Sweet Olivet

January 24, 2012

2012-01-24T23:59:00.000-06:00

Day 24

I've been on a hunt for some time.

Olive is in desperate need for a friend in our neighborhood that is also in her grade.

I am in need of a friend for Olive, in our neighborhood, in her grade that is also sweet and respectful.

It seems, that our "need" list is the equivalent of the Holy Grail.

Thankfully, we have some good pals through church and school.

Then something magical happened.

I remembered a little girl name Rachel.

Yesterday, on a whim, I invited her over.

Talk about a pleasant surprise.

Not only was she sweet and respectful, she was also fun, and silly, and an equal playmate for Olive.

Easily impressed by crafts, walkie-talkies, and popcorn, Rachel just might be perfection.

(Did I mention she put all the toys away without me even asking?)

I am trying not to jinx this little friendship, but I am wishing and hoping it works out.

January 23, 2012

2012-01-23T23:59:00.000-06:00

Day 23

Monday is the busiest day of my week.

On top of the normal routine,

I add a parent-signing class,

stuffing Monday folders for Olive's class,

a trip to the grocery store,

and

dance class.

It is a crazy hectic day, and I am exhausted by the end of the day.

Somehow, it is one of my favorite days of the week.

(minus the dance class.)

January 22, 2012

2012-01-22T19:46:00.000-06:00

Day 22 

In the past week, we have witnessed a wedding, celebrated a birthday, and attend a funeral.

I guess that is the circle of life.

It makes me feel like a true adult. 

Dave's co-worker, Dr. Andy Wagner, lost his wife to a valiant fight with melonoma this week. 

It was a 20 month battle.

Andy, Lisa and Brandon went through plans A, B, C, D and were searching for plan E when the end finally came.

I am a better human-being for watching their gallant struggle.

If life were fair, such kind people would not have to suffer. 

Instead of attending church today, Dave and I partook in a Jewish funeral.

I say partook, because a certain points throughout the funeral those in attendance interact.

Examples are reciting Psalms 23, repeating 7 times prayers, for each in attendance, burying the casket with 3 shovels of earth, and non-family members form two lines and, as the mourners pass by them.

 It is a really supportive way to honor the dead and their families.

Just because it is soooo ridiculous, I had to add this photo: 

January 21, 2012

2012-01-21T20:05:00.000-06:00

Day 21

It was all about Elle Belle today...

just the way she likes it.

Her party was not over the top or super fancy, but it was purple and Rapunzel.

Pretty much, she was just tickled about her cake.

We painted finger nails and played duck-duck-goose.

There was accessorizing and coloring.

Cake and ice cream were an absolute must.

Finishing off by unwrapping gifts and playing with them.

A perfectly perfect purple party for my 4-year-old.

Happy Birthday Elle.

(PS it is over now, so we can finally talk about something else.)

January 20, 2012

2012-01-20T19:54:00.002-06:00

Day 20

I finished the cake tonight.

Won't the girls be so surprised when I cut slices of rainbow cake?

Here is a little teaser of the top lay of the cake:

The colors are a little odd with no sunlight, but Elle was not complaining.

She loves her cake.

I love her.

Everyone is happy.

I am going to bed early tonight.

10 little girls in the morning means I need plenty of energy.

January 19, 2012

2012-01-19T22:03:00.001-06:00

Day 19

Self-induced time-out was over, so we went back to the library.

There are two carding members of the library in this family.

Though, only one of those members can write their last name.

Just to stick it to them, we stayed at the library for the better part of two hours.

Olive and Elle Belle even overstayed their time limit on the computers.

I checked out every copy of any Lauren Child has ever written.

Strange? Yes, but it made me feel better about our previous trip.

I spent the rest of the afternoon(and evening) making 12 layers of rainbow cake of Elle's birthday party.

The whole time, I was begging myself to be less ambitious in the future.

Some times, I watch Olive day dream and draw her afternoon away and turn little green from envy.

January 18, 2012

2012-01-18T20:05:00.000-06:00

Day 18th

My Dear Sweet Elle Belle,

Happy 4th birthday!

I think we both thought this day would never come... but for very different reasons.

Literally every day, nearly hourly, for the past 60 days, you have talked about your birthday.

Your purple, Rapunzel birthday.

For a while, you did your best to convince us you were turning 5.

I finally convinced you it would be a shame to miss an entire year of your childhood.

My girl, you were born with glitter in your veins.

You are a dreamer, a fighter, and an absolute miracle.

Everyday, I adore hearing your testimony of your "magic golden hair."

Your very existence makes this world a more joyful, purple, dramatic place.

You radiate from within.

This year you learned to swim, speak in 5+ word sentences, apply lipstick and beat your sister at Just Dance Two.

You have a terrible temper, and you are a force to be reckoned with when you are tired.

Many days, just before we pick you up from school, Olive and I pray that you will be kind.

In all seriousness, learn to manage your rage, so that it does not manage you all of your days.

For all the challenge, you offer tenfold the rapture your Dad and I have ever known.

You make us giggle, beam, and guffaw.

Just this morning, I woke up early to finish frosting your cupcakes for school.

You wanted a cupcake for your breakfast, and I was happy to oblige.

After placing your cupcake in front of you and turing to leave, you questioned,

"Where is the candle? You going to sing me Happy Birthday?"

Of course a cupcake for breakfast is not enough for Miss Elle Belle; there must be a candle and a song.

Mon doux amour je t'adore.

Joyeux Anniversaire!

xoxo,

Mama

As requested, pancakes, strawberries, sausage and chocolate milk for dinner.

This girl patiently waited ALL DAY so she could open presents with her daddy.

