Franklins in the Big Easy

School Normal - 1st Day of 1st Grade

2010-08-16T11:37:00.000-05:00

Yesterday as we were driving around as a family... getting those last minute school things... Jordan mentioned that she was ready for things to get back to normal. Then I think she realized that things had been pretty normal for the past 3 months - so she corrected her statement and clarified by saying, "Well at least our "school normal"." I liked this - SCHOOL NORMAL.

Today is the 1st Day of 1st Grade! We had so much fun this morning. Please click on Living Above Ministries to read more about our morning...

We love you all dearly and wish we could see more more often!
Penny

They really do love each other!

2010-08-02T12:44:00.000-05:00

I came downstairs Sunday morning to find my children together! Sharing a chair and watching a movie! I ran as fast as I could to find my camera - I didn't care about the lighting, or the staging - I didn't want to miss documenting the fact that they really do love each other!!!

In fact, after I took the picture - they asked if they could stay there for a few minutes longer before getting ready for church! Wow! I almost knelt down and praised the Lord right then & there! I pray daily that my children will get along and not fight. That they will share their toys and develop a great relationship with one another - and on this day - they did!!! They shared a chair, space, and time together!!!

I did thank God for answered prayers on this morning! Don't miss these beautiful moments with your kids!

Hang Time with Daddy

2010-07-15T07:01:00.000-05:00

I love that my husband is a Pastor! I love that he puts God first in his life. I love that we can share our faith together. There are some parts of his job that indeed are difficult and are not always comfortable... but one of my favorite things about his job is that we can go up to "Daddy's Office" and John can love on his kids - even if just for a moment.

This week we have a mission trip here from Ohio. They are literally transforming our church as well as encouraging us in our work here in New Orleans. They are such a blessing to us right now! Yesterday we went up there to see all that they are doing and John was able to share a precious moment with JP while they played the guitar together.

I was really a very special moment. I know John treasures these times with the kids. It's such a wonderful thing to see and I just had to take a moment to share it with you.

What do you think... Preacher or Music Minister - which one is in his future?

A Mommy can dream right?

Snack Time with Jordan & JP

2010-07-12T16:40:00.001-05:00

With 2 small children at home all summer there is a tendancy to have the "snackers" all day long. Do you know what I mean when I say, "snackers?" This is the VERY strong tendency to want to eat things like chips, cookies, candy, etc - all the live long day!

Now, this is neither affordable or good for my kids. Plus, if I got up every time they wanted to "have a snack", I would never get anything else done in my house. So, at the very beginning of the summer we established 2 snack times a day - one in the morning (9:30) and one in the afternoon (2:30).

Yes, my children even know the exact time that each of these specially prepared "meals" occur and I promise you when I say, they do not let me go one minute past! It really does us both good. It holds me accountable to stop what I'm doing and fix them a healthy & fun snack and spend a little time with them in the process and keeps them from snacking all day and eating us out of house and home (and as a result not eat their dinner!).

This solution has worked beautifully thus far in our journey through the Summer. It's always a nice surprise to them what the snack will be and I love making them smile!

How are you getting through the summer?

What neat tricks have you learned that you can share with me?!

I would love to hear them all!

(yes, the picture above is from today's afternoon snack time. I know the pickle seems a bit odd and out of place - but they LOVE pickles and I don't always have them around - so it was an extra special treat today!)

Lordy Lordy! Looks who's 40!!!!

2010-07-06T07:59:00.000-05:00

Today is John's birthday! I can't believe he's 40! We both feel so young! Of course our 2 children - Jordan (6) and JP (3) definitely contribute to this feeling - but it still feels strange to say, "we're in our 40's!" (I turn 40 in just 3 small months).

We have a really fun day planned if it would just stop raining! I will definitely post more about this momentous day when it's over - but I just wanted to start the day blogging about the love of my life!

I met John in 2000 at First Baptist Church Euless. He was leading worship for the Single Adults (about 350 in attendance!). Now just to give you a visual... he had hair longer than mine, a beard, and had just finished a road tour with his band... yes.. he was a rock star in my mind! And I even did that high school girl thing and imagined him singing to me! And I can now say, as his wife of 8 years - he still gets his guitar out and writes songs about me! It is as good as you think it might be!!!

He is my very best friend and I love spending my life with him!

He makes me laugh hysterically...

He holds me when I cry....

He's a great jungle gym for our kids - even when he's tired...

And he can cook a mean steak - better than any Ruth Chris's, or Smith & Wellinsky's - I guarantee!

So, today, my love... it's all about you!

Thanks for making my life so wonderful!

Happy Birthday!

I love you!

Summer Days in New Orleans...

2010-06-29T11:58:00.000-05:00

I love it when you you can have one of those snapshot-kind-of-days!!! You know... the day where you're getting stuff done and the kids are being great and everything seems to fall right into place?!

In reality, I probably have those more often than I recognize or take the time to celebrate. My husband has inspired me lately (in his recent sermon series) to celebrate the ones I love more. So... here at the family blog I'm taking a few moments in between laundry, groceries, and managing the "he hit me's and the she hurt my feelings" to celebrate my life!

