Wednesday, December 21, 2011
If Only We Were Chickens
Taya LOVES her baby dolls. So much so that she believes she wants a live baby in the house. She's been talking about this for awhile now and Sunday night as she was getting out of the bath she informed me that I had a baby in MY belly and she wants a baby sister. I explained that mommy loves all my children but giving her a baby sister would push mommy clean over the edge and would send me to live in a place with padded walls. She found this funny and eventually decided that our family is fine the way it is and that SHE will get a baby in HER belly. A little while later she was in the living room making a fort and playing mommy and baby. I looked in the fort yet saw no baby. I asked her where her baby was. Without even missin' a beat she replied "I'm gonna LAY it later."
Monday, November 28, 2011
Christmas Is Coming
A couple weekends ago, after we all gained a few pounds from Thanksgiving we geared up for Christmas. The inside of the house is nicely decked out...not too over done. The outside however, not so much. The weather has NOT been on our side. More on that to come.
We put up, fluffed and decorated our new/used artificial tree. Now a few years back, I decided I would NEVER have a fake tree again. I HATE fluffing. However, after the constant mess of pine needles on the floor and trying to keep the thing alive for a month, it occured to me that an artificial tree just might be the way to go. So we did just that(thanks Lauren!). The tree looks beautiful. I love getting to go thru the ornaments every year and see the ones the kids have made over the years. I think we have a picture of Ethan on ornaments over the past 5 years. Going back to when he was 4 in Pre-K. Love them. We still have the ones we got when I was pregnant with Ethan and Corbin. Corbin, the little darling, wanted to take all HISornaments to his room. Taya tried to eat a couple made of gingerbread. In her defense, they do look pretty tastey. The boys have since the tree went up, brought the new ornaments home from school and added to our growing collection. I am SO excited. This is the first year little miss tot will make an ornament and put on the tree. She can't wait.
The stockings are hung on the shelf with care...One for each of us plus the dog, Maci. However we may need to add 3 more since Maci has given birth to 3 puppies over the weekend ;-)
For the first time, we decided to get the kids their own trees...for their room(thanks mema). The boys is red and gold... They have stockings in there too.
Taya's tree is purple and gold. Also with a stocking to match.
The boys(Corbin mainly) wanted to make sure the stockings in their rooms get filled on Christmas eve as well(of course-he makes me smile).
*I tried uploading pics for all to see, but it's a no go...comp is tarded.*
We put up, fluffed and decorated our new/used artificial tree. Now a few years back, I decided I would NEVER have a fake tree again. I HATE fluffing. However, after the constant mess of pine needles on the floor and trying to keep the thing alive for a month, it occured to me that an artificial tree just might be the way to go. So we did just that(thanks Lauren!). The tree looks beautiful. I love getting to go thru the ornaments every year and see the ones the kids have made over the years. I think we have a picture of Ethan on ornaments over the past 5 years. Going back to when he was 4 in Pre-K. Love them. We still have the ones we got when I was pregnant with Ethan and Corbin. Corbin, the little darling, wanted to take all HISornaments to his room. Taya tried to eat a couple made of gingerbread. In her defense, they do look pretty tastey. The boys have since the tree went up, brought the new ornaments home from school and added to our growing collection. I am SO excited. This is the first year little miss tot will make an ornament and put on the tree. She can't wait.
The stockings are hung on the shelf with care...One for each of us plus the dog, Maci. However we may need to add 3 more since Maci has given birth to 3 puppies over the weekend ;-)
For the first time, we decided to get the kids their own trees...for their room(thanks mema). The boys is red and gold... They have stockings in there too.
Taya's tree is purple and gold. Also with a stocking to match.
The boys(Corbin mainly) wanted to make sure the stockings in their rooms get filled on Christmas eve as well(of course-he makes me smile).
*I tried uploading pics for all to see, but it's a no go...comp is tarded.*
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Thanksgiving 2011: Today I Am Thankful
Today, I am thankful for my kids. The ones who stress me out, test my patience and make me call on a higher power to keep me grounded. The ones who, with a simple smile can light up any room. The ones who with a single touch can melt my heart. The angels that God has entrusted to me.
Over the past few months, things have been...rough to say the least. Financially. Spiritually. Emotionally. It's been a constant time of worry, doubt and prayer. In this, I have taken a step back and seen our life and family from the outside. Honestly, at first, I wasn't at peace with what I saw. After the realization of it all sank in, I began to see things differently. More free. More relaxed. Something refreshing. I see happy, healthy, smart, fun, feisty, beautiful souls in all of my children. They are typical kids in the fact that they love to go places and keep busy. Most things they realize cost money. Money that we haven't had. To me, our kids are different. They are perfectly content(most of the time) staying home, enjoying the outdoors(beautiful thing about country living), getting to know the horses down the road or going as a family to play baseball at the school. Our kids are simple souls and really only ask for small things in return. Love..laughter and peace. And for that, I am thankful.
