Wife of 1, Mom of 4

2012 ....

2012-01-01T17:07:00.000-06:00

As many other people you know have shared, I can't believe another year has come and gone. My father used to say, "be careful, if you blink, you will miss something". I totally agree. 2011 was the year to get through. We made it through the year, but I can't tell you much about it except we were busy and it seemed the like the "wheel" would never slow down. There was ALWAYS something to do, ALWAYS somewhere to be, ALWAYS something marked on the calendar .. 2012 will be no different, but this year I intend to be intentional about what I am doing, spending time with my family and making memories and treasuring every .. single .. day.

The kids are older and the memories of toddlers and preschoolers are fading in my memory, but I want to capture each moment, each smile, each disappointment, each tear and learn from them, help the learn from these situations and have more teachable moments. More time with God, more time for God, more time doing what He's intended for us to do.. all of us .. the whole family.

Praying for Kate MaCrae

2011-10-31T16:51:00.000-06:00

When I started blogging I think it was 3 years ago, I blogged for my inlaws so they could watch their grandchildren grow up and be a part of their lives some 700 miles away.

Then I started reading blogs and being introduced to blogs .. and met this beautiful little girl .. and my whole family started praying for her.

Won't you join us?

prayingforkate.com

test, test ...

2011-10-31T16:24:00.000-06:00

I haven't been able to post any drafts .... can you see this one?

Gotta get back to blogging...

2011-10-03T20:41:00.006-06:00

too much is passing me by ... I need to start writing and posting pictures again ... how in the world did my son go from 6 to 14 1/2? AND ... I need to get the 1200 photos on my memory card OFF!

Let's see.... I am gonna try twice per week ... starting very sloooowllly!

Twas the Night before school started .....

2011-08-14T17:07:00.003-06:00

I don't even know where to start. I have been looking forward to the start of school ALL summer, but then last week a HUGE cloud of dread came over me.

Could it be that I am not looking forward to the pick up line? Homework? Asking for letters from school out of the bottom of the backpacks? Papers? Creating lunch menus (Lunch is 3.10 this year ... so we will be making lunches at least 3 times per week)Being alone with my 4yr old?

Vacation 2011Day One, The drive

2011-07-10T21:18:00.000-06:00

As usual we did not leave when we said, but we were completely packed the night before we were scheduled to leave....which in of itself was a HUGE accomplishment. It probably also helped that we have had the suitcases out and ready to fill since July 4th. :)

For once we decided to ENJOY the rest and enjoy the 12hr ride, so we decided to leave a day late. That way no driver would be too tired or get too tired only 2 hours after driving.

D loaded up the car and kept saying, "did we pack everything?" I said yes, a million times and was so glad we didn't pack every single item of clothing we owned. I am not sure what the difference is between this summer & last, but alas everybody had something to wear & toothbrushes were packed, so in the end, that's all that matters.

After washing the last of the breakfast dishes and mopping the kitchen floor (I love to come home to clean kitchen), we got in the car and headed off for vacation. 15 minutes into the trip, I said, hum, did I turn off the oven? You know where this is going right? Yes, we turned around to go back and check. Good thing we did .. the oven was off, but my favorite dress and hubby's shorts had NOT made it into the suitcase! That would have been a disaster!

Armed with our outfits I tiptoed back through the kitchen and hopped in the car. Off we zoomed. BUT WAIT, did the garage go all the way down? Yes, we turned around. Yes, down. GO now!

As we drove off for the third time, daddy noticed a light was out on the house and yes, we turned around AGAIN so daddy could repair the light.

Ok, now are we ready to go?

We made it safely down the road; then after an hour had to stop for a break. After that is really was smooth sailing.

Snow or Should say ICE Day

2011-02-01T14:31:00.005-06:00

I am so thankful for a mandatory break in my schedule.

We have 3 inches of ice and some very restless boys on my hand.

They are bored, they are hungry, they want to play video games, they want to do whatever they want to do ALL DAY LONG and you know what .. they just might get their way.

It has been a busy two weeks and I must say I am glad God let it snow and sleet a little bit so we could stay home, relax, and REST!

Hubby's home too, so it is especially nice. I let the boys go outside this morning and I think they were out there for maybe 5 minutes. I knew that would happen. Weathermen say it is a whopping 18 degrees and will be a good 2 by tonight. I don't I have ever seen temps that low in my life ... on tv .. yes, right in front of me .. NO ...

This day is also building memories for the boys. I remember my days out of school. They were fun and filled with food. As long as we don't have to venture out .. we are good.

Praying for another one of these lazy days again tomorrow. :)

Cold & Rainy

2011-01-16T15:57:00.003-06:00

Even though it is cold and rainy, it has been the best day ever. First service at church (What kind of Christian are you?), a little grocery shopping for the week and back home to change into Sunday afternoon laying around clothes. :)

It's cold and rainy here and all I want to is cook and bake. I am talking comfort food and scrumptious dessert.

So, I decided to cook spaghetti/zucchini, great northern beans/spiral ham, homemade chicken soup, peanut butter cookies and oatmeal chocolate chip & cranberry cookies. Make my meal planning this week REAL easy.
(By the way, I just got an email about electronic cigarettes... huh?)

I disgress ... anyway .. I have been having a ball in my kitchen with all the meals and the aromas and watching my boys watch football w/ their daddy. (Love that man)

I am soaking up this laaaaazy day because these days are few and far between. There seems to be something on the calendar every, single, day and I want a break. I want to get off the roller coaster and today is that day.

This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

New Year's Eve

2010-12-31T23:31:00.003-06:00

I simply cannot believe it is 12.31.2010. Wasn't it just Valentine's Day?

God has been simply amazing to my family in 2010 and I don't want to ever forget to praise Him for what He did or stop telling people how He changed my son's life by healing him this year. Seemed like yesterday that we were checking into the hospital for brain surgery and today I am sitting here watching that same son preparing to beat me in a game of Wii bowling.

SO many times my daddy would say "take it all in .. the days disappear quickly" and that is so true. I didn't always believe my daddy when he would say things like that, but I know, what he knew then.

Thanking the Lord for an amazing 2010 .. praying ahead for 2011 .. that I will hear from Him and be obedient to whatever is it He calls me to do.

Happy New Year to you and yours .. from me and mine!

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T22:54:00.004-06:00

Merry Christmas ... from the Temptations....ok .. us!
I just adore my sons.
Yes, this is son #1. No more babies.

Hanging out at the outdoor mall. The decorations were wonderful and there was a LIVE nativity scene.

Christmas Day. It has been a gaming kinda year.

We finally got a Wii. No excuses anymore. Lots of weight to lose.

Daddy showing Mr. Know it all .. how to hold the nunchuck.

Ok dad, I got it now.

My own DS. YES!

*****************************************************

It has been one of the best Christmas'. Not because of gifts, but because I think my kids really got it this year and we spent a lot of time w/ family.

Jesus is the reason for the season and my kids made sure they gave Jesus His gifts!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

15

2010-12-16T10:58:00.002-06:00

15, 15, we are 15!

I remember when I met my best friend almost 16 years ago. It was after a class I was taking at church during Wednesday Night Bible study. I had signed up for another class which I didn't know at the time started 6 weeks later, so I decided to stay at church and drop in on another class.

After class a bunch of us stood in the hallway and a friend of mine introduced me to this very handsome man and said J perhaps you can assist this gentleman with finding a job. This handsome man was somewhat new to area and the job he currently had just wasn't the right fit and he was looking for a job in his field (which just happened to be radio/tv like me .. see how God works. :)

So D and I talked about the things he had done before moving to Texas and what type of job he was looking for in radio/tv. At the time I was a member of a local journalism group, so I invited him to attend one of our meetings and to call the jobline. I gave him my phone number and told me to call me when and I would be able to provide the location for our next meeting.

A few days later, he called and we talked about jobs, the meeting and life at our church. We seemed to have great chemistry and the conversation went on and on. I remember being late for the work the next morning because we were on the phone so late. :) The next two weeks would bring about many more conversations, with one call being a very special call.

I was working my weekend gig (I love to say that word, weird I know) and D said he would call me to ask a few more questions about working in media. He called and we talked about media and then out of nowhere he said, " I didn't just call you to find a job, but I also called to see if you would be interested in being more than just friends." (wha?) OMGosh ... YES!!!

Little did he know that I had been writing in my journal about him and asking God to show me CLEARLY what this relationship was about and what it was for. A few days we would go out on a date and D would reveal to me that he had been writing in his journal about me .. once he told me this, I told him what I had been doing. OMGosh.

God had been weaving us together and now was time. Finally a relationship where the "man" was pursuing me.

Many, many more "things" would happen to us in 1995, but they all confirmed to me that I was with the right person.

We met in February, we were married in December of that same year. I haven't looked back and am thanking God for a GREAT husband, friend and father of my babies.

I love you honey!!

Happy Anniversary!

Coming back slowly ...

2010-12-13T14:18:00.002-06:00

I realize I am only typing to myself because it has been sooooooooooooo long since I posted an entry that I very well may have lost the 10 ppl who read on any regular basis.

Life took over and I put my blogs on the backburner, (Why I thought I could manage two blogs is beyond me) but continued to read some of my favorites and enjoy what they were writing.

Last week I realized I had been missing my own life. I have taken a gizillon photos, but they are ALL on my memory card and what fun is that, flipping through our lives on a 2in screen. Even though I had the photos ... I didn't have the "what we were thinking and saying" in that photo. I was enjoying others lives, but not my own.