The kids have been swimming or playing in the backyard, Jordan made her bed, JP & I played catch this morning, I've gotten about 3 loads of laundry completed (from washer to closet!) and worked on some blog time and even made myself a healthy lunch!

I do love my life and praise God that He has given me these 2 beautiful children and a wonderful husband who adores me.

I would write more... but I'm already hearing, "M-O-M-M-Y!!!" from the stairs - so back to parenting I go and the To-Do List. Thanks God for this brief moment to recognize the sweet spots in my day!

Another Wonderful Year @ Grandmother & Papa Camp!

2010-06-24T11:23:00.001-05:00

Last week the kids were at "Grandmother & Papa Camp" - and the theme this year was "God's Top Ten!" All week long they learned Bible verses, camp songs and created crafts all centered around The Ten Commandments! It was nice to know that they were enjoying time with their cousins and learning great Biblical truths from their grandparents at the same time! All the while, John & I were off in Colorado relaxing in the mountains!!!

Just to prove that they did learn something while attending Grandmother & Papa Camp I wanted to share with you a brief story about a conversation that went on in the backseat yesterday:

I had just picked the kids up from an afternoon of playing with friends.
JP: Mommy I really wanted to take Braxton's toy home with me.

Mommy: I know, but it belongs to Braxton. You can play with it again the next time you go to his house.

JP: But I wanted to take it home with me today!

Jordan: JP! Do you know what you're doing?! You're so, like, COVETING!

I was thrilled to know that 1) my 6 year old knows what coveting is and 2) that she remembered what she learned last week from the Bible!

It just goes to show you that they do listen and they do remember and it makes a difference in their lives!

Hallmark Blog Moments

2010-06-01T07:18:00.003-05:00

This past week has certainly been filled with "blog moments." You know... those things that happen in the course of your week, or life rather and when they happen you immediately think, "I've got to share that on the blog!"

Okay, so I've got about 3 of them that I know for sure I want to share with you all - and they are all VICTORY moments of which I'm super excited about too!!!

Okay the first one is Jordan's Kindergarten Graduation!
Can you believe it? She just turned 6 last week! She did so well singing on stage and speaking her skit lines so confidently in the microphone... a mother couldn't be prouder! She received an award for perfect Church attendance and for reading over 100 books! Wow! A lover of church and of books... does it get any better?

Okay - blog moment #2
Last night as I was trying to run the kids a bath, Jordan asks if she can take a shower instead! Wow! I think my life just got easier! She LOVED it!!! She washed her own hair too! It was fabulous! When she was all done she asked if she could take a shower all by herself every night! Wow! Again... couldn't be more excited about this phase of growing up!

And for blog moment #3...
JP pooped in the potty all on his own!!!! Yes, this is definitely a moment of PRAISE! I know by events later in the day that a total conquering of this area is not complete - but we are more than happy to praise & celebrate victories like this! All I've got to say is, "JP... you did good son - just keep 'em coming!"

As summer kicks off this morning - I'm going to be watching and waiting for more celebratory blog moments and don't worry - I'll share them with you here! So stay tuned!

Where did the time go?

2010-05-20T06:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, Okay - everyone keeps telling me that these days of small children are just going to fly by! Sometimes I'm not so sure they are right....

But this morning as I'm remembering the day Jordan was born - 6 years ago today - I feel exactly that! I remember every detail of that day as if it happened yesterday! And then I blink and she's 6 years old, asking me questions about songs on the radio and what makes a car work (oh my!).

She's become my little helper and I love it! I know that this is only a glimpse of the days to come... I'm catching a vision of us cooking holiday meals together, shopping together, and so many other fun things. Jordan - you just keep doing what you're doing, learning, growing, loving your family, friends and your God and you'll tackle this thing called LIFE just fine!

This week is birthday week - next week is Kindergarten Graduation.
Stay tuned for lots of fun photos of it all!

Summer's just around the corner!

2010-05-15T11:23:00.001-05:00

When Jordan's birthday gets here I know that Summer is just around the corner!

I can't believe that my oldest child is almost 6 years old! There are so many ways I could take this first sentence. One, I really do remember as if it was yesterday the day she was born. She was so tiny and had the cutest little cry - it was almost a squeak instead of a cry. Or I could mean, "I can't believe I'm almost 40 and my oldest is 6!" Most of my friends that are my age have teenagers! Either way, watching Jordan turn 6 has already been so much fun! She really takes everything in and let's excitement take over her whole little person! A couple of weekends ago, John's parents - Sweet Mama & Papa Lou - came for a visit and brought all kinds of treats! (Barbie, books, clothes, etc) Each gift was opened and held up for all to see. I think her best gift was story time at night! Getting to sit in her grandmother's lap and get undivided attention was priceless to her! She hated to see them leave.

This next week, Jordan will get to have a special snack during school and then Saturday is the big party @ Storyland @ City Park. She is SUPER excited! Stay tuned for more birthday stories and pictures!

Click here to see more pictures from the grandparent visit!

JP really enjoyed their visit too! In fact, he had so much fun that he finally conked out with his Boo-boo Bear in the living room! He NEVER does this! I just had to capture this moment and prove to him later than he indeed CAN take a nap! I'm not sure if it will work - but it's certainly worth a try!