Today, I am thankful for my husband. A man who loves me. A man that has stood beside me even when he didn't think he could. A man that deserves so much more than I have offered.
I'm not gonna sugar coat it or make it seen all warm and fuzzy. That's a joke. The sad, hurtful truth is our marriage has been crumbling. At times it felt like it was beyond repair. The anger. The hurt. The resentment. But, with countless nights of crying, prayer and faith, we somehow have managed to get back on the pathway of hope...and rebuilding. It's going to be a long, trying journey to get where we need to be, but I have a strong, selfless, amazing man to walk beside me. We now have faith and hopeful future. And for that, I am thankful.
Over the past few months, things have been...rough to say the least. Financially. Spiritually. Emotionally. It's been a constant time of worry, doubt and prayer. In this, I have taken a step back and seen our life and family from the outside. Honestly, at first, I wasn't at peace with what I saw. After the realization of it all sank in, I began to see things differently. More free. More relaxed. Something refreshing. I see happy, healthy, smart, fun, feisty, beautiful souls in all of my children. They are typical kids in the fact that they love to go places and keep busy. Most things they realize cost money. Money that we haven't had. To me, our kids are different. They are perfectly content(most of the time) staying home, enjoying the outdoors(beautiful thing about country living), getting to know the horses down the road or going as a family to play baseball at the school. Our kids are simple souls and really only ask for small things in return. Love..laughter and peace. And for that, I am thankful.
Today, I am thankful for my husband. A man who loves me. A man that has stood beside me even when he didn't think he could. A man that deserves so much more than I have offered.
I'm not gonna sugar coat it or make it seen all warm and fuzzy. That's a joke. The sad, hurtful truth is our marriage has been crumbling. At times it felt like it was beyond repair. The anger. The hurt. The resentment. But, with countless nights of crying, prayer and faith, we somehow have managed to get back on the pathway of hope...and rebuilding. It's going to be a long, trying journey to get where we need to be, but I have a strong, selfless, amazing man to walk beside me. We now have faith and hopeful future. And for that, I am thankful.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Tots Hair Scare
As everyone knows, Taya is our pride and joy. Sweet, sensitive, yet fiesty and determined. Everything about her is beautiful. This includes her hair. We get it trimmed from time to time but we NEVER cut it.
Last Thursday she went to school with 2 equally long braided pigtails and came home with a bit less hair(a LOT less hair in my book).
This is what she came home with.
(You see the right piggy is obviously shorter than the left?!?)
We made an "emergency" hair appt and were able to salvage her beautiful hair.
We've asked her numerous times over the past 5 days what happened and her story never changes. She didn't do it. She tried to "scape" but her little playmate "trapped" her, held her down and cut off her hair. Yes, I know it sounds crazy, but in my experience with Taya, which has been her whole life, she has NEVER shown intrest in cutting really anything other than papers, much less the hair on her pretty little head.
Luckily, she has such a sweet, kindred spirit that I don't think this has tramatized her at all. Me on the other hand? Well, that's another story.
Last Thursday she went to school with 2 equally long braided pigtails and came home with a bit less hair(a LOT less hair in my book).
This is what she came home with.
(You see the right piggy is obviously shorter than the left?!?)
We made an "emergency" hair appt and were able to salvage her beautiful hair.
We've asked her numerous times over the past 5 days what happened and her story never changes. She didn't do it. She tried to "scape" but her little playmate "trapped" her, held her down and cut off her hair. Yes, I know it sounds crazy, but in my experience with Taya, which has been her whole life, she has NEVER shown intrest in cutting really anything other than papers, much less the hair on her pretty little head.
Luckily, she has such a sweet, kindred spirit that I don't think this has tramatized her at all. Me on the other hand? Well, that's another story.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Halloween 2011
This year for Halloween, we had Rambo, a baseball player(who at picture time thought he needed to be a dracula player), and the most beautiful cowgirl you will ever see.
I think this picture should be on a poster. 100% "Breezy", AKA Ethan.
Our first stop...church, for TRUNK or treat. All the cars were decorated and had drivers to match. Kids took the candy staright from the trunk. Then we were off to a real NEIGHBORHOOD for more fun stuff. The boys decided the houses within the neighborhood were "mansions". That was a blast. So much candy, the kids couldn't even see straight. After a while, Taya, of course had to potty so we ended our festivities and headed to the house. The kids have all decided that from now on, that's the neighborhood we need to hit up.
I think this picture should be on a poster. 100% "Breezy", AKA Ethan.
