Labor of Love

Today I think we should ask ourselves how far would you go to show someone you loved them? To show the Love of God? Lately I have found myself in situations where my flesh would like to run the other way, but that 'still small voice' nudges me to go a little farther. Our pastor just preached an extremely heartfelt message along these lines. With tears he said, "You've been hurt before. You've been burned, so you just stop trying. NO, NO, NO!! Hell is real. Think about that." Yeah.....

Yesterday I was privileged to work with a lost family for 7 hrs, 42 mins just for the cause of Christ. And let me just say it wasn't something my flesh enjoyed....but my spirit felt great! I have high hopes for this whole family! I want to see them saved. They are no relation of mine, just lost souls in my path. The grandmother said she would never step foot in a church again b/c of past experiences. I said, "Granny, one day you'll be sitting on one of those pews at the church and of that I have no doubt." She grinned while she shook her head vehemently. As I grinned back I told her, "We'll see."

One of my all time favorite people in history, Abe Lincoln said: "When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. And that's my religion."

I'm on a mission, aren't you?

John 13:35 By this shall all {men} know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

I GOT FLOWERS!!

I got flowers!! I couldn't believe it! The afternoon after I posted about my hubby, what'd'ya know..........roses!!

However, strangely enough they were not from my husband. Nor from my boys. Only one other main man in my life....yep, you guessed it-my Dad. Picked & delivered with love.

Thanks again Dad, for that wonderful lesson on "passing out flowers while we're living." (BTW-loved the DP vase, LOL!)

Life's Blessings II

In past posts, I have made tribute to my children Alex, Randy, and Sydni. Today I would like to applaud my hubby, Scott.



For 14 years now I have been blessed to be your wife. That is a really long time to put up with somebody like me, HaHa! I decided to list some of the reasons why I love you:



1. You are the most decent honorable man I have ever known and you make me whole.



2. You think I'm beautiful.



3. You taught yourself to play piano when you were 9 years old.



4. Your voice-it's amazing. When you start singing all the girls at church stop what they're doing and stare at you in awe, ROFL! But I'm still your biggest fan.



5. You gave me three incredible children.



6. You have worked hard to provide for your family.



7. You can play guitar.



8. You can also play the drums.



9. You like adventure! Whether it's riding every ride @ Carowinds or going camping/hiking for a whole week you're always up for it!



10. You have driven ole 'Bessie' these 10 years and never complained. I think you actually like the car/her. Now our third vehicle your Dodge that really, really, really needs a paint job and I've begged you to do it......Nope! Doesn't bother you in the least to drive it. "It runs great and that's all that matters for now." And thats the end of it.



11. You're really CUTE!!



12. You like to TRAVEL and I love it!



13. You love me so much you can't stand the thought I might be upset with you. "Let's talk it out and fix it. Right now." When sometimes I just want to stay mad, LOL!



14. Okay, I'll make this the last one. One for every year of our marriage. You have loved me and our children all these years, but more importantly you have loved God and done everything within your power to serve Him. Even when the cost was great.

And now I look forward to our future together! Bring it on, Babe!! Oh and by the way....I better get flowers for this! LAUGH OUT LOUD, caus' I know I am!!

Like Father, Like Daughter

Just a few weeks ago I was talking to a friend about my Dad and how he loved PEACE. Like as in the only time I ever remember him getting riled when us girls were little was if we were fighting. And the time I got into a fight at school with a girl who was a bully, he drove me to her house that night to make PEACE. He and my mom talked with her mom while I talked with bully(under direct supervision). What was so hilarious is that we actually did make up and became friends again. Wow, it worked!

A couple of weeks ago at work this girl & I had a MAJOR misunderstanding that led to some MAJOR frustrations. In the end both of us were pretty agitated. So when I confronted her about it (in a nice way)she got angry and started yelling. Whoa!! No, no. Even as a Christian I feel I handled the situation the best way I could but I'll admit I got defensive when she started yelling at me. And the MD just so happened to be in his office and heard the whole thing. So eventually he ends up going back to her office and telling her to stop talking about me. He didn't think she was being fair to me and she should apologize. Whoa!! Twas a long afternoon. But before she left no apologies were made from either of us. The only good thing about that Friday was that we all knew the MD was going away the next week for a conference and we would have the week off.