JP is assuredly the most ready for Summer! We got the kids a little pool for the backyard. A day doesn't go by when JP doesn't venture out to the pool in some capacity or another! This picture was taken on a day when I told him that we didn't have time to swim - but he could play outside. So walking around in the pool - with his clothes and his cowboy hat seemed to be okay I guess.

What a summer I'm in for huh?! Anyone want to come spend the day with us? There's never a dull moment around here!

JP's adventures

2010-04-27T05:18:00.005-05:00

Last week I wrote about Jordan's School Fair - this week - it's all about JP. I think daily I'm amazed at how fast he's growing up. The things that he says lately are really both smart and funny! He definitely keeps me on my toes - every day!

Friday is John's "day off" from the office. We typically all take Jordan to school and then the three of us go out for breakfast. It's a nice time to give JP some personal attention - similar to what Jordan got before JP arrived on the scene. This past Friday JP wanted to get some boy glasses! He's been finding and wearing Jordan's Ariel & Hello Kitty glasses and I think he finally got fed up! He announced to us that he wanted some "boy" glasses! So as we were shopping for these manly glasses he found this orange hat. He put it on all by himself and announced that it fit perfectly and that he wanted to wear it home. I had to admit, I loved it on him! So I sent him, with the hat on, to find his Daddy (who was already at the counter buying the glasses!) John thought it was too perfect and he added it to the purchase!

After shopping for JP and some other weekend essentials - we found ourselves in a HUGE rainstorm! So we all went to Sonic for some slushes and corn dogs - to wait out the rain!

Later than same weekend - JP surprised us all with his bike riding skills! I think his training wheels are going to be short-lived!

It is never a dull moment around the Franklin house! I love it!

The School Fair

2010-04-22T09:42:00.005-05:00

Well... I was trying to decide what to post today about my wonderful family and as I sat at my computer - rather just staring at it - waiting for inspiration.... I landed on the title of my blog and realized that I started this blog to let family & friends know (okay, let's be honest - the grandparents) back in Texas - what life is like in The Big Easy - New Orleans.

Then it hit me! I haven't wrote about last weekend! Last weekend was Jordan's School Fair. Here in New Orleans, almost all of the private school have a School Fair. It's a fundraising opportunity for them. On any given weekend - around this time of year - you can drive down almost any road and see huge signs advertising their school's fair! They are much like a Texas Carnival!

Jordan looked forward to it for weeks & weeks. And then it happened... they began to bring in all the carnival rides to the school parking lot. Jordan was beside herself! Every day she would describe a new ride and share how should couldn't wait to ride it. There was the dragon roller coaster, the biggest & tallest slide she had ever seen and so many others. Daily she would give us a countdown as to the opening day of the Fair!

She did have a blast with her friends. We also got to hear her sing on the big stage along with the other K-2nd graders. What a way to spend a Saturday afternoon!

Here's a video of her performance on stage!

The Dragon Roller Coaster...

Her singing on stage....

Hanging out with her friend...

The airplane ride....

Her favorite... the fish tank!

More fun friends!

Treasures from my foyer floor!

2010-04-19T08:58:00.006-05:00

This morning Jordan has the day off from school. After breakfast I walked into the living room and saw this all over the foyer floor. It really made me smile! Mainly because I know Mrs. Peggy gave all this wonderful scrapbooking stuff to her - but also because the first thing she wanted to make with all her new found treasures was a Mother's Day card! Thank you sweet Peggy for teaching my children new arts & crafts skills! You're the best!

I can't wait to see what wonderful creations will come from my foyer floor!

Crescent City Classic - Revisited!

2010-04-14T06:51:00.003-05:00

Easter is always a busy time of year for our family. We don't have the luxury of traveling to see our family like most do - but it is always a special time for the 4 of us. We try to always do something that will truly make memories for our children. While here in New Orleans one of those things is the Crescent City Classic 5K Race. It happens on the Saturday morning before Easter every year. And our church has always had a water station @ the 1/2 way marker. Our very 1st weekend of living in New Orleans we participated and had a blast! This year was no different... well... except that our kids were a little older and could play in the water more!

Beginning of the race

JP helping setup the water station

JP loved watching the runners!

Jordan was my bestest helper!

Soon the fascination was with the HUGE HUGE water bin!

Jordan found us some more cups at a much needed time!

After the race... hanging out at the Degas House.

After the race - all wet!

The last "team" the run the race... brings a whole new meaning to "bringing up the rear".

Mardi Gras

2010-03-11T07:20:00.006-06:00

Wow! We had a great time at our first Mardi Gras in New Orleans! We went to 2 parades - Endymion & Bacchus. They were fabulous! And I even finally understood why we had to have a ladder and that as crazy as it sounds - it's actually pretty cool to put your kids up in a box on top of a ladder along the sidewalk! The kids, while yawning - kept saying - "Get me something cool Mommy!" And "Throw me somethin' Mista!" I'm actually looking forward to next year!

Here are just a few of the fun things that we got to see:

JP with just a little bit of his loot!

Jordan & JP reaching for beads!

A really fun tree @ Bacchus!

Getting ready for the parade... see all the ladders?

Parade is over - on the way home. Thankful for the wheels!

