Grasshopper Momma

I had counseling today so all I have left is pictures

2012-01-30T19:38:00.001-06:00

Friends who drive an hour to visit and let me nap while they watch all of the kids AND clean: priceless.

Fabric (finally) for my chair project

Finished product/project. It turns out I'm really not very good with the staple gun

Happy baby, happy lunch catching up with happy baby's momma.

The End.

Cheetos

2012-01-28T19:18:00.001-06:00

Sometimes I eat Cheetos for breakfast. And dinner.

Well okay and also lunch.

They're the baked ones, y'all don't need to worry.

This morning Charlie woke up with high fever and a sore throat. After a morning trip to Irving to the pediatrician's office, meds for her, and lots of sunshine for me, we are calling it a day.

It's 7:15 pm.

Awesome I know. Bonus: my throat hurts and I'm pretty sure my ear is starting to hurt too.

Again, awesome.

One day at a time, Lord. That's what I'm asking for-just help me get through one day at a time.

Good night y'all.

First time for everything

2012-01-26T18:54:00.002-06:00

First time holding a baby goat

First haircut by baby goat

First orange tractor ride

First blue one

She said, "Mommy dis one orange not gween" that a girl. We have lived in the country for two months and she knows her John Deere equipment. And we don't even own one.

First dance in a horse trailer

First funnel cake

First time kissing funnel cake.

She's her mother's daughter.

First life-sized light bright

First attempt at being an engineer

Not a first...but just showing you what we did today. Sean's mom and dad came to spend the day with us and we all had a wonderful time with them. I'm grateful that they helped with some of the questions the kids ask...otherwise it would have been a really hard day. Today there were lots of questions. Keep praying for direction y'all. You'd think that at their ages they couldn't stump me yet. Not the case.

Ahem.

First time writing his whole name in front of me. He said he's done it lots of times before today???????????but it's definitely the first time I've seen it.

I'm one proud momma.

Been up to no good

2012-01-23T21:29:00.001-06:00

A girl like me just needs to paint things and tear things down when I'm sad. (I paid someone strong/skilled to knock the cabinet down actually) but the painting? All me.

Painting a perfectly good brown table and chairs suits me just fine right now. It's my project, my "hmmm maybe that'd be cool" idea. Actually I saw it on a blog and copied it. I mean, I tell y'all the truth.

Our days are all over the map, and our feelings are even crazier. My counselor suggested returning to a routine for the kids sake and I honestly had to think through what the heck I used to do around here. It's no wonder my kids have tried pretty much every tactic to drive me bananas. So...my new goal is to get us into a new groove. A different because life is different groove where the kids know what to expect and they can start rebuilding trust again. See, here's one of my big struggles-they are afraid I'm going to leave and go live in Heaven too. They can't understand why if Daddy did why wouldn't I?

God help me and I'm not being funny. I've prayed, "Really God help me. How do I handle this? How can I mend this?" And His answer is this: just be here. Day in, day out, nothing spectacular-just be here. I'm gonna fight the temptation to run away and hide. If I have to fight it every single day then i will. I'm gonna show up when I say I'm gonna show up and let them see that I'm here, (probably) crazy painting and all.

Maybe I'll even turn them loose with their own paint, who knows.

Oh boy.

It's a zoo

2012-01-21T19:24:00.001-06:00

We went to the zoo last week and I honestly don't remember which day...such is life these days.

Ft Worth Zoo, thank you for the best day in a while. We'll be back soon.

Truth always wins

2012-01-18T09:41:00.001-06:00

I feel like I'm fighting a battle too great for me to face. Truth says that I will never stand alone. I feel like there will never be rest again in my heart. Truth says He will give me true rest, every time I need it. I feel like the burden of teaching my kids about who God really is and can be to them is on my (currently) weary shoulders. Truth says He knows every hair on their heads and loves them more than I do. Truth says He is showing them who He is when I can't. I feel stranded in a place where I can't control my fears, where even driving without my kids in the car is hard. I feel like if I leave them, even for a moment, they will be stranded too-trapped in fear. Truth says I can believe and trust Him for protection. Truth says that living in fear is not living in God's presence. And truth says I can live in His presence all the time. Every step I take is with Him, and I'm never alone. Truth is strong enough to stand with and stand on.

When I have a good day, of course the head knowledge is easy to believe. I feel like I can do it, this life here without Sean. When it's a hard day, I can cling to what I know to be the Truth and beg Him for mercy. Even then, He is there. He was never on a break, never out of sight. I feel that desperation and that isn't wrong. In fact, it's how I find my way to His feet again. Help me, Lord. I feel abandoned. Your Truth says I'm never alone, that You are with me. That You are the arms around me, helping me.

And THAT is the Truth.

I will Rise

2012-01-13T13:08:00.003-06:00

There are few songs that I can listen to right now without launching into an ugly cry. This is one of them, and once you hear the words you can see why-there is hope in what God has for us. He will end this mess one day and we'll live with Him without confusion, sadness, or pain. We will finally be HOME.

Friends

2012-01-12T13:19:00.001-06:00

I'm very grateful for our friends. Sending a meal, entertaining the kids, you name it, it's been offered. Thanking God for friends today!

Ty and his friend David, who is three weeks older. They built this tower together during our venture to Carley's house a few weeks back.

Here's Cody, Carley's little man. Our kids all think they're cousins. Fine by me :)

Just pictures

2012-01-11T21:09:00.001-06:00

Life keeps on moving. Sometimes I just stand still. As long as God stands with me I figure that's ok. Thank you for praying. Please don't stop.

Just keep swimming

2012-01-10T20:25:00.005-06:00

The last two days my emotions have been all over the map. I get really tired and cranky then I feel rejuvenated and prayed over-my attitude changes. I plow through a few hours of doing normal things then I crash into a crying mess. I preheat the oven then call and order a pizza. I have no memory. There are half eaten packages of crackers and half empty sippy cups everywhere. Actually that describes most homes with little kids. Never mind. My parents are staying with me for now, (so thankful) and I still feel like a hamster on a wheel. I mean how did I manage to meet the needs of three kids without anyone feeling neglected? Or did I? Good Lord y'all I don't remember.

Hi I'm Mary and I'm even more like Dori than I thought. Is that how you spell Dori? (The blue fish in Finding Nemo) How is it that I missed this comparison before now?

Anyway.

In recent sports news Ty has suddenly shown interest in the Mavericks. My first suspicion was that he only cared when it was a late game, (when he should be sleeping.) I thought he was just stalling when he asked to watch the game. Then he asked me to record one for him and I did. He sat and watched it in the middle of the afternoon and gave me his own version of a basketball commentary. Keep in mind that he doesn't know anything about basketball, which makes his commentary awesome.

I can't write about our day without telling y'all about a few funny and a few hard moments.