Gift from Aunt Nicole

(I am so in love with these):

Gift from Nana and a costume change.

Look for more Rapunzel-mania on Saturday.

Here are a few of the things that are important to her at this moment in her life:

1. What is your favorite color? Purple

2. What is your favorite toy? My Rapunzel toys

3. What is your favorite fruit? Blueberries

4. What is your favorite movie? Tangled (Shocker, I know)

5. What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch? Mac & Cheese

6. What is your favorite outfit? Twirly skits and leggings

7. What is your favorite game? Don’t Break The Ice

8. What is your favorite snack? Oranges

9. What is your favorite animal? Horses

10. What is your favorite song? Video Killed the Radio Star

11. What is your favorite book? Any of the Charlie and Lola books

12. Who is your best friend? “Mommy, Daddy and Olive are my best friends.”

13. What is your favorite cereal? Multi-Grain Cheerios

14. What is your favorite thing to do outside? Play at the playground.

15. What is your favorite drink? Water and Chocolate milk.

16. What is your favorite holiday? Halloween

17. What do you like to take to bed with you at night? Purple blanket

18. What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Pancakes

19. What do you want for dinner on your birthday? Pancakes, chocolate milk, and strawberries.

20. What do you want to be when you grow up? “Ba-giant Doctor” this is code for vagina doctor or OB/Gyn

January 17, 2012

2012-01-17T18:31:00.000-06:00

Day 17

The world is a better place today.

It is a little brighter and a little shiner.

Our dearest and favoritest Oklahoma friends had their first child today.

Mr. Kade Andrew Dittmeyer joined our little clan.

Every member of the Deschamps family was riddled with anticipation for his arrival.

Kade did not disappoint; he took our breath away.

Heart and soul, we are so thankful that such deserving people got such a precious son.

Now for the best part, we get to watch this little wonder grow up.

January 14, 2012

2012-01-14T23:59:00.000-06:00

Day 14

These two love-birds were married for time and all eternity today.

We were lucky enough to attend the blessed event.

All Dave's siblings, spouses, children and partners were able to unite for the occasion.

It was a very special day.

PS This year my SIL Denise & BIL Mark will be married for 20 years.

Dave and I will be married for 10 years.

Randy and Sylvia will be another decade behind.

There is something about that consistency that I like.

January 13, 2012

2012-01-13T23:59:00.000-06:00

Day 13

In the morning, our father/father-in-law/grandpa is marrying his chosen one.

We boarded a plane and headed to Arizona.

Have I mentioned I loathe airplanes/airports?
I love traveling but hate airplanes.

It is a complex relationships.

Elle, on the other hand, loves flying.

Olive is a trooper and generally up for most things.

Some how, Dave was either taking the picture or picking up the rental car, but he was with us.
We are all excited for tomorrow.

Because we arrived so late and missed our dinner,

a 12:30 am trip to In and Out was in order.

Milkshakes past midnight = vacation.

January 12, 2012

2012-01-12T13:12:00.000-06:00

Day 12

While I was trying to pass some time while waiting for the fabric store to open, I dropped in at the local Goodwill.

Definitely not my favorite thrift store, but today it surprised me.

I happened upon this handsome little bear.

True, his arms are missing, but he is from 1969.

$3.99 was a fair price.

Both the girls and the cat love pushing Mr. Bear around.

January 11, 2012

2012-01-11T19:16:00.000-06:00

Day 11

I feel in love with Calico Critter a few years ago.

Olive has always been more interested in the furry creatures than dolls or princesses.

Three Christmases ago Olive got a dollhouse and a litter of Calico Critter families.

This year, I got Elle Belle a convertible and trailer.

They play with the combo of Critter collections nearly every day.

Such a lovely way to spend the after noon.

Side Note: Tonight we had the missionaries from our church over to dinner. Elle walked straight over to them (both about 20 year old boys) and said, "hey boys, want to see my panties?"

I stopped her roughly one second before her skirt flew up.

Note to self: teach Elle modesty.

January 10, 2012

2012-01-10T19:21:00.001-06:00

Day 10

I had a few extra "littles" added to my Tuesday morning routine.

Elle was delighted to be with her bestie, Emory.

By 9:30 in the am, I had bribed all three with either M&M's or Peanut Butter cups.

(You do what you have to do to get through Wal-Mart.)

Even though I was a little more tired this afternoon, but it was a pleasure to have a couple "extras."

January 9, 2012

2012-01-09T23:56:00.000-06:00

Day 9

There is something about a sleeping babe that makes me want to capture the moment forever.

Just look at those sweet lips.

This cat gets more love than it deserves.

Finally, an Olive original.

She was playing with her toys and felt inspired to take a photograph.

(Her chipped toe-nail polish & little feet are my favorite part.)

January 8, 2012

2012-01-08T23:56:00.000-06:00

Day 8

The better part of my morning was spent making blackberry jam.

Blackberry jam is my favorite kind of jam.

Sweet and tangy, and in some way, I enjoy the texture of the many seeds.

If you spend your Sunday morning making jam, the whole family want to share in the fruits of your labors.

Homemade wheat bread becomes a must.

After church, we partook in the goodness of my efforts.

There were many sticky fingers and happy tummies.

An entirely rewarding day, it was.

This the ALL TIME BEST wheat bread recipe.

It makes two large light and fluffy loaves of bread. I make it once a week, and my prefers it to any other bread.

