's the other puppy ornament! See how slam packed this tree is? That's just how I think a tree should be.

I know there are many who would disagree, and to them I say, "Different stroked for different folks" But for Gabbi Girl, all the pink and teal and green we can stand!!

If I had thirty more ornaments, I would've crammed them on!

And then, just before Christmas, the top tier of lights went out. WHAT?!! And this is a prelit artificial tree. WHAT will I do?!

I suppose we will deal with that crisis next year. This tree served us well this year!

And while we are in the Gabbi Lou area. I added a few decorations to her bathroom as well.

This penguin riding a horse is usually in her room, but this year sat beside a dressform full of bows. And a glass mosaic piece I did at an art retreat a couple of years ago. Does anyone remember that? I didn't even know I'd be doing the "naturey" thing n her room, nor the colors at the time I painted it. But, it is just right.

This is a glittery snowman that was on its way to the junkpile when I rescued it and gave it new life in G's vanity area.

Even the toilet paper had a new home.

And finally, in the entry area just outside her room, we put this 5' giraffe. I'm glad he got to greet everyone as they entered the rooms.

So, that's what's fun about MoJoy. You open it up and just never know what you will find!! Tomorrow may be Easter 2009. Who knows? It's just all a big mystery!!

Golf cart ride to Linda Lou's

2012-01-23T05:08:00.000-06:00

Ok. By now you've probably figured out that we are in Orlando. Or Norlando, as Ellie calls it. And Granddad was hospitalized about 4 days ago with viral pneumonia! It's a weird trip. Todd thought about us not even coming and for sure our n0t staying at their house. But I assured him that if and when GDad gets out of the hospital, and if he looks like a couple of kids would drive him up the wall, we will move right out and into a hotel. Until then, I am actually glad we are here to get to visit him and hopefully raise his spirits somewhat. I am the grand entertainer for now, meaning I have to keep the kids entertained and 'doing something" so they will not be bored and not be sucking the energy that's left right on outta DeeDee. Soooo, with all that said,.... I have no idea how to upload pictures on Granddad's computer like I do every time we are here. Instead, I will have to rely on old pics that I have uploaded in the past, and maybe I can get things figured out later in the week. This was over the Christmas holiday. Actually, first part of this month. Ellie has a CD that Linda Lou made her with all of the music they use at dancing. And when I tell you that Ellie has to show me these dances, among others, EVERYSINGLENIGHT, I mean EVERYSINGLENIGHT!!
She told me on this particular day that she wanted to go show Linda Lou her new dance. She is currently a huge fan of "I'm Sexy and I Know It". She can get my phone, go to itunes, find that video, and watch the clip. I don't (as far as I know) have the actual song even downloaded/ uploaded/ whatever to my phone, but that does NOT keep her from finding it. Ahh, the youth of today!
In big girl fashion, she went right to her dance clothes drawer and found her "booty shorts", (Thanks for that, Emma Lou and PauPau!), and slipped into her tights. This, too, is an EVERYSINGLENIGHT event!!
Sweet little Gabs just said, "I wanna gooooo", and climbed into the golf cart. No wardrobe change was necesary.
So, down the road we went to show Linda Lou our new dance moves. All Gabs was interested in was Linda Lou's new dog, Cooper.
And we certainly weren't expecting this, but LL had sweet Christmas gifts for my babies! And she had no idea how perfect those gifts were turn out to be! And why do I use exclamation points so freely?!!??!
Are you ready? I am saving you from your eyes burning by having photos rather than video. Trust me. You'd be concerned that a 4 year old can move like that!!
I believe she thinks she is a straight up choreographer!
And all the while, Gabs just stands and looks at the dog.

She repeatedly announces, "Look at how I keep my toes pointed.". Yes, we see, Ellie Sue.

I think this was some sort of exit stage left to reemerge in a surprise burst of action packed dancing sensationalism! Makes for more drama that way.
POW!!

We couldn't get Gabs to cooperate with the dance off.

And haven't I mentioned how much I LOVE her wanting to wear braids every day? I just LOVE it! I think there can be nothing cuter than a little girl in braids.

I think Linda Lou may be creatinga monster. My "friend" keeps sending her more and more music to add to her collection. Lawd help us.

I have a tiny bit of reprieve for now with my baby girl! Gabs doesn't reallly know how to fully surf the ol iphone to obtain music and videos. She is still into the finding the free games I download/ upload (help me on this!!), for her.
So for now, we are only subject to the queen's nightly dance exhibitions. I think right now, my favorite is her "cantcha feel that bum badum bum bum badum bum bass... Super bass" dance. It is CLASSIC!!

MO

Playing with Kimie and Jennifer

2012-01-21T22:08:00.000-06:00

Just a typical Saturday. Kimie comes over to play with my girls. And you know I LOVE that!! See what they can stir up? Out comes the dress up clothes! Oh, and did you happen to see Kimie in the above picture, on the other side of the bed, sitting there, coloring in coloring books with GG?

Next, out comes the teasets. All handpainted, might I add, by Kimie herself. Ellie Sue got hers when she was one year old. It's the one on the left. It has a big "E" on the teapot. Gabs got hers this past Christmas. It has a handwritten/ painted note on the bottom of it. And so naturally, Ellie told Kimie she thinks hers needs a handpainted note on the bottom of hers as well.

This weekend was different though. Kimie brought her cousin, Jennifer, with her over to play.

THey were playing, "Cockadoodledooooo", which was a pretend to be asleep, then pretend to wake up game that they both thought was hysterical.

Emma Lou and Amy came over from next door to show us their preliminary dresses for the pageant party. And Miss Ellie Sue's attention was a bit diverted!

See how she popped right outta that bed to see what the "big girls" had planned for the afternoon. The TWEENS are her people!

And now the whole crew is attending. It's about time to start planning some pageant outfits, peeps! Please note Gabbi is already in a princess gown. over her clothes. in the bed. in braids.

And speaking of princesses... and castles... and a giant mouse... guess where we are heading this week.... THAT's my big surprise.

Getting ready for the pageant.

2012-01-20T20:17:00.000-06:00

The evening of the Miss America Pageant Party, the girls helped me get the house ready. Gabbi climbed under the kitchen table and made sure Lizzie was prepared for what was about to ensue. I find her here often.

Poor Ol' Lizzie. There's no escaping the love of her big sister.

Ellie "helped" by sampling all the candy on the table.

This was BEFORE our trip to town where we bought enough candy to FILL that jar!

The girls helped me sort all of the paraphenalia for the crown decorating and snacks.

Then, Daddy's back was apparently hurting, so he just hit the flo right where he was standing. Being the husband of a physical therapist, he has learned a thing or two about how to manage his own back issues.

Apparently, Gabbi has too. She jumped right up on his back and "helped" him too!

More on a few visitors we had that day tomorrow. I've had computer issues, thus no blog earlier today. Sorry. And big things to report next week!! It'll be a SURRRRPRIIIISE!!

Oh, and I am about to start up my kids' art classes again. I have about 5 or so openings. They will be on Mondays and Wednesdays. (More openings on Mondays) From Feb 6-March 28... 8 weeks. Let me know if you are interested and have questions.

LSU/BAMA

2012-01-18T23:50:00.000-06:00

And finally... game night!! Todd and I started the several block walk to the Superdome.
Check out the lights turned on in the tallest building in the picture below.
And as has been the trend of the weekend, Todd zoned in on this sign!!

HOW in the world did we not get our invitation to the ESPN VIP event?! What!?
They did throw me a really cool strand of glowing ESPN beads.
On our way to the dome, we were once again joined by a little impromptu parade.

and the crowd thickened!! REALLY, REALLY thickened!!
REALLY, REALLY, REALLY thickened!! It was shoulder to shoulder!
And remember we were about an hour and a half early!
Finally, we perched up on hte ramp where we could get a bird's eye view of the crowd.
Todd was readying himself to make it through the crowd and was plotting our course.

up on the ramp of the Dome, we saw the ESPN Game Day crew.
Oh, by the way, since the horrible flood in NOLA, Mercedes Benz has done a major overhaul of the dome. Yay for them so Louisiana can once again be prowd of their state's main sport's arena.

And then they opened the gates.
Todd and I were crammed in, but we were happy as larks to be there.
We were still in GEEEEAAUUX TIIIIGERR mode.
I was shoved over to the female line, and Todd was hanging back in the male line.
Right about here, I was IN and he was still praying to make it through the pat down. They patted down every person coming in that place!

And because we were so dang early.... check out the EMPTY stands.

But, we were there!!
Watching the team warm up! And stretch, and run, and put on their helmets. Nope. We didn't miss even a smidge of the action!
The stands started filling up.
And the pregame got even more exciting.
Then the Golden Band came on the field to get the crowd all fired up.
And the National Anthem ALWAYS gets EVERYONE fired up!
The spirit groups lined up awaiting the entrance of the teams, and the air was electric!
"they" came out.
And then our TIGERS hit the field!!

