They Keep Calling Me Mom

The Gentleness Challenge

2012-01-03T21:28:00.000-06:00

I am excited to participate in the Gentleness Challenge...to become a better mommy

Georgia on my mind...

2011-11-22T00:21:00.000-06:00

Listen in: Pages turning as Meg reads yet another book
Plans for the Day: Explore Newnan with the kids and a trip to the library
Dinner: hmmm...good question...bc I am not feeling the whole ribs thing
Beauty in the common things: B coming in with his pacie (no judging), blankies, and asking to please snuggle with his sissy.

So... drumroll please.... we, as a whole, love Georgia. I am shocked. Amazed. Blessed. And totally realize that has everything to do with God and nothing to do with luck. All of my previously mentioned fears have been relieved. There are still some hurdles to overcome and we are working on that. BUT, we love it here. It is simply beautiful. The people are kind. The schools are HARD. We had planned to homeschool...then after much prayer and more prayer...we decided to send our kids to public school. Oh my goodness. Who had any idea it was going to be so hard on them. Not the new school...the huge learning gap they have to overcome. Even considering that...they love it here. Praise God. We found an amazing church with a great teaching Pastor. We love it. The kids love it. We go as a family. I struggle with that. I am so used to making sure things run smoothly at church and prepairing lessons, and making sure classes are covered and have what they need... I feel a little bit lost. In our 11 1/2 year marriage...this is the first time we have been able to attend church as a family. I know that God has these amazing plans for us and we are exactly where he wants us to be...in his timing. As long as we are together and put God first....all the rest will come.

One of my favorite Bible verses...from The Message.

I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back.
Philippians 3:12-14

Some of the Georgia beauty I have found....such pretty colors.
Just don't find that in Texas

Menu Plan Monday...but posted on Tuesday : )

2011-11-15T18:27:00.000-06:00

I have vowed to start menu planning. I love to do it...yet I have horrible follow thru skills. Bad ones. But, I am a full fledged stay at home mom now. My laundry should be done, house clean, and menu's planned. I'm working on the last one first!

My Menu:

Week One
To Die For Pot Roast (I added veggies to my crock pot)
Chicken Noodle Soup (I used a roasted chicken I had left over from the grocery store and made my own broth), and crackers...those delightful mini Saltines. LOVE those
Crock Pot Pasta Sauce and some sort of fun noodle, "THE" Bread, and a salad
Pioneer Woman's 16-Minute Burrito's with mexican rice and chili beans
Pioneer Woman's Frito Pie Comfort Food....YUM!
Chicken Tortilla Soup and corn bread
Pioneer Woman's Meatloaf with Roasted garlic mashed potatos, and green beans

Week Two
Crock Pot Ribs- Meal for Meghan , Crock Pot Mac and Cheese and a salad
Roasted Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons and maybe some sort of salad
Pioneer Woman's Beans and Cornbread
Thanksgiving with Family
Mama Blair's Cheesy Enchilada's found in the Mops Cookbook
Chicken Tacos, maybe homemade tortillas, and mexican beans...maybe these
Crock Pot Baked Potato Bar with left over meat, beans, and etc

Maybe I'll even let you know how the recipes turned out. Not sure yet.
Enjoy!

Day two of my...I will blog all the stinkin time devotion...blah blah blah

2011-09-23T18:26:00.000-05:00

Listen in: B rambling about the most amazing puzzles his Mimi just gave him

Plans for the Day: PACK. I'll say it again to remind myself....P.A.C.K

Dinner: Breakfast for dinner. Fried Toast, Scambled Eggs, and um...ya that's it

Beauty in the Simple things: I found a lovely note scribbled in little girl handwriting that said I love you!

Ok, peeps. Day two has occurred. I will begin my quest to fufill my bloggy duties: ) lol. bloggy duties. Ya, I'm like 6 at heart. Really just ask DH. lol. So I thought I would show you some fun things I made over the last. cough. year. Yikes. In the spirit of Halloween.....drum roll please.....

Cuteness Huh? Cute and stupid easy.

So what you do is this. Cut old 2X4's in to various pieces. You could do as I do and get the DH to do that job for you. NOT that I couldn't. I just don't. Pick appropriate holiday scrapbooking papers, paints to match, stickers, and ribbons. All to match or not. Depending on your attitude about those sorts of things. Oh and you may want to sand your blocks a little bit with a fine grade sanding block. Love, Love sanding blocks! Now, paint the blocks. I paint the whole block because well. OCD. God made me that way :) I use Modge Podge for gluing the paper onto the block. I paint the back of the paper with a fine coat of the stuff and smooth it on. Then I paint another fine layer of the stuff on the top. I found some super awesome glittery scrapbook paper and I used my Cricut to cut out the letters. Glued those on (after the paper dried from the Modge Podge event), add your stickers and your ribbons...and done!!!

Talk about slacking...

2011-09-22T23:41:00.000-05:00

I am sitting here at my table in shock. I mean, I intended to keep my blog updated and even start doing groovy cool updates and giveaways. I had big bloggy plans. So, imagine my shock when I sit down to look at my blog and see it has been almost and entire YEAR since my last post. So much has happened and continues to happen in our lives. First and formost....we are GEORGIA bound. Soon. Very Soon. I can feel the excitement and dread in the air. Right now it is an even 50/50 in which is winning! I have really big bloggy plans for then! I plan to attempt to blog my crafts and things like that. Stay tunned to see if that happens. Better yet...give me a kick in the pants if I DON'T Do that! Ok?

Until packing finishes....and we load up and move on out...

Blessings from my wild bunch to yours!

Something to think about....

2010-12-13T00:40:00.000-06:00

So, you know that we will be moving to Ga in the early summer...provided that my DH gets the final ok from the folks doing the hiring for his dream job.   I am uber excited about this move. Somewhere new...its old, has history, is close to WHITE sand beaches...there are mountains and trees.   I know its not Texas but it is different and that is sooo cool.   I don't tell DH this...but these are my worries:
Will I be able to buy Dr. Pepper. Seriously, this is a major concern. Do they have Sonic and does that sonic have Dr. Pepper and frito pies.   What if that is just a Texas thing? Or Hobby Lobby. What does one do if there is not a Hobby Lobby around. What if we can't find a church? You know one we really, really like. What if I don't make friends? What if the distance is to far and those friends I love here....forget me?   What if there are not any good scrapbooking stores nearby...or worse...what if no body does that? What if my girls don't find good friends. What if they Hate me forever for making them move?    What if we hate it there?   What if we can't buy Blue Bell icecream???   What if my cat runs away because we move him? What if our stuff in the U-haul gets stolen and we have nothing? What if the tv anchors on the evening news suck? You know, what if they do Not play good music on the radio?   What if my girls are behind when they start school? I have been in that place as a child and I never really caught up? I struggled in math for the rest of my school career. What if I can't find anybody I like as much as I like my friends here? All these what ifs....
See here's the thing. I know that GOD has a plan for us. For my DH, for Me, for our family. I know that these worries are human worries. They are flesh worries. I do not need to worry these worries because I have been told to worry about nothing and instead pray about everyThing. Because, just as GOD provides for the lillies and the birds he will provide for me. That means that those little things I worry about...have Big God given solutions...because he ALREADY knows whether or not I will even want a Dr. Pepper when I get there, he knows who my friends are and who they will be. He has already opened the door for this move to be blessed and because he has done that...I will NOT worry about the things that GOD has already taken care of.    I will instead do this:
I will spend the rest of the time we live in Texas enjoying all the greatness that is TEXAS. We may move but we will have awesome memories to take with us and family and friends to come back and visit. We will not be gone forever...even if we never move back here. See, my HOME is whereever my husband is. As long as I have that...home can be anywhere.

I can't believe its been so long since my last post!

2010-12-04T17:09:00.000-06:00

Listen in: DD2 creating something wonderful in the kitchen...art suppies in action and the food network on the tv

Plans for the day: I've been cleaning off and on all day, some homework, and filling some orders

Tonight's menu: I don't even want to think about food....tummy in revolt today

Beauty in the common things....a clean office

Well life in a nutshell...its been busy and we are moving to GA. There that sums it up.

2010-08-26T22:11:00.000-05:00

Listen in: Fan on high, the news on in my room

What we did today: school and Baby Bubba and I slept in...way in!

Dinner: I made the Pioneer Woman's Chicken Spaghetti.... OH MY YUMMY

Beauty in the common things: my desk is cleaned and organized

So, my girls have a new Principal and by all accounts he is a wonderful, Christian man. I love this. They love it too. What they do NOT love about the new Principal is the no talking for 10 minutes at lunch rule. What? I would be in trouble all the stinking time if I had to follow that rule! REALLY????? I mean, I get the whole reason behind it and all. If they are not talking...then they are likely EATing. I get that...But, man what a difficult task :) other than that...I think they love him!!!!

And, now I am going to craft. Something I have not done alll summer!

A New School Year... Wonderful, Just Wonderful...

2010-08-23T23:16:00.000-05:00

Listen in: the news on in the other room

Today was: the first day of school

Plans for the night: maybe finish stinking Mount Washmore...I mean really....wasn't I JUST finshed with that????

Beauty in the Common things: wonderfully tired children all snug in their beds

So, today was the first day of school. One fabulously awesome 4th grader and one totally adorable 2nd grader walked proudly into their school. I am sooo excited. See all the extra o's? That shows just how excited I am! Why? Well, quite honestly...they were freaking driving me totally NUTS. Yes, I know, I said it out loud. That's ok, because the first step of recovery is admiting there is a problem. I admit it...they are making me nuts! Why? Because I had all these wonderful plans for the summer. Um...we really didnt do any of them. Wait...not true. We did a couple of things: Went to Dublin for the Dr. Pepper festival. Yes. I was over stinking joyed to do that! We went to a drive in movie to see Toy Story 3....um, ya. Thats it. BORING mom! Next summer will be better. This time I mean it!!! : ) We did stay up late a LOT and we slept in a lot... and Megs did go to camp 3 times. Maddiecakes even went to camp Mimi and they had sleep overs and caught frogs. Ate Icecream and drank too many cokes. We saw an Owl, skunk, and a beaver in the lake. They chased ducks at the park, rode their bikes, chased butterflies, drew with sidewalk chalk, went to VBS...twice. Went roller skating, rode the jet ski, fished with dad, played in the mud, played in the rain, played in dark, chased fireflies, cats, and baby rabbits.They colored, they glued, they played chase, baseball, freezetag, and watched fireworks...twice. They read books, watched way too much tv, too many movies, and hours of cartoons..... So maybe we didn't "GO" anywhere fun...but they did get to be a kid. We didn't do the big vacation this year. We just stayed home...but it seems like they had enough to do. Sometimes, its so easy to forget that they need to be kids. They need to be little. They need to make mistakes to learn how to do it right. I forget that sometimes. So maybe, I just learned something :)

2010-05-25T17:03:00.000-05:00

Listen in: airplane flying overhead, a bird chirping, and the sound of the fan whirling above me

Beauty in the common things: a freshly cleaned carpet

Plans for the day: I spent the entire day at the girls school

Dinner plans: Taco Tuesday

So, a little back history/venting...I am the yearbook chair at the girls school. I had a helper person...and she well...didn't help. So, it became my baby. This experience has been nothing short of a nightmare and I am so glad it is over. Almost. We recieved the final printing of our yearbook today...and it is STILL screwed up. This responsibility falls on the shoulders of me...yet it was mainly the production company. Who...sucks! I can assure you they will assume no responcibility and will lay all the blame on me. I can't control or change this fact. But, I still feel like I let down my kids at my school. I am defeated over this and I am angry and sad.

Time for a new look...

2010-05-24T12:47:00.001-05:00

Today it was time to have a new bloggy look. I did it all by myself with a little bit of help from http://www.shabbyblogs.com/ hope you like it...if you do...go visit Shabbyblogs!

A Baptism...

