Run Around

Today was a busy day, a day of festivities, a day of supreme sugar intake (Amanda J., I think I might have you beat. I know Avery does.)

Do you have one of those friends that you adore that never dated much and you just couldn't figure out why and you couldn't wait to see who they ended up with? That is Dom. Dom is a gem of a guy. A true gentleman, a wise man, a man that we were forever curious who God would bring to him.

She's here and she's perfect!
Dom and Megan are getting married this December. Shawn will be a groomsman...hee, hee. They live in Houston so I hadn't met Megan yet. I'd heard bunches about her but no face to face. Dom's family held an engagement reception for them today and that was our first stop. I snapped a pic of the bride and groom and groomsman-to-be. Look at Dom, he's glowing!






A quick stop at home for naps and then we were off to Lewisville for our niece, Caitlyn's, first birthday. She is my brother's daughter, three weeks younger than Asher and a total hoot. That girl was THE perfect birthday girl/hostess. She made her way from room to room with a big toothy grin for all the party guests. My brother and sis-in-law loved it b/c there were folks in every room to corral that busy gal. She's probably 17 pounds and I don't know 2 feet tall. She's a tiny toddler toddling. It's the cutest thing. Avery adores her and she and Asher already seem to be buds. Oh and she had the perfect party dress. She looked like a bunch of balloons, so festive!

Cake smashed, gifts opened and it was time to hit stop number 3. Dave the drummer is in town b/c the guys are playing at First Dallas tomorrow morning. We met him and the greatest sound guy on the planet, Bobby and his wife Brooke at BJ's. YUM! Shawn and I held off eating at the party so we could stuff ourselves right.

Isn't it great when you make a wise choice? I tell you what, I could've past over dinner and moved straight to the pizookie. I don't know if I spelled it right, I don't even care. It's so good, it covers a multitude of wrong spelling. A warm chocolate chip cookie (big, I say) in its very own tin with a big ol scoop of ice cream. Shawn, Avery and I were like pigs at a trough. Shawn would scoop some cookie and Avery would swoop in with her spoonful of ice cream and steal his cookie. Yum, double yum.

AND, Bobby and Brooke picked up the tab! Hallelujah!

And now I'm fat and happy on the couch about to dive into an episode of House (it's actually work I have to do! Love those random research projects.)

Oh, and tonite while I was getting Avery ready for bed, she informed me that she has a sister named Emma who lives in China...??? Prophetic, maybe? Who knows.

Also, I'm glad to see some new "faces" visiting here. Welcome and thanks for the sweet comments!

sim

From pleasant to the pits in no time

Have you ever had a day where you are teetering on the edge? Of course you have...right? Right?

A seemingly harmless beginning to today has continued to unravel with each passing hour. The saddest thing about it? I'm the one pulling the thread.

I cannot shake the funk that has me in a stronghold.

The words, "Get out of that pit!" are on replay in my head. Maybe because I just saw Beth Moore's book on the shelf at well, a bookstore.

This morning, we were invited to "bring a friend" day at The Little Gym. Okay, sounds good. We won't be signing up but a free hour of play should be fun for Avery.

Ah, see the fray...

Our "friend" that invited us is nowhere to be seen. Avery is hesitant to join in the group activities without a parent in tow. Partly because her "friend" is not there, partly because that's not how she rolls. Daddy finally persuades her to go in there by telling her he'll sit on the side up against the wall. Deep breath and she agrees.

And does well. She and Shawn keep exchanging these looks that same something like, I don't really get this. Avery, because she's never been to one of these. Shawn, because he's one of the few objects emitting gross amounts of testosterone.

So, I want in there. Asher won't sit still, getting into everybody's business. I wave Shawn down and we do the swap.

And I yank on that thread.

Avery doesn't see me come in, doesn't notice me sitting there for a few minutes. I'm beaming with pride at my redhead beauty doing her warm-ups.

She sees me.

And her face crumples.

And I feel like absolute crap.

She breaks from the group, ignoring the exuberant calls from the bubbly teachers and plants herself firmly in my lap and lets the tears flow. I try to talk her into going back out there, having fun, you know. But she won't do it. I figure, oh well, we're not signing her up, this isn't a test run and I need to go to the store, so let's go.

We walk back out to the lobby and she makes a beeline to the blocks that Asher is playing with and Shawn makes a beeline to me. Frustrating conversation occurs between said hubby and myself. He doesn't see my side of it (let's just leave) and I don't want to see his side of it (you just shut down and now she wants to shut down. That's stupid).

More threads come tumbling out. I'm fighting back tears b/c I've screwed up again. I don't know how to persuade a 3 1/2 year old to "have fun".

But daddy does. He gets her back in there after awhile and attaches her to a friendly teacher, sits back with an encouraging smile and watches Avery have a blast.

I lose it. All I can think is get me out of here now! Mom = tears, fear and escape. Dad = encouragement, patience and stick-to-it-iveness.

I cry the whole way home. Someone please tell me hormones are at least a little at work here. Please.

I've now successfully unraveled the better part of my day. I'm stuck in my self-pity pool and can't seem to muster the energy to get out. And I sure don't help things by denying myself proper sustenance to raise that blood sugar. A few slices of turkey does not a healthy meal make.

I did hear some great words on the radio from Alister Begg. He was speaking on reaping/sowing. Right before getting out of the car I heard him say, "when you remain in your self-pity, you are sowing self. When you don't read what you should, you are sowing self. When you read what you shouldn't, you are sowing self."

That leads me to this:

I have a chance to run to the store by myself to grab milk. Two separate gallons, no less. Skim for the majority of the family, whole for little man. While in there I want to grab a diet soda and read some entertainment mags. Gorge myself, if you will.

And as I'm joyously looking over the covers and deciding what I want to get my grubby paws on, what nugget of Truth rams itself into the forefront of my mind?

Grrrr. I know I shouldn't waste time reading and investing energy in the lives of celebrities. For me, it's an escape and a worthless one at that. On my walk to the back of the store for the milk, I wrestled with if I would obey and move on or ignore that little itch of Holy Spirit.

Hey, I had already shredded my day, so...

Why blatantly disobey? Me, who asks God to allow me to hear His voice. He complied, I left without so much as a clue as to how Paris's life has changed post-jail time and here I am, sharing this wordy account with you.

