Jessica's Jabber

Super Girl

2012-01-30T10:51:00.000-08:00

It's a bird, it's a plane, no it's Super Monkey Girl!

Brie is currently going through a "dirty phase" (a.k.a. Tomboy) as she affectionately refers to it. My sweet little Brieto no longer loves all things pretty, but instead is interested in getting down and "dirty" with Phineas and Ferb, Legos, Fur Real animals and now Super Heros.

Thanks to a Super Hero themed Chili Cookoff at our church, and Pinterest I was inspired to create Brieto her very own super hero costume. So watch out villains of San Antonio, Super Money Girl is here to protect citizens alike from your evil ways...you don't want to make her bring in her side kick, Tinker Hero!

Diary Of A Worm, And A Spider, And A Fly

2012-01-20T20:49:00.000-08:00

Have you met my thespianophiles?

They look like real lovers, huh?

Don't let their shy smiles fool you, we had a great time tonight at A Diary Of A Worm, And A Spider, And A Fly.

Smiling,

laughing,

and singing along to some fabulous solos.

I think A Diary... may receive a repeat visit by The Dohners!

What A Glorious Day

2012-01-19T20:17:00.000-08:00

Okay friends, when it's 77 degrees outside in January one must take advantage of it, even in South Texas!

Which is why we spent this GLORIOUS day at the zoo with all the other wild animals!

Eating popcorn,

exploring African wildlife,

screaming with excitement over zebras,

asking lots of questions,

discovering new animals to love,

riding bronzed cubs,

and spending quality time together!

Because every glorious day deserves some bonding time,

with ones momma!!!

And if one is reading What's Under The Sea in their science lessons, a visit to the zoo's aquarium makes the day a double bonus!

Smitten

2012-01-14T20:03:00.000-08:00

See this smile here? It's the sole reason we now have a rodent for a pet.

The cutest, sweetest, little pet rodent.

Yes I know, I just called a guinea pig cute, but sadly I'm smitten over Ottie.

Just as much as Brie and Briar are,

now when is it my turn in the play pen?

Let's Party

2012-01-12T21:02:00.000-08:00

It is of my opinion that birthdays are meant to be celebrated,

even if they are not ones own.

Which is why the whole family teamed up to celebrate Brie's birthday.

No one could believe it was time to put five candles in her cupcake, she's growing up too fast!

I mean Brie's big enough to cruise around on a Razor scooter,

squeal over Squinkies,

and take care of a Fur Real pet.

Oh wait, I mean this "For Real" pet, Ottie. Brie's brand new guinea pig, I'm truly a softy!

Of course with smiles like that who can resist spoiling her with...

parties, presents and pets. I can't. Happy Birthday Brie, you make my heart sing with joy!

Brie's 5th Birthday Party

2012-01-11T13:27:00.000-08:00

Five is knocking on Brie's door, in fact the major milestone arrives tomorrow for our little Brieto! To celebrate I hosted our last play date birthday party before The Gang go off to school next year (sniff, sniff).

As usual Brie was her charming self,

full of social graces,

and excellent table manner!

Um, not exactly! Apparently no one informed me when little girls turn five, they also turn on the drama!

None the less, we survived our morning of American Girl Pajama Fun!

With cupcakes,

Krispie Kreme Donuts,

Mini-Goodness,

Breakfast Tacos,

lots of candy bags,

and one super-cute place setting, hand picked by Brie herself--gotta love that blue table cloth too (wink, wink Robert)!

Of course no birthday party is complete with out friends to share it with, thanks Gabriel and Daniel....

Joshua (sorry bubba, next time I won't take a picture of you while enjoying a donut),

Abby,

and little sister for sharing in Brie's special day, even if "the party was too rowdy for [Brie]"!!!!

Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-27T11:57:00.000-08:00

The theme of "Way Too Many Presents" continued on Christmas Day.

After a morning of worship at our home church and a delicious Christmas lunch, the girls patience paid off by opening lots and lots of presents from The Dohner's.

It's a good thing I stuck to only three gifts per kids,

because between the American Girl, Disney Princess and Barbie stuff Brie and Briar received my girls were S*P*O*I*L*E*D!

Thankfully with all the new toys they were still up for a little family-fun with a game of Twister,

and "Royal Ball"!

Thank you Grandma and Grandpa Dohner for making Christmas so special, even if "I didn't ask for a puppy"!

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-26T19:12:00.000-08:00

For the first time in six years The Dohners shared Christmas with our families in Michigan.

Brie's prayers for a White Christmas (Eve) were answered, when she woke Saturday to a light blanket of snow!

But apparently snow wasn't gift enough, because later that morning the girls got to open way too many gifts from Grandma and Uncle Josh!

And when I say, way too many...

I mean way too many!

I'm so glad the adults decided to not exchange gifts this years,

because being with my family was gift enough!

Deck The Halls

2011-11-26T17:09:00.000-08:00

I wasn't going to put up a Christmas tree this year since we're going to be home for the majority of December, but these cuties were very persuasive!

Hopefully they'll have just as much enthusiasm when it comes time to take it all down, as they did decking the halls today!

Let's face it, you can just call Robert and I softies now,

because we even got talked into these new sparkly stockings...

and a Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer DVD!

(Sigh), Why do they have to be so stink'n cute????

The Nutcracker, 2011

2011-11-25T17:17:00.000-08:00

For some people Black Friday is for shopping, for the Burris/Dohner girls it's for the ballet. Today us ladies went to our second annual The Nutcracker performance. This time though, we added a Dohner girl and upgraded to forth row seats.

In preparing for the show Brie and Briar both requested nail polish, lip gloss and an up-do.

Thanks to Pinterest and hair nets,

their wish,

was my command.

And after seeing these sweet smiles,

I didn't even need to ask if they were please!

Thanks Burris ladies for sharing this girly tradition with us!

Happy Thanksgiving, 2011

2011-11-25T08:26:00.000-08:00

Lions,

Tigers,

and Bears,

Oh My!

That's right, our little family spent the Thanksgiving Holiday with all the wild animals at the zoo, not the ones at Walmart.

Then we came home, pulled out our "fancy china" and enjoyed a relaxing low-key Thanksgiving meal.

It was a day to be thankful for!

{30 Days of Intentional Acts Kindness} Doughnuts For Ms. Debbie

2011-11-07T17:45:00.000-08:00

Last week many of our acts of kindness focused on generosity:
Day One: Operation Gratitude-Donated Halloween candy for soldier's care packages.
Day Two: Operation Christmas Child-Sent Christmas gifts to needy children using the girl's own money.
Day Three: Briar used a $10 Target gift card from her birthday to buy a friends a special treat.
Days Four, Five and Six: Brought friends along for a weekend trip at the Buena Vista Cabin.

Generosity is definitely one way to be kind, but this week I'm focusing on putting another scripture to action through kindness. Matthew 22:37-40 says, Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Today,day seven,we showed love to our neighbor by bringing Krispie Kreme doughnuts to Ms. Debbie and all of Brie's other great occupational therapist at Rehab Associates.

The joy on the girl's faces when they handed this box over melted my heart,

far more than these sticky smiles!

Buena Vista, Day One

2011-11-06T20:25:00.000-08:00

Thursday, our first evening at Buena Vista, was spent...

eating momma's-semi-homemade-chili,

exploring the dark forest,

as well as, staying close to the white path,

making navigation decisions,

and having the children verify our choice,

toasting a bedtime hot coca,

and sleeping like a rock.

Aside from poor Michael being sick, it was a successful first day to our little getaway!

Who Knew?

2011-11-06T19:55:00.000-08:00

Who knew that all a family needs to have a good time is; sweet friends,

a warm cabin to rent,

open spaces to explore,

yummy gluten-free s'mores to enjoy,

a big tree to climb,

a giant rock to color,

a beetle to examine,

a rope to jump,

and a quiet spot to snuggle.

Forget Disney World, the Dohner Family is hooked on camping!

{30 Days of Intentional Acts of Kindness} Operation Christmas Child

2011-11-02T22:24:00.000-07:00

I hate to say it, but this is the first year I've filled an Operation Christmas Child box. Even more so, if it wasn't for joining the 30 Days of Intentional Acts of Kindness campaign I probably wouldn't have gotten around to doing it. It's not that I don't want to be generous, it's more the hassle of it all. However, thanks to the conviction of scripture I decided I too could be a "cheerful giver", not only in releasing my money, but also managing my time!

The girls and I started our Operation Christmas Child mission by reviewing our theme verse for the next few days, "God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). Then we had a brief discussion on why we should support OCC (we may have even thrown a letter C lesson in the mix). Before we knew it, it was time to set off to the store to spend $6 each from their piggy banks.

Upon arriving at The Dollar Tree our baskets quickly began to fill up with far more than six items. After a brief evaluation of what was a good fit and what was a not so wise purchase I decided to donate $1 each to the cause, that way some little girl somewhere in the world can have a pretty-pink jump rope!.

When we got home the cheerful spirit continued as Brie,

and Briar

filled their boxes to the drim. Brie had the bright idea of adding some unused Play-Doh and Briar found some cool Jesus Loves Me bracelets to share!

Guess the "hassle" was worth the opportunity to shepherd my sweetie's hearts to be generous girls. Of course we still need some work, they weren't so willing to give up a Target gift card for another kind act of generosity later this week. That blasted sin nature, if only it didn't rear it's uggly head. It's a good thing we have lots of people praying for the girls.

