Erase the memory, please!

Okay. So there haven't been too many posts lately from this household. I hope to do better in 2009. For now, I leave you with this:
Christmas and all the fun chaos that comes with the holiday....isn't it inevitable that something disastrous happen? All was well until BusyBoy decided yesterday to take a test run on his cousin's new motorcycle. It is the cutest thing you have ever seen, complete with training wheels. I had just mentioned to my dad that the rider was so low to the ground and it went so slowly that even if it crashed, injuries were unlikely. Wouldn't it be fun if BusyBoy had one and they could ride together? NO!!!!
BusyBoy had the dirt bike at top speed (faster than what I thought it would go) when he jumped or maybe tried to go around a bush. Down he went. Bike to the left, boy to the right.
I have never been more scared in my life!! My nephew was in my lap in the Rhino as Busy Daddy raced to the scene. There he lay spread eagle, face down and not moving at all. After calling my baby boy's name several times and without a response, I screamed to the top of my lungs. I just knew that he was dead, paralyzed or at the least unconscious. My screams rang through the fields. My brother ran as fast as any white boy has ever ran, jumping the terraces through the field. My daddy drove his truck so fast that Mom swears he'll need a new one soon. It's built Ford tough but that's not what Ford had in mind, I'm sure!
BusyBoy got up without a scratch. His cousin was crying because I screamed so loudly. And I was in hysterics at just the thought that my baby was dead or paralyzed.
Immediately, I took back at all I had said to my dad about the Santa gift being safe for a three year old. I held my baby in my arms for the ride back to the house. The dirt bike was thrown into the back and returned to the shed.
Christmastime is sure to hold memories. I wish this one could be erased. I just knew that I was about to hold my sweet boy for the last time and it was the MOST terrifying thing that has ever happened to me before.
I'll be back to you in 2009, after I recover from my scare :)

Tag....I'm it! (again!!)

This time it's a photo tag. The rules are to go to your photo files and post the 6th photo in the 6th file. So, here ya go:

This silly (or scary) face of Busyboy's was really the 6th in the 5th folder because folder 6 only had two photos....

And try number two resulted in this pose from Busybaby. It was the 6th photo in the 6th folder from the bottom....just in case you care.
Tag! Now you are it, ...crazy, wonderful...
Bevs
Harwells
Screws
paperwork and pacis
Primm and Proper
Shunnarahs
Okay. So that's seven. So what. It didn't all work out how it was intended anyway!
~enjoy :)

Daddy Crocker

That's right....there's no Betty Crocker at our house but there's sure a Daddy Crocker! (He can't have all the credit though. Clay's aunt made the dough and the icing......he only rolled it out and made the shapes.)
Busy Daddy and Busy Boy had such a good time in the kitchen tonight making sugar cookies. The bad part is that Busy Momma rolled out the dough and it stuck to the kitchen table and was too thin. Busy Daddy came to the rescue and just look at the finished product:

Thanks, sweet Aunt for sharing your sugar cookie stuff with us!

Want to go to Brooklyn?

Anyone up for a trip to Brooklyn? What about Jerusalem?
I watched the following two videos tonight on youtube and I'm ready for a journey.... You see, the Bible study I am doing right now is Psalms of Ascent by Beth Moore. I was so confused at first and thought that surely this was a study only for scholars (or at least those who are more Bible smart than me!). The more I study and the more I learn, the more hungry I am for the Word. It's such an amazing thing friends!! I'M AMAZED!!

I just can't wait for Wordless Wednesday to share these!!

Why?

"I love you Momma" Busyboy said as he settled onto the sofa for a half hour of Noggin.
"Why?" I asked him. (Usually, I just respond, "I love you too!")
"Because you're so cute!" he said in a matter of fact way.

Well, now doesn't that just make a momma's day? I'm loved because I'm so cute :)
Thanks, Busyboy for loving me!! I'm pretty fond of you myself and yes, you are so cute, too!

