The Hengerer's Happenings

I'm Baaa-aaack!

2012-01-16T15:55:00.000-08:00

Once again, I have risen from the abyss of life to post on our much neglected blog. Lately, much of my time has been sucked like a vacuum cleaner into that little site you may know and love, Pinterest.
So as I make my grand re-entrance into the world of blogging, may your taste buds be tickled by this little number from Pinterest.

Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
4 Sweet Potatoes
2 cups of butter
2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar

Directions
Bake potatoes in a preheated 400 degree oven for 50 minutes.
Remove from oven and and cut the top off exposing the flesh.

Allow to cool for 5 minutes (This is important or you will have scalded finger tips.)

Scoop out the flesh and mix with butter and cinnamon sugar in a medium bowl.

Spoon mixture back into the skin shells.

Top with a dollop of butter.

Bake at 400 for 10 minutes or until golden.

As per Hanger, this recipe is so delicious that it will make your tongue slap your brains out.

Sometimes you just forget....

2011-03-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

Every Christmas our family knows what their present will be. Since most have more than they need, we give photos of our children. After all they can't buy that at Target. Well in the craziness of what we call life, I forgot to schedule our family photo shoot. So at 4:30 pm on Christmas Eve, the kids and I headed to a not so secluded spot with the picture taker. Here's a bit of what I got.

Have You Spotted A Hengerer Lately?

2011-03-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

If you have, you must be lightning fast. We are a busy bunch! Hanger is keeping the roads hot delivering the goods and I am busy shuttling the kiddos to and fro. Last week while waiting patiently for the littles to kick it in karate, a friend said "You should blog, you'd be good at it." I had to chuckle as I thought about the poor Hengerer Happenings and the lack of attention I have devoted over the past year (2010 only saw one post).
Now that it is Spring Break and I am avidly avoiding a few projects, I took a few minutes (or hours) to revisit our much neglected, almost deceased family blog. So I have big plans to get back in the saddle.
Here is a snippet of what we have been up to for the past year....Take 1!

Bowling on a Budget!

2010-06-15T16:41:00.000-07:00

You know me I can't pass up a good deal...or two. Always on the lookout for cheap or free entertainment, this is a deal that could not be resisted!
When your kids have reached the point that poolside no longer intrigues them beat the heat with air-conditioned activites. Cassat Batt Bowl in Jacksonville offers two free games every day.

Registration is painless.
Log onto the site.
Choose a location.
Complete the registration fields.
Hop in the car.
Enjoy 2 free games.

The ensuing headache comes free of charge.
Hey, at least you aren't sweating!
Y
Holly

Out of hiding and into the light!

2009-10-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

Well, technically we have not been hiding, just super busy. Here is a little update.

Monster Baby and Boy are back in school. He has straight A's and plans on his reward being a webkinz iguana. She is almost there with 2 Bs and has high hopes of getting an American Girl Doll. They are both WARRIORS this season. So if you would like to see us in person, hang a left on Ballpark road and catch us if you can.

Hanger has been pulling daddy duty to the umpteenth degree. He plans on auditioning for the lead role in the upcoming reality show Househusbands of Callahan. Catch it this Fall on TLC (bahahaha).

I am all wrapped up in school and school and more school. Ironically, I love it. Miss my babies (and my baby daddy) but love it.

Because my adoring fans are missing out on our wit and humor, this is just for you know who!

Here's a chance to see how well you really know your husband. Cut, paste and fill in the answers, then tag some friends to do the same. The real challenge is to send it to your husband to see how right you really are!

1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the tv? Depends on what time it is...Sportscenter, CSI, The Mentalist or The Young and the Restless...yeah ladies, he's well rounded

2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad? Since he gets ceasar salad, I guess it would be ceaser

3. What's one food he doesn't like? squash and mushrooms

4. You go out to eat and have a drink. What does he order? Dr. Pepper

5. Where did he go to high school? Trinity

6. What size shoe does he wear? Depends on the shoe 12 or 13

7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be? Junk

8. What is his favorite type of sandwich? That depends on his mood- Seafood and Crab or Turkey...from Subway

9. What would this person eat every day if he could? lasagna

10. What is his favorite cereal? any that I found on sale :)

11. What would he never wear? Panties

12. What is his favorite sports team? Hello? Have you met him? Sports we have that covered...Baseball, Yankees, Football College Florida NFL Jags (thought I am not sure why)

13. Who did he vote for? the lesser of two evils

14. Who is his best friend? That is a toss up between Mark and Alan so I will say me

15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do? be loud...oh well

16. What is his heritage? uh....German

17. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what kind of cake? German Chocolate (blech)

18. Did he play sports in high school? baseball

19. What could he spend hours doing? talking about politics...please don't get him started

20. What is one unique talent he has? He's ambidextrous.

Adenomyosis: Not the Expected Diagnosis

2009-07-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

I've been very good thus far. Following directions and taking it easy have not been the simplest of tasks. Especially since there is a sock under the sofa table that has been there a week.

Well, it's not there now! I am free! Yippee!!! Well free to do most things....sorry Hanger just a few more weeks buddy.

Things checked out great today.
Blood pressure: Check.
Pain level: Check. (actually I have had very little....explained later)
Incisions: Check.
Pathology Report.....well....

After years of suffering with excruciating pain and unpredictable bleeding, we finally have a definitive diagnosis. Adenomyosis...Adenmyowhat????

Sometimes misdiagnosed as endometriosis within the uterus. The muscle walls of the uterus are invaded by the tissue lining the uterus causing a myriad of issues. Think having your bicep pumped full of lemon juice and you have the basic idea. Yeah, not fun. But this offers a valid reason for the ablation to fail...well that and stupid fibroid...aaaggghhh.

Symptoms:

Pain (ya think???? see above for description) for weeks before and after periods.
Unpredictable bleeding

So with the Big H, I expected to be in a lot of pain. Strangely, I felt, ok. Not good or great, but not excruciating pain that I have heard from horror stories. But I promise to continue to take it easy. (fingers crossed) The reason for my "lack of" pain is that the pain associated with adenomyosis is more severe than the surgery itself.

The only definitive way to diagnosis it: post-hysterectomy biopsy. Nice.

I'm glad there is a name for this crazy nuisance, and thankful to be out of pain. More than that, I rejoice in the fact that I my doctor has a personal relationship with Christ and meets with him daily.

To learn more about adenomyosis in a very reader friendly fashion, visit my friends .

Things Kids Say!

2009-07-11T14:14:00.000-07:00

Our kids have made an art of making funny comments at inopportune times. I just don't know where they get it. Since I have been "laid up" for the past 2 weeks, I have had the opportunity to catch many funny phrases....here's a sample:

...........................................................
Courtney: Can I take a shower? You haven't let me take on in THREE weeks!!
...........................................................
Brantley (as I am sleeping): Mom....Mom...M-O-M (yes he spelled it!)...MOM!! MMOOOMMMM!!!
Me: What!!
Brantley: I just wanted to know if you were really sleeping.
...........................................................
3:00 pm
Courtney: Can we have lunch now?
(When you don't have breakfast until 11 am it is perfectly acceptable to have lunch at 3 pm!)
...........................................................
Brantley: (As he is turning up the TV up way too loud!) Corney, I made the TV go to 99! Whoo Hoo!
...........................................................
Courtney: Mama, call K, she can take us to church then out to lunch. You wouldn't want us to miss out.
...........................................................
Scenario: Me lying in bed with pillow on my stomach. Brantley sitting on end of bed watching WWE Monday Night RAW

Brantley: (Jumps up) Can You See Me? Can You See Me?
Waves his hand in front of his face. Jumps up in the air and lands on bed.
Me writhing in pain from bracing for impact.
...........................................................
Courtney: Brantley I am going to be on Webkinz then it will be your turn. My turn starts now and ends when Daddy comes home. (three hours later)
Brantley: Ok but when you're done, it's my turn until Daddy gets home. (huh???)
...........................................................
Courtney: Mama, we haven't gone to CVS this week. Can I go do the deal with another mommy?
...........................................................
Brantley: Here Mom, you can hold Deer Hunt (his favorite bear...not to be confused with Deer Hunter...) He will make your tummy feel all better.
5 minutes elapse
Brantley: Does your tummy feel all better?
Me: Yes, thank you very much.
Brantley: Good because Deer Hunt wants to go play Monster Trucks.
...........................................................

We cherish these times with our babies....though they would tell you they are not babies!

Kids may say the darnedest things, but please know that the comments made by the Hengerer children do not necessarily reflect the opinions of their parents. Oh who am I kidding?

Perspective: A Reflection of the Current Situation

2009-06-27T09:57:00.001-07:00

***Warning, this post contains graphic information and descriptions. Just to let ya know.

Hanger and I recently celebrated our 10th anniversary. And like the 9 anniversaries before it, we ended up at the ballpark.

Celebrating 10 years of wedded bliss got me thinking...no not about the buzz of the power lines (although I am mesmerized by power lines) but about how our perspective has changed over the past 10 years.

From the very beginning, we knew that we wanted a family. We knew that we wanted an even number of children. We knew that we wanted at least one boy and one girl. We also knew that we would have trouble accomplishing these goals.

You see, for the thirteen years prior to our nuptials I experienced "female" problems. Yes, count them 13. Since the age of 10, I have learned to live with the excruciating pain that accompanies my ability to produce offspring. Pain that has forced me to say "suck it up, put on your big girl panties and live life" more than once. I think that same pain is what makes me roll my eyes when someone complains about "cramping". Poor thing...Sister, I could write the book! All in all the story has a happy ending, have you met our children, Miracle Baby Girl and Mr. Surprise. But that is a another story.

Back to perspective....During those dark times when we were trying to conceive, and the disappointment that followed each month, I was desperate for a uterus that was healthy enough to conceive and carry a baby full term. Many times I got down right mad at my friends who found themselves easily pregnant...as if it were their "fault" for getting pregnant. My perspective was jaded by the desire for a family that I felt I would never have.

After the births of our beautiful, God-sent babies my troubles did not change...On the contrary, they became worse.

Three years after Brantley was born, I had a endometrial ablation to help alleviate the constant bleeding. Apparently it is not healthy for a person to have a year long period...YA THINK! The success rate of ablation (according to my Dr.) is 80% of those who receive this kind of therapy experience no bleeding at all, ever after surgery. YAY!!!

Well, you know I am in that 20% that experiences failure. Just to add a little salt to the wound....I didn't miss a period. Well, that isn't exactly true. I started to finally have periodS. Oh the joy I felt having a "regular" 7 of 28 day cycle. For someone with my issues, 7 days is welcomed. But the story goes on...

7 of 28 days turned into 14 of 28 days with 7 day breaks. But you know, it was still something I could live with. Well apparently Dr. Long can't. At my last yearly visit, he said the words I have dreaded for many years.."hysterectomy"...well actually he said laproscopic supacervical hysterectomy, and yes that is a mouthful.

You know me...all about research. I found a great website for research and support but went straight to the discussion board and freaked myself out a little. I'm cool now. You know it is all about perspective.

Barring the discovery that endometrosis has attached to other organs, on Monday I will be having the LSH. The plan is for me to keep my cervix and ovaries.

So, even though MY perspective had changed greatly over they years, I am content with the fact that none of this has caught God off guard and HIS perspective is sovereign.

Now I am to the point of "Here, have my uterus...I'm not using it...it's broken anyway."

UNF=U Never Finish

2009-06-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

For the past several months...ok the past year, I have been toying with the idea of returning to school.

Yes I realize I should have heeded the wise counsel of my grandfather when I graduated from UNF some eleven years ago. "You might as well go ahead and get your masters now while you have student mentality. Later on you will be distracted by life." Oh what wise words those have become!

After much diligent prayer and wise counsel, the decision is obvious. Yet I must be from Missouri, because I am one of those people who needs a "sign".

So here's my list of signs!

"Hey Hengerer, lets start a Master's cohort." ~J Hearn

"15 people are needed to make a cohort, do you think you can get that many?" ~M Lamkin

50 people sign up to attend the meeting--30+ show up! ~J Menz

Online Educational Technology classes to be offered @ UNF ~Nassau County email

Cost of GRE $140...unexpected extra cash $170. hmmmmm

"It doesn't matter what you make on the GRE because your GPA was so high." ~UNF advisor

"If I score 1000 I'll be happy." ~Me

Verbal= 500 Quantitative = 500....500+500=1000 coincidence? I think not.

Hanger receives dividends for Publix stock= same amount as first semester of tuition.

Ok Ok I get it already!

So, in August when our kiddos load up their new backpacks with pencils, crayons and glue~I will seek to prove "U Never Finish".

