Forever Flamingo

February at a Glance...Blink and it's Over!

2011-03-01T17:06:00.003-06:00

February was cold and full of fun!

We were snowed in A LOT! The boys actually went to school a total of 3 days in two weeks. I was so glad that Ihad made a grocery store run before the wild weather hit. While stuck indoors we made from scratch cinnamon rolls and fruit kabobs. The boys also used their imagination often while playing indoors including super hero's and army. Our dog Shelby even got in on the act. The month also included Valentine parties at school with lots of candy!

The end of basketball season ended with K-Man playing the best game of the season the last game. He scored 7 points and demonstrated being a leader on the team. He also showed an agressive side...not always seen. I think he has just become more confident in his abilities.

K-Man also had a great accomplishment in Februaury. He was asked to be a greeter at the school. Greeters have shown good character at school and have been chosen by their teachers. We were so proud of him. K-man was very nervous the first day, but ended up having fun opening the door for his friends. It was an all week privilage.

Another huge highlight was going to rodeo!

It took us double the time to get there because of the snow and ice on the roads, but the boys would have been soooo disappointed if we didn't try to get there.

We were able to watch some of the kids show their animals, watch cowboys ride for 8 seconds and eat HUGE hotdogs...fun!

Having to Sit

2011-02-15T11:43:00.003-06:00

It has been an interesting last several days...I went from having a rash to having to sit.
While I am waiting for some blood work results, the Dr. has instructed "No Work and Minimal
Activity". In other words I'm having to sit.

What do I do with all this sitting time?

I have been reading blogs, visiting Amazon (dangerous!), planning future craft and baking projects found on the web... all while listening/watching all things girly on TV.

While this may seem fun (and it is!), I am already chomping at the bit. I don't sit well and I sure don't like watching my adorable husband having to do everything!

I keep telling myself...enjoy, relax, read!!!
Sigh.

Brrrr!

2011-02-01T13:44:00.002-06:00

Today as I look at the clock...

I am still in my Pjs
I was able to read a chapter of my book during the day
I have done three loads of laundry
I have had A Lot of warm coffee
I have sat by the fire
I have watched the kids play together (I have toys all over the living room)
I have a load of wet clothes inside my front door
I have gotten the chance to blog and browse Blog Land
I didn't have to sit in the pick up line
I didn't have to go to my payed job
I don't have to get K-man to practice tonight
I have gotten to see a beautiful view out all my windows

Gotta Love Snow Days!

First Time

2011-01-20T14:51:00.004-06:00

There have been a few of things that I have done for the first time over the last couple of weeks...

1. I did a Bible study with someone I didn't know very well. I have done many Bible studies with friends and girls I have things in common with. However, this time was very different. The two of us are different in many ways: she is full blooded Indian, she has experienced prison, her husband is working on his citizenship,...the list could go on. I have met the girl along with her husband and children at church, but I have just smiled and said "Hi"...no real conversation. Well, I decided, when asked, to participate in a Bible study with her.

The study was wonderful (of course it was!!!) and my heart exploded with love for this woman and her "giving it all" to God. She has a a lot to loose deciding to let God be her guide. Her hunger for the Word was so humbling...so humbling!

B-Boy went with me and played with her little boy. Comments he whispered in my ear, "Momma...their house is short; they don't have carpet; where are their closets?; they have only three boxes of toys; I want to keep my coat on...I'm kinda cold; Did their house burn-it looks different." I'm not sure what picture this paints, but the picture is painted on my heart and on B-Boys too.

Though they had little, she was so proud of her home. The mattresses on the floor were made, the house spotless and there was a candle lit. I was humbled by her contentment and the way she took pride in what she did have. Her home was warm and I felt very welcomed.

God was present and working in all of hearts that day. May God continue to bless her richly.

2. Had two families/couples over for supper/lunch in less then 3 weeks! My adorable husband and I desire to have people in our home... To make our home open to everyone in our church family and to build lasting relationships and memories. The later couple that we invited over were an older couple that we respect and we believe are very wise. It was wonderful!...After the meal I was showing them the boys room. As I opened the door there were strings hung from the ceiling fan and things were tied to the bottom of them (including a sword!) flying around the room! I was so relieved that they had raised THREE boys and didn't think I had monkeys for children :)

3. I baked a Chocolate Buttermilk Pie...enough said!

Opening Weekend

2011-01-15T09:54:00.005-06:00

K-man's first basketball game ever was last weekend!

After a stomach ache and "This is the worst day ever!"...

He did GREAT!

K-man loves basketball, but he does not like to mess up or stand out. So, the first practice and the first game of any sport are often challenging getting there. However 5 minutes into it, he's good to go!

From this picture, you would think we won the game. Nope...40 to 2!
He did great and had fun.

What I am going to try to do better at the game this weekend:

not yell as much...it was encouraging stuff, just too much ;)
Not constantly thinking "GIVE K-MAN the BALL!"...all kids deserve to touch the ball.
Try to film more...between trying to take pictures and yell, I didn't get much on film.
Maybe not sit by my adorable husband...hmmm. We just need space during sporting events :)

"Out of the Mouths of"... my boys

2011-01-10T14:03:00.006-06:00

There has been snow all around us, however we haven't seen a bit of here on the home front. K-Man decided to take matters up with the "Man Up Stairs" last night:

" ...oh, and dear God, could you please increase the percentage of snow..."

This year the boys have been deer hunting with my adorable husband on various occasions, however no deer has even been seen. This weekend B-Boy had a plan.

"Dear God, could you please let us see a deer and keep it still so we can shoot it..."

Yep, there have been some heart pats this weekend.

Happiness!

Somebody Said...

2011-01-06T07:41:00.008-06:00

Somebody said that it couldn't be done,

But he with a chuckle replied,

That maybe it couldn't,

But he wouldn't be one,

to say so until he tried.

I absolutely love what I do. I feel blessed to be able to work outside my home two days a week at a nursing home as an Occupational Therapist. I feel I have learned more from my patients than they have learned from me...well, maybe we have each taken something from our relationships.

One of the things I have had to learn over the years is how to find a connection with my dementia patients in order to help them. One of the women that we bought Christmas gifts for happens to be one of the dementia residents that I was able to develop a relationship with.

She often became very anxious and would holler out. She also had low vision which also made it very difficult for her. When I would find her in her room anxious or tearful, I would walk in singing..."Clara, Clara, Bo Bara, Banana Fanna Fo Fara...(something to that effect.) Her face would light up and just like that we were long lost friends in a world of singing, sayings and rhymes. From there, we would be able to dress, groom, and complete other things to get ready for her day.

I went to work only to find out that my "Clara Bo Bara" had passed away.

I was honored to have learned many wonderful songs, stories and sayings from her. While we were delivering Christmas presents to her, after a couple of songs, I introduced her to B-Boy. She started telling him the saying that I typed above. He laughed so hard. So, we all said it over and over again. Even on the way home B-boy wanted to say it over and over...so catching and very wise.

My Clara had so much to share and was able to do that with me and my little boy. Clara wanted friends and she found a simple friendship with me through songs... Isn't that what many of us want. To share a bit of ourselves with others and feel needed. To have simple friendships that are not exhausting, but joyful and fulfilling.

Clara, Clara, Bo Bara... Thanks for the frienship I also needed.

The Smallness of Happiness in 2011

2011-01-01T15:31:00.007-06:00

I read an article in the magazine Real Simple on the way home from our family Christmas celebrations down south. The article was about happiness. It really has gotten me thinking about my motivation for myself in 2011. There are many...many things that I could "name" as my new year resolution, however I'm thinking about just keeping in simple...I'm going to work on changing the way I view happiness. Simple, right?

Well, I'm not sure how simple it really is, but this is my plan. I don't think happiness is something to be achieved or gained (stay with me!). I think happiness is moments, maybe even a split second emotion from an experience, a comment, or even an achievement (big or small). Happiness is not static. The adventure of life is to savor the feeling of happiness before allowing yourself to move on to the next experience. So, I want to focus my energy on savoring the smallness of happiness and not chasing the "worldly BIG happiness" or the achievement of the "happily ever after" life.

I have the tendency to see the downer points of the day or I find feeling "less than" because of the things I have not finished or accomplished. Or in other terms- I missed the happiness of the day and may even have said," I had a bad day". Really, was the whole day bad or were there moments of tingling happiness that I chose to breeze over! I have decided to savor happiness this year...celebrate the true emotion of happiness. I have a journal I haven't written in for the last year and I am simply going to attempt to right one small "happy feeling" moment in it each day (even if that is the only thing I write). At this point if I don't complete the goal of writing in it everyday, I'm savoring THIS moment of happy excitement of the idea and actually blogging about it! YES!!!!! (I'm also a heart patter for various reasons...so, if you see me pat my heart, I'm may just be having a small bit if happiness!)

HAPPY New Year!

"These are a few of my favorite things..."

2010-12-31T16:28:00.005-06:00

I always feel that the time from Thanksgiving until New Year is a complete whirlwind! I even find myself at times grrrrring about the holiday season. I feel like I have a hard time Enjoying Anything between Everything that needs to be done and the things I want to do. SO.... New approach! Instead of keeping the whirlwind feeling lingering inside me, I'm going to look back and savor the moments that brought "goosebump" moments to my arms and heart. Even if the moment only occurred for a split second.

DVRing all the Christmas movies from the Hallmark Channel. I only watched a few, but it was wonderful to watch them anytime. I always feel warm and fuzzy inside after watching them.
Fudge all over the boys faces after licking the beaters.
K- Man making a list of the goodies he wanted me to bake (fudge, puppy chow, candy covered pretzels, sausage balls, and candy covered popcorn).
B-boy seeing Santa for the first time at the mall..."I see Him! I see Him! He's over there!"
Watching the boys write their Christmas lists...adding to it all month long. I love the way K-man spells his words and how B-boy forms his letters.
Shopping for clothes (with my boys in tow) for a couple of ladies living at the nursing home I work at. The boys were so proud when they picked out a blouse that I actually bought for the ladies.Wrapping the gift while I thought about what each of the ladies meant to me.Watching them open each present and feel and touch each piece of clothing. Seeing the boys' big eyes as the ladies were so excited about the gifts.
Seeing the boys look in awe at the Christmas tree ornaments and gifts.
Driving up to the outside of our house being decorated with Christmas lights for the first time.
Finding the perfect place to put our Department 56 Snow Village.
Looking at all the past ornaments made by the boys over the years.
Having a marshmallow fight following opening the marshmallow shooters Christmas morning.
Listening to B-boy see Christmas lights on the way to church. He would see the same lights every time we went, but listening to him you would have thought he had never seen them before!
Singing at the nursing home with friends from church.
Looking at Christmas lights with Paw Paw and Gramzie singing Christmas Carols at the top of our lungs!
Watching B-boy in his Christmas program. He was a very ADORABLE wise man.
Listening to B-boy practicing singing all the songs that he would be singing in the program. I can still hear him singing ...."Si--lent Night..." all over the house.
Going with K-man on his field trip to an Opera House for a Christmas show/play. Yep, I teared up...always do! There is nothing better then seeing your child's bright eyes experiencing Christmas.
Going with friends to see the play Rodolph. B-Boy was scared out of his mind of the Abominable Snow Monster! Watching the boys get autographs from all the characters after the show. Yep, I teared up at the end...always do!
Getting 10 Christmas cards on one day!
Hearing the boys excitement as they looked at what Santa brought before they "woke us up".
A couple of days before Christmas- Listening through the boy's door as K-man explained what Santa does on Christmas Eve.
Seeing my adorable husband in his new house shoes, shooting the boys with his new Nerf Gun!
Listening to all the Christmas music being played EVERYWHERE.
Seeing our nieces that we haven't seen since this past summer.
Sitting on my Parents front porch for two hours on my Mom's new porch swing watching the boys play outside

Sigh...

