A Place for My Mom!

Christmas was going to be difficult this year. No way around it. All things were different. I don't think there was one thing that we did that was the same as last year or the year before. Without my mom here with us, it changed everything.

I told you all earlier that we were changing our Christmas Traditions this year. Hosting Christmas at my house was something I have never done before. I was up for the challenge. It was going to be different. Different than any other Christmas in many ways.

I wanted to honor my mom. I wanted it to look like something she would do. Pretty table, pretty dishes, pretty everything. I set the table to look like hers. She had given me her beautiful table cloth last year because it did not fit her table anymore. I used it, along with the napkins that matched. I used a Christmas tree that my Grandfather gave me, it had belonged to my Grandmother. He also gave me the napkin rings that she made her self, but I was unable to use them. I could not figure out how to make them look as pretty as my mom had in the past. Here is a picture of my table:
Pretty huh? Do you notice something in the first picture that looks strange? A picture frame at the end of the table? Well, I wanted to show that my mom was here in my heart. I wanted the family to see that I missed her. I wanted to feel like she was here. So, a sweet man from CBC sent me a letter with a poem. The letter was about how some people really hurt during the holidays without their loved ones here. It spoke to me. Then there was a sweet poem that he sent as well. Here it is:
I attached the picture of my mom and dad at the bottom. It is really a great poem. It is hard to read in the picture so........

I'm Spending Christmas with Jesus This Year

I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below.
With tiny lights like heaven's stars, reflecting on the snow.
The sight is so spectacular-please wipe away that tear.
For I'm spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs the people hold so dear.
But the sound of music can't compare with the Christmas choir I hear.
I have no other words to tell the joy of their voices bring.
For it's beyond description to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me-I see the pain inside your heart.
But I am not so far away-we really aren't apart.
Be happy for me, loved ones, you know I hold you dear.
And be glad I'm spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I send you each a special gift from my heavenly home above.
I send you each a memory of my undying love.
After all, "love" is the gift, more precious than pure gold.
It was always most important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and help each other, as our Father said to do.
For I cannot count the blessings of the love He has for you.
Please have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear.
Remember- I'm spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I can't tell you of all the splendor or the peace here in this place.
Can you imagine Christmas with our Savior, face to face?
I'll ask Him to lift your spirit as I tell Him of your love.
So then pray one for another as you lift your eyes above.

Please let your hearts be joyful, and let your spirits sing.
I'm spending Christmas in heaven; I'm spending it with the King.

Terri Kernicki

Wow! I love this poem! So, I used it to set a place for my mom at our table! It seemed as it was her Christmas card to us this year. She was dancing and singing with the heaven choir of angels on the most important day in history!!!! Can you imagine?? How could anyone be sad to hear that wonderful news!?? I know one day I will celebrate Christmas with her again but until then...I will continue to set a place for my mom!!!

THIS JUST IN......

"To the Parents of Rudy,

I caught Rudy always being respectful. He listens very well and has very creative answers. I am amazed at his level of thinking and I really enjoy having him in class!

Mrs. Stuart"

That is word for word!! I was stunned, shocked, happy and thrilled! WAY TO GO RUDY!! I guess I am doing something right! Praise the Lord!!

Christmas Traditions

Well, things are going to be different this year. No running from house to house, making sure that we see all the family that we can. Nope, not this year...or any other year for that matter. I asked my mother-in-law if we could do something different this year. My kids were feeling the change several weeks ago. There was a lot of asking...what are we going to do for Christmas this year? They started to feel the loss of "Nana" all over again. They were stressing. Anxiety was being felt. I couldn't stand it. I had to do something. For them and for me. So, my mother-in-law agreed to allow us to have Christmas at our house this year!!! We will be having both sides of the family bless our home this year...and I am hoping that this will become a new family tradition. When my kids found out, I believe that it relieved some of the heart ache that they were having. Knowing that they did not have to go anywhere seemed to be what they needed. Me, too! I needed something to focus on, other than the saddness that was filling our home and hearts. So, I am going to throw a Christmas lunch that will honor my mother. She loved this time of year. Our lunches were always on nice plates, with good silverware, and real napkins. I say that because at the other Christmas lunch we went to, we used all plastic and paper tableware. Not that is was wrong or bad, it just was different than what I was use to. So, I will have a "pretty" table set for the adults and a cute table set for the kids...just like mom did!! I am planning now, you know, since it is next week. Wow, is it possible that Christmas is already here??

So, share with me what your family traditions are...I am curious to know what all my friends are doing to honor our Lord's birthday!! Merry Christmas everyone. May the Lord bless you and your families!!

SNOW!!

Just thought I would share some more pictures of our "Snow Day"!! It sure was fun...hope to see some more white stuff this year :)

What do you do with a snowball anyway????

This was Hannah's first snow experience!! It was so sweet. She loved it. We played in it a lot...we got really cold, came in, had hot chocolate and she was very upset when she was not able to back outside like the big kids!! So her sister made her a snowball and brought it to her. I thought it would be cute to see what she did, so I grabbed the camera...can you guess???

SHE ATE IT!!

TO CUTE FOR WORDS!! I remember eating snow as a kid...when we got it!! She started an eating frenzy of snow. The older 2 decided they wanted to know what it tasted like. YUM!! What a fun day we had. I will try to post more pictures...it takes a long time for me to upload pics.

My favorite Picture!!

For those of you who do not have facebook...

A good friend of mine took some family pictures at Wolf Pen Creek! She did an amazing job!! Thanks Friend :)

This is just one of...I think...about 200 pictures that she took!!! But by far my favorite!! Hannah is a kissy girl. She loves to give "sugars", especially to her daddy!!!!

Don't you agree...the cutest ever!!???

She is doing something new!!!

