This is a test entry

OK, now that Jeffery has the pics-easy-install working I will be creating my blog, after all, what is a blog without great pics. Talk soon Danielle

So today I found out that Jeremie and Tera are having a boy. I am so proud for them. I know that Jeremie really wanted a boy. Last night my friend Andi hosted a Southern Living party it was kind of cool. I bought a cooked book so hopefully Brady's and my dinners will have a little more variety. Anyway I am a little new at having a blog all to myself so as time goes by I will learn about more to right. Danielle

So I have been traveling a lot lately. I visited the in-laws in Hot Springs with the Mags. I went to a Southern Living party Thursday night. And today Mags and I went to Sherwood to a Birthday party. So here is a picture of all the traveling.

Staying home!?

So to other mothers out there, was it as hard for you to give up your careers for motherhood as I feel it has been for me? Don't get me wrong, I absolutly love staying home with my baby girl. It just seems as though I feel a little lost. I mean you spend 4.5 years getting your bachelors. You spend three years in career mode finding out exactly what you want to do and when you finally find it, you get pregnant!? And then you decide to stay home with your children, I believe the most important job in the world. However, they grow up in a few years and start going to school eight hours a day what then. I know that there are other jobs out there but I just feel like I have given up a perfect job, second to children but number 1 for having to be in the career force. Ok so maybe I am rambling but to all of you stay at home moms: How do you feel? Danielle

I KNOW!!

I know I can be a full time BLOGGER!!!

Acting Bug

So this weekend, my husband gave me a little break and watched the love of our life, Mags for a whole 6 hours. I went to a shower in our hometown. So for 5.5 hours I got to do nothing but drive and listen to great music that I forgot about since having the little magsters. So I listened to awesome songs like "long way to run..." by Collective Soul, a little Cold Play, a little U2, Faith Hill's "Cry". Anyway, all of this singing at the top of my lungs reminded me of my former life, Acting. Ya, so I miss it. I think I just miss all of the corny aspects of it like tapping into wierd emotions and having an excuse to make them come out. I miss the adrenaline rush of finding my center and going to auditions, or finding auditions to go to anyway, I miss the competativness of it all. I miss an audience's responce. But when trying to remember some of my old monologues I realized that there are new monologes to be made. Because now that I am post-pregnancy I have way more emotions and experiences to draw from. Now, will anyone ever see them on the big screen probably not. But will the next acting class that I teach at Excel get to see them, you better believe it. I am fired up too!!! What's that saying, "If you can't do, teach!" So this is where I am now, trying to find a happy medium; missing my passion for acting but loving my passion for my new baby girl; I will let ya know if things change after all as my grandma would say: You are a gemini, Danielle.

The Biggest Miracle of All!!!

So I experienced the most beautiful thing in the whole wide world today, an actual baby delivery!!! Some friends of ours were induced today and her mother could not be there. So I substituted. At first I wasn't going to look because I thought it would keep me from ever wanting more children. You see it is a lot different being on the other end See no evil, hear no evil, or whatever that saying is. Anyway I just had to watch and let me tell you it is the most amazing miracle in the whole world. It was just, well, goodness you can't even describe how blessed the whole thing is. Tessa, you did amazing. Congratulations on a beautiful baby boy, name still unknown. Cuttos to Matt for being such a good support system. love to you all Danielle

Tae Bo!?

Ok, so I am trying to get into shape before my brother's wedding. I have avoided getting on the scale for almost a year because well I used to be what you could call obsessed. But the only way that I think I will get serious about the wait loss that must happen before the beach sees my big ass is by stepping on that scale and facing the violins!!! Oh, and I bought a Tae Bo!? DVD today, jogging is not cutting it, there is too much room to cheat, I need an anoying instructor to push me! (And I can do it during the day while I am with Mags, and not have to wait until the evening to leave the house to jog when Brades gets home, in which I find excusably too late to go jogging by that time) All this talking and I could be Tae Boing!? Talk later, Danielle

missing brady

So I still can't remember how I survived almost a year in LA without my husband. For someone who is so independent I sure do act codependent. I mean, Brady has been gone since Monday, yes just yesterday and I miss him like crazy. I tried to keep busy with my sweat baby. I think I called Brady ten times. Oh and I killed another spider today, and I didn't freak out!!! Talk later. Danielle, PS I will try to post more, things have just been nuts lately and I give Mag's blog priority over this. Oh ya the pic is a tribute to my lover, you are the cutest man alive!!(Which I am sure grosses you peopes out there but this one is for you Brades!!!)

Right down to the Wire

So this week has been nuts. Brady had to leave suddenly for an ER. All the while this has been my busiest week with work since Mags has been born. I have to somehow train a new girl for work Tues, Wednesday and Thursday. And then teach class all night Thursday, Friday and all day Saturday -which I love doing. And somehow make sure the love of my life, the Magster is being taken care of. I do not know how 40 hour working women do it. It would drive me nuts, constantly juggling things around, stressing about caretakers and being somewhere right down to the wire, well what's new, I guess I did that even when Maggie wasn't here. It is just my nature. But having gone five months without this type of stress in my life has been very nice. Thanks to all of my friends and family for stepping in and helping this week, Brooke, Katy, Andi, Tenille, Mammy and Brady (for making a great living so that I don't always have to do this) love D www.excel-mt.com

A Quarter of a Century

Yes I am twenty-five big ones!! Thanks everyone for the Birthday Wishes. love Danielle I spent the day teaching at Excel and then Brady and I went out to eat and to a movie. Dniah and Ryan babysat and Jeff and Lili went to eat with us. We had a great time. My birthday was the best ever this year because of the two people in this pic.

Steps Sh*!@t!

So Brady has been out of town and lately I have been really into gardening, or just keeping up with the Jones's! You all know how competative I am. So while Brady was gone I thought I would spend a little money "te-he-he" and add some new shrubs and beds around the house. Well it is a lot easier said than done since a post pregnancy me had to buy a shovel-shaver, dig through concrete, routes, snakes and yes even spiders but atleast the job is almost finished and I realize I am back to the old Danielle. Although I don't know if it is age or Maggie but now I have more patience to do projects in steps (you know how I used to be, "I have to do it now and get it done ASAP, none of this steps sh*!@t!") So I guess gardening is like life:Prepare, Plant, Grow!!! Or atleast that's how we made Maggie anyway "te-he-he-he!" I will add the final pic as soon as I am proud enough to sow the world.

It made the top ten for all time...

I am not sure where I got the time but over the last few weeks I COMPLETED watching THREE very wonderful films!!! -Note: every now and then I hope to provide you with a list of my most recently watched films and a review on each hoping you all will chime in on your thoughts- Anyway, the jam-packed movie-a-thon started with The Notebook-WOW!!! It was one of the most realistic love stories I have ever seen. With real life comic relief and a romantic story that will make you leave the theater in tears; The Notebook is now in my ten movie list, yes of all time. The chemistry between the leads; Ryan Gosling and that girl?, was outstanding. I told Brady he better come home quick or I was going to start dreaming about some blonde haird cutey I had never met!! Anyway it was awe-inspiring and it reminded me how wonderful it is to be in the acting community! Then there was Cold Mountain! Oh my goodness. Jude Law was amazing. Rene Zelwegger was very much deserved of her Oscar for her role. And this was the first time I have fallen in love with Nicole Kidman. And then there was-even though it took me four days worth of Tivo to complete-Capturing the Freidman's. It is a breath taking documentary about a family in limbo about their father and brother's conviction for child pornography and such... Now the subject did not particularly grab my interest but what did grab me was the direction and editing. It reminded me how important home movies are; what's that saying "When preperation and opportunity meet, success ocurrs" so true for this film. On a much more serious note it left me in deep thought about our judicial system-you just have to watch to know but to say the least it was moving and akwardly smart! OK, so let me know what you all think. Danielle

"A Romantic at Heart"

I have the most wonderful husband in the world. He sent me flowers today. I won't share what the note said, but he has proven once again that he is a romantic at heart. I love you honey, Dani

She is my Cinderella...

OK, so I know you are going to kill me but here goes... Andrea I just got home after watching your first feature film, The Cinderella Story. Andrea, love, you were awsome. You made smart choices and you were very real. You stole the show and created hilarious comic releif throughout the entire movie, your right comedy is so your thing!! I am so proud of you and I can't wait to watch it again love D

Had to say "Hi", love D

An Amazing Movie

Wow!!! I am coming off of an emotional rollarcoaster. Brady and I rented 21grams tonight and I watched it alone in the bedroom. This movie is absolutley heart wrenchingly clever, bruitally truthful and painfully beautiful. I have to recomend it to all actors and to everyone who poses 21 grams. I will add more when I finish digesting it.

Saturday Night is alive again!

Brady and I got a babysitter last night and we had a wonderful time at Eddie's Birthday, Beth you did a wonderful job! Everything was perfect from the food and drinks to the live belly dancer. I have not had this much fun in a long time. Thanks to Cory and Dniah for babysitting. I will post more pics when I can snag them from Josh and Brooke's blog.

Bobby Jackson, 1981 - 2004

Won't be home tonight. We are going to a visitation for a dear college friend, Bobby Jackson. He died Monday evening while riding his bike he lost control and suffered a head trama. The wonderfully-perfect Bobby. Why should someone that made the world such a better place be taken from it??...whow...this has smacked me right across the face, I can't write about it now, I can't find the words. Can't imagine the grief running thick in the Jackson's household right now, don't want to imagine. I just remember Bobby's sweet little smile and his goofy big laugh. Danielle

Fall is in the air.

Ok, I am addicted to gardening. And I don't mean pro gardening like my mother-in-law. But a little novas gardening like lawn keep-up, shrubs and a few fresh flower pots on the front porch. But what I am finding is that yard work is simply decorating for the outside. I love it! So I dug up my summer plants from the front porch pots and I am filling them or surrounding them rather them with luscious mums. That is right there is nothing that says fall quite like "mums". I had to take some picks share with you all. When the mums bloom I will take more picks.

Garden State

My kind of comedy, Garden State was brilliantly written. This was a movie that makes you feel like a better person for having watched it. Definitely recommended.

Life, absolutely wonderful.

Today I am having the most wonderful morning. I simply have to record this time in history. I slowly woke while Brady was getting ready for work. I got up about three times thinking that I heard little Mags. But much to my surprise, she was sound asleep each time. So I hurled back to bed each time. Right before Brady left he spent a few seconds to say "goodbye" with a sweet kiss!! I love those. Around eight, I still didn't hear Mags but couldn't sleep in anymore so I got up. I had a wonderful, peaceful breakfast, Honey wheat something, in front of Matt Lower and Anne Kurry. I opened all of the blinds and let the sun come in. 8:45 and Mags still isn't awake. My morning began to seem useless, what would I do if I didn't have Mags in the mornings? I crept into her room and I put my face against the rails of her crib. She looked at me with the funniest little smile. She had the print of her blanket in her cheeks and one thick hair stood straight on her head. So what made the morning so good, a realization that my life is absolutely wonderful!

Fall Cleaning

The time has come. I have to have a garage sale. Brady let me by a new rug and leather chair for the living room. So I have vowed to get some things together for a garage sale. Come to find out through some fall cleaning that I have quite a bit to sale. And all the while my closets, drawers, and attic are getting so clean!!! I love it, life is CLEAN. The kind of clean that makes you get into bet nice and neatly after a day of cleaning, you know; folding down the covers just right and smacking your mouth and letting out a long "Hahhh" as if to say "A job well done." I love this feeling.

"I have converted"

Ok, so I know it sounds like my life is all about cleaning but I guess it is a little right now. To be continued... Brady and I found out something interesting about our relationship, here goes.... So we do a couples class, workshop, bible study, get together, whatever you want to call it on the weekends; it will last 6 weeks. And it is such a bonding time and at first it was just a good excuse to have some us time; the church/sponsors provide the babysitter!!! Anyway so last Saturday we took a survey about miscellaneous house chores marking S if your spouse does them, B if you both do them and M if I do them. I came out with 11 M's 4 B's and 2 S's. And at first I was like, "I told you so!" and "all I need is a thank you and a little appreciation!" But as I started to think about things, and as primitive and submissive as it sounds, I realized that these household chores are my job now. Brady goes to work every day for nine hours. I go to work everyday too. The difference we found was that he gets affirmation and appreciation through a great big fat pay check. And what I simply need is a great big pat on the back and maybe a few back rubs "te-he". So now back to the real issue at hand, I have converted. Thanks to this handy little scrubber/liquid soap invention I am now a scrubber and then into the dishwasher kind of girl. I used to be a straight into the dishwasher no rinse kind of girl and this drove my husband nuts, so I am happy to say "I have converted!" Check out the new gadget, yes I know I am getting excited over a scrub brush but better this than a shopping spree at Bombay, according to my husband anyway.

11:30 pm Rambling

I know it has been a while so for all of you that hate long posts you can skip this one, I simply want to mind-blog so that I have it in my notes and history! So what has been going on in my life since the cleaning episode. Well I realize that that whole episode was simply my body cleaning the darvaset out of my system, Dr Wyatt said that this process can make you a little OC. Darvaset, ok let me remeniss... A few weeks ago I thought I was in labor for the second time turns out it was only a cyst, well two and the size of golf balls on my ovaries. Nothing a little pain killers and time couldn't remedy. So in the meantime I stopped breast feeding, sad but delivered. I finally feel like my body is my own. My b**bs are back to normal-well I don't think things will ever be normal again but I am wearing the same old bras and I feel like I have lost 10lbs from the dramatic change in only 1 week. Wow, the miracle of child bearing! So Mags spent the night away from home for the first time, that was hard. Meanwhile, we had a great time at Beth's-adults only- birthday party. Semi busy with Excel- we are casting for a new feature film. Managing the actors in LA is going well. They are getting settled and almost all are signed with great agencies. Brady and I completed our couples bible study on Saturday nights. Didn't know I would miss it so much. We need to finally commit to a particular church here, still praying about that one. Have felt a sense of prayer from people lately- it feels good. Friends seem to be doing well. I love it when Beth is in town. Tenille is having her baby soon. Brooke and Josh just had a 6.5lb boy. Andi hosted a great baby shower for Tenille last Sunday-great to see old friends. House- house is good, want a new rug for the kitchen floor, pictures, etc. Thanksgiving at grandma's is soon, I am itching with anticipation. This is absolutely my favorite time of the year. It will be interesting to see how wonderfully things will change with two new babies in the mix! Contemplating getting a dog for Mags, no never mind that was Brady's idea. Can not wait to put up Christmas decorations. I am not much on crafts and themes but I sure do love me some Christmas lights, wreaths, garland, trees and anything that can provide some cozy ambiance for the Christmas spirit. If it wasn't for Brady's restraints the decorations would already be in place outside. Bought a bunch of lights on sale at Hobby Lobby, wow, I can't wait. Love it that I have a family now for Christmas morning. I think this is good thought to end on.. thinking of so much more but as is Brady will make so much fun of me in the morning for my lengthy dribble. love to all Danielle

Our night out

Friday, before we all went out we took some pre-party snap shots. I thought I would share a few of them. We met Jeff, Joe, Lili and Michaels crew later that night and I am sorry we don't have pictures of them as well, cause Lili sure did look hot!! The group picture is Brady, Beth, Eddie, Me, and Katherine. Once again Happy 26th Beth!

2004 in Review

So my brother did a sort of picture book to review the past year, great idea so I may copy a little after I get finished blabbing. 

