tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43327193616072438562024-02-20T02:08:20.590-06:00...our little kingdomall you need to know and more and not enough at times...Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06057038658676802991noreply@blogger.comBlogger358125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-53957875045920840712016-05-16T12:05:00.001-05:002016-05-16T12:21:30.024-05:00Hang Your Pictures on the Wall<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I want to give a long and thorough update for the Blackhurst Klan, but for now- a moment of therapy. When Todd and I moved to Houston so many years ago, we arrived rather weather-torn and battered. We had been through the rick-a-ma-roo and it showed- but I don't have to tell you this, many of you were there! For several years while we were happily adjusting to our new life- I held back a little. Oh I still did all the normal routines and didn't even notice the changes- but I held back. Some of my foundations of trust had been permanently broken and although we recovered with flying colors- I stayed reserved. One day while visiting a friend, I oohed and ahhed at her decorating. It was so perfect, each empty space filled with family identity- vacations, artwork done by a child, knick-knacks with special attachments, quotes to live by, recent family photos- framed and mounted. Stepping into the house opened up something in me that had been closed. The idea of home.<br />
<br />
Although Todd's job was going extremely well, we had made lasting friendships, and we loved our school and church- I hadn't made Houston our home. Emotionally, I think I felt like the idea of home was not a permanent place, it was something that could change in an instant. It was something that could be taken- with force and without remorse. The idea of home had altered to something intangible and fragile- but by being in my friends' home, I realized something valuable. Home is wherever I make it. I've had to "therapy" myself a bit through some of it, but over time I have realized that yes- we could lose our home in a heartbeat. Tornadoes, floods, unemployment, greedy banks, or war could all take our house away in an instant. The reality that it could be gone in a moment should not leave me stranded, although it did for a while. This is MY home. Where I raise my children. Where I invite my friends for parties, for books clubs, for dinner. It's our haven from the cruel world. Our resting place. Our happy spot. Our pillow to cry on. Our halls to scream and shout and fight in. It's ours, because of the people who live here. So instead of thinking- maybe someday- I hang pictures on my walls. All over. Nails.Thumb tacs. Hammers. We paint- because a playroom should be sun-shine yellow and not chocolate brown. We add value and declutter a bit here and there so that when we walk in we exhale from the worry of the world. We make it ours. Every scratch of paint tells our story. It's not going to be perfect and someday we will walk away from this house- because that is the nature of life. But! We will walk away knowing that we put our best into these walls. That we lived with our eyes open, unafraid of tomorrow, and our pictures on the wall.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYV48uaWqJvKWysFzvxU5aAdTENAxit-fAjAy53Q65UzLJyeXhVaVcSlZuVCIaagPQN_xDI4dUjiw-TN2n3KhPj2bZDqjlrZ8RxFoeb306DbKEhaREbpzhcDaih3jPf9MdRTvN8dSdK0/s1600/cribwall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYV48uaWqJvKWysFzvxU5aAdTENAxit-fAjAy53Q65UzLJyeXhVaVcSlZuVCIaagPQN_xDI4dUjiw-TN2n3KhPj2bZDqjlrZ8RxFoeb306DbKEhaREbpzhcDaih3jPf9MdRTvN8dSdK0/s400/cribwall.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From trash to treasure- the slats on the wall are from the crib Todd and I painted for Ava before she was born. The number 5 was part of the decorations at my baby shower for Cora. The rest are pictures from our most current photo shoot. It's not quite how I want it forever, but I really like it for now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFx79mb8dl2Kym-thWZ3fmIHge08y4XgdnW0nvXbIi3kgLdHnHK7dO7thInfXBiRXEdtwar13V5dKA6D2jr0093I_zoL9LIsUNpDtddvEH6sc_5SbPVvPHVQdXXWhV4LKi7d3KojoqkNY/s1600/pianoroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFx79mb8dl2Kym-thWZ3fmIHge08y4XgdnW0nvXbIi3kgLdHnHK7dO7thInfXBiRXEdtwar13V5dKA6D2jr0093I_zoL9LIsUNpDtddvEH6sc_5SbPVvPHVQdXXWhV4LKi7d3KojoqkNY/s400/pianoroom.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My great-grandmother's dining room table- that was also my grandmother's sits in my piano room. It's a recent addition to my house, and is on temporary loan but this is my favorite room to sit in- and as you can see- I have good company!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
</div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-12525856027799848512016-04-22T15:11:00.002-05:002016-04-22T15:11:14.267-05:00#AwesomeMom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">What. A. Week.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">You might think an unexpected week long vacation from school sounds fun, but it was not the celebration it could have been. Being cooped up together without the option of going anywhere- including outside proved to be more of a challenge than I was ready for. I like to think of myself as a fun mom, but I assure you I earned the award for the grouchy mom this week. Oh man! Let's see if I can go through the week and still remain awake and conscious.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Sunday night the storms came rolling in at full force and left no prisoners. It began in the evening and the girls had no problems going to sleep- but as the night rolled along, the storm became vicious and unrelentless. A little before midnight our first "flash flood" warning came followed by our first "tornado warning". Its funny, Todd and I having lived all of our adult lives in Texas- where tornadoes are common- were trying to remember which was worse- a tornado watch or a tornado warning. It's warning, just FYI. Warning is just that- take cover, you are in potential danger. I readied the laundry room- which is a bit small for a party of 7, and I wanted Todd to go get the children. I hadn't spoken the words, "Just bring them down one by one and keep them sleeping" so his interpretation of the events was- get everyone down stairs as fast as possible. I'm not sure it would have worked keeping them asleep, but we will try it next time! Out of all of the children Ava was the most freaked out. Since this is old hat to Todd and I, neither of us were anxious- just wanting to make sure we were up to date with the happenings. Camille-taking cue from me- was making reassuring statements throughout the night, which was quite funny since her oldest sister was having a meltdown. I can't remember the times, because its all a bit of a blur- but eventually the threat had passed and we sent everyone to bed. For the next couple hours we were either woken by additional emergency alarms or Ava. Around 4am, I think, we were under another tornado warning. I attempted to keep them sleeping, but having had a restless night- they all awoke as soon as I put my hands on them. We spent that warning in the living room watching the weather man drone on and on. Finally- again- the warning was lifted, and our little ones went to bed for a little bit in an effort to race the sun's arrival and our start of the day. Because sleep and memory are so closely tied, I can't remember if I ever went to bed that night. Eventually, Todd and I would find sleep in small cat naps throughout the day, but it was an exhausting existence. Since our kids had gone to bed on time and had been able to go back to sleep- they were really fine most of the day. Cora and Camille took longer naps and Lucy had a few meltdowns, but other than that- it was a normal day. By normal, of course, I mean that school had been canceled, work had been canceled, and the city of Houston had shut down.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Since Todd was not at work and could not leave the house, he spent most of the day organizing the ward members and checking on those in dire situations. I spent the morning cooking up a big breakfast with eggs, biscuits, and bacon. I earned that bacon, after all! The rest of the day was fairly normal, just a bit sleepier. We watched the news more often than usual- which should translate into: we watched the news in the first time in I don't know how long. Todd felt he would have no problems going to work the next day, which he did. Unfortunately many of the streets leading to schools had been flooded and one of our high schools received some big damage- so school was canceled Tuesday as well.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">The rest of the week was basically spent thinking that we would be going to school the next day- so let's get this or that done. Nothing too big or grand was started because well, school would be in session tomorrow. so let's just plan easy for today. Gradually, my beautifully cleaned home has turned into a 7-day weekend. I am hopeful to get it back in order today, but I am not getting my hopes too high.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">I should also mention that- blessing or curse- I decided that we are going to potty train Camille. I felt like it was time, she was ready, and I was frankly tired of her diapers. In that respect, it has been good to be stuck at home. She'd had the opportunity to focus on making it to the potty and to keep those panties clean! And let's just talk details for one moment and then never talk about it again. The girl can poop just fine in the potty. She gets it. Peeing, however, is just not clicking. This is my 4th kid to potty train. Karma hates me.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Yesterday I was REALLY getting stir crazy so I told Todd that I thought I would take the girls to Chick-fil-a so that they could get some energy out and I could get out of the house. We ate and the girls went off to play and within 5 minutes, Camille had peed. Super. So I, without emotion, put Camille in the car with the older girls, buckled in Cora, then went back into the restaurant while I cleaned up the breakfast and Ava cleaned up the pee (she knew where it was). We drove home, Camille sitting in her seat soaking. AWEEEEEESOME.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">We went to the dentist later in the morning in the continual rain. Just pounding. BUT we made it safe and sound and every one's teeth were fine. Lucy got her baby tooth pulled, and the tooth fairy paid her first visit...despite the fact that she actually lost the tooth between the trip home and the walk upstairs to her bedroom. Go figure.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">That afternoon, despite the constant clouds and rain- it cleared up and the heat turned on. Hallelujah! So the girls went outside to eat lunch and to play. In the course of their 5 minutes of freedom, Cora picked up a bee on the trampoline and put it in her mouth. I'm not sure if it was alive or dead. ,Either way- it stung her in the tongue and Ava screamed for me to come immediately. I was upstairs putting up laundry. Cora was obviously upset, so I took her into my bathroom to get a better look. I could see the stinger in her tongue alright and verbally praying for help, I got the tweezers and tried to get her to stick her tongue out. Not easy. Somehow, I managed to get it out. It wasn't big, thankfully. I immediately gave her Benadryl and Tylenol and texted Todd to call the doctor. As I waited for him, I gave her frozen marshmallows in hopes that that might aide the swelling. The doctor had suggested everything I had already done but encouraged us to watch her. Her tongue was slightly swollen on the side it was stung, but other than a little fussiness- that was the end of that. Story for the books!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">I had had my fill of "excitement" from my children, so Todd insisted that we go out to dinner. Bless his wisdom. We went to MOD pizza and then wandered around Whole Foods for a bit. We came home and put the kids to bed. We have been watching Parks & Rec- because one of our friends says that its really funny...they also said you have to watch a bit before it gets funny. We are hoping to get to that part, although its pretty funny now. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Thankfully, all good things must come to a close and next week these kids will be back at school! I know this is a lot of angst for one post but man oh man- don't sign me up for the apocalypse, I am not mentally sound enough. Its one thing to have a day here or there that you don't expect but a whole week where you think you'll be going the next day is kinda like hell on Earth. It's like going on a car ride and never actually getting there. I know one family, who's Dad is a teacher, and they just decided they'd go to Sea World today. Why not? Can't go to school, kids are stir crazy, might as well! Wish they had taken me with them!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">OK, in all honesty, we are grateful that it was not worse. Our neighborhood is designed to not flood, and we were very fortunate to have access to places, enough food, and things to do. We did make some good memories mixed in with all the fighting and pee-pee accidents. AND I have not been admitted to the loony bin- so all-in-all, this is a win/win....but that loony bin is sounding better and better by the minute!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Whew. Happy Friday, ya'll.</span><br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-88241856047457420462015-10-26T10:45:00.000-05:002015-10-26T10:51:34.750-05:00Charity is spelled L-O-V-E<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>My talk/sermon given to the Parkway Ward on 10-25-2014 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints:</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLnNx7z70ocCAJ67SnBAZpXW0LNpScFW0m9k8GCUJ6F8o-vhZP8IZsVHNupSElSuYEQjND33TsukhKLI-zf35g88W7_t_jAz-Zo3cBYzzX1a5zyb8gdkaO7RgC9jFwb6XKc0aDLSopbys/s1600/charity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLnNx7z70ocCAJ67SnBAZpXW0LNpScFW0m9k8GCUJ6F8o-vhZP8IZsVHNupSElSuYEQjND33TsukhKLI-zf35g88W7_t_jAz-Zo3cBYzzX1a5zyb8gdkaO7RgC9jFwb6XKc0aDLSopbys/s320/charity.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In
August, I was sitting in the Primary room when I received a text from
my husband who was sitting 5 feet away from me. The text said that
Brother Bishop had asked if Todd and I would speak in church during
sacrament meeting. We have only spoken once in the 4 years we have
lived here, so I knew we couldn't hide too much longer. I asked Todd
if we had been given a topic- and he said yes- CHASTITY. Say what?
CHASTITY? He confirmed and then he and I spent several weeks
pondering and praying about how we were going to cover such a serious
topic with such a vast audience of ages and experience. The more we
studied, the more confident we became and we began giving ourselves
these little pep talks, “if the Bishopric felt inspired to ask us
to speak of this topic, then we can do it!” Travis was still
working on figuring out which Sunday we would speak- and so I
e-mailed the bishopric to ask if they had a date for us yet and to
confirm my topic. Phil Harrison replied confirming that our day to
speak was today- AND yes, I was still speaking on CHARITY. CHARITY,
not CHASTITY, they almost sound the same but they are drastically
different! And no, I'm not volunteering us to speak chastity any time
soon.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Charity, however, is probably my most
favorite topic (especially compared to chastity) and something I am
super passionate about. By definition, charity is the pure love of
Christ. The Book of Mormon and New Testament both state that charity
suffereth long, is kind, is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is
not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, does not rejoice in inquiry-
but does in truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, endureth
all things, without charity we are nothing and charity never faileth.
Well, that sounds easy enough!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The week after conference I decided to
ponderize- or ponder/memorize- 1 Cor 13:4-8 which spells out a lot of
what I just described about charity. Since I had that scripture on my
heart- it popped into my head several times unexpectedly whenever I
was not quite on track in my thinking. So when the man in the
grocery store insisted on whistling the entire time he and I shopped,
I was reminded that charity is not easily provoked, is kind,
suffereth long and endureth all things. Needless to say, it was a
week full of reminders that I need to work on being more charitable.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Fresh out of college and newly married
I had the opportunity to work for a non-profit organization while
Todd finished his degree from Texas A&M. Sheltering Arms was a
facility built for children taken from their homes because of abuse.
A few were run-aways. I worked long hours and the environment and
circumstances of the children made it a challenging job. I am
sometimes haunted by that job now that I am a parent. I would
certainly do things differently. One of the most valuable lessons I
learned from the shelter was about REAL CHARITY. During the holidays,
organizations would come out of the wood works offering toys for the
children living in the shelter. We would receive so many donations
that we wouldn't have room for them. There were easily 20 gifts per
child. It became unreasonable, inconvenient, and overwhelming. I
remember thinking that I wished these good intended organizations
would ask us what we needed instead of what felt good to buy. The
best illustration of charity comes from an experience I had at the
shelter that I refer to as the parable of the doctor and the doughnut
lady.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
As a 20-something year old supervisor,
when donations were brought to our gate- I was to meet the donors-
provide a tax form- and collected whatever was being donated. One
afternoon I was called outside to receive some donations. I met a man
there who had a few trashbags of used clothing. As I began filling
out the form, he abruptly asked for it, filled it out himself- then
gave it back to me to sign. Surprised by his frustration, I took the
form, gave him his copy, then collected the bags and brought them
inside. When I reviewed the form I noticed that he had written his
donation value at $500. I got into trouble for allowing him to fill
out the form, especially since his donation did not match the value
he wrote. I later found out that he was a local doctor and that he
had done this before.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In stark contrast, I had the
opportunity once to talk to another one of our donors. The children
at the shelter lovingly referred to her as the doughnut lady. <b>Every
week</b> this woman would ring the gate with donations of bags of
donuts. Not just a dozen glazed- she would bring in the works:
kolaches, frosted, sprinkles, twists, and cake donuts- a cornucopia
of flavors and colors to the utter delight of the children. I only
spoke to her once, even though she came every week, because she was
very discrete. She had called to say that she was going out of town
and wanted to express her sorrow and concern for missing one week.
Charity is not puffed up and seeketh not her own.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I believe in life we are given
countless opportunities to serve. Those opportunities are only
during the holiday or when its convenient. Its not meant to be for
our benefit, although charity often blesses the giver more than the
receiver. The doughnut lady teaches us that charity- in its simplest
form- is consistent. <u><b>It should be our way of living- something
that we feel the absence of when it is gone.</b></u> Camilla Kimball
said it best, and this is our family motto: Never suppress a generous
thought. And to steal a phrase from Nike-just do it!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The second aspect of charity that I
want to discuss is charity in the home. I'm going to warn you that
some of what I'm going to say might sting a little, or at least it
did for me! The message for this month's visiting teachers is about
love & charity. My visiting teacher shared this quote by
President Monson. He offers a fresh perspective that has made me
re-think my views on charity. See if you ever see any of this in your
homes or even your workplace.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“Charity is having patience with
someone who has let us down. It is resisting the impulse to become
easily offended. It is accepting weaknesses and shortcomings. It is
accepting people as they truly are. It is looking beyond physical
appearances to attributes that will not dim through time. It is
resisting the impulse to categorize others.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I don't know what you got from that
quote but here is what I heard:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Lindsey, your children never have been
nor ever will be perfect, cut them some slack.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Lindsey, not everyone loves your
cooking 100% of the time and even when they do, don't expect a
handwritten note of thanks.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Lindsey, your job as a mother and wife
is to love them- as they are. Perfectly imperfect bundles of hugs,
kisses, and impossible to clean-up messes.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Lindsey, its forgiving the fact that
they forgot to brush their teeth, or make their bed, or pack their
lunches. Again.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Lindsey, charity is all about LOVE.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In the last general conference Elder
Holland spoke to Moms about charity, “Thank you. Thank you for
giving birth, for shaping souls, for forming character, and for
demonstrating the pure love of Christ. Be peaceful. Believe in God
and yourself. You are doing better than you think you are. In fact,
you are Saviors on Mount Zion and like the Master you follow, your
love never faileth.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
There's a quote in my kitchen that
says, “Enjoy the little things in life because one day you will
look back and realize they were the big things.” Winston Churchill
once said, “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big
difference.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
During our first years of marriage-
Todd and I got into a fight. We don't fight often but I don't
remember any of the details other than we wanted the other person to
leave us alone- and we weren't speaking much. That evening when I
went to get ready for bed, Todd had put toothpaste on my toothbrush
for me. It wasn't anything big- but it was just enough to melt the
frost between us. Since then whomever brushes their teeth first puts
toothpaste on the other person's toothbrush. It's a daily reminder
to us of what's really important and we've been doing that for 14
years.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
And I think that's the real secret
behind charity. It is not always the service projects, the Secret
Santas, the $500 donation of used clothing. I believe that charity is
that selfless service that brings us to the door of our friends, or
neighbors, or strangers with bags of donuts or helping hands, or a
simple hug. I believe that <u><b>if</b></u> charity is the pure love
of Christ,- then we should seek for it in our homes where people are
often the most unlovable. It's toothpaste on your toothbrush saying-
what really matters to me is you.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
1 John 3:11- “For this is the message
that ye have heard from the beginning, that we should love one
another.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I wanted to share one more thought
about charity that hadn't occurred to me until I thought I was
finished writing my talk. When our family first moved to Houston, we
arrived a bit tattered from having dealt with a difficult move. We
had been through a lot and we were still recovering. Struggling to
find Houston our new home, I knew that serving others would help me
adjust- but with such a full plate of unpacking & mothering small
children- I could not find the time to do any service outside of my
home. I expressed my apologizes to my new friend who was serving as
the current Relief Society president and she counseled me by saying,
“Lindsey, its not your turn. We all have seasons of life- sometimes
we are serving, sometimes we are waiting, and sometimes we are the
ones being served. We all take turns in those phases. Lindsey, its
not your turn.” Wherever you are in the rotation, please be patient
, the season will change soon.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It has been my privilege to be in a
season of serving. Many thanks to all of those whom I have learned
from as we have served together in this congregation. As I teach
primary now, we are learning about the life of Jesus. The greatest
blessing of this calling is that I've gotten to know Jesus as a
person better. After all we have to know him in order to be more like
him. He is our ultimate example. I hope your take-away message from
this talk is that charity really doesn't have to be big- its the
little every day things that add up to something, making us better
servants, & better people. Let's all try to do a little better,
my friends. I love you, thanks for loving me back- because that's
what its all about.</div>
<br />
<div id="sdfootnote1">
<div class="sdfootnote">
<br /></div>
</div>