My talented SIL, Denise, shared it with me, and I share it with you:

Wheat Bread

Mix and allow to rise 10 minutes:

1 3/4 cups warm water

1 1/2 Tbsp. yeast

6 oz. canned evaporated milk

After 10 minutes, add to yeast mixture:

1/2 cup honey

1/3 cup vegetable oil

3/4 Tbsp salt

1 1/2 Tbsp dough enhancer

1 1/2 Tbsp wheat gluten

2 cups white bread flour

Mix thoroughly and add gradually:

4 cups whole wheat flour (if you don't have a grinder to grind fresh, just buy store made wheat flour)

Knead with hands or dough hook in mixer for 8 minutes.

Allow to rest in bowl for 15 minutes. Divide dough into 2 large or 3 medium loaves, allow to rise for 1 hour. Bake 350 for 30-35 minutes until darker brown so center won't be doughy. Enjoy! These freeze really well...just cool completely, bag and freeze.

January 7, 2012

2012-01-07T23:26:00.000-06:00

Day 7

Today you get a sneak peek at Elle Belle's birthday present.

This year, I want to do something handmade for each girl's birthday.

Something beautiful and absolutely unique to them.

A quiet book is the perfect gift for

Little Miss January.

To be forthright, I was slightly dreading the process.

Long, tedious work.

After I began, it turned into the most satisfying project I have ever worked on.

It is an grown-up version of art & crafts

free play.

My imagination is my only limit.

True, it is long work, but when I think about how much she will enjoy it...

well, it makes every stitch worthwhile.

(PS Olive discovered my creation. She has already placed an order for her birthday.)

January 6, 2012

2012-01-06T22:21:00.001-06:00

Day 6

This whole day was dedicated to Miss Elle Belle.

Therapy, school testing , IEP meeting were just a few of the things that made me shudder.

Even though it should have been a rough day, the sun came out.

It was nearly 70 degrees.

In between all the must-dos of the day, we snuck outdoors for an impromptu picnic.

It was divine.

Olive made it across the monkey bars all by herself for the very first time.

I sat and read and embraced the much needed sunshine.

To add to the goodness of the day, Elle Belle started asking me questions.

Questions like:

Where do bears live?

What do bees eat?

Why are kittens so soft?

She has never asked me a single question like this before.

It made me so happy to answer her questions.

I cannot wait until tomorrow.

I hope she has a million more questions for me.

January 5, 2012

2012-01-05T20:29:00.003-06:00

Day 5

This could not be a more accurate picture of the day.

Flowers from a good friend.

Finishing my last square for 12squared.

Motivating Olive to write to 100 (Which happens to be our current daily ritual.)

There is even a toy from McDonald's. I treated the girls to a special lunch.

One of the highlights of my day was all the memories my friends posted on Facebook.

They reminded me of things long since forgotten.

They enlarged a part of my past with their version of how thing happened.

They told me things I never knew.

Getting to wake up to these two every morning is probably the best gift I have been given.

January 4, 2012

2012-01-04T21:26:00.000-06:00

Day 4

Art time with friends.

There was also a little snacking, kitty chasing and egg decorating involved.

As a side note, tomorrow is my birthday.

I have been avoiding this fact for more than a week.

Bypassing my birthday is not my norm.

In past years, I have been known to throw myself a birthday party or two.

I love any excuse to eat cake and receive gifts.

Aging has nothing to do with it, because I honestly don't give a hoot.

All told, I have earned the privilege of turning 31.

Having a birthday so close to New Year's makes me really assess the previous year.

On my birthday, I always set objectives for the coming year.

Other people start their resolutions on January 1; I start my resolutions on January 5.

After analyzing my previous year, it was a little, well, sad.

Previous years may have appeared more challenging on the surface, but 2011 took a licking to me.

Each time I picked myself up and put on a sunny disposition, I got knocked right back down.

I am stubborn, and I don't give up without one-he** of a fight.

I am also not naive, and I feel more and more cautionary about my choices.

Even with all my learning and enlightenment, I have the nerve to make the EXACT SAME goals as last.

A little more time with my husband.

A little more baby in our home.

Despite all my efforting,

(please note that I know "efforting" is not an actual word, but a created word commonly used in our home)

not one of those goals/wishes/fantasies came true.

The thought of another year of the same seems daunting.

Do you see why I wish to refrain from 31?

Not forever, just until I am done being 30.

Can that be my birthday wish?

January 3, 2012

2012-01-03T21:27:00.000-06:00

Day 3

Have I ever mentioned that I have a love/hate relationship with our Public Library?

I do.

There is always a great selection of kids books and kids movies to choose from.

Plus, they have computers that my girls can play games on for 30 minutes.

This gives me roughly an hour of kid-friendly entertainment.

See, there is the love.

Then the hate sneaks up on me.

You see, I live in the city limits, but my house resides in a different county than the city I live in.

Why the crap would the city or county do this?

Why, I ask you?

You are probably thinking, big deal!

Well, it is no big deal if you do not like to read or expose your children to reading.

On more than one occasion, a Library clerk has informed me that I can purchase annual membership.

Something inside me finds it ethically wrong to pay for membership to a public library.

The loop-hole to getting a free library card is having a child in the Public School District.

Today after returning our books, and paying a ridicules amount of late fees, I went to check out.

(Late Fees become ridicules when you beloved spouse packs library books in the Christmas boxes only to be discovered a year later.)

Come to find out, Olive's library card had expired... who even knew that was possible?

Because I do not carry my child's report card or proof of enrollment around in my purse, I had the good-fortune of telling two eager children that they could not take home the books they spent 30 minutes selecting.

Defeated and rejected, I took Olive and Elle Belle by their hands and headed to the door.

As a parting good bye, I hear the three library clerks conferring on my feeble-mindedness for not having proof of elementary school enrollment with me at all times.

Currently, I am in a self-induced time-out from the Library.

