Living Life as a Lawrence

WOW

2010-11-10T16:06:00.000-08:00

My last post was in April...are you kidding me! You can find some more recent pictures of my work here!

Not sure if I got the button to work but go to Pixel Perfect to enter your photo!

MY WEBSITE...go look!!!

2010-04-15T18:12:00.001-07:00

www.catielawrencephotography.com

A Tag Along...

2010-04-12T18:26:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had the privilege to tag along with the wonderful Chelsea Beck. Here are a few of my favorites from the session. Thanks Chelsea for letting all of us tag along with you!

A Proud Wife

2010-04-07T13:47:00.000-07:00

Here is a full page ad that came out in the Tulsa World on Sunday and this morning too! Why do I care you ask? Because my awesome husband is the most handsome, best dressed guy in the ad (he's the one in the back middle if you couldn't tell) I'm so proud of him!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Baby Barrett...Before/After

2010-04-01T18:45:00.000-07:00

Here is our precious friends baby, Barrett. I have had the pleasure of hanging with this boy nearly one day every week since his arrival 6 short months ago. He is truly the sweetest and most happy baby I have ever been around! We are so blessed to watch him grow up and see our friends as such great parents! Barrett, you are a very blessed and loved boy!

Before:

After:

I use photoshop cs2

How can you not love those rolls!

It's a perfect picture for Pixel Perfects Blog Hop...head on over and check out all the great photos.

Before & After...

2010-02-11T17:33:00.000-08:00

It's blog hop day again so go on over to Pixel Perfect to check out the edits and join in.

I picked this picture because I am ready for spring and to be able to work in my yard again and be outside in the sun and the list can go on and on...come on spring!!!

Here's my SOOC (straight out of camera)

Edited using Photoshop CS2

And again edited using Photoshop CS2

2010-02-08T18:40:00.000-08:00

My brother has added some new cards to his etsy shop...head that way to see some adorable birthday cards as well as some sweet dog cards! Here is a peek at what you will find:

I'm going to be an aunt...again!

2010-02-06T19:49:00.001-08:00

We went to dinner last sunday night to celebrate my brothers birthday and after dinner my sister-in-law gave each of us a fortune cookie and this is what mine said:

Isn't this such a cute idea!!!

We are so so so excited!!! I'm excited to have a little baby on the Roberts side of the family! Now we can't wait to find out if it's a boy or a girl at the end of the month!

Blog Hop...again---Picture Edits

2010-02-04T17:07:00.000-08:00

Its a picture blog hop again. Head on over to Pixel Perfect to join in and check out all the great edits!

Here is my straight out the camera picture

Edited using Photoshop CS2

Birthdays and Cold/Snow Days!

2010-01-29T20:36:00.000-08:00

So a few weeks ago was my birthday...I turned 25...I kinda hate the thought of being 25. It seems so old but I'm coping with it okay. It was a wonderful birthday. It was so cold that day that school was cancelled. But it wasn't too cold for me to go out to eat and go shopping with my mom. I loved it!

Then a few days later was my niece, Emerson's, 2nd birthday. Here are a few pictures:

Today was a snow day! NO SCHOOL! Here are some pictures from the snow/ice...its so pretty. We measured at about 4:00 while it was still coming down pretty good and we had 6 inches of snow!

Blog Hop---Picture Edits

2010-01-28T17:01:00.000-08:00

SOOC (straight out of camera) photo

Edited:

Head over to Pixel Perfect to join in!

A few ways to help Haiti

2010-01-22T18:19:00.000-08:00

If you have never heard of Storenvy.com you need to head on over and check it out. It is like etsy/facebook combined. They are doing a Hope for Haiti store where you can go over and vote for your favorite 3 T-shirt designs then they will sell the winning designs on Monday, January 25th for $14.00 with $8.00 of the proceeds going to the American Red Cross. Here are a few other ways to help that our preacher talked about last week...although there are countless other ways to contribute out there.

Thirst No More

Compassion International

I found this etsy store and think its an awesome way to help...take a look and see for yourself.

A Very White Christmas

2009-12-30T17:57:00.000-08:00

Blizzard 2009 has come and gone...it may have changed our plans a bit and caused a little bit of trouble for us but really who doesn't want a white Christmas??? We received something like 8-12 inches of snow (I never heard the exact total) It came in on Christmas Eve and made for an interesting drive from both of our parents houses back to our house...we were lucky to make it home in one piece with no stuck vehicle. Lots of pictures below...none of our family (I was getting too stressed out about the blizzard that I didn't take pictures...luckily I think other family members did.)

Alec cooking Christmas morning breakfast on our Christmas gift to each other, the stove (and the microwave).

Alec still working hard in the kitchen

Here are a few of my favorite ornaments

"Our First Christmas" from X-mas 2006

Our ugly Christmas cookies...they are hideous but they were so fun to make with Alec and especially fun to eat.

Our tree after Christmas

My favorite new decoration this year...my hanging snowflakes.

Mantle

Stockings

Two of my favorite Christmas books from my childhood

Our white Christmas...one to remember

Our first (and possibly only) white Christmas in our house

Some Christmas morning shoveling

A look down the street on Christmas morning

No need to make a snowman...we already had one

The backyard before the dogs tore through it...oh how they love the snow!

These pictures are from my parents house...I always love my mom's decorations!

Wishing you a Happy New Year!

Riffe Family Christmas Pictures

2009-12-06T19:35:00.000-08:00

I was able to take pictures of the Riffe family today. The weather was cold and spitting rain at times but they decided to brave it for a little bit and try a few outside and I was so glad! These sweet little girls are 3 years old and 6 months and they did such a great job!

Hoping for a Splendiferous Christmas!

2009-11-30T19:11:00.000-08:00

My new favorite children's book:

I think I may be reading this book to my students everyday until Christmas break! It never hurts for them to learn all of her fancy language and its just too cute!

A picture of our house decked out in Christmas lights! Alec did a great job and only fell off the ladder once (he's okay, and said his fall was rather graceful)! He is so meticulous about the lights...just another thing I love about him!

I can't believe its December already!! Where did 2009 go???

2009-11-25T09:32:00.000-08:00

First off let me say "Thank You" to everyone for your prayers about my surgery! It went great and I'm feeling wonderful! I took a week and a half off from work and it was sure nice. Although my kids were "little hellions" while I was gone as someone told me (not that they aren't with me). I really did miss them! I was glad to get back and "whip" them back into shape (no I don't really whip them, don't worry).

In other news: Fronk had his little surgery yesterday and I was looking forward to him kind of being mellow and calm...wrong! Its as if he never had surgery!

I have been taking a little more time to think about maybe starting a photography business. It kinda scares me to even say anything on here about it. I've never been one of those people who is overly confident (or any confident for that matter). I usually think most everything I do isn't good enough. Because of that I've missed out on a lot of opportunities in my life. But photography is something that I am very passionate about. I know that I have a lot to learn about but I'm having fun experimenting!

My sweet sister-in-law asked me to take pictures of her children again this year for their Christmas card. We had so much fun and I loved the location that we used!

Let me know what you think of these photos...Please! Any feedback would be nice. And if you live in the Tulsa area and want your picture made for free let me know. I need any practice I can get! :)

Hope everyone has a blessed Thanksgiving! I'm off this evening to the Manheim Steamroller concert with my family...judge me if you'd like I'm a sucker for their Christmas music!

Surgery and Pumpkin's

2009-10-30T17:55:00.000-07:00

Well first off let me tell you about my most recent news, last week I woke up with absolutely terrible pain in my abdomen and back. I was up all night and thought a few times about going to the ER but instead decided to tough it out. However, I knew something was really wrong so I went to the urgent care that day and they set up an ultrasound for me because they thought it was something with my gallbladder. So I went and got my ultrasound and told the technician that I thought the first time I got an ultrasound would be because I was having a baby but instead of a baby I was having gallstones! Then next thing I did was head to a surgeon to talk to him about what I needed to do. There is no other option but to take out my gallbladder. I have multiple gallstones and I couldn't hate them more! I will be having surgery this coming Wednesday so prayers are appreciated. I will be out of work for recovery at least a week and a half. I have been in pretty terrible pain since my last attack and can't really eat much more than soup and crackers so I'm hoping I make it until Wednesday.

