Fun With Five

Ellie Katherine

2009-12-08T16:16:00.000-08:00

While Ellie was "performing", her big brother Trent was off to the side making faces, which apparently she didn't appreciate. She decided to take matters into her own hands...then quickly regretted the decision after she thought she had actually hurt him! I love how you can read her face like a book! Love that sweet baby girl!

The Surprise Pics

2009-11-14T11:16:00.000-08:00

Just a few of the pics from the boys weekend in Austin...they had sooo much fun and came home talking a mile a minute about all the players they met. They couldn't get over how big the guys were and how nice they were! What a special day for my boys and their Daddy!

Before the game waiting on the Longhorns to arrive....
Here they are with Aaron Smith, our friend of a friend...he had a great game, made some great tackles and even dislocated his thumb and had it popped back in socket-which my boys thought was sooo cool.

The boys with #32 Eddie Jones, defensive end for the Longhorns.

#2 Sergio Kindle, another defensive end for the Longhorns, and probably one of my boys favorite players. He wasn't in the room with all of the other players, but on their way to the car, they spotted him across the street. He was so sweet to stop and sign their balls and take a picture.

The boys with PawPaw. Thank you PawPaw for the tickets to the games, (and for the yummy key-lime pie you brought me home from Papadeauxs!).
What a fun boys weekend away!

The Surprise

2009-11-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

For those who know us, you will understand just how special this day is for my boys-all THREE of them...

My husband has been a Texas Longhorn fan since-well, all of his life. So when I met him, I became one as well. It wasn't as automatic as you'd think, but after 13 years together, I can say I am now a fan too. We have gone to many games together and as soon as the boys were old enough, we started bringing them along. The boys love it! They love getting to the stadium early so they can stand along the railings and watch the players warm-up. Getting an up-close glimpse of their favorite players is one of, if not the highlight of the whole experience for them. It's been especially fun these last few years because a friend of ours has a nephew that plays on Special Teams for the Longhorns, and so the boys feel like they have a special connection to one of the players. Which brings me to "The Surprise"...Thanks to B's dad we have access to Season Tickets, and we just happened to have tickets to the UCF game today, however last Sunday B and I were talking and because things have been really busy lately, and because we already had the chance to go to the Longhorn/Texas Tech game this year, we decided not to go to the game today. Well, the very next day I get an email from the mother of the Special Teams player that we "know", asking me to give her a call about the game this weekend. I was a little confused (how did she get my email, seeing that I really don't "KNOW" her or her son at all!!) and VERY curious. I immediately called B, read him the email and suggested that he give her a call right away and find out what this was all about. Of course, he couldn't hang up the phone fast enough and call her. :) So, turns out, she got wind of how much my boys love the Longhorns and going to the games, and thought it would be fun to give my boys a chance-if they'd be interested-to come into the locker room after today's game to meet the players, take some pictures and get some autographs.

WHAAATTT???!!!

How fast do you think my husband jumped on that? Are you kidding me? I could NOT believe it. What an opportunity for my sweet boys-B included!! Of course B asked me to come along, but, as hard as it was, I passed and told B to "hang up the phone and call your Dad and tell him!!!". He did and they got to work planning the surprised. We decided to keep all of it a secret. The boys knew NOTHING until Paw Paw pulled up in our driveway yesterday and told them to put on their shoes because they were going to the Austin!!! Oh, the look on their faces!! They were sooo excited-and they didn't even know the half of it yet! This morning they woke up early and headed to the Stadium. B needed to meet Mr. & Mrs. Smith to get their passes, and when they did, she told the boys what they were getting to do after the game! B called me right after and I promise you I could "hear" the grins on my boys faces while they each told me about their special surprise! I sooo wish I was there to see it for myself, but at the same time, I am so glad that they are getting to experience this with their Daddy and Paw Paw! What a special memory they will have for the rest of their lives! When I talked to Jake, I got a chance to remind him of the true Giver of this good gift...and his words were, "I know, Mom, I know! I can't believe it!". Well, believe it son, and honestly, as good as this is, with Christ, it only gets better!

James 1:17 "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

Hook 'Em Horns!!!
I'll be back next week with pics!!

Halloween '09

2009-11-07T07:07:00.000-08:00

Princess Ellie, Rocky Balboa and Elvis...

SCORE!!!

Hanging at the Brinkman's afterwards!
Fun, family, and friends-doesn't get any better than that!!!

Happy Fall!

2009-10-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to get motivated to update this blog for weeks now, but every time I thought about it, I also thought about how looong it had been, and all of the things that we have done since school started and quickly became overwhelmed! I am still not sure of where to begin, but we'll just see where this post takes us...

First, Ellie started her second year at KK! She loooooves it! She loves her teachers, her friends, her backpack, her lunchbox, and on and on it goes! We'll see how long this love affair with school lasts....she is my social child, and I have a feeling as soon as she realizes that not every teacher is going to give her a skittle for cleaning up or doing her work, she might be over it pretty quick! :)

Next, Trent turned 7!! We had a great time at his Carnival themed party! It threatened to rain all day, but held off until the party was over! I can't believe he is 7 years old!! Where have the years gone???

We had bat-spin races...

a water balloon toss.....
cookie cake...
and a jump house!!

The very next weekend we headed to Austin to watch the Longhorns play the Red Raiders! It was a fun time with the boys! We ate some yummy hamburgers at Hut's, then headed to the stadium to watch the players warm up and then up to our seats for the game! It was a really good game, which made it even more fun! :)
Posing in front of Tower! The boys were sooooo tired, it was after 11pm, extremely humid and crowded-but still a fun day.

So, that gets us through September....

October so far, has been a mix of weeks full of rainy, lazy days with not a lot to do - to crazy busy weeks full of Flag Football, Family Reading Night at school, Harvest Festival, Tyler Lee Football games, and the dreaded Flu (we think)...still to come this week - Costume Parade at KK, Pumpkin Carving, and Trick-or-Treating!!!!! I can't believe it's almost November!

My goal is to post our Halloween pics before Christmas! :) ha!
Happy Fall y'all!

Back To School

2009-08-24T12:01:00.000-07:00

Today was the big day for our family...first day of school! Everyone was excited and up early! The hallways were buzzing, full of kids and parents shuffling their kiddos to their new classes. When I got home, a wave of emotion came over me-time is passing-quickly.

As the Lord would have it, my devotionals for the day were all about trust...and releasing the ones we love into the Father's care. He gently and lovingly reminded me that they are much safer with Him than in my clinging hands and that when I release my children into His care, I free my hands so they can hold tightly to Him. The same presence that comforts me, comforts them. What a wonderful reminder-because they belong to Him, His presences goes with them.

Happy First Day of School Jake and Trent! It's going to be a great year!!!

I'm Out...

2009-08-17T15:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm officially out...out of ideas, out of energy (thanks to the 100+ degrees temps), out of patience, and out of plain ole' "umph", the kind of "umph" that makes you get up and actually want to DO something!!

This is our last week of Summer (boo, hiss!!!), and while I really do hate to see it go, part of me welcomes the new school year...so in honor of the new school year ahead, here are some of my favorite things about school!

*new school supplies
*a routine
*new school shoes! (do I still get some even though I've been done w/ school for quite some time now???!!!)
*new friends
*college football
*getting closer to my favorite season of all...FALL!!!

And in honor of our FABULOUS summer, here are just a few of my favorite moments from "The Summer of '09":

*swimming at MeMe & Poppy's
*visiting with the Cassels!!!!
*movie nights
*family bike rides
*our "rained out" Rangers game with my family
*the "Kacoons"-that's right I said "K-acoons" ;)
*movie day at the Glenney's
*playing Spades at my in-laws and kicking SERIOUS bootay!
*my weekend in Austin w/ B!!!
*Florida!!!!

I could go on and on...but like I said, I'm too tired!!!!

Happy last week of Summer!!!
(whew...I need a nap! hee hee...only in my dreams!)

Slow Down!!!

2009-07-14T12:09:00.000-07:00

This morning I was talking with a dear friend of mine who lives out of state about our Summers and what all we have been busy doing...and it hit me-Summer is almost over. I hate even typing those words. In a few short weeks, we will be school supply shopping, buying new school shoes, new school uniforms....and I will officially be the mother of a Forth and First grader, and a 3 1/2 year old who will be starting her 2nd year of pre-school.

How did this happen??

The realization has come at the perfect time...these past two weeks, we've had no plans, just long Summer days, full of fun, sun, playing, swimming, reading, resting, watching movies....and if I'm honest- arguing, boredom, attitudes, impatience-ALL of us-which is a part of it...but a hard part, and a part I was growing VERY weary of. Realizing that sooner rather than later, I will be sending 2 of my 3 off to school for hours each day, is forcing me to stop and change my perspective. How many times did I hear it when they were babies??.... "Enjoy this time, it will go so fast!!" THEY WERE RIGHT! It DOES go so fast. Too fast.

So, thank you Lord (& Amy) for reminding me of that, and help me Lord, to keep that perspective when I'm breaking up the next argument, or hearing "I'm hungry" 5 minutes after I've just cleaned up breakfast...this will pass....all too quickly I'm afraid.

Summer Days

2009-06-25T12:38:00.002-07:00

Happy Summer!!

Miles of Piles

2009-05-21T12:04:00.001-07:00

Lately my house has been overtaken by piles...

Some are mine, most are not.

So today I decide to combine all of the little piles that I found in my kitchen/breakfast/den area and make one big pile.

Here is it...

And that doesn't even include the 4 bedrooms, hallway, dining, living room and bathrooms!
The kids will be thrilled when they see this waiting for them to go through and put up! :)

Put Me In Coach

2009-04-21T10:16:00.000-07:00

It's Springtime and you know what that means for our family.....

BASEBALL!!!

So, if you call and we're not home, we're at the ballpark cheering on our boys!
Go D-Backs and Cubs!!!!

And little sister is having her own fun at school this year making new friends and just being the little social butterfly that she is!!!

It's crazy busy some days, but it's fun!
Happy Spring!

Where to Begin????

2009-04-18T07:45:00.000-07:00

Y'all, I can't even believe it's been so long since I've posted anything. For a while, I contemplated just deleting the whole blog because I felt so bad about it! I have been a bad, bad blogger, but I'm gonna try and do better!! :)

Since I seriously have no idea how and where to begin catching up, I'll just take this opportunity to invite y'all to my very own pity party, where I will be serving myself a HUGE slice of "humble pie"....

I am convinced that I have the worse case of Poison Ivy known to man. Seriously. It's baaaaaddd. Long story short, B gets poison ivy, one week later, suspicious spots pop up on me....I ignore it until I feel like cutting off the right side of my body due to all of the itching, (oh the burning and itching!!! Will it ever end????) then I finally give in and go to the Dr., who kindly informs me that I do NOT have poison ivy, but shingles instead. WHAT???? So, I spend the next week FREAKING out over the fact that I have shingles. I google "shingles" no less than 215 times trying to figure out how I ended up with this....all the while, milking this thing dry...poor B!!! He has "NO IDEA how I feel", "I am soooo tired", "I can't beliieeeeevvveee this is happening to me", and "no! I am not cooking, are you crazy? I have shingles for goodness sakes!"...on and on and ON-until yesterday, when I had to go BACK to the Dr. (my REAL DR. this time, not just the random Dr.-who by the way, I am sure is a lovely person, but apparently needs to brush up on his studies a bit) who informs me that I have poison ivy.

Um, I'm sorry, what?

