journey from here

Journey From Here

2010-10-18T14:46:00.007-05:00

Needed a new name, new look, new direction, new motivation for this little blog...(so maybe Ill get back in the habit of writing)

Journey From Here.

Here...Here has been many starting points in my life of the "next thing"...High school, college, wedding, birth...these major life events. But right now I just feel "here" not knowing the next big thing and it makes me think of not the next big "thing" but having a big "journey"...with lots and lots of little moments along the way.

We have been talking in our house about how we just feel the Holy Spirit at work so mightily in our lives right now and in the past few years in so many ways. Some hard and challenging, some incredibly joyful, and many that are both of those. I said that I feel as if we are at a starting point. Starting point of something I'm not quite sure of. The Lord has been stirring and growing and stretching and changing us.

I Feel peace. Feel inspired. Feel thankful. Feel more in love with my Savior.
and then sometimes...or actually alot more than sometimes..,
I Feel restless. Feel unsettled. Feel stirred.
I feel ready.

I know that all of these are what makes up "here"...here where He wants me to be.

I am grateful for the feelings of love and joy and peace. I am also grateful for the others...that is how I know He is working on me and in me and through me. Bringing me "here" and taking me from here on the journey He has for me.

So here we go! Off and running from another starting point and I am excited to see where we go from here!

Life Changing Read...

2010-05-25T16:45:00.003-05:00

Get it. Read it. Get more of Him. Get the Holy Spirit. Life Change.

Lost... Found

2010-05-23T23:26:00.002-05:00

Six seasons have come and gone and one of the best television shows has come to an end. Sunday night marked the end of a journey of sorts as I watched a story that has captivated my thoughts since 2004. Like many people I became hooked because of the intricate plot and masterfully developed characters. Lost grabbed me for another reason though back in 2004. The show premiered on September 22, 2004. My father passed away on September 21, 2004. During the pilot episode we discover that our main character Jack had recently lost his father. For obvious reasons I felt a connection with the character. The entire show has been building toward a finale that aims to answer questions. It was leading the viewers on a sort of quest.

It’s interesting because after my dad’s passing I said all of the right things to family and at the funeral and I know that only God gave me the strength to make it through that time. But in the months and years after that week in September I started to miss my dad more than I thought I could. I know now just like I knew then that my dad is with Christ and that September 21 didn’t catch him by surprise. Perhaps that’s another reason why the show moved me so much. Every part of the overall story was connected. There were no accidents, everything happened for a reason. Broken people were brought together in a broken place in order to be fixed again. No matter how crazy things got on the island there was always hope.

Lost is not a primer on orthodox Christianity. However, for me it reminded me of one of the deepest longings of my own heart. I’ll admit at the end of last night’s finale when Jack walks in and opens the casket to find it empty I shed a tear or two. It reminded me that someday I’ll see a casket and it will be empty. I know that right now my dad is with Christ. I don’t grieve as those with no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13), however I still grieve to this day. I don’t often talk about it with anyone, but I think about my dad almost daily. Some days I get caught up with the rat race and I forget, but then there are moments like watching Lost and I remember. Much like the characters in the finale I get a glimpse every now and then of what really matters and it gives me strength to carry on. I sit next to my wife and remember that I'm not alone. My daughter hugs me and smiles and I remember that there is such a thing as unconditional love. I see my son reach out for me to hold him and I remember that God carries me always. I remember that we are all characters and there is a master storyteller who sees His whole story and is moving it to an epic finale. A finale where all of the glimpses will turn into sight and where the questions will be answered. A moment that will turn into an eternity of being transformed because of the Light and Love that will be seen face to face.

Month in review.

2010-03-22T14:35:00.003-05:00

So many pictures to post, so many things to write...wait for it, wait for it...beaubaby is starting to army crawl which is so cute and has his two front top and bottom teeth, and reese is our little sassy girl right now! She definitely needs to be in a drama class or something :) but so sweet and fun. She just got asked to be her first flower girl in this girl's wedding, so I am pretty sure she will knock that one out of the park! Just had spring break which was great to have time with skip home all week. doing house projects, cleaning out the garage...Broke out the reefs over spring break...there is something about my black reefs that makes me happy. They are sooooo old they are now melded to my feet perfectly...I never want a new pair! (And yes, I wash them every year all you germ-a-phobs!) Had a fun girls night out, did some shopping, made some cupcake pops...Decided that this year I am going to garden, like actually be a gardener. I started with herbs in pots (I have mint, chives and rosemary) now Im ready to move on to flowers in our front bed, and my dream would be to grow some more herbs, blackberries and a few other things in a bed in our backyard. Now, the fact that this requires some knowledge and also tools, which I have neither of, makes this an interesting project! Anyway, deeper topics of discussion and more pics to come soon, as in tomorrow! I promise! Happy Spring!

Snow Day!

2010-02-12T19:39:00.014-06:00

So yeah, couldn't narrow the pics down any more than this...So grateful Skip and I both had the day off and could do snowy things with the reesie and beaubaby!--including make-shift snow boots of target bags! Had a great day and are so thankful for the fun and time together as well as the sweet reminder of our Great Creator through this rarely seen (in texas anyway :) ) piece of His beautiful creation! -- "Though your sins be as scarlet, they are washed white as snow!" Happy snow day everyone!

GFA and Change...

2010-02-07T10:23:00.009-06:00

You might have seen the little gadget we have had in the top right corner of our blog since we started it. You might have not really looked at it. If you have never heard of Gospel for Asia, please check this out! We support a native missionary with them and some other things with their organization. We love them, 100% of what you give goes to the field! The director, K.P. Yohannan, is unbelievable and his books will change your life. I am re-reading Revolution in World Missions and every chapter is just life changing. We have ordered almost all of his other books as well and are on a mission to read them all this year. We have been completely pricked and moved to not only pray for and learn more and be more aware of the state of the world and world missions, but to DO more. We want this year to be a year of seeking and growing and of the Lord teaching us, molding our hearts, leading us to what He has for us to do and be. I truly hope we are in a season of Him working in us, Him changing and growing us. The Holy Spirit is moving in us to get out of the mindset of just making our little bubble more easy and comfortable, but instead to live our lives truly in service of our Savior in tangible, physical ways...to be thinking of the all the lost and hurting people and feel convicted to do something, to show Him to others, to soak Him in. And this is evident here in the place we are planted...we want to be more aware, bold, and intentionally a picture of Him to the people and in situations God has given us at work, in our neighborhood, people we run into on the street...Skip and I were so blessed to have what we did at Denton Bible with College Life...a once in a lifetime experience where we exploded in our knowledge, love and service for the Lord...where we were so focused and intense on Christ and His Word. Outside of that, our attentions, affections, and actions are so often pulled, deceived, distracted by the daily grind and sinful desires. Daily "quiet times" are so often a struggle. I pray that we are stirred with renewed and restored affections for our Savior this year (third word of the year--affections) , that He stirs our affections for our lost, hurting world and that He continues to direct our steps to whatever He has for us. Please look at and read the GFA website and seriously read K.P Yohannan's books!

my buddy...

2010-01-28T20:09:00.010-06:00

Anybody remember this guy?? I am sortof a freak when it comes to remembering stuff like this (shout out to this girl)... I mean, for example, the skip it jingle, rainbow brite, popples, teddy ruxpin, big wheels, the theme song to Care Bears, Lite Brite and the ever awesome My Buddy and Kid Sister. If you were a kid in the 80's, you should still know every word and the tune to the below jingle...

“My Buddy, My Buddy,
Wherever I go, he goes.
My Buddy, My Buddy,
I’ll teach him everything that I know…

My Buddy and me
Like to climb up a tree.
My buddy and me
We're the best friends that could be.

My Buddy, My Buddy
My Buddy and Meeeee!”

Now, yes, I am the first to admit there is a slight resemblence to Chucky and actually dolls (and puppets) kindof creep me out...BUT, the catchiness of the jingle just got in my brain and lately we have been referring to the beaubaby as the "beau buddy" sometimes...even singing the song inserting his name...see below example.

"beau buddy, beau buddy,

wherever I go, he goes..."

Dang that catchy jingle.

Of course...I think MY buddy is way cuter...and a lot less creepy. :)

In sickness and in health...

2010-01-26T16:50:00.011-06:00

Five weeks today of our little family being sick. Colds, eye infections, violent virus, fevers, coughs, ear infection and now bronchiolitis. I must admit I have been feeling very tired, beat down, and frustrated. I even have had thoughts of why can't we catch a break, why can't I keep them well, why I can't get a shower :), why my work schedule, recent new workout routine, errand running, and hangouts are being disturbed, etc. The last 5 weeks have been a very hard, probably one of the harder I have up to this point, but yet a clarifying time. As through all this Christ is showing me my selfishness, my total lack of control, my need for Him, and my need to be still. I have no right to expect and no promise that my little schedule and my little life is always going to be perfectly undisturbed...in fact, the opposite...These are all things I know in my head. But how do they work out in my life? How do I take the Almighty God and not have Him be a compartmentalized part of my life, but throughout everything in my life, even this? Hard one. One I have been struggling through with friends and family. One Skip and I are working on -- how we raise our family. I am not the most disciplined person when it comes to reading the Word and having "quiet times". But I am discovering that is not "it" anyway. The past 5 weeks, He has driven me to Him, and He has shown me my sinful desires...again. It all sortof culminated for me at a point when I truly didnt know what to do one day i was home from work with them sick. I just wanted to curl up on the couch and nap. But instead, I opened Psalms. I turned off the tv. I prayed. I think He is faithful to strengthen your desire for more of Him the more you are with Him. I truly want to want Him, to fight the things that pull me in the other direction. And man, the flesh is strong. I want to understand that in all this illness of the current moment, I am blessed beyond measure,...to change my thinking. To think of orphans, Haiti, all the sickness and horror in the world and be not only reminded of my sin and what a blessed life I lead, but also of the call I have to live out the gospel in my life -- to keep working towards what that looks like here in this place, this bubble we live in. Of course, I cannot do any of this...only Him working in me, which is a constant process. Sanctification. I will continue to stumble, struggle, and plod along sometimes...

Psalm 23. "The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not be in want. He maketh me lie down in green pastures, He restores my soul..." This is what I read today and "restore" is my second word of the year. Refresh and restore. As I am worrying about my baby girl's fever right now, crying because I am so tired and just need a good cry, I pray he brings us all back to health...and I hope that through this, He teaches me more about myself, reveals more about Himself. Stirs me to want Him more in sickness AND in health...and to find my joy and restoration in Him.

P.S. I wouldn't mind getting back to the gym either :) I miss the elliptical.
P.P.S. Major props to my husband for his help, patience, flexibility and care through all this too. It takes an amazing person to not only put up with my moments of insanity in weeks like this, but to get snot on his shirt, thrown up on, and get down in the trenches with me...thanks, love you babe! :)

my sweet baby girl...

2010-01-21T09:52:00.006-06:00

Time for a Reesie story...there are so many. everyday she does funny things and says new words, and has some major sass going on, puts her hands on her hips and everything. So cute. (I know it probably won't be so cute in 10 years) Anyway, she loves to spend hours setting up tea parties, playing beauty shop, dressing up like a princess, and dancing. She is singing every hour of the day she is awake. Always smiling. I am definitely in love with her :)
So the other morning, before she woke up, I went in and crawled in bed with her...she likes to "cuddle". She woke up, rolled over, put her little hand on my cheek, and said with all the conviction and sweetness in her little body, "Mommy, you are beautiful." Talk about heart melting. It is so sweet to see what this innocent little child sees, not swayed yet by the world's definition of beauty. Very refreshing.
Then today, we were attending a tea party in her room and she said to me, "Mommy, I am going to go get married in my closet", then disappears into her closet with her crown, purse, play jewelry and butterfly wings. Oh how I love these moments...(They help when the whining, throwing up and moments like that come :) )
My prayer continues to be for her health, safety, happiness, growth, and above all, her salvation. I pray that skip and I continue to develop in our love, patience and joy with her, and that we are constantly looking to Christ for her and that she is able to see Him in us. I am far far from perfect and never will be. I lose patience and get frustrated. I make mistakes every day as a parent. I am a sinner. But I continue to ask for forgiveness, seek Him, and petition Him to keep purifying me to make me more like Himself.
So I hope you all get the opportunity to hang out with Reesie and beaubaby because they are both the best and cutest ever! Of course, I might be a tad bit biassed. :)

a soul, refreshed.