I feel better already.

By the way, the "friend" showed up an hour late...to his own class! Seems there was some miscommunication between mom and dad. I just can't imagine...

A thank you.

I really have nothing to say but sat down anyway. Asher is in bed, Avery and Shawn in the tv room, playing the piano. I am perched on the stool in the kitchen, typing away, hoping inspiration will show it's flighty face.

So far, no luck.

Today was pleasant on a few levels. I like pleasant days.

From time to time, the kids and I meet a few other moms at Willow Bend for playtime/lunch and any visiting we can squeeze in. These are women I don't see regularly but respect and enjoy and look forward to seeing. Today, two moms I have only known through blogging came and what a treat to meet them. And the kiddos? TOO CUTE!

I love knowing about people. I'm working on the whole "love knowing" people deal and "love people" command and well... Not that I don't want to know people, I'm just not so good at it. I spend way too much time wondering what MY dork factor is, not engaging others in conversation, yada-yada. I kinda freeze when it comes to small talk.

But, finding out about peoples' lives I love. I want to find a connection, a common ground, interesting tidbits. And, it really is a small world! The six degrees of separations is alive and well. So, all that to say, I found some common ground with my new "face to face" friends.

And, let me say, its crazy how much we learn about each other through blogs before even laying eyes on one another.

So, girls, thanks for a good day. I look forward to more visiting...I'm thinking at a yummy restaurant sans kids one evening so we can really talk, uninterrupted.

What'd ya say?

True Obedience

The LORD God has told us what is right and what He demands:
"See that justice is done, let mercy be your first concern, and humbly obey your God."
Micah 6:8

Pathetic, but hey!

So I didn't take too many pics this week. I kinda stink at that. Here is my humble offering:

Hang on, bub! We're so close now. Avery looks happy here...she took a break from seeing if she could scream louder than Asher to offer a semi-smile.

In the hotel room. Do they make rooms smaller now? I swear the walls were closing in on us. Notice Avery watching the tv. We don't have cable or satellite or anything much besides channel 8 and 13. She got her fill of Disney and Nick.
Avery and Kennedy. Kennedy is the daughter of Drummer Kevin. She is a year younger than Avery and every bit just as girly. See her camo purse and sippy held just like a Starbucks?
Sweet Cindy Foote and daughter Liberty Song. She is a very busy 19 month old...Libby, not Cindy. Poor Cindy just wanted some sleep. Amen, sister.
And...the final touch. Last night as we drove home, God told us He loved us THIS MUCH. I don't think I have ever seen a perfect rainbow from end to end. Avery hadn't and we enjoyed this so much. It was vibrant and perfect. I did my best with the camera while driving too fast on a windy road. Hey! I just wanted to get home!

Ahhhh...

We're home!

After some serious meltdowns Thursday, we threw in the towel.

It's Thursday around 6 PM. We get in the car to head to the school to watch the guys play. Avery is mad (and I mean MAD) that she doesn't have like 30 dolls to play with and screams the whole way from the hotel to the school. She is beyond exhausted and just wants to be done. Asher is sitting in his seat with a glazed look like he's about to nod off and I'm thinking, why are we still here?

Shawn calls as we are in the parking lot at the school. I'm planning on sitting there until Avery quits. He comes out and I tell him we're going home. He balks, which is understandable since we won't get on the road until close to 7PM and it took us 6 hours to get there. Still, We are soooo done. Shawn agrees and helps us load everything up. After getting gas, we hit the road at 6:47 PM.

The kids are in diaper/pullup and pjs so we shouldn't have to stop for potty breaks. My hope is that they'll sleep most of the way.

And...it seemed to be a great decision. We made great time, getting home at 11:30 PM (one drive thru stop to get a diet coke and fries)! Once we got home, it got hairy for a little while. They both woke up and were both groggy and Asher had a messy diaper, Avery was crying and being dramatic in her half-conscious state and that threw me in to psycho mom mode.

Ten minutes after midnight and we were all in bed, close to asleep. I was dead to the world for a glorious 5 1/2 hours before Asher woke up. I fed him and put him back down and went to check on Avery.

Guess who was awake. Are you kidding me? The girl is sneaking caffeine somehow.

I let her finish out the morning in bed with me and we both managed to drift off until a little after 8.

They are napping now, catching up on much needed sleep.

I'm so glad we came home last night. Shawn is not too far from arriving too! Yeehaw. I'll get to hit the grocery store by myself.

Gonna get some pics up here in a second.

Howdy from San Angelo...again

Thanks for the encouragement and prayers. Last night went well. Asher was so tired he couldn't put up a fight. Avery took a bit longer to settle down but at least there were no tears...or screaming...or other guests knocking on our door asking if we are okay.

That was humbling. And a slight bit embarrasing. The worst part? The guy wasn't even staying next door but DOWN THE HALL!

At least he was nice about it.

Okay, so I've heard the guys play now. I cannot tell you how thrilled I am that Shawn has been blessed to lead with them. Billy is an incredible songwriter and Cindy? That girl can sing and then some. The only downside? I just can't worship when a girl is singing...I spend too much time in awe of the beautiful voice. I do try to at least read the words. And God still gets the glory for giving her such an amazing voice...even though He passed me up...

No bitterness here...much.

Speaking of words, there is a new song that they have been doing and man, it's incredible! I can't keep the name straight. Something like All Praise to God. Ah, it's the next Not a god.

And little Libby, their daughter from China...too cute. It's a busy time in the green room with kiddos everywhere but we're having fun. Some great folks we have here!

Still haven't heard Neal. He gave me a rundown of what he would cover and it sounded like greatness, but bedtime prevailed. Here's to hanging on to hope.

Signing off now. I'm in the lobby again with Avery while Asher is napping and Shawn is doing some work.

I've taken a few pics of the kids. I'll get 'em up when I'm on my computer.

How's the weather in the Big D? We've had crazy rain which has made it nice and cool. I can dig that.

later ya'll.

We made it.

So while other blog friends have been dashing off to exotic locale, and others are headed up north, I am spending the week in the lovely San Angelo. With the kids. Because of the hubby.

The guys are leading worship at a Student Life Camp at Angelo State. Since this is the "closest" deal they have this summer...here we are.

