Proud Parents

2011-03-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

Andie loved the idea of giving these PJ's to all the ladies in the family.

I was just looking through all the blogs I used to enjoy reading.....I haven't looked at blogs in forever. My time on the computer is minimal at best these days. When I am on, I just look at facebook. I was amused to see how most of my regular blogs were as neglected as mine. So I did this quick post to at least throw a new picture up. My whole family is doing great. We just celebrated one year of counrty living and took our first real family vacation. I started working in labor in delivery again - just about one day a week. We are doing well, and hope all of you are as well!

playing catch-up

2010-09-22T21:17:00.000-07:00

My computer will not let me write right now. Her are a few pictures of the house. More updates to come.

Transition

2010-03-16T22:19:00.000-07:00

I am attempting to blog from my iPhone. Just wanted to leave a quick note about my blogging absence. We do not have computer set up yet at our new place. So that will keep me from posting for a bit. We are doing good. The kids and I are in Albuquerque enjoying my family. But sad that Trey and our new puppy are not with us. I did mention Trey first, notice. But I wanted to write a quick post for those who have been asking for house pictures. I'll get them up as soon as technology let's me.

Kitchen

2010-02-17T20:29:00.000-08:00

OK, so we won't end up closing this Friday, but next week is soon enough. Here is my kitchen island that was rocked yesterday. I jumped up and down for a long time after seeing this. I love progress! You can also see my bamboo floor that is just begging to be cleaned. I also have to say that I think the paint color is very altered in this shot. So ignore the paint, or picture it more golden yellow than what it looks like.
Here is what is dark in the background in the above picture. My pretty backsplash. And even though it's not pretty right now. All those boxes hold my new appliances. My husband sold many cows to get those boxes here. Oh, how I can hardly wait to put them to use.
An even closer shot - see my pretty red sink - it's pretty even though it's covered in construction dust.

After so much wet, cold weather - today was such a treat. The warm sun felt so good. All five of us hung out around the house all afternoon. While the kids spent a lot of time just playing and running around, I had to smile everytime I looked up to see one of them pushing a broom of their own will, trying to get the house cleaned up. These kids have been such amazing troopers through this long time of transition. I hope country living is all they have dreamed it up to be.

Happy Anniversary!

2010-02-01T12:27:00.000-08:00

02-02-02

Eight years ago we married in Lubbock, TX at Broadway Church of Christ.We met on our way to Peru for a medical mission trip. Our last names were next to each other alphabetically. So our plane tickets were next to one another's. I love the way God had us meet. I knew within two weeks we would marry.

I have always loved to walk into my husband's pharmacy and listen to him interact with customer's & co-workers. Before we had kids I would meet him for lunch at his pharmacy. I would just watch and listen around the corner for several minutes before he knew I was there. I love how good and kind and fun he is with people. People from all walks of life.

I love what a fun dad and uncle he is. The stuff he comes up with is hilarious!

Just before we left for Peru, Trey had just bought his ranch . His dream was to raise cattle and one day build a house. Nine years later, I am happy to see his vision coming true. He has had cattle on the place all along, but the quality has greatly improved to something he takes great pride in. And in about two weeks, construction on our home will be complete. I know this all means so much to him - but knowing this - makes it touching to me that he was willing to let us live wherever I needed us to. It took some time for me to adjust to the idea of living so far out of town. He never pressed, just waited for me to fall in love with the place he knew all his life.

I love this man. It is a privilege to take care of him and our family. My cup overflows.....

Looking forward to many, many more years with the man I call "Husband."

We've got a closing date!

2010-01-27T20:19:00.000-08:00

We locked in at 5% and are looking to close Feb 19th - Yippee! Pictured above is the start of our entrance. The cattle guard has been placed and posts set. You can follow the road and see how it curves off to the left. When you make that turn you will see this.....
Our front porch! Progress is a nice thing. We are so happy with how the house is looking. The columns were just painted today. Hopefully the new paint job holds up to the rain we've got coming. The painters are going to stain the front doors and the large beam as soon as the weather allows.
The dining room. Trey cut the planks that line the ceiling - didn't he do good?!
Master bedroom.
Here is our carpenter, Ricky, putting up a beam in Trey's office. The space underneath the beam is the future home of Trey's gun safe. It's all coming along. Hope to have you all over soon!

Holidays and Progress

2009-12-29T21:33:00.000-08:00

I got to finally meet Celeste's baby girl just before she turned 5 months old. Oh! She is so precious! I felt like I could hang out with her all day and soak in all her expressions and noises and cuteness. I loved her before I knew her. I am so thankful Noel and Celeste were blessed with Scottlyn - what a precious gift!

By the way, my whole family was in Albuquerque for Christmas. I got to meet Scottlyn the day after Christmas. We had a wonderful time with my family. I took a lot of great pictures - but on my dad's camera, so I'll have to wait till he sends them to me to post 'em.
Here is one for all of you asking for pictures....the front door. Picture it stained, with trim work around it, and a window above it.
My pictures are in random order - But here are my kids after opening their Christmas gift from their great-grandparents. They were all so excited to open their mud boots and matching rain coats. They quickly got dressed then went outside in hopes of finding a rain or mud puddle. There were none that day. But they have put them to use every day since!
And here we are back to the house.... This particular day, the cabinets were being installed. This will be Andie's vanity. It will be painted white, and the walls purple. The kids have a jack & jill bath, but I turned her vanity to face into her room. Hopefully this helps reduce fights over the bathroom in the future.
Here is the start of the kitchen cabinetry. It is starting to feel more real now. Still a lot to be done, and we're still not sure when it will be done. But it is always fun to see progress. After what was at least a full year of researching and pricing appliances - I finally ordered appliances today. And my pretty red kitchen sink, too! Can't wait!

Drumroll please....The Beam

2009-11-09T16:51:00.000-08:00

The guys put up the beam Trey worked so hard to cut. It is crazy heavy! I mean CRAZY heavy! We are so excited it worked. I kept envisioning the beam crashing down and splitting into pieces while they put it up. But it all seemed to go very smooth. Trey still has to cut a couple accent pieces that will go on top of it. All the brick laying on the ground will be put to use tomorrow. Can't wait to see the house all fancied up with brick!
Drywall is done. This is a shot taken from the entry. The living room is on the left and the dining in on the right with the kitchen around the corner on the right. The plumbing that rises from the floor is for the kitchen island.
Trey's turn to post:
The dimensions of the horizontal beam are 12 foot long x 16 inches deep x 7 inches thick. It is made from a Live Oak tree that was close to 200 years old. It served as supporting cast in my childhood while I played under it. It now is cast in support for our front porch. (no actual trees were killed or harmed during the filming of this edition of amateur redneck logging)

Ft Worth Weekend

2009-10-26T13:14:00.000-07:00

We had the best time this weekend at our friend's Jon & Schel's house. They had a Pumpkin carving party. Anyone over age 13 could enter their pumpkin to try to win first place. Apparently the child's age is not voted for, as the tears of the "loosers" is too much for the adults to handle. The kids dressed in their halloween costumes and had tons of fun creating their jack-o-lanterns, eating candy, and playing.
Here is big boy of the house, Christian, and Evan showing off their jack-o-lanterns.
Andie and her Belle jack-o-lantern.
The winner. Pretty cool, huh?
How cool is Zorro? This is Schel's creation and since she was the hostess, she named herself ineligible to be voted on.
Andie really wanted to take our picture - not bad.

Jon has season tickets to the Dallas Cowboys. So he and Trey went to the game Sunday afternoon. Schel and I hung out at their house with the kiddos. It was a much needed vacation. Thanks Jon & Schel!

Andie with Sandy

2009-10-17T16:39:00.000-07:00

Andie has loved horses for a long time. I don't know if she loved the fairy tale idea or the reality of them, or both. But we decided to find out. We are letting her take horse back riding lessons. Here she is with the horse she will take lessons with, Sandy.

First, she gets Sandy from the stables and guides her by rope to the grooming area. She brushes her body and hair, and places the blanket and saddle on her at the start of each lesson. Then she guides Sandy to the mounting block so she can ride her. Andie took to it like she has been riding for years. It was amazing to watch! Terrifying as well! Andie just had a joyful glow around her as she rode for the first time. At first the horse would go where Andie told it to, but Sandy started to get stubborn. Andie didn't mind, she got stubborn right back and didn't take no for an answer. Andie got Sandy to go where she wanted her to - that day's challenge was over a bridge.

Love that my girl loved it, curious to see how future lessons will go.

Beauty Salon

2009-10-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

I am 8 weeks past due having my hair done, and I still haven't been able to get an appointment. But I found a great girl, who is sweet, and pays great attention to detail to do my hair this morning. My roots are still gray, but I've never felt more beautiful.
Love my girl!

House Progress

2009-10-07T19:16:00.000-07:00

Our house had a productive day today. The roof was completed and we met with several of the subs that are getting ready to start. Trey got busy creating a beam for the front porch. He is using an oak tree off his grandfather's place that died a few years ago. It was a beautiful tree when alive - Trey has great memories playing around it. And now it will begin it's new form as a key piece of our front porch. Pictured are the kids watching Trey turn the trunk of the tree into a beam.
Here is Trey with the chain saw in action. Notice the cows in the background - they weren't sure what to think.
Blurry picture - but I loved how the boys were mesmerized watching Trey with the chain saw.
Trey's cousin is the contractor, who hired another cousin to make our cabinets, and he also hired another cousin and his son to install our air conditioner. Another cousin will install the counter tops. Trey's dad serves as our "straw boss" and since heavy machinery is involved, payment is not necessary. "If you order one bean you get the whole burrito" -- Trey Joseph Guffey circa 2009. (Trey took over the post on this section)
Here is the house as of today. The beam that Trey is creating will replace the temporary bracing that is making the cross shape in the middle.

"The customer's are gonna love this..."

2009-09-09T18:59:00.000-07:00

I gave Andie Crayola Color Wonder Finger paints today. She was sitting on one side of the bar painting while I was on the other side baking in the kitchen. I could hear her sounding pleased with herself. When I listened closer, I heard her say,"The customer's are gonna love this!" I said "What are you doing Andie?" She let me know that she had made many beautiful paintings. (I only pictured 1/3 of her collection) And she needed them hung in the pharmacy so all the people could see them. She went on to say I could use tape or tacks to hang them, and that I needed to hang them neatly so the people will like them....oh how my Andie makes me smile.

Kindergarten!

2009-08-29T08:10:00.000-07:00

Evan's day starts off with the playground. We drop off and pick up here. I think this is such a wonderful idea. The kids run and play, keeping them very distracted while mommy and daddy leave.

This picture was taken on the drive home on Friday. Kindergarten is tiring stuff! Dean is sleeping, too.

I need someone to tell me how to arrange my pictures. I enter them, then they appear in a random order. Like, this picture should be last.....

Me and my big boy. So proud of this boy! He is very ready for Kindergarten! I love the smile he wears around taking on this new challenge.

Dean meant to be hugging Evan, too. But the playground is too much fun!

Love this picture. This is taken on the steps of our rent house. We call it the "Bungalow". Evan has his Star Wars back pack and lunch box. It's sure to be a great day!

Framing

2009-08-29T07:18:00.000-07:00

This is our view off the front porch. The dirt road will become a caliche road when the house is done. There are beautiful sunsets behind this hill. The view made it clear to us that this was just the place for the house. The Texas Rangers Company E had a campsite on our ranch to protect frontier settlers against indian attacks in the 1800's. This oak tree is 150 to 200 years old. Maybe they enjoyed its shade.

Side view of the house. The large oak trees on the other side is the site of our engagement.

Framing in action. I can't ever stay around long to watch when the framers are up that high.....my nerves can't handle it.

Decking @ Husband's Request

2009-08-14T07:20:00.000-07:00

Underneath the house aftering the decking was placed. Trey still has some plans for under here. Big plans. Just be warned when you come visit this house, you will be expected to go under here and check it out. Whether you want to or not.....please be working on your excited responses. You have about 6 months to work on it.

Beams and decking being placed over the piers. The square in the upper right if where the fireplace is going.

I think the kids are all saying "House!"

In this picture you can see the metal circles on top of each beam. Trey had his friend, Clay make them. They are termite shields - keep the little destroyer's from getting up to the framing. The wood beam in between Evan and Andie has a "U" shaped one on the end of it. Also for termites, but it will also act as a moisture barrier between the concrete and the wood. Apparently concrete is thirsty, or something. Technical explanation, I know, I can feel my husband's head shaking right now.

Stressin'

2009-08-12T20:08:00.000-07:00

It's been a challenging past couple days. When people say building a house is difficult, I have never agreed. It's an annoying statement to me. Building the house isn't difficult - selling a house, finding an interim place to live, and figuring family life with three young ones are the difficult parts.