Father Knows Best

2009-06-18T06:18:00.000-07:00

Think back to last month when I interviewed the kids about myself. Now the tables are turned. Here's what they had to say about Hanger.

Why did God make daddys?
Courtney:Because if we didn't have no daddy we would get in trouble a lot of times.
Brantley: To watch wrestling with me

How did God make daddys?
Courtney: He got his fingers and made the skin and then put the bones in and then put the blood in.
Brantley: He used Legos

What ingredients are daddy made of?
Courtney: bones and blood, I just said that.
Brantley: Guts

Why did God give you your daddy and not some other daddy?
Courtney: Because my mom wanted to marry my daddy
Brantley: because daddy knows the way home.

What kind of a little boy was your daddy?
Courtney: a good boy and sometimes he lied.
Brantley: a good boy and sometimes bad

What did dad need to know about mom before he married her?
Courtney: Is she a good mom because he can't marry a bad mom.
Brantley: He had to make sure she was the right person.

Why did your dad marry your mom?
Courtney: Because they dated each other, they had to check each other's hand to check to see if they were married to anybody else.
Brantley: because your my mama

Who's the boss at your house?
Courtney: Mom-she tells us what to do
Brantley: Dad-he tells us to clean our room and if we don't clean our room we get a spankin from the rump roaster.

What's the difference between dads and moms?
Courtney: Dads have short hair and get guns, moms have long hair and get Vera Bradleys (that's my girl!!!)
Brantley: Moms get their hair done at Mrs. Grace's and Dads get their hair done in the bathroom.

What does your dad do in her spare time?
Courtney: Stay on Farm Town
Brantley: Harve things on the Farm (yes you read that right, harve not harvest)

What would it take to make your daddy perfect?
Courtney: nothing because God already made him perfect
Brantley: waiting for a bus to pick him up

If you could change one thing about your dad, what would it be?
Courtney: Dye his hair rainbow colors.
Brantley: I would make him about 22 feet tall.

I don't know that I would want to be married to a giant with rainbow colored hair. I think I like him just the way he is.

Back When Life Was Simpler.....

2009-06-12T14:44:00.000-07:00

Growing up in Lake City, I paid my dues each summer (and spring and fall) by helping out in the family garden.

As a little girl I loved the days of digging in dirt and hiding in corn. I can not count the number of 'string' beans I have eaten straight off of the vine.

As a teenager, I would much rather go to the river than tend the crops. Shelling beans did not rank among my favorite June activities. I mastered the art of working fast because the rewards were great!

Oh those were simpler times.

Though G and G now live in Jacksonville and the garden is much smaller, the fact remains that the garden is a lifestyle for our family.

Here is a glimpse of Tater Day!

One of my jobs growing up was to date the jars. My scrawly handwriting changed greatly through the years. Now the tradition is passed on.

Hanger has decided that we will have a garden next year. I am so excited!

Packet of seeds: $ .75

Bag of fertilizer: $ 3.99

Carrying on a tradition: Priceless!

Happy Birthday Whopper!

2009-05-10T18:55:00.001-07:00

Not only is today Mother's Day, but it just so happens to be Whopper's birthday.

If you've read the book or seen the movie Marley and Me, just think same idea only black.

Whopper was a tiny little thing when we got him ten months ago. Now 92 lbs of pure muscle scarfs down a 32 lb of dog food every week. I suppose he is still a growing boy.

Happy Birthday Whopper, even if you did make me chase you all over the neighborhood today. I'll just call it Whopperobics!

Obsession~

2009-05-09T05:27:00.000-07:00

Merriam-Webster defines an obsession as a persistent disturbing preoccupation with an often unreasonable idea or feeling ; compelling motivation.

Does this qualify?

Just in case you were wondering, apparently the weight limit of the Large Duffel exceeds 46 pounds of giggling boy.

I am going to be in SOOOO much trouble for this one!

The Lazy Days of Spring

2009-05-08T13:48:00.000-07:00

Over Spring Break and Easter we enjoyed some peaceful days in south Georgia. Lake Park is home to the Alapahoochee Antique/Agriculture & Related Machinery Days and some real down-home folks. Enjoy the show...we sure did!

Interview with the Curtian Climbers

2009-05-06T14:04:00.000-07:00

I know you have seen the email running around about 2nd graders being interviewed about their moms. So I decided to ask my kiddos the same questions...here's what I got.

Why did God make mothers?
Courtney:So that kids can not get stolen because the mom always knows where they are.
Brantley: To tie my shoes

How did God make mothers?
Courtney: Used his finger to poke in eyes, nose and a mouth.
Brantley: With playdough.

What ingredients are mothers made of?
Courtney: air (followed by wooshing sound)
Brantley: Hair and guts

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
Courtney: Because we look alike
Brantley: Because you know all of the monster truck names

What kind of a little girl was your mom?
Courtney: sweet innocent little girl and always obeyed your mommy and daddy (ok! Yeah right!!!)
Brantley: A Gull (that is Hengerer speak for girl)

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
Courtney: Does he trust in God (Good answer!)
Brantley: Does he shoot people? You can only shoot deer, bears and snakes.

Why did your mom marry your dad?
Courtney: Because he needed somebody to lift up the four wheeler and fold up his clothes. (Gee Thanks Kid!)
Brantley: because you loved him

Who's the boss at your house?
Courtney: Dad because he’s the oldest.
Brantley: Daddy because he is the daddy

What's the difference between moms and dads?
Courtney: Moms get Vera Bradleys and dad get guns.
Brantley: Moms are very cuter than dads and they talk when the daddy says be quiet.

What does your mom do in her spare time?
Courtney: Ride the 4 wheeler and go camping
Brantley: She just waits and waits and waits

What would it take to make your mom perfect?
Courtney: Having God in your heart (Can you tell what we have been talking about lately)
Brantley: Buying a new Monster Truck for me.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
Courtney: Dye and cut your hair. But only Mrs. Grace can do it we are not allowed to cut our own hair or we get a spanking.
Brantley: I wouldn't change anything because I want to keep you just the same.

Things I learned:
My kids are silly (oh, I already knew that but it was defiantly reaffirmed!)
Courtney is developing God-sense.
I need to go see Grace.
Brantley wants a new Monster Truck.

They are so funny!!!

By the way, my husband does NOT shoot people, only deer, bears and snakes.

Can You Feel The Love?

2009-05-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

Would someone please explain to me why Love Bugs are called Love Bugs? No one I know LOVES them!

They serve absolutely no purpose this I am sure of.

Of course, our doors are white, so the flock in droves to cover every little white crevice of the entrances to our home. It futile to try to kill them, as I am sure there are several trillion cheering me on with their little buggy cries in hopes of gaining their spot on my once pristine entryway.

Why, oh why, must the windshield of my car be their prime means of suicide? Don’t dare try to spray them off with the windshield-wiper-sprayer-thingy, because surely that would be that day that after one swipe of the wiper blade the washer fluid runs out after one squirt and there you are left with a windshield full of red and black insect innards in the shape of a rainbow.

Other than the fact that they fly around fornicating in from of my little children, I have no idea whey they are called LOVE Bugs.

Independence Day!

2009-05-01T16:54:00.000-07:00

Yes, I realize that July 4th is Independence Day and we have just entered the month of May.

For quite a while, Hanger and I have realized that our babies are not babies any longer.

Gone are the days of lugging the carrier car seat, rocking them to sleep and matching seersucker and bows with every hair in place.

Oh how I love the fact that they fasten their own seat belts, sleep in big kid beds and dress themselves with little supervision (Some days it really shows!)

My new found independence is bittersweet. They need me in a whole new way. Though I may not be very secure with it, I understand my changing role as a parent.

Tonight, I realized that I have lost one more staple of babydom. After playing outside, they ran inside giggling and jumped on me. What is it about stinky little kid smell that totally erases the sweetness of baby scent? I know you know what I am talking about. When kids play outside…they get a SMELL. It isn’t body odor, but it is putrid.

Off to the tub! Then it hit me…they both have only taken showers this week. No longer do they need me to fill the tub with a cap full of Mr. Bubbles. Gone are the days of playing with rubber duckies and hot wheels in the bath. Yes you read that right, Brantley plays with hot wheels in the bathtub, but you already knew our kids aren’t typical right.

When I asked Courtney is she needed my help, her response, was “no, I got it.” Disappointment…My baby boy will need me “No fanks Mom I’m a big boy.”
So as I sulk in my own independence pity party, I cross my fingers hoping they will still want to have bedtime lotion. Even if they aren’t babies, at least they can smell like they are courtesy of Mr. Johnson and Johnson!

Do You Know the Answer? A Child's Future Depends On It!

2009-04-18T18:13:00.000-07:00

Question:

What do you call a neurological disorder effecting approximately 1 in 150 births each year, typically manifesting by age 3, impacting social interaction and communication skills, associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors, occurring 4 times as often in boys than girls, with no definitive known cause, and no authoritative cure?

Answer:

Question:
What are the signs?

Answer:
Individuals with autism usually exhibit at least half of the traits listed below. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and vary in intensity from symptom to symptom. In addition, the behavior usually occurs across many different situations and is consistently inappropriate for their age.

Difficulty in mixing with other children
Inappropriate laughing and giggling
Little or no eye contact
Apparent insensitivity to pain
Prefers to be alone; aloof manner
Spins objects
Inappropriate attachment to objects
Noticeable physical overactivity or extreme underactivity
Unresponsive to normal teaching methods
Insistence on sameness; resists changes in routine
No real fear of dangers
Sustained odd play
Echolalia (repeating words or phrases in place of normal language)
May not want cuddling or act cuddly
Not responsive to verbal cues; acts as deaf
Difficulty in expressing needs; uses gestures or pointing instead of words
Tantrums - displays extreme distress for no apparent reason
Uneven gross/fine motor skills (May not want to kick ball but can stack blocks)
Adapted from the original by Professor Rendle-Short, Brisbane Children's Hospital, University of Queensland, Australia. By The Center for Autism and Related Disorders

Question:
How can I help?

Answer:
Visit....
Autism Speaks
Center For Autism and Related Disorders

Sources
Autism Speaks Autism Society of America
Center for Autism and Related Disorders
Center for Disease Control Prevention

Pretty Lips and a Prince's Prayers

2009-04-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

What happens to a home when the mommy is sick? Come visit and you will see!

There are dirty dishes in the kitchen sink, damp towels on the bathroom floor, and a load of clothes on the couch waiting to be folded. The mommy has not had pretty lips this week.

The slight cough may have been the first sign that I was getting sick. Definitely the ache in my chest should have been a clue. Fever...maybe I should think about calling the doctor.

Oh yes SICK I was! With strict doctor orders and a (literal) butt load of medicine, I found myself under my favorite quilt when I should have been in front of my eager students.

Wednesday, thanks to my cough suppressant, is quite a blurr. I do however remember Boy coming and laying down beside me and rubbing my head. He prayed...

Dear Jesus, thank you for today (That is how just about all of his prayers start). Make my mommy feel better and have pretty lips. In Jesus name amen.

Today, I feel a million times better! I was able to pick up the kids from school today. When Boy climbed in the car, his eyes widened. "Mommy, you have pretty lips, you are all well!"

Thank you Revlon Rum Raisin for pretty lips and thank you my little intercessor for your prayers that I would feel better.

Now what first...Dishes, towels or laundry? Ah who cares...it has been there 3 days, what's one more?

Its a Beautiful Baby.......

2009-04-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

I just love babies....well as long as they don't come to live at our house. I really love the liberation of my children's independence. You know that whole thing that they put their own seatbelts on and such.

As you may be able to tell it is WAYYYY past my bed time. Here I sit at 11:41 pm waiting for news of the newest baby on the blog. We were promised updates and they just are not coming fast enough....something about 9 cm and not much time left. Your followers deserve more!!!!!

I don't know where it comes from, but I have this really uncanny ability to "predict" the sex of babies. I can't do it on demand, but it sometimes just happens and I am like 10 and 0...I've never been wrong...so I know it is coming one day. Anyway getting back to the baby in waiting....

When we first heard of the impending arrival of this little bit, I knew it was a girl. I don't think her mama was even 12 weeks pregnant when I knew. Because her mama is about as patient as I am, she scheduled an ultrasound at a private facility. How sweet to be able to experience this time with 15 family and friends. Well, her mommy was sure to hop on the phone to let me know that I was wrong. Really? Its a boy? I was so sure.

Well guess what...I was right! Its a G-I-R-L. The ultrasound at our doctor office revealed that she is a she and not a he. (Though they had a really great boy name pciked out) I knew it...don't know how but I did.