Catching Up...

2009-12-28T06:46:00.005-06:00

Okay, so Sunday night John poured me a wonderful cup of coffee and I got my laptop & found a cozy spot on the couch... all ready to get caught up with my blog - as promised. Then I realized that some of these old walls in our new home must still be plaster - for the wireless just wasn't making it to the living room. Strange - since it works all the way upstairs and outside - just not at that particular spot in the living room. So... I took that as a sign that I just need to rest and I would save blog writing for "another day".

I still am in total disbelief that I haven't written a blog since August! So much has happened since then and I'm going to do my best to give you the short version of the last 4 months.

Shortly after Jordan started Kindergarten - she enrolled in Kindergarten Soccer at her school. It worked much like Intermurals - it was just her class and they taught them the basics of soccer. For some reason we have been getting record amounts of rain - so we had make up dates for the make up dates. It seemed like they played soccer forever. But it was fun and I even made a few new friends with other Moms as a result! They didn't have uniforms, but you know that John wanted his little girl to be dressed for the occasion - so he got her a cute pink jersey.

In October, I had my 20 Year Reunion! I still can't believe it's been 20 years since I walked across that stage in my purple cap & gown! We had our graduation in the Exposition Center (you know, where they have the rodeo) and it was once said that we looked like a bunch of grapes in a cow patty! In preparation for my reunion I did Body For Life - a great nutrition and workout program. I lost 20 pounds and went from a size 16 to a size 6/8! I debated on posting before and after pics - but landed on no. I'm still not where I want to ultimately be - so maybe I'll post pictures when I'm finally at my target weight. But John & I had a blast at the reunion. So many people look exactly the same - however there were a few that were total shocks to me! One of my dear drill team friends took a great picture of me & John. We rarely get our picture taken so this one has become one of my favorites!

Halloween - this year the kids got to have a wonderful Halloween experience! One weekend they went to Trunk or Treat at Jordan's school and then on Halloween night a family in our church invited us to go on a hayride through their neighborhood and trick or treat. What a blast! Jordan was a Lufkin High School Cheerleader and JP was a Cowboy. Of course, everyone thought Jordan was an LSU Cheerleader since the two schools have the exact same colors. But every time someone would say, "Wow, you're an LSU CHEERLEADER!" She would correct them and say, "No, I'm from LUFKIN!" Way to go Jordan!

In November we went to Lufkin for Thanksgiving. Every year the grandkids make these cute turkey shirts and then pose for an obligatory photo for my Mom. We frame them up for her as one of her Christmas gifts. I wonder just how long they will be willing to paint their hands for her? I hope out of love for their Grandmother they will do this forever!

Now we're to December... Oh what a month this has been!!! When we initially moved to New Orleans we moved into this wonderful little house in a community called River Ridge. The house was adorable but smaller than we were used to and it was only supposed to be a temporary living arrangement. Our realtor in Houston said she could have our house sold within 72 days. So I didn't fully unpack us at this River Ridge house. Most of our furniture and other belongings stayed in storage (a carport covered with several tarps). This 72 days turned into 8 months! Finally we have taken care of the Houston house (lease to purchase deal) and were finally at a place where we could find a more permanent home. I am so grateful for John's patience in finding us just the right home. It seems like we spent every weekend driving around to every part of New Orleans looking for a place that was just right. We looked as far as the North Shore (those of you familiar with New Orleans will know what I mean here) and even went to the Westbank to check out Gretna and our search even took us to Luling. Then, as I said John found a great home in Old Metairie. We are so very blessed to be able to live in this awesome home! It is very much like in scripture when God said that He was going to do something so great that the people could only say, "God did this" - well.... us living in this house, in this part of town is exactly this situation! God showed us His amazing favor and provided everything to fall into place where we could live here.

Then the crazy schedule commenced! We moved in on Dec. 5th and by Dec. 15th we had everything in it's place and Christmas Decorations up and had the Journey Christian Church Staff Party. The next night we had the Journey Youth Party and on Friday had JP's 3rd Birthday Party! Whew! What a whirlwind week that was!

I can't believe my little boy is 3 Years Old!!! When did that happen?! He was all about trains this year. I truly haven't seen anything hold attention like trains. He has already learned their names - his favorites are Thomas & Percy. Of course, I'm not sure who likes them more - JP or John!!!

I think that brings us up to date at Christmas! The kids had a blast having Christmas in our new house! We got to hang lights on the house and even blew up our Charlie Brown lawn decorations and put them on the big front porch. The kids every day would run out to say good morning to Charlie Brown, Snoopy and even Woodstock! It was so cute!

It's been WAY too long!

2009-12-27T08:56:00.002-06:00

WOW! I can't believe I have abandoned my blog like this! I am so ashamed! Okay, before the new year gets here - I am committing anew! This week I am going to spend some serious time getting this updated and back on track. So much has happened since my last post. New house, school events, birthdays, and Christmas! Don't worry - I won't give a blow by blow account of each day, week, or even month - but I do promise to make you feel caught up on our lives and what we've been up to lately.

But for now - here's a picture of the kids getting ready for the holidays in our new home!

Much love and more to come later!

ps - most of you have probably even stopped checking this blog since it's been so long since I've written - I wonder if anyone will even see this!

