Home again, home again...

Jiggity jig! We weren't gone that long, but it sure did feel like we did a full tour of Louisiana! Last Tuesday, we got our last-minute Christmas stuff done and headed up to Many, where my sister and I baked our little hearts out!! I have made cake pops 3 times in the past 2 weeks, and I can promise you it will be a VERY long time before I make them again!! Bakerella inspired me so I made them for school, my sister-in-law's Christmas party, and then again on Christmas Eve. I am all popped out! (Literally, too...my belly is ridiculous, but more on that later.) Mine weren't one tenth as cute as Bakerella's, but I'm an amateur. Here's a sample of the pops and the other stuff Katie and I baked and dipped! We also did Snickerdoodles.

Yummmmm. Sadly, all this has helped to contribute to my growing waistline. I'm afraid Kamden just isn't as big as my belly makes him out to be. I am going to start back to the gym this week, though. I am miserable!!

We spent Tuesday through Friday with my family in Many, and it was wonderful!!! On Friday, we got Ella, came back to my parents' so she could open her presents from them, then went down to Starks to Kaleb's parents' so she could open her gifts from them. We spent the night there and finally headed back to our house Saturday evening when Ella finally opened her gifts from us and the gift that Santa had left at her Beaumont for her. So, Christmas was quite prolonged for the Breaux family!! On Sunday, our choir was doing an encore presentation of our cantata, so my mom came in to see it and she got to stay for a couple of nights. It was so nice to have her here to hang out and relax for a few days!! Now it's Tuesday, and everyone's gone home, and it's just our little family. After being around so many people for so many days, it felt pretty lonely this afternoon! But Kaleb took off all this week, so I am really excited about spending my last week off with him and Ella!

I'm thoroughly enjoying finally being able to feel Kamden moving around!!! I don't feel many straight kicks (although Kaleb swears he kicked his hand a couple nights ago), but I can feel him fluttering around. It's very hard for me to believe that I'm already 21 weeks tomorrow...halfway there! Some of my family shocked us by buying him gifts. We didn't even buy him anything yet!! This kid is getting spoiled already.

Ella is getting really excited about being a big sister. She got a puppy for Christmas at Kaleb's parents' house (it stays there because our landlord doesn't allow pets) and named him Tyler (actually, Tyler Goose Breaux) and Kaleb was telling her tonight about how we were going to their house tomorrow for New Year's and she could see Tyler. She got SO excited, which we just attributed to the fact that she could see her puppy again. But she was puzzled and kept asking him, "I really get to see him tomorrow?? Are you sure??" I'd already discussed it with her, so I was confused. Then she said, "The baby's coming out of Jenni's belly tomorrow??" It was so sweet, especially seeing how genuinely excited she was. Tyler was her choice for a baby name for Kamden, and she just got a little confused on the names. I just love that girl!!

Well, my husband is snoring on the couch and Ella is watching her second 30 half hour of Batman, so I'm going to go put her to bed. I hope all of your Christmases were as wonderful as ours was!! Happy New Year's!

Oh, and proof of my huge belly:

It's a............

BOY!!! Now presenting, Kamden Alce Breaux at 18 wks in his mama's belly! The first shot is, well, definitive proof that he is, in fact, a boy. The last two are of his little profile. We are SO EXCITED!!!

Wonderful Weekend!

This was the best weekend I've had in such a long time! We had a change of plans...we still went to the ballet Friday night (Ella loved it!!), but Kaleb's family was going up to Natchitoches for the Christmas Festival on Saturday, and we decided to make the trip up, too. As far as I know, Ella had never been to the main festival before, just the fireworks, and we hadn't been in a couple years, so we got up Saturday morning and headed up to Nack-town in time for the parade. Katie (my sister) was hosting at her house, which is conveniently located on 2nd street, on the parade route and close enough to walk to any of the festivities. It was such a great time with family and friends, some that I hadn't seen in more than a year! The fireworks were beautiful, as always. Ella was bored about 5 minutes into the show, but it really was impressive! I have lots of pictures on my facebook and myspaces, but I'll post a few here. The only bad thing about going was the LONGEST DRIVE HOME EVER. My amazing, sweet husband drove, for which I am so very thankful. I nodded off so much that I actually questioned whether or not I was driving and freaked out at one point thinking I'd fallen asleep behind the wheel. Other than that, it was wonderful, though!! And church today was awesome, the perfect end to a pretty perfect weekend.

I'll leave you with some pictures before I fall asleep at the computer. I hate Monday mornings, and tomorrow's will come way too soon!!

My husband takes great firework shots!!



Sweet Ella!

My sweet man!

My sweet family=)

Christmastime Is Here...

Oh, I love this time of year!! We had a great Thanksgiving...my sister came and spent some time with us the weekend before (and we got to see Twilight again:) ) and then we got Ella, came back to the Thanksgiving Coleman Reunion in Starks, jetted back to our house to clean, rearrange, and decorate our house for Christmas AND Ella's birthday party, which we celebrated on Kaleb's birthday! It was quite the busy time, but it was WONDERFUL. This was our first real party at our house, so it was big for us:) I think it went very well. Ella had a GREAT time and it was so wonderful to get to spend the day with all our friends and family. Plus, I have apparently discovered the secret to flipping awesome chili--make it just like my Dad's but not as watery.

This week has been less than exciting. I gave a mock TAKS test to my kids today and was severely disappointed in the results. To make things even worse, I'd marked out all the stuff I hadn't covered yet, so the questions they had to do were things that I'd already taught them. Or at least I thought I had. We have a lot of work to do.

I am really looking forward to this weekend. The Southeast Texas Ballet is doing "Babes in Toyland" tomorrow night in Beaumont! We're hopefully going to be able to take Ella to her first ballet! (Psst! I think it'll be my first, too!) I am soooooo excited about this. And then Saturday they're doing stuff at the Civic Center for Christmas that I'm hoping we'll be able to take her to. I love being able to do Christmas stuff with her...she has such a great time and makes everything so fun!!

The kiddo is still kicking it, though I'm still feeling NOTHING. I'm so ready to be able to feel him moving around. Yes, I think it's a him. We find out for sure on Tuesday, but won't be making any announcements until we've told our families in person next weekend! So exciting!!! I wanted to wait until Christmas, but quickly realized there is NO way I can keep my big mouth shut.

In closing, because I feel like I have to close with something other than that, I hope to see Four Christmases soon!

Twilight!!!

Soooooo, since I finished up the books in July, I've been counting down the days til Twilight came out! And I always assumed I'd be at the midnight showing. Then I realized that it was on a school night and I'd be teaching the next day and decided, eh, maybe I'd just wait. But My sweet, amazing, best-ever husband said that he'd go with me at midnight last night, so we headed out a little before 11! I just have to brag on him. He endured me basically shunning him for a week so I could throw myself into Forks and Bella and Edwards lives, then listened patiently, even asking questions sometimes, when I told him every single thing that was happening since no one else I was around had read the books. And yesterday, he'd gotten up at 4 to go play golf all day, came home at 6, helped me fix dinner for a dinner party we hosted, entertained for a few hours, and STILL took me to Twilight! I just think I've got the best man around, that's all. No. Scratch that. I know it. I love him so much!!!

As for the movie...I was so not disappointed. In fact, I thought it was probably as close as they could possibly get to the book. My opinion, of course. Naturally, there were characters, places, and events I'd pictured very differently in my head. I hate their selection for Jacob, and Charlie had to grow on me (he was a little older in my mind). Also, I was a little upset that they'd added extra stuff, but decided it was okay because, technically, it was in the book, just not in any sort of detail. I want to talk more, but I know some of you will see it this weekend. So...... let me know when you do!!!!!!

Oh, and Edward...oh, dear. They couldn't have picked a more perfect Edward!

Lookin for a Heartbeat...

So we ordered an AngelSounds Fetal Doppler off of eBay last week for pretty cheap so that we could try and hear Kiddo's heartbeat! When we got home from Many Saturday night, it was waiting for us. We couldn't find any heartbeat except for mine last night, so we tried it again this morning and we found him/her!!! We timed it and came up with like 180 bpm, which is what it was at the doctor's a few weeks ago. S/he's so excited!! I just tried again tonight and I guess s/he's settling down for the night because we clocked it around 159 bpm. I tried to upload it onto here, but it's not an image or a video, so it won't work! Oh, well. If you're really interested I can e-mail it=)

Did you say cheese?