So now we wait for the arrival of little KMR in the next few minutes and the posts on the daddy blog are not coming fast enough. Really how many times can I click refresh? I am up to like a thousand I think.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

Give Me A Hand!

2009-03-13T19:55:00.001-07:00

Who was it that said the eyes are the windows into the soul? Someone way more smarter than I.

Hands tell a story. According to the other half of my brain, K, I have an affintiy for hands. I thought....Nah...but then I started looking through pictures.......

Ok so maybe she was right!

Male Pattern Baldness

2009-03-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

Little boys and daddys should not be left alone with hair clippers and the camera.

Hanger and Holly Go For A Ride!

2009-03-12T20:26:00.000-07:00

A little while ago...ok January, the kids, Hanger and I along with a few of our closest friends loaded up the camper and headed north to ride. Aptly named H&H Ride Park, Jessup is the home of one of my new favorite places.

Though this trip was spotted by a few...ahhmm...details....we had a blast riding, camping and playing Mario Kart. Apparently one of the essentials of roughing it is a flat screen and the Wii, but hey who are you to judge us?

Enjoy the show!

Snap Happy

2009-03-12T19:56:00.000-07:00

For a very long time I have been a picture freak. So much that I rembember the very first picture I ever took. It was of my Grandaddy and Granny in the Smoky Mountians at Newfound Gap. I was 5.

My love for documenting memories only grew when I discovered scrapbooking. But now, 2 kids later, who has time?

I have a new passion, photo editing. Hanger bought me this little picture taker for Christmas (well really Thanksgiving, but I am suppose to call it my Christmas present...he's weak!) Anyway, I have been playing with my little picture taker for about 5 months now. I love it!! It really needs a name.

Now I am by no means Chris Reinolds, but I do like capturing life's little happies!

Here is a snippit of what I have been playing around with lately.

A New Record!

2009-03-03T19:43:00.000-08:00

3 posts in 1 day.

Well, I have been tagged and since I am trying to avoid doing other things that are probably more important at 10:45 pm Here goes nothing.

4 jobs I've had:
1. Wife and Mom to the craziest family around...really we have papers!
2. Callahan Intermediate School: Teacher Varying Exceptionalities
3. Pinedale Elementary School: Teacher preK Autism
4. Andrew Robinson Elementary School: Teacher wet behind the ears six years older than my oldest student scared out of my mind!

4 movies watched over and over:
1. Steel Magnolias
2. The Notebook
3. 50 First Dates
4. Anything by the hilarious Tyler Perry (we just may be related)

4 places I've lived:
1. Lake City
2. Jax Beach
3. Hanger made me a Westside kinda girl
4. Cow-Lu-Han

4 shows I watch:
1. CSI
2. The Mentalist
3. Ghost Whisperer
4. Y&R

4 places I've been:
1. Walmart
2. Target
3. Publix
4. The Bathroom

4 people who e-mail me regularly:
1. The Bakers
2. people at work with technology issues
3. Candi
4. Prime Minister Usafasted Unmed in Kenya saying I won the United South African Zimbabwe Lottery

4 favorite things to eat:
1. Anything cooked by my Granny
2. Strawberry Whoppers
3. Crab legs
4. Cajun Ranch Wings

4 places I'd rather be:
1. In bed sleeping
2. At the river camping
3. Snuggling with Hanger
4. Playing with the kiddos

4 things I look forward to this year:
1. Starting school
2. July...Camping with G and the kiddos
3. Another school year
4. Pursuing being debt free

4 people to tag:
1. Candi
2. Jenny
3. Tara
4. Kristen

The CrAzY Things That happen While Daddy is Away

2009-03-03T19:33:00.000-08:00

Why do crazy things happen on my watch …Ros…stop right there;)

I had the bright idea that while the boys were playing in New Orleans (I still find it a little funny that they went around the time of Mardi Gras hmmmm) that we could have a get together with some of the girls left to hold down the fort.

My friend who is full of Grace, volunteered her home and everyone brought a covered dish. Unfortunately, she ended up having to work late, so I was in charge of playing hostess in someone else’s home. A little odd, but ok. I guess she didn’t know my fault of tardiness. LOL….let’s just say that I was NOT the first to arrive.

Our little drama queen has picked up the habit of expressing a little more performance than usual lately. Of course when it is time to go no one made the mess of toys in the playroom (though she diligently tried to convince me that it was ALL Boy’s fault)

Reluctantly, (ok so yeah I bribed them) they decided to help clean up the mess.

Suddenly I see Courtney holding her neck like she is choking, her face panicked.

As quickly as it started it passed so I immediately think that she was faking.
“I SWALLOWED A PIBBLE” bellowed from her lungs, well at least she can breathe. In a panic she screams “ I swallowed a pibble, I swallowed a pibble!”

What in the world is a pibble? She meant pebble. You know the kind I am taking about, decorative, found in glass vases, fish tanks and such…not the mouths of seven year olds.

My friend K and I both made attempts to convince her that it would come out in the ‘end’. Yet she was not deterred. Boy, being the little man that he is (always gotta “fix” the problem) said, “Just go poop right now”. Um yeah, it doesn’t exactly happen like that. Little K was very concerned that Courtney swallowed the ‘pibble’. Maybe traumatized was more like it, but nonetheless, very concerned.

After getting her calm enough to leave (read: stand her during the 5 minute car ride home), I started thinking. (again, Ros, no comments from the peanut gallery). Lead. Lead causes brain damage, glass is made from lead so yep you guessed it…I called poison control. The lady on the other end of the line, (through stifled laughs I am convinced) reassured me that it would all come out in the ‘end’.

Whether or not it did, I assume so. She seems to have no trouble ‘going’.

Still I have to ask…Why ME? Then I am reminded, “because I am the mommy, that’s why”….I always knew that statement would come back to haunt me. Sheesh…mommy needs a vacation.

The Big Easy

2009-03-03T18:42:00.001-08:00

*** Disclaimer*** This post becomes a little...lets say.... mushy... at the end. Those with weak stomachs should read with caution :o)

Apparently there were lots of BIG things out in New Orleans, but none of the work was EASY.

Hanger has recently returned from New Orleans on a stateside mission trip with our church.

A few months ago we were more than slightly annoyed by a news story about Hurricane Katrina victims who are still living on the First Coast in government funded hotel rooms eating government funded meals and spending "our" hard earned tax dollars to buy smokes for the corner 7-11.

Along comes God toting Operation NOAH Rebuild and ka-chow the sting can still be felt in our cheeks. It really isn't our money now is it?

Hanger, and his two dragster friends (that is fellas who drag race not dress in drag) had the opportunity to work on a house for a family who was truly in need.

Hanger returned home changed. Leaving with preconceived notions that the clean up was in the end stages, reality soon hit. He was amazed by the fact that it was not that areas needed to be cleaned up, but the fact that many Parrish's were completely deserted.

Even three years after the devastation of Katrina has long since slipped the mind of us regular folk who continue on about our days business as usual, an elderly lady sits dying in her FEMA trailer. Dying! Her house has yet to be restored to a livable condition and the camper supplied by our government releases toxic formaldehyde that is slowly taking away the only thing she has left...her next breath. To add insult to injury, contractors have literally stolen tens of thousands of dollars from this family as they have been paid for work that has not been completed. To further add salt to the wound, the federal government is preparing to take back the trailer she is currently living in. Where will she go?

I am so proud of Hanger! He and a small group from our church are planning to go back and finish what they started. He has somewhat taken ownership of this project. I think he feels a connection to this family in that he truly understands not only are we not promised tomorrow but that our possessions are temporal.

As we continue to be faithful stewards of our resources, Hanger is giving up his vacation time to go minister to another family in need. I knew when I met him that he was the one, but I love the man he has grown to be even more.

Fallen Off The Face of the Earth....

2009-02-16T13:39:00.000-08:00

No we haven't!

We have however been busy little bees.

Short of death, you name it, in the past 3 weeks we have had it!

My life (figuratively) almost ended when our computer went to the great technology home in the sky. The motherboard did what ever it is that motherboards do when they no longer continue to work properly. Either way, three weeks and several hundred dollars later, we now have one bad mamma jamma computer that I am still learning. It is good to know people who know people...Thanks Jimmy!

In my infinite wisdom, I decided that ne'r do I have enough to do, so why not add one tiny little morsel to my plate. In the fall, I will be going back to school to pursue my masters degree in Educational Leadership. Because two heads are better than one (an misery loves company) I am putting together a masters cohort...talk about work! Just to get myself in the swing of being back in school, I am also taking an online professional development class. Um, yeah, some people smoke crack, I take classes. Call me crazy. All will be truly worth it in the end....I hope!

In the middle of all of this excitement, Hanger took a little excursion to New Orleans. No, he did not make it for Mardi Gras, but instead to help build a house for Project NOAH rebuild. As for me, I was held hostage by the natives for a week. After several therapy sessions, my psychiatrist thinks the tics may eventually go away *tic*tic*tictictic*

In the upcoming days (ok maybe weeks or months) you need to check back often as our already stressed schedule is going to become a little more hairy than usual. Man, I really need time management lessons.

If you happen to find a few spare minutes, could you please email them to me. I am kinda stretched a little thin.

Brutally Honest

2009-01-23T12:40:00.000-08:00

Apparently I have "won" an award. I am not sure what "receiving" it from 2 of my friends means but here goes nothing....

The rules of the award:
1) Choose a minimum of 7 blogs that you find brilliant in content or design.
2) Show the 7 winners names and links on your blog, and leave a comment informing them that they were prized with "Honest Scrap." Well, there's no prize, but they can keep the nifty icon.
3) List at least 10 honest things about yourself.

The honest things about me:

1. Christ died just for me...well maybe not just for me as in all exclusive, not for you, but none-the-less, I serve a Lord who is ALIVE!!!

2. I firmly believe that vehicles should have names. This would be why I drive the "Prix" (pronounced Pricks...not Pree!)

3. My husband is Superman...even Tim Tebow wears Hanger pajamas!!! But seriously, my man rocks!

4. My kids are LOUD! And really, I'm ok with that.

5. I believe that is you do not stand up for what you believe in, you might as well lie down and get trampled.

6. I could just choke people who are selfish. The funny thing is most selfish people don't even realize their selfishness, I suppose they are blinded by their entitlement. JOY Jesus Others You. When will people ever get that right? For some it is more like YYY so my question is Why?

7. I am easily annoyed by those who take sarcasm out of context. To be friends with me is know that half of what I say is followed by a *smirk*. That's why you love me :o)

8. Some people were made to be stay at home mommys...I on the other hand would probably take up drinking. (For those of you who take things way too seriously, that was a joke. See #7)

9. I have always been one of the boys...girls are so catty! Catty girls grow up to be selfish ugly old ladies.

10. I am so excited to be going to graduate school at UNF. So much so that I have enlisted about 30 of my (not so) closest friends. They said I needed 15 to make a cohort, so I got 30, yeah~I'm a little bit of an over achiever!

11. Ok so the instructions say 10 things but Ros's had 11 so I guess I am going with the flow....wait, that doesn't count as my entry......I became a better teacher when I became a mommy, I became an even better teacher when they started school!

Candi One of my oldest friends, not that she is old, I just have known her the longest.

Jenny My off her rocker friend who has decided that since her baby is in second grade it is time to start over.

Abbi Kennedy's mommy, my friend from up north (well Hilliard is north of Callahan)

Tara Her husband is one crazy cracker!

Teen with a name like Tingaling, you know you can't wait to read her blog.

Melody This girl is more level headed than most adults.

Chris Only the best photographer in all of North Florida! We like them a little bit.

2 Ways to Skin a Cat

2009-01-18T15:31:00.000-08:00

With almost everything in life, you can find more than one solution to a problem.

One of us (can you guess which one) is an impulse shopper. With Circuit City closing its doors, we jumped on the opportunity to purchase a new TV at a discounted price.

Hanger has also recently fallen in love with a new Wii game, thus because of discounted prices, had to buy it.

I suppose the sales guy was so excited to be selling a TV that he forgot to take the game out of the theft deterrent case. Half way home while rummaging through the bag I realized this. Great, another trip to Regency.

Since there are 2 ways to skin a cat, no trip to Regency needed.....

Before

After

What's that about speak softly and carry a big stick? My husband wields a hammer instead :0)

HAH!!! I Found It!

2009-01-17T19:28:00.000-08:00

As promised.....

This is what I got "attacked" by...our 70 pound 8 month old puppy (and I use that term loosely!)

Whopper attacks come with complementary slobber and lots of drool. Lucky me!

2 Out of 3 Ain't Bad!

2009-01-17T19:07:00.000-08:00

I folded 2 loads of laundry, posted 2 tips on Holly's Hints~No Desk Required (yeah, that is one you really should bookmark) and took 2 pictures.....