2010-01-16T14:46:00.009-06:00

i love the word refresh--"to provide new vigor and energy through rest, food, etc., to stimulate, to make fresh again, reinvigorate or cheer." there are many things that are refreshing to my soul : church, curling up on the couch with my favorite blanket, thinking of childhood memories, a fire in the fireplace, a good Alias marathon, rain, a date night with Skip, time in the Word, a good photograph, a Sunday afternoon nap, breakfast with my daddy, a hug from my mom, Reese singing in her sweet little voice, hearing Beau laugh, writing a letter, getting a letter in the mail, the smell of Gain laundry detergent, a new pair of jeans, helping someone in need, a friend calling just because, reconnecting, a girls night, a clean house, some good mexican food, sitting at Starbucks by myself, being alone in the mountains, a beautiful sky, laughing a for real laugh, winning a game night, ..I could go on and on. But for sure one of my top 3 soul refreshers is time with a dear friend. And I mean genuine, honest, happy, sad, nitty gritty, TIME. Time looking each other in the eye, talking about life, talking about the Lord, being transparent with each other, admitting hard things, encouraging each other, sometimes crying, alot of times laughing, spurring each other to grow, refreshing each other's souls...This past year I had a lot of lonely moments missing those kinds of moments. there are a myriad or reasons why we often let too much time go between these meetings...working full time, kids, laziness, selfishness, pride, etc, and relationship with Christ also has a direct effect on this as well. but i continue to fight against those things. (please don't send me hate mail for this...but i think facebook can be one too if we're not careful...very good "virtual" relationship creator...why do people need to know where each other are all the time and what we are doing? Its kindof silly. Im actually not a big fan of what it creates among people. Not saying its totally evil or anything. moderation. but I am thankful that we do not have internet on our phones!) Ok, now that we are past that soapbox :) Anyway, lately, now that I am working part time, spending more time with my kiddos, praying that the Lord would renew my heart and mind, resting in Him...He has faithfully given moments like this. Times like this. Conversations like this. these types of relationships are rare and few, they take pruning, cultivating, love and effort. thank you to the people out there that refresh my soul...through your words, through your silence, through your ministry, through breakfasts, lunches, dinners and coffees, through your gifts, through your help, through your advice, through having fun together, through your laughter, through your hugs, through forgiveness, through your notes and cards, through how you challenge me, through your Christ-likenss, through living life alongside me. i love you. my soul stands refreshed.

I won!

2010-01-15T20:34:00.005-06:00

We all know how I love winning. I was given the "over the top" blogger award from my dearest Emily to help me keep my blogging resolution...so I am faithfully answering these questions with one word answers. Fun!...(and kind of hard :) )

1. Where is your cell phone? lap
2. Your hair? wet
3. Your mother? strong
4. Your father? hero
5. Your favorite food? Mexican
6. Your dream last night? work
7. Your favorite drink? dr.pepper
8. Your dream / goal? Europe
9. What room are you in? Living
10. Your hobby? organization
11. Your fear? insignificance
12. Where do you want to be in six years? mothering
13. Where were you last night? home
14. Something that you aren't? confrontational
15. Muffins? yes
16. Wish list item? rangerover
17. Where did you grow up? arlington
18. Last thing you did? shower
19. What are you wearing? Pj's
20. Your TV? Alias
21. Your pets? never
22. Friends? life
23. Your life? Sovereignty
24. Your mood? tired
25. Missing someone? alexanders :)
26. Vehicle? corolla
27. Something your not wearing? socks
28. Your favorite store? Target
29. Your favorite color? blue
30. What was the last time you laughed? tonight
31. Last time you cried? church
32. Your best friend? skip
33. One place that I could go over and over? NYC
34. One person who emails you regularly? bosses
35. Favorite place to eat? saltgrass

I pass this award on to:

-Jenn: because, bullseye.

-Andrea: because, game show soulmate.

-Jenna: because, pickle chips.

-Julie: because, just because.

New Year's Blogging Resolution

2010-01-11T13:43:00.002-06:00

I have decided that this year (I kindof hate labeling things as resolutions because I don't really like resolutions per say...but, the new year is a good fresh jumping off point to get things going that maybe have been put off)...anyway, I have decided that this year I am going to get back to blogging. True blogging, not just pictures. i love writing so much and I want to spend more time doing things like writing instead of DVR overload. Don't even know if anyone is out there anymore, but, I'm going to write anyway. I know you are dying to know what was in my car when I cleaned it out, my opinion on crock pots, and how I feel about turning 30 :) But seriously, also I want this to be a journal of sorts of my thoughts, experiences, family, and what the Lord is doing in my life...if for no one else but me. So...here we go. Somebody out there keep me accountable...Mom. :)

Just for Fun...more pics :)

2009-11-14T22:22:00.015-06:00

Yes, I know. It's been a while...again. Oh well, here you go! Enjoy, Halloween below also.

--The Family--

--At the park for a picnic--

--Playing with GiGi--

--The Princess--

--Jenn's 30th, cute girls!--

--My dear friend Bethany and baby Jack--

--Friends since 8th grade, such a sweet and fun gift!!--

--Matt and Lanis at Skip's 30th, Hotties!--

--Reese, or Reesiecat as Miller calls her, with her "betrothed" : ) --

Halloween 2009

2009-11-14T22:03:00.020-06:00

Our little lobster and Snow White!! :)

Wow.

2009-09-17T16:17:00.004-05:00

Read this today on Jenn's blog. I mean, seriously, start here and read the whole blog...she is amazing! Had me crying thanking our sweet Lord that His mercies are new every morning. Thanks Jenn and several others who have reminded me of this lately! (this blog always encourages me to look at scripture). Thank you Jesus that I am forgiven, loved, that I am your child, and that I can be renewed daily regardless of the sin and things of this world. Thank you that you give me YOUR joy! Your blood poured out for me never fails.

Pictures, Pictures and more Pictures!!

2009-09-16T20:57:00.010-05:00

Here are a few pics...Enjoy :)

all things new...

2009-09-14T13:47:00.003-05:00

Well, hello everyone. Back from the dead you ask?? Nope. Just back from not having a computer, having a babe, starting new jobs and moving. So, update of the summer...
Beau is doing great!! Such a content and happy baby, 16 pounds already! Reese is just blossoming and her personality keeps us laughing constantly. Skip started at his new school a few weeks ago and it has been good and challenging for him. It is a middle school in Saginaw and he is also coaching. I was blessed to be able to go back to part time as of last week!! Still at the Gaylord, same job and everything, just working 3 days a week. I love it and am so grateful to the Lord for showing Himself to be good and faithful yet again in my life, to my husband for working so hard to provide for us, and to my amazing work peeps for being so supportive! It has been awesome to be home with my babies :) Let's see...Oh yeah, we moved 2 weeks ago to Keller. We are loving the house! Trying to find a church--love the Village and Christ Chapel (where we have been going) but are visiting churches closer to the new hood. Ok, now that you're all caught up...random thoughts...
1)Love the rain!
2)love football!
3)love decorating!
4)love our sweet family foursome!
5)love our dear friends we live life with!
6)love lil smokies! (had them for bfast Sunday :) )
7)love cupcake pops! (www.bakerella.blogspot.com)

**Pics coming tonight!!**

The birth of Beau.

2009-05-27T07:56:00.004-05:00

So. I am going to summarize this because I know not everyone is interested in the gritty details of childbirth :)
Sunday, May 10.
8am--wake up with contractions, but not too bad yet so we go ahead and head to IHOP for Mother's Day breakfast. At breakfast they are getting more painful, Skip wants to leave but I want my pancakes. By the time we get home, we start timing them as they are getting more painful and closer together.
10am--Skip's mom comes and picks up Reese "just in case". Skip and I go outside and walk and they get really close together, about 2 minutes apart, and painful enough that I have to stop walking when I have one.
11am--Skip wants to go to the hospital but I want to hold off as long as possible. The contractions are very painful at this point and so I get in the tub for a while. They keep coming and so Skip starts getting everything ready and loaded in the car. By the time he is helping me out of the tub, it is hard to even get my clothes on.
12noon--Most fun car ride ever :) Took about 20 minutes to get to Baylor.
1pm--get upstairs, checked in a room, IV started, all that stuff. I was dilated to a 5 when we got there. For the next few hours we labor. We had the best, most supportive nurse ever, a major answer to prayer! Skip was amazing too. He stayed totally calm and very encouraging. I thought I would get in the shower at the hospital or walk around or something, but it was just so intense so quick that I just sat up in the bed, leaned on Skip, sat in the rocker...They checked me several times and things were moving along.
5pm--start feeling like I have to push. Can't yet though because I'm not totally dilated. That was not a fun hour. That was when I wanted to give up.
6pm--Ready to go and start really pushing. The nursery people come in the room, the doctor is here. The pushing contractions were the strongest feeling I have ever felt in my life for sure.
618pm--Beau is born! I was sitting up and pushing so I saw him right after he came out and got to hold him right away and everything. It was an unbelievable feeling! I honestly couldn't believe I did it. I thought I would be the "grit my teeth and bear it" type...but turns out I was a screamer. For whatever reason that just helped me get through the contractions. At one point during pushing, my nurse told me she could tell he was almost out because I was screaming "primal jungle screams" :) That got a laugh from everyone...So she basically called me Xena: Warrior Princess. Oh well, so much for the silent suffering :)
So the experience was amazing and very much worth it for us. But of course the most important thing is our precious baby boy and that he was healthy! God is so good and we are incredibly thankful for and amazed by our little miracle.
Happy birthing to all of you that are pregnant!

Baby Beau

2009-05-16T21:35:00.009-05:00

Beau Thomas.
Born May 10, 2009
8 lbs., 9oz.
21 inches
Full story and more pics to come soon! :)

Simplify.

2009-04-20T13:28:00.002-05:00

We had an awesome challenge at church yesterday to simplify our lives. Just about all the clutter that fills our life both physically and otherwise. This is something my dad often told me growing up as well and I love it! Simplify. So on top of cleaning out my car, the garage and purging our lives of all the clothes, dvd's, and just crap that fills up our house (and I dont consider myself a pack rat and I'm not a knick-knacky person either but still we have so much we could get rid of!...)...anyway, we are also trying to clean out our time, focus and emotions. "Seek FIRST HIS kingdom..." Which is so hard to do truly and authentically I think, but in our daily struggle to be more like Him and honor Him in our daily living...the process begins, which is ongoing, of "simplifying" the DVR timers, our weekend calendar, bank accounts, the pressures and expectations we put on ourselves and others and just our crazy, busy thoughts and lives in general. Anyway, wish us luck! :)
**Baby is good. 37 weeks and counting! Reese pics and update soon!

Our little princess

2009-04-08T19:10:00.004-05:00

So as the day and time approach quickly here at the end (I am 35 weeks yesterday) we are getting so excited to meet this new little member of our family. I want Reese to have siblings and I have always wanted a big family. But also as we get closer, I find myself with the mixed emotion of being sad at the reality that we will go have this baby and at that moment, things will change and we won't have Reese by herself anymore. I'm not worried about my love for the new baby or anything, but just sad that it’s not just gonna be “Reeseie” anymore. and wondering how that dynamic is going to work out. She is just so sweet and cute and fun and a joy to us and we have loved loved loved her personality and just love being able to give so much to her and spend so much time with her…I know those things we love about her won’t change and that pretty much everyone in the world has gone through this moment if you’ve had more than one child. I know that once the baby is here, I’ll love it so much and won’t be able to imagine life without it…at least, that’s how I always felt when one of these guys was born. But, it is still a feeling I am struggling with a little here. We are praying daily for the Lord to bless and sustain our individual relationships with Reese after the baby and to allow her to feel loved, special and steady...not overwhelmed or upset by the change in her little life. So anyway, anyone with advice for me, please share! :)

32 weeks and counting...

2009-03-18T19:58:00.006-05:00

Sorry for overloading you with 2 posts in one day!(below)
I am 32 weeks today. Everything is checking out good at the doctors appointments. Feeling good, just huge, sore and tired :) We are still taking our Bradley class and it's going well, I am feeling more and more confident and excited about our choice to labor and deliver naturally. Reese doesn't totally comprehend everything but is very sweet and thinks the "bo baby" (what she calls the baby) is going to come out and play with her in her room! So, we would appreciate your prayers for these last weeks and the labor/delivery. We are very excited!
**Im not a huge fan of belly shots (mainly because I look huge) but here are a few. The first one is at 22 weeks, the bottom one is tonight at 32 weeks--and yes, Im already in my pj's and my hair is puffy--I know.)

San Antonio...

