Follow up Friday

Thank you to everyone who has participated over the last few months. I have really enjoyed opening up my mind and heart to answer your questions. 

The Mommy Diaries asked: What is your dream job? 

ANSWER: As most stay at home moms would say I am doing my dream job. Once the kids are in school I would love to open my own business. I am not sure if I want to pursue insurance since I was an agent before I had the twins I feel like I know so much about that field. I have thought about a day care as scrap booking store, Northwest Houston is in desperate need for one of these. Who knows maybe Cypress Calling will grow so big and we will have to hire staff to maintain the ministry. I already love to volunteer so to get paid for it would be a dream! 

Robyn asked: Did the preserves arrive yet? There is a funny story to go with it! Enjoy your summer out and about. That is what we do!

ANSWER: No but I can't wait until they do. I will surely let you know. Thanks so much!  

Joe asked: Since it's gonna be a while, you deserve a coupla questions: 

If you could change one thing about your looks, what would it be? (I think you're lovely just as you are, by the way:) 

ANSWER: For sure my momma fat on my belly. I wish my stomach was flat. 

If you had to be on a reality tv show, which one would it be and why?

ANSWER: Well it wouldn't be American Idol.......... I can't sing at all! I loved that show Secret Millionaire that aired last year on Fox. It only lasted a few shows but we really enjoyed it. It was about these super rich people who go and live in a different side of town than they are used to. After a week and getting to know people in the community they pick a family to award $10,000 to. I would love to do that. 

What is one food you refuse to eat? 

ANSWER: Hmmmm well I never met a food I didn't like. I will usually try everything but if I don't like it I won't eat it again. One I can think of right now is liver and onions, been there, tried it and don't like it at all! 

Annie asked:What kind of plans do you have for summer?

ANSWER: We have Aaron's mom, grandmother and his mom's best friend coming up to visit on June 10th for a week. Then we have my aunt, uncle and cousin coming on July 11th for 2 weeks. Me and the kids will fly to Texas with them on July 24th then Aaron will come down and meet us in Texas. We will go to Louisiana to visit his family then head back home. We are so excited to have people come to visit. The summer is really the best time here. 

Do you have any vacation travel outside of United States or Canada? 

ANSWER: I didn't tell you we are going to visit you in Puerto Rico........ just kidding.  No we figure if we are going to get on a plane we should head south to visit our family. 

What kind of food the kids enjoy?

ANSWER: All kinds. They love fruit but I try not to give them too much because it gives them major dirty diapers. Lily doesn't like bananas or potatoes. 

Do you prepare different snacks for the kids?

ANSWER: They eat an afternoon snack everyday after nap time, around 3. I try to make it healthy and not too much sugar. A few of their snacks are freeze dried fruit crisps, graham crackers with peanut butter, dried cranberries, cheese, goldfish crackers. I need to try and find some sort of veggies snacks. 

Follow Up Friday

Joe asked: What are your favourite colours (clothes) for the kids?

Answer: Preston, green and Lily purple. I love how those colors look against their olive skin tone.

The Mommy Diaries asked: If money were no object, where would you take a trip to?

Answer: Tahiti, Raiatea to be exact. I wouldn't mind going to New Zealand or The Great Barrier Reef either.

Mama Jean asked: If you would want to have them look like and have a character, who would you choose?

Answer: I am kind of confused by your question. Are you asking if the kids could look like another person? I don't think I would want them to look or act like anyone other than themselves, they're perfect.

Edit: I was in such a rush to answer these. I think this pretty weather has gone to my head. I read part of your question, Mama Jean and thought hmmmm they are perfect why would we change them. Now I get it. Of course we want them to look like Mama Jean and Popa. Don't apologize I should be the one apologizing, I need to read through better before I start typing. Love you and can't wait to see ya'll in 3 1/2 weeks!

Follow up Friday!

Joe asked: What would your dream home look like?

ANSWER: Well for starters it would have a wrap around porch. Then the kitchen would have dark cherry wood cabinets with granite countertops, tile floors and all stainless appliances. Tile through out the rest of the house except the family room would be carpet or laminate flooring. I love an open concept when you walk into a house and you can see the living, dining, kitchen and through the back door. A 3 car garage and covered back patio with an outdoor kitchen. It would be 4 bedroom with a game room and a media room. The yard would be beautifully landscaped too. Can you tell I have been thinking about this for quit some time? 