Our first stop...church, for TRUNK or treat. All the cars were decorated and had drivers to match. Kids took the candy staright from the trunk. Then we were off to a real NEIGHBORHOOD for more fun stuff. The boys decided the houses within the neighborhood were "mansions". That was a blast. So much candy, the kids couldn't even see straight. After a while, Taya, of course had to potty so we ended our festivities and headed to the house. The kids have all decided that from now on, that's the neighborhood we need to hit up.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Our New Found Loves
Now that we live in the country, we have lots of open space and acres and acres for the kids to play on. Along with that comes neighbors...neighbors that own horses. 5 horses to be exact. I believe the boys say their names are Chico(my absolute fav), Bity(apparently this one likes to bite), White Socks(self explanatory), Sophia(who we decided yesterday is probably a boy, but the kids swear it's a girl) and the last horses name escapes me at the moment. At any rate, all 5 are magnificent creatures and absolutely beautiful. Here for the past year we have been going to visit them a couple times a month but only stopping at the fence and petting them from there. Well, this past weekend, the boys decided to venture out and jump the fence and be IN with the horses. Good idea? Bad idea? Being the good parents we are, we decided this is okay, as long as the kids respect the horses and their space. Of course Taya wanted in so after a couple minutes, Taya and I shimmied over the fence and got up close and personal, too. A-mazing. I fell in love. All 5 are wonderful, but Chico stole my heart. He gave me a few nudges as if to say hello.
These pics are from our Saturday visit. We went back Sunday too but with no camera.
I think this one should be in a magazine. So calming and peaceful.
This one puts a smile in my heart.
Love them.
Corbin has decided that we are going to spend time with the horses every Saturday and Sunday from now on. Who knows, maybe one day they'll let us ride em'.
These pics are from our Saturday visit. We went back Sunday too but with no camera.
I think this one should be in a magazine. So calming and peaceful.
This one puts a smile in my heart.
Love them.
Corbin has decided that we are going to spend time with the horses every Saturday and Sunday from now on. Who knows, maybe one day they'll let us ride em'.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Report Card Time
It seems the first 6 weeks of the school year has FLOWN by. Before we know it, school will be out for Christmas break(I REALLY should have been a teacher).
AS the kids(boys) get older I keep thinkin school will get tougher and their grades MAY start to slip. Nope, not our boys.
Corbin for the umpteenth time has once again gotten staright A's. So Smart.
Ethan once again has gotten A's and B's(3 A's and 3 B's to be exact-89 in MATH!). So Proud.
We love them both so stinkin' much and they make me SO, SO proud.
AS the kids(boys) get older I keep thinkin school will get tougher and their grades MAY start to slip. Nope, not our boys.
Corbin for the umpteenth time has once again gotten staright A's. So Smart.
Ethan once again has gotten A's and B's(3 A's and 3 B's to be exact-89 in MATH!). So Proud.
We love them both so stinkin' much and they make me SO, SO proud.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Ahh, Corbin
Corbin, Corbin, Corbin. You never cease to amaze me.
Last night we were eating dinner and I made some wild rice. Ya know, the kind that is mixed with white, brown and black rice??? Well, for whatever reason one of the boys asked where we got it from. I told them Matt bought it for school(back when he was in college a few months back) for a project. This statement led both Ethan and Corbin to believe that we have had the rice for years...20 in fact..since Matt was a KID in school. So, like any good parents, we decide to play along with them. Matt said his grandma bought it specially for him years before and that the rice was so special to Matt he has kept it and we finally ate it last night.
Simple Corbin...only had to say ONE sentence...
"Oh, that's why it's dark."
I love him.
Last night we were eating dinner and I made some wild rice. Ya know, the kind that is mixed with white, brown and black rice??? Well, for whatever reason one of the boys asked where we got it from. I told them Matt bought it for school(back when he was in college a few months back) for a project. This statement led both Ethan and Corbin to believe that we have had the rice for years...20 in fact..since Matt was a KID in school. So, like any good parents, we decide to play along with them. Matt said his grandma bought it specially for him years before and that the rice was so special to Matt he has kept it and we finally ate it last night.
Simple Corbin...only had to say ONE sentence...
"Oh, that's why it's dark."
I love him.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
A School Day In The Life Of Taya
Our little angel has started school and so far it seems to be a huge hit. Just look at what her school day entails.
Her classmates.
Baby girl hard at work...
Out for a walk..
I LOVE her.
Her classmates.
Baby girl hard at work...
Out for a walk..
I LOVE her.
Monday, August 22, 2011
The Gift That Is Corbin Strikes Again
So last Friday I had the day off so I took the kids to IHOP for breakfast then we headed out for shopping at Old Navy and Target to get those few last minute going back to school needs. After an exhausting morning of 3 kids crammed into a fitting room trying on clothes, constant requests for more junk, arguing over who's gonna push the basket, and chit chat from the boys on how excited they are to have their teachers, we made it home and I decided to have some girl time with Taya. So we went to get our nails and toes done. This is always fun. Especially when you have have your BFF with you.