And it was time for kickoff!! Can I tell you how weird it was that the dude down here in the black hat is from West Monroe? I noticed him and said, "HEY, Dr. King. And he turned around just about as surprised as I was. And not only that, but of the 80,000ish people in the dome, that guy right there in the white shirt is a physical therapist from Lafayette, who I went to undergraduate school with in the late 80's. Is that just bizarre? I knew THREE people within the five or so rows from where I was sitting. Oh, hey. I know HIM too! And he is looking GLOOMY!! Must've been about the third quarter!! Hey Polly, do you read my blog?! This dude on our row looked JUST LIKE Mike W!! I was so freaking out at how much he looked like him! I had to sneak this whole stalker-like pic of him.Seeeeeee???During the fourth quarter there was a sea of purple and gold heading back to the hotel rooms. I mean, who wanted to hang around for red and white confetti and a bunch of screaming, elated fans?

NOt bad losers. Just not wanting to hanga round for the shame of a total shut out!! Gotta tell ya... we are still BIGTIME Tiger fans! Looking forward to another winning season. Hope to be right back here next year!

New Orleans- Part Three

2012-01-17T21:58:00.000-06:00

Just in case you haven't seen enough of NOLA yet, oh no... we are NOT done. In fact, we won't even be done after today! One more after this. Can you tell I thoroughly enjoyed my little portable camera? Too bad for you... Let the picture taking commence!

Oh not cool! Look at all that red!
And right about then, we ran into Elaina, Mary Allison's older sister. Can you imagine? All the people down there, and it's, "Heeeeey Elllaaainna!!!!"
More cool street art.
And this kid smartly had half of his body/ clothes painted purple and gold. The other side was grey and red. Depending on who wanted to pay him to get a picture with him, is how he'd decide which side to show off.
Street people really make some cashola here! All of these people are gathered around to watch some dudes do their thing on the street. We didn't go over there, so I am not sure what the big hubbub was all about.
And if my husband is ever caught wearing these pants, please take him to the psychatric ward, because he will have officially gone crazy!
Every shop you walk by has LOADS of beads for sale! It's a New Orleans staple!
Beads. And masks.
And hot sauce. This whole store was nothing but hot sauces.
See!? There's one of EVERY kind here.
Todd usually makes a little stop here. But not today. He was RUSHING me through the French Market, because it was 3:30 and the game started at 6:30 or so. He was afraid we'd be late. He was about to send ME to the psych ward!!
But the French Market is something that I just CANNOT miss. It has so many unique gifts!

ANd finally we found a place we could eat without waiting in an insane line.
I can dig some raw oysters!!
I was happy. Todd was fake happy. Because all he wanted to do was get back to the hotel, change, and walk to the dome to wait 2 hours til gametime!
In case you watch Swamp People on TV and wonder if we really do eat alligator... the answer is yes.

Now this dude's NOLA art was pretty neat. It was made entirely out of packing tape! And this is the inside of your run of the mill sidewalk shop.

So is this gigantic stuffed gator. Right inside the door.

All the shops are so unique and cute and I wanted to go in every one of them. But, again, only two hours or so til gametime!! (insert eye roll here)
So as we HOOFED it back to our room, I kept right on snapping pics.
These are a few of the excursions available through the downtown tourism group.

And you may have heard of beignets and the place that made them famous... Cafe de Monde. Delicious!

I think I may add this to my bucket list... displaying my art in Jackson Square. Sounds like a totally cool thing to do, at least for a short little span of my life.

Now THAT's hot.

This is Jackson Square. Or at least one of the four sides that make up Jackson Square. That's the cathedral that is famously in many photos from NOLA.
And that dude on the right looked just like your daddy, Veronicia! I had to sneak his picture. Looked way more like him in person than in this photo.
And now that we are actually moving in the direction of our hotel, Todd is MOVING!!
I'm soaking it all up... all the psychics and palm readers, and card readers. I have seen them a thousand times, and can never get the nerve up to let them read my palm or give me a fortune. It just sorta freaks me out. Seems of the underworld or something. I just can't go there.

Little signs like this one sprinked the balconies of the Quarter. Oh, and I DO have on my bucket list to watch Mardi Gras from one of these balconies. I've done it from the ground (back in college), but I want to experience it from up here. Anyone know someone who has a place who'd let me and T the B come hang during the big carnival?! Holla!!
Todd has been buying me prints from this artist for years. He's very ecclectic. I love his weirdness.
And check out all the purple and gold beads strewn all over the streets.

Okaaaay, okaaaay, I'm coming, Stuperman!! One thing is for SHO... we are NOT gonna be late!!
Tomorrow... the big game.

MO

A stroll through New Orleans

2012-01-16T21:12:00.000-06:00

Soooo, Day Two. This would be Sunday. And don't you EVEN think that things are slow or closed down on Sunday in NOLA!! Nope. In fact, there was a FREE Celo Green concert in the pep rally area. We partook.
Shortly thereafter, we Par-left! It just wasn't all that great. He kept letting other young, unknown singers on the stage, and well, there was just funner things to be done!
Like talk to these random folks. Todd was getting a lot chummier as the day wore on. He is usually reserved. But today... nope! VERRRRY friendly!
And then he stopped to discuss these custom bikes with their owners.
And then he went to a cigar shop. And he bonded with this worker.
He cheered on these dudes as they actually rolled the cigars while he was waiting.
And went into this humidor to buy a few as souveniers. For the record, he is not a smoker. Except sometimes. And by sometimes, I mean when he's feeling six foot tall and bullet proof.
And by bravado, I mean the kind that comes from a little of everything.
And by everything, I mean that is what you see when you are on Bourbon Street.
And by Bourbon Street, I mean, INSANITY!!
ANd by insanity, I mean Cat's Meow... anybody been there?!
Yep... Karaoke!!
Those are a few of our friends with whom we met up during our evening.
These two were brand new friends of ours, the Markels. Really fun couple. Enjoyed their company along with old friends all day long on Sunday.
Fast Forward..... Urrrchhhh.... that's a screeching halt. Nope, not gonna see the rest of the night!! So, it's Monday morning! And we are headed back downtown, much more mellow and walking a bit slower than the previous day! and the action was already beginning.
It was crazy that the closer we got to Jackson Square, the more purple and gold and crimson we saw.

And of course, the panhandlers were getting thicker too. I don't understand that whole, "I'm bohemian and it ain't cool to take baths thing" they got going on! Todd and I were desperately seeking some good food for lunch. But, even at 2:30ish (did I say it was the next "morning"...ok, so maybe I exaggerated a bit!), the lines were so long for luch!

And so we walked and walked and walked... needing to fill our bellies.
Saw this. Pretty funny! Well, was then... not so much now!
Started encountering all kinds of weird outfits.

And girls dragging elephants by a leash. And only on this tiny brief moment did I kind of, maybe a tad, wish I had my girls with me. But... then it passed, and we hightailed it on through the crowd without a care in the world.
People stand still and stick their head in a frame and expect money to be dropped in their buckets. ???I, personally, love all the artists who set up shop around the square. and then Todd spied the ESPN tower. He got all tingly inside.

To be continued!!

And for those of you who asked, the new camera is a Sony Cybershot, with 16.2 pixels and shoots in HD. I just looked at it, and if you are a photographer and are laughing at me right now, you can STOP IT! I have absolutely no idea how to describe a camera other than to read all the words on the side of it. Check ya tomorrow.

Arriving in New Orleans

2012-01-16T04:00:00.000-06:00

My recount of last week's National Championship Game in New Orleans will be a lengthy one. In fact, it'll be devided into three posts. But, I swear, half the time I "THINK" in terms of blogging. I know that many of you have been to New Orleans, and some may even live in Louisiana so may have been there many times. But as we drove into town, and I started seeing those huge oak trees everywhere, I thought, I should share this on my blog with all the people who may have never been to New Orleans.
So, today's post is basically as we were arriving in New Orleans.
There may be lots of places that look like this, but I haven't been to them. I find New Orleans to be very, very unique!! However, I doubt there are other places where the oaks are draped with last year's strands of beads. They're everywhere down here near the French Quarter. This is St. Charles Street.