Well, it seems that my little princess is growing up! She is talking more and more...saying things like...mommy, daddy, no-no, mo-mo (Elmo), hi, you know cute little things like that!! She has been walking for a while but she starting to run...especially when she has something she is not suppose to have :) She love to pick on you as well. I have some towels that I hang on the oven door and she loves to grab them and run. Cute stuff! I have nick named her my little TURKEY!! Oh, and I am trying to teach her how to gobble!!! I think she is very smart too! She will grab the remotes, sit in front of the TV, point the remote at the TV and try to turn the channel! Wow, how things have changed!!


And then there is the newest thing!! She really started this yesterday and I saw it again today. We are officially throwing fits!!! Yes, temper tantrums!! She will throw herself on the floor...gently I might add...and start screaming, kicking her feet and watching...waiting...are you looking?...what are you going to do about it?...it is so funny!! Trey and I just laughed at her!! It was so funny!!

So, I guess we really are heading for the "terrible two's"!! AT 15 MONTHS!! Wow!!

Wow! I am behind!!

Ok, so I am so far behind in this blogging thing it is not even funny!!

So, I am going to play catch up...I think!

I would love to post pictures of Rudy's birthday, but I can't! Why you ask?? Well, it seems I have a computer that does not like me!! I don't know exactly if what happened but the crazy thing will not turn on. I checked connections, plugs, and well just about everything and it just will not turn on. One day it works, the other...no!! I had put the pictures of Rudy's birthday on that computer :( I don't know what to do...can't afford a computer doctor...any ideas?? Anyone know of someone who might be able to help me fix a computer problem??

Rudy's party was fun! It ended up being a surprise party for him. We took him out to eat at Road House where they made him do the funniest thing I have ever seen. He was so embarrassed. We came home and his friends just started showing up! It was great! My sweet boy is now 7 and doing great in 1st grade ;)

Being a teacher was great fun, just exhausting!!

October is a blur!

The Women's Conference was amazing! If you have never attended a Women of Faith Conference, I strongly recommend it!!! They are coming back in November 2009!! Mandisa and Nicole C. Mullen rocked the house!!!! Strongly recommend their music! My kids love it :) Mandisa is amazing, full of spunk, and can I just wow! She has the most amazing voice and her songs really speak to your heart! If you don't know who she is, maybe this will help! She was on American Idol. I don't know which season. She spoke to me about my weight. She too is heavy and is trying to lose weight. I feel inspired by her to stay on track :) Nicole Mullen...oh dang! You have to have some serious energy to keep up with that woman! She can really dance and sing. She is doing some amazing things with a group of youth. She is investing in their lives...I can so relate to that!!! All the speakers were wonderful and all spoke to me in different ways. I am planning on going next year too!!!

Halloween was really fun! I am not one to hide from that day. I was raised to enjoy being a kid, dressing up, and get lots of candy!!! If you make it evil, then the day becomes evil! Anyway, we went to the Fall Festival at our church. Fun fun!! Everyone looked great!

Now we are getting ready for Autumn's birthday. She turned 9 on Tuesday. WOW!!! This weekend we are having a 70's Disco Slumber Party. We have invited 10 girls in her age group to come out to our disco. With some hard work and a little creativity, we have turned our home into a Disco Hall! I will try really hard to post pictures of her big night really soon...oh and Halloween Pictures too!!!

Well, I think that brings us up to date...I think :/

I am off for the weekend :)

This weekend I am going to a womens conference in Houston with a group of ladies from my church. I have never been to a conference away from home...well not counting Baylor which is for work). I am very excited. I leave in about 1 hour 15 mins!!! Woohoo! Except my Hannah has a double ear infection, which means that Daddy will be dealing with a sick baby and 2 kids who can't seem to get along lately!!! Please be in prayer for him. Be in prayer for me as well. I am needing a fresh encounter with the Lord. Pray that He will reveal himself to me in a special way!! We have several questions out there, waiting for an answer...maybe this weekend He will show me an answer or two??? Only the Lord knows what He has in store for me! I will be home tomorrow evening, just not sure what time! I will try to post all of the wonderful things that happened to me very soon. :)

Happy Birthday Mommy!!!

Today is my mommy's birthday!!


She would have been 63 today!!


She was an amazing lady!


I miss her!!!!!!!


So, I just want to tell my mom....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ONE OF THE MOST AMAZING WOMEN I KNOW!! HARD TO BELIEVE THAT YOU HAVE BEEN GONE FOR 10 MONTHS!! I MISS YOU SO MUCH! I KNOW THAT THERE IS A PARTY GOING ON IN HEAVEN FOR YOU TODAY...WISH I COULD CELEBRATE WITH YOU. YOU TAUGHT ME SO MUCH, I JUST WANT TO THANK YOU FOR ALWAYS BEING THERE FOR ME! FOR ALWAYS GUIDING ME IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION!! I STILL PRAY THAT ONE DAY MY CHILDREN WILL LOVE ME THE WAY THAT I LOVE YOU :)



Happy Birthday Graphic Comments

Struggling!!

Okay...so I need some help...I need prayers!! Lots of prayers!! All my blogging sisters please be in prayer for me and my family. We are struggling! How you ask? Well...

I am not one to talk about this....

Not easy to say....

I know that I need to...

Only for prayers....


So....











We are struggling financially! Oh, I can't believe that I said it!! 2 years ago Trey was fired from a job that provided for us!! We didn't use the money wisely. We bought "fancy cars", spent to much money on things we did not need, and basically blew our money. Growing up we were never taught how important it was to save, budget, and spend wisely. Not that I am blaming my parents or Trey's for that matter! We just were never taught the importance of being good "stewards" of our money and as adults it is really hard to try to change the mind set that we have had all of our life. A little word of advice...start now teaching your kids about money or they will pay for it as adults.

