A New Way of Looking At It

"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple, and that God's spirit lives in you." 1 Corinthians 3:16

"For we are God's fellow workers, you are God's field, God's buildings." 1 Corinthians 3:9

"For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians  3:11

I am struggling with my resolve to lose weight and be healthier. I've lost quite a bit but with returning to school to pursue my master degree, work, husband and kids, some has crept back on. I want to be the mom who can play with her kids, I want to be the mom who can swim, run, kick a soccer ball, and jump on a trampoline with my kids. I want to be the wife that is strong, both mentally, physically, and spiritually to stand by her husband. I want to grow old with my husband  and live many years beside him.

I want to be a whole child of God. I'm reading Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst and it talks about we were made to crave God. However we fill ourselves up with other things like food. Everything is permissable, but not all things are beneficial.

Lysa points out that we are made for more than to be stuck in a vicious cycle of defeat. I AM MADE for more then to be stuck in a vicious cycle of defeat. "You have circled the mountain long enough, now turn north." Deut. 2:3

She discusses the manna from heaven and how God gave them just enough. What a thought to put toward portion control?!?! Maybe this whole diet thing won't work. Maybe what I need is a God factor to throw my mind into the right frame of reference.

I think 2011 should be the year I start really focusing on God and my relationship with him and allow Him to put the other things in my life in order.

December 27th - Day Close to my Heart

December 27th three years ago I gave birth to a little girl that has become an independent little spitfire that has captured my heart. She keeps us on our toes and has absolutely has made our family complete. Who knew 6 pounds of little girl could turn our world topsey, turvy.

Now three years later Miss E  is absolutely her own little girl, and I believe she can hold her own against her big brother. She makes me laugh and makes me smile every day. She can drive her momma & daddy bonkers, but it's a great wild ride.

December 27th also holds a special place in my heart because my best friend, Tiffany Nicole, who Miss E shares some of her name, was born this day as well. She went to meet her Lord seven years ago, and I miss her so much. Happy Birthday Tiff! Love you!

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!!

This week I've stayed at home with the kiddos most of time. They went to their babysitter's one day so I could get some gift wrapping and cleaning done. I also participated in a local Charity delivering food & toys to needy families around town. It was absolutely awesome. We go with a group of women that I've known for several years but we don't get to see each other that often because I'm busy with my family. It really made me appreciate all that we have during this time of year and all through the year.

I'm up before kids on Christmas morning. Not exactly sure why. I have read my devotional & spent some quiet time with the Lord which is what I've been needing over the past busy few days. Got a busy day with family, & hope everyone a safe & happy Christmas. Treasure those you love this holiday season & every day, they are a gift from above each day they are here. I pray for those who have lost loved ones this year & this is their first Christmas without them. Praying for my friends & family to have a wonderful, blessed New Year as well!

Top Tuesday

5) spent quiet time with the Lord this morning & my Joyce Meyers podcast during the day. Makes me think & focus on Him

4) picked up 4 cute free hair barrettes for my baby girl. One is angels that may have to be a part of her Christmas outfit

3) Manheim steamroller Christmas music. Stille Nicht & veni, veni by them are truly beautiful. It brings back memories of my father listening to them each year at Christmas.

2) lunch with the hubby today. Yes it was pb&j but it was a half hour with my hubby.

1) my husbands company Christmas party is this week. I'm so excited about having an adult night, it's really kind of silly. But I can't wait to get dressed up & have a date night with the hubby.

Weekend Wrap-Up

Our weekend was a whirlwind. We had a Christmas program for Mr. L Friday night. It was so much fun, and so cute!!

This was Mr L with two of his classmates reciting their lines from Twas the Night Before Christmas.

Then Saturday we  went about an hour away to a mall with Santa Claus. (Did I mention we are in the boonies??) My lovely mother went with me to help me corral the kiddos since hubby had to work. She also gave me an early Christmas present and bought me some clothes to wear to the hubby's Christmas party.  Here is the kiddos picture with Santa.

Sunday we went to church and then spent the weekend watching football and relaxing. I can't believe December is already here, and we have something planned every weekend of this month. It's gonna fly by!!

Wordless Wednesday

This is my precious boy when he was not even a month old 6 years ago.  I love him more every day and he is my sweet little mister.  I can't believe my baby is 6 years old!!

My Top Tuesday

My Top Tuesday for This Week

5) My husband and I laughing at Mike Rowe on Dirty Jobs. I have to say it's the little things in life. We are sitting here cracking up at his comments and facial expressions. Bonding over disgusting, dirty jobs.

4) A long hot bath..and a good book. That's where I'm hoping to be after I finish this blog

3) Stitches out today at our doctor's office - and my little man didn't cry once. He was very brave and didn't even cry when he got a flu shot while we were there.

2) Rudolph on DVD, chicken-n-dumplings for dinner and my two favorite kiddos. That's how I spent my Tuesday night

1) Starting my morning off with some quiet time and a nice way to start my morning. Just me and the Lord.

Even youths grow tired & weary, & young men stumble & fall, but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. Isaiah 40:30-31  

I need to learn to take care of myself and take time out for me otherwise I can't take of the ones I love. And I can do that with the Lord. 

Thanksgiving...Oh My!!

Well, our Thanksgiving started out pretty typical. We got home late Wednesday from going to see my husband's family that are staying at my mom-in-law's. So I cooked some things I was going to take to dinner the next day that evening, then got up early Thursday and fixed a couple of other things.  Got the kids ready for Thanksgiving and headed out to the in-laws to fry a turkey.  Had a blast, watched an exciting game between the Cowboys and the Saints. I do like Drew Brees and the Saints  but my heart belongs with the Cowboys. They played a great game!!! Go Boys, play like that some more!

Well we finally got home about 7, put both kids in bath tub and changed into some comfy pajama clothes and settled down to eat a snack and relax. Heard my son crying from the other room. Turns out his sister smacked him across the bridge of the nose with a cup and cut him. Called my cousin who happens to be an RN and sweetly asked her if she would come down here and look at it to see if we needed to go to the ER for stitches. She said she thought we probably needed to. So she took Miss E to her house and we headed to the ER. Mr L was such a big boy and didn't shed one tear while they pumped the numbing agent into his nose. He got three stitches. It was a Thanksgiving to remember to say the least!!