The Mommy Diaries asked: I would love to hear your birth stories. Ashley, the babies, either one. I love reading birth stories! :-)

ANSWER: Well with both pregnancies I had toxemia (click here to read all about toxemia) right before by delivery date. Due to toxemia I was induced both times. With Ashley I went to the dr for my weekly check up and was advised to go to the hospital. I was given the cervix softening gel at 10 pm. My water broke at 7 am and I had her at 9:20 am. 

With the twins I already had an induction date of 10-31-07. When I got to the hospital everything was fine but quickly started to go down hill as my blood pressure rose to 170/110. I was able to get an epidural, which I didn't get with

Ashley, the anesthesiologist didn't get there in time. The babies were born without c section at 11:09 and 11:11. Lily was double footed breech, thank god for that epidural!

 

Alicia asked: Hehe, you're right...I was lurking!!! Hmmmmmm, is there anything about living in Newfoundland that you prefer over living in Houston?? 

ANSWER: No traffic, ever!!! In Houston I lived 7 miles from my office and it would take about 30 mins (or more if there was an accident) to get there. Here it takes 10-15 mins to get anywhere. Also the summers aren't so hot and humid. 

Andi asked: Do either of the babies look like Ashley did when she was a baby?

ANSWER: Yes, Lily does. Here is a picture of Ashley and Lily. Isn't it funny they both make the same face? 

Jenn asked: Describe your perfect day (not weather wise...activity wise) 

ANSWER: Me, Aaron and the kids would start out by going to eat a good breakfast. Then go to a beautiful place to have a walk and enjoy the fresh air. The afternooon would be spent playing at the park and eating ice cream then head to an Astros game. After the game Aaron and I would tuck the kids into bed and sneak out for a dinner date. 

  

What is a regret that you live with? 

ANSWER: I try not to live with regrets. Life should be about living it to it's fullest and not regretting decisions. Although I do have one, it's moving BACK up to Virginia after I was already back home in Texas. There really was no reason for me to go back to VA. 

This will be fun...ask Aaron and Ashley to describe you in Five Words and report back. 

ANSWER: I will but they aren't home so I will report back soon. 

Would you rather be rich or famous? 

ANSWER: Famous for doing something good in the world, hopefully. 

Robyn asked: Does Preston throw everything as if it were a ball?

ANSWER: Thankfully no, not yet anyway. He has the temper but just throws himself on the floor for now. 

Follow up Friday!

Mama Jean asked: With this swine flu going around and the plane that brought people to St John's with it, has it affected any of the family's schedules or outings? 

ANSWER: I haven't heard that the swine flu has made it's way to St John's. Only yesterday they announced it had made it to Canada. So no we haven't changed anything. If it does make it to St John's we will not go out as much and make sure we keep our hands washed. 

The Mommy Diaries asked: I'd love to hear about your wedding! What was it like? Where did you get married? Any pictures?

ANSWER: Aaron's parents and 2 other couples were planning a trip to las Vegas in July 2004.

 Aaron asked his mom what she thought of us going along to get married. Only he didn't mention anything to me until about 3 weeks before we were set to leave. One night at home in the kitchen he asked me to fill out some papers for us to get our marriage license while we were in Vegas. Of course me not knowing freaked out and was so excited. First that he kept it from me for, I think it was like 3 months and he even cleared the vacation time at my work. So the plans were set in motion we drove to Louisiana hopped on a plane and headed to Vegas. We

 got married in the Candlelight Wedding chapel, the only free standing chapel in Vegas. Afterwards we drank margaritas and had a steak dinner. I don't know why more couples don't

 get married like that. It was cheap too, well compared to some of the other weddings I have seen it was. In September Aaron's parents hosted a reception for us. His whole family as well as my family from Texas came to Louisiana for a big party, Cajun style!!! Good times!!

Mama Jean asked: How about your wedding dress? Is there a story about it? 

ANSWER: As a matter of fact there is. We drove to Louisiana the day before our trip and arrived around 10 pm. When we walked into Aaron's parents house his mom said how happy she was to see us, do we have everything.......... shoes, vail, the dress? THE DRESS!!!!! We forgot it in Houston. When we travel I always hang up our clothes on a door frame so we don't forget them, ha you see how that worked out for me. We decided just to leave for the 4 hour drive back to Houston, stay the night and go to LA the next morning, bright and early. We made it back to LA from Houston with the dress just in time to go to the airport. 

Follow up Friday!

Annie asked: What kinds of exercises do you do?(hope you use the correct words, remember that english is not my native language, but I understand a lot of it).