So elections are a big deal around our house, what with my husband being the Elections Coordinator for our county. The entire 2 months that surround an election are always pretty hectic, but Election Day is always the worst. He has to go in around 5 a.m. and usually doesn't get of until the wee hours of the following morning. So Kaleb was trying to explain this to Ella last night on the way home from church. He started by saying that tomorrow was a very important day for our country. I added, "Yes, because tomorrow we get to choose a new president!" To which Ella replies, "Yum!" Kaleb and I kinda looked at each other like, mmmkay...and just waited. A few beats later, she says, "Did you say 'cheese'?" I have no idea why we found that so hilarious. We couldn't laugh at her because she hates it when you laugh at anything she says unless it was supposed to be a joke. But OH my goodness. I was crying I was laughing so hard. Kaleb had to try and explain it to her, that "choose" meant "pick" like you pick a new one. Anyway, I'm laughing again just retelling this story. I love that kid...never a dull moment with her!!

Ya Hear That Little Bomp Bomp Bomp...

Remember in "Where the Heart Is" Natalie Portman's character says something like, "Ya hear that little 'bomp, bomp, bomp'? That's where the heart is." Welll.......with a doppler it sounds more like a whoosh whoosh whoosh, but we definitely heard our baby's today!!! It was the most amazing thing yet. We had an ultrasound back at 5 wks, but it was just the yolk sac, so it didn't seem like a real baby. Today, though, it was really real!! I can't wait to feel this little bean move and kick around. The nurse couldn't find it at first, only mine, then she moved over and we could hear mine and the baby's beating together. AH-mazing. She was then able to isolate the baby's...which measured in the 180's! Excited little thing! I was absolutely giddy. I know I'm pregnant, but having confirmation that everything's going so well was so amazing! Kaleb and I are so very blessed...I am so excited for the months to come!!

The Best Show of My LIFE

Disclaimer: This is going to be a really long post. You must know that I waited approximately 18 years to see New Kids on the Block, who were my absolute favorite band during the late 80's-early 90's era. I am going to gush. A lot. You have been warned.

OH my gosh. I knew I was going to love this show, but I in no way prepared myself for it properly. First off, we'd bought the cheapest tickets available ($35 because with taxes and stuff it was $50) and were in the nosebleed section. We got there about 7:30 and the show was supposed to start at 8. We'd been sitting for about 5 minutes and this guy in a nice suit came up and was like, "Do y'all want to sit closer?" Ummmm....HECK YES WE DO!!! We were thinking maybe a few rows up. He took us out into the foyer thing and told us to speak to one of the ladies there with tickets (workers). They traded our section 419 (highest section possible that was so steep i couldn't stand up to dance for fear of falling) for section 103 tickets, which were 1 section up to the right of the stage!!!!!!!!!!! FOR FREE!!!!!!! I have NO idea how we lucked out except that the Lord is good and He knew we'd waited 18 years to see them! So we went to get our new seats, which were in such an awesome spot where we could see them both onstage and backstage before they went on. There were still people in our section. I guess we just looked a) super desperate or b) super loyal or c) super hot. I'll take all three!!!

Natasha Bedingfield opened up (she sings stuff like "These Words (I love you I love you I love you)", the theme song from The Hills, "Unwritten" (I'm listing these for my mom mostly)) and she was AMAZING. I'm not gonna lie I was ready for her to get off the stage but that's just because I was ready for my boys!! They finally took the stage at 9:05. Every thought left my head except the fact that I was ACTUALLY seeing New Kids on the Block. They gave every song their absolute all. They sounded amazing...even Donnie and Danny sounded good. Of course nobody could hear Jon. Bless his heart I don't even think he really does anything but dance a little. At one point, Danny came out on his own and break danced (broke danced?) and it was AMAZING. The dude is almost 40 and he was KILLING IT. They sang EVERY SINGLE SONG I wanted them to sang and more. They made me love their new album (I didn't before). I screamed like a 13 year old the entire night, so my voice is now completely shot. One of the highlights: you guys remember Jordan's dirty single, "Give it to You"? Well, he comes out (I believe this was the time he came out with an unbuttoned white shirt with an, I'm sorry Kaleb, amazing torso) and they start playing that carousel music from "Give it to You"!!!!!!!!!! We just flipped out. NEVER thought we'd hear him sing that song!!!! So while he was singing that, in the back of my mind I was thinking, "Well, if he's doing his solo single, maybe Joey will do his..." Since Joe was my absolutely obsessive favorite, I bought all his solo albums and that "Stay the Same" album I totally ran into the ground. Jordan leaves. Joey comes on. And.He.Does.It. I lost it again, even more than over Jordan if that was possible. I'd also like to say that Jordan and Joey's voices were PERFECT the entire night. Donnie's was awesome, too, (and REALLY hot, Leah, that boy has got some MOVES). Everyone just sounded perfect. I'm going to try to list all the songs they played in no order:

Single (new single)
My Favorite Girl
The Right Stuff
Please Don't Go Girl
Tonight
Click Click Click (new)
Twisted (new) SO HOT
Grown Man (new) SO HOT
Summertime (new)
Hangin' Tough
Step by Step
I'll Be Loving You (Forever)
Cover Girl
Give It To You
Stay the Same
Valentine Girl
Didn't I Blow Your Mind
Games
2 In the Morning (new) AWESOME
I am pretty sure they did "Baby I Believe in You"

I may have left some out, but these guys came on at 9:05 and they left at 11:00. That's the longest I've ever heard any band perform. And you all know how I love music and concerts, especially John Mayer, but hear this. THIS WAS THE BEST CONCERT I HAVE EVER BEEN TO. It was the funnest, the most energetic, (I danced the ENTIRE night), the most nostalgic, the best looking, the best seats, the best sounding show I've been to. Say what you want, but that is how I feel.

This show was amazing. New Kids DEFINITELY still have it, and I don't care what anybody says!!!!! I wish you all could've been there!!! I was SO glad to enjoy it (and scream and be super silly) with my girls Katie, Blaire, and Lauren. Ladies, I am so glad I was able to have the NKOTB experience with you!! And I'm so glad I didn't feel retarded when I was jumping up and down and losing control of my mind and body as long as they were on stage!!!

It was the best night I've had that didn't include Kaleb in my life. Nights with him surpass this, but nothing else does.

NKOTB!!!

OMG, like tomorrow I am TOTALLY going to see New Kids on the Block!!! I really am so excited. I know I should probably be ashamed or something, but I make no apologies for my awesome taste in music circa elementary school. Man. I just hope I don't a) cry or b) pee my pants. However, doing both simultaneously would not dampen (no pun intended) my excitement!!! I actually dreamt about Joey last night. He came to my parents house where (in my dream) I still had a poster of them hanging above my bed. We hung out and he tried to put the moves on me but I told him I was married. See, Kaleb, even Joey McIntyre can't take me away from you!! Anyway, I kept trying to get people to take pictures of me with Joey, and they wouldn't. and finally they just told me that he wasn't really there and I'd hallucinated the whole thing. Wow. This pregnancy's been giving me some very vivid dreams!

Pregnancy=Impatient, Emotional Mess

**AMENDED***
To brag about my utterly AMAZING husband who never ceases to amaze me. I was teaching my 4th graders about rounding with decimals and our secretary knocked on my door and delivered the most BEAUTIFUL bouquet of flowers. I'd post a picture, but I don't have a camera here. OH my goodness I almost started crying. Kaleb knew the kind of a morning I was having and sent them to brighten my day! Boy, did they ever. Kaleb Alce Breaux, I love you more than you will EVER know. And not just because you sent me flowers. You are everything I ever dreamt of in a husband and so.much.more. I do not deserve you, but I sure am elated that God gave you to me! I LOVE YOU!!!


So these past couple weeks I have pretty much decided I don't really want to be a teacher anymore. Maybe it's because I'm tired all the time. Maybe it's because I don't like having so much to do outside my teaching hours. Maybe it's because I feel guilty that I can't stay at home with Ella (she cries the entire way to her school every morning telling me she doesn't want to go because she's going to miss me and "but i loooove you!!!"). Maybe it's because I was feeling okay about my students' progress until we got 4 new kids from Ike who have apparently been taught NOTHING at any of their other schools (i.e. adding, subtracting across zeros, place value, rounding). 4th and 5th graders. At any rate, all of these things together makes me greatly desire a change in profession or a lack of any profession.

I've decided my first choice (were we rich enough) would, of course, be to be a stay at home mom. Like that's gonna happen. My second choice, which may be just as good, would be to bake stuff. I love to bake. Why not make a career of it? I could start out like Paula Deen, baking stuff out of my home and selling it to people and then eventually having my own awesome bakery or cake shop or something. I just don't want to teach.

I AM very excited, however, about spending time with Leslie and Justin tonight and going on a date with my amazing husband tomorrow night!!!!!!!!

Let Me Go Home...

We went to Leah's beautiful wedding this weekend, and that song played at the reception in the background and I almost started crying. Never in my life have I wanted SO badly to just go home!!! We've been without electricity there since last Thursday. I'm really praying it comes back on very soon. We're staying in Vinton with Kaleb's sister right now, and it's been fun, but I'm just ready for everything to go back to normal again!