In other news my niece Emerson came over to our house a few weeks ago and her mom wanted me to take some pictures of her in her outfit so here they are. I know I'm biased but she is just too cute!

I love this picture such a sweet moment.

Then we went to the pumpkin patch to take pictures...some are quite funny.

Such cute kids!

Brothers

This girl did not want to smile!

Then she changed her mind

Kaleb on his horse Sugar

Avery on his horse Princess...we were lucky that no tears were shed because he got the horse named princess. While they were waiting in line he just kept saying "I better not get Princess" haha...we all thought it was pretty funny though!

Avery's pumpkin

She couldn't decide

Kaleb really wanted this one...and tried to pick it up multiple times

But he decided on this one instead

I love their faces they were pretty fed up with pictures at this point!

Climbing all around little sister.

Another Etsy Update!

2009-10-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in an earlier post my brother has his own Etsy shop...he illustrates greeting cards. His Halloween greeting cards are now on sale. So go to his shop and take a look.

He is in the process of creating holiday cards and canine cards. He did a card with my precious dogs on the front which I absolutely love...it is a perfect example of their personalities! Here is a picture of the card:

He also does custom orders and would love to create something for you for the holidays or a custom card of your precious pups! So don't hesitate to contact him with your request (on the right hand side of his Etsy page you can click where it says request custom item)! Tell your Friends!

Fall Fun!

2009-10-10T18:05:00.000-07:00

I love fall...it is my favorite season for so many reasons. This fall began with an exciting new addition to our friends, the Blankenships, family. They welcomed a new baby boy, Barrett, into the world on Oct. 1st. Barrett was 3 weeks early and was completely healthy and beautiful. We have seen him a couple times already and can't wait to watch him grow up. He is adorable. We were able to take him his first pumpkin today...we'll go ahead and say he liked it but really he could care less. His mom, however, was very excited to have Barrett's first pumpkin. Sadly, no pictures yet. Hopefully soon!

On Oct. 2nd we went to the Dave Matthews Band concert with Alec's sister and her husband. We thought it was great although I was very curious as to who was smoking the pot near us.

Oct. 3rd our friend, Sarah, from high school got married. She looked beautiful. It was nice to see some old friends. Again, no pictures.

Alec was in Dallas all last week for work so I went to stay with my parents. I love staying with them. They take such good care of me, do my laundry, cook me meals, make my lunch, take care of my dogs, etc. It makes Alec being gone a little bit easier.

Today we ripped out all of our summer flowers and planted fall flowers. It was sad to see my beautiful flowers go but I love the mums, pansies, and cabbage that I planted today. I will post pictures soon.

Then we went to the pumpkin patch and ate at Rons's...nothing like a great bowl of chili on a crisp fall day!

Looking for the perfect pumpkin

I love all the colors!

I love the lighting in this picture!

Alec kept trying to pet the goats...they wanted nothing to do with him

A Wedding Weekend

2009-09-29T17:01:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago me and Alec drove down to Houston for our friends wedding. It was a great weekend and I was so glad to be able to see some friends and catch up on life. We look forward to events like this these days because its a time for us to reunite with college friends.

Stephanie and Brady looking fabulous during their first dance

Friends!

My Brother's Etsy Shop...

2009-09-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

My brother is an incredible artist...and a starving one at that. So take a look at his Etsy shop. He hand painted these awesome Halloween cards (he's so meticulous). I know Halloween isn't really a holiday that is big on sending out greeting cards but these are super cute and original and definitely worth sending out to your friends and family this year! I believe he will also be adding cards for other holidays eventually as well as some other artwork. Let me know what you think...he would love to hear some feedback!

His Etsy shop is: The Painted Peep Show

Here is some of his work...

On Saturday...

2009-08-30T09:31:00.000-07:00

We spent the whole day together playing with the dogs, working around the house, and going to Woodward Park and Utica Square. While at Woodward Park we went to the teaching gardens. Alec had been wanting to go and see there vegetable garden which was very cool. Below are some pictures I took there and some pictures of our puppies. Fronk turns 4 months old today! He's still so little.

Hodgepodge

2009-08-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

I feel like the past few weeks have been a whirlwind! After coming home from our trip to Boston I spent nearly everyday at school getting ready for my new students. Its crazy because you would think there would not be that much to do since I'm in the same classroom and teaching the same grade as last year....WRONG! My first day of school was Aug. 20th and I was definitely ready to meet my new kiddos...we have had 7 days of school so far and it is going well...although I miss my kids from last year (they were an awesome class) I know that the Lord has placed each and every one of these students in my classroom for a reason and I can't wait to get to know them and see how the Lord wants to use me this year for these students! Also, I've been very excited this year because my friend Bonnie from high school has her daughter in a Kindergarten class at my school so I get to see her and her precious daughter more!

Besides school I've done a few other things...saw Keith Urban and Sugarland in concert with my mommy...we had a great time and what made it even better was that Keith walked within 5 feet of us....we were squealing like little girls!

I've celebrated 9 family birthdays and have two more to go in September...then were done until January!

We also have welcomed a new "nephew" into the family...well he's a dog but that still counts! He's an English bulldog and his name is Sherlock.

Keith

My lovely parents!

A family picture on Mommy's Birthday!

My sis-in-law Bekah's Birthday!

Alec's Birthday!

Marble Slab ice cream cake...delicious!

Sherlock!

Little Emerson...love that smile!

Boston, Beantown, The Hub

2009-08-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

We're back from Boston and seeing as how you don't want to read all the details I'll just hit all the highlights (there is still a lot).

Went to Harvard...it was raining for a little bit but cleared up and turned into a great day!

Red Sox game at Fenway Park...the Red Sox won!

Walking the Freedom Trial

-Fanueuil Hall, Quincy Market, Granary Burying Ground, Mass. State House, Old North Church, Old State House, Paul Revere's House, Old South meeting House, USS Constitution, etc

New England Aquarium

Boston Commons

Boston Public Gardens

Cheers

Acorn Street-the most photographed street in Boston. I loved its narrow cobblestone road and adorable row houses

Food:

Eating at Union Oyster House (America's Oldest Restaurant), Legal Seafood, Scollay Square

Breakfast at Quincy Market, Fenagle a Bagle, and of course Starbucks

Evening dessert (every night) at Seattle's Best Coffee

Our tour to New Hampshire and Maine:

-New Hampshire's Hampton Beach

-York Maine...seeing the Nubble lighthouse and the adorable town

-Kennebunk and Kennebunkport Maine...we saw former President George H.W. Bush's home and enjoyed walking around town and eating lunch there.

We had such a great time! I can't wait to go back to New England someday!

Here are just a few pictures from our trip! For more pictures and details on what they are go to my Flickr sight. Enjoy!

The big blue room

2009-07-20T11:44:00.000-07:00

When we moved into our house over a year ago we had big plans for our main living spaces...some have been completed others are still on the list (which is to be expected). One of the extra rooms turned into somewhat of a storage space (see pictures below and you will see what I mean). This room was HUGE and BLUE (ceiling and all). We knew when we bought the house we would want to paint it. So this past March over my spring break I spent a few days priming and painting the walls. It seemed like a simple enough task except for the fact that underneath the girlie border was another border that had been painting over! We sprayed, scraped, steamed, and scraped some more. Not much progress was being made so I made a decision that we were just going to cover up the dark blue with some lovely white bead board. I am very excited about the idea and I hope that it will look somewhat like how I imagine it in my head (we'll see). Okay enough rambling...here is a picture of the room when we moved in. Please remember that we are not even close to being finished with this room I just wanted you to see the beautiful crown molding that Alec installed this weekend! I LOVE it! He's quite the handy man!

The blue room before

the border that was around the room

The new color on the wall and ceiling and the wonderful crown molding!

See what I mean about this room being our extra storage room!

The bead board will come up to the top of the light blue paint on the wall.

I think one of the reasons that this room is taking so long to finish is because Alec knows I want to make it a nursery for when we have a baby (which is not going to be anytime soon so don't get excited) and he thinks the quicker it gets finished the sooner I will want to have baby. Haha, he kills me!

Veggies

2009-07-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

Alec was so kind to remind me that I had not blogged about the vegetable garden lately. So here it is:

A jalapeno

The beginning of a bell pepper...I love bell pepper, they are great to eat for a snack!

Banana Pepper

The squash has successfully taken over the garden. We definitely won't be planting as many next year! Here is the most recent picture of the garden. Its been very exciting to watch our veggies grow.