It is so interesting to look at things in retrospect.  So what did the year 2004 bring, wow so many wonderful changes.  A new baby with daily excitement, a new home to spend way to much time and money decorating, a new yard to learn how to garden and  how to keep plants alive for more than 1 month :) way too expensive not to, slowly but surely learning.  I found a passion for teaching acting lessons.  Love my husband more than ever and could not imagine life without him.  Friends and family that are so good to Brady, Maggie and myself that we hardly deserve them.  A new respect for the zoo, chucky cheese, the toy isle in any store, long dinners, a baby's firsts, great movies in the theater, bath times, breast feeders, mommies of multiples, working mothers, stay-at-home mothers, my husbands integrity; his passion to make me happy his growing patients and his love for Mags, my grandparents and my aunt Jeanne...the life that they have lived and survived.  Learning what life is like as a mommy and how fulfilled I am with this simple word, Mommy.  Wow, I used to be such an ency person; go here, do this, move here, leave this, don't stay too long...  but now all I fear is not having enough time with my baby girl, the new babies to come one day, not being in the same home where my baby had all of her firsts and where Brady and I have grown as a family and as lovers.  But if fear keeps me from having as wonderful of a year that 2004 has brought then I will gladly be fearless and embrace the new.  To my dear husband, daughter, family and friends; love to you all and best wishes in the new year. Danielle Davis

Another movie to see

So today I got an impromptu invite/desperately wanted/babysitter for Mags, "Thank you so much Ryan and Leslie."  While Ryan and Leslie watched Maggie I had a splendid time watching the 2.5 quirky-tasteful-lovable movie Spanglish.  Needless to say again, I loved it.  Moreover, I loved the 2.5 hour window of adult company. Thanks Beth and Katherine for a great movie experience. love Danielle

Copper Mountain Skiing

I posted quite a detailed description of our family vacation at Copper Mountain, CO on Maggie's blog so refer to it if you want to know more.  I did want to post some neat shots on my blog of Brady and I on a few challenging slopes.  Brady is an excellent skier and always willing to try new obstacles and I grew up spending Christmases on the slopes.  So we wanted challenging we found it. It is called the Spaulding Bowl, top of Copper Mountain.  Too bad I didn't get pics of our wipe outs. You all would have laughed your butts off! (Not so eloquent of a phrase, I know;  but a great description) And needless to say we came back to the condo Sunday night with some massive headaches.

Going Away Party for Beth and Katherine

When: Thursday, February 17th 7:30 pm

Where: Senior Tequilas off of Bowman St.

What: Good times before they head out west....

A Glutton for the Internet

Wow I never realized how addicted I am to our on-line service.  You know that feeling when your car is in the shop, or you have lost your cell phone and are waiting to get your new one in the mail.... You feel a little claustrophobic or out of service in some way.  Well we haven't had DSL service for 2 weeks and I didn't realize what a glutton I am for the internet. Now that our service is back on, I can't quit checking blogs and email, and then rechecking and checking again. Such a self realization. Danielle

Thoughts that I needed to write down..

I had some thoughts today that I just wanted to write down. So again for all of you non-blog readers/picture loving/anti-writers, skip this one.  Today Maggie and I ran a few errands.  We took lunch to a dear friend that is struggling with her first week back to work after maternity leave.  So I am walking down this long corridor just watching my little-bitty walk ahead of me and I was filled with such pride.  God, is this much pride sinful?  Later, we went to eat at the Dixie Café and it seemed that everything that Maggie was doing just cracked me up.  I know that the other tables thought that I was just trying to draw attention to myself, but I really couldn't help the loud obnoxious laughter.  She blew kisses, or she made funny faces at a lemon wedge, she ate hamburger steak which I think is funny for a 13 month old or she got so excited over holding and drinking out of her own cup. It is hilarious how she looks at me through the corner of her eyes to see if I am watching her.  And right now she is making funny little noises while she is putting herself to sleep in her crib, afternoon nap.  All of this said, today I am just absolutely enamored with my little girl.  And how can I be this enamored with a second baby when I will know what is to come, what stages to expect and what development to watch for?  You know what it is like, it is like being in the first stages of a relationship, the puppy-love stage, the "I can't get enough of you stage", the getting-to-know you stage...this mixed with so much unconditional love it almost hurts.  Anyway I just wanted to remember these thoughts when I grow old and my kids are no longer living under one roof, so here they are.  Danielle

New Show, New Movie

Sunday nights are a little dull on TV so I decided to try a new show that was recommended by several acting students, Jeremie and Tera, and a show that I noticed won a few accolades during last season's television awards shows.  So, I am watching the re-run season right now on FX and loving every second.  My new favorite show, Nip/Tuck!  It's creative cinematography, witty-surreal script, oddly relate-able morality issues make this show worth watching.  Brady and I are watching it together.   

Oh yes, and if you haven't seen the movie Sideways; you should.  What a wonderful tribute to the art of wine-making, tasting, and loving. The dry-humored script made this uneventful slice of life story leaving me mysteriously confused or a little Sideways, no pun intended; although I think this is what the writers may have intended.  Sure, I mean it was good, I think?  All I know is that it inspired Brady and I to ambitiously book our 6 year wedding anniversary plans this July; Wine Country here we come!  Danielle 

Valentine's Day

Didn't want to forget this perfect day.  Maggie and I had a wonderfully quiet  Valentine's Day together.  And at o'clock sharp Brady came home with one arm full of roses for me and the other with a big white teddy bear for Maggie.  He said "Get ready, I am taking you out; dress up-look pretty-do your thing!"  I loved it.  So he took me to Graffitis, a great little candle lit restaurant with amazing pinot noir and excellent smoked salmon.  But the big surprise was when the waiter brought over our very own cake. And not just any cake. It was from a little European bakery in the Heights called Sylveks. Yummy, butter cream icing and white cake!  It was sooooo good.  Brady picked up the cake right after work and then dropped it off at the restaurant and asked Paul, the owner, to take care of everything.  It was such a great surprise.  It is my favorite desert in the whole world!  We came home and relieved Dniah and Cory (Thank you guys so much for giving up your night!).  And then off to a Davis home spa.  It was a perfect night and one that I didn't want to forget. love your wife

Memories

Looking through old pictures today.  Found one of Brady and Bobby.  Oh what sadness and happiness all mixed together.  Thinking of so many things but not wanting to share them.  Bobby and I used to do skits for Wesley.  A funny memory...laughing out loud right now... for one skit, we used an orange to symbolize Jesus heart (long story).  During one performance I forgot the heart or orange rather, Bobby inconspicuously rolled it on the floor toward me all the while we hoped and prayed that no one noticed.  And during what was supposed to be the emotional climax of the skit was to everyone except him and I.  We shared a sort of guilty hilarity together.  Oh wow, his expression I can remember so clearly and now hold so dearly. Danielle

Going Away Party for Katherine and Beth

As everyone already knows, Beth and Katherine will be leaving next Friday to move to LA.  I think I am still in denial.  But to wish them a happy, safe, "we love you" fair well we had a kick-ass going away party.  We had a blast Thursday night.  And as Beth was saying, "I wish we could have another Thursday night!"  Well I agree.  We had a great time just talking and acting stupid at Senior Tequilas.  It was so neat to see so many people show up and give their support to Beth and Katherine.  We told the waiters that it was their birthday and they made a huge spectacle, which I loved.  So many people love you both.  We concluded the night at Willie D's, a great little piano bar downtown.  We had a blast and shook our little booties all night long.  Bethie, I wish we hadn't left the Italian Cream cake though; I sure am craving some right now.  Love you both so much and hope you move home soon! "te-he-he". love Danielle

Weekend Road Trip

This weekend Brooke, Beth, Maggie and I drove to Nixa, Missouri to visit with Beth's family.  We had a wonderfully relaxing time.  And aside from Mags being a little sleep-deprived the weekend was perfect.  Thank you Bethie for sharing your family with us.  love Danielle

Yes, that's right; Beth is in US Weekly

Ok, I am pulling another mommy stunt re: the grocery store checkout line.:)  So how proud are we that the week before Beth's move to LA she is published!  That's right, she is seen styling Amy Lee for the Grammy's in last weeks edition of US weekly.  You look so cute in your hat Bethie.  Had to brag for you babe.  love Danielle

Oscars....

Oh how I was looking so forward to Oscar day. When important award shows are on TV Brady lets me have the hold day to focus on the show!  That is right from the beginning of E!'s live coverage from the red carpet to the end of the awards show Brady has Mags for the day, not to mention that yesterday he brought me food twice while I was in my island of mindless entertainment.  Loved every minute of it.  Thanks Brady.  And thanks to the Oscars for a little entertainment.  Oh yes, my predictions were not all on but I did win a few. Danielle

Happy Birthday Lili

Today is actually Lili's Birthday but we celebrated it last night in style.  Jeff planned a surprise evening for Lili, it was so much fun!!! We all got dressed up which you know us girls loved.  We started with dinner at Sticky Fingers, a neat little place to catch dinner and listen to bands play. Around 10:30 Jeff announced that we should switch venues.  So we all walked to wards another place on the River Market pretending, all the while an amazing limo sat behind us that we all pretended we didn't notice.  And at one instance we all bolted for the limo and Jeffery revealed that it was one of Lili's b-day presents.  How romantic, how amazing, how cool!  Lili was so surprised. We made good use of the limo and road around and partied in it for a couple of hours and then headed dancing.  Brady and I had a wonderful night and we can't wait to see what Jeff does next b-day! :) (no pressure) :)!

Hummm...

Nothing and everything to write about.  So little to say and yet so much to do!?  I am starting to get Spring cleaning fever again.  Want to plant everything in my garden but don't want to spend the money to watch it die.  Can't wait until Easter, going to get a kick out of seeing Mags dressed up, hunting for Easter eggs.  Looking forward to Dr. Bogan's service it is always good and always thought provoking.  Missing Russellville.  Sometimes I just want to simplify things.  Let Brady work a 9-5er that he loves, have a set schedule and spend every waking weekend together, uninterrupted by the stresses of life.  Remember how much fun we used to have in Russellville?  Or am I just thinking of our college years, it would be a great place for Mags to start school. Spending a weekend in April in the big LA, will I take Mags or won't I?  Can't wait to see Beth and Andrea.  Brooke's out there right now, so jealous.  Can't wait to see Grandma and Grandpa in May.  Going to stay with them for a whole week.  Can't wait for vacation in Florida in August.  It is official, it is our annual trip to the beach!  Can you believe we are at that stage in our life.  Thinking yesterday how fast it will all pass and dreading it.  Mags is almost 15 months old and creeping into toddler hood!  IMTA is near and I will be in NY for 1 whole week, longest ever without Mags; excited and terrified all at the same time.  I love you Brady. And thanks for indulging my diet and taking me out to eat 5 nights in a row just so I don't have to cook the same old chicken and broccoli.  I miss a ministry of some sort.  Let's just all move to Africa, what? No more reality television.  I think however it will be reality enough.  Oh my gosh did you see America's next top Model.  Why is it so funny when someone falls, faints or whatever? Brady and I cracked our @#*@ off!  Missing Beth.  Can not wait for all of the up coming DVD releases.  Wow, 6 year anniversary this year, 4 years until Italy baby.  So he promises. Who knows by then we could have 2 more children!  Wanting Mags to say Mommy more. She is pretty picky about that one.  This week has been rough.  Trying to get her back on schedule.  She had a big fun weekend and is a little off.  Teaching is going well.  Get more out of it than the students and sometimes have too big of  a head with them, wish I could teach a women's group.  Maybe chat it up about mommy hood, we will see.  Brady gave me his old/new IPod so excited.  Refuse to get illegal songs off the internet, I know I am a nerd but it is stealing.  Anyway rambling is fun and someday, even if  I am the only one, I will enjoy so much reading these thoughts.  Danielle

Gardening for $20?

So Brady and I have this new rule:  Any extra-curricular activities come from our cash envelope.  It is a fixed amount every week and take my word for it-not very much!  Anyway, so Tammy bought me some jasmine for Easter and uh-oh it got me in the mood to garden. So I went to the horticare place today and the new pot that I wanted for my front porch was $300. Ya, that's more money than our envelope holds in 1 month! So off to Garden Ridge I went.  I found 2 rectangle pots for $5 that looked very similar to the large one at the horticare place.  I bought a little spray paint and...presto!  Then off to Home depot we went.  I found a few boxwoods and ivy that I knew I could split  and a little rod iron peace for less than $10.  So there you have it, a new summer look that could have cost me hundreds ended up being $20!  Brady will be very happy.  Let me know if you think the pots look like real ceramic, sometimes I tend to confuse a bargain looking like the real thing when really it just looks like plastic and spray paint!  Danielle

Count down to LA!

4 days until my trip so four reasons why I can't wait!

1.  Girls, Girls, Girls!!! Bethie, Andrea see you soon!!!!!!!!

2. Sleeping in on Saturday

3.  Food

4.  Dalt's (what am I excited about being in the same town as Dalt's?)  yes that and  Bob's Big Boy...te-he-he

Trip to LA, here are pics, talk more later....

So LA is the same old beautiful place! But it wasn't about the scenery, it was about my girls!  It was so great to see you guys.  The first night, I hung with Beth, Katherine, Faith, Tiff and Amy.  We had fun taking this LA-esc hip-hop class.  It was a tad bit of a blur to Beth and I te-he.  Then we just chilled and there Beth and Katherines.  It was just awsome to spend time together.  On Saturday, Beth, Kat and I went to Bob's Big Boy off course.  And later to Andrea and fams barbeque, LA style.  Meaning, you have to look cute, be 1.5 hours late, the best music ever and it won't just be a sundown barbeque. It was wonderful. We talked, laughed, ate and drank; good times had by all.  Some of the Dalt's crew was there and it was good to see old friends. Andrea just moved into her first very own apartment and it was precious, decorated so cute.  Later that night Beth and I crashed and got up just in time to catch my flight.  I already miss you babe.  Love all you babes. See you soon, D 

PS  I know the picture of Beth and I below is not flattering whatsoever but I had to post it because it reminds me so much of the fun we had and it cracked me up just looking at it, yellow teeth-no makeup and all!

Ruth

Ruth was her name.  The seventy some-odd year old- Italian woman that sat across from me at Jason's Deli. A full hour is about how long we talked.  I think that I was sort of day-dreaming that it was my grandma sitting in that booth.  "You can lead a horse to the water, but you can't make him drink it!"  she told me. With all of her stories, advice and goings-on; I couldn't get a word in edgewise. And I didn't want to.  She just wanted someone to talk to, someone to listen, someone to share all of those wonderful memories that she has stored "up there".  "Kids today are spoiled" she went on.  "No juice for my little ones, 3/4 water and 1/4 wine-red wine that is-nothing better for you."  When my daughter told me that she was a lesbian..." was one of her stories. I know, a lot of information. Well she did a lot of talking in that hour.  By the time she went to get her "custard" (as she called it) it was time to invite her join me. So invite I did and she sure took me up on it.  She told me about the Matzot balls she made on Saturday.  She told me that when her and her husband got married it was like combining "a pizza and a bagel" because one was Catholic and the other Jewish; I almost spit the water right out of my nose from that one.  "You can pick your nose and you can pic your friends but you can't pick your family" "Never trust anyone, they will steel that little pretty girl up so fast. And never ever leave your "pocket book" in the grocery cart!"  I saw the longing in her eyes to share with me the life lessons that she has learned, the need to make someone else's life a little better.  Ruth, she drives a Cadillac, a red one.  As we were both leaving she pointed proudly to her red cherry of a car. "How cute" I thought."Why do we find the need to impress complete strangers?" I also thought.  Her battery was dead, so I lent her my phone to call the dealership.  Was that the whole reason we met? Is there such a thing as a chance meeting? Second person that needed my help today because of a dead battery.  Hmmm.  Danielle

Matzo Balls, in case you were wondering.

...

Can't sleep, drank a whole glass of iced tea for dinner.  Mags is asleep, wish I was too. Can't watch anymore episodes of "Nip Tuck".  I guess I will try to it one more time, going to sleep that is.

CRASH

Wow, I have written and re-written this sentence 3 times over. You must go see "Crash".  Let me just say that when my eyes were swelled with so much emotion I could hardly see I knew this was the film of the year.  I have never, and let me re-iterate, never seen Brady Davis cry from watching a movie.  But when I turned to see him through my narrowed, swelled up, eyes he was balling like a big-fat baby.  We turned and looked at each other and said "Wow!"    Everyone, this is a must see!!!  I went in expecting the unexpected and I was awe-struck! Tremendous directing and acting.  Tremendous highs and lows.  Incredible writing and cast!

Neglecting my blog, but for a good reason!