2010-02-28T15:40:00.000-06:00

2010-02-22T21:36:00.000-06:00

Beauty in the Common things: Meg helping her sister read

Listen in: Maddiepaddycakes reading to Meg...Meg being kinda bossy and maddycakes telling her to hush it!

Dinner: I am sad to say it was KFC

Plans for the rest of the night: grocery store and fold that last load of laundry!

View....its dark and cold outside...warm and snuggly in the house!

I am, or rather I should be getting my coupons in order and heading to the grocery store. Its late and I had really hoped to do it today....but my migraine did NOT allow for that today. Nothing on my to do list was done during the afternoon. But, I am going to do some of it now. After I go rock the baby to sleep. It seems dad does not have the patience to do that! more later!

A New Bloggy layout!

2010-02-22T01:36:00.000-06:00

Beauty in the Common Things.... A New Blog Layout!

Listen in...the tv in the far background...and nighttime noises

View from the desk...clutter to be put away

Plans for the day...(tomorrow) Mops, grocery shopping, last load of laundry, Heart sisters

Dinner...Not sure yet : )

But...now I am tired and must sleeep. My goal for this week is to blog everyday. Tonight I looked high and low for a new blog background. I am NOT computer savey...and I am so proud of myself! How do you like it? I wanted a more scrapbooky look...maybe in the future! As for now, I am going to take a hot bath, read a little, and go to bed and snuggle with my awesome hubby!

2010-02-18T21:26:00.000-06:00

Beauty in the Common Things: All the kids bed, bathed, and in bed...without arguing

Listen in: Silence. The fan in my office whirling

Plans for Dinner: I made homemade Chicken and Dumplings....YUMMY. Madison said 5000 stars good.

Plans for tonight: Bubble bath...and early bed. I feel bad/ weird. Just not myself today.

My most favorite people in the entire world! Braeden was not in the picture because he does NOT like snow!

Meghan and Madison before the Polar Hop

Love Language

2010-02-03T10:20:00.000-06:00

Brent and I are going to read the 5 Love Languages By Gary Chapman together. I am excited...him, well not so much. Here's the deal. We had this super fight on Saturday. How come? Because of spilled soda on the floor. Not really a big deal...well it was, kinda. Sooo...we argue, I cry...We talk. And we came to the conclusion that we do not communicate very well. Well...lightbulb moment. :) I am naturally a doer and a giver. Meaning...I do things for you....if you need milk, I am happy to go get if for you. I like to tell you that you mean something to me. I leave notes, and cards...yadayadayada. I am not a natural huggy type person. I have to make myself be that way. I don't remember ever getting hugs from anyone other than my Mamaw. So, last night I went online to http://www.garychapman.org/ and did the online Love Language Assesement. Well...guess what my love language is?

Love Language Scores:

10 Words of Affirmation

9 Acts of Service

5 Physical Touch

4 Receiving Gifts

2 Quality Time

Interpreting and Using Your Profile Score:

The highest score indicates your primary love language (the highest score is 12). It's not uncommon to have two high scores, although one language does have a slight edge for most people. That just means two languages are important to you. The lower scores indicate those languages you seldom use to communicate love and which probably don't affect you very much on an emotional level.

Words of Affirmation

Actions don't always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, “I love you,” are important--hearing the reasons behind that love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten.

Acts of Service

Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “Acts of Service” person will speak volumes. The words he or she most want to hear: “Let me do that for you.” Laziness, broken commitments, and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don’t matter.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So...as you can see...I show love the way I best recieve it. I am almost a dead tie between Words of Affirmation and Acts of Service. This also explains why sticky soda on the floor or a trip to the dry cleaner that didn't happen all upset me so much!!!! I am very interested to see what Brent's score is! This explains why words hurt me so mucha and how come I get so hurt when I ask for help and get ignored or get a I'm too busy. I would be willing to guess that Brents is going to be quaulity time and touch. We'll see. We are also going to read the same book for our kids. The Five Love Languages of Children. It can't hurt to see what theirs is also! I am very excited about this. I did not...by any stretch of the imagination have a good role model for how to be a good parent, wife, or mother. I realize that I am showing so much of what I hated growing up and THAT is not a good thing!

I'll let you know how it goes!

Goals

2010-01-17T22:47:00.000-06:00

I did not set a New Years Resolution. There I said it. I really more like whispered it. Why not? Everybody does. Well, honestly....because I have decided not to set me self up to fail. I like systems and plans and charts and files...I like things to be organized and neat...everything has a place and everything in its place... My life just doesnt work out that way...it never has...so, as a result...I am not resolving to do anything. I am instead going to make a list of things I would like to accomplish in the coming year. I am not giving myself a time line...therefore I will not fail. My list goes like this...

Read the Bible in 90 days. (the reading schedule....it doesn't matter if it takes me all year)
Complete Couch to 5K training...
Make menus and stick to them
Keep my house respectable
Take my kids to the park...often
Use my Museum Membership...often
CLEAN OUT THE GARAGE!!!!
Cut my Dr Pepper intake...(those that know me...know that it is ridiculous!)
Complete Creative Correction~ the Bible study
Lose 30 pounds
Go to the following places: pick your own patch, a "real" farmers market, the wildflower farm
Make strawberry Jam...
sew the stinking patches onthe girls sashes for Girl Scouts
clean out my extra closet
get rid of the clutter crap in my house
make a budget and follow it to the penny!

So, we'll see : )

How about some random pictures?

2010-01-10T21:49:00.000-06:00

Autumn and I in Salt Lake City, Utah in November....Headed to the Twilight Mom's Convention....

don't hate...it was fun! Plus NO KIDS!!!

Meghan and Madison on Christmas Day...Jumpingon the snow covered trampoline

Photography By Madison at Universal Studios in Florida...we were waiting the WhoVille Roller Coaster

Madison and I at the Homestead Heritage Festival in...Elm Mott, Texas!!!

My girls and thier friend

Me at My Mamaw's house!

Way Back in the Day!!! I was maybe 17 in this one! At Monica's House!!!!

My College Roommate Laura and Me...1998

Ya, I'm Pretty crazy about these guys! The patio at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville Orlando!

Friendship

2010-01-03T02:13:00.000-06:00

Today a friend of mine posed the question...or rather the statement....a Friendship shouldn't be work. A marriage takes work, compromise, and effort. Well all know that. But, a friendship should be easy. I started thinking about that. I have a lot of friends. But, only a few of them are really my friends. You know the kind that know all about you and still love you. Some have been there for you to cry on...Monica, for example was there for everysingle boyfriend caused tears that i have ever had. Autumn was there for several of them. They see you do stupid things. They support you, encourage you, tell you how stupid your being, and still pretend to like the idiot you were crying over last week. Those two know absolutely every thing there is to know about me. I had other friends along that path...but they are the only ones still there. My friendships with them are not work...they just are. I have some friends here that are not work...they just are. How many people say that about me? I wonder...am I a good friend? Am I the person that they know they could call at three am because they had a fight with someone....and know I would answer. Today I learned that not all friendships are created equal. Some are work. Some are not honest. Some are onesided. So now I must figure out how to move forward and be the type of friend that just is....and figure out how to balance the ones that are sooo much work.

A Novel Idea...

2009-12-27T02:33:00.000-06:00

As ususal I can't sleep. I just piddle around my house trying to find something important enough to keep me up at this hour. Tonight, I claimed laundry as the culprit. I don't know why I don't sleep at night. I really have no idea. It is one of the things I plan to work on. I uploaded pictures to my Facebook account. Success...something I have been meaning to do! Yes! Then as I am sitting at my desk....piddling again. I read this: " Look around and consider your blessings. Read this morning's newspaper, and be grateful for what Didn't happen to you. Think about what you do have in a new light" ~ Lucy Swindoll.

Wow.

What a novel idea. Consider what could befall you as a blessing because it didn't. I mean really. Think about this. Wouldn't that change the outlook we start with everyday? Mornings around here suck! I mean really, really suck. In a, just pray we make it through till midday kinda way... What a great idea, to be Thankful for the Blessings we have and More thankful for the things we were not Challenged with...and move on through the day. I think I am going to try that.

I am very Thankful I was able to take this pretty picture on a girls weekend in Utah.................

Crafty Moments

2009-12-19T04:08:00.000-06:00

Don't you just love these? I made 9 of these Beautiful glittery ornaments last night.

There was a large range of colors...I didn't manage to take pictures of the variety.

This particular ball was for my UT Alumni friends next door.

Easy, somewhat inexpensive and Amazing looking.

Thanks to Kelli for the idea!

4am ramblings

2009-12-19T04:02:00.000-06:00

I am so very Blessed. Shall I count the ways? I have a husband that loves me and works so hard...his working hard gives me the ability to work part time....which gives me the ability not to put my children in daycare...which allows me to be a much larger part of their life...which makes me happy. I have a job that is supportive and ladies to work with that are my dearest friends. I have life long friends that know all of my stories...both good and bad...yet love me completely anyway. I have three amazing children that bring me joy, some tears, and some frustration....that I love to the moon and back. I have a family...both immediate and extended and God given...that lifts me up when I am down, loves me, and believes in me. I have a beautiful home that is comfortable and safe. My husband has a job that provides for us well. I am loved and saved by my Lord and a daughter of the King....

Yes, I am Blessed. I AM BLESSED beyond measure. So, why is it that I forget? Do you ever do that? Just forget. I get so caught up in the schedule, the stress, and frustration of everyday life...I mean WHY is it that my children can remember every single lyric to any Taylor Swift song...but CAN NOT remember to flush the potty or pick up after themselves. UGHHhhhh Why is it that my hubby can not seem to anticipate what I need? Some days just a pair of ears to listen to my problems....no need to fix them. Just listen and say...Babe, your right....that sucks. Is it too much to ask that when I come home its a little bit better than when I left? Do you ever get that way...the little stupid things pile up and then your all mad and really it is for no reason. For me, then I have a hard time shaking it.

Well, I decided today...after a "proud" moment...You know one of those moments when you say...ya, I just blew it as a mom/ wife/ friend....fill in the blank. I had one. I had a rough preschool party day. Not a bad day... a rough day. There was an unplanned fire drill...meaning the fire department showed up because the alarm actually went off. Well, 13 four year olds in socked feet and no coats...down the stairs, out the door and to the football field we went. They were awesome. I love those kids. Ya, that completely threw off my morning. When I got home...I was tired and the kids were whiny, the TV was loud. I had all these gifts from my sweet kids. I wanted to open them...it didn't happen at school because of the aforementioned fire alarm issue. The baby was in this, Madison was messing with that, Meghan was arguing because of something, and the hubby didn't react fast enough. So, I blew up ( so proud) and sent myself to bed. God love that man...he let me sleep for over three hours. Refreshed! Renewed...realization....I was a total...um Witch. They didn't deserved that because I had a rough day.

Common sense idea #1

Treat the family with the same consideration as I do EVERYONE else I come into contact with.

Common sense idea #2

They are kids. Remember....?

Common sense idea #3

I am overstretched and this leaves me irritatable and less tolerant of my own family....(for the LOVE???)

So, starting now. I am going to do better, communicate my needs better, and be a better me....

Time Really Flies

2009-12-18T23:46:00.001-06:00

Is seems like only yesterday it was summer. We were enjoying hot weather, the beach, and of course Disney. Then suddenly school started. Life got busy and schedules became less than calm. And, now it is freaking Christmas time. Where did the time go? How did it become December already?!!! Today the girls and I began our Christmas Break. Wasn't it just, literly, Summer? Wow. I vow to rest and relax....ok who am I kidding. I have projects I want done. We'll see...