Six hours in the car by myself. With the kids.

Not fun.

I so feel for single parents.

Stopping for a potty break takes serious forethought.

But, we made it. And the kids actually slept last night (for the most part). I snuck down to the lobby around 6:20 AM for a quiet breakfast before getting them up. I spotted the computer and figured I'd hop on here for a few.

Today we begin our fun. We'll go to the camp to hear the guys play. I haven't seen Shawn play with Billy Foote yet, but he's lovin' it. We'll swim. Someone will hopefully get in a nap at some point. And we'll enjoy being together as a family.

Also, Neal McClendon is speaking and I have as of yet, never heard him...though I've heard ALL about him. I might actually still not hear him but I'll give it a shot.

Please pray for me. I want to have fun and that requires relaxing and bringin' in the ol' flexibility that I so don't possess. I swear I will give God ALL the glory and take none for myself if I not just survive the week but really enjoy it.

Have a great day, ya'll! I'm off to see what the troops are up to.

Happy Father's Day!

My dad. The man who instilled in me a love of reading, deep conversation and softball. His daily reading of the Word was a true testament to his faith and an important example for mine. His love for my mother showed me commitment, no matter what. He now loves my kids like he loved us. I am blessed to have a dad like him.

And this man stepped in and has loved me more like Christ than I have ever deserved. Through him I have learned to live out commitment. I am forever amazed at his integrity, wisdom and love of people. He is a tremendous father: consistent, loving, fun and deeply committed to family. God knocked it out of the park with this one.

And of course,

God the Father.

Abba.

Daddy.

His mercies are new every morning.

He is the Giver of all good things.

The Father of Light.

A Great Comfort.

The Example.

Decisions are the worst!

Good morning! I tell ya, it's too early.

So this morning, I scheduled a neighborhood event. In retrospect I'm not sure what I was thinking. Cinemark does a series of kid movies for $1 each Wednesday at 9:30 AM. Sounds fun, right? Sure, if someone can watch your 1 year old who should be napping at precisely that same time. Did I find a babysitter (meaning my mom)? Noooo, not so much. Am I stressed about how this is going to go? Yesss. Did Avery wake up at 5 this morning? Mmm-hmmm. Did I go to bed too late last night? I think you know the answer to that.

Not looking like a promising start.

I will throw myself at the mercy of my mother and ask for a last minute pardon (if she doesn't have any meetings) and beg that she hang with little man while Avery and I spend some time with Clifford that big ol' red dog.

I dunno what's going to happen if ALL of us hit the theater. My mind has been trying to map out different scenarios, preparing itself for all things stressful. There are only so many crackers that a baby will let you shove in his mouth in attempts to keep him busy. At least this is a kid movie and stress is a given. I bet we won't even be able to hear what sweet Emily Elizabeth has to say.

Maybe we should just save our dollars and watch PBS this morning.

Darn you, girl, for thinking you could be ubermom. I could so go for a nanny right now...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ASHER!

This little man loves life...and cake!

We love you, Asher!

Tidbit Wednesday

Once again, naptime has been given over to blogtime. You'd think with all the witty writings I've read, I would be spurred on to spew my own.

Guess it's just not that time of the month...biorhythms and stuff.

I do have to say that I think blogs are so nifty. A labyrinth of fun, so many girls separated by a mere few degrees.

another tidbit - my little man is turning one on Sunday! We'll be having family celebrations on Saturday 'cuz Shawn becomes a travellin' man on Sunday.

On that note, we'd appreciate prayers. Lots of travelling, a new band, no practice...good thing guys roll with the punches a bit better than we do.

I'm reading Bringing up Boys by Dobson. Shawn's mom bought it for us back in 2002 (good thing she inscribes her books to us)...honestly, we laughed and thought it a bit odd. Kiddos weren't on the horizon...or so we thought. I actually picked it up one time to see if I could make heads or tails of my husband.

I didn't finish the book.

This morning, while sitting in the study, half-groggy at 6:20 AM (but hey, I got close to 9 hours of sleep last night!!), I decided I would give it another shot b/c, after all, I am bringin' up a boy now.

Did you guys know that boys and girls are different? :-) Wonders never cease.

take care, my blog fam...

I just have to say that it is impossible to be a nice mom and suffer Texas summers.

Pray for me and I'll pray for you - it's begun.

Family Ties

Last year at the World Aquarium. Avery - 2 1/2, Olivia 2

Yesterday at the Dallas Aquarium. Avery 3 1/2, Olivia 3
These two are the best of friends and too funny. They both rode with me to the Aquarium and I had a hard time keeping a straight face listening to their conversations. Sleepovers are right around the corner. I am so thrilled that they have each other and that the boys have each other.

Even though we don't live within minutes of each other, we're near enough for the kids to be very involved in each others' lives. And I get to see my sweet sis in law (more like a sis).

We love you guys!!

uh, uh, no you diint!

My day was going along just fine. Had my coffee and Kashi cereal for breakfast. Got myself, the kids and my parents to church in time for donuts, coffee (none for me, thanks), potty breaks and service with no meltdowns. Heard the greatness of Voddie Baucham, guest speaker. Got out of the building at a reasonable time and headed to lunch.

Here begins the foundation of my sad tale.

Mom wanted Luby's - line too long. Across the parking lot - Freebirds! It's been awhile since I've had me some yummy Freebirds. In college, my roommate was a manager at the one in Northgate, so needless to say...

Line was just as long at Freebirds, but, well, it's so worth it. As I wrestled with my order (side info: Since Easter, I've been very careful with my food choices - losin' weight and all - about 15 lbs worth!), I was torn between getting nothing but lettuce and some chicken and enjoying a decent burrito. I opted for the decent burrito. Initially I was going to get a 1/2 burrito but Shawn decided that I should spend 75 cents more and get a Freebird. He would finish the rest...or so he thought.

Aside from a few bites I shared with Asher, I downed that thing! Yum from beginning to end! And I didn't feel too guilty because I passed on sour cream and all, until...

I got home and looked up the nutritional info. I am reeling, profoundly shocked. Did you know that the bbq sauce on a Freebird is almost 200 calories and 11 grams of fat?? What the..???

So, as penance for eating a thousand-plus calorie burrito for lunch, I must write about it. Call it a public service announcement or something.