As you know, I have been neglecting my blog quite a bit lately; well life has been nuts lately.  Mags is more active than ever and I love every minute spent with her. And what free time I used to have is now spent wrapping things up with the film that is being shot here in Arkansas.  I work for a company called Excel and other than teaching there acting classes during several weekends a year, I help cast our actors with agencies, managers, films, television and commercials, I love it.  It seems like a full time stress at times but really I only work on Friday's and sometimes during Mags' naps. It is more fun than overwhelming anyway.  The most recent project "Come Early Morning" has been really exciting.  So I thought I would post a couple of pics of all of us on set.  You are not aloud to take pics of the leads and directors; Ashley Judd, Laura Preppon, director; Joey Lauren Adams. Oh, well here are a few pics that my co-worker Suzanne was able to sneak in. 

BEWARE!!!

Ok, so my new favorite spot to shop has been the 2nd floor of Dillard's.  I had sworn Dillards off in College because that is where we used to shop in high school/yes I know I am sounding very shallow but it just reminded me of the old trends like Girbou/SP?, Lucky, and whatnot.  Anyway in the last year I found that Dillards 2nd floor here in Little Rock has all kinds of new labels and trends, ABS, Betsy Johnson, To the Max, BCBG.  So long story short Brady and I went to the mall this weekend, I popped into Express; and was horrified!!!  There, in my peripheral vision, I saw a very familiar blue dress.  There it was, the dress that I sulked over for a month, begged Brady for, thought-re-thought, and finally decided to buy was sitting there against the walls of Express for 1/3 OF THE PRICE I paid at Dillards.  When I think back, the poor clerk that greeted me at Express; well she didn't even know what was coming.  I couldn't stop commenting to Brady, to her, and to anyone that would listen!  I felt duped!!  I usually consider myself a good shopper too.  Well not this time. Will I go back to Dillards, probably; but will I look there and then go to Express and other stores after to look for similar items same items at a better deal?  Of COURSE!!! So just beware!

Birthday, Yeah!

Well I usually like for my birthday to stay under the radar.  I guess I appreciate how noble it is to grow older and all of that bla, bla, bla  but the sheer fact is I AM  STILL GETTING OLDER!  But now a days it is great to get a babysitter and go out for any excuse of a special occasion.  So Brades got a small shin-dig together for me last night, it was perfect.  Family; Jeff and Lili, Cory and Dniah, Ryan and Leslie.  We had a fabulous 3 hour dinner at Graffitis, I must emphasis 3 hours because I love long dinners but it is a rarity with children of course.  Then off to the Peabody.  We visited some old friends at the River top Party and headed to Ernie Biggs Piano Bar.  Great night guys and thanks for indulging my need to dress up and look cute for a night, everyone played along and I think secretly they all had fun doing so. Love you and thanks for a great 26th. D PS Brady got me another one of those fab cakes from Silveks and I loved it, "thanks honey!"

...

Maggie is 2 days over 18 months old.  Sad, happy, looking forward to the future.  I have outlived my mom's time with her daughter.  Couldn't sleep last night. Just thinking. Didn't want to forget how significant this week has been.

Home At Last

Well I have lots to catch up on.  Most importantly I missed writing about my 6th year anniversary.  It was very laid back but very thoughtful, my perfect kind of special day.  Brady and Mags picked me up from the airport (home from NY finally).  There my honey stood with a big bouquet of flowers and his new mo-hawk :) "Yeah!"  and my sweet little Maggie yelled "Momma!"  It was the best welcome home.  We went home shortly after and played with Mags, snacked and settled in for the night.  Brady made me a Scrapumentary-a term he made up in order to make a video of 6 reasons why he loves me.  It is too personal to share with you all but to give you a hint of how special it is and how amazingly creative my husband is; I will try to describe it.  The Scrapumentary is a DVD that includes stock footage of home video of him and I and our wedding, pictures of Maggie and her sonogram, some interestingly artistic footage that he filmed just for this dvd, and several other images.  And when combined all of the above proved the 6 (for 6 six years of marriage) reasons why he still loves me.  I cried like a baby and loved every minute of it.  Needless to say it was a great anniversary love you boo.

Now, my trip to New York was great.  Our team of actors and models did phenominal.  I couldn't have had better roommates, Beth, Summer and Neely; Oh and this sweet 12 year old Racheal that was so low maintenance one hardly even new she was there.  Anyway, it was so great to play slumber party again seeing as how we usually never went to sleep before 2:00am.  But during the day it was work, work, work.  It paid off too, we had several people up for actress of the year and kids who placed in the sitcom, soap and monologue competitions.  I am extremely excited of 2 of our twins.  I ran into Beyonce Noels producer; Donavin Noels in the hall one day.  Introduced our two singing twins to him and now he is coming to Little Rock soon to record them. You should have seen his "bling!" I had to post some pics and give them an extra shout-out.  Anyway, I miss Bethie and wish we could have our time in NY all over again.  I had special fun at Rue 57 with Neely and Bethie.  Great times eating crap.  And Neely couldn't have been a better bed-mate.  We did get a little crazy every now and then :) Jk.  I had to post some pics of banquet night, I wore fake lashes-first time and of course all of our hair looked amazing thanks to Bethie.  Miss you all. Had a blast love D

A moment in time

I am sitting in my office at Excel, teaching an acting camp right  now and my kids are working on their scripts. ...something that makes me smile... picture this; there is a mirror on the wall close to my office, I can hear one of my actors quietly working on her lines while looking in the mirror... such effort, such care, love to hear someone bettering themselves when they think noone else is listening. 

Fall is near...

Well not that near anyway, at least not 3 weeks ago. That is when I started putting  up my fall-front porch-decor.  And planted my mums.  Yes, I know I am being way too eager and I think instead of a neighbor passing and thinking "hummm..that is kinda cute."  she's thinking "Oh my gosh it is not time for fall yet!"  Never-the-less, sweating like a dog, 5 months pregnant, standing on a ridged ladder barefoot, reaching for the sky with a staple gun I began my fall deco-and finally have a camera and the bravery to post it.  Since this is the only blog that really cares about my extra curricular-frivolous activity anyway, I thought I would give it gladly.  So enjoy the pics. I will post more as soon as I find some pumpkins, gourds, hay bails and spidy webs to finish the fall-Halloween look!  After looking at these pics I realized that I needed to add a little red and purple to my alternative-wreath as well.  So indeed I will do so and post later. Danielle

Things I can't resist

I have been thinking a lot lately about temptations, things I can't resist, or simply put "things I can't say no to!"  Maybe my ability to say "no" while pregnant just doesn't exist and so I am in crave-overdrive, no, not really I can never resist some things-pregnant or not!  Anyway just wanted to list a few things. 

Things I can't resist:

• If I just so happen to be at a gas station early morning I can't resist :Chocolate Gem donuts (Jeremie and Jeff know exactly which ones!)
• If I am at Home Depot I must buy at least one thing even if I don't need it.
• Any Lifetime Movie 
• Brady, after any Lifetime Movie
• Italian Cream Cake after a meal at the Villa
• The toy section at Walmart even when I have declared the trip solely for groceries 
• Expensive Cleaning supplies
• Decorating for Holidays way too early
• Kisses from Maggie
• Calling Brady a billion times a day while at work/ I know it's wrong but I just can't resist.
• Telling Brady any and every secret I own!

There's a lot more but Brady is home with some Banana Pudding from Dixie so I gotta go :)

I am a sucker for bad karma..

I am such a sucker for bad karma. Check this...

A friend of Excel's came to work, we all noticed that he had a huge sore on his nose.  When he tried to point it out to us in hopes that we would understand that he was already aware of his embarrassing sight I said "No Freddie, it's OK; I already noticed." in hopes for some good laughter, Freddie and I bantered back and forth for the rest of the night in regards to his "Rudolph nose".  Fast forward 2 days, I awoke with a huge sore in my nose.  No kidding!  This thing feels like I have a pus pocket the size of Texas.  Whatever it is, I guess it is deserved!

Check number 2... So we are all sitting around and my friend is complaining about how bad her legs itch. She lifts up her pants in hopes that we will console her with a "it's not that bad"  And I say "Woman that is bad" (or something to that nature.  I give her a hard time about it all the while she is scratching in misery.  Note: The last time I had a rash, Never!  Today, I had to go to the doctor because not only do I have the flu but I have this huge mysterious rash crawling up my arm.  It itches sooooo bad and for fear it was contagious I sent Mags to the grandparents until it subsides. 

So, lesson learned. I won't use so much humor at other peoples expense!

Hmmmm...

Hmmmm... what to talk about.  I pretty much write my life away on Mag's blog. So of course I tend to neglect my own blog.  That said, I wouldn't have it any other way, nothing seems important enough to write about compared to Maggie and Daddy.  Brady and I are having so much fun with her age and all of the things she is doing.  This keeps us very busy and very happy.  Well, she does take a 2 hour nap everyday and goes to bed at 7:30 so there must be something to talk about!? Oh yes, we put up our Christmas decorations on Sunday. This is starting to be a tradition for the Davis fam. It all started when we drove home after last years Thanksgiving.  We glared at all of the "Jone's"  racing to put up their holiday decor the Sunday after.  This year we were prepared. It was so nice not having to buy everything for the first time.  We simply climbed into the attic and shopped around for decor that we wanted to use this season.  Brady put the lights up in no time, we even have a ladder now!  I worked on the garland and bows.  I did buy live garland this year, maybe I will post a pic and you can see for yourself what a huge difference it makes.  Maggie and I are still working on the inside.  Well enough about that. What's on TV?  Well Laguna Beach is over, not too many expectations for season 3.  Nip Tuck is getting optimistic again.  And I'm pleased with the rest of America's Next Top Model choices so far. I still work on Friday's while Maggie spends the day with Mammy and Poppy.  Reading "What to Expect when Expecting Toddlers" oh and the Pottery Barn catalogs, seems like I get one in the mail everyday since it is close to Christmas.  Not sure what I am getting Brady for Christmas yet, or Maggie, or anyone.  Pregnancy has been great.  We are not sure how we will handle the blogging situation when she arrives.  She has been a good little baby so far.  I'm tired most of the day but that is to be expected in my last trimester.  I am visiting the Dr every two weeks now and had my diabetes screening today.  Brady and I are still trying to decide on a name.  Maggie knows that there is a little baby in there.  And now I don't have to remind her to pat the baby or say "Hi".  She just comes close to belly at random times now and says, "Hi baby"  and kisses it with big smackers.  I am looking forward to seeing them interact.  Having an older sister around is something Maggie didn't get to experience so I wonder how differently it will affect this newborn baby girl.  I can't wait to see how different they are.  Sometimes I think I don't fully appreciate Mags little personality because I just assume all 2 year old are like her.  I think I am falling in love with this little baby sooner than I did with my first pregnancy because Maggie is a living reminder everyday of how real this little person is and will be very soon. (CoS)  Jeremie and Tera are in SC  and for some reason it feels further away than Co. Maybe because I haven't seen their home yet and it is simply not familiar to me yet.  I look forward to May when we will be visiting them there.  This will be a busy month.  Too many Christmas party's to count. Looking very forward to Jeff and Lili's family party.  I miss Beth, she is in Louisiana with Eddie, coming home tomorrow; I think. I teach Advanced class starting the 7th, looking so forward to that.  It is my favorite class.  Looking forward to Christmas shopping for Mags.  Brady and I will probably shop separately again this year so that it is a surprise to everyone on Christmas morning what the mystery gifts are.  I can't wait to see what he puts in my stocking this year. He was so cute last year.  Can't wait, can't wait til' Christmas day.  Jeff, Lili, Rudy, Jeremie, Tera, Jace and Haus will be coming over that evening and it will be the continuation of the Hick's Christmas dinner.  I can't wait to try to pull off my Grandma's famous turkey dinner.  I took tons of notes this year during Thanksgiving.  Speaking of, Thanksgiving was wonderful. The food was amazing as always, time spent with Jeff and Lili was so laid back and pleasurable as usual.  And Grandma and Grandpa were in seemingly good health.  I gained 7 pounds!  We have so much to be thankful for.  Thank you God for my little family. 

2006 New Years Resolution

I realize now since this is my second pregnancy that it is not until my third trimester that I start getting really tired of being "pleasantly plump"  and just want to be in shape again.  So, I finally figured out what I want for Christmas that will help remedy this a little.  And yes, I know it doesn't sound very romantic but I want a treadmill. Brady and I have been talking a lot about running a half marathon together, something he has done and I have never gone over a 10K. I know there will be no commitment on my behalf unless I can utilize my babies nap times to practice. Because any other time is just too difficult.  Solution, indoor treadmill.  Indoor treadmill that I don't have to dress up for for the sake of my fellow gym members.  Indoor treadmill so that I don't have to rely on the weather or if my babies are in the mood to get in the jogger stroller or not.  Now I am not promising that in the next two years there won't be clothes hanging on it but I do know that I keep putting the urge off to buy one.  And while I am sitting here during Maggie's 2 hour nap, I am aching to get it shaking :)  So maybe Brady/Santa will get "us" a treadmill.

Yes it is true...

Nick and Jessica are no more. :(

I love....

Coldplay.  Love everything about their music.  Especially love their new song, "Fix you", I think it is called... Anyway, love it love it! D

Last Trimester

Well I am going to the Dr. every to weeks now that I am in my last trimester.  It is funny, the other day I was worried a little because it seemed every hour or so I would just get exhausted.  If I was driving I had a longing to pull over and take a 15 minute nap or if Mags and I go shopping or play too hard I have to rest for a few minutes.  And then it dawned on me, I am in my last trimester!   I went to the Dr. yesterday and got all the results from my blood test.  Everything is just as my last pregnancy.  Glucose levels are normal. Low on iron (nothing a little supplements can't cure)  And the baby is looking to be healthy and big!  Being extra tired is also a result of low iron levels so I hope the supplemtents will help my endurance a little.  I lost a pound of that Thanksgiving weight that I put on.  But I still have 9 weeks left; we'll see if I hit 50 big ones like I did with Mags.All in the name of a happy healthy baby oh, and maybe a little extra chocolate gem donuts for Mommy "te-he"  :)

Date night

Went on a date with my hubby last night.  I can't believe we have been married for 6.5 years.  Together for almost 10!!!  It was the sweetest date.  First we went Christmas shopping for Mags.  How much fun was that! Then we cashed in our CTEH gift to Macoroni Grill "Yummy, chocolate cake!"  Then Santa aka: Brady, took me to look at treadmills.  I forgot what a "brand bi!@*  he is.  But I secretly  love it, especially if that ensures a really great treadmill.  I was looking for something quiet and that matched our bedroom :).  He was looking for the "works".  Tested three out for less than 30 seconds and I sware my butt is sore today, te-he-he!  Great night.  Wonderful conversation, love love love my hubby.  Love him even more now than when we first got married. 

New Year's Resolution

Hmmmm....Well I guess it is a big commitment sharing a new years resolution with the world via blogging.  But it will be good accountability. 

*Run a half marathon somehow, somewhere before next year, I'm up to 2.6 on the treadmill for 20min te-he-he, used to run at 6mph for 45 min-just under an 8minmile.  Sucks how much work I will have to catch up with my 5 year old self.

*Be more committed to my hubby and his needs

*Be a super mommy to two now!!!

*Remind everyone in my life-regularly-how much they mean to me

*Keep my closet cleaner

*Eat a lot less carbs!!!

*Be a better phone friend to my out-of-towner's

*commit to a church community

*cook more

*save more

*give more

Friday's Free

Today was one of my first Friday's off to do absolutely whatever I wanted since Mags was born, or since; well college really.  It has been wonderful. Although I miss my daily routine with Mags, everything I did was still dedicated to her, my hubby and/or my new baby girl.  So to record this slow moment in life before the rush of adjusting to two baby girls approaches this is what I did.  1.Drove to HS to meet the grandparents:dropped Mags off.  2.  Rushed home to have a nice long lunch with a friend.  3.  Shopped (shopped w/out a baby: which is huge!!! you don't even have to buy anything, it is just the sheer joy of LEISURE shopping) 4. Completed Mags window seat, it is precious; took 4 hours though 5. watched Oprah 6. Did some laundry 7. cleaned a little 6. And now I am waiting on B. so that we can have a long-much needed date. Anyway, seems like a boring post but I think the daily life will be interesting to read about 10 years from now.

