Mom+Wife=Good Life

Where have I been?

2009-09-20T15:03:00.000-07:00

A few months have past and you may bee thinking that I am MIA. Since school is back in session and I have so much free time on my hands, I can't believe that I haven't blogged in over 3 months. I saw the movie Julie & Julia last week and it made me miss my blog and so now I am back! Please forgive me, for I know you are missing your Keira updates.

I have started back at school and so has Keira. She absolutely loves her new school, her teachers, and her lunch box. Here are some pictures of her on her fist day of school..

I love these pictures! She looks like such a big girl off to school! 2 is such a fun age! She is talking more than ever and saying the darnedest things! I told her "no" the other day and she looked at me and said, "But I want to Mama." It's funny though...if you explain things to her, like saying you can't do that because you may get hurt, she understands and will stop doing whatever it is. I thought that came later on in life. I guess she is just advanced, right? I am sure all parents think that of their children.

We have been staying pretty busy with not just school and work but also we are still in gymnastics, or "nastics" as Keira calls it. She is really good and she loves it. She loves her Coach Phill! Were also getting better at tap and ballet. We've also been going to the dog park a lot with Cooper, Howie and Paddy. Cooper and his buddies love the dog park!

Today we went to the duck pond. We brought bread for the ducks but Cooper ended up scaring all the ducks away and eating all the bread. He is such a water dog! He loved jumping into the pond and swimming. I was afraid he was going to actually catch a duck.

Keira is Two!

2009-07-28T15:05:00.001-07:00

Been kinda bad about blogging because its summer and I am enjoying myself and my time with Keria. We have been busy, very busy and loving every minute of it. Keira is now 2. Can't believe how time has flown by and my little baby is now 2. We had a wonderful birthday week for her starting things off the morning of with decorations, balloons, and a present or two. She came out of her room pointing at the balloons and was so excited to see everything. We went to eat at the Rainforest Cafe that night.

She loved this place! So much to look at, listen to, and wander around. She wanted to just walk around the whole time looking at all the animals. She looked like such a princess!

The night before, we made cupcakes for her mother's day out class which is always fun. She is such a cook and always wants to help me in the kitchen. She even got her apron out and put it on.

Keria got a fish for her birthday from Avery, Bowen, Denver and Kelly. He is a little beta named Sushi. He lights up her world. She loves that fish more than cupcake batter and that is hard to beat in the eyes of a two year old. She hugs and kisses his bowl, puts her hands in his bowl, talks about him all the time and even dreams of him. We started this thing a while ago that when we wake her up in the morning, we always ask her, "Keira, did you dream last night?". And she will says that she dreamed of Mommy, Daddy, Cooper, Aspen, Daisy, Nana or SuSu, and lately its always been, "I dream of Sushi!". She is also getting really good at potty training. She wears panties around the house most of the time and when she tells us she needs to go potty, she gets to put a "magical gym sticker" on Sushi's bowl. You wouldn't believe what a reward that is.

Funny things to remember:

Keira tells me often that her favorite color is purple. She always chooses purple if it is an option

She loves chocolate milk and asks for it every 5 minutes.

She likes to sets the table with place mats for dinner. She has a Fairy Princess one, and Diego one and a Tinkerbell one and she will put one on each of our places.

Favorite shows are Yo Gaba Gaba, Wonderpets, Dora and Diego

She prefers to read herself a bedtime story instead of us reading one to her

She loves gymnastics...calls it Nastics

She loves for me to put bows in her hair

Loves to dance...I think we have a ballerina on our hands. Glad I just registered her for tap and ballet in the fall

Loves, loves accessories...I'm talking big bracelets, necklaces, magic wands, sunglasses, purses and ear rings. She is a Great Nana in disguise.

And as always....the little joy of our lives.

I will blog more about her birthday party maybe tomorrow...I am being summoned to play dress up now.

Riding Horses on the Farm

2009-07-14T13:46:00.001-07:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Things to do before you turn 2

2009-07-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

I do believe that Keira has done more in the past week than most kids her age. She will be turning 2 a week from today. (Yes, I am wiping the tears from my eyes.) This past week was a very busy one for her but so memorable. On Thursday, she started her pre school summer session up. I was going back and forth on weather or not I wanted to do the summer session or not but decided on it. It is so good for her and I know she really does love it. It is also nice for me to have a little time for myself too. I have been going to the gym quite often so it is really nice not to have to worry about her. It also gives me some time to clean house, get dinner ready and so on. On Friday, we went to the Omni with mom and dad. We saw dolphins. It was wonderful and Keira loved it. It is her second movie! She loved watching the dolphins swim. She also loved the helicopter ride in the very beginning. We all enjoyed ourselves and cant wait to go and see Bugs there... maybe next week! On Friday evening, we went to Eileen's barn where Keira, Avery, and Bowen got to go horseback riding. It was so neat to see K on the horse. She loved it so much and never wanted to get off. She rode "Risky" who is such a sweet one. She practically did it all by herself because she did not want me to touch her. So independent....maybe a little too independent. I was so scared she was going to fall off but she held on tight. She kept saying..."hold on very tight". When I finally got her off the horse, she cried all the way home. I think she may end up being a little agg girl. She looked so cute with her cowboy boots and cut off shorts. Now she just needs a cowboy hat. I had my camera but no memory card so sorry....no pics.

This past weekend for the 4th we went to Possum Kingd0m Lake with Susan. It was a lot of fun. Keira went tubing behind the boat. I can't believe it! She was so brave and held on tight. She really loved it which doesn't surprise me. She loves anything that has to do with water. In the pool, she was holding her head under the water for quite some time. She is swimming so good now. On her tummy, on her back and under the water. I can't believe she is this good and not even 2 yet. Even in the bath tub last night she said, "look mommy...I go under". And she put her head under the water. I started counting out loud...1...2...3. And she came up. Then I said, "can you go to 4"? And she did it again....1..2..3..4. And then to 5. She amazes me every day. Keira and Brodie on the tube

Keira and Me on the boat

Keira, Kalob, and Jakob on the boat

Yesterday we went with Denver and Kelly and their kids to Hawaiian Falls water park in Mansfield. It was so fun and I can't wait to go back. The kids loved it...the big kids and the little kids. Brodie and I got to escape and go ride some rides on our own. Its been a long time since I have ridden a water slide in a tube. Even Keira loved the slides. She went down some bigger ones that I was kinda scared to let her go down. Man, that girl has no fear.