A long overdue Update.....beginning with Vacation

2009-09-21T21:39:00.000-05:00

As you may know we had a fabulous vacation this year. A road trip with the family and Brent's Dad, Karen, our niece Morgan, and her friend Savannah...to Florida! Disney World and several beaches. It was wonderful and we had a great time! There were many firsts and a lot of fun. Our trip started a 3:30 am on July 4th. We were packed in and ready to go. The girls were so excited. Our trip started with a detour. Brent had a schedule to keep ; ) I had detours to make : ) Our first detour was to Vivian, La. My beloved Mamaw and Papaw passed away several years ago. Mamaw passed away Sept 13, 2004. I have not been to visit her grave since her funeral. Many reasons...but mainly, it just makes it too real. I loved her sooo much. Well, we were driving thru Sheveport and that is really close to Vivian. So, I demanded that we go. Brent decided to find a "new" way to get there. hehe. It was a longer, scenic view...we eventually made it and I am glad that I went. I found that her date of death had never been inscribed on her tombstone...WHAT!!!! Apparently, the funeral home did not record her payment...my cousin is going to make it right. Thank You Ashley! So, a brief trip to Vivian was followed by...well...nothing. The next excitement was arriving at the Mississippi River....

We stopped at the Vistor's Bureau...Miss Mississippi was there greeting travelers...really? So...we got out and walked around. There is this hill that you can walk over to and there is a Civil War Cannon perched at the top of the hill. Uh...yes, I made everyone walk over there and check it out. As you can see the girls were not that excited and Braeden totally thought it was awesome! Meghan thought the river was really cool and also that the tug boat was cool too! I had to explain that the paddle boat wasn't something that we could to to...Casino's are not on my short list of places to take Meghan at 8. Yes, I spent the same summer in a Casino...but that was a different time and my story...not the story for my girls! So, saw the Mississippi River and a cannon for the first time! AWESOME...a little history thrown in there!

From the Mississippi River to Florida there wasn't anything cool to report. Brent just doesn't like to stop anywhere! If it is not on the schedule...he doesn't want to do it! Our final destination on this day was Pensacola Florida...which we made it to by late afternoon...

To be continued....

2009-07-12T23:32:00.000-05:00

2009-07-09T16:09:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the commmon things: sand in my car from the beach

Listening in: the girls watching Zach and Cody while Baby Boy fusses....

Dinner Plans: Anything but McDonalds...Anything!

View from the window: Beautiful hotel golf course and pools

Today is the last day we will be spending in orlando. It has been so much fun. Our hotel is beautiful and HUGE. We love the pool and grounds! So far on our vacation we have: visited the Mississippi river, Pensacola Beach, The Magic Kingdom, Downtown Disney, Universal Studios, Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, and lots of time in our hotel pool! There is going to be a shuttle launch tomorrow and we had hoped to see it on the launch pad. But, either it was in the hanger or it was too misty where we were! Either way it was a bummer not to see it. Right now Brent is golfing and we are hanging in the hotel room relaxing. Or rather they are and I am having some time on the computer. It has rained and rained and rained here! But, the weather was great anyway! I will post pictures soon!

Wedding Pictures....

2009-06-24T23:18:00.000-05:00

Its hot!

2009-06-23T13:45:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the Common things: laundry almost finished

Listen in: washer and dryer running...tv off!

Dinner Plans: I feel like soup

Plans for the day: finish the laundry, shampoo carpets, and finish sorting the mountain of handmedowns from the attic

My dear sweet DD6 is sick. Yesterday she was lethargic and laid in bed all day. Today after a decent amount of antibiotics and tyenol she feels all better! Why is it that they do not understand...sick means sick for more than 24 hours. She is so frustrated that she can't play out side.

so on Father's day Brent and I worked on cleaning up the backyard. I want it to be a place the kids want to play. Not that they Have to play there. I would like to add a tether ball and a big yard umbrella. Little chrismas lights along the fence to make it pretty at night. I plan to make these candle holders out of mason jars. So it will look magical. My banana trees are getting a little bigger everyday. The ones on the side of the house are really big! I once saw this really cute hop scotch that was made out of cement pave stones and painted very Mary Englebriet. I love her stuff so I think I may have to try that this year too.

I have a list of things I want to do this summer:

Go to a drive in movie

Take Braeden to the beach

Take the girls to a real rodeo

Eat Icecream I made myself on the back porch

Attend one festival somewhere

Pick berries somewhere or peas

Make pickles

Put up peas, peaches, and green beans

Make strawberry jam

Have a girls weekend away from my kids to scrapbook

make garden stones with the kids hand or foot prints in them

have snow cones with the kids

get a small pool and fill it with sand for them to play in ( make a cover to prevent the sand being used as a sand box!)

go to an outdoor movie somewhere

go to a state fair

go pole fishing

....to be continued at a later date!

Blessings of friendship

2009-06-19T00:37:00.000-05:00

Listen in: The tv in my room is on...Fox news (Brent's Favorite)
Plans for my day: Work, Summer Spectacular, and a sleep over for the girls
Beauty in the common things: the kids are asleep

So, much has happened in the last month. The girls both finished school and passed (duh). Braeden started really babbling and cruising on the furniture. But the most exciting thing for me is that my brother got married! Most of my friends know that I was not raised by my father. I, in fact never lived with him. I was allowed short visits once a year. Why? Never really asked. My mom was controlling that way I suppose. Anyway I met my brother when I was 13 and he was 7 ( I think he was anyway) it would be an understatement to say that we didn't like each other at first. I thought he was a spoiled brat and was super jealous of his getting all of our dad's attention. Anyway...it really took a long time for us to really become friends. I still don't see him as often as I would like. But, I consider him to be one of the greatest things to ever happen to me. We have two other brothers, but...it isn't the same with them. They never knew a time when they didn't have a sister. To them, I have always been a distant part of the family. But, BJ and I had to OVERCOME the fact that we were brother and sister...does that make sense? Anyway, long story somewhat shorter... He has had his share of hard lessons learned. Haven't we all? and he has had his share of heartbreak. Again, haven't we all? But, a couple of years ago he met Stephanie. To be honest I was a little nervous about meeting his new girlfriend and introducing her to my girls. They tend to get attached quickly and I didn't want to go thru that again. They noticed the previous one was gone and I had to explain. (Which sucked) So, BJ brings her to meet me and let me tell you...friends. I was blown away by her. My girls IMMEDIATELY loved her and she made a point to befriend them. That really spoke to me! I remember thinking..."wow" she really spent time with my girls. I really liked that and by the end of the day...I felt like I had known her forever. Score big time for BJ! So, imagine how happy we were...when we found out that they were getting married! I really am so happy for them! I had obviously hoped that he would find someone worthy of him and that I would like. But, I never expected to be crazy about my new sister in law! She asked my girls to be in the wedding and so was I! Guys, I didn't even make it through the rehearsal without crying. I am so happy for them!!! I love my brother so much and I am so,happy he found his soul mate! ! I really didn't get any snapshots of them(except this one ). But as soon as I get a picture or two of the wedding I will have to post them!

So, now I am exhausted and really should be going to bed!!!

Gosh, has it really been this long?

2009-05-26T16:25:00.000-05:00

Listen in: Meghan Reading while baby boy plays with the drawer handles

View from the window: trees blowing

Dinner plans: I have no idea!

Plans for the rest of the day: laundry and clean up my room. Post some things on Craigs List

Beauty in the common things: baby giggles!

How has it been this long since I last blogged? Time has really gotten away from me!All is well and super busy! Maybe tonight I will do a long newsy report! But, now I need to put baby boy down for a super late nap!

2009-04-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the common things: baby sleeping in his own bed

Listen in: music playing from the babies room, wind out the window, and the fox news channel from my room.

dinner was: steak, asparagus, and potatos

Tonight I am sad. I am homesick. I want to drive down the beach and listen to the waves roll in. I want to hear seagulls and water laping the pilings. I miss home. I miss Monica and Autumn. I wish that San Leon wasn't 5 hours away. I want to go sit in the garage at Monica's and play cards or drive around without a plan to garage sale. I need time with my best friend. That person who knows so much about you that nothing is a suprise and they don't care anyway. I need that right now. I just feel sad. The Lord is trying to show me something and I am impatient to see what it is.

2009-04-09T09:21:00.001-05:00

Listen in: Baby boy playing in his bouncy

View from the front door: a dreary morning that has all the promise of a beautiful day!

Dinner Plans: its McDonalds Night!

Plans for the day: Home with baby boy who is sick, the girls Easter parties at school, Mcdonalds with a half a dozen of my closest friends, Aunt Alana is coming to town, and I plan to clean on my house some.

Beauty in the common things: Bird chirping and blessed by the simple spring shower we just had

I can't believe it has been almost two months since I posted a message on my blog. Wow! Ok maybe I can...since I tend to be sporatic at best. Much has happened in our little corner of Texas! The best news is that DH finally has a better schedule! Instead of heading to work at 3am every day...he will work 1pm to 8pm. This is actually awesome! The options are not all that great in his job. We can get up as a family and go to bed as a family. Wonderful! I work alot in the evening anyway...so we will all get home around the same time. This is terrific! Baby boy is crawling every where and pulling up on the furniture. The girls are super excited about this. He says Hi, Dada, ByeBye... I am working really hard on Mama. : ) The girls are doing well in school and just joined Girl Scouts! Which I am super excited about! I am working at both churches and trugging along as best as I can. Life is good!
Today is "spring Party" day at the girls school. Which is pc for Easter Party day! I will post pictures soon!

Love and Blessings

8n things about me...

2009-02-04T15:51:00.000-06:00

Julie tagged me: dang it!

8 TV Shows I watch:

Grey's

Two and a half men

Jon and Kate Plus 8

The Food Network...it counts

CSI

CSI Miami

Nothing Else comes to mind

8 Resturants I like:

Estbans (All time favorite!)

Benos

Olive Garden

Cheesecake factory

Rosas

Kincaids

El Rancho Grande

Shady Oak

to be continued...baby is screaming!

2009-02-04T15:37:00.000-06:00

LISTEN IN: Baby boy grunting...he's trying to crawl...backwards

VIEW FROM THE WINDOW: Sunshine

PLANS FOR THE DAY: Working this morning...free time... working again tonight.

DINNER PLANS: Breakfast for dinner, Eggs, Sausage, Buiscits, and baked French Toast.(a new recipe)

BEAUTY IN THE COMMON THINGS: freshly shampooed carpets

Today, I am relaxing. DD5 just came in and said "Mommy, I love you so much". She is good for my ego! DH is sitting here watching the biggest loser and it makes me thingk about going to the gym. Maybe next week. I need to get a game plan. I can't walk into the gym with no idea what I am doing. That would be to frustrating. Those two trainers are brutal! I think I need to go one there : ) maybe not. They don't have Dr. Pepper there. Can you imagine a world without Dr. Pepper. I would freaking die! I am taking some baby steps here. I have the house in control. Now the meals. Next the gym. Thats the plan!

Time to make some dinner : )

2009-02-03T18:15:00.000-06:00

LISTEN IN: the news

VIEW OUT MY WINDOW: Dusk

DINNER PLANS: Beans and cornbread (tried a new recipe)

PLANS FOR THE NIGHT: Scrapbooking

So, today I worked at ladies bible class and got to love on some sweet babies. Then I got to give them back...and love on my own sweet baby. Sure do love that little guy. He is getting so big...so fast. Then we came home from the church and hung out at the house. I have really been working hard on meal planning...then actually eating those meals...because I actually cooked those planned meals. I seem to have a follow thru problem. Yesterday I made homemade pizza dough and sauce. That became homemade calzones. I also made banana bread from a new recipe. Yesterday's meal was a success. Today I made beans and cornbread. Not so sure I like these recipes. The girls have not come in from playing yet...so I don't have their opinion yet. I also shampooed the living room carpet. Man it looks better in here!
Baby is screaming. Till the next time!

2009-01-30T14:25:00.000-06:00

Listen in: total blissful silence

View out the Window: Sunshine

Plans for the day: DH is sick, baby is sick, I am sick...so I guess I just need to have a girls night get together and clean my house. Logical right? Oh, and make baby food and cook for the freezer....

Beauty in the Common things: finding enough couch fabric to recover all the yuky pillows and having a Mammaw that taught me how to sew.