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-53031602855454066022015-08-24T13:22:00.001-05:002015-08-24T13:22:13.197-05:00First day for my oldest 3!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEildEd0hrTrQAEqzZBLe_vMPFVV31XjozqKVFUX_GWWbetcpAww4S7xGJ7ZA94VUSjdGEMighOpxyj8dBz1ZADQWodED8Q9wOikFCHg0BYrKBm9u985GwI4Qm88e-HIVlnoL9MkplrmGMw/s1600/DSCN1295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEildEd0hrTrQAEqzZBLe_vMPFVV31XjozqKVFUX_GWWbetcpAww4S7xGJ7ZA94VUSjdGEMighOpxyj8dBz1ZADQWodED8Q9wOikFCHg0BYrKBm9u985GwI4Qm88e-HIVlnoL9MkplrmGMw/s400/DSCN1295.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Isn't she the sweetest? </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheFAXaCCtIDpB5df0BD_fCZmDIXCSeGTNpoxVQyUqNnfT1fkMaTGGvIH5PIRgNH9UXetO6laIpkG98cs4XglEzFoq6msHtwOALRMIP1hsU8W8GwYdec4uWiFps03zW1RSHo-AC0s2CsyU/s1600/DSCN1296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheFAXaCCtIDpB5df0BD_fCZmDIXCSeGTNpoxVQyUqNnfT1fkMaTGGvIH5PIRgNH9UXetO6laIpkG98cs4XglEzFoq6msHtwOALRMIP1hsU8W8GwYdec4uWiFps03zW1RSHo-AC0s2CsyU/s400/DSCN1296.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camille wanted in everybody's picture</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9aSJFJjsMorIT8MjYJlhq7-WZljBglJmjgzD9laxH0FhTrBqOk9oV41-yblKVIplz2xXNDKncFVbKSGsiTNb9b_vJxpSCSbQZSP75mnEbhGs7P1CLetLi-wcusY0TRnPz3EkY9TnYKw/s1600/DSCN1298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9aSJFJjsMorIT8MjYJlhq7-WZljBglJmjgzD9laxH0FhTrBqOk9oV41-yblKVIplz2xXNDKncFVbKSGsiTNb9b_vJxpSCSbQZSP75mnEbhGs7P1CLetLi-wcusY0TRnPz3EkY9TnYKw/s400/DSCN1298.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Sweet Sydnee </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWCwR4p8HujL8aDE_ISBqwCc7K4CsJa1Cmcypk3WaVEqdejRChhmcThCUdWd-pDo-xoakNUGcxs_Mgbehf2Ztzo69qlsJXqftIjlMWphsz0wYxaNpZmWfTHvCA_6AN26JPmCHvW4uk2w/s1600/DSCN1300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWCwR4p8HujL8aDE_ISBqwCc7K4CsJa1Cmcypk3WaVEqdejRChhmcThCUdWd-pDo-xoakNUGcxs_Mgbehf2Ztzo69qlsJXqftIjlMWphsz0wYxaNpZmWfTHvCA_6AN26JPmCHvW4uk2w/s400/DSCN1300.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ava & her little buddy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRCZZoXaUxrUdfT0u9nOIBNQGBVx2DVWp0HwrLRz4y2QBu5gmHIe5X3NoMSJYJ4kKzzZMK9B1cwuxTKEHxxtN1CGLTIWcwjgjTM_4pA4gykAi9IhZFrJ2WJGph5-3CNzTebMFB0aUI7Y/s1600/DSCN1301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRCZZoXaUxrUdfT0u9nOIBNQGBVx2DVWp0HwrLRz4y2QBu5gmHIe5X3NoMSJYJ4kKzzZMK9B1cwuxTKEHxxtN1CGLTIWcwjgjTM_4pA4gykAi9IhZFrJ2WJGph5-3CNzTebMFB0aUI7Y/s400/DSCN1301.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Because she needed one by herself too!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2gOn2TETJoBtY2wUMkrHEGQe4PEhF0WrV5ZiDvZ-FSpqnt1JOY2C-Rxx1Y8JRwJlzMc2vRd_SInql48zOPMSPnY8-3clGxJwq7nJHAN-9HA5DGcw7ZxscKCkB9-lJ0PtMi-8Ztpp3l8/s1600/DSCN1302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2gOn2TETJoBtY2wUMkrHEGQe4PEhF0WrV5ZiDvZ-FSpqnt1JOY2C-Rxx1Y8JRwJlzMc2vRd_SInql48zOPMSPnY8-3clGxJwq7nJHAN-9HA5DGcw7ZxscKCkB9-lJ0PtMi-8Ztpp3l8/s400/DSCN1302.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They wanted to get inside- can you tell they are just humoring me here?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnEjFTuSoC44teSW2ll6y1E-QD56ipyJhXEwG5HiIYZhJKy7KiZSkioAjp-zXOy_Z43WjylK54OuezqtvKL3BGlwYk0UcAQltqXWYj3531lkWLUrYwwVU6WvoEl5aKjzdCv1wWi06xlpY/s1600/DSCN1303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnEjFTuSoC44teSW2ll6y1E-QD56ipyJhXEwG5HiIYZhJKy7KiZSkioAjp-zXOy_Z43WjylK54OuezqtvKL3BGlwYk0UcAQltqXWYj3531lkWLUrYwwVU6WvoEl5aKjzdCv1wWi06xlpY/s400/DSCN1303.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our last school drop off. Doesn't she look so big?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifD7qZBtn7GzyhNRBPM6BQ2SpQPnLa7j8ou8BciQIIkJCAd96hoAjBj4WnFTMzv8SsD2F4eFlbKbolWmem8iWRea_u5TCQQ4F0XldcN9Sz6F9O6FEUvs_0aFthkuMPEnQuIJ28wu5ozc/s1600/DSCN1304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifD7qZBtn7GzyhNRBPM6BQ2SpQPnLa7j8ou8BciQIIkJCAd96hoAjBj4WnFTMzv8SsD2F4eFlbKbolWmem8iWRea_u5TCQQ4F0XldcN9Sz6F9O6FEUvs_0aFthkuMPEnQuIJ28wu5ozc/s400/DSCN1304.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoping this year is as good for Sydnee as it was for Ava!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBa8cO_4ab-vO5ff3ez6pwuXOjtZAnF6M8xmAjN6mFinQnQr09myXEj6rPsuYKu-1_8JRtgiK2DWd0ij51yHOytUxBROayantm3otTrsrC-yziqSPdHPYPDGMy0wCkm_D1TRyRmSaUF8/s1600/DSCN1305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBa8cO_4ab-vO5ff3ez6pwuXOjtZAnF6M8xmAjN6mFinQnQr09myXEj6rPsuYKu-1_8JRtgiK2DWd0ij51yHOytUxBROayantm3otTrsrC-yziqSPdHPYPDGMy0wCkm_D1TRyRmSaUF8/s400/DSCN1305.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handing over the cinnamon rolls, per tradition, to Mrs. Shae, Lucy's teacher. Two of Lucy's friends are in her class- Violet & Lizzie.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJD5lCKv6iR87qY8bX3SLLwyjfAQX45fXHyE1UFZkkObQ9Hbcnm-YENaOzuPshaaRYMcg_UVVtfK-D5cotucyG8sYG7g8raLcd4mrba01v40dYqvVFGU6sL3c_jr2w4kC3yIu629q3Jo/s1600/DSCN1306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJD5lCKv6iR87qY8bX3SLLwyjfAQX45fXHyE1UFZkkObQ9Hbcnm-YENaOzuPshaaRYMcg_UVVtfK-D5cotucyG8sYG7g8raLcd4mrba01v40dYqvVFGU6sL3c_jr2w4kC3yIu629q3Jo/s400/DSCN1306.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh my sweet girl! This one makes me teary. Sure love my little sunshine.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCuNjiutfY7-k0BxVJq45Y1TPkHIbT_1yCEPEoJvOsqFglxTzMcc2CJu60i11efrOdg01eG-uTNdukMehGdMjBLsP4hyphenhyphenOP0MKyy2g6dNlecLgLMmayyxY8PZOJbCPodRFNeoVsdwdMLCA/s1600/DSCN1307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCuNjiutfY7-k0BxVJq45Y1TPkHIbT_1yCEPEoJvOsqFglxTzMcc2CJu60i11efrOdg01eG-uTNdukMehGdMjBLsP4hyphenhyphenOP0MKyy2g6dNlecLgLMmayyxY8PZOJbCPodRFNeoVsdwdMLCA/s400/DSCN1307.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daddy's turn- and a better view of Lucy's cute dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ixNfyHtPABU0Rf7bbusAttM9Gu84RNLr-wma2F9NrzWWND0xx0r5CDUPuoIPjSZ1jVNIyTIXlbdSNelxfJzpKVDau63qKIzLuwTJDb1M4IXO-IhIXsJRX5GqX5EKD32nsJisGzAzdWI/s1600/DSCN1309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ixNfyHtPABU0Rf7bbusAttM9Gu84RNLr-wma2F9NrzWWND0xx0r5CDUPuoIPjSZ1jVNIyTIXlbdSNelxfJzpKVDau63qKIzLuwTJDb1M4IXO-IhIXsJRX5GqX5EKD32nsJisGzAzdWI/s400/DSCN1309.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucy's bestie, Lizzie Burns is in the same class.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well this morning at 3:30 Lucy and Camille came and visited us. Insert yawn here. We asked them to go back to bed then when the alarm went off for Todd's normal time to get up- we slept on...then when I looked at the clock and realized it was much later than I thought, I spent the rest of the morning in a bit of a frenzy. Luckily/blessedly- it all worked out! All the girls went to school with their previously picked out outfits and accessories, new shoes, backpacks, and hair done. I curled Ava's hair with rollers, straightened Sydnee's with the Chi, and french braided Lucy's. They all looked so pretty this morning. I am anxious for them to get home and tell me all about it! I have a special snack planned today too- peanut butter kiss cookies. Because last night was a little crazy we totally forgot to give our girls their books this year- and we were going to do it this morning, but it was too crazy! So we'll do that when they get home too.<br />
I have set up a homework area for them again. Last year we did this but then they just ended up using the diningroom table, which is fine too, but I'm hopeful this set up will work out. We shall see! I want to make sure it is all ready today- I'll take a picture later. :)<br />
Todd took the day off today so he could do drop-off and be here when they came home. He's such a good Daddy. Because he is here I made him go grocery shopping with me! I could have gone alone, but Aldi is much more fun with help! So we did a lot of shopping and now are enjoying Camille "sleeping" and Cora cooing on the blanket. We have a little lunch organization station going on in the fridge, snack baskets are full, homework area set up- so its off to a good start here. It was a lot of work on my part to get all that set up, but I figure that if I don't start off organized, I won't last!<br />
Here's to happy first days! I can't wait to see them in a few hours!<br />
xoxo<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
</div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-79669116466658779192015-07-17T23:47:00.001-05:002015-07-17T23:51:25.709-05:00The donut lady<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtahf4PUvcQn6zMx3hzhCk2eJldp956oZY5VNDrnfZI93hOb9Qo6QSmljf_9B3jAvnCVE-MCSC5SKJw-KHlkikL5DRbmQre_Yo086zqGJS9zEVFjTjgnHe9WWCr4kAyQk5gWKSqkwJN3U/s1600/assorted-donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtahf4PUvcQn6zMx3hzhCk2eJldp956oZY5VNDrnfZI93hOb9Qo6QSmljf_9B3jAvnCVE-MCSC5SKJw-KHlkikL5DRbmQre_Yo086zqGJS9zEVFjTjgnHe9WWCr4kAyQk5gWKSqkwJN3U/s320/assorted-donuts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>I've shared this story many times over the years, but a friend asked me to write it down, so I thought I would share it here too. To all the donut ladies out there...thanks.</i></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
</span>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
When I worked at Sheltering Arms, a shelter for children under 18 that were temporarily placed in CPS care, I became a witness to many types of service. As an organization that provided shelter for children, we were often served by the good-meaning people of the community- and most often at Christmastime where people would come in droves to help these "less fortunate children." Unfortunately, the rest of the year, we were just a building tucked into a neighborhood that was passed on a regular basis. In all my time working at the shelter, there were two individuals that stuck out to me in a way that changed my perspective on service forever: the doctor and the donut lady.</span><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As a supervisor, one of my main responsibilities was to protect the identity of the children to any visitors. The home was built behind a fence that required entry from someone within to let a guest inside the gate. On one particularly normal day the buzzer went off and the caller said he was there to donate clothes for the children. I went to greet him with my clipboard and tax exemption sheet in hand. It was my job to sort the clothing and determine a value. The man delivering the clothes was a little put-off by the formality of the form and the process I was taking. Part of the process was to fill out what the donations were and to assess their value. Once I had filled out the vital information, this man- whom I later learned was a doctor in our community- took the form and filled in the value amount. According to this man, the bag of unwanted, used clothing that he had stuffed into a black garbage bag had a value of $500. He signed the form and left quickly. When I returned the sheet I was in shock. After speaking to a more seasoned employee she explained that sometimes people filled out that form solely for the tax refund benefits. The donators at Christmastime were good people, trying to do something to feel good about their efforts during a season when giving is emphasized. The doctor? His motivation? Although I can't say for certain, had nothing to do with the children who's lives had been turned upside down. It wasn't really about them.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There is one other person that I vividly remember, although I only spoke to her once. I don't know her name, although I wish I did. At the shelter she was affectionately called "the donut lady". Each week, around the same time she would show up to the gate with heavy bags, filled with a variety of donuts. Not just the plain glazed-which happen to be my favorite- there would be donuts of every color- sprinkled, with chocolate, fillings, and even the more expensive sausage & cheese kolaches. These were the real deal, stuff-in-your-mouth deliciousness in fried/baked/frosted form. It was loved and quickly devoured by the excited expectant children waiting for their sweet treat. The donut lady didn't ever stay to receive praise, she just came. Every week. Never asked to return. We didn't have to, she always did. The one time I spoke to our donut lady was because she was going out of town and she wanted to make sure the children would know not to expect her. She never asked for a tax form either but I imagine a weekly trip to the donut store with dozens of goods can add up.</span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It has been many years since I worked at the shelter. It was one of the most challenging jobs and as a recent college graduate, it was often overwhelming. Jolts of the real world shoved into a Monday-Friday work day. I learned a lot from my time there, but one of the most valuable lessons I learned is that when it comes to helping others- there are two types of approaches. There are those who serve because it serves them and their purpose.- whether that be a bigger tax deduction or a feel-good-about-ourselves moment at Christmastime. And there are also "donut ladies" who serve in small ways, without being asked, without being thanked, and without stopping to receive their reward. In our world, filled with the giveme givemes- wouldn't it be wonderful if there were a few more donut ladies? Let's do a little better, you and me, dig a little deeper and find a way to bring a little more love into the world. Consistent, altruistic service- with or without the frosting, its up to you.</span><br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-37380548525250416622015-05-10T10:12:00.003-05:002015-05-10T10:13:25.130-05:00Our tiniest princess<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I figure I need to write all of this out before I forget it, plus it is fun to go back and read the details that become forgotten later on. :) So here it goes...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSimINxM9wtg_WfGuZlsXniWpDI49PZ57KuTx29OnMekGhc3G99iaXS9i_rUqc3n6PV4l4Cu4tFG6G7jewspra5sVFnQEpnqZEQs2t9qktTaaYtVSoIdZtAlmDK-UrHdLVLw1viOTzlUU/s1600/DSCN1069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSimINxM9wtg_WfGuZlsXniWpDI49PZ57KuTx29OnMekGhc3G99iaXS9i_rUqc3n6PV4l4Cu4tFG6G7jewspra5sVFnQEpnqZEQs2t9qktTaaYtVSoIdZtAlmDK-UrHdLVLw1viOTzlUU/s400/DSCN1069.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCr6L1qcZotMkHIiRjW8wPrlvdsC6BufQt1bClyvMXu_0xIdzD83tFFtyUwdHID_5Hf7BHDPc5Gkz6DK4RMM-LPQosCJ1Lfy0E6WgonLWSX1PttHnJNSg3dvSt5ykxNWvwGxc7v8SFxuA/s1600/DSCN1071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCr6L1qcZotMkHIiRjW8wPrlvdsC6BufQt1bClyvMXu_0xIdzD83tFFtyUwdHID_5Hf7BHDPc5Gkz6DK4RMM-LPQosCJ1Lfy0E6WgonLWSX1PttHnJNSg3dvSt5ykxNWvwGxc7v8SFxuA/s400/DSCN1071.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0QFunDmxgeFE13PONj91LccAISEjN37h586g2GpUPC-By2CspfYwZG4KkC5isT4SMM4TNxPzIcWs_8YorfTgqUAOA9Ty7oBz-l07fvURJUy6UMCTs46744PUVrzprms3qPSxqO4n2AI/s1600/IMG_0285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0QFunDmxgeFE13PONj91LccAISEjN37h586g2GpUPC-By2CspfYwZG4KkC5isT4SMM4TNxPzIcWs_8YorfTgqUAOA9Ty7oBz-l07fvURJUy6UMCTs46744PUVrzprms3qPSxqO4n2AI/s400/IMG_0285.JPG" width="400" /></a>Last week, probably Thursday, I began to experience some early signs of labor but since I was determined to not be impatient with Cora's arrival I just noted them and kept moving. Saturday Todd and I had our last "before the baby comes" alone time where we walked all over Tomball- the farmer's market, antique stores, etc... It was a lot of fun and totally exhausting at the same time. I took a hefty nap once we got home. On Sunday I noticed I had some back pain and although I had read just the night before signs of early labor, I thought nothing of it. Now I realize the back pain was my first indication of a contraction. Sunday was a great day, though, because Todd and I got a lot done that we had wanted to get done. The weekend had been one full of preparation for the upcoming week- the house was clean, laundry done, groceries bought (oh my goodness I went to the store alone on Saturday- glad my water didn't break then!), loads of the projects we had been working on were complete. Were we completely ready? No, there were a few things we still needed to accomplish to feel completely ready, but the house, the kid stuff, and all the important stuff had been crossed off the to-do list. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0EuCrY8o5_46D634TbOUy6RFZP9owxWMHc_lIzYaSm1ao1rv77JsrforADNsWoCW6y6w7JCBqGDbVAm__CmSVqGp6fKJzUn3PeT4wI75RtcOl50Y0agaNyHKKr5F50cm5sAbvl2X7co/s1600/IMG_0187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0EuCrY8o5_46D634TbOUy6RFZP9owxWMHc_lIzYaSm1ao1rv77JsrforADNsWoCW6y6w7JCBqGDbVAm__CmSVqGp6fKJzUn3PeT4wI75RtcOl50Y0agaNyHKKr5F50cm5sAbvl2X7co/s400/IMG_0187.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working on my bedroom wall...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYvVLYofdQ5E7hmYLOCKan-828x17m4kPMjJQz9RL4S-RI1T1gVIopPrMoNwig-X-hQOk9WdLS42F4MxM9Zualo-zBCmr1AB-vyt48f4nsa8UpQcdNglpzJdMScMcUi9e69XRHwTyunk/s1600/IMG_0288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYvVLYofdQ5E7hmYLOCKan-828x17m4kPMjJQz9RL4S-RI1T1gVIopPrMoNwig-X-hQOk9WdLS42F4MxM9Zualo-zBCmr1AB-vyt48f4nsa8UpQcdNglpzJdMScMcUi9e69XRHwTyunk/s400/IMG_0288.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished! And I made a bunch of the stuff myself!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Despite all of the signs (that I was missing/ignoring), Sunday afternoon we loaded up and headed to church. I waddled around receiving words of sympathy and suggestions on how to get this show on the road. Todd and I subbed for Ava's primary class and then I was off to conduct the Relief Society meeting. In opening exercises I joked about still being here but that I promised I wouldn't be here next week. Someone from the audience joked that we ought to all say a prayer for me right then and there- I joked back saying that we needed a moment of silence. Then we sang a hymn and the prayer was said by my sweet visiting teacher, Jennie. In the prayer she prayed for me and the safe delivery of the baby. Very sweet and I promise I only blushed a little at the attention. Once I gave all of the announcements and turned the time over to Cindy for the lesson, I sat toward the back next to Jennie and listened to the lesson. 10 minutes before our meeting was over I felt a small gush. I wasn't certain that it was my water breaking, but that's what it felt like- so I picked up my phone and walked out of the meeting straight for the bathroom. My water has broken on its own 2 other times and I knew the potential for a flood was a reality. I texted Todd "I think my water just broke." Then texted 5 of my friends hoping that one of them had their phone on them "I'm in the bathroom, I think my water just broke."<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZt1kSUs0qrQzuTG9VKmBC3r_1l5gWDdmQ65-YjTVGAVBn-WIuF6KbqJs9G_uQIVzJ8ex0XYbx3QofXPcNa4q14Jf6ZeILJUQwFuCYWdcblzelYuWpybTRdI5jgTCxyJYQQ9QaPZPgfo/s1600/IMG_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZt1kSUs0qrQzuTG9VKmBC3r_1l5gWDdmQ65-YjTVGAVBn-WIuF6KbqJs9G_uQIVzJ8ex0XYbx3QofXPcNa4q14Jf6ZeILJUQwFuCYWdcblzelYuWpybTRdI5jgTCxyJYQQ9QaPZPgfo/s400/IMG_0174.JPG" width="300" /></a>Poor Todd. I gave him no directions, so he goes to look for me in the Relief Society room, then realizes I'm probably in the bathroom. He is standing outside the women's bathroom debating on how he can get to me when Taryn and Amy come racing around the corner. They come in full of excitement and questions. So far, there is no big puddle or mess- its actually just a dribble really (your welcome for the visual). Amy & Taryn spring into action telling me what I am going to do, what they are going to do, and then they escort me out of the bathroom and take off to put the plan in action. Todd sees me, and we decide he needs to tell the girls what is going on, so he leaves. For a moment my team has left me alone to walk down the hall to the van...all the while hoping my water doesn't leave a trail behind me. Luckily, Evelyn comes out in the hall ready to help- she walks behind me just in case the trickle becomes a flood. We make it to the van and Ashley joins us as well, offering her help. I have no towel or blanket or anything to sit on- so its a good thing we live so close to the church and have leather seats! Taryn and Amy meet back up with us to get car seats and then Todd and I head home to get all of our things and head to the hospital.<br />
<br />
Once we get home we are still kinda like dear-in-headlights despite the fact that this is baby #5. I remember that I hadn't set out Lucy's clothes for the week- so I go do that real quick, then make sure I have everything together for Hawaiian Haystacks for dinner for the girls and Taryn's family who will be staying with them until my parents arrive. I had already made the rice and the chicken + cream of chicken soup was in the crock pot. All set. Toppings set out. OK- last minute stuff thrown into the bags. I change clothes- what does one wear to the hospital when you know that you are going to gush all over it? As we are leaving Taryn pulls up with the kids, we say our goodbyes and good lucks- then we head to the hospital. On the way I begin to feel real contractions, they are 5-6 minutes apart and strong. We are both nervous for the night ahead.<br />
<br />
Once we get there we go to the check in and they say that they have no proof of my pre-registration. As a result, I get to fill out some forms, initial here and there, all the while sitting on 2 bathroom towels and intensifying contractions. Eventually- and this may be only after a few minutes I'm not sure- I tell Todd to just fill out everything else. I'm done. Did I mention we forgot to grab my wallet? Well- it wasn't on my list and I wasn't driving- it slipped my mind. It didn't help the situation, but eventually they let us walk to the OB intake/triage area. We are put in a tiny room and have more questions to answer. They check my progress and I'm only measuring a 2 or 3, so there appears to be no rush. They go to put in an IV and my veins roll. UGH. They try twice in my arm and eventually concede to do it in my hand...which hurts worse and is generally uncomfortable, but hey- pain is relative at this point, right? The contractions at this point are irregular and my blood pressure has spiked, so they are turning me on my side- which really hurts. The nurse explains that there is a C-section about to start so they have asked for the anesthesiologist to come right away for the epidural. Good! 'Cuz this hurts! They are ready to move me into the delivery room. We are getting closer.<br />
<br />
Everything goes pretty fast once we move in there. They tell me that the C-section has begun so its going to be at least an hour before I can get an epidural. Fine. I tell myself that I can survive an hour. At this time I am in constant pain. The contractions have become so irregular that there is no reprieve in the pain and it hurts so bad that its making me nauseous. The nurse leaves to go get some pain medicine that will also help the nausea, while we wait for the epidural and the doctor to be finished with the C-section. While she is gone, I can feel the baby really low and the desire to push. Todd runs to get the nurse and she checks my progress, I'm measuring a 7 and the baby's head is right there. No time for any medicine, no epidural, and that doctor better hurry. The rest goes pretty fast, well, for everyone but me! Todd urges the nurse to hurry because once we get to this point in my deliveries, the rest goes very quickly. The nurse calls out to have the hospital's OB doc to come quickly. I feel like I should push and the nurse tells me to try to take a deep breath and wait for the doctor. Ya, right. I push slightly and the doctor comes in, ready to go. He tells me that I'm in charge- to push when I feel it and he will guide me through it. So far things have not gone at all like we had planned, but this doctor was the best option for me, a tender mercy. Funny side note- my actual doctor whom I adore checked the hospital log at 5pm to make sure none of her patients had checked in, she checked again at 9pm and was shocked to see my name had appeared with the notation "delivered".<br />
<br />
Now pause. Let's have a moment here. If you've ever been a patient at a hospital they ask you to rate your pain throughout your time there. I never really know what to rate my pain. I don't want to be a wimp but I also don't want to underestimate if there's a way to make it less. Well, this pain is a 10. Big sad, crying out face on the scale. Ouchy McOucherson. Have you ever seen a movie or TV show where they have someone delivering a baby and they scream? They do that because it hurts. A lot. Todd says he can still hear me scream. <br />
<br />
I pushed 2 or 3 times all the while feeling like I could pass out from the pain at any moment- and then she's here! Just like that, 2 hours and 30 minutes after leaving the church parking lot and our baby has finally arrived! Exactly 1 week early. Right after the delivery they place her on me, all fresh and new- but I was still in pain and my head was super fuzzy. It takes me like 15 minutes before I am able to appreciate that it is over, our sweet girl- waited and anticipated for- is here. She is our tiniest princess weighing in at 7 lbs, 4 oz and 18 3/4 inches long.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvCPvJZH1SmM6jonl3Oyk4kHa1j5cYDqPGqIIQua8vDLiTTzlfk-NIw3ucuiUD6FWUAYmq5xlwyIe5iqYDnY7bLC5wn3xuRfwMAiVaSFyZbNG4uoy9naV6l3V4K067Uo2rg1uzKEwJCI/s1600/IMG_0289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvCPvJZH1SmM6jonl3Oyk4kHa1j5cYDqPGqIIQua8vDLiTTzlfk-NIw3ucuiUD6FWUAYmq5xlwyIe5iqYDnY7bLC5wn3xuRfwMAiVaSFyZbNG4uoy9naV6l3V4K067Uo2rg1uzKEwJCI/s400/IMG_0289.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Today Cora Adeline is 1 week old. That's hard to believe, but it happens when you're on a newborn's sleep schedule and the days all meld into each other. At this point, we can't say she looks like anyone in particular, although we can tell that she is one of ours...and probably leans more toward looking like Todd than me, which should surprise no one. She is a very relaxed baby. Sweet and tiny. Its amazing how much you can love someone so much and only have known them for 6 days.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuK2IABEz1mXNSC23k_6_HAGR2nj5-PTNa-RRiUDkamalw_SI0CTQkJLIctaQxSWt1TJe37FhlUGfG3fwLZhXY8w6T20FaPJ606l37sPkRuj5p8vca86eQ4DmkXNj-U-Ma9ETLaDNR84/s1600/IMG_0295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuK2IABEz1mXNSC23k_6_HAGR2nj5-PTNa-RRiUDkamalw_SI0CTQkJLIctaQxSWt1TJe37FhlUGfG3fwLZhXY8w6T20FaPJ606l37sPkRuj5p8vca86eQ4DmkXNj-U-Ma9ETLaDNR84/s400/IMG_0295.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFY6cNOa6Vu1mQAYU28FczhANei2WladVZuMt-HZDNY3GED1n9kR7BpLqv7Gb7-yUrgWOp6oI3_eklifEWCgAMQElaRm57S6QbXgOAUg_bVS-einx2juTHS6bHou_0UNZ7YK6f-G5_yes/s1600/IMG_0299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFY6cNOa6Vu1mQAYU28FczhANei2WladVZuMt-HZDNY3GED1n9kR7BpLqv7Gb7-yUrgWOp6oI3_eklifEWCgAMQElaRm57S6QbXgOAUg_bVS-einx2juTHS6bHou_0UNZ7YK6f-G5_yes/s400/IMG_0299.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugXk8yMopoaAU2DmU3OxyP2WgkUtBYTbKvj79wktVIz-q_esOihxYuHOEPFhlUqHGVSxkvC8QbGJrR4N1aIdm1Q8iOl0qFbKJAgNHpepZowzDHOH0MEcTi9sdd0P7f_XCjvKqNb2jV-Q/s1600/IMG_0300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugXk8yMopoaAU2DmU3OxyP2WgkUtBYTbKvj79wktVIz-q_esOihxYuHOEPFhlUqHGVSxkvC8QbGJrR4N1aIdm1Q8iOl0qFbKJAgNHpepZowzDHOH0MEcTi9sdd0P7f_XCjvKqNb2jV-Q/s400/IMG_0300.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBLV_lAqfnO6UxXd1udUVbp-5ZCO8UtO-zQcpEqVKnfhrCyF3-jNO6XrbBTC-2HVRhq8ryed2_dqzpneTn4D673ODWW9wlOO3-q6gZPZFMIGPzJ5-hEkPZFvPxVnIiOw1vETnpta5ziw/s1600/IMG_0342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBLV_lAqfnO6UxXd1udUVbp-5ZCO8UtO-zQcpEqVKnfhrCyF3-jNO6XrbBTC-2HVRhq8ryed2_dqzpneTn4D673ODWW9wlOO3-q6gZPZFMIGPzJ5-hEkPZFvPxVnIiOw1vETnpta5ziw/s400/IMG_0342.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love LOVE this picture. Cora is completely adored by her sisters every waking moment. My sister Leah came to help us during our first week of adjustment. I'm going to miss that help tomorrow when real life begins.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I had a moment with Cora yesterday. We were in my bedroom alone and I was looking into those big precious newborn eyes and I just had this thought- of all the mothers in the world, she chose me. It's a huge responsibility, one that I do not take likely, and although her arrival has been unexpected in every way from the very beginning, I feel so blessed to be on this journey with her. My number 5.<br />
<br />