This time yesterday, we did not have a place to live after we close on our house next Friday. Turns out a family of 5 has to live in a 3 bed apartment. And a 3 bed apartment is hard to come by. The rule is no more than 2 people per room. We thought we were going to get to move to a rent house close to our ranch, but the current renters will not be out in time. And the home had some safety issues anyway.

Friends came to the rescue. We are going to live in a rent house that a man from our church owns. It is tiny, but nice. And we can have it today. We have always considered our current home small, but the rent house is almost 1/2 it's size! It's really going to make our newly constructed home seem HUGE!

We are craming as much as we can get into our Go Mini (like a POD). And some wonderful friends have agreed to furniture sit our dining furniture. We are thankful for the rent house, friends, and a faithful God. But I must admit, I've had two rounds of Excedrine and two pieces of strawberry cake to help me get by today.

Pier and Beam

2009-08-05T19:23:00.000-07:00

Well, here's a look at our pier and beam foundation. The beams will be put in place tomorrow, so really, here's a look at piers and porches. This is a look from the side of house. The garage is at the lowest part of the picture. To the far left is the front porch. The concrete square in the middle is the base for the fireplace. And the far right will become the back deck when decking is placed over the large opening.
Here is Trey performing a little Karate Kid trick on a pier.
I am standing on the front porch where the front door will be. Come on in!

Sold!

2009-08-01T06:26:00.000-07:00

Well, under contract anyway. Two weeks into placing our house for sell, we signed a contract yesterday and will close in 3 weeks! My prayer was that the house would sell quickly. OH! I am so thankful it did! It was a lot to put the kids through. Really, it was a lot to put me through, which in turn is tough on them. We had packed up a huge majority of the toys and of coarse were constantly cleaning. Well - we are definitely having a celebratory cleaning strike today!

Anyway, the plan had been to move to an apartment, but there might be a change in plans. We are now trying to rent a house that is about 4 miles away from where we are building. This will allow us to check on the house whenever we want - we are over 30 miles away currently. And most importantly, it will get us very close to Evan's school. He has to be there at 7:55. So, the idea of having everyone ready and out the door by 7:25 5 days a week is such a stressful thought. So we are praying this rent house works out. We were told we can have it. The current renters still live there, and a set move out date is not nailed down. We're gonna check the place out on Monday. I'll have to have Evan do some Jedi mind tricks to convince them to "move out, move out".

So we're still working on finding a place to live till February, but for now we'll celebrate being under contract.

House Update

2009-07-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

We have finally started to build! Trey bought this ranch just before we met. Trey has been so excited to build our home here. I am now as excited as he is, but it did take a while for me to get to this place. Now, eight years of talking, dreaming, and planning have begun. The house will rest back in the semi-circle of trees. The large oak tree to the far left is the tree where Trey asked me to marry him. The master bedroom will look out to this tree.

This has been our home for the last four years while we got the ranch paid down and made building plans. It is now for sale. If it sells soon, we will move to an apartment while the house is under construction. We have done a complete update/remodel on this house, so someone will be getting a good house.

We don't expect the new house will be done till February.

That's the news for now.....

What would you do?

2009-07-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

I had been given a gift certificate to a nice nail salon in town. I won't name the salon because I didn't have a good experience. Like I said, I had a gift certificate. I was going to get a pedicure, but last minute decided to get a massage. I was so excited. I went to massage therapy school in 1999. Since then, I have only had one massage, and it was not good. I was going in with low expectations. I figured as long as her nails were short and she didn't torture me how bad could it be?? As a massage therapy graduate I know some basics:

Keep the person as drapped or covered as possible
Keep finger nails short
Perform each motion slowly, repeating 3 times
What is done on one side of the body is repeated on the other side
Stay away from the back of the knee & the spine

Well she did not learn these basics.

The girl spoke about 10 words of english. She threw back the blanket that was covering me and slapped oil over me a few times. Then started moving her hands as fast as she could all around. My skin was burning! Her finger nails were scrapping me with every movement. Her movements were random. She seemed to repeat the most painful things over and over. She kept rubbing up and down my spine - it hurt so bad!! I was trying to justify what she was doing thinking she was doing some crazy asian massage that was world's apart from swedish massage. But the more she did, the more I don't think she went through real training at all. There were times I wanted to scream STOP! But I kept hoping there might be something good coming.

Other times I thought how I did not need to pay for this. This was a mild form of torture and I wasn't paying for it. I figured when it was time to pay I would ask what kind of massage that was, or where she got her license. That should start the conversation of how I was in pain or at best uncomfortable most of the massage.

There was a moment of relief when she used hot rocks. That was very nice, would have been nicer if once again, her fingernails weren't razor blades. But the hot rocks were very nice. I would love to try that with a good therapist.

To end the massage she was trying to work on my neck. She started rubbing my caroid artery really fast up and down. Nursing school flash backs popped up. Only a heart doctor is allowed to do this! What in the world! I did shout, and grabbed her hand to make her stop.

Even though I had bold thought's, I wasn't bold at payment time. I handed over the gift card. I did not tip. Which really is bold for me. I chickened out saying anything cause I felt like the language barrier was going to make it a difficult conversation. I figure I might write into them about my experience. The cost was $70. I'd say 10 of the 60 minutes were good. What would you do?

Memorial Weekend

2009-06-14T19:02:00.000-07:00

It has been a tradition to spend Memorial weekend at my parents cabin. This year, it was the weekend after, but the fun and relaxation was the same. Pictured is Andie with my dad, Grandave. He has worked incredibly hard to make his cabin a wonderful mountain retreat. I know it brings him tons of joy to watch his grandkids enjoy the place.

Here are the boys doing one of their favorite activities. Over and over they would ride on the truck down the ramp trying to lauch them selves as far as they could.

Other favorite activities:

Playing Star Wars with PVC pipe light sabers and forts made from limbs

Walking in the ice cold creek

discovering what floats in the creek

rides on grandave's 4 wheeler

& we always love my mom's cookin'

Andie was feeling left out watching all the boys play with their trucks, so daddy came up with an awesome alternative for his girl. Wheel barrow racing!

We had a really scarry event happen involving Dean and the creek. Dean was playing on a large rock that was on the egde of the creek. Hunched over with his back to the creek, he fell in the creek backwards. He could have stood up, but he was too shocked to know what was going on. Trey ran over as fast as he could to fish Dean out. It was a very scarry event that left my chest hurting for hours. Apprently I screamed very loud, as my mom came running from the cabin with a towel. Dean will say, "I fell in the big water. I was scarred. It was cold. I fell in the biiiiig water." I think many kids would have steered clear of the stream, but here is Dean the very next day having a great time.

Always wish we could stay longer and can't wait for the next time.

Picture Time!

2009-05-25T13:38:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law flew in from Ohio, so we seized the opportunity to take photos of all the cousins together. Our friend Shawn agreed to meet out at my in-laws place to take the pictures. The pictures are amazing. Here is a sampling of the 550 photos he shot:

This is Trey's grandpa, Dad-aw. We love how this shot captured Evan and Dad-aw... priceless.

Sweet Andie Grace at home in the flower garden.

My Dean...What you can't see is the right sleeve...he stuck his arm up a muffler, and turned the sleeve jet black!

Awwwww......

Growing Boy

2009-04-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

My oldest is growing up. Several milestones occurred the last few days. Today, we enrolled Evan in kindergarten. We had a great time meeting some of the teachers and the principal. Evan's grandpa, Papa, taught at this school for several years. Trey, his siblings, and many other relatives have attended and worked at this school district. Evan doesn't know all that - so he was absolutely floored when the principal greeted him by name as we walked in the door. Evan enjoyed the special attention. He loved the "test" they put him through. He also received cookies and juice, and a bag of books - he cannot wait to go back!! We are excited for Evan, he loves to learn, and is very ready for school. No saddness yet from this momma. We'll see how I feel when the fall comes.

Evan mastered riding his bike without training wheels this week. Lack of confidence was holding him back, but once confidence caught up with his ability, Watch out! He's a bike riding machine! What joy it brings me to see him master this challenge!

He lost another tooth. We have not got to see him with the cute little no-tooth-gap that most kiddos have when they loose a tooth. His two bottom teeth grew in right behind the baby teeth. So when the baby tooth fell out, it's replacement was fully visible.

I tried to snap a picture of Evan today to add to this post, but he wanted no part of that. So a recent picture of Evan with two good buddies will do.

I love how Evan loves life, how excited he gets about any and everything. Oh, here's something some of you will like: When asked if he was going to be a Jim Ned Indian, Evan replied,"Ummm, no, I'm gonna be a Jim Ned Jedi."

Autism Speaks Walk at the Zoo

2009-04-10T13:10:00.000-07:00

The kids and I attended the Autism Speaks walk at the zoo last Saturday. It is our second year to attend. Evan's friends Kade and Konner are twin brothers. We attend the walk in support of Konner and his family. Evan and Kade are in pre-K together this year. Most all the boys, if not all of them are super crazy about Star Wars. So it was an extra special feature to have Star Wars caracters at the walk. These guys came from a galaxy far far away in Houston, TX. In this picture this guy is letting Konner wear his helmet. He wanted to do something really cool for Konner, which was really cool, but it so didn't stop with Konner. Almost every kid present took their turn trying on the helmet.

This is Andie checking out the stormtrooper. She kept patting and rubbing his leg. It took me a little bit to get through the crowd to rescue the stormtrooper from my admiring girl.

Here is the gang. Five of these guys are in pre-K together. Konner is on the far right, with Kade and his light saber right beside him. You might see the top of Dean's head beside Evan. He is still staring at the stormtrooper in amazement.

Magic Eraser

2009-03-28T20:20:00.000-07:00

Three and a half years ago, a relative went on and on telling me how great the Mr Clean Magic Eraser was. She even bought me a box that contained 4 sponges. I didn't go for the sales pitch at the time, I just continued using my usual cleaners. The box has been under my sink this whole time. Last week, while I think my two year old is driving a car up and down the hall, it turns out he is pressing a blue crayon back and forth along the full length of the hallway. He did it about four times. (That's what I get for watching Dancing With the Stars, but anyway.... ) I tried a couple cleaners. One was ineffective, and one was stripping the paint off the wall. Then, I remembered the Magic Eraser. This product is crazy good! I got the sponge wet, and barely wipe, and the crayon is gone. I was so tickled by this. I was telling a friend this same story, and she tells me how it's amazing at getting out stains on a counter top. So I pull out another sponge, and it magically erases several stains on my counter top that I had not been able to get out with other products. It so lives up to it's Magic Eraser name - the marketers pegged this one perfectly. I get pretty irritated with the false and misleading marketing and advertising that most products seem to have. But not the Magic Eraser -

Now, I'm hooked. I used another sponge and cleaned where my leather couch had rubbed and stained the wall behind it. I figured I was going to have to paint the wall - but no, a little scrubbing, and my wall looks like it's had a fresh coat of paint! I'm sounding like an infomercial, I know. But , I'm telling you, you gotta have this! Knowing that the product has been out for a few years - you might all know about it already, but in case you don't.... Go get you a box of Mr Clean Magic Erasers! Whatever it costs, it is absolutely worth it!

Happy Birthday Husband!

2009-03-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

Today is Trey's 38th birthday. It got me thinking back to when we first met. Trey and I met a couple days before his 30th birthday. He turned 30 while we were on a medical mission trip in Cusco, Peru. I don't think he planned on telling anyone on the trip that it was his birthday. But I saw it on his passport, and word got out. Everyone had a fun time celebrating Trey's 30th. The hotel workers made him a huge chocolate cake - I don't think it had any sugar in it, but it was very pretty. (Probably why Peruvians are small, and we are not.) He was sung to in many languages. I love the image of the Peruvians surrounding his pharmacy belting out their version of "happy birthday."

It's fun to know that this is the 9th birthday I have celebrated with Trey. I am just tickled at the idea of growing old together. Happy Birthday Husband! Much Love!

Sweet moments

2009-03-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

I still do not have a camera, so sorry no updates lately. I can take pictures with my cell phone, but it is just a hastle to get it to get it to the computer. Right now, a long movie is keeping the kids occupied so I could share a picture of the kids wonderful Saturday morning. Can't get much better than the donut shop. I can still hear them shouting the color of icing they wanted. If you look hard you can see that Evan lost his first tooth. The tooth fairy made her first visit to our house Thursday night. Before Evan went to bed that night, he prayed that God would make tooth fairies real. Evan was very excited about the result of his prayer. He loves the silver dollar and would love to show it to all who will listen. I love these sweet kids and love all the donut shop and tooth fairy moments. Makes the stressful days, well, more sweet.