Funny:

"Joy, do you need a new diaper?" "No. I not. I go on the potty." "Great, let's go to the potty." "I need new diaper." (me and Joy)

"Ty said he's the bigger brother and I'm the little brother but I'm not a brother I'm a sister and that makes me sad that he said that. I think a starburst would help me stop being sad." (Charlie)

"Mom, I think I want a cat." "No, now's not the best time to get a new pet." "Why?" "Well because if we get a kitten or a puppy it might get out of the house when one of you leaves the door open." "Mom, I'll make sure Ty and Joy keep the door shut so we can get a cat. We could just go get it tomorrow." (Charlie=the constant door-opening bandit)

"No, I don't like pancakes. I don't want a pancake. How about pizza for breakfast?" "Sure, okay." "But Mom, I changed my mind. I think I'll have sweet tarts instead for my breakfast. Yeah, that's a good plan." (Ty)

The sad ones, (aka what keeps me asking God for help every second,)

"Mom, does Max miss Daddy too?"
"Can we FaceTime Daddy in Heaven?"
"Do you think we can visit Heaven when I get a little bigger? I'd get carsick if we try to go now."
"What do you think Daddy eats for breakfast in Heaven?"

My favorite today:

"Look at my picture Mommy it's beautiful. I think I'll go show Daddy!" "Honey, remember Daddy lives in Heaven? You can talk to him when we pray but he's not at home, remember?" "Okay mom I'll just show him when we pray after we brush our teeth. He can see my picture from Heaven. I made it really big on the paper."

Lord, be near. I don't want to miss a second of talking to them about Heaven and hearing their questions but sometimes it stings so bad it's hard to breathe. Sometimes (often) I want to climb in bed and stay there. But then somebody needs me so I realize that I need to keep moving, keep walking. One minute at a time, that's my motto. That's all God expects from me, just to keep on trying. Or just keep swimming, in my case.

Good night y'all. Thanks for listening. Please don't stop praying!

If the Lord is present, so is HOPE

2012-01-08T19:39:00.003-06:00

Yesterday two life-long friends came to visit. We laughed so hard my stomach hurt. I can't tell you how good it felt to wake up during the night to sore abs--not from crying or a serious workout (um...no)...but from laughter. Thank You, Lord.

We went to church today mainly because my kids begged me to go. It's amazing to hear their requests--to want to go to church over watching (another) Veggie Tales video or a trip to the donut store. I did alright as we walked in and even as we started to sing. Then the lump in my throat grew as I read the words on the screen:

What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Oh Lord I feel so weak and tiny, (not in the way we girls like to feel tiny,) but small and broken. There is a void in my house, a huge void that even the most well-meaning people can't fill. Sean is gone. The worst kind of gone too-the kind you didn't get to say goodbye to. The kind you didn't get a say in even though your lives are intertwined in every way. So there is a void. Something missing, something I fight the urge to fill just so it won't be so painful to look at. I know the truth-that Sean is in heaven with Jesus and feeling no more sadness or pain. I know that he is whole and feeling nothing but the love and joy of being with God Himself. This does bring me comfort because I love him. The knowledge is there and though there's a mighty big gap between what I know and what I feel, I'm glad I have the Truth to go back to.

But.

Normal life is missing. Normal schedules, (mostly set up by Sean, let's just be honest) are missing. Thankfully hope isn't. I flipped through my Bible tonight and of course found something immediately helpful. It's from my Soul Care Bible, which is a Bible full of key passages relating to the struggles we face with... well...struggles. The things people fear most or succumb to most easily, and in this case, this passage is about despair.

Jeremiah 29:11-13
The Other Side of Despair

The word hopeless has no place in a believer's vocabulary. If the Lord is present, so is hope. God's Word offers hope:

*Regardless of how dark or desperate a situation seems, hope abides (1 Corinth 13:13) This means we should hold tightly to our hope.

*Our hope is anchored in Jesus Christ (1 Pet 3:15,16); thus it is able to withstand any attack.

*Nothing can separate us from the love of God (Rom 8: 38,39) and the hope He brings. Any problem, situation, or affliction we face pales in comparison with the power of the Lord who can help us overcome it.

We must learn to look beyond our immediate circumstances, beyond the worry and despair that so easily grip us, and toward the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. That light is the hope that God gives us in His Word. That hope, that confident expectation, can carry us through.

(SoulCare Bible, Key Passage)

I'm still not doing well at responding to calls or texts. I'm sorry. I know y'all understand but I want you to know that I do read what you write and feel comforted and loved. Thank you.

Gracie

2012-01-05T19:54:00.001-06:00

We are staying with Sean's parents tonight and Joy has fallen in love.

Her name is Gracie. And she's very very patient with Joy. God love her!

Back in the saddle

2012-01-03T21:30:00.001-06:00

Hi y'all. Words have been just out of reach until now. As much as writing helps me, it's been very hard to think of a way to put how I feel into words. Mainly because even as a counselor I'm feeling combinations of emotions I've never heard of. Some days I want to just post a picture of the kids jumping on the trampoline. So that's what I'll do. Other days you'll get an earful. (or technically, an eyeful)

I have a point. I'm saying hi. And I'm saying thank you.

God is still here. He is working everything I've felt and experienced for His glory. I don't know what that means. He doesn't tell me audibly what happens next. But He shows me love through people. He shows me joy through my kids. I know that people are praying for the specifics in my life right now, day by day. I don't ignore your texts or emails telling me that you are praying. I read them. I cry and cry in thankfulness. I feel stronger because I know you're really praying. He hasn't rescued me from this heartache but He hasn't left me without hope either. It's a path that I didn't see coming and one I would have never chosen. But it's what He has for me. And because I have three little kids who need me, I don't have the choice to take this path or a different one. I've got my hope, my only hope, wrapped firmly around who He is. And I'm surviving. The kids are too.

Ah the kids. They are doing well. Everybody started school today (Ty in PPCD, same program as the past few years,) and the girls are in MDO. Aside from the occasional, (regular,) tense moment getting them ready for school in the morning, today went really well. Ty loved his new school and his teacher seems just perfect for him. We all miss his old teacher terribly, especially now. More than once I've thought about kidnapping her and bringing her here to teach him. I'm not sure how that would fit into God's plan but I'm thinking it's not a totally closed door. Or maybe it is since she laughed- even snorted-at the thought when I mentioned it to her before we left. She's a city girl, she said. Her family would never speak to her again if she uprooted them and brought them to the sticks. Oh well. Maybe one day.

This brings me to my other point: I am so glad we are here, in the town that holds so many memories for me. What a sweet history to share with my kids. True joy radiates from so many here, and everyone has gone out of their way to try to help. It's a community like no other. I love being here and looking toward the future here. The future-It's not gonna look at all like what I thought it would. It has been a rough, almost unbearable start. But like I said, God is with me and He's gonna be here every step of the way.

I love you all. Please keep praying for my family. We aren't to the, "Oh no, no prayers needed...we are good!" phase yet. It's not easy at all but we have God's peace to look forward to. That's enough for now to sustain us.

And now it's past my bedtime. Good night y'all.

God is here

2011-12-25T08:43:00.001-06:00

It's Christmas morning and our hearts are broken and heavy. In a way only explained by God Himself I am grateful for today. Jesus was born to make sense of the pain. He came to save the hurt and confused. He came to save me and my family. He is here. And we have hope. Please keep praying. There is true comfort knowing you are.

2011-12-20T21:28:00.001-06:00

Memorial service for Sean Wilborn, beloved husband and father will be held Thursday at 3 pm at Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco. All are welcome and encouraged to come pay respects to this wonderful man. Please pray for God's peace to surround Mary and her family. Be near, oh God.