We had our first doctor's visit on Friday. That was interesting...things are different, but they're okay so far. Please be praying for out little dot! I'm not as far as we thought I was...probably just 6 weeks when we thought I was 7, but no big deal.

I stayed home from school today because I was super-nauseated for the first time this morning. Not a good idea, though. I feel fine now, and I'm stuck at Clair's house by myself with no vehicle and 3 channels!! What was I thinking???

Go Home Ike--Tina's Not Here!

That was my favorite sign in all this hullabaloo. It was pretty clever, I thought. Ike finally left...with some bad stuff in his wake. I wasn't down here for Rita, so I'd never seen anything like this before. We evacuated to Monroe and came back yesterday to Starks with Kaleb's family. They already had power!! We rode out to check on our house and, after going some alternate routes because of water still being over the roads, found that it was fine!! Some pieces of siding blown off, but nothing major! Praise God!!! There was flooding down all roads leading to our house except one. God is faithful. However, we've heard that quite a few friends of ours have lost everything in the flooding in Bridge City. I cannot imagine how that must be. Most of them had to be rescued from their attics because of all the water in their houses. Please be praying for these families.

Knocked Up.

Well...after trying for less than 2 months, Kaleb and I are pregnant! I'm in my 6th week, due in the middle of May. How exciting!!!

Killer Queen.

I totally killed a mouse today for the first time ever. I think maybe I should feel bad because the whole time Kaleb & I were "chasing" it from under the refrigerator, I just kept saying, "He's so cute!!" because he seriously was the cutest mouse I've ever seen. Even after I dealt him his death blow(s) and he had his little guts coming out his behind, his little mouth was open in the cutest little "O" and his little hands were drawn up to his chest. Cutest.dead.mouse.ever. It was super tiny, too. But it was in our kitchen. We were afraid Ella would object to our killing it, but she was all for it and cheering us on. We all felt incredibly accomplished and mouse-free for the evening. We know we still have some mice that get in our garage, though, so we went out and bought traps for them. It'll be much easier than broom-bashing!

Twilight

So today, exactly one week after I opened Twilight, I finished Breaking Dawn. During that week, I fell in love with Bella, Edward, and Jacob (and Renesmee), became completely obsessed with anything Twilight-related, and have tried to get every girl I know to read at least the first book (and successfully hooked one of them). I have laughed, cried, and totally immersed myself into this story. I am pretty sure I thought I was Bella, which makes me think that Stephenie Meyer did an amazing job of writing. I was pretty embarrassed that I got so into these YA books, but I couldn't help it! I am in dire need of discussing them with someone. Especially Breaking Dawn! So hurry it up, Leslie!!! No one else I know has read them!

I am actually kind of ready for school to start. I never thought I'd say that...but I am. I think I might go up tomorrow and do some work in my classroom. I want to do a lot more in the decorations department than I did last year. So, if anyone still reads this, I am open to some math-y suggestions!!

John Mayer.

I have a lot to write about: the trip to Austin and then the Woodlands, my new obsession with the Twilight series, and John Mayer. I'm choosing the one I'm reeling over the most right now. See title.





Anyone who's known me for a while knows that I love music. Really close friends know that I have some Ultimates. Jeff Buckley is my Ultimate all time musician. He is dead. Freddie Mercury is close behind him. John Mayer, since I randomly chose his first album when I was a freshman in college, has been my Ultimate living artist. I love his music, I love his abilities, I basically just love the guy. In a fan way of course. I cannot say that I have met anyone (in real life) who is as obsessive about him as I am. My friends like him (except the guys...for some reason they all hate him. Jealousy I think) but they're not just crazy ridiculously nuts about him. I've seen him 4 times, counting tonight, and he just gets better and better. He absolutely amazes me. I will have to say that the show in Dallas in 2002 or 2003 is probably still my favorite, but this one was still amazing. Brett Dennen and Colbie Caillat opened for him. I LOVE Brett, but I am afraid not many others in the audience knew him. Idiots. Colbie I can do without. She kind of gets on my nerves. But Mayer came out and did some wonderful harmony on her "Realize." I hadn't seen him since he shaved his head. It quickly grew on me. When it was time for him to come out, here's what we saw:





Umm...I know they're small...but can you tell he's freaking TOPLESS?? It took me a while to recover from it at first. It was butt nasty hot out there, so it was understandable. Did it make the show more interesting? Sure. Was his music still the focus? For me, absolutely. Even Kaleb, who absolutely loathes the guy, said that he was surprised at how good he sounded live. Just like a recording. Fabulous. He did a few covers..."Free Falling" which was expected as it's on the "Where the Light Is" show he did and released. He actually did a fabulous blues version of Duffy's "Mercy." He bluesed it up so much that it was almost unrecognizable if you didn't catch the lyrics. The man is a genius. He did a little "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" which was nice. Probably some more but you don't really care right? You're still looking at those pictures aren't you? I can't blame ya. The guy is hot, I'm just sayin.

So this concert, which I've been looking forward to since the spring, was a perfect culmination to my summer, which isn't over yet. I will see him every chance I get, and you should, too!
To close, I would like to thank my wonderful husband for surprising me with these tickets randomly, for no reason, in April (I think it was April). I love you!!! You are the BEST!!

We spotted the ocean...

What a wonderful TTWS song. We got back this afternoon from our Vacation #2 to Crystal Beach. This is going to be a serious post I guess. Last night I couldn't sleep, so I decided to go sit out on the balcony of the beach house and watch the waves and spend some time with God. It was amazing. As soon as I sat down, I started talking to Him about all the stuff that was going on, and He quickly interrupted me. See, usually I feel like I have to talk for a little while to God before He'll start talking to me. Last night, He was basically saying, "I've been waiting for you, Jenni, and I really want to talk to you. Could you just listen for a minute?" Immediately, He was speaking. And sometimes I can't really tell if it's Him or what I want Him to say, but it was unquestionably Him, and I thought I'd share some of it.

We spent Tuesday at the beach with some inner tubes. We'd walk down a ways and go into the water. Our goal was to get on the other side of where the waves were breaking so that we could just ride the easy waves back to where our group was. This proved to be much, much harder than I thought. The breaking waves were rough--you'd take a step and then they'd knock you back 3. Kaleb came up with a jump-jump-run method where you'd jump the waves then run hard so you could get as far as possible before the next set came in. Some times we made it to the other side, some times we didn't. It was fun, but it was tough. Getting smacked in the face with nasty water isn't always pleasant. But once you got past those breaking waves, it was smooth sailing. The water just carried you over it. You didn't have to worry about getting knocked over or anything. It was peaceful and wonderful.

While I was watching the waves crashing on the shore last night, God used them to show me how that's exactly what life is like. It's so easy to get caught up in the nasty water of life...drama and gossip and depression and whatever else is bogging you down...that we don't think we can handle it. But at the same time, we just stay there because maybe we don't realize what's on the other side of it. It's hard work, but if we can just get passed all of it, passed the point where everything breaks, then our ride will be so much smoother, calm, relaxing, peaceful. And of course it isn't always like that...there are still those really tall waves that you just can't get over before they smack you, and sometimes the waves carry you back past the breaking point again, but then at least you've had a taste of the smooth waters, and you know what you're working back to get to. God just really spoke to me through all of this. He wants me to get past all the junk that happens that's so superficial so I can focus on things that matter--namely: Him. I am so thankful that He shared this with me. I don't like sand, but I sure love the ocean.

Vacation #1

Ahhhhhh. We got back this morning from a much-needed vacation! It was short, but so sweet! My mom, dad, and sister came in Saturday night and we left for Galveston after church on Sunday morning. We got some beach time, some attraction time, some pool time, and some great family time! I'd post pictures, but I just got finished uploading 71 to my myspace AND then to my facebook! So I'm sure we're myspace or facebook friends and you can see them there. Because they really are great. Ella had a great time. She LOVES the beach. Watching her in the waves was hilarious. We spent Monday at Moody Gardens, where she said her favorite part was the Rainforest. Every animal she saw was, "Idn't he cuuuuuute?" Including the snakes. We tried to tell her snakes weren't really cute, but she wasn't having it.

It ended way too quickly, but I am so glad we got to go together! It's our first vacation since we got married (except the honeymoon) and Kaleb and Ella's first vacation with my family. I had such a wonderful time!!! I named this vacation #1 because we leave for vacation #2 with Kaleb's family on Monday!! So at least we've got stuff to look forward to still:) We're going to Crystal Beach with them Monday through Thursday, coming home for the weekend, and then leaving the next Tuesday for Austin for a business trip with Kaleb! It'll be my first trip to Austin so I am PUMPED. We'll come back to Houston Friday night, stay with his cousin, and go to the JOHN MAYER concert on Saturday. We have got a very business next few weeks!!! Woo HOOOOO!!! I LOVE SUMMER!!