2009-03-18T19:27:00.013-05:00

Last weekend we had the pleasure of visiting our dear dear friends, Rosey and Jimmy, in San Antonio. Some of our best college friends and we have stayed that way for almost 10 years now!! We are turning 30, having kids, and taking crappy vacations together and love them so much and miss having them close by! They are very gracious and always allow us to drag them out for mexican food when we are there and this time, they took us to a super fun place called La Fogata. If you are in San Antonio, try it! And I finally got my churro that I have been waiting like 4 years for! On the way back, we stopped in Waco at a place called Health Camp...we try to make that a tradition...also a great place to try if you ever happen to be in Waco. (O'steens-am I right?? :) ) It is a great greasy burger and shake place! Here's a few pics from the weekend.

Thankful.

2009-03-04T12:11:00.001-06:00

"My soul waits for the Lord; He is my help and my shield. For my heart is GLAD in Him!..."
Psalm 33:20-21a

I think one of the neatest things a person can hear is their child praying. Prayer has been something I have been studying, hearing about in church, convicted about the past month or so. So many times, almost all the time, I struggle to solve things myself, fix things myself, I struggle with controlling every aspect of things happening in my life, good or bad, I struggle with remembering daily that this place is not my home, I struggle with self-pity and contentment, I struggle with feeling isolated and alone sometimes. I have been reminded many times as of late that I am in no way in control, that no matter what happens in my life my God is a GOOD God, a God that forgives, a God that is faithful. The past few months have really highlighted my “life verse”, James 1:2-4, for me and just recently has the Lord been gracious enough to allow a light to click on in my head. Pray. Pray without ceasing. I think prayer is such a general term and something we throw around so easily without understanding it. I have for the first time in a long time, truly been on my knees faithfully praying, trying to turn my focus from “me, poor me” to “God. What an amazing God. What an amazing creation, what infinite power, goodness, justice, and holiness!” It has been amazing and emotional and has shown me my Savior in a deep way. And back to the beginning comment…Reese has also been included in this with me and we have been praying together, not just at bedtime, but in the mornings before school, in the car, everywhere and she has responded in this truly amazing way. Her attitude has been different, the way she is relating to us…Hearing her sweet little voice saying “I love you Jesus” is very humbling. So, as I sit here crying, in renewed knowledge of my sin and my need for my Savior…I am thankful that He would save a wretch like me and continues to work in me…

“Count it ALL JOY my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds. For the testing of your faith develops perseverance. And let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything…”
James 1:2-4

Color Splash

2009-02-24T18:17:00.005-06:00

So I've found a new way to waste time on my iPhone. It's an app called Color Splash and you can take photos and make them part black & white and part color. For whatever reason I think it's really cool. Kate doesn't really get it. But here are a couple of photos I "color splashed" anyway.

First Trip to the ER

2009-02-15T21:55:00.005-06:00

Well to celebrate Valentine's Day and our 6th wedding anniversary Kate and I took our daughter on a date to two emergency rooms. Last night at dinner Reese got a very funny look on her face like she was dizzy and about to puke. Then she tells us that her head hurts (which she's never done before) and starts acting funny. And being the good parents that we are we rush her over to the Cooks Children's urgent care that's about 3 minutes from our apartment. We fill out the book of forms to check in and after sitting in the waiting room for 15 minutes Reese's dinner shoots out of her mouth and onto the floor. Now I forgot to mention that earlier in the day she had fallen off of our overstuffed chair in the living room and hit the back of her head (this info will be important in a second).

After seeing her undigested macaroni and having a family clean up session in the bathroom, Reese's head seems to stop hurting. But again we as concerned parents decide to stay and have her checked out by a doctor. So they check her and three of the symptoms of a concussion are change in disposition, vomiting and fever. Of course Reese is batting 1,000 on this and we recall that she hit her head earlier in the day. But she maybe fell 12 inches onto carpet. Well long story short (too late) the doc at the first place scares the crap out of us and says that they need to send our daughter downtown because head injuries can go downhill quick. They have to send an ambulance (that takes 40 minutes to get there), I have to follow behind it in the car, they give Reese an IV, hook her up to a heart rate monitor, she gets a CT scan, the hospital tells my mom that we're coming on Care Flight, on and on it goes.

When it was all said and done we discover that she has some sort of stomach virus that's going around and there is absolutely no head injury of any kind. Reese gets a teddy bear from her ride with the Teddy Bear team (that's what they call the Cooks transports), she gets a rainbow popsicle at midnight, and a new shirt to wear home because her other one contains the remnants of her dinner.

All of this story to say that it was a hectic, stressful night. But we are so thankful that our little girl is ok and we're interested to see how much the teddy bear and popsicle cost. :)

Need I say more.

2009-01-21T09:48:00.002-06:00

MLK Day

2009-01-19T13:06:00.003-06:00

I would just like to take a moment to thank Martin Luther King Jr. for giving me this opportunity to have a much-needed day off! Gaylord Entertainment decided this year to observe as a company MLK Day as a paid holiday and all I have to say to that is a big, fat YEA!!! So I am enjoying signing up for Facebook(yes, Skip finally drug me into it), catching up on 24, taking a glorious afternoon nap, reading, taking Reeseie to the park...It's a great day!

(And yes, I do also realize that he was a very significant historical figure that did some pretty cool things :) )

Finally...

2009-01-13T20:25:00.006-06:00

Here are few pictures from Christmas...

Jack's back...and so are we!

2009-01-12T10:42:00.006-06:00

With the return of our beloved Jack Bauer last night, Skip and I felt it was time to return to the land of the “blogging” living. The new year has brought many new exciting things…cold weather, a new slew of resolutions, vacation time kicking in at work, 24 and Lost….
But to backtrack a little, our holiday times were wonderful although fast. We spent Christmas Eve with Skip’s family and Christmas Day with mine. Reese cleaned up this year as you will see from pics coming soon (as soon as I replace the batteries in the camera). Then we slid into the new year with a bang, with a New Year’s Eve consisting of pizza, pajamas, and my favorite couch.

As of tomorrow, I will be 23 weeks along, pregnancy wise…We had a second sonogram last Thursday and everything checked out well. The first one showed some inflammation in the baby’s kidney’s but this time it all looked fine, which was an answer to prayer. I am feeling stretchier and bigger this time around so I am a little scared about 15 more weeks from now, but one day at a time. I am getting very excited!!!
Well, pics to come. I'll get them up tonight. Hope everyone had a great start to 2009!

Question of the day to ponder (brought up by my weekend activity of doing dishes and laundry): What the heck happens to 1) tops to Tupperware?? and 2) socks. I swear there is a hole in the dryer that sucks out the matches to socks.

Ummm, nothing clever comes to mind...

2008-11-26T10:31:00.016-06:00

...Two blogs in one day, I know. Obviously I am very busy at work today :)
Just wanted to catch up on some pics! Life is good. I am still feeling sick but T-2 had a good checkup this week! Reese has now decided however, that it is a "boy baby." :) We got to go to the Coldplay concert this past week and it was awesome as always! We are looking forward to Thanksgiving food (my fav) and taking some time away from things for family, friends and setting aside time to specifically pray and be thankful for all the things we are continually blessed with! We hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

...Look at the sweet, glitttery face! Our little fairy princess!

Her first "trick or treat." With her best friend Miller (Fergus the train)

...showing off her one piece of candy she was allowed to eat :)

Forgot to turn the pic before loading. Sorry!

...Hangin with the Stewart's and our dear friends the Womacks.

Travis is back from Iraq and we are so thankful for his safety!

...Playing in the hay maze at the pumpkin festival

... At the Great Pumpkin Festival at the Arboretum

With GiGi at the Butterfly Flutterby...sporting her antenna! :)

Riding the pony at the Butterfly Flutterby

Talking to myself

2008-11-26T09:17:00.006-06:00

So, in response to myself and my last blog...
Church on Sunday was very convicting for me. It was one comment that really reminded me of something. During the prayer, we prayed that God alone would satisfy and consume us.
That was it. Small words that meant alot to me considering my recent addiction :) I was very convicted about that certain book / movie that I previously called an "obsession". I truly want and struggle daily to be satisfied in my God and Savior ALONE. I struggle against the things of the world that fight for my time and emotions. I could go on and on, BUT, I want to be careful not to go too far the other way either. I do not think books, movies, music are wrong. I think being truly consumed by it, and using it to fill and satisfy, is. So anyway, just some thoughts I am thinking today. Think what you will about it. I know people have differing opinions on Harry Potter and tv and all that stuff...but hopefully the one thing we can agree on as Christians is that we all struggle to be more like Christ, to live our lives in a manner that would glorify Him, and that none of us will reach that standard this side of heaven. So I guess in closing...enjoy Twilight :) (because it's awesome!!)....but remember what, who, and where our true loyalty, worship and affections lie.

Obsession.

2008-11-19T09:52:00.005-06:00

Obsession. Check out the definition in Webster’s. This word defines the last week of my life. I have been waiting to start a certain book until I felt better, but with the movie coming out this weekend, I felt I couldn’t wait any longer. Yes. That’s right. I’m talking Twilight. My original intent was to casually read Book One this week so I would be done in time for the movie. Started reading and couldn’t put it down! Literally. I have read 4 books in 6 days. There might be soundtracks, magazine covers and DVRing Entertainment Tonight involved. It reminds me of the first time I read the Harry Potter books. So exciting and something new. I am pretty much dreaming about vampires :)…although I have assured Skip he has nothing to worry about! I don’t actually think in real life I will meet a vampire any time soon…although I wouldn’t mind meeting Rob Pattinson.(the vampire character in the movie) :)
So to those of you I have already pulled into my obsession with me, congratulations and I cant wait for the movie! And to those of you not yet on the bandwagon, hop on!!

The Morning After

2008-11-05T09:57:00.004-06:00

Well, I am feeling many things this morning. Disappointment, fear, uncertainty. I could truly go off about the outcome of last night. Un-educated voters, the fact that no one can actually tell me in words what “change” he is bringing, the fact that the media and pop culture directed so many peoples votes, the fact that Obama will not allow the media to even speak his middle name, the fact that people have already been arrested for assassination plots against him, what is going to happen regarding terrorism, the fact that his moral compass is completely broken. The man now running our country scares the crap out of me. But at this point, it is done. God is in control. Regardless of my opinions, our ultimate, supreme ruler is Christ anyway. He is aware of who is now our authority as far as government goes. I will continue to be faithful to pray every day for God’s protection and favor on this country of ours even though we do not deserve it. And I will trust that His sovereign wisdom is greater than I can understand. I will continue to love this country, love freedom, support the troops, sing the national anthem, pledge allegiance to the flag, and remember 9/11. As out of control and worried as I feel, I will take comfort in the God of the Universe. The entire Universe. As in, the Universe that is bigger than the United States.

Vote!

2008-11-04T09:43:00.004-06:00

I am leaving work to go VOTE!! Remember to vote and PRAY for our Nation today! God is in control people!

--Ok. I know. Blogging 2 days in a row. I just feel like I need to share Part 1 of the story I told yesterday. The so sweet moment that ended up in the blog yesterday was preempted by this one: All day Saturday Reese was whining, throwing fits, being 2…My husband, who has many virtues, one of the strongest I consider to be patience, was losing it. (As was I) And you all know it takes a lot to make him lose his cool—unless it is a church softball game :) Anyway, so at 8:00 that night, which is her bedtime, we pack Reeseie up and head to Mimi’s. We drop her off to play in a desperate moment, and for one precious hour, go sit at On the Border and have chips and queso. I don’t think we said a word the whole time :) It was wonderful. Im sure our waiter wondered if we were fighting or something since we weren’t talking and I know we looked a little disheveled. Me in my stretchy workout pants, hair in a ponytail, no makeup…And these times are really few and far between right now because of Skip's football schedule and me feeling so bad 24/7! Oh well. But you know what, these many imperfect moments in our life is what made the moment in the blog from yesterday so much sweeter and makes us "real". Just had to share. I thought it was only fair you see both sides of the story :)

Now, Go Vote!

True Love and Sleeping In

2008-11-03T14:45:00.003-06:00

So. On this, the Monday following Daylight Savings Sunday, I write to you to say…I miss sleeping in! This is the third year that we in no way get to sleep in as our daughter got up at 5:30, (so 4:30 time change wise). I was not about to get the day going that early so I moseyed on into her room and climbed in bed with her. She laid there awake for probably an hour, but God was good in the midst of my exhaustion and it was the sweetest hour ever! We were both curled up on our sides facing each other, and Reese had her “wankie, soodie.” Which for those of you that don’t speak Reese is her blankie and soothie (pacifier). Anyway, we laid there looking at each other, and both of our eyes eventually started to close. Then I felt her scoot closer to me and put her forehead against mine and she put her little hand on my cheek. Then she moved it and put it right on the middle of my chest and was kindof patting me. All this with her eyes closed. I was so tired I felt like crying (I have to admit), but laying there with her was the sweetest thing ever! Moments that will be etched in my mind forever and that mean way more than an hour of sleep. Having her has taught me so much about what it really means to be a mother, unconditional love (and I mean unconditional)…Sometimes I know I haven’t done the right thing with her or I raise my voice when I shouldn’t have and I ask her to forgive me and tell her I love her so much. She doesn’t remember those things…Eventually she will grow up and experience being hurt, having her trust in someone broken, mean people. One of my prayers for her is that she experiences love as Christ intended it more than the harsh effects of a non-believing world. I think that innocent, unconditional, close your eyes and put your hand on your mommy’s cheek kind of love is rare and one of the most beautiful things I have ever experienced! And only through a child.