But like everything at our house, when you need something it seems to be missing, misplaced or flat out lost. Soooo, when ever I find the USB cable to connect the camera to the computer, I'll post pictures of what has been up at the Hengerer House.

Let me just say you want to stay tuned because I got attacked by Whopper and there are two ways to skin a cat! Pictures coming soon! I promise:)

Mommy for President!

2009-01-16T12:24:00.000-08:00

As promised, my very first ever blog about teaching tips.....here goes nothing.

As a parent, I strive to rear independent, well-rounded children. Life experiences contribute to future learning. Because of these personal experiences, children are able to make connections with the material they choose to read.

Enter one of my favorite books "So You Want To Be President" by Judith St. George. Usually I pull this book out in February to prepare for President's Day, but being an inauguration year, hello!

Buy it here from scholastic!

Presidents come in all shapes, sizes, backgrounds and personalities. This books captures the hilarity of the pitfalls and plus points of those who serve the highest office of our nation. Above all the humanity of the man behind the office is captured in this children's book.

Packed with silly though interesting facts and caricature type pictures, your young child's interest is sure to be peaked. Which may lead them to ponder...Hey...I want to be president someday.

To go along with that, we are making flag wind socks this weekend.

Materials:
Blue construction paper (duh!)
50 Silver Star Stickers (you know what I'm talking about the old school foil ones)
Red and White party streamers (find it on sale and get bonus points!)
Glue
Pipe Cleaner
Hole punch

Directions
Stick the stars (in straight lines) on the blue construction paper. Mom's will LOVE this as it keeps the kiddos busy for at least 20 minutes. For older kids, have them name the states in order of induction into the Union--afterall the stars do represent the number of states in our great nation. Next, use the glue to attach the red and white streamers to the bottom of the starry blue paper. Bend the paper to form a tube and fasten with glue. Finally punch two holes in the top of the blue cylinder and thread the pipe cleaner through to make a hanger.

Wa-Lah! There you have it!

By the way, if you want to learn more about a lady who has a funny sense of humor and shares it with children, check out Judith St. George.

Organization is the key!

2009-01-14T18:04:00.000-08:00

Did I hear a collective sigh or relief that the hectic-helter-skelter-don't-even-think-about-any-kind-of-schedule holidays are over? Our lives are heading into the busiest season of the year for us as the umpire yells PLAY BALL!!!

I have demended of myself (and may need constant accountability from you all my friends) that I will NOT be team mom, manager or have anyother "team" obligation this season. After two CRAZY seasons, I am going to take my trusty camp chair & my camera and actually get to watch my children play the game my husband so adores.

This should be an easy feat since I am most certian that Boy will still play T-ball while Courtney moves on up to coach-pitch. I am not so sure how I feel about grown men throwing a baseball at my dainty first-born, child, but I think I will manage. After all such is the consequence for growing up.

Speaking of consequence, this means I will now be juggling 3 ball schedules. Oh joy:)

I am also going to embark on a few new endeavors which you may find appealing.

Endeavor #1-Take a picture a day. Not that I don't already do this, but now you,my favorite reader will get a visual sneak peak into our lives.

Endeavor #2-Post a teaching tip every day. By popular demand, I will dip into my wallet of knowledge (eyes-rolling) and share a few pennies.

Endeavor #3-Fold the laundry.

Just thought you'd like to know.

Wii are Fam-uh-lii

2008-12-28T14:11:00.000-08:00

Not that the PS3, DVD player and DirecTV DVR receiver don't take up enough room, wii have a new addition to our entertainment center.

Just so you know, here are the top 10 reasons wii will never go to the bowling ally again...

10. Mommy's chili trumps concession stand nachos.
9. You don't go home smelling like smoke. In fact you already are home and if you are smoking in our house, you better hope you are on fire.
8. Clean bathrooms (well, at least I know when they were last cleaned:)
7. Footwear...though bowling shoes are oh so fashionable, I prefer socks thank you very much.
6. The casual dress code...Where else are pajama pants perfectly acceptable?

5. 8 ounces is lighter than 10 pounds...or in Hanger's case, 14.
4. The ball never gets stuck.
3. I can actually beat Hanger for once...or twice ;)
2. Contortionist kid....see picture below.
1. The Fat Man Dance....need I say more?

If you don't see any of the Hengerers for a while, just drop by, wii are probably bowling!

We've Gone Mad!

2008-12-22T21:16:00.000-08:00

Many of our family and friends quite traditionally pen holiday letters this time of year. Not so much the conformist, I submit for your viewing pleasure, the Hengerer Mad Lib Holiday Letter. Just for kicks, leave your answers in the comments section....even if you are just an uuuhhhmmm ......blogspot stalker....starts with T rhymes with Ara :0)

Dearest (plural noun),

At long last the end of another (adjective) year is upon us. We hope that you and your (noun) are enjoying a (adjective) holiday season. This year has found our home (adjective) yet (adjective) and our children are (verb ending with -ing)like(plural noun).

(Superhero) began kindergarten this year. He can be summed up in one word "(exclamation)!" Please pray for his (adjective) teacher as she may very well need (noun meaning prescription medication). (Small woodland creature), now in first grade, continues to cheer for the (your favorite football team) and competed in First Coast Conference's Pop Warner competition at (proper noun meaning location).

This year has seen a new member added to our brood. Our latest addition, Whopper, chews on (noun) and (noun) every (time word). Although this behavior is somewhat (verb), we are convinced that our home school version of obedience training will eventually become effective.

As a family, we can regularly be found in the (noun) between Callahan and Waycross on our(number)-wheelers. As we (verb) through the bogs and trails, the kids (verb) onto the back of the ride for dear life.

Hanger has (adverb) enjoyed a (adjective) and (adjective) year driving the (adjective meaning size) green truck. He and I have taken up (violent sport) which we find more effective than marriage therapy. Though he has a black (facial feature) and I am missing a (body part), we look forward to celebrating our tenth year of wedded (noun).

It is our hope that 2009 brings you and your (personal noun) much (noun) and a little (adjective) laughter.

Yours (adverb),
The Hengerers

Choose Your Battles Wisely....

2008-12-19T19:18:00.000-08:00

One of the most important pieces of parenting advice! Long before Hanger and I became parents we, like all soon-to-be parents, had a set of "expectations". My child will do this... or... my child won't do that... Whatever the case may be we just knew that our children would be well the mannered, always obedient example for all children they meet.

Since the ~~nut~~ apple doesn't fall far from the tree, I know that you are not surprised that our kids tend to be a little loud and unpredictable.

Soft-spoken they are not, hard-headed some may say. Well mannered? Define well.

I have resigned myself to the fact that with my children there are several levels of cleanliness. Never will their rooms be spotless.

Nonetheless I ask myself: Why can Courtney not keep her room clean? When Brantley finally gets around to cleaning his room, he is able to maintain a satisfactory level of cleanliness for about a week. Courtney on the other hand is unable to keep her room tidy for ten minutes.

I suppose that I should just be happy that she is vacuuming. And YES, those are earmuffs intended to be used at the shooting range. I am quite sure the manufacturer never imagined they would be used to drown out a thunderous combination of Hannah Montana and her seven year old impersonator accompanied by the roar of the Dirt Devil.

Eavesdropping...........

2008-12-12T12:20:00.000-08:00

I truly believe the phrase "out of the mouths of babes" was coined after my children. Have you met them? Please know that they are apt to say just about anything.

Here is a snippet of what I heard this afternoon.....

Characters:
Courtney-first born, a little sassy, thinks she is a princess
Brantley-known to many as Boy, monster truck connoisseur, easily annoyed

C: Hey, Boy wanna play?
B: I'm all "weady" playin'
Courtney brings an arm load of Barbies into his room and plops them in the middle of his floor.
C: Get your monster trucks out of my way.
B: It's my "woom" and my monster trucks.
C: I won't be your friend.
B: Bbbblllluuummmmm
C: Did you hear me?
B: I don't care.
Courtney sings some annoying song from Camp Rock as she plays.
B: Corney...
Singing continues
B: Corney....
Courntey begins to sing louder.
B: CORNEY!!!! Go to your own "woom".
C: You're not the boss of me.
B: Oh yeah I am, "dis" is my "woom" and I make the "wules".
C: Daddy said that your room is attached to his house so he is the boss of your room.
B: Well mommy is the boss of the "west" of the house so mommy is the boss of the "woom" and not you.
C: Mommy would say that Jesus said share, so you haaaaave to let me play.
B: I don't have to do nuffing.
C: Do too.
B: Do not.
C: Do too.
B: Do not.
C: Do not.
B: DO TOO!!!
C: I TRICKED YOU!
B: I'm telling Mommy.
C: Go tell her and tell her you don't want to share either.
B: Hhhhmmmmffff!!!
I'm sure his eyebrows are furrowed.
B: FINE! Play with your stupid Bahbies. I'm gonna watch Boomawang.
Stomps out.
Mom: Hey man what's up?
B: Nuffing.
M: Oh I thought maybe you would like to play with Courtney.
B: No she don't know how to share.
M: Oh really?
B: Mommy, who's the boss?
M: Boss of what?
B: Boss of me.
M: God.
B: God?
M: Uhh-Huhh
B: Man....Why did God give me a sistah and not a bruddah?
Through the laughter, I could not answer.

Please note that the opinions expressed by our children are not necessarily those of their parents!

The Simple Life

2008-12-04T13:38:00.000-08:00

In our hectic quest to live the American Dream, there are many traditions that sadly fall by the wayside. Sewing, growing a garden, canning your own vegetables and making meals from scratch have silently taken a back seat to Old Navy, running through the Chicken House drive thru (because green beans are vegetables after all) and over taxed schedules.

This weekend I had the opportunity...no the honor...of experiencing one of these traditions. Old fashioned cane grindin' (fer you city folk, that is not a misprint!)

For those of you who visit our blog for a good chuckle, you are just going to have to wait until later. I would not want to spoil the reverence of this institution.
I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves!

A Cornucopia of Savings

2008-11-26T22:22:00.000-08:00

So as many may know, and Hanger quite frequently reminds me, I am a little crazy. Not nutty, psycho-ward, papers to prove it crazy, but just a little (ok maybe a lot) willing to do things that are not quite the norm.

Thus my shopping trip at 11:15 p.m.

I caught a smile as I told Hanger that I would be shopping at CVS tonight. Courtney was a little disappointed that "Doing the Deal" would occur after her bedtime.

So all nestled in their beds, my family slept soundly, dreaming of sugar plums and all that is sweet, while I braved the wilds of Callahan this Thanksgiving Eve.

I suppose that I have a few friends that are just as certifiable as I am, though names are withheld to protect the not so innocent! Let's just say that I was not alone in my adventure to the "Black Friday Sales on Thanksgiving Day" Sale at CVS.

After a little peer pressure to buy items not on my list and a LOT of issues with my Extra Bucks (niceness is the same as persistence) I walked away with $268.84 of merchandise for $70.60. For you mathematicians, that is a whopping $198.24 saved.

So, what does $70 buy at the Hengerer house.....

I spent real money on the following items:
Kodak Easy Share C713 Camera
2 packs of AA batteries (4pack)
1 Aussie Shampoo
2 Colgate Total Advanced Clean toothpaste
2 sets of Philips headphones for all of the electronic gadgets in our house that make noise
2 All Small and Mighty Laundry Detergent
3 Bottles of Gatorade

Using Extra Bucks,
1 Rival CrockPot
for $.03 YES that is 3 CENTS! I would say that I put in my 2 cents, but I guess with our economy, one must account for inflation :)

For Free.....No-O Dinero......
2 Scan Disk 2G SD cards

So what am I thankful for this Thanksgiving Season,
A gracious God,
Superman as a Husband,
2 healthy kids

and CVS!!!!!!

Tag...you're It!

2008-10-21T14:11:00.000-07:00

I miss childhood games, hide-and-seek, Little Sally Walker and Red Rover....but my all time favorite was freeze tag! As adults I think we should have recess instead of coffee breaks.

Apparently I have been tagged by my friend Carrie from church.

The rules of tagged are simple. 7 statements about yourself that you are sure no one else knows. Yeah, simple for some...difficult for me. For those of you who know me (and if you are reading our family blog I assume you do) I am pretty much surface level. What you see is what you get.

Well here goes nothing.....

1. One day I want to adopt a child. Yeah, I know we already have 2. Before Courtney was born, we were going through the process. Our prayer was that God would make the right child evident. Well when you end up pregnant, I suppose the right one is evident. None the less, one day....