"Maybe some choco donuts"

I have to copy a little off of Lili's recent entry about having her man home and loving every minute of it because these are such true words.  Brady hasn't been traveling near as much as Jeff so I can't complain but to top it off, for fear that he would miss the birth of his second child, he hasn't been traveling had to go anywhere for the past 6 weeks! It has been bliss for Mags and I.  Every night we get to spend time with Daddy. One thing in particular happened tonight that made me have to put these feelings into words; Brady came home and said "Looks like we are going to have one big sleep-over!"  (Weather is reported to snow us in this weekend) Brady said, we better go get "snow in treats" because it looks like it is going to be you, me and Mags for the weekend.  I thought, how cozy, how fun, and happy this weekend is  soon to be.  On the list of goodies; firewood, honey nut cheerios (for me), Cocoa Puffs (for him), eggs, LOTS OF MILK (I can't get enough of it!), soups, and any other goodies that he wants to surprise Mags and I with; maybe some choco donuts :).  Love you honey.  D

Last night

Last night I got to cuddle with my hubby for the first time in well ever since my belly got HUGE from Mimi.  It was wonderful-warm and cozy.  With my husband on one side, mimi in a little bed next to ours and Maggie sleeping soundly-in her big girl bed the nights since we got home have been precious.

A little oxycodone never hurt, but it does make you ramble...

Well, I think I have the complete opposite of the baby blues, but my emotions have to be hormone induced for sure, because they have been so intense for about 3 days now.  Or maybe life is just so complete and so utterly happy with my husband and two girls.  Thinking of lots of things; want Brady to trade in our old computer for a little lap top for me (more organized, less clutter, I guess a big monitor; fax printer and station seems so 90's when your husband is an IT specialist, oh well I guess there are perks for me with his interests at work)  thinking of taking the door off of Mags closet and hanging some great white curtains with huge bows to draw it back, if I do that then I can move her armoir over and make more play space.  Life in our 1414 sf home has been more than I expected with two.  Completely bearable and somewhat cozy and less to worry about cleaning; oh yes and my #1 worry was noise. But the new baby has adapted nicely and just simply requires less quiet than Mags did.  Thinking of slip covering the car seats with some cute pink twall fabric (ok maybe that is the oxicodone talking now)  Tammy and Pierre come up tomorrow, I can't wait to share our week with them.  They are always wonderful company for Mags and me.  Brady will be home until Monday.  Cherishing every second that we have. I have been trying to do most of the nighttime shifts myself so that he can get some good rest; after all- I need training for next week and he has been a huge help with Maggie during the day I can't even tell you. Don't know how a single mom could have multiples.  Wow, I am a mother of two girls.  I love the way that sounds.  I am already missing the idea of having little babies too. If you think about it, if we have one more baby in a few years-and not anticipating more than three during this lifetime for Brady and I-I will be finished having babies, Wow how did this part of my life already exist and be almost half way over.  Makes me sad to think about. I know I have so many things to look forward to.  I am just so enjoying the infant stage right now  mmmmm....snuggly warm-infant stage.  Maggie is doing better today with the transitioning.  Trying to keep everything on a strict schedule for her so that at least one thing can seem normal to her.  Can't wait to start walking on my treadmill next week. Dr. says that I can build to a jog within a few weeks.  My belly has gone down faster this time than when I had Mags.  Mimi must be a good sucker.   I made a sign for Mimi this time... a welcome home sign. I am secretly proud of it. I think I will make signs for the next sets of babies to enter the world :) hoping to make something different for everyone. Maybe a train for the new baby Hicks in May.  Someday for Jeff and Lili- maybe something beachie-I don't know. What to do for Cory and Dniah?-wonder if baby will be a boy or a girl.  hmmmm...I think I need some new running shoes.  Some that will last through training; Brady said that you need to wear the same ones throughout the training period and then at the event, something about the mold and how it could effect your ankles and such.  Jeff and Lili move soon. Can't wait.  I am so ready to help with painting and such. Maybe when they are ready to do so, I can have Tand P come up on a Saturday instead and I can spend the day helping Lili-Can't wait-Can't wait to help do crafties with someone else other than myself.  Ok, this has been way too long of a post just thought I would ramble.

Spring-time trimming and planting

I was excited to trim my hedges and plant for the spring, I didn't do much this year; with two babies and all but the grandparents helped make what little I did possible.  It was so nice mowing yesterday. I know I sound crazy but I love being outside doing chores.  Making things look pretty.  Someday both of my girls will be able to be outside with me, they may not love it as much as I do, but at least they will be with me playing on their bikes or whatever. Here are some pics to log what phases we went through this spring. 

Yikes!! What the @#$ is that!..

...That is what I said when I opened the door into my garage this morning to take out the trash.  There it was: a rooster?, a hen? a big chicken?  I don't know what it was but it was snarling at me and ready to fight.  Well maybe not all that but it scared the pee out of me. I have no idea how it got into our garage or who it belongs to. We don't live close to a farm. We do however have  several neighbors that I am considering as a suspect for home cooked livestock.  Who knows, it is hilarious to think that I have avoided opening the garage door all day in hopes that it will still be there to show Brady after work tonight.  And everytime I go check on Mimi to see if she is awake because I thought I heard her crying it turns out to simply be that old thing in the garage just clucking away. He has pooped in there too!  Something comes to mind at this poing, Jeff and Lili; welcome to home ownership and welcome to the neighborhood! :) 

Alert the Media!

Hey guys, I lost my phone.  I am getting a new one soon but just know you can call Brades phone if you need me. love D

Getting a new phone

Hey guys, I am getting a new phone today. Not sure if the number will change or not but I will call you all and leave a message as to what happens. I know I have missed a few calls on my old phone so no worries I will call soon. love D

Just a thought...

"A mother who radiates self-love and self-acceptance actually vaccinates her daughter from low self-esteem." Naomi Wolf

I must say

So I must say as predictable as it may seem, I love Oprah.  Well I love her show anyway.  It was interesting to see so many responses regarding the quote that I stole from Monday's show.  I have thought about the relationship between a mother and daughter the moment I got pregnant.  Thinking, "Oh no! what if I have a girl." And when I found out I was having a girl.  Expectedly, I cried.  But mostly because I was scared to death, scared to pass on all of my bad habits and insecurities.  Anyway, I have made such a concerted effort to never let her feel the way I did during a time in my youth. So in a sense  I was trying to overcompensate for her some feeling or some sense of self-worth  that I may not have received at that time.  This was the light bulb that clicked while watching on Monday. It is not my daughter's job to provide therapy for me. It is not her job to create my own self worth. And to recognize this, I am grateful! I will continue to give Maggie positive reinforcement, I will continue to encourage her and to tell her that she is funny, and smart, beautiful and wonderful; but I will first decide in that instant, am I doing it for me or for her.....By the way, I am loving every second of having two baby girls and though the task seems daunting at times I love them so very much and I gladly accept the challenge!

My latest hobby

So Brady flies airplanes, well I discovered a jig-saw (sp).  My Art teaches from college would probably croak if they knew I was using 4 years of college to make baby signs and toys but I love it and it is my latest hobby. My most difficult project is a kitchen for Maggie but I found this one on-line and it looked pretty basic but perfect for my style and Mags room.

So what has life been like aside from my children

Well not much because my life is my children. But I did get to squeeze in some drapes for my windows.  Finally, after 2.5 years of living here I spent the money and time making some beautiful drapes for the kitchen, living room and master bedroom.  It is the first time I have done curtains the right way too, I am so proud.  I have been traveling a lot also.  Took a trip with the girls to Ok, first time in the car with them by myself for 5 hours; wait scratch that, five hour drive but in the car for much longer.  Have been to the Brady's parents farm too, Going again this week.  Maggie starts her first Gymnastics class tomorrow morning, super excited! Got a roast in the oven for Brooke V.   Oh and there is one other itty bitty thing...I finished my stock pile.  What? Yeah,  I said it, stock pile.  I know, I sound psycho, but with two babies; who has the luxery of being sane.   I have a bin illed with enough canned goods for 1 month, enough drinking water for 1 month, and all the little safety and health supplies suggested.  I know, I know, you are laughing out loud.  But I lost sleep the night I watched the Oprah special re: the Avian Flu.  And there is no telling how many lives could have been saved if the victims of NO had had the where with all to stock pile.   And hearing Brady talk about Cteh's plan for the flu, made me wonder...what is our plan my babies in particular?  Anyway, this whole flu thing may never happen or anything tragic such as this sort, for that matter.  But I can sleep better knowing that I took 30 minutes at Walmart and $100 bucks for the "What if", think what you may. So that is about it.  I may post some pictures of my curtains and stock pile. I know Gma and Jeanne would love to see them. Danielle

The big two-seven

Yes, I am only 3 years from 30 today.  Not big on birthday's for myself other than a great excuse to spend time with friends and family.  Maggie and Daddy made me a cake yesterday.  Brady has been working on planting 3 gorgeous trees that Mammy and Poppy got me for my birthday, 2 silver leaf maples and 1 Bradford pear. The yard looks so much better with trees.  Brady worked his butt off. Digging or breaking rather, hard-grey clay is no small task.  We will have a dinner date at Graffiti's soon with all of the couples, a long-uninterrupted luxurious dinner!  Thanks again everybody

Birthday Dinner

Great time at Graffiti's last night.  Thank you to Mammy and Pop's for babysitting.  Ate so much garlic bread, I think I am going to pop.  Thanks everybody for a great last hoorah to celebrate the big two-seven. love D PS Brady got me my very own Ipod shuffle; can't wait to have my very own play list for my runs!

Soon to the big 7

I have to say thank you so much B for my Ipod shuffle, it was great running running tonight with my new music!  Also, thanks for moving that treadmill for me. I couldn't stand looking at that wall one more time.  Anyway, it is July and soon we will celebrate our big 7th anniversary!!!  I will have to post something extra special.  Life has been so good with you honey and I can't wait to celebrate on the 24th. love D

Say Hello and Wave Goodbye

Running in the dark tonight, lots of time to think...Morbid is the topic.  What were you thinking the moment you knew you were leaving your three sleeping angels.  "Say hello and wave goodbye", David Grey makes me think.  Only two babies sleeping tonight. Sleeping so sweet and so sound. You were taken in the mythes of such peace.  Emotions dripping.  Can you see us now?  Can you see mine. How proud. I think she looks like you. Why must things be so serious, so complicated, are they?, or am I just.  Can't help it, life is.  What were you thinking.  What could you possibly be thinking.  They need you sometimes. I need you sometimes. It was probably your broken heart that stole you from me that night, not his hand. No one can love me like you.  They both tell me every day and every second.  Say hello and wave goodbye.   Never thought about things so much.  So selfish am I.  So selfless were you.  Three babies not over four. Oh, God all you missed.  Say hello and wave goodbye. "We were born before the waves, who are we to know". Shhhh..I have to go she might hear me now.   Thinking of you always.

7 Years

We celebrated our seventh anniversary yesterday, seven years of marriage and 10 years together, Wow!  Honey I love you more now than ever.  My little photo montage does not do the last 10 years justice, but I thought it would be cute.  Last night, it was so wonderful daydreaming of the future with you but I have to say that the past 10 have been pretty wonderful already. I am so proud to still be yours!  Thank you for a wonderfully peaceful night and 10 years of my happy ending. Your adoring wife, D

Take a Look

After we came back from Jer's we were pumped about putting a few of my kitchy (sp?) artwork on Ebay.  But you know B, he can't do anything without showing his true webmaster skills. He made me a cool template for a showcase page on Ebay. Thanks honey. I have a meeting with a local baby boutique on Tuesday, we'll see how it goes.  If you want to check it out just click on the link below

http://cgi.ebay.com/Baby-Yard-Sign-Stork-Sign-Nursery-Decor_W0QQitemZ150023136441QQihZ005QQcategoryZ20432QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Brace Yourself

I have been meaning to post a link to this sight Brady introduced me too. It is a beautifully-poetic, sad and self-accountable sight, I would encourage everyone to check it out.  It has made me take a dramatic look at my daily life. Here is the link  http://inmotion.magnumphotos.com/   Search in Essays for The Chernobyl Legacy. Brace yourself, for it is excruciatingly-touching.  It makes everything I talk about on this blog seem severely unimportant and I promise that is not an over statement.  For the faint of heart I wouldn't recommend watching it but just know it is real life and real people who suffer the daily-consequences of Chernobyl's tragedy.   

Question for Breast feeding Mothers...

So I took my 8 month old for a check up today.  Everything went well.  Mimi is doing well and the report for her growth and developement was superb.  The doc asked what she was eating and I told her that I am still nursing full time but introducing a few solids for different textures and to avoid/if possible future food allergies.  She said very swiftly "Well we need to put her on an iron supplement." Alarm went off, because this is the second Doc that recommended this to me.  She said that because I am nursing, the baby may not be getting enough iron. And that if I was using formula I would want to use an iron-fortified formula and that it was the same for breastfed babies. This is news to me.  I asked her "and what did they do 5 years ago, and 200 years ago when babies didn't receive this supplement, did they even need it back then?" What adverse reactions are there to babies receiving too much iron?"  How do you even know that she is iron defficient without testing her blood?" Well Mrs. Doc had an answer for each question but I was not convinced. So I am sending a shout out to you fellow nursing mothers... What are your thoughts on iron-suplements given directly to your baby while nursing? Is it necessary?  Should I listen to my doc?  Or is my body producing all of the essentials? Is the possibility of calcium deposits in her liver worth the supplements or the risk of anemia if the supplement is not taken?  I defenitly know how important enought iron is in a diet, as I was anemic during both of my pregnancies.  Please let me know your thoughts. Danielle

I love this

I tivo Oprah daily and watch it in the evenings after the girls go to bed when I am not too tired.-I am sure you weren't predicting that -me being a stay-at-home mom who watches Oprah- (Sarcasm!).  Anyway I loved the episode about "Mother's around the World"  Can you believe Holland - mothers...1 year maternity leave and a $100 stipen from the government for a personal in-home nanny. And free health insurance for every child under the age of  7.  Anyway, the biggest piece of info that I took from the episode was a mothers project for African babies who for different reasons do not get the gift of breast milk.  More importantly, the breast milk can mean life or death for these babies who also suffer from HIV.  Here is a link to their sight.  I love this idea. http://www.breastmilkproject.org/donate.html  I wanted to share it in hopes that if you are fortunate enough  to breastfeed your own baby that maybe we can all extend our efforts for 1 month or even just 1 week by pumping in an effort to help one of these babies survive.

Taking a Pole

Loosing sleep over what to do for Mags for Christmas.  She has been very consistent with telling me that she wants Santa to bring her a kitchen so I am sure that is going to be her big gift this year.  But to build or not to build? Here is where the confusion lies.  If I build her kitchen then I can make it with colors that coordinate with her room and the size perfect for the space. But you know if I make it I will mostly have design in mind and not the mind of a 3 year old at play.  Am I going to make it look as fun as all of the store bought ones that I know she already loves.  After all I want her to be proud of her kitchen.  Or do I just brake down, side with Brady and buy her the generic kitchen the one with ALL the colors.  Decisions, decisions, such frivolous thoughts..non-the-less I am loosing sleep over it. So what do you think. To buy? or To make?

She got the best of me

Well I did it, I sold out. Bought Mags the store bought kitchen today.  I couldn't help it.  Mags keeps saying "I want the kitchen over by the Billa" translation, the kitchen that she always plays with while I shop a the furniture store by the Villa more translation, not a homemade kitchen!  Beth reassured me that it is super cute and that we would have loved having it growing up. Even though every time I look at it in her room I will get a tummy ache, it is not within the design aspect at all.  Oh well, time to get a bigger house, with a playroom! ;) -yes I know.  I hear them too. The bells of the "do-good" Salvation Army Santa ringing in my head as I type.  