So, Have I mentioned that I LOVE SUMMER?

And on that note....I went to weigh in at Jenny Craig last night.....I lost 5 pounds in one week! I am so happy and am realizing that all those hunger pains were worth it, and they not really that bad this week so far.

Cravings for Pickles and Ice Cream!

2009-07-01T16:32:00.000-07:00

Ha ha!! Not what you think. On Jenny Craig, there are a list of "free foods" that you can have pretty much any amount of any time during the day. I did a spinning class this morning at the gym which may be why I have been starving all day long (or it could be because the portion sizes I have been eating are the size of a dime). I found out that pickles are a free food, and therefore am on my 2nd jar. I also bought some sugar free chocolate pops which I am guessing will be finished in about....24 hours.

Look Out Valerie B!

2009-06-30T18:50:00.001-07:00

Today is the first day of my year long diet. I started Jenny Craig in hopes to become one hot skinny momma. I signed up for a year with JC...(Jenny Craig, not Jesus Christ, but I'm sure I will need him along the way!) My dad is doing this with me as well. I am very excited (and hungry) about this choice. Day one went as well as to be expected. I woke up and had my pre-packaged french toast with berries. It was very yummy and pretty filling. For lunch I had a very good, but so tiny turkey burger with some tomato based soup. This was very good too but did not hold me over very long. Lets just say that tomorrow I will be eating lunch at around 2 PM so I can last until dinner. My spaghetti and meat balls that I had for dinner were very tasty and lets just say...I am really full right now. It was pretty crappy to sit across from Brodie and watch him much on his big ol' steak and baker but it was even worse to watch Keira eat her Mac and cheese and avocado....both are my weaknesses. I did sneak some avocado slices into my salad but decided not to eat them. GO ME! So day one is now over...unless I sleepwalk into the pantry and cook some Mac and Cheese in the middle of the night. Ill keep you all posted on my hopefully successful losses.

Life's a Beach!

2009-06-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

Its been so long but Ive been really busy and have not had time to blog. I am loving my summer so far! It is so nice being home with Keira and keeping the house clean, having dinner ready, going to movies, reading books, and everything else that I don't get to do as often as I wish while I'm working. First of all, we had a wonderful and unforgettable family vacation. Florida is beautiful! It was so nice for all of us...(mom, dad, Denver, Kelly, Avery, Bowen, and us) to all be able to vacation together and I hope we get to do this every year. Keria loved the beach, the sand, the sun, the pool and everything about the whole trip. Here are some of my favorite pics from our trip....

Here are the famous kissing cousins...The girls found a dead fish on the beach.

I just love this picture.

I had lots of fun playing with my new camera as you can tell. I will have to blog more later tonight. Keria is telling me to "get off computer now mommy!" Were off to party city 'cause someone is turning 2 in two weeks!

I'll take a little SWINE with that cheese.

2009-05-04T20:31:00.000-07:00

I am currently on day 3 of my swine vacation and couldn't be any happier! I actually get to be a stay at home mom for a week and am loving it. Not that I am not thankful for my job or anything but this week I get to have my cake and eat it too (meaning I get to stay home and still get paid). After the call from my Principal on Thursday telling me that I have to go to the Dr. and get tested because one of my students came down with flu A, I am happy to announce that my sickness was only a bacteria infection and that I am swine free.

Today was a great start to my swine vacation week. I got the house cleaned, laundry some what caught up, grocery shopped and best of all...paid off some big bills we have been working on. It is such a relief to pay of the biggest bills that you have. We are on our way to being debt free....except for that house thing....and oh yea the car. But those are minimal, right? Keira and I played outside, inside and in between. We also made cupcakes. I am so excited because we are going to take them to her school tomorrow for all her friends and teachers to enjoy. A little Cinco De Mayo treat for all. And I can't wait to dress Keira up in her little festive dress that we got in San Antonio. We cheated and she has already worn it a couple times because I couldn't resist. Here is a peek....(were at Mac's BandG in these pics)

I am so happy that I actually get to get Keira up and ready for school and pick her up this week. Brodie always does a wonderful job at getting her up and ready for school with her clothes always matching and shoes on the right feet. He still needs to work on the hair fixing a bit but what can I say...He does a wonderful job and I am so happy he gets to do this...but am a little jealous. When I worked in HPISD, there were always moms bringing up cupcakes for their child's class and I always dreamed of doing that for Keira. So I decided that tomorrow would be a perfect day to start. It will be such a fun treat for her, her friends and Ms. Nikki and Ms. Shannon. Keira loves to help me cook anything, especially cupcakes. Here are some pics we took today of our cooking...

First you dump in the cake flour stuff...Next you mix in the eggs, water and oil. How does it taste? (A Okay!)Then you beat....and taste again.Last but not least....don't forget the sprinkles.

Before I sign off I must tell a funny story of my Little Swiper... the other night we put her to bed (no pacie because WE ARE DONE! Yes!) and we went on the the living room. I think we were probably watching some TV. Keira wasn't really making too much noise but we kept hearing something odd. Brodie went to check on her a bit later and I heard him say..."Keira, did you poop?" Which would be really odd because she is basically almost potty trained and never poops in her diaper anymore. I headed back to her room expecting to smell something bad but when I turned on the light, Keira was covered in brown melted chocolate. Somehow she had swiped some candy from somewhere and had been hoarding in in her crib. Chocolate was all over her, her blankies and there are little Keira hand prints on the crib rails. There were also wrapping all over the floor by her crib. Wonder what other things she will start hiding in her crib?

Big Week!