Man vs Wild

2009-02-07T18:56:00.000-08:00

I relived a Man vs Wild moment today. The kids and I were running up and down huge dirt piles newly created on our ranch. A big hole was being dug out by big machinery (to make a tank), so we have great big mounds now. Well, the kids and I had been running and climbing up and down the hill for at least two hours, when..... I stepped, then I sank. I struggled to get my leg out of thick mud, then my next leg goes in - again thick, suction-like mud. In my mind I'm thinking how Man vs. Wild says when in quicksand to stay very still and calm. Even though I was not in quick sand, I was in something as close as I'll ever get. And being calm and still are not options. I wasn't calm cause I was urgently trying to get all my kids to walk away from where I was. I didn't want them to fall in, but they were frozen watching me struggle to get out of the mud pit. When I did get out, I took about 20 pounds of thick mud with me covering my shoes and jeans. So, to get home, I stepped into a trash bag and wrapped it around myself for the drive home. When we got home, I stepped out of the bag, peeling off my shoes, jeans, and socks and left them in the trash bag. Then, cleaned up as much as possible, then go out and buy replacement shoes. So, in this installment of Man vs. Wild - I'd say the wild mud won.

Simple Amusements

2009-01-20T18:51:00.000-08:00

Since I still don't have a working camera, I haven't been posting. But I still love reading all your posts.
I have two fun, light things of interest to share. Amongst all the busyness and stress of the everyday, I have been amused by two electronic items. I was given a roomba robot vacuum for Christmas. This is the coolest thing ever! It is a one foot diameter circle that vacuums all on it's own. I pick up a bedroom, turn on the rumba, shut the door, and go on to the next thing while it cleans for me. It's a multitasker's dream. I get so excited to see how much it has picked up.

My other thing is my new hair straightener. My friend, Denise, got me started on a Chi several years ago. It was a sad day when it died. But today in the mail, I received my new Pink Dazzle Chi. It seemed to work even better than the old one - and I'm just sure it's because it's pink.

And by the way, I think some of you are giving up on blogging for Facebook. Blogging is so much better - don't give up. There can be room for both, but don't give up sharing yourself, and recording memories on your blog. I would miss you too much.

Chainsaw and mini mill round 1

2008-12-28T16:13:00.000-08:00

Trey and I have been dreaming up our dream home for years now. One idea we have loved was to use trees from our place to make decorative beams in the house. Over the last few months, we have researched and bought the right chainsaw, mill attachment, and protective gear. Trey got to go out today and test it all out. I did not think his first attempt would have gone so well. He turned a recently dead oak tree into this 6'3" beam in about 30 minutes. I guess I can say we have started building our home now. This is very exciting for us! Way to go husband!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-26T16:06:00.000-08:00

Our camera broke not too long ago. And thanks to a huge car repair bill, there was no money to replace it before Christmas. So thanks to Trey's cousin Megan, we have a few Christmas pictures.

We had a great Christmas. We were with Trey's side of the family. We rented The Miller Retreat for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. So there was tons of space to spread out, visit, and play. We used their large screen to play a family slideshow. And it was heavenly to have two microwaves, two ovens, and two dishwashers for all the cooking.

We had four 4 wheelers to play on. So fun, and a little too much at times. My husband led me down a very steep rocky path that I did not want to go on. I'm pretty sure I called him lots of not nice names on the way down. I have never been so dirty on Christmas in my life. Pictured, is Dean with Trey's Uncle Leland.

Jedi Dean in action.

Evan as Darth Vader.

Andie and my neice, Lydia worked very hard decorating sugar cookies for all who wanted some.

Owl Drug & such

2008-12-13T20:29:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, I had a blast going shopping with special friends. We went to nearby towns in hopes of doing some serious Christmas shopping. For those of you close, we went to Brownwood, Santa Anna and Coleman. I was so excited for the whole day. One of the reasons I was so pumped was to go back to Owl Drug in Coleman. Great shopping and a burger/soda fountain in the back beside the pharmacy. Well, my friends and I missed out on this one last week. It closed at 2pm and we got there at 3. I was super bummed. I could feel my inner toddler wanting to stomp my feet and scream. Well, it was a rare day today that we did not have plans. So we decided this morning to head to Owl drug. I found eight more awesome Christmas presents while the kids enjoyed their root beer. I love that the store wrapped them so cute for me. It is such a great place. I would go time any one wants to go. You gotta go!

Notice the cars. That's what the kids food was served in.

Here is my neice, Cora Leigh. She is the one I fell in love with so quick. Evan took the picture using my phone, so that explains the blurriness.

And this is how my kiddos greeted Joley and her kids coming in from Ohio. My sister and brother-in-law are Texans through and through. They have all missed Texas so bad. It has been so nice nice to have Joley and the kids here. Alyn is flying in right now. Look forward to spending the day with him tomorrow. Bonus: He loves yellow cake. So I just finished making the moist yellow cake from Bakerella you see linked on my blog roll. It looked so good! (It's on the November archives.) So it was nice to justify my craving by saying I made it for my brother-in-law.

Frustrating

2008-12-04T20:17:00.001-08:00

We had a frustrating discovery this week. My husband and I own a one acre lot. We put it up for sale several months ago. Our realtor had prepared us that it probably would take a long time to sell due to current real estate slow downs. So we have been patient, but got to wondering. So I call the realtors office this week. The secretary has not seen our realtor since she started working there in May, and her computer showed that our lot "expired in July". I'm thinking, "What?!" The more I asked questions, the more frustrating it got. So, for the last 5 months our lot has not been for sale. We would love for the lot to sale so we can begin building our home on our ranch. Now, I pray frequently for the lot to sell at the right time - whenever that is - just the right time. So, I don't know if this delay is a part of the timing I have prayed for or not. Cause it has probably been about 5 months that I wanted to switch realtors. We have not been able to get a hold of the man to hear his side. He has all our original paperwork which we need so we can list it again. I really like this guy, he's kinda related even, but he's got some splanin' to do.

By the way, if you need a one acre lot in a beautiful location in a great school district - have we got a deal for you!

Holidays and changing my mind

2008-12-02T18:16:00.000-08:00

We are enjoying the holiday season at my house. We just got home from Thanksgiving in Albuquerque with my parents. My camera is not cooperating, so no pictures this time. But the trip went well. It is nice to be with family, treated to meal after meal, and big town shopping.

A special highlight for me was seeing my friend Celeste. It was too short of a visit, but so wonderful. I have known her since I was 10. She qualifies as one of those few people that "knows me". Even though she knew me so well she was always so great to shower me with praise even when I didn't deserve it. I used to think I had good self esteem, when I get to wondering what changed me - I realized it's cause I don't get daily fueled by Celeste anymore. She makes me laugh, inspires me, and strengthens my faith. Celeste is teaching at a classical academy. She is the one that got me looking into classical education for my kids. Celeste, It was so, so good to see you friend! Miss you.

Last night we put up our Christmas tree. I was excited how easy the process was. The money I put into buying red and green Christmas totes and ornament boxes last year was well worth it! I love indirect lighting vs turning on main lighting to light a room, and a Christmas tree makes a perfect indirect lighting source. Very cozy, even from our little corner tree. Yes, it's a corner tree. It fits in a corner - it's 25% of a regular tree. I have a very little house and that was my excuse for not putting up a tree in years past. But Monica got onto me for my excuse, and the corner tree came to be. Now, it's probably time I do something with the pumpkins on the front porch.

Today I got to go greet my sister-in-law at the airport. She and her kids came in from Ohio for the holidays. She has been missing her parents and Texas in a huge way! I was anxious to see her daughter, Cora Leigh for the first time. Boy oh boy did I ever fall in love fast! Such a beautiful sweet girl! I wanted to take her home and never let her go. My husband had just commented a few days ago that he needed to go get fixed before I had baby fever again. To which I thought, "whatever, I'm not changing my mind, we are done with three." Well, at this moment things have changed. My husband is in trouble! He should be panicking that he cancelled his appointment!

So glad to have Joley and the kids - come quick Alyn!

Pictures of my new chair

2008-11-15T20:04:00.000-08:00

The chair. You have to sit in it to be really impressed.

See how happy it makes us? Looking at the picture reminds me how my rug and the chair clash. I'm hoping for a huge rug sale in the near future.

Steal of a Deal!!

2008-11-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

My husband's family has a fun shopping tradition each year after Thanksgiving. Last year was the first year I got to join in on the shopping trip. They go to places in Coleman, TX and Santa Anna, TX, as well as great places in Abilene. Last year when we were in That Santa Anna Store, I remember seeing the neatest chair. Looks like a recliner, but it swivels, rocks, reclines. And it was staged with beautiful coordinating furniture and floral arrangements. But I didn't have room in my current house, and most importantly, it was very expensive.

Well, my husband took me back to Santa Anna today, so we could start our Christmas shopping. (By the way, we have decided to buy everything locally this year, nothing off the internet, as to support out local ecomomy.) I didn't see the chair in the store this time. So I described the chair to the ladies, hoping to get to sit in it one more time. The owner knew just what I was talking about. She brought me right to the chair. She said a couple had just bought it, but decided to exchange it for a different one. So she said," I'll give it to you for $200". This is over 80% off the original price!! Merry Christmas to me! We brought it home and I rocked each of my babies, read them all a book in it, and I am just as happy as could be.

My day

2008-11-10T20:17:00.000-08:00

Well, things around here are usual. At times good, at times madness. I have not been able to balance my work load at home, meaning chores, and the attention my three young children need. For the last several weeks I have found myself very busy doing chores and telling the kids at lot of "not right now", "later" "let me finish ....(fill in the blank)". I love to cross things off my to do list. I never add play with the kids, read them a book, sit down on the floor with them. Maybe that's what I need to do. If it was on the list, I bet I would do it.
To help motivate myself, I have been trying to find some good parenting or family reading material. I have found some ok stuff. Still looking....But what I have been enjoying reading is The Love Dare. Which has nothing to do with parenting. But an awesome book on marriage, and I came across it when looking for a parenting book. Anyway, The book is used in the movie Fireproof. The small group we are in at church are reading it together. Today's dare was a thought that has never occurred to me. A major theme of the book is to tell the reader what love does. Today it is saying, love intercedes prayerfully.

"Have you ever wondered why God gives you overwhelming insight into your spouse's hidden faults? Do you really think it is for endless nagging? No, it is for effective kneeling. No one knows better how to pray for your mate than you." Kendrick, The Love Dare

Then, the reader is asked to pray for their spouse's heart. This hit me in a profound way. I do not have the gift of expressing words to tell you how it effected me, other than to say it was profound. This challenge will change how I pray for my husband.

Family Camping Trip

2008-11-03T20:04:00.000-08:00

We decided to go camp on our place this past weekend. Trey has taken Evan in the past. But this was the first time we have all gone together. After we set up camp, Trey's parents and grandparents brought hotdogs and all the fixin's for us to enjoy. The weather was perfect the whole time and the mosquitos were few. I am so glad we did it.

I included this picture of me because Andie took it. She really wanted to take a picture of me. It was a really sweet moment watching her figure out the camera and talk like such a big girl.

The kids would have been happy if the tent and light sticks were all that was involved with the trip. I tried to get them to sing Home, Home on the Range with me, but they just wanted me to keep singing it all by myself.

I loved every part of the trip except midnight to 6am. It sounded like 50 coyotes were howling and growling all around us. One of the times I dosed off, I had a very vivid dream of war-painted, horse riding Indians circling our tent. The rest of the time my back was truly tortured by the ground beneath me. So glad to be back to my Temperpedic.

Trey and the kiddos balancing on this fallen tree.

In the morning we walked all around discovering bones, bois d'arc apples, and lots of great sticks. For now, looking forward to the next time.

Halloween

2008-11-03T19:48:00.000-08:00

Halloween lasted from Tuesday to Friday in our house. Tuesday and Thursday were pumpkin festival and halloween parade days at school. Then the real event on Friday. We trick or treated Trey's bosses house and a co-workers house.

This was too perfect. Andie had been bothered all day that she did not have the red rose that Belle has. Mr. James cut one of the beautiful flowers from his front yard for Andie to have. He didn't even realize he completed her costume.

Trick or Treating at Ms. Star's house. Star is one of the nicest ladies ever.

This was Thursday when we got to wear our costumes to school. Evan and Andie would be in costumes 24/7 if I would let them. So with the excuse of the Holiday, I let them wear their costumes all day Thurs and Fri. And I had several errands to run. Now that I think of it, I think they behaved better than they ever have while in costume.

Pumpkin Patch 2008

2008-10-24T17:52:00.000-07:00

The kids and I traveled to Albuquerque for our annual pumpkin patch trip. We had such a great time (aside from my $160 speeding ticket - I was only driving 35 mph, and didn't see the flashing lights that told me to go 15mph - argh!!) The McCall pumpkin patch has tons of super fun attractions. Pictured is Evan jumping on the jumping pillow. Basically a trampoline for 40-50 people. My knees hurt for at least four days after jumping on this. Next year I think I will direct sycronized jumping so the jarring to the knees can be reduced.