ANSWER: I only work out at the gym. I have a wonderful husband who bought me the Wii Fit for Christmas. Unfortunately I have only used it once, it's in the basement and when I go down there all I want to do is scrap. At the gym I do yoga or some other types of classes, a 20 min circuit training and one of the cardio routines on a elliptical or treadmill. Now if I could only watch what I eat I bet I might be able to lose weight. 

Joe asked: Our province gets alot of publicity each year on the seal hunt. What is your opinion on the seal hunt?

ANSWER: I think that if a hunt is conducted in a humane way and for food then it's ok. It's my understanding that baby seals can no longer be hunted due to government regulations. Humans have been hunting for thousands of years in order to survive. I don't think the seal hunt is any different than a deer hunt, moose hunt, or fishing. I have never seen protesters outside a deer lease in Texas protesting the start of deer season. 

The Mommy Diaries asked: Since you've already had a girl with Ashley, what is your favorite part about having a boy?

ANSWER: I am so glad someone asked this because lately I have been thinking about this. I am one of those mom's who would have had 5 girls and tried again for a 6th just to get a boy. I think every mom needs a son. With that being said my favorite part is how sensitive he is. I know it may not last but he will just come up and give hugs for no reason. With Lily and Ashley (not sure if it's s girl thing) they are just on the go and don't want to stop. I also notice that Preston is so cautious. For example if the basement door is unlocked he will open the door and stand at the top, Lily opens the door and proceeds to climb head first down the stairs.   

Mama Jean asked: Do you think the twins are seperating from each other, seeing the pictures of Lily feeding her baby and Preston looking so big boy in his outfits?

ANSWER: No Way!!! They go back and forth. Lily will play with trucks and Preston will try on her dress up shoes. They still follow each other around everywhere. HEHE Right now they are at the stage where they are testing each other and us. Lately we have had alot of snatching toys from one to another. I have to tell Lily that "Preston was playing with that and she needs to give it back". It's usually Lily who starts it, but she will give it back then drop to the floor crying so I say "Preston do you wanna give Lily a turn" and he will give it to her.

These next 6 months will be lots of learning to share, playing nice and testing Aaron and I. I can already tell that they know what is naughty and nice. Preston opens the trash can then looks up and shakes his head no no. I can't help but think "if you know it's a no no then why are you doing it" or right before they drop their forks on the ground while eating they shake their head no no. Once again then why are you doing it?

I elaborated on alot of answers. I feel it gives me the chance to journal our daily life and hold onto these memories. 

Follow up Friday

Ethan, Zach and Emma's mom asked: Have you ever thought about using cloth diapers?

 

Answer: Only for about 5 mins.......... no really.  It's a great concept but not for me. I looked into it when we lived in Houston and there was a service available that would come pick up the old and bring them back nice and clean. I have a blog friend who has triplets and cloth diapers she has some great tips on here blog, here. 

Joe asked: Where is your most favorite place to eat in Newfoundland, so far? 

Answer: Easy question since I love food! The Keg and Magnum & Steins. 

Kim H asked: What was your favorite thing to share with Jenn and Kevin while they were visiting? 

Answer: They are still here, they decided to extend their trip so the boys could rent a plane and fly around St John's. Since Jenn and I are 2 peas in a pod when it comes to scrapbooking I have loved scrapping with her.  Aaron has really enjoyed having someone to talk to about cameras/photography and guitar. 

What is the one thing all your friends from Texas should experience from your new home? THE SCENERY!!!! This place is beautiful. 

Mama Jean asked: Did you get to eat king crab legs with your friends? 

Answer: We didn't make them at home because we couldn't find any for sale but we did go to the Keg Wednesday night and eat some. 

Follow up Friday!

Joe asked:
Do you consider yourself to be an assertive person? What situations are you least assertive in? Are you one of those people who thinks of all the right things to say AFTER an argument is over or during?
Answer: Yes I am assertive. I am loud, outgoing and pretty confident. There are times though that I shy away. If I am in a new situation I try and be cautious. I ALWAYS think of things to say after the fact. I have a hard time keeping my big mouth shut and thinking before I speak. lol

Ethan, Zach and Emma's mom asked:
This may have been asked before, but what are the grocery stores like there? Similar to the US, like a Super Wal-Mart.
Answer: We have Wal Mart but it's the small one like you see in rural towns in the U.S. our grocery stores are nice and have really fresh produce. Some even sell really cute clothes. We also have a Costco.

Hajar asked:
I'm not sure how far you went in school, but do you ever consider going back to school? If so, what type of degree would you work on?
Answer: Great question. I didn't go to college. I often wonder what I want to be when I grow up. When I was young I always wanted to be a teacher but not so much now. I have lots of experience in the insurance industry and loved working as an insurance agent. If I did go back to school I would probably get a degree that would help me to open my own insurance agency.