By Tuesday of the following week I felt like things needed to be dealt with. I tried my best to analyze the situation to see exactly what I did to make her so mad. I prayed the Lord would show me what I did wrong so I could make my part right. Anyway, Tuesday morning I decided to call her. No answer. No surprise there. In the past she had invited me to come to her house and she lives right down the street from my sister, so I decided I would drop in on her to try to make PEACE. Sound familiar?! I really wasn't feeling angry anymore, just very confused at what really happened to get us to that place.

So I pull up in her driveway and walk to the front door. Her teenage daughter opens it before I have a chance to knock. She is smiling at me. Good sign. "Come on in," she said. I walked in and hubby is sitting on couch and looks at me with a scowl and said in a monotone voice, "Have a seat." Not a good sign. Oh well, I was on a mission and I intended to complete it. "Where's (NAME)?" "She's in the back, she'll be out in a minute," hubby answered. Then (NAME)starts walking down the hallway towards me & says, "Girl, we just got back from camping and I look a mess." She's talking and not yelling, another good sign. I don't know what prompted this unusual response from me, I mean I didn't really plan anything. I just prayed-all the way, LOL! So I walked right up to her, leaned in real close and said, "I don't know if you knew this, but I am a blackbelt in karate and if you want too we can take this outside and finish it." Laughter-from both of us. Another good sign.

So we go out on the back deck and finish it. I told her I was sorry if I hurt her in anyway, that I certainly never meant too. She said it was her and she gets real irrational sometimes and just says things she shouldn't. We talked for awhile and she apologized. Wow, it worked! Talk about Deja vu!

So, thanks Dad for the real life lessons on PEACE. I'd have to say you've been a real example in that!!!

Matt 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Which Road Are You On?

Last pm in church the preacher made the statement, "You are on one of two roads, you're either on your way to heaven or on your way to hell." Well Sydni looked at me and asked, "Am I going to heaven?" I smiled at the question and told her, "If you are a Christian and have Jesus in your heart you will. Do you have Jesus in your heart?" Matter of factly she told me, "Yes, but I haven't been dunked under the water." Immediately realizing she was talking about being baptised (fighting the urge to giggle at her description) I told her the Church is planning on baptising our new converts this Sunday if she wanted to as well she could. "Ok, just bring me some clothes and a towel." And the whole time I wondered if my children ever got anything out of service. Now I know, LOL! I am so thankful!! Both my boys have been baptised and now my little girl wants to be as well. So, Lord willing this Sunday our pastor and her Daddy will 'dunk her under the water.'

And as always, God is good and I am blessed..........

I'm in the Mood for ________

You guys remember that old song? I'll let you fill in your own blank. But here I go and nobody try to stop me.

I'm in the mood for "blogging." Simply because I really enjoy it and I have some free time since Kel took 2 of the kids to stay the night and the other is w/a friend. So it's really quiet at my house which is extremely abnormal even at this time of night. During the summer my hubby allows the kids to stay up later than usual if we have nothing pressing to do early the next am. So they enjoy staying up when they can. Next week their 3 boy cousins are coming in from TN so they can begin building a treehouse together @ my parents. Needless to say they are all very excited. I am feeling quite excited about it myself.

My family and I were gone the weekend to Kentucky for the Whitehead Reunion. It was a whole lot of fun. Scott's dad has 13 brothers and sisters so it was quite the turn out. It's really neat to see family you haven't gotten to see in awhile. It was great seeing Scott's brother and his family. Becca spent alot of time with us and we had a blast! I have a tendency to act rather silly around my niece and nephews. They are all growing up so fast.

On the way to Kentucky the interstate was lined with beautiful purple wildflowers. Well, I (being a bit conniving)mentioned how special it would make a girl feel for her man to stop the vehicle, get out and pick her some. ROFL! His response, "Yeah," with a grin. And of course I grinned back. Well, Becca is 15 now and she is starting to date and so Uncle Scott and I were giving her some tips. Or maybe you could call them "Rules." For example when the subject came up about a girl chasing after a guy I let Becca know real quick Rule#14 Girls don't chase guys. Guys have to chase the girl.

Then of course Uncle Scott informed Becca he wanted the guys cell #, he wanted to have a talk with him.