Yes, poison ivy, which now, by the way has spread ALL OVER MY UPPER BODY due to the misdiagnosis! So, she then proceeds to give me the BIGGEST SHOT EVER in my boo-tay, puts me on some serious steroids and sends me home....tail between my legs, face a little red (from humiliation, not the rash), and a little more humble.

So, B, um, sorry about all that whining, and Ali, thanks for bringing us dinner that night, and Mom, thanks for coming over that Sat. and Shan, Kalen, Stac, and Renae, thanks for reading all of those pitiful emails....uh, yeah, I think the Lord has used this to reveal some heart work that needs to be tended to... :)

Virus, Get Thee Behind Me!!

2009-02-05T16:51:00.000-08:00

We've been sick. When I say we, I mean Jake, and now Trent.
Just when you get one well, another one bites the dust. I can't really complain...it's very mild, just annoying, :) fever and headache that goes away once the Motrin kicks in. I don't mind being at home, actually, I would say I am a homebody, but 3 days in, and looking at the prospect of 3 more days in...and that's if Ellie doesn't catch it, I feel myself wanting to throw a pity party....BUT then I read a post like this, and realize, yeah, I can do this any day.

Perspective, it's a good thing!

A Not So Broken Arm

2009-01-21T06:04:00.000-08:00

Not too much going on around here these past two days. After our trip, it has been a week and a half of getting back into our groove. Catching up on laundry, puppy-sitting for my parents while they were away, a great dinner date with some old friends and enjoying the long weekend.

There have been a few high-lights, one of which was the dreaded phone call from the school nurse....It was last Thursday-I had just put Ellie down for her nap, was about to start ironing, when the phone rang. It was the school nurse. Uh-oh. She proceeded to tell me that Trent fell at Recess and that another little boy then fell on top of his arm, and that it was hurting him a lot and it was even a little swollen and I should come get him and have some x-rays taken. Okay...at that point I have to admit the adrenaline started pumping. I'm not the parent to handle broken bones...but here's the thing, B was out of town that afternoon, so apparently I was the parent. Of course, my mind starts to race...here is a little glimpse into the thought process that followed...

Ellie, she's asleep, so I'll call mom to come watch her...oh no, mom is out of town, and oh yeah, I have the puppy, I need to crate her...okay, I'll wake Ellie up and take her with me...that should be fun.
Now Jake, oh shoot, he's off campus today, how am I going to get Jake? I can't wait until 2:30 for Jake to get back to campus before I take Trent to the Dr. -and speaking of Dr. do I just take him, or do I call???
I call the Dr. - "no we don't do x-rays, but if you want to make an appt. we can schedule you one for later this afternoon and if he does need x-rays, we will send you to the other office, etc."
O.K. Now what?
Call Kelli, "Uh, Kelli, this is one of those days..."
(Thankfully, she stepped in rescued Ellie, picked up Jake, and sent me to a place that took x-rays and got us in and out in less than 45 minutes-I know, a rare medical miracle.)

So back to Trent, when I arrived at the school, I was mentally prepared for the worst. What I ended up seeing was my precious middle son, flanked on each side by the nurse and his teacher, with a make-shift sling on his arm and a slight grin on his face. Hhhmmmm. He doesn't look like he is in that much pain. Well, maybe he is just being extra brave. I hugged him and got a good look at him and right then knew, uh, he is going to be just fine, but after the nurse cornered me and suggested that I might even want to let an Orthopedic Surgeon look at it, I thought maybe he is just being REALLY brave, and that even though he can move it in any direction without even flinching that it could still be broken...I'm not a Dr., what do I know? However, maybe I should become a Dr. because as my gut suspected, he was fine. No break, and by the time we got back to Kelli's to pick up the other two, he was jumping on the trampoline and riding the electric scooter. Oh well, maybe he just needed a little extra TLC-and that, he did get. The funny thing is, that by the time Kelli got back to school to pick up Jake the rumors were flying...Trent broke his arm!!! The bone was sticking out!!! Ha! I bet there were a lot of disappointed little Kindergarteners yesterday when he returned arm-in-tact. Oh, and those of you who know Trent, won't be shocked to read that he proceeded to wear the make-shift sling all weekend...not so much at home, but mainly any time we went anywhere in public or had company. Oh yes he did. He said it made him feel tough. Oh these little boys-how boring life would be without them.

Colorado Springs

2009-01-12T08:54:00.000-08:00

Oh. My. Goodness. There are no words I can use that will do this trip justice, but I have to try. First of all, thank you again B. What a weekend! And thanks again Mom, Dad and Glenney's. The kids had so much fun...we appreciate y'all so much.

Okay, here's a quick recap...okay, so it turned out to be not-so-quick of a recap after all!
Friday morning...up before dawn to catch our flight-stinks getting up that early, but it paid off, because we were in Colorado by 10 am!
First of all, it was C-C-C-OLD! When we left DFW it was almost 70 degrees...at 8am!!! When we landed in Colorado it was about 40 degrees colder, with winds about 25 mph AND SNOWING!!!! Yippee! So, first things first, we found our rental car...which was halarious! It was ELECTRIC BLUE...really, it was purple, and this picture doesn't do it justice, but you get the idea!

So, we loaded the car, and headed downtown to find this place that we had heard would be really good for lunch...and it was! I'm still dreaming about that table side guacamole! After lunch we walked around and went through some of the shops downtown.

Next, it was on to the Garden of the Gods. Okay, so-not so hip on the "Gods" part of it...but since I know the Truth and the Creator of all things, it was a lovely and stunning sight to see! :) The rock formations are amazing!!

We had to make a snowball to show the kids!
It was finally time to check-in, so off we went to find the Broadmoor! It is a beautiful place. The room was fantastic, so big, with a mountain view! Next on the agenda, was a NAP! Ahhh, yessss. It was lovely. When we woke up, I opened the curtains and it was snowing HARD! The sky was gray, and it was coming down hard. You would have thought we were a couple of 8 year olds, who had never seen snow! We jumped up, threw on our clothes and headed out to enjoy it! At this point, I have to say, I think we both for a moment wished our kids were there to see it....but the moment passed! Hee Hee! :)

We stopped by the fire-pit to warm up...see?? Cozy!
That night we went to dinner at the Golden Bee. It was like an old Irish Pub. The fish and chips were great and at 8pm, they passed out song books and a man came out and we all sang along as he played the piano. :) The waitresses at random times, for no apparent reason, would throw these sticky bees at you throughout your meal...check out B's, bees!
Saturday the weather was clear, cold and beautiful! We worked out, and then decided to take the Cog Railway up to the top of Pike's Peak. It was breathtaking...literally!!! The views were spectacular, and we were even able to see some horned sheep, which they said was rare for this time of year. The temperature at the top was -15 degrees, with the windchill it was -60 degrees, yes, that is right...-60! Needless to say, we didn't stay at the top long. Which was great, because as I said, it literally took my breath away. It felt like an elephant was sitting on my chest the entire time we were at the top!
(one of the views from the top)
It took forever for us to warm up after that trip, so we hung out in our room watching a movie- so relaxing!!! Saturday night we dressed up for dinner and went out for steak, which was delicious! Before we headed out for dinner, check out the view from our room....
I know, beautiful!
So, that's about it in a nutshell-of course it was all this and so much more! A wonderful weekend away, but today, it's back to reality, which really isn't all that bad either! :)

Leaving On A Jet Plane

2009-01-08T12:12:00.000-08:00

THIS...

is where I'll be in less than 24 hours thanks to my hubby! (The Broadmoor, in Colorado) Of course it won't look like this in January...instead we'll be surrounded by snow-capped mountains, a warm fireplace, enjoying lots and lots of yummy coffee, uninterrupted conversation and snuggles!
I love you, B. Thanks for planning such a special time for us! And a big thank you to MeMe and Poppy and The Glenney's for keeping the kids for us! I can't wait!!
I'm off to pack!!!

Christmas Holidays

2008-12-23T10:44:00.000-08:00

We are well into our Christmas holidays, and with Christmas Day only 2 days away, I thought I'd stop for a moment and record some of the memories we have already made before the big day arrives!!

B and I started off our holidays with something that we have now officially declared a tradition...

Every year we have watched this movie, and every year before we start it, I worry that it won't be as funny the 10th time around, but thus far, Sparky has yet to disappoint!! Each year it's a different scene that gets me, this year it was Cousin Eddie and his too tight, white v-neck sweater with his black dickie-turtleneck underneath!

The next thing on our agenda was taking the kids on the "Polar Express" train ride! What a fun night! It was just the five of us. The kids were so excited, and looked so cute in their Christmas pajamas, if I may say so myself! This has been the year of the "big question"....is Santa real??? We haven't said yes or no, we just turn it around and ask them what do they think, and so far, I think they all still believe, but Jake is a little skeptical. I really think deep down he knows it's B and I, but he still plays along. I was worried that when Santa made his big appearance on the train it might freak Ellie out a little, but boy was I wrong! She didn't even flinch! She loved him! It was a fun family night!!

Looking out the window at the North Pole...
Getting some Hot Chocolate, yum!!
Three little cuties...
The big man himself!!

Ellie getting a jingle bell from Santa!

The next week was full of class parties and last minute gift shopping! After that, we spent Sunday at Maw Maw's for Christmas with my Dad's side of the family. We used to do this on Christmas Eve, but since all of us are married now, with kiddos of our own and in-laws to visit, we have moved it to the Sunday before Christmas. Christmas Eve at Maw Maw and Senka's is a big part of my Christmas memories from childhood. One of my favorite memories is when we all crammed in and spent the night over there, and my brother Donnie and I decided to sneak in to try and see what Santa brought, not realizing that my aunt Janet and uncle Benny were asleep in the den and we almost got busted! :)

Yesterday we delivered some goodies to our sweet neighbors and friends, and today after a couple more deliveries, we are now home for good. The weather is cold and rainy, so it makes for a good day to stay in and slow down! My goal is to try and soak it up this year...every moment. Not to let the craziness get to me, and to keep my heart focused on Christ. It seems that I have this goal each year, but in the hustle of moving three children from celebration to celebration and all of the unwrapping and gift giving, I can get caught up, or even worse, grumpy, and before I know it, the day has come and gone and the moment has passed. Oh I pray it is different this year! :) So, I'm off to do just that, slow down and enjoy my kiddos!!

From our family to yours...Merry Christmas!!!

Sorry this is so long, I was having a moment!

2008-11-28T12:40:00.000-08:00

Today we began the process of putting up all of our Christmas decorations. We've got both trees up-one half decorated and the other waiting patiently in our formal room for it's turn to be adorned with lights and ornaments. My mantle is covered with garland, waiting for stockings to be hung-and the other three tubs of Christmas trimmings will soon be emptied out until almost every nook and cranny is a display of Christmas cheer! In the midst of emptying tubs and checking lights, my decorating frenzy was brought to an abrupt halt, as one particular corner I was decorating revealed something that I could not ignore...