Love never fails

This afternoon, Busyboy and Busybaby (those are the newest blog names I've chosen for the kiddos, by the way) went to church with a dear friend while hubby and I went to see "Fireproof" at a local theatre. Our church sold tickets to one showing and it was sold out! We were running late (because what theatre experience is complete without popcorn and a super sized coke that costs you what dinner would at a sit down restaurant?) and ended up on the very front row (where I thought for a few minutes that I would surely vomit!! That pitch black room with little lights on each step never made me feel so drunk before!! What's happened in my old age of 29??) and I have to admit, I would do it all over again :)
The movie was super! So many times, I glanced over at hubby or he would sneak a peak my way as if to say, "that sounds familiar" or "I think I've said/done that before!" Chances are, you can relate to the couple as well as we did.
"The Love Dare" is an important part of the movie and I quietly wished that I could find a book just like it ....AND I DID!
Back up one minute- Even though we would be back home just a few minutes after my sweet friend needed to leave and head to her own church service, she insisted that she take the kids with her (she isn't a mommy yet so running late isn't such a norm for her) so that we could have another hour or so to ourselves. Well, let me just tell you: a book store is that last place you would find either of us if we were missing in action AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHERE WE WENT! I don't ever purchase those frequent buyer things they offer because I seriously might go to a bookstore once or twice a year!! I went this time with all intentions of finding a specific kid book while hubby had a few minutes to catch up on whatever he might find interesting in the sports section. On the same aisle where I was searching, a dark brown, small, paperback seemed to scream at me. Get ready!! You won't believe me but I swear it's the truth!! "The Love Dare" was the title on the cover!! So small and dark and hidden in all the others and I just stumbled upon it...just happened to see it there...NO WAY!! This is why I love the Lord my God- He's amazing and His light shines when all else fades :)
I would encourage everyone to see "Fireproof". Not married? Not a big deal. Go see if you can get it all figured out before you get into a relationship. Not interested in a relationship right now? That's okay too! You can still learn lessons about love! God loves us even when we try to run from HIM. And our love for others should be unconditional as well. ~Corinthians 13:7-8

The story behind the song...

I never knew the story behind this song. I rarely know the story behind any song to be quite honest. Ask my husband or brother-in-law. They will tell you that I don't even know the correct words to most songs! "Give me the Beach Boys, free my soul..." In case you are confused, it's "give me the beat...".
Anyway, this was posted on another girls blog and I decided I should share it with y'all. Whoever y'all might include. Enjoy and please know that HE can move mountains in your life and mine!!

**side note: you will want to mute the usual music of my blog or you will be hearing it and this all at once :) To do so, just scroll on the way to the bottom and hit pause. That should do it.

Happy Birthday, Coach Tubberville!

And Happy Birthday to ME!! It has by far been the best birthday yet :) It all began last night when I was expecting my husband to show up ready to take me to dinner, when instead, it was three of my favorite friends at the door- all giggles because they had pulled it off and I was totally surprised!!
We got to the restaurant and what do you know? Four other friends were there to join us (they are all my favorites, too!) We enjoyed dinner, complete with wine and strawberry truffles (from Ashley Mac's in Bluff Park I might add- the best!!). And as if that wasn't enough, they together gave me a black HOBO clutch :) See you later, ugly and too little wallet!! I have found a new friend (even my lip gloss and car key fit in there)!

I was so shocked that I never really teared up until today...in the car pool line...I started thinking about how blessed I am to be surrounded with awesome friends who truly love me...a few tears and then a prayer...and a new post was born.
Thanks to you: Chera, Elizabeth, Leslie, Alison, Amanda, Joanna, TaraKy (listed not by order of importance but by seating arrangement if you are curious) for making my birthday so special and being my friend- I love you all!!

The story isn't over. Hang tight. Today, I went grocery shopping with my mother in law's husband (I guess that technically makes him my father in law?) and it was great. They gave me birthday money so I could (for once) by groceries with cash. Then he paid for lunch (which we picked up and took to enjoy with hubby at his school). It was so nice to have someone make out like the day is all about me!!

Several e-cards, phone messages, e-mails, a flower from my real estate agent (who is a great friend) and this afternoon my daddy is taking me to pick out a new washing machine...what more could I ask for? Happy 29 years to me!! And happy I am!! Thanks so much to those of you who have helped to make my birthday so special :) I wonder how Tommy's day has been so far?

Where are your priorities?

I know mine aren't always in the right order. What about you? I want to share this thought that was shared in my Bible Study on Monday. It is not an original of my own but I do not know who the author is. So, whoever you are, I hope you don't mind that I pass this along. And, kudos to you for:

Cell phone vs. Bible
I wonder, what would happen if we treated out Bible like we treat our cell phones?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several times a day?
What if we turned back to get it when we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?
This is something to make you go....hmmm....where is my Bible? oh. And one more thing. Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill. Makes you stop and think "Where are my priorities?" And no dropped calls!