Anyway, on the way home after a great weekend we're driving back on interstate and I notice those beautiful wildflowers again. And of course I want some. I mean how much plainer does a girl have to get?! So after a few minutes of silence and the sure realization that if I really want any of those flowers I'll have to get them myself I holler, "Stop the car!" Of course this gets hubbys attention and he's wondering what in the world is wrong. "Stop the car!" I yell again. I just had a feeling if he knew what I was up too.......well you get my point. After 14 years you just don't get flowers anymore. (I do have to inject here for health reasons if nothing else, my hubby did plan a very wonderful birthday get away for me last month in which he was extremely thoughtful). So he stops the van. All is quiet. I smile at him, open the door and proceed to pick every purple flower within my reach. I was in such bliss! No kidding, I loved it! It didn't even matter anymore that I was the one picking them. It was a beautiful day and I was feeling so blessed as one of God's children that all my heart was rejoicing in that beauty. After I have a good size bouquet gathered I decided to return to the 'real world' and get back in the van. When I opened the door I saw the most gorgeous wildflower bouquet in my seat. Their beauty far exceeded my handful. I was so busy with my own I never even knew Scott had picked me any. I loved them! A beautiful day with my soul feeling so blessed for so many reasons! It was perfect! Just perfect.........until just a few miles down the road my Romeo's allergies started acting up and he felt like 'things' were crawling all over him.

So for all you single girls out there (you too Becca) before your Romeo picks you a bouquet of wildflowers which is a must (Rule #8 Must do flowers-esp wild ones)make sure he's not allergic.

Who Could Ask for More?

The birthday trip was great! Scott took me to the Marriott in South Park, Charlotte. It was really nice. Dinner was at an Italian Restaurant called Maggiano's where we ate Lobster and Tiramisu. It was wonderful! I woke up @ 1:30 and wondered where Scott was until I finally found him in the King sized bed. The next day was spent shopping. Believe it or not the shopping wasn't all that thrilling for me. Normally I love it, but there were just so many things to catch the eye and make you want it even though they weren't necessities. Store after store with highly priced merchandise. We were finally saved when we found a bookstore. We spent a couple of hours there, LOL! Then we went for ice cream and headed home. A couple of days spent with the man I love....who could ask for more?

It's All Good

Well another day. Another year. It's all good. Except I'm not exactly packed and ready to go on our little trip. Perhaps I should get at it. Maybe just a few more minutes........

So yesterday a little girl at the babysitter's (better known as Nonnie) slapped Syd in the face. When Sydni told me the story she said, "And I accidently slapped her back. In the face. Hard." Supposedly this little girl who is several years older had jaw pain the rest of the day. No fun dealing with that one. Of course I told her you can't 'accidently' hit someone. And it's never okay to hit, even if they hit you first. So her Dad and I discussed it and dealt with the situation. Many times I find myself so thankful to have a husband to turn too in times like these. Speaking of my husband I think I'll go get packed now, LOL................

Nice Mommy

Yep.....tomorrow's the big day! My B-day! Yeh! Well, we all know it's no fun getting 'older' (although of course better than the alternative right)but I am looking forward to the little surprise trip my hubby planned for the two of us! Not my idea-all his. What can I say? He's learning, HaHaHeHe! After 14 years of marriage I would say it's about time, wouldn't you? *wink*

My kiddos are enjoying the summer.......of course! Well, except for the mandatory one hour 'quiet time' each day. There are two things that seem to be a struggle for all three of my children. 1) Being quiet & 2) being still.

All three kids love to sing which they do so very frequently and did I mention LOUDLY at home?

Then you should see us at story time before bed. Three cute cuddly WIGGLE WORMS all on one couch. Now that makes for an adventure........

Well I really must get going. I think I'll end this post by letting everyone know I gave the BB guns back to the rightful owners. Nice Mommy. Very nice Mommy.

Too, Too Busy

That's me. My family has a lot of things going on right now. We've been out of town a couple of times since my last post. And then (honestly and truthfully), as much as I have missed blogging I just haven't had the time. Not an excuse, just simply the truth.

I believe life has many phases. I have passed through that stage of life when my children were babies and toddlers. I miss that. Babies bring such joy! But as a new chapter unfolds in my life I find myself trying harder than ever to enjoy my children because I have learned that 'life is as a vapor, that appeareth for a little time and then vanishes.' It is my heartfelt desire to teach my children to wholly follow the Lord in life. After all in the end that is all that will matter.

May God bless you and yours today!

"He Knows My Name"
by the McRaes

I
He counts the stars one and all
He knows how much sand is on the shores
He sees every sparrow that falls
He made the mountains and the seas
He's in control of everything
Of all creatures great and small

Chorus
And He knows my name
Every step that I take
Every move that I make
Every tear that I cry
He knows my name
When I'm overwhelmed by the pain
And I can't see the light of day
I know I'll be just fine
'Cause He knows my name

II
I don't know what tomorrow will bring
I can't tell you what's in store
I don't know a lot of things
I don't have all the answers
To the questions of life
But I know in whom I have believed

He knew who I was when He carried the cross
He knew that I would fail Him, but He took the loss

I am moved every time I hear this song. He knows me, and He loves me anyway...........