So, I have decided to come back even if only a few posts per week, so I can go back and watch my boys grow, relive the funny things they say, brag on hubby and share some recipes and funny stories of what we call "Life".

Even though our lives have been thrown a curve ball ... God has been to us .. and I don't want to keep it in any longer.

Summer Fun

2010-08-04T15:46:00.004-06:00

Lazy river...but without the cost of the water park.
You would never be able to tell him this isn't a real pool.

Look at me! Look at me! Look at me!

I think he's going to love the water. Next summer swim lessons for sure. This summer, we'll just stick to this kind of pool.

Thanks G & L for giving us this pool. Now all I have to do is blow ours up and fill it up with water.

Sundays

2010-08-01T15:41:00.001-06:00

I love the fact that Daddy takes charge on Sunday mornings to make sure we are all in our seats to receive a word from God.

I also love the fact that the all our sons want to be just like daddy.

Even still .....

2010-06-10T11:05:00.006-06:00

My computer crashed about 8 days, 53 minutes & 30 seconds ago and we have tried, tried, tried to get it back up .. to NO avail ....Even w/ the handy help of the customer service reps @ several well know computer companies. But who is counting? Certainly NOT me! :)

My van needed $600.00 worth of repairs ... & even after it was repaired, our other car "conked" out. We are a 1 car family now .. whohoo

Some $$$ I expected didn't arrive ...

This summer is starting with a BANG!

We are also STILL doing school because Ethan missed three weeks after his surgery in February and he is NOT happy.

BUT .. I have spent WONDERFUL amounts of time with my family, we attended the BEST VBS @ our church in 21 years, hubby & I have had more meaningful conversations than we've had in a long time ... we've learned a few new frugal lessons, we've baked lots new goodies, found a few FREE events & kiddo things to do (that will become a part of our weekly plans) and now I am planning out each day for the rest of the summer so my children can have "the best summer ever".

They are unaware of most of the lovely things going on around here .. except the cars, but they think it is fun to take daddy to work & hang out & talk w/ him in the car until he gets out @ his company and walk to places on the days daddy has the car.

With all that has gone on, I still believe that God has NOT left us .. He has held us in the palm of His hand. He has continued to provide for us & will continue to provide even past these "funny money" days for us this summer. I don't know how our ends will meet, but I'm not going to start doubting him now. There are a cloud of witnesses that have gone before me in the bible and in my own family ... He is a waymaker.

He IS Jehovah - Jireh

Memorial Day

2010-06-01T09:39:00.005-06:00

This about sums it all up! Watermelon, watermelon, watermelon. I think he had 6 pieces just yesterday ALONE!Thought about an overnight road trip. Does it really take 4 BAGS?

Trying to get a good pics of the boys ..

If at first you don't succeed, try try again. DONE!

YES! Mom let us play in the water in our jammies. It must be a holiday.

Rethinking this "playing in the water" thing.

Headed out to get some slushes, but the troops have fallen asleep.

Good ... more for me & hubby! :)

Mid-afternoon Break

2010-05-26T13:34:00.000-06:00

I decided we need to go for a walk after a long week of assignments, assessments & tests. So, we put on our walking shoes and headed outside for an afternoon stroll. Somehow, we ended up HERE!

Sooooo good, but now we need to walk for two more days to cancel out the MANY calories eaten at our little hometown favorite. :)

What happens ..............

2010-05-22T11:04:00.000-06:00

When you leave your 3yr old alone for 2 minutes with a box of crayons & MARKERS you didn't know where in the box?

My daddy ...Originally posted in 10/2008

2010-05-16T23:54:00.000-06:00

We spent the day with the Make A Wish Foundation and the Corvette Club @ Texas Motor Speedway and it made me miss my daddy. I wish he could have been here to join in on all the fun. Love you daddy.

I took an unexpected break from blogging, but needed the time away. My dad's birthday was last week (He's been with Jesus for nearly 3 years now) and my emotions have been all over the map.
=====

I was and am still a "daddy's girl" only daddy is not here to tell me anymore. There were 3 girls in my family and daddy treated us like his little princesses. I am the oldest, so I got to spend 4 extra special years being dotted on by my daddy. I had the privilege of having him walk me down the aisle and that is a day I will never forget.
=====

My daddy was a strong, loving, family man who loved his wife and his kids. He grew up in the deep south (Alabama) and endured many racial situations, but never used it as a crutch. We grew up being taught we could do anything and be anything.
=====

My daddy's yard was always impeccable and if it wasn't you knew something was wrong. Perfectly manicured even his older days. (His daddy was just like that). That gene must have skipped a generation, but I am getting better about details.
=====

My daddy told corny jokes ALL THE TIME, but we laughed anyway, because he always got a kick out of them and started laughing even before the punch line. The staff at the hospital knows what I am talking about. Mr. Jay and his jokes .. even the ICU and surgery staff ...
=====

My daddy loved all kinds of jazz including Ramsey Lewis, Carlos Santana, Miles Davis, just to name a few. I wish he could be here to see that he passed this love to his grandkids (my boys) because all three could live in front of YouTube and listen to Dizzy Gillespie singing shooby, dooby, oo, oo ... all day long .. they would only take a break to eat.
=====

My daddy barbecued (some call it grilling) all the time ... even in the dead days of winter. Now as an adult if my hubby says I am gonna BBQ, he is speaking my love language. My daddy could cook, man o man could he cook and he passed his skills on to his kids and grandkids.
=====

My daddy always had a sports car even after the children started arriving, that just meant he needed to get one with a backseat. In his 60's he drove a 5 speed candy apple red Chevy Camaro with mag wheels. (I have it now) He always wanted a Dodge Vipor and now so does my oldest son, if he gets one we will call it DaddyJay.
=====

He always said age is just a number and he was youthful to me every single day of his life. He was so handsome and many of my teachers through the years would always ask "How's your daddy?" in that special let me know if he is ever single voice. :)
=====

He taught the girls about cars and what was under the hood, so we could never be taken advantage of by the service department at a dealership. I know how to change the oil, listen for certain sounds and bargain like there is no tomorrow.
=====
God left a great reminder of my daddy with me, my middle son, looks, acts, walks and laughs JUST LIKE MY DADDY .. all Austin needs is a pair of blue jeans and a jacket to match and some Ralph Lauren cologne.
=====
My daddy knew he was gonna die, but was so brave about all the bad news from the hospital, but kept telling us we were gonna be okay. He just wanted to die at home which by the grace of God he did, we got him home just a day before he would go to be with Jesus.
=====

Thank God my daddy knew God and excepted Jesus as his Lord and personal Savior. Thank God for I know I will see him again.

Isn't she lovely?

2010-05-10T18:15:00.002-06:00

My mother .. in her college days ... BOY, I miss this lady.

Mother's Day has not been the same since she went home to be with Jesus.

Love you mother.

Reading is fundamental ..

2010-05-06T21:03:00.002-06:00

He doesn't even know all his sounds yet, but he LOVES looking through books.
If he could read all day, he would. I'll have to remind him of that in a few years, I'm sure.

Did you know that you can borrow the latest DVD, music, of course books from your local library? You can also borrow learning game systems like LeapFrog!

The key is .. to bring the items back on time ... or you will pay a fine. Not that I know ANYTHING about that. :)

Lazy Days

2010-05-02T01:45:00.000-06:00

Sundays are always for family! We go to church, have lunch @ home and hibernate for the rest of the day. This past Sunday we ventured outside and I think we may have found a new getaway spot.

First time in the sand ..

DeClan

Ethan looking out on God's precious waters ...

I'm going to have some dirty boys by the time this is all over ......

We are going to do something different each Sunday after church until football starts again ... that's when I lose my hubby & oldest son to the NFL.

May is National Foster Care Awareness Month

2010-05-01T19:27:00.000-06:00

I have volunteered and worked with children in foster care for more than 20 years. Each year gets harder and harder, but when I think about the children and pray for their futures, I know it is going to get better and better.

Fostering parenting is NOT for everyone, nor is it easy, but the children need people like you and me to step in and step up! However we can. You don't have to perfect, you just have to be willing to help and make a difference.

I know that there IS something every single person CAN do ... PRAY!

Pray for the children, the workers, the counselors, the therapists, the birth parents, the foster parents, the adoptive parents and the finances to continue the work that NEEDS to be done on behalf of people who have a very small voice.

To learn about foster care awareness month, just go here.

To learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent of children in the US foster care system, go here.

Happy Birthday to me ....

2010-04-21T11:27:00.004-06:00

This year has flown by so fast, I simply could not believe my birthday is here. I spent most of the day with my oldest son @ the doctor's office and then we treated ourselves to Happy Hour at Sonic. Two thumbs up from Ethan's neurologist; there's not a better gift out there.

This past weekend hubby & I talked about breaking out the grill for my b-day, but it seemed like the rain was going to roll in, so I decided to shoot for another day to bbq. (my love language) Hubby decided we needed to go OUT for dinner to celebrate my birthday. I reluctantly agreed and off we went. We couldn't really decide what to eat and then I remembered a WONDERFUL Mexican restaurant my sissy turned me onto. YUMMO.This is AFTER we ate everything in sight:) I'm glad hubby vetoed my decision and made us go out to eat. I didn't have to cook or clean up and did I say, the meal was DELICIOSO?

Birthdays mean more to me now because you CANNOT take your life for granted and tomorrow is NOT promised. I want to live each day to the fullest, enjoy what God has given me and be in HIS will for my life.