Roaring River 2009

2009-07-16T19:40:00.000-07:00

This past weekend me and Alec headed out for the annual Roaring River camping trip. Its always a great time spent with family and friends. Anyone who knows me knows I'm not much of an "outdoorsy" kinda gal but I love going to RR. This was my 4th year to go camping at RR and I think it was the hottest year by far! We had a wonderful time relaxing, playing with our niece and nephews, fishing, sitting in the river, hanging out with friends, and spending time with Alec's family! I could give you lots of details and stories from the trip but honestly I don't feel like typing that much so here are some pictures. Also if you are interested in looking at all of the Roaring River pictures they are on my Flickr account. I would love for you to check them out and leave me comments! I love to get feedback on my pictures! These are just a few of my fav's.

Dinner with friends at the Yeats camp.

The marrieds

High School Buddies

I love my niece Emerson!

And so does her BoBo (Emerson definitely has the cutest swimsuits ever!)

Uncle Alec helping Kaleb through the rapids

To jump or not to jump...that is the question.

I love these boys...too cute!

Don't forget to check out my Flickr sight for more pictures :)

Another one

2009-07-05T08:22:00.000-07:00

We randomly got a new dog...

After a day full of arguing/discussing whether or not to get a new dog, I gave in. Alec had been wanting another dog since the day we brought Babette home last summer. I, however, was completely content with one dog. So over the course of a year Alec had brought up another dog in casual conversation quite frequently and I would just brush it off like nothing had been said. Until one day I might have entertained the thought for a half a second (just to get Alec's hopes up...only to crush them). Alec was persistent though and started looking online for French bulldog puppies. And what are the odds that he found a puppy in Tulsa only 4 miles from our house (are you kidding me)! After being harassed for hours about this puppy I told him we could just go by and see the puppy (bad idea). We left the breeders house that night in love. An hour later we went back by and put down the deposit.

We have now had him for two weeks...he is nine weeks old, 6 pounds, and so cute!

His name is Fronk (like from Father of the Bride)

They love to play with this stick!

I absolutely LOVE this picture...it looks like both the dogs are smiling.

Growing a Green Thumb...

2009-06-06T20:33:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure that it's possible to grow a green thumb, but I feel like I am working on one. Here are a few pictures from our front flower bed. I have always LOVED hydrangeas...they ARE my favorite flower and I think they have even won Alec over as well. Here are our hydrangea plants in half there glory (this picture was taken a week ago and they are much prettier now).

Here is my sweet little puppy sunbathing in the backyard.

Okay here are pictures of Alec's vegetable garden...these pictures were taken about two weeks ago and much has happened since then but none the less here they are.

Our first tomato

Squash plant

All different types of pepper plants

Asparagus, onions, and carrots

I haven't contributed much to Alec's vegetable garden except for the corn plant...I love corn and I thought it looked so cute when it was little...now, not so cute but I can't wait until we get some delicious corn to eat!

My wonderful husband installed a ceiling fan on our back patio. I love it! One of my favorite things to do during the summer is to sit on our patio and read a book so the fan has definitely made that more enjoyable! Now if only we had misters around our patio I'd feel like I'm in Arizona.

OKC

2009-05-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

WARNING: EXTREMELY LONG POST....

It seems that as I get older the more and more I value my friendships. I don't know, maybe it has a lot to do with the fact that I'm not a self absorbed teenager anymore. Regardless, my very sweet dear elementary school friend, Christiane, graduated from Nursing school last Friday. I wouldn't have thought of being anywhere but there for her! We have spent many huge life changing events together and will experience many many more! I am so grateful to have such a loyal and trustworthy friend! Love you and I'm so proud of all you've accomplished! I can't imagine there is a better nurse out there!

Here is a little wrap up of the weekend. Me and Alec headed down to OKC for Christiane and Dylan's graduation. We arrived to a PACKED Gymnasium! Seriously, It was crazy...I think OC needs to build a larger facility to accommodate for graduation! However, we got a great seat. We even got to see Christiane use her Nursing degree about two minutes after receiving her diploma. A man who was sitting on the stage fell and hit his head. It was quite a scary moment as everyone in the gym went silent. It all happened so fast but Christiane and a few of her nursing friends ran to the stage to help. They went behind the curtain and the speaker finished out the ceremony. Turned out that the man was going to be okay. Because of this little event Christiane will have very few pictures in her graduation gown because she took it off to help clean up the blood that was all over the floor. A couple hours later we were back at OC for Christiane's pinning...It was really neat to share that experience with her.

I made Christiane take this picture...I really thought that she should have been the one to light the lamp during the ceremony(check out that guy looking at her like she was crazy...nope buddy your wrong its her best friend that's the crazy one). She is such a trooper for putting up with me and my weird picture requests!

So proud of my friend!

Me and Alec decided to make a weekend of the whole thing and stay at a really nice hotel in downtown OKC called The Skirvin Hilton Hotel. It was AWESOME! Here are some pictures:

The Lobby

and again

Our room

I realized we hadn't taken a picture together all day and Alec looked so cute in his new suit. So we set the timer...this was the best we could get.

Then Saturday was very eventful. We ate breakfast, went to the OKC national memorial. It was incredible. Unfortunately, it was raining the entire time so we got soaked all for the soul purpose of me getting a few pictures. We did enjoy the museum and left a little heavy hearted but it was good to remember what happened so close to home. Next, we went to bricktown and ate lunch and got dessert. Then it was off to Edmond to visit our friends store, Adora, if you live in the OKC area or are ever passing through you need to go there. They have great stuff! We were able to catch up with them which was nice...it had been a very long time! Then we headed over to Kyle and Megs. Your home is beautiful even though it is located in Edmond and not Tulsa, I still loved it :) We enjoyed visiting and catching up with them as well. We ate Thai food for dinner then head to Cuppies and Joes to meet Christiane and her family. I want to go back there soon! It was adorable! Then it was off to Christiane and Dylan's graduation party at there adorable house. This was when I got to meet their dog Ringo and when I fell in love. I loved him and have now seriously considered getting a bull terrier (thanks a lot guys)! We had a great time at the party!

Here are some pictures I took at the Oklahoma City National Memorial:

Sunday we got up and headed to Arcadia, Oklahoma to eat at Pops on route 66. It was pretty neat and we got some very interesting pop to take home.

Alec enjoying his pop on the drive home.

A veggie garden that could feed a family of 12...

2009-04-18T19:37:00.000-07:00

So for a while now Alec has been talking about building a vegetable garden. In February he decided that he was going to do it! He started by buying his vegetable seeds and planting them in peat pots. Then we watched them grow...as this was happening Alec started to build the wall for the garden which turned out to be about 25 feet long...a whole lot bigger than I was thinking!! Then we picked up some dirt and filled it all in. Next, It was time to start planting. Below is the the step by step process in pictures. I am waiting until the garden fills in a bit before I take a complete picture of it.

The veggie seeds. We have ended up with even more kinds of veggies in our garden.

Bell Peppers, Jalapenos, Banana Peppers, Carrots, Squash, Asparagus, Onion, Broccoli, Tomatoes, Corn, and Cucumber

Planting the seeds

Watching them grow

Building the wall

Babette...not sure about the new wall...especially since it leaves white dust all over her face.

Working hard

Putting the plants in the ground finally

Please ignore his attire...he decided to plant these after work one day and and likes to leave his work socks on. I think a little part of him likes to look like an old man.

Sorry if this bores you but if it does then you shouldn't have made it this far!

Stay tuned for pictures of the veggies themselves and the garden in all its glory.

Easter

2009-04-16T18:42:00.001-07:00

This was our first Easter at home in quite a while. It was great! We went to the early, early, early service at TCABC it was an awesome message! Then headed to my parents house where we ate lunch and visited for a while. Then it was off to Alec's parents house for the Easter egg hunt. Unfortunately it had rained most of the morning and was to soggy outside to have our egg hunt so we had to do it indoors. But it was still so much fun! Here are a few Easter/egg hunt pictures.

Sweet Emerson...decided to start walking just 4 days before Easter...her momma was excited!

I just loved her Easter outfit!

Oh, brothers!

Avery acting like a true 7 year old!

Kaleb contemplating opening his next egg.

Emerson was so good at hunting eggs!