Total Obsessions

Okay, I admit it. I am totally obsessed. With a song. It is sang by two Sisters and I am lovin' it. I play it all the time at home on my computer. I just downloaded it to iTunes for .99 cents (free advertising there) and I play it over and over. Repeatedly. But I have to say if I'm obsessed with something at least its a gospel song, ROFL!!!

So just to let you gals from church know-this song is a song for Kelly and me. When I ask her if she knew the song she said, "Dawn that is my most favorite song in the whole world right now." So there you go. Providence. So I told her you get Verse #1, I'll take Verse #2. Not taking "No" for an answer. Kelly is an awesome singer....I just have to make her, Ha. Now we're just arguing over who gets the harmony part in the chorus, LOL!

On a serious note-the song is an awe inspiring, deep down and personal kind of song. If you get the chance really listen to the words. And if you get the chance come hear it live.............either the McRae sisters or the Johnson sisters-your choice, LOL! (Everybody knows I'm kidding Kelly and yes you still have to sing it with me)

Another Obsession

This ones for my hubby(I couldn't resist). He (Scott/hubby/honey or whatever)has this thing about "freckles." He really likes them. Every year when the sun starts to shine after a long winter they'll start 'popping' out on me(especially on my nose)and he'll grab me and stare at them. "I just love your freckles" he says. Every year. Same true story. Thats what good things are made of. A very silly girl with freckles on her nose and a man that could love them.

Oh yeah, life is good...........God is good..........

Breakfast for Supper

Good Morning! Well it was! Up at 6:15 this am just so I would have time to make blueberry pancakes and get everybody off on time. All the hard stuff was done: Picking out what to wear, which is no big deal for the boys. Nice shirt, jeans, good tennis shoes. Would you believe my crazy boys have actually tried to pull a fast one on me and wear their play shoes to school? Yuck & no way! I don't care that they are more comfortable, they are dirty & disgusting. Probably a bit stinky too, hehe (I know you Moms know what I'm talking about). That is why they are play shoes. You play in them and its okay if they get dirty. No biggie. But you don't wear them to school. Right, right. *grin*

Now what to wear for Sydni. The choices, the choices. We have to match the shoes with the outfit, not too mention the socks and hairbows. Geshhh. And then of course she has to "be able to run" in whatever shes wearing. Can't let those boys outrun her now can we?

So, anyway I had everything ready to go this am and I'm making the pancakes when I notice this little heart shaped pancake mold I had forgotten I had. So my hubby has been working alot & been under some stress so I thought I'd surprise him with a little Heart Shaped Blueberry Pancake for breakfast. Now how sweet is that?! HAHA!

So I make sure to let him know I have pancakes ready if he's interested. He was interested.........but in the end didn't have time to eat(everybody say aww). So he never even saw his Heart Shaped Blueberry Pancake this am. But thats ok b/c I've decided that's just what he's getting for supper! I had his pancakes still warming in the griddle. All am waiting on him. Those Sweetheart pancakes. Made by Love.

Unfortunately, by the time I got back to clean the kitchen his pancakes were a little on the dark side. Well.....quite dark actually. But they were perfect at breakfast time. Oh well, tough love.

So, my dearest when you read this(& I know you will b/c you visit my blog everyday)your supper is ready and waiting. In the microwave.

Oh, and I wouldn't overheat them....

Final Conclusion

I have to say you guys are great! I have really enjoyed hearing your responses. We actually ended up with two BB guns. Alex's (1) and then Scott's when he was a little boy (2). And yes I hid them, but just for fun of it.

My final conclusion:
#1. Follow every safety rule.
#2. Have fun with it.

I mean if Syd can laugh and find humor in something like that, who am I to stop her? I don't have any problems letting my 'boys be boys' but what in the world am I gonna do w/Syd?

Now I'll just have to decide on a 'ransom price' to return the goods.........

To BeeBee or Not to BeeBee

Wed am

Everything went like clockwork this am (including my alarm clock, Ha) and I loved it. Sweet Victory!! All three kids were ready and waiting.........for Daddy. Now if I could just find a way to get Daddy going in the am, LOL!