Here is the trolley that runs along St. Charles.
This is the visitor's bureau, so naturally you'd expact a big ol fleur de lis.
New Orleans (or let's just say NOLA for short), is full of old buildings that have been around over 100 years.
And these trees are about that old as well. I love how they are just right there on the side of the streets, draped over like a big canopy.
Here's Todd all nervous about finding his way to the hotel. (We took a new way into the city). He is NOT what I'd call an adventurer! I am.
I have no idea who this is. Sorry. I just thought the statue was cool. I'd guess Robert E. Lee, but I really don't know why he'd be memorialized in New Orleans. then again, history is NOT my bag.
Now, having said that, a couple we met while down here told me that we MUST go to this relatively new museum. He said it was unbelievable, and it's a must see the next time I go to New Orleans.
I don't know what this place is, but I DO think this is a place I need to visit next time too!!
Ok, so here we are actually nearing the hotel and getting near the Quarter.
If you've seen pictures of NOLA, then you've seen the balconies on just about everything. Think about the People Mag pics of Brangelina. That is exactly what it all looks like down here.
And the food. DUDE!! There is absolutely nothing like the food in New Orleans!! And in case you didn't know, Zatarains is a seasoning that is put on everything in Louisiana.
That's our state flag with the pelican on it.
And the buildings are pretty fabulous.
The intricate detail work is pretty phenomenal.
This is where we stayed. This is NOT where we will be staying in future trips. We usually like to stay closer to the action in the Quarter. But, we only decided, like, Thursday before the weekend of the game, that we'd be going. Soooo, beggars can't be choosers.
And I think that in the past, Wyndham has been a really nice place to stay. Just not necessarily when in New Orleans.
So, we unpacked and went for a stroll.
It was Saturday evening and we were heading to the Superdome for the Saints game. And in NOLA, you see all kinds of things.
It got a bit congested as we got closer to the dome.
But people were in typical Louisiana fashion, with beads and umbrellas, and crazy get ups.
Just a few blocks from the dome, there were tents set up for tailgating and for selling souvies for the upcoming BIG game.
The panhandlers were al over the place trying to earn their money. This dude is down in a box, but it looks like he is a baby in a carseat. Strange.

And there were typical jazz bands set up along the walk with, of course, a box set out for tips.
And here we are... just outside the major crowd of folks who were waiting to get in the dome.

I hope I don't offend, but I found this dude to be pretty funny. His cloak says, "Breesus Christ".
As you may or may not know, Drew Brees is our quarterback and a huge hero here in NOLA.

There was a pre-party happening down in Champions Square pre-game. Todd and I missed that for the Saints game AND the LSU game! We took the high road, literally! We are up on the ramp looking down into the fun. We could still hear the bands and watch all the nuts.

ANd you also realize that NOLA is known for their history of voodoo and such. Have you seen The Princess and the Frog, the newer Disney movie, with the new princess, Tiana. Even Disney recognized the whole voodoo thang prevalent down here in the bayou land. The Saints were playing Detroit Lions. I know nothing about Detroit. Except that Kid Rock is from there.
We had great seats. Right down near the field.

This shirt kinda cracked me up. He was a few rows in front of us. Todd bought a new camera prior to our leaving. I LOVE it. It fits in our pockets, takes video AND cool panoramic pictures like this one.
But I digress. This girl was also two rows in front of us. She has on a shiny gold bikini over her clothes.

Todd and I were BEAT after the game. THe Saints won, by the way. So, we walked back to the hotel. There was a sushi bar in our hotel. With all the cajun deliciousness in NOLA, we end up eating sushi. We will be returning to that sushi bar after the LSU game too! We just were not up to walking the streets after that loss.
Back in the room, I thought it was funny to see how much purple and gold Todd the Bod had packed.
Oh, and might I share my awesome new purse! I love it. Canton find!
Day two... about to go see the town...
And as we are walking down toward the French Quarter/ French Market.
Look at this... Look closely... See the shaved poodles?!
First stop... Landry's. and a GREAT lunch. But before that.... bloody marys!!
And in NOLA, bloody marys are like a lunch in themselves. Peppers, olives, spiced beans, okra...
And we ran into our good friends, Bo and Kori from home.
And here are my boobs.
oh. and me. Right above my boobs! WHoa!

Once we hit the main streets, there were LSU and Alabama colors EVERYWHERE!!
The LSU pep rally was set up for 2:00. We made it there in time.
But had to be out of there by 4:00 when the Alabama fans had their turn at "rallying".
Look here they come now. I love how in NOLA, there are impromptu parades all day long.

This city will celebrate just about anything. I kinda like that. A lot.
And here's the tail end of hte Golden Band from Tiger Land.
Different cars would drive by blaring the LSU fight song, or Sweet Home ALabama, as it was.

But we just went from bar to bar, Todd perpetually looking for games on the big screens, and the girls looking for good shopping in the immediate area.
And so it was. Day two in New Orleans, LA. Had a ball. Todd started his drinking a little too early. And you will see the results of that in tomorrow's post.
I know I have posted a TON of pics, and it may wear you out, but I just like to share. And this new tiny easy to carry camera means I whip it out for every little thing. More new Orleans tomorrow.

P.S. In the comments, I am often asked several questions and, I;ll admit, I am not the best about responding. So, one I remember is about Gabbi's quilt on her bed. It came from Target. If you've asked me something lately, and I didn't respond, please reask. I promise to answer.

First annual Miss America Pageant Party

2012-01-15T08:30:00.000-06:00

Well, we decided Friday morning as we were watching the early show and getting ready for school/ work, that we'd have ourselves a Miss America Pageant Party. And so, on Saturday, the girls and I ran around town picking up a few essentials. We bought some satin ribbon so we could make sashes. Each girl personalized their own, and as seen above, the little ones did as well. Ellie's said "Best Cousin Ever" per Madi's request.

This is Most Beautiful, Emma Claire. Although, with that solemn look, she is NOT going to win Miss Congeniality.

This is our crown decorating, sash decorating area.

This is Maddi and her little sister, Lydia. Maddi was one of the "big girls" who came over to help us with hair and make up.

Naturally, this fruit loop headed back to get into her bathing suit as soon as she saw the contestants on stage sporting theirs.

Emma Lou went all out with a big rhinestone crown and, actually, rhinestones dripping all over her! Here, she is partaking in the make up station with Katherine who volunteered to help with the project.

And this is Taylor. She was working that hair chair!

Sarah was the ring leader who rounded up the helpers for me.

All little girls love make up, but throw in some high school girls putting it on, and it elevates to a whole new level of COOL!

It was a full scale beautification project.

This is Amy. She came over with Emma Lou. And she is a really FUN girl. She CHOSE to be Miss Congeniality!!

Clara was Miss Super Smile.

and you may remember Jessi's daughter, Kaitlyn. She's already had makeup. Now, she needs her hair "did".

Sarah, from our old next door, came over too.

As did Isabella, from Ellie's dance class.

Some of our make up artists were a little more forward than others. Maddi liked the "bold" eye wiht swoopy eye liner.

Jin and Staci hung out at the snack counter.

Taylor worked HARD to curl Emma Claire's hair. I have never seen hair that just straight up will NOT curl. Hers would NOT!

How funny is that? I thought it was pretty awesome!

Clara and Lydia are buds from WAY back. See how they both added a little rhinestone/pearl bling to the tops of their crowns.

Gabs LOVED having her make up done.

She relished every minute. Ellie couldn't stop long enough to even have her hair done. As you will soon see, she was too busy coming up with ways to entertain the crowd.

I got out LOTS of shadows so the girls could choose the look they were most wanting.

Breanna brought her two girls over and also made us some grape skewers. All kids love grape skewers!

In fact, there's Hazel, there, in the Rapunzel dress.

Remember that hair that wouldn't curl? Nevermind that! Ha. We took care of that little problem with a clip on hairpiece.

Sarah was Miss Junior America. Emma was Miss Photogenic.

And Kaitlyn was Miss Perfect Peach.

Madi sure got up there and got her face done!

And here you have Clara, Miss Pretty Smile.

We all gathered around to watch Miss Louisiana, Hope Anderson, go all the way to Top 10. The adults played a little contest to see who could pick the most girls in Top 10, then Top 5.

All those clothes in on our dress rack were for when the girls felt the need to change.

There's Miss Oklahoma. She was TINY, but I kind of liked her the most. Other than Hope, of course. Many of us chose Miss Tennessee as the prettiest!

Oh wait!! Did Ellie actually stop to get her face done?! Yeah. Looks like it. But she did it with great flair!

Others changed dresses, Ellie just changed swimsuits, oh...and put on something for the talent competition.

These were the trinkets we used to dress up the crowns. And the pink pearly candy? Sixlets!!

We had blingy earrings and rings.

Moms pretty much hung around the kitchen and the snacks.

This is when Miss Louisiana was chosen 15th of the Top 15. We were sweating it right about now.

And here are a bunch of the dressed up dolls.

Toddlers and Tiaras babay!!

I had to get in on the action too! After all, I wore rhinestones, sequins, and heels. Soooo....

And now we will begin the talent section of our competition!!

See that little girl doing a "trick" on the hearth?! That'd be MY kid. The kid my mom says couldn't be more like me if I'd carried her in my own womb! And if you are wondering where my precious angel is during all of this... she'd already hit the hay! Girlfriend don't play when it's bedtime!