This will be our first Christmas in this house. The Lord blessed us this year with such a wonderful place to call home-nothing spectacular or "jaw dropping" compared to many homes around town, but to us, a perfect place to settle in and raise our children. So, with this new home, came a new decorating challenge...where to put all of our Christmas stuff?? Last Christmas was a no brainer-in our old home I knew where everything went-kid tree here, big tree there, garland here, snowmen there, and so on. But not this year. So, I spent much of the morning eyeballing different shelves and corners trying to mentally place everything. When I pulled out our nativity scene, I headed towards the table where I've placed it for the past 7 years, but before I reached it, I spotted a place on our bookshelves that I thought just might work. The bookshelves are the focal point of our Family Room and I liked the idea of the nativity being where we spend most of our time, a place where we could enjoy it and it would hopefully serve as a reminder of what this season is really all about. I began to move some things around to make room, and when I finally had everything positioned just right, I stepped back to take a look...and that is when I noticed something. It was a large cross (that I have there year 'round) hovering, overshadowing, our nativity scene. It sent chills down my spine. How perfect. The cross overshadowing the manger, foreshadowing the very reason why this birth is worth celebrating. My redemption-birthed of a virgin, paid for by the precious blood shed on the cross. What a powerful picture it was for me and a perfect start to this season. Shortly afterwards, I sat down to read, and my Bible fell open to Philippians 2:3-11.
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death- even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
Lord, may this be my attitude this Advent Season...may I remember not to look to my own selfish interests, but to serve my family and others in humility, always mindful that You came to Earth as a helpless baby, taking the very nature of a servant to save me from death, so that I may live to proclaim that You are Lord, to the glory of God the Father, amen.

A Good Day Indeed...

2008-11-24T15:03:00.000-08:00

Today our Thanksgiving Holiday officially began...the boys are out of school all week, and Miss Ellie is out too! We are having Thanksgiving here this year, so we have no where to go, nothing to pack, and really nothing we have to do, so that means we'll be taking the days slow, and doing lots of playing and hanging out. Just my style!

Today, we definitely started out slow, the boys just got back from a boys weekend with Daddy, so they were slow to wake up, but things sped up quick once they realized that Daddy recorded Rocky 3 for them. They quickly stripped down to their "boxing shorts" and went after it! After that we cleaned up the house, I started some laundry, and one of Jake's friends from school came over to play. After lunch, we took Jake's friend home, put Ellie down for her nap and I poured a cup of coffee and read a little while the boys played. Once Ellie woke up we worked on our Thanksgiving tree, then headed outside and played a little "Horse", some "Mother May I" and finished off with a round of "Red Light, Green Light". We came in and warmed up with a cup of hot chocolate, and now I am off to get ready for a date night with Hubs!

Yep, I'd say it's shaping up to be a good day indeed!

Twelve Years Ago Today....

2008-11-11T11:49:00.000-08:00

B asked me to marry him!! On a random Monday night-Veteran's Day, he completely surprised me by proposing. It's hard to believe that it's been twelve years, but in some ways, it's hard to remember life before him. He truly is my best friend...and so much more!

So, in the midst of our crazy life, I just wanted to stop and tell you, B, how much I love you...I love our crazy life together, and I love what God is teaching us, even today, about this life He has called us to! I can't wait to see where the next twelve years take us! It is my privilege and honor to be your wife-I love you.
M.

Fall Favorites

2008-10-20T11:14:00.000-07:00

Today the weather is beautiful. So pretty in fact, that Ellie and I decided to have a picnic lunch in our backyard. As we were eating our lunch, I began thinking about all of the reasons why I love Fall. Reasons like cooler weather, the leaves changing colors-who doesn't love that?-pumpkins, scarecrows, mums, pumpkin patches, college football-HOOK 'EM, #1, how 'bout that??!!-my pumpkin spice candle, Trick-or-Treating with my kiddos, Pumpkin Spice Lattes, and then I thought about Deer Season. Okay, stay with me...

I grew up in a hunting family...between my Papaw, Daddy, brothers, uncles, etc...come Fall season, someone was heading somewhere to kill something! Now, my mother has never been much of a hunter, but growing up, somehow my Daddy convinced us to tag along at least once or twice during the season. Thinking back over those trips today has brought back some special and fun memories of our times together as a family...here are a few of my favorites.

~playing "freeze out" on the way down to the lease-when it's really cold out, you roll down every window in the car and the first one to roll their window up was the LOSER!
~watching for deer on the way down
~all of the "rabbits" that would suddenly jump in front of our car, causing my Daddy to SLAM on the breaks just as one of us was drifting off to sleep! (sound dangerous??)
~road burgers
~'neakin in the deer lease truck
~all of us crammed into the tiny camper
~watching Daddy jump out of the truck and kill what I thought was the biggest deer I had ever seen!
~deer lease breakfasts-yummy!
~sitting around the campfire at night listening to Jeff Foxworthy's tape "You might be a Redneck"...right after it first came out
~killing my first doe with Daddy
~laying in bed that night and listening to my older brother tease me with cries of "Mama, Mama", when I told him how her babies were right there when I killed her! (Sidenote: I did not know they were right there...Daddy had me looking through the scope which only let me see what was directly in front of me...smart move on his part, 'cause had I seen those babies, I don't think I could have pulled the trigger!)
~singing Ray Charles songs as we rode around the lease looking for deer
~listening to Brooks & Dunn's song "Neon Moon" over and over and over again, all because a certain someone in our family was missing another certain someone-who, by the way, is now a part of our family! :)

I know these memories don't make any sense to most of you, but to me, these are precious memories of my family. We weren't perfect-FAR from it, and we didn't always get along, (still don't), but we are family. I think that is really why I love Fall so much. When the weather changes, it makes me want to pull my family close and snuggle, when the holidays come-I want to be with my family, when I'm watching the #1 Texas Longhorns (sorry, I had to put that in there again-it may not last much longer!) there is no one I'd rather watch with than my sweetheart, and nothing makes a Pumpkin Spice Latte taste better than when it's shared with someone you love, (or delivered to you by someone you love)!

So, go and enjoy your family this Fall!

No time to Blog

2008-10-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess technically I am blogging right now, but I am only blogging to say "I have no time to blog"! And really, as I type this, I realize that this probably isn't necessary because the few people who actually read this already know that I have no time to blog, because they have listened to me vent about how crazy-busy life has been lately. :) Anyway, really, I hope to catch up soon, and post pictures of baseball, playing, birthday parties, etc....but for now, I am spending my "free time" catching up on laundry, ironing, playing with kids, and out at the ballpark...and when I can, enjoying a quiet moment here and there. :) Hopefully, I'll be back at some point with some pics!

School Days

2008-09-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Well, 2 weeks in and we've already been bit by the bug! :)

After 2 days in preschool, Ellie spent the weekend producing some diapers of "questional" proportions! She never acted like she felt bad, but her appetite was definitely decreased, so I figured something was up. Then it happened...last night at about 9:30, Jake came out of his room to inform us that his stomach didn't feel quite right...an hour later, he was producing some vomit! On the up side, it seems to be a "one and done" virus, meaning he went to bed and slept all night and is driving me insane today wanting to go outside and play football and all sorts of forbidden activities for "sick" children!!! I don't think I'll have to worry about him trying to play "hookie" anytime soon-he has figured out that staying home from school=no fun!!!

Despite our bug infestation, the first two weeks of school have been wonderful! Trent LOVES Kindergarten and is really into reading books now! Jake has stepped right into 3rd grade without missing a beat. He is the type of child that really thrives in school- the structure, the schedule-he is very self-motivated, so unlike me it's not even funny. And sweet Ellie, she loves preschool. She loves her teacher, her friends, her "pack-pack"-so much so that I am having to remind myself not to get my feelings hurt when she walks right into her room and never gives me a second glance! :)

I am enjoying getting back into a morning routine. My favorite part is getting up early with B and drinking our coffee and having our quiet times side by side. I used to have my quiet time in the afternoon during naps, but I realized this Summer, I couldn't wait that long! I pretty much need to soak myself in the Word first thing, before I have an opportunity to do any permanent damage! :)

And as an added bonus, the weather has been glorious here!!! Have I mentioned that Fall is my absolutely favorite season? (Followed closely by Christmas) I love the crisp mornings, the changing leaves, the pumpkins! I am fully aware that I still live in Texas, which means tomorrow it could be 100 degrees, but I am soaking this cooler weather up while I can!!

So, here are a few pics of the kids on their first day of school:

Farewell Summer!

2008-08-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

*Warning, I'm playing catch-up so this is long! :)

The last days of Summer are here. On Monday morning we will set our alarm clocks, rise with the dawn and begin a new season once again.

I can hardly believe that Jake will be in the third grade. How has it gone so fast? I know all moms feel that way, but I guess sometimes the days seem so long that when this feeling rises up within me, it often surprises me. It literally feels like yesterday that it was just the two of us playing toys, reading books, singing songs, fixing snacks-and yet, 8 1/2 years have past! I kid with him sometimes and tell him I'm not letting him go into third grade, and that he can't grow any bigger, not one more inch-but inevitably he keeps growing! :) I am so proud of the young boy he has become. Even at such a young age, he has a passion for God's Word and a compassion for others that I know comes from the Lord. B and I are praying that this year the Lord will increase that passion and love for others and that Jake will begin to use these gifts to "minister" to others-other kids in his class, or on his Baseball team, teacher, or anyone for that matter! (Eph. 5:1-2) Jake is a special little guy, and even though I really am going to miss him during the day, I am really excited to see him grow, and to see what the Lord has in store for him.

Now, don't get me started on Trent Carter! My buddy is off to Kindergarten! My little entertainer is off to "entertain" his new teacher and classmates. And what a show it will be! I'm not sure what Ellie and I will do without our Star Wars reenactments, Bibleman shows, our afternoon Longhorn football, baseball, basketball games, and the countless other shows he comes up with. :) I am going to miss that little boy so much-but he is ready. He is so ready! Our prayer for Trent is that even though he is young, that he will indeed set an example for others in everything he does. (1 Tim. 4:12) Being the younger brother is tough sometimes, Jake (from Trent's perspective) seems to get a lot of attention and praise, and of course everyone knows that Jake gets to do EVERYTHING-but we are praying that God will show Trent that he is special and unique in his own way and that He has a tailor-made plan for his life, that will fit him perfectly.

And to top all of this off, Ellie is going to start "KK" two days a week! That is just crazy! She is as excited as she can be-for not really knowing what she is getting herself into! She has her "pack-pack" all ready, with her "name on it", and every time we drive by her school she yells out "Ellie's schoooool"! One of her best little friends is going to be in her class, and really they are more like sisters, (being only 9 weeks a part), they have been together, literally, their whole lives. Shannon and I are praying extra hard for their teacher! We have a feeling it won't take her long to figure out that Ellie and Kate already know each other and have been in a few "scraps" over toys before! :) Good luck with that! B and I are really enjoying Ellie. She is a firecracker, to say the least. She is FULL of joy and personality. Our prayer for her is that as she grows, God will continue to shape and mold her into the woman He has called her to be, and that one day she will be like a "pillar carved to adorn a palace" (Ps. 144 :12) full of His beauty and strength.

So that's my farewell to Summer....but before I close, (I sound like I am preaching a sermon) I'll share a few (ha! more like 12!) of my favorite pics of the Summer!

Sweet girlfriends.

Sword fights!

Summer Camp!

Craziness...

Older brothers'influence:

The older brothers!

Two of a kind!

Best lookin' 8 year old in town!

You got me!

A little girltalk.

Glow sticks rock!

Pure Joy!
Here's to a great Summer!

If you have a second...

2008-08-13T12:36:00.000-07:00

Carolyn Mahaney and her daughters over at their blog "Girl Talk", are doing a week long series on Homemaking, and how to instill in our daughters a love for home and family. If you have a sec go check it out, it will be well worth your time.

Healer

2008-08-04T19:52:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I came across a new song on Hillsong's latest cd, and I have not been able to get over it. The story behind the song is very moving, and I think that is what initially captured my attention, however, the lyrics are so powerful, that the more I've listened to it, the more I am realizing that it is exactly what my heart is crying out for.

