Me & my boys

Bless His Heart

2009-03-26T15:02:00.001-07:00

We had a rough night with Carsyn. He fell asleep in church (which is highly unlike him) and I noticed that his heart was beating unusually fast. I tried to get a count, but it was literally beating too fast to count. I was up all night watching him sleep very restlessly. I kept a count on his heart rate, and it was too high until about 4am when he finally slept without all the tossing and turning.

I brought him the doctor this morning, (of Course our regular pedi is out of town) and she sent us to the hospital for testing that will be sent to our pediatric cardiologist in Dallas. For now, the cardiologist is over-nighting us a 30 day event monitor! (Yes...the 5 year old wild child is will wear the monitor for 30 days...to school, to t-ball, to everywhere.) We hope to know something late this evening or FIRST thing in the morning. There's a chance he's developing SVT, which could be very dangerous for him.

Please pray for his heart and my sanity!

Because I'll do anything to avoid laundry!!!

2009-03-17T13:41:00.001-07:00

100 words

Typing Test

Look What I Can Do!!!

2009-03-07T03:22:00.001-08:00

I created this cute header for my blog. It is very simple, but it is the first time I've played around with digi scrapbooking. (mainly because I want to paper scrapbook!!!) BUT...I think I kinda like this concept.

Fun Fun!

(Autumn, figure out how to make it my new header!)

Westerman turns Four!

2009-03-01T13:10:00.001-08:00

There was a ton of chaos, but it all worked out nicely. Weston was thrilled with the party, the presents, and of course the cupcakes.
All of his best buds were there to help him celebrate.
Everyone else was a little more excited to be there!!!
Laney loved the marshmallow pops.
Kingston liked his cape, and he enjoyed eating!!!
Dylan V. was excited to hang out with friends. Dylan C. was there, but obviously didn't make it in front of the camera.
Carter Lair liked the marshmallow pops, but mostly liked playing with Carsyn.
Kobe was excited to see his favorite cousin.
Carsyn was excite with all of Weston's gifts. Afterall, they share a room!
I'm not sure what we will do if another year brings more cuteness!

My kids say the CRAZIEST things!

2009-01-13T18:07:00.000-08:00

First, this is the conversation Weston and I had at dinner.
Me: Weston, do you have unders on?
Weston: No.
Me: Why not, Weston?
Weston: Call me The Hulk!
Me: Why, Hulk?
Weston: THE Hulk didn't wear unders because his penis isn't cold.

Now that is great dinner conversation!

And later as we were getting in bed...oh...the couch, Carsyn said his prayer.

"God, thank you for a fun day. Please let us have a good night sleep. I want to have the best night. Please God I want five Golden Retrievers for a sled team. Amen"

Seriously, a sled team? I was blind sighted by that one. It was seventy degrees yesterday.

Welcome...

2009-01-01T21:46:00.000-08:00

to 2009! I should have probably swept the porch, and bought a cute Christmas rug before I invited you over! ;)

I was reading Ali Edwards, like my friend Autumn, and I decided to think of a word to think about all year, in all areas of my life. My word for the year is persevere!

According to Webster's Dictionary:

Pronunciation:\ˌpər-sə-ˈvir\
Function:intransitive verb
Inflected Form(s):per·se·vered; per·se·ver·ing
Etymology:Middle English, from Anglo-French parseverer, from Latin perseverare, from per- through + severus severe
Date:14th century

: to persist in a state, enterprise, or undertaking in spite of counterinfluences, opposition, or discouragement

— per·se·ver·ing·ly adverb

It may be shocking to you, but some days I feel like getting to work is a huge undertaking. Heck, just getting everyone in the car is a feat in and of itself. I want to be more persistent and persevere to be a better mom, and wife.

But the main thing in my life that is taking a huge dose of perseverance is our home. Chad pretty much built our house by himself. We have a long way to go cosmetically, but wow...everything is what we wanted, and we did it ourselves. It is my favorite place to be, and I really hope that we can gain the energy to finish it. We are off to a great start, but we need to complete all of the little details.

My graduate degree is something I intended to have before I turned twenty-five. I'm disappointed to say that I will miss my mark by about 8 months. I'm really stressed, and very tired of all of the extra work. When all of my friends are discussing their favorite television shows, that used to be my favorite television shows, I have nothing to add because I haven't watched television since I begun this master's program. All that to say that I will persevere and finish this ~~stupid~~ degree in November, then I'll be back to the regularly scheduled programming!

2008 Year End Review

2008-12-31T04:05:00.000-08:00

I stole this from Mom to the Screaming Masses. (See my blog roll.)

Was 2008 good for you? Yes!
What was your favorite moment of the year? I can't really narrow it down to one, but Christmas was a blast, our little trip to Dallas to see Bill Engvall, Carsyn's kart racing, and Weston's new obsession with super heroes top the list!
What was your worst moment of the year? Um, hands down, when I had all that lymph node business going on.
Where were you when 2008 began? At my house.
Who were you with? Friends and family
Where will you be when 2008 ends? At my house, with my friends and family.
Did you keep your new years resolution of 2008? No!
Do you have a new years resolution for 2009? A few!
Did you fall in love in 2008? No
If yes, with who?
Are you still in love? Yes.
Did you breakup with anyone in 2008? No.
Did you make any new friends in 2008? Sure did!
Who are your favorite new friends? Jessica...my dc!
What was your favorite month of 2008? December
Why this month? I love the holidays!
Did you travel outside of the US (or your home country) in 2008? No.
Did you miss anybody in the past year? Y es.
What was your favorite movie that you saw in 2008? Four Christmases
What was your favorite song from 2008? Um...I can't narrow it down.
How many concerts or plays did you see in 2008? A few.
Did you have a favorite concert in 2008? Bill Engvall was good. Kirby, a magician in Branson, was also tons of fun.
What was your favorite book in 2008? I only read books I love...so I can't pick.
How many people did you sleep with in 2008? 3...I have 2 boys that find there way to my bed nightly.
Did you do anything you are ashamed of this year? Yes.
What was the biggest lie you told in 2008? I can't think of anything right off hand, but that isn't claiming innocence.
Did you treat somebody badly in 2008? Sadly, yes.
Did somebody treat you badly in 2008? Of course.
What was your proudest moment of 2008? Carsyn behaving at kindergarten-seriously-I feel so accomplished, like we've done something right. Beginning my graduate program.
What was your most embarrassing moment of 2008? Nothing comes to mind, but I know there is something.
If you could go back to any moment of 2008 and change something, what would it be? I'm not sure.
Where did you work in 2008? I teach second grade.
Favorite TV shows(s) of 2008? I have almost stopped watching television altogether! I seem to have less and less time, and I'd rather 'internet'.
Favorite Band(s) of 2008? South First
Favorite Food in 2008? Same ole stuff...chips and queso.
Favorite Drink in 2008? Coke
Favorite Place in 2008? Home
Favorite person(s) to be with in 2008? My family and friends
Favorite person(s) to talk to in 2008? Niki
Favorite trip in 2008? Disney World
Favorite stores in 2008? Um. Hobby Lobby, Dollar Tree, Target
Hardest thing you had to go through in 2008? All that lymph node business
Most exciting moment(s) in 2008? Disney World
Funniest moment(s) in 2008? Everyday is a crack up around here.

"Feel free to answer any, all, or none in the comment section or on your own blog."

Valentine's Gifts (YAY!)