Big girl

2011-12-16T07:43:00.001-06:00

The appointment went much better than expected. Charlie is tough! The promise of a new princess at the Disney store is pretty powerful, after all.

She got to spend almost a full day with both parents, which is a favorite thing for her, (and any child I'm sure,) so her tank, belly, and princess collection are all full.

Next on my agenda:

Tame this.

The hair not the child.

Well, actually both.

Help.

You start at WHAT time?

2011-12-14T19:33:00.003-06:00

Today was the day we'd been waiting for, thinking about, and dreading all at the same time-sign Ty up for school day. I had no idea until today what time he'd go, if he'd eat lunch at school, (a real game-changer possibly,) and if he'd ride the bus or not. See, we loved more than just his teacher at his old school. We loved the slow transition into it. He didn't go until after lunch time and by then the girls were settling down for naps so it was perfect timing. He went to school while they napped, (Charlie still naps a few days a week,) and he came home full of new information that he'd tell us all about. Then we'd play, eat dinner, and go to bed. The mornings were our exploration time. Historically play dates have gone well in the morning. I tried to take the kids out after Ty got home and occasionally it was fine but when he got home from school he was usually pretty spent. This translated into many many many failed attempts at happiness while out and about.

Basically today I hoped for one thing and found out another. And like any other mother in the world I had a pity party for myself and what would change about my day and then focused on my child and how the new schedule will affect him. Am I alone in doing things in that order? I know it should be the opposite but it's usually this way. Honesty is the best policy or whatever.

This is what I learned:

Ty will be at school no later than 7:40 every morning. He will be in school from 7:40-11am every day of the week and he will eat lunch while he's there.

Think about this.

The circus will be up, ready, fed, dressed, prepared, brushed, toileted (should be a word when the topic is children,) driving, and agreeable by 7:20 since it'll take about 10-15 minutes to get there from our house. I asked about the bus and his teacher told me if he rides the bus he will be picked up and AT THE SCHOOL BY 7. I'm not a genius but I think that means we'd be up even earlier. Oh and he'd stay in the gym with all of the kids in the school who are dropped off early until 7:40 which means my slightly sound-sensitive (ha) kid would be in a gym with approximately 300 other preschoolers without much structure. Recipe for total disaster. So the bus option is a NO.

Now I'm no night owl and neither are the kids. The getting up early isn't a big deal on its own. I'm not trying to whine at all-well anyway-but to start the day with the Wilborn circus at 7:20 is pushing it. Y'all, I'm gonna need more meds.

Oh and the eating lunch at school thing has me all in a tizzy. The kid doesn't eat but about six things. We just rotate through those six things every day and let me tell you this-it ain't the kind of things you can send in a lunch box. Ty's most visible symptoms of Aspergers are the sensory aspects of living, (literally his senses-sound is his most sensitive,) which includes being a picky eater. Do they let you drop fries off at real school every day at 10:15? I gotta look into how quickly CPS would call me for that one. Lord help me.

Other than the big day and the new school information that it provided we have been settling in nicely to our new home. I'm typing on my computer instead of my phone which is huge. I've made big plans for painting each room soon and I'm thrilled about that. I can't wait to take before and after pictures for you. I hope to start this weekend!

Tomorrow I'm taking Charlie to her 4 year appointment at the doctor. The only good thing about that is that well there isn't anything good about it. It's the first set of shots she's had in two years so she doesn't remember to be afraid to go to the doctor but after tomorrow I fully expect her to fall apart at the mention of our beloved Dr's name. Sigh. That sentence wore me out.

Loving small town life,

Mar

Love

2011-12-13T14:09:00.001-06:00

The days of our lives

2011-12-13T09:32:00.001-06:00

Look back

Dance (or at least wear shoes you could dance in)

Relax

Open the door

Focus

Jump

Fold

Sit

Watch them grow

Oh, and unpack. I think I can I think I can I think I can.

Happy Tuesday y'all.

Oh yeah

2011-12-09T21:56:00.001-06:00

I forgot a few pics of the house. It's not totally finished, (shout out to my extremely Type-A husband who tries and tries to get it that way) but its livable and we really love it.

Ty's room. Excuse me...Ty's baseball room.

His favorite part is the fact that he decorated his trees by himself.

When I pulled this out of the box to show him I thought he was gonna die of happiness.

Now to the girlie room...

Their beds only fit on the room like this but they love it. I made the beds so that their heads were on the far ends but from day one they sleep with their heads together. That kinda makes me really happy in a momma kind of way.

You'll never guess who decorated this tree.

Yes you're right. It was Charlie.

The guest room, future home of one of the girls as they grow if need be. Right now my parents are in there and it looks exactly like this minus the light being on.

I kid. I moved the boxes onto the floor.

My final pic (I know, still missing some of my room-oops) is what we spent four hours today doing.

Can you guess what it is?

Now?

Now?

Yep, it's probably the most loved toy ever if you ask any of my kids after their jump-fest today. It's their Christmas present from their grandparents. Man oh man is that thing loved!

Next step-seeif I can still do a back flip...

Flashback Friday

2011-12-09T09:41:00.001-06:00

My little monkey edition

I love her so

A look around

2011-12-06T21:20:00.001-06:00

Help. I want my mommy. Oh yeah SHE LIVES IN THE SAME TOWN now-she can come!

Special shout out to Carley and Jennie for driving here yesterday and spending time and putting forth lots of effort to rearrange the place!

Work in progress

2011-12-06T08:55:00.001-06:00

I'll post more pics of the house today if things go according to plan...

Which kinda never happens. Unpacking is for the birds.

The End.

Moving day-the other one

2011-12-04T15:50:00.001-06:00

We moved into the new house and we are loving it. However...

When this is what brings everything to you,

It takes a while to put stuff away. If you need me I'll be unpacking boxes.

For the next two weeks.

Awesome.

My rocks are in disarray

2011-12-01T13:08:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I drive into my parents driveway at 1 pm. I walked into the house, (the same one I grew up in,) and sat down. It was the first time in about 8 hours that I had nothing to do. Nothing.

Turns out nothing to do is pretty awesome.

Moving out of the house yesterday was a circus-not LIKE a circus but a true piece of entertainment for everyone watching. My type-A husband threw all kinds of products that don't go together into boxes-my funniest example of his packing skills: a half empty box of Golden Grahams, a set of knives, phone cords, bubble gum, and pillows all into a wardrobe box. I laughed so hard I cried and I cried so hard I laughed. It was pure insanity. We were so tired last night that we both just sat in silence watching the kids run laps around us. I'm so thankful my parents were here to monitor what they were doing because I can say with all certainty that I didn't care what they did. It was a free-for-all.

People ask me if I'm sad about leaving our house and I'm honestly not. We moved into the house 14 days before Charlie was born and most of our time in the house was a blur, a good blur--but still a blur. It's true that we made memories there but the heart of the matter is that I never felt like it was where we'd live forever. I always hoped to move back to my hometown and I think I'd have felt like I was living away from home anywhere but back here. I do need to tell you one of the reasons why I won't miss my old house. Whether you can relate to my story or not depends on how happy you are with your HOA if you have one in your neighborhood.