Avery counting his eggs and Emerson hugging her new bunny purse.

I'm a proud aunt what can I say!

Wish list

2009-04-12T18:49:00.000-07:00

A random wish list (in no particular order):

I wish I lived in Stars Hollow and I was as witty as Lorelai Gilmore

I wish the work week was only 4 days instead of 5

I wish I didn't get so tired by 8:00 pm

I wish I had a maid to clean my house

I wish I could work in my yard all day everyday planting new flowers

I wish everyday was sunny and 75 degrees

I wish that I thought running was fun

The Spring Break of Home Improvements!

2009-03-21T13:03:00.001-07:00

Well my spring break is almost gone and I can't help think about what we were doing this time last year...looking for a house to buy. It was such a fun time and we found a house we loved that had lots of 'potential'. We put an offer in on that very house and it was accepted! Here is our home that we found this time last year:

This spring break somehow ended up being devoted to home improvements. I spent the majority of my time painting and planting new plants in the front yard. I accomplished a lot (thanks to the help of my hubs, mom, and dad)! I will post before and afters of the rooms I painted soon but until then check out what we did with the front flowerbed!

Above: This is halfway through the project. Notice we ripped out the hideous evergreen bush in front of the big window and planted one of my favorite plants...azaleas.

Above: The finished product, well for now! We topped it off with black mulch which I love. It really makes the colors of the plants more vibrant! I can't wait to plant my annuals (the summer flowers) but I have to wait until that final freeze has come and gone!

Above: The Japanese Maple surrounded by hostas, and dwarf mondo grass

Above: Loropetalum Chinensus: I love the color of the leaves...and in the fall they turn a beautiful red color!

Above: Gold mound spirea

Above: One of our beautiful azaleas starting to bloom.

NKOTB Suckas

2009-03-11T19:39:00.000-07:00

Well life has been busy and I will post more details soon. Until then let me give you a taste of where I was Monday night.

Check out the New Kids On The Block:

Let me kind of give you the background of WHY I went to the NKOTB concert. First off, I was never a huge fan of the Kids but one of my co-workers loves the Kids and it was her birthday so she invited 5 of us to take a limo ride to dinner and then the concert. It was a lot of fun. My favorite part of the concert was the opening act america's next dance crew....the Jabawockeez (sp?). They were on the stage for 25 minutes but I was lovin' it! I'm a sucker for a good dance crew.

It was rare for me to do something on a weeknight. Honestly, I normally don't go out and do much on weeknights due to the fact that I am usually thoroughly exhausted by 9:00 but I thought it was well worth it. Good time and great company!

My Sweet Valentine

2009-02-15T19:12:00.001-08:00

Our 3rd married Valentines was great!

We decided to go out and eat on the Friday instead of Saturday to avoid the crowds of people. Alec took me to my favorite restaurant and it was delicious.

Then Saturday started with me sneaking out of the house early to go get Alec his favorite food...DOUGHNUTS! I remember a while back Alec said his perfect day would start with a doughnut so how could I pass up this opportunity. He was surprised and needless to say ecstatic about the doughnuts.

I was surprised when a huge box was delivered to the house...inside 30 stems of beautiful orchids. Orchids are my favorite flower! Absolutely gorgeous...see pictures below. Then we went to our nephews bball game where they won 22 to 2. Then we did some things around the house which we have been needing to get done for some time now. For dinner we ate one of my favorite foods...pizza a heart shaped pizza none the less. Then we watched Fireproof which we had been wanting to see. It was a great movie (corny acting...but great message). I cried of course but what's new. Here are a few pictures from the day.

Valentines family picture

Me and Babs on Vday.

Babette's first Valentines Day

My GORGEOUS flowers! Alec did good!

Our delicious heart shaped pizza.

Recipes.....PLEASE!

2009-01-29T09:50:00.000-08:00

I am in need of some new recipes these days. I have been trying to cook at least 4 days a week and I'm running out of good EASY recipes. I have realized since moving to Tulsa and working farther away from my home by the time I get home (around 5 or after) I don't feel like cooking and don't want to cook something that is going to take hours. So I'm in desperate need of some new recipes. Please, please, please send me your recipes....post them in a comment, or post them on your own blog. Please!

To get you motivated I will post one of my favorite EASY recipes.

Crispy Parmesan Chicken

1 cup crushed saltine crackers (24 crackers)

1/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

1 Tablespoon dried parsley flakes

1/2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. pepper

dash of garlic powder

4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (I usually only do 2 chicken breasts)

1 stick butter, melted

Combine crackers, parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large ziploc bag. Dip chicken in melted butter and dredge in cracker mixture. Place in a flat baking dish. Drizzle with remaining butter and extra cracker mixture. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.

This dish is so easy to make and is a quick clean up...its a great week night dish!

Babette's Snow Day Fun!

2009-01-28T14:59:00.000-08:00

This is Babette's first experience with snow. She seems to love it! She has wanted to be outside more today than inside. She does this adorable hop/jump through the snow that I wish I could capture with the camera. Here are a few pictures of her first snow experience.

So I'm obsessed with my dog. At least I can admit it.

Worry Wart Here...

2009-01-27T08:52:00.000-08:00

Okay, let me start out by saying that I am probably one of the biggest worriers EVER! This is a trait that I definitely inherited from my father. He might worry a little more than me...might...it's pretty close though. So why all the worry talk you ask?

Yesterday it was forecasted that freezing rain would begin falling in the Tulsa area around noon. And to my surprise it actually did! I was shocked the meteorologists hit it right on the nose this time. Well, I work in a small town outside of Tulsa in a pretty rural area. The only way to get to my school is to go up and down two very steep hills. So when the weather started the school was a buzz about what way to get out of there. This spun me into worry mode. By the time 3:30 had rolled around I was seriously a nervous wreck. I didn't want to leave. Quite frankly, I wanted my hubby or my daddy to come pick me up. But after defrosting my car and talking to Alec on the phone for a while I decided I could make it up the hill. Needless to say, all that worrying was for nothing. It wasn't terrible getting up the hill...it was very slick, but I made it.

My drive usually takes about 22 minutes but yesterday it turned into an hour. I was actually surprised at how cautious MOST everyone was driving. Except for a select few who need to be taken off the streets altogether. Some people are just idiots in weather like this. By the time I got to Broken Arrow the roads weren't near as bad as they were in Sapulpa which made it easy for me to pull up into my steep driveway just fine.

Now because I worry so much I had decided not to pick my dog up from my parents house (where she goes most every day I go to work). Instead I decided she would just spend the night and then we would get her today. So we made the journey to pick her up around noon today. On the way there the roads weren't to bad except in my parents neighborhood...seriously it was bad. But we made it there, picked her up, and headed back to BA. On the journey back the freezing rain/sleet had picked up and the streets seemed worse. When we finally got back we started pulling into our shoveled and salted driveway but couldn't make it up into the garage so Alec got out and shoveled a little more and put some more salt down then he tried again and was successful. My little civic is sitting pretty in the garage where it belongs and we are in for the night. All in all I think the civic took the streets on like a champ!

Here are a few quick pictures I took on our drive and a few from our front yard.

Views from the Creek Turnpike on the way to pick up Babette.

Iced over plants in our yard.

Stay warm!

Emerson's 1st Birthday!

2009-01-19T04:57:00.000-08:00

I started this blog a few days ago and just now got around to finishing it.

Last Saturday was my nieces 1st birthday. I have, for some reason, been designated as official family photographer. Normally I love the fact that I am the picture taker in the family but on this day I was a bit nervous. When we got to Emerson's birthday party...my sister-in-law proceeded to tell me that she was not even going to get her camera out since I was there. What!!! It was her daughters first birthday and she wasn't going to take a single picture! Needless to say that made me a bit nervous and by the end of the party I was sweating bullets! I mean that is a lot of pressure. Although, I was nervous I think I got a few cute shots. But mainly Emerson seemed to be very interested in her older brother during the party so the majority of the pictures are of her smiling/looking his way.

Here are a few pictures. I took over 200 so I had to pick my few favorites to post.

Ready to dig into those gifts!

More proof that girls love shoes, no matter what the age. This was the first gift she opened and she would not put them down the rest of the day. I love how she is looking so sweetly at her new squeakers.

The birthday girl on her new polka dotted chair.

See the shoes?

Alec's favorite picture.

Has everyone seen my new shoes yet???