Dinner plans: Calzones

So, now DH is sick. Great. Men seem to fall to pieces when they are sick. Why is it that when we are sick...life continues to move forward? I dont' understand it. My babysiter went out of town today. DH was sick and couldn't spend the day taking care of baby boy? Not that I really expect an answer...and I don't mind. Its just one of those little things that puzzle me. So, I finally lowered the curtin rod inthe office and washed the sheers in there. Last night. I also found more of the lovely white fabric for my couch. Yes, white...just in case someone other than the two people I know actually read this. So, I sewed covers for the pillows and put pieces over the arms. I think the best solution would be a new couch. Not in the budget though. Let's see, I have decluttered 80% of the house. Flylady would be so pleased. I have given away 80% of the stock piled clothes from the kids. I took 5 loads of stuff to the church resale shop. I organized my kitchen. I organized my scrapbooking spot...my closet...the babys room...the laundry room...and a good portion of the office. I feel so free. I also don't sleep. But, who needs sleep. Oh, and major news to report. I have joined the gym...went to a "dance24" class and I have cut back on Dr. Pepper...2 a day. My medication helps wiht the psyco withdrawls I am sure I would be feeling other wise! Hehe. Baby boy is trying to crawl and is so freaking cute! He has three teeth and is still mostly bauld. So cute! My DD's are doing great in school and love that baby!

Enough for now!

No School Today...

2009-01-28T16:56:00.001-06:00

Listen in: Baby Boy coughing and fussing

View Outside: Sunshine and dripping

Plans for the Day: Be lazy! Went to store for medicine, bought fire logs, took DH's laundry to the cleaners. Maybe do some laundry. Baby is crying and I gotta go!

A little catch up is in order...

2009-01-27T22:51:00.000-06:00

Listen in: Fireplace crackling and sleet on the chimney

Beauty in the Common things: children sleeping

View outside: I have no idea...to darn cold to go look. Its dark and sleety. Good enough for me!

Dinner: We had breakfast for dinner. It was on the menu for tomorrow. That is going to be revised!

Plans for the rest of the night: stay up and make sure Brent gets up for work, upload pictures and post them, maybe some laundry.

Wednesday

2008-11-26T23:52:00.000-06:00

Listen In: Brent flipping channels, dishwasher, and laundry

Beauty in the common things: Ice cold Dr Pepper

Dinner: Tacos ( funny story to follow...)

Today I: spent the day being lazy with the girls, took a nap when hubby got home, went to the bank, bought baby boy a Bumbo chair, and of all places walmart! Hubby spent the afternoon ( is still currently smoking a brisket and ribs)

So, today I already explained I was lazy. It was very lovely to sleep in! I love to spend the morning in bed. Mornings would be fine if they didn't come so freaking early in the day! The girls were really sweet and quietly watched cartoons until I got up this morning. We straightened up the house...such a never ending job..and then they spent the rest of the day- literally playing outside. Madison had dirt everywhere when she came in- YUK But, they had fun. Apparently Meghan and Austin washed Justin's truck with a spray bottle of water. They have decided to start a car washing business at 50 cents a car and when they reach $100 they are going to give the money to the American Heart Association. Isn't that sweet? I really hope that Justin knew they were going to wash his new truck. I think he has had it for all of two months. Hum...I am glad I wasn't home for this event. I had left to go buy Baby boy a Bumbo chair. I finally found one at KidtoKid for 21.00. A pretty good deal I think. It is lavender...I did call and confirm with Brent that he would not freak out that I had bought his little boy a lavender, I mean Purple, Bumbo chair. Let's just call it Purple. My favorite color. Ya, that's why I got it :) So, I get home and make dinner. Well it seems that one of my very sweet, generous little girls has taken my can of refried beans to the food pantry. Huh? They seem to always grab what I am planning to use and I never seem to notice before hand. Now it seems I have to go to Wal-Mart on the night before Thanksgiving for a can of refried beans. Me and everyone else in town! It took forever!!!! The girls made their gift lists. Ya, they seem to have thought I am made of money. I had the fun of explaining that just because it is on the list doesn't mean they are going to get it. Kids. Gotta love them!

Have a wonderful and happy Thanksgiving!

Tuesday...S

2008-11-25T21:34:00.001-06:00

Listen In: Baby swing, Bedknobs and Broomsticks on the TV ( I loved this movie as a child and DD7 had decided she does too!)

View out the Window: Dark

Beauty in the Common things: Peaceful nights

Dinner Plans: fend for yourself...had McDonalds Day today

So, today I took Baby boy to the doctor for his 4 month check up and shots. I hate the shots part! He now weighs 14lbs and 10 oz and is 27 inches long...and he is getting his first tooth~!!!! This makes for a very adorable and grumpy baby! Dr. Davis told me to stop freaking out about his large soft spot and the little ridges I can feel...he assured me this would smooth out and be fine. Ok...between us...I am still freaking out about it! He is eating food now too! We have had: cerals-he hates those, apples, bananas, pears, and carrots. He loves Carrots! I think I will do green beans next. That should be fun. I made all of his veggies baby food myself. Not that it was hard...by organic veggies, steam them, and puree in the blender. Done! I got these way cool ice tray things for baby food at babiesrus and I love them. You can freeze the babies food in these little 2oz wedges. So, I have baggies of Carrots, squash, sweet potatos, and green beans in the freezer. The fruit I have been buying at the store in premade jars.
Yesterday was American Heros day at the girls school. I will post pictures later. DD7 was Sacaqweah? and DD5 was Sally Ride. I wanted her to be Krista McColluff..but I deciede that might be in poor taste. DD7 wants to learn to scrapbook and make signs with me. I dont' know if I am ready to let her loose with my scrapbooking supplies. But, It does give me a good Christmas present Idea for her.
So, a friend of mine tagged me:

Seven random things about me:

1. It took me 5 summers to learn to waterski and I never was able to use a kneeboard. The first time I did get up on the ski's, I was so shocked I just let go!

2. I have to stop and read the historical markers on the roads I drive by, I just think it is so interesting to know what happened here before. I love history! Last summer, on the way to Luckenbach we stopped at a road side historical marker to find a hundred year old school house...it still had a well in front. Very cool!

3. Along those same lines...I have a British coin in my car that was minted in 1875! Think about who could have had it. Back then only the very rich had money and coins to spend. Wow!

4. I met my DH in the college bar hangout Shenanigans. My roommate wanted to introduce me to her boyfriends bull riding partner. I remember thinking...please let the cute one with the great eyes be mine! Thank the Lord for being in the wrong place at the right time! By the way...her boyfriend was NOT a bullrider and DH was not his partner! : ) Now you know that is funny!

5. I refuse to live where I have to drive thru cornfields and will not live near active fault lines either! But, to those who will....More power to ya!

6. I wish I lived in the country, on a farm, and didn't have to do any of the physical labor! I actually miss having to get Mammaw's special brand of fertilizer...or actually I just miss my Mammaw! I know she is watching over me though.

7. Hurricane Ike destroyed my hometown on the same day of the year that my beloved Mammaw died. September 13. Isn't that wierd? Not really about me...but I just realized that a few days ago and it really freaks me out!

Ok, I tag...

www.gigislittleblog.blogspot.com

It says we have to do seven...I don't know seven bloggers....so Julie is picked!

Ok, I am tired and I am going to bed!

Saturday...

2008-11-22T11:36:00.000-06:00

Listen In: Food Network on, Baby B Laughing in the swing

View from the window: Breezy, cold trees

Plans for the day: relax, a quick trip to Kohls, working on crafts, and work later

Dinner Plans: Hashbrown Soup and rolls

Beauty in the Common things: Fall Leaves and Holiday Dinner

So, last night we had our holiday pictures made...it was a lot less of an ordeal than DH acted like it was! Baby boy was even cooperative. Not much else going on! Stressing about the Holidays. But, isn't everybody?

Enjoy the pictures of my little angels:

Girls Night Out

2008-11-14T17:37:00.000-06:00

Listen In: baby snoring in the baby swing, girls playing something, DD7 reading to sister from a great big book about dogs, and wind

View Out the Window: sunset and blowing trees

Plans: today I worked, came home...relaxed, and I am about to go out to dinner with my girl friends

Dinner: see above

Beauty in the Common things: a clean house

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Finally a cold front is blowing in. November should never be warm enough for tank tops and capri's. At least I don't think so! This week has flown by! I was sick with a stomach bug that has been running rampant through my community. YUK. I just hope and pray the girls and baby don't get it. DH can take care of himself. I would of course feel sorry for him...but it would be much, much less work on my part. On Sunday afternoon, one of my girl friends had a Holiday Open house. I took my signs and the photo braclets I have been making. I was so nervous about putting myself out there like that. But, my crafts were recieved well. For that I am Thankful. I even got in a night of scrapbooking in. That was a treat! The girls are getting ready to have a play date at a friends house and all the moms are going to dinner! No kids! Whoo Hoo! Well maybe the baby. We'll see. Other than that...pretty boring around here...

Until next time

Life at hour house

2008-11-10T23:24:00.000-06:00

The last several days we have been pretty laid back around here! The girls spent a long weekend with thier Aunt. Baby boy stayed home with me and daddy. Saturday some favorite Ennis friends dropped by to visit. I don't get to see them often enough so this was a treat! Sunday, I had a Holiday Open house and took my signs and the bracelets I have been making. I was really, really nervous about it. It went very good! THis week promises to be great! I have a test at school tomorrow but I think it will be fine! That's about it!

My week in Pictures

2008-11-03T22:27:00.000-06:00

Baby B is the cutest Bear ever!

DD7, DD5, and DH as the Overprotective Daddy

DD5 is a High School Musical Cheerleader

DD7 is Hannah Montana...we used her dance costume from tap...she was a little too grown up looking for her Daddy

My sweet Baby Boy is 3 months old now

Isn't he just precious?

DD5 and I enjoyed a class fieldtrip to Mainstay Farms Pumpkin Patch. Much better than when DD7 went. It was sunny and cool this time and not cold and rainy like 3 years ago!

Life is getting back to normal now. DS is sleeping all night long (most nights) and school is a better routine now. I am not as busy as I have been in the past. DH and I made the difficult decision to withdrawl our girls from dance class. We need to be more frugal and it was simply too much extra expense. DD7 is understandablely upset but she is being a big girl about the whole thing. Thank the Lord for his blessings! So, we have more free time together as a family. The girls are getting excited about the holidays and making their lists. This year is going to be a much scaled down event at our house. What about you?

A little bit of news...

2008-10-21T23:26:00.000-05:00

Listen in: All of the household automatic cleaning appliances in full swing..oh and crickets

Beauty in the common things: a freshly swept floor and dishes done... (those that know me well will understand the joy this brings)

Dinner: grilled cheese for girls and fried toast for me

Plans today: I had plans to do a lot but got sick instead...took the girls to school and came home to sleep till 12:36 to be exact

Prayer needs: Continued prayer for Monica and family and friends in San Leon...rebuilding is so slow. Family control and budget control. Wellness to come back to my home...I am so tired of someone being sick!