2008-12-30T13:22:00.001-08:00

I'm so proud! Niki and I were able to spend the day with our good friend Ms. Kimble. We were very productive and completed Valentine's day gifts for all of the boys teachers. We have searched high and low to find these cups from the dollar tree. When Wendi found them we bought 25, and we had a plan. We are very proud of our great finds!

Easy Peasy

2008-12-30T04:28:00.000-08:00

I love personalized gifts, and baby showers are no exception. I made this a *long* time ago, and I'm not sure how I missed posting them. This was a baby shower gift for a baby that has already turned one! They are super simple to make.

You need:
Letter(s)-I got mine from Hobby Lobby when they were half off.
Spray Paint-optional
Scrapbook Paper, ribbon, miscellaneous embellishments
Mod Podge & foam brush

First trace the letters onto scrapbook paper. To do this turn the paper to the backside, lay the letter on it face up. Next, spray paint the letters. While the letters are drying cut out the paper that you traced the letters on. Gather coordinating ribbons, fibers, and embellishment. Be creative. When the letters have dried use a foam paint brush to glue the paper, ribbon, and embellishments on using Mod Podge. Allow to dry. Put a layer of Mod Podge over the top to seal the letters. Voila!

You have completed a very inexpensive, but very personal gift. The sky is the limit. You can do a family name for a wedding gift, an initial, a full name, or a word. You can also create a bow holder by using one letter and hot gluing long strands of ribbon to the back.

Book Review: Running With Scissors

2008-12-30T04:20:00.000-08:00

(Picture compliments of Amazon)

I'm not a fan of strange books. Honestly, I like a sweet romance novel...sweet, translate that is non-graphic. I noticed this book at my mother in laws on Christmas day. My sister in law brought it and wanted us (my mother in law and I) to read it. She told me it was a little bizarre, but I thought I'd give it a shot. After all, I was on vacation until after the new year and need something to do between loads of laundry and dishes.

The book is about a boy who grows up with very weird circumstances and knows from an early age that he was gay. (Yea...not my favorite topic.).

So I began reading it the day after Christmas. It is *very* strange. It sort of creeps me out, but I can't stop. In fact, at two this morning I had to put it down because my eyes were hurting, but I couldn't sleep because of its weirdness! I'm almost finished, but I wanted to share this with you. If you are bored, and like weird stories this is just the book for you!

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

2008-12-29T03:57:00.000-08:00

Welcome! I love this new sign that hangs nicely on my porch. I'd love to show you the full porch, because it is finished, and very pretty, but it never seems to be clean! I'll work on that...or at least have the boys work on it.
Dear Santa, for Christmas, I'd like crown molding throughout my house, and a scraper to remove the labels from our windows!
On Christmas Eve we open one present. Every year it is the same thing...pajamas. I try to find pajamas that reflect what the boys really like. Because they wear uniforms to school they do not hvae a ton of character type clothing. So I searched high and low to find spiderman foot pajamas for Wes. He is completely super hero obsessed. Carsyn was much easier. He likes spiderman, but he likes pjs that are thin. I was able to find spidey pajamas that fit the bill.

They had a blast opening all of their gifts. Carsyn was thrilled with his knee high rubber boots. Weston got very excited about each gift. I'm always amazed at which gifts really impress the boys, and which gifts I think they'll freak over, and they barely notice. Bendaroos...As Seen On TV...the boys went nuts when they seen them on television, and begged Santa for them. I searched high and low, and finally found them at Walgreens on Christmas Eve. They opened them, and acted like they had never heard of them. But the boots that we found 90% off at Academy last winter were a biiiig hit.
Carsyn was riding like a pro. He was so happy with his new four wheeler. The first thing he noticed when he saw it was the lift kit and mud grips. I know, I know...you might be a redneck if your kid eve knows what a lift kit is, much less makes mention of it on Christmas!
Weston was very happy that Santa brought a spiderman four wheeler. He spent most of the day wearing his spiderman costume riding his spiderman four wheeler. (He has it on beneath his hoodie) And anytime someone stopped him he 'webbed' them.

Carsyn, Weston, & Kobe spent the day riding, spinning, and almost wrecking. A blast was had by all!

Our Hero!

2008-12-22T21:55:00.000-08:00

Words cannot express how much we appreciate the God given talent Dr. Mendeloff has. This video is living, breathing, heart-beating truth of the wonders of this world. Dr. Mendeloff has touched our hearts through the work he has done on Carsyn's heart. It is apparent that he means a great deal to all of the heart families at MCD. I used to think of surgeons as sterile. Television often depicts them as robots, but he is so much more. He knows his kids, and tries to understand their families. We are so grateful to have gone down this path, and met all of these wonderful people.

Carsyn will be visiting his cardiac team in the next month. Please pray that we get great news!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Hurricane Ike = Vacation

2008-12-22T21:47:00.000-08:00

Stephanie had planned a surprise birthday trip for Dad. Just so happens it was like two days post Ike. Dad did not want to leave, but the cabin was already paid for, and he didn't know, but we had arranged to meet them there, and so had my Uncle Gary and Aunt Debbie. When he arrived at his cabin in Branson he was greeted with glowing candles. Then Debbie and Gary shouted, "Surprise!" He was thrilled. The next night when they all returned from a show we had snuck into the cabin and surprised him again. I'm not sure what he expected on the third night! We had a blast. Everyone was down on their luck with cameras and batteries, but I managed to get a few shots. Carsyn and Weston loved the huge pumpkin tree. And 'little' Randy is proof that some kids never grow up!

It's not Christmas without Costumes!

2008-12-22T21:38:00.001-08:00

Gosh. I didn't realize that I was so far behind. Weston was a super cute rodeo clown and Carsyn was a cowboy. We had a blast trick or treating down town trunk or treating with Ironman Kobe and King turkey.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-22T21:20:00.000-08:00

During this Christmas season, take a moment to slow down and remember the true reason. Jesus really is the reason for the season!

My gurl...

2008-11-30T18:27:00.000-08:00

Okay. Autumn is all up on me, so I'm going to update my peeps. LOL (Yea...I can't really pull off that gangster jazz.)

Seriously, if you are here and think I'm great, then you should seriously check out Autumn. I'm not good with all of that link business, but go here. http://mcdanielclan.blogspot.com.

She's really a great gal. I can call her in a pinch and she jumps right in to help out. (Mostly with Cars since he goes to the school where she teaches.)

BUT...What makes Autumn *really* fabulous is all that creative stuff she comes up with. Yea. Really. She can sew, scrapbook, decorate, paint, refinish, RUN...you name it-she's done it! So go...right now...check her out!

Again...