2009-04-27T18:24:00.001-07:00

Last week, we took a big step in milestones! On Thursday before gymnastics, Keira and I were reading her "No More Pacie" book and we talked about what a big girl she was and that she didn't need pacies anymore. I talked her into finding all her pacies and we put them in a plastic Tupperware. She even found some that she had hidden and remembered where they were. I only knew where one was. So we packed them all up and I told her to put them in my purse and I would take them to Baby Bowen because he still needed them and she no longer did because she is a big girl! We tried to do this same thing when she was around 18 months but she was not ready yet. Its funny because I know she is ready this time because she is going along with it and hardly even crying about it. My mother intuition says she is ready now. She has not had one since Friday. ( I had to give in at a nap time...you will hear about this later on.) She is doing so good. I do have to admit though...I am a little bum bed. It means she is growing up and becoming less of my little baby girl (even though she will always be).

Well to celebrate this I decided to try and take Keira to her first movie on Friday. Since Brodie has soccer games every Friday, Keira and I are usually on our own and I am always looking for stuff to do. So when I got home from picking her up an NeNas and GaGas house, they said they had no luck getting her to take a nap. I was afraid that if she didn't have one all day we wouldn't make it to the movies which I really wanted to do. So I got home and put her in bed and she kept crying and saying..."member...I gave pacies to Bowen..." over and over again. This has been the only time she has cried about it though. I tossed her a pacie and she was out in just a few minutes. This was the last time she has had one though. All week I kept seeing the previews to Disney's Earth and kept thinking that would be right up her ally. And I was correct! She loved it and sat for the whole movie. She got a little restless at the end but not bad at all. My BF Shelby went with us and we had a great girls night out. Keira's first reaction was, "Big TV!" She also kept making all of the animal noises through out the movie. She loved the baby bears, the monkeys, the ducks jumping out of the tree, and all of the underwater scenes. I knew this would be the perfect movie for her because she loves seeing "real animals" on TV. They keep her attention better than cartoons. (except Dora!) We had sour patch kids (which were a hit!) and some Reese's pieces. I am so happy that she did so well because the movie theater by our house is about to start showing dollar movies on Fridays during the summer and the movies are older kid films. So that will be something fun for us to start doing, especially during the summer. I wish I had remembered to take my camera with me to capture the moment of her first movie but I didn't. At least I kept the stub to put in her keep sake box. Thanks Shelby for a wonderful memory!

We got several new books this weekend for Keira to enjoy. Keira is such a book worm that her book collection is overtaking our house. The new ones include "Oh The Places You'll Go" (by the one and only Dr. S), "Colors,ABCs, Numbers" and "Llama Llama Misses Mama". For any of you who love childrens books, you have got to get this last one in your collection. We also have "Llama Llama Mad at Mama," and "Llama Llama Red Pajama". These are the cutest books and Keira just adores them.

I laugh as I look at my laptop which is missing the "A" key due to Keira's furry brother. Lets just say, we haven't gotten to the no chewing lesson in puppy class yet.

There is a little summary of our wonderful week. I have to go because Keira is handing me her new Llama book and saying, "Read it Kelsey! Read it Kelsey!". Yes, Mommy and Daddy have been replaced by Kelsey and Brodie.

Naked as a Jay Bird!

2009-04-13T19:44:00.000-07:00

When I got home from tap tonight I walked into the living room and Keira kept saying....
"I Nekkked...I Nekkked" and sure enough, she pretty much was. I wanted to make sure she knew what she was talking about so I asked her..."Is Daddy Naked?"
"Nope!" she said...so I asked her..."Is Mommy Naked?" "Nope, Ka Ga is Naked". (She calls herself KaGa). Nope and Yep are her other favorite words now. I can tell that it was Daddy-Keira Day. I love that they get to have their special bonding Mondays together without me. They learn so much from eachother.

Hoppy Easter!

2009-04-13T15:03:00.000-07:00

We had a great Easter weekend with the family. On Saturday evening, we met Brodie's fam (sisters and all included) up at the park right down the street and had a family soccer game. Keira and Delaney had fun playing, sliding, and swinging. Then off to eat dogs and burgers at the house. Keira got a Dora doll that she loves. She can dress and undress her, shoes and all. It is right up her alley.

Speaking of Dora, my wonderful mother got her hands on some really up front seats to go see Dora Live! We are so excited. It happens to be on the weekend of Keira's 2nd birthday so this will be a wonderful surprise for her. She has already seen the commercials and just dances to the music right along with Dora. She is such a fan!

On Sunday morning, Keira got to see what the Easter Bunny left for her and she was so excited! She got a cherry red tricycle, some clothes and lots of eggs. We hid eggs all around our living room and she loved getting them and putting them in her basket. We filled most of them up with coins. She just loves to put money in her piggy bank.

We then headed over to Nana and Gaga's house for lunch and more egg hunting. We had lots of fun and were so happy to spend the time with our families. Here are some pics that were taken...

So, now its back to work. We only have about 7 weeks (about 38 days but who is really counting?) of school left. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and I do see it!

Blah Blah Blogging....

2009-04-06T15:11:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in a while so this is going to be lots of random info but, lots of memories for me. First of all...we gardened this weekend! It was so nice to clean out our flower bed and replenish! We headed to the Plan Shed yesterday with Cooper and Keira in tow. Its funny how many people stopped us to chat about both our kids. It was fun trip and we got some beautiful Gerber daisies, elephant ear bulbs, (which should be popping out soon according to the Plant Shed guy) and a couple other pretty plants. Brodie informed me today when I got home from work that it is supposed to freeze tonight. So we will be covering them up with nice warm blankies tonight. Hopefully they will be okay. Keira loved to help us plant them all. She kept lining up the plants in the bed and loved to use the shovel. She was so cute. This picture is so funny to me. If she sees the camera, she always does this exact smile while saying, "Cheese!" I have to hide the camera so I can get some normal pics of her. She is such a ham and definitely knows it too.

Today, Brodie and Keira came up to my work and brought me lunch. It was so nice to see them and I loved the nice Joe Ed Bomber sandwich. I am so sick of Smart One meals that they are starting to taste like cardboard to me. It was so funny though, Keira came into my closet of a classroom and said, "HI Kesey! HI Kesey!" That is her new thing. She is calling us Kesey and Bodie. Brodie said that when he was checking in at the office, she just kept waving at everyone and introducing herself...."Hi, I'm Keira!" She is talking like crazy now. She knows lots of numbers, colors, and I just started working on shapes. Im so proud of how smart and social she is. I just can't brag enough! Another favorite thing she says is, "I hold you" when she wants us to hold her. I love it! She talks to Cooper like he is another child. She has to give him good night kisses every night, along with the kitty's too. She is very protective of them all but at the same time, punishes them when they are doing something bad. I think she is going to be a great big sis... one of these days.
Another gardening picture.... On Friday night, I went with some girls from work to the flashlight Easter egg hunt at Veterans Park. It was lots of fun. Here is a pic of her hunting some eggs. Luckily she didn't know I was taking it, or we would get the "cheese" face.