My Top Tuesday - Thanksgiving Edition

I did rather copy this idea from another blog, is imitating the  highest form of  flattery?  If you haven't found it yet I would recommend the blog by Mary Beth Whalen it is soooo good!!

My Top Tuesday - These few things top my List today and since Thanksgiving is around the corner, it's all the things I'm thankful for

6) My job - I get to work closely with my kids and do something I enjoy. I work with great people, and have to say it's the best job I've had.

5) Three days for Thanksgiving Vacation plus the Weekend = 5 day weekend!! Whoop-Whoop! Time to spend with family and friends.

4) Our men and women serving overseas and all of those who have served before them.  They are on my heart this Thanksgiving because they give their all. THANK YOU!!!

3) The power of prayer. My nephew got better last week because of prayer and we sent out requests to all prayer warriors we know.  These women held me up last week.

2) My family and Friends. Without my loving husband and my wonderful kids, I wouldn't make it through one day.  They make me laugh, and forget the world to just be a kid again. Gotta love that!

1) My Lord up above. I've started a journey, & I intend to have a good finish. I've felt His grace on me and I hope to continue during this journey with complete faith in Him.


HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

oh, and

GO COWBOYS!!

Been a Crazy Week

This week has sped by me. One my brother-in-law's girlfriend's grandson was put in the hospital. His platelets were low and they were talking leukemia. It scared a lot of us for a long time.  He was a very sick little boy. We prayed very hard for healing and spread the prayer request through many prayer warriors.  Friday we were relieved to discover it was a very bad virus. NO CANCER!! We praised God for that wonderful news!!

On Saturday my little man had his birthday. He had several friends from his class over. I think he had a great birthday. It was so much fun to have all the kids over playing.  I am so thankful for this special little boy in my life. He is such a blessing to his father and I.

I'm Thankful this week for the wonderful news with the baby and the blessing I had to throw my little boy a birthday party.

Weekend Wrap-Up

My weekend went by way to fast, and really wish I could have slowed it down just a bit.

Friday night I ran my usual errands and got home after grocery shopping and it was little to late to do anything. Kept up with our hometown play-off game via facebook, and we WON!! Oh yeah, bi-district champs! The s guy play next Saturday, and I so hope they win!!

Saturday Miss E woke me up early so I got my cleaning done earlier in the day and was able to relax a little bit before friends came over to eat. Saturday night was a great night. The kids played in their rooms so it was basically like an adult night out. We had an absolute blast.

Sunday was spent doing homework and going to church. We had a meal catered by a great bbq place in a nearby town. It was absolutely AWESOME food.  Then went to a friend of mines' step daughter's baby shower, (are you confused yet). I believe I'm officially getting on up in years (not that there is anything bad with that). I say that because 1) it's no longer a whole lot of women my age having babies, it is those who are younger, 2) There was a girl there that her mother was pregnant with her when we graduated high school. She looked exactly like her momma and was a teenager. Yup, it's official, I'm an adult :)  After I got home, worked on homework and watched the COWBOYS WIN BABY!!! Love it!!

Praying for many blessings for everyone for this week.  Remember to respect your boundaries and turn to the Lord for everything.

Friday Favorites

Some of my favorites this week are  this little guy I won at Keno

He is now sitting right when you first walk in welcoming all our guests.

The next thing is a letter I received in the mail from one of the ladies from my Walk to Emmaus. It brightened my day considerably on this cold, drab Friday. It was definitely a lift in my spirits.  :) 

Thankful wordless wednesday

I'm thankful for these little munchkins



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No more Tearing Down

As I was reading my devotional this morning, I realized that the Lord was hitting me over the head with some things.  One scripture from my devotional was "What (the Lord) opens no one can shut, and what He shuts no one can open." Revelations 4:8-12 and another was from Jude "But you dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith & pray in the holy spirit."

I've been listening to podcasts by Joyce Meyers and reading a couple of other books and they have all been about how our attitudes and thoughts can hold us back or even tear us down. So I'm taking a stand and saying I'm not allowing either of these to tear me down any more.

Lord, I'm tired of tearing myself down for not being a better woman, wife, mother, etc. I want to build my faith on you, and build my prayers upon you. My worth is built on you, and no one can tear it down. I will think  positive about my circumstances, our finances, our marriage, my parenting abilities, and lean on you for all things, because the Lord holds me up.  I will NOT allow my attitudes and thoughts to hold me back from the life You want for me.

I gave my fear and martyrdom, to the Lord that day during the Walk to Emmaus. I know He is healing me a little bit at a time. I give my life to the Lord, and I can't wait to see what He will do with it.

Thankful Thursday

Disclaimer: I wrote this post late last night and apparently went to sleep before I could hit the post button!! So I did fall asleep before I finished!!

I was going to post this earlier, but I ran out of time. Now I'm afraid I'll fall asleep before I get it finished.

What I'm thankful for during the month of thanksgiving.

1) My Lord up above, who I'm learning to lean on more and He's helping to hold me up

2) My wonderful husband. Even though he snores, he's still a wonderful guy and an amazng father. I love that man.

3) My gorgeous great kiddos. They drive me batty at times, but I couldn't imagine my life without them.

I'll have to elaborate next week...my eyes are closing...I"m fading fast...

I know..I know..I'm late

I know I said I'd post a blog about my weekend and the thing I crossed off my bucket list, but it's been  CRAZY!!

First the thing I did was a Walk to Emmaus.  It was a wonderful experience!! It's in it's simplest form a retreat that helps draw you back into your Christian walk. I left there feeling lighter and freer than I had in years. In fact it is still happening!! I've been waking up in the morning, spending time in devotion and prayer and giving things to God, and I've felt better than I have in a really, really long time. I learned to love the women with me on the walk, and there were several that touched my hearts.There was one woman, Doris, who was 83 and on the walk. She was a tiny woman, but she was sprite, and such a little spitfire!! If I grow up to be even a smidgen like her, I'll be so happy! I encourage anyone to do a Walk to Emmaus. It was a great experience. That was one thing to cross off my bucket list.

I returned on a Sunday and on Monday we went with Mr. L's class to a zoo in a neighboring town. It was so cool. My son has two other kids that he hangs out with alot. In fact I've started calling them the "Three A migos". They are so cute.