But, all that being said…next year, seriously, I am hiring someone to spend the night with my kids so I can SLEEP IN!! :) I'm for real. Any volunteers? I will pay cash.

T-2

2008-10-31T10:15:00.002-05:00

As you might remember, before we knew that Reese was Reese, we called her “baby T”…a term of endearment really. Well, now we are excited to say that we have begun the adventure of “T-2” :) …
That’s right. Here we go again! Finding out about this baby was somewhat of a surprise, as we wanted to wait a little longer so we would be out of the apartment and back into a house by the time the baby was born. But, after a few weeks of freaking out a little, we are super excited!! We know God is in complete control of our lives and has had this baby planned and planned for us specifically since the beginning of time, which amazes me!
So…I am 12 weeks, due May 13th. May is a good baby birthing time :) Reese doesn’t really get it I don’t think, but if you ask her where the baby is, she will say mommy’s tummy. And if you ask if she wants a brother or a sister she will say “sheeshter” :) So sweet! We are planning on not finding out again so I guess she will have to wait until May to find out!
We are thrilled and would love your prayers for a healthy pregnancy, healthy delivery, and healthy baby!
--Stay tuned for Halloween pics next week!

Psalm 139: 13-14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well!”

Weekend update...

2008-10-27T10:04:00.011-05:00

-So the past few weekends I have been partying it up :) On the 10th, I went to So You Think You Can Dance – Live! With sweet friends, Jen, Jenn, Meredith and Maggie. In case you didn’t know, this is a summer show by the producers of American Idol except dancing instead of singing! It is awesome! If you haven’t watched it, start this year!
-Last weekend we took Reese to the Butterfly Flutterby in Grapevine….she had wings on and looked so dang cute. They had little tiny ponies and she kept yelling “pony, pony” so we paid the $5 and let her ride the pony. She freaked out! Cried, freaked, wanted off the pony…so that wasn’t quite as successful as we thought it would be.
-This weekend I went to Jason Mraz with my friends from work Jenna and Amy. He was great, love him. Except he didn’t even sing the rocket song or You and I Both Know, which to me are two of his bigger songs…but he did make sure however, that he put Obama’s face in the background of a stained glass window up on the screen during one of his songs…
-Jason was Thursday night, Friday night was….High School Musical 3!!! That’s right. I was there on opening night with my friend Misty with every other 10 year old in the metroplex. And yes, it was worth it. I am so sad they are over. And I don’t care what you say…I love them, I own them on DVD, and I like Zac Efron. So there. :)
-Saturday we hung with the Stewarts and our dear friend Travis who we rarely get to see due to the fact he was in Iraq and now lives far away in Lufkin. Anyway, fun times were had by all at the kids carnival we went to and during the rousing political discussion that ensued. Check out Andrea’s blog and see her thoughts about it :) …

So now, back at work. It’s Monday. Yea.

Pics Part Deux...

2008-10-03T14:12:00.023-05:00

Ok...so new pics were much needed on the blog. Stick with it...there are a bunch! Probably 3 posts worth in 1 !! :) Have fun...We have been having lots of fun lately and things are good! God is so good and faithful in our lives through this beautiful little girl, our families and friends!

New fav...spaghetti!

...at Luke's cool water party...

Reese and Owen...

Ready for school with Elmo backpack...

...we moved her to a big girl bed :(

who doesn't want to wear princess socks with their jellies????

She wanted every bow she owns in her hair at the same time...

Matty's birthday celebration!--Skip and Matt have been best friends for forever now and our familes are "family" to each other...Matt and Andrea and now sweet baby Luke are a constant in our lives and we love them dearly...And we love eating sopapillas with them at Uncle Julio's.

Girls night for restaurant week at Craft! This is a yearly tradition I share with these sweet girls!

THE END--YOU MADE IT!! :)

Sherman, My Hero...

2008-09-25T16:27:00.002-05:00

Well, we are no longer nomads as of 2 weekends ago. We sold our sweet first house in Arlington and have been living with Skip’s mom, who graciously took us in for the summer…We now are living in a townhouse / apartment in North Richland Hills. It has 3 bedrooms, garage, cable and a washer / dryer…everything we need! Moving was crazy as it usually is…We had all of our stuff in 2 PODS which were scheduled to be delivered that Friday. Well, they put the first POD in our driveway, then when the second POD arrives, there is no where to put it due to the newly created construction zone in the parking area closest to us so…what do they do? Try to look for a spot you say? Let the movers unload the first one then move the second one into the driveway? NO. He drives off with my POD without even trying and yells out the window as he is driving away with all my worldy possessions that I would have to re schedule. I stand in my new front grass square crying. Well, I say, maybe it will be ok because one of the PODS had all our furniture in it, and the other had stuff that was basically storage. I eagerly unlock the padlock, pull up on the door to find……crap. So the movers that we had scheduled come unload our “crap” into the garage and then say they will come back when the other POD comes back. I call PODS desperately begging 80 year old customer service rep Shirley to help me. But to no avail. I call back again determined to find justice. Robert then proceeded to promise me that the other POD would be there first thing Monday morning even though the schedule was full he would fit me in. Thanks Robert. So all weekend goes by with us not able to really do anything because everything we needed was in the other POD. Monday morning rolls around and the empty POD still has not been picked up. It must be picked up or there will be the same problem of no where to put the full one. I call. Guess what happens…Nothing. Then my knight in shining armor shows up in the form of Sherman. Sherman said don’t worry, its my job. Ill get it done. Music to my ears. So as he finagles the PODS around and gets the full one in the driveway and the empty one on his truck, I go to the donut shop to get him breakfast for his awesomeness. I really appreciate when customer service people actually provide customer service. So the rest is history…the movers get us unloaded, we get things set up after a few late nights…There is still an explosion of boxes in our garage, but other than that, we are doing pretty good. So come see us at our amazing new place! It pretty much look like every other apartment you’ve ever seen in your life! :)

2008-09-19T15:54:00.005-05:00

-I heard this Chris Tomlin song on the radio driving in this morning and although I had heard it many times before, God really allowed me to be struck by certain words today in particular. I was truly reminded of the power of our God and the majesty of His creation. I love the line that asks, "Who imagined the sun and gives source to its light"?? I mean, wow! Our God, the God that directs each lightning bolt, is the source of the light of the sun, that forms our children in the womb and knows when a sparrow falls...is the same God that loves even a wretch like me and has chosen to save me and give me eternal life.

From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea

Creation's revealing Your majesty

From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring

Every creature unique in the song that it sings

All exclaiming

Indescribable, uncontainable,

You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.

You are amazing God

All powerful, untamable,

Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim

You are amazing God

Who has told every lightning bolt where it should go

Or seen heavenly storehouses laden with snow

Who imagined the sun and gives source to its light

Yet conceals it to bring us the coolness of night

None can fathom

Indescribable, uncontainable,

You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name

You are amazing God

All powerful, untamable,

Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim

You are amazing God

Indescribable, uncontainable,

You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.

You are amazing God

All powerful, untamable,

Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim

You are amazing God

Indescribable, uncontainable,

You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.

You are amazing God

INCOMPRABLE, unchangeable

You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same

You are amazing God

My girl...

2008-09-08T23:13:00.001-05:00

First picture...September 8, 2006

Dear sweet baby girl,

Happy 2 year old birthday! You have no idea how much you are loved and adored by your daddy and me. Ever since the day you were born we have been in love with you. We prayed for you before we even met you or saw your face and God has truly blessed us beyond what we could ever have dreamed of! Your blue eyes, cute hair, cute little button nose, fingers, toes…your sweet and loving spirit, your willingness to share, your beautiful little voice, your spunk and craziness, your smile and infectious laugh, your love for animals and nature…We love all the things you say…”thank you, I love you, oh man, cool mommy :) “. I love your kisses, cuddling with you, I love when you ask me to hum with you at night…Thank you for teaching me so many things.- Patience, unconditional love…I see your face and I want to be the best person and the best mommy I can be for you. I pray everyday that God develops me in ways that allow you to see Him through me. I pray that you grow up to be a healthy, happy person and that you have Jesus in your heart.
This is something hard to fully express in words…But just know that you are mommy and daddy’s best girl forever :) and that you are loved more than words could ever say!
Happy Birthday Reeseie girl!

The Blustery Day

2008-09-03T09:49:00.002-05:00

As I walked from my car to the trolley (yes, that’s right, trolley) to go to work this morning trying not to be blown away…I found myself thankful for the remnants of Gustav, and filled with hope that fall is on its way! Fall. My favorite time of year. It means leaves, long sleeve t weather, the new fall line at the Gap, football, the beginning of the holiday season, apple cider, punkin patches, playing outside, the smell of fireplaces lighting up for the first time…my heart is beating faster just writing this! It also means the start of a new season of tv. So with my trusty fall preview edition tv guide and highlighters in hand, I am ready to set my DVR for the season to come. For all these reasons and many more, I am full of excitement about this fresh, crisp, beautiful fall that in my book, started today!
Happy Fall everyone!!

Some "firsts" for Reese

2008-08-27T12:25:00.009-05:00

Pictures finally! Reese had a great summer as you can see...More coming soon! We didn't want to overwhelm everyone with 3 months of pics in one post! :)

First time getting caught in the sprinkler system with clothes on!

First time taking a picture with Mommy at 6:30 am

First time wearing her new Rangers Hat

First time at the Rangers Game

First haircut...A BIG deal!!

First time wearing mommy's glasses

First time in Texas with Great Grandmother

Team Alexander!

2008-08-26T10:17:00.004-05:00

All of you that know me well, know that I have spent half of my life with this sweet family. I was babysitter in my younger days, employee, friend…they have been extended family since I was in junior high. They were a big part of my “growing up”, my wedding day, they were there for Reese’s birth…I still treasure and love them dearly! They have been in the process of adopting from Ethiopia and through many ups and downs finally met their baby Abe yesterday! As I looked at the pictures, verse and song they chose to go with it, I was overwhelmed with joy and just emotion for them as well as tears for the place this family holds in my heart and love I have for this child I have yet to even meet! Click here and go read their story! Click here and watch the slideshow!
How GREAT is our GOD. All the earth REJOICE!

Show me the pictures!!...

2008-08-19T15:07:00.001-05:00

I’m sure you have been wondering…”Where are the pictures??” Well, simple explanation. For about 3 months now we have been unable to locate the cord that connects the camera to the computer to download stuff. So instead of even researching getting a new one, I just have been hoping and praying for it to show up. Paying money for something I know is just hanging around in the back of a closet is like buying new tires—my #1 thing I hate spending money on—along with oil changes, contact solution, and new toilet bowl brush cleaner things. Finally last night I got fed up enough to trek to Best Buy in the rain with Reese, only to discover you have to buy accessories straight from the manufacturer. Boo. So I head home, navigate the Samsung website (which is quite hard, by the way) and for the low, low price of only $14.99 I now am back on track with my picture posting! It shipped today as a matter of fact so…stay tuned!

Vancouver, here I come!

2008-08-11T10:49:00.009-05:00

Dum, dum, da dum dum dum dum dum dum da dum dum da da da dum dum dum dum dum dum. In case you couldn’t immediately tell, that is me humming the Olympic theme song. For two weeks, I am completely obsessed with all things having to do with the 29th Olympiad. The Nike commercials, the Water Cube (coolest name ever)...I love it! And I am for sure on the Michael Phelps bandwagon. Last nights relay—oh my gosh! Amazing! Any of you heard of the 14 year old diver, Tom Daley? Gymnastics, track and field, love it all! I must say, that Bob Costas is like my favorite announcer of all time. I kindof have a little crush on him, which has been ok’d by the powers that be since they love him too :) I mean, without the Bob, it just wouldn’t be the same. I have loved the Olympics since I was old enough to watch it and then grew to understand the significance of it. Winter Olympics ice skating was my first love and passion. If you have read my blog before, you know I still think I could be Kristi Yamaguchi and win a Gold Medal if I start training soon. I have the Lillehammer Olympics on VHS, yes, VHS. The Olympics make me feel like the laziest and most inadequate human being on the face of the planet, but also inspire me that people can do amazing things. It stirs up patriotism but also a neat feeling that the world is not as big as it seems. I love hearing all the stories of the athletes, of course I cry at every one…(I mean, I cried watching Cool Runnings people!)...the drama that comes along with such a high level of competition. I love seeing these people that have trained harder than anything we can imagine for this one moment, literally one moment of possible greatness! The moments that make history and make heroes. I am inspired that they have the passion, determination and motivation to drive towards this one thing, this one goal for the thing that they love doing the most in the world. I feel inspired to be a better person. But, when it really comes down to it, it is such a testimony to how amazing our God is! To be able to see such an amazing human body doing such amazing things is only the result of our amazing Creator! So, as I obsessively watch until my eyelids won’t stay open anymore, I also dream of what my own Olympic moment will be like --Vancouver 2010, here I come! :)

Shout out to our peeps!