Like I said we moved into the house 14 days before Charlie was born. To say we didn't have much time to devote to our new house is an understatement. Y'all can imagine. It was easy to maintain our yard that winter because we didn't have to do anything. That Spring, though, apparently our landscaping wasn't up to par in our neighborhood. We got a letter telling us that our flower beds needed weeding. We laughed it off like, "Well if y'all feel that strongly about it maybe you'll do it yourself!" Our response wasn't that of concern--more of a stance of YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME. So we weeded the beds when we could, but certainly didn't worry about it when the weeds came back. That's the thing about weeds--they come back. When you've got a baby crying in the background and a toddler running toward the street you really don't care about weeding because you know it's like groundhog day--spend a few hours working until your back hurts, finish up and go to bed. Then in approximately five days wake up and do it all over again. We got another letter about a month later stating that we'd better keep the beds weeded or the HOA would take "action." I'm not making this up.

Our next run-in with the HOA was right before Joy was born the following Spring. We got a letter about the flower beds again and hired a crew to keep the weeds at bay...a frustrating thing to do when money is tight and you have two toddlers running toward the street plus an extra 65 pounds on your body thanks to a new baby coming. I was all "YOU'D BETTER BE KIDDING ME" at this point. When I saw a letter in the mail from the HOA a week before Joy was born I handed it to Sean and told him that I was afraid if I read it I'd go into labor. My c-section for Joy was carefully planned out and my doctor was on vacation a week before the scheduled day so I wasn't having any surprises related to, well, anything. I was determined to keep all stress at bay. Ha! I vividly remember Sean walking into the room where I was sitting with a smirk on his face--He held up the letter and said, "Well. Our rocks are in disarray."

What?

That's what I said.

"Our rocks are in disarray and the HOA said we better straighten them up or they'll take 'action.'"

I'm not sure at which point I started laughing but it was within the next few seconds. I mean REALLY. Y'all, they were out of control. What the heck kind of time do people have on their hands to wander around looking for rocks in other people's yard????

I also vividly remember Sean walking out into the front yard, picking up two of the rocks, (bricks,) and slamming them back into place. Then he called the number on the letter and talked to the man who answered about all that was going on with Joy and what we were doing--living and trying to survive the stress--and he politely but firmly said, "The front yard of our house just not been the priority to us that it apparently is to YOU."

The man's answer was that he was sorry for bothering us but that his job is to maintain the image of the neighborhood and he'd be happy to help with the rock situation. The rocks had their own situation y'all.

The End. I mean clearly the HOA people and I are on two different planets.

Anyway.

Moving on...literally...when we were looking at houses we cringed when someone mentioned a HOA but I'm assuming that ours in Frisco was super controlling and honestly a bit over-the-top. I pity the people moving into our house if they don't take their flower beds very seriously. Me, I think I'll always leave a rock or two out of place just to prove to the world that you can have a few rocks in disarray and still lead a perfectly happy life.

How are we doing living back in my hometown these last few days? Well, I need to ask Sean today but I'll speak for myself: I'm still terribly sad about leaving my friends and Ty's teacher. I hate the twinge of sadness I feel when I know my friends and their kids are going to the park and I'm here and missing it. Aside from that, though, I'm really happy. I love showing the kids where they will go to school. I love knowing the principal there and knowing how far it is between their school and the nearest Whataburger. (It's the important things in life.) I love that their grandparents will pick them up a few days a week just to take them to the park for two hours. I'm relieved in many ways and feel like I'm back home and back in the slower pace that I used to try to escape. The truth is this that this place, these people, they are a part of me. I'm sure I'll continue to cry and make the trip to visit my friends and I predict a few meltdowns in the future related to the slower pace and/or getting caught behind a train--a very normal occurrence and a valid excuse for being late anywhere in town--but for now, I'm settled.

As settled as one can be with her rocks in disarray of course.

Good night y'all.

What I did today

2011-11-28T19:11:00.001-06:00

Today is Charlie's 4th birthday. Since we closed on our house this morning Carley and Cody came over to stay with the kids while we were signing. She said that was her party for today. Ha!

Wearing her 4 t-shirt for the first time. Thanks Nattie!

We worked non-stop today, which I suppose is only appropriate since it finally occurred to us that the buyers aren't backing out.

Fridge doors open, mini fridge inserted (thanks Carley!) and cabinets cleared...

Bye bye fridge

Hello mini fridge...

Hello boxes

And more boxes

And more boxes

And more boxes. I'm not complaining...I'm really not. I'm just showing you so you'll be impressed with my workhorse skills.

I'm so tired. Tomorrow is Ty's last day of school and I cry when I think about it. He's not sad at all yet so I'm hopeful it doesn't all hit him at once tomorrow when it's time to leave. His teacher has changed his life and I'll miss her terribly. I begged her to move with us but she doesn't think living away from her family sounds fun. Go figure.

Good night y'all. I'll update more tomorrow!

Yesterday, today, and tomorrow

2011-11-27T21:42:00.001-06:00

Yesterday-(actually a week ago,) we had a party for Charlie at the house. Nori-Lyn, (party planner of the year,) made sweet treats, decorations, and thought up tons of things to make the Tangled party happen.

She made the tower and the jello boats and brought Chinese lanterns and all kinds of little Rapunzel touches. It was a great party for Charlie.

The kids painted castles and pictures from a Tangled coloring book...

And ate pizza and cake from the ugliest cake ever.

That's my girl!

The braid that Nori-Lyn and I spent no lie 35 minutes braiding. Man it took forever but it's pretty cute, huh?

It's just a whole bunch of yellow yard tied to the banister upstairs but the kids thought it was the REAL Rapunzel's hair. Awesome!

I'm way behind on blogging and I hate it. I'll catch up though...hang in there if you're still reading!

Today was our last day at our church, which was weird since its where Sean and I met. We talked a lot about what we will miss and we kept saying that it's the people we've come to know and love that we will miss. That's the way it should be I guess-the people are the church really. We are excited about what's waiting for us but it's hard at the same time. And it was my idea to move!

Closing day is TOMORROW y'all. We can't believe it. I hope we survive the heart attacks we will simultaneously experience when the last paper is signed. We are so thankful and so ready!

But I still cry almost every day when I think about my friends that I won't get to see every day.

Lord help me I'm a mess!

You already knew that though.

Black Friday

2011-11-25T19:30:00.001-06:00

I got up at 4:45 today without the help of an alarm. It's Black Friday and waking up early is in my blood. I'll show y'all the deals I scored-worth getting up early for sure-tomorrow but I'll show you what my beloved was doing while I was out galavanting today.

Pitching to this little toot and entertaining the girls in our last few days here.

Between packing and organizing you just gotta play some baseball and go shopping, right?

Right.

Guess what

2011-11-21T18:28:00.001-06:00

Y'all listen up

Are you listening?

You sure?

Charlie, baby (cousin) Sally, you listening?

Charlie-focus! I have something to say:

"I wuv my new house!"

Her exact words today on the way home from the new house...inspection was today so we took the kids for the first time...

And they loved it.

I still cry when I think about leaving friends here. Almost every day I tear up thinking about it. But seeing the house today, seeing them run and run and run in the backyard, I was full of excitement. They love all of the space to run and play outside. I love how excited they were as they looked around. I picked paint colors and we figured out where things will fit. I'm ready.