So, as I mentioned previously...the house has been plagued with a bought of sickness. Yuk! From headaches that rival labour to upchucking and extremely unexpected visits to the potty...we all feel crummy around here. Hopefully this is coming to an end.
Yesterday miss Madison had the crud and stayed home from school. Last night a very sweet friend from church came over to babysit her so I could go to work. Well, she had a high time letting Meghan know that she and only she got to have a babysitter. My children seem to think having a babysitter is the coolest thing ever...maybe because they never get this little privilege! Anyway, she tried very hard to con Sarah into using the easy bake oven. Sarah replied to her, "I can't cook...I will burn the house down if I try!" "Sarah...it's an easy bake oven.." replies Madison. Like duh!
Also on her mind... on Friday evening Brent's Dad and his wife took us to have dinner a Babe's Chicken. This is a treat that we do not do often. Madison needed to use the bathroom. If you have never been to Babe's, you might not know that you have to go down this dark hallway to the bathroom and the doors are hidden in the wall. Who's idea this was I will never know. Anyway, as we all know it is Halloween time. Great. The hallway is decorated with creepy and spooky things. Madison does NOT do Scary! She gets almost to the hidden door ( scary enough for her) and sees the creepy skeleton at the end of the dark hallway. She turns on her heal and back out of there she goes. I had to make her come back out and go to the restroom. Well, on our way back to the table a grandpa aged gentleman and his grandson come bopping down the hall. To the hidden door bathrooms. Grandpa can't see in the dark and manages to push open the only door that looks like a door. The only problem is that...that was the fire exit. Alarm sounds and Madison and I come out of the hall. All eyes on us. She announces to the restaurant...it wasn't us...it was the the old man. Just then, the little boy that was with him comes tearing out of the hallway hollering...I didn't do it! It was pretty darn funny! Madison has decided that now, she wants to work at Babe's Chicken when she grows up. The girls do a chicken slash line dance to Boot Scootin Boogie...that includes a "whoop" out loud. Thanks girls the baby was asleep! So, this is now Madison's life plan. We agreed she could work there during high school.
Meghan has decided that reading is the coolest ever and she needs walkie talkies. The little boy next door has some. Have to thank his mom. I told her that she did not need walkie talkies, as she yells loud enough with out them. She has become my big helper with Braeden. She loves to hold and feed him. I do not love for her to walk around with him...she tries to though. I wish she could help clean her room so well. We are working on it!
Braeden is getting quite the little personality. He just loves his momma. How would have ever thought I would have the cutest little boy God ever created! I just love him. Kids aren't they the greatest?

Off to bed! Consider yourself updated!

2008-10-15T17:13:00.000-05:00

Listen In: a train in the distance, my girls playing in their room, and the baby swing

Beauty in the Common things: baby firsts: finding his hands, smiles in the mornings

Plans: McDonalds Play dates, Awannas for DD5, Dance Class for DD7, and church for me

Dinner Plans: Breakfast for Dinner

Today is a quite peaceful day. I am busy but what is news about that? I read the sweetest book to my class..."The Oak inside the Acorn" by Max Lucado. I highly recommend this book. I almost cried...of course that could be the post pregnancy hormones too! So, DD5 has decided that she wants to go to Awannas every week instead of our church. I am ok with this because I loved Awannas when I was a little girl. This is her second week. Yep we are busy, busy, busy. I love it!
Baby Boy is sleeping almost all night now! WooHoo. That alone is worth celebrating. He smiles this adorable little baby smile when he sees me now. It just melts my heart! I love it. Right now he is fast asleep in his swing...which he loves! I better go get some house work done!

Thankful

2008-09-28T22:40:00.000-05:00

Listen In: Blissful Silence!

Dinner: Pasta I thought we would try out of the freezer section. I thought it was discusting...the girls loved it! Who knew?

Beauty in the common things: Baby's dressed for church

Prayer Needs: I need peace with what has befallen my mom. I know that in no way am I responsible or do I need to be the one to save her...but, I am heart weary anyway. I know she has to pull herself up from her bootstraps and make a new start. Many of those I know and love have to do the same thing. I pray for the girls to continue to be blessed at school. They both love their teachers and are excited about each new day. I know that is no small feat! I pray for self control in all the area's that I need it. The Lord knows what those are. I pray for DH to excell at work and to find that position he will love. If that means we move...so be it. I pray for wisdom in seeing the opportunity that presents itself and not all the obsticles in the way. I pray for all the Ike victims...may they see the Rainbow at the end of the storm and feel blessings come in some way.

Today is Sunday. We spent the morning at church. The Baby B spent the morning in the nursery, where I am assured he was never put down. He seemed to thrive on all of the attention. The girls went with MiMi to eat lunch at Chili's and to see Sleeping Beauty at Casa Manana. This is their "thing" they do with Mimi...and they love it! I love that I am not the one that has to sit for two hours with them : ) Although, I too have had my fair share of filling in for MiMi when life has gotten two busy for her to take them. I don' think they have missed one show in several years!

There are a couple of things I want to be sure and do this year...I seem to always have a list and never do it! So, I am writing down my list for this year now:

1.) Attend the King Tut exhibit in Dallas, and the Jehesbut one in Fort Worth. I am completlety intrigued by Egyptian History. I find it facinating! I hope to see them with DD7...the little one is not as into history as the big girl! She is much like her mama.

2.) Go to the Fort Worth Civil war museum. I think that would be sooo cool!

3.) Take the girls fossil hunting by Lake Worth...again. Last time we found a geological marker and saw a Horned Toad laying eggs. Very cool.

4.) Go to the FlowerMound pumbkin patch with the whole family and take fall pictures.

5.) See the Wizard of Oz on the big screen in Dallas

6.) Take the girls to a drive in: High School Musical 3 in Ennis

....to be continued!

Should be busy....

2008-09-27T22:18:00.000-05:00

Listen in: sports on the news (Yuk!) and the washer running

Plans for the night: laundry and a straighting around the house

View out the window: Dark

Dinner plans: made the girls eat yogurt and I had a handful of chips... (won't be winning the mom of the year award this year)

What we did today: DD5 had to dance at Wild West Fest, DD7 could have danced...had she been going to class. She thought she wanted to quit. Changed her mind. No class no Dance in public. I bet she won't be skipping class again. I went to the half price sale at the JBF sale. Got some good stuff. I wish I had more money to spend...I could have went wild in there! Then we went to church. Baby Boy went to the church nursery for the first time. I almost cried. Not that I don't trust our Nursery people...I completely do. It's just that means he is already getting too big! He started screaming about 1/2 thru service and they paged me. So, I took him into church with me. DD7 was singing on stage with the elementary kids tonight and he got to hear them in the end. Of course, he went to sleep and looked all sweet and cuddly. No one believes that he screams for hours on end. HE DOES! He also loves Grey's Anatomy! He was screaming tonight until I turned on my recorded episode from Thursday night. I have been meaning to watch it. Anyway, he went straight to sleep and didn't make a peep! The girls, however, did not watch it. They spent the evening watching the food network. I hope this means DD7 will someday cook dinner every night! That would be awesome! Until then... Guess I need to get busy!

Kids are sooo funny!

2008-09-26T17:19:00.000-05:00

My DD7 is so funny! This morning she and her daddy had the funniest little conversation. I am still tickled at her! It went something like this...

Daddy "You know if you save your money now...in your 30's you could be a millionaire"

DD7 "I don't want to be a millionaire, Daddy. The question's are too hard!"

Isn't that funny? It was a cute wasy to start the day. Our afternoon ended with DS getting his first round of shots! He wieghs 11lbs 12oz and is 24inches long! Chunky Monkey! He laughed on Wednesday. So sweet! I love my family!!!!

San Leon after Ike- through my eyes a small idea...so much more.....

2008-09-21T23:01:00.000-05:00

Aftermath of Ike

2008-09-16T22:56:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the common things: Friends who love me

Listen in: a Train in the distance ( I love that I can hear them sometimes)

I am sitting here tonight feeling helpless. I need to be there to help my mom. By all accounts...she lost everything. Her house is standing but that is the best thing I can say from the pictures I have. Monica went over there for me and sent a few pictures to prepare me for what I will see. I have been a basket case since Friday. The news media coverage of San Leon is crap. Plain and simple. I and many, many other people have been communicating via online blogs and forums. Thank God for the internet. Many people are missing loved ones...many more are missing their entire (and I mean entire) houses. They are just gone. My mom was lucky in that she found her house there. But, I think it might have been better if it had been wiped off entirely. The antique piano floated over to the front door and you can't get it open. As a result the house is full of mud. My mom said there is nothing to salvage but I can't beleive that there is absolutly nothing. She doesn't want me to come because she donesn't think I can emotionally handle it. But, for my own piece of mind...I have to. Beyond the fact that she doesn't have anyone at all helping her...I need to go home. My home...which is more than that house...has by all accounts been destroyed and I need to see that in order to come to terms with it. I plan to take pictures of some of the homes and send them to those that are begging for information via the internet and also to try and find something for my mom. I have friends here watching my kids for me and I will only be there for two days. I hope I can get a lot done in that amount of time. I hope to figure out what my mom is going to do. She didn't have any insurance and she doesn't even know where to begin to start. Thankfully she already filed with FEMA.

I just am having so much trouble wrapping my mind around what has happened. I know so many people must have lost their life. The numbers don't add up. I think the media is keeping it hush, hush. I pray for the families that are out there just waiting to hear about their homes, friends, and family. Lord give me strength to do what I need to do and to make it through this strong enough to shoulder the burden for my mom. Amen!

Advise from my Dad at 10:30 pm

2008-09-13T05:36:00.001-05:00

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change
The courage to change the things I can...
and the Wisdom to know the difference.

Early rise

2008-09-13T05:12:00.001-05:00

Beauty in the common things: Baby Boy loving his swing that moves side to side

Listen In: Houston Channel 11 News playing on the digital antenna of DH's swanky tv

Plans for the day: DD7 is dancing at the mall later today and honestly: watching more coverage of this horrible hurricane.

Dinner Plans: I have no idea...something easy???

Prayer Needs for the day: My mom: she is possbibly going to wake up to find her home destroyed; My Family: I have several family memebers who are just now getting the brunt of the storm and they are scared; My friends in the Galveston/Houston area: same thing as mom and family; Baby Boy: that the reflux medicine really does work...had a good day yesterday; DH: that he finds happiness and financal peace with his work; myself: that I can figure out how balance it all and not leave anyone out.

So, it is 5:18 am according to my laptop...for those that may not know it...I DO NOT getup this early. But, I can't sleep. I am so worried about things I cannot do anything about. I have been able to watch almost continous coverage of what's going on down there, because Channel 11 from Houston is simalcasting up here on DH's fancy tv. I know you might say that constant watching only makes it worse. But, not for me. I actually have more peace knowing what is currently going on. Not a peace by any stretch of the imagination but I feel more in control. Not that I am...but I feel a sense of the control you get from information. By all account's this is a very bad storm and the outcome will Not be good. I want to know WHY in the HELL (sorry) people would want to stay home? WHY WHY WHY???? Why would people stay with their children??? WHY WHY WHY? I am angry at these unknown people. IF they want to play russian roulet with their own lives...so be it. But, why would they do it to their kids? I just don't get it?! The people that live across the street, well catycorner from my mom, stayed in San Leon. They are thinking they will be ok to ride out the storm because they have a warehouse building with a store onthe bottom and the home on the top. The weather service was estimating a 20 foot storm surge..on top of high tide. This is crazy! The ditches there flood if it rains! My mom's house is only 6 feet above sea level. Yesterday morning the water was at the bulk head at 8am, at 1pm or so...there was a foot of water in her house. That was the estimate from the crazy friends that did not leave. So, now it is 5:33 am and the second half of the storm is over San Leon, water is neck high in Galveston, and 82 mile an hour gusts in downtown Houston. Pray. For those people that stayed put!

Ike

2008-09-12T19:38:00.000-05:00

So, I am sitting on the living room floor, watching the Houston news. Somehow I am able to see it on the HD channels. Anyway, I am trying to wrap my brain around the fact that San Leon may not make it through this storm. It is mind boggling and scary. I am very glad my mom decided to leave. I am hoping that everyone I care about had the common sense to leave. Just sitting here waiting.....to see how bad Ike will be. Pray for Galveston and the surrounding coastal areas.

Meet Baby B~ 6 weeks old

2008-09-09T16:54:00.000-05:00

I am sooo tired....

2008-09-06T22:39:00.000-05:00

Tonight I feel defeated. My house is a wreck, my homework isn't done, I am exhusted. DH went back to work last week and I have progressively gone downhill since. The girls are both back in school now and I have picked up some much needed hours at work, and I am taking one class two days a week at school; oh, and the girls have dance....