2008-08-08T10:30:00.008-05:00

We miss people! We, and also our peeps, all have somewhat crazy lives going on right now which reduces our hangout time :) As you know, skip and I (well, mainly me) are not the types to be ok with no social interaction. We truly need that connection with people to survive in this crazy life. With isolation from people you miss so much in life:

-having people to call you out! - accountability
-growth in Christ together and challenging you to be more like Him
-the bond you feel from serving and ministering together
-having a feeling of comfort with people. Meaning, they comfort you when you are stressed or upset, but also that you feel comfortable scrounging through their fridge for food without asking.
-having someone to just sit on the couch and say nothing with
-having someone who is ok with crying with you during life’s hardest moments, but also understands why you are tearing up at So You Think You Can Dance.
-having people to laugh so hard with that you can’t breathe
-having people that amazingly enough still want to be around you after getting to truly, and I mean, truly know you!
-having people that will forgive you completely and not just bring it up again later
-having people that you learn from and are amazed by. Real-life Heroes.
-having girl time! / guy time!
-having people to tell secrets to and know they are safe.
-having people you trust. completely. with your inner self, and that they would come pick you up if your car broke down at 2am without a question asked.
-having people that know your thoughts and heart and you are genuine and authentic with.
-having people to encourage you

These qualities are so rare, and true friendships are also rare, like jewels. It takes effort and time to build them and effort and time to maintain them...If you have even one friend like this you are beyond blessed. We are blessed enough to have several “jewels” in our life…We have been a little separated from them lately and are missing them desperately! So, thank you to all our “jewels” for allowing us to live life with you and for giving us this most precious gift of truly knowing you! We love you all more than you know!
**New pics coming soon!**

I can quit any time, time, time...

2008-08-05T10:43:00.001-05:00

I have decided that I have a habit I need to break. Now some of you who know me well, know that I have tried to break this habit before. You might have heard these words uttered which originated from a 1990’s “after school special” commercial…”I can quit any time time time time…” It is called…Dr. Pepper.
I am totally hooked. I don’t drink coffee (save the occasional winter Starbucks sweet treat), I don’t really drink alcohol (save the margarita with fajitas, glass of wine at supper club, etc.)…but I’ve got it bad for DP. Not in a can, from the fountain…All cold and tingly. You know it’s a really good proportioned one when your nose burns and your eyes water drinking it! Yum. Ok. So I have gotten to where I drink more than I should (a specific number will not be mentioned in this blog), and I need to get it under control for these reasons and more:
1) the money I spend to buy them
2) the amount of pure melted sugar I am consuming
3) the amount of caffeine I am also consuming
4) the way it has me addicted
5) because it does not help with my lack of energy problem
6) because I do not drink enough water
7) because I want to lose weight and drinking 5 million calories a day isn’t helping :)

Now, I’ve gone cold turkey before and other than a headache for about a solid week, I can do it. But, this time, I think I am going to wean myself off of them…So, as of today, I am going to 2 a week. Then in 2 weeks, down to 1 a week, etc.
So, if any of you see me, ask me how it’s going. I’m sure I will need a support group. My name is Kate, and I’m a Dr Pepper-a-holic.

New Skip Blog Post

2008-07-31T20:54:00.001-05:00

Skip has finally updated his blog...

Click here to check it out.

Ode to Half Price Books...

2008-07-31T12:39:00.005-05:00

I love you. Not only do you provide me books at half price, but also endless hours of entertainment, kids stuff, cds, DVDs, stationary, reading supplies, giftcards, "green" shopping bags, journals...
Of course this is stemming from my recent trip to see you when I spent way too much money but got three books I am super excited about reading:
-Eat, Pray, Love
-The Pillars of the Earth and
-Poe and Fanny,
and also:
-a Little Einsteins sticker book
-Fairy Numbers (these two things for reese of course)
-Scene It board game - Harry Potter edition - (nerd, I know)
-thank you cards
So, thanks again for everything you do for me. My next ode will be written to my beloved Central Market. :)

Round it up...

2008-07-23T12:53:00.003-05:00

Ok. I hate these “blog roundups” but that’s what happens when you don’t write consistently! And as most of you know, I have plenty of randomness swirling in my head to keep up a blog with! My fault. And I love writing…Anyway…This is going to be in list format because its easier and I love making lists!

1) Miley Cyrus—bought the new cd yesterday, love it! And yes, I know you are thinking it, so Ill say it out loud. I DO know that Im 28, not 13. But whatever. I say there’s something to be said about staying a little “young at heart.”…
2) Skip bought me Anne of Green Gables on DVD as a surprise the other day…I cant believe I’ve never blogged about Anne before! My parents bought me the videos when I was little and I’ve been taken with it ever since! I know every word by heart. If you’ve never seen it, borrow it from me! I will say, it makes me want to be Canadian and live on a farm in 1900. But then again…
-every time I see Alias, I want to be in the CIA,
-every time I think about NYC, I want to be a New-Yorker,
-every time I watch Hannah Montana I want to be a teenager again, but be cooler this time around :) ,
-every time I hear the name Kristi Yamaguchi, I for 2 seconds think I actually still have a chance to win Gold in the next winter Olympics if I just train hard enough,
-every time I watch Food Network, I am determined to be the next Barefoot Contessa,
-every time I see an amazing photograph, I am determined to fulfill my life-long dream of being a photographer, even if only for myself. (This one is actually for real :) )
-…this list could go on forever…
3) I’ve been thinking about the significance of my life lately…or at least, how significant I make it. I was very convicted when thinking of pre-Gaylord days when I was so blessed not to have to work, but did not “redeem the time” as much as I could have. Working has opened my eyes to the way I approach looking at staying at home, being a wife and mother…I don’t think I put the significance on it that it deserved before. I would change some things if I could go back, but I can’t. So, I learn from it, pray that our God of goodness uses this lesson for my eventual good and His glory—which I know He will without a doubt, and continue to try to be more like my Savior daily.
4) Lets see, oh yeah!!! So I am also on a mission to use only canvas grocery bags! I bought some at Tom Thumb a long time ago, feeling good about myself for “going green” but then forgetting to take them in the store with me! But, I have been looking at how plastic bags are disposed of and, it’s not good! They are not being recycled, being dumped in the ocean, all kinds of stuff…so I am renewed in my challenge to only use canvas. So since I am having a love affair with Central Market, I bought a bunch there, and I am determined to use them every time!!!!!

Well, thanks for listening to my rambling! I am also determined to write more…not that you are all waiting on the edges of your seats or anything! :)

Fairview : Population 2734 + 3

2008-07-09T21:31:00.013-05:00

For the 4th of July weekend we took a road trip up to a little place known as Fairview, OK to see our good friends Jay and Gina. Never knew you could have so much fun in a town that doesn't even have a Starbucks or McDonald's. (They do have a Pizza Hut though)

Fairview's awesome marketing campaign. :)

Reese takes on the Zoo!!...

2008-06-19T12:23:00.009-05:00

Ummm, only the coolest picture of all time!!

Snack time!

She liked the reptiles...And no, she is not a parceltongue.

Thank goodness she's not a Slytherin!! (Harry Potter reference...FYI)

The monkeys were a crowd pleaser...

Trying so hard to see the giraffes!

Her favorite...the elephants!!! She even got a stuffed one to take home!

Just a taste...

2008-06-16T19:47:00.007-05:00

Just a few new pics...I've got more coming so don't worry! You'll get your fill this week because I'm behind on posting pics! Above: We took Daddy to the Japanese Gardens. Reeseie loved feeding the fish! Below: Weekend at GiGi and Papa's house!!

Finally!...

2008-06-04T15:21:00.004-05:00

Ok. So I figured it was about time. I haven’t written in FOREVER! (New pics to come very soon, btw)…Anyway, quick life update on us. We sold our house, as evidenced in the last post, praise the Lord! I have to say though, as I went back to our little house for the last time, I stood in the middle of an empty house, and cried. I thought of Skip and I starting out in that house, all of the White Elephant parties we squeezed into that house, all the great great times we had there, bringing reese home there for the first time…Anyway, now we are residents of Saginaw, living with Skip’s mom who has graciously taken us in for a few months while we house hunt and pay off debt. We think we have found a new neighborhood in Keller we like, but are looking in Hurst too. I am still happy at the Gaylord, Skip is still teaching/coaching in White Settlement, Reese is talking up a storm and is super fun right now, I turned 28 this month and definitely had this "Crap, I can't believe I'm 28 which is almost 30 and I still feel like high school was yesterday and I feel like I am in a perpetual state of being 24 and next year is my last year in my 20's and then I'm old" moment. :) But, it was a fun birthday nonetheless! Now, on to some randomness…

Things I am pondering lately:
-Where to live.
-having an herb garden.
-why there is traffic at all hours of the day and night on 820.
-why can’t you still renew your Driver’s License online when it’s expired.
-how to be a better wife and mother.
-organization…A.K.A, the Container Store.
-why at Mexican places, even when I am so so full and not hungry anymore, I still keep shoveling chips and salsa in my face until the second we get up from the table…and feel miserable for it afterwards.
-how to get more sleep.

Some Fun Things to check out:
-Alexander blog…through some ups and downs they finally have gotten their referral to adopt a sweet baby from Ethiopia!
-O’Steen blog…Check out the new twin baby girls!
-the Sex and the City movie website (yes, I saw it and it rocked :) )
-this really cool little place in Ennis, yes Ennis Texas a sweet friend at work Amy told me about. You can rent the house and you can just chill, go fishing, swim…It’s super cute and inexpensive. We are totally going.
-the new TaraLeigh Cobble book. I love the way she writes…and this latest one is about NYC--- (where my ashes will be sprinkled when I die :) )

Ok...pics to come soon.

Help Wanted...

2008-05-05T21:35:00.004-05:00

Well after 15 months we have finally sold our house! Now onto the joys of moving. If you have nothing better to do, come over Saturday and help us move boxes. Or at least laugh at Skip as he attempts to move a washer and dryer. It'll be awesome.

Life is Good...

2008-04-21T19:22:00.008-05:00

Yes we haven't posted anything in a while because life has happened. Busy work schedules, trying to sell a house, yada yada. But in the midst of all the craziness life is still good and Reese brings a smile to any situation. Here are some of her latest moments...

Spring Break with Daddy

2008-03-26T21:52:00.000-05:00

While Mommy's away we try on her shoes...
we sit on top of Daddy's car and jump off...
we blow bubbles inside the house...
and we play outside ALOT!

Easter Sunday

2008-03-26T21:43:00.009-05:00

Reese's first Easter egg hunt. Uncle Chris throwing the eggs back into the yard when she wasn't looking prolonged the ordeal. But hey... Reese had a blast! She also got an Easter basket with Elmo eggs from "GiGi"(Kate's mom) which she loves! Since Mommy forgot to do a basket, it's a good thing Reese has 2 awesome grandmothers! :)

Weekend Update starring Reese

2008-03-03T21:18:00.008-06:00

...collecting acorns. A favorite weekend activity.

...modeling her sweet new 'do

...now from the front, blue steel :)

(Zoolander reference for those who don't know)

....all tuckered out

...she's a big girl in the grown-up rocking chair

...what happens when we take her out of the rocking chair

...awwwwww!!

...got our elmo backback and we're off!

More random thoughts...