It just ain't right, but it's oh so good.

highlights

Nothing like my voice magnified and echoized.

Good stuff.

highlights from our week

A little swimmin' with our friends!

Asher's first time in a pool - it's ALL good.
I'm cold but momma is warmin' me up.
Bring on the sparkles, I'm a happy gal.
No pictures please. I'm not dressed yet.

the sweetest things...

It's a good stage right now. I love it. Avery is a funny, smart, sweet big sister. Asher is getting around on his own, fascinated by his big sister and curious about everything. They both have the greatest smiles. We love these kids!

summer reading

A friend asked me to list my top faves for summer reading. I'll share a few I think are worthy of checking out - you do the same!

1. Three Wishes by Liane Moriarty - I found this book delightful. A story of triplet sisters during their 33rd year. This is the first book by this author and I think she knocked it out of the park. If I were to ever write a book, this is what I would hope for.
*L, S, comical V*

2. Aunt Dimity Series by Nancy Atherton - A true "cozy" novel. Nothing profound, nothing "R" rated - just a good snack book. Lori, a thirtysomething mom to twin boys and wife of lawyer Bill, gets into trouble and finds adventure in small town Finch. Aunty Dimity is a...well, you'll have to read to find out. I have read most of them and really enjoy their simple, sweet small English town feel.

3. The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas - Not for the faint of heart. AMAZING! One of my all time favs. It is LONG but holds you until the very end. Told from the point of view of a Roman soldier at the crucifixition, we journey with him as he seeks to learn about this man called Jesus.

4. Any chick lit book from Kristin Billerbeck. She sets her stories in the Sillicon Valley. Single gals navigating through life, love and the occasional spa trip. Fun! Fun! Fun!

5. Lord Peter Wimsey series by Dorothy Sayers - my hands down favorite books. I love Lord Peter, I love the time period (20s and 30s) and I love the location (England). She is a smart writer, dripping with dry wit - that wonderful british humor. She was a contemporary of CS Lewis and one of the first women to attend Oxford. She has written both fiction and nonfiction. I have read all of the Wimsey series and always hope to stumble upon an undiscovered one.

I'll start there. Those at least have stuck with me. So often I read a book and never think about it again. And I'll have to be honest - I never make it through self-help books nor do I choose non-fiction too often.

Alright folks, start posting your faves!

*UPDATE* - Just finished The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd. Very very good! I had a good cry.

birhtday schmirthday

i'm still in that fuzzy wake up haze. my eyes are bleary, the zit on my chin hurts and i probably should get back in bed.

but here i am.

i've got a bit of a birthday hangover. i wish it were from cake, ice cream and receiving lots of presents. no, its from unmet expectations.

i hate expectations. they always seem to let you down.

not that my birthday was a bad day - it just wasn't the stuff that dreams are made of. a sick child, no luck shopping, needing to say, "i need some me time" but feeling guilty for even thinking it. losing my temper. of course, ALL of this spurred on by raging hormones from my good ol' aunt flo (i feel positively adolescent using that term!).

last night, as my day was coming to a close, i told shawn that i wanted to celebrate on another day, a happy simri day. no water weight, no expectations, no problem finding something to buy. he sweetly agreed that was a good idea.

i've got 364 days to make it happen.

there were some silver linings:

- Cheesecake Factory for lunch
- trying on Lucky Brand jeans in a size I haven't worn in many moons. How great to walk in to a store, have the young sales guy look you up and down and declare, "you're long and lean, so we'll try these jeans." He also mentioned my "Cute figure" (hey bud, i'm old enough enough to be your...aunt!) and brought me lots of skimpy tops and jeans with the price tag tucked neatly out of sight. I applied good ol' biblical wisdom and "guarded my heart". no matter how good i felt, i just can't bring myself to pay over a hundred bucks for any one piece of clothing. I think Shawn actually would have let me get them. Or maybe I was a victim of reverse psychology. Either way, i left empty handed but feeling good.
-Chocolate chip cookies and ice cream. For me, cake just doesn't cut it the way warm chocolate chip cookies and milk do.
-Avery sang "Happy Birthday" to me. That might seem simple but the girl has an aversion to that song. She bursts into tears when it's sung to her on her birthday. She hides her face at other birthdays when the song is begun. But for me, she sang proudly, loudly and with gestures!
-Being remembered by friends and family! Thank you!

So, in hindsight, it was a good day.

too cold

The excitement wore off quite fast after i moved the pool onto the porch and refilled it with fresh cold water. Sorry, kid, you got mom's super-fair, quick-to-fry skin. I promise, it'll be hot enough soon enough and you'll be glad for the shade.

salad perfection

this is greatness...

Romaine lettuce

grilled chicken

mandarin oranges

feta cheese

pecans

balsamic vinagrette

mmmmmmmm! so tasty! didn't even wait for the kids to go down for a nap to tear into this. (i like to eat in peace)

Egads!

I didn’t shop for a swimsuit last year. It was a glorious year. One that will go down in the annals of “I’m not so bad”. It’ll also forever live in the “Denial” file. Just because one doesn’t try on swimsuits in bad lighting does that mean the fat isn’t there? I mean, “if a tree falls in the forest?”…and all that.

Never mind that I was carrying 35 baby pounds (baby included) and people have pity on a swollen beached whale in a cute maternity suit. I think you actually earn points for forsaking your pride to enjoy a dip in the pool.

Never mind that I would be wearing that maternity suit all summer (baby not included). Sympathetic glances turn into questioning stares and then downright disgust. Hey, it’s not my fault the doc didn’t tell me not to eat for two.

Fast forward to now. Now - when the baby is old enough to wear his own suit and play in the water. I am proud to say all of the baby weight is gone. But, before you hate me because I’m one of those women (ah, to be one of those women!), let’s just say the tenant may be gone, but he left behind a mess.

Do we really need to continue this conversation? I mean, do I have to subject myself to the mental and emotional turmoil that even talking about a swimsuit evokes? As a matter of fact, let’s just call it a day. I’m beat, worn out from the walk down memory lane. And really, who needs to cool off in the wicked Texas heat?

My three year old, that’s who.