A while ago, we started a growth chart on Keira's bathroom door molding. I can't believe how tall she is getting. I love that we started doing this. When we move out of our house....you better believe that the molding will be coming with us! Look how much she grew from March to April!

One last pic of my boys...Cooper and Brodie. Cooper is doing great and almost house trained. We start puppy classes soon and I know he will be advanced! He is a Dwyer! He can already sit, and almost shake. He is also so good at staying in our front yard when we are all outside. I hate to blog and run but Cooper is barking, the cats are running after him and Keira just ran up to me with cream cheese all over her face....Where is Brodie during all of this?

Somersaults and Cartwheels

2009-03-25T14:31:00.000-07:00

When was the last time any of you have done a cartwheel or somersault? I don't remember them hurting that much as they do now. At Brodie's soccer game last Friday, Keira and I were on the empty field behind where B was playing. We were running around and burning lots of energy, playing ring-around-the-rosie, dancing and just being silly. All the sudden, Keira started doing somersaults. (She loves to do them and she is very good, thanks go gymnastics.) So then I decided to show off my mommy skills and do some with her. We would do them together on the count of three, and she would just laugh so hard. She kept saying, "More Mommy, more!" Then, I thought of the great idea to do a cartwheel which I haven't done is so long. I used to do cartwheels and hand stands all the time. That is probably one cause of my carpel tunnel syndrome in my right hand. So the first one I did wasn't so bad. Keira thought it was so cool and tried to do one by putting her hands on the ground and doing donkey kicks. It was too cute! She then said, Again Mommy! So off I go, feet in the air, hands on the ground and then my wrist made this popping sound, and I collapsed and landed on my head. It hurt so bad and I seriously thought I broke my wrist. Keira just sat there laughing at me as tears are streaming down my face, while trying to hide my pain. It is still a little tender and it pops when I move it, but I will live. The funny thing I would do it again if she asks.....I will just tape up my wrist first.
Here are some new pics from this past week....Keira and Cooper at the Park
Keira loves her slide!

Just another day and another month older

2009-02-14T14:32:00.001-08:00

Today is just a normal day. Nothing exciting except that Keira and I are both a little under the weather. I was really sick last night with high fever, shivers, and flu like symptoms. I'm feeling a bit better today but I think Keira is not. She is running a little temp and is just not her peppy self. We've also reached that 19 month mark! Yea for Keira! Happy 19th month. I just realized that I can't say a year and a half anymore.

Brodie sent me flowers yesterday at work which made my day! He is so good at bringing me flowers but normally he just brings them home. So I was really excited to get the call to come down to the office because there were flowers waiting for me. Very sneaky of him! It made my day. No plans tonight...just being together as a family is all we need.

Here is a quick and most memorial Valentines day...

Two years ago from today...we found out we were having a little girl! I still have that sonogram pic on the fridge. It was a wonderful gift for us all.

This is the last picture I took of Keira at 18 months old. We were about to go to gymnastics!

We are expecting!

2009-02-10T19:02:00.000-08:00

A new member is joining our family. We are happy to announce that we are expecting a new puppy! We have been contemplating when would be the perfect time for this. We have been talking about getting a dog for years but knew the time wasn't right. We finally found the perfect little guy for us and we are ready. We are getting a golden retriever and are so excited. He was born Jan. 24 so he's only 2 weeks right now. His eyes aren't even opened yet. Since he is so little, he has to stay with mommy, daddy, and his siblings for a bit longer. We will take our long road trip to Oklahoma on March 14 to go pick him up. Yes....he is a born and bread Sooner from OK. I am so excited for Keira, for she loves dogs so much. She loves playing with Reese and Paddy when she is at the grandparents house and I know they will become the best of friends. I had a puppy growing up and have so many memories with Muffin and I can't wait for Keira to do the same. Here are some pics of our new little guy.

No name for sure but we have thought of a few....Bauer (Jack Bauer from 24) and Dublin top our list at the moment.

Ta Da!

2009-02-06T19:20:00.000-08:00

Keira started a gymnastics class this week at ASI. She is so active and so daring that I knew she would love a class like this. She is in an 18 month old class and is the youngest one. Yesterday was our free trial day and it was crazy! She loved it so much, but we had some meltdowns...Let me explain.

When we got there, we were introduced to her teacher, Mr. Phil. He went over a few things with me. He said first we would get on the trampoline and that most kiddos starting off at 18 months really don't like the the tramps and would probably not get on. Keira would not get off! She loved it and pitched a fit when we had to move to the next station. She would jump really high and had so much fun. Mr. Phil said that he was really impressed and surprised with her jumping abilities. I was so proud!

When we finally got to the next center, we all had to sit down, sing songs and talk about the letter of the day "B". Keira was not wanting to sit. She wanted to jump, run, and do anything else besides sit still. So when I had to make her sit, she was pissed and was screaming and throwing the biggest fit I have ever seen! I had to take her away and let her calm down for a few before we started again. She did finally calm down.

Next we went to a rotation of bars, somersaults, jumping, handstand and back kick over practices things. After every activity they do, they stand up and put their arms over their head and say, "Ta Da!" Keira has been saying that all night now! She did really good at all the activities but really did not want to wait in line with the other kids so there was lots of screaming and yelling. She loves the bars, and Mr. Phil says she has a lot of upper body strength. I knew that because she started pulling herself up so early. And she is super strong! So basically we had a night of screaming, with some stunts. But I was kinda expecting something like that. After all the rotations are finished, we got to go to "the pit". This is a huge pit filled with foam squares. The kids get to sit on a swing and fall into the pit. Wow, she loved it. And when it was time to leave, I had to literally dive into the pit and chase her down, and drag her out while she is kicking and screaming. Lets just say, I got a good workout at her gymnastics class.