So there you go. Ponder that today! My kids are higher on my list than this blog so ta ta for now....Clay is yelling for a drink :)

random photos (because I LOVE photos!!)

And you ask why I want to lose weight? Just look at me here!!
Just kidding. It's only my face on that body....in case you were wondering and if you didn't recognize me at all it's understandable but I'm the one at the top of the photo :)
I just found this on my computer and it makes me laugh. I went to New Orleans with the coaches wives at the first school where my hubs taught and this was just one of the silly things we wasted our money on. It sure makes me feel good about my figure though!!


This is one of my uncles. We won't mention any names...for obvious reasons :) I took this photo when we were entertaining ourselves in the waiting room of the hospital after a terrible vehicle accident involving my brother. So, that's the sad part. The funny part is that I sent out an email to people (who would recognize this man) and asked for donations that could help him with his "issues". He really was just being silly with some hideous eye glasses but my family sure got a kick out of the pretend email. Now to the serious part. I wish I could tell you that he's having a fun day and being silly right now, but that's not the story. My uncle is in the hospital undergoing some tests. I know he would appreciate your prayers and so would I.


Here's the last one for now. It is my grandfather. I love this photo for more than one reason. Frist of all, because it's him, but also because it shows what a hard working man he is. Always out in the garden working to feed his family....like people used to do. Notice there is no cell phone clipped to his waistband either!! Am I the only one who sometimes imagines how nice it would have been to live a long time ago...when life was more simple? I know. I know. Then I wouldn't have this blog but you know what I mean. Family, fun just staying at home, church is the exciting part of your weekend...no worries about your food (the cost and the pesticides) because it came from your backyard... ah! the good ole days.

President

I do not consider myself intelligent when it comes to politics. Just ask my husband. He would be embarrassed to admit the level I am on considering that he teaches high school economics....and conversations he has had lately with his senior students concerning our next president and the economy are far above me!! With that said though, the following is an email I received and I did find it to be rather interesting:

You couldn't get a job at McDonalds and become district manager after 143 days of experience.
You couldn't become chief of surgery after 143 days of experience of being a surgeon.
You couldn't get a job as a teacher and be the superintendent after 143 days of experience.
You couldn't join the military and become a colonel after a 143 days of experience.
You couldn't get a job as a reporter and become the nightly news anchor after 143 days of experience.
BUT....
From the time Barack Obama was sworn in as a United State Senator, to the time he announced he was forming a Presidential exploratory committee, he logged 143 days of experience in the Senate.
That's how many days the Senate was actually in session and working.
After 143 days of work experience, Obama believed he was ready to be Commander In Chief, Leader of the Free World, and fill the shoes of Abraham Lincoln, FDR, JFK and Ronald Reagan. 143 days?
We all have to start somewhere. The senate is a good start, but after 143 days, that's all it is - a start. AND, strangely, a large sector of the American public seems to feel comfortable with this and campaigning for him. We wouldn't accept this in our own line of work, yet some are OK with this for the President of the United States of America? Come on folks, we are not voting for the next American Idol.

I am not asking for any comments as to who you are voting for. I just wanted to be nice and share this bit of info for you to ponder. (And since this blog is somewhat of a journal for me, I like to record things such as this to look back on in days ahead. By the way, does anyone know if there is a way to print a blog?)
Voting is around the corner and we all need to pray that the right man is sworn in to lead our country. Here's hoping you have a happy day~

Why do they grow up so fast?

I told my kids that it was bath time. Even the Lord knows that kids shouldn't attend church that grubby! The boychild who's three responds, "Right after I shave." And up on the counter he goes....shaving cream swiped all over just like his daddy does it and then it's wiped away sweep by sweep with the Diego razor. Is this really happening? He seriously thinks that he should shave before each bath now!! (And he prefers a shower to a bath by the way.)

Betty Crocker

"Great cook" is not on the list of descriptives for me. I am no where close to being a Betty Crocker. Sometimes I like to pretend I am though. Every now and then I get super organized (usually because the checkbook balance is low) and plan out meals and grocery lists and try new recipes. That keeps us out of the drive thru windows (which tend to take away from the funds and add to the bellies).
So, I thought I would share with you a new recipe for Easy Mini-Cheesecakes.