Healing.

I know that God is asking me to let go of something that I've held onto for many years-something that I don't even like about myself, yet somehow have found myself defaulting to over and over again. I want to let it go-I need to let it go-it has to go. But as much as I want it gone, I am afraid. Afraid that I can't let it go-afraid of what it will take to let it go. Tonight as I was doing my Bible study, the author (Kelly Minter) was talking about the difference between surrender and trust, and how surrender is more of an issue of our wills, but trust is an issue of the heart. It hit me like a ton of bricks, that while most of my life (I say most, because I know I still have areas that I haven't completely surrendered to Him) is surrendered to Christ, I don't trust Him in this particular area that He is asking me to let go of. This lack of trust is one of the things that has kept me bound to this for so many years. But tonight, I am choosing to trust Him. I am choosing to believe that HIS ways are right, and that He is good-and just like my mother said to me today (talking about a totally different subject) whenever He asks us to surrender or let go of something, somehow He always replaces it with something far better than we could have ever imagined...ultimately, HIMSELF.

You hold my every moment,
You calm my raging seas.
You walk with me through fire,
and heal all my disease.

I trust in You,
I trust in You.

I believe You're my Healer,
I believe You are all I need.
I believe You're my portion,
I believe You're more than enough for me.
Jesus, You're all I need.

Playing Catch-up

2008-07-31T13:14:00.000-07:00

Oh my, I can't believe how long it has been since I've posted. I don't even know where to begin! This Summer has been wonderful-and it's gone by soooo fast. Only a few weeks left before school starts!
Speaking of school, it dawned on me the other day, that these last few weeks of Summer will be the last that I will have all 3 kids home for a while! With Trent starting Kindergarten and Ellie starting KK, 2 days a week, I am on the verge of a new season of life. Isn't that how it goes? Right when you get the hang of one season-used to the "climate", get the hang of the routine, a fresh wind blows in with a weather change! But as always, God remains faithful and constant through it all and He will bring us through this change, just as He has all the others!
But before I get too ahead of myself, here are a few pics of what's been going on these past few weeks!

For starters, Ellie got her first haircut! She has beautiful hair, but it was becoming a bit unruly, so we decided to cut a little off. She did great, and she looked so big after she was done! I am thinking we are going to go even shorter next time. I've always been a sucker for little girls with cute bobs!

The boys enjoyed a day of golf with Daddy! They had a BLAST! It was hotter than hot out there, but they didn't care! They had Daddy all to themselves and they loved every minute of it! Here they are getting ready to go...

We also attended our dear friends, the Bryans' commissioning service. They are hoping to move to Quito, Ecuador soon to work with a mission agency down there. It was a sweet service, and although we are sad to see them go, we are excited to see what God has planned for them. After the service some of us gathered over here and hung out for a while. It was crazy with all of our children running around, but it was also very sweet to see how God has grown our families! Whew!

FOURTEEN CRAZY KIDS = FIVE CRAZY MOMS!!!

And last but not least, B and I celebrated our 11th Anniversary! We had a wonderful 24 hours away at the Four Seasons, and a fun and delicious dinner with the Thedfords and the Bryans and we even enjoyed a full moon!! ha! I love you B!

Okay, so that's it for now...sorry it was so long. I'll try to post some pics of our family trip soon! Have a great Thursday!!

I Love America!

2008-07-09T15:04:00.000-07:00

I am a bit slow getting this post up, but slow is our pace we try to keep during the Summer! We had a great Fourth of July! Lots of food, fun and family! We didn't have all of our family together this year, which made it a little quieter! ha ha! We did miss you Mom and Dad, BT and Kdog! Here a few pics from our day! Thanks to "Uncie" Donnie!! You were a great boat driver! The kids had a blast on your new tube!

All loaded up and ready to go!! This was Ellie first time out on the boat this Summer, and even though she was nervous at first, she ended up LOVING it!

Cousins are so much fun!!

Sparklers always take me back to my childhood!

Okay, y'all...I can't EVEN believe I am posting this hideous picture of me,(note to self, put on a hat after the boat ride!ugh!) but I wanted you to see this nasty catfish I caught! YUCK! We were fishing for brim, but this beast ended up on my line and almost broke my sad little pole! Thankfully, B was there to save the day and get set him free, 'cause there was no WAY I was touching him!

I wasn't the only one who got lucky that day! :)

I love this picture! Ellie is so blessed to have such a sweet Daddy!

All and all it was a fun day! Thanks MeMe and Poppy for letting us use your lakehouse and boat while you were away!

The Honeymoon is Over

2008-06-25T13:09:00.000-07:00

No, I am not talking about my marriage...:), instead I am talking about our three weeks of "honeymoon" that we have had this Summer.

You know, I knew it was coming, but MAN-I still wasn't prepared! I have said more than once, here on this blog, and to people I know, that I am loving this Summer and how great things were going and how the boys were playing together so nicely, and really that was the truth...but today, we are in a different place. We've had one too many late nights and WAY too many early mornings, a LOT of togetherness and the nerves are wearing thin.

So today, we are in a new phase of Summer-I'd like to call it "We've been together a lot lately and I still love you to pieces but I need a break" phase. The boys are currently in their room for their second session of "reading/room time", which is code for "your fighting again and Mommy can't take it anymore, so everyone go to their own rooms and take a break"...me included. :) Ellie is in her room napping, so for a moment, things are quiet...for a moment at least. :)

But as I sit here and type this, I am reminded that this calling (homemaking) is not for the faint of heart, or selfish. And the latter is what I struggle with the most. It's on these days, when nothing goes as planned, and everyone is grumpy that I have to depend on my Lord to love THROUGH me when frankly, I'd rather not. I wish I could say I my track record of depending on Him was great, but really it's not. Most days, I usually jump on the grumpy train and then the rest of the day goes down hill. Ugh...will I ever get it? However, there is hope. He who began a good work in me, WILL be faithful to complete it. So, today, I think I'll jump on the hope train, and believe that He will get me through this day! :)

Time For A Change

2008-06-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I really have nothing of interest to post, but I was so sick of clicking on this blog and hearing High School Musical that I had to post something so I could change the music! I guess I could have just changed it without posting, but it would mess up the system of trying to match the music with the post! :)

So, we are really busy, but not really...does that make sense? We have nothing that we have to do, but we are doing a lot- of playing, swimming, hanging out, having Wii tournaments, and enjoying the moment. Have I mentioned that I am really enjoying the Summer so far??

I started the Summer Siesta Bible Study Tuesday night, and it was great. All of the girls in my group are great and I am looking forward to getting to know them. The study seems really good. I have only done day one, but when you are already convicted on day one...I'm thinking it's going to be a good one.

Tonight B and I have a date night - yessssss! I am pumped! I am loving these kiddos being home, but it's making me appreciate this date night all the more!

So, that's about it. Told ya I didn't have anything to say! :)
Enjoy the 80's flashback via Howard Jones!

School's Out, Scream and SHOUT!

2008-06-10T11:23:00.000-07:00

What time is it?? SUMMERTIME! Whoo Hoo! Well, we finally made it! It's officially Summertime. J finished school and is on his way to third grade (NO WAY...it's hard for me to accept that he is so big!) and right behind him is T who will be making his debut in Kindergarten this fall! Even Ellie Kate is getting in on the school thing...she'll start pre-school at KK this Fall, two days a week! But for now, we are all about Summer!

We took off last Friday on a somewhat spontaneous trip to Little Rock to visit our dear friends. We had a wonderful weekend, just hanging out, swimming in their fabulous neighborhood pool, and visiting. Saturday, the boys woke up and headed out to climb Pinnacle Mountain and had a blast! T was so proud of himself! It was pretty impressive considering they had been up half the night talking and laughing, and then woke up bright and early at 5:58am! After the big climb they all came home and crashed while Amy and I slipped away for a pedicure and a little shopping. We ate dinner at a great burrito place...Moe's and then finished the night off with some backyard s'mores! YUUMMMYYY! We had a GREAT time and are so thankful for their friendship!

This week is off to a great start...we literally have nothing on our calendar that we have to do! So far, we've spent a lot of time playing, hanging out...the boys are getting along great...I know, it's only our second day home, but I am going to enjoy it while it lasts, and Ellie Kate is still as busy as ever. She is definitely two. No doubt about it. We'll be hitting the pool the rest of the week and soaking up the sun (while slathered in spf 50 no doubt!) and just plain relaxing!

Happy Summer y'all!

Guess Who's Coming To Our House Tonight....

2008-06-02T19:25:00.001-07:00

After losing his first tooth, he actually lost it! We've searched high and low and still no tooth to be found. So, he wrote the Tooth Fairy a little note instead...I'm pretty sure she'll still come...in fact, I think she might even prefer the cute little note to the actual tooth! :)

Friday Fun!

2008-05-30T06:10:00.000-07:00

T.G.I.F.!-we are one day closer to the end of school! (3 more days!) I can not get on board with sending my child to school in JUNE! That just isn't right! :) Of course it's also killing him that his little brother finished pre-k a week ago!

Today we are off to swim! It will be my first trip to a "public" pool with the kids in over 3 years! We are so spoiled, because we usually head over to MeMe and Poppy's pool, which is "fabulous" (right Lex?) for many reasons, one of them being that it's small enough to sit in one place and keep your eyes on all the children! I'm not so concerned about Trent-it's miss Ellie Kate that I'll be chasing around all morning...and what could be more fun than running around in your swimsuit in front of everyone chasing your two year old? :) I should probably go ahead and issue an apology for anyone who might be there today and witness this. Oh, but it'll be fun! Really, it WILL be fun!

After our day of fun, we'll be heading back to the ball fields to watch Caleb and Luke play in their play-off games! We are so proud of them! As much as we're ready for baseball to be over, it really is a lot of fun to go and watch these boys play! Good luck guys!

I hope you all have some Friday fun planned! :) It's a beautiful day!

Oh, and one more thing...
I meant to hop online yesterday and write a post to wish my Dad a Happy Birthday, but obviously never got around to it...so even though it's a day late...Happy Birthday Daddy! I am so proud to have you as a father! Spending time with you is one of our favorite things to do-and last night was no exception! WE LOVE YOU!!! (thanks mom for the dinner...I'm "one-hundred-per-sure" that it was one of the best meals you've ever made! hee hee!)

Picture of Grace

2008-05-24T06:15:00.000-07:00

If you have a moment, go and read this post. What a beautiful picture of what our Lord has done for all of us. Some of us have more cracks than others, but that doesn't matter to Him. He still loves us and even chooses to use us...cracks and all. Unbelievable.
Thank you Lord for loving me and for putting me back together. I am stunned by your grace and mercy again this morning.

Two in One

2008-05-20T12:27:00.000-07:00

This past week brought with it the celebration of two of my dearest friends! Stac and Renae (or 'nae nae as the kids call her) both celebrated their birthdays!

Stacey was the first one out of the "group" that I met. She is so sweet and loving...God has blessed my life through her in many ways. She has such a sweet and tender spirit that always brings such a peace and calm when we're together. She reminds me to slow down and enjoy the moment. For that I am very grateful.

Soon after I met Stac, I met Renae. We really bonded through our boys. They hit it off in pre-school and I guess we did too! :) hee hee! Renae has such a heart and hunger for the Lord. We have shared many, many burdens, joys, cares, prayers, etc...over the past almost 6 years. Soon-too soon- she and her family will be off to Quito to serve the Lord on the mission field. It is hard for me to imagine what life will be like with her not physically here... it will be difficult, no doubt, but I am so proud of her and so excited for this adventure that God is taking her and her family on.