She's on the move.

Pay attention to me! I'm the birthday girl!

A girls 1st birthday is just not complete without a tutu these days.

Happy!

Sometimes it is just necessary to cut out the gigantic bows.

Her Birthday Princess hat.

Her little cake, hat, and bib.

The big cake for everyone else made by Emerson's mom.

She really loves cake.

I was going to upload a few more of her eating the cake. Then I decided you've probably seen enough and if you made it this far you are completely bored.

After her party we went to her 7 year old brothers basketball game which was fun/funny to watch. Man, some parents are a little to intense. I'm just saying.

6 AM Saturday Morning

2009-01-17T04:18:00.000-08:00

Well its 6:00 Saturday morning and I can't sleep anymore. So since there is nothing on TV and I'm to tired to read I thought a blog would be appropriate. Although I really have nothing to blog about. Here is a picture of what I would rather be doing.

She really is sleeping even though her eye is open. We catch her like this a lot.

A view from above.

24...The Birthday, Not The Show

2009-01-15T15:25:00.000-08:00

24.

Not the most exciting. Especially considering hardly any of my friends remembered it and only 1 of my coworkers did.

But as sad as that sounds I did have a good birthday! My students made my day so special (they really know how to make a girl feel good) and I had a great dinner at one of my favorite restaurants with my family (oh and cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory....yum, yum)! My Hubby was wonderful and got me flowers and this floor lamp that I have been talking about for 3 years now. Then he took me to a fabulous restaurant on Saturday called Mahogany's. I have only been there 3 times so it was definitely a special treat!

Christmas Break

2009-01-04T19:17:00.001-08:00

A little long and a little late, my Christmas Break (in a nutshell)...

On New Years Day my best friend Christiane came to Tulsa just to see me and we had a wonderful visit. We went to a movie (which I will not disclose because Christiane is a little embarrassed and doesn't want the whole blogger world to know her absolute love for this movie). Then we sat at Starbucks for a few hours just talking and catching up. Then it was off to my house for some black eyed peas and cornbread! She is such a blessing!

The day after Christmas some high school friends and their hubby's came to our house for a little get together. This seems to be turning into somewhat of a tradition. Its always nice to see old friends and catch up on life especially around the holiday season.

On Christmas Eve we had Christmas with Alec's family. It's always fun to watch our nephews open their gifts. While eating dinner all we heard was "can we open gifts yet?" they were so cute. This year was also very special because it was our nieces first Christmas.

After gifts Avery and Kaleb decided to beat Alec up a bit...

Emerson loves cake

Such a happy girl

Her first Christmas gift

We had Christmas at my parents house on the 23rd. We had a great time. Although it was a bit sad because we thought my aunt, uncle, and cousins from Virginia were going to be coming but ended up that they couldn't. Then my Grammy decided to go spend Christmas with them in VA so it was pretty quiet around the Roberts household this Christmas. Button, button just wasn't the same.

One of my beautiful gifts. My mom wraps some of the prettiest

presents I've ever seen.

I aspire to be like her some day.

Alec opening his new workbench

Searching for the pickle...My sis-in-law found it, again.

Welp, maybe next year.

Me, mom, and my sis-in-law, Bekah

My brothers and I

Me and my Daddy

Oh How I LOVE Christmas Cards!

2008-12-22T18:05:00.000-08:00

Have I told you how much I LOVE getting mail...well I LOVE it!

Receiving Christmas cards in the mail during the holiday season is one of my most favorite things! I especially love the cards that come with pictures (I mean I love the cards with no pictures too, but I absolutely love getting picture cards)! It just makes me so happy to run to the mailbox everyday and see what new cards we will get! I might just go out on a limb and say its my favorite time of the day! To all my friends and family out there who have sent me a Christmas card know that it is being displayed proudly. I have been wanting a very cute wire Christmas tree that displays cards but until then I have them hanging from ribbon on my magazine rack so I can admire them everytime I walk by.

Enjoying the Ice...

2008-12-16T16:51:00.000-08:00

2 Days with no school because of icy roads=

-A lot of extra time on my hands to...have a ridiculous photo session with my precious dog in her Mrs. Claus outfit

-Take at least 3 naps no shorter than 2 hours each in one day!

-Make my husband cinnamon rolls and coffee for breakfast.

-Watch Regis and Kelly and the Today show (and maybe a soap opera or two).

-See my husbands brand new truck slide out of our extremely icy, steep driveway while he checks the mail.

-Get an early stocking gift from my sweet husband (see picture below)

A French Press...something that I have been wanting for quite some time now!

Babette as Mrs. Claus

Another picture of the fireplace with the addition of Babette's stocking

Our table decorated for Christmas

I have officially started Christmas Break and the best part is that Alec is taking the same two weeks off of work to spend some extra special time with me! I am so excited and feel blessed that Alec works at a place that will allow him to have so many wonderful vacation days!

If I don't post again before Christmas I hope everyone has a very blessed holiday!

Merry Christmas!

The good old days...

2008-12-11T18:24:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon these pictures the other day. I thought you would share them with you.

Junior year Christmas gift exchange

Christmas at 949 EN 13th St.

"The Pink Palace"

We always had a fun Christmas gift exchange! I remember when it all began freshman year! I am blessed to have such dear friends!

It's Beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2008-12-07T18:03:00.000-08:00

If you don't know already...the Lawrence's LOVE Christmas (especially Alec)!!!

We have had our Christmas tree up since the beginning of November and if it wasn't for me Alec would have had it up back in July!!! I've never known someone who loves Christmas so much...I think its cute!

This weekend we went shopping at my favorite shopping center in Tulsa...Utica Square. It just feels like Christmas when you are shopping there. Then we finished up the rest of our decorating (see pictures below) and started wrapping gifts.

Then today we took Babette to visit Santa at our favorite dog store...the Dog Dish. I thought the picture was cute...although Babette's ears are so big they are covering up Santa's face. But oh well, she's cuter than Santa anyway :)

The fireplace...ready for Santa's arrival!

Alec put our Christmas lights up this year! I think he did a great job (and we didn't have to make a trip to the ER so that made it even better)!

I couldn't decide which one I liked better...black and white or color so here are both!

A Branson Thanksgiving!

2008-12-04T20:19:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed a great Thanksgiving with the Lawrence/McKinney side of the family in Branson, MO this year! Here is a picture outside the great hotel we stayed in: The Chateau on the Lake. We had a great time (especially at Silver Dollar City) and enjoyed spending time with everyone...its a rare occasion when the whole family is together. We knew we had to get a family picture especially since Austin and Katherine will be in Africa visiting her family over Christmas. They will be missed!

Pay it Forward! Trust Me, You Want To Read This One!

2008-11-30T18:55:00.000-08:00

Last week I happened to check my google reader (if you don't use this and you like to read peoples blogs...you need to start now...it let's you know when a blog has been updated) at just the right time. I was reading one of my regular blogs Oh, Boy & all thing Caleb Ryne (aka Cassie) and saw this great idea of "Paying it Forward." I had to participate! Look and see what was in my mailbox one day when I got home:

Let me just say you can not go wrong with me and Starbucks...and anyone who knows me knows that's the truth!

Thanks so much Cassie! I can't wait to go and get my favorite holiday drink!

Okay, Now here is how it works:

The purpose of "Pay it Forward" is to do an act of kindness without expecting anything in return (other than that the recipient will, in turn, pass the kindness along to someone else). I will send a small, fun gift to the first 3 people who post a comment on this entry. In turn, those three will post this information on their blog and pick 3 people they want to send something to...and the game continues on and on! The little something you send can be something you made, bought, were given or found....ANYTHING you want! Just a gift that will make the person's day! If you are interested in participating, be one of the first 3 people to leave a comment. You will have to promise that you will then post about this on your blog, link back to me, and then send something to the first three people who sign up to play through your blog. *** After the first 3 people comment, I will give them my email to send me their address. If you would prefer me not to know your address, that's totally fine! I'll send you a gift over the computer!***

If you have never commented on my blog and have been wanting to "reveal" yourself as a loyal reader now is a great opportunity....don't be shy! I would love to know who is out there in blog land reading about my little life!

Anticipation

2008-11-18T17:58:00.000-08:00

I can't believe November is already halfway over. Being a teacher all major holidays are built up about 100 x's more than the average person! We do lessons, art activities, journal, programs, etc. focused on these holidays which just lead to bigger build up and anticipation. Every teacher knows how many day until ______________ (you name the holiday).