I went ahead and signed Keira up for the Friday night class, so we got to go again tonight. She did about 1000 times better tonight! I was so happy. Less screaming (but yes, still some!), more waiting, and following directions! Yea! She actually is kinda doing somersaults almost on her own! And she looks so freakin cute in her leotards. And, she got out of "the pit" on her own. I know that the more we go, the more she will get the hang of transitions. So, overall, I am so happy to be doing this with her.

Brodie's soccer season started up tonight which means Keira and I are on our own on Fridays from now on. Girls night out! When it gets warmer, we will probably start going to some of his games but for now, just me and her! Which makes me happy! I will have to come up with some creative fun things to do after gymnastics.

Here is a new video of cute Keira and her cousin Bowen at Ne-Ne and GaGas house...

Help if you can!

2009-01-27T16:19:00.000-08:00

So, on Saturday, I went to get a much needed pedicure and took a stack of my People magazines. (I have a subscription but never seem to get caught up on them before the next one comes in the mail...wonder why??) I read about 2 of them and through them in my purse. That night we went to Brodie's mom and dads for dinner and celebrating Tom's bday. Brodie's sister likes People so I gave her the mags before we left. Well, I forgot but when I was reading one, I saw an article that caught my attention and I was wondering if anyone can help me. It was about this man who started a blog the day his daughter was born. But the next day his wife dies in the hospital... I think from a blood clot. So he continues blogging about his life raising his daughter alone. It was a really neat article and I would like to find his blog and start reading it. Anyone know of this and if so, what is the site? I know that his daughter is named Maddie (Madeline) but not sure of his name.

Hopefully someone can help!

My Baby Mamma...

2009-01-20T15:12:00.001-08:00

Keira and Lola....

Just new pics of Keira being Mommy... Check the new blog if you want to see what the Dwyers have been up to!

Adding a new blog...

2009-01-14T18:36:00.000-08:00

I decided to create a new blog. I will keep this one running too but if you are interested, I made one just for Keira. Here is the site:

http://mydearkeira.blogspot.com/

Keira's Christmas

2009-01-02T12:10:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful and blessed Christmas, as always and hope everyone else did as well. Here are some videos of Keira playing with some of her new toys. It was neat to see her come out of her room and into the living room to see all of her surprises! She was kinda confused, especially when we told her Santa brought it for her. But she loves everything so much and plays/cooks for us all the time.

Christmas Morning Videos...

This is me spying on Keira in her playroom. It is so fun to watch her without her knowing! She is very particular about the playroom. She knows that it is "her" room, and gets very upset and angry if you move anything out of place. I have to admit, it looks really cute! I will post some pics up soon of the room. We are not completely finished yet but getting closer!

Santa and Keira...Not BFFs

2008-12-19T15:44:00.000-08:00

I have been MIA due to lack of time and energy. But, school is out for two weeks so you may to peek into our lives for a bit! Today was a great day at school. For some who don't know, I work at a lower income school with wonderful kids and faculty. I truly love my job and all the kids who attend Wilson. Our faculty adopted over 150 kids (who attend Wilson) as Christmas Angels. Today, I along with our counselors, I got to deliver the presents to the parents at their houses. It was a wonderful experience, delivering these presents to the oh so grateful parents, and it made me stop and think about how thankful I am for everything that I have.

We took Keira to see Santa on Wednesday night. Prior to that, we have been talking to her about the jolly fellow and any time she sees anything that resembles him, she points and Say's
"Ho, Ho, Ho". She loves everything about Christmas, the books, the songs, the lights, the rein deers, and especially Santa and Frosty! {Her favorite book is the Gingerbread Man! She will try and say something on the lines of, "Run Run as fast as you can....you can't catch me, I'm the Gingerbread Man!") SO, we were at North East Mall and in line. Kira kept pointing at him and seemed very excited about seeing him. I was excited too because I thought this may be a really, cute pic. Turns out...it is very memorable pic!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

We had a fun Hallow's Eve. Keira was such a precious bumble bee and enjoyed going door to door. She even mumbled something that could possibly be heard as "trick-or-treat". Hope everyone had a good evening. Here are some pics that I took this week.

Keira, Avery, Bowen, and Nana (or Ne-Ne, as Keira calls her)

Reiley, Keira, and Delaney (with her eyes closed!)

Keira and her good friend Madeline who lives across the street from us.

Last weekend, we went with Brodie's parents to the annual Golden Retriever Rescue Picnic at Grapevine Lake. They rescued their Paddy dog a few years ago and go to this every year. We are looking for one to rescue soon. It was a lot of fun and I took some pictures. Here are my favorites!

This is Keira and her buddy Paddy. She loves her Paddy!

Fall Fun

2008-10-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

Been very busy. Last Sunday was lots of fun. We took Keira to the Green Meadow Petting Farm and Pumpkin Patch. I think is the same one that was on Jon and Kate plus 8! There are several around the US and one happens to be in Grand Prarie. It is right by Joe Pool Marina. I would suggest going if you have little ones because it was a blast and Keira had lots of fun. We took our wagon so she could ride around but she enjoyed walking/running more. We saw lots of animals like goats, pigs and pigglets, cows, baby ducks, llamas, horses (or Neigh Neighs as Keira calls them) and even a zebra. We were alound to go in and pet all of the animlas. We even got to milk a cow. I was very amazed that we were able to do that. And it was really cool. We also went on a hay ride which was lots of fun. I was very impressed and hope to make this trip again next year.

Our TV went out in the living room...and not to mention any names...but some little person in our household was the last to touch a button on the TV. That is a big NO that we are apparently still working on. So we ended up getting a new big ol TV. Probalby too big for us but we are enjoying it. I cant wait to see the difference on Wii tennis. I bet I will be better now!

This weekend is my High School reunion. I am pretty excited. Brodie and I are going to both Friday and Saturday night. It should be fun to see old friends...and I am kinda looking forward to some kid free night outs. Brodie and I both took off work Friday so we can spend the day with Keira. No plans yet but maybe the zoo or something. We shall see. Saturday should be fun because all three of us are going with Brodie's mom and dad to the annual Golden Retriever Rescue Picnic. Keira loves dogs so I know she will have a ball. And maybe we will find a new member to add to our family!