2. We have a pet hermit crab. He has four different names. Courtney calls him Star. Boy named him Kyle. James refers to him as McCalin...don't ask. I call him "that crab".....oh now we don't call him anything....he's dead

3. I cry when I am mad. No I mean, really, ugly-face-snotty-nose-you-better-watch-out beller! Very few people have EVER seen me mad.

4. The first major purchase I made after graduating college was buy a car...no I really don't think a Mustang can ever be called just a car...it was a legend. Then Courtney came along.....bye bye little Mustang.....hello Mommy-mobile....We aren't minivan people!!!! Even though the "Manny Van" is long gone and the Prix is FAST....I still miss the Stang!!!!!!!!

5. Speaking of cars, all of the cars I have ever owned have names.

My first car, an '84 Toyota Celica with a leaky sunroof was called Squirt....because you never knew when it would. It could not have rained for days and then turn a corner...SQUIRT!

Then came the Tomato, a red '89 Nissan Sentra that my uncle bought from the auction. He probably paid a dollar for it. That is just how he rolls. After that was Nelly, whom you met in the previous paragraph.

Nelly was traded down, way down, for a 1998 Black Chevy Blazer. I am not so sure that the Blazer had an official name. Hanger did say "Oh crap" a lot while riding in it. But then again, we lived in Jacksonville during that time. (of course it was not because my driving scares him...ssssshheesshhh!)

The "Manny Van" served a short-lived stint as my main mode of transportation. Though I think I would have rather saddled up on a Schwinn....you can fit 2 car seats on a bike, right?

Currently, the Prix (pronounced Pricks) gets me from point A to point B in a shorter amount of time than it takes Hanger in the same vehicle. Lets just say that I have been pulled over more than once...but how many tickets have I received is the real kicker!!!

ok...2 more to go

6. I love to go camping. No I really mean LOVE!!!! As in I would move into a camper love it. Like, I would live at the river all summer love it. So what if it is 150 degrees or 30 for that matter, I love to go camping.

7. This year I plan to run the Gate River Run. Stop laughing! I really mean it. I may stubmle across the finish line and need an ambulance after the race, but by golly I am doing it. Oh and the fact that Granddaddy said I can't do it, just makes it that much more of a challenge.

So now I am suppose to tag my friends......

So i guess this means

YOU'RE IT!!!

Why Blenders Have Lids and Other Musings of an Amateur Betty Crocker

2008-10-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

Our latest adventure centers around Courtney's birthday.

Once not so long ago, a large population of North East Florida made up the guest list of our children's birthday parties. It was not uncommon for 50 plus people to be in attendance. Well, we have wised up! Because Courtney wanted to go riding for her birthday, we celebrated with James' parents, Darren and Granny on Friday night. Birthdays have become intimate family gatherings.

Since I made my first baking attempt at Brantley's birthday, it was only fair for Courtney to have a Mommy-made cake too.

Of course it had to be a Hannah Montana guitar. Luck for me Aunt Sweety had a guitar shaped cake pan.

So armed with my borrowed cake pan, hand-me down Wilton tips and the recipe for Butter-cream icing from my Granny's memory, I set out to make my second ever birthday cake.

Unfortunately, I realized that my mixer is still missing in action. Well, to say the mixer is missing is not exactly accurate. The beaters are missing, I know exactly where the white motery part is.

Being the brilliant one that I am, I decided that a mixer mixes, the blender has a mix button, so really what is the difference? Also knowing that when one mixes in a bowl that there is no lid, I decided to forgo using the lid. (Yes Carrie, I can hear you laughing already!) I pour all of the ingredients for the cake mix into the blender and press the little black button. Like I said before, I am brilliant! The cake mixed very well in my make-shift mixer.

With the cake safely baking in the oven, I began the task of preparing the icing. Now, as with all things edible, I consulted my Granny. She rattled off a recipe for icing. Then followed with the disclaimer that if it didn't look right to add a little more of this and a little more of that. Like I would know what looks right and what doesn't.

Beaming with brilliance, I combined all of my ingredients in the blender once more and pressed the very same little black button as before. Ok so basic physics tells one that powered sugar is going to be lighter than cake mix. Common sense SHOULD tell one that if a kitchen gadget comes with a lid, you should use it.

Through a puff of white sugary smoke, I came to the realization that maybe I SHOULD have used the lid. I will probably be cleaning powered sugar off of the ceiling when Courtney turns 14.

Even after the powdered sugar fiasco, Courtney's Hannah Montana cake was exactly what she had hoped for.

Hanger and I have decided that even though we love our friends dearly, family birthdays are definitely the way to go. he also thinks that we should get our next cake from Publix!

The Tooth Fairy and Picture Day

2008-10-06T19:18:00.000-07:00

Brantley lost his first tooth today. Tomorrow is picture day. Wouldn't ya know!

Hanger had the pleasure of pulling out Courtney's first tooth. We thought he would get the same honor with Boy, but he is a little more reserved than she is. Mommy to the rescue.

Just a little wiggle, wiggle and it was out. I told him I would pull it on the count of 3. 1....2.....yank...it was out. OK, so maybe I didn't make it to 3, but he didn't even flinch.

Courtney, so accustomed to being the star of the show, began to wiggle her barely loose tooth. Then cried when bedtime rolled around before her tooth came out.....the thing is barely even loose.

As we were tucking him in for the night, my baby asked the question every parent dares not answer. "Is the tooth fairy real?" How does one answer that?

Do you lie and confirm the existence of a creature who is said to enter your home in the wee hours of the night, leave money under the pillow and run off with your child's tooth?

Better yet, is the answer "NO! The tooth fairy is a hoax, look it up on Snopes...Now go to bed!" ...I think not.

Oh so proud of myself, I responded, "Do you think Santa Claus is real?" "Uh-huh" came his little answer. "Well then what do you think?" "I fink I beddah go put my toof undah my piddow."

Yes sir, you just put that toof under that piddow and have sweet dreams. As for me, I will anxiously await the arrival of my pictures to preview. Hopefully we will get a big toof-less smile.

Finally Friday!!!!

2008-10-03T03:30:00.001-07:00

Peace and Love!

Boobie Bucks!

2008-09-25T18:16:00.000-07:00

Ok, so Hanger really is a butt man (more information than you needed?) but he is oh so willing to help save the boobies! And you can too!

Jeannie Blaylock and First Coast news have partnered with the Komen Foundation to create the first Mammogram Hot line on the First Coast.

The hot line will provide a resource for women to turn to to get information about breast cancer, mammograms, self-checking and the list goes on.

Callahan Athletic Association has teamed with FCN and the Komen Foundation to help make this dream a reality. By participating in Buddy Bucks, your dollar will be added to our chain to be presented to FCN in honor of two local breast cancer survivors on Saturday October 4th.

I will also be honoring my grandmother, a cancer survivor, by purchasing a balloon for $5 in her name. The balloon proceeds benefit the Donna Foundation.

Additionally, Buddy Bears will be collected to donate to chemotherapy patients.

Clearly, your help is essential. Give me a call or shoot me an email and I will be more than happy to deliver your contribution to the ball park.

Breast cancer is a Meany! It's next victim could be your sister, mom, aunt, grandmother, best friend, me or you. Lets work together to find a cure one dollar at a time!

Waitin' On A Woman

2008-09-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

Shopping is a pleasure at Publix, but Holly can go all by herself!

Being the doting husband that I am, I accompanied my family on the weekly grocery outing. I quickly claimed my role as cart pusher...after all her hands were full of that big ole notebook that she calls a coupon book.

In my haste to make myself useful, I did not realize that the part of the cart intended for small children or fragile items such as eggs and bread is now the residence of what has come to be called "THE BINDER".

We didn't even make it to the produce aisle before I had to bail!

I finally found her on the cereal aisle comparing the price per ounce of various brands of the same kind of cereal. She feverishly punched numbers on the calculator to figure out which would be the better deal, the one with the coupon and on sale over the store brand.

Don't get me wrong, I am all for saving a dollar...and my wife has nearly perfected saving hundreds, but come on!

Thank goodness for Courtney needing to go to the restroom. I quickly volunteered. Though I don't think Holly even heard me.

We browsed the magazine rack, picked up a bag of dog food and made our way to go find Momma.

There she was....in the frozen food aisle. Before I could warn him, the unsuspecting stocker asked her if she was finding everything ok. Her reply (without batting an eye) "Where can I find a money tree." Poor unfortunate guy says "I don't think we carry them, but I'll check the back." She chuckled--"A money tree?" He gave her a bewildered look "Oh I thought you meant one of those game things for kids...no we don't have a money tree." Ya Think?

As he and I discussed the finer points of stock delivery, Holly continued her quest to save the Hengerers from the pit of debt.

Finally, two hours after entering the doors of Publix she declares "I am finished". I didn't know whether to applaud or cry.

There were two people ahead of us in line. Because we were at the great Publix, another lane was opened and we moved to checkout. A guy came up behind us with three items. Knowing this could take a while, I forewarned him to move on over.

"I have a lot of coupons, " may have been what she said to the cashier, but really meant, I hope you aren't planning on getting off any time soon. I am not sure what took longer--shopping or checking out.

Well my wife's little expedition saved us over $70.

You can bet your bottom dollar, next time I'll be at home.....
Waitin' on a Woman!

Things Teachers Do!

2008-09-15T15:11:00.000-07:00

I laughed at one of my students today. Shocked, she exclaimed "You have a TV? I thought teachers only read books and graded papers!"

Well, missy, let me tell you. Teachers have more to do than just grade papers and read books...so I compiled a little list.

*Data Analysis
*Individual Educational Plans
*Progress Monitoring Plans
*Cumulative Folder Reviews
*Textbook Inventories
*Conferences with parents
*Positive Calls Home
*Not-So Positive Calls Home
*Professional Development Workshops
*Supply Orders
*Professional Growth Plans
*Field Trip Planning
*Field Day
*Kickball Tournament (my personal favorite)
*After School Clubs
*After School Tutoring
*Before School Tutoring
*Write Lesson Plans
*Update Newsletters
*New Teacher Mentoring
*Technology Troubleshooting
*Update The Grade book
*Progress Reports
*IEP Progress Reports
*PMP Progress Reports
*Send Notices for IEP meetings
*Consult with the OT
*Don't forget the Speech Therapist
*Read a Professional Journal
*Faculty Meetings
*Grade Level Meetings
*Committee Meetings
And
*Grade Papers

Then at the end of the day I get to go home and cook dinner, wash the dishes, do a load or two of laundry, pack the kids lunches, scrub the toilet and update my blog!

You know, I wouldn't change it for the world!

Those who can CHOOSE to teach!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2008-09-08T16:22:00.000-07:00

From time to time we are reminded how short life really is. This weekend has been no exception. So as hold tight to my babies, I submit for your reading pleasure a little ditty about flowers.

Some days were meant for flowers....birthdays, anniversaries, and by all means, Valentine’s Day.
Usually flowers come arranged in a beautiful vase with a card attached.

Extra points are earned for delivering them at work (or some other place that will allow my friends the opportunity to ooohhh and aaawww)

I am quite sure millions of dollars are spent every year in the floral industry.

I got flowers today. Today is not my birthday (I have decided to stop having those), Valentine’s Day is still a few months away and my anniversary was in June.

There was no beautiful crystal vase, no card attached, and no one was around when they were delivered. The message was not penned in perfect cursive script. In fact, there was no note at all.

Instead, the sweaty face and grubby hands of a six year old accompanied my flowers. The sweetest words a mother can ever hear, especially when it comes from a mouth missing three front teeth, "Here mom these are for you!" Not…I love you….not….you are the best mom in the world….just a simple "here mom these are for you" and off she went to conquer the monkey bars once again.

I love how my children show me the sweetness of life. After what I will call a "terrible" afternoon (so terrible that I cried...and that is no easy feat), I am reminded that it is the eternal investments that we make that really matter. So once again I cried...this time...through laughter.

Yeah, I got flowers today….because it is Monday.

Rock a bye baby!

2008-09-06T13:51:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, this blog is suppose to be all about our family, but I just can't contain myself!

A small group of friends have been praying for a baby...not not for one of us to have a baby, but my friend Marsha's son and daughter-in-law.

Fertility hits a soft spot with James and I. We both knew we wanted children and wanted to start a family as soon as we got married. We knew that because of some medical problems, it would not be an easy road.

Each month brought disappointment and heartache. We even considered adoption. However, we know that our God is mighty! He gave us what we prayed for. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves that we got EXACTLY what we prayed for. Courtney is prefect, busy, but perfect!