2008-09-22T17:57:00.000-07:00

Another List of Books...copied from Autumn! (and she copied Kim Sue's blog)

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss
Good Night Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
I Love You Forever by Robert N. Munsch (All time favorite...first book I bought when I was pregnant)
Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo (I love this book)
Oh! The Places You Will Go by Dr. Seuss
The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Skippyjon Jones by Judy Schachner
Thank You Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco
The Cat In The Hat by Dr. Seuss
The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo
The Mitten by Jan Brett
Crunching Carrots, Not Candy by Judy Slack
Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willlems
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good Very Bad
Day by Judith Viorst
Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman
Corduroy by Don Freeman
Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes
Stellaluna by Janell Cannon
Tacky the Penquin by Helen Lester
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr.
Click Clack Moo: Cows That Type Doreen Cronin
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson
Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss
Junie B. Jones by Barbara Park
Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Make Way For Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
Piggie Pie by Margie Palatini
The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper
The Monster at the End of this Book by Jon Stone
The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett
From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
Inkheart by Cornelia Funke
Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli
Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathmann
Olivia by Ian Falconer
The BFG by Roald Dahl
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn (One of my favorites...I read it on the first day of school EVERY year)
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Tikki Tikki Tembo by Arlene Mosel
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Bark, George by Jules Feiffer
Bunnicula by James Howe
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Charlie the Caterpillar by Dom DeLuise
Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary
Frederick by Leo Lionni
Frindle by Andrew Clements
Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney
Harris and Me by Gary Paulsen
Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion
Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss
How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss
I Love You, Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt
Is Your Mama A Llama? by Deborah Guarino
Jan Brett’s books
Knots on a Counting Rope by Bill Martin Jr.
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton
Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney
My Father's Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett
My Many Colored Days by Dr. Seuss
My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George
No David! by David Shannon (Another favorite...reminds me of Bryan DAVID)
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss
Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein
Stephanie's Ponytail by Robert Munsch
Swimmy by Leo Lionni
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes
The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Warner (In 3rd grade!)
The Dark Is Rising by Susan Cooper
The Empty Pot by Demi
The Five Chinese Brothers by Claire Huchet Bishop
The Giver by Lois Lowr
The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Important Book by Margaret Wise Brown
The Last Holiday Concert by Andrew Clements
The Napping House by Audrey Wood
The Quiltmaker's Gift by Jeff Brumbeau
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
The Story About Ping by Marjorie Flack
The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
The Wide-Mouthed Frog:
A Pop-Up Book by Keith Faulkner

I like this list MUCH better. I can remember the story line behind each book...and own most of these. I loooooove kids books!

Copied from Autumn

2008-09-22T17:52:00.000-07:00

Just trying to keep up with the McDaniel's!

The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts designed to restore reading to the center of American culture.

They estimate that an average adult has only read 6 books on this list~How many have you read?

Here’s what you are supposed to do:
*Look at the list and bold those you have read.
*Italicize those you intend to read.
*Underline the books you LOVE .

*I italicized & bolded the ones I've read b/c it was hard to tell if they were bolded. I didn't want any one getting confused! haha

1 Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen
2 The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien
3 Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
4 Harry Potter series - JK Rowling (3 or 4 of them...)
5 To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
6 The Bible
7 Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
8 Nineteen Eighty Four - George Orwell
9 His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman
10 Great Expectations - Charles Dickens
11 Little Women - Louisa M Alcott
12 Tess of the D'Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy
13 Catch 22 - Joseph Heller
14 Complete Works of Shakespeare
15 Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier
16 The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien
17 Birdsong - Sebastian Faulks
18 Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger
19 The Time Traveler's Wife - Audrey Niffenegger
20 Middlemarch - George Eliot
21 Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchell
22 The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald
23 Bleak House - Charles Dickens
24 War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy
25 The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams
26 Brideshead Revisited - Evelyn Waugh
27 Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
28 Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck
29 Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll
30 The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame
31 Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy
32 David Copperfield - Charles Dickens
33 Chronicles of Narnia - CS Lewis
34 Emma - Jane Austen
35 Persuasion - Jane Austen
36 The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - CS Lewis
37 The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
38 Captain Corelli's Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres
39 Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Golden
40 Winnie the Pooh - AA Milne
41 Animal Farm - George Orwell
42 The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown
43 One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
44 A Prayer for Owen Meany - John Irving
45 The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins
46 Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery
47 Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy
48 The Handmaid's Tale - Margaret Atwood
49 Lord of the Flies - William Golding
50 Atonement - Ian McEwan 51 Life of Pi - Yann Martel
52 Dune - Frank Herbert
53 Cold Comfort Farm - Stella Gibbons 54 Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
55 A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth
56 The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafon
57 A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens
58 Brave New World - Aldous Huxley
59 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time - Mark Haddon
60 Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
61 Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck
62 Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov
63 The Secret History - Donna Tartt
64 The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold
65 Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas
66 On The Road - Jack Kerouac
67 Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy
68 Bridget Jones's Diary - Helen Fielding (one of my favorites!)
69 Midnight's Children - Salman Rushdie
70 Moby Dick - Herman Melville
71 Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens
72 Dracula - Bram Stoker
73 The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett
74 Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson
75 Ulysses - James Joyce
76 The Bell Jar - Sylvia Plath
77 Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome
78 Germinal - Emile Zola
79 Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
80 Possession - AS Byatt
81 A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens
82 Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell
83 The Color Purple - Alice Walker
84 The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro
85 Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert
86 A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
87 Charlotte's Web - EB White
88 The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom
89 Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
90 The Faraway Tree Collection - Enid Blyton
91 Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad
92 The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery
93 The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks
94 Watership Down - Richard Adams
95 A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole
96 A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute
97 The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas
98 Hamlet - William Shakespeare
99 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl
100 Les Miserables - Victor Hugo

I'm impressed I've read 16...but to be perfectly honest, most of them weren't so 'great' because I can only remember tiny bits from each one!!!

Let Them Be Little...

2008-09-02T04:02:00.001-07:00

A kindergartener. I always wondered what the hang up was...why does everyone seem so sad. Well, now I know. When I watched you walk, full speed ahead, into your new school...I knew. I knew that it was no longer the beginning. You were no longer my baby...or a preschooler. You were a BOY. A boy that was in kindergarten. When I look at you I see my baby! I think about the day you came home from the hospital (weighing less than five pounds), and the day you had surgery, and the day you met your brother!

When I look at you I wonder where the time has gone. Just yesterday you were snuggling on the hospital bed asleep with your big brother. It seems like I was just bringing you to the nursery at daycare...crying my eyes out hoping they would take good care of you. And now...now, you are in 3k! You are so big...and so handsome. You are absolutely adorable. You say some of the funniest things...and most of the time you tell me what to say. You are SO stubborn.

I want time to slow down...I want to take more time to enjoy you...just the way you are.

A few of my favorite things...

2008-07-24T08:29:00.001-07:00

Aside from all the normal things...boys, family, and friends...These are a few of my MOST favorite things.

1. I love snuggling with the boys in the morning. They are so sweet then.
2. Watching a late night movie with Chad.
3. Getting a pedicure with mom and grandma.
4. Watching my dad spoil the boys.
5. Having a good visit with Niki and Ms. Kimble.
6. Reading bed time stories.
7. Sleeping...yea. We do a lot of that in the summer.
8. Teaching! I love my job.
9. Shopping for my boys and for scrapbooking supplies. (Don't tell Melissa Lee!!!)
10. Sewing and embroidering.
11. Nosing around on the internet...reading blogs etc.
12. My house...I'd rather be here than anywhere else.
13. Disney World...we had a blast.
14. Photography. Nothing makes me happier than a picture that captures the personality of my boys.
15. I'm sure there are TONS more, but this is it.

These are a few of my favorite things. What are yours?

Amazing Video!

2008-07-21T11:39:00.000-07:00

http://capturebdinger.blogspot.com

2008-07-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

I haven't had my boys' pictures taken since Stephanie Davis took them. (Well, I had them taken at the new 220, but it was to stiff for me...anyway!) I *loved* the pictures Stephanie took, but I needed some new pictures, and my mom wanted pictures of all four of her grandsons. So voila. I came across Capture, by Barbara Dinger, and I liked her relaxed style. She came out to our (very messy) house, and took pictures of all four boys. Now, let me say, if you can get ONE picture in 90 minutes with FOUR boys under FIVE years old, then you have a gift.