So, as the beauty queens did their best pageant waves, we called it a night.

A really, really fun night!

Gettin ready for Miss America!!

2012-01-14T18:50:00.005-06:00

What are you doing tonight?!

Well, weeeeeeeee are getting ready for the Miss America pageant! We decided (YESTERDAY morning) that we should start another fun annual event! So we called up a few friends, and told them to put on their best pageant attire, and come on over.

It was hilarious to see everyone coming in with the teenagers in the area's clothes on... from prom, homecoming, etc. (Thanks, Taylor), even though you aren't even in town, and your closet was RAIDED!!

Emma and Amy showed up with a couple of Taylor's dresses.

And then, Ellie Sue decided to follow suit and get out of her originally planned outfit (Top of page) and do a dress! Thank God.

When she decided she HAD to have heels like the big girls, I took her to my closet. One would think she would pick some glittery heels.

But, noooooo.... she wanted some leather wedges. Why does that surprise me?!

Madi came over in sportswear, wearing all sequins... top and bottom!

And I, of course, am totally ready to roll in crown, rhinestones, and a sequin top.

Gooooo, Miss Louisiana. Hope Anderson... we will be pulling for you! More on this party tomorrow.

My funny kid!

2012-01-12T23:17:00.000-06:00

So this morning on the way to Miss Donna's, Ellie starts showing me her "homework". Miss Donna does a good job of keeping her "stimulated", by having her bring home work pages every day. As I am checking out all of her papers and asking her to tell me all the beginning sounds of each letter she is telling me about, she says, "OH. MOM! ....

Look at how I added streaks in her hair!!"

Indeed, my fashion forward child, indeed!!

Baby Alive with Emma

2012-01-11T22:32:00.000-06:00

I love how being 9 (well, only a few days from being 10) makes you a total TWEEN. Emma Lou comes over, being all aloof and cool, the way 10 year olds are, and spies the girls' new Baby Alive dolls.
I told her that they really eat, drink, and poop. She really lit up when I said, "Poop"!
It's like she had to see it to believe it!! And so, with another very nonchalant, like "cool if you do and cool if you don't" voice, she asked, "Can I feed it?". What she really meant to ask is, "Can I feed it so I can see if it really poops?".
She involved my sweet baby so she could act like she was only playing dolls to entertain her. Ha. I know better!
The girl fed that baby bottle after bottle, and spoonful after spoonful, all the while checking for the "evidence"!!
That's ok, Emma. We like it when you come over.

MO

And while I have all of your attention, let me let you in on a little project I am doing. (I have lots of New Year's activities, and we'll see how long all of them last) I downloaded (or uploaded, or whatever!!?) an app called Project 365 Pro. Since we are only into the new year by less than two weeks, you could probably go back and make up the first 11 days or so. It requires you to take a photo a day with your camera, and assign it to the day. It's fun to watch the pictures accumulate, because it's just a brief synopsis of your week, month, and eventually year. Jessi and I plan to print ours out once a month and either use it in our Project Life binders (a year's scrapbook project by Becky Higgins, that i could NOT finish, nor stay on task with last year... but I digress), or just print them out month to month in miniature size and make a little mini journal out of them. The app has room for comments on the photos, so you can even elaborate on the photo you chose, why you chose it, or what was special about it on that particular day. I'll share a couple more of my fun daily events I am doing as I "suck the marrow" out day by day on another day!! ANy of you English professors out there know who wrote that? I can quote it but not positive of the author. Well, Just thought you may like the app too!
Peace out, peeps. Mo

Making cool bracelets

2012-01-10T19:18:00.000-06:00

Sorry I have been out of pocket for a day or so. Todd the Bod and I were in New Orleans for the national championship. And I DO NOT want to hear from you Alabama fans!! ha I had a few pics already loaded up, so I am sharing those until I load up LOTS of pictures from New Orleans. This is the other day when E, G, and I all sat down and made bracelets from a kit they got from Santa. I have to make some ORDER in the closets by actually USING the toys, games, books, etc that we have/ got for Christmas.
That is part of my own little strategy for ORDER. And when we had several bands leftover, I THREW THEM AWAY! Goooooo me!! That is highly unusual. I think it's an artsy thing. I can't throw anything away. I always think I can make something out of something, so I usually end up accumulating. So, I am proud that I just threw it right away. You "green" folks, don't lay into me. If you could see my upcycling area, you'd realize I just can't keep it all!
And I also think it's a nice way to make me sit down with my little precious ones and take the time to really spend together and all share the same activity.
Ellie's bracelet was covered in bling and glittery puffy paint. Aren't you surprised?! I know you are. She's usually so "plain" and "boring" and muted. You know all tan, and beige, and white. HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
This is mine. It says "Use ur Gift". That's my abbreviated mission statement. I plan to wear it on "turquoise day", as Ellie calls it. Pretty appropriate since that's the day we wear our turquoise shirts. Don't think that one has missed it one little bit. She doesn't miss much actually. Ok, so here it is... your one and only time to let me have it, Bama. If I heard "Roll Tide" once this weekend, I heard it a thousand. So dish it out. I can take it. And no matter what, I can tell you that regardless of the outcome, the time I got to spend with my hubby alone, out of town, and at a total passion of his (LSU football) was just totally worth it. Making memories. It's what makes a FULL life!

MO

Christmas at Jin Jins!

2012-01-07T21:50:00.000-06:00

Know what I LOVE about Christmas? Well, there's the obvious stuff. But then there's this... I get to see my nephews. They are too old and way too cool to hang with their Aunt Mo anymore. Hunter will be 18 in May. Hayden 16 this month. He just got his driver's permit. WHAT?!!??
Don't you remember them when they were sweet little things at St. Jude shooting pool with their baby brother? They would ride to and from St. Jude with me, and lived with me and Todd during all the times that Staci and Don had to be in Memphis.
JinJin, why are you on the computer? Do you remember this? Christmas afternoon was a blur. It always is. Christmas at JinJin's is NUTS!!
We have kinda gotten in the tradition of wearing our PJs over to mom's house after everyone has done Santa at their own.
Everyone except my big, cool nephews. BOO!
Have I introduced Jin's man, Baxter? They've been together now for months. We all like him. He travels a lot with work, so Jin tags along and is getting to do lots and lots of travelling. Here, he is showing us his newly attained AARP card!
and then it began.
We let the girls go first. Well, actually, Hunter and Hayden went first. They have to be shared on Christmas morning. They had to clear out early to go to another grandparent's house, then came back later to resume.

Can you say INSANE IN THE MEMBRANE? And remember, all the boys' are already gone. Staci got Gabs this Rapunzel shirt. And then, there were princess coloring books. Do you think they are going to be fired up about Disney or what?! I think I showed this last year, but let's revisit. It's the traditional breakfast/ lunch/ dinner at Jin's on Christmas Day! The omelet bar!
You pick out the ingredients that light your fire.
And then you choose the meat you want as the side dish.
You crack two eggs and pour them into a ziploc bag along with all the goodies you choose.
Drop in the boiling water for 13 minutes. And voila. A strangely shaped,but totally awesome tubular omelet. Pretty dadgum easy to do.
Everyone likes it. Oh... Todd wouldn't wear his PJs either. BORING!
One of Gabs favorite presents was this Rapunzel hair!
She refused to take it off!
It was like spider web all over her face, but she didn't mind a bit.
She would twirl and spin and siiinnnggg.

Madi felt horrible. She slept in the back room for about 4 of the five or so hours we were there. Staci had her at the doctor the day before, and noone really knows what she had.
I gave Baxter one of our new MMPT tees. We have a new logo and I thought he'd like our mission statement on the front.
You remember it? Joyfully use your gifts to brighten the lives of others?! We're about to launch a new website (well, not launch... design!! It'll be a couple of months or so, but it is gonna be the bomb dot com!), so plan to come visit it!

I told Todd his nerd was showing when he was so fired up about the series he received from JinJin... Star Wars.... ALL of them!
It was fun to watch my little prissy call out the names on some of the tags. She is learning to read. Isn't it wild the way that suddenly happens? It kinda trips me out!
Next up, Gabbi! Miss Donna, get ready... you gotta teach my baby girl to read too!

This was a "thing" between Staci and Jake, so I thought she'd really like it.
Gabs took Ellie's headband... MOMENTARILY!

It was a really fun age for my girls to be enjoying Christmas.
It seems that every little thing catches their eyes and lights up their souls.

Jin had an autographed photo of Pete Rose for Christmas. Another thing I will be having framed and hung in his man cave. He loved it.
And this cool print of his beloved LSU team is also signed on the back with a note from the artist. BTW... anyone in New Orleans this weekend?! We are!!
I got this kickin' hat!
And Staci bought me this cool poncho. I did mention we were in our PJs, right? And that means NO make up!!
Little Gabs loved her apron and hat.

and went right to work on her tea set as well.