Yes, once again, in the mist of the CRAZINESS of the holiday season there were memorable moments that deserve their time to be savored.

Sigh...

Little One, Little Two...Little Indians

2010-11-25T21:38:00.000-06:00

I'm Thankful for My Two Little Indian Boys!

October at a Glance

2010-11-05T18:55:00.007-05:00

Pumpkins!

My Pumpkins holding their Pumpkins!

This year was the 3rd Annual Pumpkin Carving Party at our home.

K-man dove right into the carving process in true boy form.

He really has become such a pro!

Just a little bit of help here and there.

Now, B-Boy is still not into the pumpkin slim, but wants very little help with the drawing and carving part...A bit scary, I know!

Yep, my 4 year old has a knife!

But it's a small knife...

Sorry, I didn't include the completed pumpkins, OOPS!

(take my word for it...they were spooky!)

My adorable husband turned a year older.

Poor guy, he gets a birthday smashed between B-boys birthday and Halloween.

He never complains. This birthday, He blew out candles and then we all ran off to cheer him on in his has last game of the softball season.

No, you did not jump into another universe...

These are my SUPER HEROS...

ready to knock, kick, karate chop, slash or shoot anything into oblivion they can get their hands on (including each other)!

See!

Halloween was fun this year.

We rode in the back of "Blue" and the boys just jumped and ran to each door (fighting the evil villains while saying "thanks you" for the candy)! Yes, it is all on video.

Sunday lunch Spooky menu:

Black Battie Spaghetti

Brainy Broccoli

Ghostly Garlic Bread

Baked Eyeball Apples with Raisins

Pumpkin and Chocolate Chip Bars

(for dessert)

Whew!

Day at the Deer Lease

2010-10-30T10:43:00.005-05:00

Today the boys are spending the day with Daddy at the deer lease. They will be refilling deer feeders with corn and preparing for rifle season. The count down began months ago and the boys can hardly wait...the big boy too!

Fear the Deer

2010-10-27T08:02:00.000-05:00

Go RANGERS!

Number 4 and Counting!

2010-10-15T17:18:00.010-05:00

I can't believe that my little boy is 4!

The years have gone by with whirl winds of fun and boyish adventures!

For B-Boy's birthday, he was given a blue and green "big boy bike".
Just like he has strongly suggested over the last 6 months!
With some minor adjustments by Daddy...

and some loving encouragement...
He was off to discover the "big boy world" around him!

Truth be told, B-Boy was having a bit of trouble getting his bike moving smoothly.
So, later that morning when we couldn't find him, he was on the drive way giving it all he had until he rode the bike perfectly. I'm telling you...if we can get his stubbornness going in the right direction, he might solve world hunger!

Sweet B-Boy,
We love you so much.
Your smile lights our hearts and your tender hugs warms them!
You have a flare for adventure and a warm spot for your brother.
Your love for God is evident through your questions and comments.
I believe God will use you to strengthen many.

Hot Wheel Birthday Party...Here B-Boy comes!

The family on B-Boys's special day!

Lilah, K-Man, Ali, B-Boy, and Anson.

The making of an exciting party!

Ok, with over 200 pictures taken

(with the help of my mother-in-love...thanks!)-

These are just a few.

A Hot Wheels Pinata was a MUST!

B-Boy got the last hits to send the candy flying!

We also played relay races (just like Hot Wheels race).

The kids beat the parents in "fill the jug of water, "egg carry", and the "sack race".

Those pictures were left out for good reason!!

The blowing out of the candles is always a lasting memory of a fantastic birthday party!

B-Boy hugging the gift he has asked for...seriously, for over 3 months!!!

The excitement could not be missed!

Another gift that was a major suggestion was a GREEN ROPE with a CASE!

Grammie and Poppa could not come unless THIS was B-Boys gift!

Do you see a pattern here?

This is not a child who beats around the bush!

It was a great birthday event.

Grammie and Poppa, Gramzie and Paw Paw, and Auntie Lindsey and Lilah were all able to be there and share in the fun! Birthdays are such a Joy!

Hope you had as mush fun as we did celebrating your life sweet B-Boy!

Would you like a bit of COFFEE with that FALL?

2010-09-30T16:23:00.007-05:00

When TWO of my most favorite things collide

it is worth noting~

Can't you just smell the coffee brewing?...(I actually can!)

More Then I Would Like to Admit...

2010-09-16T12:29:00.007-05:00

There are some things about me that I do not like to admit to...but here it goes.

I' m an all or nothing person: neat freak some days...SLOB other days; happy...blue; worn out...energized; baking mood...no baking; running...nothing; time on computer...what is a computer; crafting...unfinished projects! I never really find myself in the middle (grrrrr)
I'm competitive. This trait frustrates me to no end! (grrrr)
I'm a health freak. (yep, I'm one of those people!)I absolutely love to learn about nutrition and new information on health strategies. I can't understand why some eat and take care of themselves the way they do. I get overwhelmed by other people's shopping carts at Wally World-(ask my adorable husband how I fume :)). I enjoy trying out new recipes that are "good" for you. This aspect of myself can drive my adorable husband nuts. He is a sweet and carbo man... (we are getting there with some compromises :)). My kids have no problem with it- they don't know the difference between white flour and Almond flour in my baking.
I'm not as friendly as I once was. Or maybe I just don't feel like being social and meeting new people (ie. mom's at the boys school, mom's of kids on the boys sports teams). Don't get me wrong, I'm nice! I'm just a bit of a homebody with just a few close friends and thats good enough for me. I know, it sounds CRAZY! Maybe, it's that I'm consumed with family and the friends I have now. Maybe I don't have the energy for the drama of lots of friends...MAYBE I'm content!
I withdraw. Sometimes I need to be with my own thoughts. It can last a couple of days or a week. I think its good.
I'm motivated by frustration. You want to know my secret to clean cabinets...i can't get something out!...then my all or nothing personality comes out and the whole kitchen has been gutted and reorganized!!!!!! You want to know my secrete to a spotless house...I have been a SLOB for a couple of days and I become frustrated with myself at allowing the boys to have piles (Ok, my pile too!) everywhere! Motivation for running...pants don't fit (FRUSTRATION)!! Blogging again...frustrated that so much time of my boys was not documented!
I'm stubborn. Enough Said!

Ok, I think these confessions were painful enough. I have a huge closet full of things I do not enjoy admitting. However, I think it's good to remind yourself that YOU HAVE FAULTS and Only through God's mercy are you made PERFECT in HIM! Pride is distructive...Amen!

I'll Cry if I Want To!

2010-09-07T16:36:00.005-05:00

Today, when I picked up B-Boy from MDO the teacher whispered to me that he had cried during centers and after lunch today. She explained...

"He said he was tired."

When we got home and after I had explained the situation to my adorable husband, he asked B-boy why he had cried at school. The innocent response was,

"Momma cries when SHE's tired!"

Yep...SHE does!

2010-09-06T18:55:00.007-05:00

Yes, he is very adorable...

However today, he was NOT so much a cutie pie!

I decided that I needed to get some professional pictures taken. Just some quick shots to "freeze the moment" of my fast growing and changing boys. So, with today being a holiday we loaded up as a family to spend some time together in the BIG city which included the boys pictures being taken in a studio...

This is where the HAPPY THOUGHTS end! Imagine my 6 year old strutting in taking his pictures with ease and poise. THEN COMES...B-BOY! We drag him in and he crawls under a chair and won't come out. He refuses to even talk to the girl (who is smiling, but thinking that I have NO control over this child...I'm thinking she's right!). I look at my husband like, "what are we going to do?" He drags B-boy out and takes him to another room. He is there for a long while....Then out comes the "mule-stubborn child" with furrowed brows- No change!

30 minutes later we have NOTHING! Bribery has not worked, "your breaking my heart" has not worked, threatening has not worked! I have lost control of the whole situation! Yep.

We leave the studio with the idea that we will return following more intense bribery..."Your brother is getting... and YOU ARE NOT!"- no change. Will not budge. When it finally starts sinking in B-Boy cries loudly explaining he does not want to smile! We go over he will get NOTHING until he smiles for the camera!- no change. Will not budge.

Finally, are 6 year old comes to the rescue and takes the "mule-stubborn child" into the bathroom for a talk. 5 minutes later out walks "angle child (for today)" and mule-stubborn child" both with huge smiles on their faces. B-boy is ready! Not sure what was said and I could care less, but we were going to get the pictures done TODAY!

He smiles all the way to the studio and it takes SERIOUSLY 7 minutes to finish the whole session! AND I SERIOUSLY needed a LARGE sweet tea after the whole ordeal.

So, no cutie pie today! GRRRR.

Joys of School?

2010-09-05T16:09:00.004-05:00

The K-man has been at it for two full weeks...

What things are different: (First Grade vs Kinder):

Reading books for AR tests every night vs. two times a week
Math homework two days a week vs none
Spelling tests on Fridays vs none
Tardies count vs. a smile and a sweet "hurry up"
Lockers vs cubbies
Teacher don't make eye contact with parents vs hug you and the child (not really, but get the point)...ok, a bit harsh. K-man's teacher is very commutative via e-mail.

So, really the homework has been the real adjustment for us and K-man starting first grade. It has been hard encouraging K-man do the homework when he is worn out and "brain fried". He often takes some down time and then spends about 30 minutes with the school work for the night while I'm finishing up supper.

I usually try to ask, "what was your favorite thing today?", but I have had to alter my probing because I have been answered on multiple occasions, "nothing! all we do is WORK!"

-sigh

With that said, he has not told me he isn't going back... yet!

For B-Boy, the adventures at home with Momma could not be better!

However, I am "brushed" to the side when his big brother comes home.
I wouldn't have it any other way!

Oh...B-boy is not real excited about the homework either!

Learning to Read

2010-08-30T12:57:00.008-05:00

With learning to read comes a new awareness of the world around you.

As the K-man has increased his confidence in reading, I often hear him reading signs in town, book titles, signs I have in the home, labels...the list could go on. I usually just smile and say something like, "great reading', "that's right!"...however, this summer I had a heart stopping moment.

We were exiting off the freeway when I looked in the rear view mirror at my two boys in the backseat only to notice tears rolling down the K-man's cheeks. When I asked what was wrong he pointed to the man holding a sign at the traffic light. "Help. Have no Home."

"Momma, that man doesn't have a home!"