Here it goes: 12 vanilla wafers 1 tsp vanilla
2 8oz pkgs. cream cheese 2 eggs
1/2 cup sugar

Line muffin tins with foil liners (I used paper but surely the foil would be better. I really think this would work perfectly with the silicone muffin cups. Has anyone tried those yet?).
Place 1 vanilla wafer in each.
Mix cream cheese, vanilla, sugar, and eggs on medium speed until well blended.
Pour mixture over wafers, filling 3/4 full.
Bake at 325 degrees for 25 minutes.
Cool on wire rack and then chill.
Top with your favorite topping or enjoy it plain like we did!

okay. So that's not hard at all and the ingredients can easily be halved so that you don't eat too many :) Let me know if you try it out! Happy baking~ Betty C.

Fall is near, Football time is here

In the spirit of football season,
AUBURN football, that is,
here are a few photos I stumbled across from Clay's earliest days as a Tiger fan. enjoy~

I should have known!

Picture this:
It's raining. Not pouring. Just a drizzle that makes you want to stay in bed all day. We are heading to the first day of preschool for the second time this morning. Yep. You understood. We left home once and now we are leaving again. As we drive down our street my mind is in a fog of what exactly I'll call my blog post today. I know that will be my first task to complete when Ags and I return home :)
I should have known that it would come naturally and without much thinking.

This is Clay's first day of preschool. Not Mom's Day Out but the real deal thing- PRE-K. I can't believe it's happening. So, we are up and ready with breakfast in our bellies and no fussing over how many more shows we should watch on Noggin. We are doing well! Out the door we go at 8:34 to get in the carpool line that begins to unload at 9- what shall we do? Our church is less than 2 miles from our house. He was so eager that I couldn't contain him in this house any longer! He was in the car before me! I decided that it would be nice to go visit my aunt who works at a bank nearby. After a quick visit at the teller window, off to school we went. I stopped to take a photo or two of Clay in his carseat, the sign that says "3K this way", and we even pulled over into a parking spot to say a prayer. We are third in line then:
"Clay, where's your backpack?"
"I don't need a backpack. I'm a big kid and don't pee in my pants."
"Son, it's the rule. You must have your backpack!!"
So, the lady behind me is honking because she thinks I'm about to back into her white Jeep. No lady. I'm getting out of this line for a reason. We left home half an hour too early and now that it's 4 minutes until unload time, we have to go back home and get my kid's backpack!!! Doesn't crap like this happen to you? You obviously have a preschooler too. And you know you are ready for a break and a teacher to handle him or her for 4 hours or else you wouldn't be so darn close to me in this carpool line!!

There was really no reason for me to get huffy and stressed. We made it back in plenty of time. Did I already mention that our driveway and that of the church is approximately 1.8 miles? And remember we left at 8:34 to be at school at 9.




So after a wild ride, Clay hops out and heads into a new chapter of his life. And, I should have known that eventhough all summer long I've been looking forward to this day, I cried like I did the first time I ever took him to Mom's Day Out. Except this time, I didn't call my husband in hysterics, I simply prayed that the Lord would calm my soul. And that He did!

There's a first time for everything....

Meeting "Nim Nim" and getting her first Madam Alexander dolly...
Riding on a pedal boat at Oak Mountain State Park...
Tubing at the lake...
Fudge popsicles...

random thoughts

So....there are so many things I wanted to share with you today....I'm going to try and get a few in before the storm knocks out our power!

First, if any of you ever check in on our friends, the Bevs, you'll be happy to know that their baby boy is here and a whopper- 9 pounds and adorable.

Secondly, the newest way in which my sweet three year old responds to me is this:
Mommy: Hey Clay. One more show and it's rest time.
Clay: Roger, dodger Mom.
Now, that's not as mannerly as "yes ma'am" but I almost giggle everytime! Can anyone love their boy as much as me? Thank you, God, for my children and the joy they bring to my life!!

Lastly, (for today anyway), this certain someone who I love dearly is about to drive me crazy about some pool and lake photos. So here you go, friend. Finally, posted here on our blog are some pictures to prove what a good time we always have when our families are together. Thank you, God, for the friends in our lives. We praise you for those people and the precious relationships we have!!

Life in Photographs

I guess it's the simple fact that life passes by so quickly that makes me love photography the way that I do. I LOVE pictures...especially of my sweet children. If I can just capture every moment of Ags trying to pull up, of Clayman on that Auburn bike....if only I can take a million photos then maybe they won't grow up so fast?

He's Here!!

Jackson Tyler Spencer was born on Sunday, July 6th at 1:33 in the afternoon. He weighed 6 lbs. and 10 oz. and was 19.25 inches long. We are thrilled to have a new nephew and feel sure that Clayman and Princess Ags will have many memories ahead of playing with their sweet little cousin.