 Then that next week not only were we trying to make the kiddos costumes for Halloween, I was madly trying to finish some things for my masters classes. It was a stressful week to say the least!! But we got it done and had a fun, busy Halloween weekend and letting the kids dress up and play. Here's  my Butterfly Fairy and Ninja.

I think that catches me up!! It's been a whirlwind few weeks. Ready for things to SLOOOW down but with Christmas around the corner, I don't see it as a possibility. Oh well, what a ride it will be!!

Mommyologist

I have to say I follow The Mommyologist and she is absolutely an inspiration and a breath of fresh air.  She has started a Mom Sexy Revolution and her newest brain child is a blog-oversery and a celebration.  It's a  of celebration our imperfections and how we are still sexy even through all of that.

I am not the mom that looks pulled together all the time while dropping off kids or at a soccer game. I'm lucky some days if my hair is in a halfway decent ponytail, and lip gloss is applied. I might cast a glance at those moms that are and wish I could pull it together like that, But you know what, I'm still MOM SEXY.

I may have a little bit of pudge and some junk in the trunk, and bigger thighs than the next girl. But you know those bigger thighs get me from point a to point b during a run. My pudge is the result of two wonderful kids that I adore.  That junk in the trunk has got me several compliments in my youth, and because of running and getting my booty to the gym early in the morning, my husband compliments me as well. And that's MOM SEXY.

I'm not the mom who is going to be perfect all the time. I lose my cool and then regret it if I yell at my kids, I try to make time for a date night for my husband at least once a month, but sometimes life get crazy,I eat carbs, and chocolate. But I also put my kids to bed every night unless I am out of town, I make time for my husband after the kids  go to bed, and sometimes just going to the store with the hubby sans kids, is a real date for me.  I try to keep the carbs and chocolate in moderation, but hey that doesn't always happen. And that's MOM SEXY!!

Thankful Thursday

Homework is calling me so I'll make it short and sweet. 

I'm thankful for good friends for invite you over for dinner and a movie so you don't have to cook.

I get to do something on my bucket list next week, and I'm so excited. I'll let everyone know when its over.

My hubby is so talented. We ordered a new motor for my dishwasher that wasn't working, and put it in today and I'm listening to the sound of a dishwasher humming right now. :) Yeah!! It's so the little things in life.

I'm thankful for a "spiritual momma" that helps me whenever I'm lost. 

I'm thankful for my lovely, sweet hubby and kiddos. 

What a weekend!

We made plans to go to a lake about 45 minutes away from our home. We were going to go on saturday, but because there were only a few spots left at the campground, we left late on Friday.

We came back on Saturday morning so the hubby could go to work & Mr. L had a soccer game. We lost our soccer game...BOO! but we had fun. Miss E enjoyed being outside & cheering on Bubba.





We then went back to the lake. We played washers, went fishing & hung out with some good friends. We enjoyed some amazing sausage last night & s'mores. This morning we got up & fixed bacon, sausage, eggs, toast, & coffee. It was sooooooo good!!

But alas, all good things must come to an end. Tomorrow is back to the old grind.

Have a blessed week!


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Marvelous Monday

It's been a marvelous Monday. For the following reasons

1) It was just cold enough for me to wear my sweater I bought from a garage sale





2) fresh pears left in the workroom for people to take






3) my little girl being momma's little helper





4) I ran around 3 miles today, outside in this gorgeous weather we've had the past few days. And I only walked twice for about 30 seconds each time. :) half-marathon here I come!!

What a marvelous, blessed Monday it's been.

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What a Weekend!

We had a very busy weekend. Mr. L had a soccer game early saturday morning. Which I have to say was a blast!! He scored the first goal of the game and got to play the goalie position as well. I laughed so hard during the game and I was so proud of him.

After the game we went to visit some friends of ours in Houston.  It was really a flying trip. We left at around noon and got there late that evening  That next morning the guys went fishing where my handsome hubby caught this

42 inch long Red from the Gulf. I was so excited when I got the text with that picture. The last few times he's been fishing, his luck hasn't been that good. I'm hoping that this has turned his luck around.

While the guys were out fishing, us girls did something kind of crazy. We went tailgating at the Houston Texans vs. Dallas Cowboys game at Reliant Stadium.  Three of us were rooting for Texans, and two of us, me included were rooting for the Cowboys.  I have to say us two were in the minority. :) However, we had a grand time although it was sweltering hot.  I think next time I go tailgating I hope it will be cooler!! But we had a blast!!

Friday Favorites

I have to say that I bribed myself this week. I told myself if I  worked out 4 days - ran 3 of those days :) that I could download some music I wanted from Itunes. I made it all four days so I downloaded some songs when I got back this morning. One is a new cd by Britt Nicole.

I heard her song Walk on Water and absolutely fell in love with it! It's only $4.99 on Itunes for 6 songs. I listened to them while getting ready for work and I've loved every one of them. I also bought the new one by Nichole Nordeman "Beautiful for Me", absolutely awesome by the way. 

Another song that I'm wearing out right now is "Lead Me" by Sanctus Real.  Ohh! I love that song, It's so good.

Another Favorite I'm excited about is we get to see some good friends this weekend. Hope to get pics and stories on Monday!

Marvelous Monday

I'm praying and sending out good thoughts that today  will be a Marvelous Monday. (I'm trying to think positive for the next three days because hubby is going to be working at his second job for a good part of the week, so it's me and the kiddos)

What can make it a marvelous Monday, you ask?

1) Today we are leaving school & work a little early to go to the dentist. Although I don't like handing over our hard earned money for the dentist, I look forward because I'll get to spend a little extra time with the kiddos, and two I promised to take them to McDonalds afterward, which means no cooking tonight!!

2) I have set up a treat for myself if I run 4 times this week in training for my half marathon in February I get to buy a few songs off Itunes on Friday. Now, I'm hoping my lovely momma will come watch the kids when we get home for an hour so I can run to the gym, otherwise I have to wait till their in bed.

3) We had double good news last night! One, my cousin and his wife are expecting their first child. Two, a woman here in our town that many know and love had a massive heart attack on Saturday. They had to put her in a medical coma till Sunday afternoon. After a few hours, she opened her eyes and looked around. Praise God!!