Guck, Guck, Goose

2008-10-05T21:10:00.000-07:00

Today was a lovely day! We had a fun family day and I am sad it has come to an end. We spent the morning lounging around and enjoying the morning with eachother. Then had a nice late lunch with Brodie's family where we celebrated Delaney's 8th birthday. We ate at IHOP which was very yummy! Then we came home, and Brodie and Keira took short naps while I finished reporing my kiddos grades for the first six weeks. I can not beleive six weeks has gone by already. Only five more six weeks left until summer! Thas funny to say. Actually I am looking forward to Thanksgiving. It will be here before we know it. Speeking of bees, Keira is going to be a bumble bee for Halloween. She has the cutest costume ever. It has a black tutu so she kinda looks like a bumble bee ballarina! I can't wait to see her all dressed up.

So, after doing some works, we took Keira to a duck pond. It was so fun. We brought bread and feed the ducks. They were so friendly and Keira just loved it. She kept calling them, "gucks!" It was too cute. And I was surprised that they were as friendly as they were. I guess they are used to people and kids. Keira was upset when we ran out of bread so I told her we would come back sometime this week. Here are some of my favorite pics from the duck pond....

Happy Feet

2008-09-29T20:46:00.001-07:00

I have started tap dancing again. I was a dancer in my younger years...for along time actually. I was in tap, ballet, jazz, and point all through elementary and into Jr. High. But them I became the mascot in 9th grade and gave it up to be Wally Gator. I've always wanted to get back into dance...actually just tap. It was always my favorite. So I decided to start it up. Like I don't have enough free time on my hand...but I love it and am so glad to have found my new little dance studio, Frances Lea Dance Studio. This is my 4th week of tap lessons and we finished our first dance tonight. And I must say...I am really good! I am probably the best one in the class. Really! No joke there! (okay, so we only have 4 people, and one is a guy) Not that I have anything against guy tap dancers, but I think they are at a disadvantage because they have bigger feet, and seem a little more...clumsy. The guy in my class does anyway. So I am amazed how quick it came back to me and how happy my feet actually are! And man, I am getting a workout! I sweat so much in that hour. I wish I could go more that just one night a week. I have been practicing in out kitchen sometimes after I get home from work and Keira just loves to watch me and listen to the ratta tap tap! She just smiles and tries to dance with me, even though her shoes are silent. I remember when I had recitals and my dad would always be waiting in the audience with flowers. I can see Brodie there now with a bouquet for Keira. I can not wait until Keira is 2 so she too can show off her happy feet!

A moment to breath...and blog

2008-09-22T19:26:00.000-07:00

I finally have some free time. Things are going good. Keira has just finished her first week of pre school and it went wonderfully! She loves going to school! No tears from her which is such a relief...especially since I taught pre school and I know how some kids are when their mommys and daddys leave them. She acted like she ruled the school! I am so happy for her. I have been getting notes home from the teacher and they all say what a joy she is, how helpful and verbal she is, and how happy she is all the time! It is so good to hear that. When Brodie droped her off the seconde day, she took off down the hall and went right to her classroom! I am so glad this is working out for her and I know how good this is for her as well. Here are some pics of her on the first day of school:
This was in our front yard...ignore the long grass! It was cut shortly after! She has her back pack and ready to go to school!This is in her classroom with her friends and her teacher Ms. Shannon.

We have been taking Keira for wagon rides which she loves. Here is a picture on one of our outings. She points up at the sky and says "moon" and "star". Keira is so much like her mommy. We both love shoes! I was on the couch doing some school work when I heard this shuffling....I looked over and Keira had a pair of my shoes on and was walking around! Glad I had my camera near by cause it was so funny. She tries to do this with Brodie's flip flops too.

I also must mention how good Keira is doing on the potty. She goes both #1 and #2 daily on her pink potty and is so proud of her self, as are we. After she is finished, she will stand up and giver herself a round of applause. She will tell us when she has to go and will run to the potty. Well...its my bedtime but will try and update more soon.

Sniff sniff....

2008-09-09T20:07:00.000-07:00

Have not had too much free time to blog. The free time I do have I prefer to spend with Keira so I am beginning to realize that my blogs will be minimal. School is going great. I love my kids, my school, and my new coworkers. Everything seems to be going good. I still am kinda clueless on some things but I am getting the hand of it. It is very frustrating not knowing what exactly to do, what to teach and not having anyone to ask or go to for help. Everyone still thinks I know everything...which I do not! But I am doing what I can to give it my best. So far (this will change, I bet you a million) I have learned that I like teaching math better than teaching reading/language arts. That is so crazy because I hated math in all my school years. I like teaching reading, but it is still hard to plan a lesson because my kids are on all diffirent levels.

Speaking of school...Keira is about to start preschool. I am so excited for her and I know she will love it and that it will be so wonderful for her. Her wheels are always turning and she is always wanting to learn, play, and interact with others...especially kids. She will be in a Tuesday/Thursday class and...she is the only girl in the class. She will be the little Princess! There is so much I feel like I have to do this weekend to get her already....get a lunch box, get ID tags, monogram her lovey that she sleeps with, and much much more. My little girl is off to school... one more day of drying my tears away.

New Pics.....

Keira and Aspen snuggling

She is already for school, reading to BooBoo Kitty

Ode To The Graco Safeseat

2008-08-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

(first time in the Graco)

Much thanks to the Graco SafeSeat (in French Roast)! It has been so wonderful to our little Keira. Lots of memories in that chair....first car ride home from the hospital, lots of spit up in its year(s), lots of naps with Keira and the kitty's, lots of crushed goldfish, and many many miles with precious Keira. The time has come for a replacement (which was delivered today!) We will never forget you , Graco...and maybe you will once again be used by a Dwyer (not too soon though!).