Tag....I'm it!

Welcome to the 2008 edition of getting to know your friends. Okay, here's what you're supposed to do, and try not to be lame and spoil the fun! Copy this entire email and paste into a new email that you can send, change all the answers so that they apply to you. Then send this to a whole bunch of people you know, INCLUDING the person that sent it to you.
So, that was the message that I received via email. I guess you can say I'm lame but I promise I'm not trying to "spoil the fun". I decided instead of sending it on to all those in my address book, it would be best if posted here on the blog for those who are interested. You see, I understand that some of you are out there working and don't have time for things such as this. And, I understand that you might like reading and just not want to take the time to respond. It's okay :) My sister in law has my oldest for the afternoon and my sweet baby is sleeping so, I am currently off work and don't mind answering all of the following questions:


1. What is your occupation? Mommy and Wife and I take my job seriously!
2. What color are your socks right now? White. I'm shocked that I can even answer because I rarely wear socks but my sweet husband rubbed my feet in lotion last night and today has been so busy that I'm still wearing them! Yes. I know. I should be in the shower rather than smashing my bottom in this desk chair!
3. What are you listening to right now? The hum of my antique fan....love it!
Don't you laugh, Leslie!!
4. What was the last thing that you ate? a bowl of wild rice and chicken soup homemade by my dear friend, Chera
5. Can you drive a stick shift? Wouldn't risk it. But have before.
6. What color crayon would you be? I would rather be a sharpie! I like the boldness of the marks they make and would like to know that I can make an impression like that- permanent!
7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? David- my best friend and hubby :)
8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Of course I do- my cousin Karen. We are the only girls on that side of the family....that is until I was blessed with a daughter!
9. How old are you today? 28
10. Favorite drink? Diet Coke w/Vanilla or on a not so diet kind of day- Dr. Pepper w/ vanilla
11. What is your favorite sport to watch? Daddy/Clayman golf...anywhere, anyday
12. Have you ever dyed your hair? yes BUT...I was always the one who was scared and so I picked a color so close to my natural brown that it wasn't super noticeable.
13. Pets? Maxx a Siberian Husky who lives with my parents and Cleve a chocolate Lab who lives here with us.....both are up for grabs!
14. Favorite food? Are you kidding...this one is way too hard to answer! By the way, do you know where all these pounds come from that keep showing up on my scale?
15. Last movie you watched? If you know me well, you know I fall asleep during movies. I can't even remember and I'm trying to hurry through this. I still haven't showered today!!
16. What do you do to vent anger? Sometimes, well maybe too often, I yell. My husband and son hate when I do that. I wish I could find a new way.....like going on a walk alone?
17. Favorite Day of the year? This is another hard question that I wish I had time to meditate on. I love Christmas because of it's special meaning. But I also love my children's birthdates. I more than ever this year enjoyed our anniversary. It was so exciting to look back over the seven years we've spent together as one! And, "they say" that year 7 is the hardest- looks like we are in this forever together!! I love you, David!!
18. What was your favorite toy as a child? I think it's safe to say that I had an obsession of Strawberry Shortcake miniatures.
19. What is your favorite, fall or spring? I love them both. I like the flowers blooming and the smell of football in the air. How can you pick between those?
20. Hugs or kisses? Depends on who they are from :)
21. Cherry or Blueberry? yuck. Can I have strawberries or peaches? I don't even like those flavors of Chapstick!!
22. Do you want your friends to email you back? Sure. But maybe a comment on this blog would be easier :)
23. Who is most likely to respond? Leslie or my mother in law
24. Who is least likely to respond? Not sure since you never know who's reading your blog
25. Current living arrangement? In a house with my husband, two children and a big dog (he's in the back yard!)
26. When was the last time you cried? Earlier in the week when I dropped an ottoman on my feet.
27. What is on the floor of your closet? It's hard to see the floor...shoes, hampers, luggage,...
28. Who is the friend you have had the longest that you are sending this to? Since I am not sending this to anyone just posting it for all to see this question isn't applicable. However, I would love for all to respond and remind me of just how long I've been blessed with you as a friend!
29. The friend you have had the shortest that you are sending this to? ditto from above
30. Favorite smell? A baby fresh from the bath tub, a husband after a shower, supper at my mom's, and the beach!
31. What/who inspires you? Chera. A dear friend who is so honest and loving. Bible studies on Monday mornings. Praise music in church on Sundays. And my Uncle Pete because he really believes that I can do it!! He didn't always though. He is the only one who sent me away to college with a challenge. He felt sure I would be back within six months. He sure was proud when I graduated in the Loveliest Village!
32. What are you afraid of? Life without my husband or one of my children. I get sick at the thought of losing any of the three!
33. Plain, cheese or spicy hamburgers? Cheese
34. Favorite car? one that's paid for!! I'm grown up now. I don't need all the bells and whistles, just enough room for carseats :)
35. Favorite cat breed? I prefer dogs.
36. Number of keys on your key ring? two. One to my house and one to my car.
37. How many years at your current job? Since I truly believe that being a wife and mom is the job God has given me for now, seven years would be the right answer.
38. Favorite day of the week? This is silly. It depends. I love anyday that we all four are happy and healthy and have no obligations outside of having family time.
39. How many states have you lived in? 1- Alabama
40. Today's date and time: 6-26-08 3:07 PM (and it's my mom's birthday! Happy Day, Mom!)
41. Prefer Beach or Lake ? Beach (but the lake days with my family were always lots of fun!)