{30 Days of Intentional Acts Of Kindness} Operation Gratitude

2011-11-01T18:47:00.000-07:00

"Random Acts of Kindness" are all the buzz around the holiday season, but one blogging mom had the genius idea of training ones kids to enjoy "Intentional Acts of Kindness". I loved the idea so much I joined her 30 day campaign to perform thirty intentional acts of kindness with my kids. All through November Brie, Briar and I will be working on character building by using scripture to find opportunities to be kind.

For the next few days I'm focusing on generosity. Earlier in the school year the girls memorized 2 Corinthians 9:7, "God loves a cheerful giver", today we cheerfully donated our Halloween candy to Operation Gratitude.

We started by piling five pounds of candy, yes that's right, five pounds of candy into a bowl! After reviewing our bible verse and explaining why we were donating our candy to Operation Gratitude, the girls selected 15 pieces of candy to keep.

Then I added a quick math lesson by having Brie count, sort and categorize her selections.

I think she did a pretty good job!

Next we were off to our drop site Dr. Bob's dentist office.

There the Tooth Fairy weighed our candy (we declined our $1 per pound exchange) and the girls emptied their bags into a big red bucket. Upon leaving, Brie spoke up saying "Mom, I'm glad we could share our candy, because I don't need that much candy". Shepherding their hearts, that's what this campaign is all about for me. May God mold their hearts to be cheerful givers!

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

The Dohner Family had a sweet Halloween at University Baptist Church's Trunk or Treat event!

Brie and Briar dressed up as...

a pretty peacock and pink butterfly!

Robert celebrated as a Tailgating, Tigers Fan by handing out candy from his baseball glove. While I spent most of the evening taking the girls from car to car!

Briar especially enjoyed "digging" for candy from this bee hive.

Don't let that face fool you, Brieto loved fishing from the bed of Mr. Jim's truck!

Ah, any Halloween that end with snuggles and sugar stained smiles is a success for this "Texas Cowgirl"!!!

Briar's Castle Birthday Party: Part One

2011-10-30T15:48:00.000-07:00

After three weeks, we finally hosted Briar Rose's third birthday party: A Castle Theme.

As usual this birthday party was all about the dessert table.

The first step to any dessert table is to create an amazing birthday cake. After Briar chose a castle cake from a Wilton catalog, I humbly tried to recreate it. While my attempt was no where near perfect, Briar found it to be everything she had hoped for!

Next I decided to bake some yummy gluten-free cupcakes for all the Celiac's in attendance, i.e. ME!!!

Here are a few more gluten-free mini treats.

Now these silly marshmallow pops were the bane of my dessert-loving-existence. Originally they were to be Bakerella cake pops, when that failed, I attempted candy coated Rice Krispie Pops. Again, FAIL! Amazingly the kids could care less and LOVED the plain-jane marshmallows pops!

Oh and the pink candy filled treat bags were another sweet hit with the kiddos.

Paper covered water bottles,

and Good and Plenty filled bud vases rounded out one very pink dessert table.

After placing a few tissue paper decorations on the dinning room table,

Briar and I were ready to welcome our guest....

for a fun-filled evening of friendship and fellowship!

Stay-tuned for Part Two tomorrow!

Llama, Llama We Love Gabe's Momma!

2011-10-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was pretty much the best bento day, ever! After a sweet hug from my friend Rebekah (the first in three years) she handed over these authentic Peruvian llama picks. Squee! But, it gets even better!!! That same day on a late night HEB trip I found my coveted Fuel Sandwich box. That's right, instead of paying $8.50 a box for an Amazon order, I snagged four for only $9!!! Can I get another, SQUEEEE!!! My bento life is complete.

Our Peru themed lunch includes: Sun Butter and Jelly Sandwich Square, Pretzels, Carrots, String Cheese, Apple, Bologna and Grape Llama Picks and a P*E*R*U cheese message. All a hit with both of my girls!

So thank you Gabe's mama, for bringing a South American smile to our face with a pair of llamas

Butterfly Bento

2011-10-25T11:56:00.000-07:00

B is still for Butterfly!

A Bento Butterfly Lunch.

{Field Trip} B is for Butterfly

2011-10-25T07:43:00.000-07:00

B is for Butterflies, specifically the Amazing Butterfly exhibit at the San Antonio Botanical Gardens.

Metamorph with us!

Life Cycle 1: Egg

We'll rhyme our way through the egg stage with poems!
Life Cycle 2: Larva

Next we'll experience the exhibits Cooperative Crawls,

climbing leaves,

pinball with ants,

and even be nibbled by a bird!

Life Cycle 3: Pupa

Before long the girls we will big fat caterpillars, ready to become a chrysalis!

With a few twist and turns, poof they'll emerged into a beautiful butterfly!

Life Cycle 4: Adult

However, beware butterflies, don't get caught in a web... a spider might eat you up!

Instead enjoy a matting dances,

lay a couple of eggs,

and do lots,

and lots of flying!

The Amazing Butterflies exhibit was the perfect way to spend an afternoon learning about butterfly behaviour,

and the letter B!!!

Don't Miss The Glory Of God

2011-10-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

In my sermon notes from last Sunday I wrote in big bold letters something our pastor Randy pointed out, "Don't Miss The Glory of God", six words that hit close to my heart. This year has presented itself with many challenges for our family, we've dealt with anaphylatic allergies, Sturge-Weber Syndrome symptoms, and a miscarriage, but through it all I've come out smiling. That's not to say I haven't had my fair share of tears, melt downs or even a few momentary pity-parties, because I have, but I smile because the Holiness of God brings me joy!

In raising these two precious gifts,

I am prayerfully and humbly training them to use their life to glorify God, because he deserves praise and adoration in every situation thrown our way...even a peanut allergy, miscarriage and a very rare neurological condition.

One of my favorite verses is Psalm 139:14, I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. Just because my children (all three of them) didn't come in the picture-perfect package I expected, does not mean they aren't a blessing from the Lord. To the contrary, they are wonderfully crafted and worthy of thanksgiving.

Which makes the decision to have surgery on Brie's port wine stain so difficult. My biggest fear is that by performing surgery to remove something "fearfully and wonderfully made" by our Creator, I'm turning a non-issue into a big deal. Suddenly this birthmark we've been teaching her to use as a tool in bringing glory to God, becomes something we no longer want.

Ahh...being a parent is tough bees-wax friends, it's a good thing our God is indeed Holy! So please pray with me in making this very tough surgical decision (that some say is medically necessary and others not)! It is only through God's wisdom will we come to a decision that truly glorifies Him.

{Muffin Tin Monday} B is for Boo!

2011-10-24T09:36:00.000-07:00

We're still "Eating Through The Alphabet", but this time with a Halloween Twist!

B is for Boo!

Inside our Muffin Tin Monday pan you'll find: A haunted BROCCOLI forest, BOLOGNA, ghostly BANANAS, BLUEBERRIES, BLACKBERRIES and a Sun BUTTER spider web sandwich!

Who knew the letter B could be oh-so scary!

The Snack Princess

2011-10-22T17:15:00.000-07:00

What makes a great soccer snack, you ask???

First one needs some super cute, themed snack bags.

Next one should find a variety of healthy (and special treats).

And finally, one MUST have a Snack Princess to hand out all the yummy goodness!

EEK, A Spider!!!!!

2011-10-21T09:50:00.000-07:00

You guessed it, another Halloween bento lunch post. I just can't help myself. Especially after the girls spotted these cute candy spiders at Walmart. These eeky-jewels were the perfect accessory to any spider web sandwiches

So, what have you been bentoning lately???

A is for Inedible Apple Pie

2011-10-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

A normal apple pie lesson should go as follows: Prepare apples.Mix pie dough. Roll out dough.Form pie pockets. Bake.
Enjoy.

Unfortunately for the girls, today was more of a lesson in how to gracefully dispose of inedible food from ones mouth. Not how to make a tasty apple pie. Yep, these William Sonoma Apple Pie Pockets were that bad. Guess that's what I get for making up my own gluten free pie crust recipe.

Before you begin to feel too bad for the girls, today's experience was the perfect opportunity for me to help them put into practice this weeks bible verse. Proverbs 10:4 "Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth". Tomorrow we'll be making another attempt at Apple Pie Pockets, maybe this time with store bought crust (wink, wink)!

Duck & Goose Bento Lunch

2011-10-19T10:26:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite children's book series is, Duck & Goose by Tad Hill. His book titled, Duck & Goose Find A Pumpkin inspired today's bento lunch. Duck & Goose is a story filled with a lot of silliness. In his adventure the two friends go on a hunt for the perfect pumpkin, in all the wrong places.The search takes them to a log, leaf pile, apple tree, pond and stump where they come up empty hand each time. It's only when Thistle (a small, but wise bird) senses their despair and directs them to the pumpkin patch where the team finds a plumply-dumply pumpkin. Duck and Goose: Babybell cheese, candy eyes and edible marker.
The Pond: Yogurt and sprinkles.
Leaf Pile: Grapes and Leaf Pick.
Log: Pretzel Stick.
Apple Tree: Apple cutouts.
Stump: Rolled Ham.
Pumpkin Patch: Sandwich slice and candy pumpkin.

Wilton Food Writer

2011-10-18T12:16:00.000-07:00

Today's bento post is all about Wilton Food Writers. I used the black pen to create Briar's Jack-O(range)-Lantern. As well as, Brie's haunted forest ghoust (made from string cheese)!With Wilton Food Writers the bento possiblities are endless!