Her ambitious summer plans include a trip to the beach. Not sure where the idea came from but daily I hear, “when we go to the beach…”. So, I guess we’re going to the beach. And I guess I’m finding a suit. A swimsuit. And I’ll join the ranks of women grumbling in their own private hell in their own private dressing room under the glare of cellu-light.

Now that’s a thought. You would think that if a store actually wants to sell its clothing, it would go out of its way to do the dressing rooms up right. No horrendous “accent” lighting – just a candle and a funhouse mirror. I bet the merchandise would be flying off the shelves.
Just make sure there’s a strict return policy. Or work out a deal with the sun. Tell him the moon would do just fine this year. Everything looks better in the moonlight.

mmmm...

Asher discovered the greatness of the straw sippy cup and apple juice. He drained that cup in no time. Have I mentioned the boy is passionate about all things food?

Seeing your kids day in and day out leads to not noticing how they are changing and then one day, you look at them and they look so different! That's how it's been with both of my kids. Avery is so tall! I look at her body and am amazed that all things baby are gone. She is witty and funny and a smartie pants and just a doll. Asher looks more and more like a big boy - I can't believe we are approaching 1! He's "talking" and moving and just being a cutie pie. He always has a smile for us and now does his best to look precious with a big ol smile and squinty eyes.

Funny little conversation between Avery and Shawn last night:

Avery: "Hey dad, bring that spanky hand over here!"

Shawn: "What?"

Avery: "That hand that spanks me - bring it over here and sit down with me."

2:33 PM

As I sit here sipping a strawberry banana smoothie, Rush Limbaugh is jawing on the radio, Avery is playing in her room and Asher is napping. The windows are open and I hear the sounds of construction all around. Two houses are being built to the left of us, one to the right and another behind us. Fortunately, none of them are immediately next to us. Still the noise is well, noisy.

Our internet has been out of service since midday Friday. I have not been on the computer since that point. Tough going. I see how attached I am to being plugged in to my world through a few strokes on my computer. We don't have cable so we get about 1 1/2 channels. That leads to not much tv watching. Being online keeps me connected. Being offline leaves me floundering. Not that i missed much.

The repairman rang the doorbell before 8 this morning. Glorious since we were quoted the standard "sometime between 8 and 12". Too bad for him that he was greeted by a pajamed, newly awake 30-something female. Turns out that when another AT&T work crew was trying to fix another problem, they put the lines back together wrong and we ended up with someone else's number ?? I guess it was an easy fix b/c we were back in the saddle in no time.

It's now 2:45 PM.

"f" or "p"?

I'm in the kitchen making dinner. Avery is watching Tom & Jerry. Asher is napping.

Avery: "Hey mom, I want Spiderman noodles with dinner!" Can't possibly peel her eyes away from the pseudo-violence playing out on the tv.

Me: "That's fine. We'll have it with the pork."

Avery, eyes still glued to the tv: "No, I want a spoon."

Me: "Huh? Oh, yeah, but we'll eat it with pork."

Avery: "MOM! I want to eat it with a spoon!"

Me, about to open my mouth with a "READ MY LIPS" but think better of it. Why bother? She'll eat the pork with a fork and the noodles with a spoon.

out of the mouth of babes

I headed to the shower after coming home from the GYM (remember that) this morning. Avery invited herself to join me. Upon taking my clothes off and entering the shower, she encouraged me with these few precious words:

"Mom, you have a lot of room back there."

Whaaat? "Are you talking about my bottom?"

"Yes."

Crap.

I should be paid to endure this verbal abuse. And why can't a girl get a shower alone?

what a sense of humor!

Life comes full circle in well, not much time.

A while back I wrote about transition in our lives. The whole out with the old, in with the new blah, blah.

Little did I know that old and new are cut from the same cloth.

Transition - The Jeff Berry band came to an end. Okay, no problem. I was excited - no more extensive travel! I did feel for Shawn not having the opportunity to play music any longer. But hey, he'll get over it and we'll be together...lots.

God's sense of humor - Billy Foote comes a'callin'. Can you say "on the road again"? Not to sound like the shunned other woman, I did give my blessing (which Shawn sought immediately - kudos, babe!). He's excited. I'm becoming excited. Billy has written some amazing worship songs. I look forward to meeting him and his wife Cindy.

And I'm confident God has my back. He's led me to pray that He would meet my needs. I know He will. He kinda has a way of being faithful, ya know? I try to remember that He's all for family and He'll make sure we're good.

So, back in the saddle again....AND, God has amazed us with how much work He's brought Shawn through The Whetstone. It's crazy busy. Shawn's been landing lots of jobs - now he needs to do the work!

Thanks for your prayers and encouragement. Keep 'em comin'.

this is the day that the Lord hath made!

Ah, sweet moment of silent, self-indulgence, how I love you! Redhead with Gamma, little man asleep. Hubby at a meeting. I am sitting on the couch, computer in lap, diet coke in system. Does it get much better than this? Let me hear a "yeehaw" from the mommies!

Today is perfection:

- a good AM workout
- a trip to the playground with daddy
- naptime
- a visit to the library
- an afternoon stroll around the square. I LOVE downtown McKinney!
- peppermint ice cream at Herby's Old Fashion Soda Fountain for Avery, orange sherbet for Asher, cherry diet coke for me, Turtle torture for Gamma and a fried apple pie to go for Shawn
- Shawn stopping by the square to pick up his treat
- Avery staying with Gamma
- Asher napping right now

*smiles*

and you?

ever have one of those days...

when you've got nothing to write? Yeah, well I'm having one of those weeks. Last week I blamed it on pms and then the real deal. Now I don't have anyone or thing to blame. My mind feels like jello, i've had headaches for the past three days and none of me wants to work together. I'd form a picket line...if I felt like it.

I do need your help, though. Last month I sold two articles to local McKinney magazines. It was thrilling! Can I call myself a writer now? So, I've been trying to think of new article ideas and am (surprise, surprise) drawing a blank...lots of blanks. I'm trying to overcome my "one-hit wonder"itis. The editor has emailed asking if I have ideas for the May/June Issue of McKinney Woman mag. Yeah, you know the answer. So, HELP ME! What are articles of interest for women that I could tackle?

My eyes are crossing. It's 3:07 PM! What is up? I need a vacation.