I'll return when my desire for revenge is gone.

For the record, the report card will be in hand.

January 2, 2012

2012-01-02T19:41:00.001-06:00

Day 2

It was my favorite kind of day.

Dave got to stay home from work (for a while that is).

We slept until the 8 o'clock hour.

We took it slow.

We cleaned up the house.

We read, cuddled and played with toys.

There was even a trip to Target and a yogurt bar.

At 2 o'clock, our Cornwell cousin's dropped in.

They are traveling cross country, as they often do.

There was more playing and running and snacking (and a few dramatic displays by Miss Elle Belle).

Sarah & John are fun cousins to have.

There is just something about the excitement of these girlie cousins that has me smitten.

(PS John was sitting right next to them, being a classic boy.)

After the cousins headed East, Elle Belle was required to have "rest time" (that is code for early bedtime).

Olive and I sat in her bed doing geometric puzzles and deliberated the days happenings.

Indeed, my favorite kind of day.

January 1, 2012

2012-01-01T18:38:00.001-06:00

For the past year, I have done a photo a day and posted it to Facebook.

At first, I doubted that I would stick with it.

Consistency has never been my strong suit.

Initially, I needed the ease of posting and the feedback that Facebook offered...

near instant gratification.

Then a funny thing happened, I started looking at my days differently.

Taking a photo a day made me realize what is most important to me.

My days are not always sunny or happy or perfectly lit.

Sometimes they are lovely and gleeful and ideal.

As a compilation, they are my life.

Not surprisingly, I began to feel reserved about my pictorial autobiography.

As the end of 2011 neared, I considered whether I would continue on in 2012.

One night, I was feeling particularly reminiscent and started to scan through the year of photos.

Memories and emotions came flooding back.

They were more than just the pictures...

I could remember the days.

Where we were, what I felt, what we ate and and all the little things going on behind the scenes.

The pictures went from a silly whim to a priceless collection.

For 2012, the decision was made to post a photo(or more)-day to my blog.

This is my little space.

Not too many people read it, and I feel like it is a little more private.

So begins 2012.

Day One:

Elle Belle's first day of Primary.

My little Sunbeam in every single way possible.

Even with all my doubts about two burly men teaching my little daughter,

Elle came home merrily recounting the story of "Baby Moses" over and over again.

I find that girl completely intoxicating.

After church we drank Italian sodas and ate my favorite pasta recipe of 2011.

Chicken Spaghetti

(It did not photograph well at all. Trust me it is delicious. And easy. And healthy.)

Dave asked me what makes me happy today.

A home-cooked meal and my favorite people at the dinner table are definitely on my list.

12.15.11

2011-12-15T20:51:00.002-06:00

"Snowball Fight"

I wonder how all the "snowballs" disappeared.

12.14.11

2011-12-14T21:19:00.000-06:00

Harriet dyed our milk red.

It is actually more raspberry colored.

(PS I secretly don't like drinking milk unless it is white. it just seems wrong.)

Holiday Happenings:

12.11.11

2011-12-11T21:28:00.000-06:00

12.7.11

2011-12-07T21:09:00.001-06:00

We had a fabulously fun day filled with trips to see Santa and play dates with friends.

Every ounce of it was filled with Christmas magic.

After a long day of playing, Elle Belle was taking a late-afternoon nap.

I pulled a tiny plastic nativity from the Christmas box for Olive, and I sat down at the piano.

The only music I LOVE playing on the piano is Christmas music.

After arranging the manger so that every creature was admiring Baby Jesus,

Olive laid on her back, under the Christmas tree, and listened to the music.

She later told Mr. Deschamps that "Mama started Christmas tonight."

12.6.11

2011-12-06T22:13:00.001-06:00

Harriet kept it mellow last night.

12.5.11

2011-12-05T20:13:00.001-06:00

This is how we found Harriet this morning:

I am starting to get used to squeals and giggles as my alarm clock.

For an added treat, I captured this photo as I was preparing dinner:

She let me snap the photo as long as I "did not show Daddy."

Maybe someday she will forgive me.

12.4.11

2011-12-04T20:37:00.000-06:00

No photos of Harriet today.

She was sitting on the potty.

Mr. Deschamps, Olive, ElleBelle and I were admiring Harriet's sense of humor when Kit (the Cat) tipped Harriet into the toilet.

There was weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth.

No more Harriet and the toilet.

12.3.11

2011-12-03T20:28:00.000-06:00

This morning Harriet was making flour angels.

We spent a few hours at Sam's Club (sadly) getting new tires.

Someone had sliced my tire.

We finished our family day with dinner out.

The girls took portraits of each other:

12.2.11

2011-12-02T21:01:00.001-06:00

Day 2 of Harriet the elf.

Mr. Deschamps birthday cookie.

The girls were excited for a "surprise" birthday party for their Daddy.

We ended the day with a church Christmas party.

Both girls were tickled to see Santa.

12.1.11

2011-12-01T20:57:00.001-06:00

Harriet the Elf made her annual appearance.

She is a very naughty & very messy little Elf.

Olive woke me up very early this morning.

She jumped and hopped around telling me that Harriet came.

Having Harriet adds to the magic of the season.

Tonight, we went to downtown Edmond for the annual Christmas parade.

I packed hot chocolate and marshmallows to keep everyone warm and cozy.

This was the PERFECT start to the month of December.

11.20.11

2011-11-20T20:50:00.001-06:00

Lately, my sewing machine has been my best pal.

Early mornings mean no interruptions from little people...

which means I am insanely productive.