2008-02-29T11:50:00.003-06:00

Yea it’s Friday!
Ok so, I want to write a post about LOST-we are avid watchers, but there are so many questions swirling in my head right now…
-Who the heck is Ben?
-Who is in the coffin?
-Did Claire die, is that why Kate has Aaron?
-Michael and Walt?? Where are they? I know they are coming back…
-Who are these people Sayid is killing off?
I could go on and on. We have many theories about the whole thing. But there is something more important on my mind this morning…

Orange Tic Tacs.
Why are they classified as mints when they are not minty at all? Don’t get me wrong. I love them. My grandmother used to send them to me all the time.
I ate a whole little box of them last night. And thought, they taste like Orange Fanta in solid form. They are in no way “minty”, not even the aftertaste.
And why are they called Tic Tac’s anyway?? Hearing “Tic-Tac” just makes me think of something small. But who thought that up in the beginning? Anyway,

No more showings this week on the house. Please keep praying that God provides just the right buyer soon! Although I am enjoying my awesome “newish” kitchen and laundry room! (Pics coming, I promise)
Oh and on another prayer note, our dear friends the O’Steens are like 9 months pregnant with twin girls! I’m so excited and can’t wait for them to get here. Sometime soon I hope…we just need them to stay in there for like another week or so, so pray that they arrive safely and healthy, cuz it will be any day now! Check them out here!
Sorry for all the randomness in the last few posts! I just enjoy the "randomness" of life and truth be told, we have not much going on right now other than work! :)

Inspiration and Yams...

2008-02-27T09:43:00.006-06:00

So inspiration comes from many places. People, heroic acts, places, nature, a beautiful song…

So that brings me to a little guy I like to call…John Mayer. And yes, I know he may have some assistance from “LSD”, but still, he’s amazing!! I was listening to him in the car on the way home yesterday and you know how when you’re driving in traffic, you don’t really pay attention to the words of songs, you are just kind of driving mindlessly…ok, at least I’ll speak for myself. Well, a song from Continuum came on called The Heart of Life. Here’s my favorite part of the song…

You know it's nothing new

Bad news never had good timing

Then the circle of your friends

Will defend the silver lining

Pain throws your heart to the ground

Love turns the whole thing around

No it won't all go the way it should

But i know the heart of life is good

I love that. Your friends (and family) defend the silver lining of life. Cool.

On a different note, Our camera batteries have been dead for the last week, this is why there is lots of text, not many pics on the blog right now…How hard is it to change out batteries you ask. Not very, unless you are also having problems remembering if you took a shower this morning or not. And, unless you also have a fetish with the Energizer Lithium batteries and will not use anything else. But, that being said, I’ve got batteries in hand, and am determined to post some pictures tonight! I know you are all on the edge of your seats.

Afterthought of the day...as Skip and I ate dinner last night, I was enjoying one of my favorite things, sweet potatoes. Yummm! Here’s a question…And yes I know I can google this…Are sweet potatoes and yams the same thing?? A very burning question for many I'm sure :)

Prayer Request

2008-02-25T11:41:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone!
Just a quick post this morning to ask for your prayers. As you probably know, Skip and I had our house on the market last year for like 10 months!! We took it off for a while, did some work on it, and it is going back on TODAY! Please, if you have a second, even if it's just right while you read this blog, please say a prayer over our little house. We know and trust in our God's faithfullness and perfect will and timing in our lives! But we would love to sell it sooner than later! So a prayer for the right buyer and a quick and smooth sell would be awesome!
Thanks so much...and thanks to our beyond amzing friends who came over Saturday and worked their tails off cleaning, working on our yard, painting, fixing....more on that to come, but THANKS to you all!!!
Happy Monday :)

Tagged by Avery

2008-02-18T11:41:00.004-06:00

I was tagged by sweet Avery :) , so here ya go!!
My favs, in random order...

Five Fav Movies:
1. Anne of Green Gables
2. old Alfred Hitchcock movies and old musicals
2b. Napolean Dynamite / Anchorman ( I love Will Ferrell!)
3. The Bourne Trilogy
4. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
5. Harry Potter Extravaganza
(I am more of a TV person....I love too many movies to narrow it down.)

Five Fav TV shows:
1. Hannah Montana
2. Lost
3.The Amazing Race
4. Grey’s Anatomy
5. The Office
(but I also love some “classics”-Alias, Felicity, OC)

Five places I would like to be:
1. NYC
2. at home with Reese
3. the Lake of the Ozarks cabin we always went to growing up
4. a European tour
5. Vegas, baby!...I mean, Nashville :)

Five Fav foods:
1. Mexican
2. Breakfast Food
3. Sour Patch Kids
4. Concession stand food (hot dogs, nachos…)
5. My grandmas pot roast and fixins

Five Fav Songs/artists:
1. Hannah Montana theme song
2. Coldplay-everything they sing
3. Justin Timberlake
4. John Mayer
5. Andy Davis/Dave Barnes (check them out)

Five Things I like to do:
1. hang out with friends and family
2. go to movies
3. play basketball
4. Cooking/Eating at fun places
5. organizing things and throwing things away

I'm tagging: Jenn, Andrea, Misty, and Rosey!! :)

Year 5

2008-02-15T13:00:00.006-06:00

So today is our 5th wedding anniversary!---I can't believe it's been that long! Here are my Top 5 "married moments" thus far...in no particular order...

-our honeymoon in Vegas when skip let me walk down the strip to get us breakfast at mcdonalds, BY MYSELF, because he wanted to sleep in late :),

-the day skip figured out the top two situations in which to never bother me(you are taking your life into your own hands)...
*when I am taking a nap ("I hate 6:30!") :)
*when I am watching my favorite TV show,

-the day we energetically ripped out our bathroom vanity and a geyser erupted out of our wall,

-finding out we were going to have a baby / the birth of our precious, amazing daughter,

-the flower delivery guy delivering the tulips I get every year on this day!

There are so many more, and of course all the "major moments" qualify without saying...wedding, buying our house, surviving hurricane emily, all that. But truly, my favorite are the ones just hanging out with each other and friends/family, laughing, playing with reese...
I like that saying about how life is what happens in between all the big stuff...
Our past 5 years of "life" have been awesome and I can't wait for the next ones!

(Ave, I know you tagged me and I'll post it asap :)

Day by Day

2008-02-13T12:54:00.002-06:00

I was reminded yesterday by a dear friend (who lives this out for me daily, by the way) to look at each day as a new day. Heard it before, I thought. But the more I really thought about it, I thought “wow!.” How easy to hear, but how hard to live out. As I’ve been struggling through some things recently, some bigger, some smaller, some not really anything at all except in my mind :) …this really hit me. I tend sometimes to carry things along with me day to day and let them get very heavy, when I need just to let them go. Each day is a new day. Every moment is a moment I can’t get back. Christ intends, I think, for us not to have necessarily a perfect life or easy life, but a joyful life! Joy in Christ, joy in my daughter, joy in my husband, joy in my family, joy in my friends, joy in work that God has provided me, on and on…..
Yesterday I was for sure having a little freakout about some things, getting bogged down in the mundane, in some self-pity, in the affects of things I have no control over and can’t change. But wow…today is new day, a different day, and I can be joyful today! I know this sounds a little trite and maybe kindof goofy, but how cool would it be live with this attitude, instead of: stress, worry, etc.?? So I am going to continue to struggle with myself daily. I know that joy is what Christ desires for me, and I want to strive, though I know I will never completely get there, every day to be more like the person I can be in Him.

Chit Chat

2008-02-11T19:00:00.000-06:00

Wow! I have not written in so long! Sorry. Alot going on...Work, Reese, recovering from being sick for like a month, life. Nothing new or exciting though. I'm gonna be thinking of some clever, funny post(I really miss writing, so I need to get back on that), but for now...we are alive and well! Just FYI. :) A sweet blog to check out in the meantime...here!
Oh yeah! Did anyone watch the Grammy's last night?? I mean, really, Amy Winehouse?? Just because she actually really did have to go to rehab we have to give her the sympathy vote?? And Kanye...?!?!?!?!? I will, however, always love and adore my Justin Timberlake and John Mayer. Also, did I hear the glorious rumor today that the writer's strike is over??????????

Miller's Birthday Bash

2008-01-21T20:58:00.000-06:00

Reese hanging out with her buds Owen and Miller during Miller's birthday party this past weekend. And yes, this was the best shot we could get of energetic toddlers.

Reese loved making her way through the maze of tubes and slides.

But even Reese gets tired. There's nothing like a nap in the car on the way home. :)

Music Education

2008-01-21T20:38:00.000-06:00

Reese loves listening to tunes with Daddy. It's never too early to educate your daughter on what good music is. And no, Hannah Montana will never sing a note on Daddy's iPod.

Santa Claus really came to town...

2007-12-30T17:39:00.000-06:00

Wow I've got to be a better updater(sp?)! Ok, so Christmas was great but quick this year. We spent the days with family, saw some old friends that were in town, had lots of food, movies, games and such. Skip got an iPod, which he has wanted for sooooo long, so that was fun.(We got the ProductRED one, so we are doing our part!) We got seasons of The Office on DVD which we love, cold hard cash, clothes, lots of good stuff. But Reese, dude, she racked up! It was, as you can see from the pic, an Elmo Christmas! :) It was so much fun seeing her get so excited!! God is good--and that is made even more evident at this time of year. His provision is amazing.

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's off to work I go...

2007-12-16T22:56:00.000-06:00

Well, as of tomorrow morning at 8am, I am re-entering the workforce! I have been fortunate enough this past year since having Reese to be able to work only part-time, and then the past two months to be able to be home with her full-time. What a blessing! We have been praying for God to provide us a way for some extra income this year...with Skip being a first year teacher. Anyway, a dear friend(thanks Matt!), was faithful to pray and hook me up with a friend of his at the Gaylord Texan Hotel in Grapevine. I emailed her and things went pretty fast from there! The HR people there have been amazing and as of tomorrow I am going to be the assistant to one of the sales directors. She is a really neat lady and I'm really excited to work at such a cool place! Check it out here!! I have committed to work full time for at least a year....I'm so sad to not be home with Reese everyday(but I have family and friends that are amazing beyond words that are helping make that easier by keeping her :)...so please pray that I,and Reese,adjust to this new schedule and that I truly enjoy my job.(I'm already enjoying my new Banana work clothes-I love me some "on clearance" Banana!) I am so thankful for God's provision and faithfulness and know he will continue to be faithful in this chapter of our lives!! I mean, hey, I get my own cube...what's cooler than that?? :)

It's about stinkin time...

2007-12-11T15:47:00.000-06:00

Ok, so it's been too long since I've posted Reese pics! So here are some of our fall favs! Stay tuned for more bloggin to come soon on our newly "Christmafied" blog site :)!

...playing in the leaves with Papa
...with one of her many suitors, Miller!

...trying on winter hats! :)

...hangin outside, our favorite thing!

...pickin out her pumpkin with daddy-

I don't think this is "the one" based on her expression!

Something to read???

2007-12-01T18:12:00.000-06:00

Daddy, you seriously need to post something for your faithful blog readers to read. Otherwise I'm going to have to post something from my ABC book and I don't think most people would find it all that exciting. Waiting for more than 4 months now on something new...

Click here to see my Daddy's blog.

Your daughter,
Reese

Car Conversations

2007-11-29T18:58:00.000-06:00

So, I have recently been told by my college roommate, who lives in Colorado I might add, that Skip and I remind her of the couple on the Sonic commercials. Now, Im not sure if this is a compliment :)...and at first I was like "what??", but...given the conversations we have had in the car this week, Im beginning to think I agree with her.

Conversation #1-- "What makes the difference between a burrito and a taco?" (Skip)
"Obviously, the outer shell and how it's wrapped. If it is folded/in a hard shell, it's a taco. If it's wrapped in a soft tortilla, it's a burrito." (me)
"I disagree. What about soft tacos?" (Skip)
"Well, but soft tacos are folded, so it's still a taco."(me)
" I think it's the filling, that determines the taco/burritoness."(Skip)
"Well, but you can order a beef burrito. Hummm, agree to disagree. When in rome..."(me)

Conversation #2--"Where is that tanker taking all that milk?"(me)
"To the milk place"(Skip)
"What do you mean? Is it going from the farm to the place that pasteurizes it or to the dairy or Kroger or what??"(me)
"From the farm to the dairy."(Skip)
"So Mr. Milkman, do they just open the spout on the truck and empty it in to the jugs, cuz thats gross if thats where our milk comes from ."(me)
"Our milk comes from cows, honey."(Skip)

Conversation #3-- "If you had a super power, like one from Heroes, which one would you want?"(Skip)
"Obviously Parkman. Cuz I could read minds and control people."(me)
"What about Claire though. Then you could heal yourself."(Skip)
"Or what about the new girl that can do anything she sees? And I do love Mohinder." (me)
"Mohinder doesn't even have a super power." (Skip)
"So what? I still love him"(me)
"Well, then I would obviously kick your butt..."(Skip)
"Whatever...I would...kick your butt...too."(me)
"Good comeback." (Skip)

---Because of conversations like those and many many more involving trivia, useless knowledge, and what if's, I have to say...we laugh alot and my roommate is seeming more right as the days go by. Thanks Michelle! :)

That for which I am THANKFUL...