Today is Mother's Day. Being a parent is the most difficult thing I've ever done. Its an every day struggle to balance the good/better/best and keep the bad influences away. I can't say that I go to sleep every night feeling accomplished or that I've done my job to the best of my ability- but I can say that I've tried. Cora's initials are CAB, which we joke is short for caboose. The completion of our family. Over the upcoming days, weeks, months, and years as I grow into the role of a mother- I want to remember these precious little moments when these little girls of mine were new to the world, to me, to life. Their fresh start, their new beginning...a journey that is bound to be filled with twists and turns, trials, and tribulations, blessings and tender mercies at every step. What a blessing.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to the world, Cora Adeline!</span><br />
We're so glad you're here.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNg72TTcC6DBG28iN5XBFhsetN7cFV4oJNWJR3Hx6Et7kpFAl3jdb5Ul5HpmVi2FdvRvLwhl92PObsJUXGoB-k0IIY-Tm810QVuOSrp_1dP9k7UOOCIHYgPf-W-YO_2sUQXxPHbD8N4eY/s1600/IMG_0347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNg72TTcC6DBG28iN5XBFhsetN7cFV4oJNWJR3Hx6Et7kpFAl3jdb5Ul5HpmVi2FdvRvLwhl92PObsJUXGoB-k0IIY-Tm810QVuOSrp_1dP9k7UOOCIHYgPf-W-YO_2sUQXxPHbD8N4eY/s400/IMG_0347.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Mommy photo shoot for the birth announcements.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivBYiK4uoYj_MkDhGXUs5Cvit-rD54dYETrds2EbsJ1YIIdRBayzxmuHhTtT6EA-0jY89MPuDaeO9UAFvuRnogDoK-XPdJqoSg1E5-dtISXap6V2sA0iTlbh-C58fyaxaGHEY2J_WWqZw/s1600/IMG_0336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivBYiK4uoYj_MkDhGXUs5Cvit-rD54dYETrds2EbsJ1YIIdRBayzxmuHhTtT6EA-0jY89MPuDaeO9UAFvuRnogDoK-XPdJqoSg1E5-dtISXap6V2sA0iTlbh-C58fyaxaGHEY2J_WWqZw/s400/IMG_0336.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friends decorated the house to welcome us home, such a fun surprise.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_93JK3UH-9ISXwU6CgO6ElCJ_ynoP51sQou_kcHPli5-ggS_UkWwAdlTWyXi5mLJ7X2cqwEtDFa5vb63X9mWoL-QO-vTpiqMOjNqaXdMoi6du4H-uRFAGpCUMmwR-qVXA06FaQ9tyIo/s1600/IMG_0333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_93JK3UH-9ISXwU6CgO6ElCJ_ynoP51sQou_kcHPli5-ggS_UkWwAdlTWyXi5mLJ7X2cqwEtDFa5vb63X9mWoL-QO-vTpiqMOjNqaXdMoi6du4H-uRFAGpCUMmwR-qVXA06FaQ9tyIo/s400/IMG_0333.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZK3gsN2nJZHsd7X5u5T1D3ji2j8IDHqJWycEgI32Ww2qtU4KWhpLMR0YbnmyEFRbtxfxA9KJOOjNnfCNgpvYOUSFoVSAzq9bTGnpAXUAPkAASdzPW1u7xEjqbw8myCEMu4-XTvacEZU/s1600/IMG_0332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZK3gsN2nJZHsd7X5u5T1D3ji2j8IDHqJWycEgI32Ww2qtU4KWhpLMR0YbnmyEFRbtxfxA9KJOOjNnfCNgpvYOUSFoVSAzq9bTGnpAXUAPkAASdzPW1u7xEjqbw8myCEMu4-XTvacEZU/s400/IMG_0332.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
</div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-75752386596398920002015-04-02T09:31:00.001-05:002015-04-02T21:05:52.610-05:00The Awesomeness of Todd<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today is Todd's birthday. Like most hard working individuals, he has to work, but we will get to go have lunch with him at his office, so that will be nice. Every year I make a cake for Todd, almost always from scratch. He usually challenges me with something I haven't done before, which has been fun. I can guarantee most of them have tasted great, but not all of them have looked appetizing. Cake decorating has been a skill I've had to learn. Just see any of our pre-children cakes. :) Today I am making a triple chocolate cake, per request. Although it is a new recipe to me, and an intense one, I'm excited to give him something special.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglGLK4hPvMX9mar9CEVqDJk2dq1YQl03jMk7kVk8kit6skqLvUfiQpBfeHxJwdsUGydOoo7QGcwXYwqyvPan2dsD-4J6HvX4qcGyBfY86L4lsy7Nr3y28Hx4qBkEi5FJ8Lefb9iZbe8Y88/s1600/photo-713514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglGLK4hPvMX9mar9CEVqDJk2dq1YQl03jMk7kVk8kit6skqLvUfiQpBfeHxJwdsUGydOoo7QGcwXYwqyvPan2dsD-4J6HvX4qcGyBfY86L4lsy7Nr3y28Hx4qBkEi5FJ8Lefb9iZbe8Y88/s1600/photo-713514.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
And since it is 5am and I am in full insomniac pregnancy mode, I thought I would write a <i>little</i> blog post letting you know some of the awesomeness of this guy whom has blessed my life more than any other and continues to do so on a daily basis. So the rest of the blog will be filled with all sorts of bragging, but its the truth- and if you can't handle the truth, then just skip the rest and make sure to wish him a Happy birthday. Or just look at the pictures. They're pretty fun.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUX9V9w7D4Own_rjgazbGuppVPmLUuyCFa7iSXF3f0G3RJkgu171xRYbg6fJP21sU_nInJnapAmNumW0TB77bcyn2e7S_nUbIuKD_CI7Q-A36YlAGlpaBJoR5IGBjJB-jxV7SLNGF1M-95/s1600/photo-742585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUX9V9w7D4Own_rjgazbGuppVPmLUuyCFa7iSXF3f0G3RJkgu171xRYbg6fJP21sU_nInJnapAmNumW0TB77bcyn2e7S_nUbIuKD_CI7Q-A36YlAGlpaBJoR5IGBjJB-jxV7SLNGF1M-95/s1600/photo-742585.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
Todd and I met in college after he had served a 2 year church mission on Argentina. During his time away, his sweet teenage brother passed away in a car accident, Naturally, it was a devastating event for his family. The morning that Todd found out, he had read a scripture passage that talked about the death of a loved one. I can't site the verses but in them he felt challenged to commit himself that no matter what happened in his life, he was committed to the Lord and his mission. He decided that despite unforeseen challenges, he was resolved to be a better missionary that morning. Little did he know what was coming. I tell you this because I've always told Todd that this is the reason I married him. His family needed/wanted/pleaded for him to come home (and with good reason) but he chose to stay and teach the people of Argentina about Christ, redemption, and that families could be together forever. Despite his own grief, he chose the Lord and overnight, he became a more powerful witness of that truth with his own experience. Courageous.<br />
Once his time was up, Todd returned home to grieve alongside his family. He was a source of strength and comfort to them, so instead of returning to school right away, he spent time with them. Several months after he had returned, he visited A&M with several high school seniors from his home town during our annual Senior Week. My roommate, Dana, who had also just returned from a mission was so excited to introduce her roommates to one of her favorite people. As you can imagine, after being away for over 2 years- Todd saw a lot of old friends and met a bunch of new people. If you were to ask him about the first time he met me, he would say that he doesn't remember it, which is fine. He was the blue light special and he doesn't remember names easily, so I've forgiven him. Honestly, my impression was that he was a cute guy and seemed very nice, but that was about the extent of it.<br />
The next day our institute went to an Aggie game. It was raining, and as you know Aggies stand the whole game. Somehow I was placed by Todd. I got to know him a little bit and learned that he would be returning to A&M in the Spring, so I would be seeing him more. On the other side of Todd was his new girl friend. Boy did she think he was something else. I commented to her later what a nice guy he was, and that he had really dreamy eyes. She whole-heartedly agreed and said- oh and he sings too, you should hear his voice! Obviously a some point they break up, but I can't recall the details because it wasn't really important to me at the time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Once Todd returned and was single- he spent a lot of time at my house. He hung out with Dana, and had developed a crush on another one of Dana's roommates- Amanda. :) But after a few dates, Amanda let him know that she was no interested. No matter. Todd continued to hang out at the house, because we were all friends by this point. Todd and I distinctly remember being at a party once, celebrating Dana's engagement, where we sat next to each other and he put his arm around me. His thoughts- it's just Lindsey. Mine- it's just Todd. No sparks, just buds. Todd became one of my closest friends that year. I remember that if I needed a date for something and couldn't find someone- or didn't feel up to asking, then I could call on him, and we would go as friends, no questions asked. Funny how things change.<br />
In the Fall of 1999, something changed. I can't really explain it, and neither can Todd. Divine intervention, maybe? I'm not sure. Amanda and I were over at Todd's apartment hanging out and we spoke openly about our dating woes. We just weren't getting asked out on many dates lately and we couldn't figure out why- this whole scenario makes me LAUGH OUT LOUD, but it goes to show you how close we were with Todd and his roommate, Stephen. In that conversation Amanda and I made some sort of comment about how there just weren't any good datable guys out there. Todd and Stephen took this as a challenge- they were going to find us some good guys! And somewhere in that moment Todd though- wait, I'm a good guy!<br />
At the Halloween dance, which is so fitting if you know us now, I began to develop feelings for Todd. It was SO WEIRD and I just didn't know what to do about it. He was my buddy. My friend! WHY?!? WHY was I having feelings for him?! It would mess our whole groove up! As it turns out, around that same time Todd was struggling with the same thoughts and feelings. Naturally, we turned to our roommates. This makes me laugh. Our roommates spoke to the other person, confirming the feelings. Then within a small time frame- days, weeks, I can't remember. He confessed to me that he liked me and was interested in dating me. Naturally, I already knew- and instead of being accepting and exciting- I said something along the lines of- its about time! He should have known better then. :)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczoX1wTOfGY5rquGuhKUD15AmvQwK8OBAMWAQEjjNA3tttyLhszt8TxZu0j-eIGLINjZmhcHfajcVqqOgtu2QRCgv5ydBDOWIVlh2NsV3q3bZBvb8XFYlIFxlpdI3VP6iyX8UEoTkwpc/s1600/dating2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczoX1wTOfGY5rquGuhKUD15AmvQwK8OBAMWAQEjjNA3tttyLhszt8TxZu0j-eIGLINjZmhcHfajcVqqOgtu2QRCgv5ydBDOWIVlh2NsV3q3bZBvb8XFYlIFxlpdI3VP6iyX8UEoTkwpc/s1600/dating2.jpg" height="295" width="320" /></a>We dated for a year. It was so very awkward at first, but eventually, our feelings grew and we were inseparable...which wasn't that big of a change because we already spent a lot of time together. In the spring of 2000, Todd excepted a co-op or internship in Waco. He came back during the summer, but left again in the Fall. A lot of our courtship was spent on the phone and on the weekends. At MARS, where he worked, he made friends and valuable work experience. He loved being there and felt at home in his profession. His co-workers praised his work ethic and were happy to have him on their team.<br />
That Fall was a big one. During those months Todd and I would break-up (for 6 days), get back together, visit his family in Florida together and on December 1st, we become engaged. Married in May. Our first year of marriage, which many say is the hardest, was not hard. The things that couples often struggle with- personal habits, annoying unknown traits, etc- were not there since we had spent a year as buddies. We knew our quirks. We were also very busy. Todd finishing up his degree while I supported us with mine.<br />
In December of 2002, Todd graduated, then we moved in with my parents for a few months, and then we moved to Nacogdoches for his first job with Tyson Foods. We loved living there. We loved our first home, we loved the people, we loved serving together at church. It was a wonderful beginning. I LOVED my job, but Todd only tolerated his- and eventually his discomfort would move us again. <br />
In Nacogdoches we added our first little girl, Ava. When my water broke at midnight, while I was tidying up my office...because it had to be done right then...I went upstairs and woke up Todd. Two intelligent people totally dumbfounded. What do we do now?! So Todd called our doctor, who sweetly said- "Go to the hospital. I'll see you in the morning."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Mw32taAlR8p7E_cOGfAM_Alb3JiJdRRvFBhTQ2Dm8FSpjNMIFfp5nM3k7klKqkb5h3tRndRekRU9VThhJhG48S336TottU9HQYfAAA9HLGZ5yCviRdnfZ579vdEfUnNdcYufhYSr0wg/s1600/DSC00307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Mw32taAlR8p7E_cOGfAM_Alb3JiJdRRvFBhTQ2Dm8FSpjNMIFfp5nM3k7klKqkb5h3tRndRekRU9VThhJhG48S336TottU9HQYfAAA9HLGZ5yCviRdnfZ579vdEfUnNdcYufhYSr0wg/s1600/DSC00307.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
12 hours later, she had arrived. Todd was so very sweet during delivery. It was not an easy delivery and he struggled to watch me in pain. At one point I told him that I was done. That I was too tired and I didn't want to do it anymore. I remember he looked at me in panic, not realizing that I was fully aware that I had no choice in the matter. Once Ava arrived, Todd's concern continued to be all about me. 12 hours he stood there, holding my hand, talking me through it all, and now what? I gave him permission to go talk to her, look at her. Reluctantly, he walked away and I got a glimpse of the father he would become. So tender.<br />
Todd's unrest at work would send him searching for something better and he reached out to friends at MARS, who took immediate interest, and before we knew it- we were on our way to Waco once again. I would arrive already pregnant with Sydnee. We lived with amazing friends for 4 months. Ava would take her first steps in their home, we would all come down with the stomach flu, and we made lasting friendships with the Prices for their generosity.<br />
The house in Nac sold, and we moved into a duplex just before welcoming Sydnee. This time Todd knew what to do, "Hello sweet baby girl. I am your Daddy. We are so excited to meet you." Since the girls were so close together, we became experts in carrying two children at the same time. When Todd would get home from work he check on me to make sure I didn't need any help, then could be found playing with his girls, doing whatever he could to make them laugh or smile. They loved me, but they worshipped their Daddy, still do.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WU4A0RIdG3y39L_YNc-J-cFXPDGAYmjZ2u4tNPZwl_Jf0kmAebgnUoj5Ii7WqSt15aqJkm97f2MP_pUYmfCvskQV2Ix4DS0sBm4_rZW2U25WOqgBKc0HPsLFPZOJt-I1TCo7Cbg5ZaA/s1600/June-at+the+arbor+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WU4A0RIdG3y39L_YNc-J-cFXPDGAYmjZ2u4tNPZwl_Jf0kmAebgnUoj5Ii7WqSt15aqJkm97f2MP_pUYmfCvskQV2Ix4DS0sBm4_rZW2U25WOqgBKc0HPsLFPZOJt-I1TCo7Cbg5ZaA/s1600/June-at+the+arbor+017.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
We loved living in Waco. We made life-long friends, and countless memories. Todd continued to work hard to provide, but was home in a blink of an eye if I needed him, a benefit of working close to home. One day I was working on something and Ava & Sydnee were off playing by themselves. I was in their room, but they had left me focused on my task. Eventually I would discover a large amount of freshly cut hair in their bathroom, alongside 1 budding stylist and one massively chopped head of hair. I called Todd that day. I had never been so mad in my life. It's really funny to me now, but at the time, I couldn't believe Ava would do that! Todd came home and took them to Super Cuts. Sydnee was forced into a pixie cut and Ava, who had trimmed her own hair, would have some strangely short locks mixed into her shorter hairdo. Those girls! Wish I could find that picture, its classic.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8bppux5_h4rYatm1wKDoNIfQnUoq9sdV_cwnyzuv51C_pfFwAuUie50OnSDATxLK_uULvyzw0iO4jc6seScqZDnJQqbU3Cnfa-D4ulXX6p2nzLRn6MXdNoAF9yZmAMDR7fpyJ87HPn10/s1600/480979_10151337390228525_871400600_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8bppux5_h4rYatm1wKDoNIfQnUoq9sdV_cwnyzuv51C_pfFwAuUie50OnSDATxLK_uULvyzw0iO4jc6seScqZDnJQqbU3Cnfa-D4ulXX6p2nzLRn6MXdNoAF9yZmAMDR7fpyJ87HPn10/s1600/480979_10151337390228525_871400600_n.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
Once we felt like we could handle it, we welcomed another little girl to the family. Lucy was such a happy baby and so easy- which was a big blessing with 2 active little girls. When Lucy was a month old she came down with a really high fever in the middle of the night. Todd and I rushed her to the hospital and they began a slew of tests to figure out what was wrong with her. One of the hardest nights of our lives. I could not stop crying. Todd and I held onto each other hoping and praying that everything would be OK. She was admitted to the hospital and would eventually be diagnosed with kidney reflux. While I was at the hospital, we had family staying with the older girls, Todd would check in on us as much as possible. He even bought me a small personal laptop so I would have something to do other than sit and worry. She was released with antibiotics that she would take every day until she was a little over a year. Every evening Todd would mix the medicine into some formula, the only way she would take it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhil2ZYN9cxvzgPjq6dVU7ZarA8OjgkIdzXk9j-b4iqsulX4cW0Kn35Nt_LlPI8HGKJRy_tBOPOM3EC0e3pNryzVahINqbZIRAiczQhdBcpP9sgefkhvhBpUbXyOVqzl4NmgZKuyOU1r6r2/s1600/Family+Pictures+2010+128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhil2ZYN9cxvzgPjq6dVU7ZarA8OjgkIdzXk9j-b4iqsulX4cW0Kn35Nt_LlPI8HGKJRy_tBOPOM3EC0e3pNryzVahINqbZIRAiczQhdBcpP9sgefkhvhBpUbXyOVqzl4NmgZKuyOU1r6r2/s1600/Family+Pictures+2010+128.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Lucy would turn 1 in Waco and Ava finished kindergarten. Todd was called to be bishop of our congregation. For those not of our faith, and still awake, he was the lead minister to the 600-ish members in our area. The day it was announced they asked me to say something too. I told the congregation that I didn't know a better man. That I could guarantee that he would work hard to serve them, and that his leadership style is gentle, kind, and more prone to listen than to talk. I included that he was the loveliest man I knew...and then realized that perhaps lovely wasn't the best way to describe a man. :) Our stake president got up after Todd had spoken and said something along the lines of- if all wives were able to describe their husbands as lovely, this world would be a better place.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13vbLXEVVH9jeACB3MShSndfOAFmkmhPoB6yH7GYN1eKN8yyCkxKLTUOEOVCPx0UJrI5bQAy837DFNwmQ43BNuysu47PYhM8ult0F1mW7LgLDQgpmmodt-hZZBRbIm4aWwZM5qPj0y_8/s1600/Todd.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13vbLXEVVH9jeACB3MShSndfOAFmkmhPoB6yH7GYN1eKN8yyCkxKLTUOEOVCPx0UJrI5bQAy837DFNwmQ43BNuysu47PYhM8ult0F1mW7LgLDQgpmmodt-hZZBRbIm4aWwZM5qPj0y_8/s1600/Todd.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
At MARS there began to be some unrest, which in short lead to Todd losing his job. It was one of the more difficult times in our lives, so much uncertainty. Todd, true to form, would get on the computer at 8am and stay there, with a break here and there, till 4-5pm. He decided that his "job" was finding a job, so he was going to treat it like a job and put in his hours. With the help of family, some miracles here and there, and loads of answered prayers, we made it through that time without going into massive debt. I remember Todd's car AC broke, which was terrible timing- being summer and no funds available. So Todd would leave for interviews extra early and change in the car out of sweaty clothes into interview clothes. With the help of his brother, Todd landed a job in Houston. A 3-hour move that we did not see coming. It was an extremely difficult move, but it was our best and only option. So we packed up our 3 little girls and headed south, to a place we swore we'd *never* live.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_hU6wCM4zYy4j6VhPR1DKZHjGad_dxeJ3mEOyiafIOCIMDmZdm6jnE70vmUVI80ZkKN8S0yGuYgvCsZG0LvnKx_YqTfwULzGGVpJLsnoF_86bCU8QC1uiKtWvEnHNyzjfk3pvKV7-cY/s1600/Todd's%2Bphone%2B8-1-11%2B040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_hU6wCM4zYy4j6VhPR1DKZHjGad_dxeJ3mEOyiafIOCIMDmZdm6jnE70vmUVI80ZkKN8S0yGuYgvCsZG0LvnKx_YqTfwULzGGVpJLsnoF_86bCU8QC1uiKtWvEnHNyzjfk3pvKV7-cY/s1600/Todd's+phone+8-1-11+040.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Initially I could not figure out why we were here. It didn't make sense. We found a rental home in the neighborhood I wanted, and Sydnee started kindergarten/Ava 1st in a matter of a week. The company, as part of their package, did all of our packing and moving for us, which was a huge blessing. Ava and Sydnee got into their new routine/life and Lucy and I tried to set up house while they were gone during the day. Within a short period of time it became clear why we were in Houston. Todd was happy at work, really happy- for the first time ever. He felt valued and important. Something that had been taken from him when he lost his job. Cameron Intl. gave him his confidence back and also gave him insight on what his work life should feel like- a balance of hard work, that you enjoy, and satisfaction from knowing you are where you are needed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS4RD1qhW8bdRUqUb7dwAH25cSNaKsaI9SMIwAx8lgHMEUhuAdlwx5JIGcMuzct4KYN5QrZP5Od5Sdr5pM55QAC6dMuufZ5c6yZlZqn1eJeBeej1NySPwCsf9XJJhFYuod3Z7ME5E5Ats/s1600/DSC_2038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS4RD1qhW8bdRUqUb7dwAH25cSNaKsaI9SMIwAx8lgHMEUhuAdlwx5JIGcMuzct4KYN5QrZP5Od5Sdr5pM55QAC6dMuufZ5c6yZlZqn1eJeBeej1NySPwCsf9XJJhFYuod3Z7ME5E5Ats/s1600/DSC_2038.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
During our time in Houston, we have grown closer as a family and a couple. We've added Camille and will add another little lady in May. People, friends and strangers, make comments about how sorry they feel for Todd being surrounded by only females. They obviously don't know Todd- or our daughters. There is no void to fill. No empty ache. Every day Todd wakes up the girls and brings them downstairs- sometimes carrying them, or holding them upright if they are especially sleepy. We say our morning prayers together before he leaves and then he spends a moment with each one- telling them he loves them, to have a good day, and to make good choices. He always finishes with me, telling me he'll be home as soon as possible- which, he says daily, is never soon enough.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6xvkFnUUNM4ng8MXVwUTwnDDAJvSO1P2kW2HlTXhdgmkd3lE0YVrc5LTuO6ieiqi_iyufYs2tjl6Ntso-QHAf-xby9rXVnKzq3QTmN0ZiB4u9JuYLG8B6xkLpiuGMk4dMbqZTenN7NQ/s1600/fam+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6xvkFnUUNM4ng8MXVwUTwnDDAJvSO1P2kW2HlTXhdgmkd3lE0YVrc5LTuO6ieiqi_iyufYs2tjl6Ntso-QHAf-xby9rXVnKzq3QTmN0ZiB4u9JuYLG8B6xkLpiuGMk4dMbqZTenN7NQ/s1600/fam+pic.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
He comes home to open arms and squeals of excitement, "Daddy home!" Then, after his long day at work, he rolls up his sleeves and helps anywhere he can. If the day has gone well, dinner is on the table, if not- he comes in and helps in the kitchen or wherever the girls might need him. Once dinner is over, he helps clean up the kitchen and starts bath time. It's his special time. He's always done bath time. He brings the littles upstairs, splashes with them, washes their little faces, then wraps them up, dries them off, and puts pajamas on them. We finish the evening with scriptures, & story time. Then the older girls have taken their shower, homework is checked, piano is practiced, and books are read together. Once they older girls are tucked in, Todd's focus is making sure that he spends time with me- or serving me in some way. He finishes the kitchen, helps with the laundry, cleans a bathroom, or finds a way to tomorrow easier for me. Every night he puts lotion on my feet and rubs them as we watch tv or read together or talk about our day. Every night. He is my best friend.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4H1mm4M3i_H40FRtz6jzMvFIDy5Y3n1rxQQ0Y7tWv-EdCJ8sAAoLEyD4TYx9zdLk9avxc_GspHSyPIR2imRBJOGUx_vmunh8R_y772MizNtBdKN_wLp1uj0pi7K0boytrTYthxtNP_g/s1600/photo-719385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4H1mm4M3i_H40FRtz6jzMvFIDy5Y3n1rxQQ0Y7tWv-EdCJ8sAAoLEyD4TYx9zdLk9avxc_GspHSyPIR2imRBJOGUx_vmunh8R_y772MizNtBdKN_wLp1uj0pi7K0boytrTYthxtNP_g/s1600/photo-719385.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
Today is Todd's birthday. I can't help but be thankful that 15+ years ago, a spark grew into something more. Our lives are not perfect. There are plenty of little girls fighting, arguing with parents, and sassy talking. That's a part of our normal routine too. We are busy, like any family, and have our fair share of bad days. People often ask me how I can do so much with 4 little girls, and here's the big secret- its Todd. That's probably not a big secret to those who know us best. Whenever I have a meeting for Relief Society, or an emergency, or an activity- he steps up. Whenever I take on a PTO assignment or bake cinnamon rolls by the hundreds, or decide I need some time away- he steps in. Whenever I come up with an idea- like summer craft camps, redecorating/reorganizing a room, painting furniture, planning a last-minute vacation, birthday party extravaganzas, or making 700 rice crispie treats for the school- he tells me what a great idea it is and then asks how he can help.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJu5uo_xcQOS1UFAJOk1gxUbWn2c0rqwVWAYdbO3-jEpc9CGDvvIheUVxhMVzi_ooEINP2VzyFIJNjcccMrJeac_mstSVMHn-z6Jo5U0dw_HXtQh1eP4p1ToFehfcCbBHOFeGai6-BjhU/s1600/photo+3-784793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJu5uo_xcQOS1UFAJOk1gxUbWn2c0rqwVWAYdbO3-jEpc9CGDvvIheUVxhMVzi_ooEINP2VzyFIJNjcccMrJeac_mstSVMHn-z6Jo5U0dw_HXtQh1eP4p1ToFehfcCbBHOFeGai6-BjhU/s1600/photo+3-784793.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
I recognize that he is not your average husband, and I am thankful every single day for the lovely person that he is, the amazing father he has become, and the Godly man continues to be. He is all in. He changes the stinky diapers, he unclogs the toilets, he paints little girl finger nails, and he lets those girls know how much he loves them and ME every day- with his example and his actions.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6PNE3jMT-8_BXUUjyooC_jwJRifhaYwtP8GZxY7uBPdIAjhFcQzp_A7bAKKaNqRL00BjV2-d6GZrBdi261YHI56d8WLUPpRVTzLwBzVDKa5lI0MLqz-jn0P0Cpkww0LM51wKbh9qJMI/s1600/photo+1-726243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6PNE3jMT-8_BXUUjyooC_jwJRifhaYwtP8GZxY7uBPdIAjhFcQzp_A7bAKKaNqRL00BjV2-d6GZrBdi261YHI56d8WLUPpRVTzLwBzVDKa5lI0MLqz-jn0P0Cpkww0LM51wKbh9qJMI/s1600/photo+1-726243.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Happy birthday Todd Blackhurst. You are my favorite. I'm so grateful to celebrate you today. You make my life happy and my heart full. What a blessing you are to many, especially our family. I hope we can spoil you today in the way that you spoil us every day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBHbtq5SUbWxGm902j9obG4l2rNZlBmjpwtq0_JsxDjD94sKWfFD077UggGB46ccxE85pWcey2CTpNhZ-QIxmkU0hP_O5FiWrnaJQ-Dfn5eET54-lFa8OCTpD_28Mlk0v4BU3-1YC4HFZ/s1600/movie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBHbtq5SUbWxGm902j9obG4l2rNZlBmjpwtq0_JsxDjD94sKWfFD077UggGB46ccxE85pWcey2CTpNhZ-QIxmkU0hP_O5FiWrnaJQ-Dfn5eET54-lFa8OCTpD_28Mlk0v4BU3-1YC4HFZ/s1600/movie.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNF1X1UC3ZQqn-4H9NFZh1balhdkhvrm0UXsQf8_4TsPThAINcjSKGa48T_4mZfjciA-PqJgsSPbGnz3JZa_Bx6f5zKUNFcxdJ8htEUtmCV__-balsp4aR37xMWNtHrpOkcxSflyTR3bB/s1600/photo-755791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNF1X1UC3ZQqn-4H9NFZh1balhdkhvrm0UXsQf8_4TsPThAINcjSKGa48T_4mZfjciA-PqJgsSPbGnz3JZa_Bx6f5zKUNFcxdJ8htEUtmCV__-balsp4aR37xMWNtHrpOkcxSflyTR3bB/s1600/photo-755791.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Love you.<br />