Good friends, Good times, Goodbyes

This past weekend was the best I've had in a really long time. It's pretty likely it was the best one of the year thus far. We drove up to Many on Thursday to spend the night at my parents' before we took Ella back to her mom's. On Friday, we went to Natchitoches to have lunch with my wonderful, beautiful best friend, Blaire, and my wonderful, beautiful best photographer AND great friend, Amy. That was fabulous. Afterwards, Kaleb went to play golf with his cousin, and I went back to my parents'. The evening was good. On Saturday, my parents and I woke up bright and early to head back over to Natchitoches to move my sister in her 2nd place in about 3 months. We were done by 10:30! Amazing! Then I discover that a WHOLE bunch of my favorite college friends were in town for a wedding! So I stayed in Natchitoches and went to hang out with Blaire and Jamie, two old and wonderful friends/roommates, and Joshua and Matt, two new friends. We had such a great time just catching up and fellowshiping with one another! Joshua and Matt were throwing a party that night, and I kept saying how much I wished we could stay (I had commitments at church the next day). Kaleb kept saying how we totally could...so I got someone else to do my commitment (I felt really bad, but how often do I see these people?? It had literally been more than a year!!) and went and bought a dress (I didn't bring one...good excuse, huh?) and decided to stay another night! We saw SO many old friends, and met a bunch of new ones. We both realized more than ever how much we feel that God is drawing us back to Natchitoches. Kaleb's been feeling it, but I haven't until recently. We still feel like God's telling us to wait for now, though. And we are some impatient fools!!

Sunday morning, we went to church at The River, the church I went to while I was at NSU. I'll be honest...I mostly wanted to go because Mary Dirks was going to be leading worship. Man. It was just exactly what I needed...the memories flooded back and everything God has done and continues to do for me and for our families just rushed in. All I could do was praise Him. He is amazing! He works all things for His good. And no matter what situation I'm in, no matter how unhappy I feel with my job, it is so important to know that He's brought me here for a reason. When it's time to move, He'll let us know. But for now, I have to be open to let him use me in any way possible to reach the people I come into contact with here, especially my kids. Praise God! I love Him so!

So that was our weekend. It's left us yearning for more of what we experienced there, but we're trying to be patient until it's time for us to go back.

That was the good times and the good friends...the goodbyes was leaving them AND the fact that today was the last day of summer school!!! And while I've been looking forward to it for FOREVER, it makes me really sad because this was my last day with Leslie:( I have NO clue what I am going to do without her next year. I will miss you, my friend!!! We have GOT to still do stuff together!

Blue

So, just like every other school I've interviewed at, this one (the music teacher one) has started giving me the runaround. I've yet to understand why, if a school doesn't want to hire you, they don't at least respect you enough to let you know that you won't be getting a second interview like they said you would. I called today and they told me that "when and if" they did anymore interviews it wouldn't be until August 1st. Riiight. I wanted to start singing Paula Abdul to the lady. Straight up, now tell me!!! I just feel like the least they could do is to let me know. Or even answer my emails. Oh well. I probably wouldn't make a great music teacher. I don't feel like I want to be a teacher at all right now, though. I am completely burned out on school, completely regretting taking this summer school job, and completely depressed that I have to be at this place next year.

So, yes, today's not so great. I want school to be over NOW. 4 more days.

A Wonderful Day

I had such a wonderful birthday yesterday!!! My friends and family made it so special. My husband bought me the most amazing shoes I've ever owned:

I LOVE them!!!!!! I'm not a tennis-shoe-with-jeans wearer, but I've been wearing t-shirts just so I can wear these shoes. Man. He also got me John Mayer tickets for August 2nd previously, and an arm band thing for my iPod and some earbuds that match the swoosh in my shoes:) I cannot WAIT to go to the gym today!!! I swear these shoes make me walk/jog faster! I'm even moving Spin to Fridays and Saturdays so I can use my armband and earbuds today. I am PUMPED.

My day started off wonderfully, mainly because I was met at the front office with a plate of the most phenomenal brownies OF MY LIFE that Leslie made for the staff (and Kaleb and Ella) in honor of my birthday. Oh, man. Seriously, the best brownies of my life. And I don't say that lightly. After school (and getting a sweet card in the mail from my mama--I'd already gotten my sweet cards from my daddy and sister, and another from my mama:) ), I had an interview for an elementary music teacher position, which I felt went pretty well. I'm going back for another interview next week. I am really praying hard that I get this job! It'd be a wonderful change, and I think I would LOVE to be a music teacher.

Then I went to my Group Power class at the gym, came home and freshened up, and then met my wonderful inlaws at Acapulco for my birthday dinner! It was so great to spend time with everyone and just enjoy it all! On the way home, I got a call from my sweet family who'd gotten together to sing "Happy Birthday" to me in the most beautiful three-part harmony you've ever heard and we came home for the BEST COOKIE CAKE EVER made (and decorated) for me by my husband, who has proven yet again to be the sweetest man in the world, and I cannot get over how much I love him!!! THANK YOU to all my friends and family who made my day so great! And for all the birthday wishes from you facebook and myspace folks!! I am so blessed! Oh, and let me throw in that my parents bought me NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK tickets!!!!!!!!! Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh!

Ouch

So this week I decided to try some new stuff at the gym. On Monday I just did the treadmill and bike, but every other day this week I've done a class. I did Spin on Tuesday evening (the real one--I'm not doing the intro class anymore:) ) and then last night I decided to do Group Power, which is a 60 minute program that uses handweights and barbells for curls and presses and squats and lunges and all those painful things. I loved it!! The teacher is wonderful, and she really made me feel comfortable with everything. So I've decided that I'll be doing that on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4:30 (p.m.) and then this morning I went to my first 5 a.m. Spin class. It was really easy...I don't know if it was because there were only 2 of us in there besides the instructor and he knew it was only her second time or what. There were no jumps and only a couple hovers (the hardest things for me to do) so I don't know what the deal was. It was definitely a great way to start the morning, though! I am in some severe pain in my arms, chest, and legs. I love it.

Today will finish up my first week of summer school. I cannot stress how ready I am for this to just be OVER. I'm so tired of this place. This afternoon we're leaving for Alexandria for a couple services at the Louisiana District Nazarene Family Camp, something that my family and I went to every year until I got married. I am really excited about being there and seeing my people! Then tomorrow evening we'll get Ella, go back for one more night at camp, then head out bright and early (try 6 a.m.) Saturday morning so we can be back in Nederland for our church's softball tournament. NO, I am not playing. Kaleb said that it wouldn't be a good idea after he saw my pitiful catching and throwing skillz. I said it wouldn't be a good idea all along. Hopefully by next year I'll have some toning and I can do stuff like that. Still, coordination is probably what I lack, and no amount of exercise will give me that! Anyway, Kaleb's playing in that so we'll be spending the day at the park watching games and letting Ella play. It's shaping up to be a great end of the week!

New Hair...

I got a new hair cut!!! This is definitely the shortest it's ever been and I LOVE IT!!!

Is Tamra home?

So we got to see "The Strangers" last night. I realllllllllly enjoyed it. It did its job of thoroughly freaking me out, so much so that while Kaleb's gone to pick up pizza for supper tonight I heard sounds in the garage and promptly (and quietly) sprinted barefoot to the door to lock it. The bad thing is, I'm supposed to be starting laundry. I'll have to wait til he gets home now. I love scary movies and I'd been so excited about seeing this one. The theatre was packed, and I was so proud of the audience's perfect participation (all the right gasps and "Oh, s***!s at the all the right times). I do not recommend seeing this if you a) have nightmares about scary movies, b) live or will live in a remote location for any length of time, or c) have a bad heart. I haven't jumped that much in a while. And honestly, I was jumpy for quite a long time after. The elements of good thriller action were there. No gore, which is unusual these days, and I love that the killers wore masks. Masks TERRIFY me. Something about not being able to know who's doing it...anyway, maybe I've said too much. You should go see this film!

We finally watched "Rob Zombie's Halloween" this afternoon. It was alright...great as far as Rob Zombie films go. I enjoyed seeing all his regulars in it (Sheri, Sid Haig, Danny Trejo, and not a regular but Malcom McDowell, who I will always love from his wonderful "A Clockwork Orange" portrayal). I liked seeing the backstory behind Michael Myers explained. I liked how it didn't point to "killers are created by their environment" OR "killers are already evil and there's nothing you can do about it." Instead, they showed that he was the result of the evil that exists in all of us and the environment that made him cling to that evil alone. It was great. A little too much sex for my normal taste, but you gotta expect it from Rob. And I'd like to say that he has the BEST music in his movies. He really knows how to pick the perfect songs for his films. Completely random 70's rock. Perfect.

This is our last week of school!! Then I start summer school the next Monday. Please, can someone tell me what I was thinking??

Woo HOOOOO!!!!!!

SO very glad that David Cook won tonight!!! I gotta say, I honestly thought Li'l Arch would steal it away, but I was pleasantly surprised at 8:59 tonight! Definitely the right choice, given the two.