Biggest for me is celebrating life and time with my family doing meaningful things that will make memories for my sons.

Everyday Happenings 3-2010

2010-03-19T10:48:00.001-06:00

Spring Fever has sprung and we were itching to get out today ... We found a park for special needs kids and had a WONDERFUL time in the not so springy weather. It was 80 degrees yesterday ..... today it's 60.

Say Cheese!

Keeping Busy, REAL busy ..

2010-03-17T16:54:00.002-06:00

We continue to bask in the goodness of God and watch my son heal. He had a visit to his neurosurgeon and his pediatric cardiologist recently and both marveled at how good Ethan is healing!

If you see him, you have NO IDEA this boy had brain surgery three weeks ago. We started back homeschooling the week after he came home, but this week has been especially difficult, because he knows all his friends are on spring break. I chose not to take this week because we were out of school for 3 weeks and fell behind and although his school said everything will be ok, I do not and know for sure Ethan will NOT want to have school still going on in August.

He looks out his window and sees the boys across the street playing, talking, and laughing and keeps asking, "aw, come on Mom, just one hour", but I know that hour will turn into ALL AFTERNOON and then we will have nothing to show for the day.

We added to our everyday, normally busy schedule with more therapy. It is something he needs, but we will all have to do some adjusting for the rest of this year. Twice a week we will drive to the hospital for OT/PT therapy and once a week he has speech therapy. I can already see a difference. I know it is going to do nothing but help him.

As the fall schedule approaches, we are going to have to start thinking about school for all of them. Son #2 starts kindergarten and Ethan may possibly start attending a new school. I really would just like to get him in one place so he can "sit down". :) Of course DeClan isn't too happy his brothers may leave him, so he wants to go to school too. If they all end up in school, I am gonna have to think about what happens next for me.

For 7 years my children have needed me flexible and needed me home. If they all start school things will be interesting around here.

But at least for the rest of this week, we gonna press on with school and try to have some fun this weekend. Hopefully, it will be a quiet one.

Recovering Well ....

2010-03-01T11:05:00.000-06:00

#1 son and Dr. Weprin ... smiles all around!

We had our two week follow up appt and #1 son is recovering VERY WELL! It almost seems like he was never in the hospital! God is SO good. (God was good even when things didn't feel great too).

Praising God for His mighty miracle and a VERY healthy son!

2010-02-28T15:36:00.005-06:00

Next week several bloggers will be in Kenya with Compassion International and one of them is Kristen of WeareTHATfamily. God has been doing some amazing things in her and her family's life and this trip to Kenya is no different.

Please join me in praying for her, the families she will meet and the children in the Compassion program that we hope WILL get sponsors THIS week.

**edited to add**
Her first post already has me in tears.

This ole blog o mine ..

2010-02-16T16:25:00.003-06:00

I really do enjoy this blog, but have had to be neglectful in the last month. As we prepared for my son's surgery, things around us seemed to have fallen apart. I don't mean fallen apart as in we have no hope, but fallen apart as in schedules are broken, squirrels invading, and every last one of my modern maids going out on strike. First it was the washing machine, then the boys bathroom porcelain throne, then the dryer and two days later .. the dishwasher.

It has been so much easier to TWEET about the goings on of life, because my FB account is connected to my twitter account, so all I have to do is send a 140 character message about this life I live and all bases are covered. :)

But then there are so MANY things I have wanted to say and photos I wanted to add - - I have quiet a few "drafts", but have been able to complete any of them.

So I said all that to say to any of you who stop by or have stuck around (I am so sure I am speaking to all 2 of us) .. I will be back.

My son's surgery (both of them) went extremely well and I plan to blog about the two weeks we spent in the hospital, what God did for son #1 and a whole LOT of things I observed these first weeks of February. It was a lot and sometimes more than I can bear.

I also plan to blog about this teenager who mysteriously appeared at our house this weekend and how I plan to deal with him. It seems like OVERNIGHT ... OVERNIGHT .. the 13yr. genes kicked in and have exploded all over the place. HELP ME!

Praying for Ethan (Jordan)

2010-01-19T12:46:00.002-06:00

With all that will be going on in a few weeks, we decided to create a CaringBridge website to keep you informed on son #1 progress. I am almost positive I won't feel like making phone calls are sending a lot of emails .. but D and I want to be able to provide updates for all of you who have been praying for our son and our family

I am feeling better than I was last week and finding peace from Christ in the midst of the storm. #1 son is doing well and has adjusted better than any of us. Children. They ARE a blessing.

In Two thousand ten or 2010

2010-01-04T10:55:00.002-06:00

The phrase that keeps coming to mind for me for 2010 is to live my life "on purpose/with purpose". I am in my 40's now and each day God gives me IS a blessing.

No matter what comes my way, I WILL seek His face and get down on my knees to pray AND praise Him for what He has done. I really want to know how God wants to use me. How can I be a blessing to someone else.

Sometimes things seem so out of whack and out of sorts, but those are times when I need to stop and pray .. even if but a few words ... release what I have inside .. let go and let God. When things are this way, that is the perfect time to "serve" someone else. Easy to say, not easy to do, BUT if God says so ... I MUST!

The next few weeks are going to be hard, but I know who holds my hand and who holds the future.

He has my son in His hands. Right where he needs to be.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T18:43:00.001-06:00

Break Dancing

2009-12-30T15:22:00.006-06:00

So it decided to snow on Christmas Eve and it was a sight to behold. Before we knew it there was ice and snow on the streets and it was a great present for Christmas and the reindeer finally felt like they were home. :)

Then yesterday, it started all over again and the boys couldn't have been more excited. They went outside and tried to catch snowflakes on their tongues and "snowsliding" in the grass.

Well, at least 2 of them, my middle child preferred to watch it from the porch. He said he didn't want to get wet & sticky. Imagine that.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T19:57:00.003-06:00

From my house to yours .... Hoping you are filled with Jesus.

One of THE best days of my life ... 14 years ago ..

2009-12-16T20:14:00.004-06:00

14 years ago today, the best man that ever happened to me, took my hand from the best daddy in the world, made promises to God and me as we started our covenant relationship with each other.

He is not perfect, but perfect for me. God KNEW who I needed to get through the years with many ups and downs, but we weathered all of them. I pray that God will give us many, many more years together with each other and with our sons. I pray our marriage IS an example for them to each be men of God, especially if and after God blesses them with their own families.

Happy Annivesary baby .. I love you now and forever.

Thank you Lord! I got a good one!

Always and Forever,

Jai

Christmas Tour of Homes

2009-12-14T19:03:00.000-06:00

Welcome to our Home! Come on in! We're STILL adding special touches all over the house, but you are more than welcome to have a seat and enjoy the Christmas jazz playing throughout the house.

I'm finally joining in on this fun tour courtesy of The Nester.

I have been wanting to do this for the last couple of years, but my photos NEVER seem to come out the way I want them, so I end up chickening out and just peeking into everyone else's home. :)

This is my angel. She moves around the house every year, but I think I found her permanent place. Right in the entryway. Isn't she pretty?

After a week of trying, I have been unable to get a GOOD photo of the tree, so I have photos of the ornaments that mean so much to us.

Takes me back to the reason for this season. JESUS

This is the tree topper that we will place on the tree Christmas Eve.

My oldest son picks out the yearly family ornament and chose this one for 2009. Beautiful.

My favorite reindeer. (He belonged to my mom) I just inherited him this yr.
There are more of them outside. Wish I could show you, but all the pics are too blurry. Gotta get a better camera.

I know, I need to do more in the kitchen, but I can't keep my peeps out of it, so it's simple, simple, simple now. I love this cookie jar. As you tell someone has been inside.

My front door as you are leaving. Someone needs to shine the door. I didn't realize the bells were rubbing the wood so hard. I won my snowman in an elephant exchange.

As you prepare to leave, please take some cocoa with you. We make it almost EVERY night.

Merry Christmas!

Don't forget to check out all of the other beautiful decor over @ The Nester's Place.

Good morning heartache

2009-12-11T00:04:00.003-06:00

It's been 4 years since my father and 14 years since my mom went home to be with Jesus and it still hurts. No, not as much or as fresh as 2005 or 1995, but nonetheless it hurts.

God gave me three boys to raise and oh how I would love my dad to see his grandboys .. laughing, learning, jumping and loving their lives. He would especially enjoy the fact that the boys LOVE music. Jazz and gospel are their favorites and they hang pretty good with the big boys. They know who Miles Davis is, they Dizzie Gillespie, the Ramsey Lewis trio and on and on. (yea, those are the GOOD ones :) I think my mom would get kick out of being around 3 sho nuf BOYS .. since she raised three girly girls.

The Internet has been an amazing way for me to see in other lives and know that I am not the only one who hurts during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. My mother died at Thanksgiving and my father at Christmas, but they both knew Jesus and are back together in heaven and I WILL see them again.

My husband has both his parents and I am thankful God has allowed me to love them and them love me and so my sons will get to know and love one set of grandparents and a greatgrandmother.

I am blessed and grateful for the time God gave me to know and love my parents.

Matthew 5:4
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."

Preparing for Thanksgiving ...

2009-11-15T23:32:00.003-06:00

I LOVE Thanksgiving. I love being with my husband's family. I love preparing and packing for the trip. I love the time in the car. I love the talk time w/ hubby. I love cooler weather. I love Thanksgiving Day w/ family and LOTS of food prepared by a wonderful woman of God. (Love you GranGran) I love creating memories.