Trey and I are praying for the Lord to show us how we are going to support our family in coming years!! At first I thought I was going to go to Nursing School. Start filling out the papers, got my transcript sent to Blinn, and then started Financial Aide. I was so excited!! I have dreamed of being a nurse for as long as I can remember. My heart is now labor and delivery!! Oh how I wanted to go!! Did you hear that??? How I wanted??? Well, one day I was in a bible study group and I felt the Lord asking me a question..."child, did you ask me if this is what I want of your life?" Oh!! I had not asked him, I had not prayed about it at all!!! I was disappointed in my actions! I asked the Lord to take this desire away from me if it was not what he wanted for me!! So, school is not in my future. I have not had the strong desire since that day!

Trey works at the City of College Station and is a Youth Minister. Those are his 2 jobs. Me? I work as a Preschool Teachers Asst. and at Moms Meals. Those are my 2 jobs. Together we still don't make enough to support our family. I have tried to save money...I am a coupon crazy girl!!! I love clipping coupons and trying to find a bargain. We have cut back in more ways that you can imagine!! And still...short!! We are seeking God's guidance in this. Is there something that we are missing?? Is it time to move on in the Youth Ministry?? Is Trey suppose to be full time Ministry...and if so...where? The church we are at is not in a position to support a full time Minister. Is God calling us away from the area??

There are so many questions to be answered!! Please be in prayer for our family!! We want to be obedient to God. Following Him is our main goal in life...where ever that may be!! We know that we can not continue on this path. We start every month in the hole and that is just not going to work.

As a mommy I worry about Christmas that is coming up!! And Autumn's birthday!! I want so much to allow my kids to participate in other things but just can not find any extra money to do so with. Please help us pray for guidance!! Pray for financial support. Pray for where he would have us go. We need a very clear answer. Will you join us in prayer?

OKAY OKAY!!

I have been hinted by a few friends that it is time for an update...so okay already!!

My life has been so crazy busy that I just have not found the time to blog...okay...maybe I did have the time to blog, but I wanted to watch some of my favorite shows instead or maybe I was to busy trying to keep up with everyone elses blogs that I just didn't blog my self. So, here is an update!!

September came and blew by!! Can you believe that tomorrow is October 1st?? Where did this year go? I don't really know how I have managed this far...all I can say is that my Lord carries me daily!! So, lets talk about September. The month began as me preparing to be a 4 year old Preschool Sub. Teacher!!! Crazy I know. I loved it. I did however find out that you have to organized to get everything done that is planned. I found myself running around in the mornings trying to get things together, preparing my room and trying to get my mind ready for 11 4 year olds. I had done a lot at home the night before and still found myself running in the mornings. Luckily all the planning had been done by the teacher that I was subbing for, because that would have really been a mess if it had been left up to me. I learned a lot in my 4 weeks of teaching.

I learned that 11 4 year olds really are amazing...

that I love leading the classroom...

that I need to better prepare myself for the day ahead...

I am not as organized as I thought I was...

I can have patience even when I am dog tired...

when you allow little hearts to shine they really shine bright...

and...

that sometimes following a schedule is not the best thing for the day!!
(We were never on schedule yet the kids still enjoyed the day and learned!!)



Then there was Messiah's Ranch!! Wow that was so much fun!! We went there with our youth group for our Back to School Retreat. I loved it out there. I would not want to live out that far but it was a great get away!! Peaceful!! I will try to post more on that in my next post. I have pictures to share! We were trying to become UNITED..we did some trusting exercises...fun, fun, fun!!



And yeah...that was September! Besides sick kiddos, my husband having knee surgery..that was pretty much it. Just busy being a mom, teacher, wife, youth group leader, and a friend. That is enough to make anyone tired!!!!



Just a little side note...my moms birthday is coming up on the 10th...say a little prayer for my family that day...already starting to sense what it is going to be like!

AMAZING!!!!

There is a first time for everything!!

Well it was bound to happen soon or later, and I guess I have been pretty lucky so far...but it happened last night!!! I ran over my first animal! :( We were on our way home from taking one of our youth home...it was dark...they live out in the country...I had my brights on...I didn't see it!!! Another car was coming...turned off my brights...and out of nowhere this....dark fuzzy thing darted out from the bushes...and....bam!!!....right smack dab in front of my car!! I was very proud of myself...I didn't panic and swerve out of its way...I just gasped and killed it!!!!!! Trey looked at me and was smiling asking me if I was okay...yes I am okay....what was that??? He said a raccoon. I thought for sure it was a cat! We are a crazy family....we turned around to go check it out!!!!!! Yes you read that right!!! The kids were so excited. They wanted Trey to get out, pick it up, take it home, skin it, and make a coon hat out of it!!! We are so redneck!!!! I kept saying NO, NO NO. They were arguing with me...even Trey was! I am I the only one in this family that has any sense about me??? What is wrong with my husband and kids??? I felt the Beverly Hill Billies...you know Granny, scooping up road kill for road kill stew!!!! WHAT?? No way!!!!! We turned around, and sure enough it was a raccoon!! Big one too! Trey said it was healthy! The kids were all hanging out of the windows, hooping and hollering!!! We turned back around and headed home. And for probably a mile or so they were still arguing with me to turn back around and get it....Help!, my family has gone nuts :}










Oh, I will be posting the Date Night and Rudy's party stuff soon...I just want to share how crazy my family is first!!!!!!