Bunches.<br />
-Your Wifey<br />
<br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-58545586879421734872014-07-21T11:36:00.002-05:002014-07-21T11:36:43.470-05:00Pillows and Popcorn: Odd Thomas<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I read the book, Odd Thomas a while back with my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Odd-Thomas-Dean-Koontz-ebook/dp/B000T8F50S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405960497&sr=8-1&keywords=odd+thomas">book</a> club and we vowed to watch the movie together, but we're busy people so Todd and I gave it a go. It's very close to the book, and so I thought it was pretty fun. Netflix describes it like this:<br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">In a California desert town, a short-order cook with clairvoyant abilities encounters a mysterious man with a link to dark, threatening forces.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="266" src="http://www.aleteia.org/image/en/article/odd-thomas-brings-laughs-and-scares-5888307183484928/odd-thomas-future-films/topic" width="400" /></div>
That pretty much sums it up. So if you're not into weird ghost stories- this movie and book are not for you. We liked it though, so if you a fix in your supernatural barometer, give it a go.<br />
<br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-43112059141808199442014-07-21T11:23:00.000-05:002014-07-21T11:23:25.048-05:00Word to the Wise<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Me: Lucy, why do you have black tights on?<br />
Lucy: Because I'm a Ninja<br />
Ava: Do you want to be a Ninja when you grow up?<br />
Lucy: No! A princess!<br />
<br />
That's how we roll, people.<br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-86981571743689385222014-07-19T16:31:00.001-05:002014-07-21T12:34:39.508-05:00Pillows and Popcorn: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP_Rdux3xfs865tM0lwCBOubpW0bgp0CGVVs9c9o8NU5MRroTEnj75g63xiXXCDzDeC1Ty5HqWMaaBY-WBb9IuRrPWV8pwyEJhUxdb7qRftMhW5RMhMEGGJjTBA12EMpTYYTK7XriMRqnU/s1600/IMG_3522.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_115698="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP_Rdux3xfs865tM0lwCBOubpW0bgp0CGVVs9c9o8NU5MRroTEnj75g63xiXXCDzDeC1Ty5HqWMaaBY-WBb9IuRrPWV8pwyEJhUxdb7qRftMhW5RMhMEGGJjTBA12EMpTYYTK7XriMRqnU/s1600/IMG_3522.PNG" height="320" vua="true" width="213" /></a></div>
Redbox sent us a free movie code last night so we picked up the Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Lindsey hadn't remembered hearing anything about it but I did, knowing we would enjoy it. We do like Ben Stiller, though we were about 20 minutes in before we finally remembered his name. Lindsey just calling out random names until we gave up and just googled it.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-3EfqtxKTWfk0Sviv_TRxsQdxnmtpbhB7m9w4pEYAlQG5IiQMh9-HVgZ0dPyoZYNj02t9zigLMsi1zRB6eOCb8ZAM2xe0mDRRrX6M63SRhOv4cL8VgsuuB0qOt6kv6H-41YSTQssWI_c/s1600/IMG_3525.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_115698="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-3EfqtxKTWfk0Sviv_TRxsQdxnmtpbhB7m9w4pEYAlQG5IiQMh9-HVgZ0dPyoZYNj02t9zigLMsi1zRB6eOCb8ZAM2xe0mDRRrX6M63SRhOv4cL8VgsuuB0qOt6kv6H-41YSTQssWI_c/s1600/IMG_3525.PNG" height="320" vua="true" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
</div>
We really liked the movie and recommend it.<br />
Lindsey and I frequently watch a movie at the end of the day to unwind and to relax together. We want to share our thoughts with you so be on the look out for more to come.Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06057038658676802991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-34047626193686009492014-03-13T10:57:00.001-05:002014-03-13T10:57:39.025-05:00Happy Birthday Baby Camille!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4MqP6MtxdvtPFWsydkLdfx7hQLoz0x5p_vpqtVCW-5sSiUConWTkWiyuCHbAKJRMeU2g4sOD3hPoDG8FVLxdLwx1v6k5KFTgwd3bEdwcfYYi2oaPlHN31fEmHrs_y8E3hxwc7aE6jrg/s1600/Camille++Newborn+045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4MqP6MtxdvtPFWsydkLdfx7hQLoz0x5p_vpqtVCW-5sSiUConWTkWiyuCHbAKJRMeU2g4sOD3hPoDG8FVLxdLwx1v6k5KFTgwd3bEdwcfYYi2oaPlHN31fEmHrs_y8E3hxwc7aE6jrg/s1600/Camille++Newborn+045.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
Happy birthday sweet Camille. It's hard to believe its been a year. I've pondered lately on what each of my girls have taught me about life. I think Camille has taught me joy. I can be uptight as a Mom sometimes. I want things done my way- behavior, attitude, appearance. The longer I am a Mommy the more I learn about what to let go and what is really important to me. Of course I still expect a lot, but I've learned to breath a more and let life flow a little more. Camille is full of love. She smiles easily. Laughs often. She makes people happy when they pass her in the grocery store with her loud & energetic, "HI!" She has taught me that sometimes the most important thing in the whole wide world is whatever she is doing. No phone, no Facebook, no e-mail. In the moment. She is a JOY.<br />
<br />
When Todd and I were considering having a fourth, we were all kinds of uncertain. Originally we decided that maybe we'd only have 3, but I just couldn't shake the thought that maybe 4 would be better. It's what we had always said we wanted...and it does make a nice even number. I'm grateful that the Lord knew what He was doing when He placed Camille in our family. She is a perfect blend of cute, fun, and happy. We are blessed to have her in our family and celebrate her sweetness today!<br />
<br />
PS I know I am missing several faces in the pictures below. This is why *I* like taking the pictures- because no one sends me pictures of them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiugTnfHywfKUuIMnJjLd-XPT_u9sCsl2X7rfsHsevie8Mapx5ytw2V627ooapUiMeHa7uTyxfxytRxg9uRcFHSLXzZ7YvDo2cca6H3X1iZlc3pX0Rs0RJY_2DIKbKVB8ba3vVSkftWEZU/s1600/Camille++Newborn+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiugTnfHywfKUuIMnJjLd-XPT_u9sCsl2X7rfsHsevie8Mapx5ytw2V627ooapUiMeHa7uTyxfxytRxg9uRcFHSLXzZ7YvDo2cca6H3X1iZlc3pX0Rs0RJY_2DIKbKVB8ba3vVSkftWEZU/s1600/Camille++Newborn+015.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglr7u3HldkQwXFa7znxZiPUAc4W01pil0TvWh-aU-KrdyC1b7d57b8sEYJij4T5M84Wjj0VE1fGDVM4oCUmvMBymtXP7FcbTZNTp6RomXajo5_ti5qNz8I6TAtT8mbKtVQOI-ZRyVD5m8/s1600/phone2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglr7u3HldkQwXFa7znxZiPUAc4W01pil0TvWh-aU-KrdyC1b7d57b8sEYJij4T5M84Wjj0VE1fGDVM4oCUmvMBymtXP7FcbTZNTp6RomXajo5_ti5qNz8I6TAtT8mbKtVQOI-ZRyVD5m8/s1600/phone2.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKx0oTxVqqdu8edqHIsJBW2v1DZoTg9TQ1NE9AYnITUZtBxKmvJWDALcvBVRZlxaw8pEksSVMnh3CDDTIsqXGvkDA70sueiWQvYTCY6IOBGYGaC7deFruQVaLY_xadPbH_0Cj5L7Yr-tE/s1600/blogger-image-411748834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKx0oTxVqqdu8edqHIsJBW2v1DZoTg9TQ1NE9AYnITUZtBxKmvJWDALcvBVRZlxaw8pEksSVMnh3CDDTIsqXGvkDA70sueiWQvYTCY6IOBGYGaC7deFruQVaLY_xadPbH_0Cj5L7Yr-tE/s1600/blogger-image-411748834.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqwznK0QBXi5TOYN_YxBxIMYz8ep3cy4dGoF3NLJi-D90HeE_yoG4HUjBxt7QICs2wHKn88xui-bWOvXF5tLyGYbep5_WLxEImZ6js0NGhIEfwK4T4r1Mk0L8jJ3VysTBlTydfiuinqU/s1600/McHorse+043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqwznK0QBXi5TOYN_YxBxIMYz8ep3cy4dGoF3NLJi-D90HeE_yoG4HUjBxt7QICs2wHKn88xui-bWOvXF5tLyGYbep5_WLxEImZ6js0NGhIEfwK4T4r1Mk0L8jJ3VysTBlTydfiuinqU/s1600/McHorse+043.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDA0djNxZsi0rRAQZA5J5RvvNgY3ZnYLMzZdraj_roSmcethL5-CnRvDIeJ5ZtFonKrtMC013F-mqnZ0nf1PUHNg-BWlqFFMCOwikiMuzvi4VHzav0Ne7kHr7g9pAd-o4M9mwFsw9HiKw/s1600/8902_10151337390158525_374659342_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDA0djNxZsi0rRAQZA5J5RvvNgY3ZnYLMzZdraj_roSmcethL5-CnRvDIeJ5ZtFonKrtMC013F-mqnZ0nf1PUHNg-BWlqFFMCOwikiMuzvi4VHzav0Ne7kHr7g9pAd-o4M9mwFsw9HiKw/s1600/8902_10151337390158525_374659342_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6r6S43iNBdw-Oqpx1OIBs-ML1vyQbJ5dCFG5uuY-Y-HR3Vw1aYHt4Ipdp80Mjen2JURLWy0MXaJJ4UcgqmfCbdyjOG-wvns3Mt2-F6cC-tMvXTalzzjP3IBYZ4qy4J39dFVEkUEkhhi4/s1600/398919_10151348894613525_617898381_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6r6S43iNBdw-Oqpx1OIBs-ML1vyQbJ5dCFG5uuY-Y-HR3Vw1aYHt4Ipdp80Mjen2JURLWy0MXaJJ4UcgqmfCbdyjOG-wvns3Mt2-F6cC-tMvXTalzzjP3IBYZ4qy4J39dFVEkUEkhhi4/s1600/398919_10151348894613525_617898381_n.jpg" height="355" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMZ_5-e5Q7Ntpucqmnk9pzqryuWa-VNAOE84DXln3MzkS8x_5_zh_IqkwhSjcCQUw-OtH7eH3B-zrm1ZQ1_mZUQo2VtmHyvAKJE4Yq3EiqbN_ZUZb_dvBG1CeuQSvXlgKGo2Vl7CWg2k/s1600/602107_10151334654073525_1945604040_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMZ_5-e5Q7Ntpucqmnk9pzqryuWa-VNAOE84DXln3MzkS8x_5_zh_IqkwhSjcCQUw-OtH7eH3B-zrm1ZQ1_mZUQo2VtmHyvAKJE4Yq3EiqbN_ZUZb_dvBG1CeuQSvXlgKGo2Vl7CWg2k/s1600/602107_10151334654073525_1945604040_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Il0laxhtE2B58VTBIlzIBW6Vb4poF9-L2vznPTHVTOw-DZVghArEPGn2M95WxwPuJqMaUAiyPZEeILJyevu_Z4WYbfICL8o5WL3jOwu64188dUZP_6S2UJKmwlqxGnHgqvhGL9-dazg/s1600/1013509_10151487893813525_1538982091_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Il0laxhtE2B58VTBIlzIBW6Vb4poF9-L2vznPTHVTOw-DZVghArEPGn2M95WxwPuJqMaUAiyPZEeILJyevu_Z4WYbfICL8o5WL3jOwu64188dUZP_6S2UJKmwlqxGnHgqvhGL9-dazg/s1600/1013509_10151487893813525_1538982091_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_hd7DRxzXftFQUA9EhUTpB7go56cNApwlzxYWef5sOcC63D4jZLIseS-98yNdk4zm5QpSX6SPxuAYDAhK9AWfCXMllg2jVdyrZ8OTEWgj9jAHxveh9ZkBzK1Lby6wXTNXlYMaNCh3F0/s1600/996935_10151735613733525_2117518680_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_hd7DRxzXftFQUA9EhUTpB7go56cNApwlzxYWef5sOcC63D4jZLIseS-98yNdk4zm5QpSX6SPxuAYDAhK9AWfCXMllg2jVdyrZ8OTEWgj9jAHxveh9ZkBzK1Lby6wXTNXlYMaNCh3F0/s1600/996935_10151735613733525_2117518680_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDTftKRpHnvUmlRtyPLFOcM-uaHeCpymOdOnDpLXz0LRkSwAn6DqiYPvGm2j2kCA6_aeH48rFvxmzx3F-zTugey-1z4IzRWGGiOH7kupsLYA3WrrsuMmrSZpc6HUDtixmoASgycSh6Zs/s1600/1176331_10151607437278525_458205269_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDTftKRpHnvUmlRtyPLFOcM-uaHeCpymOdOnDpLXz0LRkSwAn6DqiYPvGm2j2kCA6_aeH48rFvxmzx3F-zTugey-1z4IzRWGGiOH7kupsLYA3WrrsuMmrSZpc6HUDtixmoASgycSh6Zs/s1600/1176331_10151607437278525_458205269_n.jpg" height="400" width="292" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XlpvnWSqB7sgAka4BlHqnD8Uom5pD55sYzqr63N41ViAt4QF5LrbNUGwpoN4rO4TMfWhFDhk4prPlsC4S3Y9njvPNTTZT5CzgsHbOt487qyC0Zaek1X3Lo6Xt9kLTOZCEsZEn03eic4/s1600/1476586_10151859015713525_1780354112_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XlpvnWSqB7sgAka4BlHqnD8Uom5pD55sYzqr63N41ViAt4QF5LrbNUGwpoN4rO4TMfWhFDhk4prPlsC4S3Y9njvPNTTZT5CzgsHbOt487qyC0Zaek1X3Lo6Xt9kLTOZCEsZEn03eic4/s1600/1476586_10151859015713525_1780354112_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf_Ov3a83LvrwqLAtRg9c106zI6QUV7MkjescSy4EUcGfKI9HXK2Hg3jDxNua6GYX-3OO_wV4V5VeXRFQr1OtCSRPauC8dVjtlwU2uAj94Knts2iMjSJbBoGxJi3pTVf2-ms8aOPmYpBY/s1600/Camille++Newborn+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf_Ov3a83LvrwqLAtRg9c106zI6QUV7MkjescSy4EUcGfKI9HXK2Hg3jDxNua6GYX-3OO_wV4V5VeXRFQr1OtCSRPauC8dVjtlwU2uAj94Knts2iMjSJbBoGxJi3pTVf2-ms8aOPmYpBY/s1600/Camille++Newborn+013.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigX5L_RXcVbiW4L6tOojwEUojiH_HPjXSZmLVhR_XHdPBTvdpEzerBMRDkPUdEvzSa6IrkpT8aPvyhJIAIOEXXpQxCP8ytv82O9p71RVv0CUsxLVKCvHYxxvGgi3nNcC4y9FCFKwsXcyE/s1600/Camille++Newborn+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigX5L_RXcVbiW4L6tOojwEUojiH_HPjXSZmLVhR_XHdPBTvdpEzerBMRDkPUdEvzSa6IrkpT8aPvyhJIAIOEXXpQxCP8ytv82O9p71RVv0CUsxLVKCvHYxxvGgi3nNcC4y9FCFKwsXcyE/s1600/Camille++Newborn+014.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikck7zb82wYhkUXWGnuWJVY8bKOT9P1vX5pKFI2OSWvAi0jQPKxnsjz9LD1ahGh2YsjjJ6gjMVDX4mr_2zyarMP-J8-9XGSsVzg0B9u5yUg9pvg-9Ws8nPbE6HkxTgj5QFUDxMjSFMFZY/s1600/Millie+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikck7zb82wYhkUXWGnuWJVY8bKOT9P1vX5pKFI2OSWvAi0jQPKxnsjz9LD1ahGh2YsjjJ6gjMVDX4mr_2zyarMP-J8-9XGSsVzg0B9u5yUg9pvg-9Ws8nPbE6HkxTgj5QFUDxMjSFMFZY/s1600/Millie+002.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
</div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-19410786285809086722014-03-12T11:09:00.000-05:002014-03-12T11:14:23.149-05:00Our first swim lesson...well, almost<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I thought we met our quota on emergencies. No?<br />
<br />
Breaking news from last night: <a href="http://www.khou.com/news/local/9-people-overcome-by-fumes-at-swim-school-249651331.html">http://www.khou.com/news/local/9-people-overcome-by-fumes-at-swim-school-249651331.html</a><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><u>As posted by me on our neighborhood site when the news broke out:</u></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;">To give a little more info- lessons were underway when all of the sudden half of the swimmers and instructors were sick (and panicked-which is understandable). The rest of the pool, then the entire building was ordered out. We weren't sure what was going on, but kids and instructors were throwing up and coughing like crazy. Staff passed out water and checked on everyone. The swimmers closest to the middle of the pool seemed to be the most effected. My little girl was on the side and her class all seemed fine. Several of the instructors and children went to the ER via ambulance- some just precautionary. It was a scary experience, but we are grateful to be fine so far. Thanks again to EMTs, fire fighters, & police officers for running into the danger when everyone runs out. Hats off to FINS for being ready in the face of emergency.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYR_RBuurHWk2wEx53Xm0QoPvogZX9WddxGR1ikqk7ZdtQhHxVaWs_w_yj7ZvuX9Rn0uPBdX6QhyXb6nheddGqmq1AqXWGlXalTW87VC_Aaw-q8xfIS6cJ7tuDSu3askCLrg9k5bEdx0/s1600/Sydnee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYR_RBuurHWk2wEx53Xm0QoPvogZX9WddxGR1ikqk7ZdtQhHxVaWs_w_yj7ZvuX9Rn0uPBdX6QhyXb6nheddGqmq1AqXWGlXalTW87VC_Aaw-q8xfIS6cJ7tuDSu3askCLrg9k5bEdx0/s1600/Sydnee.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Sydnee, fun-loving 7 year old with a heart the size of Texas.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;">****</span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><u>The full story: </u></span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;">Sydnee had been 15 minutes into her first swim lesson when all of the sudden I could tell something was not right. I watched as one of the instructors and a little girl came to the side of the pool panicked. Soon after the little girl began throwing up, and I later saw the instructor receiving oxygen. There is a viewing room for the parents and within seconds everyone was out of the pool and the parents were all super confused as to what was going on. We assumed that there had been some of sort of pool contaminate and they were going to have leave the pool. Unfortunately, it was way more serious. Somehow chlorine gas had burst out in a plume into the middle of the pool, although that's still a presumption. The authorities- of which there have been loads- cannot figure out what exactly happened or how. I will say this- because the weather was nice- they had opened one of the large wall openings (I'm not sure how else to describe it)- this act alone may have saved Sydnee and several others from getting the brunt of the chemical blast. The pool, from the viewing room, is like a broken T or an upside down/backwards L. Sydnee was on the side and the people most effected were in the middle. Once all of the parents/children/instructors were out- ambulances began to arrive and access the situation. As an adult this was serious stuff and at this point in the night we still were not sure what was going on. Sydnee seemed fine. EMTs asked her to breath deeply and let them know if there was any pain or if there was any tummy pain. She was fine. Scared, but fine. They treated the most effected first. Several of the worst were instructors- which should read high schoolers/college students. Soon after the treatments began 4 were rushed to hospital. We stayed and watched. I wanted to make sure Sydnee was OK and she had a tag around her neck which put her in line to be treated (if needed). Since she was non-emergency, she was one of the last to be seen. The EMTs decided to admit everyone left to the hospital for tests. Sydnee at no time showed any signs of exposure. They said she would ride in the ambulance unaccompanied (meaning I couldn't go with her) and I could follow. I decided to decline. I felt like riding in an ambulance without me, when she was by all appearances fine, would be more traumatic than necessary. So I signed the papers, they told me what to watch for, and we left. By the time we left, the only people remaining were searching for the clues as to why this had happened. Fire trucks, police cars, and soon HazMat authorities lined the streets. We got home and cried a little, then watched a movie and ate ice cream- our solution to a rough night.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;">Isn't it a scary world we live in sometimes?</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;">I have to give props to the FINS team. They were very concerned about their own instructors, but they were also attentive to the parents and children involved. It was emergency that they never saw coming, nothing they planned or trained for- but they were ready. I have to also express a prayer for the emergency personnel. I know I said it before but it takes a lot of guts to walk into a situation, unknown, ready and willing to help whomever needs you. They are heroes to me.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;">I should mention one more little hero. At one time Sydnee looked at my with wet eyes and said, "Mommy, I'm scared." I told her that she was going to be fine, that the danger was over, and that good people were here to help. Then I leaned in closer to her and said, "The best thing you can do right now is pray. It will make you feel better." And she did. In the middle of chaos, my sweet little girl bowed her head, closed her eyes, and said a little prayer. No one saw her but me, but it is an imagine in my head that I hope stays forever. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.359999656677246px;">When life is crazy, when the unexpected happens, when there is known or unknown danger/ fears, when people are hurting or when we just don't know what else to do- we pray. Sometimes its all we <i>can</i> do. Later that night we prayed as a family. We expressed our gratitude that our little one was safe. We expressed thanks for those that stepped up to help. We pray for FINS, their instructors, their staff, and owners. We pray for those that were admitted, and we will keep praying for their recovery. I'm not sure what next week's swim lessons will be like- it will require bravery from everyone involved to step back into the water. It was a night to remember and a sweet reminder that when life gets scary, we know where to turn. What a blessing.</span></span></span><br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-42660813362683910342014-02-16T20:03:00.001-06:002014-02-16T22:30:32.142-06:00Guilt is a good motivator<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
One of my favorite family members told me she checked up on my blog recently. She didn't have a lot of reading material because this blog has not been my priority! Since I've sent out valentines and put this blog address on the card, I thought I might should update y'all. But please note the last line: "Infrequent updates occasionally available on our blog." Keep your expectations low, OK people?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfkEtO2eIl16rG4p6xJp8aVIuMSQqAawFIPjUXsNTZumFcbNPqFhud6wnnpMk45R7hmzCVoZndBcQ2apGrbhyRgeoSGqr8bQKvZIP7Tmv8cb3bhndrDdIq98zpNUf-pU2ZszYQ5qXI4Xw/s1600/Valentine+14-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfkEtO2eIl16rG4p6xJp8aVIuMSQqAawFIPjUXsNTZumFcbNPqFhud6wnnpMk45R7hmzCVoZndBcQ2apGrbhyRgeoSGqr8bQKvZIP7Tmv8cb3bhndrDdIq98zpNUf-pU2ZszYQ5qXI4Xw/s1600/Valentine+14-001.jpg" height="308" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Most people give their yearly updates in December with their Christmas cards. We didn't do Christmas cards because something happened at our photo session and the pictures- for the most part- were not usable. We were not able to reschedule, so I vowed to send Valentines- and I did! I sent them on Feb 14th. :) Better late than never, people. The only pictures that were salvaged are on the Valentine above...except the one of Camille. I took that with my very sophisticated iPhone. :)<br />
<br />
So! To give my sweet family & friends: an update, here is my 3rd blog post since Lucy's birthday last year. You're welcome!<br />
<br />
January: This month was too far away for me to be expected to remember anything. Let's just move on...I'm sure I did something, but if I can't remember- what makes me think you'll care?<br />
<br />
February: This was one of the busiest months of my life, well, it seemed that way at least. To honor one of my sweet friend's little boys- I created a team for the Color Fun Run 5k. It was a memorable experience and I was grateful to be one of Atticus' Angels...even though I was GREAT with child and I waddled instead of ran.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTIGKLHmRgJfNNlNIa6-ozxlVzrkriGf0pi7n1SA-Y8oa8hzC6LrIeqcHdP1kNQgxf2Gc2KwMyDXRFHc4jPXSBKPENJ5EWUzhLGlHc5NHStDddRT6rPraYjmCiOivlHaHdrhU04CSvais/s1600/72960_10151222995087331_163815495_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTIGKLHmRgJfNNlNIa6-ozxlVzrkriGf0pi7n1SA-Y8oa8hzC6LrIeqcHdP1kNQgxf2Gc2KwMyDXRFHc4jPXSBKPENJ5EWUzhLGlHc5NHStDddRT6rPraYjmCiOivlHaHdrhU04CSvais/s1600/72960_10151222995087331_163815495_n.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of our team after the race.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvudx7zBaUGDQFMz5bSjWm-1U5nvlVWT9R2iT4W-J5hyphenhyphenJ1uM_vle3yLke5I2aVYwsDqH4qSRxdsN6fc_RGyusIXXNdryKkFQ-v08nEbWffrPr8SYnPR_9iQF7tWulNLaBpGxdG4T11In0/s1600/155012_10151266106863525_888849744_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvudx7zBaUGDQFMz5bSjWm-1U5nvlVWT9R2iT4W-J5hyphenhyphenJ1uM_vle3yLke5I2aVYwsDqH4qSRxdsN6fc_RGyusIXXNdryKkFQ-v08nEbWffrPr8SYnPR_9iQF7tWulNLaBpGxdG4T11In0/s1600/155012_10151266106863525_888849744_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My shoes and my swollen ankles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Ava turned 8 and it was her year to do a friend party, so we went all out. I did a lot of the early prep work, but then my darling sister Leah & my beautiful niece Samantha came to run the show. It was a tea party, and every tiny aspect was just lovely. I hope it created some nice memories for Ava and that she could tell how much we love her through all this effort.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ5lnOZF01cBYH6IXefC6nwZQYBa0opbM7G3PVyfb3Rluta1JtCt6hlA_R1RsTFHk_YheZEawADSokjKPA66tkAw076E86FPj9ZaEyUrEXZUlc0rfn_HLSauDzMHs1zHV-dXjcuTnfWGc/s1600/11062_10151290823173525_1572994335_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ5lnOZF01cBYH6IXefC6nwZQYBa0opbM7G3PVyfb3Rluta1JtCt6hlA_R1RsTFHk_YheZEawADSokjKPA66tkAw076E86FPj9ZaEyUrEXZUlc0rfn_HLSauDzMHs1zHV-dXjcuTnfWGc/s1600/11062_10151290823173525_1572994335_n.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seriously the best cake I've ever made. My Mom and I kept licking the frosting off of the bowl, spoon, other people's plates...OK, not really the last one, but it was tempting.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rNCedByyPCxAeq8M1xy0jLTFwJcCl0nqG9KvHBLG7q5dOv9eyyNb2ilCfv7ynt7ufMeGyrD0Eo6dRnKOK7IkaeXVtWdW6sP9ehxU2ONLGyEANKD7i2GvHstD4IKWIKlwv7MCY5NwfzU/s1600/35480_10151290833393525_199088386_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rNCedByyPCxAeq8M1xy0jLTFwJcCl0nqG9KvHBLG7q5dOv9eyyNb2ilCfv7ynt7ufMeGyrD0Eo6dRnKOK7IkaeXVtWdW6sP9ehxU2ONLGyEANKD7i2GvHstD4IKWIKlwv7MCY5NwfzU/s1600/35480_10151290833393525_199088386_n.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the night before Ava's party. As you can see, Lucy's Tinkerbell banner is still up. Birthdays 2 days apart, what do you expect?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YSR7uFNTx3uW96cXcFHsyHId0YJkubRS_1OhyphenhyphenV1tzk4_tLjI7dI_YcsJy0ytGF3c51LI2Z-ISG69Y97WSiF3tbhk12UVuS1qqanzivmDjKQLpjaYRtnZBNE_JZ3kRlgHbPoPymRfT0A/s1600/60695_10151290824393525_980939983_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YSR7uFNTx3uW96cXcFHsyHId0YJkubRS_1OhyphenhyphenV1tzk4_tLjI7dI_YcsJy0ytGF3c51LI2Z-ISG69Y97WSiF3tbhk12UVuS1qqanzivmDjKQLpjaYRtnZBNE_JZ3kRlgHbPoPymRfT0A/s1600/60695_10151290824393525_980939983_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the tiny details of a party, they make me happy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBJJce5UdMQUpRwt-TRAeayxQRPaoe7OM129kVHnrW43K7Q45Nrt1g4LLRW59Qu96juKURdGzgtp1VbJD2PMZmDFD-ALrCO6d0Pck4p8OaAXU16rBPomxYnpuYhd7ApNDm7LV3DtuJ9s/s1600/560005_10151290820563525_541355886_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBJJce5UdMQUpRwt-TRAeayxQRPaoe7OM129kVHnrW43K7Q45Nrt1g4LLRW59Qu96juKURdGzgtp1VbJD2PMZmDFD-ALrCO6d0Pck4p8OaAXU16rBPomxYnpuYhd7ApNDm7LV3DtuJ9s/s1600/560005_10151290820563525_541355886_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All our tea party attendants.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhU50OULjlgTU0XfqEjaSNDXjo_-LzECze83k7C5sAKziiD-2ij6SAYJ1KUvGpeyxaLd-nHtnwx0i1HqPz17I-bSVWZhQB0img6v9Dr5qtm1tyCoAjcSya3Vozh8Y7RTcYbKB_uJl-JA/s1600/156427_10151290822788525_1490067392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhU50OULjlgTU0XfqEjaSNDXjo_-LzECze83k7C5sAKziiD-2ij6SAYJ1KUvGpeyxaLd-nHtnwx0i1HqPz17I-bSVWZhQB0img6v9Dr5qtm1tyCoAjcSya3Vozh8Y7RTcYbKB_uJl-JA/s1600/156427_10151290822788525_1490067392_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What would a tea party be without the Mad Hatter? I hope Ava knows how cool her Daddy really is!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
By this point I am VERY pregnant and once we celebrated Lucy's & Ava's birthday, we anticipated the arrival of Camille. All of the girls had come early, Ava 10 days early, Sydnee 1 day early, & Lucy even came 12 days early- and naturally we thought our last little angel might as well. We were wrong.<br />
<br />