The little frock was for one of (Dr.)Mr. Deschamps co-worker's baby shower:

This zig-zag quilt is for my good friends Kale & Kristen's little guy:

I finally finished my November square for 12squared:

With Christmas breathing down my neck, I think my sewing machine, and I will be doing a lot of early morning bonding.

11.18.11

2011-11-18T19:57:00.000-06:00

Olive's Kindergarten class had their Thanksgiving Friendship Feast.

I rewarded ElleBelle by letting her join in on the festivities.

Olive and her pals, Julia and Chole, rotated from table to table making:

mashed potatoes

ham & cheese kabobs

stuffing

fruit kabobs

and

pumpkin pie

ElleBelle dragged this little pink chair to every station.

She pretended she was a kindergartner for the day...

and she blended in well.

Ms. Boydstun requested that every child try a bite at every station.

Olive DID NOT want to try the stuffing.

After mixing it up and trying a nibble, Olive decided she LOVES stuffing.

Stuffing just happens to be my favorite food at Thanks giving.

This was a great chance for me to get to know all the kiddies in Olive's class.

Have I mentioned what sweethearts 5&6 year olds are?

Sweet as pie.

Almost as sweet as these two:

11.15.11

2011-11-15T18:56:00.001-06:00

I convinced Olive to wait a night for the Tooth Fairy.

The thought of a specific doll to hold her lost tooth was very enticing.

Instead of the LONG list of things I should get done, I made this for my special girl:

The pocket had to be extra special to hold such a precious item.

While I sewed, Olive made a letter for the Tooth Fairy.

Such a fun bonding experience.

The best part is Olive is thrilled to go to bed tonight.

11.14.11

2011-11-14T19:48:00.000-06:00

It was a RED LETTER day.

First off, good mail is always a big deal.

at our house.

Books from Nana are always a hit.

Do you like that our cat Kit did not want to miss out on the action?

The main event was Olive (finally) losing her tooth.

We have all been working that little toothy over for months.

When I went to wiggle it today, it was obvious what needed to happen.

I woke Mr. Deschamps up (remember he is on night?).

There was not enough courage in my whole body to yank that sucker out.

That tooth came out easy peasy lemon sqeezey.

Olive was elated and mostly proud.

(Mr. Deschamps really loved being the one to pull that baby fang.)

There may have been some dancing, skipping, squealing and singing involved.

Mix in school and dance class and a trip to the fabric store and this is a day worth remembering.

11.8.11

2011-11-08T17:08:00.000-06:00

Because I have PCOS & we had tried to conceive for more than a year, I am a perfect candidate for IUI.

Some fertility drugs can thicken the cervical mucus thus, making it near impossible to conceive.

August was our first round of IUI.

I felt so hopeful.

It seemed so logical that the process would work.

A new fertility drug.

High sperm counts.

Two viable follicles.

It had to work.

Right?

The day before we left for Disney World, we found out IUI had not worked.

With those that are close to me, I joked that Disney World might be my sad place.

We went there 2 weeks after we lost Camille.

Now we were going after a failed IUI.

Instead, that trip was exactly what I needed.

It cleared my head.

The trip reminded me that I have such a beautiful life.

Mr. Deschamps and I are in such a good place.

Holding Olive's hand racing ride to ride or watching Elle Belle's enthusiasm for Rapunzel gave me back some magic.

September was our second round of IUI.

I just knew it was not going to work.

The whole process made me feel a little crabby.

When it did not work, I was not surprised.

I could not help but think that my bad attitude was sending out bad energy to the universe.

The opportunity to fertility treatments should not be wasted with negative thoughts.

In October, I had a heart-to-heart with my doctor.

I needed details and statistics.

I needed time-frames.

I needed him to make me a promise:

When I had done all that I could do, he would tell me to go home and enjoy my girls.

I promised I would listen.

My age is definitely on my side, and my body has another year of trying.

So began the third round of IUI.

It is now November.

Thanksgiving is in a few weeks, and Christmas is around the corner.

Doesn't a little break from hormones, doctor appointments and injections sound pleasant?

A little time for gratitude and class parties and making cookies and decorating and Christmas music and reading books sounds prime.

The New Year will bring new possibilities.

Right now, I am going to revel in family and friends and love.

Most people did not know I was going through fertility treatments.

It was not meant to be a giant secret.

At the same time, I was not prepared to discuss it openly.

Please do not be offended if I did not tell you.

I did what I could handle at the time.

There were a few people that really stood by me during the past few months.

Whether it was watching my girls so I could go to my(sometimes bi & tri-weekly appointments), praying and fasting for a miracle, or being a good listener, I am indebted.

You know who you are, please know that I love you.

11.7.11

2011-11-07T18:34:00.000-06:00

While in church, they were talking about journaling.

I raised my hand and added my two cents.

Mostly my thoughts consisted of...

if you journal, you should write the bad, the hard and the challenging along with the good, the pretty and the shiny.

I believe most things come to a good end; in my experience, there are some rough roads getting there.

After I stopped talking, I realized that I am a hypocrite.

After I lost Camille, I thought I would get pregnant again.

This was a fantasy I created in my mind to deal with my loss.

For a year, I did EVERY I could to pregnant.

Clomid, ovulation kits, timed intercourse, elevated pelvis post-intercourse

and the worst...

taking a pregnancy test every day just praying I would see the extra line.

It is a roller-coaster that NO ONE understands unless you have been through the process.

It is a monthly process of having high hopes and seeing them dashed over and over again.

It makes me sick thinking about that time.

(I think it is important to include that during this time, I prayed over and over that I would feel satisfied with the two gorgeous girls I already adore.

I even rationalized how much easier my life would be with 2 fabulous little people.

Even with all the effort, I cannot deny that there is something inside me urning for one more baby.)