I think that's it for my marvelous Monday - may have to catch you up on Tuesday and let you know how it went!!

Gotta get My Groove Back

Not taking anything away from Stella...but I've gotta get my groove back. With work being NUTS the whole month of August, Mr. L starting school, me starting classes again, plus the cleaning, cooking, laundry, etc that revolves around my little world, I've lost my groove.  I used to have things going where I would get up, get ready,  do some work for school, get kids up and out the door. Then after work  I would go workout, come home, dinner, cleaning, kids in bed and then quiet time.  I'm sure other moms can relate on certain times in your life are rolling along, and then something shifts and that teeter-totter you are on slips and you're trying to balance it again.

But my workouts and schedule has totally went into a SNAFU state.  (everyone can google what SNAFU means) I guess I need to get my groove back but honestly with everything going on I've been too tired to even try.

Okay let me think what I can do to restore some balance into this crazy life that is swirling around me.

1) try to go to bed early enough where I get enough sleep
2) wake up and do some yoga to try and calm me and focus on the day
3) get ready (no TV) for work after laying out all my clothes and packing stuff up the night before
4) spend some quiet time with the Lord in the morning to get my day started right
5) get kids ready and out the door on time
6) Work out in the afternoons at 4 - if I know I can't be there that day, go in the morning instead of yoga
7) Take vitamins to balance out
8) Watch what I eat, eat things that help my body, not hurt it, but allow myself a tread now and then
9) Drink A LOT of water
10) Spend time laughing with my husband and kiddos
11) Hang out with girlfriends at least once a month to help de-stress myself
12) Try to clean a little bit everyday so I can relax a little on the weekends

Gonna pray to the Lord above for some help on getting my groove back.

Fall...just a little longer

It's September, time for school, football, & the fall. We had enough of a cool down last week to make me wish for the cool mornings, & windows open with a cool fall breeze.

Right now I'm relaxing in my chair..well in between picking up toys, putting up laundry, & putting Miss E to bed one more time. Hubby & I are watching the saints play the Vikings. Now I'm a Dallas cowboys girl all the way, but I LOVE me some Saints!!

Football makes me want to sit in the stands & watch my Alma mater play, it reminds me of playing band in high school. The crisp fall weather, marching, the fun trips on the bus with friends.

Aww memories...it's weird how a change in weather brings back memories. Wish this hot weather would leave for awhile & bring in the cooler weather. Just a little longer...



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Faith, Fitness, & Fun Blog

I don't really know how but I stumbled on a blog today called Faith, Fitness, &  Fun. I have to admit this girl really got me thinking.  Certain things in my life have snowballed around me, some good, some bad, and this blog has definitely opened my eyes about a few things.

The author, Christina, has issued a challenge to her readers to go through a 30 days of self love challenge where you embrace everything about you. I am loving this blog! One I have come across other blogs that focus on fitness, or faith, or having fun with your family but never have I come across one that combines all three.

Today she issued a challenge to embrace and love a part of your body, and thank your body for the gifts that it has given you.  So lets first start with my arms and shoulders. These allow me to wrap my arms around my beautiful kids and my hubby who I love

  

I have to say I absolutely love my gift of my laugh. I've been told I laugh just like several of my beloved aunts. It's loud and sometimes when I get going, people will turn around an look at me, but that's absolutely ok!

I have to agree with Christina about being thankful for my "womanly parts." Because they carried to term my two kids that drive me absolutely batty, but I couldn't imagine life without them.

Long days..Short Years

I once heard someone say when you have young children at home, it seems like "Long days, but short years." I couldn't agree more with that statement.

I am a working mother of a nearly 6 year old who started Kindergarten this year, and a nearly 3 year old. I am lucky enough to work in the school district my son attends in the technology department so I am right here if he needs anything. I am also going back to school for my Masters in Information Systems online, which is a challenge. I've been with my wonderful husband for 11 years, and married for 7 of those years.

Between work, school for both my son and I, cooking, cleaning, and breaking up fights between siblings, and an occasional date night now and then, it seems like it's hard to come up for air. The days seem so long when you get home from work, and have to cook, clean, answer three thousand questions from two little minds, get everyone ready for bathtime and bed, and then fall in your chair and attempt to wrap your mind around some adult conversation. And most of the time, I fall asleep as soon as I get still.

But looking back at pictures of both my kids when they were babies, I can't imagine them that small. I remember the times in a hazy, sleepless daze. Those years flew by so fast. But looking at the pictures makes me smile. My little one is talking up a storm and learning words, both good & bad, at a rapid rate. My oldest asks all sorts of questions and sometimes wears me out just by the machine gun line of questioning. I have to remind myself that it's the days where I put down the laundry for awhile and play go fish with my son. Or sit and watch a Disney movie with my daughter for a few hours cuddled up on the bed. These are the moments I remember during those long days that turn into very short years.

Marvelous Monday

I know my Monday hasn't officially started, but hey, let's have some positive thinking to start the day off right.

I spent the weekend doing absolutely nothing but picking up my house (no deep cleaning), laundry, and spending time with the husband and the kiddos.  Friday night I text my brother-in-law's girlfriend and told her I was in a funk and needed to get out of it. Well did I ever!!  We went out to the country club and swam with the kids in the pool, had a drink, and talked and vented and I felt better going into the weekend.

This is the first weekend in a long time where we had NOTHING planned. It was absolutely marvelous!! We played go fish, watched movies, went to church and had a good time at home.

Now onto Monday...It starts another crazy, hectic, & grand week. My masters classes are starting again. It's Mr. L's second week of school. I'm determined to get more organized about my cleaning, school work, kids stuff, $$, and myself in order to help my life run more smoothly with less stress from me!! :) I'm also looking forward to Labor Day weekend. This is our annual small town festival with a parade, booths, games, a dance, and usual small town stuff.  I'm looking forward to seeing friends this weekend, and having a three day weekend!!

Praying for a great week, and a Marvelous Monday to start it off!!

First Day of School

Well, my baby's first day of kindergarten was on Monday. Sniff...Sniff.. I can't believe he's even old enough to be up at the "big school".  The first day at school was "AWESOME" according to Mr. L.  The second day of school was even "AWESOMER".  I'm taking that to mean more awesome.   I know all of his teachers and it's been an absolute blast so far him coming to work with me.