Before Taya and I left, I tried to do a couple things around the house. I wasn't in a rush, per say, but I was walking around the house with purpose, mind focused on the nail salon. Well, my dear Corbin always has a million and 5 things running through his head. He kept asking me the same question over and over...and OVER. I wasn't necessarily ignoring him, I just wasn't listening to the words coming out of his precious mouth. Finally, after about 7 minutes of him continuously following me around the house, he stopped dead in his tracks and said as serious as only he can "Are you EVEN listening to anything I'm saying to you right now?!?" Now THAT folks, got my attention! I busted out laughing and gave that boy a big ole' kiss. I love him.
Before Taya and I left, I tried to do a couple things around the house. I wasn't in a rush, per say, but I was walking around the house with purpose, mind focused on the nail salon. Well, my dear Corbin always has a million and 5 things running through his head. He kept asking me the same question over and over...and OVER. I wasn't necessarily ignoring him, I just wasn't listening to the words coming out of his precious mouth. Finally, after about 7 minutes of him continuously following me around the house, he stopped dead in his tracks and said as serious as only he can "Are you EVEN listening to anything I'm saying to you right now?!?" Now THAT folks, got my attention! I busted out laughing and gave that boy a big ole' kiss. I love him.
Back To School They Go
Today starts the 2011-2012 school year. This is exciting for the kids but sad for me. It's just a reminder that they're all steadily growing up...too fast. On top of that, Taya started Pre-K. This is different then just pre-school...it's like REAL school.
The boys were so excited. Up even before me. They picked out their "first day of school" clothes 3 days ago. Both got the teachers they wanted and were ready to see their friends again.
Taya has been carrying her new backpack around for 2 days and has put everything SHE thinks she needs in it. I don't have the heart to tell her that that thing will become a pain soon enough.
I dropped the boys at school(don't really even remember them saying bye as they got out of the car, they were so excited) and off we went to take tot. Taya went to Miss Achaaale's(Michelle)house. She's being home schooled along with buddy Grayson. They got to feed the horse apples and "oatmeal" before I left. Taya was stoked. She loves her horses.
The real test of my day is after school, when the boys ride the bus home and STAY ALONE until I get there. That's an hour and a half of them "hopefully" being responsible and not burning down the house. Fingers crossed.
Now that they're all in school, I miss them so much.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The Gift That Is Corbin
Last week Matt was away on business so I, for the second week in a row, was doing the whole single mom thing. Got the kids up at the crack of dawn(5am to be exact), ran through the day as normal and crashed by 9:30. Every morning I felt like a terrible parent, getting the kids up so early(during summer at that), driving in the car, for what seems like forever, and just having to be away period. The kids however were fine. Happy. Awake. Discussing the topic of conversation on Kidd Kraddick in the morning(had to abruptly change the station a couple times) and rarin' to start their day. At one point, I was so tired, missing Matt and just feeling really low. We're driving on 205, behind the normal 6am traffic thinking I REALLY wish I was home in bed when I look over and see this...
At that moment, all the chaos and craziness of the world dissipated and a HUGE smile and feeling of total peace filled my entire body.
I believe God gives us kids to remind us in moments of doubt that there is ALWAYS humor and love in this life big enough to conquer it all.
At that moment, all the chaos and craziness of the world dissipated and a HUGE smile and feeling of total peace filled my entire body.
I believe God gives us kids to remind us in moments of doubt that there is ALWAYS humor and love in this life big enough to conquer it all.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
My Husband...The Builder
For the better part of the past 10 days the kids and I have been on our own. Matt has been away on business building playgrounds...in the humid Houston heat...only 110degrees. Poor guy.
This is the product of his handywork.
I'm so proud of my guy. He is truly my hero.
Matt's due home at the end of the week...hopefully with a picture of another creation:-)
This is the product of his handywork.
I'm so proud of my guy. He is truly my hero.
Matt's due home at the end of the week...hopefully with a picture of another creation:-)
Thursday, August 4, 2011
My Best Friend
Stands about 3ft tall.
Weighs approximately 33 pounds.
Has sandy blonde hair, with bright blue eyes.
My best friend...
Makes me smile.
Makes me laugh everyday.
Makes me laugh everyday.
Makes me want to learn all I can about the world.
My best friend...
Teaches me all about horses.
Teaches me how to be a great friend.
Teaches me to love even myself.
My best friend...
Gives me the best hugs and kisses.
My best friend...
Makes me want to be a kid again.
My best friend...
Is the light of my life.
My best friend...
Makes me want to redeem myself.
My best friend...
Brings me more joy than I could have ever imagined.
THIS is MY best friend!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Missing George
Many of you may have had the pleasure of meeting my dog George. We have a LONG past together. Ya see, when I was 14 and a freshman in high school, my boyfriend at that time gave me a puppy for Christmas. Christmas of '95. I named the puppy George. Half dalmatian and half whatever else. Black lab? Schnauzer? Who knows?
George became my everything. When I was home he was right by my side. He was literally my baby. We did everything together. After I met Matt and he left for the navy, George was that piece of happiness that got me through my hardest days. I remember being pregnant with Ethan and spending almost everyday either on the couch or in my parents bed watching tv...George right there with me.