Muffin Tin Monday, Home School Edition

2011-10-17T13:07:00.000-07:00

For the last year I have been saving the book Eating Through The Alphabet by Lois Ehlert for this very moment. Muffin Tin Monday, Home School Edition.
We have finally reached the letter portion of Brie's curriculum, making this our first of twenty six Lois Ehlert Muffin Tin Monday's.Today we learned all about: Apricots, Asparagus, Apples, Avocado and Artichoke. While the girls gobbled up the apples, asparagus and chips, we only sampled the other "A"wkward foods. But hey, at least they tried them, right?

Mr. Pineapple

2011-10-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

This weekend I made a trip to HEB a midnight, and came home with an awesome bento box. Meet Mr. Pineapple! I actually found this $6 bento cutie in the baby aisle, but it's perfect for my little rug-rats. They love to eat variety, making these six small sections perfect for a well rounded lunch. Mr. Pineapple even holds three different dip options in the top leaf portion, if you can get your kiddo to actually eat a condiment (mine refuse). Happy Bentoing, Friends!

Picky Bento Brie

2011-10-14T10:23:00.000-07:00

Brie has turned into a bit of a picky eater these days. This doesn't exactly bod well when making bento lunches for the girls. Instead of making identical meals, I sometimes have to create two separate designs! Today I packed our Halloween themed lunches in my tried and true Crayola Sandwich box. If you think there isn't possibly enough room for your kids entire lunch in this box, don't. Check out Another Lunch's post on turning two slices of bread into these adorable sandwich rolls.Unfortunately, Brie is in a no-orange phase meaning Briar's super-cute pumpkin orange was replaced with Honeycrisp Apple cutouts. And carrots, ha, don't even think about it...Brie enjoyed a few extra grapes instead!

The beauty of this lunch is it's also another gluten free friendly lunch. Just take out the Oreo and you're good to go. Especially now that Synder's makes these awesome GF pretzels, at a price that doesn't break the bank!

Home School Day

2011-10-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

For many reasons Robert and I have made the decision to home school our girls. Ten weeks ago I cracked opened a Sonlight box and began creeping through the materials. However, today I'm happy to report we're in our groove; and I'm hooked. There is such a joy in watching Brie and Briar learn, especially while on field trips. Like this one, Home School Day at the South Texas Maze. In order to navigate through the maze, the kids had to answer a series of questions about corn. They did remarkably well, who knew they were so well versed in the components of corn. Guess their love for "corn on the cob" paid off, because we never once got lost. As with most field trips there was a little fun missed in with all the "education". Like a hayride to the pumpkin patch, and a tractor ride (look out world Briar's driving)! Brie even found time to do some serious "corn popping". But nothing compares to the fun one has on the Barrel Train Ride, Briar loved it so much she went twice (thanks Ms. Nive).
What a great day! I just wish it wouldn't have come with a pair of sunburns. Blasted Texas sun, you sure do play tricks on this Michigander.

Making Memories, Bento Style

2011-10-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

I'm not a very sentimental person when it comes to "stuff", I only shed one small tear when I gave the girl's crib to a sweet friend this weekend. Experience, however, are a completely different story. I choke up often reflecting on the many memories I've shared with my family over the last four years. And lunchtime together is one of my favorites.

Which is probably why I love making these cute bento lunch for them... and me!!! And for the record, bento lunches taste better outside on a blanket! Frankenstein Bento: Frankenstein was made from a shaved kiwi, edible eyes and jimmie sprinkles. Thanks Another Lunch for the inspiration.

Helotes Fall Festival

2011-10-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

This weekend we tried out a new pumpkin patch in Helotes, thanks to a great Groupon deal. The outing required cute pink rain boots, but in this drought I'm not going to make a single complaint about rain. Especially since it was dry enough for a barrel train ride. And a hayride. They even had a huge bounce house to play in.But the best part about any trip to the pumpkin patch is selecting ones pumpkin. Over-priced or not, I insist we leave with a pumpkin.Or three.

Happy Fall, Y'all!

Who Let The Ghoust's Out

2011-10-08T16:21:00.000-07:00

Today's Halloween bento lunch was inspired by the R. L. Stine book Mostly Ghoustly. Last night we actually met R. L. Stine and watched the world premire of his new play, Who Let The Ghoust's Out? The girls weren't nearly as excited about the play as they were this lunch? Maybe it was all the sugar. I promise, this much sugar is not a regular routine. Just a specialy treat!

p.s. This lunch can easily be made gluten free, with GF bread and cupcake (sans Cheez-it's).

Pumpkin Patch Bento, Gluten Free Style

2011-10-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we'll be visiting our first pumpkin patch of the season, in honor of the trip I made the girls this Pumpkin Patch themed lunch. In case you couldn't tell, this lunch is also Gluten Free. It's Glutten free from the Sun Butter and Jelly "hay bale" sandwich, all the way to the pumpkin shade apples, cheese and Peep. Even the yummy carmel dip is gluten free. Bentoing is so much fun, even when it's Gluten Free Style.

What's your favorite pumpkin patch memory?

Halloween Bento, Gluten Free Style

2011-10-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

I don't know what's scarier, the ghost banana or the fact this entire lunch is gluten free.
Whoever says gluten free is no fun, is WRONG! Here a fun, cute and healthy gluten free lunch any kid would love.

Ham, cheese and rice wrap rolls

Halloween themed corn tortilla chips

Ghost banana, spider apples and fruit salad

Happy Halloween, Bento Style

Happy 3rd Birthday, Briar

2011-10-06T19:31:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe my baby is three, but indeed she is.

Happy Birthday, Briar Noelle! Birthday are a big deal in our house, which meant I had to make today extra special for Briar. We started the day off with breakfast at Starbucks, Briar picked (cough), a"healthy treat" the Birthday Pop! For lunch Briar requested an outside picnic instead of McDonalds, good choice Briar, good choice! Then it was off to Orange Leaf for some yummy frozen yougurt! As the day progressed it was time for momma to whip up a Castle Cake, and Briar to take a nap. I guess having a third birthday isn't enough to give up that thumb. Maybe next year. Soon it was crunchy taco time, and unwrapping time. But not until every sang "Happy Birthday Briar"! Singing always comes first, then unwrapping! The girls appreciated their matching gifts, both Grandma's came through on that front! In fact both Grandma's spoiled their little rug-rats, why did I even bother buying a present???Briar Rose (as you like to call yourself) I hope your birthday was extra special, because your daddy, and mommy love you very much!

Happy Birthday!

2011-10-03T12:26:00.000-07:00

I'm back to bentoing, but it appears I'm a little rusty! I was going for a Halloween theme; Goldfish is dressed as a princess, at the pumpkin patch with a scary strawberry. Like I said, I'm a little rusty!

Just Another Saturday

2011-10-01T21:12:00.000-07:00

It's tough work raising well-rounded little girls.
To do so one must start their Saturday's with a heart-racing game of girl's soccer...

and end their day with a heart-warming trip to the theater for a Taipei Folk Dance performance. While we're at it we should proabably splurge on a pop, and popcorn purchase. I mean, come on, The Dohner Girls are worth a splurge every now and then!

Mary Poppins

2011-09-30T11:31:00.000-07:00

Last night was practically perfect in every way, in fact it was... Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

Robert being a fan of the arts, but not a fan of Broadway shows stayed home with the girls. Giving my friend Emily and I the opportunity to share a night on the town.

Too bad she couldn't share that cookie with me.

Although, let's face it, dessert or no dessert nothing could have ruined the night. I seriously don't think I have ever smiled so much! Broadway's Mary Poppins was like a spoonful of sugar!

South Texas Maize

2011-09-25T14:48:00.000-07:00

Once a year Mom, the girls and I have a "Girl's Trip". This year we kept it more a stay-cation of sorts. As with all girl's trips we did our fair share of shopping; two hours in Ross, one major Coach decision and a mother-load of Gap Outlet finds. But believe it or not there was more to this Girl's Weekend than just shopping (and Starbucks)! On Saturday night we made a road trip to the South Texas Maze.Where the girls jumped on a Corn Popper.

Drove a Maize Bus.

Played atop bales of hay. We even took a real, hayride!

In fact two of us took a barrel ride, but only one of us will do it again.

However all the fall fun aside, one goes to the Graff Family Farm for their corn maze.

It's probably the only time one can get lost,

and still smile about it!

Go Green Mermaids

2011-09-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

I'm offically a soccer mom, the Fighting Green Mermaids had their first soccer practice of the season.Brie has been waiting two long months for this day. And she was thrilled to get the ball rolling on the fall soccer season. Especially because her BFF Abby is on the team too. Looks like our weekends just got a little busier, and a whole lot cuter!Go Green Mermaids, Go!

Figgy Fun

2011-09-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Earlier in the month the girls and I made a "field trip" to Love Creek Orchard in Medina, TX. If you want to call the double row of fruit trees an orchard, it was a far cry from our beloved Michigan orchards. None the less, we made the most of our morning! Figs were in season, but being the city girls we are I had no idea which tree was filled with the figgy goodness. Thanks to the trusted i-phone the girls were soon steered in the right direction and picking away! And playing away too! Briar was so proud of her soft, green fig! Brie was "thrilled" with her bag of fruit!And I was thankful for my new, MacWagon, it made hauling our loot a breeze. Thanks Mom!Boy do we love fall, but figs, not so much!

Shh, don't tell....but our $5 bag of figs went straight to the trash.