Yea. That's right. She's GREAT. Call her. She made our photo session a little more bearable.

Thanks for working with FOUR cranky boys...in the heat. ;) You did a GREAT job. I absolutely CANNOT wait to see the rest

FOLDERS!

2008-07-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

Wow! Staples has folder for ONE PENNY. YES! ONE penny! So, I went there in the pouring rain and I purchased 40 folders. Well, actually Carsyn purchased 20 and I purchased 20. (Limits! YUCK!) I told the cashier that I was embarrassed to do that, but I buy so many folders that I felt justified. She proceeded to tell me that I could just go to Wal Mart and they would price match the folders AND they did not enforce limits! Woohoo!

I went to Wal Mart and got 100 folders...all for ONE dollar! Yay! (AND...we got all of Carsyn's school supplies!)

Who says a penny doesn't buy much anymore?

Menu Plan Monday...

2008-07-14T04:06:00.000-07:00

Monday: Hotdogs (because we did not have them last week), chili, cheese, and fritos
Tuesday: Chicken and Rice (very simple...crock pot, chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, and rice....voila)
Wednesday: Chicken soft tacos, beans, and rice
Thursday: Steak and baked potatoes
Friday: Chad is grilling...who knows!
Saturday: Left overs
Sunday: Grilled Chicken, corn on the cob, and potatoes

Every week I become more and more original. I'll be starring on Food Network before you know it. Watch out Paula Bean (or Dean) This should be an interesting week for us. We have swimming lessons every night at 7:15. Yea...night time swimming lessons. Weird.

MPM...and yes, I beat Autumn, AGAIN. ;)

Okay...so I won't go all "Heart Mom" on ya...BUT...

2008-07-11T21:04:00.000-07:00

Here's your chance to do something GREAT. I dare ya to do it!
And if you do take the challenge...link back here, so we can all see it!
GOOooo. No more blogging...GO somewhere already!

There's so much to do during the summer. Maybe you'll visit a museum downtown with friends ... hike one of your local trails ... take a family trip to a national park... or even just enjoy some games in your own backyard. Your sneakers will be joining you on every journey, helping you stay fit and healthy, -- and the American Heart Association wants to know all about where you and your sneakers go to help support The FIT Kids Act!

I hope you will take a part in our Sneaker Story Campaign -- here is how:

1) Take a photo of your sneakers' adventures, wherever you go.

2) Email your photo (or if you like, you can even send us a link to your video posted on YouTube) to sneakers4fitkids@yahoo.com. But hurry, the deadline is July 31, 2008.

3) Be sure to tell us WHERE your sneakers took you this July - what city, state, landmark, or even country.

We'll add your picture to our online Sneaker Story Map, where it will be identified by a virtual "Sneaker Print" to mark where your sneakers took you. All the sneaker images we receive will be collected there to help drive home the importance of physical activity for kids, and to use in our various efforts to urge Congress to pass The FIT Kids Act.

These efforts are critical. Childhood obesity is an epidemic endangering the health of millions of America's children, putting them at risk for heart disease. The FIT (Fitness Integrated with Teaching) Kids Act is one of our key priorities. This important legislation seeks to reduce the problem by encouraging public schools to provide increased, quality physical education and promote healthy lifestyles.

But to pass this legislation we must demonstrate the widespread support -- and that's where your sneakers' adventures come in.

This is your chance to put your best foot forward to ensure our kids have a brighter, healthier future. So lace up your sneakers, grab that camera, and help us promote the FIT Kids Act. We look forward to seeing your sneakers' adventures!

Clarissa Garca
American Heart Association

Heart Disease and Stroke. You're the Cure.

P.S. Everyone can participate, so encourage your friends to email us their photos and videos to sneakers4fitkids@yahoo.com too!

Menu Plan ***Day ... because I'm better than Autumn!

2008-07-08T13:03:00.000-07:00

Monday: We were in Houston
Tuesday: Pizza at Dylan's Party! :) Yay!
Wednesday: Hamburgers
Thursday: Happy Birthday Brisket for Chad...with all the fixings...corn on the cob, sausage, and potatoes cooked on the grill. My wonderful mother in law will provide the "FOUR LAYER DELIGHT" cake for dessert! Yum!
Friday: Leftovers! :) Yay!
Saturday: Hot dogs, chili, Fritos...because this is a favorite at our house we have it at least once per week!
Sunday: Who knows! :) Undecided...maybe tacos.

Because I don't have a love affair with laundry...

2008-07-02T19:30:00.000-07:00

This picture is not really related. Except to say that during the summer, when I try not to leave the house, the boys stay in their underwear. Sometimes they tell people they wore pajamas all day, but they mean underwear, because they don't wear pjs in the summer.

Yesterday, Carsyn was helping me gather dirty towels. They have a thing for dish towels. They harbor at least 15 in their bedroom for various reasons...none of which I'm privy to know. He came in to the kitchen and was in a state of shock.

"Momma, our laundry basket is only half full." {the one in their bathroom...in my defense, it is pretty small}

"Carsyn," in that same exasperated tone, "I'm glad."

"Well, what happened to our clothes, Momma."

"Well, I washed them, Carsyn."

"Momma, I never knew we could have a half full basket."

"Carsyn, thanks."

SnapCrap...or fish.

2008-07-02T19:25:00.001-07:00

Seriously!?! How could snapfish ruin *this* you ask?

Well, I have no idea...but they did. Along with countless other pictures. Dang them.

And...all of the pictures are terribly thin. Not that I need them thick, but they are *really* thin.

I'm *done* with snapfish...done.

Menu Plan ***Day

2008-07-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

Because I am the BIGGEST copycat EVER...and I have no life...Thanks Autumn.

Monday:I can't remember.
Tuesday: Smothered steak, new potatos, ranch style beans, crescent rolls
*dessert-eclair pie
Wednesday: Grilled chicken, chicken flavored rice-a-roni, baked beans
Thursday: Hot Dogs, fritos, queso dip
Friday: Hopefully Chad will grill! :) So...steaks, baked potatos & corn on the cob
Saturday: Red beans and rice with sausage
Sunday: We will be in Houston.

Stay tuned for next weeks VERY exciting meals, loaded with great new recipes-filled with vegetables. LOL ;)

My List of 100 Things...