Recently, we were all able to spend the weekend together and I can't even begin to put into words what all I took from that time. Sweet Kalen posted some fun pics of the weekend...but what is most precious to me is what can't be captured on film...the bonds we share, and I know that no matter where the Lord takes us, I have 4 sistas that I can call on at any moment.

Happy Birthday Renae and Stac!

Randomness

2008-05-20T11:21:00.000-07:00

Things have been moving at warp speed around our house the past month or so! After Ellie's Bday, we seemed to have something every week...if not every night! I've been meaning to post pics of her party, Trent's Texas Day, Mother's Day etc...but haven't had a chance to get around to it...so I've decided to post a shorter version of it all in one big fat random post! :)

FIRST things FIRST: Welcome to the world sweet baby Rhet, precious son of mycommenterri. How I loved getting to hold you! Can't wait to see you again!

Okay, now to the randomness:
Ellie's bday was a blast! She is a social butterfly if I've ever seen one! She loved having all of her friends and family there to celebrate!

Texas Day! Yippee-Ki-yay! Texas Day was bittersweet this year! I can not believe that it was Trent's last one! He loves Texas Day...well any day that he can dress up in a costume~he loves, but he really loves Texas Day! The songs, the horses, the picnic lunch, face painting and friends! So sweet and so fun!

Our new friend: we looked out our back window and look what we saw!

He lives in our backyard...he hides under the eaves when it rains and lives in one of our flowerbeds! It's really kind of creepy to me, but the kids think it's cool! I am not big on reptiles...and I realized just recently that some people think that is a little silly...like when my neighbor walked down to invite my boys to come up and see their snake eating a toad...GROSS! And that's not all, the next thing I know she is bringing down a huge garter snake for me to check out. Her son wanted to give it to us as a housewarming gift...uh, yeah, thanks but NO thanks!

And lastly, Mother's Day...aaahhh! It came and went all too quickly! :)
We had a wonderful lunch with my family and then spent the afternoon relaxing...a little nap, a little baseball with the kids...it was my favorite so far!

So that's what we've been up to lately. Today, Trent is not feeling too hot. He had to miss his last t-ball game last night...I'm hoping that the fever stays away so he won't have to miss his last day of school tomorrow! :)

Summer's almost here! I think I am ready for it...:)

Thankful Thursday

2008-05-08T18:42:00.001-07:00

I am thankful for...
~a short but sweet visit with a dear friend
~the privilege of listening to one of your closest friends share their heart
~God's grace that extends the forgiveness that I so desperately need
~Jake's teacher
~walking up just in time to see Jake hit his very first home run tonight!
~a good night's sleep

My Deepest Apologies

2008-05-07T14:29:00.000-07:00

To my dear AGGIE friends, especially commenterri and glenneypartyoffive, I am so sorry for the previous post...which was NOT posted by me, but my husband! I temporarily lost creative control of the "blawg", but have now regained the control and will only post nice, uplifting, encouraging posts from now on!
As to the behavior of my beloved husband, B...what can I say...he's just a guy! (wink, wink)

Can you help a brother out?

2008-05-06T20:21:00.000-07:00

To all of my aggy loving Jason fans (especially ones named Glenney and Commenterri), here is what Mr. Castro was trying to do on Tuesday. Maybe you could forward this to him for the plane ride home.

B :)

Ellie Katherine

2008-04-26T12:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Ellie,
Today is your second birthday! I can hardly believe how fast these past two years have gone. This morning when I came to get you out of your crib, I was singing "Happy Birthday to you..." and you started to yell "CAKE!". You are definitely your mother's daughter. These days you are very busy. I can't take my eyes off you for very long or you're into something you shouldn't be in to! Your favorite things are Elmo, Miss Pattycake, coloring pictures and painting toenails! :) You are very social and love to talk to strangers in the grocery store. Especially sweet old ladies. The other thing that we are noticing about you is that you really like to sing-all kinds of songs. Of course the standard Bible songs and nursery rhyme songs, but I caught you singing "Hosanna" the other day, a song off of my Passion cd, and you were actually in tune! You are also a very good dancer! Just today you and I had a little dance party in the kitchen. Those are some of my favorite times with you, when it's just us girls and we can twirl and dance together. I have so enjoyed having you as a daughter, and I look forward to the days ahead, full of girl-drama, hair catastrophes and long talks. You are a joy to our lives and you fill our home with smiles and laughter. We love you sweet girl.
Happy Birthday!

Brothers

2008-04-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Jake and Trent,
Your Daddy and I rounded the corner into our Den the other night (a night when we let you stay up late and play when you should have been asleep) and this is what we saw. How it warmed our hearts to see you two sitting next to each other (Trent in full baseball attire, of course) watching a game together. God has given you a gift in each other. Our prayer is that you will grow up knowing that you always have someone there who is on your side, backing you up, someone to go fishing with, to go to the game with, to confide in and to cheer on. Oh, we know you're gonna fight, you already do...and we know you are as different as night and day...but you are brothers. You share the same name, love the same Lord and we pray that God will bond your hearts together-differences and all- and do mighty things in His name and for His glory through you both.
We love you and it is so much fun being your Mommy and Daddy!

Laminin

2008-04-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

Take the time to watch this...(about 8 minutes) you won't regret it.

...and all the people said, "Amen".

American Idol

2008-04-16T06:46:00.000-07:00

Y'ALL....last night was one of my favorite nights! I had forgotten how much I used to love (and still do) Mariah Carey's music. I used to wear her cassette tape OUT! And when Syesha sang "Vanishing" I was immediately transported back to my bedroom laying in front of my stereo trying to sing my heart out. That is one of my all time favorites of Mariah! :) But I have to say I felt really sorry for most of the contestants. I think that was a pretty tough order to fill...sing a Mariah song. I mean really, who can do that? Other than MC herself? Anyway, I loved hearing her songs again...I just may have to head over to itunes today and download me some old-school Mariah!

Lovely Weekend

2008-04-13T13:15:00.001-07:00

I am having the hardest time trying to fit in some blogging these days-and even when I do find time to sit down at my computer I totally get side-tracked by reading my friends blogs! :)

Anyway, after a very busy week, we have had a great weekend! With B's job transition, we have been so blessed to have him home with us the past few Saturdays, which is a HUGE treat to our family! It's been so crazy, because I really expected to see him less these first few weeks or so, but it seems like I've seen him more! Yesssss!

Okay, I am getting side-tracked, back to the weekend...we had our Small Group Bible Study party here Friday night and even though the getting ready for it was pretty hectic, it was nice to be able to have everyone over and all together in one place! Saturday, B and the boys went to "work" for a couple of hours, which left Ellie and I at home and we slept in...until 8:30 am...sad, I know, but still, it is considered sleeping-in in my world. After that, we headed to Lowe's for some yard stuff, then met the Glenney's for some lunch, YUM! then headed home and just hung out...(what? did you think we were actually going to DO something with the yard stuff we purchased at Lowe's? hee hee!) I did finally go and pick out Ellie's birthday invitations, but have not yet done a thing with them. Poor child, your mommy IS going to throw you a birthday party, I promise! Then Saturday night we met with our Growth Group...a group within our Small Group...and it was great! The thing with our small group Bible study is that it isn't really that small, so they have now formed smaller groups within the "small" group. We LOVE our group and everyone in it! We are excited to start meeting with other couples and grow! We made it to church this morning, then enjoyed some yuummmyyy El Charro for lunch and now I am just enjoying the breeze blowing in from my screen door and waiting for miss Ellie to wake up from her nap! aahh...it's been a lovely weekend indeed! Hope yours has too!

Baseball, Jesus and Elmo

2008-04-07T18:53:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of the boys on their opening day of Baseball season, we were almost rained out, but the weather held up and we got both games in!

Y'all, this is what Trent looked like when he came out of his room at 7:30 am opening day morning-is he ready to play or what?!

Here is "Big Stick"-I mean, Jake, getting ready to bat...

And here is where Jesus and Elmo come in-this is Ellie singing...she starts out with "Jesus Loves Me" then goes right into "Elmo's World" and ends it with Mrs. Pattycake's theme song...she is a hoot!

Happy Birthday!

2008-04-01T05:59:00.000-07:00

About 5 1/2 years ago, God brought into my life 4 very precious women. I am a girl who treasures friendship and God has always been so faithful to bring such special relationships into my life throughout the different seasons. 5 1/2 years ago, Jake was 2 1/2 and I was a week away from giving birth to Trent, when I met these 4 women. All of our kids were starting preschool together, and the 4 of them already knew each other, but they were kind enough, or more like- tuned in to my desperation called "I have a two year old that won't poop in the potty-or anywhere for that matter- and I am 10 months pregnant and close to a nervous breakdown" and invited me to their playgroup. We had many lunch dates at the park, that always ended with someone having to load Trent into the car for me, while I wrestled Jake to the ground and then attempted to load him into the car amid all the crying, kicking and screaming. Sometimes Jake would cry, kick and scream too. Anyway, fast forward 5 1/2 years, through many play dates, many phone calls, family vacations, camping trips, girls nights with "Marge", days at the pool, early morning prayer meetings and what you have are 5 women that are bonded for life. Every single one of them are precious to me in ways that can not be expressed with words....however, ONE of them has a BIRTHDAY today!!!!

It's often been said that Shannon and I can't have a conversation without standing up and flailing our arms around to make our point... if you could see me now, I am standing up and flailing my arms (well, actually I am typing at the moment but the flailing will come later) to wish YOU, Shannon a very happy birthday! I love you to pieces!!! I am honored to call you friend and pray that you have a wonderful day filled with joy! Happy Birthday, sista!

Welcome Spring!!

2008-03-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

Yeah!! Spring has sprung! I am so ready for warm weather, sunny days, planting flowers, playing outside and all that goes with Springtime. Easter was great. We started off at Church, which is always so awesome on Easter. There is such an air of excitement as you head into worship...the music was great and the sermon was too! We then headed out to the lake for lunch with the whole family-YUM! It turned out to be a beautiful day which made it so nice for the egg hunt and playing outside! Mom and Dad just recently purchased a Ping Pong table for the lake house so we broke it in with some matches...I stink at ping pong, but the guys- they are serious and really good at it! After that, we headed home and just relaxed!

The weather has been beautiful and we've spent a lot of time outside just riding bikes, going for walks and playing! Our new house has azaleas all the way around it and they are just about in full bloom and are GORGEOUS! I just hope I don't kill them...I'm not much of a green thumb, but I desire to be, so maybe this will inspire me! :)

Along with flowers, sunny days and warm weather, Spring also brings with it our favorite sport, Baseball! Both Jake and Trent are playing this year, which takes up a lot of our week, but it is so much fun! They love it and I am so excited that Trent FINALLY gets to play! He has spent the better part of the last 3 years, standing at the fence watching and waiting for his turn, and it has finally arrived! Tonight he gets his uniform and he is just about to bust with excitement! Trent is ALL about the uniform! I have no doubt he will be the cutest one out there! :) Opening day is this Saturday, and wouldn't you know it, both the boys games are at the exact same time, so B and I will be tag-teaming it as we run back and forth between the 5-pitch and T-ball fields...and as crazy as that will be (especially carting an almost 2 year old along for the ride), there is nothing better than being outside on a beautiful day and watching your kids have fun doing something they love! :)

Happy Spring, y'all!