Happy Anniversary

15 years ago today, Trey and I committed our lives to each other under God. I am so thankful to God that he lead us together...we really do make a great team!! 15 years together seems like forever but really it doesn't even feel like 7 years either!! In the past 15 years we have moved 8 times, lived out of state (but only for 7 months because he couldn't stand to be away from Texas or his mom), had 4 children, lost 9 close family members, changed jobs countless times, made some wonderful friends, lost some friends, witnessed countless miracles, loved a lot, and the list could go on and on. We have truly been blessed by the Lord!! I really didn't know how we were going to make it after year 2!! Oh man was it rough!!!! But, with the words from Tim Skaggs..."there is nothing that you can't get through if Christ is the foundation of your relationship." Even though in the begining we were not strong in our faith, we still believed that God had lead us together and that was more important than what was going on in our lives at that time....no matter how much we didn't like each other :) There were times when I told God..."if something doesn't change, I am going to kill him!!!" HaHa! Not really, it just felt like it. Being married at 18, was difficult...but I would do it all again!! My man is AMAZING!! He makes me feel so special and he is the only man that can make me beautiful!! So, I am going to list 15 things about my honey that I love....here goes:

1. His faith in Christ

2. His willingness to serve Christ no matter the cost

3. The love he has for his children

4. His selflessness when it comes to helping others

5. His commitment he has for his family

6. His crooked smile

7. His mullett (really it has not changed in 15 years)

8. His country boy accent

9. How he is ALL REDNECK!!!!

10. The was that he looks at me...especially on Sunday mornings!

11. The way he looks in Wranglers and his cowboy hat....oh dang!!!!

12. How he calls me 4 or 5 times a day! (every break he gets he calls!)

13. How he holds me at night

14. The way he kisses me

15. All the love notes he leaves me in the mornings!! (like he did while we were dating)

That is only a few of the reasons my honey is so special to me!! I can not imagine my life without him! I love him so much :)

Date Night!

This picture was taken at Astroworld in 1994! It was the first time I rode a roller coaster!! We had been married for almost 1 year! Look at us!! FUN, FUN, FUN!!!



HEEELLLPPP!!!!

I am so excited!! Our anniversary is in 3 days and we are having a date night!! Trey has already arranged for the kids to spend the night with his mother, so we are head out to spend some time together. Time together as husband and wife, without all the little people pulling and tugging at us!! The only problem is not knowing what to do or where to go!! We were thinking about going out to eat, but not sure where to go! Then what??? Movie? That does not sound like quality time together. So.......I am seeking help! Where do you suggest we go eat? Then what?? Have you done something with your hubby that was so much fun that you think we should try also?? I think that we have become "dull", it is always the same old thing with us and I want to try something new!!! So ladies....help a sister out!!!!!!

UPDATE!!! Trey and I are on a budget!! We want to have fun, so lets keep the cost as low as possible! We never had a honeymoon and hopefully some day that will happen for us, right now we are just looking for a new "date night" :) THANKS!!

Our Engagement!

Trey and I met in May of 1992. After about 3 months of dating, I asked a very strange question...don't know exactly why I thought I needed an answer to this question right away...it may have been because all the other guys I dated told me this and then it didn't happen...maybe I was trying to find out if he was really different or just like all the others...I DON"T KNOW, okay! I asked him one night if he was going to marry me....ok, ok, ok....I told you I didn't know why I thought I needed to know!! With out hesitation he answered very firmly....YES! What? Are you serious? Really? What? NO? Really? I was officially scared!! All the other guys told me that without me asking, and you can see how that turned out!! He was really like all the others. His nice country boy charm was fake...he was going to break my heart and run away just like all the others!!! WHY??!!! I was devistated and scared all at the same time. I wanted to run inside, lock the door and never come out again...but he would not let me. He grabbed me, looked into my eyes and told me that he knew that we were suppose to be together...he has known for a long time. He said that he knew the first time he saw me. He told all his friends that he was going to marry me someday, they all laughed and said she is way out of your league!! I couldn't tell you the first time that he saw me, I don't know when that was. He said he watched me grow up...huh? (I told you that I married my stalker didn't I????) He told me that it was as if the Lord revealed to him a long time ago. So, some how I guess that calmed me down...not sure how...I think I should have been even more scared :) Anyway, in April on 1993 he proposed. He took me to the Bryan Golf Course. If you know Trey that should not surprise you!!!! There is a long peer over the "lake", we walked to the end of it and sat down on the rails. It was beautiful night...the sky was clear and the stars were like bright shinning diamonds. I can't tell you the words that he said. I think I was very distracted by how amazing he looked that night and how I was actually going to plan a wedding and become this mans wife!!!! I do remember him telling me that we went to my dad and asked for permission first. Yes, he is old fashioned but I love it!!! My dad told him 3 things....1. she is spoiled....he agreed and said that he helps in that as well 2. she is over weight....he said that does not matter to him, he sees me differently 3. ???? I can't remember the third thing??? I think I was so blown away by the first 2 that the 3rd didn't matter. I was not upset by what my dad said (if you knew my father, you wouldn't expect anything else). I was more surprised by Trey's responses!! He wasn't going to let anything my father say change his mind! So, that was it! Engaged at age 18, a Senior in High School!! I was graduating and planning a wedding all at the same time! Whew!

54 words

Speed test

1930's Wife Quiz

82 As a 1930s wife, I am Very Superior Take the test!

Shelly's Senior Year

SADIE HAWKINS '93

i love these picutes!! I met Trey my Junior year of High School. A friend had already asked my to my Junior Prom like a week before I met Trey! He was so angry when I told him that I would not break it off with my friend...so deal!! He followed us around that night...he truly was my stalker!!!! And I married my stalker :) So we dated all of my Senior year and became engaged in April of 1993.

PROM '93

He loved taking me to my Senior Prom!! We were good after the prom and went to the 'school' party. It was at Aerofit...those were fun times!! I remember so much from our dating in High School. He was so sweet. Some days when I got out of school I would find roses, poems or just love letters on the windshield of my car!!! I love that...and sometimes he still does it!!! I also remember one night, he came over and placed a balloon, card and roses on the doorstep...rang the door bell...and RAN!!!! He was always doing things for me like that. He really knew how to win my heart.