March: Leah came and stayed with me the first week of March. We wanted to make sure that if I went into labor in the middle of the night, someone would be there with the other girls. It was fun hanging out, but that's all that happened. I was induced on 3-13-13. Love the date. And Camille Ruby was born. It was a very easy labor- for the most part. The epidural worked! Hallelujah! I pushed only once. The sweet little girl became our 4th little lady and we have loved her every minute!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JK7vBHqvJ0KeKxPAh4unb1B7q2CvU-897kA5tlAGynUCn691s4AOD7gU8eSAezLVIqY1u5yK9eKhkrU9vuQEQMrndSP8-IuSnBQcal7-lEqQzsvC2JG2rqj1h_fThXpjLJm3stJ-jOM/s1600/Camille++Newborn+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JK7vBHqvJ0KeKxPAh4unb1B7q2CvU-897kA5tlAGynUCn691s4AOD7gU8eSAezLVIqY1u5yK9eKhkrU9vuQEQMrndSP8-IuSnBQcal7-lEqQzsvC2JG2rqj1h_fThXpjLJm3stJ-jOM/s1600/Camille++Newborn+015.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaOTDveatpc47vp_wAXwmCna-9iYk8PL4VD8kzv0IdngWS7qE3pNXnrTJnilNZuO5-ysvr_e4uzQ_r3-a2pzeLRF8_38zrGY4lK79AkBj9xt2oGcnXUjRB3WrSAfBX-18D_84Em2EOwAA/s1600/Camille++Newborn+037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaOTDveatpc47vp_wAXwmCna-9iYk8PL4VD8kzv0IdngWS7qE3pNXnrTJnilNZuO5-ysvr_e4uzQ_r3-a2pzeLRF8_38zrGY4lK79AkBj9xt2oGcnXUjRB3WrSAfBX-18D_84Em2EOwAA/s1600/Camille++Newborn+037.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BbNBwBdvHHhJzquZH7s7hssBfq0S-UnSt7FK23Meav9JAmGF4z8bNStivqaamrfCstE-UKGSi2trnj9NUhQvNuMJvIVlSW8UFoDSWptWuhNbkaak1YaFeX5uyeXqOLKmlg15B9brDYY/s1600/Millie+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BbNBwBdvHHhJzquZH7s7hssBfq0S-UnSt7FK23Meav9JAmGF4z8bNStivqaamrfCstE-UKGSi2trnj9NUhQvNuMJvIVlSW8UFoDSWptWuhNbkaak1YaFeX5uyeXqOLKmlg15B9brDYY/s1600/Millie+002.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_o-DgM7t1yovQBC0ANSeRlkOdRt73V6GIfD7jW60RjQUvP7AVYzKPCBcIHFhS1OH1PKIsZCkGzf-e_iwuYXk8_Dk9JCB_kTDBvEYBlSZxpoK2qrJXuksW8_k5mhe99C0NLUy6VBHgNo/s1600/Millie+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_o-DgM7t1yovQBC0ANSeRlkOdRt73V6GIfD7jW60RjQUvP7AVYzKPCBcIHFhS1OH1PKIsZCkGzf-e_iwuYXk8_Dk9JCB_kTDBvEYBlSZxpoK2qrJXuksW8_k5mhe99C0NLUy6VBHgNo/s1600/Millie+004.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilXdC4upwyETk68oiisEsan5L28lVxZWrjm4aLBjp5XVfoNmSuBmoZYZAG0PXr9x9MuV7XTlokEDciP-38iCyioX_nUwANLT56f4nVl9eONt9KH-D8_vPwzviD9tN_uIPoDaGOSh4cbSU/s1600/8902_10151337390158525_374659342_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilXdC4upwyETk68oiisEsan5L28lVxZWrjm4aLBjp5XVfoNmSuBmoZYZAG0PXr9x9MuV7XTlokEDciP-38iCyioX_nUwANLT56f4nVl9eONt9KH-D8_vPwzviD9tN_uIPoDaGOSh4cbSU/s1600/8902_10151337390158525_374659342_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who can resist those almond-shaped eyes?!!?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbJdXrMC_pSY2y-_6JLAZlofO0mGZ1bp7o1cC8TxuySa7NGKF053I64PQLWJOU9d8HtliNCkaTBf32SceOeGE6DxX0Mrw_ksSkybfM33Aqgpeqvrnnc1PVbjOlks2iEtvKrem7JYytDo/s1600/398919_10151348894613525_617898381_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbJdXrMC_pSY2y-_6JLAZlofO0mGZ1bp7o1cC8TxuySa7NGKF053I64PQLWJOU9d8HtliNCkaTBf32SceOeGE6DxX0Mrw_ksSkybfM33Aqgpeqvrnnc1PVbjOlks2iEtvKrem7JYytDo/s1600/398919_10151348894613525_617898381_n.jpg" height="355" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbgWetCOyedYiepDDPUE0ZtoYaj-0v-bBpsFxdOkwHAiR5leuCF5-2GZb_ZyoJdtcPDsoZryi4vq48CWeggJ5WZCjt3IT7CEb711R4J_qmT75sf4qul6v31K7mMxKR-o4vfLJeUCrRCk/s1600/480979_10151337390228525_871400600_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbgWetCOyedYiepDDPUE0ZtoYaj-0v-bBpsFxdOkwHAiR5leuCF5-2GZb_ZyoJdtcPDsoZryi4vq48CWeggJ5WZCjt3IT7CEb711R4J_qmT75sf4qul6v31K7mMxKR-o4vfLJeUCrRCk/s1600/480979_10151337390228525_871400600_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvewBjQgqWqDClXirSz2Rgg1qwDrJipg7iIE0dL0bG0csbh071GqFhx1Symmz7P3KjXfgdSd7EZIrTUeb38l8pePK5kWKTY5K8li4avhpOIc8_aHC6I5ULwf_1e9QYv3-kWYPDt8vu2o/s1600/602107_10151334654073525_1945604040_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvewBjQgqWqDClXirSz2Rgg1qwDrJipg7iIE0dL0bG0csbh071GqFhx1Symmz7P3KjXfgdSd7EZIrTUeb38l8pePK5kWKTY5K8li4avhpOIc8_aHC6I5ULwf_1e9QYv3-kWYPDt8vu2o/s1600/602107_10151334654073525_1945604040_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
April: Heather came and helped me out when Camille was 6 weeks old. She was going through a growth-spurt and I was grateful to have someone else there to try to figure out what this baby wanted. We got through it, though, and she has been a really easy baby since then.<br />
<br />
Also in April, the Kennedys all took on a Healthy Living Challenge. We all contributed money and the person with the most points at the end of it would get the cash. Here were the rules:<br />
1. 30 minutes of exercise a day<br />
2. 8 ounces of water 8 times a day<br />
3. 5 servings of fruits or vegetables a day<br />
4. Daily scripture study<br />
5. Limit of one sweet or coke.<br />
6. Personal pray twice daily.<br />
7. BONUS points- no sweets/cokes<br />
8. BONUS point- one hour of exercise<br />
9. Weekly point- if you ate fish 3 times a week<br />
10. Weekly point- Red meat eaten only 3 times or less.<br />
11. A personal daily goal point. Mine was to hug each of my girls every day, which was harder than I thought it would be. Todd's was to play the piano.<br />
<br />
It was really hard finding time to exercise...OK I had the "time". What I mean to say is that it was really hard to find the motivation and energy when my baby was only tiny. I really didn't do a lot of exercising until the summer months. The other parts of the challenge were not as difficult. Just so I don't have to keep you in suspense- Jacob won, only missing a few points for the entire time we did the challenge. Impressive. Not far behind were Dad & Anne. Todd and I have remarked how we need to do this again, it was a great motivation to take care of ourselves.<br />
<br />
The biggest high light of April was Ava was baptized. Normally for kids growing up in the LDS church, you are baptized when you turn 8, but since I was so very pregnant, we asked her to wait a couple of months. We enjoyed the company of many family and friends for her big day. It was a very special event for a very special little girl.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWOMUvpAhgR9CQ4DsFS9dbiiqaJ4TBIk7Bh5wxOVnMics6hJrl92NBP1213wrQftcPH6RNtLwpXCjJqF9x3zH577sRELF9w1dhF32KRQxIdsUeVAqmRLucQ16K_1SvTvYPqRbHROdkNbY/s1600/Ava+Baptism+043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWOMUvpAhgR9CQ4DsFS9dbiiqaJ4TBIk7Bh5wxOVnMics6hJrl92NBP1213wrQftcPH6RNtLwpXCjJqF9x3zH577sRELF9w1dhF32KRQxIdsUeVAqmRLucQ16K_1SvTvYPqRbHROdkNbY/s1600/Ava+Baptism+043.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZJZ6WP65ZHENTJ8mEAM06LSgMwu4oniqyTrzL0vRqASy9-O5JzlDsuZ-s108cLF-QoXHanUOSygYRWvBfQ5U4L2HYLCi6Szn3GPryaY1JCWRc2XjWEh2V3JyNJeAy1qB66Mu3MSSwyc/s1600/Ava+Baptism+033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZJZ6WP65ZHENTJ8mEAM06LSgMwu4oniqyTrzL0vRqASy9-O5JzlDsuZ-s108cLF-QoXHanUOSygYRWvBfQ5U4L2HYLCi6Szn3GPryaY1JCWRc2XjWEh2V3JyNJeAy1qB66Mu3MSSwyc/s1600/Ava+Baptism+033.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUn4PQ1fckwfzr_7jj6maPZhjUjGK6DjPIZ1t7qJFCnzyl0DbCHBQnEzdFBu05-oOdHxFGVhIKVGBBJPzrYvcSdnHXqTRTrxex5unNNqR8aPZcL5KDV5iIicmh8971nOkRDrrHFBNi0M/s1600/Ava+Baptism+057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUn4PQ1fckwfzr_7jj6maPZhjUjGK6DjPIZ1t7qJFCnzyl0DbCHBQnEzdFBu05-oOdHxFGVhIKVGBBJPzrYvcSdnHXqTRTrxex5unNNqR8aPZcL5KDV5iIicmh8971nOkRDrrHFBNi0M/s1600/Ava+Baptism+057.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Todd also turned 36, which means he is OLD. OK not really. I just like to say that.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3L1TsuF3mpfpckFuDjcOKpk9lzvm4KzeLMHzvJ1nZLzOEo0K-22-xnB4KUafPNyYIAi3qdKITJA4oZKElAX2aPOx_cDLfSHzm5HkSjG4idboF_wQwYaZTWxbA0pqik7M3uYi4mbj3AH0/s1600/553990_10201705305137231_823992086_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3L1TsuF3mpfpckFuDjcOKpk9lzvm4KzeLMHzvJ1nZLzOEo0K-22-xnB4KUafPNyYIAi3qdKITJA4oZKElAX2aPOx_cDLfSHzm5HkSjG4idboF_wQwYaZTWxbA0pqik7M3uYi4mbj3AH0/s1600/553990_10201705305137231_823992086_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
May:<br />
Because everyone needs more to do when you have an infant in the house and 3 other little girls under the age of 8, in May we decided to redecorate the play room. It was a yucky chocolate brown color and although I love eating chocolate- it didn't work for this play room. So we spent a weekend tearing down the ugly border and changing the brown to a sun-shiny yellow. I pretty much love it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR8dQT5u6a5gs2nrAX6RMFJJy6VSXh68lcmgTcVbT0MoIAQz-9KNGn-a1mXp5kW_ghQg2RfRq567OLh22ixrqB5fD10NaF1EMsuTh_3JXlWKLFm80jb7emmH0ia9dQNzLkucSM44VRfxs/s1600/13496_10151429802543525_1628711861_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR8dQT5u6a5gs2nrAX6RMFJJy6VSXh68lcmgTcVbT0MoIAQz-9KNGn-a1mXp5kW_ghQg2RfRq567OLh22ixrqB5fD10NaF1EMsuTh_3JXlWKLFm80jb7emmH0ia9dQNzLkucSM44VRfxs/s1600/13496_10151429802543525_1628711861_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivBrkBcD_hZdpukLs6l9hsism6W44XkafNw9wolNa7g8L2LBNIq1W5m5XhyKvnX9VkmUMt9VGI87klDU_psvwfs1efb3g4TWHw30oa-FMcVfjT5PECFsrBRSeuJjd9LTpMVfJR18D7wAY/s1600/970289_10151429803933525_348637933_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivBrkBcD_hZdpukLs6l9hsism6W44XkafNw9wolNa7g8L2LBNIq1W5m5XhyKvnX9VkmUMt9VGI87klDU_psvwfs1efb3g4TWHw30oa-FMcVfjT5PECFsrBRSeuJjd9LTpMVfJR18D7wAY/s1600/970289_10151429803933525_348637933_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLv-G440BofU607rSTm9GQq6vM6xm4adiPRWnMu0MP94peHX8eOFPIzM7ZXgcG-L3H_8U758yXs8dt1olWmcPGNb4vtf3jLxKEfJLqNKoom4LliH-6fA7mcZiAVXAP5jzRXH_Ct5HYj8/s1600/970901_10151429812173525_72945260_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLv-G440BofU607rSTm9GQq6vM6xm4adiPRWnMu0MP94peHX8eOFPIzM7ZXgcG-L3H_8U758yXs8dt1olWmcPGNb4vtf3jLxKEfJLqNKoom4LliH-6fA7mcZiAVXAP5jzRXH_Ct5HYj8/s1600/970901_10151429812173525_72945260_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZZB45eh05qo5be-2sLPigXhVTsDtVz-Mry5HbdsZf9oQnvT1jmdXb-OI9_tkgprnk_rpZ23fylDdPmc5NsnUv40EJDkfvDter_oPe7zMFbwa8yS-DsiDPuKlEOnHkWJ3B8NDCiQEPxM/s1600/253218_10151434111188525_1234947378_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZZB45eh05qo5be-2sLPigXhVTsDtVz-Mry5HbdsZf9oQnvT1jmdXb-OI9_tkgprnk_rpZ23fylDdPmc5NsnUv40EJDkfvDter_oPe7zMFbwa8yS-DsiDPuKlEOnHkWJ3B8NDCiQEPxM/s1600/253218_10151434111188525_1234947378_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's the little nook area, I did the valence myself. Never under estimate a woman with a staple gun!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
June:<br />
<div>
When the summer was approaching I wanted to put the girls in some summer camps- but they are so expensive! So I decided to create my own camps. No, really, I did. I know I'm crazy, we've established that a long time ago! I invited friends and neighbors- and people came! In droves! I filled 24 spots for 3 weeks. It was a lot of fun, and a lot of work! To check out the pictures from there, go to my blog: <a href="http://www.stampwithlinz.blogspot.com/">www.stampwithlinz.blogspot.com</a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVciaT9y7TgxA4wKMSsKiMZnd_1q99P9e00b_a59RyevKo62vS-EwTIUWMGsE3GwKoqoxOEtR-jvk2buM2rzA7yyUFlWOBz4VFRq-UC58tXt_ihxnTdwwE9B259iAHgjkSS_67dD07uok/s1600/1013698_10151495815318525_848464539_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVciaT9y7TgxA4wKMSsKiMZnd_1q99P9e00b_a59RyevKo62vS-EwTIUWMGsE3GwKoqoxOEtR-jvk2buM2rzA7yyUFlWOBz4VFRq-UC58tXt_ihxnTdwwE9B259iAHgjkSS_67dD07uok/s1600/1013698_10151495815318525_848464539_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Craft Camp welcoming committee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
July:</div>
<div>
We had our annual Kennedy 4th of July get-together at our favorite ranch house in central Texas. We hung out together for 3 days and had a wonderful time. I love my family & their families!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAhJqHk3lCvrIDLqo-pJoMjmGX0gIQ-U0cqOHzONRN7YYAfogHDTMN1t6CjLYTwCElps-l0sVqVJL8DeIgXbhD5Ztdwzo0rgPY-wjCZOW-l_5u4O4-sgXMJ3sgGb07M7NGy5gVfObPCs/s1600/blogger-image-411748834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAhJqHk3lCvrIDLqo-pJoMjmGX0gIQ-U0cqOHzONRN7YYAfogHDTMN1t6CjLYTwCElps-l0sVqVJL8DeIgXbhD5Ztdwzo0rgPY-wjCZOW-l_5u4O4-sgXMJ3sgGb07M7NGy5gVfObPCs/s1600/blogger-image-411748834.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Samantha, my niece, & Camille- aren't they cute?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5_bfPu1ixpi9T9jlaBWAr-VR8nuRRXlaDzgjTzC7HgG2XZDCIiSeQCigIwEIkXtiTi3R-MMFpV1vdhJKUEQF0AXw9YYtgOyFaSnrDHdU4uqoXEVCrliSZ9TGo-cn_LQ0G5mw9lzOjRSQ/s1600/blogger-image-813201789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5_bfPu1ixpi9T9jlaBWAr-VR8nuRRXlaDzgjTzC7HgG2XZDCIiSeQCigIwEIkXtiTi3R-MMFpV1vdhJKUEQF0AXw9YYtgOyFaSnrDHdU4uqoXEVCrliSZ9TGo-cn_LQ0G5mw9lzOjRSQ/s1600/blogger-image-813201789.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sisters and I at the Belton parade</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW3Kx5BzQ0-PwWd468n5Zcah_Rbu95UlccEjsJCDbMkCsdpH-tS0IfwppJ9Rv38g3hBXu6w2yV8K1xrz9kcuTKY6Yuz1JD8-qigST7xyJx1agQJs-uff0nq4XadvCBSRuZ7vPIJjLE3-E/s1600/blogger-image--1688448096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW3Kx5BzQ0-PwWd468n5Zcah_Rbu95UlccEjsJCDbMkCsdpH-tS0IfwppJ9Rv38g3hBXu6w2yV8K1xrz9kcuTKY6Yuz1JD8-qigST7xyJx1agQJs-uff0nq4XadvCBSRuZ7vPIJjLE3-E/s1600/blogger-image--1688448096.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Landry & the Edens were back from Australia! It was soo good to see them!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqnHotSMUZpbTjF3eposEwc4OfUsozRlbJ9-mdqE8WHqSYyt-9LNUbI1J6VFkxG-HRQhQiRV1FuoSX8eWUXS7wpkKczmS4VbhDV8_bD-sqHHcf8ZRwhmocvfKx3DNRGtYOWlM9Qn6BzQ/s1600/IMG_0129+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqnHotSMUZpbTjF3eposEwc4OfUsozRlbJ9-mdqE8WHqSYyt-9LNUbI1J6VFkxG-HRQhQiRV1FuoSX8eWUXS7wpkKczmS4VbhDV8_bD-sqHHcf8ZRwhmocvfKx3DNRGtYOWlM9Qn6BzQ/s1600/IMG_0129+(1).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our 4 little ladies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKk2P6N3isjpHljy__ZR-O3_FbPaGyvZZEh1VtQopIx2gyuDgZViSgbpN7faemFSi9UyAjfXSAwf03cy1pkCX2h1cVJT3-yyTqPVPbwBywysU4fR9j7TXIbVkP0nUd4QjIGAIN-fEQBHo/s1600/Sydnee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKk2P6N3isjpHljy__ZR-O3_FbPaGyvZZEh1VtQopIx2gyuDgZViSgbpN7faemFSi9UyAjfXSAwf03cy1pkCX2h1cVJT3-yyTqPVPbwBywysU4fR9j7TXIbVkP0nUd4QjIGAIN-fEQBHo/s1600/Sydnee.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miss Sydnee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
August: With school fast approaching, we decided to take a little vacation and go see family & friends in San Antonio. While we were there we also went to Sea World and the Alamo. It was a wonderful vacation and we enjoyed seeing "Uncle" Bill & "Aunt" Nancy (who are really my cousins but since my Mom was an only child I always thought they were my aunt/uncle.) My kids adore these people. Me too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievi3a4h7PV73ogzTPt8LHOXGH5OFezJdYZf-DYr7TuG4gWqwphlyv0sFDdoohofSJrIcLs33yvIVdav-ZUxjW0lNLW1-58UlSpH4snn3MaJ3ysj_DetqeHIYogXTxfkgCzaNcRSK0zv8/s1600/581055_10151607430068525_1371770126_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievi3a4h7PV73ogzTPt8LHOXGH5OFezJdYZf-DYr7TuG4gWqwphlyv0sFDdoohofSJrIcLs33yvIVdav-ZUxjW0lNLW1-58UlSpH4snn3MaJ3ysj_DetqeHIYogXTxfkgCzaNcRSK0zv8/s1600/581055_10151607430068525_1371770126_n.jpg" height="400" width="292" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
We also got to hang out with the Moores, whom we have vacationed with every other year since our kids were little. We love San Antonio- but we really love the people that live there!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzs2NaHpMLJjELqvBlU_sLnybkrFRY8_pyOQdwxpTT667LHQyBSJYhcdzQQmTFsi1Tpe8yIc76lAaOcthfmNnj5FxFtJS62dhieY2tyV8ttwfeAcX7OXJ64qhWCfevgRqluZ6g8gOAsz4/s1600/5624_10151607436958525_1855610085_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzs2NaHpMLJjELqvBlU_sLnybkrFRY8_pyOQdwxpTT667LHQyBSJYhcdzQQmTFsi1Tpe8yIc76lAaOcthfmNnj5FxFtJS62dhieY2tyV8ttwfeAcX7OXJ64qhWCfevgRqluZ6g8gOAsz4/s1600/5624_10151607436958525_1855610085_n.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRL_JUYOY1QBucn4sq9k6FnDiRlTs4xW4KFmsf_L4rynKH9csXAF7_KmK6r-MEVjrOBnx16pFld6c3D_ymNhJ5yK7PR020IVBAZ1Z5wcQxnFPC4rkmAQaLcLjMTYUFzZhCFvWbfzqbNA/s1600/1176331_10151607437278525_458205269_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRL_JUYOY1QBucn4sq9k6FnDiRlTs4xW4KFmsf_L4rynKH9csXAF7_KmK6r-MEVjrOBnx16pFld6c3D_ymNhJ5yK7PR020IVBAZ1Z5wcQxnFPC4rkmAQaLcLjMTYUFzZhCFvWbfzqbNA/s1600/1176331_10151607437278525_458205269_n.jpg" height="400" width="292" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxphMoXsJkuxG2VEY0BykKZztwhMvAVIafxVdtGDxUH-qJlbrTjAjaoJnnSIrtnkUKxE2c9eq8QR5SyOkNx07W7-YUuichH3Re_Jxo7QY1wgI4Eb_Oz_ny9WbN15Dgqfx6FQgBdhh1xk/s1600/1013509_10151487893813525_1538982091_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxphMoXsJkuxG2VEY0BykKZztwhMvAVIafxVdtGDxUH-qJlbrTjAjaoJnnSIrtnkUKxE2c9eq8QR5SyOkNx07W7-YUuichH3Re_Jxo7QY1wgI4Eb_Oz_ny9WbN15Dgqfx6FQgBdhh1xk/s1600/1013509_10151487893813525_1538982091_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQLG5APKKiapjhSi7zbwYeZg9UnMpwi-YqbNkLxgsAY_vc4jrigx08OZRYf0Q9sapBq6prYqj6HQa2Ghwpv5MHLRRWlnEWJv2wKw3RgaJ4JG8joPnzeJgziXAnOWWIPtHotA2-WJXqxcM/s1600/1185218_10151607437943525_611530548_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQLG5APKKiapjhSi7zbwYeZg9UnMpwi-YqbNkLxgsAY_vc4jrigx08OZRYf0Q9sapBq6prYqj6HQa2Ghwpv5MHLRRWlnEWJv2wKw3RgaJ4JG8joPnzeJgziXAnOWWIPtHotA2-WJXqxcM/s1600/1185218_10151607437943525_611530548_n.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
Also at the end of August Todd and I decided to punish ourselves by entering a team fitness challenge: 500 meter swim, maximum push-ups, sit-ups, and chin-ups in 2 minutes, and a mile and a half run. Did I mention I hate running? And swimming? And well, exercising without a soccer ball or a Frisbee or something? As part of the challenge, we were timed and had to get all of our events done in an hour. We competed. We survived...and I think that's pretty good. I was pretty confident I was going to drown, but here I am breathing and stuff- so win/win. Am I right? Todd and I had great teams, but let's be clear- I'm thinking it was a one-time deal for me, man. I'll stick to the soccer field.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
September- School in session! Ava is in 3rd, Sydnee in 2nd, and Lucy is doing a Mommy Preschool until next year. We love our school and are blessed Preschool has been a lot of fun too. Just like my other girls, Lucy is the only girl. I've decided that this is the Lord's way of letting me get to know little boys. They sure are fun!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ava & Sydnee also started soccer. I coached Ava's team "Green Lightning" and assisted Sydnee's team the "Texans." It was a lot of fun.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsX-RoU5E5h_-EieYZLvHgqdAVV2jWkzJuh8JIGoHFMaEBTmkAAkLdx0R3V2r_UpE20shbI4mXsbBlAQYTEAtQfAQA9TCbWyh8p0VqN7YLPqvK8Q5at-CPkjrf3v082h7zvrLaDyAJO_s/s1600/1170800_10151615527383525_231204515_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsX-RoU5E5h_-EieYZLvHgqdAVV2jWkzJuh8JIGoHFMaEBTmkAAkLdx0R3V2r_UpE20shbI4mXsbBlAQYTEAtQfAQA9TCbWyh8p0VqN7YLPqvK8Q5at-CPkjrf3v082h7zvrLaDyAJO_s/s1600/1170800_10151615527383525_231204515_n.jpg" height="400" width="292" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
October- This month I participated in a craft show at Frank Elementary. I didn't sell much but I did get a big head start on my own Christmas crafting...in other words I gave out what I didn't sell. It was a win/win!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2iO2D1TjCpytRkc7riUvxKiyxTqttJQuSfbSlrN_4oaGFn1sR6wzmFchp-tmutpmhEB9QcGOWl98AMmxY2QIbYTp99V_KYdVM-ret1VE8Ggdf8QpjzSh8LI1Wtb5DU7gi-07JjyXZBk/s1600/996935_10151735613733525_2117518680_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2iO2D1TjCpytRkc7riUvxKiyxTqttJQuSfbSlrN_4oaGFn1sR6wzmFchp-tmutpmhEB9QcGOWl98AMmxY2QIbYTp99V_KYdVM-ret1VE8Ggdf8QpjzSh8LI1Wtb5DU7gi-07JjyXZBk/s1600/996935_10151735613733525_2117518680_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cast of the Little Mermaid: Ariel, her sisters, King Triton, the Chef, and Sebastian. :) We think we're pretty awesome.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And as usual, we dressed up as a theme. Naturally in this picture Ariel is not cooperating. Figures.<br />
<br />
Our biggest news for this month was that Todd got a big promotion and is now the Production Control Manager for Cameron. He loves his job. It has been one of our greatest blessings. We are so grateful.<br />
<br />
November- we hosted Thanksgiving this year. Todd's parents' house is under construction and it makes sense to have it at our house. We love to host, we have the most kids, and half of the families live in Houston. Here I am in my great grandmother's apron. It was something that my Mom had but didn't want anymore. Unfortunately it ripped right down the middle after I took this picture, but I enjoyed channeling my inner-Ruby. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGNHG-2-kEdrEZFk1SGskyiqM9bA5Y4EknRjWguK9YfSMckb5UhWRXu0TduQESKe7EyUmTmrbdioh2cOCaTD6OQLuuYSxEaBC7oNZw4LsKE-PRYOBk-BuFap2pQLolHY8SFmvp5ucJd4/s1600/1457658_10151813611738525_728934985_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGNHG-2-kEdrEZFk1SGskyiqM9bA5Y4EknRjWguK9YfSMckb5UhWRXu0TduQESKe7EyUmTmrbdioh2cOCaTD6OQLuuYSxEaBC7oNZw4LsKE-PRYOBk-BuFap2pQLolHY8SFmvp5ucJd4/s1600/1457658_10151813611738525_728934985_n.jpg" height="400" width="297" /></a></div>
December- Santa came to our house, which is nice. Then we headed over to College Station for the Kennedy Christmas. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nEsodwOoEyiErrvpS2MLLjWsaHo1F0PW_xaLRUnD1hRoUudCB3rhn3unuzy-mjk8GcjP-cDCUbV2rIBKyOSIFoT3F-VLyALm93hwq7SO8blf1V56vSolkWCyNZBHxbCz0iWhACw4ZEA/s1600/1460944_10151859014113525_1335519033_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nEsodwOoEyiErrvpS2MLLjWsaHo1F0PW_xaLRUnD1hRoUudCB3rhn3unuzy-mjk8GcjP-cDCUbV2rIBKyOSIFoT3F-VLyALm93hwq7SO8blf1V56vSolkWCyNZBHxbCz0iWhACw4ZEA/s1600/1460944_10151859014113525_1335519033_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPA-g82TJQToDYzRyl_vmjS17lU8s8G052LgFye8uAxsUYyYYmjvX6drtk8DWwGCPXusEmB4tm5VqLF0kl1gpGe1Y99VKJZslGoAHBKptrDDtaq8zDxJHTLecio-job8ox_KdatFktI9E/s1600/1476586_10151859015713525_1780354112_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPA-g82TJQToDYzRyl_vmjS17lU8s8G052LgFye8uAxsUYyYYmjvX6drtk8DWwGCPXusEmB4tm5VqLF0kl1gpGe1Y99VKJZslGoAHBKptrDDtaq8zDxJHTLecio-job8ox_KdatFktI9E/s1600/1476586_10151859015713525_1780354112_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Always a good time! New Years with the Blackhursts and fun games into the night- a great way to ring in the New Year. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMFiCKR3TNURYcZnZAM-bKvBfBr16ZdZ7RVBNv_JVuvfFa5FLo9Q4GwtLoaH9eRSqcDcl0NHllco1B1vG-82DkblPbbENjottztc4bXa-lNLtMbMxcV5A_dLMJhjCzKEUyvccbgULjPd0/s1600/1459887_10152058355770993_1611389712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMFiCKR3TNURYcZnZAM-bKvBfBr16ZdZ7RVBNv_JVuvfFa5FLo9Q4GwtLoaH9eRSqcDcl0NHllco1B1vG-82DkblPbbENjottztc4bXa-lNLtMbMxcV5A_dLMJhjCzKEUyvccbgULjPd0/s1600/1459887_10152058355770993_1611389712_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle Brett came home from Afghanistan, which was a huge blessing. We love Uncle Brett!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I guess I should mention I turned 35 here. Getting older has never bothered me, maybe I'm weird or maybe I've been to too many funerals. I think each year is a blessing and I'm just grateful to be here. :) Stay young my people.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuOarB6atzI_GPi53_ojOz3TyLG5c4OWQydOn92ZR0U16aG4dS5Jr1cmxb1IiBedSpBym8DKT1bRkQvYpdBBGd791tmHX8GY0ErLYdZyJDaBBqJMqPZeA2Q9SFONg1Ti13PedQ9DVlYQ/s1600/1457571_10151825874393525_1264457861_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuOarB6atzI_GPi53_ojOz3TyLG5c4OWQydOn92ZR0U16aG4dS5Jr1cmxb1IiBedSpBym8DKT1bRkQvYpdBBGd791tmHX8GY0ErLYdZyJDaBBqJMqPZeA2Q9SFONg1Ti13PedQ9DVlYQ/s1600/1457571_10151825874393525_1264457861_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
OK how's that for an update? I'm sure there were other things that I've missed. Probably deep and profound lessons and blessings...but hey- this is what you're getting. Remember its been a year and I've only posted 3 times. Let's just consider you updated and call it good. OK? <br />
<br />
Love to you my favorite people!<br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
</div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-20566150169907603482014-01-23T12:07:00.004-06:002014-01-23T12:07:49.222-06:00Numb<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">I've been thinking about what I would say to you all today. I've come up with a lot of titles, but I think this one fits best. Its kinda how I've felt yesterday and today.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">The first emergency that I've ever dealt with in my life was with Jacob when we were little. As you may/may not know, his lip ripped off partially when we were very small & it was a bloody mess. He still has a scar. Anyhow- I still have pieces of that day/night in my memory. I can tell you what I was doing before the accident, and some of the details during. I remember really being disappointed that Mom wouldn't let me go to the hospital. Jacob and I spent our lives side-by-side and it felt a bit treasonous to not be with him when he was going through something traumatic. Or maybe I just wanted to see what a hospital was like- who knows. Mom said that during the drama, I was completely calm. I got towels and brought them to her, and that despite the blood and mess- I remained. The part of the story that is a little fuzzy and that I can only piece together from recounts of the story is when I saw Jacob with stitches. He looked scary to me. And I told him.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">Yesterday was a crazy day at the Blackhurst house...which should read: A normal day at the Blackhurst house. The girls were busy finishing chores, practicing piano, doing home work, and snack. I made popcorn. It was a nice day out and Lucy wanted to go outside. At one time Sydnee shut the door on Lucy's big fingers- but it wasn't bad- it just hurt a bit and they went on their way. No ice, just an "OUCH" moment. I think that was God throwing the pebble before He threw the brick. Not long after, though, Ava and Lucy were going outside and Ava shut the back door. Slamming it, really, because it is hard to close. And {cringe}Lucy was holding on to the close- where the hinges are located. I think she was fast enough to get everything but the tip of her pinky finger out of the way. I'll skip the details here and tell you that I knew she needed medical help that I could not give her. I tended to her as best as I could, then 0loaded everyone immediately into the van. Grabbed the diaper bag and we headed to the pediatrician's. I had Ava call Todd, but she was so upset he couldn't understand her- so she handed the phone to me as we were backing out. I told him to call our doctor and tell them we were coming. He called back and said they can't see her, they were closing.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">This is where the first story comes in. Ingrained in my brain, and I've said it out loud many times- I am good in an emergency. I am clear headed. I don't faint, I can run. I can take care of the wounded. Its inside me. I can do this. Yesterday was a little different, though. My plan of attack hadn't worked and I wasn't sure what to do then. I sent an SOS to my nurse friends- was I over-reacting? Todd and I decided to meet in the parking lot of the urgent care place. Luckily he arrived soon after I pulled up. Let me interject that my van is full of a bunch of calm little girls. Lucy is hurting, but not crying. She is collected. She knows this is an emergency, and somewhere written in her genetic make-up, she knows to stay calm, and she is. Todd looks at the finger and determines we need to go in. He wants it to be x-rayed. The voice of reason. Blessed, blessed man. Oh how grateful I am for him.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">We went in with our game faces on. Todd filled out the paperwork. Ava and Sydnee cared for Camille. I held on to Lucy, her ice pack, and blood-stained towel. The staff was extremely kind and professional, and I am grateful. REALLY grateful. I was experiencing so many emotions but forcing them down so I could be focused on Lucy. They did x-rays and determined the tip was broken and that {warning: squeamish look away!}finger nail would have to come off. That's all I'm going to tell you because the rest is playing in my head like a broken record and I'll spare you the nightmares. If you really want to know the gory part- then text me. I took Lucy for the x-rays but Todd would need to do the rest. We learned when Ava got stitches and when Lucy was admitted into the hospital as a baby that I cannot handle seeing my girls in pain. So we switched. Have I mentioned Sydnee is my new favorite for not doing this to me? (Knocking on wood.)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">In the waiting room Ava and Sydnee were angels. Just sitting there. Saying their silent prayers and watching the Disney channel. I held Camille and we walked around. Pacing the floors. I heard Lucy crying in the background, but only for a little bit. Todd said that she was incredibly brave and that she tried really hard not to cry. After what seemed like forever- they come walking in. Todd said that the cast is a bit of an over-kill but that the doctors know what a 3-year old is like and wanted to take precaution. Lucy calls her cast a "pillow" for her broken finger. Once we were all united, Lucy said she wanted to go to "Uncle Donald's" (McDonalds...somehow she has linked Scrooge Duck, uncle of the triplet cartoon ducks Hughie, Dewey, and Lewy to McDonalds. PS Todd and I loathe McDonalds. Insert sacrificing parent moment for the children whom have been through a lot). I like Todd take the big girls and I came home to put Camille to bed...and to have my cry.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">This is what I learned:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;" /><br />