Two days after Matt and were married we left to start our life together in Virginia. I couldn't bring George so he stayed with my folks. My dad loved this, I'm sure. Anyway, I remember kissing my parents and saying goodbye. We left. Then 5 minutes down the road, I realized I never said goodbye to George. I made Matt turn the car around and I went to hug him and tell him bye. All that because I was NOT leaving town without telling him I loved him. After that, life got crazy but whenever I was home for a visit things were the same. He was my baby. Once I started having kids that whole bond kinda got shuffled in the midst of my new life. I never stopped loving him. He has lived with my parents for the past 15 and a half yrs and has been a part of our family. Today, a piece of our family died. George, at 95 yrs old in human years went to heaven this morning. Taya said "It's okay, he'll be right back." Boy I wish she were right. I know he's no longer suffering and I believe with all my heart that he will watch over our family. I'm pretty sure that we all, myself, my mom, my dad and my brother all are taking this harder than we ever thought we would. This is tough.
No matter how mad he made us all at times, he was an awesome dog. A great protector and to me, he was one of the best friends I ever had.
I love you, George.
George became my everything. When I was home he was right by my side. He was literally my baby. We did everything together. After I met Matt and he left for the navy, George was that piece of happiness that got me through my hardest days. I remember being pregnant with Ethan and spending almost everyday either on the couch or in my parents bed watching tv...George right there with me.
Two days after Matt and were married we left to start our life together in Virginia. I couldn't bring George so he stayed with my folks. My dad loved this, I'm sure. Anyway, I remember kissing my parents and saying goodbye. We left. Then 5 minutes down the road, I realized I never said goodbye to George. I made Matt turn the car around and I went to hug him and tell him bye. All that because I was NOT leaving town without telling him I loved him. After that, life got crazy but whenever I was home for a visit things were the same. He was my baby. Once I started having kids that whole bond kinda got shuffled in the midst of my new life. I never stopped loving him. He has lived with my parents for the past 15 and a half yrs and has been a part of our family. Today, a piece of our family died. George, at 95 yrs old in human years went to heaven this morning. Taya said "It's okay, he'll be right back." Boy I wish she were right. I know he's no longer suffering and I believe with all my heart that he will watch over our family. I'm pretty sure that we all, myself, my mom, my dad and my brother all are taking this harder than we ever thought we would. This is tough.
No matter how mad he made us all at times, he was an awesome dog. A great protector and to me, he was one of the best friends I ever had.
I love you, George.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
My Father
As long as I can remember my father has always been a man with a heart of gold. When I think of my childhood, I'm reminded of a great song, "Daddy's Hands".
I remember Daddy´s hands, folded silently in prayer.
And reaching out to hold me, when I had a nightmare.
You could read quite a story, in the callouses and lines.
Years of work and worry had left their mark behind.
I remember Daddy´s hands, how they held my Mama tight,
And patted my back, for something done right.
There are things that I´ve forgotten, that I loved about the man,
But I´ll always remember the love in Daddy´s hands.
Daddy's hands were soft and kind when I was cryin´.
Daddy´s hands, were hard as steel when I´d done wrong.
Daddy´s hands, weren´t always gentle
But I´ve come to understand.
There was always love in Daddy´s hands.
I remember Daddy´s hands, working 'til they bled.
Sacrificed unselfishly, just to keep us all fed.
If I could do things over, I´d live my life again.
And never take for granted the love in Daddy´s hands.
Growing up I know I wasn't an angel to live with much less easy to parent but I do know that my dad could never love me more.
I remember a picture taken of us at my mom's uncle's house in the hill country when I was about 8 or 9. I have no idea where the picture is today but I can still picture it vividly in head. Even what I was wearing. We were sitting on the back deck. I was curled up in his arms, my head on his chest.
Now that my brother and I have babies of our own my daddy became Pepa or "P" as Ethan calls him. I could have never known what an asset my dad would be to my children. Next to their daddy, their pepa reigns supreme.
These past few months have been a real trying time for my dad. A time to see what he is made of. He is a man of great strength, wisdom and most of all love.
How fortunate we all are for having my father in our lives, but more than that, how lucky am I to call him my dad.
I remember Daddy´s hands, folded silently in prayer.
And reaching out to hold me, when I had a nightmare.
You could read quite a story, in the callouses and lines.
Years of work and worry had left their mark behind.
I remember Daddy´s hands, how they held my Mama tight,
And patted my back, for something done right.
There are things that I´ve forgotten, that I loved about the man,
But I´ll always remember the love in Daddy´s hands.
Daddy's hands were soft and kind when I was cryin´.
Daddy´s hands, were hard as steel when I´d done wrong.
Daddy´s hands, weren´t always gentle
But I´ve come to understand.
There was always love in Daddy´s hands.
I remember Daddy´s hands, working 'til they bled.
Sacrificed unselfishly, just to keep us all fed.
If I could do things over, I´d live my life again.