That's How I Roll

2011-09-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

It took close to thirty years, but I've decided to let my inner-geek out! Yep that's right, I'm turning up my Zooey Deschenal CD, throwing on a cardigan and rock'n my big glasses.It's a good thing "Geek Chic" is in this fall!Because, I'm taking my geeky self to the Magik Theather for a showing of Jungle Book. And then I'm riding a tourist filled elevator to the top of the Tower's of America I'm even going to open my birthday present out of a Sun Chip box, in a Sonic Drive-In, while posing for a "surprise" shot! And if you doubt the "geekiness" of this, don't. The Clark High School gang next to us made it very clear I was a nut! But nothing was more liberating than last weekend's geek fest, a Segway tour of downtown San Antonio! I mean, come on, a PINK SEGWAYJust look at the picture, doesn't get much more geeky than this!

So watch out world, Jessica Dohner's letting her inner-geek out!!!

Positive Exposure For Praying Parents

2011-08-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Disney World was not my favorite part about last months vacation, these photos are! Aside from having consultations with doctors, lectures from specialist and workshops with other SWS families the 2011 Sturge-Weber Conference collaborated with a former NYC fashion photographer Rick Guidotti and his program Positive Exposure! In a nut shell, Positive Exposure "support and promote human dignity through Positive Exposure's Spirit of Difference photographic image data bank and video interviews of persons, particularly children, living with genetic conditions." Brie having Sturge-Weber was asked to take part, Rick's energy and enthusiasm was infectious,he truly has a passion for showing the world the beauty in people's physical differences! We were thrilled to join in his cause, and even more thrilled to have these precious pictures of our sweet BrietoEveryday I thank God for this little girl, Psalm 139:14 says "I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are Your works"! Indeed I praise Him, because Brie is marvelous! Her outer beauty is apparent, but her inner beauty is still blossoming. Which is why it is a daily journey of faith for Robert and I to train this sweet girl in the way's of the Lord. It is our prayer that Brie would grow to love the Lord with all her heart and use this tool He has given her called Sturge-Weber to glorify God.

Which makes it even more difficult for Robert and I to decided whether or not to have surgery on Brie's cheek to lesson the appearance of her Port Wine Stain. Making decisions like this for my child, is the hardest part about being a parent. Thankfully, scripture is there to remind me in Jame 1, "(2)Consider it pure joy, my brother, whenever you face trials of many kinds...(5)If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him", so please join with me in praying for that wisdom. Our next few months are filled with doctor's appointments, surgeries and lots and lots of choices, without my relationship with Christ this mother would have gone crazy a long time ago. Thank you Lord for your beauty, wisdom and love!

Disney Vacation: The End

2011-07-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

Our Disney trip is over, my blog has been updated and all that's left are the pictures, memories and souvenirs.However before I end this chapter on Disney, I must give some "Super Cheers" to a few people!

Thank you to the Stepleton Clan for your many Disney tips--with out you we would have never eaten with Cinderella or known how to work the Fast Pass system. Thanks!

Thank you to our sweet Aunt Lois who made a significant finical contribution to our amazing week.

And finally, thank you to Robert's amazing parents for not only providing a beautiful resort, a few entries to Magic Kingdom and yummy food, but thank you for your prayers, support and love it does not go unnoticed!

Now all that's left is to plan my Disney at 30 trip, which is rapidly turning into my Disney at 29 trip!

Disney Vacation: Day Eight

2011-07-28T20:48:00.000-07:00

Friday was our last full day at Disney World, it seemed only fitting that we go out with a bang! Which is why daddy treated us to a Cinderella Happily Ever After dinner, at 1900 Park Fare. There we met the most famous princesses of all, Cinderella! Some of us even got a special hug from her!Of course with ever good princesses there has to be an evil stepmother, like Lady Tremaine (yes she has a name, not just Evil Stepmother, who knew?). Lady Tremaine was my favorite, because she told the girls, "Beauty is pain, you got to learn that at an early age. Now put your crowns on, hold your dresses and smile!" Did you see those smiles, they were really listening, right???

Next up was Anastasia, I have two words for her--A Hoot! When asked where her prince was she went into a long explanation about how Drizzella was to blame!And you know what, I think she was right, and so did Brie! Since Disney calls this meal, Cinderella's Happily Ever After, one must assume you'll meet a real prince....and we did! But for now I think the girl's heart's belongs to Prince Daddy! As apposed to mommy, that night my prince was Chef Harry!

Aside from my gluten-free rolls, steak and yummy sides he created me this amazing dessert!

Once all the character's had visited our table, the girls nerves were finally calm enough to eat.

Too bad it was already dessert time by then, check out that chocolate mini tart, I paid $27.50 for it! Of course I think daddy ate enough roast beef off the buffet to make up for Brie!

Now what's missing from this evening? Oh yeah dancing, you can't go to a ball without dancing!

In fact the girls danced so well the Disney staff gave then each a bouquet of flowers!
As with most of our days this one rapidly came to an end, soon we were waiting outside for the valet to bring us our car. Listening to Robert grumbling about how he hates forced valet. And watching the girls dance in the rain. I'm so thankful smiles like Brie's can make any dad forget about $12!

Disney Vacation: Day Seven, Part Three

2011-07-28T19:42:00.000-07:00

The third part of our Magic Kingdom day started off by Robert somehow convincing me to ride Space Mountain with him, and because of our VIP access we didn't have to wait in line, that's enough to make a girls smile! Already being in Tomorrowland it was time to go "To Infinity and Beyond",

as one big happy (sweaty and tired) family! Brie did a great job shooting the targets, she scored 7000 point (I happened to get 847,000, but who's counting)!!! After another hike across the park (Grandma Kendra was such a trooper), a trip down Splash Mountain for Dad and Grandpa, everyone was ready for Big Thunder Mountain! Unfortunately, Briar being two inches too short, was forced to sit this one out alone with Grandma (I'm sure that made her oh-so-sad, I think not)! Meanwhile Brie eagerly anticipated a ride on the runaway train with dad! After a last minute switch to mommy's car, Brie was giving Big Thunder Mountain a great big thumbs up! Next it was Grandpa's turn to pick a ride, again unfortunately for Briar, Brie thought her sister chose the slow, hot river boat ride and shouted, "Briar, you're not allowed to pick out the rides anymore!" Briar just smiled, continued to play with her Minnie and responded, "I know, why this boat not go fast"--Needless to say that was the last ride Grandpa picked! However, it's a good thing Grandma convinced Rob to get on It's a Small World after all, because it was hit among both girls! Although Robert is now convince he needs a shirt that say, "I survived, It's a Small World After All"! Now we are rapidly approaching the end of our day at Magic Kindgdom, almost as fast as Brie approached the Tommorowland Speedway finish line! Before we knew it everyone was parked in front of Townhall, eating Light-Up Minnie Suckers, watching the Disney Electrical Parade,and enjoying the ending to a perfectly magical day at Disney!

A dream come true!

Disney Vacation: Day Seven, Part Two

2011-07-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

After a quick walk back to Fantasyland, we found our full bellies in line for Peter Pan's Flight. By far my favorite ride,

the Disney Imagineers did a great job of capturing one of my favorite childhood stories into a short ride! Brie and Briar certainly thought so too!

By now it was time to split up, Grandpa and Robert headed over to Splash Mountain, while us ladies went on a Princess hunt. Making a few pit stops with The Fairy Godmother! And Daisy Duck! Daisy seemed to be taken with Briar, first she stole her umbrella in line, and then wanted to trade bracelets. Briar wasn't having any of it, the girl was sticking with her own shiny bling!

Before we knew it we had met no Princesses, Grandpa and Dad were back and we riding the Disney train, and eating Mickey Ice Creams,

Did I mention how excited everyone was over their Mickey Ice Cream??? Best $10.50 I ever spent! Soon after the amazing ice cream, came the best moment of the entire week....

Briar meeting Briar Rose--Briar ran right up to her and said, "My name Briar Rose, like you!!!" and the character did an great job of responding, "Oh sweet Briar, I do miss my fairy friends dearly, they did a great job of raising me, but I am oh-so-glad I met my Prince Charming!" After last weeks experience I don't think there is any chance of convincing Briar her real name is Briar Noelle! Next up was Belle, one of Brie's favorite, "because she likes to read books, like me"! I could look at those smiles everyday, LOVE! And finally we met Cinderella, where she danced with us, and smiles with us, and excited us even more for Friday's Royal Dinner!

Disney Vacation: Day Seven, Part One

2011-07-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

Thursday was the day I had been anticipating my whole life, lame I know. I'm a very enthusiastic person, and nothing could contained my excitement as we drove through the Magic Kingdom gates...an hour and half early!!!! However, by the time we parked, walked to the monorail, rode the monorail and approached the baggage check table it was already nine o'clock and the park was open! Guess that early arrival time paid off! It definitely paid off in the wait time for Dumbo our first ride, we were aboard his ears in less than 10 minutes, allowing mom the opportunity to take pictures of small, sweet smiles like Briar's!After riding Magic Kingdom's most iconic ride, we quickly rushed over to meet Rapunzel where Grandpa and Grandma were already in line for us! With one quick photo of Dad and his girls done, it was already our turn to meet Mom's favorite princess, Rapunzel! Unfortunately, in the excitement of it all, I forgot to get my picture taken with her! At least I have a picture of Rapunzel with my girls! On our way over to the Winnie the Pooh ride, we noticed there was NO wait for the Tea Cups, so we all six hopped on for a spinning-good-time! Once off we had hoped to meet Alice, but sadly it was her tea time and she had disappeared!Soon we found ourselves in line for the Winnie The Pooh ride, but in my opinion the line, was far more fun than the ride! Next on the agenda was the Mickey's Philharmagic show, one of Grandpa's favorites! For me, what made it so great was that both girls really got into the 3D special effects. It was so cute seeing them try to catch the "flying action". But the best part for Brie was the gift shop outside the show, there she found Figaro, Minnie's cat, her favorite purchase of the whole week!