Easter Finery

Hope your Easter was a blessed reminder of our HOPE!

playdate at our house today

with sweet Angie, Olivia, Henry, Grammy AND Mitzi, Mia and Abbey. Poor Chrys and Oliver, we missed you two!

in case you were wondering...

the smore's gang sign:

the british school boy look is so in.

while the cat is away...

this mouse and her little mice play.

Watching Sesame Street at Angie's. Asher hasn't quite discovered the greatness of Elmo. Have I mentioned he loves his momma? The girls really tore it up to a Michael Buble song. So much so that nothing was in focus and i figured pictures of their blurry backs wouldn't hold your interest - sure didn't hold mine.

Later that day, a project.

I will put this in print: I WILL NEVER PAINT WITH RED AGAIN!

Welcome Spring. Stay awhile. You're a welcome sight.

Since it is now officially Spring, we officially enjoyed the wonderful Spring day with a walk to the neighborhood playground.

The hat lasted long enough to take the pic. isn't he just yummy? and guess what - I'm his most favorite thing right now!
The girl is growing like a weed (we should know, our yard is filled with 'em).
Avery tends to get a bit distracted when riding her tricycle. Daddy's solution - a leash. Works like a charm - notice how focused she seems. Oh, and notice the aforementioned weeds. They line the sidewalk like peasants at a coronation service.
Our destination: the playground. Of course, how could you know. I didn't seem to take a telltale photo. No pictures of the swings, slide, or the bratty kids fighting over um, everything. Just my cute boy in a sea of woodchips. Not sure why a billion splinters is used as "cushion" in a playground. Chewed up tires seem much more logical and feet-friendly.

GRRRR!

I just wrote the wittiest, funniest, entertaining post EVER! Compelling stories, movie reviews, record breaking events, questionable namecalling...and the proper use of the word "procure".

I accidentally typed an "A" in Link and did not delete before clicking on "publish".

My greatness is now gone, flushed down the toilet of cyber-stupidity.

I've lost the will to blog tonight.

Good thing Readers Digest showed up today. Hope lives on in Humor in Uniform. I salute you, our brave soldiers who sacrifice all for a funny antecdote. I'm proud to be an American...and a Readers Digest subscriber.

Toodles!

Accident report

I’m at the closest Starbucks right now. I’ve been here about 15 minutes. I’ve already received two phone calls from my husband. Did I mention this is designated time for me to write? Alone? I’ve got the computer out (obviously), my Grande, decaf Cinnamon Dolce white mocha and petite vanilla scones. My Bible is ready to be referenced. Let the words flow.

The phone rings (for the second time). The first call, Shawn is wondering if I’ve been propagandizing our daughter. She wants a “treat”. Daddy says “after lunch”. She asks for ice cream. My husband explains “daddy’s tummy doesn’t handle ice cream all that well.” Avery says, “Well, God made girls to like ice cream.” You go, girl!

The phone call:

“Hello?” I say wanting to remind him I’ve only just left the house.

“Hey, your daughter wanted me to call you and tell you that we were playing chase and she fell down and skinned her leg. It hurts pretty bad.” He says all of this in one breath so I won’t hang up on him. I’ve got just a little bit of a soft spot for the kids so I’m inclined to listen.

“Were you guys outside?” My mind is wondering where he’s left the baby.

“No, she ran into one of the columns.” Decorative columns in the living room that separate the hall from the living space, the breakfast room from the living space, and apparently skin from my daughter’s leg.

“Oh, I’m sorry.” The next statement I make, I’m only half-joking: “You better fill out an accident report.”

A little background information for you: Every time I leave Shawn with the kids, Avery gets hurt. I can safely say “every time” because, well, it’s true. The gusto with which he attacks playtime cannot quite be matched by my 3 year old. Daddies are wired to be fun, daddies wrestle and toss and chase like no mom could do. And daddies unwittingly knock their kids around. Avery has been dropped off of a bed, bumped into another infernal column, and tripped by big ol’ feet. If that man had any money, we’d be in small-claims court by now.

Now back to the conversation at hand.

“Give her a hug for me. What’s little man doing?” Need to make sure he’s still alive…or at least within earshot.

“I just laid him down.” Muffled to daughter: “Mommy wants me to give you a hug.”

Alright, so are we done? “Okay, talk to you later!”

We’ll see if another call comes in over the next hour. I can only hope he’s the one that collides with that darn column. Avery knows how to call me. I wonder if she can dial 9-1-1.

Gladys, Jesus and Ellen

Ellen talks with Gladys

batteries still charging

that's a good sign! my last charger would "charge" the batteries in about an hour. yeah, right. I would take one picture and the dumb camera would shut down. hence, my dire need to buy new batteries. it's been hours, so i'm thinking i'll have lots of photo power.

I hardly ever watch the Ellen Show, mainly because we don't have cable. Really, we don't have many channels. Actually, two. and one of them doesn't include the english language. BUt for some reason, NBC is coming in (which means I can make out basic shapes through the snow). Anyway, Ellen is talking to this old lady named Gladys Hardy from Austin, TX. OH MY! She is a hoot. Ellen is rolling. So am I. Quotes from Gladys:

"Well, you know, I love Jesus, but I drink a little." (Maybe you had to hear her say it).
"I like to stay local. Around here, they'll pull you over if you've had Listerine." Are you sensing a theme?

Ok, so you probably did have to hear her.

O'Malley from Grey's is up now. He's a cutie.

On a siiiiiddddeee note, what is a "boyfriend trouser"? Angie, Gap Expert, answer please.

AND, how do you get birds to visit a birdhouse? Do they have aversions to certain colors? Do they take bribes? A very excited three year old has been glued to the back door, waiting.

fashion maven in the making

I dunno who she belongs to. The girl is so not my daughter. Any person that willingly changes clothes FIVE times in one day defies logic...

Now, it might take me awhile to find something to wear each day, but you better believe that once it's on, it's not comin' off until bedtime - or until the smell of spit-up sends me over the edge. No lie, just a little while ago I'm driving home from a quick jaunt to the store. I have the window cracked and I think to myself, my what an odorous evening! There's skunk, fertilizer and this persistent sour smell. I'm stumped. What is it?? I lean a tad too close to the shoulder that had supported a very sleepy baby head not 30 minutes earlier.

Bingo.