Well, I had to learn it somewhere, right?! Check out these PACKED stockings!!
JinJIn does it up right. Thanks, Mom, for always making our Christmas so special. It is ALWAYS a big deal!
and that is exactly how I want my girls to grow up... with a "big deal" being made out of all the special days.
After all, you only get one chance at this life. So, you need to "suck the marrow" out of it.
Hope your day is a good one.

MO

Oh, and GoOOOOOOO, TIGERS!!!

Justin Bieber Toothbrush

2012-01-06T23:58:00.000-06:00

Wanna know how to get your kids to brush their teeth?! Buy them a Justin Bieber toothbrush that plays, "Baby Baby"... they will brush and brush and brush....
and dance and dance and dance.... all the while with good oral hygiene!! Thanks, Kimie!!

MO

ORDER in Gab's room!

2012-01-05T16:46:00.005-06:00

Guess what I accomplished on Monday morning. ORDER! In Gabbi's room!
And apparently my sweet angel appreciated it too, because this may just have been the second time she has EVER lay in her own bed. She is always piled up in Ellie's bed.
But I do wish she would want to stay in her bedroom more often. I actually think it's my favorite room of the house (except my artroom of course). Gabs's colors are very peaceful.
And for whatever reason, the lighting in her room is always perfect. And now, we don't have a Christmas tree, any snowman figurines, or a big pastel wreath on her door. So, it's back to normal around here.
Somehow or another, we managed to mesh all their new toys, games, art projects, etc with all their "old" toys, games, art projects, etc.
Trust me when I tell you that a day before this photo was taken, you couldn't even tell there was a bed underneath the pile!!
I got rid of TONS of stuffed animals. Don't worry, they were donated to a program who actually needed them. But there were lots of them, I just couldn't part with . Namely... the ones that were dogs or cats. WHY is that?! My hoarding tendencies run DEEP!!
I seem to just move my little figurines around. Bookshelf. Ellie's shelf above her bed. In the den. And now, they have found their way to the kids' books shelf.
Gabs got so many dishes and play food, that we now have to have an overhaul on the play kitchen area.
But, taaaaaa daaaaah!! I am so excited to show this. I got rid of two whole bins of dress up clothes. Nevermind that I have a whole suitcase packed with princess dresses, because we will be in Disney in a few weeks, and we are at the perfect age to be dressing like a princess every single day! Dontcha agree? So, that just means that when we return, we will have to squeeze all of those back in, but in the meanwhile, I will RELISH the ORDER in my NEST. (Did I just manage to squeeze my words from the last three years into one sentence?!)
I also sort of moved all the baby beds and babydolls to the other side of the room.
My little chickies will have real live "centers" like they do in pre K or Kindergarten!! Ha. As if... this ORDEr will last just about a whole week. But then, I'll regroup and go at it again!

MO

Santa came! Santa came!

2012-01-04T16:51:00.001-06:00

Oh, did I mention Santa came?! Well, he did. And I am going to be in mucho trouble if I don't get these pictures on this blog. Kimie is seriously sick and tired of my delay in posting Christmas morning. So, here ya go, Kimie!

So, this is only a few minutes after getting up!

Santa rocked the Groves house!

And left Gabs a much too big bike. Way to go, TG!

The other one seemed to fit Ellie Sue perfectly! She took off through the house like she was SUPER BAD!

Poor, poor little two braided GG. She just couldn't touch the pedals!

It looks like Santa threw up in pink!

Until you get to our "mature" daughter's side of the room!

Ellie was the first one up and came to our room bright and early. She didn't pass go and she didn't collect any of her toys before she came to get us!

Nor did she lean over and awaken her little sister to come and enjoy it with her right off the bat. I had to encourage her to go let her in on the secret!

Santa brought LOTS of art supplies. Santa, is you crazy?! Is that PAINT!?

and baby dolls? Heck yeah! we GOTS us some baby dolls!

This has to be one of our best years ever. The girls are old enough now to get excited about every little thing. Gabbi sits and stares and ponders every single thing about a toy. Ellie tears open the package and chunks it to the side to get to the next one.

However, if you ask Gabbi what she got for Christmas from Santa, it's always the same... "Toys". In fact, that's exactly what she'd tell you every time you asked her what she wanted from Santa too! "toys".

Now, ask Ellie what she got for Christmas and the words that pass her lips, "A hot glue gun and a sewing machine". That's my girl!!

Daddy came in to be surprised by the loot.

And to do the all important opening of packages and such .

Then he made himself a cup of coffee and put on his skull cap (proof positive that he keeps our house at subarctic temperatures!) and enjoyed the show.

Gabs could have sat and slathered lipgloss on her lips for 30 minutes straight. She really could! She will go back and forth and back and forth and back and forth.... until her face is COVERED in make up!

I am keeping a grateful journal in 2012 (and encourage you too as well... more on that later), and one of the things I wrote yesterday is that I am grateful that my little girl likes to wear her hair in two braids. Isn't it the sweetest thing? At least one of them doesnt' think she has to have a Snooki pouf every day! See... I'm grateful for that too!

Then came the arduous task of sorting the gifts from under the tree. We had a few that we wrapped for each other, a few for the kiddos, and lots to go to JinJin's with later in the day.

Todd and I are not nearly as agile as we once were. WOuld anyone agree that hitting 40ish is when things just really take a turn?! It did for us. God forbid I had another kid whose room had to be UPstairs! Oh, Lord!!

I do LOVE a full stocking! DOn't you!?

I'm also glad we saved a few wrapped gifts for the girls. They really enjoyed getting to open a few on Christmas morning.

Especially THESE!!!

If you follow me on Facebook, you'll know that Staci threatened to get these for Ellie at the mall. They didn't have her size though. And she thought that would be enough to keep her from getting them. Ha! I figured, if I got the boots in a 12 (she wears a 9 1/2), then I could claim she could only wear them around the house. Riiiigghhhhhttt!!

I mean look at the JOY on that kid's face! She was totally beside herself!

The girls also opened a gift from Tashia on Christmas morning, a new LSU cheer uniform for each of them. Wonder when we'll be needing those? Hmmmm??? yea, I wonder!

yayyy... glittery Toms!

For BOTH of us!

Ellie drew her daddy a piece of art on her very own. Not only that, but she also got all the wrapping paper and supplies and wrapped it for him. She also wrote the names on a majority of the tags on the gifts under our tree this year. My baby girl is growing up!

In fact, next year.. no ... THIS year! is kindergarten!!

Gabs may also tell you that besides "toys", this mirror ranks pretty dadgum high on her favorite Christmas gift list.

Lizzie just came in for the socialization. Really, she wishes everyone would just go right back to sleep. It was way early for that girl.

What? What?!

And then came stocking time!

Now JinJin and Pops didnt' raise no skimpy stocking stuffers!! Nosirreee.

So, as Gabbi cheered over getting her M&M's (simple pleasures for that girl!), we all three posed for our merry Christmas picture together.

Uggh, Gabs. That's gross.

Within minutes, the fingernail polish was a-flowin!

Except for the artist. She was busy putting on her press on nails.

Nails, makeup, high heels... THAT's what lights her fire!

Our den was ransacked, but it was a really awesome morning at the Groves' place.

and honestly, I love the LOVE that I see when my girls are playing and sharing together and with each other.

And more exciting than anything is that Miss Ellie Sue got to wear her high heel boots over to JinJin's.

You think she's proud of these?!

Gabs got her M&M's in hand and her Rapunzel dress on and was ready for the fiasco about to ensue at JinJin's too.

Right afteeerrrr.....

a little spin in her Barbie car.

Pops and Nana gave her this car the night before on Christmas Eve.

And to say she likes it is a gross understatement.

I'd say she more LOVES it!

and what makes Gabbi happy makes Mama happy!

Sorry Lizzie girl, you aren't going to be able to go today. We'll see you this afternoon, after mucho lunch and present exchange. And don't be judging... I KNOW I need to clean out that garage in the background... thus ORDER!!

With a loaded rear end, we packed it on up and headed on out.

Christmas morning 2011.

P.S. Got your word?! I think everyone saw mine and WHY I chose it. For the record, I KNOW why I chose my word and what areas in my life need ORDER. You can't have a blog, put your life out there publicly and not expect a little scrutiny from time to time. But, just sayin, I was not asking for any input on WHY I should have chosen my word or WHAT areas of my life needed ORDER. Nor do I need to know the priority in which the reasons needed to be listed. I know this. I chose my word because of it. It's MY WORD. My LIFE. My health. Sorry. I'll be back tomorrow. Happier and more chill.