As I choked back tears and looked at my innocent little boys in the backseat my heart broke. I said something like, God knows that man's name and God IS working... It just made me sad that K-man was realizing things are not always, "Ok." There is hurt, hunger, sadness and loneliness in this world. We stopped before going in the next store and I prayed with all my heart! Out loud I was praying for the man to know God and for protection..., inside I was also praying for God to keep my boys' hearts soft for the hurting and to strengthen them for the hurt they will face and witness.

May we have soft hearts for the hurting, the hungry, the sad, and the lonely.

May we never stop reading!

Day Two of First Days!

2010-08-24T09:40:00.008-05:00

Today was B-Boy's first day of Pre-K 4's ! (Tues. and Wed.)

He too was remided of being a Warrior for God in all things he does!

When B-Boy was brought into the living room this morning all he could say was,

"I'm tired! I want to go back to bed!"...Me too!

Here is the sweet, "ready for Pre-K" smile!

So grown up! Brush those pearly whites~

Our Favorite Preschooler!

B-Boy has always wanted to be "big" like his big brother.

Going to "school" makes him feel he is more like his brother.

The other day he told me he wanted to go everyday like K-man...no way, little man! You are growing up too fast already!

We love you with all our heart!

We are so very proud of the big boy your are becoming~

B-Boy's excitement this morning was getting to use his Scooby-Doo lunch box!

This year, we are letting him take a lunch box (again like his big brother). He picked the Scooby one out without any hesitation!

He was a bit hesitant this morning being with some older kids, however when he saw his buddy in the class he let a smile slip across his face. They started with the pledge this morning...this is my angel with his precious hand across his heart! Little did he know my hand was patting my heart all the way to my car thinking about my big, independent little boy.

As I got in my car to leave this was my view.

*Sigh*...Heart Pat!

Dear Father, you are our Savior, Protector and Friend. Please hold my little boy's hand today while he his not in my arms. Help him to be confident knowing he is never alone. Let the day go fast with you as his protector and guide. Let him learn things today that will allow him to be a growing servant for you. Thank you for your mercy and grace.

love, Me.

1st Day of 1st Grade!

2010-08-23T11:24:00.005-05:00

To be honest, I have been a bit blue and the K-man has been a bit quiet.

The unknown can really be hard.

We always talk to the boys about being Warrior's for God and today was no different!

When K-man sat to eat breakfast there was another book,

"Will, God's Mighty Warrior" (we love these books)!

Seriously, 6:30 am is really early!

Ahhhh, K-man looks much better after a change of clothes.
He had a hard time eating breakfast, because his tummy was a bit nervous.

So, my '"little first grader" decided a bit of reading with breakfast would calm his nerves.

It might have helped his, but is Momma was still a bit anxious!

Through the rest of the morning I was a walking prayer warrior myself!

I so miss my boys when they are gone out of my protective mother's eye.

Our new FAVORITE 1st grader!

The shoes make the outfit don't you think?

K- Man couldn't wait to put on his new shoes!

Boys are ohhhhh so easy!

Our Father, Please guide us in the rearing of our sweet boy. Let the words that leave our mouth be worthy of entering his precious heart. Protect our little boy while he is not snug in our arms and allow him to feel you strong and mighty presence! Lord I trust in you. Thank you for your mercy. Love, Me.

When I said good-bye to K-man this morning in his classroom , he looked up at me sniffing with his eyes and nose red and said, "I better just keep coloring." My heart broke. He was trying so hard not to cry. My sweet boy was just so nervous. I know he will be fine, but I wanted so bad to sweep him up and carry him home with me.

At 10:30 am this morning B-Boy stated,

"Now, when do we pick up K-man?"

Here are our sad faces.
We both can't wait to pick up the K-man!!

The Beat of a Mother's Heart

2010-04-14T13:36:00.006-05:00

Well, let me re-introduce my boys... K-man (6) and Little Bit (3 1/2)

They are the beats of my tender heart!

Our 7 inches of snow in February.

A Warmer day in February.

(I can tell this because of the red pillows on the porch swing!)

A "normal" day of brotherly love and fun!

Gotta snap quick for moments like these...they are very rarely this still!

Camping at Eisenhower State Park for Spring Break.

That's my boys!

(We camped for 5 days!

You talk about not wanting to go back to the real world!!!! BLAST!)

Arggg! K-Man's Pirate Birthday Party!

Easter...They clean up nice ;)

My heart...Beat, Beat, Beat!

You will be seeing more of these guys!

5 months...I know.

2010-04-13T13:56:00.006-05:00

I know...

It has been a long time since I even looked at my blog. I stopped blogging with the attempt to simplify my life, focus my time, get my priorities in order, and to stop comparing myself to others.

The time away has really allowed me to work on these areas. I do feel more focused and less guilty for the extensive time loss I noticed while blogging that's including participating in the blogging world.

With that said, as I snack on popcorn and drink my new favorite soda... (close your eyes mom!) Cherry Coke Zero, I miss not documenting the stories that are precious to me about my boys and family. I also miss the family and friends that live away not feeling they know what is happening in our lives.

SO...I am making no long standing commitment to blogging at the level or the time consuming manner at which I did before, but I'm back (along with my cherry coke zero!)

FIRST ENTRY BACK... little bit (age 3 1/2) just cut his hair in front...only a flat-top could help!

How do you say good bye...

2009-11-09T19:05:00.003-06:00

Today, our life changed just a bit...

Not in a bad way, but in a necessary way.

My Granny, the boys Great Granny, was placed in a sweet little home today.

She has been in the hospital for several weeks for various reasons and has shown increased signs of confusion (progression of her dementia/Alzheimer's).

My sweet Grandpa has demonstrated his love for Granny in his care and sincere affection for her for a very long time.

However, Granny has become harder to care for in many aspects.

The decision was made a couple of days ago to place Granny in a personal care home.

The home is beautiful and she has her own bathroom and bedroom complete with french doors leading to the wonderful backyard.

But, the question is...How do you say goodbye to the "Holidays at Granny and Grandpa's", Seeing Granny walking around in her immaculate home with her classy house shoes on, Watching Granny cook perfectly prepared meals in her kitchen with so much love, Sitting around the huge dinning room table with her sitting at the head watching her smile at each of us like we were her favorite...so many things I just don't want to say goodbye too.

How do you say goodbye...to things that you have known all your life.

Granny I love you.

I will always hold those memories of you in your home with Grandpa very dear.

However, through my tears, I am ready to make new memories with you in your new beautiful home.

Pictures taken in September 2009

I don't want to forget...

2009-11-07T07:22:00.007-06:00

Last night, I took the boys out for a "Momma and Boys"night. We had some fun things planned. As we drove into town and came off the interstate, the boys noticed a man standing with a sign in his hand. My heart just broke when my car was the one that stopped right next to him waiting for the green light. As I looked in the rear view mirror, the boys were just staring. THEN, came the questions... I tried so hard to talk about God's love for the man and why we take food to church for the pantry...BUT in my stumbling explanation about poor and homeless, all that really seemed right was that we needed to pray for the man. Pray that he had a warm bed to sleep in tonight, that he would have food to eat, and that he would find the hope in God.

We pulled into the store parking lot and I turned around asking the boys if they would bow their heads so I could pray. K-man, looked at me with his big blue eyes, "Momma, I would like to say the prayer." As my little boy prayed for "all the poor" and the "those without a bed or food" I knew God heard his prayer and smiled on his sincere worry for the man.

I don't want to forget the boy's faces of concern for the man, the prayer that K-man prayed, the feeling of thankfulness that swelled up in me, and the urgency of the need to pray.

A Date with Me!

2009-11-04T22:20:00.004-06:00

I took a couple of hours today and enjoyed the movie Amelia.

1. I was one of the younger people watching the movie...The 1:20pm time could have been the reason. However, I was happy to share the theater with two older ladies sitting beside me (maybe late 70's) totally enjoying the movie. Probably visiting many childhood memories.

2. I really do love movies based on real people and real events. I often find myself very inspired by their lives. The story of Amelia is no different.

3. I wish there were more PG movies.

4. I really want to go grab a book on Amelia's life...too many books, too little time!

5. There is something wonderful about going to the movie alone.

Halloween is the life for me...

2009-11-01T16:09:00.010-06:00

Halloween this year was a full adventure...

We picked the perfect pumpkins, had a Pumpkin Carving Party at our house, went to the Fall Festival at the Elementary school, and Trick or Treated... The boys thought this was the best Halloween ever!

Here are a few of the pictures taken over the last couple of weeks!

Hope you had a Fun Halloween!

Such a Pain!

2009-10-19T10:09:00.003-05:00

I work out of the home on Thursdays and Fridays. To make it easier on my husband getting the boys ready for school, I usually leave the house about 6:3o am. It works like a charm most mornings...However, this past Friday I became a bit distraught about finding a pair of jeans that fit "appropriately" (Ha!) and tossed a basket of clothes into the corner of my room. As I briskly turned around I hit the floor...YEP- I tweaked my back. I couldn't get up...I couldn't move. Do you remember labor contractions? That is what it felt like shooting down my lower back into my legs!! My adorable husband lifted me to my bed as tears filled my eyes. While all this activity is going on 4 little sleepy eyes come strolling into my bedroom. Needless to say, the morning became a Non-typical school morning.

What have I learned from being flat on my back the last several days:

1. I am not a medicine taker...However, I have become a two Motrin every 4-6 hours kinda girl~
2. I understand when my patient's give me an evil look when I tell them," your going to have to work through a little of that pain to get stronger."
3. The ceiling fans HAVE to be cleaned!!
4. There are many new shows on the Food Network and HGTV
5. I need a lap top computer because sitting at the computer is killing me as I type this!
6. I can't stand lying around all day...I have become moody, teary...plain stir-crazy!
7. My adorable husband is very capable...I knew this but I have been reminded.
8. I feel fat!
9. Being in pain is very tiring.
10. Picking up my boys and squeezing them brings me joy- I have missed that
11. Blowing drying my hair, putting on your own shoes, picking up a pot off the stove, reaching the bottom drawers, picking something off the floor, sitting at the dining room table for meals... (need I go on)...are all things I take for granted.
12. I miss Sunday church services when I don't go
14. I feel so left out laying around. Again, I am not a sitter!
13. I have had way too much time to think...HeeHee!

Things are getting better...I am still in a bit of pain and discomfort. I know this will linger for a while, I am just going to have to rest when I can and try to protect my back for a while!!!-BUMMER! FYI...No pair of unattractive pants are worth this!

Fall to Me...

2009-10-14T15:58:00.009-05:00

Fall to Me Means...

decorated porches,

mums and pumpkins...

spooky trees filled with ghosts, pumpkins and spiders...

spiders on spider webs...

spiders on pumpkins...

decorated doors...

orange, yellow, and brown...

fall colored pillows on porch swings with a cool light breeze...

pumpkins hiding everywhere...

decorated homes...

with spice and cinnamon smells filling the air...

Oh- And who could forget pumpkin shirts and Charlie Brown!

What does fall mean to you?

I'm 3!!

2009-10-12T20:13:00.007-05:00

Well, it finally arrived with MUCH anticipation from one little boy!

Ever since K-man had his 5th birthday party, Little Bit has wanted to have one of his own.

Finally, the big day arrived with much HOOP-La!

Horse Cut-Out cookies for Preschool...

Horse Pancakes for supper...