We have LOTS to be thankful for. Thankful to the Father - Great things He has done.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving, enter His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name. Psalm 100:4

Please join me in prayer ...

2009-11-05T19:44:00.003-06:00

I have been following Gavin's story for almost a year now .... please join this family ...

Remember me?

2009-10-20T11:03:00.005-06:00

Please forgive me ... Life HAS been happening ...

Taking our first train trip ....

Face Painting, lots of food and such on the train .... Austin wanted a Nissan Car painted on his head .. not those silly butterflies or spiders ...

Are you sure you know what you are doing?

Rare photo ... all 5 of us at one time ...

Priorities, Priorities. I won't make any excuses. Forgive me ... em K?

So far so good .. Schoolyear fun ...

2009-10-03T23:00:00.004-06:00

Mom, we REALLY do NOT want to take pictures...
Ok, if you insist .. we will try to smile. uuuhhh

Man, these flowers smell good ... who knew?

Life hands you lemons, so you make BROWNIES

2009-09-30T13:05:00.003-06:00

(Sorry for the blurry photo, I guess it is the pan reflection)

Life has been kinda heavy around here for the last two weeks, but God has given us some much lighter moments and we are still cooking, baking, laughing and enjoying each other's company.

So today when the 2yr. old suggested grilled cheese for lunch (yes, the two yr. old), I couldn't resist making a complete comfort food lunch. Grilled cheese, tomato soup and brownies .. delicious FUDGE BROWNIES. Yum, yum

The timeframe has been set .. January 2010

2009-09-30T01:41:00.001-06:00

I spoke to the surgeon today and my son's surgery will be scheduled for January 2010. The details are being worked out as we speak.

Thank you for your prayers for our family .. you can't know how much it means to us. I cannot tell you how much peace I have about this journey we are on .. and it IS a journey ... God has grown me up indeed. :) I am concerned about and for my baby (even @ 13 yrs. old), but I KNOW beyond a shadow of a doubt, God holds my son IN HIS HANDS!!!

He WILL again get the glory out of this and DH and I will continue to shout from the rooftops about the goodness of the Lord and how He is weaving my son's testimony!

Names of the surgery team & departments will be forthcoming for prayers.

Love to you.

No News ...

2009-09-25T09:05:00.002-06:00

The tumor board at the hospital was to have met last week about Ethan's case, but they were not able to get to it. We were told that they would try again yesterday and call us afterwards, but still no call.

Hopefully, today we WILL hear some news, but I have already turned it over to Jesus and I am resting safely, comfortably in His arms.

I AM praying though not only for my son, but for the MANY, MANY children who are being diagnosed with tumors and receive various treatments throughout the country. It is simply amazing to me how many children are sick.

A new journey ...

2009-09-16T22:42:00.003-06:00

I have been away for a few days because I have been trying to absorb the news that Ethan WILL have to have surgery again soon. His tumor fragments are filling in. We saw his neurosurgeon last week and the information hit us like a bolt of kryptonite. He has been doing well for the last 2 years and this visit was to get results from his MRI two weeks ago. We were hoping that they were going to tell us that Ethan would not have to have another MRI until 2010 and now this ....

still processing, BUT God IS good and on the throne. This news did NOT catch him off guard and He is caring for Ethan more than I can.

I am NOT sure how He will get the glory from this new turn of events, but it has certainly brought us to our knees once again .. thank God we had been praying and beseeching Him all along.

The hospital tumor board meets t0morrow and hopefully we will know something soon about when the surgery will take place.

If you think of Ethan, please pray for him.

Thank you.

Potty Training 101 .. (promise no pictures)

2009-09-08T11:46:00.006-06:00

DeClan decided he wants to potty train AGAIN, but this time is VERY different from the other three times. I am not sure when he decided it was in his best interest to try again, but this time seems to be the charm. He has gone so many times today, there is a trail from my office to his bathroom starting to show in the floor. Whoopie!

I had planned to start again in 2013 just before he entered kindergarten, because I keep hearing from great mommies " don't worry, he'll get it and besides, you never see kids in diapers in Kindergarten". Joking .. I am joking ..

All kidding aside, I decided to wait until his third birthday in November because that is when his older brother made his declaration that he was ready to wear Elmo undies and went on his own and never looked back, so I thought I would make it easier on me and wait.

I also said it would be nice to make one more road trip w/o a million bathroom breaks during a 12hr. trip, but I guess we will have to make different plans for Thanksgiving now. When I mentioned it to DH this morning, he just said uhuh and move on his merry way. The idea will sink in sometime this weekend. :)

I am glad though to hopefully say that last week was my last purchase of diapers and pullups. If all goes well, I'll have him in underwear w/i the next month and have a whopping $50.00 to add to the Christmas Club account.

oh and by the way, stock in M&Ms should go up, because that is the reward you get in this house when you "go potty"!

and then ChickFilA decided to give away food ...

2009-09-07T17:32:00.002-06:00

That's all the boys needed to hear. They got our their game gear and we loaded up the van .. daddy too ... and headed to ChickFilA for lunch.

Good for me because I didn't have to cook for a THIRD day .. I think the fam was tired of BBQ anyway. :)

Labor Day Fun

2009-09-07T11:14:00.001-06:00

Laughing at my 2yr old because he is giving me the puppydog eyes for playing in the water in his bathroom AND spilling water all over the floor. (I guess he heard me say last night, the bathroom floor need mopping). hehehe

Toddlers, gotta love them.

Whose schooling who?

2009-09-03T14:02:00.004-06:00

This is week two of homeschooling at our house and the oldest son (12) just KICKED MY butt in P.E., not to mention, he schooled me on his history lesson as well. The middle son (4) is wearing me out about when his classes are supposed to take place and when can he take a test and when can .. when can he .. when can he. It really is cute. The youngest (2) is not all that concerned about school just yet, but is all smiles when it is time for snacks, lunch and coloring his numbers (with a snack in hand.)

I am so glad we chose this option for our family. I cannot believe mama is learning so much and I am positive I will be signing up for online college classes next semester. This time I feel like I can complete the degree program and actually learn something. :)

We R Homeschooling!

2009-08-26T21:42:00.002-06:00

.... and have FINALLY been able to get a photo w/o DeClan's eyes being closed. We are trying to get into a "groove" and are taking things day by day.

Never in a million years would I have guessed I would be homeschooling my children, but I am enjoying it.

Summer fun ...

2009-08-11T14:49:00.006-06:00

Who knew toddlers could have THIS much fun @ Dave and Buster's? 1/2 price game day, made it even better!
Tods driving daddy around @ Six Flags .. admit it daddy, you had just as much fun as the boys. (hehe)

Field day for the kids ... you would have though we were given REAL trophies.

When God won't let go ...

2009-08-04T14:26:00.005-06:00

It never occurred to me that @ 40 I would have so many questions about my life unanswered. I am not sure that I thought I would have ALL THE ANSWERS to my life (thus no need to be left on the earth), but I still struggle with things I struggled with when I was younger, although on a more detailed level.

Like?

Well, I thought at 40 my career would be all worked out, my children would be well adjusted preteens, celebrating double digit wedding anniversaries (which we are by the way), vacations doable, money problems - solved .. oh and my hairstyle ... on track w/ the rest of world. Ok, I know that last one seems a little trivial, but nonetheless, not getting my hair done on a regular basis has begun to bother me. :)

I just didn't think I would have so many questions or feel so overwhelmed by my life. I started to compare and feel depressed. I know, I know, never do that. I started to get jealous (just being honest) and more dissatisfied with where I am now.

But then God reminds me .. that He has a plan for ME.

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

Then God reminds me, that He has me in the palm of His hands.
Hebrews 13:5 " God has said, never will I leave you or forsake you."

How comforting to know that God IS always with me and He knows what is best for. Time and time again I want to have control .. at least a little bit anyway AND I want to know what lies ahead .. but time after time, He convinces me that His ways are NOT my ways and His ways are best .. and that NOT knowing .. will allow me to TOTALLY depend on Him.

NOT easy, but very comforting.

Just when you think ..

2009-07-27T19:23:00.002-06:00

you have the right to complain about the things going on in your life, have your own pity party, groan, mumble and get down right mad about things going on in your life .. God allows you to hear about families REALLY going through it like this ... and it makes you fall to your knees and thank God for what He has given you and your family. It makes you pray for other people (which we would should be doing more of anyway) and it makes you realize, that YES things in my life ARE crazy, BUT there is ALWAYS someone else who has it so much more worse than you.

BTW .. Jennifer's faith IS amazing and the way she is handling what is going on is indeed amazing. That is the strength only provided by the Lord in my opinion.

I am NOT saying my issues and problems are not a concern of my great God, because they are and I WILL continue to pray about them, but SMACK DAB right in front of me is a reason to stop all the junk and pray, be thankful and pray some more. Especially after looking at my husband and 3 sons and knowing where we all could be.

Thankful, truly thankful.

The Protection of God

2009-07-21T14:26:00.002-06:00

I had just finished praying with the kids this morning about many things, but the Holy Spirit prompted me to pray about protection and my alertness on the rainy roads.

Not more than 15 minutes later, I was faced with an SUV facing me head on. I veered off the road and into someone's yard to avoid the crash. I then moved my car and parked on a quiet street to gain my composure and shake... my hands were shaking because all I could think was did that just really happen and THANK GOD .... you saved me and my kids today.