Thank you Lord for my husband!!! He is really a wonderful man that I feel blessed to call mine!

Blast From the Past

oh my!!! That seems so long ago!! Look at Trey's face....he has such a baby face!! Do you remember taking pictures in the little booths? This one was taken at Manor East Mall, by the movies....that place doesn't even exist anymore!!! Isn't he cute??!!!

It's Party Time!!

Today was an exhausting day, but at the same time it was so much fun!! I have a ton of photos to share so bear with me!! Here we go:

This was first thing in the morning. When you ask Hannah how old she is...this is here response! I am such a proud mommy! She is so smart

Here is my cake!!! I love it! I am not a professional but I think it turned out really cute...thank you to my special friend for coming over to help with the cupcakes and leaving all her tips and stuff for me to decorate my cake with it :) Here are a couple of more pictures fo the cake and cupcakes!!!

I love birthday parties!! Decoration is one of my favorite things...so here are some of my decorations!!

This is Hannah's garden! It was a ladybug garden theme. I created a little garden with easter grass and some flowers made from construction paper!! We also had a bubble machine going...which the kids loved!!... and I had a CD playing of birds singing to try and give you the outside feeling without actually being outside melting!!

Hannah had so much fun! Even thought she had no idea that the day was all about her, she was totally loving it! I had a wonderful friend read the "Grouchy Ladybug" to all the kids. It was so sweet! All the kids gathered around to hear the story and Hannah sat in the middle of all the kids watching, listening, and entertaining everyone as well. Then it was time for presents. You would have thought that she had done this before. She dove right in, pulling out tissue paper and emptying the bags. Precious little girl!! After all the present fun was over, it was time to sing Happy Birthday and watch her devour her cupcake. Now, I am not a mom who freaks out over the thought of my baby having sugar. As a matter of fact, I had been warming her up to it so that she would grab it and yummy it up! She didn't really want to touch it...you know...seeing how it was so pretty!! But once she found out what exactly it was, there was no stopping her from eating the entire cupcake and cookie too I might add!! Thats my girl!!!

I love these pictures! Hannah is so much fun!!

You know clean up is a lot of fun too!!

I think we had an amazing day!! I lot of hard work and a lot of love went into my babies first birthday!! She is such a blessing in my life!

Children are gift from the Lord. They are a reward from Him!!"

I truly believe that scripture!!! I believe that each of my children are a gift. A precious, priceless gift! Thank you Lord for this amazing little girl that you trusted my in raising! I pray that you would wrap her in Your arms and keep her in you love at all times. Protect her and guide her in the direction that you would have to her to go. May I be the best mom that I can to her. I pray that you would guide me in teaching her your ways and that your love would pour out of me onto her!! Thank you again Sweet Jesus for all that you have blessed me with!!!-Amen

Well, that is one down and 2 more to go!!! The planning for Rudy's party has begun...stay tunned for the exciting Seven!!!!!!

WHEW!!!!

Happy Birthday Hannah

I have been having problems with my internet connection...whew...it is fixed!!

Okay...today was my little baby's birthday! Hannah turned one today!!! What a true blessing she has been. Just another ray of sunshine in my life :) This Saturday we are having a party, so I will be posting pictures and fun stuff from the party!! Stay tunned!!!

August is Amazing!!

This whole month is going to be amazing!! We will be celebrating Hannah's First Birthday, Rudy's 7th Birthday and our 15th Wedding Anniversary...Whew!! I will be posting a lot of gushy, mushy, love posts this month. I feel very blessed by God is so many different ways and I want to share!!! So, keep watching...funny pictures coming...you know the blackmail kind from your past! Well, I have some and I am going to be sharing!!!!! You hear new songs as well, they are all my songs to my honey!! (except the last one...its a Happy Birthday song to Hannah and Rudy)...................................

SO BIG!!

"LOOK AT ME! I CAN STAND ALL BY MYSELF!"

Hannah is so proud...she is learning to stand all by herself and is starting to take 1 step! woohoo! She is so cute! When she pulls up, she looks at you, smiles, lets go and gets this look about her that says...."look at me! Do you see what I am doing?" Fun, Fun, Fun!!! She is getting so big. Her birthday is next week. Can it be true? My baby is turning 1! It has been a whirl wind of a year but a major blessing all the same :)

Drugs??

Ok...just a little funny from an 8 year old!!

We are driving down 29th Street, we pass Bryan High, and she is just soaking in all the scenery.


Then it happen!! The funny!!!


I hear from the back seat:

"Mommy?"

"Autumn?" (that is how I have started to answer her...do you know how many times I have heard my name said that way since summer vacation began???? UUGGHH!)


"Appletree's sign says DRUGS! Why are they selling drugs???"

insert me laughing!

"Autumn, they sell drugs that the doctors says is okay to take not bad drugs!" me still laughing!!


Thank you Lord for her!! She is so funny sometimes and I needed that reminder!!


Ok, this all came from Trey's work...the drug thingy. He did a major booboo at work on Monday...took out some power lines, snapped a power pole, and knocked out a whole power grid. Well, he called me to say that he was okay but they were taking him to get a drug test. Autumn heard this conversation and was alarmed!!!


"Why do they think daddy does drugs? My daddy doesn't do drugs!!!"

I explain to her that it was a rule any time there was an accident at work. She said ok, but I don't think she was truly convinced! I believe that she thinks the people that her daddy works with thinks he does drugs....oh to be 8!!

SAVE THE DATE!!!

You know it's bad....

Ok, all you couponing women out there...this is for you!!

You know your couponing is bad when...

1. You take your coupon book with you on vacation (this is from Trey...yes I took my coupon book with me on vacation, and no he did not let me use it!!!!!)