Thanks for reading my blog.

My word for 2012: ORDER

2012-01-01T23:04:00.002-06:00

2012: ORDER

Establish order In my savings programs… a monthly personal plan and a plan for girls’ education
Put order in my MoJoy calendar, preplan my year… retreats, classes, birthday parties
Put order in MMPT calendar... continuing ed, staff personal reviews, inservices, leadership training
Finally sit and make out my Bucket List. Order for my life’s dreams.
Put order to my plans for speaking engagements. Mix with creativity, art, inspiration, leadership, teamwork
Create order in MMPT’s books… P&Ls, Balance Sheets, daily referrals, productivity per clinic
Establish order in my week for ME time... to read, study, create, file, fill in my books daily, blog daily (personal and MMPT), daily photos
Establish order to MoJoy orders going out more efficiently.
Make time in my schedule to orderly (weekly) take a class… sewing or college course
Give order to bedtime routines.
Give order to AM routines.
Give order to discipline, consistently.
Give order to my house. Girls’ closets, art room, attic, bathroom drawers, my closet, cottage, workshop, GARAGE!
Establish an order for laundry, so we aren't doing 10 loads on the weekend.
Give order to my life through simplifying ownership… old house, land, lots
Improved order to staff evaluations.
Improved order to MMPT staff meetings; monthly.
Establish order in a quarterly leadership meeting with clinic leaders.
Work on order in my treatment “protocols”
Orderly blogging for MMPT, MoJoy, and marketing attempts
Put order in my life documents. Birth certificates, will, life insurance, etc.
Orderly establish a growth agenda for MMPT leaders
Decide on an orderly way to exercise and eat right... Weight Watchers, NurtiSystem, ???

I am sure I will figure out lots more. But for now, these are the things that helped me make up my mind on my word.

I didn't get much feedback. Surely you know what your word is. And it will make it more concrete and final to share it. Make it public... here!

MO

New Year's Eve.

2011-12-31T21:40:00.006-06:00

We decided to just hang around our house tonight. Having preschoolers means lots of things. It means I don't want to start a new year by leaving them home with a babysitter. It means, I don't feel like risking being on busy roads when others have been drinking and may be driving.

It means, let's get our baths early, then pull up a seat in the front yard and watch the neighbors put on an epic fireworks display!

It means we get to start our new year together! And that's just exactly how I would want it.

So, with that... have you decided on your word for the year? I have. I struggled with it!

First, I just knew it was going to be BUILD. Then, I really wanted PLAN. I even sat down and started a list of all the things I was PLANning in 2012. As I worked on that list, I realized that was really not what I was seeking at all.

What I really want to see more of is....

I'll tell you in a minute. Now, I will continue the story of our fancy schmancy New Year's Eve celebration. As you may remember, this is Jake's birthday . As far as my kids are concerned, that is why everyone is sending up fireworks and celebrating.

I just love it that they think that!

So, we did like we always do. We got our balloons ready. And Ellie kept telling me she wanted a "word".

I thought maybe she wanted to pray over them. But, finally I realized she wanted to WRITE a word on it. So, I gave her that opportunity. In fact, I let Gabs get after it too.Wait! Ellie wasn't quite done. She also needed to add a little color!

There! That oughta do it!

Gabs had already streaked outside to let hers go. At least her feet are warm.

Next up... Ellie Sue.

And so we let them send our balloons too. Daddy had gone by MMPT to use our helium tank to make four balloons, one for each of us to send.

This was a message from Daddy to Jake.

Gabbi Girl prepares for round two.

Jake, wherever you are and whatever you are doing... I hope you know for SURE that we have never and never will forget you! You are always going to be a four year old to us, because I have no idea how to imagine you as a 10 year old. WOW!!

You'd actually have some of your "big teeth" by now. Something you never got to experience.

But your picture was all over our Christmas tree. Your photos dot our home. Your memory is all over our lives.

And like that... the fourth and final balloon was launched to you.

Your MO has a big 2012 planned! I have always sort of done things on a whim. Always last minute. Never any real specificity to my daily routines. ANd now with little girls who rely on me to teach them about life, and how to maximize it... well, I have finally figured out what I hope to see more of in 2012.

ORDER!!

More on how/ why and what I intend to create ORDER in tomorrow. Are you ready to share your word?! Just think of what's been on your mind lately. What you've been wishing you coudl do more. How you want to feel? What has to happen to feel that way?! Choose your verb!! Then, live it out in 2012!!

Happy New Year, y'all!!

Todd's Man Cave... at Christmas

2011-12-31T03:00:00.000-06:00

Yep. I kinda thought everyone would like to hear from Miss Mary Allison herself. It seems she was somewhat inspirational. She's a cool kid. I think we'll keep her! and let's move along on our Christmas Tour of Homes. Next up... Todd's man cave. Here he keeps a picture of our beloved Earl. I used to collect sporty Santas for him, but quite frankly, I don't have any more room for any new ones, so I just display the current collection.

One plays baseball, but all the rest are golfers.

I think they make a fine fit in this "boys only" room!

Although not on in this photo, we had lights strung all through this garland. I haven't taken any of these down yet, JUST IN CASE we end up having a party at our house for the big national Championship game!

There are even LSU helmet lights intertwined all in the garland!!

More golfing Santas!And then a few specific LSU figurines too.

Here's our LSU tree.

This sucker is FULL of LSU ornaments! I used to collect just about anything that was sporty or purple and gold. Now, it pretty much has to say LSU to make the cut. We are just plain old out of room!

And strangely, no matter where I am, I can see an ornament and totally remember if I do or do not already have it. And for that matter, I am referring to the ornaments on all SEVEN trees in my house!

That number one is a new one this year.

As is this one.

And I added two nutcrackers and this jersey.

And this was the first year I'd ever seen this megaphone.

Or this symbol of a structure on LSU's campus.

I am pretty sure this is a last year's jewel.

I even still have this invitation to Cindy's son, Robert Scott's, 5th birthday party. He is now in middle school!

Oh, and I like this one too. It's an LSU tiger choking an Auburn tiger.

Not that I am condoning violence or anything!

I had the opportunity to get Todd's dad's ballglove framed for him. He was pretty surprised.

I even scoured through tons of old photos to find this one of him and his dad, with Todd in his beloved Cowboys jersey. They shared a bond of a love of sports.

The plate on the bottom, in case you can't make it out, says

Scott Groves 1947-1997

Annnnnd, there's Ellie... not about to let me alone for a few minutes! Nosirreee. She is going to be wherever her mama is!! for sho!

And shall we take a little walk outside now?!

I am also leaving all of this up until at least the 9th when LSU creams Alabama.

Yes, as a matter of fact I DO know that I take Christmas a tad bit over the top when I am even decorating the back porches.

But hey, to each his own, right?! And if you look waaaaay back there, you can also see that the cottage is decorated.

This was a rainy, dreary kind of day. Doesn't matter to me though. I LOVE a reason to have to stay inside this time of year!

Ellie.... get back under this porch!!

And finally the screened porch! You know the PLANNED screened porch that has no screen!

What it DOES have is a seriously SAD looking poinsettia!!

And some cute cushions and bows!!

Have a great day everybody. Be safe. Be responsible. And be thinking about your word... what do you hope to see more of in your life in 2012!? I think I know mine, but I need to percolate on it all day tomorrow and maybe Sunday as well.

Mary Allison's Junior Bash 2011

2011-12-29T21:13:00.000-06:00

HELLO BLOG WORLD! HA! This is MA! I am guest blogging (and yes I do feel like quite the superstar) I am here to report on one of the BEST nights ive ever had with my friends! Our FIRST annual tacky Christmas party. (I am above all Tackied out)

The group started out small... some had work, dance, etc but we began to grow.

If you havent read the blog about Mo's party... GO READ! Theennnn, come right back! But, we too played the secret game! SO HILARIOUS!

Blogland... yall have seen me grow up since age 12.. feel like yall are my 2nd fam! I dont know if yall know but above is my BEST friend Lauren! She is my equivalent of Paula. We do everything together and are very alike yet very different. People who know us call us "Romie and Michelle" NEVER a dull moment when we are involved.... EVER

Here they are! My bestest friends. Some of these girls I have grown up with, some met in junior high, and some are new friends. I am SO blessed to have each one of these girls.. My grade is very close knit. All of our girls are extremely close. No drama. And all our boys are close knit too.. makes for one awesome group! (We cant wait for Senior Trip.. HA!)

TACKY!!! So very tacky!! Im so glad we did the Tacky Christmas theme.. It was fun!