I called my husband who said he had JUST prayed for protection for us .. possibly just as the lady was coming around the corner or as I was swerving off the road.

After I got it together, I drove back to where she was and that is when I saw she had hit a tree and landed against someone's chain link fence. She IS ok, her car .. not so much. Neighbors called police and they were on their way.

I gave her my card in case she needed it later and was glad she was ok.

When the Holy Spirit says pray .. PRAY!

Blog Vacation

2009-07-13T22:08:00.003-06:00

It is not like I blog everyday anyway, but I am taking a break so I can get my head together, take care of some things and yes, get ready for fall school year. Ack!

I WILL be in and out, but family comes first and they like eating and I really like taking care of them. :)

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T21:16:00.002-06:00

(photo taken after long day around LOTS of food)

We had a GREAT time with the family today. Lots of food, fun and laughter! Lots of laughter. Maybe too much food as well. Gauging by the photo, I need to lose more weight. :( I'll get to working on that REAL soon.

With the temps crossing 102 this week, I will more than likely sweat some of the water weight. :)

Anyhoo, the kids had a blast playing with their cousins and godbrothers, eating crispy hot dogs and Earl Campbell hot links. (psst, have you ever had those? They are the best!) That man did more than play some football, he can make some sausage.

My brother came over on his motorcycle (my dad would kill him if he knew he had one) and scared us half to death by peeping through the windows while we were all in the kitchen. He IS a jokster.

We ate a LOT .. oh did I say that .. but more than anything else, the family was together celebrating the freedom we all have in this country, but also the freedom in Jesus we have. What a privilege to be in a country where we can openly celebrate the goodness of God!

Happy 4th!

A Jewel in His Crown - Ruby

2009-07-02T10:03:00.000-06:00

(Orginally posted 7/2/2008)

Updated 2009

6 years ago my daughter Denham was born and died on the same day. We were not expecting her to arrive, but God had another plan.

We were getting ready for a week long vacation (oddly the same vacation this year) when she arrived, but the packing was halted by sharp labor pains and a day later, delivery.

We did not know we were going to have a daughter, so I did not have time before she was born to buy dresses, bows and girlie little things. When I delivered her and heard the nurse say "it's a girl", I was so excited and then remembered, no heartbeat. My sweet baby gril Denham was gone in an instant and then I cried and cried some more.

I miss my little girl .. even today .. 6 years later .. I am glad I got to hold her .. but it does not replace having her here with her earthly family .. having her here with me.

I know she IS with God and I will see her again, but I miss her.

Butterfly kisses my sweet, sweet Denham.

(Ruby is the birthstone for July)

Summer Food

2009-06-30T21:41:00.010-06:00

Summer means one thing ... HOT DAYS! Guess what? A girl's still gotta eat. I love cooking, but the heat makes me just want to melt so obviously I have NO desire to heat up my kitchen. That means we eat A LOT of salad, wraps, meals from the crockpot and please don't forget the grill. Yes, I said crockpot .. the best thing ever invented for a busy woman on the go.

Anyhoo ...

My favorite salad comes from a place called Pappadeaux's. Yes, it is some fancy food with fancy prices, but did I say .. the food is wonderful. Every now and then hubby and I splurge when we make our way to Dallas, but I decided to find out how they make it so I could make it at home. That way I would save $$$, gas and miles on my car. :)

Shrimp, Bacon and Spinach Salad

You will need:

Spinach
Medium Cooked Shrimp
Cooked and Crispy Bacon (Turkey or Regular)
Blue Cheese Chunks (if you prefer, I don't)
Tangy Tomato Bacon Dressing or Catalina Dressing

Combine the first four ingredients and top w/ the dressing. MMMMMM BTW, I use chicken for the kiddos.

I also like to make Bacon Broccoli Salad ... you may have guessed that I like bacon.:) This reciepe has been passed down from the women @ my church. Dang, they know how to cook!

Bacon Broccoli Salad

You will need:
1 bunch fresh broccoli, washed, drained, broken into little trees (flowerettes)
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1 cup chopped celery
5-6 pieces bacon, crispy, drained and crumbled

DRESSING:
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp. vinegar

Combine salad ingredients together in large mixing bowl. Combine dressing ingredients well. Pour dressing over salad ingredients and mix well. Serve chilled.

There are MORE delicious reciepes over at WeareTHATfamily!!! Hope on over ...

Fun in the Sun ..

2009-06-29T10:17:00.003-06:00

This is supposed to be a swimming pool, but we decided to add bubbles.

Even Ethan could not resist the COOL water .. we need to get him his own pool.
********
Simple fun .. and the kids said they had a blast .. cost me nothing .. the dishwashing liquid was FREE w/ my coupons a few weeks ago, I added a few tablespoons of sugar (to make the blubbles last longer) and they got clean and didn't even realize it! :)

Ethan's Update - Two thumbs UP!

2009-06-26T16:30:00.002-06:00

This is Ethan just after he had to disrobe and dawn a hospital gown. He was appalled at the idea that he could not have his MRI with his regular clothes on and had to wear this "dress". We tried to explain that this was a hospital shirt, not dress and that daddy would NEVER allow such a thing. :)

The hospital has a new policy I was told, because people in other parts of the country had been sneaking in weapons in the radiology departments and causing trouble .. what?

Anyway, Ethan also looks like this because we had to check in @ 6:30AM! Yes, check in at 6:30.

==============================================

We were able to see his surgeon after the MRI to get an absolutely GREAT update! The brain tumor fragments show NO sign of movement, NO growth and NO change!

Hallelujah!!! Hallelujah!!!!

Tomorrow is not promised ...

2009-06-25T21:03:00.007-06:00

Michael Jackson - the "King of Pop" died today. Wow ... how surreal is that? I am in shock. I know his last few years were not great, but I keep thinking about the younger years and music.

LA Reid said it best .. turn down the chatter and turn UP the music.

Talk about talented .. look at this pose ...

I guess I'll get out all my old albums, cassettes and CDs and Rock the Night away ...

*********************************************************************

Farrah Fawcett also died today after a long battle with cancer. Ed Mcmahon died earlier this week. Sad, sad, so very sad.

==========================================

Prayers for their families. Tomorrow is NOT promised. Get your house in order. I am working on mine.

==========================================

Do YOU know JESUS?

The lazy days of summer (Photo Edition)

2009-06-22T13:05:00.006-06:00

Nuthin like making your own b-day cake.. you get to lick the beaters & everything!
Hanging out w/ Chuck E. Cheese - you can never go wrong there. Hey? where's DeClan?

Look mom, the Lego is as big as ME!

Hanging out w/ ALL the cousins ... there are a few more kiddos on the other sofa!

Safety 1st! Who knew you needed a helmet for a tricycle! Isn't he cute?

Mom finally gave in and let us have a picnic!

Summertime ..

2009-06-20T08:01:00.000-06:00

Ethan has been out of school for two weeks now and the first week was spent @ VBS @ our church. Last week we joined the library's summer reading club and went camping (in the house). So exciting I know.

We have had out of town family in town and/or at the house for the last 3 weeks, which has been a blast, but this weekend I am ready to BE STILL and cook for 5 people. :)

Ethan's science academy was cancelled, so I need to fill that educational gap with something exciting. Macaroni and construction paper? Beans and rice in a jar .. Hmmmm .. NOT .. he is a pre-teen .. I know, we will break out his telescope and make it a project tonight.

This week we plan to go to one of the FREE movies offered in a neighboring city and check out more books at the library.

The heat index is supposed to reach 107 and I am in no way near ready for anything like that, so early in the summer. This may mean we alter our out of the house plans.

Ethan has to have an MRI later in the week, followed by DeClan's 2 yr old check up the day (yes, I know he is 2 1/2). So since we will be gone ALL DAY Thursday and part of Friday for medical stuff, I'll have to adjust the week for all the fun, fun, fun stuff.

Oh yeah, grandmother, the kids are ALREADY talking about packing for our trip to see in a few weeks .... sigh .. are we there yet?

Believe ...

2009-06-10T13:30:00.002-06:00

Ethan at our church anniversary picnic ..

I couldn't believe he wanted to do this ...

Two of the BEST words ...

2009-05-29T14:05:00.001-06:00

a wife can hear from her husband. My honey gave this to me last night and said he appreciates everything I do for our family!

My husband rocks!

Summer, where are you?

2009-05-24T22:20:00.003-06:00

We have 10 more days of school. I am TIRED.

I simply cannot wait until I CAN sleep in, work in my PJs and run my kids around for summer activities. We WILL stay home 3 out 5 weekdays this summer, but I have a great list of ideas NEARBY for us to take part in. My gas needle won't even move and my prayer is that the boys will have memories for a lifetime.
(Especially with gas slowly hiking back up near $3.00.)

I am simply tired of school and all the responsibilities that go with it. :) What? You didn't know I was in school? Me either! :)

Oh September, please do not come anywhere NEAR ME!

THAT IS all.

Date Night!

2009-05-22T21:49:00.000-06:00

Date Night!

Went here!

GENGHIS GRILL!

Very Filling!

Great Fun!

Going Back!

REEEEAAL SOON!

Luv Hubby!

Nuf Said!

Momma Lion

2009-05-18T10:04:00.003-06:00

For the past two weeks, my husband and I have been dealing with an issue I thought would wait until HIGH SCHOOL, but it has reeked it's ugly head in 6th grade.

BULLYING!