But I reserve the right to cry as needed. :)

Ugliest cake award

2011-11-19T20:00:00.001-06:00

And the award goes to...

Yep this one wins it. I guess next time I'll be more specific when I order a cake from Costco...my instructions were,

"white cake, white icing, very simple please-going to add Tangled characters myself...color favorites are pink and purple."

Well they hit that nail right on the head, don't you think? That cake just screams SIMPLE.

A picture is worth a thousand words

2011-11-16T10:56:00.001-06:00

Proof that the buyers might not back out-they've hired (and prepaid) a pool company to start putting in a pool.

And this is what that looks like for us. It looks like we turned the kids loose with spray paint, doesn't it?

Mmm good Jordan almonds that mommy left in the car while she talked to her friends...leaving Joy in the car without having her trapped in her seat always means trouble.

I bet you thought it was lipstick :)

Whose idea was this?

2011-11-13T20:36:00.001-06:00

Today I packed a few things and watched a movie while the girls napped. It was a normal day, Sean is home and we stayed in the backyard a good part of the afternoon. We kept Cody for a few hours then met our friends at the ice cream place here. It's been a tradition most Sunday nights, for a few years now. It was a normal occurrence amidst the changes swirling around me...and when we took a picture of all of the kids I knew I was in for an emotional night.

It was my idea to move back to my hometown. I love it there. I love knowing that my teachers from school still live there. I love that no matter where I go I have memories. Ones that I can tell the kids about and watch them learn about where momma grew up. I love that my parents will get to see them all the time. I love that I will be able to send them off to school knowing I'll know what goes on during the day thanks to my teacher friends. I love that there are people from my church growing up that are excited for us and that love my kids already. There is much to look forward to and tons of reasons to be happy about moving.

But tonight I'm sad that getting together with my friends here won't be as easy or convenient. I'm sad that these kids will likely grow a
little bit between visits. I hate knowing I will miss moments in their little lives, moments that I've gotten to experience with them since they were born. I will miss their mommas terribly. I'm grateful for the safety they've provided us to be "off" some days. That on Ty's hardest days they don't bat an eye because they know him and love him. And that any given moment my girls could walk into their homes and feel content and loved. It's no wonder my kids think these kids are their cousins. (They do have quite a few cousins, you know.)

God has given me a few precious years here and I'm thankful. I'm as excited as ever to pack and prepare for the future but not without being sad about the change coming. I guess I need to acknowledge that I'm moving an hour away, not to another country. Another state even might send me right into hysterics. Yes, yes I'm pitiful.

Good night y'all. Thanks in advance for not making fun of me. :)

Flashback Friday

2011-11-11T08:39:00.001-06:00

The little toot edition. When my kids do something they're not supposed to do I call them little toots. These are some "you little toot!" pics.

Joy, that's not a pacifier...it's an outlet cover.

I said DO NOT DRINK THE WATER.

You are supposed to take your clothes off first Joy

Oh Joy you're just a toot. My mom taught them to make the same face as the girl on this pillow. Joy's is the finniest, mainly because she makes a face like that a lot.

Joy, don't climb in with the donkeys

Joy stop climbing on furniture.

Ty. Well, never mind that's funny.

Guys, don't get in Max's pen.

Actually...

Oh no never mind. Not a good idea.

Joy, don't fall asleep in the car!

Ok I'm done. Happy Friday y'all. I think the virus is over-did I tell you we thought Joy and I had it yesterday? If we did it was quick. Praise the Lord!

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-11-10T09:52:00.001-06:00

Sweater and shirt: Forever 21
Jeans: Old Navy
Boots: Old Navy

Sweater: Anthropologie sale
Shirt and shorts: Forever 21
Tights: Ross
Boots: Anthropologie sale

Butterfly girl in need of my lipstick: not happening

This is what I've really been wearing the last few weeks. Sweats and a few children...

Happy day y'all! We are off to look at houses :)

This is the life

2011-11-08T20:44:00.001-06:00

Your questions...my answers

2011-11-06T16:28:00.002-06:00

This has been a work in progress...

1. What makes you think Ty has Aspergers/Autism? What are some of the warning signs?

Early on we knew Ty was bothered by loud noises and large groups of people. Literally in the hospital when he was days old I realized I was holding a baby who needed quiet soothing, darkness, etc. I didn't know anything else at that point about taking care of a baby (at all) but I knew that he screamed non-stop unless it was dark and quiet. As he got older the only milestone he didn't reach was speech-related. His gross motor and even fine motor skills were average/on time, but he wasn't saying more than like 4 words at 18 months. Then he mastered 10 words at age 2...the bare minimum. Speech delay can be an early warning sign but if that's the only symptom it doesn't necessarily mean Autism at all. Ty also had acid reflux so he was unhappy when he was eating too-poor guy finally settled down when he was 6 months old. I used to blame his intensity on reflux but looking back it was definitely a combination of reflux and his sensory overload issues.

2. How early did you start noticing things that made him "different?"

Since he progressed normally physically we really only noticed that he was different when it came to language. So first indicators were around 18 months. He always had good eye contact, and was affectionate with us, two early 'red flags' that didn't apply to him. At each of our well-child visits with our doctor we would mention his flapping, (literally flapping like a bird,) to her and she would agree that it was a behavior often seen in Autistic children but that alone doesn't warrant further testing. He used to flap often-every time he'd get excited about something he was playing with. We were so used to it that it became part of him, nothing bothersome really until we were in a group of other kids and it would be something that stood out.

3. Do you ever "counsel" Sean? Does he respond well to that?

No and no. The few times I've used my counseling lingo in our conversations/arguments he picked up on it and would joke about me being the relationship authority. It would be a chance to regroup and calm down, which helped both of us get to the heart of the matter instead of beating around the bush.

4. How often does your husband travel?

Almost every week, a few days a week.

5. Where did you meet Sean?

We met at church. We were working with the Jr. High kids and were friends for three years before we ever dated. We were both gun-shy about relationships so for us, the friendship-first thing was what it took. Once we started dating, things quickly became serious since the foundation was there.

6. How much do you get paid to run ads on your blog?

Working with an advertising company doesn't support a family, let's put it that way. If you're looking for a way to make money, I think that you might want to look into something else. It's a fun way to make a little money though! If you love blogging anyway, especially.

7. How can I start running ads to make money with my blog?

See the ads over on the right side of my blog? There is a link to the BlogHer publishing network right there on the bottom of the pictures. Click on it and you can inquire about working with them.

8. Is it "normal" to experience anxiety on a daily basis if you're a mom?

Heavens yes it's normal! We've got a lot going on, you know. I think that it takes great discipline to avoid ever feeling anxious about our kids. It is possible to redirect your thinking so that it doesn't become a problem. I'm working on it every hour of every day!

9. What should I do if I think I have a problem with anxiety that I can't control?

Talk to your family. If they have mentioned to you that you seem anxious all the time then listen to them. Talk about what makes you feel that way with your spouse. See if there is something you can change, like if being in charge of getting everyone fed and ready in the morning leaves you frazzled, ask your spouse to help out with one of those things. If cooking dinner every night when you get home from work seems impossible, try to prepare things one day a week and freeze dinners for the latter half of the week. For me, communicating with the people in my inner circle makes all of the difference. If I get overwhelmed I tend to shut down and hide, not answering my phone, texts, etc. My good friends know this and will keep trying to get me to talk, never giving up. I love this about them! As much as I think talking about it will make it worse or add pressure, that could not be further from the truth.