Well, all that to say, I can't wait until Thanksgiving break. I need a break and can't wait to spend time with family. We are going to Branson with Alec's family (which has become a Lawrence family tradition). Then Saturday we are having Thanksgiving with my family.

But what I am most excited about at this point is TWILIGHT!! It comes out Friday. I really wanted to go to the midnight showing but when I got on the computer to order tickets (on Sunday) they were sold out :( But I do plan on going Saturday and I can't wait!

Karla got me hooked on the Twilight series this summer...she had tried to get me to read it and at first I was a little apprehensive. I mean I'm not the type of girl who is interested in books about vampires. But I took her word for it and read the first three books within a few weeks this summer. Sadly, after school started up my reading time has depleted greatly. I'm still working on the 4th book and love it so far! Seriously if you haven't read these books you should. Thanks Karla! I've always known you have great taste. I don't know why I doubted you!

A few weeks ago I got to take pictures of my 2 nephews and niece for their family Christmas card. I wish that I got a better picture of the three of them together but the boys were not interested in being photographed and they let me know it! Sweet little 10 month old Emerson was loving it though!

Sorry! Its extremely long!

2008-11-01T20:06:00.000-07:00

Its time to fall back which is probably one of my favorite days of the year...I love sleep so getting an extra hour could not make me any more happy (not to mention I really need it for this upcoming week)!Life lately has been extremely busy...I feel as thought I'm always saying that but its the truth and it often makes me long for my wonderful 2 month summer vacation!

These last few months have been rather crazy for the Lawrence's.

Beginning in early September Alec went hunting in the panhandle of Texas with all of his college buddies. It has become somewhat of a tradition to take this hunting trip every year and it seems as though they always come away with some really interesting stories not to mention a ton of poor dead dove :(

A few weeks later Alec went to a casino along the Oklahoma/Texas line for a bachelor party for an old roommate. It sounded like they had a fun time.

Then the last weekend in September we headed down to Abilene for our friends wedding! We had such a wonderful time seeing so many great friends! For just a few hours it felt like college again. The wedding was beautiful (at one of my favorite places in Abilene...the Paramount)! I was able to go eat lunch with my teacher friends Rachel and Sarah! It made me really miss teaching with them but it was wonderful catching up! I will always love Abilene and hope we get a chance to go back soon (I'm hoping for sing song....what do you think Alec????)

At the wedding reception

Then in early October I had a conference in Edmond for two days (Thursday and Friday). Then I left early Saturday morning to fly to San Antonio for my good friend Hannah's wedding. Alec was not able to go with me so it turned into a great girls weekend for me! I was happily greeted at the airport by my wonderful friend Brooke...she was so sweet to cart me all over town all weekend and let me stay with her as well! We were able to spend so much great time together and catch up on life...it made me really not want to leave...but I can't wait until Brooke comes to visit me over Christmas break (PLEASE)!!!

Beautiful Brooke and me at the wedding.

Me and the gorgeous Hannah on her wedding day!

Hannah's wedding was gorgeous! She was glowing all weekend and I feel so lucky to have been able to share those special days with her!

The next week Babette got spade. Poor baby. But she has made a full recover and sadly enough is still as hyper as before...I've heard that after their surgery that changes...well not for Babette!

Then a few days later Alec went on a business trip to Chicago for a week. It was the longest amount of time Alec has been away from me since we have been married....I survived! In fact, life was pretty easy because I stayed with my parents all week. I know, I know, it sounds ridiculous but my parents house is about fifteen minutes closer to my work and I got free meals every night so I couldn't really resist. However, me and Babette were so ready for him to come home!!

Just this last week, school was crazy! Halloween was largely to blame but we had a few other things that contributed as well, like: our huge AR party, a field trip, Veteran's day program practice, and family fun night (where I worked a 13 hour day). I am looking forward to Thanksgiving break like you would not believe!

Then just last night, Halloween, we went trick or treating with our two nephews and precious niece! They were adorable in their costumes (my mother in law made the boys costumes and they were incredible)! We had a lot of fun!

The Space Aliens

Really ready for the fun to start!
An upset Emerson...she wasn't sure if she wanted to be a butterfly.

Then she decided that she looked pretty good :)

Seriously the most beautiful butterfly I've ever seen!

Some updates...

2008-10-27T16:10:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I posted pictures of our house after we took down wallpaper and painted. Well here are some pictures after a little bit of decorating. Although its starting to shape up I could sit here and list hundreds of things I would like to do/get for our house. But I'm pleased with how its coming along!

Decorated for fall

Guest Bathroom Part 2

2008-10-18T18:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm finally posting before and after pictures of our guest bathroom:

This bathroom was quite the undertaking. We took the wallpaper down, had to mud the walls and sand them, then we painted the cabinets, put new hardware on, and changed out the light fixture and the bathroom fixtures!

10 years

2008-09-22T18:29:00.000-07:00

10 years ago today me and Alec decided to start our journey together as boyfriend and girlfriend. Its been so wonderful to share so much of my life with my very best friend! I look forward to many many more!

8th grade Homecoming Court...braces and all :)

I love you babe!

Lately...

2008-09-06T20:03:00.000-07:00

Labor day weekend was wonderful! I went shopping with my Mom in Kansas City and we had a great time! It had been a while since our last mother/daughter trip.

This past week was crazy at school. I've been working really long hours trying to get things done although it seems that the list just keeps growing. Sadly, I will be going to school tomorrow (Sunday) to try and get some work done as well.

Alec went out of town this weekend to go hunting in Texas with his friends and his old roommates from college. He left Friday around 3 and probably won't be home til late Sunday evening. So me and Babette have been having a girls weekend and I've been trying to get some things accomplished around the house.

Here is a picture of my precious students on the first day of school!

Back to Blogging

2008-08-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of blogging...I've had a lot going on lately.

From the months of July through September we have 11 family birthdays. Because of this I have vowed never to have my children in those months (fingers crossed). So needless to say we have been busy with birthdays and the beginning of school.

I started teaching 1st grade on the 20th and I love it! Its quite a change from Pre-K but I'm really loving it. I love that they are independent and can go to the bathrooms by themselves, they can actually write words in their journals that I can read, they can sit at their desks and work quietly.

I started looking for a job in July (I should have started earlier, but I was loving getting things done in my house and just enjoying my summer). Needless to say the second week in August came around school was starting all over Tulsa and I had no job. I had basically given up and thought I would just do the dreaded subbing thing. Then one afternoon my Dad called me and said, "Catie, I was standing in line in subway here in Sapulpa (a town where my dad works) when I overheard two women talking. One of them was saying that she could not find a 1st and 3rd grade teacher. So I leaned over to her and told her I could help her out. Of course she was a little confused so I started to tell her about you and now she wants you to call her immediately." So I got on the phone and called her...she wanted me to come to her school right away for an interview so I changed clothes as quick as possible and headed to Sapulpa. Once I got there I met the principal and two other teachers at the school. We talked for about an hour and a half and they took me on a tour of the school. Then they asked me to go wait in the conference room while they talked. A few minutes later she came in and offered me the job! Of course I said yes. Then it was off to human resources to fill out an application (because I had not applied to Sapulpa Public Schools) and complete all the paperwork.

Now I have to tell you the coolest thing about this story is that my principal told my Dad in subway that that morning the counselor at the school and her had prayed specifically for the Lord to send them a 1st and 3rd grade teacher. She said to my dad that she felt that I was the answer to their pray that morning before she had even met me. I believe it, except they were the answer to my prayers. God provided completely for me and I am so grateful to be there. I can't wait to discover the many reasons why He put me there!

Our Patio

2008-07-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

Still working on the bathroom but thought I would post a picture of our outdoor living space.

I love our new outdoor furniture. It has been so nice to go outside and sit and enjoy a cup of coffee (in the morning or evening) and read a book.

You might notice two grills...which I am not the biggest fan of but we have our original grill and one that the previous homeowners left. I had originally wanted to sell the grill they left in a garage sale, but I think Alec likes the option of having two grills because one is propane and one is charcoal so it looks like we just might end up with two grills.

Be our guest...

2008-07-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

Today, thank goodness I am going to start painting our guest bathroom! It has been a long process to get it ready to paint.