I know this is the honeymoon phase and he won't be excited about his mom working up at the school anytime soon. But for right now it's pretty fun to see him in passing or to go in when he's having lunch just  to say hi.

Old friends...new conversations

I have two good friends from high school that I don't get to hang out with very often. We were actually able to get together tonight and it's always like we've never been apart.

Let's just say our conversations have changed & yet stayed the same. We still talk about guys, but Now it's about our husbands or significant others. We talk about jobs, our kids, & life in general. I love these girls. We've been through alot. We lost one member of our group to cancer when we were 22, we've seen each other through marriages, a divorce, parents & family members passing away, husbands, kids, & life in general. But I have to say no matter what these girls got my back.

We griped, we laughed, we advised each other & I have to say after the busy stressful week I've had, this was just what I needed. Love ya girls!! Hope it's not 6 months before we can get together again. :)


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New school year

Yup it's that time of year again. It's time for school to start. That means that the technology department is running every which way.

I've been working some long hours with my co-workers attempting to get stuff ready. It's Been crazy because we've added a Lot of new technology, including VOIP phones, and trying to get all our ducks in a row.

In another two weeks my masters classes again which will add more to my plate. But another thing for this momma to think about is the fact my kiddo will be up at school with me. That's just hard to wrap my head around.

Hope it's A great year!


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Mom Sexy Challenge

The Mommyologist blog has done it again!!! This week is the Embrace Your Body week.  Our challenge is to embrace all our bodies as Mom's and love everything about us.  Here is my picture that shows me in all my gorgeous glory!

This is one of my favorite pictures from our recent cruise to Mexico.  It's silly & playful, and honestly I walked all around that pool in a bikini. Yes Ladies you heard me, a bikini, without a cover-up. I turned 30 a few months ago and I have to say this is probably the most comfortable I've been in my skin in awhile. 

I love my hair. It's thick and wavy and I inherited it from my dad.  I can wear it long or short and I love it either way.  I also am learning to love my nose. It's the same nose my mom and grandmother have.  And I have to agree with Mary, I'm gonna say it, I love my boobs and my butt. My boobs are smaller than they used to be since losing weight, but they are still in the same general area as they were before kids.  I've gotten complimented on my butt here lately, and in the past BK (before kids). I love the way my body is proportionate, a kind of hourglass figure, and I'm learning to embrace my curves more each passing day.  

This is another picture of what I love about my body. I've recently discovered a love of running about a year ago.  This is right after I finished my first 10K. The thing is I FINISHED IT!! This body carried me 6.1 miles across the finish line. It wasn't always easy, but all I could think of is I am running for 6.1 miles and I finished it!! The pride I felt was absolutely awesome!! And in six months I'll be trying for a Half Marathon.  

Each day I grow older and wiser I'm learning to love this body more and more. I'm learning to treat it better and take care of it more so I can enjoy and love it for many years to come. 

Summer Time

We are trying to squeeze the last few drops of summer these last few weeks. We have planned to go swimming after work a couple of days, a trip to the zoo, & maybe a cook out or two. Plus one evening later this month we have plans to meet a group of friends at a local hangout & play pool & relax. I'm so excited for the trip to the zoo, I think I'm more excited than the kiddos.

Plus I'm starting to get a little emotional. My big boy will be going to kindergarten this year. Sniff..sniff. I can't believe my kiddo will be old enough to be in school.


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What a weekend!!

We were lucky and blessed to have some  friends that offered for us to have a birthday party for my husband and several other people from Damon's work whose birthdays are in August. My handsome hubby and his best friend fried up fish, squash, hush puppies, and french fries, along with deviled eggs, asparagus rollups, and peach cobbler. It was awesome!!

We sat around the whole evening drinking iced tea, eating, talking with good friends, and playing horse shoes. The kids played and played and played out in their yard. The live out in the country so there was plenty of room to run around. Now my hubby's birthday isn't until next Saturday when he turns 33. (He's already expressed to me that he doesn't like that number because it's an odd number. Yup, he's odd). Our plan is to one day in the next week to take the kids to the zoo with our whole family.

Oh how times have changed!10 years ago we'd be throwing a big shindig with beer, and music, maybe some poker and party until the wee hours. But now it's all about something low key and with our family and friends. It's amazing the things that change when you grow older and have kids.  My idea of a good time is no longer hanging out at a club till it closes or hanging out with friends every night on the weekend. Now my idea of fun is hanging out at the house with the kids and the hubby, watching a movie, with some dark chocolate and a diet coke.  Or taking the kids out some where and having fun with them. Don't get me wrong, I like my adult time, but there's something about just hanging out with the kiddos.

Will post pics of our zoo trip as soon as we go!!

Cruise 2010

Well we got back from our cruise a week ago. It was soooo  much fun. We had a great time with friends. Hung out by the pool. Went and saw some great people sing karoake and watched a comedian on the boat. But I have say the best part was just relaxing with friends and of course my handsome husband.

This is at the resturant at the port  before we boarded the boat. (NOTE: I don't normally look that tan. We got spray tanned before leaving. So cool, and so addicting!!) We boarded the boat and looked around for a couple of hours before hanging out by the pool. 

We sailed for a day and came to Progresso, Mexico.  It was a very nice little town, but the vendors as usual are very avid about peddling their goods. Just walk and don't make eye contact. We bought a hat for me to keep the sun of my face and my brother-in-law's girlfriend is an absolute master at negotiating with the merchants. She should really work for the UN.  

We got back on the boat and had some more fun at the pool.

The next day we were in Cozumel, where we got to go on a submarine and go 100 ft down and look at the reefs and the gorgeous fish in the water.  I love the water in Cozumel, it's so blue and clear, and just looks great. When we got back on dry land we went down the coast to a beach resort and had a blast drinking a few beers and hanging out in the water and on the beach.  

All in all I missed my kiddos but had an absolute blast!! I have to say that going down to Mexico might have to be an bi-yearly thing.(I'm not made of money, so every two years is about all I can afford).  I think it was good for me & the hubby to get away and have some adult time. 