Once again, physicians told us to be happy with our little family. I believe the words were "impossible". However, God showed us that through him all things are possible. We got Brantley--even though I was on the pill to regulate things and we were staying with my grandparents for a few months before moving to Callahan. Poor James, the opportunities were few and far between so it was not difficult to pinpoint the conception date.

Our children are fearfully and wonderfully made. We are grateful for their uniqueness and stellar health. God is good.

So, congratulations Dana and Ernie Cole! They are expecting a bundle of joy in early April. Since all Cole babies are boys, this one is sure to be wrapped in blue!

So, Marsha Cole, you better put on your granny panties and decide what you want this baby to call you. Ready or not here HE comes!

We have fallen off of the wagon!

2008-09-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

Dave Ramsey would be so disappointed.

This weekend we ate out 5 times! Now, two months ago, that would have been no big deal, as a matter of fact it would have been the norm. Now, it really hurts my feelings. I am very distressed. We buckled under peer pressure (and pure laziness).

So, I took it upon myself to add up receipts from this weekend.

Longhorn Friday night with Mark and Kaye. We have really missed them.= 72.09

Subway after the Jamboree on Saturday. Man, I was tired!= 24.04

Sticky Fingers for dinner on Saturday night. We were at River City picking up the computer…and just had to eat.= 47.99

Chili’s for lunch on Sunday. Courtney left her purse at Sticky Fingers and since we were at River City…= 19.75 Hey, I did have a coupon for this one!

Wendy’s for dinner after church (with Mark and Kaye….do I see a trend?) because they chased us down at the Jiffy store.= 23.76

Grand total for the weekend= 187.63

Our last visit to the grocery store= 119.26

WOW!!!

Pardon me as I get up, dust myself off and saddle back up. This time I am driving the wagon!

Rest In Peace

2008-09-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

I must report that not all members of our family made it home in one piece from our infamous camping trip. You know to which I refer--recall the dent that still resides in the side of Hanger's truck.

I thought I was a genius--and I probably still do. However my idea to put the camera in a Ziplock bag in the drybox was a little less than stellar. Yes, the zipper pouch stayed closed, but that did little to help the hole that rubbed in the side of the bag from bumpy trails and water catwalks.

I also must report that my new snorkel works great! Unlike some of the boys, I don't have a big fat elephant trunk! I can submarine through water with the best of them. My drybox however is not so dry.

So since I have a wet drybox and hole in my baggie, Mr. Kodak has gone to the great camera home in the sky.

I submit for your viewing pleasure, Mr. Kodak's last picture. Brantley standing on the back of James' wheeler.

Tents, Sand & Other Fun Camping Stuff

2008-08-28T14:03:00.001-07:00

A few weekends ago we packed up our camping gear, the four wheelers and headed off to Waycross for one last hurrah before the beginning of the new school year.

The trip, like that of all times that James and Jimmy get together, began slowly.....there was one point in which I thought we would NEVER get to Waycross.

First we had to stop for ice.

Then it was stopping in Folkston to pick up another trailer with a four wheeler--which apparently wasn't strapped down because it rolled off of the back of the trailer when the boys moved it.

Finally we were loaded once again. But wait, we can't go anywhere without gas.

Who's hungry? At this point, what did it matter? We decided to hit Subway, after Eat Fresh is always fast. Well apparently the guys at the Folkston Subway did not get the memo. They were soooo sllloooowww!

Finally we arrive at our camping spot--well sort of. After a short jaunt through a pig trail--2 trailer lights and a big dent in the side of James' truck later--we are finally able to set up camp.

There is something to be said about a night ride. I don't know if it the fact that one can not use all 5 senses or my fear of the dark as a child. Either way--when I ride at night, I feel live! I could ride for hours!

James, Jimmy and Wendy said they heard all kinds of things after we went to sleep. However, Tropical Storm Fay could have come a week early and I could have floated down the Satilla River in my PJ's and not even rolled over.

The following morning, we woke and ate our make-shift breakfast--by the way, no one told me that when you camp on the river there is no electricity.

It would not be a ride with Jimmy if we could just go out and ride...noooooo! James had to drown his brand new snorkel, prompting yet another opportunity for a little redneck engineering. Thank the good Lord for Donnie! He came to the rescue with some sort of gooey Spackle and off we went.

The day was full of lots of mud holes, clay pits and trail riding. I have to brag on my girl Traci! Usually she sits back and lets Donnie do all of the dirty work. Not this time! The Saint George Princess got down and dirty with the best of 'em. I really see a new purchase in their near future. The next time she and I go shopping it just may not be for a new Vera or sunglasses---we may have to go see my boys at Kings Bay Honda!

In case you were wondering, the dent in Hanger's truck was caused by his butt. You see, when Jimmy says follow me...that doesn't necessiarly mean there is room to follow him. The two of them ended up getting the truck and trailer in a tight spot between a cliff and some trees. Lucky us, Jimmy thought to bring the ax. Chop, chop, chop went the ax. Push, push, push went Hanger and Jimmy....crack, crack, crash went the tree. All that was left to show for it was a big ole dent in from Hanger's behind. Well don't ya know that my ....Baby's got back!

Up to our Eyeballs in Cookie Dough!

2008-08-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Calling all cars! Ok this announcement is for all of you who’s kids have hood winked us into buying magazines, calendars, non-winning raffle tickets and Warrior Cards all of these years! Now the tables are turned and the ball is in your court!

I am certain that we have enough friends who are either pregnant (and you know who you are RaviOLee’s mom), have a boat load of teenagers residing in their house (several of which you can not claim on your taxes, they just won’t go home) or realize that raw cookie dough is a filling alternative to the midnight snack. Courtney simply must have the FM radio MP3 player pillow or existence as she knows it is futile. So get off your duff and get to buying.

For those of you who say what’s in it for me, buy 3 items get a free tub of Chunky Chocolate Chip Cookie dough , five extra pounds around the mid-section and me off your back.

You don’t even have to use real money--CAA takes checks! While you’re at it, the Hengerer family does too---especially when it is followed by a lot of zeros!

Can you smmmmmeeelllllllll what the Warriors are cookin’?

This is an obviously non-paid advertisement for Callahan Athletic Association. All opinions expressed are solely those of the blog owner. So stop reading this and get to buying the cookie dough already!

Woah Nelly!!!!

2008-08-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have been called out, crawled on the carpet, run through the ringer, given a set of marching orders even! Apparently my return to work has left some eagerly anticipitating my next blog only to be dissappointed as they log on each day and find that I have failed them yet again. Well, my most esteemed apologies--Marsha Cole!

With that said, please enjoy your next nibble into this wonderful cake we call--Life at the Hengerer House--Living Life in Fast Forward Frantically Searching For The Pause Button!

A new chapter in my life!

It is official! The change of life is happening--all too quickly! It seems as if just yesterday I was tripping over toy trucks and picking up after a rascally little boy (oh yeah that was yesterday....but I digress) how can he possibly be old enough for school?

The smell of crayons (and taste of paste) beckoned him with a stronger hold than the steely grip I held on his hand, as he bounced down the halls of Callahan Elementary School. How did this happen? Where did the time go? He has JUST turned five...he is still a baby!

!@#$%^&*#$%^&*

Pardon my dilusional mother as I tell how the story really goes.

Let me begin by introducing myself. I am James Brantley Hengerer. I am known by many names. My granny calls me Bubba. Mommy says she is the only one who can do that because Callahan has enough Bubbas. Most people call me Boy--again, Mommy says that is because Courtney started it, but I think a lot of people keep forgetting my name. I guess my first name IS James, but Mommy said one James in our house is enough. So you can call me Brantley.

My favorite food is maccaroni and cheese. I like Monster trucks and you can feel free to buy me one any time you like. I do not like spiders, but I love to scare my sister with frogs.

Guess what! I started school last week. It was super duper! I went to school on Monday for an hour and Daddy took me to Hardee's for breakfast. Then I didn't have to go on Tuesday--Mommy said something about stupid staggered start--whatever that means. So I went on Wednesday and played with my best friends Jacob and Kendra ALL DAY! We got to do this fun thing called PE it was great. My teacher is nice, except she wants me to count and say ABCs and write and stuff---I don't know what she thinks I am here for. So then there was this HUGE storm and I didn't have to go to school for 2 days! I am going to rock at this school stuff. It's a piece of cake. My mommy, she had something in her eye that first day because it kept watering. I think it was tissue she kept using.

Like I said, School is super-duper...my favorite parts are riding the school bus, PE, lunch and recess.

!@#$%^&*&^%$$@!@#

Pardon the interruption--apparently my computer was over taken by a Brantley virus.

As you can see, the change of life has begun. Once I was the mom of 2 under 2, then the ruler of the preschoolers, now I am just a mom, struggling to get homework done and make ball practice on time, realizing that pop tarts may truly be a food group of their own. If any of you have figured out the secret to bottling time, I am willing to pay big money---and may even have a coupon!

How I became Driverzwife....

2008-08-10T20:19:00.000-07:00

My friends, Chris and Ros, are photographers. You really should go check out their blog. http://inhisimagephotosbiz.blogspot.com My little friend Micah says "Let my momma and daddy take your picture so I can go shopping at TCP--I am growing like a weed!" Every month or so, they run a contest. This month's contest centered around spouses.

That got me thinking about Hanger and how I came to be Driverzwife....here is our little story.

Once upon a time in a land very near, there lived a lovely princess and a knight in shining armor who were both very single. Both found themselves attending FBC Jax. Neither were interested in long term commitments, as they both were a little charred from being roasted by previous relationships.

All around them, their friends scurried to and fro from one date to another searching for the "right" one to fall in love with and settle down into family life.

The two met and immediately became fast friends. After all the princess was the only girl in her kingdom not kissing every frog in town searching for her prince.

The knight in shining armor found the princess to be very hilarious and was immediately taken by her ability to get the job done--even if that meant she went into the kitchen of Shoney's to get him more pancakes when the buffet was empty--at least HE could eat.

The knight in shining armor was not very keen when it came to asking for the hand of the fair maiden. He politely resigned himself to arranging himself near her so that he could monopolize her time.

In the land of bliss there lived the jealous double headed dragon who wanted nothing more than to have their best friends, the princess and the knight, all to themselves. One head of the dragon yelled at the knight on the princess's birthday causing the knight to act like a butthead. The other head of the dragon told the princess that the knight needed some time to himself.

As fate would have it, the princess and the knight were very keen--and smart too. They saw through the lies of the evil double-headed dragon. The princess made the knight a pan of lasagna. The knight kissed the princess and they fell madly in love.

The knight decided that he could not endure life without the princess, so he bought a ring and hid it in her castle. He instructed her to find the ring so that they could live happily ever after.

The princess scurried around the castle searching for the ring that would make her Mrs. Knight in shining armor. To much avail, she could not find the ring--even though the knight was shouting you're hot---Now you're cold.

The princess began to weep. The knight, realizing that the princess was upset, told her to look on top of the TV. There, the princess found the ring with 7 princess cut diamonds. Speechless-- for once in her life, the princess placed the ring on her finger, but the Knight never asked her to marry him. Thus the princess never had the opportunity to say yes.

The knight and the princess planned an autumn wedding, but just to keep everyone guessing, they eloped in June.

The evil double-headed dragon and many of the village people--YMCA its fun to stay at the YMCA hey hey-- said it would never work.

Well--9 years later, the princess and the knight are the proud parents of 5 and 6 year old curtain climbers. The road has not always been free of bumps, but by the grace of God--the knight is still around to ask.....

Will I EVER understand my wife?

A Day at the Beach

2008-08-06T18:37:00.000-07:00

Summer fun is quickly coming to an end as I prepare to go back to work tomorrow.

In effort to have a last hurrah of the summer, the kiddos, Hanger, Whopper and I loaded up in the truck and headed for Huguenot Park.

The weather was near perfect. The sky remained clear and surprisingly the water was also. James and I concluded that this was so that you could see the shark attack you.

Speaking of wildlife, we did not find any starfish this time, but did get to see a hhuuuuuuugggggeeee sting ray jump up out of the water.

Our fun was not limited to playing in the surf and sand. James had the distinct pleasure of playing tow truck driver. Not just one person, not two...but 4!!! He has declared that stupid women should not be allowed to go to the beach by themselves. Apparently they are too dumb to 1) not get stuck and 2) when they do get stuck to keep gunning the gas and burying themselves. I gently reminded him that the second person he pulled out was a guy. He then changed his mind that stupid people shouldn't be allowed to drive in sand.

Besides gas, our day kept a frugal theme. The entrance fee for our family was super cheap. Boy received a gift certificate to McDonald's so we splurged on lunch. BahDahDahDahDah--I don't really miss it.