Before we knew it our tummy's were growling,

my baby was sleeping, and we were eating a fabulous lunch at the Liberty Tree Tavern. The perfect spot to watch the twelve o'clock afternoon parade! Sometimes even I have to pinch myself, because we're blessed to live such a charmed life!

Disney Vacation: The Evening of Day Sx

2011-07-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

After our fun little timeshare presentation the family headed to dinner at Fuddrucker, where I do not recommend their coleslaw! Once seated we were approached by a "balloon guy" asking if the girls wanted one of his creations. Before I could say no, Brie was requesting a flower. And Briar a crown. Oh well, it was vacation! Fuddruckers just so happened to be located across the street from Downtown Disney, so we decided to make another visit. This time to roam and watch, instead of shop. Brie found a nice quaint square of grass to chill on! It was the perfect view for watching Disney's hot air balloon ride (I'm too lazy to look up it's real name) soar! It was also a great place to run, getting all our wiggles out! Until someone falls and gets hurtthen we needed another trip to World of Disney and a sprinkle of Pixie Dust to feel better!

Tomorrow: Magic Kingdom, the day I waited my whole life for!

Disney Vacation: The Morning of Day Six

2011-07-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

Looking back I think Wednesday was my favorite day of our entire Disney trip. At first I thought it was because the chef at the Cape May Cafe created gluten-free Mickey Waffles just for me!Four really yummy gluten-free Mickey Waffles! However, it was seeing the excitement and anticipation on the girls faces that did it for me. They were so cute as we waited to be seated for our breakfast with Minnie, Donald and Goofy (Yes we arrived an hour early here too)! The girls were even cuter when we actually meet our friends! Just look at those smiles!!!! And yes, mom junped into a few pictures! The girls were star-struck by their favorite characters! Brie even insisted on her Minnie being in the picture with MinnieGoofy on the other hand was a little scary for Briar, apparently she didn't like his "pokes" a.k.a. whiskers. Of course with a smile like that, I don't think she minded too much his kiss on the head!Surprisingly Brie had no trouble standing for a picture, she really came out of her shell this week!

After our deliciously entertaining breakfast Grandpa Chuck ("My Twin" as Robert and Kendra liked to refer to dad as) scored us "free" VIP access cards to Magic Kingdom. All we had to do is sit through a Disney Vacation Club timeshare presentation. After ninety minutes, a few insults and a bowl of free ice cream we were ready for a line-free day at Magic Kingdom!

Disney Vacation: Day Five

2011-07-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was our low-key day, if you want to call it that! Brie had a real hard time at the Sturge-Weber Kids Camp so we decided to leave her back at the resort with the grandparents. In fact even Mommy had a hard time at the "Sturge-Weber Adult Camp" and we skipped out early too, missing the talk on Family Dynamics and Classroom Bullying--oh well! Instead we spent the afternoon swimming at the pool! Eating lunch at Friendly's, If you want to call this lunch! Hey it's vacation, Brie and I can eat ice cream for lunch if we want to!!! With much of the afternoon still upon us, we head over to Downtown Disney for some retail therapy! Briar immediately spotted her name sake, Briar Rose, and insisted on a picture!After spotting Briar Rose it didn't take long to wander inside World of Disney, an insanely large store filled with nothing but Disney merchandise! And yes, we did manage to take some of that merchandise home with us! Next on our agenda was the Lego Store, Brie was amazed at the Cinderella made of Lego's.... and this bridge (I'm oh so glad she loves to build with Legos)! But the best part of the store was being able to create our own Lego people! Look at all those girls, yay for girly Lego people!!! Oh and Peter Pan and Capt Patch!!! With two new Lego kits in tow (thanks Grandma and Grandpa) we headed back to our resort for another dip in the pool! The perfect ending to another magical day at Disney World!

Disney Vacation: Day Four

2011-07-25T10:52:00.000-07:00

Monday night we attended a Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage along the Seven Seas Lagoon. The event was three hours of riveting entertainment and yummy snacks! But for us, our entertainment started an hour early in the Disney Contemporary Resort gift shop! You see all week the running joke was that "Jessica makes us arrive everywhere an hour early"! But if we had not arrived early how could we have time to try on Goofy Hats! Or Pluto caps! Or even Chitmuck heads?

After having fun killing a bit of time we headed back to our ballroom to have a jolly good time pirate style. Briar, however, was not digging the "pirate style"! Apparently, the bandanna we were required to wear was "Not Pretty!!!" She informed, Mom, Dad and even Grandma "I NOT WEARING THAT" several times!!!
Finally I convinced her that if I tied it to the back of her dress no one would see it and she would still be pretty! That seemed to work, that and the amazing snack table inside! After "stealing" a whole bunch of pirate treasures we fond a spot on the floor to enjoy our....
cotton candy! Soon Captain Hook and Mr. Smee arrived. And well, Briar was still not trilled with the evening, apparently she "likes girls"!Really how much money did we have to pay for that smile???? Even Brie appeared to be a little shy of the characters, which is why mom and dad hopped in the picture! Who am I kidding, I really wanted my picture taken with them too!!! After everyone had a turn with Captain Hook and Mr. Smee, Patch our tour guide took us out on a real pirate adventure! Not exactly sure how the girls felt about it, their faces crack me up! Brie soon warmed to the idea and began playing along, singing songs, telling jokes and answering trivia questions! Before we knew it the fireworks began to sound off, it was pure magic! Alas all good things must come to an end, but if they must, let all pirate voyages end by meeting Peter Pan!!!
So long as Peter Pan doesn't come to their window tonight and ask for help spring cleaning. I don't think I could bare to see them fly off to Neverland!

Disney Vacation: Days One, Two and Three

2011-07-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

One of my goals in raising the girls is to give them memorable family vacation. However, I never imagined that one of those vacations would be to Disney World! Thanks to the Sturge-Weber Foundation holding their International Conference in Orlando we were able to do just that! And what a memorable week it was! We set off for Orlando on Friday at 3pm; yes we drove, yes we're crazy and yes it was FUN!
The girls were perfect angels, no DVD player, no video games, just a world of imagination to entertain them! Along the 23 hour journey (which really should have taken 18 hours, but we drive slow and stop often) we made a few stops at Cracker Barrel. And one over night stay at the Holiday Inn, Ocala, FL--a place we like to refer to as Florida FabBefore we knew it, it was Sunday, we were checked-in at the Wyndahm Bonnet Creek Resort (which Grandma and Grandpa Dohner were generious enough to provide) and off to our conference with other families affected by Sturge-Weber Syndrome. I won't linger on this topic much more, but I will say your prayers were heard. We learned a lot, we were impressed with the doctors who saw Brie and we will need more prayers as we approach a time of decision making!

Disney Bond

2011-07-17T06:06:00.001-07:00

We're Walt Disney World Bond, hot dog!
Our blog posts will return soon!

Big Apple Adventure: Day Five

2011-07-15T11:16:00.000-07:00

Friday was Day Five of VBS, Big Apple T-shirt Day, and the day I finally got a smile out of Brie. It must be because she's sitting next to her best friend, Abby! Who kindly offered to share her offering dollars, since this mommy forgot Brie's! In the kitchen we were busy making our Grand Finale of snacks, I "Heart" NY Pizza Bites, Big Applesauce and Taxi Cabs The Taxi's were so cute and such a hit, but Rachel and I could live without a using a piping bag for at least a week or two! The best part of being on snack crew is getting to see my girls, I missed them this week! What mom could resist watching their two year old stuff themselves with a Zinger Cake.
Or a four year old sitting next to her best friend! Thank you to all the VBS workers who made this week special for my girls and others!

Bg Apple Adventure: Day Four

2011-07-14T11:26:00.001-07:00

Day Four of VBS was all about the Lady Liberty Torches for us on snack duty. Of course these guys won't be seeing the light of day ever again! They were a hot mess! For everyone else it was Wear Big Apple Red Day. To be honest the dim torches wouldn't have been that bad if we weren't so behind plating everything else!Thankfully we had Rachel and her mom to help guide us through the chaos. They're pretty much the best helpers around.With out them (and Walter) our Downtown Dippers, Central Park Zoo Mix and Lady Liberty Torches would have never made it out.

And VBSer's like Briar would not been able to get all sticky! Or sleepy, like Brieto! Happy VBS Week Friends!

Big Apple Adventure: Day Three

2011-07-13T16:10:00.000-07:00

VBS week always seems to fly by, I really can't believe "Crazy Hair Wednesday" is already over. Yep, that's me with my "crazy" naturally curly hair and a big flower, I went all out huh??? Brie however was sporting what I like to call "The Fauxhawk"!A series of stuffed buns down the center of her head, so fun!Of course VBS is about more than just fun hair. Which is why my friend and snack partner, Emily, enjoyed catching a quick peak of our kiddos singing songs and learning scripture! Then it was back to work... making these Big Apple snacks. Deli sandwiches, Parking Meter Pretzels and Stoplights. Briar and her Princess Crown Hair thoroughly enjoys them!

Big Apple Adventure: Day Two

2011-07-12T19:49:00.000-07:00

We're not use to being out the door by 7:30am, but crazy hat day at VBS was enough motivation for at least one of my girls this morning!

Briar saved her smiles for class, and that's just fine with me! Aside from being Crazy Hat Day,

the Kitchen Crew made more NYC inspired snacks... Pennant PB&J, Bronx Balls and Yankee Baseballs. Briar missed out the "baseballs" because of her allergies, but...