Yuck. I so stink. And I was out in public, stinking. AND I ran into a neighbor sporting Eau d'Asher puke. Not good.

Grrr. I will NOT miss the day that boy stops sharing his meals with my clothes!

A serious digression. Was I not talking about my un-daughter and her clothes-changin' mutated gene? I know you moms of girls are smiling and saying "it's a girl thing". You might even be thinking, "aren't you a girl?" Well, yeah, I am. Just not a girly-girl. And oh, how Avery is...a pink-lovin', dress-up wearin', high-heeled, make-uped, bejeweled princess.

Makes me laugh. Mostly at her daddy. Who swore she wouldn't wear all pink. All the time.

We were out of the house most of today so Avery's desire to change wardrobe was hindered. BUT, when it came time to go to my parents, Avery approached me with a "I need to change clothes. C'mon. Let's go." There is a clean pile of laundry on the chair closest to me. "How about something in here?" I ask, hopeful.

"No, I need something sparkly." I'm crestfallen, my face falls. The girl is on a never-ending quest for sparkly clothes and there just aren't that many in the house. We comb through the closet, we find a suitable outfit - one that meets the "sparkly" criteria:

A sparkly red velvet Santa dress complete with fur trim...and flip flops.

Ho-ho-ho.

Chh-chh-changes

Transition, thy name is Davis.

Cue David Bowie. Bring on the comfort food. Things are changing around here...

We just don't know how...yet.

It's official - the band is done. It's bittersweet. I'm thrilled at having Shawn home more often, but I'm sad that he's not getting to do something he loves.

We've been asked, "Now what?". We don't know. God continues to provide work for Shawn through The Whetstone, so we'll keep that up for now. Neither one of us is too gifted in the admin vein, but God has used our weakness in this by proving faithful to sustain us for the past 4 years through Shawn's freelance work. And the taxman hasn't come a'knockin' so hopefully we've done things right.

Our prayer is to hold on loosely to what we do have. We know God will provide for us...it just might not be in the way we think, in our current home, with our current "things". That's okay, though I will miss my rockin' minivan if i must say goodbye. Sign me up as ubergoof, but I LOVE that thing! Grocery trips? No problem! Roadtrips? Bring 'em on. The longer, the better! Joovy Caboose, bags of clothes for Goodwill, an insane amount of stowaway toys, booster seat AND carseat? Still got room to pick up the grandparents for an afternoon of fun. Ahhh, the tears will flow.

We would appreciate your prayers. A portion of Proverbs 30 is our hearts' cry and will continue to be, no matter what our circumstances:

"There are two things, Lord, I want You to do for me before I die: Make me absolutely honest and don't let me be too poor or too rich. Give me just what I need. If I have too much to eat, I might forget about You; if I don't have enough, I might steal and disgrace Your Name."
verses 7-9

This morning, as I enjoyed a few precious moments of quiet time, I poured my heart out before God the best I could because I was feeling anxious and distracted. What came to mind was a childhood song:

"In His time, In His time.
He makes all things beautiful in His time.
Lord, please show me everyday, as You're teaching me Your way
That You'll do just what You say, in Your time."

Now, hopefully those are the right lyrics. Either way, it's the way I remember it and it spoke to me.

To all of you waiting on the LORD, peace.
simri

no pics

my stupid camera sucks the life out of batteries. my stupid "rechargable" batteries don't. my stupid brain won't remember to pick up new ones - i was at Walmart TODAY!

getting old sucks.

writing a post when grumpy doesn't suck for me (maybe for the reader, eh?).

using the word "stupid" a lot rocks.

eating ice cream during all of this rocks.

peace and quiet right now so rocks!

what is it with this country???

I am listening to talk radio right now and they are going on about Cheney and his blood clot. I am disgusted by certain people wishing he would die - are you kidding me??? Have we lost all sense of decency and respect for human life??? I feel like screaming. Or cussing.

Big fat guys get paid millions of dollars to play a game, Anna Nicole's sad life is newsfodder for weeks, and I'm sick of the Obama vs. Clinton deal. We've got to put up with this day after day! The media just shoves this crap down our throats and we sit there like baby birds, taking it.

I'd say we are quite worthy of a good smiting right about now.
Father, forgive us all.

I did it!

I decorated the kids bathroom for the grand total amount of $35.67. Actually, $1.98 + tax was for other items. So, the grand total is...less than $35.67. I don't do math.

I should take an "after" shot. Of course, a "before" shot would be helpful. Hindsight: 20/20.

AANNYYWAY, it's cute, i like it, i'll take a pic.

80-80-80-80

Hit the 80 posts mark. yay me. four score. only 20 more til the century mark. then i'll throw myself a party...by posting 101. 99 will be the rehearsal, got to be ready for 100. 98? probably won't even notice when it comes around. i'll be too excited. like i said, yay me.

"home"onal

It comes on with all the vengenance of a hot flash.

A home project.

A must-do or I'll die.

I usually suffer from these at least once a day.

My house appears to be unaffected.

I had two of these occurences yesterday. Earlier in the day, i convinced myself that making an ottoman for the living room would be fairly simple. I mentally walked through each step, visualizing just what it would take. Piece o' cake. A piece of wood. some foam, batting and material, legs, a staple gun and I would be the proud owner of an OTTOMAN!

Of course, now the idea is filed away under "maybe some day". You see, just as quickly as a hot flash comes on, it's gone.

The one i suffered later in the evening was a bit stronger. It lasted longer...I still feel the affect this morning. It's the kids' bathtime. I'm propped on the potty, overseeing the splashing and making sure heads stay above water, when here it comes! I. MUST. DECORATE. THIS. BATHROOM! I'm telling you, avery could've gotten away with some serious bathwater-drinking right about now. I was in idea heaven. Really, not too much work, just a few things...

Begin the list of what is needed. Calculate costs. Decide if hubby will hit the roof or merely give me "a look". Wait for episode to pass.

Still waiting. My house might actually feel the affects of this one. I'll let you know.

got nothin'

drummin' my fingers. nothin' comin' to mind. i'm anti-g at the end of words. rush ramblin' about oscars. anybody make it thru the whole thin'? i found it overly annoyin'. fell asleep. now tell me again, why do we love these folks so much? our lives are probably a lot healthier than most of them.