Annie asked:
My questions is: How do you organize your house and what kind of container (I don't know if is the correct word) do you use for organizing?
Answer: In our house I try to make everything have a place otherwise it get cluttered. I use baskets, plastic bins, book shelves, drawer organizers. My favorite is a bench with a rack underneath we have in the playroom that I put plastic bins on to hold toys like blocks, cars, and other toy sets.

Dustin (my brother) asked:
When are ya'll moving back to Texas?
Answer: Not sure, the assignment was for 3 years from March of 2008.

Robyn asked:
Twins questions:
1 nap or 2? Are they using spoons and forks yet? Are both walking?
Answer: 1 nap from 12:30 to 2:30, sometimes 3-3:30. We give them forks but of course they can't use it very well but they do try. It's pretty entertaining to watch! Yes both walking practically running all over.

Follow up Friday!

Ethan, Zach and Emma's mom asked: What parenting techniques that you used for Ashley when she was small have you changed with the babies? Or has your parenting style basically stayed the same? 

Answer: Great question. I have thought about this lately since the babies are getting to the age where saying no is an everyday occurrence. I think with Ashley since I was so young when I had her (17) and I was a single mom for so long I was wayyyyyyy to laid back. She pretty much walked all over me. I was not firm in my discipline and she knew that if she begged long enough I would give in. All that has changed sine I have gotten older and of course since Aaron and I have been married since she was 8. With the babies I think it will be different because we have a 2 parent family from the beginning and I will be firm this time around.  

Mama Jean asked: I have always wondered what men feel like to women who are fat or obese. Do you think Aaron feels that he would love you if you became obese.  

Answer: This cracks me up Mama Jean. of course he would love me. Or at least I would hope so. He fell in love with me because I am me and I am sure a few extra pounds wouldn't change that.   

Betsy asked: If you had to move somewhere else in  the world for Aaron's job, and it couldn't be back to Texas, where would you want to go? :)

Answer: Well hmmmm that's a toughy. Maybe Louisiana if we couldn't go back to Texas. HA!! No really somewhere in the U.S. would be good. I couldn't imagine going to another country especially if they didn't speak english. 

Follow up Friday

Mama Jean asked:
I KNOW THAT YOU AND AARON HAVE A TERRIFIC RELATIONSHIP, BUT, DO YOU FEEL THAT NOW THAT THE BABIES HAVE COME AND ASHLEY IS GROWING UP, YOU ARE GROWING CLOSER OF FURTHER APART?
Answer: I think we are always growing closer. When we went through the whole infertility thing it brought us closer. When we made the big move to Canada that brought us closer too. I think that day to day life and stress can weigh heavily on a marriage but it's the big things that really bring you closer as a couple.

Kim asked:
Have you found a church in Newfoundland to call home?

Answer: Regrettably, No. We have been on the look out but I think we are looking for something like the church we had back home and we aren't going to find that here. We want a non denominational casual type setting that is a positive environment for us as well as our kids. There is one that just opened and they are getting started that we might try. It's so hard to just go and not know what to expect.

Joe asked:
I think you're an awesome Mom and I know you take great care of your kids but what do you do for YOURSELF when you get sick?

Answer: Well as you know moms don't get many sick days. I am lucky to not be sick alot but when I do I feel like I am dying. That's the days when we just stay home and hope the kids are in a good mood. Aaron and Ashley help out alot even when I am not sick, I don't know how I would do it without them. Sick or not I try and do things for myself. I love to relax with a magazine, drink a few glasses of wine, veg out in front of the tv for hours.

Hope everyone has a super weekend! HAPPY SPRING

Follow up Friday

Joe asked: Who has had the most influence in your life?
Answer: I would have to say growing up it was my parents. They have always been there for me no matter what. I knew I could always go to them with whatever was going on in my life. Now that I am older I would have to say my Aunt Diana. She is an amazing woman . She has a wonderful marriage, a full heart and is a wonderful mother.

Only one question this week. That was easy. We had quit a day yesterday. I got a call from Aaron's gma, Mama Jean asking if Aaron was ok. I didn't know anything about the helicopter crash. There was a helicopter here that crashed off the coast of Newfoundland. It really hit close to home for us because that is the same helicopter Aaron flies on when he goes to the rig.
Please pray for all the victims and their families.

Follow up Friday!