2008-06-20T21:04:00.000-07:00

1. My Mom and Nanny are my heroes.
2. I am not sure I could make it through a day without them.
3. I adore my boys....and I secretly think they are WAY cuter than other boys.
4. I have a love/hate relationship with Chad. LOL (Some things NEVER change!)
5. I worry that I'm not the best mom, but I try real hard.
6. I'm VERY sentimental.
7. My mom is my very best friend, and Niki is a close second.
8. Sometimes (rarely) I miss Broaddus, and want to move home.
9. I love my two sweet nephews.
10. I get maddest at Bryan and Randy, but it is because I love them so much.
11. I can't stand when people do not have ambition.
12. I loved teaching kindergarten.
13. I like driving a new car...obviously.
14. I love my boys...and would LOVE a daughter, but I don't want to *have* more kids.
15. I need a coke to kick start my day.
16. I text WAY too much.
17. I surf the net WAY too much.
18. I worry WAY too much.
19. I am afraid of being unsuccessful.
20. I love when the boys run to my bed in the middle of the night.
21. I have read a bedtime story/stories to my boys most every night of their life.
22. I do not want to think about going to bed without bedtime stories.
23. I cannot think about them growing up and not needing me.
24. I loooooooooooove to sleep late, love it.
25. I used to work very hard to cut sugar out of the boys diet.
26. I have relaxed about that.
27. I do not like the boys to watch television, and they do not really like to anyway.
28. I think they are in love with Dora, and Chad thinks that is gay.
29. I think it is better than Barney.
30. I cannot believe that Carsyn is going to kindergarten.
31. I cry every time I think about it.
32. I think the worst days of my life were Carsyn's surgery days.
33. I think Carsyn's heart defect was a positive curse.
34. I was changed the day I seen him on life support.
35. I think I look at life in a whole new way.
36. I dread the day that Carsyn turns 18 and has control of his own health.
37. I like my boys to wear Polo shirts, and Chad would freak out if he knew how much I spent on their clothes.
38. I am not so concerned with the brand of my clothes.
39. I do not buy clothes for myself unless they are on sale, period...no matter what.
40. I think Weston is the most beautiful boy I have ever seen.
41. I love the dimple under his left eye.
42. I love when he whispers.
43. I love his fiery attitude, and we have Carsyn to thank for that.
44. I used to resent Chad for wanting to build our house.
45. I get more and more happy the closer we get to complete.
46. I am proud of Niki for getting her masters...but mad that she didn't insist that I go with her.
47. I really think her boys are super cute...even if Lane is way too messy.
48. I miss spending time with Kassi and her kids.
49. I love my Papaw...and I still think about him often. WEIRD, huh?
50. I think smoking should be illegal.
51. I am not an advocate of elective surgery.
52. I think it is wrong on so many levels...
53. I do not like tattoos.
54. I had a blast in junior high and ninth grade.
55. I hated the rest of high school, and couldn't wait to get out.
56. I would love to be a college professor.
57. I have met some amazing people in Lufkin, and I'm glad.
58. I love pedicures, but realize they are kinda wasteful. (Autumn and I should go more often!)
59. I am a critical person.
60. I am usually openly critical.
61. I loooooove to read.
62. I do not watch television on a daily basis, except for late at night...when I can't sleep.
63. I was born in the 80's.
64. I loooooove photography.
65. I want to be a photographer when I grow up.
66. I think that is do-able.
67. I love personalized gifts.
68. I like sewing, even if I'm not great at it.
69. I like scrapbook shopping, and occasionally scrapbooking.
70. I'm annoyed when spell check doesn't recognize real words. (specifically, scrapbooking and kindergarteners)
71. I would like to lose weight. (DUH!)
72. I'm going to school to get my master's.
73. I wait until the last possible minute to complete assignments.
74. I would figure up just how many assignments I had to do to receive a C during my undergrad.
75. I am taking a little more pride in my master's.
76. I have never written so many sentences beginning with I.
77. I would love to eat healthy, but I don't like that kind of food.
78. I am very open minded.
79. I couldn't care less who marries what.
80. I am not an animal lover...but I don't hate animals either.
81. I looooooove polka dots, and zebra print....but not together.
82. I wish I had painted my laundry room hot pink...just because no other room gets to be pink.
83. I love my closet.
84. I really like the location of my house.
85. I like giving gifts.
86. I want my boys to speak Spanish.
87. I want my nephews to move to Lufkin.
88. I want my mom and nanny to move to Lufkin.
89. I am impressed with the effort my dad puts into my boys. VERY impressed.
90. I worry too much about my students.
91. I think if I had a daughter, I'd be in a serious financial situation.
92. I do not like to travel.
93. I have never flown, and I never want to.
94. I do not eat green vegetables, except pickles.
95. I love cereal...specifically cocoa pebbles.
96. I love photographs in my house, but worry it kinda looks shrine-ish.
97. I am considering getting my PhD if I complete my master's before I die.
98. I would have to work like 100 years in order for the master's stipend to pay for the actual degree. SICKENING.
99. I really do not care.
100. I love my life, my family, and my friends.
101. I cannot believe you made it to the end.

Now go make your List of 100 things...and link it here for me to read! :)

On the road...

2008-06-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

I'm going to do a series of posts about our Disney trip!

These are pictures from our road trip to Florida. It was a very nice drive. The boys were excited and behaved well.

200 Haves and Have Nots

2008-06-06T08:29:00.000-07:00

A new challenage...

Autumn had this challenge on her blog this morning thanks! I challenage you to do this also...

200 Have and Have nots!

1. Touched an iceberg

2. Slept under the stars

3. Been a part of a hockey fight

4. Changed a baby's diaper

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Swam with wild dolphins

8. Climbed a mountain

9. Held a tarantula

10. Said "I love you" and meant it

11. Bungee jumped

12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a lightning storm at sea

14. Stayed up all night long and watched the sun rise

15. Seen the Northern Lights

16. Gone to a huge sports game (Does Nascar and monster trucks count?)

17. Walked the stairs to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown and eaten your own vegetables

19. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope

20. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Bet on a winning horse

23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill

24. Built a snow fort

25. Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping

27. Taken an ice cold bath (as a kid in Pennsylvania)

28. Had a meaningful conversation with a beggar

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Ridden a roller coaster

31. Hit a home run

32. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking

33. Adopted an accent for fun

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Felt very happy about your life, even for just a moment