I know children are not perfect, especially mine, but my son has been dealing with this issue for a while and did not want to say anything to us, his teachers or anyone he says because the other kids will call him a tattletale. (Especially since he knew his momma has no problems coming up to the school and talking to people.)

He has been bullied by a child who was once his friend and now they cannot make it one whole week without something happening.

Last week, my son had no other choice but to come out and explain everything. You want to know why? Because the bully pushed my son into the water fountain! and YES, there were bruises. He had to go to the school nurse because there was some small bleeding and she called me .. just as I was walking into bible study.

While I was speaking to her, I wanted to use some words that you do not use in bible study or really ever .. I did not use the words, but I did however .. cry.

I didn't mean to cry, but as she was describing what my son had gone through, I could not help myself. In fact, if it wasn't for the women at my bible study, I was on my way to the school to "rescue my son' and share my mind with some people.

But the Holy Spirit said no, not now and I stayed at church, calmed down and prayed .. with not so many words, but the Lord knew what I was trying to say to Him. "Lord, please do not let me open my mouth right now or go to that school or call the Principal again since she has not called me back to give me an update!"

Fast forward a week and Ethan has handled everything well and so have I (but I had to pray first each day) because I really wanted to just check him out of school for the rest of year, but that would have cancelled out his whole year of school, because his momma "over-reacted". (There was second incident last week)

I just finished speaking with the administration and they are putting a plan in place that should keep Ethan safe for the next 14 days. It will also keep me on my knees specifically for my son and other children who are or have been bullied for the next 14 days.

You MUST pray for your children DAILY, specifically. Doesn't mean nothing will happen to them, but it does mean you and your child will hopefully handle the situation in a Godly manner in a time when a lot of people are doubting the sincerity of Christians and how we live our lives.

Doesn't mean we are doormats, but committed to living out a Godly lifestyle in good and in bad.

Thankful!

2009-05-13T08:48:00.003-06:00

Austin .. where have the years gone?

2009-05-11T08:53:00.000-06:00

2 yrs. old 3 yrs. old

Happy B-Day baby!

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-08T19:17:00.006-06:00

To all of you .. Happy Mother's Day!

My Mother's Day is always bittersweet. I love the fact that God has allowed me to bring life into this world 4 times even though one of my children now sits at the feet of Jesus. I would love to spend time with my precious daughter this Mother's Day.

I am simply amazed at what God has provided for me as a mother even my own mother also now sits at Jesus' feet. She always said she would NEVER get to meet her grandchildren and unfortunately that is true, but she has met them in an unusual sort of way, she shaped and molded me and now lives through me as I raise my children.

Oh how I wish I could hug her today and tell her Happy Mother's Day Mom ... you are doing good work. I thank God for memories so strong that I can still hear her voice calling me name. I thank God that on occasion when I am having a really hard time with my life and raising her grandchildren, I have dreams, real dreams to me, where she is there w/ the grandkids and everything seems so matter of fact, so real.

Call me crazy, but I believe God allows these dreams for me. He works for me and comforts me with my dreams.

So today as I miss my mom, but celebrate my own motherhood, I pray that tonight I will get to see her again and give her a big hug!

For all of you .. Happy Mother's Day. You are doing great work, even when your head is spinning and life seems out of control ... you ARE doing a great job! You aren't told enough thank you, thank you for the many things that get done and I want to say thank you. Motherhood is not easy, but so many seem to make it look flawless (like my mom), so in the day in day, know you ARE making a difference.

From my house to yours .. Happy Mother's Day!!!

WFMW: Frugal Tips

2009-05-05T21:00:00.003-06:00

I love this week's edition of WFMW. FRUGAL TIPS!

For me ... we had to make an adjustment to our spending some 4 years ago when I started working part-time after having Austin and then FULL TIME when Ethan's medical issues starting demanding more of my time. It didn't help that son #3 was also on his way.

We needed to learn to live on one income and then any additional income would be GRAVY!

Basically I do the following consistently!

1) Plan my shopping trips

2)Make a list for each store

3)Shop w/ coupons

4)Write letters/emails to the manufacturers and tell them about their products (occasionally I will get coupons in their response letters, but this is NOT what I am looking for when I write the letters. I want products I like to stick around.)

5)Purchase based on price, size, and coupon, not the lowest price. I would rather have 4 bottles of small mustard for 10 cents each that 1 big bottle for $1.50 .. ya know?

For the "regular" stores that double and triple coupons, I try to only purchase those items that are on sale so I can get them FREE or not for very much at all. This shopping measure allows me to then purchase what we need that I do not have a coupon for and usually the brand of what I want. (I use store brand AND brand names.)

For everyday stuff ....

=====
I JUST started doing my own hair! I watched a BUNCH of YouTube videos, yes, YouTube and did my hair this weekend and love, love, love it. I saved 65.00!!!

I cut my sons hair (tods)

I cook 5 to 6 times per week and make enough for lunch the next day.

I buy 2 whole rotisserie chickens from Sam's twice a month for meals and chicken salad. $4.97 each!

I AM a thifter! I have ONE main thrift store and I love it. I signed up for their newsletters and even get coupons. My boys are set for the summer, (shirts, shorts, swim trunks, basketball shorts and jerseys) excluding shoes and I spent $50.00 for all three of them. 12 1/2, 4 yrs and 2 1/2 years old.

There is so, so much more ... but I have to get outta here. Hop on over to WeareTHATfamily and see where else you can save!

Summer Plans

2009-05-04T21:42:00.004-06:00

This week starts the planning for our summer season. I am not sure why I chose this week, but now is as good as any. :)

===

I WANT to plan our summer, but we will have some days where we will do absolutely NOTHING!

===

I am trying very hard NOT to get so carried away where we have no fun because I am frustrated and discombobulated because "things did not go as I planned."

===

The hardest part is planning for a 12 1/2, 4 and 2 1/2 year old. On the one hand I would love to go to Sesame Place for the tods, but I know Ethan would just cringe at the thought of spending all day with Big Bird!

===

Things I am planning for Ethan, while the tods would love to hang with big brother .. again, he would cringe at the thought of Austin coming with him to Dave and Buster's and beating him at skeeball.

===

July is our vacation month this year, so that one will be easy, except, I have NOT planned where we are going besides KY.

===

Just some things I am considering ....

Sonic's Happy hour - a REAL must do!

Summer Movie Matinees

Musuems

Zoo

Parks

Amusement Parks

Swim Lessons

Water Park

Hotel Weekend getaway

Aquarium

Mom and Tots playdates

Ice Skating

Storytelling

Library

Community Service - Food Banks

Can you think of something else?

Life Happens ..

2009-05-01T22:07:00.003-06:00

and even though I have NOT been blogging on the regular (as the kids say) .. life as I know it is still going on ..

I now know "I" cannot twitter, blog, work part-time, cook, eat and keep things going smoothly around here ... others can, but I know I can't. :(

GREAT NEWS though for today ... DeClan hit a MAJOR milestone .. He peed on the potty! Whohoo! 6 months earlier than I ever expected!!!!!! HE made decision, not me.

So I guess the next few weeks will be spent potty training AGAIN .. last year was Austin's turn. whoopie!

Among other things ....

2009-04-22T08:51:00.002-06:00

I have started 5 posts since tax day, but cannot seem to get around to finishing them. Every single time something steps in the way of my thoughts and I never get around to pushing "publish".

I started TWITTERING a few days ago and really like it, but I am still figuring out what to do, what is proper etiquette, who should I follow, etc. etc.

I am also planning our vacation for 2009. We were all set to go in June, but DH's job has not approved his dates, so it looks like July now. That is ok, a few more paychecks to save some money and work some overtime. We try to have vacations BIG or SMALL without using the household $$$.

Last year was the first year I felt comfortable with all of us traveling somewhere other than KY for vacation. We had a blast and wish Disney was in the works for this year too, but it isn't, so I am trying to plan something fun, educational and just as memorable ... and yeah, CHEAP .. sorry inexpensive :)

Back in the real world, we are trying to find Ethan a new school for next year. He has a good year at his junior high, BUT he needs a change. There are some things we cannot change and do not want him to be a part of next year.

So, I have a busy day, full of "things" to do. Nuthin special, just necessary.

Uncle Sam Wants ME?

2009-04-14T18:46:00.004-06:00

Have you finished your taxes? We .. have .. NOT! See ya on the other side of April 15th ....

Resurrection Sunday

2009-04-12T22:01:00.001-06:00

The tomb IS empty!!! HE IS RISEN!!

Do YOU know HIM? (Please click here to make sure, you KNOW who HE is!)

Family Day

2009-04-11T18:38:00.001-06:00

DeClan tasting an orange ... he ate at every booth today .. :)
Beautiful fruit and veggies, no chemicals ...

DeClan with another orange .. see I told he ate the whole trip ..

More wonderful fruit .. the aroma .. made me want to buy everything!

==========

God knows what is best ... I tell myself that all .. the .. time ...

===

MY plan was to spend the morning with a dear friend, her mother, aunt and grandmother sitting at their feet. These women are ALL Godly women and my friend invited a few of us to hear from them. Oh, how I wanted to be there .. to get some advice and just be blessed by these women. You know a kinda Titus 2 time with these women.

===

BUT GOD had a different plan for my Saturday.

===

A series of mishaps, miscommunication, and misunderstandings .. and I wasn't able to attend, BUT I was able to spend some much needed time with MY family .. with no schedule or time frames.

===

We took a field trip with the kids and ended up at our local farmers market ..... AND HAD A blast!!!!!