If you feel like you can't make your mind shut off the anxious thoughts, talk to a mentor in your life and see if they can help you come up with solutions to the things that are causing you anxiety. The next step would be asking someone in your church for some guidance. If you don't have someone in place in your church to help then talk to your doctor about your overall health. My doctor always makes me think through my caffeine intake, sleep habits, and anything else that I am doing physically to combat the anxiety. You'd be surprised how lack of sleep can cause anxiety to take over! Everyone experiences stress in some area of their life and thankfully most can get it under control without medical or psychological intervention.

That's it for now!

Flashback Friday

2011-11-04T13:06:00.001-05:00

A preview of my post about Ty...

Happy Friday, y'all!

What I'm thinking about Wednesday

2011-11-02T20:24:00.003-05:00

First, for anybody interested in WIWW posts, here is a link to the gal who started it all-It's not about the brand, the money, etc. it's a challenge she made to herself about getting out of PJ's each day. I'm not posting this week because, well, I've worn PJ's a few days and workout clothes the other days. I'm (hopefully) getting ready to actually move so I'm packing stuff up when we are home. Well, it's not to the packing part right now, just the cleaning out part. I've made a few trips to Restyle to sell clothes and a few trips to CCA in Lewisville to drop things off. Even if this move doesn't happen now we will downsize whenever we DO move so I'm making the most of my mindset! Give away, get rid of, decide if we can fit it, really need it when we move, etc.

I'm the type that has a plastic bin full of all of the things the kids have made at school. I don't always weed the non-keepers out as I go, I just put it either on the fridge that day when they bring it home if it's something they're proud of or I put it in my bin. The bin is now consuming the closet it's in because I haven't gone through it in, well, about two years.

Ahem.

I'm married to a type A man with a bit of OCD thrown in. He's not what you'd call a hoarder. He's not even what you'd call a keeper of things. He's a minimalist and an organized person. And he's married to me, which, as we all know by now, isn't for the faint of heart. I do love me a good bin of stuff I'll never need nor look at ever again.

Aside from the cold we've all had this week, (Sean always has it the worst,) we've been fairly low-key. We went to my sis-in-law's house on Monday and the kids trick or treated with their cousins like they do every year. Did I post pictures? Y'all, I forget what I started ten minutes ago. There's no excuse-not pregnant, not sleep deprived. Not even tired just all over the place. God is good to keep my children safe with me as their momma.

I have a post of answers to the questions y'all emailed me a few months ago. I'll post it in the next day or two after I figure out what I saved it under in my computer. It's full of specifics about Ty as well as my answers to questions you were too shy to ask in the comments section. Should be fun! Or at least moderately amusing :)

The weekend in pictures

2011-10-31T11:18:00.001-05:00

Putting at Dick's sporting goods

What might be my new laundry room :) happy happy momma! Y'all, there's a sink in there.

What might be my new front yard. Smaller house, more yard...just what we wanted

There are ducks by Nattie's house that come right up to you (or your car if you're skittish)

And they even run into your car they're so happy about the bread

This country life wears her out

A sneak peak at my Rapunzel's hair...see y'all later for Halloween pics!

No really, how are you?

2011-10-27T22:32:00.001-05:00

Y'all I've missed you.

I don't know how long it's been since I wrote coherent thoughts.

Well actually it's been quite a while I guess.

Maybe that's not why you read my blog at all. Maybe you read it because it makes you wish you had a dog like mine.

Not likely.

Maybe it's because you have known me since childhood. Shout out Hachie! Or maybe it's because my drama feels very familiar to you. Yep I bet that's it.

I mean who HASN'T been pulled from a dead sleep this past week to find that your dog has already trashed your house and then tried to wake you up as if to say, "Oops, I need to go put. Oh never mind I'm good now."

That didn't happen to you?

What about this-

I drove Ty to school today and as I parked in the parking lot I felt him slide up beside me instead of being in the back of the car where he's supposed to be. I said, "Honey why are you up here and not in your seat? How did you unbuckle so fast?" He said, "But Mom I didn't buckle up that time and I told you I wasn't going to but you were talking so you didn't hear me." (I was on my phone, I'm just putting it out there.)

Nice, huh.

I told my girls at bible study last week about my struggles,(the most current ones,) and I've been in awe at how God orchestrated a few productive meetings from what I talked about. It had nothing to do with me or my delivery--it was all over the place trust me--but we all have brokenness in common. All of us. We are all in need of God's mercy. Bringing us together under the umbrella of motherhood in this particular instance was what God needed to break down barriers. I've never had actual conversations with these girls prior to Friday. I didn't know their life stories. I don't have to know more than what they offered: I just know they are fighting this battle with me. We are standing together trying to replace fear with Truth. Now when I see them and i ask, "How are you?" I hope they answer honestly! Isn't it refreshing to hear honest answers to that question? I don't mean take it as an open invitation to spew complaints on the one asking but give people the chance to know you and what is really going on in your life. Last week I texted with an old friend and when I asked her how she was doing she wrote back, "Not gonna lie life is hard right now but God is good and He is with me!" I love it! See here I was thinking I was the only momma feeling a little overwhelmed and she let me know that praying for her would help her. She let me know that she doesn't know all of the answers but she's not living in fear either.
It's a beautiful thing to see what God can do with our messes. He can restore and encourage someone on the same path. He really can create beauty from ashes. And friends from acquaintances. And blog posts from scattered thoughts. :)

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-10-26T12:44:00.001-05:00

Which shoes? Edition

My favorite boots or

These t-strap heels?

Dress: Modcloth
Boots: Anthropologie last year
Shoes: DSW

Practice

2011-10-23T18:38:00.001-05:00

Sometimes practice makes perfect

Like with costumes...

You can learn to jump, twirl, etc best when you practice wearing your costume

And practicing your poses is important

Other times it is good to stretch, suddenly a crowd pleaser with my kids????? We stretch and do "exercises" in the yard. It's like I'm the PE teacher.

Stretched and ready.

For things like puzzles, practice does, in fact, makes perfect

The boy loves puzzles. He's pretty good at them, and surprisingly doesn't get frustrated with the hard ones.

Aw mom stop.

No, mom, really, STOP.

I didn't technically dress him-his older cousins did-At his daddy's birthday party. Sean thought this wasn't his best gift. I think it was.

(Me and the 8 year old nephews, of course.)

Hope y'all had a great weekend!

I'm so on top of it

2011-10-20T16:39:00.001-05:00

Y'all, it's another day at the circus in my house.

The day started at 2 am, when Max, my codependent lab woke me up telling me he needed to go outside. When I hit the landing right side my bedroom door it was instantly clear that he'd already done his business in the house and going out was just an afterthought.

I'll spare you the details.

Well except for one: he actually went on the wood floor instead of the carpet for the first time in his life. I was actually proud.

The house update: the offer is still there, pending that we can all agree on what to fix, who's paying for it, etc. this part is strangely not stressful because I'm choosing to believe that the whole thing could still fall apart so why waste stress on it? I'm the picture of mental health.