Adios Mexico!! See you in a couple of years!!

Thankful Thursday

This is what I'm thankful for..




My two munchkins


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Well Plans changed..

We had planned on heading over to a nearby town to go to a water park this evening. Well first thing my son woke up running temperature and saying that his throat hurt. I gave him some medicine and hoped it would get better. Fever climbed back up a few hours later...so more medicine and the decision that maybe going to the water park wasn't going to happen today.  Called the doctor and we can't get in till tomorrow. Darn it!!

My husband took off today to spend time with the family before we leave with some friends for a cruise next weekend. So he stayed with the kids while I went to the gym to burn off frustration of cancelled plans.  Stopped by the grocery store after getting my butt kicked in circuit class..and the sky opened up.

What is this wet stuff we haven't seen here in two months?!?? Could it be rain. So I guess God had it under control after all. We would have been either on our way to the water park or in the pool, and they likely would have had to pull us out because of the weather.  The water park will be there next time, my husband bonded with Mr L over video games all day. And we got some much, much needed rain. I say it's been a blessed day over all. :)

Oh ...and we are waiting on news from a friend of mine about her baby that should be born soon!! So excited!! Congrats Kate & Lane!!!

Our Weekend

Friday we left to spend the weekend with some friends of ours in Houston. We left after Damon got off work at 5 and drove to Anauhac to see them and another guy that Damon knew. We got there at ten that evening and got to Jamie's house and had an amazing time at a crawfish boil. Their family is from Louisiana, and boy can they cook the crawfish!! It was amazing...I decided at that time that my diet might as well be chunked out the window for the weekend.

We then left late that night..or really, really early Saturday morning, however you want to look at it to go to our friend's house in Houston. They have three kids of their own so, it was a madhouse. We woke up Saturday morning and visited Damon's brother in Woodville and then came back to Kim & Clint's.  We took the kids out to the San Jacinto river and they swam and had a blast out in the river. It was nice and calm, a sandy beach, and a great relaxing time.  That evening we cooked spaghetti & picked up some garlic bread at a Little Cesar's and vegged at the house. It was absolutely what I needed after the hectic pace at work here lately. Miss E & Mr L had a blast playing with their kids, and Miss E charmed everyone with her toddler chatter and big personality.  Mr. L was as sweet as ever and had a blast in the river when the guys were tossing him into the water and wrestling with the other boys.

Then Sunday while the husbands were out fishing, Kim & I took the kids to the pool in their subdivision, which was really, really nice. Then after the husbands had a nap after fishing all night and early morning, we all went back down to the river to veg out and hang out some more.

Damon and I packed up the kids and left this morning. I wanted to get an early start so we could get home early in the afternoon. Well...things didn't happen that way. It was raining on us and heavens to Betsy...those people in Houston CAN'T drive in the rain. (Sorry to those that are transplanted and actually can drive, but from what I saw today, I would have a nervous breakdown living and working and fighting that traffic. Makes me shiver even thinking about it)  We missed our exit because of the rain, so we tried to make our way around thanks to my IPhone and google maps. However, the highway we took was snarled up because of an ice cream truck wreck.(Insert joke here)  Then that unwound and I told the husband the exit we were supposed to take was backed up because of a wreck. So we decided on another way around. After exiting on the highway and driving through about 15 stoplights on this one road, you think I"m exaggerating, but sadly, I'm not, we get to the road we need to be on. And guess what....YUP...ANOTHER accident. Now I'm not saying these accidents happened because people in Houston drive crazy, no, it was the other drivers trying to get around the accident or slamming on their brakes for no apparent reason that have the issues.  My husband used to go to school in Houston, and after seeing him today...we couldn't live there now.  He would have a coronary dealing with the traffic.

Damon's off tomorrow as well so after spending the day unpacking and doing laundry tomorrow, we are taking the kids to a water park in a nearby town and then out to pizza for dinner. I think we are going to take our nephew which should be fun. Maybe I'll get some pictures this time!!

Wordless Wednesday - summer

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Mom Sexy Prom 2010

I've mentioned a few times that I've been following Mary on her blog The Mommyologist and her crusade to bring "Mom Sexy" back. I find her blogs uplifting, inspiring, and making me think about myself as a mom in a whole new way. One challenge that she issued to us mom's out there is to have a Mom Sexy Prom 2010 where we pull dresses out of closet that we either never have an occasion or sometimes the "guts" to wear. Well after thinking and standing in my closet for a half hour yesterday trying to decide what to wear to the prom, I pulled out a dress I love.

I have to say I LOVE this black wrap dress. It makes me feels so sexy and feminine every time I put it on. I can dress it up like today, or dress it down with a jean jacket and flip flops. And no matter what, I feel MOM sexy when I wear it.

Father's Day

Here's to all the Father's out there. And to my special, handsome hubby, happy Father's Day!! I love him & he's the greatest dad to our two little munchkins.




Getting ready to go fishing with Dad




First ride without training wheels

I love you Babe! Thank you for being you!


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Late wordless Wednesday - on Thursday

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Mom's sick day

I would like to know when Mom's get a sick day?!? As usual I've tried to do to much & worn myself down. My allergies hit me & infection set in.

Luckily for me, I have backup, & her name is momma, aka Grandma. My hubby had to work late earning extra money so we can have a good time on our cruise with extra cash. I called on grandma to help me with the kids. She picked them up, got them dinner, & let me sleep.

I have no clue how people that live away from families or helpful friends have any sanity. I rely on my family so much to help me with the kids.

Anyone know where Mom's can apply for sick days? Where if you're sick you are sent a highly qualified replacement to care for your Kids & do the housework as well. Maybe a new business venture???


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It's Friday!!

I love my job...I love my job...this week is one of those weeks I have to keep repeating that to myself. I love the people that I work with, but computers tend to be like women with PMS! They have a mind of their own & their b*tchy.

Luckily this week I had some great downtime to help me decompress. I went with my babysitter, her daughters, & their kids to the waterpark. It was so much fun!! We went out to eat afterward which was crazy, with 6 adults & 6 kids.

Then last night I met some friends at a local restuarant for some drinks & dinner. I had a blast! We were loud & fun, and was just what I needed after the week I've had.