2007-11-21T14:07:00.000-06:00

I just stepped outside and wow...so cool how the weather changes in an instant. Hot to cold, fall to winter...God is amazing! So as I wipe snot from my daughter's nose, get out winter sweaters and jackets, make myself the first mug of hot chocolate of the season, and tomorrow being Thanksgiving, I ponder all the things I truly am thankful for:

-A God who is full of grace, love, goodness, faithfullness, sovereignty, justice, forgivness, holiness, protects me daily, and who saved me from an eternity apart from Him!
-My family. A Godly father, mother, and brother who love me unconditionally, take care of me, taught me, and who I love to spend time with...as well as extended family--grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins...all who love the Lord!,
-A husband who loves me, works to provide for his family, makes me laugh, has integrity, and makes me a better person, and who has put with me for almost 5 years!,
-A beautiful daughter who is full of life and personality, and is happy and healthy!
-Friends that are so close, they are family as well. God has provided us with beyond amazing friends, who all bring something different to our lives, support and love us unconditionally, and who we have the time of our lives with!
-People and things that inspire me to be better and do more! (adopting from Ethiopia, fighting illness and dealing with grief, a beach at sunset, traveling to Europe, living on support, having twins :), trying out for American Idol :), living your dreams!),
-Living in a country where we have freedom, and the people who fight and die so I can have it...a country where you can live, work, get medical care, ect. however you want!,
-Jobs that provide for our family,
-That for today, we are experiencing the blessing of good health,
-A roof over our head, a car to get us places, and food to eat,

And of course, all the little things that make life, life :) :

-my DVR,
-Taco Bueno and Chick Fil A,
-Northpark mall,
-People magazine, Harry Potter :),
-trips to NYC,
-beautiful weather,
-a good margarita,
-VEGAS BABY!!,
-laundry detergent,
-heat and air conditioning,
-the ATM,
-shoes,
-Oh, this list could go on and on...so I'll stop now!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!!!

Tuesday Night Lights

2007-11-15T08:05:00.001-06:00

Our first football season has come to a close so I thought you all might like to see "Coach T" in all his coaching glory! As you can imagine, Skip was the most hard-core of any of the coaching staff :)...no but seriously, the kids really responded to him, liked him and I think Skip enjoyed his experience too! Now on to basketball...Im sure he will be asking me many questions since my knowledge of the sport is pretty amazing...yesssss!....I can relive my b-ball days through 7th grade boys!! :)

Reese all bundled up to watch Daddy!

Coach T with his players...check out the awesome track suit!

White Settlement 7th grade football is quite the draw for the fans...as you can see!

Christmas Excitement

2007-11-11T22:49:00.000-06:00

So, I walked into Target, my fav place, today and lo and behold....Christmas stuff was out!!! Yea!!! I know many of you are the "it's too early for Christmas" crowd...but I fully embrace the marketing strategy :) Don't get me wrong, I love Thanksgiving and think it deserves more attention, however, I have to admit my heart still skips a beat at the sight of garland, and trees and fake snowmen. I have even turned on 103.7 and whipped out my Christmas cd's already! I just love the galleria all decorated, the sound of Christmas songs, the holiday scents, Charlie Brown Christmas...I think the anticipation and "build-up" to Christmas is almost more fun than the day itself...Before you all get worried and think Im so so shallow, let me just say I do know the real "reason for the season"(so cliche I know) and it is Jesus! (and friends and family :)
But, there is nothing wrong with a little holiday cheer! So I dont want to hear any comlaining if you are in my car and Mariah Carey's Christmas album is blaring through the speakers! :) (one of the greatest Christmas albums of all time, by the way!)
Merry Christmas early, to each and every one!!! (and Happy Thanksgiving!)

Roar Reesie, Roar!

2007-11-04T17:11:00.000-06:00

Reese dressed up like a lion for halloween. The suit didn't stay on long, but she did a great job handing out her favorite candy to the neighborhood kids - Reese's peanut butter cups, of course!

How to manipulate Daddy...

2007-10-21T18:34:00.000-05:00

Step 1: Calmly explain to Daddy that you would like things to go in a slightly different direction.

Step 2: After breaking Daddy's will, proceed to do what you want to do.

Step 3: Bask in the thrill of victory over your clearly inferior opponent.

A Clean Slate...

2007-10-18T17:15:00.001-05:00

Ok, so today being the beautiful day that it was...Reese and I set out on a mission. Clean mommy's car...inside and out. I mean, I took it to the car wash and vacuumed it and everything. It was harder than it sounds. Now those of you who have ridden with me know two truths...I speed like a banshee(what is a banshee anyways???), and my car usually has a layer of "stuff" on all surfaces. So...it was like "choose your own adventure" cleaning it out. Here's a not all-inclusive list of stuff I found...
-cheerios
-dvd's, books, cd's, magazines-all sorts of entertainment items
-those earrings Ive been looking for
-embarassingly, lunch trash from a few days ago...hey it was Potbelly, yum!!
-about $15 in change
-3 pairs of shoes
-a million Target receipts
-a toaster AND tea maker???
-Sonic cups
-more cheerios
-Elmo
-a few yards of some cute fabric, sweet! I could use that.
-A Metro church bulletin from like 2 years ago
-toothbrush
-chargers for cell phones we no longer own
-and my personal favorite...some Miller Lite(and no I dont drink and drive-there is a logical explanation for this...a certain someone's wedding shower:)

Anyway, I am entering this Friday with a clean slate and I plan on keeping my little Corolla clean from now on!! :) Yea!!! And you can all hold me accountable.........

Reese's fall fashion show...

2007-10-13T17:02:00.001-05:00

Haven't updated on Reese in a while, so here ya go!... she LOVES being outside, she says "bye-bye", "Elmo"(which comes out "Memo), and her newest addition, "Wow!". She loves doing her animal sounds, eating "grown up" food, and is very happy and energetic. Her "evil cackle" laugh is a favorite! We are loving this stage of her life, although she is wearing us out! :)

1)Playing outside on a chilly(for texas) morning :)...notice the cargos, waffle henley, and Vans tennies(courtesy of Uncle Ben)!
2)Hangin with Owen at the playground...notice his arm around her :) Muaaahaaaa!!...our plan for the marriage of these two is almost complete!
3)Another outside photo...sportin her new "Inspired" Gap Red onesie!
4)Watchin baseball with daddy
5)With my high school friends Robin, Meghan, and Bethany(and her baby bella). We have been friends since 8th grade... :)

...Okie weekend

2007-10-08T19:32:00.000-05:00

Our sweet friends, Jay and Gina Mendenhall, that moved to Oklahoma this summer were in town this weekend and were our houseguests! We hung out, went to a wedding, talked, laughed, all kinds of hoopla...We miss them so much and were soooooo glad to be able to spend some time with them!

**And just a side note...Skip and I are in a fantasy football league with a group of friends. They convinced me to play with them even though only one other girl is playing. But now...I would like to say...I am winning!! (Not that I really care as I am not competitive at all :) As in, first stinkin place, beating all the boys!! Oh yes, my first round pick of my hero Peyton Manning is paying off! Ok, thats that. Just had to gloat a little because Im WINNING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today's Top Ten

2007-10-01T09:51:00.000-05:00

As Reese and I were on our morning walk today, and I was sweating a little less than usual, I thought about the coming of fall and how it is my favorite thing ever! I love fall and here's why:

1) cool breeze, pretty colors , that "fall smell" in the air
2) the new fall line at Gap
3) NOT wearing stupid capri pants and tank tops, which I hate, but instead wearing awesome jeans and sweaters. I love fall clothes!
4) The day that you turn your clock back and get an extra hour of sleep. (although Im not sure how that one will work out this year with Reese...pretty sure she's still gonna wake up. Dang.)
5) Pumpkin patches
6) the fact that Thanksgiving is in the fall season. I wait 12 months for Thanksgiving food!
7) Football
8) Fall means we are that much closer to the holiday season--Love it!!!!
9) the smell of that first fireplace lighting up and the yankee fall-scented candles
10) falling leaves (although I hate raking them :)

I hope you all enjoy the season as much as I do!! Happy Fall!!

These are the people in our neighborhood...

2007-09-28T20:34:00.000-05:00

Yes. That is reference from Sesame Street, in case you're wondering. Ok. So here's one reason I love our neighborhood. As Reese and i were on our morning walk today, i waved at all the usual suspects. The old man and lady that have lived in that house since 1954, the lady the smokes on her front porch every morning at 8am, the guy "roomates" that are so friendly and Reese loves them...lets see, who else??....the guy that we cant figure out exactly why he is home all day, every day...I mean, are we the only people that work??, the guy that waters down his driveway (yes his driveway) every day, the people that have their Christmas tree up year round(thats a whole other story :), the young couple that are Tennessee fans, the man that falls asleep in his chair in the driveway every day...we have more than a few characters living among us. But today, the little old man three doors down, was learning how to ride a bike! So stinkin cute! He is seriously 80 years old at least, and he was riding his bike around and around in his driveway, and...it had training wheels on! I hope Im like that when Im 80!!
Its the little things that amuse me :)

...A New Beginning

2007-09-24T19:41:00.000-05:00

Ahhhhh, Monday, September 24th....one of my favorite days of the year. Anyone have a guess??? If you know me at all, you would know it's because tonight begins the new fall season of tv! And yes, I know, I know. Im a dork and tv is the devil(Lanny), but I cant help it...I admit, I love it-I love kindof being in another world for an hour, Its fun!! Now, this day comes with much preparation and anticipation for me. The Friday before the Monday of the new season, I sit down with my fall preview tv guide, a glass of wine, and my DVR remote. So, this past Friday night, while Skip was gone at a football game, I did just that. Step 1 requires highlighters. I highlight all the shows I think I might want to watch. Now, I already have established shows on the roster, so there is only limited room for new shows. But, Ive done my research on all the new shows, so Im ready to make the hard choices on which ones to cut. The DVR records two shows at one time, so step 2 is going through and making sure of any overlapping times. This year, luckily only one night has shows that conflicted so I had to cut one on Thursday. Last year, I had way too many that overlapped and so I made the decision to cut ALL(and yes that includes American Idol-that ridiculous show that took up 3 night a week on my DVR--Go Daughtry!!) reality tv. (I was getting way bored of it anyway, and I would much rather watch a good drama than the "way-over" Bachelor or something.) Anyway, so step 3 is actually setting the season passes on the DVR and then...Im ready for a new season...so exciting!! This is not an all-inclusive list, but, Heroes, Gray's, CSI, new fav Ugly Betty. And of course, we cant forget about the mid-seasoners...24 and Lost.
Ok, now before you think Im in love with my DVR(although I might possibly be-and I know there are few of you out there that understand), and that I ignore my child to watch all these shows, know this...I really dont watch every show, AND what I usually do is save up and watch on nights that Skip is gone coaching and Reese is asleep. Anyway, whatever...

Cheers!--to DVR's, the start of a new season, and all of you who are in the "tv club" with me!

..."in my heart's eye"

2007-09-20T22:20:00.000-05:00

This past week I visited my family in Tennessee. It was my grandmother's 80th birthday, Reese needed to see her Tennessee relatives, and I needed some pork bar-b-q.(is there any other kind???) :) We had a great time visiting with grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins...then we trekked down to Destin, Florida to suffer for a few days on the beach. My mom, my cousin, Reese and I took my Grandmother on a girls trip down there for her birthday. She loves it there but has not been able to go for a really long time, so it was a neat thing. We had so much fun shopping, eating, and hanging on the beach. Reese's first beach trip was a success!(although flying with an infant, by yourself, with connecting flights, is quite the challenge :) ) She was a little daredevil, but our little bathing beauty too! On another note...I am 27 years old, and my grandmother is 80. I think it is so cool how, at least to me, she is kindof ageless. I mean, I know she is older in my brain, but in "my heart's eye" she is still the same as she was when I was 5 years old...filling my stocking at Christmas, humming me songs at night, making me her special oatmeal... You wont often hear her complain, she is so kind and excited about life. I am so glad I got to spend this special time with her and hope I can remember and learn from all the things she is and does!

Yea for beach/girl's trips!!! :)

...The rise and fall of Caesar

2007-09-12T22:27:00.000-05:00

As you know, Skip and I are...how should I say it...not pet people. (There are a select few we like however:) Well, our neighbor loves scottie dogs. In fact, they have a statue of one in their front yard. The one they had, Tiger, died and they got a new scottie puppy, Caesar. OK. For the past few months Caesar comes out with his annoying as heck bark and goes crazy right by Reese's window every day at her naptime! Wakes her up. For you moms you know how precious naptime is!!!! Gold! I have cried, yelled, cussed, thought of how I could sneak out after dark with a ski mask on and some sort of weapon....... Hum, or I really just wanna drop kick him off a bridge. Now that you all think I'm a complete psycho :), let me assure you all your pets are safe...Or, are they???