Thurs am

We got home from church late last pm, so all three kids had to have showers this am. But I am glad to say we did it and the morning wasn't the least bit chaotic. Yeah! I just love it when things go the way "I" want them too *wink*.

Seriously I have found we have to be willing to take what comes in life and go with it. Realizing things are not going to always go according to plan. And when we accept this we are better for it.

Scott's parents wanted to buy Alex a bee-bee gun for his birthday. "He's 10 years old honey, I think he is ready." So Scott has told me over and over. I am a little uneasy about the whole idea, but of course we set down rules that must be followed. So Scott has all three of the kids outside yesterday afternoon for 'shooting practice.' At first they have a target with a bulls eye. (Note: Mommy hit target first shot, first time, oh yeah oh yeah). Then they graduate to shooting cans in the backyard. I leave Scott with the kids and go back in the house to finish supper when I hear Scott yell, "Come here honey. You have to see this." So I walk outside to the back porch and Randy is shooting those cans with every shot. "Wow, Randy that is really good." I bragged. Then of course it was Alex's turn. Again, those cans were falling. I brag some on Alex. Still yet, I am apprehensive about the "gun thing". So then of course it is Sydni's turn. Oh my. I'm really nervous for some reason. But Daddy has everything under control. He is right beside Syd showing her what to do and then takes a step back. I watch her fire and then jump back and say, "Ouch." She grabs her hip. Time stops. We all stare at her. Then she starts laughing hysterically. She is holding her hip, hopping around laughing uncontrollably. The beebee had richoeted and hit her and she was laughing about it. No kidding, true story.

The whole house is empty right now (except for Kelsey and me) and I think I'll hide the beebee gun. What do you think, should I?

Just Call Me Granny

No on second thought-don't! Sydni picked out a Cabbage Patch Doll last pm whose name is Jaylan Wilson. He is extremely cute with a patch of blond hair. And the best thing is he has an ice cream cone that he 'really licks' and then he has sprinkles on his mouth that really wash off and then come back. It's all quite adorable! Jaylan is a really good baby too. He never cries. Ya know, now that I think about it he never needs a diaper change either. He's the perfect grandson. I couldn't ask for any better, LOL!

The boys are enjoying their new things too. Alex is into baseball while Randy likes soccer. Alex got some baseballs and a bat while Randy got a soccer ball and some shinguards. I always enjoy watching them play. Alex is really serious about his game while Randy is really silly. It is hilarious! All in all I tell my boys, "Anybody can be 'good' at winning, but how many of us can be 'good' at losing?" That is the real test, wouldn't you agree?

Another test will be in the morning. Mommy has done her part and gotten all the bookbags ready. Planners are signed. Only one out of three lunchboxes made it home from school today, so it looks like cafeteria lunch tomorrow. Next on my agenda is to get their clothes ready before bed. All three have had their shower, so I am all ready. I've done all I can do. We'll see how we do in the morning. To be continued..............in the am.............goodnight for now..........

Long Way To Go!



Two steps forward, three steps back. That is the way I feel this am. I really try hard to have patience. And as I tell my kids, "it's a virtue." So why is it I have more patience for my acquaintances and friends and so little for my family? I know, I know, we are more comfortable around our loved ones and feel more free. But is that always a good thing? I'm wondering if maybe we shouldn't try harder with those we love most. Allow me to ellaborate:



Alex and Sydni both had birthdays last week. Alex is now 10 and Sydni 6. We had their party at the skating rink and they had a blast! They had lots of friends from school and church there to help celebrate. My dear, sweet hubby surprised me and had dinner made when I got home from the office yesterday. Wow! Honey Mustard Chicken, Mashed potatoes w/gravy, Green Beans and Rolls. You can't beat that! Besides, it tasted good too, LOL! So we were finished eating by 7:00 and I asked Scott if we could take the kids to Wal-Mart to let them spend their birthday money. He was game, and of course the kids were game, so headed to Wally World. Now both Alex and Sydni had over $100 to spend so we knew we would be there awhile. And Randy still had some money left over from his birthday. I have to say the kids did great picking out things and it was really a lot of fun. Two and a half hours later we are leaving Wal-Mart. Now I'm pretty much a stickler on bedtime for a school night. Well, it was bedtime when we were leaving. Of course the kids are excited about all their 'goodies' when we get home, but it really is past bedtime so they are told they can play tomorrow.



Tuesday AM:

The trial begins.