Amazing Grace

2008-03-20T18:20:00.000-07:00

"But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53:5

A Good Reminder

2008-03-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

I am almost done with the book Feminine Appeal, and I have to say I have thoroughly enjoyed it. It has been a long time since I've read anything or heard a good teaching on the role of a wife and mother.

When I first got married and especially after having my first child I sought out books on these topics but quickly grew frustrated with them. I was reading them looking for a formula to fix the other person...namely B or my child- :) but I soon figured out that there is no one set formula that will fit every marriage or every child, and that in all honesty, I was the one that needed "fixing". Reading this book has reminded me of MY role in my home. That my focus should be not on me or what I think my role is, but on Christ and what HE says about my role as a wife and mother. I am so guilty of focusing on me and what I want-how I want to be treated by B, how I want my house to run, how I want my children to behave. And that, my friends, is life on the fast track to becoming one frustrated momma and wife! I have loved being reminded that my role is to serve B first, and then my children, and that serving them is my ministry. The entire purpose for following Christ's example of servant-hood and for following the example set out for us in Titus 2 is to bring glory to Christ and so that "no one will malign the word of God." I had never thought of it that way...that my role as a wife and mother can be a witness for Christ-not just to my husband and children-but to people outside of my home as well. My desire is to follow Christ in all I do, period...and reading this book has been a good reminder of my calling during this season of life, with a husband and three small children under-foot. :) Only by the power of His Spirit!

This One's for You Mitz!

2008-03-11T10:47:00.000-07:00

My friend Mitzi and I met our freshman year in High School and we pretty much hit it off from the moment we met! (The fact that we had matching bedroom sets sealed the deal...it was meant to be!) She left me a comment this morning that made me start thinking about our younger years and all of the times we spent together...(am I quoting lyrics from a Bryan Adams song?? Yes, I think I am...) ANYWAY, one of the funniest memories I have was of the two of us in her room listening to Billy Squire and making up dance routines! We probably "borrowed" the Billy Squire album from her big sister Stephanie and the moves...well they were our own! We spent many nights making up dance routines, talking on the phone, eating, laughing, and shedding tears over our latest crush. What great memories!
Hope you enjoy the song Mitz...and maybe you can teach your girls some of our moves! :)

Sing it Otis!

2008-03-07T18:36:00.000-08:00

We're going on day 4 of sickness in our house. Jake came down with it first, now it's Trent's turn and Mama ain't feeling too hot herself. It will be a miracle if Ellie Kate doesn't end up with it seeing as how she has managed to grab every single drink that Jake has left within her reach and lick all over it!! The joys of motherhood! :) I'm trying to stay positive and remember that these days shall pass and soon we will all be healthy again and life will be back to normal...in the mean time, if you drive by my house and roll your windows down, don't be surprised if you hear a little Otis blaring from my kitchen...Mama needs a little tenderness!
Sing it Otis!

Too Much

2008-03-05T18:36:00.000-08:00

Okay, so we're moved in...and I was so excited to finally have my internet up and running, and I was all set to post tonight, but after stopping by my friend Julie's blog, and reading this post, there is really nothing I can say. It seems that there has been an abundance of tragedy this week...a family I know of lost their college aged daughter in a car accident Monday morning, a young mother delivered her first baby...stillborn, and now this. I don't even know this family at all, but as a fellow parent, as a human being, and sister in Christ, my heart aches for them tonight. People are hurting! It doesn't make sense. All I can say is come quickly, LORD Jesus. What an awesome opportunity we have to pray for these people we may never meet this side of Heaven. Isn't the Lord precious, that He would set prayer up this way? That His Spirit can move inside of us in such a way as to cause us to stop and pray for people we have never even met?! Let's pray for this family.

Thankful Thursday

2008-02-21T16:22:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for....
1. Chick Fila :)
2. Good friends, who bring lunch and come over to help you pack! Thanks, Nae-Nae!
3. Health
4. The rain today
5. A long conversation with a girlfriend (preferably uninterrupted, but I'll take what I can get)
6. A good belly-laugh
7. Hearing my kids have a good belly-laugh
8. My new Otis Redding tunes that I downloaded last night, LOVE him!
9. Almost being done packing
10. Chocolate...although I am currently abstaining, while trying to shed some lbs.- I still love it! :)

Our Song

2008-02-20T14:07:00.000-08:00

B and I have been having this on-going conversation about the fact that we really don't have a "song". You know how you used to do that in High School, or maybe even college? If you were dating, you had a song. Well, since we didn't start dating until after college, and only dated 4 months before getting engaged, I guess we skipped that step. Now, to all of you who know me, you KNOW how upsetting this is to me due to my deep love for all music. I really do have a soundtrack to my life. I was trying to think of when my love for music began, and really my earliest recollection was getting the 45 record of Hall and Oates song "One on One" for my birthday when I was in the first grade. Oh my, that was a song. But anyway, back to B and I, there are many songs that remind us of each other, or certain times in our relationship, but not just one definite song. A few years ago, Rascal Flatts came out with a song, "Bless the Broken Road" and before I ever heard it B came home and told me it really reminded him of our story. Once I heard the song, I agreed, but we never officially adopted the song as "OUR song". I think part of the problem, for me at least, is that it became so popular to the point of it finally getting on my nerves. I don't want a song that EVERYONE else has as there song too!! :) Well, yesterday in our last video session of Bible Study, Beth had Travis sing the song and asked us to really picture the song referring to our pilgrimage with Christ. While I sat there and listened, it was so overwhelming how it does fit my pilgrimage with Christ, and I was reminded again how it sweetly describes my story with B as well. How precious to me...a song that encompasses both of my loves. So, in honor of you B, and in honor of my Christ...this songs for you!!

Who Ya Rootin' For?

2008-02-17T13:34:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a great day! We started off the morning with Jake's Upwards Basketball game. I LOVE watching basketball, besides the fact that my child is playing, it is so fast paced and the kids are so funny. This one kid on Jake's team jacked it up from about half court, and it went IN! The look on his face was priceless. Anyway, after the game we headed home and hung out for a while, then my girl Meredith showed up to watch Ellie so that I could take the boys to a TJC basketball game. I grew up going to their games and have very vivid memories of sitting close to the court and watching every move the cheerleaders made, then coming home and practicing their chant in my mirror..."who ya rootin' for? T...J...C!!" After a mishap at the pulse machine...(sorry Kelli!) the boys and I, along with their aunt Kelli, and cousins headed to the gym. MeMe and Poppy saved us seats so we could sit real close just like when we were little, but this time I was watching the game. The kids were having a blast, thanks to the nachos, peanut m&m's, popcorn, coke, sour straws, and pizza...(can you say junk food??), and between all of the trips to the bathroom and concession stand, I was having myself a good ole' time as well. It was a nail-biter of a game, but TJC ended up pulling it out in overtime! The only thing that would have made it better was if B would have been there, (we missed you!) but other than that it was a fun time for everyone.

After dinner, B and I stayed up late and continued to pack. One more week til' moving day. How in the world have we accumulated so much stuff?!!

Thankful Thursday

2008-02-14T05:53:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day!

I'm going to try and bring back "Thankful Thursdays". I loved the idea (stolen from my sister-in-love, the problem has been that by the time I remember to do it, it is already Friday! No joke! :) So, here it is...

Today I am thankful for:
1. The love of Christ, his stubborn, unending, unconditional love.
2. My Valentine, B. He is just one more example of Christ's stubborn and unconditional love for me. I love you B!
3. My three mini-Valentines! All three very unique individuals who brighten my days, keep me on my knees and make my life so rich.
4. My parents, who-after...well, I'm not sure how many years now...let's just say MANY years-are still crazy about each other. They have set the bar high for us, and for that we are grateful. Their example spurs B and I on.
5. Sleep, of which I am running low on! :)
6. My pillows, all five of them!
7. Kathy, who will be cutting and highlighting my hair in about an hour. I love a fresh cut and color!
8. My new house, that I will be moving into in less than two weeks!
9. Meredith, our babysitter, who comes and brings sweet relief to my life!
10. Elmo, he is the ONLY one who can keep Ellie still for more than 2 minutes.

Have a wonderful Thursday and hug your sweethearts!

Three Little Cuties

2008-02-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

My favorite picture of Trent...this captures his personality perfectly!! I love this little wild man!

This picture cracks me up because it was HIS idea to go and pose by the tree!

I can NOT believe this little guy is about to be 8 years old. I am so very proud of him!

Ellie in her pink hat! Trying to get her to keep it on and smile proved to be impossible on this day! But she still looks cute! :)

And trying to get all three of them to look at the camera and smile was just as impossible! I love Jake and Trent's expressions!

We Are Not Disappointed!

2008-02-02T11:33:00.000-08:00

We found a house!!! Yiiiipppeee! To say I am so excited would be a complete understatement! I am still in a little bit of shock, but it's slowly sinking in that we did find a house and that once again, the Lord has blown our socks off.

I had a friend tell me in the middle of this-finding a home-B's job situation- that once we found a house and B's job situation was settled, we would be able to look back and see how He had it taken care of all along, and that is exactly what we are doing. When we started out, I told the Lord that I really wanted to live like I say I believe. I didn't want to fret and fear that He wouldn't provide us shelter, or take care of Jake, should we have to change schools, or take care of us, should we have to move out of town. I wanted to walk in faith. I think that if I had to grade myself I would give myself a "B". Truly, I did better than I thought I would, but here over the last couple of weeks, my knees were starting to knock and there were more tears than I'd like to admit. However, thankfully, He didn't "fail" me but stepped in just in time and provided exactly what we needed (and more) and took care of everything.

At the beginning of this process I came across Psalm 22:2-5 in my quiet time. It says:
"O my God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night and am not silent. Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One; you are the praise of Israel. In you our fathers put their trust; they trusted you and you delivered them. They cried to you and were saved; in you they trusted and were not disappointed."
I knew that He was telling me to trust Him and that no matter what the outcome looked like, even it it was completely different than what we had asked for that we would NOT be disappointed.

Over our almost 12 years together there have been many things that B and I have prayed for. Some answers came looking exactly like what we asked Him for, some answers looked completely different-some better-some worse (to our limited human perspective), and some answers we are still waiting for, but in all of them, even if we couldn't say it at the time, and even for the ones we are still waiting for, we have never been disappointed and I trust that we never will. He is faithful.

Man Cold

2008-01-25T15:38:00.000-08:00

I saw this link over at another blog (Boomama) and it made me laugh so hard...NOT that B has ever or would ever act this way! :)

Perspective

2008-01-22T12:19:00.001-08:00

I am not even sure if this post is going to make any sense at all. The last 2 weeks have been somewhat of a roller coaster ride, filled with lots of ups and downs, twists and turns, abrupt starts and stops.

I mentioned in one of my earlier posts that we sold our home and have been looking for a new house and thought we may have found one...well, it didn't work out. It's a good thing though. We've been praying for God's protection throughout this whole process so, we believe that is exactly what happened. Anyway, on top of looking for a new house there has been this other "situation" going on with B's job. One that we have been praying about for a long, long time. Talk about a chance for fear, stress and worry to creep in. There have been days when it looked as if everything was going to work out perfectly. We found a house, the deal comes through with B's job on the same day, then BAM...2 inspections later and both the house and the job deal are off. Then, right when we think the job "situation" is done and over, ANOTHER opportunity opens up on the same day. Anyone feeling me here? I mean the ups and downs are killing me!