I love...

Jason Mraz's new album. It is wonderful. I loved his first one and all the live stuff from that time period, but I didn't really care for his 2nd album (didn't even buy it). This new one is great though!!! And half of it is all live stuff. You should check it out! Try "I'm Yours" for starters.

I also love my gym!!! I actually look forward to going everyday! I've only missed Saturday since I joined. I have developed a nice cut/blister on one of my toes from the positioning of my toes and their nails, which hurts like a mother when I'm doing anything other than sitting still. I also got a cushion for my spin class and went yesterday and discovered that WOW what a difference a few inches of padding makes! My butt didn't bother me at all. My legs were another story! It was still much easier than the first time for me. I had a different instructor that I think I like a little better...we worked in 2 minute intervals for 3 sets and then 1 minute intervals for 2 sets. It made the time fly by!!! I'm going again to my first instructor on Thursday. I think I can handle 2 times a week for now.

Only 2.5 weeks of school left!!! I cannot put into words how much I am longing for summer!

Vi-o-lated!

Wow. Why did no one tell me that taking spin class would leave me feeling like I've been violated in my lady parts?? I expected to be sore in my legs. I feel like someone tried to assault me!!! I mean it literally feels like I've got bruises. Sometimes it hurts to sit. However, I LOVED IT!!! So much fun, so invigorating, and so the toughest thing I have ever done workout-wise! There were 3 first timers in the class (it was Spin 101) and I felt like I kept up pretty well. I don't think I've ever sweated that much during a workout. It was wonderful. I did make a poor choice, however, by getting there 30 minutes early and deciding to do the elliptical for 30 minutes prior to class. What a dumb move. Because of this, my legs were nearly fatigued by the time class started, which resulted in my inability to stand for much of our first standing song (we totally spun to Bon Jovi's newest album). I did, however, make it through the entire last song standing the whole time!! I was so proud of myself. I love it. I'm going again at 5 a.m. Tuesday morning. I'm thinking spinning on Tuesdays and Thursdays will be good with regular workouts or other aerobic classes the other days.

I also made it in at 4:30 again this morning and walked 4 miles. I love this place!!

Step One

I did it! I pulled out of our driveway at 4:36 yesterday morning to make it to the gym before 5. It was wonderful!!! I just learned that I've got to go to bed earlier now. Having a tv to watch the whole time definitely helps. I went back and tanned after work. And today I have my first Spin class at 5:30, followed by Bible Study at 6:30. It's gonna be a busy night! I am so excited about spinning, though. I've always wanted to try it, and I hear it's a surefire way to tone up your bottom half and shed pounds quickly. I hope I don't embarrass myself.

I cannot get motivated to do anything at school. I'm tired of the whole place and just ready for summer! 3 weeks and 1 day left. They will not go by fast enough.

Lastly, I'm really considering skipping work tomorrow because my beloved NKOTB will be doing their first comeback performance on the TODAY show!!! I need to see this.

Seriously?

I mean, come on, Little Archuleta. As if the world needed more proof that white people look terribly awkward when they try to be hip. What the heck possessed him to do "With You"??? I mean, this was his choice right? Because Paula chose the Billy Joel and the producers chose "Longer"? So that means that HE chose Chris Brown??? I haven't been made that uncomfortable by a TV show since the "Dinner Party" episode of The Office. I really hope that kid gets sent home.
David Cook surprised me. I hated his Switchfoot but really loved "The First Time Ever..." Syesha was my favorite. I couldn't believe they gave her such crap about "Fever." It was amazing. I wish she'd win. I just really don't want her to be gone tomorrow but judging from the past few weeks' votes, she will.

I joined a gym today for the first time in my life!!! I am super excited. So excited, in fact, that I'm getting up at 4:30 tomorrow morning to go work out before school! I'll let you know how that works out.

Cube-icals

We reorganized Ella's room last night! Well...more like just plain organized, really, since there was no rhyme or reason to it before. I realized about halfway through the process that I should've taken a before picture, but I didn't, so you'll have to settle for an after. I discovered Target's awesome Cube-icals! That shelf was just $50 and the fabric bins were $6 each, which is ridiculously cheap for such cute things! They're exactly what I was looking for and it came together so well! We got it done in about an hour and a half last night between 10 and 11:30, which is the latest I've stayed up in a while. Here's the finished product:

So cute, huh?? Like I said, you should've seen it before. That entire wall was COVERED with junk...including a huge gray tub full of toys that she NEVER plays with. We were even able to get all her Barbies and kitchen stuff into those little bins. Brilliant!

In some sad news, my Ganny died last night. She was my grandma's sister and very close to my family my whole life. She kept me until I started school and always had tons of stories to tell on me. Every person I ever brought for her to meet heard the story of how, when I "couldn't-a been more than a year old!" looked her right in the face and told her to "Tet up!" which she thought was hilarious and my parents thought wasn't so much. She also made the BEST desserts I've ever had in my life. And cinnamon rolls. Man. We will miss you, Ganny. Love, Little Tet Up (what she called me).

My Rant Against Acrylics

I mean, I guess that's what I have. I've been getting my nails done for almost a year now. I loved it, but I just got tired of it. It became more of a hassle than the "luxury" I thought it'd always feel like. It also kept me from playing the guitar, which I don't do often at all, but I still want to when I want to, right? So today I went to get them taken off. (I should also add that instead of getting them done I'm wanting to tan, so really that's a ig reason too:) ) In retrospect, I probably should've waited until they'd started lifting (I just had them done Saturday before last), but I didn't not know this. Actually, in retrospect I wouldn't have had them take them off at all.

I've only had fake nails once before, when we got married, and taking them off was a 2 hour long soaking in acetone that led to the most ugliest nails I've ever had. I thought, "These people are professionals, surely there's a better way!!" Their better way was working a thin piece of plastic between my actual (paper thin by now) nail and the ridiculously thick layering of fake nail on top of it and pushing it under as far as it would go trying to make it pop off. I don't know if this sounds painful yet, but it was, especially since they hadn't started lifting on their own yet. She did the pinky one and I only winced a bit, but it took 3-5 minutes to do that one. She started on my right ring finger and I was in a lot of pain, and I whimpered and the lady's like "It hurt?" I said, "Yes, very much" and she went and got a bowl of acetone, stuck my nails in, covered them with a towel, and stuck a lamp over them for about 30 minutes. I'm just glad that she's stopped trying to pry them off with a plastic fingernail. So after that she comes back, shaves off what's melted down and goes back to prying. The right hand did fine. The left hand...oh, man. My left middle fingernail is now split at the top for about 1/8th of an inch down. As she was forcing the plastic nail between my two nails, my weakened real nail split and she's now running that plastic nail very quickly right across the meat under my nail. I did more than whimper this time. I kept saying "It's going under my nail!!" until she stopped. Then I looked up and saw her mouth form into an "O!" and her eyes get really big and she started rubbing my hand. I looked back down to see blood seeping through the crack in my nail. I gotta tell you, that's the worse pain I've ever felt in my life I'd say. It hurts me to think about it. But she put some super glue type stuff on it and it doesn't really hurt. I find that my right pinky, the only one she popped off without letting it soak first, hurts the most, probably because there is a small hole in it where I can see the meat and where the meat can feel me. This was a horrible experience. My nails are sore and of course have those lovely ridges, like rings on a tree, where I'd gotten fill after fill after fill. It feels weird, looks weird, and really hinders my ability to scratch my nose without looking like I'm picking it.

So, that's my nail experience. I urge you, readers (if there are any), stay away from acrylic nails!! And if you must get em, for God's sake, take them off yourself or let me know a better way for someone to take them off. Man alive.

My Sweet Husband

So last week, Kaleb told me he had a surprise for me but I had to wait until the weekend. I, of course, started asking all sorts of questions and he, of course, couldn't NOT tell me. He surprised me with John Mayer tickets!!!!!!! For those of you who know me, you know that Mayer has been my favorite living artist for about 7 years now, and I nothing beats seeing him live!! It'll be my fourth time. The best part of all of this is the face that Kaleb loathes John Mayer, and he still did this for me as a complete and total surprise because he loves me:) I'm going to make him a believer, though, just you watch!

So husband and I will be seeing Mayer in The Woodlands on August 2nd!!! Woo hooooooooo!!!!!!!!

So...

David Cook should go home. It's time for Brooke, too. I could not BELIEVE what the judges had to say about David's performance. I agree the arrangement was cool, but he was completely out of tune for half of it and I just thought it sucked. Badly.

Actually, the only ones I just loved last night were Jason and Syesha. KLC did well, too. She's really surprising me. Carly sucked it up...and we all know that little Archuleta's going to win it, so I don't even bother talking about him, mainly because he absolutely bores me. He really does. He doesn't ever do anything different, he's got a great voice, and he's boring.