<ol style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I should always have my diaper bag packed and ready for an emergency. Blessedly, I had snacks, baby food, a spoon, and even a bib! All things for the girls to feel comfortable in a messy situation. I also had my wallet, which had my insurance information. I need to remember the importance of being prepared, and I'm grateful that somehow this time, I was.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I can still do emergencies, but I'm still not ready for the stitches. I haven't seen the finger since it has been bandaged. I will eventually, of course, and I'll be fine- but I will have to fight my emotions.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I had an impression yesterday that I listened to- and I'm grateful. It was simple, really. The thought was- that I didn't need to work on the computer during Camille's nap time, that my time should be with Lucy. Now, I am a bit of a paranoid- so I worried about why I had that impression. :) BUT! After the trauma of last night, I'm grateful that we had little pleasant moments together before the chaos. I'm also grateful that I don't have to endure the guilt I would have felt if I ignored it.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">It's just a tiny tip of the finger, but its somehow attached to my heart. Lucy will have to see a hand specialist to make sure it heals properly. Its possible that the trauma will have damaged her growth plate and she might never grow a fingernail back. It's also possible that it will be damaged and grow back deformed. And of course, its possible that it will all be fine and dandy and a story to share at her wedding.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Although my focus will be on Lucy, I will need to care for Ava as well. The wounds on Lucy's finger may heal perfectly within a couple of months, but if I'm not careful- Ava could carry this burden of guilt for a lifetime. I am hopeful that there is no permanent damage so that Ava does not have to have a constant reminder of an innocent mistake.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Lastly, that I love my family. I would do anything for them. Hopefully, I won't need this reminder again any time soon.</li>
</ol>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">
xoxo,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">
Lindsey</div>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
</div>
<br />
<div class="mobile-photo">
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTpKgikZlO8fvQSu3-9IAhAqbbMevN1oKHz3qR1B8acl8N-4ti0XPy1XhjC82ZqLfM7ZuSh1HsrRlZ_R8vmvQ2V4jUDXBitKZYYJRUaz3lIijT4a-1nsOjabRzAfYjwoCJroDYEwCo3W8/s1600/photo-766872.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTpKgikZlO8fvQSu3-9IAhAqbbMevN1oKHz3qR1B8acl8N-4ti0XPy1XhjC82ZqLfM7ZuSh1HsrRlZ_R8vmvQ2V4jUDXBitKZYYJRUaz3lIijT4a-1nsOjabRzAfYjwoCJroDYEwCo3W8/s320/photo-766872.JPG" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5972146300922579426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-42233218568773760402013-09-09T11:16:00.001-05:002013-09-09T11:16:15.168-05:00Note to self:<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Dear Lindsey,<br />
In your spare time, could you create a new blog header? Lucy is 3 and Camille isn't even in the picture. Seriously, lady.<br />
Thanks,<br />
Self<br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-242691670482076052013-08-06T12:00:00.000-05:002013-08-06T12:00:02.649-05:00Creating MemoriesSeveral years ago Lindsey and I decided on a general rule that we would try to give <i>experiences</i> as gifts rather than <i>stuff</i>. We feel this makes gift-giving more meaningful since it usually requires a little more thought and effort in finding the right gift. We also find it can have a lasting impression.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.collegehelmetstore.com/utahxphelmet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.collegehelmetstore.com/utahxphelmet.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>Looking back I can remember specific gifts I had received as a child: a red fire truck, a bike, some Lego sets. But those memories are not as strong as the experiences given to me. I'd have to ask my dad if he remembers, but I remember going to a football stadium as a kid to see his alma mater play. That experience is a major factor in why I love collegiate football. (<a href="http://bigevent.tamu.edu/">That, and because Aggies rock! WHOOP!!</a>)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjta69DMKPlGGVRA4KicYiBwtdkgRZn4MoiZ-1A_wO7MTPqVxPPYWJHjNhvGEpx61v_LJiJFbGG0IIh5_iA4YTVgouxvc_AEUSLlep3mMmrbj8-W_eBH_wmCh0ZLXIhi5SoVmJUXuU6ZB35/s1600/IMG_2841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjta69DMKPlGGVRA4KicYiBwtdkgRZn4MoiZ-1A_wO7MTPqVxPPYWJHjNhvGEpx61v_LJiJFbGG0IIh5_iA4YTVgouxvc_AEUSLlep3mMmrbj8-W_eBH_wmCh0ZLXIhi5SoVmJUXuU6ZB35/s1600/IMG_2841.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a>For Father's Day this year, we gave my dad four tickets to a minor league baseball game. We picked a date that coincided with Gramma Camp when the older girls would stay with them for a week. Seats were front row on the 1st base line AND it was $1 hotdog night. We included parking so they only had to show up. They had a blast! Sydnee did end up with a souvenir, but it wasn't just another ball to add to our <i>stuff</i>: it was a foul ball she got to take home from her first baseball game. That ball is much more meaningful to her (and my dad) than anything else we could have thought of.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06057038658676802991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-8870562950654768952013-02-20T14:39:00.002-06:002013-02-20T14:39:13.682-06:00A little memoir for my sweet Lucy Lou!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFXFKbOXknaoytaTthYB0-wtw40zM7YomeiWdcWIo1_1jn19C1WIeceXbstqIeQUOmQL9fYrOxcbQzFROeVqwE4xlbNWyHOGu6jrVMIOa5fde5dtEnA4_vZEQx9ZFq2NjE_S6rM2c-UoQg/s1600/DSC_2080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFXFKbOXknaoytaTthYB0-wtw40zM7YomeiWdcWIo1_1jn19C1WIeceXbstqIeQUOmQL9fYrOxcbQzFROeVqwE4xlbNWyHOGu6jrVMIOa5fde5dtEnA4_vZEQx9ZFq2NjE_S6rM2c-UoQg/s320/DSC_2080.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCI-HyWP8MjwkKl2KBNOdmmdKoI1TA4l5qF5QZq_AFbWjCFQeEmd_V-CJioUA-V2lUMkiYDkZv7HJuQJwPjlqFhd3jj_mvh9ie6oiXr23TcIICfo9W4EE-J0qS5EJ124rVJ_QpSyrB7CGK/s1600/DSC_2184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCI-HyWP8MjwkKl2KBNOdmmdKoI1TA4l5qF5QZq_AFbWjCFQeEmd_V-CJioUA-V2lUMkiYDkZv7HJuQJwPjlqFhd3jj_mvh9ie6oiXr23TcIICfo9W4EE-J0qS5EJ124rVJ_QpSyrB7CGK/s320/DSC_2184.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jIvMJ99FwF5r7Sr_HlKT5RFGu1QOfbT6m_uU7ol-Y9uDvoRnhxwx_lleY8Y-XdtyTAwWOeU_LVux237YWNA3ab-MySoH-WXltNkF8d25GCuKUx0G7hyRuME5bEhsMqoL95akW3nuo1-2/s1600/Pictures+of+Girls+4-12+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jIvMJ99FwF5r7Sr_HlKT5RFGu1QOfbT6m_uU7ol-Y9uDvoRnhxwx_lleY8Y-XdtyTAwWOeU_LVux237YWNA3ab-MySoH-WXltNkF8d25GCuKUx0G7hyRuME5bEhsMqoL95akW3nuo1-2/s400/Pictures+of+Girls+4-12+025.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5esKTgwwS5l1Ejbpia-wJo1KpZ0yiIoaIoOV7IJ7apRno7sDZ4I1z4k8buIIsanedAdL8wzq8hI4MKSN_6NLk4UogrSV22PBWdYN_BBzAhnHX7jqzQpbK3t514g17v_KOiTjM5WGLyak3/s1600/Family+Pictures+2010+027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5esKTgwwS5l1Ejbpia-wJo1KpZ0yiIoaIoOV7IJ7apRno7sDZ4I1z4k8buIIsanedAdL8wzq8hI4MKSN_6NLk4UogrSV22PBWdYN_BBzAhnHX7jqzQpbK3t514g17v_KOiTjM5WGLyak3/s320/Family+Pictures+2010+027.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhil2ZYN9cxvzgPjq6dVU7ZarA8OjgkIdzXk9j-b4iqsulX4cW0Kn35Nt_LlPI8HGKJRy_tBOPOM3EC0e3pNryzVahINqbZIRAiczQhdBcpP9sgefkhvhBpUbXyOVqzl4NmgZKuyOU1r6r2/s1600/Family+Pictures+2010+128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhil2ZYN9cxvzgPjq6dVU7ZarA8OjgkIdzXk9j-b4iqsulX4cW0Kn35Nt_LlPI8HGKJRy_tBOPOM3EC0e3pNryzVahINqbZIRAiczQhdBcpP9sgefkhvhBpUbXyOVqzl4NmgZKuyOU1r6r2/s320/Family+Pictures+2010+128.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85WY3HPy9D8-0QBR6vTcgMy-TmNXsrkJdBO4GHSTh8rom8-t2DDRV6VXY2Yac7bb7fDDAshfGG4fWdPl_16JtPYCXLyO7w-13qpKcuaq-NX8DzSbqFBFUg5nIVVWtLjgN3Zt3mQDBk5Ne/s1600/Feb+064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85WY3HPy9D8-0QBR6vTcgMy-TmNXsrkJdBO4GHSTh8rom8-t2DDRV6VXY2Yac7bb7fDDAshfGG4fWdPl_16JtPYCXLyO7w-13qpKcuaq-NX8DzSbqFBFUg5nIVVWtLjgN3Zt3mQDBk5Ne/s320/Feb+064.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhcanDcTxXGuoC7Y3dIMRCDcw4wFuudqbVUxFrhzMbvzsgSCG1tAZcnGrD4vHADOXJEKMJoR9VXU5GPYkcxQEpZ02cYkRsv-neZbdmbgLSNv3JLquGtRZB8MlWyyg_OTzKbTz-r9TepW4/s1600/Feb+085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhcanDcTxXGuoC7Y3dIMRCDcw4wFuudqbVUxFrhzMbvzsgSCG1tAZcnGrD4vHADOXJEKMJoR9VXU5GPYkcxQEpZ02cYkRsv-neZbdmbgLSNv3JLquGtRZB8MlWyyg_OTzKbTz-r9TepW4/s320/Feb+085.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULT6vE2EdlhWFm9RHNcQpRum4IHE9uXxJa8S6ZUOjnNwJddM89npSY6TDfWHM_JBbomW253ctw1naV3bCWqMvmFt0lkypQUZjOW7q1jVLDifmX5Cn1ZiXKibayQx73ooyJV-SrIj_UmIH/s1600/Family+Pictures+2010+184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULT6vE2EdlhWFm9RHNcQpRum4IHE9uXxJa8S6ZUOjnNwJddM89npSY6TDfWHM_JBbomW253ctw1naV3bCWqMvmFt0lkypQUZjOW7q1jVLDifmX5Cn1ZiXKibayQx73ooyJV-SrIj_UmIH/s1600/Family+Pictures+2010+184.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
On February 20th 3 years ago I woke up in the middle of the night feeling a bit off. I wasn't sure what was wrong, so I got out of bed and then discovered my water had broken. Guess that is a bonus of being a light sleeper. Since this was not our first rodeo, I woke Todd and he got on the phone. Shortly afterward, Uncle Jim had arrived- excited and nervous for us. We left for the hospital...and then turned around b/c we forgot our camera. :) Lucy's delivery was not an easy one, it was more like Ava's than Sydnee's. The epidural only worked on half of my body, which by the way is not very pleasant. She came in about 12 hours- bright-eyed and happy. When Ava was born Todd and I were just not sure what to do once she had arrived...with Sydnee we were a little more prepared...and with Lucy we were so excited to meet this new little girl. Lucy was an easy baby and her sisters and family adored her instantly. A month into her life she was set to be "blessed" in church and the night before she came down with a really high fever. Worried, Todd and I took her to the hospital. We were grateful that Scott & Katie were staying with us, so leaving in the middle of the night was an easy option. At the hospital, they couldn't figure out what was wrong with her and ran a lot of tests. Our whole family was in town awaiting the big day, but we had to cancel. It was a rough 3 days. We had a fabulous team working on Lucy. We were especially grateful for our pediatrician, who through some additional testing discovered she had a UTI caused by a level 1 kidney reflux. With medication we were sent home and we felt so grateful that it was nothing worse. Lucy took medication for everyday for an entire year and when checked again at a little over a year old, she had outgrown the reflux and everything was normal.<br />
<br />
In the time Lucy has been alive, we have had some crazy life experiences. We began a legal dispute over an illegal foreclosure forced upon us, Todd lost his job, we built a house we were never able to live in, and we moved to a different town- leaving family and friends. In fact in her 3 years, we've moved 3 times. And despite the stress that these events have caused, Lucy has always been a little ray of sunshine. I can't express how grateful I have been for that. Each family member brings something of value into the family dynamic- and Lucy has always been the sunshine on a cloudy day, the laughter among the tears, and the rainbow after the storm. She is adventurous, and rarely fearful of anything. She isn't afraid of heights or challenges. She is a good eater, and willing to try new things. She has an amazing smile. Lucy makes friends easily and is happy to tell total strangers, "Hi!" In fact most of the time, she will say "Hi!" over and over again until she is heard! She wasn't the first at much of anything- her sisters hold those records. However, she is capable of getting all of us to do things we normally wouldn't- just to get a laugh or a smile from her. She is precious beyond words and we all adore her.<br />
<br />
Lucy is speaking more these days than she has been and its fun to discover her conversation. She's been mimicking "talk" for a long time, but now that we know she is actually saying something- its been really fun. She has her own sweet way of saying her sister's names: A-ya and Syn-nee (hard to type). Lucy loves watching cartoons, singing, dancing, playing outside, jumping, Tinkerbell, and Minnie Mouse. She loves sharing a room with Sydnee and on many nights we will hear, "Lucy! I'm trying to sleep!" (Lucy is always ready for a party). She is stingy with kisses, but will tell you she loves you over and over again. She has a great laugh. She is named after my mother/grandmother's middle name- Louise C and her middle name after my mother-in-law Christine. I think she represents the best of them all.<br />
<br />
I have often thought that I have never met anyone like Lucy. She is not happy ALL of the time, but most of it- and even when she is upset, she doesn't stay upset long- she moves on quickly. She can be crying one minute and laughing the very next. I have no idea what the Lord has in store for this little lady, but I am grateful to be along in the journey and to be able to share her sunshine with the people around us.<br />
<br />
Happy birthday my sweet Lucy Christine! You've made these last 3 years a piece of cake. I am one blessed Momma! Love you bunches!<br />
xoxo, Me</div>
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-73090365387409438082013-01-25T08:20:00.000-06:002013-01-25T08:20:04.306-06:00The Big Chicken<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="mobile-photo">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UIBgg0M1PkrzhY9LY3zmM45TORwNPgP3XQfQxftjgQuxLaSqiLKiqz6fyJfGgGfiPInXd2SgvwXbr6jhApG1mHjuU1rR3JFwYXIVGk-Cou6LWU5ywYhmcNHqa_SEpSKrYwTfWOlUsOOg/s1600/photo-713474.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="298" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5837202921207939714" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UIBgg0M1PkrzhY9LY3zmM45TORwNPgP3XQfQxftjgQuxLaSqiLKiqz6fyJfGgGfiPInXd2SgvwXbr6jhApG1mHjuU1rR3JFwYXIVGk-Cou6LWU5ywYhmcNHqa_SEpSKrYwTfWOlUsOOg/s400/photo-713474.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
She was so proud and so darling. Made me a little teary-eyed. She didn't realize that the blue ribbon meant first place until we told her. She was beyond excited. So cute. She was selected to represent her grade for Frank. Just having her name on the school intercom was a huge deal to her, but this was so great. Sydnee often gets overlooked in our family and it was so nice for her to receive some individual attention. Hannah G got to represent 3rd grade and also got a blue ribbon, so we got to go to the exhibit with our best friends. What a neat experience! :) Proud Momma</div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-79701358215639586272013-01-21T11:46:00.001-06:002013-01-21T13:42:19.568-06:00A rare blog entry :)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Hello people!<br />
Well, we had a super productive weekend. We finished setting up my office and master bedroom. It is
just so nice to walk into the office and my bedroom. There are still
some things we need to add/adjust in the bedroom- but its so nice to
have a little sanctuary! And the office just makes me feel good inside!Tomorrow I teach preschool and I
have a little area in my office that will double as my preschool
teaching area/ homework area for the girls. I'm not ashamed to say that
I LOVE IT! <br />
<br />
Today
we have been to Wal-Mart where the girls went down the toy aisle and
told me some things that they would like for their birthdays. Poor
Sydnee. It must be hard to be the ONLY one not born in the month of
Feb! Hopefully this little one will help by coming in March and spread
us out a TINY bit. Of course, I would have liked for all of them to be
spread out a bit but apparently I'm not the boss here. This little girl inside of me is almost here! Today I am hoping to do some laundry
and work on the baby's room. I need to get out the bedding and go
through the clothes. And do some basic organizing. I think once that is
finished, then my mind can settle a little bit about all the things
that need to get finished in the house. I have to remind myself
constantly that we will be here a while and its not necessary to just
get it all done NOW.<br />
<br />
We too had a good Sunday. Its nice
to have early church (9am). We get all our stuff ready the night before
and then just spend the morning getting ready and go. It was Ward
Conference and sacrament went over by 30 minutes. That threw Primary
into a bit of a scramble and despite my friend's efforts to keep her
lesson short- I only had about 6 minutes in Senior Primary (I normally
have 20). Oh well! :) I had 15 in Junior, which is too bad because they
were CRAZY rowdy in there! I would have been happier with 6 minutes. :)
Maybe I need to pull out my net again "caught ya being good". Anyhow,
I'm doing this neat thing. I have asked parents (Moms, really) to send
me pictures of their family/kids and I am adding them to a flip chart
for the song "I Am A Child of God". I just showed them the first verse
yesterday and wow- I am going to have to keep it together! Its so
touching and sweet to think of these children as children of God and to
see their faces light up when their picture pops up. I hope it drives
the concept home for them. I sure love my calling.<br />
<br />
Last
night we decided to eat dinner outside. It was a little chilly, but the
girls had been itching to go outside all day, and so we gave in. They
were bouncing on the trampoline while Todd was cleaning up dinner, and I
had some "alone" time while everyone was focused on their activity. It
was nice, I don't get them often. I sat there and reflected on my
blessings. I remember
not knowing how long we could survive, and what the Lord had in store
for us. I remember feeling a little sore about it all- hadn't we served
faithfully? Hadn't we given up our hearts and souls and countless
hours to the Lord? Surely He hadn't abandoned us now in our
time of need. We really never lost hope, though- just moments where we
doubted the plan. We knew that the Lord had better things in store, if
we could just keep the faith. And although the process was so ugly at
times- it really seems like a short period of time now. And I am so
grateful that the Lord knew that we would have to go through this rough
time in order to get us where we are now. So I sat there. Drinking in
my blessings. Three little girls happily jumping on a trampoline in
the cool winter night. A loving husband who loves his job now, who puts
his family first, and is always trying to find ways to serve me and our
little people. He is so self-less. I need to follow his example a
little but more! Anyways, I sat there- healthy, happy, with a baby in my
belly who is also healthy and apparently an excellent soccer player-
reflecting. It was a good moment, where I felt truly loved and grateful
for the trials. There are plenty of times that I have questioned "why"
but at the end of the day- if the road had been any different, then I
wouldn't be here. Finding joy in the journey. Its hard to do, but when
you have those gratitude moments- the tender mercies of the Lord become
more apparent and you realize- you were never really alone. The plan
wasn't meant to be easy- but it will always be worth it. I often worry
that challenges of such magnitude will come again- but then I think, He
believed in us then. He loved us and supported us then. He has proven
himself trustworthy (a line in my patriarchal blessing). So, I guess
the take-home message here is, just keep swimming! The life guard is on watch.<br />
<br />
Love to you all!<br />
Happy MLK day!<br />
xoxo<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-17106339436252634112012-11-18T22:00:00.001-06:002012-11-18T22:00:04.144-06:00This year's Christmas card! :)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidget" style="height: 494px; width: 425px;">
<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetTop" style="background-image: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/top.gif); height: 6px;">
</div>
<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetCenter" style="background-image: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bg.gif); background-repeat: repeat-y; height: 482px; padding: 0 6px 0 6px;">
<div class="sflyProductPreviewLogo" style="height: 34px; padding: 14px 0 0 14px; width: 105px;">
<img src="http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/logo.gif" style="background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none; padding: 0;" /></div>
<div class="sflyProductPreviewContainer" style="height: 350px; padding: 0; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AbsmjVu0YuGSf&cid=SFLYOCWIDGET&eid=118"><img src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/8AbsmjVu0YuE/8AbsmjVu0YuEYQc/p/67b0de21b3127d902548/JPEG/1353297513000/0/" style="background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none; padding: 0;" /></a></div>
<div class="sflyProductPreviewMessageContainer" style="background-color: #f4f4e9; height: 55px; line-height: 19px; padding: 15px 0 15px 0; text-align: center;">
<div class="sflyProductPreviewTitle" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;">
5x7 Folded Card</div>
<div class="sflyProductPreviewViewCollection" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px;">
View the entire <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">collection</a> of cards.</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetBottom" style="background-image: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bottom.gif); height: 6px;">
</div>
</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>
</div>
Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-19582419805221687452012-06-03T06:53:00.004-05:002012-06-03T06:53:29.210-05:00The Brave Little Soul<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This was the poem Cindy read yesterday see this post: <a href="http://blackhurstfamily.blogspot.com/2012/06/forever-changed.html">http://blackhurstfamily.blogspot.com/2012/06/forever-changed.html</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">The Brave Little Soul by John Alessi</span></strong></div>
<br />
<br />
Not too long ago in Heaven there was a little soul who took wonder in observing the world. He especially enjoyed the love he saw there and often expressed this joy with God. One day however the little soul was sad, for on this day he saw suffering in the world. He approached God and sadly asked, “Why do bad things happen; why is there suffering in the world?”<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
God paused for a moment and replied, "Little soul, do not be sad, for the suffering you see, unlocks the love in people’s hearts.” The little soul was confused. “What do you mean,” he asked. God replied, “Have you not noticed the goodness and love that is the offspring of that suffering? Look at how people come together, drop their differences and show their love and compassion for those who suffer. All their other motivations disappear and they become motivated by love alone.”<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The little soul began to understand and listened attentively as God continued, “The suffering soul unlocks the love in people’s hearts much like the sun and the rain unlock the flower within the seed. I created everyone with endless love in their heart, but unfortunately most people keep it locked up and hardly share it with anyone. They are afraid to let their love shine freely, because they are afraid of being hurt. But a suffering soul unlocks that love. I tell you this – it is the greatest miracle of all. Many souls have bravely chosen to go into the world and suffer – to unlock this love – to create this miracle – for the good of all humanity."<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Just then the little soul got a wonderful idea and could hardly contain himself. With his wings fluttering, bouncing up and down, the little soul excitedly replied, "I am brave; let me go! I would like to go into the world and suffer so that I can unlock the goodness and love in people’s hearts! I want to create that miracle!"<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
God smiled and said, "You are a brave soul I know, and thus I will grant your request. But even though you are very brave you will not be able to do this alone. I have known since the beginning of time that you would ask for this and so I have carefully selected many souls to care for you on your journey. Those souls will help you create your miracle; however they will also share in your suffering. Two of these souls are most special and will care for you, help you and suffer along with you, far beyond the others. They have already chosen a name for you.”<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