Christmas Party

Let the Christmas Party's begin. The Holiday season is usually kicked off with the CTEH Christmas Dinner, Brady's company.  Last night was the first time I had been in 4 years. Wow, the company has grown.  And Brady's department has grown. He now heads 5 guys in his IT department, things have definitely changed in the last 6 years, they didn't even have an IT department back then.  After CTEH friends and family parties ensue but not sure how many there will be this year as everyone's families have grown and everyone will be extremely busy with life as we all know it without the fuss of a party.  Anyway, when we got home I remembered that we forgot to take some pics. So I solicited the babysitters, :) Mammy and Pops.  Thanks Brady for a great night.  I am sure next years party won't entail such attire as I am sure to be pregnant for the 3rd and final time.

Night at the Villa

Today I took Jeanne to the airport. She was in visiting us all but mostly visiting and celebrating the arrival of baby Ava. We all had a wonderful time.  Jeremie and Tera came on Saturday and we all a fabulously-chaotic time.  We went to the Villa one night and had a crazy time.  With the kids having the freedom to commit non-stop play during dinner time and a few bottles of wine shared by the adults the laughter and fun rang loud and clear!  It was so much fun that I am dedicating this entry to some of the fabulous pics that Jeanne and Jeff took that night. I have to title this one "Night at the Villa" not to be confused with "Night at the Roxberry" (SP?). 

Check this

Tonight I am watching MTV and I am watching a reality show-of course- turns out the show is about some people that I new while in LA.  A lot of the crew is from Hot Springs oddly enough.  One of the cast is producing so many things now, so proud of him and everyone involved in the project.  Thinking about  what a fabulously-scary time we all had in LA and what personal success could have been accomplished  in these past 3 years.  Love to my LA gang. Danielle

Feeling Good

5 miles today in 45 minutes, still training for March's 1/2 Marathon.  Brady did 12 this weekend, utterly impressed with him. Need to shed about 10 just from the holidays :)  Endurance feels good. We'll see how the next few months play out.

Can't wait to see you in a tux

Posting on Mimi's blog today made me want to write a little note.  Just wanted to say I love you and I am so proud of you.  Can't wait to see you in a tux Sunday night.  Looking forward to New Years. Had to post this pic, there is something about a guitar strapped onto a guy that makes me remember why I love you so.   love you D

Officially 2007

It is typical that I can't believe it is already the New Year!  This year we celebrated the end of 2006 at a beautiful wedding for Ryan and Leslie. The ceremony and reception were held at the Art Center. It was beautiful! Leslie has amazing taste and they were both stunning.  The house was packed and it was a wonderful night. The one glitch, remember never to wear a low cut dress while you are in the middle of weaning a baby.  I was busting at the seams all night!  Had to wear my coat a lot of the night, no joke, well funny as it sounds I know, but it was for real.  Anyway, Mags was a flower girl and they looked precious. Brady was a groomsmen and co-serenaded the couples first dance, a pretty unknown song by Mraz  They provided baby-sitters and then Mammy and Pops took over closer to the end of the evening.  It was a fabulous wedding, one of the best I have been to.  Hope Ryan and Leslie have a wonderful honeymoon, skiing in Canada-how romantic.  Love to you both from the Davis Family.

Sneaked in a run

It is hard to train while Brady is out of town but today the grandparents came to town and I sneaked in my long run for the week, needless to say long runs are no fun in the garage on the treadmill. Although, while running today at a few points I found myself carrying a river-log with a pointed end as if it was going to ward off anyone preying on lonely-female runners.  Completed 7 miles today 1 hour 10 minutes. May not sound like good time for the avid runner but it is good for me and I felt so good at the end of the 6th that I ended strong with a 8.5 minutes for the last mile.  Not too tired tonight, feel a little sore in the ankles and toes-super thirsty though.  Six weeks 'til the race, 2 weeks until Mimi is completely weaned and one week before I go insane for needing Brady back at home!

More than a Feeling

"I woke up this morning and the sun was gone, I turned on some music to start my day.  I lost myself in the song.  I closed my eyes and I slipped away.  Its more than a feeling.  When I hear that song play.  More than a feeling. "    Nothing like a run when I feel like I am floating, nothing like it in the world.  A little somepin-somepin from B, thanks for a little Boston baby.

Less than two weeks away

The race is less than two weeks away.  I am anxious and nervous.  Brady's traveling has sure slowed training down.  He has been in and out of the house for 3 weeks.  Last week I only got one 7 miler in.  Since this is my last week before tapering and Brady has been home, we are both going strong.  We will see how it all plays out.  He seems to think we can both do it.

Last night I prayed for so many things.  Patience, the ability to live in the here and now, being less selfish during my days with the girls, and wisdom.  I could see God working over time for my prayer list from the moment I woke up this morning. That said, I better let the computer go and the block stacking with Mags begin. 

Adult Vacation at Last

It started on Friday, the grandparents picked up the girls that morning, Brady and I completed at 10 miler, came home to pack and shoved off to pick up Eddie and Beth.  In only a 4 hour drive we ran smack into the twilight zone AKA Eureka Springs.  We had an AMAZING time.  When in Eureka a must would include De Vito's (chicken parm is always outstanding)  Rouge Manor for a long dinner, Chelsea's for a little blue grass, and the Crescent for the best Pomegranate Martini I have had to date.  We called it the twilight zone because for one it felt like we were not in Arkansas, not in the states, and two because everyone that we saw and met the nights before we were sure to run into the next day.  Beth, what was the dive where we had breakfast? Anyway, I had an amazing time.  Lots of memories to last  a lifetime.  I love you guys, D

A little photo-montage

A little photo-montage while at Lucky's on Saturday. 

The Race

Well it was Race Day today, a very exciting day.  I had trouble sleeping last night thinking about being late.  But we weren't late and at 7:00 AM we got the girls ready and headed downtown.  Brady and the girls wished me luck and I stood in the freezing cold until it was time to start.  The race was great and for my first half I was pleased that I didn't stop to walk once, Hal Higdon's training really paid off.  My time was not as good as I had hoped. I ran a consistent 12 minute mile completing the race at 2:36, oh how I would love to get it under 2 hours someday, well we will have to leave that to Dinah for now BTW good job to Dinah and Adrianne who also ran this morning.  Tammy got some better pics of us after the race I will post those soon.  Great experience, going to do it again soon hopefully with B this time.  Not aspiring to do the full any time soon only to get my time better for the half.

Lots of Changes

Lots of changes in the Davis house.  Thinking of moving, up-size that is; I say it like it is some kind of McDonald's burger deal (wish it were that easy). No, seriously though our family is only getting bigger in this small starter home.  Maggie is getting so mature, she is such a good girl. Mimi is growing everyday; making the funniest facial expressions.  Planted flowers this week. Teaching three  4night camps this summer for Excel and going to NY in July with the company. Can't wait.  Need to get a little acting in before baby 3 three comes along.  Buying a king size bed soon, hmmmm after almost 8 years of marriage it is definitely time to graduate to a bigger size.  5k tonight was great, I loved training for the 1/2 but running under zero pressure to perform feels so good. Love "Gravity" by John Meyer.  Big weekend next weekend.  Lots to do. Days are getting busier-thank goodness there is more daylight to spend time with the girls. New show that we like "The Riches", Brady and I can't wait for our "watch date" tonight.  8 years, Wow I can't believe it! Only 2 year until Italy.  Got to go, got to put Maggie to bed.   

Back in the Saddle yet again!

"You can run but you can't hide"  That is how I feel about my passion for the world of art. Painting, acting, music.. whatever; the desire to express tracks me down!  This spring I found myself visiting Excel more and more with the girls. this is after I gave my notice over a year ago to focus on full time motherhood.  Well the itch is back and though I feel extreme fulfillment from my husband and girls there is always the art in me screaming to get out.  I know, I know by boss Mel could give me a big fat "I told you so" right now.  Anyway, I committed to teach 3 camps this summer and to go to New York with the Actors. I am super excited.  I completed one advanced acting camp last weekend and I felt like I was  high all weekend, a natural high of course. Thanks again to my bosses for letting me come back.  Love to you all. Had to post a pic of my students.  I think they taught me more than I taught them. 

H to the L, I don't know I'm so tired of figuring out titles-

The girls are napping, my house is an utter mess and still I am thinking of new projects for the house. I was telling Lili last night that it seems as if Brady and I have spring fever.  The fever for change, first we decided to sell the house got it ready to show, showed it for 3 open houses and then decided "no lets just stay here and invest in this home until we make the big move several years later.  Then we thought well if we are not moving then we still must induce change so we decided to add on to our house- well not in the formal sense but with a deck anyway.  So we are in the middle of that and all the while it is the simple things that are certainly being neglected like laundry, dishes and vacuuming.  I love a good project to distract myself from real mess of it all!  hmmm sounds like a metaphor for life. to be continued, I hear Mimi.

Just about finished

We still have to install the lighting and an outdoor flat screen TV,,,,,just kidding on the flat screen but they do make such a thing!  I am soooo thankful for Tammy and Pierre.  You see, Brady and Pierre built the entire thing in one day and Tammy took care of the girls the whole time.  BTW, with my father in law, any home project is possible. HUGE thanks to Tammy and Pierre!  I am so happy about the way it turned out.  I feel like we have added a few hundred square feet to our house. I will post better pics when I am finished with the accessories.

What is to come?

Lots of thinking during my run tonight... you know there is something about losing your parents at an early age that may induce a certain kind of perspective on life.  I think it has induced a way of thinking for myself. "Live in the moment, that very instant, don't take anything for granted."  I am sure that I have lived that way for most of my life.  It sounds spontaneous and energetic, but sometimes it is not all it is cracked up to be especially when I have two children to consider.  However, life has made me antsy and such the planner lately. And while it makes me feel a little more responsible I reminded myself during my run, "Don't forget to live in the moment, always remind myself to enjoy the moment and to quit worrying about the unknown."      

I planted some trees

So I was doing really good with our backyard budget and bragging to everyone how I didn't go over it. Well I might have gone a little over when I decided to play a little while daddy was in Houston this week.  We were in desperate need of scenery and the deck made it even more obvious, so I planted some trees.  BTW, awesome for your quads and lower back!  I will put the roses in today.  I couldn't get the last two trees in.  I will save that for Brady, it is the least that I can do ;).   

Gettin' our Grill on

We have been grilling a lot lately, tonight we had fun with the Westide Creek Crew thanks to Beth who is always the glue.  I took some funny pics.  It was great seeing everyone and hanging out.  Tanner, you still look just like my dad.  Brooke, you were looking super-skinny.  Great to see Faith from LA again.  Bethie, Macncheese was stupendous!  Josh you need to have some chillens already, you are so good with them!  Daniel, looking super handsome and all grown up.  Summy, I loved seeing the babies together.  Never complete without Jeff, Lili and Ava; thanks for coming such short notice; well what's new.  love you all, D

I love this

Brady and his niece, Ava 

Tonights run..

....was to Kelly Clakson's "Never Again"  and Blue October's "Into the Ocean"  I listened to them over and over, singing at the top of my longs; it was a late run.  Hopefully no one heard me.  It is crazy to know exactly what Kelly is singing about and what he did to her.  Blue October, a fat band that one of my acting students turned me onto.  Beth told me that she "tangoed" with Jessica Simpson last night.  She said she was super-skinny and totally coc'ed up.  But that the highlight of her night in NYC was running into her stylist Ken.  Beth you are my Ken Paves- can you make me look like Jessica minus the cocaine "te-he-he".  Can we please have one sober role model for our future female teenagers.  Don't get me wrong, I know that there are plenty of politicians, authors, and such who were/are clean but let's get real; what will our children be most exposed to and most inspired by.  If they are anything like their parents it will definitely be a musician of some sort so can we please have a designated performer, please! Also, Summer told me today that Daniel's band will be playing at RF Friday night at 9:30- open invite to anyone.  Listening to him and Brady play the other night reminded me why I fell in love with Brady and his guitar. 

Birthday Came and Went

That is right, it came and went; my birthday.  It was a wonderfully low key day spent with my girls.  Lots of fun in the sandbox, lunch together at Dixie (Maggie's choice as always).  Tammy was super-sweet, she searched for a sugar-free cake and found a delicious vanilla and key-lime, double layered dream.  Brady's gift to me, not saying a word when I told him I splurged on birthday clothes and a fabulous massage.  A wonderful surprise came from Beth, chocolate covered-gourmet strawberries; delish!!! She must have been inspired by her recent travels in Paris.  It was a great day, topped with dinner for four at the Villa and a quiet night for Mom and Dad after "night-night" time.  Tonight, I had a fabulous run with my neighbor. Not too hot, healthy competition and an inspirational episode of "You think you can dance"  Mags caught the first 10 minutes of it and asked "Can you and daddy do that?"  I laughed and then went running.  Now I must go and snuggle next to my sweet husband and sleep like a log.  D

PS I know the picture of me is terrible but I just had to share how delicious the enormous strawberries were.

Another Acting Camp

I just finished teaching another advanced class at Excel and man do I feel ALIVE!  It was an amazing weekend. To see my students progress so much in just 20 hours worth of class was amazing. We all cried together, laughed, danced and enjoyed such a life-changing experience together. I have to give major props to Summer for being their all weekend and adding such sweet spice to the camp.  Brady helped me make this clip from Saturdays class. It is a small clip from certain aggressive techniques that I like to use to make co-actors bond and become real. I thought I would post it, to enjoy it you must make sure your volume is turned up.

Move over Brady

I've been playing with windows movie maker for the last few hours. So move over Brady. Lots more video to come.

Happy 8th Honey!

Thank you so much for the gorgeous flowers. I have never gotten flowers from Tipton and Hurst that I didn't gasp over. I love you honey. D

Trip to New York

I left for New York last Wednesday. I went mostly for work. We were able to squeeze in a little bit of fun, not that work isn't fun it's actually lots of fun. Brooke, Jordan and Sara came for kicks, Neely and Summer rounded out the staff. Our actors did really well and I am proud of them all. Most memorable was our free night on Friday. We went to see the Broadway show, Avenue Q. It was sooooo good, Sesame Street for adults, hilariously witty and super talented cast. No wonder it won the Tony. After that Brooke, Neely, Jordon and I went to the View; not to be confused with ABC's show. But rather the room that circles the Marriott off of Broadway. Needless to say it had a spectacular "view". We hooked up with some friends from LA who will remain nameless. They were lots of fun too; one is an amazing casting director, but doesn't trust the whole on-line bloggers world yet so I thought it would be funny to post a pic and white his eyes out, you know how "they" do. I am sure he will get a kick and a few laughs out of it. Any night that ends at 4 am must be a good time. Or so I would have said in my early twenties. There were some pretty impressive names at IMTA this year. Getting to meet the producer and writer of Crash was awesome-short but awesome. Lots of under-rated agents and managers, always fun to mingle and network with them. Call back day was great. Hope to see lots of our talent sign with some name-agents. Love to you all. So we didn't see anyone super famous- well the naked cowboy which Brady would have loved anyway. I enjoyed two fabulous jogs in Central Park thanks Jordan for the entourage. I must say though, I am so glad the hustle and bustle of it all is over. I missed the girls like crazy this time. More than ever before; I even had a mini anxiety attack one night. So after spending an extra day in New York with Neely, actually Queens because our returning flight was canceled I was ready to see my babies. Now I can't wait for B to return from Kansas on Saturday and take our family's annual beach vacation in one week later.

Love this pic

I've been tagged

I was tagged by Scarlett, thanks Scar, for that I should spell your name wrong for old times sake! Here goes...

The Rules:
1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules. (**if you’re a non-blogger, you can email them!)
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

OK, so get ready; this will only reveal how truely weird I am.


Random Info #1: I am terrified of spiders and bridges. I can't say the "t" word as it pertains to a certain type of spider. When I think of their furry legs I want to throw up. And bridges, well the recent collapse made my phobia worse. Those bridges over the ocean on our way to Seaside are horrific. I bought one of those life-hammer's the minute I heard the news of the recent tragedy. Brady makes fun of me for both of those.


Random Info #2: I bite my nails. Even though I hate the way they look, a good "pic" as Maggie calls it, feels so good. You know the saying, "it hurts so good."