The kids loved this corn box. We were the first to play there of the day. They would have been happy if this was all we did. Both boys were buried by their grandave. It took lots of persuading to get the kids to move on to another activity. I found several kernals of corn after doing the laundry. Maybe I should send 'em back? After this we climbed hay bails, rode go carts, slid down a mine tunnel - over and over and over. "One more time. One more time." was said over and over.

This picture is out of order. Nothing to do with the pumpkin patch, but a big part of the trip anyway. My parents couldn't pass up this airplane teeter-totter. It can hold all their grand children.

Here is the view of the pumpkin patch from the tractor ride. Each kid picked a pumpkin. Evan likes to get two. One to make a jack-o-lantern with, and one to make into a pumpkin pie. The pie was delicious thanks to Nana and the other one is a jack-o-lantern in waiting.

My silly boys. We had a great trip....even the 10 hour drive. Loved the fun bonuses of seeing special friends and family along the way. I love the fall!

Happy Birthday Andie!

2008-10-12T16:48:00.000-07:00

My baby girl turned four at the end of September. We waited to celebrate her special day till all out of town family could make it in. We partied at May Farms. We had seen the animals at church and the kids T/Th school - but we got the full animal treatment today. We got to feed a variety of animals, most of which were decked out in bandannas - and boy were they hungry! Pictured is Andie pulling a 7 week old donkey. When it came to this "battle of the wills", my little girl came out on top. She had the donkey walking with her in no time. This was one of the cutest things I had ever seen. She would make a fine ranch hand.
Andie had just held a fluffy white bunny for a long time, when she tried holding the guinea pig. She didn't like the claws of the guinea pig, but loved it's squeaky noises.
(Aunt Joley - the kids all still know this as Oreo.) My nephew apparently tired of the traditional form of hand feeding the animals. So he decided to let the animal grab the feed from his mouth. He is the last kid I would have expected to show this kind of bravery - so even though this is pretty gross - I'm proud of him!
A huge highlight for Andie was getting to ride this horse, Cotton. She has looked forward to this for a long time. She was all giggles. Cotton gave ride after ride spreading joy to all the children.
And here is Andie's birthday cake. I grouped about 20 cupcakes together to form a horse head then slopped the icing on to make it look like a cake. Got to be the easiest one I have ever done.

We had a great weekend. I truly love house guests. Although I am grateful for the house I have, I do look forward to the day when I can have a home large enough to fit everyone. I love the old Irish saying, "May my house always be too small to fit all my friends." I am blessed by so many friends and family that celebrate my children with me.

Jim Ned '87, '88, '89 combined 20 Year Reunion

2008-09-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

Read below to see how British Ski Jumper "Eddie The Eagle" figures in to the Jim Ned High School 20 year reunion. The world held its breath as Eddie the Eagle competed not for a medal but simply to land upright in his competition. He had only trial runs on a grass ramp prior to his efforts on real ice at the 1988 Winter olympics. The applause he received was greater than for the actual gold medal winner's jump. For one Jim Ned Class -- and one class member in particular -- he was the stuff of legend.Julie and I pictured with our friends Jon and Schel Hoebelheinrich at my Jim Ned High School reunion. Jon "Hobie" Hoebelheinrich was a classmate of mine. He is one of the few that I keep regular contact with.

Julie allowed me to drag her along to my 20th highschool reunion (19th actually). I had a great time and of course Julie was gracious throughout the evening. I was certainly proud to show off my pretty wife. As far as seeing people for the first time in 20 years, fortunately we had a website set up to post current pictures prior to the reunion that allowed the shock value to dissipate ahead of time in regard to how much people had changed.

This is my older brother Todd on the far left ('87) and Daniel Kollberg ('88). Daniel was an exchange student from Sweden. He currently lives in Denmark but made the trip to see the rest of the old crowd. Some of my favorite memories involve Daniel. Some of them had "international incident" written all over them. One memory was when I held the football while he kicked an extra point for the only score in Jim Ned sports by an exchange student. Another was the locally renound rabbit hunt (rabbit annihilation).
Scott Boeshart and I go way back. I had no clue who he was at the reunion because when we graduated we were both about the same height and both weighed about 135 pounds soaking wet. I told him that I would have to stare at him for 10 minutes just to begin to see my old buddy. He thought it was hilarious.
Here is the group that showed up from our particular class out of the original 50 students in my small town class of '89. I hadn't seen or heard from my childhood friend on the far left, Michael "Gibbie" Gibson, for 20 years. He was a sea captain on a sailboat taking tourists to Caribbean islands. He said he likes Jimmy Buffett songs just like anyone else but 24/7 of listening to "Cheeseburgers in Paradise" can get old.

The guy third from the left, Scott Cantrell, with the glasses was a good friend back in school. We nicknamed him "Eddie the Eagle" after the winter olympics ski jumper from England. The two of them could have been "separated at birth". SEE ABOVE

Bart (tall guy to my left) was born on the same day at the same hospital as I was and never missed a day of school -- his claim to local fame. Since he had a name like Bart -- he required no nickname. The guy on the far right is Michael "Whitey" Whitehurst. I just like saying "Whitey" Whitehurst.

That is Jon again on the far left and standing next to him is Melissa "Moe" Martindale. My chromed out 1983 Black Chevy pickup was the truck to have "back in the day". Moe and I used to turn off the headlights to her brown car and my black truck after basketball games. We would race our vehicles in the dark back to Lawn where our parents lived. Stacey "Pumper" Lawless, standing next to me, and my brother dated for a short and traumatic period of time. It ended abruptly when they found out they are kin to each other. My grandmother was attending a relative's 50th wedding anniversary when it was discovered that same relative was Stacey's grandmother. Our grandmothers were 1st cousins after all. I enjoyed rubbing that one in for a while. You can tell Todd is standing to the back and on the other side of me. Clay "CT" Shott and I wonder if Todd is having bad flashbacks to 3rd grade dodgeball or his dating history. By the way, that would explain why I didn't date in highschool and found a girl to marry who was from Albuquerque. Todd ended up finding one from Michigan.

Thinking that in today's world I surround myself with people that have almost everything in common such as church, or work, or family. It was quite the trip to hang out with old classmates that have only one thing in common and that was attending school together 20 years ago. It was fun.

This is what happens when you have a girl.....wrapped around your little finger

2008-09-13T09:06:00.000-07:00

Andie and Evan have shared a room for over two years. Andie has been patient waiting for her pink and purple room. A few weeks ago Andie told me detailed plans about a castle she wanted. I was impressed that she came up with the details all on her own. When I told her daddy about his little girl's wishes, he couldn't get to Home Depot fast enough. Trey has been hard at work for weeks on this castle dollhouse.
Just the reaction daddy hoped for!
Late last night Trey and I put the room together. Then suprised Andie this morning. So now we have a definate girls room, and a boys room. Andie and Evan are so close, I wonder how them sleeping in different rooms will go. I'm sure I will have some great stories in the coming weeks over this transition.
Trey made a working draw bridge. Evan has declared himself the official drawbridge operator.
Trey made this cornice board for Andie's nursery. It is now transformed from it's original black, white and red to it's current pinks and purple. Now Andie approves.

First Day of School

2008-09-03T07:18:00.000-07:00

This day finally came! The first day of Young Children's World is here. Evan is way excited to be in the Pre-K class. Andie is happy to be in "Evan's old class", the 4's class. And Dean is happy to grunt and hold up his lunch box. He's just happy to be included in what the older kids are doing. I know Dean will love his 2's class. I just hope he doesn't hit anyone. His thing right now is to get any hard plastic toy and whack anyone on the head.

Since all 3 kids are going to YCW, I am going to teach there this year. I'm working in the nursery with an adorable group of babies. I love my co-teacher. I feel very blessed to be paired with her. It should be a great year for all of us.

Friday Morning

2008-08-29T08:52:00.000-07:00

Well, here's what I found when I went into Dean's room this morning. I sat the Sam's size package of diapers by his bed intending to put them away the night before. Well, I forgot. So Dean was so "helpful" and unpacked them all for me.
This was the easiest mess to clean up. I am still cleaning some of Dean's other messes from earlier in the week. I tallied about $15 worth of juice and milk he has poured out in the last few days now that he can open the fridge. This diaper mess made me laugh hard, the milk and juice messes all over my kitchen floor and cabinets....not so much.

Stay-cation

2008-08-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

Trey was on vacation from his job this week. He called it a stay-cation because we stayed in town. It has been wonderful! We took the kids to Frontier Texas on Monday. It was all of our first time. It is too old for the kids, but it was a wonderful day anyway.

Tuesday we went for our first visit to our bounce house place in town. 30 seconds into it, my 2 year old got trapped inside one of the bigger bounce houses. Truly trapped. It took me 3 attempts to pull him out from the suffocating wedge he was in. It was really scarry. (When I told another mom about this, she said she had heard of that happening a couple other times on that same bounce house. Yikes!) While I was pulling him, my foot was unknowingly on top of my daughter's foot. So I had two screaming kiddos that I was trying to get out of a bounce house. Both kids were fine after a good cry. Then they ran and jumped till they could go no more.

On another day we were invited to eat with some very special people. James and Ruby are special family friends of ours. They filled us with burgers, beans and chocolate pie - and insisted that we take the pie home - yum,yum!

Throughout the week Trey and Evan watched clips from Star Wars movies. Well, we had no idea that an animated version was in the theaters. Anyway, the two of them went to go see that, and we all enjoyed a Star Wars happy meal.

I am so glad Trey's boss talked him into taking time off. Now we feel rested and ready for the kids school to start.

Gold! Silver!

2008-08-15T07:58:00.000-07:00

Our girls finished on top! I have had so much fun this week watching the olympics. It has been so fun staying up late cheering them on (as though they can hear me). Ladies gymnastics has been a huge favorite of mine for years. I have been following these girls the past couple years. I would get so nervous watching them compete. I was personally rooting for Shawn Johnson, I wanted her with the gold so bad. I teared up watching her tear up last night. But I am so proud of these two girls! Way to go USA!

We have never had a "girlfriend" talk with Evan before. But he picked out Nastia as his girlfriend as soon as he saw her on prelim night. Then when he saw Shawn on tv, Evan turned to Trey and said, "Daddy, How many girl friends can I have? I'd like to have two." So both Evan's "girlfriends" won. He says he'd like to take them both out for a root beer. Good luck buddy.

Heartlight

2008-08-07T19:55:00.000-07:00

The following is from today's verse from http://www.heartlight.com/ Quite often I feel the verses were chosen just for me. Today was no exception:

VERSE: When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her [the woman caught in adultery]." -- John 8:7 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=John+8:7

THOUGHT: When we find it easy to identify the sin of others, God wants us to be reminded of how important it is for us to take a rigorously honest inventory of our own faithfulness. He wants us to deal with our own sin before we evaluate anyone else.

PRAYER: Forgive me, Father God, for my sins. Forgive me, especially Father, for the sin of a critical and judgmental spirit. Deliver me from such hurtful and evil habits, forgive me of my sins, and please bless me with faithfulness. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Cousins

2008-08-03T20:11:00.000-07:00

This week we have my nephew. He and my son are both five. Although, they are very different from one another, they are extremely close friends. It has been so fun through the years to watch their playing turn to friendship. My nephew is going to kindergarten in the fall, but my son will not. So we wanted to get them together one last time before their days are ruled by the school calendar. We decided to wait a year for Evan to start kindergarten. I hated to make the decision. We went back and forth for almost a year, struggling over many valid points. We made the decision when he was three, but now that the time has come that he could go, I'm not at peace with the choice we made. I fear that since we are holding him back, the close relationship Evan has with both his 5 year old cousins will disappear because of the separation of a grade. The thought of this really makes me sad, I tear up as I write this. That reason might not make sense to anyone else, but it's a very saddening thought for me.

Then again, I would not be at peace if we had decided to send him as a very young 5 year old. I would fear his lacking self-control would be a distraction to he and his class mates. We want to make the best decisions for him, but it is so hard - so stinking hard.

So for now, I will help Evan and his cousin have a great week. And I will pray for peace.

Cheesy cobwebs

2008-07-31T14:28:00.000-07:00

Over the past while, I've begun to notice cobwebs on my light fixtures and my floral arrangements. About the only thing I did about it was make sure the bug man was coming soon. But I had no desire to get rid of them or anything.
But I got really tickled when my 3 1/2 year old daughter asked me "who put the cheese on my light?" She was looking up and the dining chandelier while she was eating. She later pointed out more "cheese" in the corner of her room. Maybe I should move dusting from the bottom of my list, then again, I probably won't.