I am so excited that Ali won Biggest Loser!!! Wow...a few of them looked AMAZING. I am most happiest for Bernie, though! He looks so great! He was definitely my favorite male contestant. It's all so inspirational. Just 28 more pounds to my goal!

I don't really have anything exciting to talk about. Other than, you should go to my myspace and check out the awesome song I have playing on there. That one night...

Shout to the Lord??

Wow. So, American Idol opened with the finalists singing "Shout to the Lord" last night. Don't get me wrong--it was awesome--but all I could think was...what the heck?? I'd wondered why on "inspirational night" no one, even Jason Castro, sang anything God-ish. Then I started to wonder if maybe the songs they had to choose from were void of Christian overtones for "freedom" purposes or something and then somebody started fussing about it and so they appeased us Christians with a worship song. THEN I read more about it. I missed Idol Gives back Wednesday night because we were having an AWESOME dinner at Tokyo with my wonderful in-laws, and they apparently closed with it that night. Only they edited out "Jesus" in the first verse, singing: "My shepherd, my savior, Lord there is none like you," which just sounds ridiculous, but is also just stupid because, really, if you're going to sing a Praise and Worship song and you don't want to offend non-Christians, you can pick one that doesn't have the word "Jesus" in it at all. So why do that song and make it obvious?? So apparently last night was their appeasement for Christians again by singing Jesus in there. I loved it, and I was shocked to see it on American Idol.

Now, let's talk about how upset I am that Michael Johns is gone. He did not deserve to go. Sure, his "Dream On" wasn't great, but he's been on fire the last few weeks and I've really gotten to like him. David Cook sucked so badly this week and he wasn't even in the bottom three. I can't believe Syesha didn't go home. Carly was awful this week, but she's done well in the past. Still, I'd rather have seen her go than Michael. Bless his heart.

In real life news, I got evaluated by our super-intendent today. I knew it was coming so I planned a lesson that'd have everything I knew he'd be looking for:) Cheating? Nah. I really did teach, so it's still a representation of what I do with my kids daily. I feel really good about it. I feel like I did everything I was supposed to do, and he said he enjoyed the lesson. I guess I'll find out when we have our sit-down next week. I'm just glad it's over with!

I baked my 5th graders some of my Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies, which are the best cookies I've ever had in my life, from 5:15-6:15 this morning. They loved them. It was their reward for doing their best on TAKS. At least I hope they did their best.

I'm leaving school at noon to spend some time with my wonderful husband. I don't know what we're going to do, but I'm sure it'll be a good time. Quality time. Oh, yes. I am excited!

Happy Friday!

Idol Talk

Oh, I love puns.

So the tables have turned for me this week. This might be the only time you'll ever hear (read) me say this, but KLC actually did really well tonight! Wow. I'm not gonna lie; I couldn't find anything wrong with her performance. Good job.

Jason's was my favorite, by far. What a smart choice for him! I love Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's version of this song LOVE IT and I think Jason's performance was flawless. He is back, thank God!!!

I also loved little David Archuleta's performance. A nice little Robbie Williams that I have always thought was a little hokie, but he did it really well.

Brooke's was good. Nothing super awesome.

Michael Johns...it started out really well. Love "Dream On." Actually, I'm watching it right now and I'd just said to Kaleb, "I like this...this is good..." and then he goes into that totally not-up-to-Tyler-par falsetto that just sounded kind of like a wounded bird. Or cat. Or a catbird? And Paula's complementing him with her chihuahuas joining him? Wouldn't that be bad?

Here's who SUCKED. Carly. When are these folks going to learn that if you can't do a Queen song well you shouldn't do it at all?? I love that song, but a) I've never thought of it as inspirational and b) she slaughtered it! Her runs were off, she screeched it, and she just stunk that stage up. She's lost some props from me.

I wasn't impressed with Syesha, mainly because she was way off pitch...that girl was all over the place. She has a pretty tone, but her pitch killed her tonight. I'd guess that she'd go home. Are they doing that this year though? Last year they didn't send anyone home for the Idol Gives Back night.

And David Cook...I really loathed his song choice. It was ridiculous and I had no love for him tonight either.

So...Syesha can go home. And Jason was absolutely perfect.

Thank you, America!!

SO very glad to see that Ramiele and KLC were in the bottom last night. Sad to see Brooke down there, but I thought it was deserved...I love her, but she just hasn't been doing very well these last few weeks. I was more than happy to see Ramiele go. It's a long time coming. And I swear if KLC stays on again next week I'm quitting.

Re-retraction?

I really enjoyed last night. I don't know what the heck the judges were watching/listening to, but I thought it was awesome. That may be just because I love Dolly, though. I think I might have to like David Cook. "Little Sparrow" is one of my favorite Dolly songs, and he did an awesome job on it. I really wished Brooke wouldn't have done Jolene (mainly because I don't like the song very much) but she did a good job of it. WHAT was KLC thinking?? "Coat of Many Colors"?? All those Dolly songs and she picked that one?? Please, for the love of God, America, SEND HER HOME!!! I cannot get over how much I loved Carly's version of "Here You Come Again" which is probably my favorite Dolly song, maybe tied with "Why'd You Come in here Lookin' Like That" (kidding, but I love that song). It was amazing...I loved it all slowed down and stripped like that...I'll probably buy it. And I've bought no one's thus far. I also loved Michael Johns' "It's All Wrong But It's All Right." And I hated her voice, but I liked Ramiele's song choice..."Do I Ever Cross Your Mind."

If you're a fan of music, especially that of the folky persuasion, I encourage you to try out "Just Because I'm a Woman," which is a collection of women now doing Dolly's songs. It is wonderful!

I hope KLC goes home tonight. Or Ramiele. Anybody but Carly, Jason, and David C. And Brooke. And little David A.

Retraction!

I was afraid I'd have to post a retraction to my raves about David Cooke's "brilliant" rendition of "Billie Jean." Here it is. It's Chris Cornell's version of the song!!! Apparently Seacrest said that when he introduced it, which I missed because I came in to the first notes of the song and not the introduction. So David C. has dropped tremendously in my book and is now on the same page as Daughtry, which is not a good page to be on in the book. It's the same page as Nickelback and Creed. Yes, that one. I'm sorry for being so excited. I am really disappointed in it, mainly because he seemed to be trying to pass it off as his own version judging by the lack of credit he gave to Cornell when the judges were raving about it. Ugh. So that's one dropped from my list of favorites. I am excited about tonight, though! It's Dolly Parton week! And whether you like her or not, you must admit that she's a tremendous songwriter.

Umm...what???

Can we talk about this? By the beard of Zeus, HOW did Chikezie go home tonight?! And HOW the heck was Jason Castro in the bottom three??? And Syesha! This just blows my mind. It is a travesty. I was positive that America would vote Ramiele off. Although I am positive that Kristie Lee Cook has been the worst for the last month now, I know that the freaking IDIOTS who "represent" the country music loving Americans are voting for her so she'll stay on. Especially after that stupid song choice last night. My mom and I were talking about where that song took a turn for the worst, and we decided it was about after the first hundred times we heard it 20 freaking years ago. UGH. I'm furious. I cannot understand why Ramiele's still on and NOT EVEN IN THE BOTTOM THREE??? Ridiculous.

I'd like to say that David Cooke's version of Billie Jean was phenomenal last night. I love that he did that. Kind of like when Chris Daughtry did that awesome version of I Walk the Line until I found out that it was really just a cover of Live's version of it, which is where he started to go downhill for me. (I really, really hate him at this point, just to make myself clear.) Anyway, if somebody else did that version of Billie Jean let me know because right now that kid has got TONS of credit from me. I, of course, loved that Michael Johns did Queen and did them proud. Wonderful. Castro...I love him, but this wasn't anything special. He reminded me a lot of Jason Mraz, who I love-a love-a love. I liked Carly's. Love that song. I'm just upset. I can't get over this. I hate American Idol when it turns to this.

My Spring Break is going really well!! My mom came and spent Monday through today with us and we had a lot of fun! We went shopping on Tuesday and took Ella to the park today. I plan on doing as little as possible for my two remaining days of freedom. I'm thinking about getting up for 8 tomorrow to watch Matlock. I am lame, I know this. But Matlock is awesome.

Happy Break!

Wow...my Spring Break got off to a great start!! We had a great time with my family this weekend. It was so good to spend time with them and to see everyone. Ella is hilarious as always. We went to my parents' church Sunday morning and she wanted to go to Sunday School with them. She went to her class, which she'd never been to before, so that was a huge step. There's a kid in there who is her age and just cries all the time. Like they have to take him out of church because he throws fits during service. And he's 3. Anyway, his mom is the Sunday School teacher and he threw a fit in class. Ella went up to his mom and said, "Your son is a titty baby." The teacher laughed and said, "He sure is!" She told my dad what had happened and he relayed the message to us, adding that Ella had said to them what we've all wanted to say for 3 years now! We lost it. She is so funny! She's started telling us that she gets frustrated sometimes. We just have to keep reminding ourselves that she's only 3!
After we left my parents', we went down to Starks to spend the afternoon/evening with The Breaux/Coleman family. It was so great to see everyone and just hang out for a while. Now we're back home and I've got a day of cleaning ahead of me! My mom's on Spring Break this week so she's coming down for a few days. I am so excited!!! I'm not thinking about school until Monday.
I'll leave you with a few pictures of the festivities!