Random Info #3: I desperately want to start painting again. I think if I talk about it enough then that is as good as doing it, still hasn't worked yet.


Random Info #4: I am not a very romantic person. Actually, I think some romantic gestures can be super cheezy. Don't get me wrong, I am very sentimental and passionate I just like the subtle side of romance. Thank God I am married to Brady, he is the king of subtlety.

Random Info #5: I am trying not to talk so much. I think you learn more about people when you are quiet but I must say I have not yet mastered silence.


Random Info #6: I love to eat in bed, crumbs and all. I don't even care. Nothing like eating and falling strait asleep.

Random Info #7: I love days when it is just Brady, myself and the girls. There is something about it being us four that makes me feel so warm and complete.


Random Info #8: I haven't yet figured out exactly who I am. My politics are constantly changing, my beliefs are always evolving and I secretly can't wait until I am 40 and have it all figured out. A little consistency would be nice anyway.

**I now tag Lili, Tambrey, Leslie H. Brooke V., Brooke Allen, Tenille, Dinah

10 year reunion

Brady and I went to our ten year reunion on Saturday. It was wonderful to see almost half the class that we graduated with and all of the families. So many mommies were pregnant. But it was a nice-casual, Saturday picnic with a lot of old friends. It was wonderful to be around people that were apart of Brady and my life when we first started dating. Brady and I did most of our reminiscing the night before while filling his Iphone full of '97's hottest play list for the reunion. It was a great time, not long enough; but I guess it doesn't take a whole weekend to reminisce with 14 classmates. Wondering where everyone will be at the big 20? I am already looking forward to seeing them all again.

House for Sale

So with a growing family it is time to up-size. We are officially on the market. Know anyone eager to buy?

Update

We got an offer last night. We should hear the results to our counter offer tomorrow. We'll see!

Ok...

...so our agent is rocking the house. We are expecting another offer in the morning. In the meantime, he's working another house for us. If this falls through there are still high hopes. He is featuring the house in a full page spread of a popular-local press mag this week. I'm telling you, if you need an awesome agent...email me!

Today

Had a great day today. Had a much needed play date with the mommy's at McD's. John (real estate agent) called,+ scheduled a showing tonight with a verbal offer. Hope that works because we sure did put an offer on another house last night! Exciting, exciting. The new house is all about location, loads of potential for the inside..a nice 5 year flip and perfect timing for a house filled with 3 GIRLS! It has a nature preserve behind it, with woods and a creek. So hopefully it is time to say goodbye to the quilt of houses that is my view from the back yard. It is in a culdasac (SP?) so there is little traffic especially during the day while everyone is at work perfect for bikes and scooters. It is a miles run from the river which Brady and I will enjoy for our next training period, 2 miles from an awesome school and preschools and less than a mile from the Fresh Market and post office. I write all of this so that I can forget about those nasty teal-linoleum counter tops and brass fixtures that were perfect for the 90's. Please Say a little prayer that it all works.

The stress of it all

We accepted an offer on our house last night, one week; can you believe? I told your our agent was awesome! After inspection and appraisal we will have sold the house. But our offer on the home that we want was rejected so now we are trying with a second offer. Please pray!

Patiently waiting

So we made an offer last night, they countered today and we accepted. Lets pray that everyone passes inspection and appraisal!

Daydreaming of space

Brady and I have been daydreaming about the new house. The title companies called last week and our new home had its inspection. All is well so far. Still due to close on the sell of our home and buying of our new home this month, cross your fingers!

Closing soon

So Friday is the big day. I think we will be spending the weekend in our new home with tons of boxes. My loveseat came last week for the french country breakfast room, so I am super excited about that. And since Brady loves technology so much I am trying to talk him into letting me get a white flat-screen tv for that room "te-he-he" oh well, I think getting a refrigerator is a little more important but if he can find room in the budget it sure would be great, maybe a little something for Valentine's Day hint-hint.
Brady and I are so excited! Maggie is too, I don't think she understands yet that we won't be living close to all of her neighborhood friends. I think that might be hard for her. Reasuring her constantly that there are so many new little friends to be made in the new neighborhood. I know too, I checked it out before we made our offer. With a family of 3 girls 4,2, and newby; I couldn't chance not having buddies and mommies in my new neighborhood.
Well I will keep everyone updated. I hope this week flies by like last week.

Glitch

Looks like our buyers loan could fall through, lets pray....

Back on..

Looks like things are back on with our buyer. It is so frustrating to wait on things that are out of Brady's and my control. In the words of my sweet husband, "man, I would almost co-sign for her if that would help." I know that everything is in God's timing and we should be grateful that we sold and bought a house in two weeks. It is hard waiting for everyone to sign on the dotted line though! The girls are in Mimi's room playing right now and hearing their sweet voices remind me that all of this worry is useless and our happy healthy family is all that matters! I mean really, the girls would be happy living in a box as long as they had eachother and mommy and daddy.

Back off...

So at what point do you let your buyer go and search for a new one? We are on our second extension for closing with our buyer which means our seller had to give us another extension. I am worried that our buyer just isn't going to get her loan which will snow ball into us not getting our new home.

Having said all of this, today I surrenderred it to God. This doesn't mean that I don't want to think about it or worry about it. But I am constantly reminding myself to put things into perspective and to Trust. As I was driving I looked in my rearview mirror at the girls and God helped me put things in into perspective real fast. I am gaining patience everyday in fact when my real estate agent called with the new-bad news he commented that I was taking it very well. I know this is all in God's timing, I guess I just need to be reminded of it sometimes. Brady and I have done everything that we can do, physically to secure our new home and the things that are not in our control I am surrenderring to the Lord and for this He will provide me with patience, sleep and an answer to our prayers in His timing.

Whoo Hoo!

She won Texas, Ohio, and Rhode Island! Not predicted but wonderful news to wake up to this morning.

Here we go again...

Good news came today from our agent. Our current buyer still has until cob today to secure her loan but in the meantime our agent has secured two back-up offers. I don't know how he does it. I don't stop enough to think about how stressed he probably gets with all of the details. One of the offers is super solid and they can close in two weeks. And the other is on its way so we will see. Atleast we may have some leverage so that our seller at Shephard can rest assure that we will close soon with her home!

new buyers!

We have new buyers! They accepted our counter offer, new close date is in two weeks. I feel like this is such an answered prayer. God is Good. We are starting fresh with solid buyers. Brady and I will believe it the moment we sign at closing but in the meantime God is giving me this positive news, even if it is just so that I can sleep and breath easy
......I have to brake away for a moment (Here is the scene in the Davis house) while typing this entry I am being totally distracted by Brady trying out some new amp system for his "new" music room, bumping on the system is "Close to the Edge" by Puff Daddy. It is making me remember college, in all of its glory....
gotta go, celebration dinner with Jeff and Lili.

Feels like...

...we are getting closer.

To Vaccinate or Not

Please excuse, no spell check tonight.

Today Brady and I took the girls to their 4 year old and 2 year old "well" check-up. This included height, weight, eye, ear and a plethra of fun exams for the girls. The not so fun part was of course their SHOTS, something I still remember as a child as "the dreaded shots!" I needed to get some paperwork in for Mags preschool so I opted to see a different doctor at our regular clinic resulting in a prompt appointment.
I'll set the scene. After the headlines recent info regarding the Federal Governmants first court ruling acknowledging the possible link between Autism and thymerisal in vaccinations I was loaded with questins for the doctor. Here is one of hundreds of links http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-kirby/government-concedes-vacci_b_88323.html.
I have always had questions but after the latest headlines I have been losing sleep over our decision to vaccinate, so I was patiently waiting to do what everyone recommends including myself "talk to your pediatrician; they will know best."
The last time I questioned Maggie's vaccinations, my trusty doctor made some great points.. he stated that there was no research that backs the specs and that anyone under 40 takes vaccinations for granted, insinuating that if we didn't vaccinate we would become what most third world countries struggle with: children dying of unnessesary diseases...point well taken.
In the meantime I can't help but keep my eyes and ears open to all of the news regarding links autism/vaccines as well as personal testimonies from parents of autistic children that would bett their life on the link.
I can not imagine what it must be like to hear your child speak, to see their little personalitly begin to blossom, to know your child one way and -if the link is true- live with the decisions made to inject my child with a shot that could take all of that away.
Having said all of this, I am totally on the fence and had a lot of questions for the doctor.
Obviously I am still a sceptic but after todays appointment I am fired up.
Here we go...
...Did this "substitute" doctor answer my questions patiently? No. Did she listen to me and try to show empathy for my recent findings? No. Did she accuse me of getting my info from shows like House and ER? Yes. Come on give me a little credit. Does she have children? No, which Brady and I both believe is a very valid question. When I asked her about the recent Fed. court rulings she looked at me like I was crazy. She said she didn't believe there was such a case. I asked her which shot was "the" rumored autism shot. She said if there was any truth she thought parents were talking about the MMI shot. All these "no's
and atleast she knew what shot I was talking about. She denied my implication that she could possibly be frustated with the rising questions from parents, she denied that there was any such rise. Leaving me to feel as if I was the only parent asking questions. I am not suggestioning a consipiracy from the drug companies, I am not a conspiracist. I am a sceptic. I am not quick to believe that just because "they" say it is "ok" then it is, I am aslo not a big rebel. I know simply that drugs are constantly being researched and new findings are always made. For instance: the fact that no pediatrition in his right mind would give or could give legally the "old" DTP shot. That there is a new version the DTaP shot that is the legal vaccination for children "these days". But, before research proved the shot to be unsafe for children it was a main stream vaccination. Things cahnge, don't look at me like I am crazy or a disturbance for being a forward thinker, I am not neurotic or obsessive. It is obvious that our medical system is advancing daily, yearly...urg!
Anyway, after all of this I was reasured that the shot Mimi received was a second dose shot which means we have already scene any side effects that she could have sufferred from. And that Maggie was simply out of the red zone for autism, being that she is 4.
I signed the paper work, unsettled; it was like slow motion. And then we proceeded with the shots, after Brady put an end to our little debate.
It never really got heated I simply needed information from a professional. My impression of her. Not a professional at all, zero people skills, and an extremely uniformed pediatrition. I am ranting I know.
It seems that I am in the clear with the girls and their age but I have another little one on the way. Another little one that I have to choose to or not to vaccinate and I am still less settled than before, if not more. Any imput from all of you parents out there?

Hurray the day is here!

We are moving today. Gotta go, gotta get a refregerator for the new house.

The Move

We have officialy moved. We moved over Easter weekend which was a little chaotic but we had lots of help from friends and family. I have to say an extra special thank you to all of you because my pregors self couldn't have done it without you. And last week, the girls were on spring break so they stayed with Tammy and Pierre for several days, more days than I could handle. But the days did deem to be super progressive for Brady and I. Every room is situated except the nursery and our closet. I have some odds and ends to tie up; hanging the chandeliers in the girls rooms, painting the dining room and downstairs, girly things like that. Brady is building a desk for his music room but other than that we feel very settled. I can tell in our daily attitudes that life for the most part is stress free again: just the way I like it. This whole buying, selling stuff is just too much for me. Thank the Lord we had such a great agent. Big thanks to John Selva from Pulaski Heights Realty. This week, I have enjoyed driving to my daily routines from and to the new house. I love taking showers in our master bath the view of the mountain is amazing. Brady said it feels like we are in the tree tops. I also must say that I have really enjoyed the kitchen. I guess you never really know if you like the lay out unless you try it out. It has been really nice and the natural lighting in this home is a lot better than the other house. Maggie has made a new friend already. His name is Treylan, I enjoy talking to him about his school; after all that is one of the biggest reasons why we moved to this area. I took a few pictures of our move day, it was a little emotional so I wanted to record it. I know this was our second home but it was my first home with the girls. I will always remember the window seals where they both played and the baths where we had so much fun. Little things that I want to always remember. We will miss our neighborhood buddies. Kathy and Kayla's grandma stood outside while we drove away. Seeing her cry really made me cry. Not to worry, we have another grandma living next door to our new home. And just like the other, this one doesn't speak a word of English either. I love it. It is starting to feel like home.

Houstin, we have progress!

As of yesterday I was 25% and 1 centemeter. Most people may think this is nothing but at 37.5 weeks with Maggie and Mimi I was showing no progress. I asked the doc if he gave those measurments to me for sympathy he said he doesn't mess around with dilitation. I am super excited. My friend Andi has been such a testiment to the natural process of birthing so hopefully I can mimic her experience. Staying in the comfort of my own home this time until "go-time". Not brave enough for a home birth and not willing to give up the pampering that I will surely get during my two day spa-treatment in the hospital post-delivery-wierd I know but I love the post delivery treatment at the hospitals. And change of subject, did everyone notice the adds for Beth all over the blogs, they look awesome!

Super proud

I had to post a link to a few of my former students that had roles in an inde-festival winning movie, War Eagles. The trailer is finally out and a few of them are featured in the trailer. Graham Gordy was the screenwriter for the movie and his name is being heard more and more these days. I had a huge crush on him in college not in the physical sense but in the career sense, he was "the New York actor". Looks like this project is just as impressive as he was to all us back then. I have been out of the acting scene during this entire pregnancy and seeing them in the trailier is so motivating and makes me super proud! Hopefully Excel will get the credit it deserves for not only being an amazing school but also an excellent casting company. When I see the trailer all I can think of is Reese Witherspoons break out performance in the '80's "The Man in the Moon"

http://www.wareaglethemovie.com/trailer.htm

Baby Up date

No baby yet. Yesterday I checked at 1cm and 25% so no progress in a whole week. If there is one thing I have learned in the last four years it is patience...well I sure haven't mastered it but three pregnacies later, a four year old and 2 year old help speed up the process. What I mean is, I am in no hurry. I like to remind Brady, "Once she is out there is no puting her back!" And I truely believe the longer she bakes the healthier she will be, call me old school. Doctor suggested induction on 29th. Even though I am measuring 40 weeks my body is not in labor so here is my plan. If I am not dialated on Monday to a 4 or showing signs of natural labor then I will wait it out until the 6th. But anything after the 6th could mean a baby that this momma can't push out. Not like I am known to have big babies or anything :)! So I will be up for induction if I hit 41 weeks, oh heaven forbid. I am so excited to meet this little one. Her nursery is finished besides painting. I am waiting for my aunt to visit after the baby comes, she is super creative and no less than an amazing interior designer. We finished the cananpies for the girls rooms it is also lacking a serious paint job but that too can wait. Knowing my aunt, when she visits she will say...Lets just do it this weekend. She is a get-up and go kind of person; I love that about her. Anyway, I am rambling as you can see. Everything is packed and ready to go, chord blood kit, boppy, heirloom clothes for the babies arrival home, and a few back-ups. Have they reached heirloom since they have gone through Maggie and Mimi? I think so. We still haven't chosen a name. We are taking her name as seriously as choosing for Maggie and Mimi we just don't have as many options so it is taking a little longer, I have a feeling we will know as soon as we see her sweet little face. I havn't talked a lot about this pregnancy so for her record I thought I might a little...It has been a great pregnancy. Very little sickness in the beginning and lots of kicking near the end. This little one has been a stronger kicker than I remember Maggie or Mimi being. She turns a lot. I am lucky she is not breach although with 1 to 2 weeks left I know things can change. I feel like I already know what you will look although I know no less special than each of your sister's deliveries. I love you honey..already. You give me such a feeling of completion. See you soon. Can't wait for you to meet your sisters and your sweet daddy, who loves you already and can't wait to hold you.

A race to the finish

I am totally nesting. I haven't posted any pics of the house because I have so many projects going that it is seems like no- one room is complete. I ordered the fabric for my curtains in the living room 5 weeks ago and they are still not in..so I have given up hope of having those completed before D-day. I did get the dining room painted thanks to Beth and Lili for pulling an all nighter with me. I still need to add curtains in there to soften things up a bit but I thought I would post a pic. I am bound and determined to finish a painting for my foyer, I posted a pic. And call me crazy, never liked any sort of animal prints in the past but my hormones compelled me to pic out this zebra fabric. Don't worry the slip cover didn't take long to sew so I can easily discard it after the baby comes and I come to my senses. I am on the cusp of too much black and white I know. I finished the toile curtains, shades and adomin cushion but the room totally needs to be painted to give the nursery a finished feel. I will post more pics when things are a little more complete.