God and the brave little soul shared a smile, and then embraced. In parting, God said, “Do not forget little soul that I will be with you always. Although you have agreed to bear the pain, you will do so through my strength. And if the time should come when you feel that you have suffered enough, just say the word, think the thought, and you will be healed.”<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thus at that moment the brave little soul was born into the world, and through his suffering and God’s strength, he unlocked the goodness and love in people’s hearts. For so many people dropped their differences and came together to show their love. Priorities became properly aligned. People gave from their hearts. Those that were always too busy found time. Many began new spiritual journeys – some regained lost faith – many came back to God. Parents hugged their children tighter. Friends and family grew closer. Old friends got together and new friendships were made. Distant family reunited, and every family spent more time together. Everyone prayed. Peace and love reigned. Lives changed forever. It was good. The world was a better place. The miracle had happened. God was pleased.<br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-46694952251741133932012-06-02T21:15:00.002-05:002012-06-03T06:54:59.324-05:00Forever Changed<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I know that y'all are wanting to know how everything has gone today, so I'll do my best to take you through the morning. Before I do, let me just add that we are having to replace the transmission in the van, so we will be driving Chris' car this week and they will drive the car down next Friday in time for the party. What an adventure. It honestly makes me laugh. It has been quite a year.<br />
<br />
I got to know Cindy and Eric while they were going to law school in Waco. Leah Fish and I were some of Cindy's first friends. Cindy came to us as a newly wed, straight from Utah with ski gear on top of their car. I would get to know Cindy through many hours of scrapbooking, dinners, and church service. When Atticus was born, I was involved in her shower, and I remember bringing her a meal. I still remember that Eric likes pumpkin desserts. Random. Cindy and I grew closest during our time serving. I asked for Cindy to be called as our Compassionate Service Leader in Relief Society. She was leary of the calling. It is sometimes very daunting but I knew Cindy's heart was big enough to take on the task. I was right. I watched as she worked behind the scenes helping to comfort those that were in need or distress. She was so good at her job. Living in a transient town, you get used to saying goodbye to friends as they move on to other places, but I missed Cindy when she was gone and tried to keep up with her over the distance. A comment on her blog. A text. Little Facebook messages. Well wishes. Packages sent when Isaac was born for both Isaac and Atti. She is a good friend to me and I have treasured her for many years. I got to see Cindy on the day that they were leaving for their new life in Dallas. They had sold us her piano and were dropping it off. I remember smiling at Eric and asking if they were ready for real life now that he was a real lawyer. I was excited for them and their new life. Who could have guessed the trial that they would face. <br />
<br />
Today.<br />
<br />
Todd and I dropped the van off to be looked at before the funeral and arrived 30 minutes early. I wanted to get there early to see the flowers, but the cards were missing, so I'm not sure what ours looked like- or the basket sent by my sisters Heather & Leah- oh well. We were greeted in the chapel by many of our Waco friends whom we grew to love and most of whom had moved away. The Workmans came in from The Woodlands, the Rays from Lewisville, Stephanie Collette drove in from San Antonio as did the Wilsons, the Kerrs came from Tyler, Courtney Welsh came in from Keller, Natalie Dunning & Tonya Kuykendall came from Waco, and Nicole drove in from Fort Worth. Nicole is a talented photographer and she has captured many beautiful shots of the Hansens over the years. Atticus is amazingly photogenic. Such a charmer. Today Nicole took shots at the burial, which was such a unique gift to be able to give them and I'm grateful to her. I'm glad she was asked. No doubt the pictures will speak volumes. I should mention Zeb & Leah Fish were there and (blessedly) live close, and have been on this journey with the Hansens from the beginning. Cindy couldn't ask for a better friend than Leah Fish. I told Leah again that I was so grateful she was close and could be the hands and shoulders that I could not be from a distance. So there we were- a large group of Cindy & Eric's friends- as well as many, many more: ward members, loads of family in from out of state, police officers from Sunnyvale, and new friends- all there to show their respect and to help them get them through this day. They would need us.<br />
<br />
When the casket and family walked in I knew that Cindy was barely keeping it together. Her sweet face almost in disbelief and she walked slowly staring at the little casket. Her eyes were wet and glassy- almost unfocused, and her chin quivered the whole time. As her friend, I wanted to take her away, but this is the walk of a mourning mother- and one that she alone could walk. Eric, still pained, walked dutifully along- quiet and reflective- followed by the wonderfully close and devoted family members. They were greeted by many beautiful flowers and pews with tissue boxes. They wore orange, blue, and white.<br />
<br />
The service was long, but nicely done. It began with the congregation singing, "Nearer My God To Thee" which was difficult to get through without wet eyes, but it was only the beginning! I wanted to keep it together! Becky Hansen, Eric's Mom gave a really lovely prayer of thanks, and requests for strength. Cindy's sister-in-law read the obituary and her sister, Stacey, told some precious Atticus stories. It was good to smile and laugh at this fun little boy's antics. Then Primary children sang one of his favorite songs, "Scripture Power" lead by Leah Fish.<br />
<br />
Cindy then got up, she stood for a while trying to get composure. She said that she wasn't sure she was strong enough to speak in today's service, but that she wanted to be part of his tribute. She read a poem that changed my heart. I hope I can find it so you can read it. I haven't had any luck yet. Basically the poem talked about how a little angel conversed with God and (UPDATE: Tonya Kuykendall found it and sent it to me: <a href="http://blackhurstfamily.blogspot.com/2012/06/brave-little-soul.html">http://blackhurstfamily.blogspot.com/2012/06/brave-little-soul.html</a>) asked why there was suffering, and God told him that through the suffering, the love is opened. It goes on to say that God said there are some sent to Earth to open the love, but that they will have to suffer. The little angel gets excited and exclaims that he would like to be one of the ones to open the love. God agrees but reminds the angel that he will have to suffer. God says that He has chosen two people that will guide him through the suffering- to love him through it, and that through them, he will be able to open to love for many, many people. He says that the suffering will be hard, and when the little angel is ready to return that he just needs to close his eyes and say the words- and he would. The little angel understood and was born. Then Cindy gave some brief comments about knowing how Atti was one of those angels and that she looked forward to that day when they could be reunited again- when she could touch his cheeks and kiss his lips. It was heart wrenching and moving. She returned to her seat in sobs. What mother should have to say goodbye to their little one?<br />
<br />
There was a musical number by a young violinest who played "Abide with Me 'Tis Eventide". It was incredible- and moving. Cindy was really struggling by now and you could hear her sobs at times. Then Eric spoke. He began by thanking 3 groups of people: his law firm for letting him have off this time to spend with family- that it was a gift that he could not repay and that he was forever grateful for. Me too. He thanked the nurses and doctors who loved their little boy in this difficult journey and made the best efforts to make this as easy as possible. Then he thanked Atticus' Angels- the people whom have filled in the gaps- making dinners, cleaning the house, being there for the family doing the regular stuff and moving them forward when they seemed so paralyzed. He started the bulk of this talk by saying that 2 weeks before Atti's diagnosis- he had had a very vivid dream of speaking at Atticus' funeral. So as they have progressed through this trial, he has always known that this day would come and he would be standing at the pulpit. He said that he knew Atti was there in attendance, so he would like to address all of his comments to him. Again- sobs from Cindy. And the rest of us, in fact the audience was audibly louder. Eric told about the life of this fiery little boy and some of the antics he would pull, the timing was perfect- we as the audience needed to laugh again. Eric talked about Atti's reaction to all of the struggles; that he had always handled it with humor. At times, they would laugh, scratch their head and wonder where he would get this stuff. Two weeks ago when Atti had gone into a coma, there was a group of people in the room as they performed a spinal tap in the effort to releave the pressure. During thr process Atti awoke and instead of asking the usual questions- he responded by asking, "Who has been messin' with my underwear?" And as the room burst into laughter, he followed up by saying, "Laugh it up fuzz ball!". Eric went on to tell Atticus a series of reasons he had forgiven him- all funny stories about things Atti had done. Been a back seat driver. Told Daddy he was a bad singer. Hit Daddy with a baseball by accident and laughed hysterically. He would follow up with saying, "Atti, I know I have forgiven you because I would give anything to have that happen again." So we would laugh, and then cry, and then repeat. The humor helped Cindy get through his talk, though, as he echoed her sweet goodbyes. The rest of the service was filled with the bishop's remarks and more musical numbers. The service went over an hour and a half.<br />
<br />
We followed the procession that lead to the graveside service. People came outside to watch the prosession in this tiny Texas town. The police department, of which Atti was an honorary deputy gave him a grand entrance. Atti didn't even come in the usual hearse, he arrived in a police vehicile- sirens blaring; I'm sure he was grinning ear-to-ear. Atti's favorite colors were blue, orange, and white. So they had a moment where the orange, blue, and white balloons were let go as a song was played on a CD player. All of the Waco friends formed a little section of the smaller audience as we watched our sweet friends endure a little longer. By this time Cindy didn't look present. If I had to guess, actually, I would have guessed shock, or numbness. She shed no tears, just sat in the mother's spot. Eventually she was coaxed out to watch the balloons, and let one go herself, but it brought her emotions back too. Then the grandfather said a very sweet dedicatory prayer over the grave, and it was over. A few people gave hugs and then there was a brief lull, and the Waco group- or at least a few of us- made our way to Cindy. Before I got to her, I hugged her Mom- whom I had spent time with- and said something to the fact, I'm not sure you remember me, but she did. Then I got to Cindy, I hugged her tightly and we cried for a bit, audibly. Then I took her face in my hands and said, "You've done well. You only have a little while longer and this horrible day will be over." She cried and said, "I hope so." And I moved on. That's all I wanted her to know. She had done well. She was almost done. I was grateful I got to talk to her, the timing was right. Immediately after they let the family put a flower on the casket and say goodbye to the little boy in the casket. Cindy and Eric made sure that Isaac was involved. Sweet little brother. Rip your heart out. Painful. And then they were done. Cindy and Eric had all they could handle and they left- together- to be alone in the limo for a little while. It was time.<br />
<br />
I learned a great deal from attending this funeral and through this whole ordeal, but most importantly I hope that I have gained a little more insight on how to love. I kept thinking to myself through the day, how important friendships are. That through this horrible ordeal, some of Cindy & Eric's faithful cheerleaders traveled near and far to send our love and hold them up in their darkest hour- through Facebook posts, through letters, through meals, countless service- and now here. No doubt they will be carried by the Savior through the rest of this journey and as a new reality sets in. I'm grateful to know that, and I will pray for it in the days, months, and years to come. There will be a little time to give them space, and then they will need us again. We all need each other. <br />
<br />
Today, like so many, I walk away a better person for knowing Atticus Eric Hansen. Through him I vow to laugh a little longer, hug a little tigher, and love a little deeper. Thanks for the lesson, fuzz ball. See you on the other side...I am forever changed. We all are.</div>
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-32783980517528691192012-05-29T09:46:00.001-05:002012-05-29T09:46:11.992-05:00Our EPIC Anniversary Weekend!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We had such a great time this weekend. I spent all Friday organizing the stuff and cleaning the house so everything would be just perfect. I even gave our bedroom a little make-over with new sheets and bedspread- I LOVE it! It was a fun surprise for Todd as well. Thank you Target sales! Anyhow, we got the kids loaded with everything we could anticipate they would need and headed to Scott & Katie's house for the kid's "sleep over" with some of their favorite people. They were very excited, add Chick-fil-a for dinner, and we are set!<br />
<br />
Todd wouldn't tell me what he had planned, so he asked me to dress up a bit, and then we hit the road. We ended up in The Woodlands. Todd has wanted to take one of the boats on a tour of The Woodlands, but we were afraid we didn't have enough time, so we headed over to Barnes N Nobles while we waited for our reservation at PF Chang's. It was an appropriate start to our weekend since it was in the Barnes N Noble parking lot where Todd first told me he liked me. :) We wondered around and picked up a little travel game that we thought we could play at some point over the weekend. It is Phase 10 but with dice, and its a lot of fun.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMn22cxtFcnVwFTEFFbsdeYEGTTSHFJ5VLiGpZF6ri7BK-1-pTqpEK1r2Ug33cnB5pbK1DrEA22p7xcvk5uy0hxEsQit_1iVnPfAAwW06ejxadGBXZItZi2v_I4HPU1UI9l0UGbadi4wic/s1600/ChangEd.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMn22cxtFcnVwFTEFFbsdeYEGTTSHFJ5VLiGpZF6ri7BK-1-pTqpEK1r2Ug33cnB5pbK1DrEA22p7xcvk5uy0hxEsQit_1iVnPfAAwW06ejxadGBXZItZi2v_I4HPU1UI9l0UGbadi4wic/s400/ChangEd.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYxrVLQksWMCkm9RsN5A9MLwmColfGKC3h7ENn-PBzuGPiI9f2rpfGEOyZA8Gjb9P0q-hTN6myY5F0CA-qrmtPtfJMZlAZ65zVvOtJgx0me9XECbEhOWbJerXA1qRNbcKQrtSSKttLQQ1/s1600/Changs2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYxrVLQksWMCkm9RsN5A9MLwmColfGKC3h7ENn-PBzuGPiI9f2rpfGEOyZA8Gjb9P0q-hTN6myY5F0CA-qrmtPtfJMZlAZ65zVvOtJgx0me9XECbEhOWbJerXA1qRNbcKQrtSSKttLQQ1/s400/Changs2.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoJEEcMg159yD4LNpJylR5tgzPEyxZtDnJKvgou01zbQ5MqrU5txcEIk1KxiRJTz2NOyAgMrA_-ukwdBvwW_5075bjvd7OhEE-w6-20V1ZjwT7Er9e68PedMoEJBggY3fR2yMySW_7A_r/s1600/Changs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoJEEcMg159yD4LNpJylR5tgzPEyxZtDnJKvgou01zbQ5MqrU5txcEIk1KxiRJTz2NOyAgMrA_-ukwdBvwW_5075bjvd7OhEE-w6-20V1ZjwT7Er9e68PedMoEJBggY3fR2yMySW_7A_r/s400/Changs.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
We finally got seated on the patio, which it was a perfect night for, and the dining began! We had a couple's special so we got 2 soups, an appetizer, 2 entrees, and 2 desserts. It was so much fun. Todd and I had never been there before and it was perfect! We had the egg drop soup, chicken lettuce wraps, and then I had the Spicy Chicken and Todd had the Mongolian Beef. We actually shared both of our dinners with each other and ended up liking what the other one had ordered better. For dessert we had a mini Wall of China and mini Chocolate Mouse, and we didn't trade on this one. Yum! After that we made a stop at Target (very exciting) for some random things: Kool-aide (I needed it for the end of the year gifts and they were sold out at the one near us), Orange Juice, and I can't remember what else, but nothing of note. We headed home and watched The Vow, which was a sweet romantic movie (but I just wanted the girl to remember already!) and then called it a night-- waaaaaay later than usual, but hey! no kids, we could sleep in if we wanted to!<br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday was my planning. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmv5IJgGKZI-84QIc0a8DAH7QOubd5ODu4F5aPRcyOM7I6u0UaQWu3MJN-aCCfYMRXzkefZx_CXoROmfTs5ocObNxXEiHzYKqrFU1fZqqtwbMv15bXibWjva9BVe17Qeju1TobdCzrjtzj/s1600/breakie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmv5IJgGKZI-84QIc0a8DAH7QOubd5ODu4F5aPRcyOM7I6u0UaQWu3MJN-aCCfYMRXzkefZx_CXoROmfTs5ocObNxXEiHzYKqrFU1fZqqtwbMv15bXibWjva9BVe17Qeju1TobdCzrjtzj/s320/breakie.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you see my brochure? And the little Travel Phase 10 can?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhze6viAnLwvPhUWkD1dtiTY0HWBLYLaAbBRpcvURiGkEAHQcVvFNFu8TynCkiKB-E5fDueYC0rNZZ8ggtpmbnzLvH1OGj-r-oULgygWKEMBV9Mm6Y9Ytyz6MYLZBlQjCBtkGFqBsqNQ7DP/s1600/brochure.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhze6viAnLwvPhUWkD1dtiTY0HWBLYLaAbBRpcvURiGkEAHQcVvFNFu8TynCkiKB-E5fDueYC0rNZZ8ggtpmbnzLvH1OGj-r-oULgygWKEMBV9Mm6Y9Ytyz6MYLZBlQjCBtkGFqBsqNQ7DP/s320/brochure.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So I had made part of the breakfast (cut-up fruit, granola, muffins) on Friday and Todd finished it up with scrambled eggs and bacon. A perfect breakfast in my book. We took our time getting dressed since we had been up so late, but then headed out the door for our afternoon movie and lunch. We went to see Dark Shadows with Johnny Depp. It was entertaining, but doesn't make my top 10 movies of all time. It's worth seeing, though, but it would be fine as a rental. There will most likely be a sequel too. We dined at the movies, splitting a small pizza that cost as much as a large at a normal restaurant. :) <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyK_emYjIUndFn5P1Ni5oJfMMgK1trlQgkfnEt0j0CldrluT8o4a4S2SQY6wVMO3_CEBzDAsS87JjkNfqtXgVxGaGPdEHxLFvyixnoENYlZjws7Ndpd-yobXPCe_mO9-EdpnOLq1WfieIY/s1600/movie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyK_emYjIUndFn5P1Ni5oJfMMgK1trlQgkfnEt0j0CldrluT8o4a4S2SQY6wVMO3_CEBzDAsS87JjkNfqtXgVxGaGPdEHxLFvyixnoENYlZjws7Ndpd-yobXPCe_mO9-EdpnOLq1WfieIY/s400/movie.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Todd's gigantic drink only costs us $32403943</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
After that we headed to Kohls for a quick trip. I bought Todd a watch for our anniversary and he wanted to get the links taken out so he could wear it. Then we headed to the temple. We have made this an annual trip, we always try to go to the temple on our anniversary since it is where we were married, it helps remind us of our special day.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIu_tDgZIm0MLGz-msZjhFthnXzQw84Fk-9UssOu8z_oboF1l7lRLuDID_0DpXPg4ZRSjeceYOK-8_nW63MevzApxDW2H1EEMAcoDvU6p5eTUnwtiFnYwuyZZLX-mrlyKcr9Au7NLosiZ/s1600/temple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIu_tDgZIm0MLGz-msZjhFthnXzQw84Fk-9UssOu8z_oboF1l7lRLuDID_0DpXPg4ZRSjeceYOK-8_nW63MevzApxDW2H1EEMAcoDvU6p5eTUnwtiFnYwuyZZLX-mrlyKcr9Au7NLosiZ/s320/temple.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Houston LDS Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We met up with our dear friends, the Gorguieros, and stayed for about an hour. After that we headed to Peli Peli- and let me say "WOW". We had an awesome experience there. The food was perfection. Just take a look! Yum. It might have been one if not the most expensive meal we have ever bought, but they run coupons all the time on Groupon, so we will go again no doubt! We even got to meet the chef and have our picture taken with him. We finished the evening off with some Menchies Frozen Yogurt and then picked up our girls, whom we were beginning to miss. :)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj51na2SSR3d07qqRk08zJKL0xQ2gYX6Eno-3Dmx1EzSkgfXx7NHtpH9No7JARMtOSJ9bKKvyg7sJ0tNjKs-WdiQYXf57qan9O93gE8TOxsPxS9f4qQ2lVosYLH8uG9bVXqBqsqgVMVaor/s1600/food.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj51na2SSR3d07qqRk08zJKL0xQ2gYX6Eno-3Dmx1EzSkgfXx7NHtpH9No7JARMtOSJ9bKKvyg7sJ0tNjKs-WdiQYXf57qan9O93gE8TOxsPxS9f4qQ2lVosYLH8uG9bVXqBqsqgVMVaor/s320/food.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what I ordered- it was the Chef's special of the night- oh my I want some right now!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHaouXpIAnCbsI3K1NaFfAUQSBm3cfuLREicg1kQfqJP-67Tgpcjwe2FG-Nhb_mIku17Af4-3m3ojisg6QRzlyzaPxgw8R6ev9yM_WUmlUbF3rQyYi2sC0kgzifr_zqilffciu0Dgvyyd/s1600/food2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHaouXpIAnCbsI3K1NaFfAUQSBm3cfuLREicg1kQfqJP-67Tgpcjwe2FG-Nhb_mIku17Af4-3m3ojisg6QRzlyzaPxgw8R6ev9yM_WUmlUbF3rQyYi2sC0kgzifr_zqilffciu0Dgvyyd/s320/food2.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Todd's meal was the coolest by far- how cool is that thing?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_wLJpTICpAmy6a1jQM9RVdg-6TlV-edByqZDuhfu4bwDJx4Sv0CJUSA7MMS9-z81xw0PD0IHuhNhzj2691k5vJEY09Vl2Gse7SgI9Ng64yDntIxzeyv5w9T08z0pCsoEvQMXiygB-h3Q/s1600/A%2526E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_wLJpTICpAmy6a1jQM9RVdg-6TlV-edByqZDuhfu4bwDJx4Sv0CJUSA7MMS9-z81xw0PD0IHuhNhzj2691k5vJEY09Vl2Gse7SgI9Ng64yDntIxzeyv5w9T08z0pCsoEvQMXiygB-h3Q/s320/A%2526E.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots and LOTS of laughs with some of our favorite Houstonians. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
It was an awesome 2 day and we had so much fun. Last year we decided to be more practical, and bought a vacuum and didn't really celebrate at all! So we thought we would make-up for it with 2 days packed of goodness. I loved every minute of it!<br />
<br />
Changing subjects...<br />
<br />
On Sunday we found out that our beloved friends, Eric and Cindy Hansen, lost their precious little boy in his fight against cancer. We knew the Hansens in Waco while Eric was attending Law School. I worked closely with Cindy in Relief Society and consider her to be one of my dearest friends from Waco. I looked through their blog this morning, thinking about the times we were in the same town and found a picture of me- I organized the food for her baby shower. Go figure. He was seriously one of the cutest babies of all time. When they moved away from Waco Todd's parents bought their piano for Todd. On Sunday Todd went and played "Angels Eyes" on that piano in honor of sweet Atti. Cindy and Eric and incredible parents, no child could have been loved more. We are very sad for their loss and have cheered on all of their adventures and triumphs along this painful journey. We love them dearly. We are grateful to know that Atticus is free of pain and happily in Jesus' loving arms. Please continue to pray for our sweet friends.<br />
<br />
Check out <a href="http://echansen.blogspot.com/">http://echansen.blogspot.com/</a> to read about their journey.<br />
<br />
And lastly...<br />
<br />
Let me just say how grateful I am for my many blessings. 2012 has been a very difficult year for many of my friends and family. 2011 was difficult for us and this year has been a time when I could really see the Lord in my life. I am so grateful to have a wonderful husband who truly is my best friend. We have so much fun together. I am grateful for my & Todd's family whom I love and cherish. I am grateful for the sweet little girls God has blessed me with the chance to raise. Life is good. God is great, and I am so grateful.<br />
<br />
xoxo</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-12715108322900160402012-05-17T14:28:00.002-05:002012-05-21T09:25:50.991-05:00A Happy birthday letter<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
My high school drama coach's daughter (who is my sweet friend) contacted me a while back and asked me to write a letter to her Mom for her 60th birthday. I had a lot of fun memories in high school, especially in Drama. I thought I would "publish" my letter since I've mentioned to many of my high school friends. There are several that I didn't mention that were right there along-side me, but this is what I wrote. It's long- hope you liked it Mrs. Bailey!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
xoxo</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">A Memoir by Lindsey Kennedy Blackhurst<o:p></o:p></span></b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">A Tribute to Becky Bailey</span></b></i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
High school is a strange and unusual world. There are rules, like in every world, but the
key is that once you have them mastered, they change! Most teenagers agree that it’s important to keep up. Tenth grade was my first year at a high
school because our school district wisely put ninth graders in a building all
by themselves. Of all the creatures in
the world of high school, ninth graders are by far the strangest. That year in Grapevine High School, we would
be getting a new principal. This
principal was bringing with him a new Drama teacher, and two of his three
beautiful blonde daughters. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I remember being very
excited to take drama in 10<sup>th</sup> grade.
I don’t remember what class it was exactly, but it was THEATRE and I
wanted to be there. I remember thinking
that Mrs. Bailey was spunky—always full of energy and personality. My first memory of her is when I was practicing
a prose reading of <i>The Wizard of Oz</i>-
where I learned to do all of the women’s voices. She showed me a funnier way to move through
the characters and a perfect way to introduce myself as the Wicked Witch,
getting on all fours and looking for munchkins.
I can still do those voices- but only in the right moment and when I’m
in the mood.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My mother had been a drama, speech, & debate teacher at
a different high school, so the arts were always part of my childhood. I remember being especially excited to try
out for my first high school play- Juggar’s Rain. And just like any good beginning, I played
the part of…the tree. No, I didn’t have
any speaking parts, although I was understudy to Eryn (a Bailey daughter and
friend). I got to be a tree…and that’s
being a little generous. Really, I was a
branch. The idea was that there were a
bunch of us as branches and we were all covered in leaves and such. Juggar became part of the “tree” at the
end. So maybe it wasn’t the most
glamorous way to start, but it was a memorable one.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once I got my feet wet, Mrs. Bailey cast me in many other
more-vocal parts! Leading roles! I was
Jessica in the <i>Merchants of Venice</i>,
Ronette in <i>Little Shop of Horrors</i>,
Sonnerie/Bells in <i>Red Noses</i>, I played an autistic girl in one of our class plays, and
I even directed a few plays under Mrs. Bailey’s watch my senior year. There were two parts that I didn’t mention
that have had great meaning in my life.