It's almost here...

Man, Idol was a let-down last night. I really actually loved Castro's Michelle it reminded me a lot of something someone like Sufjan might do. I don't know. I love that kid. Brooke sucked. it. up. Wow. I still love her, but come on. I absolutely loved David Cook's peformance last night. Surprisingly, I disagree with just about everything Simon said...I couldn't believe he spoke so illy of him and Carly, who I also thoroughly enjoyed.

My girl finally went home on Biggest Loser. Sad, sad, sad. But you knew it was gonna be here...she doesn't pull big numbers very often. How hot did the girls look????? Ali is just fantastic, but the one who really surprised me was Kelly!!! Who knew she could be so pretty??? I was very impressed by her makeover. And I just want my body to look like Ali's. That's all. Okay my ultimate goal is 10 pounds below what she is right now, but if I just could be at what she's at now? Jeeeeeeeez. Mark is really starting to annoy me, and so is Jillian. What was her deal last week? How are you gonna cuss out Alison Sweeney?? I have always hated Sami, but still. That was a little harsh.

I am so pumped about tomorrow!! Only a half day of school and then I get to see my family for a few days!!! I haven't seen them in 3 weeks, which is a realllllly long time for me. And we're staying for a few days when normally we could only stay for a few hours since we had to be back for church, so I am just really, really excited about this weekend!!!

I am Ready

I love that song. Adam Duritz is a true genius, and my favorite songwriter of all time.

Anyway, I AM SO READY for Spring Break. Actually, just for Thursday. Once Thursday is here I think I'll be okay. My kids are ridiculous, my 5th graders don't seem to care that we've got 7 hours together to do everything we need for them to pass TAKs on April 8, and that is driving me crazy. How do you not care that you might fail the 5th grade?? They frustrate me to no end. Thursday cannot come soon enough.

I'm ready to not have these kids, to get away from Beaumont, and to see my family!!!!! It has been way too long. Come on, Thursday, hurry fast!

Take me away...

I do not want to be here. But let's talk Idol. (In my mind, I'm hosting The Soup, because I totally just did Joel McHale in my mind and pictured a neat little graphic coming up on the screen with Lou the chihuahua featured in front of a microphone howling.)

I am not upset about David H, but I am pretty surprised. I thought he was horrible, but there were some who did much, much worse AHEM KRISTIE LEE COOK whose eyebrows looked much better this week but who sounded like a yodeling horse getting trampeled. I kept picturing that scene in Superstar where it shows Mary Catherine Gallagher's parents getting trampeled in the square dancing room when the music is going faster and faster. Ugh. Awful. I expected it to be her or Ramiele. They need to go very soon.

In other news, I am super excited to be hosting a dinner party tonight for the Rectors and the Snodgrasses!! Woohoooooo!!!

Stolen from Jenny...

60 Things You Likely Never Wanted To Know About Me

1. What is in the back seat of your car right now?
Where do I begin...Ella's carseat, a coat, and a whole bunch of junk. Kaleb hasn't been in my car for over a month so it is a wreck!

2. When was the last time you threw up?
I think a year ago last September. No details.

3. What's your favorite curse word?
I don't really curse anymore, but I've always been fond of the f-word in certain instances.

4. Name 3 people who made you smile today?
Kaleb...Kay Olds, the lady who did the workshop this morning...that's it. And this is not a question.

5. What were you doing at 8 am this morning?
Driving to Silsbee.

6. What were you doing 30 minutes ago?
Sitting on the edge of my seat to find out who's getting kicked off of Biggest Loser for no apparent reason!!!

7. What will you be doing 3 hours from now?
Sleeping, fo sho.

8. Have you ever been to a strip club?
I have not.

9. What is the last thing you said aloud?
I just told Kaleb about Jenny's story of her dog and her helper.

10. What is the best ice cream flavor?
That would be a toss-up. I love Butter Pecan, but Blue Bunny Peanut Butter Panic OMG but I don't eat it anymore.

11. What was the last thing you had to drink?
Water

12. What are you wearing right now?
A white tank top and black lounge pants.

13. What was the last thing you ate?
My husband made the most amazing grilled tilapia of my life, so that, broccoli, reduced fat crescent rolls, and a WW ice cream dessert.

14. Have you bought any new clothing items this week?
I have not.

15. When was the last time you ran?
In my TurboJam last night we ran some...does that count?

16. What's the last sporting event you watched?
Does watching Kaleb play NCAA March Madness 2006 count? Then that.

18. Who is the last person you emailed?
Probably Leslie.

19. Ever go camping?
I have!

20. Do you have a tan?
I do not. I am in dire need of one.

24. Do you drink your soda from a straw?
I do not drink soda.

25. What did your last IM say?
I honestly couldn't tell you...do people still IM? Shouldn't this say text message?

26. Are you someone's best friend?
I am!

27. What are you doing tomorrow?
Going to Silsbee for a workshop, then to church.

28. Where is your mom right now?
At home probably watching Law & Order: SVU unless they've seen it already. Am I right, Mama? (Yeah, I call her Mama. I'm from Louisiana whaddaya want?)

29. Look to your left, what do you see?
My handsome husband with a PS2 controller.

30. What color is your watch?
Silver with a pinkish face.

31. What do you think of when you think of Australia?
Silverchair, koala bears, Heath Ledger.

32. Would you consider plastic surgery?
I'm going to be honest...I want to get my boobs done.

33. What is your birthstone?
An alexandrite or a pearl. I prefer the pearl.

34. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit the drive thru?
Drive-thru.

35. How many kids do you want?
3, including Ella.

36. Do you have a dog?
Because we rent, I do not. But Ella prays for one every night. (Cue the awwwws)

37. Last person you talked to on the phone?
Mi mama.

38. Have you met anyone famous?
I met Jason Mraz once. And Graham Colton but I don't know if he's famous. And some Christian bands whose concerts I went to.

39. Any plans today?
It's almost over...I plan to go clean the kitchen, get a bath, and go to bed.

40. How many states have you lived in?
That'd be 3...Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas.

41. Ever go to college?
For a very long time.

42. Where are you right now?
On our couch.

43. Biggest annoyance in your life right now?
My students and my weight.

44. Last song listened to?
The entire "Once" soundtrack.

46. Are you allergic to anything?
Sulfa drugs.

47. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time?
I do not wear my favorite shoes all the time because they are flip flops and I cannot wear them to work.

48. Are you jealous of anyone?
Right now, yes, of Ali from Biggest Loser.

50. Is anyone jealous of you?
Who wouldn't be?? Kidding. I am!

51. What time is it?
9:37 p.m.

52. Do any of your friends have children?
A few of them do.

53. Do you eat healthy?
I do...I kind of have to with WW. I do splurge sometimes, though.

54. What do you usually do during the day?
Teach and fuss at kids.

55. Do you hate anyone right now?
I don't hate anyone, but I am really angry with some of my kids.

56. Do you use the word 'hello' daily?
When answering the phone, yes.

57.What are your feelings on chocolate?
My feelings are that it is a great thing.

58. How old will you be turning on your next birthday?
25

59. Have you ever been to Six Flags?
I have...for a few Naz Nites!

60. How did you get one of your scars?
I busted my chin at school in 3rd grade. We were practicing for a Christmas program and my mom made me wear tights to school that day. We were kneeling down, I slipped, and that's that.

I stand (or sit) unimpressed

By Idol, that is. Biggest Loser is another story.

I was really excite that they were singing fom the Lennon/McCartney songbook tonight, but honestly my favorites didn't really blow me away. I loved Brooke's, but the others...I don't know. Maybe it was because I was trying to flip between that and BL, but I just wasn't feeling it tonight. I do still love Castro. OH and Chikezie had my favorite performance of the night. I mean c'mon. Banjos that lead into a funky rocky song??? That was genius and I loved it!!!

Ramielle needs to go home. And David H. And probably still Eyebrows, but I didn't hear her tonight.

I'd rather talk about Biggest Loser: Couples, where the people who were eliminate got to come back. HOLY COW did any of you see this?? Did you see how freaking amazing Ali looked??? How the heck do you lose 64 pounds in 10 weeks?? I don't get it, but she looks fabulous and makes me really jealous. I can't wait til I get down that low!! And then lower!!!