I know I do too much and usually I can do it with out feeling this way. Baby Boy sleeps every few nights well...but, several nights a week he screams. and screams, and screams. It is on these nights that I feel defeated. I am tired and DH is in bed for work at night. He has a CRAZY schedule and so...at night I am it. Tonight, the kids and I went to church, came home, and I started getting things together for dinner...Baby boy started fussing and that progressed to screaming for three hours. In this time, I still need to make dinner, straighted my house, mother my girls, and get laundry done. I finally put baby boy down to scream in his bed while I finished dinner. (Red Beans and rice-yum!) When I picked him up this time...he allowed me to rock him to sleep. The girls finally got to eat dinner at 10 pm and I should be doing other stuff. But, I am sitting here feeling lonely, exhusted, and asking how am I going to make it?? A great song is on the radio Mountain of God by Third Day. I need to rewind that and listen to it again!
I know this pitty party is largely due to the stress of other things and the fact that DH has been home for several weeks. I got used to having him around to lean on. It will get better. I am going to let the house go and go to bed. I need sleep!

yea!

2008-08-09T00:49:00.000-05:00

My sweet baby boy! I am so excited because Julie came to see me tonight! She lives WAYYY to far away! But, that is another story for another time! We got to have a good visit and hang out together for a little while!

I am heading off to bed because tomorrow I really have to get things going on my new business Idea!

Blessings

2008-08-07T12:14:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the common things: baby noises and DD5 talking to baby boy

Plans for the day: girls to dentist, baby boy to doctor, set up new business venture blog, file 2ndary insurance claims, look for cat.

Dinner Plans: Leftovers

Listen In: the darn TV, Daddy telling DD5 to be careful with baby boy.

View from Window: Sunny Skys

So, I have already been to the dentist...OH my goodness...the Toothbrushing police are going to appear at my house! Right now I am woofing down some leftover pizza because I gotta eat and baby boy has a doctor appointment in a little while...more later!

2008-08-06T12:16:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the commom things: DH talking to his baby boy, his being home and snuggling with him in the mornings...before everyone wakes up! DH and DD5 sitting together in the large chair discussing the plans for today...so sweet. And, yesterday...his painting her fingernails and toenails with hot pink polish!

Plans for the day: DD7 at dance camp, playdate at McDonalds...because it is wednesday and we always do, fold some laundry, bathe baby boy, and work on lesson plans for friend's baby girl.

Dinner plans: not sure, one of my McYaYa's is bringing dinner tonight

Listen in: DH watching the news, DD5 singing to baby boy and telling him I love You

View from the kitchen window: breezy banana trees

So, we are about to head over to McDonald's, have I ever mentioned I HATE McDonalds? Then we will come home and veg. DH is home and has been for weeks! I am certain my TV is about to explode from non-average use! Blessed silence when the tv is off is golden around here! Did I mention, DD7 has dance camp all week? There has been so much less fighting between siblings...that is a blessing too!

Must go get real clothes on and head out to McDonalds

News.....

2008-08-04T01:14:00.000-05:00

Well, for starters let me simply say that I am up way too late tonight and completely relaxed in my SILENT home! DH is on paternity leave...because we have welcomed the newest addition to our family. We are now the proud parents of a beautiful baby boy! He was born on July 24th at 12:42pm. 7.5 Lbs and 21 inches long. He is actually my biggest baby! Everything went fairly well and there were really only a couple of stressful moments that had to do with his birth. Now, let me just say...I am not one of those women who find their happy Zen place in a completely natural birth; DD5 came dang near that way and I didn't get a metal for the extra effort and pain. So...I was more than happy to get my epidural...even when it took 3 tries! Yikes!!! Then I basically slept until it was time to deliver. I woke up here and there but didn't feel ANYTHING!!! and was happier for it! DS had some trouble transitioning to breathing and had a trip to the NICU...but all was well and he got to be in my room that night. We came home last Saturday afternoon and we have all been trying to figure out this extra baby thing.
Whoever told me that it was harder to bring home the 2nd child and after that...its no big deal with the additional kids...really???? Please tell me when that easy part starts! Of course it could have something to do with the heat. Did you know that when they tell you the forcasted temperature for the day...they mean in the shade!!! So, today when it was 107 degrees outside...they meant in the SHADE. So, obviously my girls can't go outside and play! They are bored and ready for some summer activities and between the new baby broke syndrome, the heat, and the heat...we are spending a lot of time inside. Which means they are under my feet all day long. I have little to no patience with this, by the way, and so I end up yelling at them. Then I feel bad because I yelled at them and really can you blame them? I have decided to try and let loose some of the uptightness in me. Now...if ya'll out there in the cyber world could simply tell me how????

I seem to post around Holiday's...hmmmmm

2008-03-23T18:12:00.000-05:00

So...as in previous posts...another holiday has come and gone. Today is Easter. We love Easter around here. But, this year it was very low key. There are not many things exciting for me to tell the world. We did find out our little bundle of joy is a Boy. DH is understandably excited about this! Already planning a football themed nursery. I am dealing with all this testosterone in my own special way : )
Ignoring it and hoping he changes his mind. In other news, we painted the bedroom our DD's share. I will have to post a picture or two when it is finished. Painted yes...finished no. My plan before DS comes is to have this house painted, carpet cleaned, and home decluttered. Well, we will see.

Ok Gigi...I posted ;)

Nothing better to do than update my blog...

2008-01-17T23:31:00.000-06:00

So, let's see...Christmas and New years have come and gone. The girls had a wonderful time and got every single thing their little heart desired...well except for a Wii, PS2, and Heelies. But, Santa can't get them everything they want on a daily basis. Life is busy and we do the best we can. The newest news is that I am unexpectedly Pregnant with baby number 3. We are no longer in shocked mode...but, are starting to get things figured out. The most frustrating part is that I am miserable at night. This is not to DH's benefit..if you know what I mean. During the day I am very tired by mid afternoon. This has resulted in many naps and a Filthy house! I just can't seem to get it all together at one time. I almost have all the laundry done...and I am hoping that this week I can finally get all the Holiday decorations in the attic. The most frustrating element to this situation is that I just recently got rid of the bulk of my baby stuff. So, now we have to get most of it all over again...ahhgg! I am hopeing for a boy. DH would love a boy and I plan to NOT have anymore kiddos. Maybe in the future I would like to adopt. But, I know that I am content with this last baby coming as my last baby. And that is ok. Im laying here on the bed with my laptop and I can feel baby moving around in my tummy. I forgot how weird that feels. Some women love that feeling. It kinda freaks me out a little bit : ) But, I know this baby is a Blessing from God and I am excited about it~!

That and the fact I am about to got to bed....maybe I will actually update before the baby comes : )

Hmmm.

2007-11-24T19:40:00.000-06:00

So, another Holiday has come and gone. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite Holidays. You don't have to buy everyone anything...co-ordinate with Santa or The Easter Bunny...perplex for hours for a costume that will be worn maybe one time and then lost in the shuffle. You, instead, simply cook and spend time with those who you love. I really do love Thanksgiving!

A beautiful Rainbow

2007-10-17T17:34:00.000-05:00

AGGHHH

2007-10-17T17:31:00.001-05:00

Plans for the day: Took Dd6 to the Dr. Scrapbooking Later

Dinner plans: Leftover potato soup Yum

Listen in: Girls playing in their room

View outside: Windy day

Looks like DD6 has a "strep like" virus. Well, that diagnosis was no help! This only means that I get to miss work again...just my luck! Other than that...nothing much going on. Life is busy and I plan to relax for the next couple of days!

:)

Friday!!!

2007-10-12T11:46:00.000-05:00

Plans for the Day: 1. Clean up the messy house. Its not nasty Messy...just messy! 2. Get things together for the Polar Bear Garage Sale. 3. Evaluate my budget 4. Line up I'll babysit for you if you babysit for me arrangements for class tomorrow

Listen In: Very quiet house. About to turn on the praise music channel on Sirius. Love that...it makes you feel good inside!

Dinner Plans: Beef Picante... at least get everything ready for the crock pot tomorrow. No kids tonight...not gonna cook!

View from the office window: Not one today...the blinds are closed. But from the desk...(and the backyard window)... I can see Banana Trees blowing in the breeze and a lovey sunny day.

My Mood Today: Feeling good. Like I could get a lot accomplished!

So, if I am able to work a full week...anytime soon, it will be a miricle. DD4 was running fever last night. Today, its low grade. End result...I get another day off. So, I am trying to get a lot accomplished today...so that tomorrow I can not worry about anything other than school and work. Yes...work, work, work...school, school, school, kids, kids, kids! BUSY!

DH and I went to a great Marriage workshop last weekend. I highly suggest anyone who is married and can make it to one of Gary Chapman's classes...YOU DO. It was great. DH, who was only there because he loves me and I made him go...enjoyed it! And, that night he cleaned my kitchen. HUH? I was so shocked! I thought my MIL had come over while I was sleeping and cleaned if for me. I asked DD6...who cleaned the kitchen and she said....Daddy! Such a sweet DH! My love language is Acts of Service...so this was exactly what makes me feel all loved and stuff! Of course, there were some things that we found out...for lack of a better word...sucked...but now we can work on them and Grow! So, over all...worth every penny and all day Saturday!

One area that I really need help on is my finances. I have talked to a couple of friends and they are going to help me be more responcible with our money. I am the Free Spirit that Dave Ramsey talks about and...I NEED HELP! So, starting today...I am going to do better!

I am also reading a book called "How to Make your Kids Mind without Losing Yours" Dr. Leman. So far I am really enjoying it. I think it is presenting some really great ideas all from a biblical perspective. I have been reading a lot of parenting books and books/articles about ADD. I really think my DD6 has ADD. I have not had her tested...but I really think I should!

So, that is some of our busy life in a nutshell!

Blessings for your day!

Wonder why I can't seem to keep this updated...

2007-10-09T20:24:00.000-05:00

So , it seems like I only update this blog once in a blue moon. It isn't that I don't want to let the cyber world know what is going on in my life. Its just that my life keeps me so stinking busy! Between work, church, dance, and PTA...oh ya and my school....no time!

So, for some pictures... This is DD6 on her first day of 1st grade!

And here is DD4 and Cousin having sooo much fun at the beauty shop! I don't believe I have ever seen this child so still!

This is our latest family photo. On a little vacation detour to Luckenbach Texas! We thought it was great.... But, the girls really didn't get the point. LOL

So, yes...we have been very busy! But, my goal is to keep this better updated!
Blessings for your week!

Its completely quiet in my house...

2007-09-10T00:26:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is the first day of my school year. Both of my MDO programs, that I teach at, start back this week. I am excited and nervous. Wish me luck and send me your best prayers!

Tomorrow is the first day of School!

2007-08-26T23:23:00.000-05:00

Maybe it is wrong...but I am so excited that school is about to start. It's time. My patience is lost somewhere between visits to the water park, fights over who's turn it is, and endless complaining that "we are Bored"!
Bored!, how can today's kids be bored????
They have an endless string of things to amuse them...just at my house alone: TV (250 channels), DVD (with full collection of little kid approved junk), VCR (also with full collection of hits), radio (expertly tuned by mom to "Radio Disney 620am"), Books (several hundred) really, Art supplies (enough to keep little girls busy for hours and hours and hours), Barbies, Poly Pockets, Kitchen, Musical instruments, Dress up clothes, play Make up, Mega Blocks, V-Smile, Puzzles, a full closet of games, Lite brite, side walk chalk, bubbles and stuff to use to make them, swing set, trampoline, bikes, scooters, out side variety of stuff, friends that live next door... Seriously...my kids have stuff (and more not named above because I am suddenly embarrassed about how much)....HOW COULD THEY BE BORED?????
This doesn't even include: play dates, weekly trips to see friends at MCyD's, the water park, church functions, going to the lake, spending weekend's with MiMi...
So, yes, I am ready for school to start so I can be bored!
I personally have two weeks of pre work to prepare for this years group of preschoolers and my college classes start this next week as well. DD6 is on the competition team at Dance and we will be doing Girl Scouts this year! Whew! Really it isn't as much as it seems. We will be home almost every night and won't be competing until much later in the year. Yes, they will be busy enough to forget how bored they were all summer.... right up till summer when they can be bored again!