Yes, Little Bit is VERY proud to be three!

Conversation Birthday Morning:

Momma: B. How old are you today?!

Little Bit: THREE!

Little Bit: (with a twinkle in his eye) Hmmm... I think I will go to Kindergarten!

(Little Stinker!)

These are the cheers following the opening of each gift.

As Little Bit opens the gifts K-man whispers, "We have to share our toys , right?"
(Little Toot!)

Then the festivities continue with a much awaited Horse party!

Braden was VERY clear that he wanted a cake with horses on it, horse balloons, and a horse pinata! No problem!

Sweet Birthday Boy!

We had horse color pages, horse goodie bags to decorate, pin the apple in the horses mouth...

but the horse pinata was the fun of the party for Little BIt!

Swing....

Could there be more fun the Candy and Gum falling from a the sky?...well at least falling!

Here is what we make kids do...

Here is what kids WANT to do!

Here is what our family tries to look like...

This is what we are REALLY like!

Little Bit, I hope you had fun on your birthday! You are so blessed to have grandparents and friends who would spend time celebrating your life.

You make my heart smile and you bring laughter to our lives.

You are precious to me and I am honored God has entrusted me with you.

I am so proud of the little boy you are becoming and the man you will one day be.

I love you!<>

Out of the Mouth's of Babes.

2009-10-04T10:44:00.002-05:00

As we are picking up the boy's room before bedtime stories and prayers...

K-Man (5 years old): Momma, I pray in school.

Momma: (Heart swelling with Joy!) You do. That's wonderful. K-man you can always pray anywhere and at anytime.

K-man: I know, and God listens...I prayed that we wouldn't have anymore worksheets AND we didn't have to do the "o' is for octopus one!

Momma: Good K-man. (Hee Hee).

As we are all loaded up on the couch before my adorable husband reads bedtime stories to the boys.

Little Bit (2 almost 3 years old): I want to go to God's house.

Adorable Husband: Where does God live?

Little Bit: Heaven.

Adorable Husband: Well, you can someday, but not right now.

Little Bit: Ok. Does God have toys?

Adorable Husband: I don't know?

Little Bit: We'll ask him, ok?

Adorable Husband: Ok.

"He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: ' I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like the little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.' ".

Matthew 18:2-4

From My Home to Yours!

2009-09-29T14:39:00.005-05:00

I have been asked a couple of times for Lacie's Almost Famous Fall Mix.

Enjoy! Happy Fall!

Alone Time

2009-09-28T14:07:00.003-05:00

What would you do if your adorable husband gave you 3 1/2 hours at home ALONE??

No soccer practice to run to, No supper to fix, No dishes to clean...

Well, I ordered a Pizza (Gasp!...Veggie, cut me some slack!) and a Sweet Tea (gasp! gasp!)

and I settled down for my fall tradition of watching my favorite movie of all time...

Then, I finished sewing some fall pillows for the porch---

Thanks, adorable husband!

Fall is here!

2009-09-22T22:00:00.001-05:00

Oh My! It is finally here...Fall!

Today was officially the first day of Fall and the weather cooperated perfectly! It was a cool 63 degrees most of the day with some drizzle and cool breeze. Just right to start the day with a Pumpkin Spice Latte !

Then it was off the the kitchen for the first Fall dish of the season- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins with a Cinnamon Streusel topping...YUMMY!

Ohhhh, they made the house smell dreamy!
Just ask our number one smeller!

Then the Fall decorating began!

I just love the colors of Fall.

The first day of Fall can be exhausting!

Root Beer and Cookies

2009-09-14T20:31:00.002-05:00

I have really enjoyed getting to do things with Little Bit.

You know, just Momma and Little Bit time.

Today we mixed in a trip to another small town (following our country back roads) for Pottery Painting, Small Town Browsing, Root Beer and Cookies!

GIANT COOKIES!

This small town Bakery was WONDERFUL!

Just to smell all those cookies and bread baking was DIVINE!

Gotta Love iPhones!

Happy Day!

On My Mind...

2009-09-09T21:30:00.003-05:00

1. Today I woke-up about 3:20 AM and I made myself stay in bed until I just couldn't stand it anymore! So, at 4 AM I am bustling around the house getting so much done. I think this 4 am thing could be good following A LOT of coffee at around 8AM!

2. Today was my little sister's birthday!

She spent the day with her new little baby girl, Lilah Claire

My sister and Lilah hold such special places in my heart.

Love ya girls!

3. My sweet K-man has been tearful the last couple of days at school.

I guess the newness of going to school has worn off and after the extended weekend with family..."I don't want to go to school." has started. Today, as I walked him to class he looked at me and then took in a deap breath as he stepped into class. It completely broke my heart. Today was MUCH harder then the first day.

The teacher said everything has been going good and he is happy when I pick him up...just tearful mornings-bummer.

4. Nothing says HUNTING SEASON like a new "big boy toy"!

Seriously...All I have been hearing about for the last SEVERAL days has been:
Deer Lease
4-wheeler
Buck
Deer Blinds
Deer Feeders
Opening Day...
Yes, this goes on for months!!!

(gotta love my boys!)

5. Finally, Who said learning about the letter "B" and the sound it makes couldn't be fun!
AND throw in the color Blue and I'm a down right awsome Momma/teacher of one Little Bit!

A Morning in the Teacher's Workroom

2009-09-08T12:40:00.005-05:00

I went up to the school this morning to help out K-man's teacher...after spending 2 hours in the teacher's workroom, with other mothers, I have concluded that I am not fit for a child (let alone 2 boys) in the sporting arena! I have found out that "anyone who is anyone" and "any child who does not want to be left behind" is participating in sports AT LEAST 3 days a week and all day on Saturday!!! These "school sports" start at 7 years old (1st grade). These mothers are all about sports-what child is doing what and who did what and how many sports this or that. Sigh*

My neighbor has warned me...her 7 year old boy practices peewee football 3 nights a week (6-8pm), games are on Saturday, and the coach opens his home after church on Sunday to review film!!!!!! You read it right, 7 YEARS OLD! My neighbor was so upset, but she felt the pressure because "all the other boys were doing it!"

Well, this little town better watch out! I have many concerns about this world we have to live in and I know were my time and heart cry out to be, with my Father! I know there is a balance that must be reached by each family- God, Family, Friends, School, Sports...etc. BUT, this world is tough~You hurt a bit when you have to tell your child no, or when you ask them to look different or act different in a world that focuses on so many "other" things and desires.

I am totally for sports and after school activities (both me and my adorable husband were very competitive in sports growing up). AND I know my boys will be active in activities that will only better them and make them well-rounded...BUT, I was blessed by God with these two adorable boys who also need to know how to share God's word, know who God is and how much He loves them, and what our purpose in this world is...time MUST be spent on these things before all else!

"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world- the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and boasting of what he has and does-comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and it's desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever."
1 John 2:15-17

I have time to spend in prayer over this "balance" that will be needed for our family. I can tell you now that I will fight for the balance to lean significantly toward GOD (and not three nights a week practice for a 7 YEAR OLD!) Seriously, where is the focus on the family! (ohhhhh, that's another post!)

What are you doing or have done to keep God and family first? We totally need to support each other in this!

Prayers for Boys

2009-09-01T16:12:00.006-05:00

I prayed diligently and with all my heart for God to bless me with boys...

NOW, I pray diligently and with all my heart BECAUSE I have boys!

This picture was taken about three weeks ago while on the phone with my Mom following K-man bumping into Little Bit (ohhh, the heartache!).

The Story: I had a friend and her children visiting from Houston. I think they had been at my house maybe two hours when the collision occurred between K-man and Little Bit on the bunk bed. K-man cried/screamed (you know the way that makes you heart drop!) I found K-man with his two front teeth bleeding and I couldn't get them to stop AND they were loose (Reminder he is only 5...). We ended up, after a 45 minute drive, at a dentist office where they casually let me know that he would need to have both teeth"wiggled" out because the gums would eventually reject them. They had both been broken under the gums at the root level. Yes, it would only take the "just right hit" to cause that to happen!

Hmmmmm....doesn't this bring back memories .

Well, following three weeks of mush to eat, a wild crazy mom trying to keep the teeth from being hit and injured worse, and one week of school (bribing K-man to say OFF the merry-go-round!) We were off to the dentist.

We have been prepping K-man about the laughing gas, the "wiggling" of the teeth out , and the tooth fairy... AND I have been praying!!!
I have gone through the teary emotions of my baby going to Kinder and my baby loosing his "baby look" and the anxiety of the discomfort for K-man.
God is good and answers prayers.

K-man was a "tough man" today and did great! He even said it didn't hurt! Only one tooth was taken following another X-ray (which K-man thought was cool!).
The Dr. was wonderful with K-man and with me (heehee). The tooth at the root was crushed so, there was some digging that had to be done to get all the pieces out- (K-man will be sore).
I told K-man that I prayed through the whole procedure. He just gave me a hug and said, "I know." Oh, my sweet baby boy!

He may look a bit older, but he is still my little boy.
An ice cream and transformer later he was a happy boy!

Little Bit got in on the celebration too!

Did I mention I have TWO boys!?!
Let's say DAILY PRAYERS!

The Pick-up Car Line

2009-08-31T14:21:00.005-05:00

Let's just say the Pick-Up Car Line has been a learning experience for this Momma!

The first day of school I arrived 10 minutes before school let out...45 minutes later (around the middle school, by the tennis courts, around the pond) I finally picked up a red cheeked little Kindergartner! I was determined not to let my little boy sit out in that heat that long again. So, day two I get out there 20 minutes before the school was let out...K-man only had to wait 25 minutes! Better, but not the best I could do! Day three...I grab my book, a sun viser, and a tea and sit in my car for (note the picture) 40 minutes before school was let out -K-man waited only 10 minutes! Yes, No red cheeks, No "I have been waiting forever to go to the potty!" and No feelings of guilt. This Momma got it together. So, I get 40-45 minutes uninterrupted reading time ALL to myself (Little-Bit at home sleeping with work at home Daddy!). Today, I actually rolled down my window...I feel fall in the air (that's another post)! I'm going to get A LOT of reading done this way!

How long do you wait in the car line?

It's All About Preschool

2009-08-27T21:13:00.005-05:00

Little Bit has been wanting to go to Preschool ever since K-man had his first day of Kindergarten on Monday. I even let him carry his Preschool backpack while taking K-man to school on Wednesday (he begged me all morning!).

HOWEVER...this was Little Bit today! Yes, when it came down to the actual first day of Preschool...it was just a bit to early!

Little Bit did GREAT up until he had to actually

find his seat!

Yep, he never cried. Just stood there taking everything in while holding his blankie.

My little man did wonderful and he told me all about it when he got home.

"Aiden is a bad boy...There are TOO MANY girls!"

Happy First DAy of Preschool!

(I had a little bit of fun playing around with my pictures. I just can't help myself...)

Kindergarten is the Place to BEE.

2009-08-24T14:57:00.010-05:00

This is a story of a little monkey named George who helped his friend get through the first morning of Kindergarten. George and the little boy have been friends for a LONG time. George and the little boy have gone through a lot together...A new brother, a big move to the country, a broken leg (and the casting of the broken leg), and meeting new friends. Though the little boy doesn't need him as much anymore, when the little boys needs a little more security, George is ready to be there for him. This morning I noticed George was again by K-man's side.