"It's working!"

2009-08-18T17:16:00.002-05:00

Well, what a week this has been and it's only Tuesday!!! Yesterday, Monday, August 17, 2009 - Jordan started Kindergarten. She's attending Atonement Lutheran School. In her class there are 24 students with only 7 girls!! I feel for her teacher!!! She did so great and looks adorable in her gray plaid uniform! John & I couldn't be prouder! She was so brave and strong - she didn't cry one single time! Me and John however, now that's a different story!

We had fun finding her desk with all her fun supplies already laid out and waiting for her arrival. JP had a blast playing in her classroom. I don't think he wanted to leave!

I got to stay for chapel on the first day and it was great! The principal gave a great message about deciding today what kind of student you're going to be! It made me wish I was a student all over again!

CHECK OUT MORE PICTURES OF JORDAN'S FIRST DAY OF KINDERGARTEN!

Now that Jordan was all settled in school - we initiated Operation Potty Train - for Mr. JP. It's only Day 1 of training and we're doing pretty good. I haven't lost my cool - even though I've either been in the bathroom with him or on the floor cleaning up accidents. He's had more successes than accidents which I call an overall victory! I think he grew tired of going to potty as the day wore on - I think he thought it was all fun and games before and as the evening arrived he was kind of done! But we're doing the M&M reward thing and also have fun underwear that have Buzz Lightyear and Lighting McQueen on them and that makes it all the more fun!

I think the thing that made me laugh the most was what he would say when he would find sucess with #1 in the potty - "It's working Mommy - It's working!" I loved it! Yes, you might even say that's a great theme for both of my kids for this week - "It's working!" Whatever I might feel about my oldest going to Kindergarten and my youngest seeing his last days in diapers... I think it's evident that what we're doing is working!

Sorry - no pictures of JP on the potty!

Catching up! July Fun

2009-07-26T19:07:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it's been since June 21 that I posted anything! It has been a very full month. At the first part of the month the kids went to Lufkin to stay with my parents - Grandmother & Papa for an entire week. They do a "Grandmother & Papa Camp" for all the grandkids. Each year there is a theme with t-shirts, crafts, lessons, songs and everything! And don't forget the field trips! This year the theme was Facebooks - they studied and learned the books of the Bible. They learned that they can see more of the face of God through the characters in the Bible. Jordan is still singing the songs that she learned about the Old & New Testament. It's quite adorable to hear her version of books like Chronicles and Ecclesiastes!

This was JP's first year to go to Grandmother & Papa camp. We were very blessed that he got to go! Thanks guys! But before we could let him go - he HAD to get a haircut. But this was not just an ordinary haircut - this was his VERY FIRST haircut. He loved the place when we first got there. He even loved getting up into the airplane chair. However, when the clothes cover was put on, he let us know just how much he did not want to be there! He pretty much cried throughout the entire process. Then when she used the shears that was the last straw. But at the end... we had a VERY cute little boy with a big boy haircut. I think even he liked it better than the long hair! I am totally in love with his new look!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HAIRCUT PICTURES!

Later this month, a sweet lady in our church gave the kids one of her old small guitars. They kids LOVE it!!! Every morning it's a rush to see who can get to the guitar first. This is truly a test in sharing for them both. Margaret-Mary gave it to them at church - which they both entertained their friends with their guitar playing skills!

Orange Beach

2009-06-21T21:23:00.002-05:00

Our church youth group went to camp with StudentLife in Orange Beach, Al. John went to visit them on Monday night and he let us come with him! We had a blast! Jordan has been so excited to see the beach again ever since we left Houston. If she loved Galveston you know that she was thrilled with Orange Beach!!! They loved staying in the hotel and playing in the sand and yes - even loved the hotel pool. Thank you John for letting us have a little family getaway! While you were doing the Youth thing we had a blast!

Here are just a few pics from that trip!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE ORANGE BEACH PICTURES!

Random Fun Moments...

2009-06-12T15:07:00.003-05:00

This has been a great week! Everything from fun new adventures outside the house to just cute things around the house. You can definitely say that our children are following their Daddy's footsteps musically - they both LOVE to play his guitar. JP though is the spitting image of John when he plays any guitar. Oh... and he calls it "tar" - it is soooo cute! I really think they could make a great new duo!!

One afternoon we made a fun craft for John. JP & Jordan painted heart shaped frames for Father's Day. They both really got into and and had a blast. Jordan commented that it sure is fun being creative! I'm really going to take a cue from this statement and we're going to start having craft time every day. I was most surprised at how well JP did with the paints. Yes, he mixed them - but he only painted the frame! All floors, tables, and furniture were left as they were before we started!!!

Also this week we went to the Children's Museum. What a fun place!
CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE PICTURES FROM THERE.

We finally went on a family adventure to the Lakeside Mall. We took a trip to Orange Beach Alabama to visit the Youth at Camp. So while we were in the Disney Store we found all kinds of great deals on swim stuff for the kids. Here is Jordan showing off her new duds! We'll post pictures of the actual trip later...

Again - we're loving being in New Orleans and all it has to offer. Plus, I think our kids have really adapted to their new home.