Be still and know that HE is GOD

I am constantly reminded of how I should be more childlike in God's eyes....always caring for others and being in awe of the wonderful world around me.

Last night, with all the athletic ability and grace in me I dropped the ottoman on my feet- yes, both feet! Let's just say that I was in pain....more so than I can recall when giving birth...either time! Because I was crying, the little gentleman in my house started to do the same. "I just don't want my mommy to be sad. I want her to be happy" he told his daddy. So then I cried a little more, happy tears because I have a son who cares so much for others. But it didn't stop there. I was still crying in the tub later and he came to check on me. "If you need me I will be in the living room with Daddy and you can call." How many times do I offer or am I willing to drop everything and go running when someone calls my name??

On another day while we were enjoying the summer weather and swimming in the pool, my smart little guy noticed a bird perched on the fence. "Look! A bird!" he shared with much excitement. We all agreed that it indeed was a bird and then he had one more thing to say:

"God made that!" Again, we agreed....with smiles. Wow! I try to remind myself often that God made everything....but I wonder how often birds fly by or stop in front of me and I don't notice??

Because of my sweet boy, I will try harder to listen when my name is called, stop and notice the birds and praise the Lord for the magestic world around me :) Won't you do the same??

little things

I have this weird feeling in my stomach and I know it's because I'm trying to hold back tears- because I am happy and sad all at the same time. Ever been there?
I started off this morning with a walk down our street. I was planning on writing a post about little things that make me smile. When Mr. Bill passes me each morning (whether he's headed home from his morning stroll or in his truck headed to the golf course) he smiles and waves or speaks....it's so nice to see happiness on the face of that gentleman and I always, I mean every time, find myself smiling too! I enjoy so much walking down the street during the time that neighbors are leaving for a busy day at work. Saying "good morning" to complete strangers makes me feel so good. Those little things in life...
And then, I couldn't help but want to post about this too- these new blogs I keep finding. My newest favorite is Bring the Rain and if you read backwards into it far enough you'll understand why. I think I might be discovering my own spiritual gift by the way. I read a new one today called Our Amazing Mary Grace. They both are about families who lost babies. I know, you think I'm crazy because I like to cry and read these sad stories. Okay. So, maybe I am a little different. But it's not the sad stories and the videos that draw me back time and time again. It's the amazing strength that these moms have and it's the awesome power of Christ and their faith that brings me to tears. I feel that through these other people I am growing in my Christian walk and that is so important.
Maybe you aren't so much into the "bloggy" world. It definitely takes time away from other tasks I should and need to be doing. But, if it helps me with my daily walk with HIM, then it is so worth the time!! Try it sometime.....click on a favorite in my list, click on one of their favorites, and you never know where you might go - You might find some "little thing" that makes you smile:)