Hummmm.

2007-08-20T21:48:00.000-05:00

Today was my very first PTA board meeting. Huh? When did this happen? I mean when did I go from the fun chick, to the soccer/dance/girl scouts/PTA mom? They need to pull us aside during one of our childbirth classes and explain. It is only a matter of time until we become "that mom". I guess what I am trying to say is...I missed it happening. I am happy where I am... I want to be involved with my girls and at their school. I want then to know...Mom will always be around church, school, and here or there. Hum, How come I don't feel like a grown up? This certainly all sounds really grown up? Hum....

Its been another month...a busy one!

2007-08-06T11:41:00.000-05:00

Listen In: DD6 laying on the floor in the living room whining..."can you see me mommy?", "what errand are we are going to?" "can we go to the park today"....

View from office window: Wet plants... I just watered them

Plans for the day: Produce market, car wash, clean up, laundry, make a schedule....we are about to become very busy around here

Dinner menu: Not sure yet...at to above, plan dinner menus

Mood: antsy

So, we are back from vacation: Lampassas, Luckenbach, New Pranfels, Gruene, San Antonio, Sea World, and the river walk.... I AM TIRED!!!!
We went on the first annual entire family trip. Me, DH, DD6, DD4, DMIL, DSIL. It was actually really fun! We had a great time. No fighting, no drama, and everyone got along just fine! We stayed at a very family friendly hotel: The Radisson Hill county. I highly recommend it for anyone willing to pay the price. This we did not do, gift from DMIL for early Christmas gift. Oh so very worth it. Every night they had tons of activities for the kids to do: smores, face painting, balloon artist, hair wrapping. movies, magician...as well as live entertainment for the parents. It was great...not snotty at all! We had a blast!

Gotta run errands...more later!

Cheerful

It's been a month....maybe an update

2007-07-05T23:17:00.000-05:00

We have simply been in survival mode for the last several weeks. It seems like every time I get two steps forward...I am pushed back 10! Today, I sat down and went thru DD6's closet and made her try on her clothes. I purged! now, I just need to get the laundry done and finish hers!

Off to bed

AWWWW So Cute

2007-06-10T23:19:00.001-05:00

Just a few pictures to enjoy along the way. The J family came to town today. These pictures are from our visit.
Enjoy!

Its been one long couple of weeks

2007-06-08T11:59:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the common things: the girls are home

View from the window: breezy trees and overcast sky's

Plans for the day: Dress rehearsal for the girls recital, a little bit of shopping, and a lot of laundry

Dinner Plans: something along the way

Listen in: the phone ringing and girls playing with Allie and Sir Gray C

Well, its been a while since I have had time to Update the blog here.

DD6 passed Kindergarten...She is most proud to tell you..over and over again...she is now a 1st grader! She also learned to ride her bike with out any training wheels! She is also learning to swim without a life jacket~ We are very excited about all of that!

DD4 is really ticked off that she does not get to go to Kindergarten next year and spend every day with Ms. Andrews! She is kindergarten teacher of the decade to my girls! DD4 is her usual cute and funny self! She makes me laugh all the time and well...sometimes she is just not cute enough to avoid getting in trouble. We are working on our letters and writing this summer....

Dh works, works, works, and mows~ He also inherited his dads boat that they had growing up. Um, this is no blessing...as the boat had sat in dry dock forever and was not in anyway taken care of...as long as I have known him. But, DH can "see it" as it was in all its glory and plans to make a long extended job of restoring it to its former glory. I am not so sure that is possible...but we will see.

Me? I did get registered for a class this summer, and have a plan for the next semester. I am going to do what I can this year and focus more on it when DD4 enters kindergarten...scheduling will be much less complicated! I have been very, very busy for the last few weeks with compiling our VBS crafts. We go to a huge church...so crafts means 20 rooms for 3 nights with 4 things to do each night. Big job...but I love it! I am finished with all that I can do between now and actual VBS, which starts on Monday. Then I will be able to relax!!! I am sad because with the cost of gas these days...it doesn't look like I will be able to go home this summer. I really need a home fix. I desperately miss my friends! I am starting to feel alone again because Julie has officially moved to to Ennis. Even though they have lived there for a year..temporarily. That makes me sad...even though I know its the best move for their family! Now if we could just do something about the price of gas...that would be less sad in a way! Anyway, consider my blog updated!

Cheer

My sweet girls after their dance awards

A Peaceful Sunday Afternoon

2007-05-20T17:09:00.000-05:00

Today is very calm and peaceful. We have been spending a lot of time with my father in law and Karen. They live on the lake and have a new boat. Brent loves to fish and the boat is an added bonus for the family. Yesterday was the first time either of my girls have ever riden on "motor boat". They both thought it was the coolest thing ever! Today Brent brought both girls and one of DD6's friends over to the lake house and along with a cousin...they all got to ride the boat. They loved it! We have a very busy week ahead of us. DD6's last day of school is this week and we have extra dance classes. I am officially registered and paid for at school. It is really happening! We will start planning our VBS at church and DD6 has a class party this week also. But, Menu's are planned, groceries are bought, and plans are made for the upcoming week! Whew! It is going to be a fun one!

A little soggy....

2007-05-09T08:45:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the simple things: Freshly rained on grass

Listen in: Birds chirping in the creek, Allie sniffing

Dinner Plans: Crock pot ham and homemade scalloped potatos

Plans for the day: Clean, Clean, Clean!

View from the window: Wet Trees, ever so slightly blowing the breaze

So, the current news in our life is that I have finally made a plan to go back to school and finish! I have always planned to teach in some form or fashion. I enjoy working with the little guys at preschool. But, I hate being broke! Of course it cost more for me to work full time and pay for childcare than it does for me to work part time at church...so I work part time at the church and love it! DD4 will be in kindergarten in Fall of 08, so I am hoping to complete all the course work I can at TCC to be able to enroll at UTA in the Fall of 08. That gives me 6 semesters if I count the summer. I really do not have many options for summer courses right now because the ones that I had enrolled in are not all required at UTA. So, I dropped the two that would not count and ended up with only one for the summer. In the fall I will take College Algebra, Biology for Science Majors with lab, and some thing else that will count. In the spring it will be Statistics, 2nd Biology for Science majors with lab, and something else that will count, along with Math for Teachers. Summer I and Summer II will be some miserable combonation of science and math courses. But, if I do this, then fall of '08 I should be able to enter the college of Education and begin the course work left to me there.
That means I would graduate 15years after I graduated from High School. That is kinda sad but I have a beautiful family to show for it and 10 years real world experince already under my belt. So, I guess it isn't so bad after all!

Time to clean, clean, clean. Oh, and teach myself math before next fall!

I was tagged...so here goes

2007-05-04T14:02:00.000-05:00

Here are the rules: Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. You need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog

1. I love the smell of the air just before it rains. So, lately...I have been very blessed to have a lot of rain. I also love the smell of wet earth just after it rains. So a win, win situation during spring.

2. But, I HATE the thought of tornados. I freak out, I mean really freak out. So, the previous win, win sitution is also a double edged sword. I much prefer hurricanes or blizzards to whirling wind that can pop up just anytime and kill you in 5 seconds flat! I also do not like cornfields or fault zones...but, I never said I wasnt' slightly wierd.

3. I love to stop and read Historical markers, and look at old houses. I love History and rocks. in that order ; )

4. I can not name a favorite book because I love so many different books. Each one that I think of is my favorite for a different reason. I can not finish self help books. I have never read one from cover to cover.

5. I dream of living in the country with big trees and a garden. But, I want to live in an old farm house that has stood thru time and weathered years, families, storms, and the generations.

6. I am intimidated by people therefore I only have a few True friends. I usually speak before I think and offend people.

7. I love, really love Orange push up pops and IBC root beer.

My poor little baby girl....

2007-04-26T12:06:00.000-05:00

Being woke up at 4:30am is never fun...and usually never a good thing. DD4 is sooo sick today. She started being sick at both ends this morning and everytime we think she is ok...she gets sick again. Keep little one in you prayers please...me too...I can't afford to be sick too!

I really hate fishing

2007-04-23T18:55:00.000-05:00

So, if fishing is just about the most painfull thing I ever have to do...I guess I don't have it too bad! Today is DH's birthday. For his birthday, he wants to go fishing. I do not, have never, and never intend to like fishing! I can't stand stitting still for that long!

Wish me luck! Did I mention that this is a family fishing date? Fun fun stuff!

I just love to copy Julie!

2007-04-20T22:10:00.000-05:00

I started a play list... Only a few songs on it that I love...more to come

Actually getting some things done today

2007-04-18T15:45:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the common things: mudpies

Listen in: back door opening and shutting over and over and Wham playing on Sirius Mix.

Dinner Plans: Spaghetti and garlic toast

Plans for the day: Clean-clean-clean, followed by laundry...church then bed

Not sure where all the energy came from! I have really accomplished some things today! The laundry is mostly caught up and the house is mostly clean. As long as I am 15 minutes from clean enough for company... I am happy! DD6 brought home her school pictures today. They are so pretty! I am very excited about that! But, then again she is a pretty little girl!
I found the teacher I was telling you about. She was stunned that she felt like she influenced my life so much.

So here in my challenge to you...
Look up a teacher that meant something to you and let them know. Most schools have web addresses now and most have a list of faculty names and contact links! You may be suprised who you find and they may be suprised that you remember them!

Cheerful

Today is the day

2007-04-17T21:10:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the common things: lazy, rainy, dreary days that you can spend reading a book

View from the office window: dark sky's...periodic thunder

Plans for dinner: heat up left overs and a can of Clam chowder

Plans for today: Absolutely do nothing today. I am going to read a book, look up an old teacher I thought about today, and play on the computer!

I am having such a weird day. For one thing, I have many little projects I could be working on...yet I don't want to. I went to bible study this morning and the lesson is about our ability to love the people in our lives. So far it proves to be a class that will make me think. Today we just got started on the outline and first video. As those who know and love me are aware...I have issues. I went to many counseling sessions at school growing up and have to say that one of the most influential people in my life was Ms. Switzer. She was my Gatoraid group leader and in many ways changed my life. She doesn't know I feel this way about her, a couple of years ago I sent her a card. Monica's little sister was in her class at the time and reported that she was really touched. Well, long story...not so long... I think I will try to find her today. Maybe she is still at Dickinson High. I feel this overwhelming need to tell her she still inspires me. I know ya'll maybe think...give me a break...but, I plan to teach one day and I think those that have made a difference in our lives need to know. They need to know that for all that they do...13 years or 15years later...they still inspire us to be better than we are. Just last week I finally re-enrolled in college. This time I plan to finish school and teach. What will I teach, that is still the question... I believe God already has the figured out...I just need to get it together enough to get to that point. So, that is what I am planning to do!

On another note, we spent Sunday afternoon with Brent's dad at the lake. I have some adorable pictures of the girl's to share!

Intrducing Allie

2007-04-16T19:12:00.000-05:00

the newest member of our family is "Allie" a seven year old Shitzu!

Monday... I need peace day

2007-04-09T15:34:00.000-05:00

M&M enjoying The Easter play at Casa Manana with MiMi....

Beauty in the common things: freshly changed sheets and fluffy pillows.

Listen in: Dora the explorer....

Dinner plans: um...whatever is listed on the menu!

View from the office window: overcast and dreary

I am not having a good day. As I don't feel like telling the whole world about my reasons...just keep me in the prayers of my friends and those who would read this. I need prayer for peace. I need peace.

Saturday...Before Easter and It IS SNOWING!