End of May Activities

2009-06-03T19:18:00.005-05:00

I still can't believe my little girl is 5 years old!!! To Jordan's dismay the 10 day birthday celebration has finally come to a close. Her birthday was May 20th, and she's been receiving presents either from family members coming to visit or sending them in the mail and the grand finale was the family & friend party this past Saturday. And boy did she clean up! She wanted it to be a Littlest Pet Shop (LPS) party, but when we got to Party City no LPS's were to be found. So sweet little Jordan didn't miss a beat! She happily changed her mind to Barbie! In addition to all the regular party accessories, we found a great New Orleans bakery to make the best Barbie cake ever! Check it out!

She had loads of fun splashing around in the backyard. Thanks to all our friends who did both Littlest Pet Shop and Barbie. You made one 5 year old super happy!

Also to end out the month of May we took the kids, along with their new friends - Hannah and Rebeccah, to the New Orleans Aquarium. They had a blast! Jordan even was brave enough to pet a shark! JP on the other hand was fine just to meet new friends in the play area.

We are really enjoying all the fun sights of our new home. I think next on our agenda is the Children's Museum!

Every morning the kids struggle to let John out the door. At first they kiss him good-bye, but when it comes to him actually walking out the door they want to do everything they can to convince him he should really take the day off and play with them. This morning, Jordan tried the ever popular, "PLEEEAAAASSSSE"! It got her an extra hug and kiss. But then JP pulled out the clincher - he put John's cowboy hat and said, "Da-ey's hat! Da-ey's hat!" Then I got the camera and he said "Cheeeessse!" Too cute. It did buy the kids a few more precious minutes with their hero.

Parents 1st Visit

2009-05-26T20:40:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday my Mom & Dad, from Lufkin, Texas, came for their first visit to New Orleans. God gave us a wonderful gift... there was a 70% chance of rain for all weekend - but it didn't rain a drop every time we went out to show them the city! Thank you God!

They were here all weekend - but this is the only picture we got of them while they were here... right before they pulled away to go home Monday morning.

They enjoyed getting to meet all our new friends at Journey Christian Church as well as seeing fun things around town. They brought a birthday gift for Jordan - a huge Littlest Pet Shop House and some fun new books. They brought a little ambulance for JP that even came with a little EMS man. However, my Dad picked up these cute little flyshooters from Bass Pro Shop and these were the hit of the weekend! Imagine that! No worries Mom & Dad... the big toys were picked back up once you left! LOL!!!

We really are enjoying visits from our friends and family from Texas. This week our dear friend Christiana is coming and then Lynette in June and my sister and her family in July! Yeah! We can't wait to see you all!!!

Yes, we're still here!

2009-05-18T20:57:00.002-05:00

Hello Friends & Family!
I know it's been a while since my last entry - we are still here, we are still enjoying our life in New Orleans and we are still experiencing new and wonderful things.

On Mother's Day weekend we went with some new friends to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. What a great time we had! They have have a beautiful waterfront home there. We enjoyed a great time watching the kids swim, a nice boat ride, and awesome food! JP & John even got to enjoy a nice ATV ride around the neighborhood. Thanks Ben & Liz Licata, & your great kids - Nick, Zach, Ann Marie & Emily - for sharing your incredible home with us! We had a great time! I should also share with everyone that this gorgeous home is brand new! They had just bought their lakefront home just 7 weeks before Katrina hit. They found the roof of this home (version 1) at the front of the neighborhood. They had to rebuild after only enjoying their weekend home for 7 weeks! The resilience of this place and the people here still amazes me!

I still can't believe that we are so close to such pretty places. It only took us an hour to get there!

Recently I had the extreme honor of getting to serve in our church's nursery. What a great group of kids we have in the 1-2 year old class! Not than I'm biased or anything. But watching JP, Natalie and Griffin play together was truly a joy & a delight! Natalie is so sweet to share all the toys, and JP just wants to explore every part of the room and it's contents and Griffin, has such a sweet spirit that you can't help but smile when you're around him.

This next week my oldest child is turning 5! I just can't believe it! I really seems like yesterday I was giving birth to Jordan at West Houston Memorial (in a really small delivery room!). Just today she told me that "day after tomorrow she was going to wake up and look in the mirror so she could see what a 5 year old looked like". Is that cute or what?!

We love you all dearly!

A Day at the Zoo!

2009-05-07T15:20:00.002-05:00

On Thursday morning we decided we would load up and try out the zoo. We had a pretty light schedule at home and I couldn't imagine us spending the entire day at home. So we packed some juices and snacks and headed to Audobon Zoo! What a fun day it was! Jordan and JP alike really enjoyed all the animals. Nothing bored them and they never once got cranky! We enjoyed a ride on the carousel and the train - both were nice ways to get out of the sun! We ended the day with a nice lunch at the zoo.

Jordan said her favorites of the day were the Bengal White Tigers and the Flamingos - JP, well he really really enjoyed every animal and bird. As we would leave each area he would yell "Bye Bye" to them. They were really a great kids today. I think we've found their passion!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE PICTURES FROM OUR DAY AT THE ZOO!

My First Open House!