36. Loved your job 90% of the time-when I taught kindergarten

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. Watched wild whales

39. Gone rock climbing -on a four wheeler

40. Gone on a midnight walk on the beach

41. Gone sky diving

42. Visited Ireland

43. Ever bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited India

45. Bench-pressed your own weight

46. Milked a cow

47. Alphabetized your personal files

48. Ever worn a superhero costume

49. Sung karaoke

50. Lounged around in bed all day

51. Gone scuba diving

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive

55. Done something you should regret, but don't

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Been in a movie

60. Gone without food for 3 days

61. Made cookies from scratch-for our neighbors last Christmas

62. Won first prize in a costume contest-Cars

63. Got flowers for no reason

64. Been in a combat zone

65. Spoken more than one language fluently

66. Gotten into a fight while attempting to defend someone

67. Bounced a check

68. Read - and understood - your credit report

69. Recently bought and played with a favorite childhood toy

70. Found out something significant that your ancestors did

71. Called or written your Congress person

72. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over-kinda

73. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge

74. Helped an animal give birth

75. Been fired or laid off from a job

76. Won money -like $2 on a lottery ticket!

77. Broken a bone

78. Ridden a motorcycle

79. Driven any land vehicle at a speed of greater than 100 mph

80. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon

81. Slept through an entire flight: takeoff, flight, and landing

82. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days

83. Eaten sushi

84. Had your picture in the newspaper

85. Read The Bible cover to cover

86. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about

87. Gotten someone fired for their actions

88. Gone back to school -wishing I hadn't about now!

89. Changed your name from my maiden to my married name (after 2 years!)

90. Caught a fly in the air with your bare hands

91. Eaten fried green tomatoes

92. Read The Iliad

93. Taught yourself an art from scratch

94. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

95. Apologized to someone years after inflicting the hurt

96. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language

97. Been elected to public office

98. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream

99. Had to put someone you love into hospice care

100. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you

101. Had a booth at a street fair-LOL Cross necklaces...when I was 10!

102. Dyed your hair

103. Been a DJ

104. Rocked a baby to sleep-for 5 years straight!

105. Ever dropped a cat from a high place to see if it really lands on all four

106. Raked your carpet

107. Brought out the best in people

108. Brought out the worst in people

109. Worn a mood ring

110. Ridden a horse

111. Carved an animal from a piece of wood or bar of soap

112. Cooked a dish where four people asked for the recipe-corn dip! :) Thanks Niki

113. Buried a child

114. Gone to a Broadway (or equivalent to your country) play

115. Been inside the pyramids

116. Shot a basketball into a basket

117. Danced at a disco

118. Played in a band

119. Shot a bird

120. Gone to an arboretum

121. Tutored someone

122. Ridden a train

123. Brought an old fad back into style

124. Eaten caviar

125. Let a salesman talk you into something you didn’t need

126. Ridden a giraffe or elephant

127. Published a book

128. Pieced a quilt

129. Lived in an historic place

130. Acted in a play or performed on a stage

131. Asked for a raise

132. Made a hole-in-one

133. Gone deep sea fishing

134. Gone roller skating

135. Run a marathon

136. Learned to surf

137. Invented something

138. Flown first class

139. Spent the night in a 5-star luxury suite-on a conference

140. Flown in a helicopter

141. Visited Africa

142. Sang a solo

143. Gone spelunking

144. Learned how to take a compliment

145. Written a love-story

146. Seen Michelangelo’s David

147. Had your portrait painted

148. Written a fan letter

149. Spent the night in something haunted

150. Owned a St. Bernard or Great Dane

151. Ran away

152. Learned to juggle

153. Been a boss

154. Sat on a jury

155. Lied about your weight

156. Gone on a diet
157. Found an arrowhead or a gold nugget

158. Written a poem

159. Carried your lunch in a lunchbox

160. Gotten food poisoning

161. Gone on a service, humanitarian or religious mission

162. Hiked the Grand Canyon

163. Sat on a park bench and fed the ducks

164. Gone to the opera

165. Gotten a letter from someone famous

166. Worn knickers

167. Ridden in a limousine

168. Attended the Olympics

169. Can hula or waltz

170. Read a half dozen Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys books

171. Been stuck in an elevator

172. Had a revelatory dream

173. Thought you might crash in an airplane

174. Had a song dedicated to you on the radio or at a concert

175. Saved someone’s life

176. Eaten raw whale

177. Know how to tat, smock or do needlepoint-does embroidery count?

178. Laughed till your side hurt

179. Straddled the equator

180. Taken a photograph of something other than people that is worth framing

181. Gone to a Shakespeare Festival

182. Sent a message in a bottle

183. Spent the night in a hotel

184. Been a cashier

185. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

186. Joined a union

187. Donated blood or plasma

188. Built a campfire

189. Kept a blog

190. Had hives
191. Worn custom made shoes or boots

192. Made a PowerPoint presentation

193. Taken a Hunter’s Safety Course

194. Served at a soup kitchen

195. Conquered the Rubik’s cube

196. Know CPR

197. Ridden in or owned a convertible

198. Found a long lost friend

199. Helped solve a crime

200. Responded to a NJP newsletter

Go give it a try!

Ms. Ebonie K. I had a blast! :)

2008-05-01T19:41:00.000-07:00

How hard could it be?

2007-11-23T13:45:00.001-08:00

I found this super cute Christmas countdown. I really want to attempt it. Except I want to be magnetic instead of using those hooks. Wish me luck!

2007-11-03T08:37:00.001-07:00

Halloween 2007

Kobe was a scarecrow...and he was SUPER handsome.

Carsyn and Weston were a pirate and a parrot.

We had a great time trick or treating down town and at Trunk or Treat at church!

2007-10-25T19:05:00.000-07:00

Tag From Autumn...I guess because she thinks I have NOTHING better to do!

Best thing you cooked last week
Logan's (I didn't cook last week OR this week!)

-If money, time and babysitting were no object, where would you go and with who?
Probably on a fancy shmancy scrapbook retreat...and I'd take my friends.

-When was the last time you cried
About 15 minutes ago...Grey's was sad!

-Five things you were doing ten years ago
1. Um...Junior High!
2. gossiping
3. staying out late
4. wishing I could drive
5. arguing with my mom and brother

-Five things on your to do list today
1. The day is over...but on my list from today, which were unaccomplished:
2. Laundry
3. Finishing Costumes
4. Lesson Plans
5. Iron clothes

- Five favorite snacks
1. Chocolate ice cream
2. Peanuts
3. Twix
4.Gum
5. Chips/Queso

-Five bad habits

1. Not knowing when to say NO
2. Language
3. Procrastinating
4. Biting my nails
5. Not exercising regularly

-Five favorite foods

1. Chocolate Ice Cream
2. Grilled Chicken
3. Niki's corn dip
4. Baked Potato
5. Ramen Noodles

-Top Five places I've been
1. Arkansas
2. Galveston
3. Virginia
4. Pennsylvania
5. Tennessee

- Five favorite memories
1. Seeing Carsyn in the recovery room (both times)
2. Seeing my children after they were born.
3. Seeing my Kobe after he was born.
4. My Papaw
5. High School (well, from like 7-9th grade)

What a BORING life!

So now I tag~Anyone who has a life boring enough to do this!

I've been REAL busy!

2007-08-04T15:32:00.000-07:00

This goes with the diaper bag below. A burp cloth, a small bag, and a wipey case completes the set. These were SO fun to make.

This is a bag Niki and I made for a friends new baby. It was very easy.

This is called a 'pillowcase dress.' It was SEW simple! LOL It really was fun and easy! I think I'm going to add a light pink band around the bottom and embroider Addison on it! She'll be TOO cute!

This is another dres I made for Addison. My plans were to embroider a big A on the middle of the chest, but the material is too stretchy. The dress is white with embroidered flowers along the bottom. The ribbons are hard to see, but they are blue and lime green polka dots. (They match a pair of shoes Addie has!)

Sweet Summertime!

2007-08-01T22:12:00.001-07:00

I'm usually a "cup is half full" kinda person. But I'm sad to report that I only have 15 days until I go back to work. I really do love my job, but early mornings and cranky boys just don't do it for me!

Here is a snippet of our summer. In case you were wondering what I've done all summer! ENJOY!

Unbelieveable...

2007-08-01T21:16:00.000-07:00

Cartyr Weston & Kobe

Matching Polos $20 (on sale)

Cargos $15

Sandals $15

Time spent with my cousin: Priceless!

It is SO hard to believe that Jana and I found out we were BOTH pregnant within the same week. It is also hard to believe that Weston is the older of the boys. Kobe is at least 6 inches and 10 pounds bigger than Wes. It is udderly unbelieveable that Cartyr Weston and Kobe are two years old. WOW...time flies!

Weston: Born February 2005

Wild.

Moody.

Stubborn.

Small stature, huge ego.

Believes he is the boss. (and you're the dummy)

Please bear in mind that Weston is my son. (And I am the nicer, calmer, better half of my sibling.)

Kobe: Born March 2005 (soon to be big brother of Tiger; Do you see a theme?)

Gentle.

A giant teddy bear.

Always ready for a hug.