Yes yes, Keira has gotten to long for her carrier and we got a new car seat that goes up to 65 pounds. It came today and when I opened the box and set it next to the Graco one, Keira jumped right in, grabbed a book, and started reading. So I guess this will work. I ordered it without even seeing it in person and I think I made a wise choice. It looks so comfy with lots of room to grow. We will still be putting it rear facing because Keira still does not weigh enough, but I think it will not take long until we switch it. I also love the fact that it stays rear facing until 35 pounds since that is the safest way for them to ride. I love the color too. I know that is the least important thing about car seats, but the big ones all seem kinda ugly to me. Brown, or khaki. The pink ones are kinda cute but I don't want to buy another one if we have a boy one day. Our new seat is The First Years - true fit convertible seat in "sporty blue". Here are some pics. It is a monster next to the Graco!

Aspen loves laying in it!

My first week as a teacher has gone really good. It is hard being the new kid on the block. Not to mention, being the only special ed teacher in the whole school. People think I know EVERYTHING! My motto is, "fake it, till you make it". So I just act like I know what people are talking about. And I eventually do figure it all out. I have not met my kids yet. I will start that on Tuesday. This week has been dedicated to scheduling. I have to schedule when my kids leave their regular ed classroom to come see me in mine. And it is really confusing because some need help with math, some language arts, some reading...and they are all on different levels. I know it will be a trial and error thing and will eventually all work out. I am just so excited to meet them though and start teaching and helping them to become better students. It will be a wonderful year, I can already tell. Although I have lots to teach, they have lots to teach me as well! Hope all you teachers are having a wonderful first week!

28 years ago today...

2008-08-20T20:51:00.001-07:00

Today was my birthday and boy it was a great day! Keira and I started off the day sleeping in bed together. She had a little trouble sleeping last night because her ouchies (teeth) were hurting. She has one of her top front in and the other it trying to do the same. So she slept with us last night because B and I were tired of taking turns going to sooth her. It has been a long time since we let her sleep with us and it will probably be a long time until she does it again. I forget what a bed hog she is. I woke up around 8 and we came into the living room where Brodie was watching TV. He gave me a box of cracker jacks and when I opened it there was a set of beautiful diamond hoop ear rings in it. I was so excited. He is so cute like that!

So then Keira and I went to toddler time at the MAC where we met up with Kelly, Avery and Bowen. They all played and played....so much fun. When we were leaving, I checked my messages and realized that a Prinicpal wanted to interview me for a position. So my gracious mother dropped what she was doing to watche Keira while I went home, chaned clothes and went up to interview, all in about one hour. And guess what...I got the job! Yea! I am now a teacher. Such a wonderful feeling. What a wonderful birthday present. I will be the special education inclusion teacher at Richard Wilson Elementary in Fort Worth. It is an older school. My dad actually went to school there from k-5th grade. Such a small world.

I have had such a wonderful 27 years and I know 28 will be just as great!

Im posting some new pics that were taken this past week of Baby K. We went to the Ringling Brothers circus and if you cant tell....K is not a fan of clowns. I think she gets that from me! Have you ever seen IT?

My inspiration

2008-08-12T21:24:00.000-07:00

I have been inspired by the 2009 Ikea catalogue. Since I have had a child, we have collected a plether of toys, games, stuffed animals, shape sorter, instruments, shopping carts, strollers, play cars...and the list goes on. So we decided a while back to convert our office/guest room into a play room for Keira. I have a vision in my head what it was to look like. We started this project back in the beginning of spring. We moved our computer/office stuff to the living room in a nice desk armor, moved some old furniture to storage and started throwing stuff away. Well that little project was put on hold for a few months until...it came. It, being the new Ikea catalogue. We had painted 2 walls months ago and never got to the other two. That is what I did today. The painting is finished and I am ready to start the next step. Here are some pics of the color....I love it! I plan on putting up a chair wall, some red and white polka dot wall paper from the bottom up to the chair rail, and some cute Ikea shelving/table and chairs for K to play with.

We have had a fun few days. On Monday, Brodie, Keira and I went to Susan and Shelbys moms new home for a dip in the pool. We had lots of fun. Keira loves the water and just wants to jump right in all the time. She has no fear at all. She also loves for us to dunk her all the way in the water. She even kicks her feet and moves her arms as if to swim a little. I think we have a little Michael Phelps in training! Here are some pics.

Prior to painting today, Keira and I went to the park and then to Nana's, who was watching cousin Bowen. Keira and I played with Bowen who is getting so big and oh so cute. Keira just loves playing with him, and with Nana too. Keira kept taking his passy away from him and trying to keep it for herself. She does not even use her passy that much so it was kinda funny. It is so funny how Bowen and Keira are just about the same size.

Thanks Shelby!

2008-08-10T06:46:00.001-07:00

While going through old pictures of Keira, I stared to notice that there are lots of Keira, lots of Keira and Brodie together, and hardly any of me and Keira together. So I was so excited when Shelby sent an email to me with a cute picture of me and Keira. I am sure all moms can realte to this because we are always the ones taking the cute pictures and therefore are never in them. So here is a cute one of me and K.

Happy Thursday.

2008-08-07T20:03:00.000-07:00

New photos to brighten your evening...

EEEKKK!! The job hunt is not over.

2008-08-06T20:05:00.000-07:00

So, school is starting soon and I still am jobless. So crazy that we are in such high demand for teachers, but yet so many of us are still looking. My hopes are still high, don't ask me why. I do have to say though, I am having lots of fun staying home with Baby K and am not ready to leave her yet. She is so entertaining. I was telling Brodie earlier that she is at the point now where she is so much fun. Prior to being the big ONE she was fun, but she is just blooming and keeps me on my toes. Lots of walking, mischief, and words. Today, she pointed up to the ceiling and said, "Fan". Just like that. I love it. And so smart too. She does not use passes any more except bed and nap times. So tonight when we were about to do story/milk/bed time routine, I told her to go get any passe she wanted. (I have a little basket that has a variety of passe's in it on a little shelf in her room.) So, she went and got the whole basket, brought it to me, picked out a pink passe and gave it to me. Then, she took the basket (I followed her without her knowing!) and she put it right back where it goes. My little neat freak! I love how she put it right back where it goes. Brodie and I both said that we have no idea who she got that from, neither of us has that in us. Ill put up some new pics soon.