2009-05-03T14:35:00.002-05:00

I had the wonderful pleasure and honor of hosting the ladies of Journey in my home yesterday! It was such a great morning. We had tons of wonderful food and lots of great conversations. I got to know so many ladies much better. We had time to just visit and it was really nice. Some of the ladies even sat down with our wedding album and got to see a whole different side of me and John. I look forward to so many more events like this!

There were so many cars there - that my neighbor - a sweet little lady next door who has lived there since the 50's - came over to see what was going on! She talked for a while at the back door with Michelle and I! She even thought Michelle and I were sisters! What a compliment for me!

Of course I did a major faux pax when it comes to cooking! I made 3 things that I had never made before for ladies that have never had my cooking! Danger Danger! However, the fruit dip came out great! The Armadillo Eggs - were a hit even though I made them way to early on Friday, and the Monkey Bread was nice too - even though I burned it a little! Thanks to my Mom, Berdie, and a nice online recipe for helping me make the food part a hit! I couldn't have done it without you!

If you weren't able to come - don't worry! I'll be having more things at my house and would even love to just have a cup of coffee with you! Please feel free to call me anytime!

Here are some photos from the day:

The Best Day Yet!!!

2009-04-29T17:19:00.002-05:00

I love how God changes my mindset sometimes! Today, I woke up very early after having a less than a peaceful evening. Jordan took a long time to go to sleep last night, and just when I thought we had that "put to bed" no pun intended - JP started waking up! He woke up crying several times throughout the night. So I woke up this morning with heavy eyes - totally not ready to "take on the day".

But God stepped in and redeemed my day and my spirit. I had the wonderful pleasure of getting to visit with another new friend today! She has a little girl - Natalie - she is the same age as JP. All three kids played great together, while Michelle and I had a great time getting to know one another better. Then after JP's nap (Thank you Lord!) we picked up a little swimming pool for the kids and they had an afternoon of great summer fun!

Then... I got to cook a healthy dinner for my family - which I just LOVE to do!!! While cooking the kids played peacefully and without arguing in the backyard! Does this sort of thing really get to happen? I just love days like this!

Here are some pictures to enjoy... the kids playing in the water!

A Day at the Quarter

2009-04-26T17:17:00.002-05:00

Saturday we took the kids to the French Quarter for the very first time. We got up early, not by design, but because the kids just LOVE to rise with the sun - and decided to treat the kids to beneigts at Cafe Du Monde - guess we had to get this out of our system. We were thinking if we got there by 8:30am we would miss the long line and crowds. We were wrong! But the line moved relatively fast and the kids enjoyed watching the horse & buggy carriages arrive - they thought it was a parade!

We got to our seat and the kids dove right into the fun breakfast foods. Well, let me rephrase that... Jordan said they were yummy but tasted them with caution. I think she was concerned about getting too much of the powdered sugar on her clothes - not the case with JP. He took right to them!!!

After that we let the kids play in the park area of the French Quarter. They LOVED playing in the trees and even found a few flowers to bring to us. I can totally see us spending weekend mornings here often. They are so easily amused!

Of course we couldn't leave this are without getting their picture taken with General Andrew Jackson! Jordan LOVED this statue! JP just wanted to climb or scale it and did his best to do so!

After this we went across the street to see the Mississippi. They had to do some climbing to get there... and the entire time I'm thinking - "this is good for them and good for us - surely this will allow them both to take a nice long nap when we get home!"

Once we got to the top they wanted to go down the few little steps to actually put their feet in the water. John of course keeping a tight grip on JP - otherwise I think he would have jumped right in for a "swim" - smart Daddy!

We enjoyed the many of street entertainers along the walk. We also saw several people getting married in this same area! Way too cool!

The kids certainly had a blast! We ended a day with each of the kids getting a book about the French Quarter. I think this picture shows everyone just how much fun they had... JP was indeed ready for a nap upon arriving home!

Just a typical week...

2009-04-22T13:06:00.004-05:00

Well, I know I've been blogging about fun events that have been going on here in New Orleans - festivals, bible studies, Easter and the like. However, we do have some pretty normal days. Does such a thing exist? Normal? At least normal in the Franklin way... so I thought I would share a few of those moments with you all... Tuesdays have been tagged as "Jordan Days". Meaning she & I do something extra special and she gets to help me with a lot of other fun extra things. Here she & I made beaded necklaces and bracelets. We had so much fun!

Here is the finished and completed work of art. Jordan ended up making a beautiful pink and red set - adorned with pink hearts!

One day I realized that the kids were playing almost too quietly in Jordan's room. I must say - playing quietly almost NEVER happens! So imagine my surprise when I went to go check on them finding this! I don't think my kids are going to have any problems adjusting to Mardi Gras!

We typically try to narrow down "snack time" to just 2 times a day instead of "all-the-live-long-day" - and this is the result of having strawberries for one of their daily snacks. Who would have thought that 5 little strawberries could have caused this big of a mess!!! At least he really enjoyed them. Wednesdays are "JP Days" - and he wanted "more & more" strawberries! We had to change his clothes before we could go grocery shopping. Of course he had a cookie to top off the strawberries!!

Then finally today, Jordan came out of her room looking like a blast from my past! She's all ready for the roller rink! Only problem... she's only skated on carpet and our house here is "all tile all the time"! She still needs practice in learning how to skate - but at least she's going to look great while learning!!