Hajar asked:

Do your babies still drink milk at night, or do you just give them water when they want something in the middle of the night?

Answer: They get a cup of milk with there dinner between 5:30 and 6. They very rarely wake in the middle of the night unless they are teething or sick. If they do wake I will go in and see what the issue is and give Tylenol (if needed), calm them down and put back to bed. If my kids wake up it's not because they are thirsty, it's a sign that there is something wrong. hehe

Joe asked:
On the way to the electric chair, what's your last meal?

Answer: I thought about this one alot. I knew for sure a filet cooked medium from Ruth's Chris. It is the best steak in the world! I would also include Aaron's momma's crawfish etoufee, my dad's chicken fried steak, some fried sweet potatoes and a glass of my momma's sweet tea. For dessert I would have a nice big bowl of Blue Bell Moo-llennium crunch ice cream. I would end with a margarita on the rocks with salt! Can you tell I really though about this?

Even though I only got 2 questions this week they are great one's. Joe you come up with some that really make me think.

Follow up Friday!

Jennifer asked:
How are you guys passing the day with the storm?

Answer: Mostly by cooking, surfing the net, watching movies, driving each other crazy!

Kim asked:
How'd you figure out the signature?

Answer: I went to scrapblog.com and created a layout but only used a corner of the page. I then uploaded to photobucket and cropped, then saved on the blog so every time I post it automatically appears on the post. I also use scrapblog to create my header.

Shelley asked:
How many family pictures do you actually have printed for photo albums or to use for scrapbooking? I've taken over 12,000 pictures of the kids (18 months old) since they were born! Because they're all digital, I don't have many printed pictures and I'm not really a scrap-booker. I am planning to use blurb to turn my blog into a book, but I just can't decide what to do about the buzillion digital pictures. Anyway, just curious since I know you're good at this stuff! I thought about maybe picking 20 of the best pictures from each month, but of course it's hard to narrow it down. :-)

Answer: Well I am like you I have lots of digital photos probably not 12,000 (wow) but alot. What I do is go through them every month and decide which ones I want to scrap then print them off and get them done. I usually choose funny faces, milestones or cute pictures in general. I have started a blurb book but am only up to May of last year. I am not sure where to stop, maybe their 1st birthday. You can also go to Shutterfly and do just a picture book. I have thought about doing that for their first year, second year and so on, that way it's just a book of pictures. I made a book for my grandparents at Christmas and was very pleased how it turned out. We don't have any pictures printed except what's scrapped or in frames around the house. Good luck....... let me know what you decide since I am always looking for ideas.


Thank you so much for participating each week. It has been really fun!

We had a pretty bad storm this morning but by 11 am it was all done. Ashley was out of school due to the weather. She has plans to go out of town to Grand Falls this weekend so I went and dropped her off and headed to Micheal's while Aaron was home with the babies. Of course they were having a sale! I have been eyeballing the Cuttlebug for a while now but couldn't decide if I wanted to order it online from the US or pay for it up here. By the time you factor in duty, taxes and shipping fees it would have been about the same. So anyway I went to Michael's and they had it on sale for 50% off and only 1 left....... of course it's a sign so I bought it. I can't wait to try it out tonight.
I am looking outside right now and the sky is so blue, their is no wind, and the temp is 41! The drive way is clear and the babies just woke up so I think we will head outside for some fresh air. Have a good weekend!!!!

Follow up Friday

Mama Jean asked:
I am now an old woman, but, I remember raising young babies feeling so inadequate. A feeling that nobody appreciates what I do. Do you get these feelings also?
ANSWER: Sometimes but then I say something and Aaron and Ashley quickly remind me that I am appreciated by cleaning up and helping out with the babies. Ashley has been really good at always saying thank you. If I buy her something or she gets to go somewhere she always says it. Then of course the babies show they appreciate me by giving me endless hugs, kisses and smiles.

Have you ever thought of using your talents of superior scrapbooking as an income or online?
ANSWER: I don't think I would do well at an online venture. I have seriously thought about opening a scrapbooking store in Houston when we get back. There aren't any now and I think it would do really well. A friend told me once that you don't want to make your passion your business because then you might not love your passion as much...... so we will see what the future holds.

Jenn asked:
What activity/toy do you enjoy playing with each child?
ANSWER: These days we love books and anything hands on, blocks, puzzles. They also love when we play chase (I'm gonna get you) and peek a boo or the tickle game.

As a mother of twins, what do you feel you do well?
ANSWER: Organize, prioritize my time. Having 3 kids 1 which is a lot older I have learned you have to make sure everyone gets equal time.