But the truth is, they aren't really. I started Beth Moore's "Psalm of Ascent" study right in the middle of all of this and it has been so timely. On day two of week two, we focused on Psalm 123. Verse one says, "I lift my eyes to You, the One enthroned in heaven." Beth begins to point out that "an entire chain reaction begins with our eyes and ultimately affects our hearts, souls, and minds. Where we look-where we genuinely fasten our gaze-amid continual life challenges has a tremendous impact on how we feel". Wow. That is exactly what I needed to read. If I start to focus on our situation right now, I can get really uneasy, worried, afraid, upset, angry, etc. But when I shift my focus onto Christ, and keep my gaze fixed on Him, I am seeing Him working in very specific ways... answering prayers that we have prayed for years, working in my heart on areas that I have struggle with for just as long. And when I see that, I feel His peace. Even in the midst of this roller coaster ride, I feel His steady hand guiding us through each twist and turn and I KNOW that He is working it all out for His purposes and His glory.

Who knows what the next year, or even the next day, holds for our family...but I know who holds us, and He is good.

A Book Me Me

2008-01-16T05:59:00.000-08:00

Terri tagged me with this Book Me Me...Allow me to preface this "Me Me" with a confession: I have never been a big reader. Growing up, I much preferred listening to music in my down-time, but as an adult, I have come to love reading and have been blessed by many great books. With that said, here are my answers...:)

1. Two books that changed your life: "Believing God", Beth Moore, "Boundaries" Cloud/Townsend

2. One book that you have read more than once: "Live a Praying Life" Jennifer Kennedy Dean

3. One book you would want on a desert island: "How to Survive on a Desert Island, For Dummies." I'm borrowing Terri's answer! :)

4. Two books that made you laugh: "Junie B. Jones" any of them, my kids love them, and I think they're funny too! Does that count as two??

5. One book that made you cry: "I"ll Love You Forever"

6. One book you wish you'd written: "Grace Based Parenting" Tim Kimmel, great parenting book, in my opinion.

7. One book you wish had never been written: I don't know??!!

8. Two books you are currently reading: "Grace Walk" Steve McVey, "Psalms of Ascent" Bible Study, by Beth Moore

9. One book you've been meaning to read or finish: "A Different Kind of Me" Ron Hall, Denver Moore, Lynn Vincent

10. One book that made you think: "Sacred Marriage" Gary Thomas

11. People I'm tagging with this......Shannon and Julie, (Julie, I know you have a newborn, but I also know how much you read and would love to read your answers, but no pressure!)
Please play along! Let me know if you do!:)

Weekend O' Fun

2008-01-14T11:21:00.000-08:00

We started off last weekend with a bang! Friday night, after a short meltdown, (mine - thanks Dad for listening!) brought on by the ever-changing circumstances of our lives right now, we had a great family night. I made some homemade chili, we watched Shrek 2, and then played "High School Musical Sing Slong" game on the Wii, which, by the way, I totally won! ha! (Sad, but true, I know every word to every song in BOTH movies!) After that, we put the kids to bed, then B and I had a great talk about the "ever-changing circumstances of our lives" and I felt much better.

Saturday didn't start off so well...Jake had a basketball game Saturday morning and B had to go on into work which left me to wrangle the children and get us all there in time. I've been doing this a while so you'd think I'd have this down to a fine art, but not this day. Jake started us off by freaking out on me, because I had the nerve to ask him to put on a sweatshirt before he went outside in the 30 degree weather to shoot hoops. He was in his uniform...shorts and jersey, and to him that was enough. But, the mom in me just couldn't stand it, it was, after all, FREEZING outside, so I started the fight...ding, ding... He then proceeded to stomp off to his room, huffing and puffing the whole way, to sit on his bed for some quality time alone. Then it was Trent's turn. I asked Trent to head on to his room (which he shares with Jake) and clean up, to which his response was "I don't waaaannnnnntttttt toooooooo!!!!!" Followed by stomping, huffing, puffing...wonder where he learned that??!! :) This entire time, I forgot to mention, Ellie is following me around whining and crying because I won't hold her or let her play with the markers, knives, guns, or whatever else she can get her busy little hands on...(just kidding about the guns and knives, mom.) So you can imagine how that lovely sound in the background added to the fun of the morning. Anyway, I began to try and get myself ready when I heard the boys start to rumble. The yelling, the griping, the whining, it was too much. I put down my make-up, (big mistake) headed to the "ring", (the boys room) and threw down the gauntlet. I kept my cool, but made it clear that if they didn't shape up and get their acts together, they could forget the basketball game and the birthday party we were invited to that afternoon, then left the room. I went back to the bathroom to finish getting ready, and my make-up was gone. I peeked around the corner into the Den to find miss Ellie Kate on the rug with my make-up all over the place, including her face. I literally said out loud to the Lord, "I am a new creation, I will not lose it, I will not lose it...help me Jesus!" As I was cleaning her off, I knew I should have taken a picture to post, but I was just too darn tired. We did finally get to the game, where Ellie lasted all of 5 minutes in her stroller, which means I caved and let her out and watched Jake play with one eye, and watched Ellie with the other! :)

The rest of the weekend was a little less eventful. We put the kids down early Saturday night, went to church Sunday, and then hung out and watched the Cowboys lose... :( I Woke up this morning and kicked off our week with a trip to Wal-Mart. Woo, Woo! Actually, it wasn't half-bad! So that was our big weekend o' fun! Thank God it's over! Ha!
Happy Monday everyone!

Look What I Can Do!!

2008-01-10T17:55:00.000-08:00

Way to go T-Dog!

Happy New Year

2008-01-04T15:07:00.000-08:00

...3 days late! I can hardly believe that Christmas AND New Year's have come and gone! One thing's for sure, we have done our share of celebrating! Christmas was great! Santa hit the jackpot and scored us a Wii, and "wii" love it! And by the way, how bad of shape do you have to be in to actually be sore after playing a few rounds of pretend tennis, golf and bowling!?? I guess now would be a good time to transition into my New Year's goal which is to lose the extra pounds I packed on while celebrating the birth of our Lord! I have had very good intentions of running each day, that is until I wake up and realize that the temperature is in the low to mid 30's, and to us in Texas, that's equivalent to an Arctic blast! However, I do realize that I am going to have to brave the cold if I plan to stick with my goal! I'll keep you posted!

The other big news of the holidays is that we sold our house! LONG story short, we had some friends who had been looking in our neighborhood contact us and ask if we'd been interested in selling it. B and I had been praying about whether or not to try and sell and find a house with a little more room, but weren't planning on doing so until the Spring. Needless to say, it seems God had another plan! It's exciting, but can be frustrating because we live in an older neighborhood and want to stay in this area for the schools and the houses either require a ton of work, or they are WAY out of our range! So we've been looking and I THINK we may have found a house. We'll see if it works out!

Soo, things here, to be quite honest, have been anything BUT quiet and restful. I hate that. The boys are heading back to school on Monday and I feel as if they just got out! I guess that is just life with five! One adventure after the next! I'm just hoping the Lord has plans for a vacation for hubby and I squeezed in somewhere in between all of these adventures!

My Heart Is Full

2007-12-30T12:25:00.000-08:00

This morning our oldest son, Jake, was baptized. He became a Christian two years ago, when he asked Jesus into his heart while swimming at his grandparents house. I know, crazy! As a parent, I had pictured in my mind that his conversion would be preceded by this deep conversation, filled with great wisdom from B and I, (ha!) not so. And looking back, I love that it happened the way it did. The Lord planned it in such a way that neither B nor I could take one ounce of glory for his decision. Child-like faith. So simple, so pure and innocent, yet so very powerful.

I could hardly contain myself when I saw my child step into the pool of water. He looked so small, yet so big. His voice was so steady and sure when he announced, "Jesus Christ is my Lord." Yes, son, through the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ and to the glory of God the Father.

We were surrounded by several of our family and friends, and as we all stood in Jake's honor, I was overwhelmed by how many people have poured into our lives, and how that is now spilling over into the lives of our children.

Grateful. Overcome. Overflowing.

We are so proud of you Jake!

"And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Eph. 3:17-19

A Day Late And A Dollar Short

2007-12-26T11:13:00.000-08:00

I'm a day late posting this You Tube video, but even a day late, it's worth watching...and I'm a dollar short, because, you know, it's the day after Christmas!! :)

Emmanuel

2007-12-23T13:14:00.000-08:00

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 8:14

Merry Christmas, from our family to yours...

Redneck Recliner

2007-12-20T18:59:00.000-08:00

You might be a redneck if you prefer your homemade recliner, made out of a laundry basket and step stool, to the REAL leather recliner right behind you!

Channeling Sybil

2007-12-12T11:26:00.000-08:00

About a month ago, B and I took a personality test online. Because I had taken one in the past, I thought I knew which category I was going to end up in but about half way through I figured out real quick that I didn't know myself as well as I thought! You see, I'm a pretty outgoing person, I love being around people, I love to talk, and if you know me (which most of you-if not all of you- reading this do) this is no surprise to you. However...when I began adding up the scores I was shocked to discover I have a split personality! 50-50 right down the middle, and get this - I'm split between Sanguine and Melancholy! WHAT??!! I have to say the melancholy threw me for a loop at first, but the more I have thought about it, it is absolutely true! Yes, there is a big part of me that loves people, loves to laugh and make
people laugh, be spontaneous and loves to go to parties and just have fun...however, there is also a big part of me that loves quiet, order, to be alone and still. I think what has happened all of these years is that the other side of my personality was so "big" that it demanded most of my attention, and frankly, I felt like that is why most people liked me and what they expected from me. I am now learning to embrace my true self...who I am in Christ, that is. He made me and He doesn't make mistakes, so obviously He has a purpose in these two aspects of my personality that He wants to use for His glory.

During this time of year the struggle between my "split personality" starts to heat up. The Sanguine side of me loves the festive celebration, the parties, the shopping, the fun of it all, the Melancholy side - not so much. That side wants to snuggle up on my couch, surrounded by my perfectly cleaned house, sip a hot cup of coffee while (with no phone ringing in the background) I have a long quiet time with my Lord.

So what's a girl to do?? Here's what I felt the Lord telling me today...embrace it. Embrace the marvelous and wonderful way He made me, because here's the truth of it all...without my Sanguine side, I would be missing out on one of the best parts of my life here on this Earth - relationships. I would be missing out on all the laughter and warmth that comes from the people He has brought into my life. I would miss out on the opportunity to speak kindness into a overworked sales-clerks life, or to give a smile to a lonely stranger. Without my Melancholy side, I would be missing out on the peaceful moments with my Savior that breathe the very life into my tired bones. I would miss out on the still small voice that whispers encouragement, strength and love into my Spirit, and I would miss the quiet moments with my children when I get glimpses into their precious little souls.

Balance. Only by the power of His Spirit.

So go take the test...you may not know yourself as well as you think you do! hee hee!