Here is a small peek of K-man's first day of Kindergarten.

Today was wonderful! God was with our whole family today.

While I was snapping the pictures outside before we left K-man kept saying, "I'm going to be late for Kindergarten!" He was really so excited. Then tonight after supper K-man expressed to us, " I want to go to Kindergarten the first thing in the morning!" I think by talking all summer about how fun it would be and how proud we were of him really helped prepare him for this day. I also think going to the town MDO where he met many of the kids in his class also made a HUGE difference (a perk to a small town!). BUT, I have to give God all the Glory. Our scripture for the summer was, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13. We talked about the scripture often and we applied it to many situations including going to school (I quoted it often out loud for my own benefit). We have really talked to K-man about how God is always with him! I completely felt his presence today. Thank you Father.

Summer Bible Reading Club

2009-08-20T20:36:00.003-05:00

While attempting to get a picture of the boys' Summer Bible Reading Program medals and certificates, I actually gave up and just told them to take a SILLY picture. Seriously, trying to get these two boys to take a "normal" picture these days is out of the question! I did however get a picture of all the kids who participated and completed the program...BUT goofy me had them hold up all their certificates with there names clear as day so I just couldn't bring myself to posting the picture.

This year we had 20 children participate in the program and 13 complete the reading! Pretty good odds! We read through Genesis and Exodus this summer which lead to some great family discussions and devotional time.

Way to go SILLY boys!

The Countdown

2009-08-19T09:55:00.014-05:00

Our family has started the countdown to the school year.

I have been trying to be positive about this whole Kindergarten thing, but I have really struggled this summer. It has been hard to talk about Kinder without a bit of tears. I have tried to savor the little moments of lazy mornings and late nights watching the Astros knowing our family schedule will be changing. I know that the K-man will be fine and that he really is ready for Kinder, but I just enjoy spending my days with him. I enjoy both my boys and I just miss them something awful when there gone.

With all of that said I have been trying to prepare the boys for Kinder and Pre-K 3.

Yes, Little Bit is growing up too (sigh).

We have been reading books and talking about being "nervous".

These books may be as much for me as the boys- hee hee!
This week I have spent some time sewing special mat covers, blankets and pillow cases for the boys. I think it has made the countdown easier for me when my hands stay busy. It makes me feel I am doing something to make it easier and special for the boys.

The backpacks are ready...

And we have even worked hard to get a "drop station" in our mud room for all the boys school things. I hope this will help control all the madness- ha!

Last Thursday night we had "meet the teacher" for Little Bit's Pre-K 3 class. It's in the same school he has been at for MDO, so he seemed pretty confident until he realized his teacher was not going to be the same. All the way home he kept saying, "I not like Mrs. Lindsey!" SOOOO...we will see how the first day goes for this little booger. He did let me take a picture of him in his chair, but only if K-man was in it. Over the last few days I have been trying to "talk up" Pre-K. I have even told him I would bring snacks for his class on the first day. In reality he is only going two days a week right now, but he is still having a hard time with the whole idea of changing classes.

Last night we had "meet the teacher" for K-man's Kinder class. He had gotten a letter from his teacher last week and he has been excited to meet Mrs. Thomas. The anticipation increased as we became aware of some of the kids that would also be in his class. I have also heard really good things about this new teacher. I have to admit my heart was thumping out of my chest as were getting ready to leave, but K-man seemed ok. Before we left for the "new" school, I explained it was fine for him to be shy, but he had to be nice to his teacher and at least say "hi".

Well, he did great (and I think I did good too!).

We were the second ones there and had the chance to talk to the teacher and look around the room before it got busy. To K-man's joy a good friend of his from Pre-K arrived and he was SO excited! He also found these....

DINOSAUR BOOKS!!!

All the way home K-man talked about how excited he was while I answered a couple of his questions. The one I was worried about was Little Bit. He is NOT happy about his brother going to another school. My boys really do most everything together including going to the same "school". Little Bit put it all together last night and decided he wanted to go to Kindergarten! Yep, I think the challenge will not be K-man on the first day, but Little Bit!

This morning K-man woke up asking if he was going to Kindergarten today.

Now that K-man is excited and confident, I am feeling better, however I will miss him during the day (I still have to get comfortable with him being gone EVERYDAY!)

I wise woman (my Mom) encouraged me by saying- I can get most everything done during the day so in the evening I can spend "good quality" time with the boys. Sounds great to me!

Spoiled Rotten!

2009-08-11T07:41:00.007-05:00

Yep, look what my adorable husband surprised me with last night!!

Ok, I was so lucky to have Diane (my adorable husband's sister) visit last night so she could enlighten me on the basics, but OH MY!!!

There are sooo many "Apps" that you can get on the i*Phone.

Questions:

Which ones could you just not live without?

Which ones are fun for kids?

Which ones are just neat?!

hello there.

2009-08-04T15:50:00.004-05:00

My adorable husband asked the question today in passing, "have you blogged lately?" ... After I screamed and threw something at him (feeling much better)- I agreed with him. There is so much going on in our lives I can hardly breath.

Ok, let me clarify. I like to think of myself as simple person (don't laugh) with a simple life (I work very hard not overbook our family!). I am a home body who ONLY wants to do the minimum, but I somehow always go a bit overboard. AND I tend to get overwhelmed with details and sometimes I have to admit my "freak out" emotion gets the best of me. SO, when I say there is SOOO much going on, it may seem like nothing to others.

Here is what has gone on since the last blog...sorry no pictures. Maybe later, but if I tried to find and down load all the pictures I would like to share, I might just not share anything (the overwhelmed factor!)

* We spent some WONDERFUL time with my adorable husband's family at Beaver Bend, OK.
(Ok, I really need to share some of those pictures!)

* Visited a museum in Idabel, Ok with a huge DINO cast of bones

* We finally had VBS at church (months of planning- whew!)

* My adorable husband is deep into church softball

* A trip to Victoria to spend with my grandparents

* A trip to the Children's Museum and I-Max theater (which Little Bit so did not enjoy!)

* Braden is totally and completely potty trained (ok, that has been around a month ago...but no post or pictures-Bummer!)

* Gone to Londyn's birthday party...my cousin's family has moved about 10 minutes from my house (FUN!)

* I have rearranged the living room, painted and added a piece of furniture in the living room, stained 6 pieces of furniture, gotten the house ready for painters tomorrow- In SHORT...I have been playing home decorator!

* I have tended to sick children...and an adorable husband, cooked at least two meals a day, washed clothes, made beds, cleaned house, played "museum" with the boys (along with other fun imaginary things-oh to be a child), and the daily activities could go on...

SO, there you have it the SHORT version of why I have not had the chance to sit let alone if front of a computer! However, this blogging thing is fun!

Just a Planting..

2009-07-09T20:05:00.003-05:00

Our garden, Gordon, has been generous to us this year. We have put canned green beans and squash (plus we have been eating them fresh like crazy), we have frozen some purple hull peas (like black eye peas) and we have tomatoes, sweet potatoes, okra, and cantaloupe that are still filling our fridge. If that was not enough...we decided to have a bit of a pumpkin patch this year. The K-man planted "Mega" pumpkins

-and Little Bit planted "jack-o-lantern" pumpkins.

We have had pretty good luck in the past with pumpkins...I hope they grow huge for the boys sake and excitement!

Hmmm... I think I am getting in the mood for fall-

at least a break from this Texas heat wave!!!

Whew!

2009-07-08T15:13:00.017-05:00

WHEW!

We have been having a non-stop SUMMER.

Sometimes I wonder how we manage to handle all the FUN.

( I guess the naps here and there help!)

We have had some FUN "Family Night Outs" with our church family.
Here we are playing a serious game of kickball...
BOYS vs Girls!
I have to say our boys loved the whole idea of kicking a ball as hard as they could!
We had the opportunity to bake a Father's Day dessert for the
"Main Man" in our lives. Yes, that is sticky, cherry filling on Little Bits leg!

Happy Father's Day yearly photo. CHEESE!

AND...Gordon, our garden, has once again kept us on our toes!
We have been traveling so much that we actually canned our veggies on the road. Once at the Smith home and once at my adorable husband's parents house-
You do what ya gotta do!

The boys have been OHHHH so helpful!

With all the hustle and bustle at home...we decided to take our show on the road.

We spent some time in Galveston. Is is so funny, my adorable husband and I both grew up close to the coast, so the beach was nothing special. BUT, to our boys it is sooooo "awesome!"

I have to say... the boys loved the waves, but the sand was the highlight of the beach!

We also visited the Rain Forest Cafe in Galveston.

This picture says it all!

They loved it!

Ok, Little Bit did FREAK out a bit during the TWO "thunderstorms", but the rest of the time smooth sailing!

Then it was off to Houston to spend time with the Flamingo families.

(Yep, THE FLAMINGOS!)

The K-man and Little Bit had not seen the other kids in ...Oh my...forever!

Once K-man got over being shy, it was off to the pool!

Little Bit was mesmerized by sweet Kacie!

Hmmm...arranged marriage???

Yes, this poor pool will never be the same after

4 Mommas and 8 children spent the afternoon there!

Good memories!

This pictures SERIOUSLY makes my heart smile...HUGE SMILE!

The three day and three night stay was PACKED! I can't think of a second that was not planned for fun! We were worn out, but just kept on running to the next event for that hour!

Can we say-

SLIP and SLIDE!

Oh...more happy heart pictures!

I am blessed to have such wonderful friends!

We came home for a couple of days (LITERALLY!) and had just enough time to wash clothes and repack to head back down south for baby showers and some family time!

My sister is due in 5ish weeks and I can hardly stand it!

"We" are having a girl...I mean, she is having a girl!

Lilah Claire.

Lindsey had two baby showers while we were down there...

I love shower cake and punch-Oh wait, it's not about me!

Lindsey looked adorable big belly and all!

Did I mention we are having a girl!

While I was running around drinking punch and eating cake with Lindsey and my Mom, the boys were hanging out at my adorable husband's parents house enjoying time with Grammie & Poppa, and of course Chica (the horse).

So many pictures! So little space!

We were down south for about 5 days total between the grandparents and then it was back up north for more fun!

We made it home just in time to celebrate July 4th twice!

Once on the 3rd - With friends from church at a huge firework show that was right above us! BEAUTIFUL...not so fun for Little Bit! He thought they were too loud and were going to land on us (I told you they were right above us!)

Then on the 4th- We hung out with friends from church and swam, cooked out, and of course more fireworks that Little Bit could not handle! I guess after two attempts...we have learned, they are NOT his thing!

Family FUN on Independence Day!

Man, we were worn out after the boys getting to bed around midnight two nights in a row-

not smart to do too often...there seem to be many more tears the next day!

So, as you can see we are just about PLUM WORN OUT!!!

We have a trip this weekend to Oklahoma and then VBS later in July.

WHEW!

I know this will all be over soon and the memories will be wonderful, but for right now the bed is calling my name!

I hope you are worn out with fun summer activities too!