Gas to get to the beach= $10
Entrance fee = $1.50
Lunch at Mickey D's=$15
A day my kids will remember= Priceless!

Enjoy the show!

Doin' the Deal

2008-08-05T16:55:00.000-07:00

On Monday, my little deal maker and I packed up and ventured off to CVS to do the deal.

Because Candi has introduced me to the concept of buying more than one newspaper, I had a fist full of coupons in one hand and the weekly circular in the other. Courtney has been promoted to cart driver.

Today we racked up on the following items:
2 bottles of Tide on sale and I had a coupon for $1 off
2 bottles of Dawn Dish Detergent on sale and I had a coupon making them 35 cent each
2 Cover Girl Foundations (Yes Clinique is not Dave Ramsey feasible) BOGO with BOGO coupon=free at CVS
2 Cover Girl Pressed Powder BOGO with BOGO coupon= free at CVS
6 boxes of Kleenex tissue BOGO with buy 3 get 1 free coupon=free!!!!
3 Lady Speed Stick Deodorant on sale and coupon
2 Sure deodorant BOGO and 2 $1 off coupons
2 Colgate Total toothpaste 2 $1 off coupon +
1 CVS brand toothbrush for free--hey, it was free and I can use it to clean rings or have the kids scrub the grout in the shower when they are bad.
2 Pert Plus BOGO and coupon
Venus Razor $2 off coupon and $3 extra bucks

Over $90 worth of stuff......

Total out of pocket- $16 and change!

YAY me!!!! And my little helper the cart driver Courtney!

Gimme 5!

2008-08-02T21:58:00.000-07:00

In honor of Brantley's fifth birthday, I thought I would share with you his birth story.

In late December 2002, James and I made our home in a two bedroom single-wide trailer in lovely Callahan, FL. We were a happy family of three--James, Courtney and Me.

Little did we know that God would soon surprise us with a little BOY--He really does have a sense of humor.

For the first month after we found out we were expecting, I was in shock-denial- call it what you want.

As with Courtney, pregnancy was not nice to me. I experienced Braxton-Hicks contractions from my fifth month, pre-eclampsia decided to set-up residence, and bed-rest loomed in my near future.

During my seventh month (that would be 33 1/2 weeks) I went to the doctor for a "routine" visit. James--the ever doting daddy--accompanied me. We had big plans of going out on a "date" to breakfast after seeing the doctor. Don't laugh--breakfast definitely is a date when you have a 22 month old and look like a watermelon smuggler!

So there we were--James and I--sitting in Dr. Long's office discussing the finer points of scrambled eggs and Belgian waffles when the lovely Sandy peeks her head in and announces that we would be having a non-stress test today.

I find that term oh so humorous--when you are pregnant--EVERYthing is stressful.

Knowing the drill, I ever so gracefully disembark from the exam table and waddle down the hall to a room which I am all too familiar. Sticky pads and my jeopardy buzzer are put in place as James's hopes of hitting IHOP before 10 am are dashed. Maybe lunch, Baby.

Dr. Long popped in a few minutes later and asked "How do you feel about having a baby today?"
TODAY? I haven't even had breakfast--I am NOT having a baby.

Apparently that did not seem to matter, Sandy and her wheelchair rolled in behind the chuckling doctor. Before I had a chance to realize that not only would I miss breakfast-and lunch-but dinner wouldn't be an option either.

So there I was, feet in stirrups, calling the school to say I didn't think I would make it to preplanning the following day. "Um no, I'm not sick--I'm having a baby." Needless to say I don't think getting a doctor note would be a problem.

My sweet mother-in-law brought Krispy Kreme donuts to cheer me up. Yeah, I couldn't eat, but I could look at the box. I suppose I should be thankful that James and Candi went out to the room to eat them. Lucky them--I probably would have came up off of that bed--regardless of the fact that I had already had an epidural.

Speaking of epidural...It worked all too well. Dr. Long assured us that things were progressing slowly and we would not have a baby until the morning of August 1. So there we were at 2:15 a.m., James snoring on one end of the window seat, Candi dozing on the other and Granny catnapping in the rocking chair. Suddenly I felt the urge to go...I mean really go. PPPssssttt James---snoring-----Hey Candi---can't hear over the snoring----Grannnny!!!!----just can't hear period. Dang. My only hope was the nurse. buzzzz.

After 15 minutes, "Barbie" finally arrives. I state infatically "I know I have had an epidural, but I really need to go to the bathroom." "Honey, you don't really have to go." "well either I am going to the bathroom or you are delivering a baby." "I really don't think the baby is coming now. It will be closer to 6 or 7 before he comes. Just rest." stupid nurse "Could you please check me just to be sure?"

15 MORE minutes she finally comes to check me. Suddenly her eyes get big and the lights flip on--haha they are awake now! Frantically she calls for Dr. Long--who is apparently in the emergency room talking up his golf game to his buddies. Finally Dr. Long makes his grand entrance.

"Can I push NOW?" Nonchalantly, he says "Sure" then looks over at me "STOP!!!"

With lightning speed he scrubs in just in time to catch our baby. Granny almost passes out. Candi, who didn't have time to get out before all of the action started happening, must not have been too traumatized, because she and Scott now have two of their own. And James --he just cried. That is what he does--he's a real man!

Time to cut the cord. James, the real man, doesn't take direction well. He tried to grab the cord with his hand--twice--while Dr. Long is saying Don't touch the cord--then yelling--DON"T TOUCH THE CORD!

James Brantley Hengerer made his grand entrance into the world at 3:15 a.m . on August 1, 2003. He weighed in at a whopping 7 pounds. Thank the Lord he was 6 weeks early--I could have given birth to a toddler! He was perfect--and still is.

So there you have it--the story of Brantley and how he surprised everyone--twice! He is so funny--he surprises me everyday. He tells me "You know why I lub you...you au the feetest mom in da whole wide wud". And you my BOY are the "sweetest boy in the whole wide world"!

There never has been, nor will there ever be, anything quite so special as the love between a mother and a son. -- Author Unknown

What's Better Than Learning Money Saving Tricks?

2008-07-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

Doing it for free!!!

You absolutely MUST check out my new favorite website:

http://dontwasteyourtimeonline.com/

This is a site devoted to offering free product samples, online shopping deals and free coupon codes. Unlike some popular websites....this one offers the information for free!!!

Now I know many of you are skeptical of getting something for nothing...but my friend Molly from my good ole hometown has done the work for us. This site is highly trusted.

One of the things I like best about this site is the "blacklist". Many times when in search of a deal you may be asked to complete a survey. Unfortunately we live in a day and time when not all companies are reputable. Dah-Dah-Dah-Duh Molly to the rescue! She has comprised a list of companies to avoid. Sadly her list is quite long.

Now I know what you are thinking, this site sounds too good to be true. Well you are right and wrong. You may have to do some digging to find the deals that are right for you. The rewards may be very sweet in the end.

Please visit Molly's site. Sign up for her newsletter--you won't be disappointed!

Cheap vs. Frugal

2008-07-28T05:58:00.001-07:00

This weekend my cousin Jimmy and I had the chance to spend a little time together. As children, we were partners in crime. Many times we should have gotten in big trouble for our antics. Either we were extremely sly or our grandparents were overly forgiving.

It was quite humorous to watch our girls follow in our footsteps. Given the chance, those girls could cause some major trouble.

He made a comment that got me thinking. What is the difference between cheap and frugal?(that is NOT exactly what he said--but the gist)

Cheap is not buying a new toothbrush for a year because you don't want to fork out the $2.....Frugal is buying 17 new toothbrushes because you have 17 coupons, 8 Extra Care Bucks and only pay 77 cents for the whole lot.

Cheap is using McDonald's napkins because you have run out of toilet paper...Frugal is stocking up on 24 packs because you have 12 BOGO coupons and the local pharmacy has a BOGO promotion so you end up getting them for free.

Cheap is eating ramen noodles for 6 months....Frugal is eating Chick-Fil-a for free because you chose to dress like a cow.

Cheap is to try to get something for free...Frugal is getting it for free with register rewards on top of it.

Cheap is stopping at the Jiffy store and using your credit card to buy a Coke....Frugal is ordering water when you go out to eat because Dave Ramsey said so.

Cheap is getting a good deal on a meal that wasn't good...Frugal is eating a good meal at home and making the kids wash the dishes!

We are LOVING the frugal lifestyle! Well--James is still having issues with missing ESPNews--but he reads it all online so I don't really know what the difference is.

By the way--he also said he will NOT got to Chick-Fil-a with me if I dress like a cow. He has to draw the line somewhere!

Have your Cake & Eat It Too!

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

My Granny...I love her like a fat kid loves cake.

Speaking of cake, recently she and the kids had a cake decorating party. It wasn't anyone's birthday or any other special occasion for that matter. Everyday is a good day for cake when Granny is around. Especially if there is chocolate involved.

Enjoy the show!

Holly

The Hengerers Invade St Augustine

2008-07-24T19:52:00.000-07:00

"It embarasses me"

2008-07-24T19:17:00.000-07:00

Today I heard those words. Occasionally the kids will ask if they have grown any. Usually it is Courtney saying "Am I 4'9" yet?" 4'9" is the lucky number that means no more booster seat. We kinda stick to the law since my favorite brother-in-law is the po-po.

So there we were tonight, measuring our crumb-snatchers' heights. To Courtney's dismay she has grown less than a quarter of an inch since April.

In my feeble attempt to reassure her that she would indeed grow, I kissed her on the top of the head. She turned and looked at me with shock and awe. From her tiny mouth spewed those horrific words "Don't do that--it embarrasses me".

My utmost apologies for kissing the head of the child that I waited two years to have. I am so sorry that I offended you by kissing the head of the child who recently donated 15 inches of her so that other little girls do not have to be embarrassed. How dare I!

I sit here laughing. Little girl--if you think that your Nonnie kissing you on the head is embarrassing--You just wait!

I'll embarrass you, my pretty, and your little dog too!

Back to School Savings!!!!

2008-07-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

Summer is winding down and it is almost time for school to start (is that a bevy of cheers I hear from the parents?)

As a teacher, I too am ready for the new school year to begin. Some people were designed to be stay at home moms….I however, was not.

The season of savings has begun as most stores are ready to supply you with the best deals.
One of the things I have discovered is that truly the best deals are found at the super-giant retailers. Target and the W-store offer many back to school supplies at steep discounts. I have found that the best time to shop is early in the morning. This provides you with the opportunity to make your selections before things get that “rummaged through” look. Don’t overlook smaller retailers like CVS and Walgreens. With Extra Bucks and Register Rewards, the savings really add up.

Keep in mind that pencils, paper, markers and scissors may be on your back to school list, but there are many things that help a classroom run smoothly!

For those of you who are unsure about what your child might need. Please remember that the school has a copy of a generic list of supplies for each grade level.

Liquid soap, instant hand sanitizer, tissues and antibacterial wipes are the little things that your child’s teacher may not ask for, but are definitely appreciated.

Many teachers fund their own classroom libraries. Next time you are the local library and see the $1 book sale, pick up a couple for you favorite teacher--he or she is sure to appreciate it. eBay is another great place to find cheap books for your child’s classroom library. Have your child write a note in the front that says “this book was donated to Mrs. Snyder’s class by Courtney Hengerer-2008” Scholastic will have Dollar Days soon--Keep your eyes on their website for great deals.

Home-schooling mommies may find that helpful too! For those of you who have chosen to homeschool--I applaud you! Keep up the good work!

Happy shopping!!!!

Holly

The Hengerers Hit Hart Springs

2008-07-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

Frugal Franny popped up in Chiefland!

2008-07-21T19:17:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, James and I loaded up the kids and Granny and headed for our favorite camping spot, Hart Springs.

Hart Springs, located in Bell, Florida, is the place I spent every summer as a child. Sharing this special place with my children trumps any over-commercialized theme park we could have visited. There is just something relaxing about the Suwannee River that takes me back to a place of carefree living.

We didn't exactly "rough it". The air-conditioned camper, complete with HDTV and DVD player, was well stocked with all of the conveniences of home.

Courtney, fresh from swimming lessons, surprised me by jumping off of the dock and swimming across the spring. All last week at the Y we heard her moan "I can't swim that far". Apparently the thought of swimming over a cave is motivating.

Brantley, however, still sinks like a rock. He had a great time jumping off the dock and popping right back up out of the water thanks to his trusty life vest. Digging in the sand came in a close second to riding his bike as preferred activities.

Poor dad! James got sick on Friday and Saturday...REALLY sick. Poor guy lost 11 pounds this week.

Granny finally got to go camping with us. She and I spent the majority of our time playing cards and spraying James with Lysol!