My kids know the rules:

1. Planner is already signed and in bookbag.

2. Bookbag ready.

3. Lunchboxes ready to be packed(in other words they have to know its location)

4. When Mommy wakes you up-you get up-get dressed and don't dawdle.

5. After you are dressed you get coat on, bookbag and then Mommy fixes your hair. Then you're ready to go.



Not too complicated, right?! Well, lets just say all the rules were broken this am. Including my own personal rule to not oversleep. Well, I really can't blame myself when my alarm didn't work. Can I help it if it was set wrong?! LOL!



Bottom Line: I'm the Mommy. It's all up to me to make sure the kids are getting everything ready to go the night before. Yeah, yeah I know last pm was an exception. We had them out late spending birthday money. That's ok. Now let me see if I can think of an excuse for Monday Morning's Madness, LOL!

So the new rule:

Mommy is to make sure everything is the way it is supposed to be before she goes to bed as to cut down on such chaotic mornings. We'll see how we do.........

We're Back!



Okay, time for confession. I started my last post last week(before our trip) and then finished it when we got back, LOL!! So, we are back from TN and had a WONDERFUL time! The cabin was beautiful. Being with my parents, sisters and their husbands and children was really exciting for me. I have such a GREAT family and I love to be with them. We stayed up late talking(you go Mom!) and just reconnected after being so busy with life. And of course, we did a little shopping. My nephews are such AWESOME boys & I'm so proud of all of them. It was time well spent making good memories for another day.



Field Trip



Another confession.......I try so hard to not be an 'over protective' mother. But when my 9 year old left for his first field trip I worried about him. He went to the Outer Banks for 3 long days. The school was going to keep parents updated via their website. Well, the first day they let us know what time they left and that they had stopped at McDonalds for breakfast and that was all. For the rest of the day. Periodically throughout the day I checked the web and was disappointed everytime. I told my hubby, "They don't love Alex like I do. Will they watch him carefully when he crosses the street? What if he is cold or has a headache? What if they don't give him enough to eat(HEHEHE-this is always the case)?" So I told Scott if I could just hear from Alex then I would be ok. Some of the kids had sent messages over the web to their friends & family. Scott told me Alex wouldn't do that, just not his thing. The very next am I got up early and checked. Still no updates. Man what is going on?!?! They need to let us know something. I get Randy and Sydni off to school, and when I'm ready to walk out the door for the office I check one more time. And the very first comment on their website was "Alex Whitehead wants everyone to know he is having fun. He enjoyed catching sea creatures in the sound the most." Then I was okay. Alex was good and I was good. And HaHa Dad, Alex did send a message! Check out the website www.burke.k12.nc.us/young/ for pictures of Alex. He had to dissect a squid. You can see on his face how much he enjoyed it, LOL!!



Now you really shouldn't fault me for worrying. I took a field trip to the Outer Banks in school. My best friend and I snuck away from the group out in the dunes and found us a water hole to splash and play in. No Kiddin!!! It was a great time! Quite sometime later we made it back to the bus and the only question the teachers asked was, "How did you girls get wet?"



So the next time one of my children are expected to go on a field trip I may let them....if I can go too.......Hehe!!

Life's Blessings

"Just one more day, Mama?" Sydni asked me when I woke her this am for school. So I told her yes, one more day before we go to Pigeon Forge for a long weekend. We are gonna have a blast!! Monday pm I got home from the office and then we were eating dinner and I was noticing how big my children are getting. And this time Syd really seemed to have grown and changed. I just stared at her. I wanted to hold her in my lap but I knew she is just too big for that (not too mention she couldn't be still for 5 seconds if her life depended on it)! So I decided I would snuggle my kids close tonight at storytime and enjoy every second..........It's funny how different they are. All so precious, so loved.

Alex

The little boy God gave us after we prayed so hard for you. 6lb 4oz premie for 4 months, but after that ............well let's just say he is no longer 'under-weight' any longer, hehehe!

One of his very first words was 'guitar' which he now plays.

Rough and tough 'all boy'.

Atheletically minded, always ready for fun, fun and more fun!

The one who wraps his arm around me in church when Daddy couldn't be there because he had to work. My 9 year old protector.

Always ready for Mommy & Daddy kisses. He also has kisses for Mamaw and Aunt Kelly.

From time to time during church will grab my hand and link his fingers with mine. Then just sits there holding my hand like it is the most natural thing in the world.

Awesome sense of humor.........laughs at loud if somethings strikes him funny, in church or anywhere. Has also been dubbed 'the class clown.'

Listens to gospel music or Odyssey every night while going to sleep.