Top Row (L--->R)we have Caitlin (who is the COVER MODEL of Varsity Cheer Magazine 2012, proud of her!) Hanna (who I went to kindergarten with! we both sat at the green table), Richmond (who moved to West Monroe in 2nd grade and we were in the same class 2-5 grade) Lauren, (best friends since sixth grade but went to Kindergarten together), Sierra (my other best friend, went to church togehter since pre school but became best friends after the summer of 9th grade), Kristen (friends since 1st grade!) Bottom Row: Adriane (Played soccer on the same team for 10 years STRAIGHT! Go purple storm!) Madeline (a new High School friend) Alex (friend since 1 st grade!) ME! And then Kelsey my good friend since junior high!

Next we have (l--->r) Rebecca (we went to the same daycare as infants and we are still close!) Shelby (my mom's best friends daughter.. we go way back. just like another sister!) and last on the back row, Sari (new highschool friend who i would call another of my "close best friends" we hang out ALOT!) Then, bottom row, Anne Marie (played soccer with me and adriane and have been friends since age 4!) and finally Maddie (our dads are good friends, friends since age 5!) Yall may remember Maddie.. she has watched Sue Sue and GG before!!

I have some PRETTY friends!

NEVER a dull moment

PRESENTS! for the secret game (I HAVE AN AWESOME STEP MOM)

I am slightly embarassed.......... you think I would learn not to make ugly faces or else it WILL be on the blog... (I am too much like Mo) (not a bad thing!)

Yum^^^^

So let me explain... this year we did a GAG gift exchange... so marvel at these gift!

MOOMOO!!!!

Ketchup and Mustard GUN!

pow!!!!

Size 4X Panties.. Oooh La lA:)

Reindeer Beanie

Wind Chimes!

Awkward Family Photos snow glabe.. Classic

Edible undies! hehe!

Fur HAT!

Awkward Cowgirl!

Chinese Rice Hat.. Oh and BTW! Meet Amelia (youve probably seen her before!) We have danced together since we were 5 annnd we recently became very close friends! LOVEE me some Amelia!

SIERRA! and her.....
HERMIT CRAB!

Me and my 6 and a half in PLATFORM heels.... oh yes

Hey Abbie.

Cute huh??

MMM work it Maddie

Meet Abbi! Great friends since junior high!

The whollleee group!

and again!
We spent the night.. ate. and Todd mad a HUGE movie screen and we capped off the night by watching Christmas Vacation! (Oh and Clayton thought it would be funny to try and scare us!) then the next morning my awesome Pau Pau (Paula) brought Kolaches, donuts, you name it!
The party was a TOTAL success!! We carolled too! To allll the boys' houses! SO Funny! We made a ton of memories and I will NEVER forget our first tacky Christmas party!

I wanna take this moment to thank my FABULOUS step mom for helping with this party. She made it happen. And not just for helping me with my party but with everything. Mo has always been my 2nd mom and with the challenges I was faced with 12 weeks ago.. She hasnt smothered me like some, but been there no matter what.. from last minute Christmas gifts.. to a place to stay at 2 AM after a school dance because I was in her neighboorhood and their were no beds at my friends house, to taking me to get my "fake nails" as Ellie would say. Her heart swells! Not only Mo, but Todd too. I have always been so thankful for the role that they have played in my life but in the past weeks i have realized how blessed I am to have them. No doubt they helped make me who i am today! It is terrible that it takes a tragedy to realize what all you have in Life..I know that both of them will continue to "do life" with me.. Prom, LSU games where they use me as an excuse to Par-Tay, college stuff, weddings, kids.. I know they will be there every step of the way! Just like I will be for E and G. always! God has been MORE than great to me.. I try and keep a positive attitude and know that things happen for a reason. One thing of many I have learned from Mo is that someone always has it worse than you! Pitying yourself will get you NO where in life and neither will a pessimistic attitude! So I try and be optimistic everyday and NEVER have pity parties.. I just put on my big girl panties and think about that other person who would love to live the life I am blessed with. I suggest you do the same... its a new year! Take the hand you have been dealt and run with it! Bad things are gonna happen but you just gotta realize that it happened for a reason! YOU determine your attitude, your circumstances do not!

I have been thinking.. and I am pretty sure my word for 2012 is going to be LIVE.
I want to LIVE life to the fullest! It is a short one so while alive I want to reallyLIVE and seize EVERY oppurtunity to make a memory!
I want to LIVE healithily (is that a word?)
And want to thank God everyday for the life he gave me to LIVE!

I am a blessed girl! I love all of yall like my own family! Hope Christmas was spectacular and that New Years is even better! What will YOUR word be??? I want to hear!!!!

Mary Allison

Christmas in my boudoir.

2011-12-28T19:48:00.008-06:00

Does boudoir mean bedroom? If so, this is the place I am highlighting tonight! Perhaps since the last time I showed you my bedroom, I have now added an actual bed. One complete with a headboard and a dust ruffle, and some Euro shams, and such!

I have a new photo by my bed too! It is actually a canvas, so as soon as the holidays are over and all that red and green is back in the attic, I will hang this one somewhere else, rather it be propped on my bedside table on my lamp. This is a picture from our Christmas photo shoot. Too bad daddy-O didn't want to go with us that day.

Here we have the mantle. we didn't go too crazy with the decor here, namely because he ledge on it is about 4" wide!

Oh, and there's Ellie again! She went every single place I did. And typically did so with my cellphone on Pandora, dancing all the way to Nicki Minaj!

Not a good pic, but we had a nativity in the middle, and filled glass vases with glittery lime green balls.

They were also filled with actual sticks from outside and only a few little extra things to make them festive.

There. There's a better shot of the whole shindig.

My only storage area in my room has a good bit of junk on it, so there wasn't really room for a whole lot of anything!

For starters, I think I need to get that canvas framed. I just think it's time.

A favorite patient of mine gave me this teeny tiny nativity years ago! And then, of course, I had my girls' handprints in the mix. They stay there yearround.

Ok, now let's check out my Believe "angel tree"!

I love this little tree!! I know I have mentioned this tree before and probably told you all about the meaningful things all over it. But indulge me again!

First off, obviously, with it being my angel tree, there are going to be things on it that just remind me of Jake!

There are also angels all over it. I kinda look for them in whites and golds and silvers to add to my tree each year.

And I'll occasionally add a photo of my crew.

Dad and Rita started a tradition of getting me an annual Lenox ornament every year for our anniversary. I LOVE them!! For instance, this one is from 2002.

And here, we have 1996, the very first one!! The year we were married.

And this one is 2011! Our 15th year!

I love this wing, that I think may have come from the dollar store, that says, "Angels watch over us". Or maybe someone gave it to me. I have no idea. I just know I think it is absolutlely perfect for my angel tree!

And I thought the nest with three little eggs in it was a must have on my tree. My three birds that I take care of and build a "nest" for!

Here is 2004.

And just about the only thing I got from my Nannie when she passed away was her lace angel ornaments. She made them, and they are precious to me!! And a really awesome addition to my tree!

ANother Lenox ornament and an awesome pair of wings!

1997... dontcha just love it?!

And there's sweet Jake's actual armband from when he was inpatient at St. Jude!

So, as I told this tree goodbye til next year, I RELISHed all that it meant to me!

And I told good ol Coach goodbye too, and thanks for looking over us all these years and standing guard atop our tree during the holidays!

Please see that Ellie flung herself into that chair when she saw that I was going to give it one last frame on my camera, by looking in from the door to the room. She found a way to get in yet again!

So, as of tonight, we are back to bare. No Christmas in here at all! Kinda sad. But, I look forward to getting it all out next year again and remembering all the happy memories!

Christmas in the den.

2011-12-27T21:46:00.009-06:00

And moving right along... to the den!

This is one side of my mantle. I absolutely loved it. I liked all the lights in it, and the funky ornaments hanging in the middle, and especially our new monogrammed family stockings. On top of the mantle were sparkly presents.

and about 6' tall trees loaded with ornaments and each topped with a sparkly red top hat.

They look rather diminutive in relation to the humongous fireplace, but they are actually pretty big.

And here she is... the 2011 Miss Fireplace International!

As promised, there's Ellie Sue, clamoring for the limelight in THIS room now. Oh, it's not the last you've seen of her. I promise ya!! She followed me to every room and made her way into every setting.

ANd now, the tree!

This was the first time I'd ever a) used an artificial tree in our den and

b) used those big ol timey multi colored lights.

And might I say, I am now a big fan of BOTH of those!

And when I tell you I cover every square inch of a tree, I mean EVERY SQUARE INCH!

Hey there, TG!

Ok, so I did add a few new ornaments this year. I always do! And I always add the date on my ornaments so I can keep up with what year they were added to the collection!

THe above is the ornament that Ellie and Gabbi made at their daycare Christmas party at our house this year. ANd the below ornament is a small canvas painted for me by Ellie Sue.

I decoupaged this wooden ornament last year when we were just moving into the BAH! I LOVE that ornament just because of that. And so I will ignore all the green Sharpie on the top of it and scribbled ALL over the back of it as well. I will just have to remember that December 2010 was all about toddlers in the Groves house!