Play Date

2008-07-21T17:22:00.000-07:00

We got to spend yesterday at our friend's house. My friend had her kids almost as close together as mine are. So her daughter was in Andie's class and her son was in Evan's. They have the most amazing backyard! I could go on and on. It feels like a resort location & both for kids and adults.
It ended up being a mini reunion of the 4's class. Their sweet hands are showing how old they are.
Andie was in paradise! There were kittens everywhere! She loved and held all of them. Which turned into chasing all of them, because they wanted far away from her. Sweet girl....poor kitties.
The boys had tons of fun on the water slide and driving the jeep. My kids played so hard - I just knew they would take a great nap - but no such luck. This was my first big outing with the kids since my hand surgeries. Six weeks of being mostly indoors during the summer is no way to spend a summer. So it was much needed for myself and the kids. Thanks friends!

Latest Happenings

2008-07-15T13:48:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a very special day. A special friend, who I hold in the highest regard, was married. Esther and I were labor & delivery nurses together. I always knew it would be a good night when we worked together. She is an extremely pleasant and uplifting person to be around. And a huge bonus was that Esther was a midwife in Grenada before she became an RN. So to all of us new nurses - boy did she cover our tail! I learned so much from her - not just as a nurse, but as a person. Elegance and class just ooze from her. Esther's wedding was beautiful. She got married at the same church where Trey and I married, so that was fun memories for us as well.
Also, before the wedding Trey and I ate lunch with my good friends April and Denise and their husbands. My husband took a picture of us, but those two made me look fat, and it's my blog, so I'm not posting it.

**Oh! and while we were in Lubbock I took my wedding rings to get cleaned at J.Keith's - he and Trey designed my engagement ring. I had gotten used to it's "dirty" look & forgot how beautiful the ring and the diamond could look. Now I don't want to wear it, I just want it to stay in it's gorgeous state.

Evan and Andie finished up their summer gymnastics class last week. Good times were had by all.
And last but not least, my mom left us yesterday. She stayed with us for 6 weeks! 6 weeks she took care of my kids, gave every bath, feed them every meal - what am I going to do?!? I seriously feel like I don't know what to do. 6 weeks off the job, and I am clueless. Even though I didn't really feel like a had a huge break at the time, since I was recovering from two surgeries, it was a nice break. My mother is extremely selfless, flexible, and loving. She had to share a room with Dean the whole time. For whatever reason, Dean threw all my mom's shoes out of the room almost everyday. Don't know why, but he did.

A nana's work is never done - after she left my house, she went to my sister's to stay for another two weeks to help her out. I know it's been tough on my parents to be apart this long. I have the best parents ever. I still need them huge even though I'm 31 years old.

July 4th

2008-07-08T07:17:00.001-07:00

We had beautiful weather on the 4th. The most enjoyable in years. We went out to Trey's parents, and ended up doing most of the celebrating - which always means food - at his grandparents house.
Trey's dad just bought a new 4-wheeler, so he took all the kids for a test drive.
Evan and cousin Joel's reaction to the start of the firework show. But, boy did they loosen up. They were even lighting some of the crazy things. I kinda closed my eyes to that. I trusted that the men in charge knew what they were doing. Giving fire control to 5 yr olds???
Papa and Mimi and 4 of the grandkids.
Sweet Dean was quietly scared of the fireworks. He would snuggle in close to my mom, or his Papa. He would only look at the fireworks through a metal chair. We got so tickled at this. Cause his body would be fully exposed, but he would keep his eyes piered through the holes in the rusty old chair. I guess it created an armor-like protection for him.

Burgers were great - homemade ice cream even better. It took me 3 bowls to decide how good it was. I would have liked to have gone for a fourth, but decided that wasn't ladylike.

Recommendation

2008-07-03T20:39:00.001-07:00

Over the last few years I have heard about this book, but I had no need for it yet. About 3 or 4 months ago, Evan kept telling me how he wanted to read. I was reminded of this book when a lady that I really respect started talking about this book. She used it to teach all her kids to read. I went straight to the bookstore to grab one. Evan has done so well. I love how his eyes light up with each discovery he makes. He is now on lesson 23 and has been reading short sentences for the last three days. My mom has done the last several lessons with him. She is a high school special education teacher, and uses this same curriculum on her students. This book is, what I'll call scripted. It tells the parent/teacher exactly what to say. We're not 1/4 of the way through and see great results already. Definitely recommended by me.

Evan's Five !!

2008-07-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

Evan and his daddy share a love of planes. Trey has a small collection of his favorites. He allows Evan to play with them from time to time, then they have to go back to the hanger - aka - the laundry room cabinet. So for Evan's birthday, Trey bought him his very own airplane. The blue plane is a WWII plane, the Corsair. Evan is big time now. And he would love to talk airplanes with anyone whose interested.
Evan has be extremely, super very excited to turn 5. So choosing five as the theme seemed a no brainer. We celebrated at the gymnastics sports center. My friend Shana made him an awesome cake - notice 5 five's on the cake. Evan turned five back flips with the spotter belt. And I'm sure he had at least five times the amount of his daily sugar allotment. We had a great day! Lots of family and friends came. He is loving all his presents, although gift opening time was overwhelming for him. He wants to throughly check out each toy, and we had like 10 minutes to open gifts before the next party started. So I'm over his shoulder encouraging him to say thank you and open the next one. I could feel his mind spinning in circles. The couple days after the party he played with each toy like he opened them - playing with each for a few seconds before moving onto the next. Now he is enjoying reliving the memory of the person who gave him each gift - thanks to all. And Happy 5th Evan!
This shot is in no way related to Evan's birthday. But very cool anyway. This is the second set of baby birds hatched in this nest this year. This momma made her nest in one of our backyard red tip fetinia's. I love watching my kids reaction to seeing the baby birds, and listening to all the conversation it strikes up. Thank you God for the birds.

Right Hand

2008-06-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

Hello, this is Julie's right hand signing in. I was freed from my immobilizer! I am bruised, swollen, and stiff. But I can't let that stop me. I must reclaim my place as the dominate hand. For yesterday, my working partner, and temporary fill in underwent her carpal tunnel release. The left hand now wears the immobilizing brace. She has huge swollen fingers and aches of pain - but I know she will make it just like I did. I look forward to having my left hand buddy back to her normal self. But I should give a shout out to all the body parts that have served as temporary fill ins. My teeth have torn open many packages. My knees have helped me open many twist top jars. And my elbows and feet have opened and closed many doors. Way to pitch in guys!

laying around the house made sweeter

2008-06-10T15:08:00.000-07:00

I made it through my first carpal tunnel surgery. It was a neat experience to go through. I learned some things I didn't know. And got to be a part of the medical world that I have been apart from for over three years now. Each and every staff member was wonderful. I was very well cared for. Every prayer answered.
My two younger kids didn't understand, and were a little traumatized by me being gone for the morning, then returning with a bandage and sling. Andie came running towards me happily shouting "Mommy!" Then she stopped when she could see my arm, and instantly became angry, and refused to come near me for a little while. This picture was just before their bedtime. I could hear them both crying for me, so I came out from my room for a sweet snuggle.
As soon as I came home from the hospital, I got a call - our new mattress was on it's way!!! Just in time for me to get to do all my recovery lay around time on it!!! I was so excited! I took pictures as they assembled the frame and everthing - the poor men probably thought I was trying to get "proof" of them doing something wrong. The picture is a boring picture, but it seemed like the thing to do, to snap a picture to capture this significant moment. Anyway, I love my bed. The one in the picture is long gone. Bye, Bye you pain inducing bed.

Surgery and such

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

My mom is coming to town today. She has selflessly planned to stay for as long as I need her. I am going in for day surgery on my hand Monday. The doctor is doing a carpal tunnel release on my right hand. So she is literally going to be my right hand mom. Hopefully my hand will heal quick so the other hand can be fixed while she is still here. I am sure I will be amazed how many daily tasks require the use of both hands. Most of them seem personal - getting dresses, doing hair, make-up and so on. Changing Dean's diaper will be interesting. But surely I can do it with one hand. Have y'all seen the internet videos of the mom with no arms? - Wow!

Yesterday, after I had lab work drawn, I joined Trey at his pharmacy to share a sandwich with him. We ate it sitting in the medical mall, laughing that this is what our dates have come down to. But today we are going to a wedding together. I always like attending weddings with my husband. It takes us back to our day, and our newlywed feelings for each other.

Well, a few posts ago I blogged about my broken dishwasher. Trey and I went looking for one this week. After going to the usual Lowes and Home Depot, we went to a local place, Beal's Appliance. They had exactly what we needed at a good price. And the process was just plain fun. Turns out the people there know Trey's family - so we had lots of good conversation. And they had every appliance that I want for my future home. I have been looking up stuff on line for awhile, but it was dreamy to see my future stove and refrigerator sitting in the same room. I have a feeling I'm in for a big reality check when all my dreams for my home meet up with the budget for the home. Oh,well!

Memorial Weekend

2008-05-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

Trey and I have loved his new job for many reasons. One reason is that he can take vacation time! He didn't have to work extra hard before we left or play catch up after, he just simply gets to take vacation! We got to spend a wonderful weekend at my parents cabin in Las Vegas, NM. It was a wonderful, low stress weekend full of great family time. This was our first cabin trip to not have a newborn. My baby turned two while we were at the cabin. Happy Birthday Dean! **On that note - I received a couple of phone calls from some of you thinking it should be time for Trey and I to announce our next baby. Thanks for the laugh - we are not planning on any more announcements though!
Evan, Jack, our new friend & cabin next door neighbor, Lauren, and Andie at the stream. This stream is just down the hill from the cabin. My dad built the bridge a few years ago. I don't think my dad could have dreamed up the amount of joy and imagination that would have been sparked by this bridge.

Lauren and Evan became good buddies instantly. As we were getting ready to go play by the stream the afternoon of this picture, Evan saw Lauren sitting on her front porch. After asking me, Evan went and asked Lauren's mom if she could come play with us. Lauren had to go inside her cabin to get her shoes. Evan was told to wait on the porch. Trey and I were watching from our cabin, giggling watching Evan pace the porch and occasionally knock on the door to see if she was ready yet. He would sit a moment, pace, then jump up and down a couple times, then wave at us, give his dad a thumbs up, and pace some more. We were being given a scene straight into the future of his first date. Oh, sweet goodness!

Andie was in heaven the whole trip. She must have picked hundreds of flowers. Saw butterflies and ladybugs. And had tons of quality time with my mom, her Nana. Andie named a particular patch of flowers her "Flowery Garden". We took many trips up the hill to visit her flowery garden. Then she would have us quickly run down the mountain because "the monsters are coming!"
My sweet Dean enjoying the ice cold creek. He personally redecorated himself. Every rock now has a new location.
Buddies Evan and Jack in the hammock, rather their "boat." We hung another hammock on top of them - and they loved it. Usually five or six kids were in the "boat" at a time.

Another highlight - Trey turned PVC pipe and duct tape into light sabers. Each kid picked their title - Evan-one-kanobe and so on. He created two forts out of of pine tree branches, one with a throne for Princess Laya, aka, Andie. Trey was the bad guy trying to capture the Princess. All the kids were to defend the Princess. It was hilarious to watch. My poor husband took quite a beating. And to top it off, my brother in law did the best Chewbaka impersonation. (sorry about the Star Wars misspells to all you fans.)

I'm young, right??

2008-05-08T14:45:00.000-07:00

I made a Dr's appointment to discuss my carpal tunnel treatment options. I requested to have my cholesterol checked on Tuesday, as it had been borderline in the past. I found out today that it is high. My doctor wanted to put me on medication. While he was talking about the lowest cost drug out there, I was chanting "I'm only 30, I'm only 30" in my head. Seriously, I'm only 30, ok, 31 this month. High cholesterol? Really? But I convinced him to give me 3 months to change my diet, then reevaluate things. There are definitely a lot bad carbs I can leave out of my diet. I don't feel like I eat a ton of saturated fat, but maybe I have been? I'm hoping that having my doctor tell me to change things will help me tell my cravings "No!" I am a nurse after all, I like to follow Dr's orders. So here's to the next 3 months. I do have a problem....I have a freezer full of beef, that apparently I am not allowed to eat. T-bones, no more.

Dishwasher Blues

2008-04-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

We bought a new dishwasher when we moved into this house almost 3 years ago. About a week ago I noticed I was having a hard time getting the dishwasher door to open. Now, I can't get it to open at all. I have at least two loads worth overflowing from my sink to the counter. I hate to wash dishes by hand! Inside, I am stomping my feet and screaming NO! NO! I don't really know why I hate it. I'm not lazy. And any time I hand wash dishes, I'm always so surprised how quick the job was. But I hate it. I got to thinking - I always had a dishwasher growing up. Money was always tight and a stressful subject, but we always had a dishwasher. So it's just how I'm wired, right? It's a convenience, not a necessity, I know. But I'm still putting off the job. I decided to come write about it, than just get in my kitchen and get the job done...... Great! Now I can't think of anything else to write..... guess I'll stomp my way to my sink full of dishes and try to conquer the mountain.