But now it's Friday & we don't have anything planned this weekend, this is the first weekend in awhile we don't have anything planned & also the last weekend we don't have anything planned. I plan on doing not a lot...


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I have hit the big 3-0!

Well, I had a crazy busy weekend. Friday night I was Team Captain and Emcee of the Relay for Life event here in our town. Then on Saturday, my cousin was married and had an absolutely beautiful wedding, and reception.  Congrats to Breanne & Robert!!

Then on Sunday, I turned the big 3-O!! We went to church and then came home. My husband got my family and in-laws together for a birthday lunch. We had ham, green beans,  fruit salad, shupeg corn, homemade bread, and strawberry cake with whipped topping. It was absolutely delicious. Then after a luxurious nap, Damon and I went out to dinner and a movie for my birthday/our anniversary. 

Our anniversary dinner was at Cici's. LOL! It was sooo romantic! But we got over there about an hour before the movie was supposed to start. I didn't want to chance getting stuck in a resturant and having to rush through dinner.  We went & saw Prince of Persia. I thought it was going to be corny, but it was actually pretty good.  Plus staring at Jake Gyllenhal for two hours with that ripped body of his, wasn't my idea of just the most awful time. :)

So now I'm 30 and today we've been married for 7 years today. I have to say either I'm in shock and I don't really know I'm 30, or I'm cool with being 30.  I have a wonderful, sexy husband and two kids that drive me crazy but I adore them more than words can say. I do enjoy my job, and I have to say I'm the healthiest I've been since probably high school.  My life is going pretty well, so I really have nothing to stress over...

Gotta go..it's about my bed time!! Plus I have to put my daughter to bed for the umpteenth time!!

Wordless Wednesday

Mudtime





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Memorial day

Our memorial day weekend started out with a bang, literally. I ran in a 5k in a nearby town. I ran it in 31:50 minutes. It was a lot of fun!!

Then when the hubby got home we took the kids to the lake. We took the boat out & jumped off the boat into the water. Miss E was hesitant at first but she soon was coming into the water & having a blast. Mr L had so much fun as well.

Then we came home, cleaned up & went to go visit some friends. Had some dinner & now the kids are in bed & I'm having trouble keeping my eyes open.

Tomorrow my wonderful husband is fishing in a tournament. If they place they win $$. My hubby mentioned the last time they placed they prayed before the tournament so they needed to do it again this time. :) I will be too. That money would come in handy.

I plan on tomorrow relaxing while my hubby is fishing. Happy memorial day!! Pray for our soldiers & our veterans.

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My time

Well I now have time to update my blog. It's a crazy time of year!!

Miss E is my little drama queen & is talking up a storm. Mr L is growing up so fast. Here's a pic of my little man







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Mothers day

My mothers day was excellent. We went to church & then had lunch with my mother & grandmother. Our wonderful babysitter joined us to. We gorged ourselves on great food. Then after everyone left my husband let me take a nap.

I haven't wrote in awhile because our life has been crazy, with t-ball, school wrapping up, & Mr. L's pre-k graduation. Hope to write some more once things calm down.





Me & miss e cuddling on mothers day.

Fun Friday

Went to work, came home & mom in law bought us dinner so I didn't have to cook. Yeah!! We then had t-ball. It was a great game & I think all the kids had a blast.

We're now at home & the kid are watching a movie in their room. I'm watching tv & folding laundry while hubby is at a friend's house. An exciting Friday night!! I'm fixing to make it even better & give myself a pedicure. Let the fun begin!!!

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Wordless Wednesday

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Mommyologist...Mom Sexy

I've been following the Mommyologist on Twitter and reading her blog here lately. She is very funny and puts things in perspective being a mom.  She started a movement called "Mom Sexy" that challenges moms to "Bring The Sexy Back." It's really like a breath of fresh air, and I encourage everyone to read her blog yesterday and watch her vlog when she breaks up with her "boyfriend Taylor, the scale.  I laughed out loud.  I have a link to her blog to the right on my page.

She issued a challenge to Moms asking us:  What in your life is holding you back from feeling Mom Sexy? What is that one thing that you need to let go of in order to let your inner sexy emerge?

I have to say I suffer from former fat person's body image. Before anyone starts griping at me about it, I have to say I'm in recovery.  I was 217 pounds when I gave birth to my son 5 years ago. When I married I was 175 pounds.  For a person who is 5'4", that's not so good.  I was at that weight for about seven years. I now fluctuate between 145 to 148 and would like to get down to 140 to be at a healthy weight.  But sometimes when I look in the mirror I still see me as the bigger girl. So, inspired by the Mommyologist, I'm bringing the mom sexy back. I'm not going to step on the scale for a month. May 1st to June 1st. I'm going to eat better but not deprive myself, and work out because it keeps me healthy and helps me keep my sanity.  I tried Zumba class for the first time tonight and LOVED every minute of it. My legs are so fatigued right now but I walked out of the gym smiling and laughing. I didn't care I was right by the door shaking my butt for the whole gym to see, I was having fun and I didn't care who was watching. Now that's sexy!!

My Bucket List

My Bucket List

I saw this on several other blogs & thought with my 30th birthday only 43 days away that this would be a great way to start re-evaulating some things. So here is my bucket list.


1) Visit Ireland & Australia

2) Take family to Washington DC & Alaska

3) Take family to Yellowstone

4) Heck, visit all 50 states

5) Renew our vows at 10 years in Hawaii, on the beach, just us two

6) Graduate with my Master’s Degree in four years

7) Run a half marathon in Austin, Ft Worth, and New Orleans

8) Go on a walk to Emmaus

9) Once a year go out with high school girlfriends for a weekend

10) See Point of Grace in concert

11) See my two children graduate high school

12) See my two children graduate college (if they go)

13) Hold my first grandchild & spoil them!

14) Be featured in Shape as “You in Shape”

15) Act in a play at the Civic Theater again

16) Always have enough work to never have to worry about my family.

17) Hold & cuddle with my children for the rest of their lives.

18) Stay in love with my husband until I breathe my last breath

19) Let my family know each day how much I love them

20) dance like no one is watching & enjoy myself the whole time

21) forgive myself more & laugh everyday to keep myself young

What a gorgeous evening

Tonight was Mr L's t-ball practice. Ms E and I took him to practice. While he was busy Ms E and I played and had a blast enjoying the wonderful warm weather. After the rainy, cool weather we've been having lately the sun was a welcome sight.