2. While on your vacation you demand that you go to the local convenient (sp?) store to purchase the local Sunday paper to see if there are any good coupons in it!!




3. While traveling down a busy highway you hear your daughter yell from the back seat...."Hey mom, there is a CVS!!" Yes, it did happen!!





4. Your son asks if he can watch the "Houston Chronicles" instead of the "Spiderwick Chronicles"!!




AND...



5. Your kids whine because you won't go straight home after church because it is coupon day and you have to find a place to buy the paper first!!!!!!




If you have any other funnies, feel free to share :)

Cute bag give away!!

You have to the website below and check out this adorable bag!! And she is giving it away!!

http://melissaroddey.blogspot.com/2008/06/did-someone-say-party.html

Go...enter...and maybe you will win :)

I am a SURVIOR!!

Praise the Lord! All glory and honor to Him!! I survived Youth Camp :) We left on Monday the 23rd and returned on Friday the 27th. It was a long week but a great one at that! We truly have an amazing group. There were a lot of conflicts with the church group that shared our cabin but our girls really allowed Christ to shine through them. I am so proud of all our kids!! We received so many compliments on our kids...they were polite, good sportsmanship, and Christ like!! woohoo!! I am so glad to be home! I missed my kids! We are trying to recover and when we do I will post more on our awesome week at Pineywoods Baptisit Encampment expierences!! For now, here is a picture of our whole group on the last day!!!

She is ENTERED!!!

Ok all you guys and gals....it is time to vote for my baby to win the ultimate grand prize!!! If you have not already done so...please go to the website listed below and cast your vote. We are trying to win a chance at the Cover of Parenting Magazine!!!!!!!!!!!!


http://www.parents.com/app/sharemy/photoDetails.jsp?photoId=213900439

And the Winner IS??

You voted...








and the votes were tallied....(no hanging chads reported)......





AND THE WINNER IS.....(drum roll please)

Baby licks flower!!!!!!!!!

I will be sure to add this to the upload of pictures for the contest!! I can load up to 6 photos. Wish us luck!!!

I can see her face on the cover of a magazine....can't you???

Our little Love Bug!!!

I LOVE THIS PICTURE!! A friend of mine came down to visit the other day and we decided to take some pictures of Hannah. I bought a lady bug costume when I was pregnant...not sure if it was going to fit since she is growing so fast. I put it on and she was just about to bust out through the feet!! I got her all dressed and headed outside...yep outside!! It was hot and she was in a Halloween costume BUT she did not even whimper!!! She is awesome. We placed her in the garden and when it was all over, my friend had taken about 65 pictures. I love them all!! I decided to post a few of my favorites.....ENJOY OUR LITTLE LOVE BUG!!!

So, let me know what you think...I am thinking about entering her in a photo contest...do you have a favorite?? Let the comments flow!!!!!

Dinner Prayer

Rudy desperately want to bless the food tonight at dinner, which his daddy usually does. So we let him. It was precious!!! Here is Rudy's prayer:

"Dear Lord, Thank you for the sun, moon and stars and all that you made for us. In Jesus name, Amen."

He looks up...all our heads are still bowed...

"Oh yea, thanks for the food that my mom and dad made for us....Amen"

Too, cute!!! But wait...daddy didn't make that meal...I did!! I guess he gets credit for setting the plates on the table :)

OH How I LOVE THAT BOY!!!

What is wrong with this picture???

Look closely at this picture!!! What is wrong with???

Crazy kiddos!!!

I took out pots, pans and a spoon for Hannah to play with while I was cooking dinner. When I turned around I notice that Hannah was not banging on the pots and pans but I could still hear the noise of it. What?? Are you kidding me?? My 8 and 6 year old were playing with them instead....I guess somethings you never out grow :)

The Coolest Tree EVER!!!

I was driving down the street in my neighborhood today and found the coolest tree ever!! It must have been a new hybrid tree...I have never seen one before. I can't say exactly where I saw it, it must remain TOP SECRET!! I don't want all my friends trying to steal my fortune!! You will never guess what grows on that tree....not fruit...not veggies...not nuts...you will never guess.............................

Yep...it was a coupon tree!! And my dad always told me that money did not grow on trees!!! Woohoo!! Have you ever seen a tree like this one before!! I really is the coolest tree ever!!

Thanks coupon fairy tree maker!!! YOU ROCK!!! Let me know when the new blossoms bloom...I want to be there for the first harvest :P

I am a FANATIC!!!

Ok...like most I have never been a coupon clipper. Didn't see any need for it...all the coupons that I saw was for other brands...not the ones I was use to using. I always just threw away the coupons and sale adds. I wanted to save money, I just didn't think that was going to be the way to do it. BUT now...

I AM A BELIEVER!!!

I have been collecting and sorting coupons for about a month now. My friend shared her strategies with me, how to organize, and how to really combined to save. And what a blessing it has been. I have started a little stock pile. I say little because I know some of you have a LARGE stock pile going on.

A lady in Krogers the other day questioned me about my notebook. When I started to tell her about what I was taught, she became excited. She was worried about the time that it took to get the notebook organized after all the clipping and searching for coupons. I told her this was my part time job. My husband is the major bread winner in our family so that I can stay home with the children. I feel as though I am contributing to our financial situation now. I do work parttime at CBC, but we are out for the summer and I was concerned on how we were going to make it through the summer months without my income...and now....no worries!!! I prayed that God would send some help...whatever form of help that would be. I am thankful for Him showing me that he has given us all that we need...I just need to be more frugal. I needed to be more aware of what I was spending and where. I believe that he sent me the help that I needed through friends who are trying to be good stewards of what the Lord gave to them. All the glory goes to God!!!