A definite singer-sometimes, many times at home-OPERA!! LOL! If he's wearing his MP3 player get ready for a good laugh! He gives it all he's got not realizing Scott and I can hear him. It is hilarious! We always stop what we are doing and listen until he's done.

An absolute blessing from God. My firstborn son I love you with all my heart. My prayer is that you live to serve God with all that is within you. I am anxious to see how God will use you in the future.

Randy

My 8lb 6oz son. A "Miracle" baby. I was seven months pregnant when our vehicle was hit by a drunk driver. I started having problems after that, and when he was born the MD said he was a "miracle" because I had what is called placenta abruption.

At one month old his bilirubin went up dangerously high and he had to be admitted to the hospital. The MD's started running tests and at one point were thinking he had been born without a liver. His condition was critical and we prayed so hard that God would touch our baby and leave him with us. Everytime our heart goes back to that time we are again overwhelmed at God's goodness by healing Randy. Once again the MD's word was "miracle". "He was such a sick baby and now he is healthy."

Academically minded and gifted. Constantly looking for a challenge of the mind. Always reading, drawing, or creating something. Has already has some of his art work framed and purchased. (All proceeds go to the mission fields of course). LOL~!

Tenderhearted and kind. Every week when he earns "prizes" for good behavior at school he always picks out something for his brother and sister-never himself.

Music lover as well, taking lessons in both fiddle and piano.

Another one of my protectors. He is always looking out for Mom. If he can see me and know that I am okay, he is okay.

Tolerates affection. Will allow Mommy kisses to the cheeks, but not too many.

When asked what he wants to do with his life he answers simply, "I want to be a preacher." And I have told him nothing could please Mommy more. Another one of my absolute blessings & I love you with all my heart, my sweet Randy.

Sydni

My 9lb 7oz 'dainty' little girl we prayed for after our two boys. Okay, not dainty but little girl none-the-less. I have to admit I wouldn't change a thing.

My rough and tough tomboy.

Academic and athletic. She is a good blend of both her brothers.

Fun loving and easy going. Loves having a good time.

Antaginizes her brothers!! And our dog, Kelsey~LOL!!

Learning piano ("like Daddy").

A little spoiled, but she is the only granddaughter on my side and after 7 grandsons, what can I say?! Not too mention she has her Daddy wrapped tightly around that pinky finger. She knows it too!

Always eager to give Mommy and Daddy affection. To all her family. And Casey.

My little Hershey, you are another absolute blessing and I love you with all my heart. I hope you keep that 'free spirit' through all of lifes trials. Serve God first, then be happy.

Oh to be a Kid..........

Okay, this week my family got the stomach bug. Alex was sick Saturday pm. Didn't make it to the bathroom, but that's okay. Thats what Moms are for, right?! Alex felt great Sunday am so we all went to church. Monday pm Randy starts vomiting.........again we didn't make it to the bathroom, but that's okay, right???? Well, Mommy and Daddy start feeling bad the same night. So Tuesday through-out the day Mommy and Daddy are lying around-sick and Randy is up playing-sick. We would hear him in the living room singing to the top of his lungs, sometimes running and jumping, and then we would hear him run to the bathroom and be sick(thank God he started making it). I would be listening to him and just wonder-wow! I love this that my kids are so resilient. Sometimes, many times I wish I could be a kid again.............

Randy was back at school the next day, happy, chipper, excited to be back at it. I went back to work today (two days later), dragging a little, but makin' it none the less, LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!

Too Young for a Valentine.....Oh Yeah!!

My little precious princess Sydni. When she started school the first week she came home and said she had FOUR boyfriends. But that she didn't like them, they liked her. So Mommy and Daddy had to explain that "These boys at school are not like your brothers.
You don't hug them.
You don't hold their hand.
And you never, ever kiss them."
Sydni laughs and says, "That's funny. I don't do that. They just like me."

So the next time I volunteer in Syd's class I met all 'her friends.' Then when it's time to leave I'm holding Sydni's hand while we're walking out and one of the boys says, "Bye Sydni. I love you." Ok, no harm done. That's sweet.

Yesterday she came home with a brown stuffed teddy bear with a heart in the middle that said 'Luv You.' Her very first 'Valentine.' How sweet?? She also got a 'pink watch.' But thats ok, b/c it was a prize out of a cereal box. The little boy didn't want a girls watch so he gave it to Sydni, LOL!!!