Then I got sad.

Really, deeply, depressingly sad.

I cried every night Mr. Deschamps came home.

He worried I was losing my mind, and there was nothing he could do to help me.

Thankfully, this period did not last very long.

It did last long enough to let me know I needed help.

In July, I went to a REI (Reproductive Endocrinology Infertility) doctor .

It was a first for me, and I was nervous.

If you know me, I sweat when I am nervous.

Not a little perspiration, but full on work-out sweats.

My forehead, upper lip and armpits resemble Niagara Falls.

This occasion just might be the pinnacle of my sweat record.

I worried that the doctor would dis-credit me.

He might think I had not tried enough on my own.

He might think that I was impatient and send me home to try some more.

I take this same photo at every appointment because I think it is hysterical.

Man, was I wrong.

He took me seriously.
He devised a plan.

After a some testing, we would begin his plan.

When I left the appointment I felt like skipping and leaping and singing and dancing.

After ensuring that my uterus and ovaries appeared healthy,
we going to do some blood-work.
Mr. Deschamps got off easier with just a few vials of blood.
On the other hand, I donated 19 vials for my cause.
Honestly, I did not even think twice about the blood-work.
I am healthy.
Mr. Deschamps is healthy.

One day, I was strolling through the toy department in Target.
It was a hot day, and I need to entertain my girls.
While I was standing amongst the Lalaloopsy dolls and stuffed animals, I got the call.
Factor V Leiden.

Women with factor V Leiden have a substantially increased risk of clotting in pregnancy (and on estrogen-containing birth control pills or hormone replacement) in the form of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. They also may have a small increased risk of preeclampsia, may have a small increased risk of low birth weight babies, may have a small increased risk of miscarriageand stillbirth due to either clotting in the placenta, umbilical cord, or the fetus (fetal clotting may depend on whether the baby has inherited the gene) or influences the clotting system may have on placental development.^[9] Note that many of these women go through one or more pregnancies with no difficulties, while others may repeatedly have pregnancy complications, and still others may develop clots within weeks of becoming pregnant.

Do the high-lighted areas sound familiar?

It sounds way too familiar to me.

I felt such relief hearing this news.

Knowledge is powerful.

With this knowledge, I realized I had no control in previous miscarriages and stillbirth.

This information outlines a protocol for future pregnancies.

This one answer eliminated nearly a decade of questions.

Once we knew what we were dealing with, the process of IUI could begin.

11.6.11

2011-11-06T14:39:00.000-06:00

It is the simple things in life that bring us joy.

Example:

10.31.11

2011-10-31T21:42:00.000-05:00

After all her big talk, Elle Belle decided to be a ladybug for Halloween.

She also refused to use the Pottery Barn Kids bag.

Instead, she demanded the 99 cent purple bucket.

Elle Belle is so independent.

Olive is my sweetheart.

She loved being a witch, and she thought she was so scary.

Krispy Kreme and cider are a tradition.

We were joined by the Crosland kids for trick-or-treating.

It was a completely magical evening.

The girls ran from house to house collecting candy.

The weather was warm.

Beautifully decorated homes and little ghosts and goblins running wild.

I love Halloween, and I cannot wait for next.

(Although... next year I hope someone will want me to sew a costume.)

Olive's favorite candy this year: Peanut Butter Cups.

Elle Belle's favorite candies this year: "Gums" and Tootsie Rolls

10.29.11

2011-10-29T21:45:00.001-05:00

We had our churches Trunk or Treat this evening.

Everyone enjoyed the cake walk.

Emory and Elle Belle enjoyed the cupcakes.

There was also face-painting.

Honestly, I was not expecting to have as much fun as I did.

These are my girls with their favorite church pals:

Ohh, then there was the trick or treating.

They had so much fun collecting candy.

Finally, we survived the hayride of 2011.

All the children lived , and we had a good laugh.

10.28.11

2011-10-28T22:34:00.000-05:00

The whole family got invited to a very nice B.Y.O.P party.

(Bring Your Own Pumpkin Party)

Everyone wore costumes.

Big Truck Tacos catered the event.

There was a professional photographer taking pictures.

The parties whole focus was a carving party.

I did a little prep work and a little research.

I wanted to win the contest.

What can I say?

Arts and Crafts make me a little giddy.

Our final products:

The kid friendly pumpkin.

Our OB/Gym friendly pumpkin.

(PS We did win the contest.)

10.26.11

2011-10-26T21:56:00.000-05:00

Elle Belle's school had a field trip to the pumpkin patch.

I checked Olive out of school, and we met up with Elle and her friends.

Olive tried to take a pumpkin pillow nap.

There was a little picnic.

Elle was so very happy that I brought her a hot dog.

She was also glad her pals wanted to share her picnic blanket.

This picture makes me so happy:

Not only Elle, but our whole family has been blessed to be a part of her amazing school.

It is so rewarding to get to know such sweet kiddies.

10.24.11

2011-10-24T21:56:00.000-05:00

10.23.11

2011-10-23T21:20:00.002-05:00

My life as a single parent begins tonight.

(Mr. Deschamps starts MOLE tonight. MOLE is code for work all night sleep all day.)

(PS I do not envy his job at all.)

Okay, it is not forever.

Just five weeks,

5 weeks of...

making breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks,

getting ready for school & getting ready for bed,

brushing teeth,

reading books,

monitoring squabbling,

giving love and encouragement,

dealing with melt downs,

running to gymnastics and dance and gymnastics,

paying bills,

picking-up groceries,

doing laundry,

playing at the park,

and

making sure to keep my cool through it all.

Sure, it is tough.