Shop Local

2009-06-16T16:03:00.004-05:00

The boys and I spent some time in town today...(I avoid taking both boys at the same time at all cost), but today we made it an adventure. Between the "must" errands, we made a couple of stops at locally owned business. One is a new little specialty popcorn/fudge place and another was a little cafe for lunch. This past weekend I also ventured out into our down town area and loved strolling among the stores. Why do I not do the local thing more often- I love it and it's what makes small towns great.

Oh- we got cotton candy, banana, and pickled flavored popcorn!

Caught by Surprise!

2009-06-13T20:53:00.012-05:00

We had a very eventful evening yesterday (Friday evening).

About 7:00pm while picking in the garden I noticed a dark sky. As the boys continued to pick it started thundering and lightening (No big deal...just a thunderstorm, Right?). As the lightening seemed to move closer my adorable husband had the boys start making their way indoors. While waiting on the boys we noticed some low clouds moving in...I turned inside and as I did my adorable husband called for me to turn on the TV as the wind started to pick up. About that time there was a loud BOOM and the electricity went out and it started hailing!!!...we swoop up the boys and head for the closet. We had my adorable husband's laptop in the closet and as we were reading about the tornado warning for our area the house starts to creek and rattle. I slid my fingers out under the closet door to hold the door from rattling and scaring the boys- As I do I feel a weird sucking like breeze and we hear a grumbling like noise and my adorable husband asks me if that sounds like thunder...NOPE! We remain in the closet for what seems like forever! My adorable husband finally makes his way around the house. He returns with a look on his face and says..."It's gone."

Do you know what is missing?

Yep! The Tree Set .

When K-man was told about their Tree Set he just started sobbing and asking why God makes "Big Storms". We spent some time while we were getting over the initial shock of things talking about our faith and how thankful we were to all be alright (still a bit heart sad).

From start (the hail) to finish I think the storm/tornado lasted a total of 10 minutes, but felt like an hour. A little side note that makes me nervous is how close the Tree Set was to where we were in the closet...still bothers me to think about it.

From what we can gather, the Tree Set was lifted and twisted and then thrown down into our garden in about 100 pieces! After talking to our neighbor, our trampoline had to have been lifted up and flown through the air, hitting his storage building and then landing in the next yard over completely destroyed with springs and poles driven into the ground in several yards.

Our well staked windmill was also damaged.
The "only" damage we had was: the Tree Set, the trampoline, the windmill, our wooden fence is a bit loose, our deck is loose, a little water damage in the hall way, the garden is flat (but we are hopeful)...Oh, I have to add in here that I was in the middle of canning a batch of green beans before the electricity went out- grrr!
Bottom line- we feel very blessed and lucky!

Here are some pictures as we made our way around our loop to check on all the neighbors.
The sky was a bit strange until it grew dark.

Here are some neighbors checking on each other and making phone call to neighbors that were out of town. We had no electricity for about 4 hours (not really too bad considering the storm).

Around our loop the damages included roofs, chimney's blown down, play sets gone, trees down and twisted, barns and shops destroyed, car ports down..BLESSING -no one was hurt!

When the electricity finally came back on we bathed the boys and then they slept in the living room, because understandably they were a bit anxious. When we woke up, the Tree Set was still gone- Bummer! But the day was sunny and we were glad to have slept in a undamaged cozy home. We did venture out into our small community to see what other areas were hit. Here is some of what we saw.

Today, around our community there were neighbors helping neighbors trying to clean up and manage all the damage. There will be long days ahead for some of our neighbors. We are still not sure if there was one tornado or multiple (we were all in closets!) However, I feel blessed we are all safe.

While we were in the closet and K-man was trying to understand why God created storms and why He would let things like this happen...he paused to ask us if God would make a rainbow after the storm was over, "just like for Noah". Oh, my sweet boy! God heard you and knew your tender heart, and He gave you your rainbow! As soon as we stepped out on our front porch this is what we saw. Thank You, Our Father, for Your promises!

Tucking Little Bit in tonight he asked, "thunder tonight?...big storm?...Going in closet?" Yes, I think we all might be a little more nervous the next time a thunderstorm blows through.

Lately...

2009-06-12T16:01:00.007-05:00

Lately, I have been a bit hard on myself about this blogging thing. I seem to be so busy with the day to day life...such as chasing little pirates...that I just can't seem to do one more thing in my day. If at about 9pm I even sit down for a split second I'm "down for the count." I really want to do better.

I have had some things on my mind, but I haven't taken that chance to sit down and voice them...even now as I type I have one Little Bit telling me his is "yucky" and another bigger K-man talking to me about all fun things done at school today (and of course I pause to smile and make a comment to each thing shared), mixed with a bit of "Momma can you do this, hurry momma."

1. How much time should you take for yourself? I know everyone is different, but I just feel so needed sometimes I can't breath. I feel very pulled to focus on "home" things. I feel my place is in the home doing the best I can for my family and my adorable husband...but sometimes I feel that I am restless. Like I want to do for me...selfish sounding, I know. I love every minute of preparing meals for my family, keeping my home, teaching my boys about God-loving my family, I just seem to need to find a time for my own refreshing time- I also can't seem to complete anything-I am absolutely interrupted continuously!!!! What do you do to refresh? How much time do you take to refresh? How do those wonderful women who post amazing things they do and complete have the time and energy (some of them have a home full of wonderful children!)???

2.Our family recently were invited to a home to allow K-man and T. ( A boy K-man has gotten to know at his "school") to play. I was sadden by the whole visit. The almost 5 year old boy said "crap" on several occasions with his mother's response, "don't say that, they may not talk like that." WHATEVER! No, we don't talk like that and absolutely no child of mine is going to use that language freely- so tacky! Then the evening proceeded with his mother and father continuing with..."T. don't play that music,...don't play that game, they may not like it." Oh my! I was blown away by what they allowed there son to listen, watch, play and say! Not only this,but I didn't even know this family well and the mother talked about everyone and everything (and not always the most kind words were used). I was so upset. Through passing conversations and greeting with her I had no idea the family life that they led. Living in a small town, I understand that you have to be nice to everyone, but I'm not sure this family is one we will be doing much with. I think I'm in for a rude awakening. We spend so much time with friends from our church and others who are so kind hearted that the "real world" can be so shocking! I was so concerned that night that I couldn't sleep and I was physically sick the next day. I'm just so tired of the "real world"! You can bet I have hit my knees in prayer with the realization that I will have less time with the K-man as he starts "real" school next year. I am also praying to be more assertive and not to become timid when it comes to how we raise our children and operate our home. Those wise women with children in school...How are you combating the "real world"?

That's A Wrap!

2009-06-08T15:32:00.018-05:00

I could not let T-ball season officially end without a wrap-up!

One of the highlights of the season was K-man enjoying the day with his little league team at the Texas Rangers Little League Day!

K-man's team (along with my adorable husband and Little Bit)...Oh, and another 1,000 other excited little boys and girls , got the chance to walked around the field.

Aren't they just to cute!...I mean manly!
The day was also a special day for the boys because they were giving out Ranger jerseys! Little Bit is sporting one of the jerseys!

CHEESE!

What is a day at the baseball game with out Self Portraits?!?

yep! There are my precious boys!

The game was VERY exciting! They boys yelled, jumped, cheered, danced, and did the wave multiple times- I think that they got the full baseball experience!

This T-ball season was just plain FUN! K-man improved so much and he really had fun with the guys which is really what any mother wants. I love this picture because K-man is wearing my adorable husbands cap- after leaving his at Gramzie's house-oops!

During this season it was fun to watch the relationship between my adorable husband and K-man get a bit deeper on other levels. It warmed my heart to see the relationship between them only grow stronger. My adorable husband is K-man's #1 fan (after me of course!)

AND the season could not be concluded without mentioning the Little Bit. He wanted to be just like his big brother! He was able to sit with the guys on the team and say "good game" with the other team following the game. He even got to pick out of the "hustle bucket" following the game, but it wasn't until the last game when he was able to stand in the outfield with his Daddy and big brother!!!

K-man was so sweet to little Bit! He let the little guy hand out with him and made Little Bit feel so big! Thanks for being a GREAT big brother!

You don't have to much longer Little Guy before you will be knocking them out of the park!

Meet the Little League

ROYALS!

Oh, I can't neglect to mentioned that the last game K-man was hit in the face with a ball. The sweet boy cried and looked for his Daddy on the field. He was fine after a couple of reassuring words from his coach/Daddy! Way to be tough!

Following the last game pizza, cupcakes and a trophy were enjoyed by the team!

every boy on the team signed 11 game balls so each boy could have signatures from their teammates! What I neat memory for K-man's first T-ball experience.

The proud Dad!

And you better believe this K-man has a

VERY PROUD Momma!

K-man you did great!

Proud of YOU

2009-05-27T07:21:00.010-05:00

My Granny, the K-man's Great-Granny, has been in the hospital for over a week with several issues. I got a phone call Sunday that Granny was asking when she would see me and the boys. That is all I needed to head down there as soon a s I could! We came up with a plan for me to take off from work then we would leave after K-man's graduation from Pre-K on Wednesday and spend several days with my family. WELL...We received a phone call Tuesday (yesterday) , around lunch time, to remind us that graduation was changed to this coming Thursday... WHAT? The day of graduation and we find out it has been changed!!! You just don't do that!!

I just started to cry. I'm really struggling letting my little boy "out in the world" to attend kindergarten next year (that is another post!) and being so far from family. Well, at that moment I just needed to cry. K-man had been practicing for weeks for his graduation program...he had been singing the songs at home...he was excited about wearing a graduation hat...my Granny has been so sick...she is so weak...she wants to see us...I love her so much...I have already taken off work...Trey will not be able to be at the re-scheduled graduation due to work...we just found out!..I have being packing...I want to do it all!!

So I talked with K-man. In a wise, sweet little voice he concluded, " I will be sad not to do my program, because it is my favorite, BUT I would be more sad not to see Great Granny because she has been sick." As my eyes filled with tears I knew he understood how important family was. I was so proud of his understanding of the situation. Then in a whirl wind my mind spun into action trying to make the night special for him!

K-man was THRILLED with the idea of a fun night a CHUCK E. CHEESE! My adorable husband let his love for us shine as he hauled us all to the K-man 's school to pick up his graduation shirt so he could wear it on our night out and then to the Big City to find a graduation hat and head to Chuck E Cheese to celebrate!

The workers there made K-man feel so special, making him feel so "big" because he would be going into Kindergarten!!!

Little Bit didn't mind helping K-man celebrate either!

We had special gifts for K-man letting him know how proud we are - how he has behaved at school and with friends, how he continues to make good decisions, and how he shows his love for God through his daily actions.

Let the games begin...

The proud Daddy!

The proud Momma.

K-man, I love you so much. I know you will do great things for our Father. Your love for your family is evident and makes me proud. I hope this night you had fun and felt a glimpse of how proud we are of you!...You looked adorable with your graduation hat on!

Pre-K graduation

2009-05-21T20:44:00.006-05:00

Tonight I am picking out pictures for K-man's graduation. His Pre-K school has a slide show during the graduation program. My heart is so tender. How am I ever going to make it through his Pre-K graduation without tears. Tonight as I was watching K-man, while my adorable husband was reading the boys their bed time stories, I could still see my baby boy with his huge blue eyes looking up at me reaching for his Momma...yes, my heart is definitely tender tonight.