Instincts or Medicine?

So today I had a scheduled induction. Much to my hesitation I followed through with the appointment and showed up this morning at 5AM excited to meet this little one.
All the while feeling like things were being forced and a little too early for this babies arrival. Little things like, this babies birthday doesn't feel right to be in April? But I still haven't figured out my-personal line between relying on medicine and relying on instincts? I kept telling myself, if I don't go in today and I opted not to go in yesterday; what if the chord raps around her...and you know from there....and it was my decision to wait. No one can predict that but how could I live with not trusting my doc and just going in?
I will say that I prayed hard before Monday's appointment asking God to help me make the right decision. God didn't reveal his confidence to me on Monday but He sure did today. He took care of the details today.
Brady and I showed up at the hospital at 5AM. They started patocin at 7AM and the doctor checked me at 7:30 thinking he would break my water and we would have the baby by noon. After he checked me he realized it was too early to break my water and we waited things out until noon. No epideral, thank goodness. I was free to walk to the bathroom and move around as much as needed. The cantractions were rough with patocin but nothing unbarable, I know they would have been a lot worse if my water would have broken. The nurse hinted that if the doc comes back and brakes my water the risk of a C section would be a lot greater, 2 vaginal deliveries and then a C section...NO Thank you. When the doc checked me I asked if it was an option to just stop the patocin and go home. It was starting to feel very clear to me that it was not God's timeing for this baby to enter the world yet. I found such comfort that doc. said yes and left it up to us. Believe me, I didn't want to tell everyone, "No baby, time to go home." Especially to Mammy and Pops who left New Hope at 2:30 this morning, Teresa who drove 2 hours to get here, Brooke Allen from Conway and everyone that came to the hospital. Or to have waisted a day full of contractions.
But my feeling this whole time was confirmed...I finally had the condidence to say..."Baby is just not ready." So essential this is where we are at, dialated 2-3 and 50%. No contractions currently, going to wait another week to let nature take its course. I will be up for another try at induction in a week but have high hopes for going into natural labor between now and then. I have no formula for ensuring an easy delivery come the next 6 days or for avoiding a C section. I just pray that God'd will shall be done and that I will aware of his call to this delivery and this babies needs.

Feeling Good

I started running again this week. I realized a few things... I ran further than I thought, almost 2 miles after a 9 month break. Judging by the gigantic blister on my toe I need new running shoes. My shins are soar or whatever those muscles are. I can't wait to go tonight. Can't figure out how to harness the double D's. They are everywhere and which way while running so I have to find a super snug sports bra, any suggestions. I also rememberred that a 30 minute run right when B gets home feels so much better than a 30 minute nap!So, feeling good, hoping to get my strength back...and figure too.

Almost finished

Exra curricular activities have been on hold since Ruby's birthday. This weekend the girls are at the farm so while Ruby is asleep Mommy is at play. I finally finished the painting for my foyer. It is a little too big so I have to cut it down and frame it, but hopefully it will be hanging by tonight. I finally got the curtains up, it has taken a whole lot longer to get them up than I thought. I ordered an entire bolt of fabric months ago, got it in after Ruby was born and realized that I hated the fabric. It was totally a pregors pick. FYI, don't pick out fabrics while you are 8 months pregor. Luckily I was able to return it because it had not been cut. I am a sucker for long, puddles of dupionti(sp?) silk. On to the dining room well we will see...

A big-little project

While Mags and Mimi were at the farm on Thursday I decided to finally paint their bedroom. I realized how low maintenance newborns are...plenty of time for projects and hobbies. I have always wanted to do a mural in the kids rooms but I have always been too timid to commit. So I took a big step and drew a little mural on their wall. I think I am getting brave enough to do a little more. In fact I think their monogram plaques are a little too little. But the lavender on their walls turned out pretty and it is looking a little more like a princess's suite.

I have converted

So B let me drive the scout to take Mags to the movies today. First he wanted to make sure I could drive the no power steering, 3 speed convertable suv. I guess he forgot that my first car was an old 89 blazer, 5 speed. So all five of us got in the scout this morning and I was in the driver seat. The neighborhood was hopping with garage sales and lemonade stands. It was precious, a little too story book. I guess I past his test. I think driving a stick is like riding a bycicle...you never forget. Later, as soon as Mags and I set out I fell in love. So no more poking fun of him for his purchase, I LOVED IT! I just have to find more excuses to drive it now.

good run tonight...

Need to get my music situated..would run longer if I got lost in some good music, I think. Can not believe this week will be 9 year anniversary..the love of my life. Better than things have ever been. What a life we have created and lived together. I desperatly need 40 more years with you. Cooking up a homemade present.

September 1st

September 1st is coming soon. My mom's birthday. I think often about all the things that she has missed. How proud she would be. I try to imagine what advice she might give to me with the girls. It makes my head spin because I have no idea what she would say. How she would enjoy so much being with us. How I would enjoy her so much. When the girls pass 18 months..the age I was when she died, I count evey birthday and stage as they come and think, "Oh my God, I can't believe she had to miss seeing her baby girl go through this." It me makes me sad. I found some pictures of Jer, Jeff and I and it made me think of what life might have been like for her when we were all little. The picture of us in the swimming pool, I believe is the summer just before she passed.

"Slow down and pay attention"

We are rounding out the third week that B has been away on business, he gets back this Saturday night...can't wait. Just when I thought things were running smoothly while b was away, this happened. I wanted to post some pics because they will remind B and I not to procrastinate on a low tire. Atleast we were on a neighborhood road and not the interstate. I also got a ticket last week, 73 in a 55. I seriously thought the speed limit was 65 but nevertheless I was speeding. I think God is trying to tell me something, "Slow down and pay attention, you have three things in your back seats that insurance can't pay for!"

2miles 20minutes

So it is a long way from 26 miles but it is a good start. It has taken me the past several weeks to get up to two miles (jogging the entire time). Last night I pulled out the dusty treadmill (b wasn't home so I couldn't run my normal route around the 'hood). Actually, I rememberred that it wasn't that bad on the treadmill. I pulled it to the end of my garage-facing the street, turned on my new tiny ipod with a new playlist that B gave me, and watched the girls play in the front yard while I ran. I still havn't signed up for the 2009 marathon, could I really run the full it is hard to tell when I am only at two miles right now. Most of all, where will I find the time to train. When I trained for the half I wasn't nursing a baby so B and I would do our long runs during the weekends that the girls were at the farm. Not sure how I would get away from Ru long enough to take those runs. And will my milk be OK after a 15 mile run? Unless something happens I plan on nursing her through April which is when the marathon is. I don't know..am I just talking about it to make it seem like I am really going to do it (I am notorious for that) Only time will tell..and I will enjoy looking back at this entry. For now I wanted to list a few of songs on my playlist so that I could look back in 5 and laugh!

Kings of Leon "S@! on Fire"
Foo Fighters "Best of You"
Cold Play "Clocks"
Reef "Place Your Hands"
The Postal Service "Such Great Heights"
Jimmy Eat World "The Middle"
Dixie Chicks "Cowboy Take me Away"
Dashboard Confessional "Infidelities"
Daniel Moody "Track 03...don't know name"
Blue October "Into the Ocean"
Band of Horses "The General Specific"
Almon Brothers "Midnight Rider"

Am I the only one..

who is SOOOO EXCITED ABOUT "THE RACHAEL ZOE PROJECT"

If you like...

having old men look at you and give you an super-sonic enthusiastic thumbs-up then you should drive the scout for a day! It got old after my first trip on Cantrell today. A litte funny, a little strange and dare I say I liked it a little..what!?!

La, da, deda

da, da, da...thinking of an entry but can't. I mean I know I have life beyong my children, don't I? Went jogging last night, not long enough, not sore enough 1st time in 2.5 weeks. La, da, da...hooked on facebook now. Cooking lots! Never thought I was good at it but I guess I just never did it. Funny thing those recipe books or simple instructions, they can make anything taste good. So into Mad Men this season. Loving the deck during these fall nights with my honey. Loving moms and more, that is me time but really we talk about motherhood most of the time..ha. Tis' the season, tis the season.

I take it back...

...I can hardly walk!

History has been made

It was an exciting day for us in the Davis home as it was for so many people taking it to the poles. History has been made and I wanted to write about it on my blog/journal as I will want to remember this day. We have been building up the day in our home for several months now. I want the girls to take polotics somewhat seriously. We were Hillary supporters in the beginning and then slowly transferring our support to Obama...more slowly for myself. That said the girls have enjoyed watching our family debates and the process of our decision making for some time now. Of course most of our families are strong Republicans so it was always fun to get the girls to say "McCain or Obama" After having spent weekends at the farm they would come home saying McCain and after being at home for sometime they would leave saying Obama. It was all in good fun and provided for some cute laughs. Don't get me wrong, I know there are so many that wouldn't choose this subject for cute kid games. We wanted to get the girls excited about the elections somehow. So the day finally came, yesterday the girls and I loaded up and took it to the poles. I have to note that it was interesting goig to the Baptist Church to cast my vote. Interesting that with seperation of Church and State that we vote at churches. (No sarcasm, just interesting thought) The people in line enjoyed the girls and it only took about 20 minutes. This was my first time voting with quite the load but it ran smoothly. Maggie watched very carefuly. She found the "secret" ballot process to be particularly interesting. "Momma, what if somone peaks through or sees your paper!?" All the while saying very loudly "Momma, so are you still voting for Obama?" Nevertheless the nice lady gave us our proof of vote sticker and we left. Last night, Beth, Tanner, and Josh came over while B set up the projection screen. Was there a fighting chance for McCain? Not sure but it was a beautiful night, weather was perfect and the conversation stayed neutral with a few friendly debates. Also on the ballot was Act 1 and our hometown friend Melinda Gilbert running for judge. So it was an exciting night. Not everything went the way we all voted. But it was a great night and I hope to remember it always. I am so excited to see our new family in the White House and to move forward. I know that ultimately God is in control so Obama fan or not, I truely believe God's will will be done whomever is in office. I will be praying for all of our leaders, Democrat or Republican. I will pray for their wisdom and for the peoples wisdom. I will pray that my Maggie will remember this night and the progress that our nation has made in its racial boundaries. I like that the elections were taken so seriously this season. I enjoyed so much being apart of history.

Big 30th

My BFF's birthday party was this weekend and it was fabulous. Several of us teamed up to help ensure that it would be the most fabulous party ever. And it was! Beth wanted a night of close friends, eclectic decor, things to do like a photo booth, lounge areas, great food and wine, hookah (totally legal and no nicotine or tar involved it is just flavored tobacco!), Dancing, great music, and more. It was just that. It was such a reflection of what a beautiful and great friend Beth is to so many people. It was a weekend event and a wonderful time. The pictures tell a great story. PS I know she hates her profile but I loved the above picture of her so I couldn't resist!

Christmas '08

Ok, so here you go Jeanne. She has been asking to see pics of the '08 Christmas decor. She is a decorator so the heat is on. No really I wanted to post in on the blog for her and so that I can look back in 10 and see how different things are. I have realized, I might be the mom that has the same decorations out every year. And I promised Mags that I would make some gigantic toy soldiers for the front yard for next year ;) hopefully she won't remember...not likely with her memory these days!

momma luncheon

I hosted our small groups momma luncheon on Tuesday. So nice seeing everyone in my home. Didn't stop enough to take pictures but here are two that I snapped quickly.

Economy and Preschool

I had a conversation over the holidays regarding a great depression. I was clearly the minority with my views. I tend to think the economy is worse than a lot of conservatives.
My brother once told me "Just because you are not depressed doesn't mean that your neighbor isn't!" I think I can't keep living like this isn't a real issue for so many people and their families.
I always say that money doesn't make me happy, as long as my babies are healthy and fed, we will be fine. I am not living in fear of the economy. At the same time, it is so easy to say that when I still have a roof over my head and I can pay my gas bill. And if there is a great depression then my babies could go hungry and we may not have healthcare like in the '20s. And heaven forbid we act like this isn't an issue that people already are dealing with in the rest of the world, starving children and unafordable headlthcare. Maybe it is just easy for the lower, middle, and upper classes to forget it.
I am not debating on whether the crisis can be fixed before it gets to a great depression. I am just saying that there needs to be an awareness of something beyond ourselves....oh my goodness this is true with so many issues but that goes without saying.
This is very-very small compared to what most are suffering but I got a little taste of how the economy will start to effect every household in some way or another.
I got an email from Mags preschool, let me note that it is one of the top preschools in LR with a waiting list each semester...that sounds pretentious but I am really just making a point that the following is out of character for the program, a school that shouldn't in normal economic circumstances go through the following hardships. The email read that one of their next semesters preschool classes only has two children registered and they encouraged us to solicit parents and children to the program. I know of several programs, top preschools here in LR that in years past never had trouble filling their rosters; and are now closing their doors. This makes me so sad. Not because we will be inconvenienced, not just because Mimi wouldn't be able to follow in Mags footsteps in the same program with our same beloved teacher.
But mostly because, what do all of those teachers do? I am sure it will be hard to find another job at a preschool with the need so low. What about the directors and the assistance and the substitute teachers? What about the working parents that depend on their all day care?
I haven't heard anything about the closing of their doors, anything that big but I do know where low enrolement can lead.
It is not the end of the world if my child can not go to preschool, I know. But I am not so nieve to think this problem is not much, much bigger than what was in that short email.

Tonight's night

...can't sleep, thinking of those three little babies asleep in their beds. Snug warm cozy pajamas. Not a care in the world. Must be sleeping sound not to wake up. Shivers, I am thinking. They must be oblivious. He must not know that they are there. How does he not know. Are there not toys everywhere like in my home. Three babies under 5. How does he not know? Does he not care? What is his purpose? Tears, tears! I want to throw up. I want to hit something! What a stupid idiot to not know!!! What if one of them had woken up the way mine do every night? What if one of them had gone to curl up with their mommy the way mine do every night? What if one of them had heard a strange noise in that tiny sweet home and cried out "Mommy" the way mine do every night? What if....is driving me crazy on tonight's night. I want to throw up! I want to hit something! I want to know something on tonight's night! What time, what time exactly was it. I nurse her around 1AM, was it in the quiet of that time, or 3, 3AM. The stillness of then, I know each hour of the night, when then when,,,, I want to throw up. I want to hit something. What a stupid fool to not know. Three little babes asleep in their beds just the way mine do every single night. With their soft little breaths snuggled in their beds. Not a care in the world. Little sounds in the night "Momma" they might say, "Momma" they might say. Did we not say a word? Did we not get up? Three babes under 5, how did we not stur? How did we not make a noise? How did he not know? I want throw up. I want to hit something. I can't quit thinking on tonight's night.

To My Valentine

I love you more than ever before.