2008-07-24T19:04:00.001-07:00

Its been a while but I have been one busy momma. With class and job interviews...my life is crazy at the present time. I have been missing my Keira girl but I know she has been having lots of fun staying with Nana and Pappa Thom and Pappa Susan. Nana has taken her lots of fun places and Papa Thom and her go on fun walks during the day. I know she loves that time with them. I on the other hand am sick of the job hunt. Someone just needs to hire me. I am about to start some bribing!

A few months ago, I got Keira a potty so she can start getting used to it. Well, I did not know that I could make such a smarty cutie pattotie! She has used it many times, #1 and #2. She likes to sit on it and read books. Here are some recent pics...

I had to take this pic of her sleeping becase I thought she looked so precious holding her oh so soft pink blankie that she sleeps with every night.

We have been so entertained by all of Keir's bday presents. She has so many toys which are all played with every day. Here is a little clip of her in her play pool....

One year ago from today...

2008-07-14T21:08:00.000-07:00

I now have a one year old. Today is July 14 and if this were one year ago, Keira would be living in the NICU at Arlington memorial and I would be going on another sleepless night because I was so worried about my new little princess. One year has gone by and we are so blessed to have the most gorgous, perfect. smart, and loving baby in the whole world! We have had such an exciting year with lots of laughs, smiles, giggles, crawls, words, hugs, kisses, baby steps, baby signs, zoo trips, parks trips, swimming pools, doggy and kitty kisses, first rodeos, first Ranger games, shopping trips, birthday partys and lots and lots of love. Keira is the light of our lives and I am the happieset mommy in the whole wide world.

We had such a wonderful first birthday with lots of friends and family. Keira was the cutest ever. Partys are so in her element. It was so funny to see her expressions when everyone arrived. It is like she knew the party was for her. She was so excited to see everyone and I know she had so much fun, being the star of the show. Shy is definitly not in her vocabulary. She reacted so funny to all the gifts too. And the cake... She is such a girly, prissy priss that she did not even want to dig in and get too dirty, and I thank her for that. Her danty little fingers finally got covered with icing, but being the caring and giving girl she is, she just wanted to feed mommy!

We are still recovering from the wonderful fun filled weekend.

Me-ow!

2008-07-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

Last night before drifting off to sleep, Brodie and I were laying in bed halfway talking and halfway sleeping. We were talking about our cats. For those who don't know, we have two cats. Aspen is slinder, sleek, pretty, athletic, and all white. Daisy (aka Fat Daisy) is chubby, flabby, plump, very cute and is grey and white. Daisy never misses meals and I think steals Aspens some nights. Anyways...we somehow got talking about who would play the voices of Aspen and Daisy if Disney were to make a movie about them. This was just kinda fun and I though I would share. We decided that Aspen would be voiced by Madonna, and that the perfect match for Daisy would be Rosie O'Donnell. Ill post some pics so you can decide for yourself!

Daisy loves chillin with Keira. They are BFF.

Aspen loves chillin with Keira's stuff.

Just another manic monday....

2008-07-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

After a crazy and sick weekend...I am back. Keira is better, but Brodie and I both caught what she had and have been sick since Saturday evening (the vomit bug bit us). On Saturday, Brodie and I were invited to spend the night at Susan and Shelbys Dad's lake house in PK. We dropped of Baby K and Nana and Granddads and headed up. We had lots of fun and were so grateful to be invited. So unfortunate that we both were up all night with sick tummys. Were both feeling a bit better today...knock on wood.

I started my alternative certification class today which lasts until August 1st. It was very depressing leaving Keira today since for the past month it was just me and her hanging all day together. I cherish that month. I thought about her so much today and wanted to be with her, and Brodie. I have been dreading this day for as long as I have known about it but I have to do this for my family and for myself. On that note...I found out that I have a job interview on Wednesday. Yea! It is for a life skills position in Burleson. I am very excited about it and hope all goes well. Wish me much luck because it is getting closer to the first day of school and I still have no job. Boo Hoo.

I am up watching the Bachelorette which I had recorded earlier. I am not sure who she will pick but I am all for Jesse. I think he is fun, exciting and super cute. I liked Jason at first but he has started getting on my nerves. He is kinda annoying and he is not a pretty kisser. I am kinda sad this is the last night. Summer TV sucks and not much else is on. I do however love the new hits Wipeout and I survived a Japanese Game Show. Anyone else watch those? I have one word for you...Majide! Talk about entertaining!

And for all of you wondering...we did see fireworks on the 4th. We drove to the Mansfield Kohl's parking lot and watched the fireworks from Joe Pool Lake. Keira was so cute. She sat there in her little camping chair and clapped after every one. She loves her flag and has been waving since the day she got it...until Aspen got a hold of it and tore it up...silly Kitty. Anyways, Keira is so precious and this will be a first 4th I will not forget.

Fireworks tonight?

2008-07-04T15:24:00.000-07:00

My first blog.....

The 4th of July....crazy to think it's been one year since Transformers the movie came out. The only reason I know that is because I was seeing it a year ago today. Not that I was a huge die-hard transformers fan, but I was seeing it because it was the only thing I really felt like doing, because I was big...really big, swollen, and about to have a baby. 10 days later, my Keira was born. Brodie and I saw the movie, then slept all day until about 9 PM. I made him get up and drive me around to chase the fireworks that we could hear but not see from our street. We drove all around the not-so-glorious side streets and country roads of Kennedale and we did see some fading sparkles from a distance. Hopefully we will be able to show Keira so great fireworks tonight. We should probably leave the house before they start this time. Hopefully we will, depending on how she is feeling. Just as I was saying last night to a group of mothers, Keira has never been sick. Not at all. No fever, no ear infections or anything. We got home last night, put her to bed and started watching the tube. Then it happened. She threw up 6-7 times in 3 hours. We did lots of laundry and lots of baths. I spoke to soon. (she is doing good now! No more vomit since last night.)

One year has flown by and recently I am beginning to get weepy eyes every time I think about Keira's first birthday. Okay, so I have been getting weepy eyes for about 10 months thinking about her 1st birthday. That goes away right?

I have never blogged, nor do I read others blogs. I decided I would give it a try. I feel blogging is sorta like a diary for the new generation...and something to do since myspace is so last year. So here is my first blog for you to enjoy. Hopefully I will keep this up better than the 9 diaries I started way back when.