Feeling beautiful

Last night as i was feeding asher before bed, my mind was bouncing from one thought to the next. I was thinking about how asher is changing and becoming more discerning in who he is around - the beginnings of stranger anxiety. Avery was a pro at this, asher has been much more accomodating. We had some neighbors over for dinner last night who we don't know well at all. I was finishing feeding asher some sweet potatoes when the couple got there. I stepped away to say hi or do something and the man tried to engage Asher. Well, that little lip turned out, his eyes scrunched up and he just started bawling! Truly, the first time he's done that. Once i stepped back over to him, he settled down, but was leaning towards me. Only momma would do at that moment.

So, fast forward to bedtime in his room. I thought about how beautiful it makes me feel when my kids want me and only me. Sure, there are times when it wears me out and i wish that any and everyone would do to comfort them, but if i really think about it, i feel like the most beautiful person ever b/c i'm desired!

I have this problem with putting too much emphasis on outward appearance. I'll never be thin enough or pretty enough and i wrap up too much of my significance in that. I get jealous of pretty, cute, thin moms b/c i feel like they are worthy of being desired, but not me. So, it was super sweet of God to show me that being loved and desired by those that matter and for reasons other than appearance are lie-shattering and soul-feeding to the nth degree. I just relished that truth and those feelings for a little longer than usual last night and held asher's little hand a bit tighter before putting him to bed.

Girls, let your family's love and your God's love make you feel BEAUTIFUL! You are!!

at the park with aunt melissa and cousin caitlyn

man, i'm loving this weather!! it is so wonderful and rejuvenating to be outside and like it. we've been on lots of walks to our playground, sat on the back porch, sat on the front porch, left the windows open. If our summers were like this, texas really would be pretty darn nifty. hey God, can you hook us up?
Here are some pics:

pics from alabama

i'm dead tired. gonna hit the sack. went to the park today with sis-in-law and niece. will get pics up tomorrow. actually fell asleep while telling avery a bedtime story. started rambling, not sure what i was talking about. avery kept saying, "yeah??yeah?" like she was right there with me. nice of her. glad to see that when i'm old and senile one day, she'll humor me.

in Grammy's front yard
Aunt Joanne and Uncle Harold's house. No cooking like her cooking. She was thrilled that the kids ate so much. Avery fell asleep at the table.
Courtroom is unbelievable. Only other courtroom I've ever been in was on the set of Diff'rent Strokes. Not much comparison. Of course, i did get to sit in the Judge's chair on the set...

"...and scene."- tobias funke

sweet home alabama...no, texas

We got home yesterday afternoon after 8 days on the road. We are all very thrilled to be home but equally glad that we had a wonderful time in Alabama. The kids did great (my biggest worry) on the drive out there as well as all of the different places we went and stayed. My biggest prayer before leaving was for the ability to relax and just go with it. I am not so good at that and can border on anal retentive. God really enabled me to do ok with it all.

Shawn (and the band) were playing at a Song of Solomon conference in Huntsville, AL. He and his mom talked about us all going out for the week to visit his family. A ton of family on his mom and dad's side live there so it really made sense to visit. We had not been out there in over 4 years and very few of them had met the kids. At the time, I reluctantly agreed to going (remember, i'm anal retentive - oh, and can be a control freak too). My heart kind of sank when i thought about the long drive, lack of schedule and staying in random homes. Ah, a learning moment for me...

Shawn flew out there with the guys on Friday morning. We (Janis, myself and the kids) left Friday AM too. Shawn called us at 9:10 AM as he is getting on the plane. He calls us again a few hours later after landing in Huntsville and we are (surprise, surprise) still in Texas. Great morale booster. We arrived in Huntsville on Saturday afternoon around 3:30 PM and met up with Shawn.

Lots of details, lots more if you're interested :-)

Quick rundown b/c Shawn just got home with a movie:

Few days in Huntsville with Janis's family mainly
Few days in Montgomery with Shawn's cousin Keith and wife Terry. He's a federal judge so we got to see his chamber, meet his clerks, etc.
Few days in Troy and an afternoon in Birmingham with sweet Jenny.

I want to post some pics - they are currently on Shawn's computer. Will get to that tomorrow...hopefully.

Movie has started. good night.

sim

disciplines for the inner life

Years ago, my friend, Mitzi gave me a wonderful book. To this day, I adore going through it and finding such rich truths. The format is practical and can be taken in bite-sized pieces. The book is called Disciplines for the Inner Life by Bob Benson, Sr. and Michael W. Benson. It is set up in five sections: Disciplines for the Inner Journey, Obstacles to the Inner Life, Patterns for Living Inwardly, Inward Graces of the Centered Life, and Outward Fruits of the Inner Life. Under each section is a handful of topics. Within each topic, you have an invocation (opening prayer), psalm, daily scripture, selections for meditations (excerpts from various authors, speakers, pastors, giants of the faith), personal meditation, hymn and closing prayer. It is so rich!!

Last week I did "Spiritual Partners". I am so challenged in the ways of relationships and friendship and faithfulness to God by being in fellowship with others.

This week, I've begun "Faith in the Process". Here is what I tackled today:

Invocation: "Father, I thank You for this day, for what it shall bring, opportunities, life, hope, strength. And for what it may take away. Teach me to trush You in the comings and the goings of life. In the name of Your Son, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Psalm 107
Hebrews 11:1-12:3
Hymn: "Day by Day" by Lina Sandell and Oscar Ahnfelt
Selections for Meditation: an excerpt from Ask Him Anything by Lloyd Ogilvie and an exerpt from Tracks of a Fellow Struggler by John Claypool. I'd like to share a bit from John Claypool's words:
"The Bible arranges life and thought in just that sequence. We are called on to live passionately and openly and then to use our minds to try to understand and interpret what we have experienced. In this way life moves on and whatever insight is possible is born.
We do not first get all the answers and then live in light of our understanding. We must rather plunge into life - meeting what we have to meet and experiencing what we have to experience - and in the light of living try to understand. If insight comes at all, it will not be before, but only through and after experience."

I pray that God will allow us insight into our circumstances but if He does not, I dearly pray that we are faithful to share our experiences with others and look forward to the fulfillment of His promises. Faith - got to have it to please God.

sim