Bethenny Frankel

Bethenny Frankel. I love her. (From the Real Housewives of New York). She reminds me of my best friend Tyra. Just had to say it. She has a book on the New York Times best seller list about being a skinny girl. Maybe I ought to read it. My friend Tyra has that in common with Miss Bethenny. They are both skinny minnies.

Here are some quotes from Miss Bethenny. You really have to hear them in context and from Miss Bethenny herself, but here they are:

"I'd pull a Winona before I'd pay retail."

In regards to going to an expensive restaurant, her advice is:

"If you're going on a date, it's free."

As Anderson Cooper said, Atlanta Housewives is the gateway housewives. So true, so true.

As a Mom......

one of the grossest sensations has to be as you are taking a drink, and all of a sudden you come across a solid particle going down your throat. I don't know which is more disgusting; the sensation of that particle, or not quite knowing exactly what that particle is. Then you look into the drink and see what is apparently your child's backwash. When did they get to the drink? Cause all Mom's everywhere no not to drink on something after their child has partaken. That is Mom 101. After five children, I get disappointed in myself for not preventing such an occurrence. I should have that down by now. I mean, how many particles must I drink before I look into the liquid before taking a sip? Slow learner. I am.

Trash Bag Kids!

My kids have continued their love affair with trash bags and making outfits from them. I am hoping this creative streak can continue. Maybe with a little duct tape and the garbage bags Maddie can create a prom dress/wedding dress for herself someday. I know, we reach for the stars in this family, and only want the BEST for our children. It's just the way we are. And no matter what it looks like, we are NOT white trash (at least not on the inside:).

I have to say my daughter is getting more creative. She created quite the little dress yesterday out of the garbage bag. Style is getting better over time. She has evolved since her first Walmart Unitard. It all started with this:
http://laurascoop.blogspot.com/2008/12/walmart-unitard.htmlWalmart Unitard

Graduated to this: http://laurascoop.blogspot.com/2008/12/you-dont-need-walmart-bag.htmlWhite Trash Bags


And now, she is producing these amazing trash bag outfits: note the back of the trash bag dress. This takes talent and coordination for a three year old. No help from Mommy. And look at the amazing, versatile neckline Maddie created in the dress. In the first picture she has created a shrug-type effect in the neckline. Then, the neckline evolves. Through time, she has ripped it more and more until it is a whole new creation. If Maddie's hair appears a little greasy and messed up, it is because she decided to put a ton of gel into her hair right before her "fashion debut". I know, Project Runway, here we come.








Benjamin (4) doesn't have the same sense of style as Maddie, his creations are more basic and haven't evolved as much since his first creation. Maybe Maddie can help him in the future with his trash-bag creation skills. Poor Benjamin, not as talented with the trash bags!


Maybe one day Maddie can earn a scholarship with her creations! Again, reaching for the stars around here!
Take a look at these duct-tape prom dresses/outfits. What creativity!http://www.stuckatprom.com/contests/prom/entries.asp

Motorcycle Visions

This may be TMI. Maybe.

So, my husband Brandon sees a motorcycle for sale. (We are in the van driving by.) He points it out to me. He suggests we could buy it to save on gas money. Whenever he makes this suggestion he gets several reminders of past accidents. I remind him that I like him better living. Then he always tells me about the insurance money and how rich I would be. Cuz that almost tempts me. Raising five kids by myself, without my best friend, that would be fun.

When that offer falls on deaf ears, he tells me, "hey laura, what do you think. We could get a motorcycle, some leather vests, and some leather chaps. We'd wear those leather vests and the chaps, and nothing else." (Now I'm getting tempted.) Then he says, "Yeah, you could sit behind me and hug me tight." Then he does the motions of revving up the engine and riding on the motorcycle. I just had to share because I was busting a gut laughing. My husband always makes me laugh. I know you wanted to share in his motorcycle vision. Such a glorious thought! Do they make plus size motorcycle vests?

Family Football

We were at the Splash Park. Considering all the rain we have had and are going to continue to have, I was surprised how empty it was. We all had a great time, getting wet and playing football.

Don't think you need any "unscreen"

Maddie, you may not need any sunscreen or "unscreen" as she calls it. It always cracks me up, she always wants to put it on.

Feeling Vulnerable?

Dylan understands.

Nothin' like June roses!

I love roses---you probably know if you have been in our yard. They make my heart smile. I have been trying to grow them up over some of my bay windows and other windows. Nothing like a view of roses from a window. Breathtaking in my opinion. They are almost there. I am thrilled. It is slow for the first couple years, and then they explode! As you can see, this white rose bush has exploded and is way overgrown. I can't cut it back until I enjoy the beautiful June bloom explosion. Then I will cut it back a little. I love the color combination of white, yellow, purple and red. A personal favorite. Love roses, all kinds. Right now I want to find some orange variations. I am currently looking for a variety I had and LOVED in Springville. It is called "Hot Cocoa". If you see one, buy it for me!!!! It is a favorite, that I have not found more recently. I also wouldn't mind a "Lady Bird", "Cinnamon Twist", "Tuscan Sun" or "Mardigras". All orange varieties that are beautiful.

I love to pluck off a rose, feel the petals, and smell the beauty within. Incredible.

I love those nights where we are all hanging out in the front yard. The kids are riding bikes, Daddy is working on the car---the kids are wanting to "help" Daddy, and I get to occasionally scream for them to get out of the road or turn back around before they are out of view. Makes for fun family moments. A great family night playing outside.

Getting a lift from baby sis

Benj (4) and Maddie (3) have so much fun playing together. I am so grateful for them and the joy they bring to my life! Toddlers can make lots of messes, but also bring so many smiles. I love this age.