2007-04-07T10:47:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the common things: Little girls curled up with Daddy watching cartoons

Listen in: Little DD asking for gum...pleeaase! Now crying b/c she can't have any!

Dinner Plans: Chicken with lemon and rosemary, scalloped potatos, salad, bread, and pudding for dessert

View from any window: Snow flurries

Plans for the day: Clean house, finish and put away laundry, dye Easter eggs, have a discussion with the Easter bunny, work at church... busy day!

Today I plan to get a lot done! Wish me luck!

Bluebonnet Day!!!!!!!!!

2007-04-01T22:27:00.000-05:00

I finally, ....got Bluebonnet pictures of my girls! and when I say finally, I mean finally (they are 6 and 4 and these are the first ones) M4 was not very co-operative with the process...being that she was bitten by ants within about 2 minutes of making it to the Bluebonnet field....for those of you who do not know...my girls do not react well to ant bites. The swelling and abcessing is not nearly as bad as it used to be...but it is still bad!

So without further ado....

A lull in the storm

2007-03-30T20:49:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the common things: Dd6 reading by herself and loving it!

Listen in: Sporatic thunder currently a lull in the storm

Plans for weekend: Finish Laundry, take girls to Michaels in morning for craft, Star time and Church will round out our weekend.

Dinner plans: We had a wonderful Black Bean and Chicken Chili

Zone: Office...need to put away M&M's art work and organize book shelves.

Ok, drum roll please.......
I have planned my menu's for April!!!! YAH I found a great little web site called www.organizedhome.com and I am in love. I love to have little lists and whatknot. I actaully have a completed Control Journal. Anyhoo, I printed out the Monthly Menu planner page and got busy. Now, the real test is to see if I actually do it!

Let's see, what else? I finally found a scrapbooking magazine that doesn't actually make me feel like a big ole fat loser mom...because I don't have M&M's each their own completed day by day exhustive, creative bound volume. And see the thing is that I am known for being rather creative and artsy! Except in this realm! Well, I am ready to get started on scrapbooking the pages that will actaully mean something to me in the long run!

See I am creative....look and DD6's birthday cake... ok, ok I admitt I took a little help from the store and Family fun magazine for the idea...but its cute...and I did it!

Time for a pamper me....bubble bath and a nice smutty book ; )

Wednesday..... Hump day : )

2007-03-21T12:43:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the simple things: Little girls dressed in fairy wings

Listen in: DD4 playing in the kitchen

Plans for the day: Finish laundry ( 2 loads away), Declutter my closet by tossing the things I don't love and putting away the cold weather clothing, Do some office work for MIL, take another load of stuff to the attic!

Dinner plans: Roast sticky chicken, mashed potatos, and corn

View from the kitchen window: budding trees

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, I finally finished cleaning the house after DD6's slumber party. Which, I might add, wore me OUT. She had a great time and really isn't that all that matters? I did learn a valuable lesson. Don't LEAVE The GLitter OUT!!!! Little sisters love to DUMP all THE GLITTER OUT!
Here is an example of the table...

I am just glad that our very busy weekends and weeks are starting to slow down! Hopefully, we can get back into some type of routine soon. Our home needs a routine. On MOnday night, we implemented some house rules. I already had some in mind..but I sat the family down and asked them what they thought were some good house rules...
Here is the list:

Show Respect to others: Be nice!
No backtalking or smart mouth with adults
No Potty Words
No Namecalling
Keep your hands to yourself
No taking others things
No Playing with others things or in others rooms with out asking first
Pick up your own mess
No Snacks with out asking except Fruit or Water
OBEY your Mommy and Daddy
Share
Treat other with Love and Kindness

I thought they did pretty good. Every single rule I had thought of, both girls named during our family meeting. We will be posting our rules this week! A'la Super Nanny style ;)

So...enough procrastinating for one day..........

Friday

2007-03-16T22:54:00.000-05:00

Beauty in the simple things: Sunset

Listen in: Total silence

Today we: Today we spent the day with my dad and family. First of all...I thought it would be fun to drive thru Dallas. Huh?, what was I thinking? Seriously???? NEVER AGAIN! When we finally got to McKinney, the girls were ready for the park! They spent a couple of hours there with my dad. They love spending time with him! We opened their Christmas presents. Yes, I said Christmas presents. Long story! Then Had supper at CiCi's. Then came on back to our side of DFW late tonight. I really should be cleaning my house for M6's birthday party tomorrow. But, no... I am sitting here procrastinating. That and I am actually tired! Really tired. Maybe I will go to bed and get up early in the morning and get it all done.....maybe! Some pictures of the park to enjoy....

Thursday....

2007-03-15T12:20:00.000-05:00

I thought, I enjoy reading Julie's daily little insights to her house. So, as any good friend should do... I am going to copy her : )

Beauty in the Common things: Purple flowers in springtime

Listen In: M&M coloring with color wonder paper discussing whether or not I am going to like it. Also, Paula Dean cooking with her husband and kids on TV.

Today I plan to: Work on some office work for Debbie, go to the gym, and work at church later.

View From the Kitchen window: Beautiful Sunny Day!

I finally learned how to post a picture!...

2007-03-14T12:44:00.000-05:00

Gotta Love little girls ready for church!

We're back...we're tired!

2007-03-07T22:47:00.000-06:00

Oh my what a whirlwind weekend we had! The girls and I did not enter San Leon until after 10pm on Friday. Saturday brought beautiful weather and sunshine in the Bay Area! Monica and I spent a great afternoon puttering around, just enjoying each others company. Lunch at Estabans- nearly the highlight of my weekend. It is my singlemost all time favorite restarant in the entire world! Really it is! Then blew in the chilly weather Saturday evening. Just in time for the wedding I had to attend. It was at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Galveston..at 7pm. It was the most beautiful church I have ever been in! Granted I have not been in many Catholic churches...but this one is so pretty. I had the chance to see a lot of people that I haven't seen in years. I am so glad I went. But, I wish more that Brent could have gone with me. Sunday, was the trip to the Rodeo. I took both DD's to see Hannah Montana and the Cheeta Girls. Oh, the screaming!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My ears may never recover. I think I now know how the parents felt when we went to New Kids on the Block.... the screaming!!!! Hannah Montana was great and the girls loved her. The Cheeta Girls...well, not as good as Hannah Montana. Meghan loved her birthday present! Monday, the long, long drive home. We stopped at Julies house and stayed for dinner. Then came home. I was so glad to be home. Still have so much to do....to catch up. We are getting there though! Sleep sounds really good right now.....

Headed South

2007-03-02T16:04:00.001-06:00

Wish me luck as I head to Houston for the weekend!

Tired and Grumpy

2007-03-01T09:07:00.000-06:00

Well, last night DD-3 went down hill with her illness again. We are on day 5, that I know of. I am not sure when she actually got sick because she was with MiMi. (Warning: Gross info ahead) Last night my friend Leslie offered to watch the girls. While there, DD-3 refused to eat and complained of a horrible tummy ache. End result was some of the worst diareah my friend has ever seen. That and a rise in temp. I am so frustrated because I can not make her feel better! She is tired all the time and that only makes it worse!

DD-6 is grumpy because the baby is getting all the attention. We are headed out of town this weekend and I actually fear the ride to Houston. Thank God for portable dvd players! She picked out her new bedding yesterday afternoon and is it girly! If you know her you won't believe she picked it out all by herself! Brent thinks it is ugly ; ) but she loves it and that is really all that matters!

Now...let's see what else I can procrastinate myself out of... I guess I better get this house clean! Ah, gotta remember to make sure the House fairy comes!

Nothing in particular

2007-02-28T09:15:00.000-06:00

Its February 28, 9:10 ish in the morning. M-DD is offically 6 years old. Where did the time go? Last night was her Kindergarten program. So, so cute! She was a pickle, aka cucumber in the garden from Peter Rabbit. They were adorable! We do not have big birthday plans for today. Brent is going to have lunch with her and I am going to take her out for icecream after school; then later tonight is Church. That is if M-DD4 is still not sick. She has been sick since Sunday night. Hunky-dory in the am and fever in the late afternoon and evening! Of course nothing is actually wrong, no flu, no strep. I almost wish it was something so we could medicate her and be done with this mess!

I was tagged....

2007-02-19T22:54:00.000-06:00

Hum, Annie tagged Julie...and now I am it. 3 Things I am grateful for....

Well, I am grateful for many things. I am grateful for life, salvation, faith, unconditional love....

1. I am grateful for friends, I do not have the greatest growing up story...at times it is sad, depressing, exciting, unbelievable, loving, violent, lost, and often lonely. But, God in his wisdom has always blessed me with the right person to love me at the right time. Monica and Autumn who are my friends till the end...they have always been there and loved me unconditionally. Even when I made decisions that were unlovable... Then I moved to North Texas...5 hours away from the dearest people in my life to begin my life with my husband. I was lost....for a long time. I made a few friends when we moved here...Jules and Leslie. Then I found Julie...well actually I found Corey and he said .... you have got to meet my wife..... really, you do! I am so glad I did. I have other friends in North Texas...but, Julie is the one that saved me from me. And I THANK God he gave me the gift of Julie. She understands me in a way only Monica has, that is a gift that I can not explain with all the words in the entire english language.

2. My little girls...especially when they are asleep : ) lol. No really, they give me more reasons than I can name to be a better person. isn't it wonderful that feeling of knowing how much someone loves you? We get mad and angry and grumpy and moody and stubborn...I have no idea where the children got those traits : ) But, at the end of the day we love each other! They are so funny...Meghan who has already decided that she will only grow up to be an animal doctor and marry Avery. Madison who wants to be a people doctor and plans to marry Gabriel and then Breishen. I am trying very hard to make sure she understands...We really only want to have one husband....if at all possible : )

3. Brent, not last, I saved the best for last. I am hard to live with. I am Moody, grumpy, stubborn, opinonated, and I have to have the last word. I want things the way I want them....only the way I want them. I did not have the best example of how to be a good wife, a submissive wife....I try. Really, I do. Except for all of the above mentioned personality traits...I am a joy! In all seriousness, I know God put Brent and I in that bar in college for a reason and it is because we are a perfect match. He loves me unconditioally. Notice the trend...unconditional love.... I am so grateful and thankful for him. He works so hard everyday so that I can kinda be a stay at home mom. I am so Thankful for that and all that he does.... What a wonderful blessing.

I am so blessed. I am thankful for the simple things too....
Bubble baths, love stories, good books, the food network, the smell just before it rains, freshly tilled dirt, purple hull peas, dr pepper (ice cold),
salt water, sea gulls, sunset in San Leon, breaking waves, ship waves, the sound of trees shwishing, snuggles, waking up to find my husband, both children and the cat in my bed, the smell of palmolive, Zinnias, freshly washed babies, an unexected real letter in the mail, new pjs, chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream, NRH2O, pedicures, someone else washing my hair, flylady and the house fairy....
So many little things....

I left my patience in the top drawer today

2007-02-12T16:24:00.000-06:00

Today I left my patience in the top drawer. You know the days when every little thing just sets you off. First of all, I got up early...even did my before bed routine...But, got to work late. I made it through my day. I go to pick DD5 from school, she proceeds to hide behind a bush and "pants" her little sister. (The sister begs everyday to get out and visit with DD5's teacher and play a little while with the kids.) Not only did she "pants" her, she did it in from of another little boy in her class! AHHHHGH!!!! Then DD5 shows me the brand new holes in both knees of her almost new pants. Pants that were not even hand me downs. I actually bought them brand new (on sale..but new!) This is the 8 or 9th pair of jeans she has busted the knees out of! So, I ask....How do I get her to stop"? We get home and I make them both sit on their beds. DD3 fell asleep...so do we think she is going to go to sleep tonight? Not likely. : ( The house needs cleaning, again. The laundry needs doing, again. Dinner needs making, again. Do we see the grumpiness creeping out?????? Calgon take me away...at least for a little while. When I get back I promise to get my patience out of the top drawer.