April Camping Trip

2008-04-14T11:56:00.000-07:00

Trey mentioned to Evan a few months ago that they could go camping on our ranch. But they would have to wait till there were leaves on the trees and for it to be April. Two weeks before April came around, Evan went to play in the backyard. He rushed back inside shouting "Momma there's leaves on the trees! Leaves on the trees! Quick tell Daddy!" From that point we had to make frequent trips to the calendar to see when April was gonna come around.
Evan cought his first fish, with some help from Papa. 4lb catfish. Good job Evan!
Evan and Dad-aw, (Trey's Granfather) eating some of Mom-aw's cookies.
Here are the sleeping quarters.That night, after Trey got Evan settled in his sleeping bag, Evan decided he needed to sleep with his daddy. Beside him wasn't good enough, he needed to be in the same sleeping bag. Apparently there were coyotes very close. The sounds of them howling and catching their prey were the closest Trey has ever heard before. Well, Evan needed to pee. Trey told him to just go anywhere outside the tent. Evan says,"Daddy, what do coyotes eat?" I don't remember Trey's answer, but he might have said rabbits. Evan says, "Little boys, what about little boys?" Trey tries to tell him how humans scare coyotes and how we are too big for coyotes to eat. Evan only found enough confidence in daddy's answer to unzip the tent, tilt out his hips, pee, zip it back up quick, and jump back into daddy's sleeping bag. That's braver than me, buddy- I think I would've just held it!!
Evan casting. Evan got to camp with his daddy, his Papa and his Dad-aw. Trey got several more great pictures, but he wasn't in any of them. Guess they will have to go back again soon so he can get more pictures.

Celebrating new babies

2008-04-06T15:58:00.001-07:00

There were three baby showers going on today. I got to be a hostess for two of them. A Tonka truck theme was used for one of the showers where an adoption was being celebrated. The big boy is 20 months old. Welcome Billy!
I copied this cake off one I saw online. Trey helped me carve out the road. But my first helper was Dean. He climbed up on the table and took care of a large section of one of the cakes while it was cooling...little stinker. He didn't even leave one crumb.
The hostess and the guest of honor. It was a great afternoon. I don't have any pictures of the second shower, but it was beautiful. I have to brag on my husband. He had all the kids for over 4 hours while I partied. I did bring him home a piece of cake though:) That makes it fair, right?

Autism walk and other news

2008-04-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

Today we got to be a part of Autism Speaks and their effort to raise support and money. It was a walk at the zoo plus lots of extras, like bounce houses and getting to visit with dogs that participate in the pet therapy program. Evan has a classmate whose twin brother has autism. So we joined some good friends to support Konner's Krowd. It was a great day - beautiful weather, and a great turn out.
Last weekend we went to check on our baby cows. All the kids especially Andie, would love to pet these babies. But they are just so jumpy at this age. So the best the kids can do is chase them around.
This is Dynamo, the cow we bottle fed in our backyard over a year ago. She has turned out to be our best looking cow. I have to laugh saying she's the best looking, but giving you a picture of her rear - you'll have to trust me. If I'm learning things right, I believe the real test will be how good of a momma cow she is. We'll find that out in just a few months.
And the highlight of last week was a quick visit fom my mom, Nana. I wish we didn't live so far apart. She and my dad were amazing parents. But I love their role now. They are my biggest fan. My mom always finds some way to encourage and build me up as a mom. The role of a parent can be so hard, and my mom remembers it well. I also love to see my parents as grandparents. They are so loving and giving. My mom gave Andie this new dress, complete with purse, shoes, hat, tights - the works. The dress said it was made for the girl who loves to twirl, so they had to get it for their Andie.

Vacation!!

2008-03-18T22:13:00.000-07:00

Trey and I went to the Spurs vs. Celtics game in San Antonio! Exciting Fun! My voice hurts, feet hurt, and hands even hurt from clapping - great fun! Both of our first NBA game. I loved how excited my smack talking husband was. He was the best coach from the nose bleed section.
Us on the riverwalk before the game. This is our first real vacation since our honeymoon! We can't wait to have another one in the very near future.
We made many stops along the way. Great shopping and food in Brady and Fredericksburg. We stopped at the Cowboy Capitol of the World - Bandera, TX. Trey really wanted us to go to Lukenbach, just to say we went. It was so worth it! A little place all because of a song. We even got a t-shirt. Go check it out for yourselves!
An amazing chocolate store in Fredericksburg called Chocolat (pretty sure they leave off the "e"). These were my indulgences. The two on the far right tied for 1st place. Orange on top, and coconut joy on the bottom right are worth the trip itself. Wow!! Trey tried their specialty, chocolate with liqueur centers. He decided Tennessee Whiskey had the strongest kick. It had him singin dueling banjo's.

We are now back home, and back with kids......and dreaming of our next trip. He says Ft.Davis......I say The Sequoia Forest.

Birthday and Easter

2008-03-13T10:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Husband! My old man turned 37 yesterday. I met him a couple days before he turned 30 on a plane to Peru. What a fun, blessed, and tiring 8 years we have had! We went to his parents to eat cake, then went and walked around our ranch and fed the cows and such. Trey and I are going to watch the San Antonio Spurs play the Celtics on Monday night for his birthday - with no kids!
Today I got to watch Evan and Andie easter egg hunt at YCW. The kids informed me this morning that Easter is just as good as Christmas.
Andie's class just after the hunt.
Evan filling up his basket.... a little too well. He was suppost to only collect 12 eggs. I heard him count up to 9. Then he found the "jack pot" area that had at least 20 eggs. In his excitable mind, all bets were off, no more counting - he just filled his basket as quick as he could till it overflowed. I could tell he took it hard when he realized what he had done, he didn't mean to break the rules. Love you buddy!
Notice his hair. Trey's dad took Evan for his first visit to the barber. Evan loved the whole thing. He especially loved the barber's chair and how the foot bar moved it up and down. He also likes that the flat top makes him look taller.
Evan's class just after the hunt in the bright sun.

Bunk, not bump, Bed

2008-03-06T18:27:00.000-08:00

For over a year I have been looking for bunk beds. I have looked off and on over the internet. I found this bed several months ago, but there was no rush. I just thought it was a good idea - the stairs and all. Well, I discovered a few days ago that Evan has out grown his Thomas the Train toddler bed. So feeling pressure, I went to every furniture store in town. I must give a plug for Ashley furniture store. I had been to at least eight stores before them. Their showroom is beautiful, and they had an area for kids to sit play video games and eat cookies while I made decisions. And they had the best sales lady, Pam. I wish Evan had liked one of their beds. Anyway, he was very set on this one. I love the stairs for safety, he just thinks they are cool. Plus! We got free mattresses and free shipping for ordering by today. I'll let you know how they work out.

Referring to the bunk bed, Andie told Trey, "Daddy don't worry, the bed won't bump you, just me." Confused, Trey asks her to repeat what she is trying to say. She says the same thing. Trey tells her, "Andie it's called a bunk bed, not bump bed." Andie's face drops, she starts shaking her head looking devastated. She tells her daddy that "mommy say it's a bump bed, mommy say it's a bump bed." So I annunciate and spell out the two words and try to clear up the confusion. The poor girl starts tearing up, and refuses to let us console her. She really thought we were getting her a bed that would bump her around. After Trey put these words in her head, Andie came to tell me "I don't like bait and switch, Mommy."

Much going on

2008-02-21T09:06:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago we added a new member to our family. This sweet puppy won our hearts over. She was rescued from an abondoned apartment. She was caught in a broken glass table with her legs suspended in the air for 3 days. She had hip fractures and abdominal and inner thigh lacerations - with a horrible infection to go with it. Her eyes won the hearts of ladies at the vet. They are a beautiful bright blue. She was given incredible care, and made an amazing recovery. We got her two weeks into her recovery. Just yesterday we noticed all of her cuts have healed!
It's our job to get some weight on her. Dean is always following her around the yard holding her food and water bowls saying "eat, eat". Andie loves to feed her one piece of food at a time. And Evan is proud to announce to everyone that "We have our first puppy!" Her name is Millie.
Last weekend we went to my nephew's 5th birthday party. We celebrated at Up-n-Jack's , which is always great fun! Happy Birthday Jack Cinco!
My dad, Grandave, holding his newest grandson, Sean Apel. He is my sister's 3rd boy. He is very cute, but is not letting my sister sleep. I have to giggle that my daughter includes in her prayers for God to help baby Sean stop crying.
I have to include a picture of my painting project. I have long awaited the chance to paint this room. When we moved in 2 1/2 years ago, I removed the nasty wallpaper, but we had to have a working toilet, so that was all that got done. We ran into somes snags trying to get this room complete, but the time came when I could start painting last week. I chose a dark shade of green - but my husband strongly hated the color. It wasn't what I hoped it would be either, but I had worked so hard, so I was crushed to hear his opinion. My friend Lindi came to the rescue. We made a late night trip to Lowes to pick a new texture and paint color. I was up till midnight that night changing it all. Then, Trey took his turn and finished up while I was out of town. Lindi helped me pick out some material to dress up the window. Can't wait for that to be done!! Thanks Lindi!!

Tagged

2008-01-29T11:45:00.000-08:00

I've been tagged. I'd been holding off so I could write 100 things on my 100th post, but that's a ways a way. And this is only 5 things.

The Rules: Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog. Share 5 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog. or Share the 5 top places on your “want to see or want to see again” list. or Share 5 things you never pictured being in your future when your were 25 years old. Tag a minimum of 5, maximum of 10 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs. Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog. The tagees have a choice of which they want to do.

I choose 5 random/weird things about myself:

1). I am a city girl who married a country boy. We live in the city currently. But have cows out in the country. A year ago, I had to bottle feed a baby brangus cow who had been abandoned her mother. She stayed in my city backyard for 3 months getting 3-4 1/2 gallon bottles a day. I learned to only stick the bottle out the back door, for If I went outside she would want to feed the way nature intended. She would keep butting her head between my legs. Uh, not ok with me and my pregnant belly. And she reminded me of a goat as she would eat the kids backyard toys. Anyway, I was relieved when Animal Control Services showed up on my doorstep to ask me if I had a cow in my backyard. Kinda ackward to be turned in, (we were only trying to save the life of a baby afterall) but I was glad to see Dynamo be shipped to the ranch. Happy to announce, Dynamo is about to have her own baby.

2). I have a massage therapy license.

3). I have carpal tunnel syndrome. I'm pretty sure I got carpal tunnel from doing so many massages.

4.) I had braces as an adult. When I was little, I used to put foil gum wrappers over my teeth and pretend that I had braces. Why? Anyway, I was excited to get my braces off and pick out a retainer. I picked out a pretty color of green for my retainer. I later discovered that my retainers glow in the dark.

5.) So my nightly attire consists of cast-like carpal tunnel braces on both hands and glow-in-the dark retainers. My poor husband!!

I tag Katy, Anne, Melissa, Lindi, Erica, and Whitney

Day at the Movies

2008-01-18T12:15:00.000-08:00

Veggie Tales: The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything
I felt brave and adventurous today. The kids and I went to see the new Veggie Tales movie at the movie theater. I was a little anxious knowing that my youngest would not sit the whole time. But it went great! There were only two other people in the theater. Which relieved my stress in a huge way. Dean stayed in his seat for 45 minutes, which meant he had his fill of popcorn. Then he was up and down the stairs. He was a trooper!
They all loved the booster seats. And it just warmed my heart to look down the row at this sweet site. What a great day!

Conversation with God

2008-01-16T19:30:00.000-08:00

I walked in the bathroom and found my daughter there. She giggled in an embarrassed way. And said, "Oh, hi mom. I was just talking to God."
I replied,"Oh really? What did He say?"
"He told me to use the potty. That it would be ok."
I was so very delighted to hear this! My son had big issues potty training, and I feel like my daughter has patterned his behavior. Crying, freaking out, not wanting to give up control, etc..... I pray for a lot of things, but I can't say I have ever prayed about potty training. And for the huge stress it can be - I should have been praying. It would be a great story if I could say that she was potty trained from that moment on. The accidents and tears continue. But what a sweet moment it was to know about my daughter's conversation with God. And the reminder it is to me to remember to take everything in prayer to Him.