Sure, I would rather be doing it with my partner, but it is only for five weeks.

That is what I keep telling myself.

10.19.11

2011-10-19T20:59:00.000-05:00

My sweet girl is in kindergarten.

As thankful as I am for a break and the chance for Olive to learn, I miss her.

In an attempt to show my love in a different way, I volunteered to be the Room Mom for her class.

I do things like stuff Monday folders and pick-up burgers for Germany Day.

My favorite responsibility is the party planning.

For the Harvest Party, I got to plan the craft and activity.

Every little person in the class room got their foot painted to make a little ghost.

Olive felt so special and important having me be in charge of the party.

She even tells people I "work" at her school.

I even got to make a ghost of my little footy.

After the craft they got to have treats and play Bingo.

Aren't these cookies the cutest thing?

It was such a fun day.

The kids had such a great time.

Once again, I was reminded what a blessing it is that I get to watch my little Olive grow up.

10.16.11

2011-10-16T16:55:00.000-05:00

I love a good pumpkin patch.

I've been known to hit more than one or two in a given year.

Because I had a Groupon, this year we tried Chester's Party Barn in Piedmont, OK.

Petting Zoo, Pumpkin Bowling, Tractor Ride, Corn Maze, Giant (unimpressive) Slide, Pony Ride and a Pumpkin to finish the day off.

It is officially Fall.

10.12.11

2011-10-12T16:41:00.000-05:00

I've spent the better part of my day canning strawberry jam.

Some people get a high from organization or running.

I get a high from food preservation.

I know.

I am a total nerd.

I am what I am.

Listening to music and working away over steaming pots calms me down.

All in all, I made 75+ jars of jam.

Please don't be surprised if you get a jar full for Christmas.

9.23.11

2011-09-23T21:52:00.000-05:00

Our last day at DW was designated for granting the girls last wishes.

Olive wanted to ride Toy Story Mania... just one more time.

Elle Belle's wish was to see Rapanzel in the flesh.

Both of their dreams came true.

We took great naps and had dinner at Boma.

It was an amazing way to finish off a fantastic trip.

9.22.11

2011-09-22T10:22:00.000-05:00

Wednesday was the most anticiapted day of our trip.

The Bippity Boppity Boutique and Cinderella Castle were on our schedule.

Elle and Olive each patiently waited for the other and whispered accolades to each other.

They have a sweet sisterhood.

We stopped for a much needed meal.

Somehow food is our last priority when we are at DW.

Everyone was chipper after a little sustenance.

The girls were thrilled to meet the princesses when they looked like princesses themselves.

9.21.11

2011-09-21T23:59:00.000-05:00

The secret to Disney World is plenty of sleep.

We sleep in, and we take naps.

We also stay out late and play hard.

Goofy was jealous that Olive had a Pluto stuffy and Minnie Mouse outfits.

He through a mini tantrum.

Olive thought this was hysterical.

We bought tickets to the Not So Scary Halloween Party.

Magic Kingdom closes to everyone except ticket holders.

There is trick or treating, dance parties, parades and fire works.

While that is all typically fun, we were there for the rides.

in 2.5 hours we rode 16 rides.

Splash Mountain 3 times. (Without ever getting off the ride.)

Thunder Mountain Railroad 2 times. (Which happens to be Elle's favorite ride.)

Buzz Light Year 2 times.

Space Mountain 2 times.(Olive was tall enough to ride it this year.)

Dumbo 1 time (While the fireworks were going off above us. It felt like we were in a movie.)

Teacups 2 times. (That is all I could handle)

Aladdin Magic Carpet Ride (Until the park closed.)

There is no better way to do Disney.

9.19-20.11

2011-09-20T21:50:00.000-05:00

We surprised the girls and took them to Disney World.

For the past year, Olive has BEGGED to go to DW.

It was important for me to teach her that we can have almost anything if we work hard for that goal.

Every time Olive wanted something extra, we would talk about whether she would prefer the item or a trip to Disney World.

Disney World won out most of the time.

Now Elle is a different story.

She did not understand the concept of Disney World.

Her little heart desired to flight in an airplane.

She was in pure bliss every time we took off or landed.

(PS I wish I had her enthusiasm. Flying makes me feel like I am going to throw up.)

When we got to the Animal Kingdom Lodge, the girls lost their minds at the sight of the bunkbeds.

After a few hours of sleep, we headed to a character breakfast.

We went to Hollywood Studios and rode Toy Story Mania two times.

It was Olive's favorite ride... hands down.

We rode many ride and had soooo much fun.

We had an amazing dinner at Sanaa.

It was a magical day for everyone.

9.10.11

2011-09-10T19:30:00.000-05:00

Summer is ending.

In some ways, I am happy.

It has been WAY too hot,

and you know my love of Fall.

Because Mr. Deschamps was on ONC (Gyn-Oncology) all summer, I feel like it was not really summer at all.

ONC was not as terrible as we had heard, but we really did miss the man of the house.

Today, we took him for his first snow cone of the season.

Sadly, it was probably his last snow cone of the season.

We opted for the following:

Mr. D: Grape and Cream

Me: Cranberry

Olive: Pink Lemonade

Elle Belle: Grape

9.8.11

2011-09-08T22:30:00.000-05:00

While Elle Belle naps, Olive and I work on improving her handwriting and math skills.

This girls adores the one-on-one attention.

She also feels smart when she figures things out.

This is what my side of the table does while she works:

Tonight, we had company.

Papa Randy and Cousin Tom made a stop on their tour of BYU games .

We have heard a LOT about Eskimo Joes, so we made the drive to Stillwater.

An added attraction for Tom was seeing the OSU stadium.