Afterthought of the day:
Has anyone ever wondered what the people that work at the DPS, Social Security Office, and City Court have in common?? They all are the thorn in my side. You are legally required to use their services yet, they are SOOOOOOO slow and for the most part, frustrating and only semi-helpful. And whats the deal with going to one place, waiting in line, only to find out you are at the wrong place and need to be at a different place waiting in line!!??!! Or, the ever popular, they close at 4pm, and seriously, if you show up at 4pm exactly, they will lock you out and have a security guard with a gun standing there just in case you didnt get the picture. Anyway, just a thought :)

...Our weekend o' fun!!!

2007-09-10T20:18:00.000-05:00

We had a busy few days this weekend! It was Reese's 1 year old birthday on Saturday, and...a dear friend of mine, Misty, got married, and I was honored to be a bridemaid! The wedding festivities were Friday and Saturday into the wee-hours of the morning. There was dancing, partying, laughing, and possibly a little alcohol freely flowing! :) Then, on Sunday, we had Reese's birthday party. She was so cute! She didnt want anything to do with the cake, but...she was our little birthday princess! And just in case you're wondering if you can find this nice little strawberry overall number(in the above pic) in the new fall line at baby Gap, you cant! :) This is circa 1981, which I wore at my 1 year old birthday party! Strawberry Shortcake is making a comeback people!! :)

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Johnson...and

Happy 1st birthday sweet baby girl!

Let's play the feud!!!!

2007-09-08T09:43:00.000-05:00

Just a little advertisement!...Our friends, the Vanderveer family, (Ive been friends with Kristin since I was like 6 and we know the rest of them from college), was on Family Feud recently! Yes, the show is still on the air :) Anyway, it airs this week!! They won, so they are on all week. September 10-14, on the CW at noon!!! Set your Tivos...they are apparantly very entertaining!!

Ode to Papa...

2007-09-04T16:02:00.000-05:00

My dad was the best dad in the world to me and now he is the best Papa for Reese. He is so kind and patient. He was always at my games, always cheered me on, made lots of tents in the living room with me, read lots of books, took me to the lake, always comforted, always a teacher, taught me about Christ, taught me about life, told me when I was out of line and disciplined me for it, helped me when I needed it, let me learn the lesson on my own when I needed to, took me to breakfast once a week from 4th grade until now...a tradition that continues with Reese...never made me feel stupid, always made me feel important, always listened, never "too busy", always hugged me, always said "I love you", never put his burdens on me, always joyful, always prayerful, always welcoming to others, always a good friend, always a good son to his parents, always a good husband, always played restaurant, always watched my shows I put on and clapped like it was for real :) , always accepted my friends as his own, always gave wise council, never quick to anger, but always quick to forgive. I mean...I pray and hope I can be as good a parent to Reese as he is to me. God gave me an amazing example and standard to go by in both of my parents and I love them very much!

No, I will not make out with you!...:)

2007-08-31T15:55:00.001-05:00

Oh Reesie! Not even one yet and all over the boys already! She has single handedly tackled and pinned down Elmo and then ever so ladylike, started kissing him! :) As you can see also, she is thoroughly enthralled by her fiance Owen, and thinks he is quite funny, however...he is doing well at this point resisting her advances! I mean, she does have like 4 boyfriend choices already in real life...man, we are gonna have our hands full!

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, it's off to school Skip goes...

2007-08-27T18:36:00.000-05:00

Oh, the first day of junior high jitters! Such a huge step in life. Oh wait, Im 27, Reese is only 1, so no, neither of us are off to junior high...hummmm, that leaves the skipper!! Thats right, today was Skip's first day of school! As a teacher that is :) What an adventure! The fun began saturday when we were off to go to Mardel to laminate Skip's posters for his room and buy decor. You know what Im talking about...the super cool bulletin board border, charts, all that stuff. I knew this wasnt looking like a promising start to the new school year when Skips Return of the Jedi poster got eaten by the laminating machine. After which we cannot find any of the die-cut letters he needs to spell out stuff on his bulletin baords. Then, we proceed to Kinkos(the biggest rip off place on the face of the planet) to have them laminate the rest of his posters, when alas, we are told it will be like $75, we turn around and walk right back out with reesie in tow and Skip scolwing under his breath that the stupid kinkos guy is a flippin idiot. We decide to start again the next day. SO, Sunday:
I proceed to Target while Skip goes to Academy to get his coaching stuff. With Reese and $100 of groceries inside, my car wont start when I get out. Call skip. He comes and we go back in to Target to buy jumper cables that neither one of us know how to use. The guy parked next to us helps us because apparantly we look like idiots. Im on my way...Skips car dies. I have to go back and jump him. He goes to get a new battery. We both get home finally. He gets out the one thing he was able to get at Academy...a wistle. Doesnt work.
Sunday evening:
Go back to Target to try to go school supply shopping amidst the other 1 million people in the universe. He finds a few things, but the main thing he needs, wide-ruled notebook paper is sold out!!!!!! What?????? Dont the Target people anticipate the day before school rush??? (Dont worry though...Target could never do anything to lose my love and devotion). We also get a padlock and lunchbox and travel size toiletries.
Sunday night:
Skip packs his bags. All his schoolbooks, assignments, change of clothes, shower bag, coaching stuff, and a partridge in a pear tree. Sleeps on the couch because he is afraid he will oversleep. Fast forward to this morning:
Get up at 5am, gets ready, loads his car, packs his lunch(sorry, Im not packing his lunch at 5am!!) But I was sortof half awake when he left. I blindly took his first day of school pic on the front porch then gave him a good luck grunt from the couch.

So here's to junior high, fresh school supplies, sending your husband off to his first day of school, and Target!!

...God is good!

2007-08-23T17:30:00.000-05:00

God seems to keep reminding me, through various things, that He is the one in control and that my life is in His hands.
Providence.
My dad, my hero in every possible way, also has helped me tremendously in truly understanding and embracing this doctrine lately. I am, in fact, "prone to wander", prone to make the same mistakes over again, prone to trust in myself instead of the Almighty creator, prone to worry about worldly things, yet He continues to work in me, thank goodness! The things that are most important, and that I strive to be more like Him in...wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, worker, witness, etc....I fail at miserably every day, yet I have faith and assurance that He will continue to give me grace and work in me until the end of my days. He gives things and takes things away in His providence, ordering my way with knowledge I do not possess...Doing the BEST for me, even if I do not see it initially...Not to mention, I forget to take joy in the hard things(however small they are, or however big I make them)...and its pretty cool that the hard things truly show me the width and length and depth and height of His love for me...reminding me that His plans for me are perfect and that He does for me far above all I could ever imagine for myself!! He is Good and I thank Him for all He is doing in me and for me!!

"Wonderful are your works, O Lord, my soul knows it very well!"

Ephesians 3:13-21

"I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ...that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height--to know the love of Christ which passes all knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now, to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or imagine, to Him be the glory forever and ever..."!!!!!!!!!!

"Luke, I am your father"...

2007-08-21T15:12:00.000-05:00

Introducing, Luke Tyler Stewart!! Our dear friends(and Reesie's namesake) had their baby Friday night...Matt is a dad, yikes! :) We got to meet the little guy Saturday! It was so fun. He is so precious and we are already in love with him. This is one of my favorite things...meeting our nieces and nephews... I remember like yesterday meeting Elijah, Owen, Miller(and we cant forget the "A" kids :)...How blessed we are to have such friends that we love their children like our own...

...Weekly update in pictures

2007-08-18T23:59:00.000-05:00

Reese on her first ride in her new pimpin' carseat!

My best high school friend, Bethany and I with her new baby girl, Bella!

Reese meeting Libby for the first time!
(my brother's new puppy) and notice the
rockin' first attempt at pigtails :)

This Week in Reese Pics...

2007-08-11T19:15:00.000-05:00

I said I wanted grilled cheese. Did I stutter?

Daddy is an awesome batting instructor. Next stop Wrigley Field!

Is there any place on earth that's as great as Target?!

I love swimming with Mommy!

Young at heart....

2007-08-08T13:35:00.000-05:00

This morning I awoke, got Reese ready to go and was in the car at 8am, only to discover that my car would not start. No sound whatsoever. In the midst of my ranting about the stupid battery, the fact I needed an oil change, and that I really didnt need this crap right now....A light flickers on. No, not in my head. On the dash. A light that looks strangly like a gas tank. Hummm, I think...thats right, I did see that light yesterday and ignored it. Now for all of you about to give a lecture on being responsible and filling up when I get to a quarter tank-I dont want to hear it...Ive never actually run out of gas before. Anyway, so, whats the first thing this girl does...calls Daddy!!

So, in conclusion, this week I've discovered that apparantly Im still a kid at heart! Which Im fine with, because with a baby, my increasing love of naps, and growing interest in the Food Network...not to mention that in 2 1/2 short years I will become a thirty-something and have to give up my twenty-something status...I was starting to feel old!!!

Here are a few of the signs of still being a kid at heart: top ten, in random order:

1) when you run out of gas your first response is to call daddy to bring you a gas can :)
2) you have a celeb crush on teeny-bopper Zac Efron (in case you didnt know, he is on High School Musical-Disney Channel ridiculousness), and love the show Hannah Montana.
3) when you go to the grocery store there is just a little bitty voice inside you that still cries out for strawberry gushers and fruit-by-the-foot.
3b) ok, and what about the after-school snack, while watching the after-school tv lineup?? Mine was Batman, Little House on the Prairie and Saved by the Bell! Awesome! :)
4) you think the song 'Mmm Bop' by the Hansons is a classic. I mean, and does anyone remember Raffi???
5) you still have to call mom to ask how long to boil eggs and what kind of medicine you should take for a runny nose.
6) You love the store Forever 21 and completely intend to keep shopping there even if you have to eventually call it, 'Forever 41"!
7) You love Harry Potter!(although this one is debateable because of the number of adults that enjoy the Potter)
8) you get all sentimental when you pass by the Glowworms and Rainbow Brite in the toy isle.
9) you have a sudden urge to build a massive tent in the living room and run through the sprinkler in the backyard.
10) You have a strange desire to have a slumber party :)

Here's to staying young at heart!!

Random updating...

2007-08-05T19:29:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone. I was told that you will all stop reading my blog if I don't update soon soooo...just wanted to update. Reesie is walking!!! That's right...last Monday, she took her first steps and is now really good at it :) Also found out this weekend that she loves dogs...like is not afraid of a huge dog at all. Our canine friend Mo(who belongs to the Alexanders) is now her new best friend! All she will eat is grilled cheese, thanks Jenn, but it doesn't look like she's wasting away to nothing yet...In other news, Tracy and I attended a Midnight Harry Potter party a few weeks ago for the release of the final book in the series and it was all I hoped it would be and more...finished the book in 2 days and now Im sortof sad I have no more! Oh well, I guess I still have 2 movies to look forward to. My college roomate just had her baby and I'm just waiting for a call any minute now that our good friend Andrea is in labor, and my friend Bethany too...Our house is still for sale, my parents are moving to Dallas, Skip starts his new teaching job next week and is excited. He found out he will be teaching Texas History instead of the 'behaviorally challenged' class so that was good news :) Ummmm....ok more witty banter and fun pics to come tomorrow when my brain is working better. I'm on medication and really tired right now so that's all you get :)

"I Hate Goodbyes!"

2007-07-23T12:44:00.001-05:00

That title might be lost on some of you if you've never seen the movie "Dumb and Dumber".

Anyway our good friends Jay and Gina moved to Oklahoma last week. Definitely not a favorite moment in our friendship. So instead here are some that are favorites...

1. Realizing that Skip and Gina are birthday twins (both born on September 20, 1979)
2. Going to Wrigley Field togther in 2005
3. Knowing that Jay would always order the best appetizers when we'd go out ot eat
4. Gina bursting Kate's bubble and telling her that there's no such thing as a "hosepipe".
5. Kate and Gina having an all day conversation by texting (we had to get an unlimited texting package due to their addiction)
6. Skip and Jay playing softball for crappy teams (Sorry Doves, we really weren't that good)
7. Seeing movies at the Movie Tavern
8. Day O' Fun at the O'Steens (not elaborating on this one :) )
9. Jay & Gina hanging out all day at the hospital waiting on Reese's arrival
10. Finding such great friends when we weren't even looking