Brie enjoyed all of her yummy snacks, especially the grape jelly!!! p.s. Thanks Zachary for making room for Brie at the big kid table, it helped in avoiding an unnecessary anxiety attack!

Tomorrow I'm really hoping to get out of the kitchen for a few minutes to see Brie in Worship Rally, Missions and Class. I'm over-joyed by all the truth she is learning in VBS this week. I'm amazed and thankful our Gods is great enough to reach the smallest child, as well as, the deepest adult!

Big Apple Adventure: Day One

2011-07-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day of Vacation Bible School for us, and the girls were extra excited for the Big Apple Adventure! Until opening rally, that is, Brie's excitement quickly turned to nervousness. However by snack time she was all smiles again!!! And who wouldn't be with snacks like this??? Vendor Dogs, Central Park Chips and Tourist Cupcakes--It's so much fun working in the kitchen with Emily, Peggy and crew. I love putting my food creativity to good use!!!As for my sweet Briar, her smile glowed all day! She even survived having a hot dog "Pick-Pocketed" from her plate, with grace! Ah, I LOVE VBS!!!

We Just Don't Stop

2011-07-01T20:56:00.000-07:00

Any day that starts out with a Barnum Bailey Circus Side Show,
and ends with a trip to the Magik Theater, is a great day! In the word's of my Father-in-Law, "You guys just don't stop"! Even for me today was a little busy, but who can pass up a FREE circus side show!Especially when one is this close to an elephant signing a birthday card! And we certainly couldn't miss opening night of Phantom of the Alamo at Magik Theater!

The smiles our family dates to the theater bring,

are memories to last a lifetime!Even when the smile are in the form of, "Turn your camera off now MOM, so I can enjoy my popcorn and soda in peace" pouts! Hey like a said, memories to last a lifetime!!!

Happy UnBirthday To You

2011-06-30T14:18:00.000-07:00

Need to change things up with your kids this summer? Have an extra $15 in your checking account? Then throw them an "Unbirthday Party"! It's just like a birthday party, minus the birthday (and presents). Since the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse song "Happy UnBirthday" inspired the idea, we went with a Mickey Mouse themed party.
I bought a Mickey cupcake kit at Walmart, a few small party favors and five balloons. Everything else was pulled together with left-over party supplies in my pantry! Once our friend Abby arrived the party began by shaping Minnie Mouse's out of Crayola's Model Magic!Next we played a game of "Pin the Bow on Minnie". Take note of my bows, they're just left-over felt butterfly stickers turned into bows! I told you I did this party on the cheap! After Abby won the first game, we played a fun game of "Duck, Duck, Donald"! A little tuff with just three people, but the girls didn't mind! And of course no party is complete without cupcakes, so once all our activities were finished it was a free-for-all on the sprinkled goodness!With so much excitement the party concluded by relaxing with popcorn and a movie, Minnie's Masquarde!Before we knew it Abby's mom returned and everyone recieved their party favor, a $.69 cup with filled with left-over goodies inside! Happy UnBirthday Everyone! Let this inspire you to spoil your kids with sprinkles and smiles this summer!

A Day At McKenna

2011-06-29T17:20:00.000-07:00

Today at the McKenna Children's Museum in New Braunfels I learned that just because my girl stand alike, they don't necessarily play alike.
Brie prefers to ride side saddle,
while Briar rides like a real cowgirls!!!

Briar enjoyed painting pictures on an easel,

while Brie preferred using the markers!

Briar was all about the choo-choo trains,

and Brie digged the "science" stuff!

Brie cashed her check with a teller,

while Briar was busy using the ATM!

But at the end of the day, both girls LOVED decorating Mickey Mouse cupcakes with Mom and Dad!

Another great day in the world of motherhood!

Extreme Hair-Dos

2011-06-27T10:08:00.000-07:00

I'm a very enthusatic, some-what obsessive person. I get a bee in my bonnet and I run with it. Besides organizing a trip to Disney World and learning to Extreme Coupon, my newest buzz kick is cute hair. Here are four of my creations... The Minnie Mouse Do The Twist Braid Bun The Pony Braid Pigtails
And my favorite so far...The Pull Through Pony Updo

I'm no where near as good as Shaunelle from Shaunelle's Hair, but I'm trying! Having girls is so much fun!

Extreme Couponing

2011-06-26T16:58:00.001-07:00

Being married to an Actuary I've never been much for using coupons. I'm so used to hearing, "Babe just because it's on sale, doesn't mean your actually saving money" that it I became anti-newspaper coupons. In my experience the coupons that come in ones local paper are usually for over-priced, over-processed products, that one has to buy multiples of to actually save. However, with all the buzz on facebook about the TV show "Extreme Couponing" (Which I have never seen) I made an "impulse" newspaper purchase at Starbucks this morning, and boy am I glad I did.

That one newspaper saved me, wait for it, $66.37! If your anything like Robert (my actuary husband) you're probably wondering, "How much did you spend to save $66?", wait for it, only $112. Totally cool, right?

So how did I do it? With a lot of organization, a little bit of math and some major will-power. Seriously, I really wanted to save $11 on four Dove product. To me $11 seems like a lot to save, but to me $6.50 seemed like I lot to spend on something I just didn't need. Making my first tip to amateur couponing
1. Learn When To Say No--Sometimes you just don't need to spend to save.

Before I went out to use my coupons, I looked at all the sales ads to see what stores would offer me additional saving. It took a bit of planning, a little extra time, but well worth the extra savings. Making tip number two
2. Get Organized--Look through the sales ads, will Walgreens or CVS offer you the best deal on that $2 off coupon.

And finally bust out those old math skills and maximize your coupon power. I found I saved a lot of extra money by doing some basic math to compare how much I would save with both a coupon and say a CVS Buck. It took a pen and paper and a little brain power, but it definitely helped in increasing my overall savings. Making my final tip
3. Do The Math--Make sure to add in all savings opportunity, i.e. Walgreen rewards and CVS Bucks.

Now comes the fun part what did I get with all those coupons?

At CVS I bought: Pantine shampoo and conditioner, men and women's Speed Stick, and two bottle of Whisk laundry soap for only $13.67 (savings of $21.79)!

At Walgreens I bought: Four Pringles, two Twizzler candies (roadtrip snacks), two Colgate toothpaste, two Reach toothbrushes, two packages Stay-free and a four pack of Duracell batteries for only $13.46 (savings of $25.41)

At HEB I bought: A weeks worth of groceries for only $74.79 (saving $19.17)

Since I still think most the "food" coupons in the newspaper are for over-priced, over-processed foods, I don't imagine to ever save too much shopping for groceries, but it's nice to know when I need something--I probably can save some money on it!

I'm by no means a coupon expert, but I'd love to have some more Extreme Couponing fun--So tell me your couponing tips?

2011-06-25T21:19:00.000-07:00

For Father's Day I bought Robert a Family Fun Experience for a San Antonio Missions baseball game. And you know what?

The family had fun!

So much fun that I can onlyleave you with a few highlights, we'll have to save the play-by-play for my next few entries!

But-- Let me tell you, two sweet girls had a blast running the bases!

The whole night was just another reason why I am so thankful for Robert and our girls--I am truly blessed

Elmo's World

2011-06-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

Today we ventured out to Sea World for a day in the pool. The water seems to help Brie cope with the pain in her leg. While waiting for the water park to open we had an opportunity to meet all the Sesame Street Characters-- Abby and Zoe
Grover
Cookie Monster

Rosita

And Rosita again.

Tomorrow

2011-06-12T19:11:00.001-07:00

Sturge-Weber is one of those diseases you just never know what tomorrow will bring. Last Thursday was one of those "tomorrows" I don't like, Brie had a bad spell of sensory seizures. After a long day at the hospital we went home with new medicine, an appointment with our neurologist and one sad little girl.

Four days later Brie's spirits have improved, but the seizures have not stop. Her right leg is in a great deal of pain and the muscles are so stiff she can barely walk. In addition to the pain, it will take some time for her body to build a resistance to the side effects of the new medicine--which means she is very irritable.

However, no matter what tomorrow brings I'm thankful God is in control of it. Philippians 4:7 says, "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus"! Friends, without the peace of God I could not have the strength to wait three weeks to speak to our neurologist. Without the peace of God I would not have the patience to deal with her pain and irritability. And without the peace of God I could not experience joy with my sweet family. I'm so thankful a relationship with Christ is more than a ticket to heaven, it's a life filled with love, joy, peace and so much more!

If you think of us this week, please pray for Brie, that God may be glorified through her life!

Summer Has Begun

2011-06-08T18:54:00.000-07:00

Summer has begun. And no, it's not just because we're wearing a Tropical Bloom outfit. It's because the Summer Movie Express started this week!

And the only thing better than a $1 movie is seeing it with a friend!

Oh, and the pop and popcorn certainly sweetened the deal!

Tale of Desperaux entertained all the kiddos, they were glued to the screen, but...

a post movie trip to the pool made this summer day, oh-so-perfect!

Yep, summer has begun!

Art Show

2011-06-06T22:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for something fun to do with your kids this summer. How about have an art show? That's what Fancy Nancy inspired us to do today.

Come along with us on a virtual Art Show, presented by Brie and Briar.
Displayed along the hallway you will see many original pieces of art made by Brie and Briar. Some painted, some sketched and others pasted, but all beautiful!

The desk featured all of the girls sculptures and...

one "Prize Winning" piece, a self portrait of Brie. The picture seriously cracks me up! The best part is Brie made it all on her own--it's 100% Brie's.