What do you wish you did better?
ANSWER: communicate....... I am hard headed and don't always think before I speak. As far as doing better in regards to twins I don't know.

What advice would you give someone pregnant with twins (no, I am not pregnant with twins :) ) ANSWER: first and foremost it does get easier well not easier, different but better. I would also suggest a routine. Have a set time that specific things will take place, eat, sleep, play, bath. These things are key to keeping twins on a schedule. If one wakes, wake the other, when one eats the other one should too. That's what has kept me sane from the beginning.

What qualities do you like about yourself and Aaron?
ANSWER: my outgoing goofy personality, Aaron's ambition and motivation

What would you change?
ANSWER: I wish I was more compassionate, it's really hard for me to feel sorry for people even though I have a big heart and love to help others. Aaron I wish he was more patient.

If you had a $100 dollars and couldn't spend it on bills, how or where would you spend it?
ANSWER: I would love to do what I saw on an Oprah show once and raise more funds to help even more people. One lady raised more than $24,000 from just $1000. Awesome! I would probably do something like that or donate it.

Joe asked:
Any special plans for Valentine's Day?

ANSWER: Not on my end maybe Aaron has something special planned for us but I doubt it. We don't really go all out for Valentine's. We will usually get a card and candy for Ashley but that's about it.

Follow Up Friday!

I know it looks like I didn't get any questions this week but I did. Joe, one of my Newfoundland mom friends sent me an email. For some reason the comments section isn't working for her. I promise I didn't block you Joe. Jenn commented the day before because she knew she was going to be busy on Wednesday. Thanks for participating and keep em coming.

Joe asked:
Do you think it's going to be hard to leave Newfoundland...would you ever consider permanently settling here?

ANSWER: I do think it will be hard to leave because we are making friends here. I also worry about Ashley she is at the age where she is making good life long friends. She will complete 2 years of high school here (grade 9 & 10) so I just worry about her leaving her friends when the time comes. With technology the way it is we will always be able to keep in touch. Permanent....... unfortunately no. We have always said that no matter where we go Houston will always be home.

Jenn asked:
How are the twins personalities the same? How are they different?
ANSWER: They are both pretty laid back and sensitive but Preston is very funny and Lily is very sweet.

If you had to "sell" Newfoundland to someone in a few sentences, what would you say? ANSWER: Newfoundland is a beautiful province where the people are friendly, the air is fresh and the adventures are endless. It's a great place to make lasting memories!

Besides friends and family, What is the one thing you miss about Houston and why? What don't you miss?
ANSWER: It's silly but I really miss Target & mexican food ok that's 2. Sometimes the weather.... this time of year in Houston is awesome! What I don't miss is the TRAFFIC!

Where do you see yourself in five years? In twenty?
ANSWER: Good question. Ashley will be almost 20 and hopefully almost done with college and soon off to law school. The babies will almost 7 so they will be in school. I will probably own my own business or be doing something with Cypress Calling. We will be living in Houston...... I hope. hmmm I don't really think 20 years ahead but here goes Ashley will be 34 and probably be married with kids of her own. The babies will be in college and probably sucking every penny from our retirement. Aaron and I will still be working, saving for retirement and spending time with our family.

If you had to pick your kids' abilities and talents now, what would you say they will excel at? (does that even make sense?)
ANSWER: Yes it does make sense. I already see the rhythm ability in Preston. I am sure he will do something with music. Aaron always wishes he would have started playing the guitar when he was younger. I am sure with Preston he will have something musical by the time he is 3. Lily she is a total girl, very sweet and caring. I see her doing something along the lines of helping people weather it be a great mom or a doctor! Lily and Ashley are very similar. Ashley is genuine and caring. She is sensitive and even though she says she doesn't want kids I know she will be a great mom. With that said I think Ashley will be a great attorney which is what she wants to be. She loves to argue and debate so I think that will come in handy.

Kelly asked:
Do you plan on having more children? If the answer is no is b/c it was difficult to have the twins, would the answer be different if you could get prego with ease?
ANSWER: I would love more children but in my case I can't just have sex and poof I get pregnant. We do have one frozen embryo from our first IVF cycle. We have said we will do a frozen transfer with that one but if I don't get pregnant I don't think we would do a fresh cycle. However if I didn't have fertility problems (sometimes I think this is god's way to control my urge) I would say I wanted 2 more, yea call me crazy!

Follow up Friday

Joe asked:
How does your husband feel about Newfoundland?