And never take for granted the love in Daddy´s hands.
Growing up I know I wasn't an angel to live with much less easy to parent but I do know that my dad could never love me more.
I remember a picture taken of us at my mom's uncle's house in the hill country when I was about 8 or 9. I have no idea where the picture is today but I can still picture it vividly in head. Even what I was wearing. We were sitting on the back deck. I was curled up in his arms, my head on his chest.
Now that my brother and I have babies of our own my daddy became Pepa or "P" as Ethan calls him. I could have never known what an asset my dad would be to my children. Next to their daddy, their pepa reigns supreme.
These past few months have been a real trying time for my dad. A time to see what he is made of. He is a man of great strength, wisdom and most of all love.
How fortunate we all are for having my father in our lives, but more than that, how lucky am I to call him my dad.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Taya Goes To School
My baby is growing up so fast. Too fast. Three weeks ago Taya started "Little School". You would think this is exciting. Yeah, not so much. She has been talking for 2 years now about going to go school. Like her "bubba's". The 3 of them even play school at home from time to time. She is always the student and loves it. The first day, she was a bit sad but still seemed eager to see what this school business was all about. As the days passed she decided this mess is for the birds and she was content being at home with daddy. PRETENDING to be at school with the boys is sufficient. Poor doll, doesn't realize she has a long, LONG school career ahead of her.
My brother sent me a poem that really rang true. It's called "I Trust You'll Treat Her Well".
*I bequeath to you today one little girl...in a crispy dress...with two brown eyes...and a happy laugh that ripples all day long.. and a flash of light brown hair that bounces in the sun when she runs.
I trust you'll treat her well.
She's slipping out of the backyard of my heart this morning...and skipping off down the street to her first day of school. And never again will she be completely mine.
Prim and proud she'll wave her young and independent hand this morning and say "Goodbye" and walk with little lady steps to the schoolhouse.
Now she'll learn to stand in lines...and wait by the alphabet for her name to be called. She'll learn to tune her ears for the sounds of school-bells...and deadlines...and she'll learn to giggle...and gossip...and look at the ceiling in a disinterested way when the little boy 'cross the aisle sticks out his tongue at her. And now she'll learn to be jealous. And now she'll learn how it is to feel hurt inside. And now she'll learn how not to cry.
No longer will she have time to sit on the front porch on a summer day and watch an ant scurry across the crack in the sidewalk. Nor will she have time to pop out of bed with the dawn and kiss lilac blooms in the morning dew. No, now she'll worry about those important things...like grades and which dress to wear and whose best friends is whose. And the magic of books and learning will replace the magic of her blocks and dolls. And now she'll find new heroes.
For five full years now I've been her sage and Santa Claus and pal and playmate and mother and friend. Now she'll learn to share her worship with her teachers ...which is only right. But no longer will I be the smartest woman in the whole world. Today when that school bell rings for the first time...she'll learn what it means to be a member of the group...with all its privileges and its disadvantages too.
She'll learn in time that proper young ladies do not laugh out loud...or kiss dogs...or keep frogs in pickle jars in bedrooms...or even watch ants scurry across cracks in sidewalks in the summer.
Today she'll learn for the first time that all who smile at her are not her friends. And I'll stand on the front porch and watch her start out on the long, lonely journey to becoming a woman.
So, world, I bequeath to you today one little girl...in a crispy dress...with two brown eyes...and a flash of light brown hair that bounces in the sunlight when she runs.
I trust you'll treat her well.*
After reading this, I dried up my tears and started thinking how true it is. The world so far has been her playground. Mommy and daddy have been her comfort. Her security. Her heros. I realized that my baby, my youngest, my kindred spirit will soon find new comfort, new secruity and new heros. I don't like it. Not one single bit.
The highlight of my day is walking into the "little school" and seeing that beautiful blonde hair, blue eyed girl's eyes light up when she see's momma is there to get her. She runs up to me, scream's "Mommy" and hugs me as tight as she can. I love it. I treasure it. I hope as time goes by, our relationship never changes.
Although, I am excited to watch her become a beautiful young lady, I would be just fine freezing time right where it is.
She is my princess, my best friend...my angel sent from God. I love her.
My brother sent me a poem that really rang true. It's called "I Trust You'll Treat Her Well".
*I bequeath to you today one little girl...in a crispy dress...with two brown eyes...and a happy laugh that ripples all day long.. and a flash of light brown hair that bounces in the sun when she runs.
I trust you'll treat her well.
She's slipping out of the backyard of my heart this morning...and skipping off down the street to her first day of school. And never again will she be completely mine.
Prim and proud she'll wave her young and independent hand this morning and say "Goodbye" and walk with little lady steps to the schoolhouse.
Now she'll learn to stand in lines...and wait by the alphabet for her name to be called. She'll learn to tune her ears for the sounds of school-bells...and deadlines...and she'll learn to giggle...and gossip...and look at the ceiling in a disinterested way when the little boy 'cross the aisle sticks out his tongue at her. And now she'll learn to be jealous. And now she'll learn how it is to feel hurt inside. And now she'll learn how not to cry.