Olive and Elle adore Tom.

We ordered cheese fries and milkshakes and burgers and french dips.

Everything was tasty.

After consuming my (entire) milkshake, Melissa graciously offer to share with Elle.

Elle was happy to oblige.

Have I mentioned I LOVE having visitors?

PS We will be revisiting Eskimo Joes.

8.26.11

2011-08-26T16:30:00.000-05:00

In our house, there is NO television during the school week.

Without the TV, my girls fight less, use their imaginations and love doing any project I put in front of them.

Did I mention that my house is a much bigger mess?

It is definitely more work for me, but I feel good about the set up.

Come Friday afternoon, the girls are hankering for their favorite shows

(O: Phineas & Ferb EB: Rapunzel).

On this particular Friday, I let the girls build forts and watch their shows while I sewed.

Things got a little quite and this is what I found in the center of our living room:

I could not help but giggle at the WT nature of these photos.

Naked.

Check.

3.5 yr old with a pacifier.

Check.

Asleep with a GIANT box of sugar cereal.

Check.

I am feeling like a stellar mother.

PS Olive loves the grapes in cheeks trick.

8.21.11

2011-08-21T20:37:00.001-05:00

Elle Belle starts another year of pre-school.

Since she eats lunch at school everyday, I was in search of a new and improved lunch device.

After a bit of research, I purchased a goodbyn bynto lunchbox kit.

(PS there is a bigger size for bigger people and they come in many colors.)

Elle is over the moon, and she already started decorating.

Olive is a little jealous... I told her next year.

It is no secret that Elle Belle has been a little monster this summer.

I think it has everything to do with trying to gain more independence combined with the absence of Mr. Deschamps.

School has been my glimmer of hope.

Now on the eve of school starting, I am a tiny bit heartsick.

As hard and as naughty as my girl can be, she can be beyond charming and entertaining and I adore her.

School makes my girl happy.

It makes me happy too,

right?

8.20.11

2011-08-20T19:58:00.000-05:00

Tonight is Mr. Deschamps last night of ONC call for a long time.

(Don't worry, there is still plenty of other call headed our way.)

We made it through the worst rotation in 2nd year.

I divide the credit among Dr. Dittmeyer always having Dr. Deschamps back,

lots of visitors to keep me occupied,

a scheduled Girls Weekend,

excellent communication.

To commemorate our last Saturday of ONC (and the fact that Elle Belle is still alive), I treated the girls to a special day.

First we sent Daddy a good morning photo text.

Then we played puppies and read.

Because I felt loving to my very core, I took the girls to the new Smurf movie.

True love, I am telling you.

The girls hooted and howled over that silly movie.

I peacefully sipped Coke Zero and enjoyed the down time.

After checking in with Mr. Deschamps, we decided to brighten his day with a visit.

What was meant to be a quick stop, turned into a 3 hour family-fest.

There was snacking(peanut butter and grahams, milk and jello) and chatting(Daddy playing catch up on Olive and Elle's week) and reading(PS I love my Kindle) and even a little cat napping.

We finished trip off with a dinner at Sonic.

After I dropped Mr. D back at the hospital, I felt so thankful for the time we had together.

It is a priceless gift.

On our way home, we stopped at the corner fruit stand for fresh Texas peaches.

Peaches and Cream for dessert tomorrow night.

Ending the evening with jammies, teeth, potty, books, highs/lows and prayer,

I felt satisfaction.

Two fluffy little girls, fresh peaches and time with my best friend are the things that truly make me happy.

It is a simple life, but a happy one.

8.19.11

2011-08-19T21:19:00.000-05:00

My firstborn started Kindergarten today.

She insisted on posing on the grass for photos.

Olive is so excited to have Ms. Boydstun.

I have such a good feeling about this year.

Elle Belle went on a play date with Emory, and I spent the am organizing school supplies.

It was nice being able to snoop on my little girl.

During pick up, I realized Elle was missing a hearing aid.

She let me know she left it at the playground at the park.

Sweet.

After a slightly panicked trip to the park to recover an expensive device, Kaden found the hearing aid in 2 second flat.

To celebrate, we joined the Dickmans for sandwiches and fro yo.

Did I mention Olive and Kaden are in the same class?

I feel that kindergarten is a very important foundation for a child's entire educational life.

It teaches them to love learning.

Develop self-confidence.

Make friends.

If today is any indication of how Olive's school year is going to go, her future is very bright.

8.18.11

2011-08-18T20:18:00.002-05:00

Olive goes back to school tomorrow.

As tradition goes, I let her pick what we do for her last day of summer.

1. Go to the Zoo

2. Make fabric necklace

3. Make chocolate dipped strawberries

4. Special Dinner: Chicken Tacos

Elle had to get the demons out (after applying silver eyeshadow and refusing to wash her face).

It tried to convince Olive to do anything other than the Zoo (the heat was the main factor).

She was not having it; the Zoo was a must.

We also got snow cones.

After 2.5 hours in the heat, I earned an icy treat.

Elle took a nap while Olive and I made the strawberries.

We also made this necklace.

Elle Belle had a back to school open house, so we went to Ted's for tacos.

Kindergarten starts tomorrow.

(Deep sigh)

8.17.11

2011-08-17T18:49:00.004-05:00

Today was information day, do you remember last year?

(Please note that Olive is carrying the same exact puppy.)

It is time to start Kindergarten.

Ms. Boydstun is the teacher I have been hoping & praying for.

She will be PERFECT FOR OLIVE.

Olive was being a little shy, and Ms. Boydstun asked Olive if she likes to sing and dance.

"Because we sing and dance very day in our class."

Olive was sold.

It will be a great year.