A "Picture Perfect" day at the zoo!

2009-05-12T15:04:00.009-05:00

On our fun family trip to San Antonio we took some time to enjoy the Zoo.

The boys have always enjoyed animals and never tire of visiting various zoos.
However, this day we decided to give each of the boys a disposable camera to see the zoo through their eyes...
It made the day so much fun to see the boys running around trying to get the best picture and getting excited about the pictures they took. It did take a little explaining to why they couldn't see the picture after it was taken AND that we would have to get the film developed at a store...(oh, the good old days-Ha!)

My favorite exhibit at the San Antonio Zoo was the butterfly garden.

We could not touch the butterflies and when we exited we had to make sure there were none remaining on our clothing. The butterflies were so beautiful AND there were just so many!

NOW, the boys favorite exhibit were the reptiles! Ohhhh...I have never been very fond of snakes and the like, but you do what you have to do. I spent much of my time talking to the boys about what to do if they saw a snake and enjoying there reaction to the "cool" and "awesome" creatures.

Now, of course throughout the day I took many pictures and here are some that tug on my heart strings!

What ideas do you have for making the trips to the zoo an adventure?

A Mother's Day Smile

2009-05-10T18:00:00.003-05:00

I am NOT going to say being a Momma to two little boys is easy.

BUT I 'm absolutely loving every minute of it!

Dear awesome father, thank you for my boys. I never knew how much better I would understand our relationship by having children. I love them so much and I am working daily be the mother to them you have called me to be. I make mistakes, but I'm relieved to understand that you are in control and you make everything right. Thank you for selecting me and my adorable husband to raise Kannon and Braden- I am honored.

San Antonio Adventure- Sea World

2009-04-28T21:02:00.009-05:00

Sea World...The Boys first time!

Firsts are so much fun!

We counted down the day until we left for about two weeks- that is a VERY long count down for two VERY excited little boys!

The boys were mesmerized and just soaked it all in...one show at a time!

It was whale worth the wait! (I'm so clever!)

K-man was excited to feed the seals following one of the shows, however Little Bit had no use for the stinky little fish!

Now, one of my absolute favorite memories will always be K-man's first

ROLLER COASTER ride~

As we headed up through the line the K-man got quieter and became very still (which is a HUGE deal if you know my first born!).

However, once the ride started he yelled and laughed through the whole ride!

I have to admit I laughed with and at him the entire time...I don't remember having so much fun on a roller coaster!

I love this picture of him! It totally captures how much fun he had.

One of our family favorites was feeding and touching the dolphins~

Little Bit needed some encouragement, but came around after three containers of smelly fish!

Who do these crazy looking boys belong to ...Well, me!

There was a 4-D pirate movie that played throughout the day.

The K-man laughed through the whole thing as we got pooped on (with real water)by birds and stung by bees as our seat vibrated!

Although this little booger only made it through the fist 15 minutes...the bees finished him off.

So, I relied on the K-man to give me a full report on the rest of the movie.

Maybe next time little guy!

Little Bit loved the shows.

He was frozen not missing anything.

He would tell us what he saw in very dramatic fashion once the show was over.

Here are some favorite photos fro m our day...

We saved Shamu for last!

It was WHALE worth the wait!

It was our GRAND FINALE!!

So beautiful!

The day ended with two happy (but tired) little boys holding Shamu ...

It just seemed right!

The Faces of Little Bit

2009-04-23T10:19:00.002-05:00

Yes, this is my second born!

He is the HAM of the family.

He is a ball of energy with a bit of spunk attached!

I had to share these pictures...

I love you Little Bit~

Batter-Up Little Man!

2009-04-18T14:27:00.003-05:00

We are in Full Swing with T-ball!

Our T-ball experience started off a bit rocky (I say OUR because I found that when you are in the world of sports it changes the routine of the WHOLE family!)...after K-man went to tryouts, my adorable husband came home concerned that K-Man would have to stay in the outfield the whole season so he wouldn't get "killed out there"! K-man is the youngest boy on his team. However, over the last several weeks of practices, practice games, and now games he has really come a VERY LONG WAY!

With my adorable husband as one of then team coaches I have seen an added dynamic to their relationship develop . With soccer my adorable husband really wasn't able to instruct K-man much, BUT baseball...we are in his element!

It has been a joy to see the K-man's love for the game deepen and my adorable husband become somewhat of a kid again (ok, really...he has never grown -up). But, still fun to watch them together.

My adorable husband has learned a bit more about patience, while K-man has leaned to catch, hit and RUN!

We have had a hard time getting the K-man to RUN to first base instead of jog. He just watched the ball and jogs there not really caring if he is out or not.Solution: I have told him every time he make it to first base with out being tagged out he gets a baseball card. Problem: Once he makes it to first base he looks for me in the stands and hollers, " Momma, I made it to first! I get a baseball card, right?!" (my poor husband just rolls his eyes-oops!)He HAS been faster lately though!

My little man also has a tendency to play in the dirt! He is usually covered from head to toe at the end of the game. That red dirt is just too cool!

K-man is on a GREAT team with some adorable little boys.

They have gotten better every game and we actually won a game last week. (most of the time it is a tie because it is 5 runs or three outs each team up).

What have I leaned so far:

1. What the K-man wears is NOT an outfit, but a Uniform!

2. Grass stains and red dirt do not always come out after the first wash.

3. Baseball cards can disturb a game in progress (ie. "Momma, I'm on first!")

4. Baseball bats hurt when hit by one.

5. Do not interrupt a coaching moment between my adorable husband and K-man even if just trying to encourage.

6. You don't say, "your blue outfit makes your blue eyes so bright" or "you look so cute"

7. Supper at 5:30 and bedtime at 7:30 is a thing of the past (at least two to three days a week!)

8. Little Bit wants to play too!!!!!

9. It is always windy and cooler at the T-ball field!

10. Your child is the BEST player at there NO MATTER WHAT!

Tea Anyone??

2009-04-15T22:12:00.006-05:00

I am one of those Momma's that feel educating your children empowers them!

Today, I took the K-man to a Tea Party in our small town. I was so proud of him and the other proud Americans and their families that we marched with.

I am not sure how many marched around the downtown courthouse and stayed for the speeches. One estimate was 1,500ish.

All I know was there was one little boy who was happy to march around waving the American flag while others honked their horns and cheered him on.

My sweet boy!

At the rally following the march there were many wonderful speeches, but the thing that touched me the most was the prayer for our nation and 1,000 people saying the pledge to our wonderful country!

We ran into some friends from church and we were able to share the experience with them.

The signs were also fun to read...some people are just so creative!

I want the K-man to understand how wonderful it is to be free! Free to worship our God, Free to live where we want, Free to become who we want...Free to stand up for what you believe in!

I also explained today when we don't agree with how things are going in our government we must stand up in a respectful way. We must stand up for our belief in God and the good of others. We must always stand strong for what we believe to be true!

God Bless America!

Stand up for what you believe in!

And the Fun Contniues...

2009-04-13T19:26:00.014-05:00

With Easter comes the adventure of dying and decorating eggs with two boys!!

And...

...we did it with NO crying, whining, or breaking anything!!!

However, we did have A LOT of laughter!

I decided this year to decorate cupcakes for Easter. But, really...who has time to decorate 24 cupcakes! I decided to make 6 JUMBO cupcakes instead!

It made for much more fun eating!

Then for the Easter Hunt!

Because of the yucky, rainy weather the Easter Bunny hid the "real" eggs we left for him in the house and then the plastic eggs were hunted outside after our Sunday meal. Notice the rain boots worn to help with the water puddles!

All 64 eggs were found!

Another Basket of wonderful memories made!!

What Have I DONE!

2009-04-07T10:15:00.002-05:00

Yes, I have really rocked my own world! I decided (because of the broken camera incident and the K-man starting T-ball) that it was time to move up in the world of photo taking! I am now the proud owner of a NIKON D60. Well...to say the least I am overwhelmed! The terms and such is intimidating. I have been running around the house taking pictures of everything in every combination of mode, shutter speed, ISO...just trying to get a handle on all of it!!! Ok, I can use ALL the advice and tips that you can share! I know you may have a different camera but any advice would REALLY help!

Let The Picture Taking Begin!

Thank You McD's

2009-04-01T13:00:00.003-05:00

What do you do when you want to take your Two WILD boys to get their pictures in the bluebonnets (an smile while looking at the camera!)??

You bribe them for a trip to McD's!

Ok, I am one of those terrible Mom's that go out of their way not to encourage places like McD's.

I try my best to train my children that eating out is just a treat not a normal AND I try to pick out places that will encourage good eating habits...With that said! We WILL be eating here again...SOON! There must be many parents that agree with me because there was nobody there!! The boys had the outdoor play area to themselves for a WHOLE HOUR!!! Yes, I sat...drank my tea and READ for an HOUR!!!

Did I say we WILL be going back?

Good Start for 2009

2009-03-30T13:39:00.021-05:00

We loaded up "Poppy" a couple of weeks ago.

(Well, prior to the K-ma's B-day and the Tree-Set)

And...

Headed to Lake Whitney State Park.

We are HUGE fans of State Parks. We hope to hit all the ones in Texas.

(There are over 80 in Texas-HeeHee!)

I absolutely LOVED this Park!

It was the perfect camping trip (my FAVORITE so far!).
Why?

1. It was just our family and we didn't have to coordinate our schedule with anyone else. (Ok, we also love camping with others...but it really is easier when it is just you family.)

2. The weather. It started off cold the first day, but then in warmed up and was GORGEOUS!

3. The location. At this park you have fishing, the beach (with sand) and great hiking!

4. The camping sites were spacious enough you could stretch out and not feel you were camping on top of another family.

5. The boys are BOTH finally old enough to be "good" campers. They can go with the flow a bit better and the actually enjoy the camping activities!!

Day 1:

We got to the park around 3:00pm and the boys jumped out of the truck and started their adventure. It was a bit cold, but never to cold for digging in the dirt and playing a little horse shoes!

After the "Camp" was set up we decided not to let the cold keep us down and we headed for the water for some fishing. K-man had is new fishing pole from his last years b-day and we bought Little Bit a "Cars" one special for this camping trip. The boys were bundles up, but still enjoyed it.

My, aren't they just too cute!

Day 2

The day started off a bit cold, but it didn't stop us!
The boys had to rest after breakfast- HeeHee!

After these wonderful pictures of the boys in the hammock, we went on a hike where I broke my camera! Yes, I broke it on the first snap! SO, after the hike we ran into town for two disposable cameras. The boys could SO not understand why they couldn't see the picture after I took it AND I was crazy with only 52 pictures!!!!

Following the run to town we headed to the beach for a picnic and fun in the sand!

DAY 3

On day three it was not a chilly in the morning and had the promise of a beautiful day.

We started with a morning hike. There were two 1 mile hiking trails. We decided to take Shelby along for thishike. by the end og the hike we each had a walking stick.

After we ate lunch and rested a bit around the camp we headed out for more hiking (the boysd loved the hiking-their poor legs did very well!). Our goal was to actually see an animal on the hike...AND we did! An Armadillo!