These may not seem like "normal" days to everyone else - but we're sure having fun! Later today we're going to go clean out the car and take a walk on the levee (the kids' favorite thing to do!)

Women of the Bible Group

2009-04-19T14:05:00.001-05:00

Journey Ladies

2009-04-19T13:50:00.003-05:00

On Saturday morning I had a wonderful treat! I had the pleasure of attending one of the many groups of bible studies that meets throughout New Orleans. This was the Women of the Bible group. We had a great study and discussion on 2 fascinating ladies of the Old Testament - Sarai & Hagar. Margaret-Mary did a wonderful job leading us in a very vibrant conversation. I was so impressed with must how much these ladies know their Bible! I love spending time with fellow sisters of the word! I think we all went home with a little more wisdom than when we arrived. I think we all hope that we can learn from Sarai's mistakes and trust God more with our lives and let Him be in control and wait on His timing to reveal His plan for our life.

French Quarter Festival 2009

2009-04-19T13:20:00.003-05:00

The kids got to have their real first taste of New Orleans! On Saturday around 2pm we took the kids down the River to the French Quarter Festival. Jordan had a blast. All she really wanted was a t-shirt and a snow cone! Which you can tell from the pictures she totally enjoyed both! JP on the other hand was none too pleased to be confined to the stroller. He wanted to get "down" and get in the mix of everything. We all enjoyed the great music and general people watching. John & I took a side stop from our diet to enjoy a fish taco! Click here for more pictures from our day at the festival.

New Haircut!

2009-04-17T19:53:00.004-05:00

Okay, so about once or twice a year I get a really good (rather) significant haircut. I found this really cute salon just down the street from our neighborhood. Today was a great pampering day! At 10am I got my hair cut and then at 11:30am I had lunch with a new friend! We had a wonderful salad at this little cafe called "Cafe What?" I just love my husband for letting me have such a delightful Friday morning.

Okay - I know you're all wondering why I'm not posting a picture of my new haircut. Yes, I had about 5-6 inches (or more) cut off. And it's not for lack of trying. I took several pictures of myself - and well, just wasn't happy with them. I even took a few with both my camera and my cell phone. None of them seemed to do the haircut justice! So - I tried! I promise a photo will come later.

But for now - just know that the long-haired Penny that you know & love and is now stylin' a "new-shorter-new-improved do".

Fun in the backyard!

2009-04-16T19:11:00.006-05:00

Tonight we had a great meal! I'm really enjoying cooking again for my family. Tonight I cooked for them Baked Tilapia on a bed of salad greens. There was also grilled onions and bell peppers and sauteed cabbage. After dinner we all retired to the backyard. The kids enjoyed showing off their talents while John enjoyed a nice cigar. I was a proud Wife & Mommy - everyone was happy!
CLICK HERE FOR MORE BACKYARD PICTURES!

Crescent City Classic 2009

2009-04-14T16:28:00.000-05:00

Every Saturday before Easter there is a 10K that runs through New Orleans. It's called the Crescent City Classic. Our church mans the 3 mile mark water station. Our entire family participated in this and had a blast. Even Jordan did her part. Here you can see her in an over-sized t-shirt. She had such a great time lifting up water cups to the runners. Almost everyone that ran by her wanted to take water just from her! It was so adorable!!! She said next year she wants to wear her swimsuit because she got splashed with so much water!

Oh yeah... during the race I got bit by a caterpillar! I know it seems strange - but it was serious!

Our New Home

2009-04-14T16:14:00.000-05:00

Okay, here is a picture of our sweet rent house! It is so adorable. We absolutely LOVE the location of this house in relation to the city. The kitchen is super nice. I have plenty of room to cook amazing meals where Jordan can help me.

In the grassy picture with the truck... that big "hill" is the levee. Just on the other side of that is the Mississippi!

We're finally here & loving New Orleans!

2009-04-14T15:29:00.000-05:00

Well, I finally gave in to the pressure and created a blog. I hope that everyone will enjoy keeping up with us in this manner. I'll be posting pictures of the kids - as well as bits and pieces of our life here in New Orleans.

To update everyone... we're doing great here! We are living in a part of New Orleans called River Ridge. From our yard we can see the levee that separates us from the Mississippi! In fact our first few days here I was standing in our back yard and literally saw a huge boat (barge - who knows, I'm still learning) passing by! It was super cool!! Then this past Saturday we took the family up on top of the levee and took a nice stroll. There is a jogging path up there and I hope to start using that again soon. It was super cool to see the River that close up!!

I sold my t-shirt company right before we left Houston. I was very proud to have built something that had value and is continuing on in my absence. Sherry is doing an awesome job keeping Impress Me! alive. So for the first time since I was 16 I find myself unemployed. And I'm LOVING every minute of it. Today, all laundry will not only be complete but in it's proper place! What an accomplishment! Tonight I've prepared Lemon Caper Mahi Mahi with asparagus and pesto grilled tomatoes.

This morning Jordan and I made things to mail to our friends in Houston, made a butterfly craft and she helped me to make the marinade for the fish. Wow! I am having a blast being a Mommy!