Answer: Aaron is always up for a change so moving wasn't too hard on him. Don't get me wrong he loves and misses his family but he sees this a better opportunity for our families future. As far as being here in Newfoundland he likes it. As a family we have become alot closer and have enjoyed being here.

Trisa asked:
What words are the Lily and Preston saying? Do they have any absolute food dislikes? Any tantrum throwing yet?

Answer: They are saying more and more every week. We can't understand it all but here is what we have so far. BOTH- dog, duck, ball, daddy (dada) night night (ni ni) hi, thank you (dat do) Kiki, our cat (didi) Ashley (Ahee) Just Lily- bear, baby, bye bye, bubba. They only say mama when they are crying or are feeling bad.

Dislikes- Lily isn't very fond of bananas, I know really bananas doesn't every kid love them! Preston likes just about anything.

Tantrums- YES!!! We are starting to see more especially from Lily. She has this ear piercing squeling scream that makes you take notice. Most of the time it's when Preston takes a toy from her.

Kim asked:
How is Ashley liking Canada? Is she involved in cheerleading this year? How is that going?

Answer: Ashley is loving it. She is a cheerleader at her school. She was selected by her cheerleading coach to be on the dance team. There were only a few spots so we are really proud that she was invited to be on the team. She takes tumbling as well. We were fearing that this move would be hard on her but I think when we move back it will be harder since these are the days when you really start to get your life long friends.

Hajar asked:
What is your favorite thing to do when you get an opportunity to go out by yourself? What is your favorite non-kid-related thing to do at home when they give you a chance?

Answer: I like to go out with girlfriends and enjoy a mom's night out.
Non kid is by far scrapbooking. Anytime I get a free moment you can find me in my basement cutting, pasting, listening to music while I get my creativity out on paper.

Mama Jean asked:
Are your purchases and money dealing with American dollars or Canadian monies? Are the prices at stores considered American prices or Newfoundland prices?

Answer: There aren't any places around here that take American money so it's all Canadian. All stores are Canadian prices. It has been different getting used to the price of things. It seems like everything is more expensive but it's because the Canadian dollar is worth more that the American dollar. Right now if you have 1 Canadian dollar and exchanged it you would only get .82 cents American.

Deanna asked:
What is your heating bill like?

Answer: Funny you should ask this since I just paid my bill. Let's just say it wasn't pretty. We have electric heat so you can imagine how much it is especially since the heater is always on. I am about to invest in a few electric blankets and one of those heat dish things I keep seeing at Costco. I will say it was between 5 and 7 hundred this month!

Follow up Friday

I got alot of great questions this week.


Deanna asked:
1.Where do you get your arts and crafts ideas?
Most are just floating around in my head but others come from websites such as skip to my lou, scrapbooking websites and cricut.com. I love taking an idea that I see and making it my own.
2. What's your favorite thing to do during the day? (With the kids, with out the kids)
With kids is going outside to play. Although we don't do that very often now. Right now I guess it's going to the book store or to playgroups. Without the kids, probably date night with Aaron.
3. What is your biggest challenge during the day?
The evening hours when it's dinner time, kids need to be bathed, kitchen needs to be cleaned and we all just feel like crying. I have learned to start dinner earlier even if it means it's ready and we have to re heat. At least we aren't waiting to eat while listening to tired kids.
4. Do they have pizza delivery?
Where we live, no hehe



Hajar asked:
Do your babies have times when they would rather feed themselves than let you feed them?
I don't really feed them anymore unless it's yogurt, applesauce or oatmeal. They don't mind when I have to feed them especially since they LOVE yogurt, oatmeal and applesauce. One day I will be brave and just give it to them with a spoon........ one day.
Would they sometimes rather eat what you are eating than to eat what you've offered them?
We pretty much eat the same thing unless it's spicy or I am eating a sandwich for lunch and they are eating veggies. I will give them my crust though. lol We even gave them salmon the other day. Preston was not amused. In those cases we give them ravioli or vienna sausage which they love.


Jenn asked:
1. Why do you like scrapbooking as a hobby?
I love the idea of preserving memories for my kids.
2. What meal do you prepare that is delicious?
My favorite is garlic chicken
3. Do you consider yourself a leader or a follower?
Leader
4. What is the hardest thing about having twins?
The long days but I am sure that is the case with all moms. If the babies aren't feeling well or are cranky it makes for a very hard day x two!