more photos

every moment is one to treasure~

Another blog to enjoy

Speechless? Or should I say amazed?
I would love for you to take the time to read a blog that I was just introduced to today. Before you do though, let me set a stage for you. Clay is playing with his cousin today at my mom's house. David has gone to run a few errands. I am here because Addison was sleeping and I decided to let her rather than wake her up to go with Daddy. So, David tells me to just rest while he's gone. "I'll help you with those clothes later" he said as he left.
I thought about doing the laundry, making beds, and all the like. But instead, I decided to check my email. A message with a link carried me to http://www.audreycaroline.blogspot.com/ and I have been drawn into the words in an amazing way! I am so glad that I chose not to fold clothes or even go with him for the morning. I needed to hear these words. I needed to share in the pain. I needed some quiet time with God, even if it was quiet time with HIM and a sister in Christ that I don't even know.
The blog is from a mommy, like myself. Except this is a mommy with absolutey incredible faith. And she is a mommy who has suffered great loss. Her words touched my heart and brought me to reality....that's one reason I used names here....instead of the "blog names" I usually use with my family. Our life stories are real and we are real people. And her stories are real....her faith in Our Lord is real and it's amazing.
I cried so much when I was reading her blog that I had to gain my composure so I could even see the screen to post this blog. My t-shirt neck is all stretched out and wet from wiping my face on it. I couldn't slow down to get a tissue! I don't pray that you will shed tears over this blog, but my prayer is that you will see the wonderful works of the Lord in fellow believers like this lady. And my prayer is that you and I both will embrace each moment that God gives us and learn to enjoy it as if it is our last. Praise God for the mighty and many ways in which HE works!!
I have to stop typing now so I can go hold my precious baby girl~

Kids say the funniest things.....

After reading "Munchkin-isms" on another blog, I thought about those cute things our little man says and decided I should share.
One of the most recent was this: As he first opened his eyes one morning, Clayman said to his daddy, "We were playing golf at Brayden's golf course and Tiger Woods was there hitting balls milos away." This was of course with great excitement! Brayden's golf course is Ballantrae....because we pass the course going to the park with Brayden....also known as "Brayden's park". And as far as hitting a golf ball milos away....Well, he means miles. Maybe he's confused because mommy loves Milo's burgers and sweet tea :) What a fun dream though, wouldn't you say? A day of golf with Daddy and Tiger Woods- Clayman's favorite two golfers.

Another one of my favorites is "pilos"......or piles. Pilos of leaves, or laundry... And Pluto on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse is "PluDog" to my sweet boy :)

Today he was screaming in the car because he wanted to ride with his MeMe. And I am talking about SCREAMING!! Just as I was thinking about pulling my hair out, he stops and says to Princess Ags, "I know you love me girl." As if no one else loves him because they wouldn't allow him to go home with MeMe!! What mean parents we are!!

And then, tonight, he was swinging at a friend's house and to no one in particular he says, "In and out, in and out, that's what my mommy told me." That's right baby! Move those feet in and out and in and out and you'll be swinging all by yourself :)

Even when the day seems like the toughest one yet as a mom, my Clayman says something to make me smile:)

photos from my friend

SO....what can I say? God has given us one of His most beautiful creations. Thanks, friend, for capturing these adorable moments when I was away from my sweet girl today :)

a child of God....

I am always amazed at the things Clayman says. A couple of weeks ago, his first pet fish died. It was several days before he missed him and then the dreaded question was thrown upon me and I had no way out of it. "Where's my fish, mommy?" I explained that the fish died....just didn't want to live anymore....because he was very sick....all the while being asked question after question. I explained Heaven as a big birthday party- people dancing and singing, no pain or crying (I wish I had already read a book on this part of parenting, but I think I did alright).

A week later, "Coach" is out and about with our two precious gems and a friend too. The little buddy to Clayman mentioned that his daddy was in Heaven. The response heard from the third row seat was, "That's like a birthday party- wow!" I'm glad my boy could be a such a good friend and make his pal happy about the wonderful place where his father is!!

Tonight, we had another opportunity to talk about God. Our conversation began when we were counting in Spanish and then we moved right on to the fact that God knows how many hairs are on his head (amazing how one thing leads to another when you are in deep conversation with a kid who's three!)
Clayman was ready to go get the phone and call God! He wanted to know the number of the hairs on his head. I tried to explain that God doesn't have a phone that he can hear us without one and that if he needed to know the answer he would have to ask in a prayer. Whew! I'm glad we got distracted somehow cause that was a hard one!

Field trips are fun...

So, I can't get things posted quite as quickly as some of you may like....perhaps that's why I like to just call myself busy momma rather than share my name with you. Besides, does my name really matter? It's all about my kids....and how busy I am thanks to them :-)

These were taken a couple of Sundays ago at Thompson CAT (where my brother works). I opted out of the field trip but hear that it was tons of fun. Looks like the little guys sure enjoyed the big equipment!

In the mind of one who "blogs"

It is so interesting how now that I am officially a blogger, I think about blog posts all the time. The idea to post a new photo or tell a story is always there in the whirlwind of my mind! And when I think about topics to post, I always find myself rehearsing in my head what it is I will type. I never remember it by the time I sit down at the computer but at least the final draft isn't always the rough draft, right? Where did my essay skills go anyway??