With so many fun works of art their is no doubt our VIP guest, Daddy had a great time.

It's amazing how such a simple thing can bring so much excitement to children. Let this inspire you to not toss your kids art work to the side, but show it with pride. Have an art show just like us, and Fancy Nancy!

Shakespeare In The Park

2011-06-04T20:35:00.000-07:00

This weekend our family saw Shakespeare In The Park, twice. The Magik Theather was putting on a free performance of Twelfth Night at the San Antonio Botanical Gardens and it was fabulous! Magik sure knows how to do comedy, even Shakespeare's comedies! Since we're crazy and arrived an hour before the gates opened we were able to snag great seats (shade was at a premium), and have plenty of time to get our wiggles out by... smelling the flowers (at least I think that's what Brie's trying to do), and... by DANCING! There was lots and lots of dancing going on at our little quilt. Who knew anyone could swing dance to "The Beach Boys", let only Daddy! Once dusk started to set in the mood turn relaxed. Everyone settled into place, and then a different place, and yet another place,until finally everyone was happily seated enjoying the humor and delight of Twelfth Night!

I was amazed at how much Brie and Briar picked up from the show, Brie literally wanted a "play by play". They LOVED it! And so did I!

Memorial Memories

2011-05-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

Our Memorial Weekend was spent at home, making memories to last a lifetime.

The weekend was filled with cute hair,
creamy Popsicles,

fierce squirt guns,

colorful sidewalk chalk,

wild sprinkles,

new swimsuits, Lego creations, and even a wasp sting!Making memories as a family doesn't have to be a trip to the beach or a vacation to Disney World--all one needs is the willingness to spend time together in your own backyard!

Smile For The Camera

2011-05-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

Why is it that when both girls are looking at the camera, the picture looks like this?

All the sweet smile pictures are of Briar looking away.

Or Briar screaming "CAT"!

Or Brie looking of out into space.

Oh well, I guess I'm going to have to settle on them being cute looking forward, sideways and even backwards!

Gal Pals

2011-05-25T12:43:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wonder if these girls really know how lucky they are. Especially when it comes to the area of friends.I mean how often does one get to run around the Botanical Gardens looking at flowers, ducks and houses with a friend like Abby?
Abby was so sweet she shared her attention with little Briar!

Even though Brie is her bestie!

Thanks Ms. Nive for bring Abby to the garden's today, and sorry Josh we left you out so much!

Let's Entertain

2011-05-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago Brie had her first Ballet Recital, titled Let's Entertain. Brie was part of the Circus Act, playing a Pink Poodle. It was all tutu cute!
Brie performed first position wonderfully!

Hopped perfectly!

And smiled beautifully!

Okay, maybe she was a little silly after it was all over!

Our entire family was so proud of Brieto and can't wait until next year when Rooner performs too!

{What's For Lunch Wednesday}

2011-05-11T15:06:00.000-07:00

Where heading to the beach soon, the ocean to be exact (is the Gulf, the Ocean...hmm) and well my girls are S*U*P*E*R excited. They want to see the fish nibble, the crabs crawl and the sea monster growl! Which is why for lunch I feed their excitment some imaginative fuel!

1. A Sea Monster made of Rice Cake, Sunbutter, Cheese Puffs, Strawberry and Grapes
2. A Crab made of Cheese, Turkey and Carrots
3. A Fish made of Peep Bunny, Apple Sauce and Blue Sugar

They loved it, how about you?

Rock'n The Bangs

2011-05-11T14:59:00.000-07:00

While making lunch this afternoon I walk away for one minute, and this is what I come back to!

Guess who's now rock'n the bangs???

Briarooni

After a few tears (from mommy) and a quick trim job, it doesn't look that bad! Oh the joys, of motherhood! Never a dull day in the Dohner house!

{Muffin Tin Monday} Mother's Day Edition

2011-05-09T09:37:00.000-07:00

This week I decided to make a Mother's Day Thank You tin for my girls, Brie and Briar!

Rice Cake Girls (Sun Butter, Rice Chex, Peep Ears & Sprinkles)
Letter B Cheese with Gluten Free Turkey
Strawberries and Purse Pick
Grapes and Nail Polish Pick
Carrots

Thankfull the girls though it a sweet "thank you" for my adorable Mother's Day gift too!

Daddy did a good job this year!

Sturge Weber Awareness Month

2011-05-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

Meet Brie, she has Sturge Weber Syndrome a congenital, non-familial disorder characterized by a congenital facial birthmark and neurological abnormalities, and she's perfect!

Brie's journey with Sturge Weber has been a rather mild one, which I credit to the grace of God. Our story really begins at the age one with a trip to the dermatologist, a trip that would bring us to a very scary diagnosis. There we learned Brie had a Port Wine Stain, a life long facial birthmark that can cause glaucoma, as well as, be an indicator of a seizure causing neurological abnormality known as Sturge Weber Syndrome. With tears in my eyes and fear in my heart I went home that day to share the news with my husband and family.

The dermatologist words changed everything, my worry was no longer just about Brie's emotional well being, but about her physical health too. Shortly after that fateful day we saw a Neurologist, had a MRI/CAT Scan and heard the words we expected to hear "Sturge Weber Syndrome". However, in that diagnoses there was a hope, the placement of her brain involvement may never lead to an actual seizure.

Time went on and Sturge Weber became almost a non-thought in our minds, until one day when everything changed. Four years without seizures and this January Brie was hospitalized with stroke-like sensory seizures. Since then Brie has been stable, seizure free and the happy-go-lucky girl we love. In fact she's blessed to be seizure free, glaucoma free and Port Wine Stain treatment free. As for me our week long trial this January has sparked a desire to educate myself in Sturge Weber research, and share our story with the world.

However, I would be remiss to share our story without sharing what gets me through each day of worry and grief--my relationship with Jesus Christ. While I choose to trust our doctors and their research, my ultimate trust lies in Christ and His Word. Scripture reminds us that Brie was "...fearfully and wonderfully made: your works are wonderful, I know that full well" (Psalm 139:14), while the doctor's may not have all the answers, God does. He perfectly crafted her in my womb, knowing very well these challenges would arise. Again I'm reminded of scripture, John 16: 33 says: “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”--You see at the end of the day, my hope does not lie in the doctor's knowledge, but in Christ power.

If you would like more information on Sturge Weber or wish to make a donation to the foundation please visit the Sturge Weber Foundations website. If your family has been affected with Sturge Weber Syndrome or Port Wine Stain and wish to talk, please feel free to contact me at rjdohner@yahoo.com. Sometimes it's nice to have a friend who can relate!

{Muffin Tin Monday} No Theme

2011-05-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

This weeks MTM entry has no theme, it's just a hodge-podge of cute things I felt went well together, kinda!

Happy Muffin Tin Monday

Priceless

2011-04-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

Robert and I are very proud of our Awana Clubbers.

We love our Puggle, Briar!

We love our Cubbie, Brie!

Even when she gives a very special "performance" during the awards ceremony!

Ah, I'm holding onto a small glimmer of hope that $800 in classical ballet lessons will not result in the same "performance" at her recital next month!

Which Way To The Beach

2011-04-26T21:06:00.000-07:00

Which way to the beach?

Err, which way to the river bank?

Yesterday afternoon we visited the San Antonio Zoo's Tiny Tot River Bank.

Often we visit the zoo only for the chance to swim.

It's a great place to cool off on a blazing 97 degree spring day.

It's also a great place to try out ones new goggles!

Let's just say a great time was had by all. In fact if I didn't have a big Awana awards ceremony tonight, we'ld go back again today! But maybe tomorrow....

{Muffin Tin Monday} Post Easter

2011-04-25T11:10:00.000-07:00

Since going gluten free I haven't been able to get my MTM mojo going. But, today we're back with a Post Easter tin! Happy Muffin Tin Monday! This muffin tin includes:
Rice cake and lamb cheese
Egg muffin cup filled with popcorn and Peep
Ham and cheese mini kabobs
Bunny apple slices

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T18:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter from the Dohner Girls! Today after church we spent some time hunting eggs!

Lots and lots of eggs! Filled with candy, stickers, hair ties and cute little earsers!Tomorrow we transform our eggs into cupcakes and tea cups! Stay Tune for more cuteness!

Basket Blessings

2011-04-23T21:33:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure it's a combination of the holiday and new camera, but the blogs just keep coming!

While the reason for Easter is to celebrate our Lord's resurrection, I still enjoy buying my girls a few things for an Easter baskets. I try to match their baskets as closely as possible, in order to avoid hurt feelings and tears! For the most part I accomplished that this year. Except for one special gift for The Roooner! Brie's basket included: Barbie, Barbie Outfit, Puzzle, Coloring Book, Crayons, Felt Color Sheet, Bubbles, Swim Tube, Swim Goggles, Nail Polish, Candy and an AG outfit!
Briar's basket included: Brie's basket included: Barbie, Barbie clothes, Puzzle, Coloring Book, Crayons, Felt Color Sheet, Bubbles, Swim Tube, Swim Goggles, Nail Polish, Candy and a Bible!

The bible is something special for Briar. Currently she carries a small pink New Testament in her purse (yes my two year old carries a purse), but lately she's wanted to read it, not just play with it. After tomorrow she'll have her very own, very girly, very real Bible. I look forward to curling on the couch with Briar, reading God's Word, praying that her love for it grows stronger each day!

Happy Easter friends, He is Risen!

Eggcellent!