Which reminds me that tomorrow morning I'm sharing my testimony with my bible study gals and let's all just say it-there is no telling what God will do. It could be helpful to someone struggling with anxiety or it could actually cause anxiety with my all-over-the-place-ness. Thankfully God hasn't given up on me.

Happy Thursday to you and happy birthday one day early to my hubby who gets home tonight from work. Praise the Lord!

Joy

2011-10-17T18:06:00.001-05:00

Apparently Joy posted something here this morning. See, she's taken to painting things on the walls while I'm in the shower some mornings. She uses my lipstick for paint.

Ahem.

Since she's been spanked, timed-out, toy taken-away(ed) and still does her painting, I resorted to giving her my phone this morning. I had no idea she found Blogpress, touched "save" AND touched "publish" this making her blogging debut...

Until Carley sent me a text at about 1 this afternoon saying, "Hey did you know you posted a blank page this morning?"

That Carley, she's got my back.

I have more details about the contract, the houses we saw this weekend, and the accompanying anxiety that goes along with the phrase, "closing date." Hoping to post more on the house stuff tomorrow.

Happy Monday y'all.

2011-10-17T09:16:00.001-05:00

Shouting it from the rooftops

2011-10-14T20:01:00.001-05:00

Y'all, somebody likes our house.

Like, as in they made us an offer, we chatted throughout the day, and we all signed a contract. In less than twelve hours.

I'm in shock.

Happy shock.

I just had to tell you.

Flashback Friday

2011-10-14T07:35:00.001-05:00

There are no words.

WIWW: Overalls are still awesome edition

2011-10-12T12:17:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago Carley texted me something like this: "Overalls are back in stores!" and I was all, "Yesssssss!" and she said, "But they are skinny leg...what do you think?" and I said, "I'll wear my old ones if you do! They ain't skinny that's for sure!"

You have to use the word 'ain't' a lot if you wear your old overalls since they're a bit farmer-ish...but they're awesome. First, what I wore yesterday-taken in my girls' bathroom to change it up.

Comfy comfy top: Anthro sale on Monday at the Northpark location: $9.99 + 25 % off all sale items= not a lot of money.

Jeans you can't see: Forever 21 last winter

And now the big reveal:

Overalls: Old Navy from college that I kept at my parents house for moving days/painting days/just in case I'll ever want overalls again days

Shirt: Splendid from Nordstrom three years ago

Look there's Max in his spot.

To those of you who are on the fence about the return of overalls:

Just go for it. I sure won't make fun of you and anyone who does has clearly never worn them around and therefore knows nothing of their comfort-inducing abilities.

Long live the overalls!

Streams in the Desert

2011-10-09T20:32:00.000-05:00

My favorite devotional is Streams in the Desert by L. B. Cowman. If you don't have a devotional that challenges and refreshes you I recommend this one. Every year I learn something new from it even if I've marked the same story before. One of the entries that I go back to over and over again is based on Matthew 2:13. The last week has been full of the frustrating power of anxiety in my heart. I hate that Satan uses my weakness in the ways that he does but what do I expect? I mean, really, he's a punk. I should't be surprised when small things build up and turn into big things.

Anyway, here's the entry from March 17.

I'll stay where you've put me; I will, dear Lord,
though I wanted so badly to go;
I was eager to march with the "rank and file,"
Yes, I wanted to lead them, You know.
I planned to keep step to the music loud,
to cheer when the banner unfurled,
To stand in the midst of the fight straight and proud;
But I'll stay where You've put me.

I'll stay where You've put me; I'll work, dear Lord,
Though the field be narrow and small,
And the ground be neglected, and stones lie thick,
And there seems to be no life at all.
The field is Your own, only give me the seed,
I'll sow it with never a fear;
I'll till the dry soil while I wait for the rain,
And rejoice when the green blades appear;
I'll work where You've put me.

I'll stay where You've put me; I will, dear Lord;
I'll bear the day's burden and heat,
Always trusting You fully; when sunset has come
I'll lay stalks of grain at Your feet.
And then, when my earth work is ended and done,
In the light of eternity's glow;
Life's record all closed, I surely will find
It was better to stay than go;
I'll stay where You've put me.

Now, reading through this it's clear that I am not choosing to stay-my circumstances are what they are and I'm not able to change them. Good Lord I've tried, haven't I? Ha! Sean and I have moved things, stored things, given away things, changed things, painted things, you name it we've done it. And then re-done it. And then changed it again to someone's liking.

So...I can't control the moving process. What I can change is my state of discontent. Praying for change and telling God, "If only...then I'll..." Today I'm gonna say, "Okay Lord. It's okay. Whatever You're doing, it's okay."

What's not to love

2011-10-06T18:22:00.001-05:00

My girls are awesome little gifts to me. They cheer me up when I'm cranky and make me laugh all the time. On preschool days I cram all that I can into those few hours when I can run errands on my own. And I enjoy the break I'm not gonna lie. But then I see them and hear about their day and think, "What would I do without them?"

Happy Thursday y'all. I have to shut 'er down and clean my house to get ready for this weekend's showings and open house. Lord help me sell this thing!

Before and after

2011-10-04T22:53:00.001-05:00

Charlie and Joy's room:

Before

And after

You can imagine the crazy in this house the last few days. It's a happy crazy though-our favorite kind.

They are in love with the Ikea bedding. I mean, hearts AND pink together? It's heaven.

Night time prayer

2011-10-01T21:06:00.001-05:00

Heard around the room tonight:

Charlie:

"Dear God, thank you for today and thank you that we got to see Nattie and Popeye and go to Caf's house. We just had a great day and we have hair like Rapunzel. Thank you for our Rapunzel hair and for being princesses. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Joy:

"Dear God thank you for church. Thanks for school and blankie and brother. And for pasketti."

Ty:

"Dear God thank you for Daddy taking me to the batting cage today and thank you for my Rangers batting helmet for Christmas that I want."

Going to church in the morning and hoping something sticks.

think this is how Taylor Swift got started?

2011-09-29T21:07:00.002-05:00

A few of my favorite things

2011-09-28T13:30:00.001-05:00

Everything about this picture

I finally found a short sleeved, cotton cropped sweater that I like.

(Forever 21 sweater, Old Navy skirt)

My son, the baseball player

Even in the store he's in player mode

Again the candy apples

They couldn't get used to the caramel. I get that-I prefer candy apples, (the red gooey stuff,) but at kroger they had these ready-made so I jumped on the 10 for 10 price tag.

Mm good. Joy got over the caramel fear and had no problem polishing hers off. She's her Mother's daughter.

Praise the Lord it's cool enough to play outside again!

Happy Wednesday y'all!

God works all things together for good

2011-09-26T18:44:00.001-05:00

This last week we had an appointment with our beloved pediatrician for Ty's 5 year check-up. We knew going in that this would be the time we talked about his progress in school and any concerns we had before he starts "real" school next year. We talked about the move, (or the 'non-move') as we call it, he told her all about his birthday and what he likes doing now...pretty much baseball from sun up to sun down...and he was downright chatty with her. He knew that he didn't get a shot during his visit so he was relaxed and comfortable. It's during times like this that I see the concerns about his progress diminish. He's come so far in his abilities to talk to people in real conversations and he's expressive and affectionate. I told her that this is the real him and I'm glad he's showing her. Sometimes, (almost every time,) we see her he's quiet and terrified. Talk to me before your kid's 4 year check-up. It can be traumatic. Anyway...