No longer will she have time to sit on the front porch on a summer day and watch an ant scurry across the crack in the sidewalk. Nor will she have time to pop out of bed with the dawn and kiss lilac blooms in the morning dew. No, now she'll worry about those important things...like grades and which dress to wear and whose best friends is whose. And the magic of books and learning will replace the magic of her blocks and dolls. And now she'll find new heroes.
For five full years now I've been her sage and Santa Claus and pal and playmate and mother and friend. Now she'll learn to share her worship with her teachers ...which is only right. But no longer will I be the smartest woman in the whole world. Today when that school bell rings for the first time...she'll learn what it means to be a member of the group...with all its privileges and its disadvantages too.
She'll learn in time that proper young ladies do not laugh out loud...or kiss dogs...or keep frogs in pickle jars in bedrooms...or even watch ants scurry across cracks in sidewalks in the summer.
Today she'll learn for the first time that all who smile at her are not her friends. And I'll stand on the front porch and watch her start out on the long, lonely journey to becoming a woman.
So, world, I bequeath to you today one little girl...in a crispy dress...with two brown eyes...and a flash of light brown hair that bounces in the sunlight when she runs.
I trust you'll treat her well.*
After reading this, I dried up my tears and started thinking how true it is. The world so far has been her playground. Mommy and daddy have been her comfort. Her security. Her heros. I realized that my baby, my youngest, my kindred spirit will soon find new comfort, new secruity and new heros. I don't like it. Not one single bit.
The highlight of my day is walking into the "little school" and seeing that beautiful blonde hair, blue eyed girl's eyes light up when she see's momma is there to get her. She runs up to me, scream's "Mommy" and hugs me as tight as she can. I love it. I treasure it. I hope as time goes by, our relationship never changes.
Although, I am excited to watch her become a beautiful young lady, I would be just fine freezing time right where it is.
She is my princess, my best friend...my angel sent from God. I love her.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Mothers Day Fun
I have to say, I've been a mommy for 10 yrs now and this Mothers Day was the best yet. My brother and I surprised my mom with a day of bowling! It was super fun! The kids did great! ALL 3 beat me in both games. In my defense, they all had bumpers, however, I did not. Scored a whopping 39 my first game and 55 my second. Just plain sad. I did get a strike though! We all did except miss Taya...she tried real hard. I think all 3 kids broke 100 between both games. My brother and Matt were on a roll. Both of them got multiple strikes. What luck. I'm told it's all in the form. The way your arm is positioned. Yeah, yeah I never quite figured that out.
It's all about concentration and focus.
She had her very own helper.
Taya loves her pepa.
Awwww...
Doesn't get much better than a day full of fun and family. I am incredibly blessed to mother my children. All 3 so different but so much the same. How fortunate am I that God chose me to parent them all. Immensely fortunate.
It's all about concentration and focus.
She had her very own helper.
Taya loves her pepa.
Awwww...
Doesn't get much better than a day full of fun and family. I am incredibly blessed to mother my children. All 3 so different but so much the same. How fortunate am I that God chose me to parent them all. Immensely fortunate.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Adventures In Roller Skating
The other day we took the kids roller skating. The boys had been once when Ethan was 4 and Corbin was 2. Of course they were too young to remember this and Taya had never been so this was a whole new experience for the 3 of them.
Skating is a work out on it's own, then add in the pushing of the stroller and/or carrying a child and it's a marathon.
I read a sign while we were there that read "Skating for 2 hours is equal to walking 18 miles"!!! You kidding me? I believe it. That mess is exhausting. Plum exhausting.
The more the kids skated, the more they started having fun.
Ethan was being chased by the little girls.
Corbin was in it to win it.
Taya was just loving being raced around.
All in all, at the end of the day, it was an afternoon spent full of fun. Will we go back anytime soon? That's still up for discussion.
Skating is a work out on it's own, then add in the pushing of the stroller and/or carrying a child and it's a marathon.
I read a sign while we were there that read "Skating for 2 hours is equal to walking 18 miles"!!! You kidding me? I believe it. That mess is exhausting. Plum exhausting.
The more the kids skated, the more they started having fun.
Ethan was being chased by the little girls.
Corbin was in it to win it.
Taya was just loving being raced around.
All in all, at the end of the day, it was an afternoon spent full of fun. Will we go back anytime soon? That's still up for discussion.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
A Decade With Ethan
It’s hard to believe that just over 10 yrs ago I was just…me. I was someone’s wife, daughter and sister ,but still me. That all changed the day Ethan was born. I just became someone’s MOM. This little guy depended on me like no one else ever had. And would for the next 18 yrs. This was scary. And exciting all at the same time.
Today, that little baby turns 10!