She and I made a trip into Chiefland to buy James a butt plug. While at my least favorite store (the one that starts with a W) I uncovered a steal of a deal! For a mere $80 I purchased 5 shirts & one skirt or myself, 6 shirts and 4 shorts for Boy and 9 shirts for Courtney.

Our family enjoyed a relaxing time at the river and still managed to save a dollar. I suppose I truly am a Frugal Hack!

Holey Moley!!! I Hit The Mother Load!!!!

2008-07-16T13:04:00.000-07:00

So apparently my school supplies super savings and $28 saved at the grocery store were just the tip of the iceberg!

Many of you know that I take 5 old lady pills...well I went to the doctor last week. Apparently one of my OLPs is doing such a GREAT job that it made some other level go too low. Sounds to me like the pharmaceutical companies are in cahoots. Either way...my doctor is SOOOO nice that she gave me yet another OLP.

Our great insurance company does not cover my OLPs because "the use of such medication in patients under the age of 50 is considered purely investigational". So out of pocket (or whatever other noun you would like to substitute here) I pay. My doctor rocks because she knows this and loads me up with samples.

Out of her office I skipped with my stash of samples. Little did I know that in my bag was a coupon for 3 months of my new OLP for FREE!!!! So I saved a total of $210!!!

By my calculations that would be the equivalent of 3 new Veras...So why did James not see it that way? Gosh!

I am just giddy at how much we have saved this month. Why is it that we ask God for things and then are surprised when He answers our prayers?

Frugal Franny is at again!

2008-07-15T18:18:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I meticulously clipped coupons in effort to save an extra dollar. Today with coupons in hand, I headed off to the grocery store. Since my husband is employed at Publix, the best grocery store in the world, I will just let you assume that is where I shopped. I plead the fifth!

Up and down the aisle I roamed, choosing with care the items on my list and the items I had coupons for. Carefully I read each coupon to make sure I followed the rules, purchased the correct number of items and chose the right sizes.

All in all I don’t think I did to shabby! All of my savings totaled $28 and some change. And yes, I called Candi before I even left the store. I suppose that is quickly becoming our routine. I think she was proud of me.

On a side note, the kids and I did make that trip to CVS. I picked up a ped-egg (glorious!) and a photo book of our trip to St. Augustine, Sea World and the Softball Tournament that Hanger and I played in last month. I used my “Extra Bucks” and got super deals there. I have arrived.

Poor dad worked all day then went right to sleep after lunch. He did get to make a Home Depot run tonight to get in touch with his masculine side. I think I may need to call the doctor. I think he is suffering from DirecTV withdrawals.

The Pot Called the Kettle Black

2008-07-14T18:42:00.000-07:00

In our pursuit to better manage our dollars, I have become a Frugal Franny. I once thought that I was too busy to cut coupons or try to find the best deal. In my naivety I did not realize how simple it really is!

First, I have cut a significant chunk out of our budget just by cooking at home. Just in the 14 days I have saved us $400! Yes I am getting tired of cooking…but being debt-free is going to be so worth it!

Today I bought school supplies and shampoo for a glorious $9.46.

Because I choose to be frugal, my children now have their backpacks stocked with: 2 bottles of Elmer’s glue, 4 Elmer’s glue sticks, 2 packages of 10 count Crayola Markers, and 2 pair of Friskars scissors. By the way, the before mentioned backpacks were purchased on sale a few days ago for $9.99.

The shampoo was a steal too…but not as great of a deal as the school supplies. However, anytime I can pick up shampoo for a dollar a bottle, it is well worth it. Courtney, my independent child insists on washing her own hair. Thus it does not really matter the brand, just that it is on sale. I promise I think that girl goes through a bottle every week!

In my haste to return to my car after “doing the deal” I frantically dialed my friend Candi’s number (well really I just pressed 5 on speed dial, but you get the picture). Full of giggles I recounted the story of my great savings to the Queen of Coupon Cutting --the Princess of Penny Pinching--the Ruler of all Refunds. The words that came out of her mouth will for ever ring in my ears as the biggest compliment I have ever received…”You are so CHEAP!”

Well thank you very much Mrs. Pot! How black IS my kettle? We have SO much fun “doing the deal!!!!”

I may have created a monster. My monster baby--Courtney just asked if we are going to CVS tomorrow. Yes ma’am as a matter of fact we are!

Because our life just wasn’t crazy enough….

2008-07-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

In the words of Courtney…we are a 6 family. Because we could not be content with just having 2 kids and Zoey the superdog we have found ourselves to be the proud owner of a new puppy.

The honor of naming him fell on the shoulders of Brantley. Thus, he is called Whopper. When he is grown…he will BE a Whopper!

Having a puppy is like having a newborn baby, minus the diapers and tax deduction. The first week we had him, he whined ALL NIGHT long.

Then he got sick and we had to take him to the vet. The joy of de-worming him belongs to James.

King Whopper must have only the best. So he chows down on canned puppy food, while poor Zoey is stuck with old-reliable dry food.

Now tomorrow I will get up early…and YES 8 am IS early…..to take him to the vet for puppy shots. Oh Joy!

We needed another dog like we needed a hole in our head. If you ask me, James got him so that he could balance the boy-girl ratio at our house. Either way, thanks to Whopper, the fence is FINALLY finished.

Some things are just too funny for words....really!

2008-07-12T18:15:00.000-07:00

From Hanger's Heart.....

2008-07-11T18:26:00.000-07:00

ok, so the following words are not my own...they came from the most amazing man I know.

(I did not edit for grammar or spelling...this is what James had to say)

I sit here and think about my life, growing up, school, Church, and now my Family.

Now i'm the father. the father to 2 beautiful Children and i look at them and thank God everyday for there health, and that i am apart of there life. teachin them right from wrong, takin them to church so they will learn about a wonderful and gracious Heavenly Father. I have the chance to teach them the fine art of t-ball and just be apart of there everyday life.

I remember when courtney was born and when she laid in that warming bed and had my hand on top of her yet to be cleaned off head and just thinkin that this little girl belongs to me and i'm here to be her father and help her grow and learn.

to me i just don't understand how in the world that people can look at there new born child and just turn there back on them, but her layin there just made me the happest man in the world.

Then almost alittle over a year later we found out that Brantley was on his way and I jumped all over the yard and made more phone calls, again the happest man in the world. Then there he laid in that warming bed in all his glory and I just couldn't believe that i was a father again then alittle while down the road i began to think i gave birth to him, cause everybody that knows us, know that he is my spittin image. but i have these 2 wonderful children that i am thankful everyday to be apart of there lives. even there are those days were you want to sell them to the gepseys "or however you spell it". but i look at them they love to get outside and play they are very outgoing more courtney than brantley but brantley comes by that naturally from his daddy.

then there is moma

I remember the day i asked her to marry me and she said yes, well it didn't exactley go like that but none the less she still said yes, boy i was happier than a dog on a leg. hahaha. she has made me happy everyday she bends over backwards to make me happy even though she doesn't have to but she does, she works hard at school and at home, she takes care of all three children, then there is the team mom thing, i don't know if she ever catches a break but yet she just keeps going with a smile. she loves here family more than anything in this world and will do almost anything for us. i couldn't ask for a better person to take care of our children, home and myself. i sometimes sit back and watch her do what she does in amazement. because iv'e tried to do half of what she does and just can't handle it sometime. she is the most wonderful, thoughtful, and giving person you will ever run into. Thank you Holly for being my wife. Your wonderful.

Ok now everyone say aaaawwwww....girls, you know I have it good! :)Holly

The Coupon Queen!

2008-07-10T05:49:00.000-07:00

Our family is so richly blessed. We have good health, sweet kids, loyal friends and lots of toys. We are living “high on the hog”…or are we. Everyone can do just a little bit better--right?

Many times I have caught myself snickering when my friend Candi tells me of the great deals she has gotten. Now I find myself calling her with questions about saving a dollar (or 10!). Check out her blog in my Happy Reading section. You are sure to find a hint or two to use at the cash register next time you are in the grocery store.

God has blessed James and I with excellent careers that have afforded us a lifestyle which allows us to have all of the things we need and most of the things we want. Like the majority of young American couples we have our fair share of debt.

Well not anymore!!!! Thanks to Dave Ramsey (and much prayer) we are well on our way to financial freedom. In less than three years will owe money to no one!

James is learning to live on a budget. The kids are learning to enjoy the 25 local channels we get with digital TV. This is a huge adjustment for them since we previously had over 15 channels just for kids with DirecTV. Heaven forbid they have to ride their bikes outside, read a book or play a game instead of glaze over in front of the TV. I am sacrificing by cooking at home instead of going out for every meal.

Don’t laugh! We did that for a while. When I would ask the kids what the wanted for dinner, instead of saying spaghetti or hamburgers, they would say “Lets go to the Chicken House!”. Well at least they were getting vegetables! Breakfast was even worse. Courtney thought “The Star” (that is Hengerer speak for Hardee’s) was the only place that one could get a hot breakfast. Lunch was no different. When James walks in the door at Subway, immediately the girl behind the counter begins making a foot-long seafood sensation on wheat with provolone. He has them trained like Pavlov’s dogs!

Dave Ramsey says “If you will live like no one else, later you can live like no one else.” I say we are controlling our dollars so that our dollars do not control us.

God IS Good!!

All Things Vera….

2008-07-09T04:56:00.000-07:00

There are two times of the year that I especially love…January and July!

January brings a new year with new possibilities. July brings fireworks and watermelon.

Ahh who cares about all of that…

January and July bring new Vera Bradley patterns!!!!

Of the four new patterns, I am especially fond of Night Owl and Frankly Scarlet.

From time to time Vera retires handbags only to introduce new, equally cute ones the next season. My favorite is the Betsy. It is big enough to hold all of my necessities, and a few monster trucks. Yet as I sling her over my shoulder it does not feel like I have reverted back to the days of diaper bags and leaving home with everything including the kitchen sink! Because "she" has been around a while, I fear her days are numbered.

In no way should one misconstrue my love for Vera as a hint for my husband to feel that he should go out and purchase those two colors in Betsy. (Why waste gas when I have bookmarked them for you.) See… I can live on a budget!!! Two new bags as opposed to four…now that, my friend--is sacrifice ;)

Water Babies!

2008-07-08T08:22:00.000-07:00

Summer is in full force. With 98 degree days, grass that needs to be mowed constantly and afternoon showers there is no doubt that Summer has officially begun!

Off to the pool we go! Because Brantley has no fear, swimming lessons are a must this summer.

Courtney is adamant that she does NOT need swimming lessons as she is no longer in kindergarten. I fail to see how graduating from kindergarten prepares one for swimming…but ok little girl. Finally I convince her that she needs to go--just to show Brantley how it is done.
Ahh Brantley--my child with no fear. I suppose it is a good thing that he can hold his breath for 45 seconds, because he does not even try to kick his feet. “Look mom! I holded my breff!” Yes, I am proud!

Some days I wish they would stay little forever. Today was one of those days!

I sure wish these days wouldn’t go by so fast!

Come on in and sit a spell!

2008-07-07T08:31:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our little home on the world wide web. Maybe a few introductions are in order.

James: Christ-follower, husband; daddy; money-maker; maintenance man. Often refered to as Hanger by most, and Jimmy by his mom (please, please if you value your life call him anything BUT Jimmy) Most often he can be found behind the wheel of the big green turtle (Publix truck) or on a softball field.

Courtney: firstborn; daughter; sister; princess; monster baby. Courtney is our baby that we "tried" for for a long time. many times I must remind myself that sometimes God gives you EXACTLY what you pray for!!!! Courtney has just completed kindergarten. She loves to read and play school. Her favorite books are the Junie B. Jones series.

Brantley: aka Boy; son; brother; monster truck expert; end of the line...no more babies for us! Brantley was our surprise baby who is not a baby any more. He will be starting kindergarten in 6 weeks! Brantley's interests revolve solely around mud, dirt and monster trucks. I truly believe the nursery rhyme What are Little Boys Made Of was written about him. His latest accomplishment: making obscene noises with his armpit.

Zoey and Whopper: the four-legged kids. Zoey is a Jack Russel Terrier-Chihuahua (jackhuahua) whom we rescued from JHS. Whopper is a black Labrador Retriever. At 10 weeks he already weighs 20 pounds!

I'm Holly: not perfect-just redeemed!; driverzwife; Courtney's nonnie; Brantley's mommy; teacher (yeah, I'm ready to go back to work!); finder of all lost things; boo-boo fixer; and gourmet chef...after all the way to a man's heart is through his stomach!

We are so glad you stopped by for a visit. Come back soon...you never know what I am going to say next :o