===

Thank you Lord .. for stirring me in another direction ......NOT that I didn't need a word from the Lord, but I needed to be with my family .. especially after the hectic week we had ....

80 degree day!

2009-04-08T19:44:00.002-06:00

and the popsicles came right on out!

Haircut Day!

2009-04-03T19:07:00.002-06:00

Looking at cars ... DeClan: "wow, a BMW convertible!"

Finally, DeClan let me cut his hair! I love little boys with their DEFINED haircuts in the spring and summer!

Help! Starting ALL Over ...

2009-03-31T20:11:00.005-06:00

This week's WFMW is all backwards ... and that IS a good thing for me!! I have been running around since December 18th with no right wrist. Yeah, I broke it just after my 13th anniversary last year and it is the hand I use most often. I have been in a old fashioned elephant leg cast. Wedding vows in FULL force! :)

Since I have been in a cast, my hubby has been doing ALL my work for me .. after working all day away from home AND he has been taking care of me .... let me just admit .. I AIN'T a great patient. HA .. My last surgery was Friday, so after my meds wear off this weekend, I won't have ANY excuses .. hahahaha

So, basically I have to start ALL over doing it my way ... cleaning, organizing, switching seasons for clothes, getting a schedule ... getting the house in order .. so things can get back to normal. I have had 13 weeks of someone else doing it all for me and I have become ummmm .. a little lazy.

Where o where do I start? My biggest fear is that I want do it all AT ONE time and I know I can't do that or else we won't be able to function. I will have things everywhere ... I mean everywhere. I am also a BIG coupon mama and have to start that again too ... did you know gas and groceries have gone up since Christmas?

Is there a trick to have things "seem" organized, until I can get it all clean and in place and things/our household back to normal? Chests, Rubbermaid, boxes, closets, shelving? what? I need some tips to get it all in place, before it is um you know .. really together.

Surgery ...

2009-03-29T14:29:00.002-06:00

Just had my second surgery for my wrist ... yuck! Won't be posting anytime soon or at least until I can get my head out of the clouds~!~! Darn these meds .....

Prayer Time ....

2009-03-25T18:49:00.001-06:00

Click the photo and get the complete testimony as told by his mom and then PRAY!

Missing

2009-03-24T19:45:00.003-06:00

Can someone tell my youngest to STOP throwing utensils, plastic plates and sippy cups in the trash? Mommy said SINK, sink, sink.

Now I know why I only have 5 spoons, 1 sippy cup and no salt shaker .. I thought I was loosing it!

On the road again ...

2009-03-22T08:00:00.002-06:00

It has been a glorious week in Kentucky! We had some warm days, but mostly cold ones and I loved every minute. I always look forward to the temps here because they are usually 20 degrees cooler than home and I use this time as my getaway from the heat. I love cold weather.

Once again, we lied and said we were gonna leave at 3am, but after spending the day and evening with GranGran, we got back to DH's parent's house later than we expected, that he and I agreed to leave and head for home by 5am.

We were on the road by 6am. Not too bad.

DH woke up at 4am, took a shower and then started the load the van. I on the otherhand decided to roll over and get the all important 5 more minutes of sleep. Important I know.

I finally woke up (well got up, awake I was not), showered and helped finish zipping suitcases, and waking sleeping children who thank goodness were already dressed because I bathed them last night and put their travel clothes on.

DH's mom made us some coffee and bagged up some snacks for the road which included grandma's chocolate chip cookies. Whohoo.

We took some photos and said our see ya laters and loaded the van w/ the kids ... who were sad to say goodbye to "their" dogs.

We pulled onto the dark road and headed for I-65.

Then, DH realized we needed to air up the tires before we started our 700+ mile journey and then of course, we needed to make one last stop at White Castle. This time we got breakfast sandwiches instead of hamburgers. (the kids wanted hamburgers)

We made it pretty far before the potty requests breaks started, but then once they did, it seemed like we stopped in every county of Tennessee. Surprisingly enough, no one made any false claims, so it was worth the stop .. even though it may have an added an hour to the overall ride home. At some point even DeClan was yelling .. hey I have to potty .. even though he still sports Huggies.

We finally rolled into our town about 7:30pm realizing there were no groceries at home, so we played four rounds of the game " what do you want to eat". Finally decided on Mexican Cuisine since we had not had any for almost 2 weeks.

We ate and DH unloaded the van as I rolled my eyes, because UNPACKING is NOT my friend. Ethan realized school was the NEXT morning and then proceeded to roll his eyes, because school is NOT his friend after spending 10 days on vacation with no schedule, eating all day, being spoiled by your grandparents or load mouth mama yelling get up .. it is time for school.

We finally drifted off around midnight and NO we did NOT unpack everything .. it just seemed all wrong.

Special Day

2009-03-21T19:00:00.000-06:00

Today, we spent time with one of the most wonderful women I have ever met ... DH's grandmother. Both of my grandmothers are with Jesus now and I LOVE spending time with GranGran (as we so affectionately call her).

AND .. the woman can cook!!!!!!!!

Since we were in town for Spring Break, GranGran wanted the whole family to get together for food, fellowship and fun. Mostly, the food :) Saturday, 1:00pm she said .. and she did not disappoint.

Turkey, Roast Beef, Boston Butt, Cornbread dressing, greens, green beans, Macaronkey (This is how DeClan says Mac & Cheese) Potato Salad, Deviled Eggs, Onions, From Scratch Potato rolls, Sweet Tea, Yellow Cake w/ Caramel Icing and Cherry Delight .. I am very sure I forgot something. She did NOT disappoint.

See, I had to say that twice, because she really did NOT .... well you know ....

No airs put on by me. I sat down and ate like a REAL woman does, especially since my WWatchers plans start today. That way after I lose the weight, I CAN and WILL enjoy Thanksgiving. :)

I am so very happy the sons are able to spend time and be loved on by their great-grandmother and that she IS passing down the recipes to her family. I AM trying to learn the art of the rolls as we speak.

Needless to say, I HAVE disappointed with those babies!

Thank you Lord, Thank you so very much for this legacy and for DH's family~~ Please continue to watch over them and bless them.

Ketchup and Mustard and cheating ..

2009-03-20T10:42:00.004-06:00

We are having a great time on Spring Break! I AM taking a ton of photos, but having trouble uploading them on the blog, so I will drop them in the posts next week.

The tods are having a ball running wild and free in the country and playing with "their" dogs. Yeah, Austin says the Casey, Smiley and Jerry are their dogs who live at grandma's house.

It has been really fun watching the tods run around, playing, reading, tossing balls and making up games while we have been here.

Yesterday, the Austin had on a red shirt and DeClan had on a yellow shirt and they started calling each other ketchup and mustard. It was so cute, with no prompting from me. I am glad they have creative imaginations.

Last night the kids were playing cards with grandma and having a blast. Ethan won the game and did his usual, I won, oh yeaa, I won, I won (singing) and DeClan, YES, DeClan pointed to him and said Ethan cheated and laughed (the 2 year old) ... cheated, what does he know about cheated?

Needless to say, we fell to the floor laughin'

Good times, great vacation!

Everybody was Kung Fu fightin' .. huh!

2009-03-16T22:49:00.003-06:00

It's spring break and we made it to Kentucky!! Whohoo!
==
We have seen Kung Fu Panda at least a dozen times!
==
Once again, we did not leave on time ...but we left in one piece and actually had a great drive to Tennessee.
==
The boys had a great time at the hotel (something we almost NEVER do), but the rooms were spacious and the pool was divine! The kids did NOT want to leave.
==
We visited some neighborhoods we thought about moving to, ate dinner and then headed to KY.
==
So far sleeping in ranks high on our list this week and eating great country breakfasts ... yum....
==
Internet access has been interesting to say the least, so the photos will have to wait until later ...
==
Praising God for a great vacation and His provision!

Spring Break Day 2 .. Pool Time

2009-03-15T08:49:00.004-06:00

DeClan and Daddy getting out the of the pool
Maybe it the water isn't so bad afterall

I'm ready to go right now ...

Please let go Daddy ... please..

See mama, I CAN swim ...

well .. now I am not so sure ...

My men ..

2009-03-09T00:00:00.000-06:00

Took this quick photog after church yesterday. The boys saw the Kung Fu Panda statue in the Education building (where we have Children's Church) and just HAD to take a picture with Po.

They are sooo cute .. I love my men!

5 days and counting ....

2009-03-08T22:41:00.006-06:00

I know everyone, I mean, everyone who has been around my family over the last two weeks, thinks we are ALL crazy! All 5 of us have been talking about our upcoming road trip nonstop! I've tried not to get so excited, but I can't help it. I love it when we are able to jump in the van with no time constraints or agenda and $$$ for the trip. (Thank you Jesus!)
==

We are so excited to see my in laws and to go back to Kentucky so soon! That almost never happens. The boys are ready to run free in the country and be spoiled by simple living and grandparents, let's not forget the grand and great grandparents!

The kids have started marking off the days until we ride in the sunset on the kitchen calendar, the suitcases are out, I am getting the winter back out for the journey (it's in the 80's here, but in the 30's there) and started buying snacks a few weeks ago.

Thank goodness I started seriously couponing last year ... I've gotten all our snacks and drinks for the trip for less than $5.00. Yes, $5.00!

So this week the blogging may be a little slower than usual, but I do plan on blogging if for nothing else but for those of who read faithfully (yeah right), but more for historical purposes.

Things to do ...