And I know I have shared that I have photos ALLLLLL over my tree. I just L.O.V.E having picutres of my family and close friends on my tree.

Can you tell that's Hunter in the dark green frame when he was about 3 years old?! ANd Todd's parents years ago when we all went snow skiing. Before he and I were even married! And they hang amongst Jake's M&M ornaments which always remind me of him.

I added all the big gingerbread cookie-looking ornaments with our initials... M,T, E, G.

And I added a couple of new photo ornaments of my girls this year.

I also LOVE these decoupaged ornaments from last year. I kinda wished I'd taken the time to make some new ones this year. Maybe next year!

And if you look way in there, you can see a photo of me and Hunter and Hayden when they were 2 and 3 and we were all at the skating rink!

There are JinJin and Staci, somewhere around 2000 or so.

And my cute Justin Bieber look alike nephew, Hayden. Such a good looking boy!

There are lots of Jake on this tree. I honestly think there are more of Staci's kids than my own.

I pretty much adored those boys when they were little. I still love them,but they are too cool to want to hang out with their Aunt Mo nowadays!

I let the girls each work on a snowflake ornament for my tree. This one is Ellie Sue's.

and this one is Gabbi's. I LOVE this one!! I LOVE that every time I would walk into the art room, it would be a totally different color! Totally green, then totally pink, then gray, then black.... I didn't think it'd ever be finished. But when she started swirling thick paint around with a skinny little brush, then pushed it back and said, "I'm done"! I was so impressed with her knowing that she was actually finished and how COOL and swirly it looked.

I have a few handpainted ornaments on the tree from the 90's.

And this is also a 2011 photo that I particuarly like!

I bought a couple of new ornaments in Canton this year to add, and hope to make these in art class or in a retreat next year.

Oh, and this Santa was painted by none other than Miss Ellie Susanne.

Wow. Look how young Jake was. This was before we'd ever even heard the "c" word. When those three boys were the center of all of our universes. and that fish?! It was from a trip I took to Alaska with mama. Did I ever mention she used to live in Alaska? She married her second husband who was from Sitka, Alaska. They lived there in the summers and in Louisiana in the winters. Nice set up!

Ok, almost done. This was the buffet area in my den, which I was never quite satisfied with the entire season. I had to work in my collection of Krinkles, and this area just kinda became the hodge podge of all my stuff that wouldn't go anywhere else.

This photo stayed up the entire season, because I wanted to remember my dear friend, Pammy.

And as you know, at MMPT, we make our gifts to each other. Keith drew my name and made this arrangement for me. I really needed something with height here, and Robin put the bug in his ear. It was perfect.

The Believe bucket, above, and the sleigh below, both have Christmas cards in them. I just can't throw those away either. I am dangerously close to an episode of Hoarders!

This is this year's batch.

So, next up... the master bedroom. Peace out, y'all!

Christmas at the Groves

2011-12-26T22:42:00.005-06:00

I have been meaning to share with blogworld all my Christmas decorations since I first put them up (about mid November!). But, as I prepare the arduous task of taking them down, I thought this year (finally!!), I will take pics of each area so that when it is time to put everything back up next year, we have references which may make the task slightly easier and quicker. So, I'll just start this little journey in our foyer. Those are the front doors you are looking at the back of. And I LOVED the dangling ornaments from the chandelier. I'd never hung anything from that one before. I thought it was a perfect greeting that set the tone for our festive house when someone came in.

Oh, and this nice big castle has since been added, thanks to Mary Allison coming over on Christmas Day to deliver this assemble yourself (MA did it all!) and color it tiny bit by tiny bit until that whole sucker is colored. It has actually preoccupied a good bit of Ellie's time so far!

These sticks have actually had something hanging on them every single season since we moved in. It's fun to make things and change out the holidays/ seasons. I can now see snowflakes and then hearts very soon thereafter!

For Christmas, I hung my Krinkles dog collection. I have a pretty big collection of Krinkles ornaments and figurines, but only the dogs do I hang in their own special spot! they all have funny outfits, high heels, purses, shades and generally funny decor.

Remember in our old house how I used to keep Santa Claus up all year long?! I need to find him a home here too, because I LOVE him! I think he looks so jolly!

As you enter the foyer from the outside, this is the nook to the left. The Krinkles are on the right.

While I am at it, here's the front door.

I had some really cute banners that hung here for Halloween, and I called the place I got them and they hooked me up for Christmas too. I'll bet $10,000 (anybody been watching the presidentail debates!?? Poor ol' Mitt!), that they'll have Valentine's Day ones too!

My girls and I have carried on the Boo/ Yay tradition that Jake and I had when we go down the road looking to see which houses have lights on them (yay!)and which ones don't (boo!) This little tiny bit of illumination around our front door is what qualified us as a "yay house"!

I have used these little Santa faces in so many ways! I am pretty sure that I hung them on a mirror or something like that last year. THis is the first time, that I can remember, that they've been used in a wreath. I like versatile Christmas pieces!

We did like everybody else in the area did with the mesh netting as our door surround, but I didn't like how articial it looked, so I added garland. Next year, I think I'll add mesh TO garland, but for this year, it was ok.

So now, standing at the front door, looking INTO the den, this is the view. ANd please note that Ellie is in this room. Because she will also be in EVERY single room as I move on through the house. She just HAS to hang with me... no matter WHAT I am doing!

And finally, my newest Christmas addition is this FUN glittery sign that Veronicia gave me for Christmas. I absolutely love it!!

Indeed it is the most wonderful time of the year. For that matter, expect a whole week of recapping how the halls were decked and how much my babies LOVED the whole experience!

Enjoy. MO

Just for Ginny!

2011-12-25T21:59:00.005-06:00

Hey Ginny, y0ur request did not fall on deaf ears!! As requested, here are Todd's tags on my gifts this year. I am pretty sure this is meant to be Julius. I'll explain WHY I think he chose this name in a minute.

Not exactly sure WHERE in the world he came up with Steve.

He used the same wrapping paper he wrapped all my presents in to make these "fancy schmancy" nametags!

As for my fingernails, my four year old gave me a mani today as soon as she dove into her stocking. YES... I AM a glutton for punishment for giving her more fingernail polish. But it makes her soooooo happy!!

It's crazy that year after year, Les never fails to get me a gift. I mean, he must be so busy planning for the big BCS Championship game with his LSU Tigers!! And still, he thought about little ol' me!

Mary Allison came over and helped me wrap a little too. There was the occasional gift I bought myself and told her to wrap to me from him. In such a case, she was sure to stay consistent with his weirdness!

And then, Todd's favorite X Factor contestant, Chris Renee, took time out of his busy schedule to send me a gift. Very nice!

And in the same vein as Julius, above, Atia is apparently a character in the HBO series, ROME. I have ZERO interest in such a series, but sometimes all wives understand that they sacrifice a few gifts in the name of getting something that they KNOW is really meant for the husband, but he just wraps it for us and says, "I thought maybe you'd like this. You don't!??" Righhhtttt!!! Us wives just wrap up our own and put it to us from him. Or from ourselves even.

If I'm not mistaken, Dr. Oz also sent me a gift last year. What's the deal with Todd the Bod and Dr. Oz?!

And then maybe my favorite of all is this personal note from one of my favorite morning personalities, Robin Roberts. She's part of my morning ritual as I am getting ready for work. Thanks, Robin! You shouldn't have!

Ok, Ginny. THank you for caring!! I save these tags every year (and they've been coming like this for about 10 years or more), and didn't really think anybody would care about this little tradition from TG. I hope this gave you a chuckle! They always crack me up! Got lots of Christmas pics. Christmas morning with a 3 and 4 year old is pretty special!!

A surprise for mama!

2011-12-25T08:24:00.000-06:00

Well, well, well... as you likely know things are busy for everyone nowadays, and so I have been slight on the daily blogging. However, I did load a few pics to do a short by sweet post. Dear ol Santa hooked Mama up with this really cool piece of furniture. In fact, he even placed it exactly where I'd hoped to see it one day.

I saw this at a store one day and thought it would be super awesome to keep the weekly activities for my art classes organized and out of the way of MY art projects that are usually strewn all over my art tables. I mentioned that to Robin who apparently whispered that in Santa's ear. I was VERY surprised and VERY excited!!

The only thing is that when Todd built that cool license plate/ coatrack, he screwed every plate directly into the wood behind it. (WHY!??) So, I don't really want to move it and have holes all in the wall. Obviously I can't use it to hang anything on, so it'll just have to be eyecandy!

I've already moved many of the projects to the drawers, and it has proved to be as perfect as I'd imagined!! Thanks, Santa!!

Merry Christmas to everyone, everywhere.