Calm. (compared to my boys)

A sweet talker. "Sister is gorgeous!" (yea, I'm Sister)

Together, these boys are a perfect pair. Catching them walking so sweetly together, talking about good times was UNBELIEVABLE.

Out of the MOUTH of my children...

2007-07-24T07:34:00.001-07:00

Setting: Carsyn and Weston are standing in their room looking in awe. They have about a two foot by two foot area to play in. The rest of the room is scattered with toys. It looks like an IED from Toys R Us went off in their room.

Carsyn: Mom, when is Christmas? *yelling urgently* {because I'm trying to throw the toys from the living room into the hallway near his room}
Me: I don't know, like five months. WHY?
Carsyn: Because I need something.
Me: What could you possibly need?
Carysn: Something............BIG............from Wal Mart!
Me: Seriously?
Weston: Yes, he's REAL serious.
Carsyn: Yeah, very serious.
Me: Ooooooookay!

SERIOUSLY??!! We went in Wal Mart last week, we strolled the boy toy aisles for about 17 hours and they couldn't find ONE single thing they wanted, because they have everything!

Note to Grandparents: Please read this post and come help clean their room, oh around December 15th...just tell help you remember.

Random Thoughts...

2007-07-24T03:58:00.000-07:00

WOW...it's been a while...I fully intend to be more consistent. I figure I have the scrapbooks, videos, and tons of pictures, but I'd like to have a blog to remember everything by!

MYSPACE...Okay, I admit to being A LITTLE bit addicted, but I'm an adult, with a brain {mostly}. I'm not sure what rock these parents are under, but those teenagers, with those pictures and horrific words should REALLY be disciplined. I can't imagine letting my teenage daughter have provocative pictures of herself on such a public site...or incriminating comments about being drunk/high. I'd be VERY concerned if boys were making comments about my teenage daughters boobs. Just my opinion...

MY BOYS...are such good kids. They are both asleep. When they are awake they are mostly driving me crazy!

MY NEW NEPHEW...I have the cutest little {BIG} nephew, Kobe. He is such a good kid, and I'm not sure it is fair that BRYAN gets a good kid and I get two little monsters. (If you know Bryan, you know WHY he doesn't deserve a GOOD kid.) I'm getting another nephew! Yippee...I love boys!

Before/During/After

2007-06-07T14:51:00.000-07:00

Before:

Before his surgery he was given "goofy juice". Basically a sedative to make the separation part (when the anesthesiologist takes him to the operating room) less obtrusive. At first it was working well. He was EXTREMELY goofy! He was playing hotwheels and giggling. He was DRUNK at four! ;) After about thirty minutes of sillyness he became extremely frustrated. He was inconsoleable and couldn't communicate clearly. It was torture for him and for us. He has NO recollection of any of this, THANK GOD! The anesthesiologist carted him away screaming and kicking. This was the beginning of the drama!!!

During:

During the surgery Carsyn had MANY people waiting in the wings. Praying, crying, making small talk, and just trying to make the time pass. He was taken to the OR at 7:27. The surgery (the incision) did not begin until 8:35. We got hourly updates from Nurse Kathy, who seems more like an old friend. At 1:23 he was out of the OR and Dr. Mendeloff came to tell us that the surgery went well. The growth was larger than they had originally believed, but his heart was as close to normal as ever! He was off of the heart/lung bypass machine (life support), but was still on the respirator. The entire family lined the corridor waiting for the surgical team to wheel Carsyn by on his way to the CVICU. Minutes (which seemed like hours) ticked by before they wheeled him through. After a quick kiss they whisked him up to the CVICU where we went to sit patiently in the waiting room. His precious ICU nurse escorted Chad and I to see him around 2:30. He was off of the respirator, but still hooked up to many iv's and oxygen. He looked well, considering, and I was just relieved to see his precious face!
Carsyn's ICU nurse was happy to see him moving to the regular floor. He was still insistent on wearing his Camo scrubs and was listening to his new CD player...Honky Tonk Badonk. (Thanks Meme for getting it for me at 7am!)This is ONE day post-op. (FRIDAY) He is living the good life. Between spurts of pain he was eating {mcdonald's, compliments of Nana}, listening to music, and basically having ANYTHING he asked for! Which at times was a little extreme. "Meme I'll dry this mess up if you'll go get me a 'good' pappy." (Right now at 3AM on Saturday morning in DALLAS!) The truth is Meme had already gone to the nursery to get a pappy after much insistence from Carsyn. He sucked it for a few minutes, but he wanted the REAL thing!Although he looks VERY well adjusted, these pictures are small snipets between all of the drama he went through. We figured out sometime Friday evening that he was having an adverse reaction to MORPHINE, which is EXACTLY what they were giving him when he seemed to be out of control with pain. He would flail around, hit, kick, scream, say mean and terrible things to anyone within earshot. Some of the things he said were "You don't love me. I'm going to hit you. These doctors are terrible and I'm going to cut them with a sharp knife. Nobody cares about me. Nobody loves me. I don't like these nurses. I'm going to cut these tubes out. You don't even love me at all or you'd make them stop." All the while he'd be grabbing and pulling at tubes and wires. Finally after we realized that the morphine was making him a little crazy, the nurses started giving him different pain meds and everyones life (especially his) seemed much happier!

After:

The chest tube came out Saturday and he was a happy camper. They kept him one more night just to make sure. He enjoyed the last day in the hospital being spoiled rotten, having picnics in the hallway-serving up red doritos (at midnight) and pulling around wagon with Weston.

Spring 2007 {just a few pictures}

2007-06-05T21:57:00.001-07:00

Young Love...

2007-06-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

There are few things sweeter than young love! Randy and Rilea had a blast at prom! They are SO sweet together. He carried her everywhere because she is less than skilled at walking through wet grass wearing spike heels. She was stunning and her shoes were my absolute fave! Randy was dressed nicely, but those shoes left a lot to be desired. I really think if my date had shown up in those shoes {and I looked like Rilea} I would have sent him packing.

What is even sweeter than Randy and Rilea? Carsyn and Rilea! He *REALLY* likes her...and I think the feeling is mutual. She told me when she first began dating Randy that she didn't LIKE children. I remember thinking, WOW, that took some nerve. A few months ago we were camping at Shiloh (a four wheel drive park...yippee!) and she and I were hanging out around the fire. She again admitted that she didn't like children, but she LOVED the boys! How freakin' sweet, right? Carsyn gets *TOTALLY* giddy when he sees her or someone asks about her.

What can I say? He's a lady's man. At least he has good taste!!!

Interesting...to say the least.

2007-06-04T08:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes kids are REALLY profound. They have insight that we some times look past.

Check this out. http://changes.typepad.com/

This couple, Tim & Wynter adopted their two daughters from China. Dr. Chauvin (Wynter) was one of my professors at SFA and she took a leave to adopt her oldest, Marit. She has since gone back and adopted Mattie. They decided to pack up the bare necessities and go on a journey of sorts to China. The entire story is fascinating, but I love what Marit had to say in their last post!

2007-06-01T07:52:00.000-07:00

This is the boys' first swim of summer 2007! What a blast! They insisted that the pool was too cold so they 'swam' in the hot tub! They are crazy!!!

The boys enjoyed a fun swim and then a trip to incredibly pizza. If you have never gone to an Incredibly Pizza, GO! It was SO MUCH FUN! It is like a sup'ed up Chuck E. Cheese. It has a pizza and salad buffet, video arcade, bumper cars, go karts, build-a-bear, mini bowling and mini golf! How freakin' exciting!