Christmas 2007

2007-12-31T10:42:00.000-08:00

This year we celebrated Christmas at my parents house. What a wonderful trip it was!! This was the first year in quite a while that all my siblings were together for Christmas. My sister did successfully make the trip. Which is so great for all the kids to get to be together. The more kids, the better at Christmas time. We saw I Am Legend and National Treasure. We were treated to some great food. And got to go sledding. We headed to the top of the mountain Christmas Eve morning. The weather was perfect!
Andie and I in our matching dresses in front of my dad's massive Christmas tree. It's 16 hundred feet tall. Sweet Dean would have his head thrown back as far as it could go trying to look at the top of the tree. They also had an average size tree in the other room. It had a remote control train around the base and the middle of the tree. That was definately the highlight for all the boys. I love that my dad has the interest and energy to go all out with Christmas. It helps make it magical for all of us.
Dean kicking back with the animal crackers from his stocking. He has quite the sweet tooth or junk food tooth anyway. Dean's favorite part of Christmas was when my brother would slide him around the carpet while he sat on a box.
We made a few unsuccessful attempts at a group shot. That is just torture for the kids. So we are all on the couch facing the tv which has Frosty the Snowman playing. So the kids aren't smiling, but we can see their faces. My brothers arrived late, I caught them in another picture that I didn't make the kids be part of.

We got to spend time with both of my grandmothers as we traveled. I am so blessed by a wonderful loving family.

And as always Santa was good to us. Thanks to all of Santas helpers.

Goings on

2007-12-18T11:24:00.000-08:00

Well, we are going at our usual fast pace. We are loving everything to do with Christmas. We have already had 3 Christmas celebrations. My sister traveled our way over Thanksgiving. So we went ahead and exchanged gifts then. It looks like we might get to see the over Christmas anyway. My big sis is 8 months pregnant, almost 9. So she thought they would not be traveling, but she is going to brave the 12 hr - 2 day trip so the cousins can be together. We'll see how that goes. Guess I could pack a delivery pack for her just in case.

As I buy presents for people, I get all aglow, excited for them to receive their gifts. I just can't stand the waiting, I want to give the gifts out right away. My husband is calm, and is willing to wait. I have been asking him for weeks if he was curious what his presents were and, "Don't you want to open them?" At first he was a rock. But he finally broke. It was actually his idea for us to have our family Christmas last Sunday afternoon. We will be at my parents for Christmas, so there is plenty of celebrating left to be had. The reason why my husband wanted us to open our gifts was because he knew he had done good! I think this is the first Christmas gift that I have truly been surprised. We usually need a camera or furniture or something like that. We buy it and say that's our gift to each other. And I always was great with that. But man, being surprised is lots of fun!

Here's something I have not posted on: Some of you are familiar with my dining room table and chairs. I can only imagine the conversations that have taken place over the plastic I keep on my dining table. Well, we bought this beautiful table and chairs before we had kids. And we hope for it to last forever. So now that we know how destructive kids innocently are, it is covered in plastic. My 3 yr old got a hold of a black sharpie and colored my upholstered chair. And man she colored hard! AHHHH!! My husband put alot of scrubbing time in and has almost gotten it all out. I just saw that she also colored the wooden brace of the table as well. At least she is cute!

Snowy Day!

2007-12-05T20:36:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been almost two weeks since the snow and I haven't posted about it! We had the most perfect snow two Sundays ago. While the kids were taking their Sunday nap, Trey and I gathered up all the snow gear so we could be ready for some serious snow play. After the older kids woke up we the fun began! We made 5 snowmen total. One for each in our family. The kids decorated their own faces. Their mouths are red licorice, carrot for a nose, and pecan eyes. Dean has gum drop eyes.
Trey could roll up the snow like it was insulation. It was crazy!
Sweet Andie loved the snow! Building the snowman was her favorite, and making a snow angel was a close second favorite. Evan loved it all. He seemed especially pleased to throw snowballs. He was a little hesitant at first. Like, "Am I reading this right? Is my momma telling me to throw things at people?"
Dean slept through it all. But we brought him out to let him check it out. He kept lightly touching the snow saying "this, this". It was a wonderful afternoon with my family. I am so thankful for my family and for the snow God made that brought such a special time.

But we made a terrible late night discovery! Some very cold hearted person pushed over our snow family! I took it very personally. How could someone destroy our special family time symbol?! Well husband to the rescue! He rolled and wheel barrowed the biggest snowballs from the destroyed snowmen and rebuilt "the biggest snowman ever" in our backyard. This way when the kids woke up in the morning excited to see the snowmen, it wouldn't be so dissappointing. It worked! Way to go husband!

School Pictures and Thankgiving Feast

2007-11-20T15:21:00.001-08:00

Evan and Andie got to share in a Thanksgiving Feast with all of their classmates today. Dean and I got to watch their special meals. I know the teachers put in a lot of work to make the time special. The pictures aren't in order. Andie's meal was first, then Evan's.

After watching Andie's class, it was sweet to see the maturity progression when I watched Evan enjoy his Thanksgiving Feast in his 4's class. As their teacher explained the meal to the kids, she asked them to pray. She became choked up telling them that they are sitting so close that they could hold hands while they prayed. She then asked who would pray. My son raised his hand and loudly said that he would. I expected the routine/memorized prayer he says before our meals at home. But it was different and so perfectly sweet. Now I was choked up.

Indian Evan, aka, "Jumping Dog" proudly modeling his Indian attire. Happy Thanksgiving!
Andie and some of her classmates wearing their pilgrim hats. The boys wore Indian headresses. Dessert was clearly the favorite part of their Thanksgiving feast. They used the snack chip, bugles. Then put white icing inside to attach Trix cereal to the bugel. That made a very cute mini cornicopia!

Evan's 4 year old school picture.

Andie's school picture. She is now 3, but is in the old 2's class.

Christmas Tree

2007-11-12T18:32:00.000-08:00

We have not put up a Christmas Tree the last few years due to: 1) no space in our home and
2) I didn't want to constantly tell the kids "no" & "stop". Well, we decided the older two kids are old enough to enjoy everything to do with the season and have enough self control to not break every decoration. We found the perfect idea for our home. A tree that fits in a corner, or a fourth of a tree. Perfect for tight spaces. Trey and I set it up soon after it arrived. The kids reaction warmed our hearts when they woke the next morning. I held Evan and Andie's hand and brought them to the living room. They gasped and oohed and ahhed. Then Andie said quietly, "Christmas", like something truly profound had taken place. Evan gripped my hand tight and leaned into me and said very seriously, "momma, go get my daddy. He has got to see this." This was only the prelit tree - no decorations or anything. We had some great family time that day getting the decorations out and letting the kids create a masterpiece. We took them shopping this evening so they could each pick out one ornament themselves. I love parenting moments such as what I experienced tonight. The kids loved going through the isles of Christmas decor. I would love for each person that created the decorations at Lowes to have witnessed my kids reaction. I look forward to the upcoming weeks.

Couples Retreat

2007-11-12T06:51:00.000-08:00

This weekend Trey & I and 18 other couples from our Bible class went to Lake Brownwood for our 1st annual couples retreat. It was such a good time! We have a huge Bible class. I knew who a lot of the couples were, but didn't know them. So this was a perfect setting to get to know other people. Removing kids from the situation certainly helps. Friday night started off with ballroom dancing. We had a professional instructor from Abilene join us out there. She taught us the Rumba and the Swing. She was so fun! Trey absolutely cracked me up. We've even talked about taking some more lessons.....anyone want to join us?

Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

It was worth the 9 hr trip to Albuquerque to visit the McCall Pumpkin Patch. The weather was beautiful. The pumpkin patch - which should be called a great fall festival since it is so much more than a pumpkin patch - was so impressive. It will have to become an annual event for us.
They are all making their appropriate noises.
Evan loved the go carts and the miner's tunnel slide! Andie loved the trampoline and the corn "sandbox" the best.
We took a hayride to the middle of the pumpkin patch and got to find our treasured pumpkins. The one Evan is holding became a pumpkin pie later that day. Evan has never had pumpkin pie, but it's what he really wanted to do with his pumpkin. His Nana made his wish come true. It was the most delicious pumpkin pie I have had to date. I just love the fall!

Pink Care Bear Birthday Party

2007-10-13T20:04:00.000-07:00

Hurray! The time finally came for Andie's pink Care Bear birthday party! My parents and my sister and her crew came to town. We met with the rest of our family and Andie's friends at the gymnastics sports center. There was plenty of running space and trampolines and foam pits for all to enjoy. Andie told me she wanted this pink care bear cake about 3 months ago. Her name is Love-a-lot Bear. After I had finished making the cake, I must have pulled it out of the fridge about five times to let Andie ooh and ahh over it - it doesn't take much to please her.
Happy Birthday to you sweet girl!
This is the kids favorite thing to do when they come to gymnastics. They get on a trampoline, wear this suspension belt, and do back flips or just swing high in the air - great fun!!
Andie had a great party. Thanks to everyone, the girl has tons of care bear stuff - she is in heaven! Pictured are many of the Care Bears she received. She also received a tea party set. So, many times we have lined up all the care bears when Andie decides it's tea party time. Notice in front of Evan is Mater. Mater drinks Dr.Pepper at tea parties.

Andie's 3rd Birthday

2007-09-28T10:04:00.000-07:00

Our sweet girl is 3! She was very excited to eat a pink princess cereal and pink princess yogurt for breakfast. Today was water day at school - which she loved! Then she got to share pink mini cupcakes with her classmates. We will celebrate her birthday in a week - and she has been so wonderful about understanding that her party will happen when our family gets into town. Which I think is huge, because she has been very excited for her pink care bear birthday party for 3 months!
Andie @ 2 weeks old. She a beautiful and very easy baby. She started out sucking her thumb, which was incredibly sweet. I loved how she would roll & roll & roll. Sometimes I would loose her under her bed or a table.
Andie @ one.

Why she makes my heart warm:
Her sweet soft voice.
She loves to snuggle.
I love how she says,"I wuv you Ewan (Evan)."
She is sweet & girlie, but can find dirt and be covered in it faster than any kid around.
She lets me play with her hair.
She loves to twirl in her dresses.
She can seem in her own world, not really paying attention, but can repeat any "mommy phrase" with 100% accuracy.
I love how she puts her blanket around her face and sad says, "I'm Mary."
When something scares her at night, she is comforted by a whispered prayer of protection.
I love how she smells her blanket when she tired.
She meows a lot. She is always very sweet when she is a kitty, so sometimes we encourage her kitty personality to come out - she was 2 afterall, she couldn't be sweet all the time.
She loves the nickname her daddy has for her, "Baby Smalls" or just "Smalls". If daddy ever has to correct her and say,"Andie stop doing that." Andie will say, "No Daddy. Say, Smalls stop doing that."

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!!

Plain Busy

2007-09-25T21:58:00.000-07:00

We are going full speed ahead around our place. Trey & I have had many conversations about not over-involving ourselves or our kids. We are really close to being over-involved. There are many good things to take part in, so it is difficult to know what to say no to, and what to stick with. The only activity we are involved in that has nothing to do with church or family is gymnastics, and that's only one hour a week. I hear it only gets worse as the kids get older. It's one thing for Trey & I to say we won't be taxi's for our kids, and another to see their face light up as they learn to play a sport and experience teamwork.

Daddy is gone this week. I have had to do about 4 "man jobs" in his absence. We are very traditional in our home. I do all kid stuff, cooking, cleaning, shopping....He does all yard, car, repair work.... I've been out of the habit of doing anything that falls under the "man job" category. Anyway, I needed to move some furniture out of our room because it was being replaced. I was doing pretty good moving our matress down the hall - until I knocked over the bed frame and made a good inch long gash in the wall. It entertained my kids anyway. They point it out to all who come over. My 15 month old loves to dig his sweet fingers in it.

Conversations with my 4 year old: "Momma, where is God?" "He is in Heaven." "Where is Heaven?" "Heaven is very far away." "Momma, how can I talk to God?" "We can pray to God." Would you like to pray?' "Yes momma....but I don't hear him." "Momma, let's get in a plane and go to heaven." My favorite heaven conversation with him is when he tells me he wants me to go to heaven with him.

Andie's sister

2007-09-13T14:14:00.000-07:00

Evan got to have a friend spend the night last weekend. They had so much fun. Non-stop trains and planes! Andie left the boys to play, as though she knew it was "a boy thing". She seemed ok at first, but I could tell that she was becoming down, not having a place. I called her to my room and gave her a pink crown and purple magic wand that I had bought for her a few days earlier. She was so pleased. I loved watching her face light up. She told me her name was Cinderella. She waved her wand a few times. Then told me she made a sister. She went on to tell me how she was going to take good care of her. I was really taken back that she created a sister. A sister! How sweet and how sad! I only entertained the idea for a quick second of truly giving her a sister. I'm sure she truly is wanting a playmate. She did help me realize that we always have boys over to play. I will be more mindful of her desires to play princess and care bears. Anyway, after she made a sister, she went into the boys room. She waved her magic wand over their heads and ordered them to be a chicken and a pig. "Now you cluck, and you oink." How I wish I would have known to have a video camera going!