The nursing bra hanging on the closet door knob (because it does more good hanging there than it does on my body- worthless!! )

And this hill behind my house- who would build houses in between two hills of dirt that become mudslides with each rain?? Better yet, who's the guy responsible for making sure the drain is clog free and doesn't back up and ruin the lawns?? We need him to come to work- today!!

Waterproof mattress protectors- maybe I should look for one that says "pee proof" on it instead!! I'm not drinking glasses of water in my bed at night but brother bear (that's a new name for Clayman around home) sure loves to come get into my bed sometimes. And he doesn't wet the bed often, it's just always on those nights when he wakes up and passes the bathroom to get into bed with mom and dad. Perhaps we could install some revolving door type thing in the hallway that spits him right into the bathroom before allowing him to enter the master bedroom!!

On top of it all, my first born just came to me with some request and called me a blimper.....I think he meant blimp.

Enough of my essay topics for now. I have mommy chores to do. Coach will be home early today since his baseball season is almost over. I must prove to him that I do more during the day than sit at this desk and blog!

Check out my Slide Show!

Here are a few of the photos we took at the beach back in March. The trip was for a baseball tourney but as you can see, we found time to enjoy the beach as well! Clayman and Princess Ags loved the sand and sun....well, kinda. The sweet girl slept most of the time she was on the beach- the Gulf Coast is always a great place to rest anyway, right? enjoy the show

say what??

Okay. So, my computer is still out of sorts and I'm using one here at a massage clinic- yes, that's right. I decided that I don't have enough going on in my life so I agreed to fill in as a receptionist for a while today. At least I can post on my blog, right?
So the most recent story of my life is this: I leave on Thursday thinking that I am headed to Norfolk, VA. I should be there around 5 or so in the pm..... I am all organized with where my children will be and with whom, etc. I get to the airport in plenty of time thanks to my friend Leslie. I go to the check-in and my flight has been cancelled. Not such a big deal once they finally figure out how to get me to Atlanta to meet my next flight, it's just that it is by way of tour bus! Yes. I get on a bus at the mercy of Delta and with a whole bunch of complete strangers I make my way to Atlanta.
The bus ride took me back to the years of field trips and that was nice except there were conversations around me in languages I couldn't understand and I was scared to take a nap for fear of who around me might be interested in what I had in my overnight bag (or maybe even my breast pump because I had to haul it with me, too!)
Anyway, to make a super long story a little shorter...when I got to Atlanta and all the way to gate C 53 my flight was cancelled!! I almost forgot to tell you- that was after being patted down in security and being questioned about the breast pump by more than one security person!!
So, I'm on standby...number 38. Please, how will there be that many extra seats on any flight?? Are you kidding? I go all the way to gate A something and take another chance....standby number 40!! What the heck people? All I want to do is get to my dear friend in Virginia or back to my family in Birmingham. (By the way, there weren't any available flights to either place for the rest of that day, so they said.)
I finally made it after trying again and again, eating lunch at 5:30 pm, and hiding out in a bathroom stall to pump milk. All the while, I'm borrowing cell phones and charging mine at any outlet I can find to update Coach and my waiting friend on where I am and why! I saw TK at almost 10 pm and we headed back to Bama on Friday! That road trip is a story in itself but to say the least it took the same amount of time in the car as it did for me to connect with her on Thursday via airlines!!

Catch up will happen soon....

So, I start this blogging thing and what do you know? It's like every diet I start....it crashes so quickly! My computer has a horrible virus and is still with the dr. So, I'm here at my mom's office trying to catch up on the thousand email messages I've missed in the past week and of course to let you all know that hopefully soon I'll have a great blog post with some new photos of my children. I know that's the only reason you read this blog anyway!! It will be worth checking back cause we sure got some great shots while on our recent trip to Orange Beach :-)
Ta ta for now~

March 2008 photos

Snapfish:Album:Owned
Click on the link above and you will be directed straight to Snapfish.....my favorite place to store all the many photos of my kiddos.
enjoy :)

Princess Ags

Here goes a blog.....where have I been?

So, everyone else around me is doing this blog thing and what am I doing? Surely I have time to do this between working on relay for life, going to baseball games, wiping poopy butts, and pumping milk from my body, right? I mean, come on....Clayman and Ags deserve some publicity don't they?