First we had to remove the wallpaper...not fun. As we were removing it we found that it was the bare drywall underneath so that meant only one thing...Alec was going to have to mud it and sand the walls out. Alec did that process 3 times...every time he came out of the bathroom from sanding he was covered in dust...as he said, "I look like a giant powdered donut." I have to agree. The bathroom was covered in dust. It was disgusting, so I cleaned it up yesterday and caulked along the baseboards. Now were ready for the paint.

Here is the bathroom before with the tragic wallpaper...I'll post updated pictures when I've finished painting.

Prayers

2008-06-26T15:38:00.000-07:00

I just found out that one of my sweet little students' father passed away the other day. My heart breaks for him and his family.

If you could remember to keep this precious little boy and his family in your prayers I would greatly appreciate it.

Summer...one of the perks of being a teacher

2008-06-25T06:20:00.000-07:00

Summer has been so nice. Not working and getting paid for it...I can't think of many things better than that! Honestly, I haven't had a summer like this since I was 15 years old. It's been wonderful!

You would think with all this time I've had being at home I should be all unpacked and settled into our new house...not quite. I've been kinda lazy...it's true but I'm not really in a hurry. However I did paint the entryway yesterday so I'm getting stuff done slowly but surely!

A big reason why things haven't been getting done....Babette. We've just been having fun together all day! Here are some new cute pictures of Babette and a few family photos.

I hope to post some new photos of the house soon...

Babette the French Bulldog

2008-06-14T08:41:00.001-07:00

We got Babette on Thursday...she was from Littleton, Colorado so her breeder agreed to meet us in Wichita, Kansas. This was wonderful considering it was an 8 hour drive for her and and a 3 hour drive for us. Babette did wonderful on the drive she basically just slept the whole time.

I have loved having some extra company around the house while Alec is at work. She is a lot of fun to play with and snuggle with too.

Here are some things we had waiting for her when she got home

This is her adorable collar. She looks so cute in it.

Here she is...the precious Babette

Her cute paw (her front two paws are white and the back two are black)

She so precious :) We love her!!!

2 Wonderful Years

2008-06-09T18:05:00.000-07:00

Better late than never:

June 3rd was our 2 year anniversary...we had a great day. We mainly spent the day unpacking and trying to get our room settled. As we were working on stuff the doorbell rang and it was a BEAUTIFUL arrangement of flowers.

Then we got cleaned up and went to dinner at Charleston's a restaurant that we had many dates to during our high school years. It was so good!

After dinner we were on mission to find an entertainment console for our living room. We went to a few different places and found a few possibilities, but nothing that we loved. So we went home and ended up watching Top Chef until 1:00 am. Side note: we have been without cable for two years (which was fine) but we decided to get it when we moved back and we are loving it!

Here are some pictures from the past 2 years:

6-3-06

Honeymoon...St. Lucia

Aspen 2006

Alec's birthday weekend at the Gaylord Texan

We both graduated!

One year anniversary trip to San Antonio

Valentines Day 2008

I look forward to many more years with my best friend!

Home Sweet Home

2008-06-02T15:49:00.000-07:00

We are finally home...

We got to Broken Arrow yesterday around 12:30 in the afternoon to find out our power was out due to a severe storm that had come through a few hours before we got there. Luckily it came back on around 4:00. Its good to be back...kinda weird...but good!

We've been unpacking all day and I need to get back to it!

Also, me and Alec's 2 year anniversary is tomorrow...I can't believe its already been 2 years!

Can it really be?

2008-05-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

Can it really be that tomorrow is the last day of my first year of teaching! I can't believe it!

This year has been one that has taught me more about myself than I ever thought possible. These children have all touched me and blessed me in their own unique way, and for that I know they will always hold a special place in my heart. As I sit here thinking about my twenty precious students I find myself welling up with tears. I have been overcome with waves of emotions this past week and I know tomorrow will be no different as I say goodbye to "my kids," my colleague's, my classroom, and my school.

Here are just a few pictures of my classroom and my kids throughout the year.

Class of 2021

I love these kids!

Bed and Bath Before and Afters

2008-05-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

A few more before and afters.

Master Bathroom Before:

Master Bathroom after:

(we still plan to change the light fixtures and paint the cabinets)

Jacuzzi Tub

Shower

Master Bedroom Before:

Master Bedroom after:

Poor Alec was running a temp. of 102 the last day we were working on the house...this was him before we actually knew how high his temp. was.

The yellow is a little off in this picture below the picture above is more accurate.

Daniel-Duncan Wedding 5-25-08

2008-05-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from Stephanie and Jeff's Wedding at the Japanese Garden in the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens.

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Duncan

It was a beautiful wedding!

Closing, moving, before and afters

2008-05-20T19:23:00.001-07:00

It has been a crazy weekend and I'm exhausted. Here are some pictures from all the events.

After closing on our house!

We are Homeowners!

Alec and the moving truck...just after unloading everything

The breakfast nook before:

The tragic wallpaper up close:Breakfast nook after:Dining room before:
Dining room after wallpaper is gone:
Dining room after:
Kitchen before:

Kitchen after:
Living Room before:
Living Room after:
Sorry so many pictures...i got carried away!

Believe it or not more pictures to come.

Ready...

2008-05-14T15:14:00.000-07:00

Well tomorrow morning is moving day!

We close on our house on Friday morning.

Unload the moving truck Friday afternoon.

Start painting.

Go to sleep.

Saturday:

Wake up.

Start painting.

Go to our friends wedding.

Go back to our house.

Keep painting.

Sleep.

Sunday:

Wake up.

Paint.

Sleep.

Monday:

Wake up.

Paint.

Drive back to Abilene for my last 8 days of school.

Its going to be a very busy weekend...can't wait!

Graduation Day

2008-05-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

Alec graduated...with his Masters!

here he is walking up to the stage to be hooded

being hooded

walking back in after being hooded and receiving his diploma

So cute :)

Reception in the mall area.

His Mom and Dad

the men of 642 College Drive

With my parents

His grandparents came too.

So proud of him!

Alec and his wonderful white chocolate cake from McKay's!

We had such a great weekend with our families! Friday night our families got into town and we went to Lytle Land and Cattle for dinner...it was so good. Then we came back to our house for some coffee. The next morning at 11:00 was Alec's graduation. Then we came back to our house for cake and ice cream and we entertained everyone with Rock Band. My Dad even played some with us. Then we went to dinner at the Beehive...one of our favorite restaurants in Abilene.

Alec worked so hard these past 5 years and I could not be anymore proud of him!

He is so glad to be done and looking forward to these next few weeks of no work or school!

People let me tell ya bout my best friend...

2008-05-07T19:55:00.000-07:00

It all began in 3rd grade at Memorial Drive Church of Christ.

I met this incredible girl...

We shared each others weddings together.

And wedding showers
She even spent my exciting 21st birthday with me and my parents :)

These are just a few of the many, many pictures of us but unfortunately the majority of those were taken before the digital camera came into existence :)

So many great memories and many more to come!

Congrats Grads!

2008-05-04T20:00:00.000-07:00

A party/cookout for our favorite MAcc program guys!

They worked hard these last 5 years so we decided to throw them a little party to celebrate their graduation!

This is the calculator cake that me and steph made for the guys.

Their accountants....they've got to use calculators a lot...right?

A banner I made them...then taped to siding on a house

probably not the best idea

The guys grilling their meat.

Me and Steph both made two pies each...I wish I would have gotten a picture of them they looked good and tasted even better!

No school tomorrow! Woohoo! And its Cinco de Mayo...go celebrate and eat some mexican food!

7 Random Things...Tagged by Kenz

2008-04-29T18:57:00.000-07:00

1. I am a HUGE homebody. I never really realized this until I married Alec, who is the biggest homebody I know. So this basically means if you want to hang out with us a great place to find us is our home and chances of getting me to leave it is actually pretty hard especially after a long day of work.

2. I LOVE coffee. I have to have a cup of coffee every morning, sad I know. Its so bad that one day we were out of coffee at our house so I didn't have any to take to school and my kids were freaking out because I didn't have my green coffee mug. Let's just say that only happened once :)

3. I want to be a photographer. I love teaching and know that it is one of my God given gifts. But I love taking pictures. It doesn't matter what it is I love to take pictures of it. One day I would love to pursue this professionally, but who knows what the Lord has planned.