I am sure some of you are wondering...just how much you can save with coupons??? Let me tell you, some days are great saving days and some are not. My best shopping trips are at Krogers. The first time I really used what I had learned my saving were amazing !!!

Before sales and coupons

Total $299.00

After sales and coupons

Total $182.00

Savings $117.00 Almost 50% of my bill!!!! WooHoo!!!!!!

The other day my budget was limited...should I say very limited!!!! I only needed a few things to get to payday, but I wanted to try out a new plan!! I walked out of Krogers with 26 items and paid $26.00!! It was a savings of 55%!!! I had toothpaste, makeup, shampoo, conditioner, milk, cheese, lunch meat, deodorant, and other stuff as well!!! UNBELIEVABLE!! I am so happy!! But I have to tell you that it takes some serious time. I spend a lot of time clipping and organizing coupons from the newspaper. I spend a lot of time on the computer searching for deals. There are a lot of websites out there that will help lead you in the right direction. I am going to post some of the links soon!!

With the price on living constantly on the rise, especially gas prices, we all need to find ways to be more frugal. Be aware of what God has given you...He always supplies just what you need...then it is up to you on what you do with it!!!!!!

Thank you all for your help and thank you Lord for providing for your children :)

HOLLYWOOD!!

Oh, how I love this child!! We were at her sister's softball game, it was sunny, she was restless in the stroller, need entertainment...so I put my sunglasses on her. She loved it!! I took several pictures, this is one of my favorites. We call her "Hollywood" when she wears sunglasses...not sure where the expression came from but we think its cute. (No, we don't want her to join Hollywood one day...it's just an expression.) Just wanted to share this with everyone. She is growing so fast, sometimes I am afraid that I am going to miss something.

Mommy's Day

Mommy's Day...what is mommy's day anway?? It is a day that is set apart for familys to treat their mommy's like queens...right? Shouldn't we be treated that way every day??

Today was not a great day for me. I had no mommy to shower. No mommy to call. No mommy to hug. No mommy to say I love you to. I didn't even want to celebrate. Nothing special for me please. Just wanted to enjoy my family. After church we went to Trey's moms and gave her the presents we had for her. That was it. One trip. No where else to go. I didn't want to stay home either. Technically it was my day and I knew if I stayed home I would have to do some kind of cleaning...nope...we decided to run around instead. Not that, that was a good idea either...gas prices are too high just to be running around town. We went to the mall. Bath and Body was having this great sale on Anit-bacterial hand soap, so I picked some up for a friend and some more for me. We got the kids some new shoes, bought a part for the lawn mower, looked at the puppies, and yeah, that is about it. Left the mall, went to have dinner...my favorite...Johnny Carinos...LOVE IT!!! Then to blockbuster...rented PS I love you...then to CVS...wanted to cash is on some deals and earn some ECB's. Then home.

Yep that was my day.

Nothing exciting or special.

I don't feel like celebrating.

I miss my mommy!!!

So, Mommy in Heaven..............................

Happy Mother's Day! I wish you were here to hug. I love you vey much. I want to say thank you for all the wonderful things that you did in my life. I hope that I can be all that you were to me, to my children. You were amazing to me and I will try to live my life in a way that will make you proud. I know that you are having the greatest time in Heaven and knowing that you are there does bring my heart some peace. One day when I join you, we will hug again....until then...I love you!!!!





Happy Mother's Day to all my mommy friends!!

One Year Ago Today

One year ago today, I said good-bye to one of the greatest men I have ever known. I watched for 5 months as he wasted away to practically nothing. Begging daily for us to let him get up. Even so much as asking for a beer and cigarette (he had not smoked or drank beer in over 15 years). I watched as he lost the ability to do anything for himself...and I mean anything!!! He relied on mom and I for everything. We take for granted everyday all the simple things in life that we are able to do for our self....like getting a drink of water. I still hear him at night....water....I need water. The last days of his life was so hard. You know he is leaving. You know your time is limited. What do you say?? Do you talk about it?? Do you ask questions that you have had for years?? He made it clear that he loved me...I made it clear to him that it was ok for him to leave us here. He made it clear to Trey that he wanted Trey to take care of mom and I....Trey made it clear that he would do so lovingly. My dad was one of the strongest men that I know. He was 85 and up until a year and a half before he died he was still mowing the yard, fixing things, and was still able to do somethings that some 58 year old I know think they can't. Watching my dad pass from this life, into the next life was both horrible and wonderful. Knowing that he was meeting Jesus, being able to get out of the bed and walk, knowing that he was no longer in pain was a great feeling. BUT, on the other hand....knowing that I would not see him for a very long time, knowing I would not hear his voice again, knowing that he would not be able to see his new grandchild was almost unbearable. Would I have wanted to be anywhere else a year ago?? NO WAY!! My father took care of me from the time that I was born to the time that he died....And I was going to be there to take care of him...even if that meant that I would be taken away from my husband and children. I believe that God intended for us to take care of our parents. Some say that they would not be able to handle that, and yes I had family members said that they couldn't...I say " I can do ALL things in Christ, for which he gives me STRENGTH" Philippians 4:13 I miss my dad. It is hard to believe that it has been one year today....time flies...take advantage to the time that you have with your loved ones...stop...enjoy them....experience all that they have to offer, because one day they won't be here and you will wish you had!!!!

Drowning!!

I feel like I am drowning in a sea of dirty laundry, dirty dishes, a dirty house, softball, baseball, graduation invitations, work, youth group stuff, and sick kiddos!!!! Calgon....take me away!!!! I feel as though I will never catch up, and never be able to fully rest. Will the madness ever end?? HHHHHHHHEEEEEEELLLLLLLLPPPPPPPPP!!!!!!