I've had a workshop today and I'll be there again tomorrow. It's nice to be away, but I watched the video of my kids today (I set up a camera in plain sight that they know about because they act like complete hellions when I leave) and I got really upset with them. I am appalled at their behavior and their lack of respect. They are going to get it on Thursday. And the ones who are there when I go before my workshop in the morning will get it tomorrow. It's ridiculous, and I cannot wait until some of their parents see how they behaved. They have 1 chance to redeem themselves tomorrow and then I'm making phone calls.

Once

How did I not see this until now?? I only realized this week that it was probably something I would fall in love with. We've had it in from Netflix for at least 2-3 weeks now, and we finally found time to watch it tonight. It's as wonderful as I'd hoped it would be...I love the music (I don't know that I'd love the movie were it not for the music) and the storyline was beautiful. I have to own the movie. We got the soundtrack a minute ago, so now I can listen to "Falling Slowly" for hours on end, which I honestly believe I could because I cannot get it out of my head, and it's lasted all week.

If you love music and/or good movies, watch this ASAP.

Eyebrows.

Okay, can we talk about how upset I am that Kristie "I-need-to-pluck-my-eyebrows" Lee Freaking Cook is in the Top 12 and Asia-huh (emphasis on the huh) was sent home tonight?? I really dislike Eyebrows, and I really don't think Asia-huh should've gone home. She almost made me cry when she auditioned right after her dad died OH MY GOODNESS who could do that?? And her voice is oh-so-much better than Brows. BTW, does she remind anyone else of the girl who played Cher in the television version of Clueless? Only, you guessed it, more eyebrows. Her voice kills me.

The other choices tonight were dead on. I applauded that Luke got sent packing. What a wretched voice. I still haven't forgiven him for butchering Queen last week. And speaking of butchering Queen, freaking Kady Malloy got a loud applause for leaving tonight from me as well. Really, Kady? You really thought it'd be a good idea to do any Queen song, especially Who Wants To Live Forever?? For shame. Can I say speaking of Queen again in the same paragraph? Because it's a nice segue* for talking about Dear Danny. I wasn't really a fan, but he was so entertaining to watch. Really. I hated what Chikezie did Tuesday night. I'm not a fan of making girl songs boy songs and vice versa, especially an awesome Jr. High-era Whitney song that I had the tape of and sang to nightly in my room, so I wouldn't have cried to see him go. But he deserves to be there more than Danny.

So I'm only upset about Asia-huh. Brows better be gone next week.

*I love the word segue. I love the way it's spelled, the way it sounds, the way it's not spelled like it sounds...I love it.

I can't stop listening to this...

Castro

Ohhhhhhhh, man. Jason Castro was already one of my favorites, but tonight he just won me all the way over. I know it's a Cohen song, but we all know that if you've heard this song chances are you've heard my dear sweet Buckley doing it (plus, frankly, Cohen's version bores me) or maybe John Cale or Rufus Wainwright from Shrek. No matter whose version of Hallelujah you've heard, I guarantee you Jeff Buckley's is the most amazing (not just because he is my Ultimate and I have been obsessed with him since I first heard him), and his is the version that Jason sang tonight. And no, he wasn't better than Buckley, mostly because no one is or will ever be, but he sounded grrrrrrrrrrreat, and I love, love, love that he did it!!! AND that all 3 judges claimed they liked Buckley's version best (Simon's the only one I believe). Man. What. a. night.

So good. Soooooooo good.

Isn't it Romantic...

Sigh. Last night was absolutely lovely. These are the beautiful roses my sweet husband sent me at school yesterday. What a man! Suga's was one of the best dining experiences I have ever had. I like that I feel like I can pull off classy sometimes. I had the best glass of Reisling of my life, and our food was out of this world!!! I highly recommend it to anyone who has lots of money to spend on food for a special occasion. It was pricey, but SO worth it.

After that, we went home and cut into our wedding cake top and it was actually really, really good!!! It tasted just as good as the few bites I remember getting at our reception! We kept looking at the clock and trying to figure out what we were doing at that time last year. I think we ate the cake at the same time because we' driven to Houston to our hotel before flying out the next morning and we'd taken some of the food with us to snack on. It was so nice. I love my husband, and one day I'll blog about something else, but he is seriously the best thing that could've happened to me, and right now I just want to spend every minute with him. I cannot wait for summer so we can actually go somewhere together. I know it won't be Mexico, but anywhere will do!

And if you're looking for a honeymoon destination, might I suggest El Dorado Royale in Riviera Maya, Mexico. It seriously was the absolute perfect honeymoon (to us, anyway), and we'd go back tomorrow if we could!

The Best Year of My Life

I honestly cannot believe that an entire year has passed since I married the man of my dreams! It has flown by, and I truly hope that the whole "first year is the hardest" thing is true because it's been awesome! I can't believe we've lived in Beaumont for a year. It seems like a few weeks ago that we got married, and here we are celebrating a year! Getting settled into this wonderful life has been fantastic. I'm learning so much about my amazing husband, and I'm still loving every minute of it. I'm so proud of the strong Christian leader he's becoming for our family. He is more than I ever dreamt I'd find in a husband, and I am so glad that God blessed me with him.

Tonight we're having a romantic dinner at Suga's and then coming home to try our thawed out wedding cake top! I'll let you know how that goes. I wish we weren't working today...I can't stop daydreaming about a year ago!! And I wish, more than anything, that we were leaving for Riviera Maya tomorrow!!!

So I'm bored.

Welcome to the 2008 edition of getting to know your Friends. What you are supposed to do is copy (not forward) this entire e-mail and paste it onto a new e-mail that you'll send. Change all the answers so they apply to you, and then send this to your friends including the person who sent it to you. The theory is that you will learn a lot of little things about your friends, that you might not have known!

1. What time did you get up this morning? around 7ish

2. Diamonds or pearls? On my hand: Diamonds Anywhere else: pearls

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? Untraceable, and it sucked.

4. What is your favorite TV show? Biggest Loser, American Idol, Ghost Hunters, How I Met Your Mother, Dexter

5. What do you usually have for breakfast? Quaker Mini Delights in Cinnamon Streusel (only 2 pts!!)

6. What is your middle name? Lynne

7. What food do you dislike? anything that stinks when you cook it

8. What is your favorite CD at the moment? I honestly don't have one. How sad is that, coming from me??

9. What kind of car do you drive? Corolla

10. Favorite sandwich? Roast Beef

11. What characteristic do you despise? Cockiness

12. Favorite item of clothing? Black & White striped Old Navy shirt

13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? Back to Mexico

14. What color is your bathroom? Cream?

15. Favorite brand of clothing? Old Navy

16. Where would you retire to? Beside my husband

17. What was your most memorable birthday? I'm not really sure...

18. Favorite sport to watch? Baseball!!!

19. Farthest place you are sending this? Well it's on my blog, so...the intraweb.

20 Who do you least expect to send this back to you? Again, n/a.

21. Person you expect to send it back first? I'm skipping these.

22. Favorite saying? It's not my favorite but I have to say "Sit down and stop your voices" a million times a day.

23. When is your birthday? June 18th

24. Are you a morning person or a night person? Umm...evening?

25. What is your shoe size? 9.5

26. Pets? None.

27. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us? I've lost 25 pounds!!

28. What did you want to be when you were little? A teacher

29 What are you today? A teacher:)

30. What is your favorite candy? Favorite ever: Peanut Butter Twix Favorite Points-friendly: Quaker Mini Delights

31. What is your favorite flower? Tulips!!!

32. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? March 3 (Monday) the one-year anniversary of the day I married the man of my dreams!

34. What is your full name? Jennifer Lynne Lambert Breaux

35. What are you listening to right now? A ticking clock

36. What was the last thing you ate? BBQ Chicken Pizza! (5 pts!!)

37. Favorite color? Green

38. Who was the last person you spoke to on the phone? Kaleb, the love of my life

39. How do you like your eggs cooked? Scrambled

40. Do you like the person who sent this to you? She's okay. (I love you, Katie!)

41. Favorite soft drink? I don't drink sodas, but if I could it'd be Cherry Coke.

42. Favorite restaurant? Raising Cane's!

43. What is your hair color? Dark Brown

44. Favorite day of the year? Christmas Day

45. What was your favorite toy as a child? Barbies

46. Summer or winter? I like them both...but summer.

47. Chocolate or Vanilla? Depends on the day.

48. What is under your bed? Suitcases and a LOT of dustbunnies

49. What did you do last night? Giggity giggity

50. Favorite smell? Kaleb

51. What are you afraid of? The dark. Demons.

52. Plain, buttered, or salted Popcorn? If I'm being good: Orville Redenbacker 100 calorie pack Butter flavor. If I'm not? Tinseltown, so buttered your jeans are grease-stained when you leave.

53. How many keys on your key ring? 5ish?

54. How many years at your current job? Since August.

55. Favorite day of the week? Friday

56. How many towns have you lived in? 4

57. Do you make friends easily? Depends on the friends.