After the hike we decided to spend the late evening at the beach. The day was absolutely beautiful. We ate snacks, played in the sand, fished, played in the water, and flew kites!

Once back at camp we rested a bit and then had supper and more SMORES!!!

You have to have smores when your camping!

DAY 4

On the last day the boys woke with the green lepercon having been there!

He had tuned our milk green and had made a mess in Poppy! The boys loved it and the Lucky Charms he left!

We all knew we were going to have to leave, but we were all having too much fun. K-man asked if we could just live there. I wanted to say, YES! But instead just gave him a huge hug and looked forward to making a few more special memories before we left!

As we left I took my last picture of the Texas Bluebonnet.

They were everywhere and It just seemed like such a nice warm ending to the camping trip!

Do you camp?

Zoo-rific!

2009-03-25T11:03:00.010-05:00

The K-man is always the one to think creatively!

The little man wanted a Zoo Party, but not one that is actually at the Zoo.

Now, he has had this party idea in mind for a while...he decides the year before what he wants his next b-day party to be.

(I found the Elephant shirt for the party!)

We decided to "Eat What Zoo Animals Eat" along with everything ZOO.

We had veggies(carrots), fruit (bananas, grapes, apples), hay(home-made butterscotch haystacks), peanuts (in the shell), fish (goldfish), meat (chicken nuggets).

The K-man drew pictures of Zoo animals that decorated the table- Bear, giraffe, and Lion. These are pictures that I will treasure! I had the cake made, but added touches of the water, trees, rocks and of-course the zoo animals (I just can't seem to let things go. I always seem to have to add or change things!)

We also had ZOO matchbox cars, zoo animals, zoo stickers and a zoo animal frame they made at the party with a picture in it to go home with (each picture was of the child and the K-man taken at the party).

AND not to be forgotten the ZEBRA pinata!!!

The boys loved riding the Gator and playing on the tree-set!

Aren't these boys precious...I mean manly!

Above are some (just a glimpse of the 1,000 I took) fun pictures of the ZOO Party!

Sweet Brothers at the party!

We love you K-man!

I hope you had fun!

4 Boxes and a Slide

2009-03-24T10:07:00.006-05:00

We finally made the plunge and with the money we got from the JBF sale (and a bit more) we purchased 4 boxes and a slide!I am blessed to have an adorable husband and Dad that are very handy with tools, wood and instructions. Good thing...because, there were tools need, A LOT of wood and 50ish steps of directions!
We had read up on the set and knew that some had estimated 35 hours with up to three men working on it at a time... However, with out fear "the men" began the construction!

The only help they wanted from "the girls" (My Mom and me) was plenty of iced tea and good manly meals. No Problem! We also got some sitting time on the porch with coffee in (Shhhh!).

The K-man was thrilled to help! Well, as much help has the Paw Paw and Daddy could handle.

(Ok, you may think it is odd that the K-man is wearing Halloween Bat shorts and Camo...Let me remind you that we live out were nobody really sees us AND I have decided this is not a battle I care to take on!)

Still Working...

Almost There...

AND DONE!!!!

I have TWO little boys and TWO big boys that are very happy to have the project done!

The K-man calls it his "Tree Set" because, "I can see the trees!"

One of Little Bit's favorite thing to do is open the window and shout, "Cocka-Doodle-Do!"

I think it has to do with the rooster weather-vane on top.

I have to admit-

I have been down the slide on multiple occasions and have used the swings!

Too FUN!

Thanks adorable husband and Dad!

After two FULL days of working (with a lot of iced tea) and two trips to Lowe's for missing parts the "tree-set" has been a huge hit for the boys! It was finished in time for the K-man's b-day...yea!

5 Years and Counting

2009-03-23T09:22:00.005-05:00

The K-man turned 5 Years Old yesterday!

To honor his special day here are 5 of 5 favorite things!

Favorite Foods

carrots
oatmeal (Cinnamon roll)
Pizza (with mushrooms, black olives, and hamburger meat)
strawberries
ice cream (Vanilla)

Favorite Animals

Dinosaurs
monkeys
guinea pigs
dogs
horses

Favorite things to do for FUN

Draw (dinosaurs)/coloring/stickers
Play outside in the "tree"-set
Outdoor stuff (camping, fishing, hunting)
looking at books
going to church (seeing church friends)

Favorite TV shows and books

Spirit
Franklin
Backyardigans
Dino books
Snow and Space Buddies

Favorite Bible Stories

Zacchaeus
Jesus feeding the 5,000 (5 loaves and 2 fish)
David and Goliath
Daniel and the lions den
Moses and the plagues

One to grow on: Favorite Toys

Dino toys (Chopper)
Hot wheels and Speed racers
Power Rangers
"Soft" animals
Puzzles

Happy 5th Birthday K-man!

K-man had a wonderful ZOO party...Pictures to come!

Camping 2009

2009-03-14T10:58:00.003-05:00

What does moving into SPRING mean to you?

For me, one thing it means is getting out POPPY and going on some Adventures and Spending time with the BOYS .

Well, we are off for our first camping trip of the season.

Sorry, no pictures! I'm afraid that taking pictures of us loading up would discourage you in taking your family camping-Ha! The packing and loading are always the hardest parts. The boys just go stir crazy waiting!

Have a wonderful weekend and early part of next week!

Wordless Wednesday: What happens when K-man finds my camera!

2009-03-11T14:34:00.007-05:00

Half Way

2009-03-10T07:29:00.005-05:00

You know that time between when you are starting to wake-up, but you are lying there because the bed feels to good to actually get up. Well, this morning about that time I started thinking about things in my life that are half-way done or things that I feel I have only seemed to do half-way. Things like my journal I only touch every six months, my 10 year journal that I have to back track and think about to fill in the days missed, all my scrapbooks (Little Bit's 1st year), painting above the cabinets in the kitchen, decorating by bedroom, cards that have been started to eventually send, staying up on the blogging world (new friends and old friends)...the list could go on. While these things bother me there are other things that hurt my heart worse that maybe I only do half-way. Things like being a caring daughter, an enthusiastic aunt (and future aunt), a support to my expecting sister, being a true and involved friend to those here and other places, letting grandparents know how much I LOVE them, being a good occupational therapist for my residents...Loving my GOD...Loving my husband...Being Present with my children...Well, I have really no idea how to do everything 100% all day everyday and to finish everything everyday- probably not completely possible (being human and all). I guess I will just have to continue to do my best, and that will just have to be enough! The boys really do need to get up so I don't have the chance to think to much-HA!

Dear father, I want to give you my heart today. I want to love like you love. I want to use each day that you bless me with to be a light and encouragement to those around me. I want to be a woman who is present and active in those lives around me. Lord, hang in there with me. Amen.

Moved to the TOP of my list!

2009-03-09T10:52:00.006-05:00

Ok, today I decided blogging was going to be moved to the TOP of my "TO DO LIST"!!!
To accomplish this...the boys are zipped into the trampoline and I have threatened them not to call me unless a limb is hanging off! What is scary, is this may really happen!! Hang-on tight, I have to type fast!

I wanted to say THANKS with a HUGE hug to Kim for the GREAT mail!!!
You are so thoughtful for sending goodies from Savannah to bring back the memories of the Flamingo girls trip! Love ya Girl! (the candy has been hidden from the boys-Ha!)

If I don't see another one of these JBF tags for another year I would be happy! Have you heard of We are sooo ready for spring!

Did you know you had to wear goggles with your garden cloves to plant?

Di you know that you have to take a "monkey" with you to shop for spring plants?

And I have not only been a soccer mom, but I am now a T-Ball mom!

Doesn't the K-man look so big!

It has been such an adventure! My adorable husband does not know much about soccer so that season was smooth, but T-ball has started off a bit differently. We now have a backstop in the backyard, we have been through two bats to find the "just right" fit, and I have heard the comment on several occasions, "How can you teach a 4 year old how to stand to hit without getting frustrated!" (HeeHee!) Really, my adorable husband and the K-man have really done well! The other night at practice the K-man was putting dirt in his cap and then putting it back on his head -Ha! AND he was also making face prints in the dirt (literally with his face!)...My adorable husband does smile and laugh at these things, but I also catch him rolling his eyes-HeeHee!

So, there! I am back on the blogging saddle again!

What have you been up to?

Talking Like a Lady

2009-02-24T14:54:00.008-06:00

To continue with the "Like a Lady" thoughts here are the things that stuck out most to me regarding Talking Like a Lady.

2. Talking Like a Lady

"She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue."

Proverbs 31:26

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that is may benefit those who listen."

Ephesians 4:29

While these scriptures encourage us to "talk" with Wisdom and to be Helpful with our words and to Build each other up- we have a tendency to use our "talk" or words to be harmful and to hurt.
Ways to NOT talk like a lady:

1. To have a lying tongue (Proverbs 6:16-19)

2. To be a gossip (Luke 18:9-14)

3. To grumble and complain (Philippians 2:14)

Ways that were presented to avoid harmful talk:

1. Be aware of what you say

2. Pray the scriptures: "May the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer." Psalm 19:14

3. Pray often to control your tongue

4. Remember Philippians 4:13- "...I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

5. Fill your heart with goodness and goodness will come out. (Matthew 12:34-35)

As Ladies we can be helpful or harmful with our words. We need to make a choice to speak with words of wisdom, and with the goal of being beneficial to those around us. Speak with helpful words to our husbands, children, families, friends and strangers.

"But I tell you that men will have to give an account for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted and by your words you will be condemned." Matthew 12:36-37

"Dear Father, help me to be a woman after your own heart. I want to use my words to build up my husband, children and those around me. I want my words to be a light in the darkness. I love you, Father. Amen."

Walking Like a Lady

2009-02-23T10:53:00.012-06:00

Recently, I attended a Ladies Retreat encouraging us to be the "Ladies" God desires for us to be. The weekend was so uplifting and refreshing for me that I want to share some thoughts with you. It also gives me another chance to meditate on the scriptures that were presented. The topics included: Walking Like a Lady, Talking Like a Lady, Sitting Like a Lady, Dressing Like a Lady, Acting like a Lady, Thinking like a Lady, and Worshiping like a Lady.

1. Walking Like a Lady

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden." Matthew 5:14

We are called to walk in the Light and in turn we are able to be the Light in the world.

"Anyone who claims to be in the light, but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness: he does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded him." 1John 2:9-11

"And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love." 2John 1:6

We can only walk in the light if we also walk in love

As Ladies...We need to walk in Light and Love.

My hope is to continue sharing these thoughts with you over the next few days.

" Dear Father, I want to walk with you daily. I want to feel and see your light. I want to learn to love as you love so that my path may be clear and straight. I want to walk with you, Father.Amen."

What was your guess?

2009-02-18T08:51:00.005-06:00

Do you remember guessing what was in those boxes ? BUNKBEDS!!

I still have some decorating "things" I would like to add and change, but the boys love them! They have claimed the shelves that are also their head boards for their special things, which I think is wonderful. K-man changes his often and Little Bit is very clear that those things on his shelf are "mine". On a side note: My adorable husband did a GREAT job putting them together!