My question: Is a 5 year old too young to receive a Valentine?
My answer: I think it would be super sweet if her Dad or brothers wanted to buy her something. My Dad always bought us girls a Valentine(thanks Daddy!). But, five year old children.............in my opinion really need to be encouraged to build friendships. And thats it.

What do you think?????????

A Day Well Spent

Why is it that on my only day off I still wake up early? Last night before bed I thought, I am going to sleep in tomorrow and I can't wait!!! Then, I still wake up before 8 am. That is way too early for a Saturday....but that's okay because I have lots to do on Saturdays. So I got up.

Then, Scott decided he wanted to take the whole family to breakfast at Abele's Restaurant. So we all got ready in about 5 minutes (that set a record) and we were out the door. When we had finished eating Scott planned to take us to the park to walk off the breakfast we had just eaten.(ha, ha). Halfway through our 2 mile walk we start across a bridge and my hubby lets go of my hand, takes out his pocketknife, gives me a grin and then starts carving a heart with our initials on the side of the bridge. Now, you have to admit, that is just good...............

Then Scott decided to let the kids play at the park while we sat on a bench and watched. The sun was shining, my family was together and I found myself very thankful. All those things I had planned for the day (laundry, mopping, vacuuming, grocery shopping)just kinda took second place and that was fine by me.

Now if I could just get my pile of dirty laundry to magically disappear......................

My Girls

Okay, I've been persuaded. Some friends of mine have been encouraging me to start blogging again. I have always enjoyed it, I've just been so busy......but I finally agreed to get together with some of 'my girls' and update my blog and get started again. Well, 'my girls' and I planned a night to let our kids play while we played on the computer. 'The girls' were playing on the computer and I ended up playing with the kids (7 in all). Before I knew it the hour had gotten late and I needed to get my kids home and in bed for school the next day, not too mention I needed to get some laundry done before bed. So, 'the girls' decided they would work on my blog w/o me, LOL! The next morning you can imagine my uncontrollable laughter when I saw what they had come up with. The only thing I gave them to go on was my favorite song, "In Better Hands." So, if you've read 'About Me' or 'View my Profile', just keep in mind 'the girls' came up with that insanity. But I liked it so much I decided to leave it. Every time I see it I have to laugh! Thanks Kelly & Faith- You guys(gals)are two of the BEST! Thanks for the good times and the laughter!!!!!!!!!!!!but more importantly thanks for everytime you have prayed for me b/c you knew I needed it!

On that subject, I've had someone who from time to time will give me a call leave a message to the effect "I was thinking about you today. I hope you are having a good day. I love you and I'm praying for ya. If you ever need me, you just call me. No matter what I'll help in any way I can." Several times this person has called and left me these messages. You can't imagine what that has meant to me and I love you for it! You know who you are (a crazy lady w/an awesome sense of humor that makes everybody laugh, whose initials are R.S.) .........


My Song

"In Better Hands." I was in the van on the way to church one Sunday and that song came on the radio. Normally, we don't even listen to the radio on the way to church, but this particular am that song was playing. It was just for me. In my opinion, it's not about death but life in Christ. "It's hard to stand on shifting sand, it's hard to shine in the shadows of the night" yeah, know what you're saying "You can't be freed, if you don't reach for help; And you can't love if you don't love yourself" true, true. Here it comes, " But there is hope when my faith runs out" Why? Cause I give it all back to you God so I'll be "in better Hands now." Yeah!!!!!!!


My Family

So, my three children are in school and loving it........Alex will be 10 yrs next month and is in 4th grade. Randy just turned 8 yrs and is in 2nd grade. Sydni, 6 yrs next month kept her 'pinky promise' that she would not cry on the first day of kindergarten. This past Tuesday their school reserved the skating rink for those who had met their reading goals. The kids had a great time. Scott and I laughed a whole lot while we watched. It's amazing how they can fall down and practically 'jump' back up and not be hurt in the least. Sydni even told me, "Mama, don't worry, we won't get hurt." The last time we went skating Scott actually skated...........well, he tried. LOL! I tried not to laugh........really.............it was just so funny! There's just something so comical about a man on skates trying to prepare himself for that inevitable fall. Love You, Honey! Scott and I have been married 13.5 years. One hundred thirty five years!!!!!!!!!!! LOL! Actually, thirteen and a half. It really is true that 'life is as a vapor' ya know? Today is quickly on the way to yesterday. And yesterday is gone forever but in memory. I am thankful for all the good times. They are inspirations. And I'm thankful for the not-so-good times. They are stepping stones to better tomorrows.

Until tomorrow..............