Mattew 28:18-20

"Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age'"

I am so amazed at my daughter. Her love for Christ is so evident in her actions. I am praising the Lord for her daily :) One of my earlier posts showed how she was without fear to read her bible in school. I saw in her book bag today that she is taking her bible to school daily. I wasn't sure how long it would all last, but apparently it is lasting longer than I thought it would. She loves her God and is not afraid to tell the nations about it. Trey and I often wonder if God will call her the mission field one day. She is just so not afraid to tell the whole world what a wonderful God she serves and all that he has done for her. Her heart is overflowing with the love of Christ and it is pouring out on all she meets. On the second practice for softball this year she very blantently asked her coach if he believed in the Lord Jesus as his Savior!!! What courage she has...I don't think that I was ever able to do that. Her teacher was so shocked when she started inviting her sons to the youth group and all the activities that we had going on. I talked to her teacher one day and she said it was sweet of Autumn to want her boys to join in the activities. I told her that she was not worried about whether or not they had friends but she was more worried about their salvation. Shocked was the response that I recieved. I don't think that Autumn realizes that the bible states 366 times "Do not fear..." , because she has already mastered the fear factor. Tonight she displayed that again. We were at blockbuster returning some movies and getting some new ones. I was a little displeased with the releases that came out this week....golden compass being one of them. I was talking the the lady that was working about and I told her that we would never be renting that movie...ever!! She looked at me and agreed. I told her it was a spiritual thing for me...again she agreed. This lady was so sweet and very genuine. When we got in the car and started talking about it, Trey mentioned that we should have invited her to church. I said maybe you should take her a flyer (it was one that we were passing out to neighborhood about upcoming events at our church). Trey looked at me like....me?? Then we heard Autumn from the backseat....I will take it!!! She grabbed the flyer, went inside and told the lady that we had some things at our church coming up and that we would like for her come!!! The lady was also shocked. Autumn said her response was..."Who, me...ok." I am so proud of Autumn, she is just so willing to get out there and love people and spread the Good News!!! Please join me in praying for my little girl as the Lord grows her for His kingdom...pray that she will never lose that passion for Christ!!!

Baby Got.....BOOK!!!!

I saw this video at a friends house, it is so funny. It is really hard to sing if you know the orginal song that it comes from. We have heard it so much that even my kids know the words...umm...the words to the revised version...you know, the clean version. Some of you may have seen this before but I hope you enjoy it anyway. LOVE IT!!!

A Very Proud Mommy!!

Oh, I think that I am the proudest mommy ever!! Monday night my oldest, Autumn, asked if she could take her bible to school. I was a little taken back by this question...why would she ask that? I told her that she could take her bible anywhere she wanted. Why are you asking...did you think that you were not allowed? "No, I was just afraid that I would get into trouble." Trouble??? Is that where we are at...a second grader afraid to take her bible to school?? Oh my!! I told her..."Autumn, this is the best and greatest History book of all time and if you want to take your bible to school, you should not be afraid." I mean, isn't that one of the most important lessons of the bible..."Do not fear!!" I told her that she could only take it out when she had free reading time and that if anyone said anything to her, to have them call me. So, on Wednesday she packed her bible and took it to school with pride. I was so amazed at her!! After school I asked her how it went. She was so excited..."everyone wanted to look at it with me!!'" Praise the Lord!!! My second grader is sharing the good news without fear!!!!

She packed her bible again today with more enthuseausim then I have every seen. Upon picking her up from school, I noticed that she had the biggest smile on her face. Again, excitement for the Lord was pouring out of her!! She jumped in the car and said..." A friend brought his bible to school to also!! And tomorrow another friend and I are going to read our bibles together!!" Hallejulha!! Thank you Lord!!

I think we are starting a bible reading epidemic in SECOND GRADE!! I wish we were all as excited as my baby girl to share the good news of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!! I ask that you all join me in praying that some way this will bless not only the students that are bringing Gods word into the school but all the others watching as these fearless kids try to make a statement for Christ :)

Daddy's Hands

I love this song!!! I have always thought of my dad when I heard this song and now that he is gone, it really reminds me of him. My dad was never really "tough" with me, seeing how I was his baby :) He did work hard for his family and made sacrifices so that we could all do our extra stuff. He lived a long life, and a full one at that!! I remember sitting beside his bed, holding his hand, and trying to burn an image of his hands in my memory so that I would never forget the hands that taught me to read, throw a softball, and ride a bike. I never want to forget the hands that taught me how to write my name, how to use the lawn mower, how to swim, how to change a tire, how to drive, and how to love. I never want to forget!! This song helps me to remember all that he did for me. I love my Daddy and miss him terribly.....

Here's to you Daddy!!!!!

Let the games BEGIN!!!

Well, baseball started Saturday! We spent all morning at the fields taking pictures, opening ceremonies, and then Rudy's first game!! I love this time of year even though it is crazy and gas prices are so high!!

I have to admit...I am a little nervous. Last year Rudy was playing T-ball. We did sign him up for T-ball again because of his age, but because of his size we let him try out for the Junior Minor Teams. Well, he was drafted!!! My little man is now in the big leagues (so to say)!! He is the same size as most of the little guys on his team but he is not on the same playing level as they are. SCAREY!!!



During his scrimmage the other day the coach put him on the pitchers mound. Hey...don't you know that is a dangerous place to play...how can you put my little man there...he is going to get hurt...what was that coach thinking....whew...he did good and no line drives coming at his face!!! woohoo




So the season started Saturday. Rudy played left field. He did good. Stopped one and one got bye...but all in all he did great. He got to bat 3 times... 1st time...struck out 2nd time....struck out 3rd time...he got a hit
GO RUDY!! Mommy got so excited...now it wasn't some spectacular drive...but to me I was the proudest mommy there!! So he made it to first base...then second base...he was so excited and seemed to be having a great time. And our team did win the opening game...Go RIVERCATS!!