I started telling Ethan 10 yrs ago on Mother’s Day that HE made me a mom. HE is why I have a Mother’s Day to celebrate. I still tell him that today. The smile he still gets on his face knowing that he alone made me so happy is priceless. It’s something I treasure. He was my first born, my first everything.
He was the first one I pee’d on a stick for. The first heartbeat I ever heard. The first movements in my belly. The first to put me in the most pain imaginable.
The first to hold. The first o kiss. The first to nurse(if only for a short time). The first to crawl. The first to talk. The first to walk. The first to tell me he loves me. To potty train. To ride a bike. To start school. The first to play sports. The first to make me laugh. The first to make me cry. The first to make me so mad I couldn’t see straight. The first to fill me with such love and pride…unlike anything I’d ever felt.
I’ve never in my life seen someone so stubborn, so determined, so rebeluos. Then, I look in the mirror and see myself. In some crazy way that brings me comfort, knowing he’s like me in some ways. He is sensitive, nurturing and has a huge heart(sometimes you have to look real deep inside him to see this, but it’s definitely there).
He’s so much like his dad too. The way he walks, the way he thinks, the way he looks. Mini Matt. The way he says “chwelve(12), chwenty(20) and chwice(twice)”…just like Matt. The way he has dreams bigger than life…like Matt.
He loves to sing. He loves to dance, skateboard, swim, climb trees, play chase, play football and loves making us proud. He simply loves being a little boy.
(Corbin got some shots too)
This little boy tests my patience and my sanity in ways I never knew possible. He makes me pray for the strength I need to parent him in a way God is proud of. He makes me cry out because this is not always an easy task. This little boy makes me look deep inside my faith to see that he is just that…a little boy. This little boy, that same little boy…yeah, he has my heart.
I look at pictures from the past and see a beautiful future. I remember all the great times and use the not so great as examples of how to improve our relationship. He has made my life full of joy. He alone, gave me purpose.
It’s terrifying knowing that one day he won’t need me anymore, but you can bet your buns, as long as he does, I will be there…heart and soul.
There’s a book I got back in elementary school(many, many moons ago) that sums it all up. It’s called "Love You Forever".
I’ll love you forever
I’ll like you for always
As long as I’m living
My baby you’ll be
No matter how big or how old he gets, no matter how upset he makes me, no matter how far away he is, he will always and forever be my pride and joy. He will always be my baby. He will always be my first.
Here’s to a great decade with an awesome little boy. Here’s to an exciting future with my first.
Today, that little baby turns 10!
I started telling Ethan 10 yrs ago on Mother’s Day that HE made me a mom. HE is why I have a Mother’s Day to celebrate. I still tell him that today. The smile he still gets on his face knowing that he alone made me so happy is priceless. It’s something I treasure. He was my first born, my first everything.
He was the first one I pee’d on a stick for. The first heartbeat I ever heard. The first movements in my belly. The first to put me in the most pain imaginable.
The first to hold. The first o kiss. The first to nurse(if only for a short time). The first to crawl. The first to talk. The first to walk. The first to tell me he loves me. To potty train. To ride a bike. To start school. The first to play sports. The first to make me laugh. The first to make me cry. The first to make me so mad I couldn’t see straight. The first to fill me with such love and pride…unlike anything I’d ever felt.
I’ve never in my life seen someone so stubborn, so determined, so rebeluos. Then, I look in the mirror and see myself. In some crazy way that brings me comfort, knowing he’s like me in some ways. He is sensitive, nurturing and has a huge heart(sometimes you have to look real deep inside him to see this, but it’s definitely there).
He’s so much like his dad too. The way he walks, the way he thinks, the way he looks. Mini Matt. The way he says “chwelve(12), chwenty(20) and chwice(twice)”…just like Matt. The way he has dreams bigger than life…like Matt.
He loves to sing. He loves to dance, skateboard, swim, climb trees, play chase, play football and loves making us proud. He simply loves being a little boy.
(Corbin got some shots too)
This little boy tests my patience and my sanity in ways I never knew possible. He makes me pray for the strength I need to parent him in a way God is proud of. He makes me cry out because this is not always an easy task. This little boy makes me look deep inside my faith to see that he is just that…a little boy. This little boy, that same little boy…yeah, he has my heart.
I look at pictures from the past and see a beautiful future. I remember all the great times and use the not so great as examples of how to improve our relationship. He has made my life full of joy. He alone, gave me purpose.
It’s terrifying knowing that one day he won’t need me anymore, but you can bet your buns, as long as he does, I will be there…heart and soul.
There’s a book I got back in elementary school(many, many moons ago) that sums it all up. It’s called "Love You Forever".
I’ll love you forever
I’ll like you for always
As long as I’m living
My baby you’ll be
No matter how big or how old he gets, no matter how upset he makes me, no matter how far away he is, he will always and forever be my pride and joy. He will always be my baby. He will always be my first.
Here’s to a great decade with an awesome little boy. Here’s to an exciting future with my first.
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