4. I LOVE to travel and see new things. I think there is just to much that God has created not to experience it! I hope that I get to do a lot more of this in my future...as for now traveling is a distant dream.

5. I like to burn candles my husband on the other hand says that its like burning money (I guess that's the accountant in him). But he seems to be coming around.

6. I am always early. Not much more to it. I hate to be late....and if I think that I am going to be late I get extremely anxious and a little nervous. I've always been that way. I was the kid in high school who got there 30 minutes before class started...I know dorky...I just can't help it!

7. I used to play golf...a lot. My Dad loves golf so as a child/teenager I spent a lot of time at the country club. I even have a few trophies from golf tournaments...I might have been pretty good if I would have kept with it...who knows maybe I'll pick it up again.

I now tag: Melanie

P.S. Christiane, you should just start a blog but don't tell Dylan :) Or start one and maybe that will spur him to design you a blog soon! Please, Please, Please!

Our Little Frenchie

2008-04-28T19:03:00.000-07:00

For as long as I can remember me and Alec have wanted to get a French Bulldog. I have even had a picture of a random frenchie on our refrigerator since we have been married :)

Well I'm happy to announce that there will be a new addition to the Lawrence family as of June 2nd.

Meet Babette

A Weekend Away

2008-04-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

This past weekend me and Alec left for Boerne to see Austin and Katherine. We had a wonderful time!

Here are some highlights from the weekend (in no particular order)

~Eating wonderful Mexican food!

~Walking around downtown Boerne...I love it!

~Seeing Austin and Katherine's cute house!

~Visiting with Austin and Katherine

~Eating a wonderful lunch with Miss Brooke Burdick and having much needed catch up time :)

~Grilling wonderful hamburgers (well watching the boys grill the hamburgers) and eating outside

~Watching Juno...love it!

~Eating AMAZING shortbread cookies!

~Seeing all the bluebonnets on the drive!

When we got back to Abilene on Sunday I got to do all my favorite things (laundry, cleaning the house, going to the grocery store) blah! But then we went to the Homeplace for dinner with all the ACU graduate students and it was great....and free!

It was a fun weekend!

STOP! I'm trying to talk to God!

2008-04-14T16:41:00.001-07:00

Here is a little story from my day:

So today I was sitting at the lunch table with my kids eating my lunch. Normally during lunch I tell the kids that Mrs. Lawrence is not talking (because at the beginning of the year all the kids would sit there and talk to me and I would run out of time to eat my lunch, and I love to listen to the kids conversations with each other). So I was sitting there watching the kids (trying to keep them from playing with their food or bothering their neighbor) and I saw one of my girls nudge a boy next to her. This boy was sitting with his elbows up on the table and his face in his hands so I was assuming that this sweet girl wanted to see if something was wrong with him. Then all the sudden he looks up at her and yells, "STOP! I'm trying to talk to God!" and the little girl replies, "Don't you mean Jesus?"

Pointless story, I know. I just didn't want to forget it!

HSU Western Day

2008-04-10T16:44:00.000-07:00

Yay! The weather was great for our field trip to HSU Western Day! We had a blast! Here are a few pictures.

The whole class! The two kids on the left are

probably fighting...why can't we all just get along!

I love this picture! Oh and these ugly vests they are

wearing are the bus safety harnesses. They have to wear them

every time they get on the bus and they hook in 4 different

places. It takes forever.

The kids petting the animals.

The kids petting the six white horses.

A Week Already

2008-04-09T14:35:00.000-07:00

I can't believe its been a week since my last post. Honestly this whole blogging thing has made me realize that I don't really have that much to talk about. I thought I would but I really don't unless you want to read about a bunch of 4 and 5 year olds which I figure I would spare you all the wonderful details on their exciting lives. So here are a few things I've thought of over the last week.

Update on our house! We had the inspections about a week and a half ago (luckily my mom was able to go for us) and they were all great! Thank goodness! Now were in the process of figuring out the moving details.

Alec will graduate with his MASTERS (woohoo) on May 10th! I am so proud of him. He has worked so hard these past 5 years and especially this last year! I know he is ready to be done and so am I! Then we will close on our house May 16th we plan on moving everything in that weekend and go to a friends wedding in Tulsa the 17th! But wait that's not all...we will then come back to abilene the 18th so I can finish my last two weeks of school...ugh. We plan on sleeping on our wonderful air mattress and keeping just a few essentials here those last two weeks. During those last two weeks we are in Abilene we have two weddings (one in Fort Worth and the other in Abilene) It's going to be such a busy time but so exciting!

On another note tomorrow is HSU Western Day and I'm afraid it's going to be canceled due to this crazy weather. My kids will be so disappointed so I hope that we are able to go! We have been learning about cowboys and cowgirls this week and my kids love it! I have gotten some of the cutest pictures of them with cowboy hats, bandannas, and cowboy shirts on.

Other exciting news: HANNAH and DREW are engaged! This is a couple that has been seeking the Lord whole heart idly from the very beginning of their relationship and I can't wait to see how the Lord will use them together as one! God is good! I am so excited for them and can't wait to see Hannah NEXT month....it has been way to long!

Rushing...

2008-04-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Since the very day that Alec accepted his job at KPMG in Tulsa I have been rushing everything in my life! We've already packed up a big chunk of our house and I've already started on my classroom. Well, today I have decided that is the last thing I need to be doing! I am where I am right now because God has a plan to use me here (even though we will be leaving)! I really spend so much of my life thinking I can't wait until friday, I can't wait until Spring break, I can't wait until summer, etc. How can I let Christ use me in my daily life if I am so busy rushing through my days. So today I've decided to stop the weekly countdown until school is over and we move. I am truly going to enjoy my last little bit of time here in Abilene, at my school, and in my precious alley house and see how I can be used!

Abilene has been my home these past 5 years and a great home it has been! I sit here thinking that when I first came to Abilene I was skeptical of what life here would bring and it has far surpassed my expectations! Now looking back on all the wonderful memories here, the great people I have met, and the strangely unique place this is I will miss it greatly! As my time comes closer to leaving I'm sure I will make a list of all the things that I have loved about living in this West Texas town!

Upcoming school events

2008-03-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

27 weeks down 9 to go...

There are a lot of big events coming up at my school these next 2 months heres just a few:

Cap and Gown pictures (yes my kids wear a cap and gown and we have a graduation ceremony for them...I will definitely be posting pictures of this because it has got to be just about the cutest thing ever!)

HSU Western Day

The Planetarium

Zoo Field Trip

I got a new student last week...ugh. I hate getting new students! Not because I don't want them but because I have a TON of paper work to do...oh the joys of teaching Headstart.

I wish I had a picture...I hate posting without pictures but maybe next time.

Ch, ch, ch, ch, changes.....

2008-03-24T10:58:00.000-07:00

So...I've decided to start blogging, mainly because Melanie is blogging and I want to be just like her :)

Seriously though, a lot of exciting things seem to be happening right now and since all of my friends are spread throughout the country I thought I would give this a try to keep in touch....now I just need them all to get a blog (fingers crossed).

Last week was spring break...it went by so quickly! This is what happened during my break:

We BOUGHT a HOUSE in Broken Arrow, OK (a suburb of Tulsa)!After what seemed like I was signing my life away.....we waited to here if we got the house (there was another offer in on the house as well...so we were nervous)! Later that afternoon we got the wonderful call from our realtor that we GOT IT!!! We are so excited and are already planning projects to be done when we get moved in!

I am in the process of looking for a teaching job in Broken Arrow, Jenks, Union, or Bixby school district. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for kindergarten or pre-k. I hate searching for a job...so keep me in your prayers!

I also got to see my beautiful niece Emerson...I was fortunate enough to photograph her while I was there and here are a few of my favorites:

Today is my last day of spring break and quite honestly I could use a few more!! However, I am excited to see my kids again...I'm sure they will look so much bigger to me...the more I think of my kids leaving and going to Kindergarten the sadder I get! This is my first class EVER, they are adorable, hilarious, and at some points extremely frustrating. But looking back over how far they have come and how much they have learned I can't help but feel proud of them! It is such a rewarding feeling when 'that' child finally gets it!! But I believe these children have taught me much more than I have taught them...they are incredible children and I feel so blessed to spend 35 hours a week with them! 26 weeks down 10 more to go!