First Day of School

2007-09-04T12:55:00.000-07:00

Evan and Andie proudly posed for their 1st day of school picture. They had a hard time falling to sleep last night being so full of excitement for today. We went to open house last Thurs. Both of them had a hard time leaving that night - they were ready for a full day, not just 30 minutes. Well, today was the day! They both happily went to their classes. I love my sweet babies. I love how excited they are for their backpacks, their lunches, and the much anticipated playground. Andie has never been on this playground. But Evan has talked about it so much she can't wait.
Andie's teacher, and my dear friend, Ms. Shana. God has blessed Shana with an incredible gift of teaching young children. Words cannot express how thankful I am that Andie gets to be in her classroom every Tuesday and Thursday.
Evan's big 4 year old class! Here he is with his teacher, Ms. Nicole. Ms. Nicole was just showing Bryce, Kyal, and Evan where to hang their backpacks. Apparently,when you're 4, it's an esteem building experience to find your name marking the exact place for your backpack and nap mat. Evan's eyes sparkled everytime he found his name. "E-V-A-N Evan!" he would shout. I left Evan looking like this and picked him up with yellow paint all over his shirt, two skinned knees, a skinned chin and cut hand. He says it all involved a yellow truck. He had tons of fun! It makes my heart warm to know my kids are in a great place with great people watching over them.

Labor Day Weekend

2007-09-01T18:39:00.000-07:00

Today we went to Trey's parents house. We were so excited to see Montomery, our nephew. Trey's sister, her husband and Montomery came in for Opening Weekend (that's a big deal to hunter's.....figure I have some fellow non-hunter's out there that need splainin'). This is only my 2nd time to see Montgomery. He was born with a fairly serious heart condition. He has done well, considering - but we have always been on the cautious side and kept my kids away. He actually just had a heart cath procedure done a couple days ago. He is full of sweet sounds and big smiles. I enjoyed holding him for a long while. Holding him, you can feel his heart murmur. I am used to feeling a heart beat, and that is not what he has - he has a powerful swish. I couldn't stop kissing his head and praying for him. Montgomery gets at least three prayers offered up a day from us. Lord, please heal his heart. You are All Powerful to do so.
This is Papa's new riding lawn mower. All the kids love for Papa to take them for a ride. I just might be willing to mow the lawn if I got to use this cool thing.

Air Show

2007-08-18T16:16:00.000-07:00

I planned an outing with some friends to take the kids to see a local airshow. Last minute Trey surprised us and came along. We are always glad to be with daddy. I also appreciate extra help with the kids. We have been experiencing a lot of flash flood rain. We didn't know if this air show would go on until the last minute. All the cloud cover helped make the event cool. It was a very impressive event. The down side, we would all agree on, was the very distant parking. Shuttle buses were provided. But all of us had strollers that would not fit. Therefore: Great naps were had by all. This aircraft is in motion, taking off. Trey told me to get the camera out and get the two of them as it went by. Poor Evan is whincing the way he is because of the immense noise that these aircraft put out as they race by. We will know to bring protective ear wear for future air shows. It left many of our poor babies in tears.

The Jones', Boisvert's, Fry's, & us watching the show. We were able to get in the aircraft behind us. I had to take my children out of the cockpit kicking and screaming. They were not getting off until the plane until it had taken them for a ride. The pilots got a kick out of that anyway....

Welcome #17!

2007-08-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Duggar family!

Over the past three years I have been watching occasional TV specials about the Duggar family. The mother Michalle Duggar is an inspiration to me. She and her husband have 17 children. Their newest is only 3 or 4 weeks old. And the oldest, Josh, is 19. The number of children is not the inspiration, although it is amazing. The Duggar's view the Bible as a guide to how to live life. A lot of us would agree, but truth be told, the "right" way is hard. It is hard to live life going against the flow and influence of the world. I would love the opportunity to be an apprentice in their home. They tell their story on their web site:

www.jimbob.info/index.html

Kerrville

2007-07-30T06:35:00.000-07:00

We got to spend the weekend at my sister's place in Kerrville for my nephew's 2nd birthday. We went to a place called Up-n-Jack's. It is a place full of inflatable entertainment. These pictures do not show it off at all....Because I was way too busy sliding, climbing, and laughing to be on camera duty. I wish we had one of these in my town. This place has been open a couple of months - I wish them many happy years in business. It was big family entertainment!

Evan is at the top getting ready to slide down. He had gone through an obstacle coarse to make it to this point. Whee!

Pink

2007-07-30T06:25:00.000-07:00

It tickles me that my daughter insists on everything pink. I even started her out in life with a red nursery - I guess hoping she would like my favorite color. No way! She must have pink! Purple is a close second - and everything else is not ok.
So I became a very cool mom when I brought home these pink boots for her. She has twirled and stomped all over the house. I love Target clearance deals -$7!!

2007-07-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

Last year after VBS, Evan got mouth, hand, and foot disease. That was a miserable experience to watch my sweet boy suffer through. He was tortured with multiple ulcers in his mouth over and over again. They would appear 20-40 at a time. By God's grace no one else caught it. This year after VBS, Evan and his cousin Jack caught fifth's disease. (I would take this one any day over last year's disease.) It starts with red cheeks and a mild fever. Then it becomes a rash. Except for the mild fever, the kid never notices a thing. Andie came down with it as well - I didn't even notice fever, just the non-irritating rash. I thought Dean was taking his turn with fifth's disease. But he had a very high fever of 103.3 and he was covered in red dots. So after a Dr's visit, we discover he has roseola. What a diseased household I have!!! Hopefully we are making immune systems of steel !!
I do admit I need to encourage better hand washing practices. I never ask them to wash their hands before they eat - I always wipe them down after they eat though. But they have to be covered in dirt and sidewalk chalk for me to even think of cleaning them up. I guess I'm thinking they are just going to get messy during the meal - so just wait and clean up after. Anyway, I will say I don't let them touch a thing in a public restroom - i am a freak about that.

Everyone is on the road to recovery now. The two youngest still have their rashes, but they are not contagious at this point.

Avalanche Ranch

2007-06-29T05:38:00.001-07:00

My nephew, Jack, got to stay with us for 5 nights so he could attend VBS with Evan. I was extremely impressed with everything to do with VBS. Our church was covered in bails of hay. There were horses, goats, a mule, and other small farm animals that the kids got to feed each night. All of the volunteers did an outstanding job.
Evan and Jack feeding some hungry goats. Notice this is indoors. The animals were pinned up in the room where our Bible class is every Sunday. I am curious to see what it smells like in there this coming Sunday.
The boys shouting YEE-HAW with their pvc pipe stick horses.

Happy 4th Evan!!

2007-06-28T20:38:00.000-07:00

Evan has been looking forward to his birthday for 9 months! It was a joy to give him everything he wanted. Balloons, bike riding with friends, and soccer playing. A while ago I asked Evan who he wanted to invite to his party. He made it clear that daddy and I were not on the list. I told him if we were not invited he would not have a cake. He quickly responded that Mimi and Nana would make one. "Evan, if mommy and daddy can't come then you won't get a bike." I replied thinking this would change his mind. He replied as though he had thought of this for a while - "Nana and Grandave will get one for me. You can't come." He said this in a joking tone, but I was a little hurt. Anyway - he did come around (all on his own) and tell us many times that he wanted us there. Especially when he watched me make his cake. He would hug my legs and tell me he loved me and that I could come to his party....and daddy, too.

Pictured are Trey's parents (Papa and Mimi) and grandparents (Mom-aw and Dad-aw). And Evan's new bike!
The team photo. I made jerseys for the kids to wear, and each got their own inflatable soccer ball. Trey also had a shirt that said coach, complete with a whistle. He led the kids in some "soccer drills."
Pretty cool soccer ball cake! See why he invited me!?! Happy Birthday Evan Luke!

My parents Cabin

2007-06-02T20:57:00.001-07:00

(Andie making a holllow log look very cute.) We spent memorial weekend at my parents cabin. I have a great love for Camp Blue Haven. It was great to be back for the 50th reunion. 12 of us fit snuggly into my parents 900sq ft cabin. We slept, ate, relaxed, walked around (no real hiking happened this trip), and visited with old friends. Oh, I love the smell of those mountains!
Evan, Andie and cousin Jack enjoying the hammock and their prized canteens.
This is one of the meal time prayers. All the kids want to say a prayer - which is so very heartwarming. Andie is the prayer time monitor. She peers around saying "close your eyes, close your eyes" while squinting hers. My parents have worked very hard on this great cabin. The new deck my dad built is in this shot. I hope one day my dad will stop finding projects and just enjoy his place.

Dean's 1st birthday

2007-06-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

We officially celebrated Dean's 1st birthday up at my parents cabin - it's near Camp Blue Haven. Dean has been a huge blessing to us. He is such a joy to care for. He warms my heart. He is so very easy going, his eyes can light up a room, and he can sure make a person feel good. I look forward to watching this sweet boy grow up.
I laid Dean down for a nap while at the cabin - I went to go check on him and this is what I discovered. I had left the kleenex a little to close to the pack-n-play. No wonder he was so quite.

One, Two, Three

2007-05-22T12:43:00.000-07:00

We took some pictures today to celebrate the kids being one, two , and three years old. Evan will turn 4 July, 1st. Over 200 pictures were taken - most with at least one kid looking in another direction, putting their finger in their mouth, or crawling away. The photograper had a tough job - but he got some great smiles.

30th Birthday!!

2007-05-18T20:44:00.001-07:00

Turning 30 has been wonderful. I feel very accomplished and satisfied with my life. So turning 30 feels very appropriate. I used it as a motivator to get in shape and make some positive changes in my life. Tonight, I invited some of my favorite people to eat at Tamales restaurant with me and Trey. Pictured are Dorothy, Melissa, myself, and April. (their husbands are there as well.) Dorothy and her husband invited us to eat at this restaurant the first time we met them in Bible class almost two years ago. It really made me feel at home in a foreign place. We had a great time tonight - I hope it motivates us all to make date nights a regular thing.
Trey surprised me this morning with a wonderful birthday gift - Money! I have shopped all day - it has been so fun. First, Trey and Dean shopped with me - then I sent them home for naps while I shopped till I dropped.
After dinner we went to see Shrek the Third - so great! So funny! Go see it. Lindi and her family got to join us at the show. While we are taking this picture, a poor kid was throwing up right beside us. We didn't know what to do - do you do something? - I mean if he needs to throw up, he needs to throw up. So we smiled and took the picture .....and were relieved when his mom showed up, whew!

Birthday Eve

2007-05-18T20:28:00.000-07:00

My wonderful mother-in-law (Mimi) came by the house Thursday - the day before my 30th. She first presented a beautiful dress. She wanted me to try it on to see if it fit. It does - and it is so pretty. She was looking at a Dillards advertisement, and thought the dress looked like something I would like. She was right on target - it made me feel very special. But that wasn't all....she brought a beautiful cake from McKay's bakery. In my family, birthday's and all of it's traditions are very important. We have to let each child have a turn at blowing out candles - no matter whose birthday it is. Balloons are a must as well. Mimi bought a mother's day balloon on clearance, knowing that the kids would expect it - good thing the kids can't read yet. Oh, and she took Evan and Andie home with her to stay for two nights! Happy Birthday to me! Thanks for a great day Pam. You have made me feel very special and very loved.

Tea Party

2007-05-18T20:18:00.000-07:00

Andie got to attend McKinley's 3rd birthday today. It was a tea party, and Andie was to wear her favorite dress up clothes. Andie got to pick out her entire oufit. She was especially proud of the purse. April Patteson did an amazing job - the table was set beautifully, the room decorated adorably. All the girls sat around the table like sweet young ladies. Happy Birthday McKinley.
Andie and her friend, Abby, before the party. Aren't they sweet? My friend and Abby's mommy took Andie to the party. What a big day!

Andie making a "Pretty Face"

2007-04-25T09:11:00.000-07:00

We had a blast at the birthday party of Jonathan and Jared Fry a few weeks ago. Shana had the kids bring riding toys to ride around the church gym. There were some of these orange cones set up. When Andie put this one on like a hat, Jason's mom asked her to make a pretty face, and this is the shot we got. Silly girl.

2007-04-15T07:33:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday morning. Trey is taking the kids to his parents church this morning. Sweet Dean is sick, so he and I are staying home to snuggle. It was a peaceful morning getting the kids ready - not having to rush around getting myself ready to go. So I took a moment to get a picture of my dressed up babies. I told them they were handsome and pretty. (Evan needed to make clear that he is the handsome one, he is not pretty.)I realize in most of the posts they are dressed up, but truth is, it's a rare thing. I have Andie's hair french braided in this picture - but it's usually quite a mess. We're doing good if it's not full of static, sporting an Albert Einstein look. Not that she cares that just means she's playing hard. Anyway, have a great Sunday.