So far

So far in 2009 things have been busier than ever. Just wanted to jot a few things since our camera is out of comish and I can't post pics witch is keeping me from blogging and FBooking and driving me crazy. Anyway, things have been busy but very fun. Brady and I have discovered a whole new appriciation for our family of five, different than we have felt throughout the past ten years. Becoming more reclusive and wanted to just "be" together, doesn't matter if it is in or out, traveling or at home just desire strongly for all of us to be together. I think it is a natural progression and most people go through it, we are not talking rocket science but it is interesting to take a look at the view while it is happening. Womens bible study is coming to an end next week and I will miss it dearly. Hopefully I will stay connected with those mommas. Plan on moonlight-teaching for an advanced acting class in April, I always love that and feel very much alive after! Oh yes, and let me not forget...I am PAINTING again. This is a big one. Have taken a hiatus since before getting pregors with Maggie and I finally was pressed to finish something for Beth's new salon. After all of the searching in college for a nitch and push from miss wilson to focus on portraiteres I'm hooked. We were up there today making her custom chandelier :) so I took a few pics with our old camera. Yeah I know it has only taken almost a decade to get brave enough to start "pushing" my art. Starting another this weekend and I am loving it. I love the way the girls respond to me painting in front of them. I can tell it inspires them a little. Speaking of Bethie, we have been super busy with the salon in our spare time. Or rather, she is working her butt off and we are just helping when we can :). I am so proud of her! The salon is open for business but the grand openning is the first week of April. Anyway, gearing up for our trip to the beach in May. Still losing the lbs, dying for those Italian donuts from Olive Garden..Ha can't even talk about them because it makes my mouth water :). Enjoying watching the girls grow in there extra curricular activities this semester Maggie in ballet and Mimi in gymnastics, my heart is warm just thinking about it. Going to see Dave in Dallas first of May. Getting ready for Ru's first birthday and baby dedication. FINALLY signing our joining papers next Sunday for Fellowship. Thinking of a few more paintings for my walls hmmmmm...what else couldn't be more into Real Housewives of New York, I know, guilty pleassure! Loveing helping Beth with the salon, I am soooo proud of her. Sending out a press release for her on Monday. Running again. 3.5 the last week when the weather was grand, so sore! But it feels good. Put on the 10 jeans, buttoned, sat down and everything one more size and I am back in the single digits :). Weaning Ruby next month, much mixed emotions. Thought she was weaning herself but that was a fluke. Thinking about my Mimi Jeanne a lot lately, love to all the Pucci's. Looking forward to this summer with my girls..lots of playing outside and nervous anticipation for Maggie's first day of kindergarten and Mimi's first day of PreK 3 (maybe :))Anyway that is what is going on so far in 2009.

Here is another

The picture I took with our old camera is terrible so I will take better pics later but this is my favorite one so far.

Moms n More Brunch

Finally brunch at MnM. I love that we got a group picture. Not all mommas were there for the picture. But I love this picture of us.

Lately and a little naptime Rambling

It has been way to lo9ng since I posted. Nothing major going on, lots of littles. Very busy with the kiddos and loving it. I told Brady that sometimes it feels like our little bubble is going to pop. At the risk of sounding cheesy, life is so good right now; sweet, simple and happy. I pray for continued good health and happy hearts. I promise I am not on anything, I have heard how these would be some of the best times of our lives...I guess I am just lamenting a little. Lots of anticipation for this summer. Starting this weekend, a trip with friends to Dallas to watch Dave Mathews. First time to leave Ruby overnight..lots of nervousness and sadness about that. Maggie's recital next weekens, always fun for Brady and I to feel such pride and excitemnt for our first born! Then Ruby's baby dedication and birhtday, my sweet angel is going to be 1! I can't believe it! Then we are off to the beach. Very excited about that too. Plans for the summer, lots of poolside fun with my kiddos. Enjoying free days with Maggie as they are soon to end. Turning THIRTY in June, What!? Brady and My 10 year anniversary, this I can't wait for! Got a big suprise for him, literally big :). Then B's 30th. I decided to homeschool Mimi next year. She will continue Moms'n more with me on Tuesdays, lots of socializing in that class and it is from 8:30 until 2:00 so I feel like she will get the structure, actitity, and consistancy that she needs combined with my instruction at home and playdates with her buddies. She also goes to Sunday school so I feel pretty confident about not sending her to prek3. Working on a few paintings at the moment, excited to finish those. I'll post some pics. Moonlighting at Excel a little this summer for a few acting classes. I always love that keeps me feeling sane,, the students are qick to listen unlike my three little students sleeping upstairs :). Running a lot more lately, fitting into my pre pregnancy clothes is feeling really great. Have a few more months to go but I don't mind wearing a bathing suit anymore. Disclaimer: don't mind is an understatement, I have accepted that some things will never be the same I just have new standards, HA! It is less and less important to me though. I remember so many of my thoughts in my early 20's being consumed with the appearance of things, myself, my life, my family trying so hard to appear spiritual all the while being burdened with a competetive nature. It has been revealed to me so much throughout the past five years of raising my girls the age old saying, "Beauty is fading but true beauty comes from within" I hope that I can teach my girls this and earlier than I have finally started to believe it. Even though I hate the idea of the number 30 just around the corner I love the idea of leaving the shallow kiddie pool and jumping into the deep blue ocean. Lots more thoughts on that later. Not quite to 30 yet ;)
Well, I hear miss Ruby; better tend to my day.

DMB weekend

This weekend we went to Dallas to see Dave Mathews. The concert was good but mostly it was great to spend time on the road with Beth, Lili, Brady and Alex. Uninterupted conversation for two days! Brady and I had a great time, day dreaming about the rest of our life together. I am sure the scenery is going to change throughout the years, meaning we may not be able to hack a concert in the pouring rain, or wait for a cab for forever in that same rain! It was a great weekend but entirely too quick!

Lately

So the whole family is sooo excited for our family vacation. Didn't take one last summer so it has felt like a long time coming. Finished two comishioned paintings, I likey. Might post some pictures. Also trying to log more photogs that I like so I might post a few that I took recently. Gearing up for the summer, lots of birthdays and time at the pool. Lots of things around the house that I would like to do, need to do, got to start lifting weights. Need to, need to, need to...the list goes on. Wondering how all three of the girls will do in the tahoe for 10 hours!? Yikes. To cut my hair or to not?! We will see tonight. Well, that is lately. Recent photogs are from Rickman's 30th, great lighting on the balcony at Cajuns.

Honeymooning with a family of FIVE!?

So we just got back from Seagrove and it was a much needed break from "reality" I must say that even though we had a full house and hard to imagine spending any time alone it was also a great vacation for Brady and I. And with a sitter 2 nights it was a little like a left-over honeymoon. There is something about seeing him undevidedly with our girls that is super-sexy too! Ok, I will stop before you all throw-up. Anyway we both sharing a major interest in photography right now so I wanted to post a few of our vaca pics that I love. And so life goes on, right now the girls are having a mid-morning snack, the dishwasher is going, two loads of laundry are washing, and we are waiting on Ru to wake up so that we can go to wild-river country. Brady forgot his phone so we must stop off and give it to him. Just normal stuff for normal days...I kind of like those too ;).

More photogs I like

We had a small dinner party and it is way too tempting to play around with the camera when we have very close friends over so indeed we did. Here are a few I liked the most!

PS

I know I have been posting a lot more... it's a personal goal. Someday our children would give their left arm to know us just a little more, to see just a little more pictures of "when" and so it is my goal to "give" them just a little more. I mean for real, if my mom and dad had kept a blog!!!

Story Shoot

Last family shoot gave me two of my favorite portraits so far. Will be easy to find the perfect shot to paint from this beautiful family.

Rounding the Bend

free·lance

n. also free lance (frlns)
1. A person who sells services to employers without a long-term commitment to any of them.
2. An uncommitted independent, as in politics or social life.
3. A medieval mercenary.
v. free·lanced, free·lanc·ing, free·lanc·es


Noun
a self-employed person doing specific pieces of work for various employers

It's official

When asked the other day "what do you do?" I finally had the guts to say.... I am a freelance artist and a stay at home mother of 3 girls five and under.
Now that is the longest job title I have had in these 30 years and most interesting I might add ;).
Been throwing the word freelance around a lot for the past several months but I think I am just now starting to take it seriously.
And with two unfinished-comishioned paintings in the dining room, I guess I was brave enough to claim it. To most people freelance may mean unemployed but to me it means making a little more than nothing and adding a little spice to my full time something.
Thanks to those who aided in my new found confidence, finally!

Dun, dun, dun-dun...

I was recently hired to do some creative photography for Ashley Carson. I love her work and was so happy to learn from her. With her permission, I am posting a few of my favorite shots that I took and edited.
I would recommend Ashley to anyone out there getting married. She is so talented and very down-to earth...especially for such a great photographer. You can google her!

Goodbye Krysta and Nick

This whole portrait series is driving me nuts because for a few weeks I am getting to know every inch of these faces, they become another family member to the girls and then what, "goodbye!?". It is so weird to just say "goodbye" to their faces, weird, I know right?! Well, it is what it is and now Krysta and Nick belong to Krysta and Nick. Atleast I snapped a shot of them before our fairwell :).

History made

Michael Jackson died yesterday.

Sneak Peak

10 years and counting!

The past 10 years have been such an adventure, full of highs and lows just the way I like it :). What a perfect person to spend my life with. I love you so much Brady Davis. Sometimes I watch our three babies and think "Wow, did we really do that!?" And this very moment I am thinking of our 10 years together and I am thinking "Wow, did we really do that!?"
I enjoyed dancing with you in the bathroom this morning to one of my favorite Ray Lamontagne songs. What a wonderful start to a very special day.

There's a light

A certain kind of light

That never shone on me

I want my life to be

To live with you

To live with you


There's a way
Everybody says
To do each and every little thing
But what does it bring
If I ain't got you
Ain't got... baby


I live and I breathe for you
But what good does it do
If I ain't got you

check it out

http://danielledavisart.com/

For New Entry's re: Latest Photog Events

http://danielledavisart.com/blog/

The Diner

Several years ago I would have this reocurring dream about my dad. We were sitting in a diner, me at a current age and him just before he died, 36. So we are sitting there talking about everything, nothing, I don't know. I just knew it was him and the way I rememberred him. Mmmm, he smelled like old spice. His smile, what a beautiful smile. I remember feeling so safe, so taken care of. So smitten with my daddy.
Hanging on the wall right above us in this round diner booth is a huge round clock. In the background of our conversations was "tick, tick, tick, tick"
In the beginning of the dream I felt so wonderful to be with my "daddy" but by the middle of the dream "tick, tick, tick" gets louder and faster.
Somehow I knew that when that clock hit 9o'clock he had to leave and he had to leave and never come back. Oh how I began to cry to him, for him as that hour hand crept to nine o'clock.."tick, tick, ticktickticktickticktick" Lots of tears, fears, saddness I can't understand he has to go, why would you leave me? Why can't you stay here and keep me safe and care for me forever? So smitten with my daddy, don't you go...what could be more important. How could you leave your baby girl? Why would you leave your baby girl? Oh, he hung my moon! And yet that stupid clock, "tick, tick, tick,tick,tick,tick" I HATE that clock!!!!!! Don't go, why does he get up, why does he go anyway, don't go, will I ever see you again, where are you going, why would you go!?!?!?!
And soon I wake up not to recover soon from such a dream.

Hey, yo, peeps

If anyone still reads my blog, I have a favor to ask.
B hooked me up with the google search engine. The more hits my photography link gets, the closer I will appear on the front page.
Sounds a little narcissistic I know but it would real help the traffic and the potential business.
Here's what you do, go to www.google.com and type Little Rock Wedding Photographer or Little Rock Photographers you will find Danielle Davis Art/Photography you may have to go to the 4th or 5th page right now to find me, click on it and view a few pictures, so the engine can process your inerest.
Anyway, that should move me up in line...please no bad reviews (sarcasm ap:)))).

"Learned Behaivior" 'tis the season

To my acting students "learned behavior" is a repetative act/sound/body language that is learned during the script- prep process. It can hinder an actors natural instincts and trick them into thinking they have a script memorized. It is also very hard to perform improvisation in a scene with too many "learned behaviors". If you learn a script with certain inflections in your voice and tone, or body language pormpted by certain words and/or beats in the script then you become dependant on those learned behaivors to cue your memory. If for some reason those beats are skipt or interupted by something, the change can throw the entire scene off.."Man! I really did have that scene memorized..I just don't konw what happened" I hear that a lot from my acting students.
The key is to memorize your scene in a very monotone voice and manner. Speedreading, singing, reapeating your lines 10 times without any emotion are great ways to memorize a script. That way your mind is not dependant on the learned behavior to trigger words in your script. The lines will role without even thinking about them if memorized correctly. It will be easier for you to just "be" in the moment of your scene..emotional, real, reacting to your co-acotor when the script beomes a part of your subconscious mind.
Sometimes I think the past five years have been like this "learned behavior". I think my body, my mind, my heart have gotten used to this "learned behavior". This behvavior of child bearing, nursing, newbornning, sleeplessness, etc. The 18 month is a signifact trigger for me. A time frame that usually triggers the need to and want to have a baby. This mark is coming soon and for the past five years I have been repeating these behaviors to a "T". While approaching the mark, I am surprised that my boobs don't hurt, that I am sleeping regularly that I am not cranky with the girls for random reasons. I guess I just expect that they are here or around the corner. I find myself sad that the behavior has not come. I guess I just assumed that the belly would be growing soon. Assumed that I would be getting extra special attention from my hubby soon:).
But no, no pregors. No double D's. No special back massages. No baby-name dreaming. No majore anticipations. It is soooo strange to move on to a new season; to let the Improvisation take the wheel, to let new emotions, new events, new body languages ensue. It will be nice (for lack of a better word) to let the improv take place, to "be" in the moment without the known anticipations, to be responsive and reacting to my co-actor/compadre ;).
So we will see. 'tis the season.

Dear Mom

In the past 30 years there have been such major moments of disconnect between us. Not really rememberring being able to relate to you or feeling close to you in my youth and then early 20's. Not understanding how you could possibly know me in such a short 18 month window to my life. That is until 5 years ago. Five years ago when they said "You are having, you are having a girl!" The connect began. The connect would last for the next 9 months and then again and so intensely for the next 18 months. And then again the connect, and then one more time the connect.
Ruby just woke unexpectadly, mostly she is a wonderful sleeper. She cried out and I went to get her. I held her in my arms and kissed her forhead, felt her sweet baby breath and listened to the suck of that sweet paci. She still wasn't sleepy so I laid with her in my bed, cuddled so close. She in only a diaper, feeling her sweet soft skin. Oh the smell is straight from heaven, the sound like no other. I couldn't help but cry out to you. It was another one of our moments together, our connect.
We have had them often in the past five years. From the time I found out I was carrying a girl until the day my baby girl passed 18 months. What a short time it is. What a precious time it is. A time that means more to me than any other time in my life.
Moments, connects, lots of them.
Tonight, oh mom, tonight you were right there with me. I mean there are obvious connects; milestones, first smiles and cooing, first baths, walking, kisses, undescribable loves that I have stopped right smack in the moment of and thought, "I know you mom..I know you right now!" I know exactly what you were thinking at that moment when you were with me. When you held me in our window, I knew momma. I knew you more deeply than ever before.
Tonight, oh tonight momma, it was different than most! I couldn't shake it. I didn't want to shake it. Ruby just wanted me to hold her close, to cuddle her, and to smell her. And you were right there, right there in her smell, in her sounds, in her feel. As I felt so close to you, I cried to you. This time, I felt it momma, our connect.
I have been gifted this 18 month window, that same window three times over. But soon Ruby will close our window. Our connect will be gone?
Did you ever even hear my voice? You didn't see my second birthday, you didn't fix my hair or hold my hand or send me to kindergarten. You didn't talk to me about boys, or see me get married. How will we connect, mom? I don't want this to end. I don't want our time to go. It will go! She will turn 18 months soon and YOU will go, she will turn 19 months and then 20 months and then she will be 5 year old and then 10 and you will be gone. We didn't have those windows, we didn't have that connect. Where will the connect be?
I know, I know, I remember what "they" say, "what you do not know will not hurt you". Well then, now I know damnit. Now I know that smell, that tender touch, that love that you had for me. Now I know what that soft cuddle in the middle of the night was between us in that small little window. Now I know and now it is coming to an end, going to be gone. I know that sweet kiss on the forehead, I can feel that when I kiss her, you/me, her, her/me/you. It is hard to articulate. It is not describable, but somehow there has been a connect. A gift I have been graced with three times over. My time is up, the disconnect will ensue. I know you won't come to me in a dream, not in a prayer, not in life. Mom, you have come to me in my baby girls and what will happen when that is gone. When the window is soon to close.

Lately...

....kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit,kids, husband, shoot, edit.....did I mentioned a few breathes somewhere in there!!! There is a whole lot of thankfulness in there to my God and a pinch of exhaustion!

Mullets Across America

Brady's new website is cracking me up/blog I'm not sure it is just freaking funny. Check it out http://mulletsacrossamerica.com/

Amanda

Your death has rocked my world.