Tasha (sister in law) asked:
1.How did you and your husband meet?
Aaron was a friend of my brother, Dustin and yours before I met him. Aaron was visiting friends in Virginia and Tasha was supposed to pick him up from the airport. I decided to go with her and my first impression was he was an ass. After spending lots of time with him we fell in love. awwww. We got married a year later in Vegas which was his idea. He didn't tell me until 2 weeks before we left.
2.Do you miss the working?
I miss being part of the working world. I miss being appreciated, my last boss really loved me and was very appreciative. I always heard mother hood is a thankless job and it's very true.
3.Why is your brother so weird? hehehe
Well I am sure my parents would have to explain this one because Aaron says I am a little strange myself.


Mama Jean asked:
If you were to have a child born in Newfoundland, would it be a citizen of the U S or NL?
It would have dual citizenship because we are US citizens living in NL.


Joe asked:
When you moved to Newfoundland, did you have any preconceived ideas about Newfoundland (or Newfoundlanders) that were either proven or disproved after living here?
I must admit that before I moved here I had never heard of it but after researching online I found that it is a very beautiful and cultural city and the people are so friendly. I was a little worried that I wouldn't be able to have all the luxuries of Houston (Target, Mexican food, specific brands) Since living here I have realized I am not missing any material things. I guess you adapt to your surroundings.
The main thing I was worried about was making friends. I have always been outgoing but have a hard time making friends because well I have been told I come off as bitchy. That idea has been dis proven because I have made friends, I have been able to make meals and do just fine with what St John's has to offer.



Courtney asked:
What are the babies eating these days?
It's probably better to tell you what they don't eat. They don't eat pretzels, nuts, or chips not because of allergies but because they are hard. They do eat peanut butter though. They are great eaters and will eat just about anything. I stay away from sweets or anything high in sugar. They love fruit and veggies so I am hoping to keep that trend going.

Once again you haven't disappointed me. These are really great questions and it gives an opportunity to view a part of our lives that I may not talk about.

Follow up Friday

I only got a few questions but I am hoping this catches on and I can do it every week. Here are my answers.
Kelly asked:
What is your typical schedule for the twins? nap times, bed times, etc. My twins are 14 months and starting to mess with their nap schedule. another ?...do they use pacifiers?
Answer: Our schedule has pretty much stayed the same since the babies were 7 months old. We wake at 7 - 7:30 and eat about 8. Change clothes, play or go run errands or playgroup, sometimes if we have to run errands we either do it after lunch or before morning nap. Nap is at 10 usually about an hour. I put them down for naps in separate rooms, Preston in the pack and play in the guest room and Lily in her room. This helps alot since Preston would wake Lily up right as she was falling asleep and she would not go back to sleep. 11, Wake up, play, eat lunch at 12:30. Play or go outside. Afternoon nap at 2, about an hour. wake up 3 - 3:30 snack. Ashley gets home so she will usually play with them while I do any cleaning/laundry I didn't get done in the morning. I start cooking dinner about 4:30, Ashley studies or does homework while the babies watch baby einstein, word world or elmo or just walk/crawl around the kitchen or empty the tupperware cabinet. We try to eat dinner between 5:30 and 6. Aaron gets home about 5:30 so he keeps them entertained while Ashley finishes her homework and I finish dinner. We all eat at the same time, then give the babies a bath, clean up and to bed at 7.
I try to play with them alot during the day so they will sleep good at night and during naps. Although today they fell asleep on the way home at 1 and stayed asleep when I put them in their bed, I think I will try and move to one nap this weekend. We ate lunch while we were out about 12 so I am thinking maybe I should start there. They have been having issues with their afternoon nap over the past week so I am thinking they are ready. We will see!
As for the pacifier. Preston loves his binky and I try to only give it at sleep time but always have one handy in case of melt downs. Lily has never liked them but loves to steal Preston's.

Jen asked: My question is what do you like most about living in Canada and what is the biggest difference between living here and the States. I'm one of your Canadian followers.
Answer: Oh Jen where do I begin...... just kidding! It is a lot different because I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I am used to hot, humid summers with lots and lots of mosquitoes. I would have to say the biggest difference is the weather. I have never been anywhere so cold. Today it's 9 degrees or -12 celsius. What I like most is the scenery, it is so beautiful here. The ocean is amazing and the sky is so blue. There are lots of outdoor activities to do during the warmer months and it's very family friendly. One thing I have to complain about though is the shopping here in St John's, there isn't much. I am used to be able to get whatever, whenever in Houston. I suppose there isn't anything I NEED that bad though. It's pretty relaxed and laid back here so I have learned to just go with the flow. So far I like it here I just wish it was a little warmer.

Thank you for asking your questions and I look forward to more next week.

Staci