2011-04-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

Church picnic's are always a joy, but especially when they include egg hunts!
The girls were real anxious to start.
But after finding a few eggs, the smiles began to appear.
Figuring out what to do with the eggs afterwards was a little more tricky!
I guess not that tricky! The sisters quickly went to trading egg,
eating candy, and cracking cascarones!
What a delightful Saturday morning!!!

Making Memories

2011-04-22T13:33:00.000-07:00

I wish I could bottle up this sweetness forever.

I wish this cuteness would never grow old!

I wish the spunk,

bravery,

delight, and the innocence of childhood would last forever.

Sigh, since time doesn't stop I'll do my best to train them well, pray for them often and make as many memories as possible! Which is why on Friday one would have found this tired momma at Sea World, swimming with her two sweet fish.

I Cheat

2011-04-21T11:46:00.000-07:00

I love to play games, always have, but when I play Candy Land....

....I cheat!

Shhh! Don't tell Brie, but it's true I stack the deck before every Candy Land game.

This however, is not the kind of cheating I do when playing Scrabble with Robert. Shhh! Don't tell Robert either. This is the "lets get this dreadfully boring, dreadfully irritating game over as fast as possible" kind of cheating!

I've gotten so good at it I can stack a deck so well gingerbread men fly across the sugar-filled board to the Candy Castle in no time! Well at least Brie's do, mine drag behind with no chance of ever winning.

So there you have it, my dirty little secret is out! Does anyone else have this same secret??? Or am I the worlds lamest mom!

My Backyardagians

2011-04-20T14:03:00.000-07:00

Several months ago we removed the in ground pool from our backyard and replaced it with grass. While the over all landscaping project if far from complete, the backyard is functional. Like most of our household projects I don't envision this one to be completed any time soon, but that's not stooping us from having fun!!!

Especially when we have a sweet club house like this...

and two sweet smiles to play in it!

In fact by still having the original pool patio the girls can roll on their "Scooties",

and cruise on their bikes with ease!

Briar even manages to find time to strike a pose on the "cat walk"!

Which is why I'm not going to complain about another unfinished project, but instead be thankful for a hazard-free backyard!

Some Husband

2011-04-11T19:53:00.000-07:00

Okay folks this guy here is some husband (even if my camera quality isn't)!

That's right, Robert took us girls out for another night on the town. This time it was to see....

Charlotte's Web!

As usual Brie sat with Daddy,

and Briar sat with Mommy!

And like all show before this one we scored some pretty awesome autograph in our book,

and one pretty blurry picture with Charlotte!

Ah, Friday's like this remind me--we really do live the sweet life! Of course, I really think it's time to replace my camera, this "back-up" is not cutting it! Oh well, until then enjoy my bentoless, blurry blog about my beautiful B's!

Spring Break

2011-03-21T19:39:00.000-07:00

Last week was Spring Break in San Antonio, a week dedicating to crowds, lines and traffic. So naturally I decided to be right in the midst of it all! I love to take my girls on adventures and I certainly couldn't let Spring Break be an exception to the rule!

Monday I took the girls bowling, this is where I dropped my camera one too many times and it bit the big one. You'll just have to trust me when I say they were all smiles. Well except when Brie got a strike and didn't get to bowl twice in a row.

For Tuesday's trip to Sea World I brought along an old camera to capture the fun. After fighting the traffic into the park and eating lunch I was able to photograph the girls excitment in riding the new Elmo Fish ride.

Unfortantly for momma the girls were too short to ride alone and suddenly lunch was a very bad idea!

Thankfully soon after we caught up with our friend Abby and headed to the pool for a leisurely afternoon.

The next day I decided a trip to the zoo was in order, but because of the crowds, the heat and losing momma's engagment ring we made it a short trip.

Sticking mostly to the Tiny Tot area,

And playing in the back forty!

Having enough of the crowds and lines on Thursday I decided it would be fun to go park hoping. Orginally I thought the day would involve dozen of parks, but instead we only visited three.

Woodlawn Park.

Orsinger Park.

And our favorite, Phil Hardberger Park.

"Poodle Hops"

"Alligator Bridge"

On Friday we rested, only venturing out for an evening trip to the park with Daddy.

We know daddy was there because only he would let Brie climb a tree this high!

Another great week in the world of motherhood--How about you, what did you do this Spring Break?

What I Love About San Antonio Weekend: Part Two

2011-03-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

Another reason why I love living in San Antonio is because of it's growing appreciation for The Arts. This Saturday's Luminara was proof of that. The evening was filled with choirs, plays, ballets, symphonies and art.

(The girls loved standing with the many lanterns spread through out Hemisphere Park.)

I love living in a city where my daughter can watch ballet performances atop her daddy's shoulders,

and under the lights of the Tower of the Americas.

I love that during this world class event we can take a break to watch Briar,

slide down one of the city many playground.

I love that my girls are growing up in a city that offers performing arts productions for all ages,

of course I think three times is enough for If You Give A Pig a Party!

And most of all,

I love that The Arts of San Antonio give my girls smiles like that!

Maybe they'll grow up to be far more cultured than their mother...I hope!

What I Like About San Antonio Weekend: Part One

2011-03-13T15:21:00.000-07:00

This weekend I learned a lot about why I love living in San Antonio, but let's start with the fact San Antonio host one of the countries three Sea Worlds.

I also love that the weather is so nice in March the girls can swim at Sea World,

in the new Bay of Play, with their sweet friends Abby and Josh!

In fact I love that the Bay of Play now has five new kiddie rides,

that Briar is tall enough to ride too!

(Now there will be no more Briar tears over the rides, YAY!)
But most of all I love that on some Saturday's I get to share the fun with my friend Nive!

Ah, I love San Antonio!

Science Lesson

2011-03-11T19:37:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I've taken the girls on any fun adventures, so this Thursday we decided to go on a little road trip to New Braunfels, Texas. After a pit stop at Wendy's for chicken nuggets, fries and gluten-free chili we visited the McKenna Children's Museum! Thank you Groupon!

I thought our trip was going to be pure fun, but instead it was a lesson in genetics.

You see blonde haired--blue eyed Briar is just like her father,

she longs to learn how to sail and....

hopes to make her own mix-master demo on an "Electribe" just like daddy!

While sandy haired--hazel eyed Brie is more like her mother,

she really likes money (Sunday School Quote " My favorite part of Creation is money"),

especially when one can spend it shopping at gourmet grocery stores.

Thankfully I will never let Robert sail the ocean blue, and he still has yet to let me buy Xanthum Gum--so I think the girls might have hope for a balanced life! Might!

Oh Crumb

2011-03-05T07:57:00.000-08:00

How many health issues can one family have? I guess one more! This week I learned that I am gluten intolerant. Oh Joy!!!!

So now with Brie's Sturge-Weber Syndrome,

Briar's anaphylatic nut allergy,

and my gluten intolerance, I'm officially looking into a health savings account.

Of course to deal with all this, it really helps to have a supportive family,

(the girls feeding all our evil gluten's to the ducks)

a creative outlet like my new blog Gluten Free 65,

and a Saviour who provides peace and joy daily!

Philippians 4:7--And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus

San Antonio Botanical Garden

2011-02-28T06:40:00.000-08:00

I love my husband for many reason, but one of which is that he enjoys botanical gardens.

Which is why when Groupon offered a Family Membership to the San Antonio Botanical Garden for half the price we snapped it up! This Saturday our little family had the chance to redeem it. And everyone was all smiles over the experience!

Well that is until mommy wanted to take one last picture, then the girls turned into a couple sour grapes.

Thankfully daddy saved mommy's day by asking Brie and Briar to transform into sweet caterpillars and run from the big "Tangerine Monster" (I was wearing an orange dress)!

Somehow this turned their frowns upside down!

Sometimes our daddy is just plain awesome!

Just like these sisters!!!

Red Velvet Cupcakes!

2011-02-25T08:58:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday our church, University Baptist Church, held a women's event coordinated by my talented friend Melissa Deming. Melissa brought in her friend Alica Wong the director of women’s evangelism for the North American Mission Board of the SBC to give us a mini-conference on evangelism. And let me tell you it was inspiring, it's always a blessing to dig into scripture and be reminded we are all called to be missionaries. Thank you Alicia for spending a Saturday morning with us UBC ladies.

And thank you Melissa for asking me to make these adorable Red Velvet cupcakes (and giving me such a kind shout-out on your blog).

Of course your beautiful photography makes them look so much cuter than they actually were.

I love how you edited out the bottom tier of sinking icing and sloppy sprinkles!

I Feel Like A Hot Dog!

2011-02-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of this year Robert and I made a commitment to save more money. Actually it was really a commitment to spend less money, since we're already big savers. Brie has a lot of medical expenses and it was our goal to still save while paying for those outrageous medical bills.

With our goal at hand Robert and I devised a plan: First I committed to spending only $60 a week on us girls (staying out of Target is a must now). Next we cut out all needless expense, like Art Classes for the girls (although we're still doing ballet). And finally we came up with a meal plan.

A meal plan with fun names and easy recipes: Meatless Monday, Taco Tuesday, Wild Wednesday, Traditional Thursday, Fun Friday, Saturday's Roast and Left Over Sunday. But meal plan or no meal plan sometimes you just feel like a hot dog! And that is exactly what Robert wanted to "roast" this Saturday!

So I baked some homemade Strawberry cupcakes,

set the table outside,

and enjoyed a wonderful picnic with my sweet family.

After an afternoon like that, I'm really glad Robert sometimes feels like a hot dog! Even if they are really, really gross!