2009-03-05T08:53:00.004-06:00

Despite how I feel today (that bug just won't leave my side), I must push through MANY errands and appointments today - - cause if they don't get them done, that will mean I'll have 32 things to do Friday. No way!

This actually is sort of a normal day, with a dentist appt for Austin tucked in between, laundry duty, dishes, coupon clipping, carpool and bathroom cleaning (yesh!)

We are also preparing for a Spring Break road trip, so add packing for 5 people to go to a state that is still enjoying WINTER (We will have 80 degree temps today).

In the midst of it all .. I am NOT complaining, believe me, I actually enjoy the week or so before we leave for any type of vacation. Marking the days off the calendar, going over our "to do" list with and for the boys, making lists and buying snacks for the road.

I am blessed, not bragging, but blessed because my family of 5 is happy, healthy and together. Not the case for some dear friends around me .. and it makes me want to pray even harder for them to be able to get back on track. (the children are watching)

Praying for families today .. won't you join me?

I've been sick .. so sick ...

2009-03-03T07:37:00.001-06:00

and since I am one of the few bloggers who uses a desktop, I have not been able to sit up straight and blog. (If you know what I mean.)

Anyway, when I get back, remind me to tell you about Grace and Mercy, and no, those are not the names of puppies in our house.

I've come FULL circle ....

2009-02-25T22:57:00.006-06:00

Back in December, just a few days AFTER my anniversary mind you, I broke my right wrist. Yeah, the one is use everyday. I am right handed.

As soon as it happened, I knew it was broken. I tried to reason with myself and said it was a bad sprain, but deep down I knew ... it was broken.

Turns out, it was broken in three places.

So since December 18th, I have worn some sort of apparatus on my hand, wrist and part of my arm to support the broken places and since January 2, I have had the pleasure of having metal screws in my wrist to help me heal correctly.

My surgeon is great, but very OLD FASHIONED! He performed the surgery and put the ugliest cast I have ever seen on someone on MY wrist. You know the one .. the elephant leg, paper mache, loaded lead balloon cast on my wrist .. that doesn't go with anything. :)

Thank goodness I broke my wrist in the winter so I could actually put on a turtleneck or sweats from time to time because if I had broken it this spring .. whew ... Stacy London (What Not to Wear) would have had a sensors a blazin and headed my way!

Well, yesterday the cast came off!!!! Yeah! right? yea? ..... I thought I would be thrilled, but instead I am longing for the comfort of that cast cave I kept my hand in these past 8 weeks.

Why is that?

For one .. my arm hurts, not major pain, but it hurts
Two .. I can only move my wrist in one direction
Three .. twice a week therapy starts next week .. and that is the LAST thing I need .. someone yelling at me to try harder, try harder.

I could go on and one, but I will stop whining.

I have discovered that it is easier to wear the cast and JUST do what I can do than to have it off and HAVE to work hard to do what I do.

I don't really want to work for it, but I want the joy and fulfillment and want cut to the chase and see the "reveal" or the result of hard work without the hard work.

I want the easy way out. Just being honest. That is NOT what God had planned for me. The easy way .... at least not all the time.

To be continued ...... my hand hurts ...

My husband rocks!

2009-02-22T17:49:00.005-06:00

In more than one ... I am a little late for the S.W.A.K. Carnivale sponsored by We are THAT family, but it is NEVER too late to brag on my sweetie!

My husband rocks because he ...

Prays for with and for his family
He thinks about us when making decisions
He wears the head of the household hat very well
He stepped right in and took over ALL my duties when I broke my wrist
He changes poppie diapers
He prays w/ Ethan before school
He has set an example of a Godly man for our children
He says he loves me FOREVER
He is committed to our marriage and to our family
HE IS SO DARN HANDSOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
He works hard so I can be at home w/ the children
He shampoos and conditions my hair
He paints my toes!
He spends time w/ his boys (playing AND teaching)
He is a GREAT husband
He is a GREAT father
He loves the women in his family
He folds clothes all the time (I absolutely hate to do this)
He married me twice! (Part of our love testimony!)
His children love and adore him.
My parents LOVED him!
He calls me three times a day to check on me (10am, 1pm, and 4pm)

He Loves me and I loooove him!

What did you do today?

2009-02-20T08:48:00.002-06:00

Or sometimes people ask me what do you do all day at home? My answers always sound so simple to me, but not simple enough to match my exhaustion.

So I decided to chart my day and see ... what this mother of three boys does in a single day.

3:30am - Woke up because I could not sleep, started a load of laundry, sorted clothes for Ethan
4:15am - Laid on the sofa instead of getting into bed
6:45am - Woke up again

Thanked the Lord for waking me up and asked Him how can I serve Him today

7:00am - Woke up Ethan
7:05am - Got his meds and breakfast together
7:15am - Ironed Ethan's clothes
7:20am - Tods are up and ready to eat, but I am not ready for them ..
7:30am - Got Ethan and DH's lunches together
7:50am - Inspected Ethan's face and hair, homework
7:55am - Breakfast for the tods
8:15am - Checked my email, check my work assignments and read a FEW blogs
8:30am - Finished lunch for DH
8:35am - Stand at the door w/ tods to wave bye bye to DH
8:40am - Change DeClan's diaper
8:50am - Clean up breakfast dishes/unload/load dishwasher (can't get my cast wet)
9:15am - Start another load of clothes
9:30am - My work @ home assignments w/ tods coloring, working on letters, books
10:30am - Tods tell me it is time for snack
11:00am - Take a call from Ethan's school ..oops gotta go up there
11:05am - Get tods dressed (w/ one hand)
11:20am - Shower/get dressed
11:50am - Load tods in the van
12:00pm - Leave

All that hard work for a 1 minute drive to the school and 5 minutes w/ the staff! Whew!

12:15pm - Come home, unload tods
12:20pm - Make lunch
12:45pm - Tods go down for a nap that never happens
12:45pm - Work @ home assignments
2:30pm - Make last calls for the afternoon
2:40pm - Change DeClan's diaper, search for shoes for tods (I hate this)
2:45pm - Load tods who NEVER slept in the van
2:50pm - Leave for carpool
3:00pm - Pick up first child in the carpool
3:12pm - Pick up second and third child in the carpool
3:35pm - Pick my own child
4:00pm - Drop off Children 1, 2 and 3 @ their home - go back to mine
4:20pm - Stop @ Wal-Mart, because I have not been able to grocery/coupon shop
5:15pm - Come home
5:25pm - Sit down
5:25:30 - Get back up to help Austin in the bathroom
5:30pm - Try to do more of my @ home work
6:00pm - Start dinner
6:15pm - Referee arguments w/ the boys
6:25pm - Read to the tods
6:45pm - DH home
7:15pm - Eat dinner

And then the evening routine begins .. I am NOT even gonna try to list all the things I do, but let's just say it feels like more than all the things above combined.

I know I am not doing these things ALL right and I plan to switch some things around, but that will only allow some more items for the list NOT decrease the list. (If you noticed, cleaning the house was not mentioned ONE time today, except for the dishes) I want to get cleaning done during the day, so I can begin to go to bed earlier ..

I will also say that prayer will help, because when I give my day to the Lord FIRST .. He seems to give me more day to complete my lists ...

Heavenly Father .. do what You need to do to MY list ... I just want to be a servant of yours.

I luv my hub!

2009-02-16T10:16:00.004-06:00

With no babysitters in sight Saturday, we made Valentine’s Day a “family of love” day. Took the kids to IHOP (doesn’t help that they have all you can eat pancakes!!), came home and I made them valentine bags w/ a little candy in them.

Hubby and I were able to have a quick dinner date Friday night (Thanks to his company having a parent night out).. it was nice and less crowded .. no wait, no reservations needed! It was very nice to be alone and be able to talk and laugh w/o life's interruptions. :)

My son .....

2009-02-08T21:54:00.005-06:00

is 12 and has a crush .. oh gosh .. a crush on a girl .. funny thing is he is SO green (I like him that way) .. he asked her to a have lunch @ Taco B**** w/ her mom. He told her not to have any bright ideas ... that they could NOT be girlfriend/boyfriend until he was in high school.

Love that boy!!!

Harper's Going Home!!! Whohoo!

2009-02-04T23:17:00.001-06:00

Thanks for your prayers for this precious little baby! I have never met nor do I know her mother, but the past 20 days have given me one more reason to talk to God.

Super Sunday

2009-02-01T21:01:00.002-06:00

I am currently making smores for the family and listening to the "men" in my home hoop and holla like they were playing for the 45,000 prize money and the gigantic ring they keep flashing on the tv. DH is rooting for the Steelers, the littles are rooting for Kurt Warner and the Cardinals. (even the 2 year old who just finished his own chorus of "the Raiders, the Raiders Daddy, NOT the Steeloos".

I really like SuperSunday for the football, yes, but mainly the food. We are usually with relatives this day, but DH decided we should stay at home, so I decided to make everyone's favorite snack. Good idea at the time, but now I realize I should have focused on two items. Uhhh, remember, I only have one hand to cook with.

I have been making something different each hour for each "man" in the house. We have eaten spinach dip w/ wheat crackers, buffalo wings, Ham and White Cheddar pizza, Tortilla chips w/ Rotel dip, Chicken Quesadillas and Rice and now the S'Mores are baking in the oven. HELLO PEPTO!

Looks like the Steelers are gonna win .... drats!! I really wanted to hear Kurt Warner testify when they won. Not that all the players for the Steelers are agnostic or anything .. I'm just saying ...