We partied like it was 1999

2007-12-10T18:18:00.000-08:00

We survived the craziness! It was fast and furious, but believe it or not, it was actually fun! The two Christmas parties went off without a hitch. Our SMBS party was Friday night at the church. We ate some good Mexican food and enjoyed some uninterrupted adult conversation, thanks to the church nursery. We played the ever-popular gift exchange, which is always fun. Each couple brought a $10 gift card to exchange. There were your typicals, Target, Starbucks, etc. but the highlight was when a girl opened her gift card and announced she just received a $10 gift card to Fat Dog's Liquor Store!! Needless to say, she was just joking, we're Baptist for goodness sakes, we wouldn't be caught dead buying anything from a liquor store! hee hee! We had a great time, but I have to admit, I am glad that one is over. No more planning meetings!
Saturday we enjoyed a rare treat...B was actually off work. We aren't used to having him home on Saturday, so it was really nice! We finished our Christmas lights then cleaned the house to get ready for the party that night! It was so fun! We ate good food, laughed and laughed, then exchanged white elephant gifts, which was hilarious. I'll have to post a pic of my new "bag"! Oh, it's a sight to see!
After crashing at about midnight...which is really late for us these days, I awoke at about 6:15 to start getting ready for church. It was our Choir Christmas program. We sing all 3 services, which doesn't sound all that bad, but it is exhausting! I know, I am sounding really old! Anyway, it was great. I love singing in the choir. Which, again, I know, makes me sound really old, but seriously, it's such a blessing! After the program, I came home and got my nap on! I mean, I didn't get off the couch for 4 straight hours! Oh yes, it was nice! We topped off the weekend by picking up MeMe and Poppy and driving through "Up in Lights" a drive-thru light exhibit. The kids loved it, and so did we!
This week finds us trying to finish shopping, but most of all, slowing down to enjoy the season. I love this time of year, and I really want to take it all in. It is, after all, our last Christmas in this house...yeah, that's another post for another day. :))
Until then...
Merry Christmas!

Craziness

2007-12-05T12:03:00.000-08:00

Oh my, has it already been over a week since I last posted??? Well, things have been a bit crazy around here. We finally got all of our decorations up (well almost...the outside is just about done), and I even managed to start my shopping, and Santa...well let's just say he hit the jackpot!! I can't wait to see the boys faces! :)
Anyway, back to the craziness, we have two Christmas parties this weekend, both of which I am helping to plan (one is even at my house!!) and our choir Christmas program is this weekend as well! The good news is after this weekend, we are pretty much wide open, so hopefully things will slow down.
This is my absolute favorite time of year in my neighborhood. The trees are gorgeous. Whenever we leave the house I am always commenting about how beautiful and colorful they are. One morning last week on our way to school, I asked Trent, "how do you think God changes all of the colors?" Trent answered, "I think he has a hoooge, hoooge, marker and colors all the leaves!" That just made me smile!

The One and Only

2007-11-27T10:35:00.001-08:00

I just finished today Beth Moore's Bible Study, Jesus the One and Only. I am not sure I'll be able to put into words what this has meant to me, but I feel so full right now, that I at least have to try.

At first I was a little hesitant about my small group. I was the youngest one, and sometimes I like that, there is such wisdom in these precious older women who have walked many miles with our Lord, but this time I was struggling...I wanted to be with the women closer to my own age and stage of life. I contemplated switching studies, but I have done enough of Beth's studies to know that God is using her in a mighty way in our generation, and I knew it was going to be good. So, I decided to stick with it. And boy am I glad I did!

There is no way to compile into one little post all of the treasures that I found along the 10 week journey, but I think something that she (Beth) said in the video today sums up what I am feeling. At the close of the session, she said something along the lines of...isn't that just like our Jesus? The more we learn about Him, the more we want to know Him. That's it. That's what I am feeling. I want more of Him. I just want Him.

There are so many things in my life that are vying for my attention - children, husband, Christmas lists, decisions concerning our future, relationships, laundry, cleaning, I could go on and on...but all I really want is Him.

I am so thankful for the timing of this study. What better time than Christmas, the celebration of HIS birth to be reminded that HE is all that matters. It's all about Him, and if I make it my life's goal to love Him and seek Him, all of those things that I listed above that are vying for my attention, will fall into place, because everything I need is in Him, and He has them all taken care of.

Jesus...He truly is the One and Only.

From Turkey Highs, to Longhorn Lows....

2007-11-25T12:23:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving! The weather was just beautiful and the food was delicious. This was our year to spend Thanksgiving with B's family, so we drove over Thursday morning and ended up spending the rest of the weekend there. Everyone had a fun time until...the GAME. Oh, it was sad, so very sad! But doesn't Ellie look cute in her big brother's jersey?

I was worried that B was going to be in a post-game funk, however, my sweet in-laws let us go out on a date so that cheered us both up real quick! We did a little shopping, then ate at one of our favorite Mexican restaurants before heading home!

Today we are putting up our tree and Christmas decorations!! The weather is soo cold, which helps to put you in the Christmas spirit, as opposed to the years we are sweating as we put out our Snowmen! Now, if Santa could just get started on that Christmas list of his...

The Feast

2007-11-20T15:52:00.000-08:00

Both yesterday and today we attended the boys Thanksgiving programs. The first one was Trent's. Every year at his preschool they go all out and have a Thanksgiving program, complete with Pilgrims, Indians, turkey, and the the ever-popular screaming toddler who walked on stage, saw Mommy, and caught a terminal case of stage fright! (I'm not judging...my oldest one was famous for that!) Anyway, as usual, it was precious...well at least I think it was. I was so busy wrestling my precious Ellie Kate, that I didn't really get a chance to see much of the program at all...and when I did look up and actually watch Trent, I was in that daze that all mother's know - the one when you are staring at something, making all the appropriate expressions, maybe even singing along, but actually all the while praying to God that your other child will stop all the squirming and whining and just be still for one second for goodness sakes!!!! Anyway, it really was cute and Trent enjoyed being the center of attention during lunch...Nanny, Meme, Poppy, and his great-grandfather PawPaw Jimmy came to watch so he was all about that! It was his last feast at this preschool because next year he will be heading off to Kindergarten! :( I can't believe it!

Well, after our feast yesterday, I wised up and called our precious baby-sitter and left Ellie at home so we could head back out today and listen to one more version of Tom, Tom Turkey, this time performed by Jake and his second grade class. It was so cute, because instead of screaming, stage-fright filled toddlers, you have a bunch of second grade boys who have that "I can't believe my teacher is making me do this, and would everyone just please stop looking at me" face! After the performance, we enjoyed a feast fit for a king (or Pilgrim), that included turkey and cheese sandwiches, Nacho Cheese flavored Doritos and cupcakes, among other fine delicacies! Yuummm! And don't think for a second that the kids weren't all over that menu! :) All in all it was a great time and the best part was Jake came home early with us, which officially kicked off our Thanksgiving holidays!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That...

2007-11-16T11:20:00.001-08:00

Okay, let me be the first to say that my "Thankful Thursday" list stunk it up to high heaven! What a pitiful display of thankfulness! In my defense, I had been taking care of a sick child most of the day, but still...it was bad!

I am so excited about this weekend. Tonight is our Small Group's girls night out at my parents lake house. I went out there this morning to set some things up, and it is just absolutely gorgeous!! The trees look like they are on fire, their colors are amazing! (I LOVE FALL!) Too bad it will be pitch dark by the time we all get out there, but it will still be fun! Tomorrow, I am having a girls day with 4 of my dearest friends! How did I get so lucky?? Two girl events in 24 hours??? The Lord has definitely shown His favor on me this weekend! Don't you just love your girlfriends? God has blessed my life with some precious friends...they have seen me through good and bad times, made me laugh, cried with me, supported me, confronted me, prayed for me, prayed with me, listened to me, encouraged me, and even taught me how to make fried pickles...heehee! I am so thankful to the Lord for each one of them!

On a completely different note, I am going to attempt to try and post some pics of the kids...I am not sure if I remember how to do this, so hang with me, there's no telling what I might end up posting! :)

I hope you all have a great weekend! :)

Thankful Thursday

2007-11-15T20:14:00.000-08:00

I almost forgot that today is Thankful Thursday! :) I am sooo stinkin' tired right now so let's just hope that I can stay awake long enough to finish...
I am thankful...
that Trent is feeling better!
for my husband who brought me Andy's Frozen Custard tonight! YUMMMM!
that B has the weekend off
for a sweet sister in law
for my comfy bed that I am about to crawl into
that Julie's sweet baby boy Simon is here and healthy!
Have a great Thursday!

I'm so glad you asked....

2007-11-11T17:25:00.000-08:00

Eleven years ago today B asked me to marry him. When I look back over the past eleven years I can not believe how good God has been to us. When we got married we had only been together a year, so to say our first year of marriage was tough is a little bit of an understatement. Follow that first year up with a move to a new town, buying a first home, a miscarriage, then finally getting pregnant with our first child and it makes that first year look like a cake walk! We've certainly seen our share of heartache and disappointment, but God has been so faithful to bless us through it all with joy and a deep abiding love for each other. I will never know why He saw fit to bless me with such a wonderful husband, because I certainly did nothing to deserve it!

B, the past eleven years have been the most wonderful years of my life. You have loved me when I was unlovable, you have been so patient with me, always there encouraging me with such gentle words and you have shown me what love really is. You are a wonderful father to our children and a servant leader to this family. I love you so very much more than I did eleven years ago. I had no idea what was in store when I said yes, but it has been so much more than I ever could have imagined. I am so glad you asked! I love you!

Thankful Thursday

2007-11-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am taking an idea from my sister-in-law's darling little blog, and doing a "Thankful Thursday" list.
Here is what I am thankful for today...
God's grace
Old friends
My sweet husband who is so patient, with me and the kids
My pumpkin scented candle
A stocked refrigerator which means I won't have to brave the grocery store for at least another 48 hours!
A new episode of "The Office"!!
A quiet afternoon!
Enjoy your Thursday!

Put on the Armor!

2007-11-07T12:12:00.000-08:00

This morning when meeting with my girls to pray, one of them began to talk about how the Lord is really opening her eyes to the realities of Spiritual Warfare. That term can sometimes make people uncomfortable and cause some to conjure up some "kooky" ideas in their minds. However, God's word is clear that it is a reality. So, the point is that in the last 2 days this particular subject has come up 3 different times! I can't help but believe that God is trying to say something to me...duh!! My next thought is, what??!! Ephesians 6 is at the heart of each of these conversations. I have read those verses a hundred times, and I've heard them quoted at least a hundred more, thanks to Bibleman...but am I putting them into practice? And how does that look on a daily basis..."putting on the armor of God"? Prayer? Reading/studying the Word? Okay, I am doing that, but what else? And then obviously, I am asking, "Okay, Lord, what in the world are you trying to prepare me for??!!"

Intervention

2007-11-06T15:43:00.000-08:00

I may or may not know the person responsible for this...

somebody stop me!!!

Do Over

2007-11-04T13:47:00.000-08:00

"Do over!" is something my brothers and I would yell when we were young whenever we wanted another turn at bat, or another turn at any game we might be playing...and it was usually when we were losing that we'd pull the "do-over" card out the most. Well, I'm calling a "do-over" with this whole blog thing. I started one this summer, but once fall kicked in with all of it's activities, I jumped ship and deleted the whole thing! That's right, deleted it...not "took a bloggy-break" as I've seen it put...not just put it on hold, or even just left it alone, but deleted the whole darn thing!!! Which is probably attributed to my perfectionist personality that I just discovered I had by taking this personality test with B this afternoon! Who knew?? Well, maybe me...and definitely B, and I guess anyone else who truly knows me. The problem with that is I am typically way too hard on myself and if I can't do something exactly right, then I don't do it at all. Not a good thing, (and for the record I am going to be praying about this in the near future!), so I am really going to try and stretch myself with this here little blog. I may post daily, or I may not, it may be every other day, or it may be every other week, whenever I have the time and feel like there is something worth sharing! (with all 5 of you who may actually read this) I know, I know....it sounds crazy to those of you who don't suffer from this ridiculous way of thinking that I would even have to disclaim this - (as if anybody will be checking their computer daily to see what I've posted)...but hey, I'm just being real, people!
So, here goes my do-over!!