One was Beatriz in <i>Mariner</i>,
and the other was Jane in <i>Oklahoma!</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Mariner</i> was our
One Act play my junior year. I didn’t
realize it at the time I auditioned, but it would become a great honor to be in
that play and one of my fondest high school memories. As Beatriz I was the love interest of
Christopher Columbus, played by the great David Wilson-Brown. It was, in my opinion, the BEST female part
in the whole play. I got to be funny and
heart-broken as Beatriz- and since it was a One-Act play, I also played the part
of Crow Woman in the crazy-house scene.
That was awesome, Caaaahhh! Caaaah!
I remember Mrs. Bailey coaching David and me on a kissing scene. I can still see David and me standing in
front of Mrs. Bailey- barely touching, just barely friends! She told us the key to kissing on stage was
to fake it- that no REAL kissing would actually take place- but that our lips
needed to be in the same vicinity and we needed to make the audience think that
we were really going at it. We had a REALLY hard time keeping character. David and I could just look at each other
slightly off and it would send us both in stiches. Through Mrs. Bailey’s coaching
(and patience), we worked out the scene to where eventually it became
natural. She even added a part where he
would kinda throw me on the table. It
was a wonderful play. David and I became
very good friends and were paired together many more times. On a funny note- our very last time to
perform was for the understudies to get to act in front of an audience of their
family. By that time, we had traveled
all over Texas with that set, the clothes had been worn and changed <u>many</u>
times, and it was beginning to show.
When David- after his first costume change- walked into our scene, his
pants came off. I had no understudy, so
there I was in front of an audience of eager parents, standing in front of my
now-dear friend who, without even trying, could send me into a fit of
laughter. We TRIED to keep it together,
but David could not keep those pants on.
Luckily I was able to exit the stage and try to recompose myself while
David, who never left the stage the whole play, had to figure out how to hold
his pants up. Good times. Happy memories.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next memorable character was Jane in <i>Oklahoma!</i>. Mrs. Bailey may or may not have known that
EVERYONE had expected me to be the lead, Laurie, since it was my senior year
and I had had many lead roles and could sing.
I had even taken voice lessons practicing the Oklahoma songs, trying to
anticipate which song we would audition with.
At my audition, the pressure became intense, and I bombed it. B-O-M-B-E-D.
I remember GW Phillips, who was a shoe-in for the male lead gripping me
out for messing up my chance. Even when
I didn’t make call-backs several people assured me that it was going to be
me. When the cast was posted (and the
beautiful and talented Allison Seibert (Rogers) was to play Laurie) I noticed
my part was listed as Jane. <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> I don’t know if Mrs.
Bailey did this to soothe my ego or if there was an actual person named Jane on
the script, but if you ask any <i>Oklahoma!</i>-expert,
they won’t have any idea who “Jane” is.
Jane had no speaking parts, but I did get to sit in a swing for one of
the musical numbers. Mrs. Bailey-
through Jane- taught me a very good lesson.
I had never had a non-leading role (except for the part of the
Tree). In every audition I went to, I walked
away with a terrific part- except <i>Oklahoma!</i>,
where I had thought I would be lead- and I had a non-speaking role. I learned, through that role, what it was
like to be part of the team. I learned
what happens behind the stage when the “important characters” are in front of
the lights. I received a much-needed
dose of humility and walked away a better person. I also had SO MUCH FUN. And occasionally some of the major players
would try to make Jane a more important part- to be funny. Did you know, Mrs. Bailey that Caleb Stuart
usually improvised a line about Jane in his dialogues somewhere? Good friends.
Life lesson.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know a lot of these stories were my memories from my
experience in high school with Mrs. Bailey memories sprinkled throughout- but I
think these stories convey the rare talent that is the mark of a great
educator. Mrs. Bailey pushed when I
needed a push, she observed during self-discovery, and she nurtured when she
could see my greater potential. Several
of my classmates, including David Wilson-Brown, Caleb Stuart, and Alison Rogers
went on to pursue careers in acting. Although
that was not my path- the theatre and Mrs. Bailey taught me many life lessons
that I hope to pass on to my children and the children that I work with.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mrs. Bailey- thanks for your example, your love, and service
to our school. Thanks for making me feel
special and for making theatre a place where everyone was welcome. Thanks for the prayer circles, the warm-ups
(Tibet! Tibet! Tibet!) the lessons in costume-making, the painting tips, your
blocking, your critiques, your encouragement when we won and lost—but most of
all, your friendship. Happy Birthday
Becky Bailey! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We love you!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Lindsey Kennedy Blackhurst, GHS Class of 1997<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332719361607243856.post-36455477862376033812012-05-10T11:25:00.000-05:002012-05-10T12:11:57.865-05:00What ya cookin' good lookin'?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf54moYrm357P58db-s9m0E0lHGQJgGa2tibUNTePbbABUzHjXMBDpRlLG6c2CP_r_UAwd2izSUXwr5iSM38h356ZXlrRV5rTUWeHuBOOwI-ZzILHtxWEOBQ4UKZhOF6360BIWiDSAitHk/s1600/PS_0083_CUSTOM_FAT_PANTS_PIC2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf54moYrm357P58db-s9m0E0lHGQJgGa2tibUNTePbbABUzHjXMBDpRlLG6c2CP_r_UAwd2izSUXwr5iSM38h356ZXlrRV5rTUWeHuBOOwI-ZzILHtxWEOBQ4UKZhOF6360BIWiDSAitHk/s320/PS_0083_CUSTOM_FAT_PANTS_PIC2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So a few of my friends and I were chatting last night- and we were waaaay off topic AGAIN from what we were supposed to be doing and they said that when I plan my 2-weeks of meals, that I should just e-mail it to them so that I can save them some work.<br />
<br />
<br />
Can I just say- it must be nice to have a wife? My darling husband gets home from a long day of work to a usually somewhat clean and picked up house AND dinner waiting. Not to mention that he left that morning with breakfast in his belly also made by his adoring wife. But I can't help it. I love this guy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QM5JosefCna2eBjt1_SbAQ1-000U71tubDLV2FWDIhXBrG8R_a76B33q3zNdclOvFTinB2XcKj3YXO3lZ5bCfVjQJzzRV76u_10-wpQy-g4xpzEII8w0xNLumjhZ5N8Y3Mp88hnsJyTu/s1600/photo-769588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QM5JosefCna2eBjt1_SbAQ1-000U71tubDLV2FWDIhXBrG8R_a76B33q3zNdclOvFTinB2XcKj3YXO3lZ5bCfVjQJzzRV76u_10-wpQy-g4xpzEII8w0xNLumjhZ5N8Y3Mp88hnsJyTu/s320/photo-769588.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Who else would do things like this: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYtouZ294VLQsBklhniPxqqZCC6Y3SwoTHvb7BuNKqN5kGzm7xmQ_CFhnksS4EH7hwvKKtEj-ids1GLl4r366hBLMP1aVWJzR531_tn-q3SA90xTDczm5cXkdrehVYWtUduewqLQdhnuH/s1600/photo-736890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYtouZ294VLQsBklhniPxqqZCC6Y3SwoTHvb7BuNKqN5kGzm7xmQ_CFhnksS4EH7hwvKKtEj-ids1GLl4r366hBLMP1aVWJzR531_tn-q3SA90xTDczm5cXkdrehVYWtUduewqLQdhnuH/s320/photo-736890.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNF1X1UC3ZQqn-4H9NFZh1balhdkhvrm0UXsQf8_4TsPThAINcjSKGa48T_4mZfjciA-PqJgsSPbGnz3JZa_Bx6f5zKUNFcxdJ8htEUtmCV__-balsp4aR37xMWNtHrpOkcxSflyTR3bB/s1600/photo-755791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNF1X1UC3ZQqn-4H9NFZh1balhdkhvrm0UXsQf8_4TsPThAINcjSKGa48T_4mZfjciA-PqJgsSPbGnz3JZa_Bx6f5zKUNFcxdJ8htEUtmCV__-balsp4aR37xMWNtHrpOkcxSflyTR3bB/s320/photo-755791.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNdWX54Szsx6AAXtHcR1lkiERcti65bN8f650jDmlfsg3FUs4iXMgawTLnOtSqtlrWmDkh-8LEJNoWTS9dxfKHybnQP7XmMiAvE_4x2F8WBdGK7CZ7Z2dsXIrGkVGGdpWe-k-DfXJADnD/s1600/photo-790870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNdWX54Szsx6AAXtHcR1lkiERcti65bN8f650jDmlfsg3FUs4iXMgawTLnOtSqtlrWmDkh-8LEJNoWTS9dxfKHybnQP7XmMiAvE_4x2F8WBdGK7CZ7Z2dsXIrGkVGGdpWe-k-DfXJADnD/s320/photo-790870.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He does the ironing. I love this guy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-deEfSwgzHd5JQ35QBsqkuw_7MDUsLAaHNXXgrYA_G1bMznkWCLXTIZoCQVXM8n_-eG9LXdQZ5gwt0rwrdOZVHqoxFgojMx-OFojidSBhUYJyyHeGrfzZgy7KZBhw8fEikbLtjvRcJxRz/s1600/photo-796587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-deEfSwgzHd5JQ35QBsqkuw_7MDUsLAaHNXXgrYA_G1bMznkWCLXTIZoCQVXM8n_-eG9LXdQZ5gwt0rwrdOZVHqoxFgojMx-OFojidSBhUYJyyHeGrfzZgy7KZBhw8fEikbLtjvRcJxRz/s320/photo-796587.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8WUOVIKpRyz2U8D89YRi1PHA8h5c9gCrjhgFu-Qxh75fJZjLREO1PXiPtP3ElJAJGSSBv7u_zKSQrcscMv9LPSwiGNZspJe9RnveEOFLogkd_aIsg0VhM6D1yAYOBd-Ss6xTU_WGCJ8P3/s1600/photo-750205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8WUOVIKpRyz2U8D89YRi1PHA8h5c9gCrjhgFu-Qxh75fJZjLREO1PXiPtP3ElJAJGSSBv7u_zKSQrcscMv9LPSwiGNZspJe9RnveEOFLogkd_aIsg0VhM6D1yAYOBd-Ss6xTU_WGCJ8P3/s320/photo-750205.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Well, today is Thursday and I hope to go shopping for groceries for tomorrow- so, friends- here is my process.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">STEP 1:</span><br />
I chose a printable menu and then print it twice.<br />
<br />
<br />
Printable menu- I have a couple I like:<br />
<br />
Lately, I've been using this one- <a href="http://eatathomecooks.com/printable-menu-planner">http://eatathomecooks.com/printable-menu-planner</a><br />
But I have also been known to use this one, which by the way- I designed! <a href="http://stampwithlinz.blogspot.com/2011/09/yummy-goodness-free-menu-planner.html">http://stampwithlinz.blogspot.com/2011/09/yummy-goodness-free-menu-planner.html</a><br />
There are a couple of others I use when I feel like it, but these are my main 2. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">STEP 2:</span><br />
I begin with breakfast- isn't that how you are supposed to start the day?<br />
I have a breakfast board on Pinterest: <a href="http://pinterest.com/linzenoel/breakthefast/">http://pinterest.com/linzenoel/breakthefast/</a> I usually go there and then decide what kind of pattern I'd like to write down. If I am going to make something- like muffins- then I'll make enough for both weeks. Here is what I am planning for the next 2 weeks<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Monday- Banana Bread, fruit, & milk</b><br />
Mondays are always a little sleepy for me, so I try to do something easy. I'm thinking I'll make something ahead of time, freeze it, and then pull it out the night before. Let's try this recipe (scroll down a bit): <a href="http://8weekstoabetteryourecipes.blogspot.com/p/breakfast-smoothies.html">http://8weekstoabetteryourecipes.blogspot.com/p/breakfast-smoothies.html</a> <b> x 2.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Tuesday- Scrambled Eggs, Toasts/Biscuits, Fruit, BACON</b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtXvyjGNgQ4II9AbLUwEUa4AXYzlzEpp1O7VLxeLX9i4hLF73qvd4w1k_k-X9uvqBVpKSrAsv6YhAqKAf8etiN3pR0bXqtGESy1Ua6IZ_-4_zBsViBR6fPhw-apfttyFlrcOeM8MlvPo/s1600/Decembertime+153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtXvyjGNgQ4II9AbLUwEUa4AXYzlzEpp1O7VLxeLX9i4hLF73qvd4w1k_k-X9uvqBVpKSrAsv6YhAqKAf8etiN3pR0bXqtGESy1Ua6IZ_-4_zBsViBR6fPhw-apfttyFlrcOeM8MlvPo/s320/Decembertime+153.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are Pioneer Woman's Buttermilk Biscuits- yum. I like my blue bowl, makes it look fancy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have a picky eater. Just one. So I decided a while back that I can't cater to just her, that I need to plan the meal for the other 4 of us and then make sure there is at least something she will eat OR cereal available. She won't do eggs. She won't even do normal toast- so it will probably need to be biscuits. Here's a secret...don't judge! Biscuits are very easy to make, and I've made them a million times...but sometimes, I like the frozen kind. I don't like the Pilsbury kind much, but the frozen-pop-in-the-oven taste just as good as mine! Don't judge! :)<br />
I also cook my bacon in the microwave. I love my bacon cooker.<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhsk_CTD0hGClBibjg34-mmX7B6vfMcbWG7aDQNBuyw_7ayoT2UVuKJDoj86dcJdrUwsfh3uLOwH8jeRruTgc0-Vs34NXu8tMbIhLtEJcxkr25NveuA0WET11nkrIUi2Vd6BH0Lus4cag/s1600/Bacon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhsk_CTD0hGClBibjg34-mmX7B6vfMcbWG7aDQNBuyw_7ayoT2UVuKJDoj86dcJdrUwsfh3uLOwH8jeRruTgc0-Vs34NXu8tMbIhLtEJcxkr25NveuA0WET11nkrIUi2Vd6BH0Lus4cag/s320/Bacon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCItuUFmEoyhA4HzAcwXpLxia7MosUSlcbmd0-PCj0oYhub6bWKHfaCcbzz8djXKUJXpCNkOb2cGJWbA2cEtlxurqtYpf1B73MeukdK4xeN9yd0FlmHqaq_bcipHN3MpH8rAvdKm6KwNva/s1600/PS_0879_MEAT_CANDY_PIC2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCItuUFmEoyhA4HzAcwXpLxia7MosUSlcbmd0-PCj0oYhub6bWKHfaCcbzz8djXKUJXpCNkOb2cGJWbA2cEtlxurqtYpf1B73MeukdK4xeN9yd0FlmHqaq_bcipHN3MpH8rAvdKm6KwNva/s320/PS_0879_MEAT_CANDY_PIC2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Wednesday- Pancakes with Bananas (and nuts for those that will eat them)</b><br />
I try to make enough for both weeks and freeze half. It's a time saver! I also like Banana Pancakes- that link is here: <a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/04/21/recipe-whole-wheat-banana-pancakes-freeze-the-leftovers/">http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/04/21/recipe-whole-wheat-banana-pancakes-freeze-the-leftovers/</a><br />
<br />
<b>Thursday- Yogurt, Fruit, & homemade granola</b><br />
I have 2 recipes I like for granola. One of for a chewy kind & the other is crunchy. My family prefers the crunchy, but I could eat the chewy ALL. DAY. LONG.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">Chewy Granola- from my friend Nicole.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">10 C. rolledoats</span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">4 C. sliced almonds</span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 1/4 c. pure maple syrup</span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 1/4 c. oil (I used veggie oil)</span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
1 1/4 tsp. Salt</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
4-5 tsp. vanilla</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Optional (though I included most everything with what I gave you):</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
2 c. nuts</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
2 c. raisins</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
2 c. dried cherries</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
2 c. unsweetened coconut (I normally used sweetened...all I find at Wally)</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
1 20oz. drained crushed pineapple</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
(Or any other combination of dried fruit)</div>
</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Mix all ingredients together. Spread thinly on cookie sheets. Bake 20-25 minutes at 325-350 or until lightly browned. Cool 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to tupperware bowl. Keep tightly covered. This recipe makes a large bowl full. Will keep about 2 months in cupboard because of the oil. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The crunchy kind is found here: <a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/04/04/recipe-granola-bars-cereal/" style="background-color: transparent;">http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/04/04/recipe-granola-bars-cereal/</a></div>
</span><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Friday- Cereal...because I feel like it.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Saturday- Todd fixes breakfast, so I have the morning to sleep in. Bwahahaa- that was funny, wasn't it? :)</b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Sunday- Baked Oatmeal</b><br />
My little girls love oatmeal, and I think this is a fun way to do it and I've been wanting to try it. <a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/personal-sized-baked-oatmeal-with-individual-toppings-gluten-free-diabetic-friendly/">http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/personal-sized-baked-oatmeal-with-individual-toppings-gluten-free-diabetic-friendly/</a><br />
<br />
The following Sunday I want to do scones again: <a href="http://www.ourbestbites.com/2008/05/basic-baked-scones/">http://www.ourbestbites.com/2008/05/basic-baked-scones/</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Step 3:</span><br />
Lunch. Since the girls are in school- we play it day-by-day. I let them buy their lunch 2-3 times a week because they like to do that and the food is pretty good! Todd takes left-overs and Lucy and I just eat whatever we feel like- BUT I do plan for Saturday. Sunday, we just kinda do whatever- which is sandwiches most of the time.<br />
<br />
<b>Saturday lunch</b>- needs to be something easy. Our schedule is a little weird for the next 2 Saturdays, so I'm going to buy hotdogs. And because I'm a ROCK STAR- I've started making my own buns. They are so yummy. You can find that link here: <a href="http://www.ourbestbites.com/2008/09/french-bread-hoagies-and-buns/">http://www.ourbestbites.com/2008/09/french-bread-hoagies-and-buns/</a> I love this site. And while I'm at it, I might make 2 batches and save some for dinner.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0gX-CU6MqFPTSOVHbelggGsjLRX5_4Nd3zDsyo9QzKbLrJAplccsu8-r1BzGDY5ZJ2mSemiS7QoGNl5TY-r87ckkOJTAJNcSlP3HSV0DSuHJ6X0lOU4SJ8kk6f5GWwa0pGkTcvKopE54/s1600/rockstar-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0gX-CU6MqFPTSOVHbelggGsjLRX5_4Nd3zDsyo9QzKbLrJAplccsu8-r1BzGDY5ZJ2mSemiS7QoGNl5TY-r87ckkOJTAJNcSlP3HSV0DSuHJ6X0lOU4SJ8kk6f5GWwa0pGkTcvKopE54/s320/rockstar-11.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Step 4:</span><br />
This is a loooooooooooong post.<br />
Very similar to breakfast planning.<br />
<br />
I try to theme each day to help me organize and think. That doesn't always mean we have Mexican on Mondays every week, but it does mean we get Mexican at least once a week! :)<br />
<br />
I use my Pinterest page a lot while planning: <a href="http://pinterest.com/linzenoel/on-my-grocery-list/">http://pinterest.com/linzenoel/on-my-grocery-list/</a><br />
<br />
<b>Monday: MEXICAN & A Treat</b><br />
This needs to be a simple meal and one that can be cleaned up fast so we can have Family Home Evening and a treat at the end of the night.<br />
<u>Week 1-</u> Tacos, this is a family favorite. Everyone eats it. I also make my own Taco Seasoning, I use this recipe: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/taco-seasoning-i/">http://allrecipes.com/recipe/taco-seasoning-i/</a><br />
<u>Week 2</u>- Fajitas. I have a favorite marinade, but I only know it comes in a yellow container in the Mexican isle. That's very helpful, I know. Fajitas are best on a grill, but I have done them in a crock pot AND in the oven. Pick your poison.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhX-ltKxWiCflDSRGI1kI1qgZvQBe_Yug_rlyVajsRhhUaB6e6lI8zeibGZYFIcgkZQecNBRGfDzM5neDGnHdYX1Fu7NhB_c16P8SZ5X7b7uEbaWNU1Nr_mrt0CqZK8LB1rrSzaP-bjPA/s1600/1227+279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhX-ltKxWiCflDSRGI1kI1qgZvQBe_Yug_rlyVajsRhhUaB6e6lI8zeibGZYFIcgkZQecNBRGfDzM5neDGnHdYX1Fu7NhB_c16P8SZ5X7b7uEbaWNU1Nr_mrt0CqZK8LB1rrSzaP-bjPA/s320/1227+279.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Treats: Check out my Pinterest page for that: <a href="http://pinterest.com/linzenoel/the-sweet-stuff/">http://pinterest.com/linzenoel/the-sweet-stuff/</a> There's a ton on there, pick one and make it. I usually let one of the girls decide.<br />
<br />
<b>Tuesday: MEATLESS</b><br />
Week 1 & 2- Pasta- I have some great marinara recipes. There's one right here: <a href="http://blackhurstfamily.blogspot.com/2007/08/marinara-sauce-recipe.html">http://blackhurstfamily.blogspot.com/2007/08/marinara-sauce-recipe.html</a> This recipes makes a ton, so we're good for a whole month on sauce probably- and its cheap. I can also use this as Pizza sauce- see Thursday! I'll mix up the pastas to make it interesting. We always have a salad and a bread- most of the time they are Rhodes Rolls or something fresh from the store. :) If we're really lucky then I make breadsticks- found here: <a href="http://blackhurstfamily.blogspot.com/2008/01/because-i-am-elayna-enrichment.html">http://blackhurstfamily.blogspot.com/2008/01/because-i-am-elayna-enrichment.html</a><br />
<br />
Oh my goodness these are soooo good!<br />
<br />
If I don't want the marinara, then I go for the Alfredo sauce found in my trusty Better Home & Gardens Cook book.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiH1Dl59Gn2HUChma9378qVUNGZaX1N0Kk8HhnMfAbE3X8OnBhoEWuiZum-S7FMeVVLRuKfZX0T4zQouCjtQ0vbA5XWwaev82RHZbOWGJV0_ubQzzcjg79FT14EbDX6s2rxrFZcVPA0To/s1600/bhgnewcookbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiH1Dl59Gn2HUChma9378qVUNGZaX1N0Kk8HhnMfAbE3X8OnBhoEWuiZum-S7FMeVVLRuKfZX0T4zQouCjtQ0vbA5XWwaev82RHZbOWGJV0_ubQzzcjg79FT14EbDX6s2rxrFZcVPA0To/s320/bhgnewcookbook.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Wednesday: CROCK POT</b><br />
My hubbie volunteers after work on this day, so I don't get to see him much on Wednesdays- so I try to plan something in the crock pot...AND I often use paper plates. <u>It's all about survival on Wednesdays</u>. I have a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/101-More-Things-Slow-Cooker/dp/1586852930/ref=pd_sim_b_6">cookbook that I looooooove for the crock pot</a>. But I want to try something else this week.<br />
<br />
Week 1- Fauxtisserie Chicken: <a href="http://www.ourbestbites.com/2008/05/rotisserie-chicken/">http://www.ourbestbites.com/2008/05/rotisserie-chicken/</a> Although I admit, cooking a whole chicken is kinda creepy. It makes me feel like I'm cooking a small child. Gross. I know, but you asked- didn't you? No? Oh well, its MY blog!<br />
<br />
Week 2- Pulled Pork sandwiches using the extra buns I made for the hotdog buns. This is also a fun site that I use a lot: <a href="http://recipestop.blogspot.com/2010/01/crockpot-pulled-pork.html">http://recipestop.blogspot.com/2010/01/crockpot-pulled-pork.html</a> made by a few of my best cook friends. This recipe is super easy and super yummilicious. It's a word.<br />
<br />
<b>Thursday: ITALIAN</b><br />
Week 1- Pepperoni Monkey Bread- because this stuff is AMAZING. You'll thank me later. <a href="http://www.thesweetslife.com/2011/10/pepperoni-pizza-monkey-bread.html">http://www.thesweetslife.com/2011/10/pepperoni-pizza-monkey-bread.html</a><br />
Week 2-Stromboli <a href="http://www.squidoo.com/homemade-calzone">http://www.squidoo.com/homemade-calzone</a> because it makes you look like you are a REALLY good cook. Just don't tell anyone you used the stuff that came from a can, they DON'T need to know!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Y3rNtc2HM68owCbOeIS-_nDquTlUxdIeRNB4TGLBiy_qc7SVtDriZALGMBKuNlJHxEzrLEojnoHPiFufl57DPFol2IG8aezP6L5nSctpVTrgxWWR2SyYJeCs8aUrJQis4F5-oe5pdmc/s1600/Sydnee.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Y3rNtc2HM68owCbOeIS-_nDquTlUxdIeRNB4TGLBiy_qc7SVtDriZALGMBKuNlJHxEzrLEojnoHPiFufl57DPFol2IG8aezP6L5nSctpVTrgxWWR2SyYJeCs8aUrJQis4F5-oe5pdmc/s320/Sydnee.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Friday: Take-out/Left-overs</b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">TGIF- baby!</span><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Saturday: FROM THE FREEZER</b><br />
Hey- I mentioned this is my day "off" right? Todd likes to be super helpful on Saturdays, and I let him! This is kinda our WHATEVER day. The day we get to eat corn dogs (or corny dogs as I call them), frozen pizzas, frozen taquitos, frozen chimichangas. Don't judge! WE LIKE IT! At least for 1 day we don't mind. Otherwise we stay pretty fresh and healthy.<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Sunday: HOME-Cooking</b><br />
Week 1- Man-pleasing Chicken (this is a new one): <a href="http://www.wittyinthecity.com/2011/08/man-pleasing-chicken/">http://www.wittyinthecity.com/2011/08/man-pleasing-chicken/</a><br />
...with salad, cooked broccoli- probably, rolls/bread. I hope this is woman & little girl pleasing chicken too!<br />
<br />
Week 2-Dr. Pepper Roast Beef: <a href="http://www.ziplist.com/recipes/372956-Dr_Pepper_Slow_Cooker_Roast_Beef_Recipe">http://www.ziplist.com/recipes/372956-Dr_Pepper_Slow_Cooker_Roast_Beef_Recipe</a><br />
Trust me. You won't got back to that Onion Soup packet.<br />
<br />
With Potatoes (My own version is slightly different): <a href="http://www.seasaltwithfood.com/2009/05/hasselback-potatoes.html">http://www.seasaltwithfood.com/2009/05/hasselback-potatoes.html</a><br />
<br />
And salad! Because salad takes like 2 seconds and is healthy! Sometimes I make my own dressing, but now I'm just bragging.<br />
<br />
<b>Now I need to check my pantry & fridge for what all I need! And...now that I've written this EPIC LONG POST, I'm kinda hungry!</b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDbWQWFNOTU-nLOUM7fzveE1T8QDdYbQhmMTz7C5wuHLbfKfidz3ht59rnl205Kz5b-eMo-rJ-NsPy5WWaXdtki_qieg6aWyXY76cRgdFT0RFqA6BMDAJOVGcNEYbELmpej-DZmkpzsw4/s1600/photo-748915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDbWQWFNOTU-nLOUM7fzveE1T8QDdYbQhmMTz7C5wuHLbfKfidz3ht59rnl205Kz5b-eMo-rJ-NsPy5WWaXdtki_qieg6aWyXY76cRgdFT0RFqA6BMDAJOVGcNEYbELmpej-DZmkpzsw4/s320/photo-748915.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cart is always pretty full...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Bon Appetite!</b><br />
<b>xoxo</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72miSB2txM4tpYt4xx9OX-gxrOYE-UbvlHS0X540ZYKnIYHP6DhzYdp9nq9239w9H3YT7MkjJhlCzaVV30tCVFu2we04HJoumyymsGPYuPswuL4BSwxJ0201JKiZ1loh2JpTJAiYb5J4/s144/TagLine-001a.jpg" width="144" /></div>Stamp With Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08081306886793998654noreply@blogger.com3