This was the day before Carsyn's surgery. He had all of his pre-op appointments. We informed him that he would be having another surgery and he said that it was alright with him. {as if he had a choice}

We really enjoyed our evening. Carsyn was able to do many things that we will not be able to do for a couple of months. {like swimming, climbing and go-karts}

The Journey Begins...

2007-05-22T20:32:00.000-07:00

In Kindergarten!

I LOVE MY JOB! I think you know you love your job when you are SO sad to see it end. As I was hugging each of the kiddos as they left today I teared up, SEVERAL times. I mean let's face it, you TRY not to have favorites, but there are just some that steal your heart for one reason or another. Whether it be the little boy who looks and acts (which isn't necessarily a compliment) just like your own child or the sweet little girl you know you'll never have. I was sad to see EACH of them go. I received some of the sweetest cards and gifts from my parents.

SERIOUSLY...I've liked other grade levels. First grade was fun...third grade, well, it was OKAY, but kindergarten was the best!

I had students who started the year not knowing their colors and shapes, SERIOUSLY. They didn't recognize their names, much less write it. Now...after my last day with them, MOST of them can read short books and write short stories. Not because of any one thing that I have done, but because of a culmination of our efforts! It has been truly an amazing journey!

Not to mention I work with the greatest and most knowledgeable team of teachers! *I love you guys!*

Well, Well, Well...

2007-05-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

What a sweet, sweet boy! He has no idea what is about to happen. He is so happy, so mischevious, so passionate, and so oblivious to what's about to hit him. He has a smile that can light up a room, a laugh that is infectious, and a heart as big as 'Dallas'.

If you haven't hugged your kids this morning, be sure to do that ASAP because tomorrow isn't a guarantee. It is hard to believe that just two years ago we found out that Carsyn had congenital heart disease. A mere two years ago since Dr. Laird (who we've grown to adore) sucked the life out of us when he said that Carsyn would need open heart surgery. It's been almost two years (will be two years June 8) since Carsyn had his FIRST (which we thought would be his ONLY) open heart surgery. And here we are preparing to go back under the knife. It is SO much different this time. Last time happened so quickly that we didn't have time to worry with every detail. Carsyn is older now, not only will his recovery time be longer, but we will have MUCH more explaining to do. I'm not sure I'm up for that.

During his last surgery Weston was only four months old. I was emotional and *pumping* every two hours so that he would have something to eat. At the time I felt awkward doing that, but at least if filled the hours. Now, Weston is a toddler...a wild man. There is no way he is going to make it at the hospital for a six to ten hour surgery. So I will be left with NOTHING to occupy my time!

They say ignorance is bliss, and I couldn't agree more. I knew it would be painful and worrisome last time, but I knew I would manage. Little did I know how hard it would be to watch my baby hurt. Knowing that; it is physically and emotionally HARD to let them do that to him again. It is an excruciating feeling knowing it has to be done, but not wanting to do it for so many reasons. I know what to expect now, and I think that is the hardest part!

Thursday is the big day, so say a little prayer for my brave boy!

Our Week: Deep breath...

2007-03-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

Monday: Our normal crazy morning routine. Screaming, crying, tooth brushing, hair spiking, "I don't want to wear that", fit throwing kind of Monday. By the time I got the boys to school I felt like I had put in a full days work. But I trudged through the day in kindergarten. I left early to bring Big to his first (of many eye doctor appointments). Because NOTHING about Big is normal the appointment itself took about two and a half hours. When the tech was asking Big to identify pictures (because he was acting TOO silly to identify letters) Big couldn't identify any of the small ones. The tech finally asked, and I quote, "Does he even know what a horse and birthday cake are?" I wanted to die, of course he knows, he obviously couldn't see. After a million more tests and a few little fits and a few moments of Big saying things like, "No thanks, not Nemo, I like the news better." Finally we got the diagnosis, two astigmatisms and farsightedness, he'll need glasses. GASP* So, I looked at the glasses at the optical shop, had a minor stroke, and because I'm cheap, opted to look around before I made the big purchased. Of course, Big, being the drama king he is, cried for hours, literally, because he WANTS glasses. We picked up Weston from school, who is fully potty trained! YIPPEE...he didn't have any accidents. What a freakin genius, RIGHT? Well, just as we turned onto our driveway...he peed. You know the rest, supper/bath/stories/bed.

Tuesday: Same 'ol morning routine with a little less opposition. After all, Big knew if he wasn't good his sweet mother wouldn't buy him glasses. WhoEVER put that idea into his head. *wink* I left work early to order glasses. After calling around I decided to get them at the optical shop we visited in the beginning. Then after school we had our photo shoot at Studio 220. If you haven't yet, CHECK THEM OUT! They are amazing photographers. The boys were a little rowdy. The photographer, who is the mother of one sweet girl, kept shaking her head saying, WOW, they are fun. Which I'm sure what she wanted to say was WOW, they are bad as hell, let's get some GREAT pictures so they don't come back for a re-shoot. Two hours later, with most of the walls still standing in the studio we headed home.

Wednesday: Very uneventful. Today was the day to pick up Big's glasses. So, me, Big and Baby venture into the optical shop. After Carsyn woo'ed the lady into letting him see how glasses were made, he tried on his. He looks super cute, and I'll try to post a picture soon.

Baby was super cute after school. He really loves his brother and I am always amazed at how he copies everything Big does. Baby decided today was a changing day. He re-wrote the rules. And when BIG didn't copy Baby...Baby got mad. It was a battle until bedtime. Whew...what a day.

Thursday: T-Ball practice. Big's general stance on t-ball is less is more. The less he has to do the more fun it is. When they are supposed to be fielding balls he stands back and watches. When I tell him to go get the ball he says he'd rather just give the other kids a chance. ugh! He is a good batter. He can hit pretty far, but that running business, well, he'd rather not. Baby, on the other hand, would rather be out there with the big kids showing them some moves. He won't be able to play for two years, but I think he might be my sports star. Big will probably enjoy things like, fantasy baseball.

Friday: I made it to the end of the week. I have to finish getting everything ready for Big's first t-ball game tomorrow. Baby's shirt isn't ready...so I'm scratching around trying to find a team shirt for him! Big is doing great wearing his glasses, so far after two days he hasn't lost or broke them, now that is progress!

Where it began...

2007-03-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

Most importantly, I have two boys that I absolutely adore! They are truly a gift from God.

I am a total lurker at WAY to many blogs and I just decided to join the revolution. (the in crowd...YEA!) I have a quirky sense of humor and I am probably WAY to opinionated. I enjoy writing, but do not consider myself a writer...therefore, please don't come at me with grammatics. Afterall, I teach kindergarten...everyone's dream job because it is so easy, right? ha ha

My oldest son is four years old. He attends a very amazing preschool where he has learned SO much! He has a congenital heart defect. If you saw him, you wouldn't dream it in a million years. (unless he was shirtless...which isn't TOO abnormal) He had surgery in June of 2005 and will have another surgery this summer.

The 'baby', who is two, is a bouncy, rambling ball of energy, much like his brother. He adores preschool which makes my life so much easier. He is very social!

I'm trying to decide whether or not to post my childrens' names and totally incriminate myself (and them). If you have any opinions on that (whoever you may be, because I'm sure I have a huge broadcast of viewers) let me know!!!