After practice we all went to the park and played. Mr L & Ms E ran & climbed & generally had a blast. The kids didn't want to leave but we went to sonic & got burgers before coming home to watch Kung Fu Panda. It was an altogether fun night.


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Marvelous Monday

Well Marvelous Monday is drawing to a close.  It was a very busy day at work, then the kids hung out with Grandma while I went and worked out.  A co-worker complimented me today and asked me how I did it? She confessed that when she got off work she ran straight home to take care of her kids. She knew she needed to take some time to herself, but admitted she felt guilty being away from her kids longer than she had to.

I admit it's hard sometimes to go and do something when my kids are home, especially when I work, but honestly, it's better for me if I get some time to myself.  Although I have to say tonight the guilt hit after I got home from the gym, made dinner, ran into town to go to the funeral home,  and then came home to do laundry and I finally sat down for homework. Landon wanted me to color with him. I told him I would in just a minute and continued working. He said later, "That's okay momma, I got it." Ugggg 

I got up and helped him color his coloring page. Homework can wait till they are in bed, which right now they are in bed but not close to asleep. :)  But even though I still have guilt, tucking in my favorite girl and have her tell me that she loved me is the best feeling in the world. It makes me think that even though I feel like a big bum sometimes, I have to be doing something right.

Time Passes

It's been a busy week. Work was absolutely crazy but beyond that I also registered my little boy for kindergarten this week. Where does the time go?? I can't believe my sweet boy will be in kindergarten next year.  They took graduation pictures at his school on Wednesday and they were so precious. But just seeing my kiddo in a cap and gown made me think how time flies. 

Makes me want to somehow slow down time just for a little while and make these moments with my kiddos last just a longer..

Kiddos Wednesday

A rare moment they are quiet together!

Marvelous Monday

It was a crazy busy monday. We had someone come in for training & then I had a meeting for relay for life. I came home & played with Miss E in the backyard. It was a sweet, sweet moment playing with my baby girl. It was a nice way to end the day.

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A little life rant..

Let me apologize now for the rant, I just felt like I needed to get a few things out in the open, but really this topic is splashed all over the media.

I'm addressing the pressure that women and especially mothers (because that's where I am right now) place on themselves.  We put pressure on ourselves to look good, to be good wives, good mothers, good daughters, good employees, etc...etc..etc...


I think it is unreasonable to put all this pressure on ourselves, but how do you keep from doing it? You put pressure on yourself to look good, not only to feel better about yourself, but to also attract your husband so your marriage is growing and not in that limbo where you are more partners than husband and wife.  We are expected to be a mother, clean up messes, toys, bodily fluids, and then a little while later flip a switch and be a sexy, alluring wife.    Does anyone know where that switch is, because I think mine moves and I can't find it at times. 

We also are expected to have kids that behave well in public, I found that was a luxury that no one has all the time when my daughter continued to throw several fits in a Walmart & then a subway friday evening, where I finally had to leave my son with my mom and take my daughter out to our vehicle because I had never been so embarassed. And yes I know that I shouldn't care about what people think, but really who doesn't feel embarassed when your child is throwing a wall-eyed screaming fit, and you can tell them to quit,you can threaten, but no matter what you feel like all eyes are on you and judging you as a bad parent.

And we are to have home that are clean and welcoming. I must admit I am more organized than some, not as organized as some people. I feel that if I were more organized it might help me more with school, work, and my home, and I am working on it. But there are days that when you come home from work, you've cooked dinner, cleaned up the kitchen, got the kids in bath and bed, and just want to rest, but the house looks like a major toy/kid bomb exploded in it, and then you have to pick up the house because I at least like to be able to walk through my house, and not have to jump over piles of stuff or pick a trail through the stuff.  I have to admit some days the piles stay there till the next day..other times I do pick them up.

Let me say that I LOVE MY HUSBAND, so I'm not blaming him for anything (well maybe just a tad, just kidding). He's a wonderful father, a great guy that reminds me daily not to sweat the small stuff, and fixes things around the house, makes me feel beautiful and special at times when I'm in sweats & a t-shirt, and I have to say he is more crafty than I am, so any crafts that come up for my son's school, my husband usually does it.  Plus, I get to go out and blow off some steam with my girls when plans come up, and he takes the kids to do something fun, no questions asked.  

I have a crazy, hectic life, and most the time I embrace it. But there are times when it gets exhausting and I have to adjust my attitude so it doesn't get me down. So there's a little rant, I've got it off my chest and into cyberspace for others to see. 

Easter Weekend

Although I tried to get pictures of my two adorable kids in their Easter best. But Miss E wanted the camera and all I got was the top of her head while she threw a fit.

We got up Easter morning and went to church. It was a wonderful service. We then came home and gathered with family and spent time together. We had a potluck Easter meal where everyone brought a little something and we had a TON of food.  Then we had an Easter egg hunt, and capped off the day with a nap. It was a great way wind down the weekend.

Remember to hug your family & friends and let them know how much they mean to you. God doesn't promise us any tomorrows so make the most of the days we have. 

Wordless Wednesday - Easter egg hunt

Aww they grow up so fast

My son, who is under 6 years old, told me today that he's ready for a girlfriend. I asked him if he liked any girls in particular? He replied "the pretty girls."

Oh my!!


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Church Easter Egg Hunt

Our church had our annual Easter Egg Hunt today.  Mr. L  was with Dad in Houston having a blast with our friends kids as well as kids that belonged to some of their friends.  So Miss E was having fun putting eggs in her basket.  She was more interested in chocolate than the eggs.  That's my girl!!

Friday changes...

Well durn it..we had it all planned out to visit some friends near the coast.

Well today Miss E came down with the stomach bug. So I get to stay home with her while Damon & Mr L go have fun.

Hope she gets over this quickly. I'm tired of sickness in our family.

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Wordless Wednesday Tribute

Good Bye Sweet, Beautiful Niki

Till We Meet Again...

I regret it took losing you to realize how precious and short life is..

Dance like no one is watching

Love like there is no tomorrow

Tell those that you love how much you care about them