After her examination she said that the way he acted during the time in the room reminded her of a kid with Aspergers. When we first told her our concerns when he was 2, then 3, she observed him and concluded that he was improving in all areas. No regression, no withdrawal, etc. so she wasn't concerned about Autism. We took him to a developmental pediatrician when he was 3 1/2 and that doctor came to the same conclusion. The only diagnosis was a speech delay and he started PPCD. His life has really opened up since starting at his school, y'all have heard all about that. We are so thankful and pleased with his teachers. So anyway she suggested that we have the school test him since he's already in PPCD so that when it's time for Kindergarten we will be able to help him in all possible ways. While right now his only issue in school has been related to noise level, there may be other things that bother him in a classroom of more kiddos.

We are looking ahead and there are a few balls rolling already. Hopefully the school testing can happen quickly since he is already enrolled in a PPCD program. I called four developmental pediatricians the day we talked with our doctor and all of them have huge wait lists. That will likely be a long process from what I can see and judging what I've heard from other parents. Oh, a piece of the puzzle that I forgot to mention is that the doctor we saw a few years ago with Ty is not practicing anymore. She retired and sent referrals for her patients way back when but Lord knows where that list is?????

When we walked out of the office last week we were not surprised. We were not caught off guard. We know Ty and we love him whole heartedly and we are very blessed to have him as our son. We recognize when he is struggling and we try to help him cope and of course none of that will change. But there is another level of unknowns. How will he do in team sports? How will he do once we move and he starts over? The big answer is we don't know. But we are like any other parents-we will adapt and do what we can to help our kid. We will figure it out. We will learn more as time goes on but right now all that we know for sure is that he "likely" has a sensory disorder and also probably meets the criteria for an Aspergers diagnosis. Y'all, I need to post a video of him talking about his love of all things number-related. He has got an amazing little brain. Sometimes he asks me questions like, "Mom what is 81+496?" and I answer, "Uh, give me a minute honey..." and hope he moves on to something easier like 1+1. 11+11 even. I can do that one! Ha!

While we aren't sure what's coming next and what all will change with a new diagnosis we are so proud of Ty and what he has been able to overcome and control in his little 5 year-old life. God has a plan for him and is not surprised by the timing of all of this. The same way God isn't surprised or taken back by how slowly the house thing is going. Maybe, just maybe God has orchestrated all of this for good as He says He will do. WE KNOW THIS TO BE TRUE! If we had already moved before this new development he wouldn't be as comfortable in his classroom. He wouldn't be as sure of his place within his class. And the love between his teaches and him is just precious for this momma to see. So we are still in a waiting period about our house but we feel like it's probably a blessing for Ty. Remind me of that when I complain, will you? :)

Thanks y'all.

The weekend in pictures

2011-09-25T21:14:00.001-05:00

"Hello world"

Nothing like putting a puzzle together

I don't know where Charlie gets it?

So proud

Two year-old for sale. Free shipping

Long post coming y'all. You need your rest for this one!

Flashback Friday

2011-09-23T12:52:00.001-05:00

Ty edition

Man I love my boy. Happy Friday y'all!

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-09-21T19:42:00.001-05:00

For Bible study on Friday
(the church is always cold so I can wear jeans and not die)

Dress: Sundance
Jeans: Levi's (had them since high school!)
Boots: Corral

I even took a cardigan it can be so cold in our church. It's Heaven.

Cardigan: Anthropologie

Tunic: Forever 21
Shorts: no tag left (that old)
Shoes: Ruche

And another kind of outerwear:

Our fence has fallen apart so today we had a side of it replaced. This is the before pic. Kinda bare if you ask me.

I'll show you the after tomorrow. Y'all have a happy evening.

Lately

2011-09-20T21:38:00.001-05:00

We went to see Sean's parents for Ty's birthday celebration. Joy rode this horse approximately 700 times.

They gave him these. Wedgets I think is the name of them. So fun. The building possibilities are endless-you can turn them on their side and they all fit together.

We have dressed up as princesses

Even momma:

This is where I find my princess accessories: Little Miss Momma's Etsy store

Hello little guys

Ty went to his first bowling birthday party and he loved it. I had no idea how he'd do since he's never been to Main Event, (I know, I know, he's five...but anyway,) he had the best time.

The birthday boy Gabriel. Gabe is Ty's best little friend from school and this year Gabe is in Kindergarten so Ty is depressed. He comes running off the bus some days yelling, "I saw him today Mom I saw Gabriel!"

Here he is bowling during the party.

Y'all see the number of pictures on my phone? That's why I couldn't video him playing-no more space on my phone. I have an addiction to phone pictures.

We made our presence known at Costco

And some days we just created adventurous places like "the princess castle box," an empty pull-ups box. Praise the Lord it's cool enough to be outside again!

So that's a little of what we've been doing. How 'bout you?

We are

2011-09-19T20:42:00.001-05:00

A family

And we are

Full of funny inside jokes that we don't remember the origin of

Often full of junk food we aren't supposed to eat

Enjoying school. All of us.

Longing to live on a farm that boasts high speed Internet capabilities

Trying to survive a really long season of waiting

Laughing often

Starting to have dance parties after bath time thanks to my anniversary present from Sean (ihome player)

Toying with the idea of potty training our youngest troop

But stocking up on princess pull-ups

Dreaming of winter

Putting final touches on Halloween costumes. We start early

Mostly coloring outside the lines

Proud that our 5 year-old baseball player is actually coloring INSIDE the lines

Watching our 3 year-old master the art of wrapping her daddy around her finger

And remembering how far our 2 year-old has come thanks to the prayers of many, our God, and a few very smart doctors.

We are grateful to be here.

Even though we'd move tomorrow.

I guess we're a totally normal family.

Right?

Right?

Bueller?

(little family craft by Charlie)

Breaking Free

2011-09-16T19:19:00.001-05:00

This morning we started our Fall Bible study at church. We are working through the study Breaking Free, one of Beth Moore's studies. I'm excited about what will come from this semester mainly because I have no idea which direction God will work in as far as what I'm bound to that I shouldn't be. Things like anxiety, fear, piddling, (what Sean and I call doing nothing,) you name it I'm probably doing it. I am a fallen, fearful mess most days. I like to find the positive though, so I have a good time most days too. There's something about watching your kids wearing only their underwear running laps in the backyard on an early Fall day that just make you happy. Our neighbors? Maybe not quite as happy.

Now for a little secret? I don't actually know any of our neighbors. I know a sweet woman down a few houses and that's it. She came over to greet us when we first moved into our house and she's been a constant encouragement ever since. A few years ago I knocked on the door to my next door neighbors' house and asked for help getting my car started. The man was very nice and helpful and did, in fact, get my car started. I haven't had a conversation with him since.

I'm sure it's starting to make sense why we might be in the market to move to a smaller town. I'm looking forward to knowing people who live by us. Maybe even hanging out with people who live by us. Borrowing sugar or Diet Dr Pepper or what have you. As I'm writing this I'm starting to wonder if we scare our neighbors and that's why we don't know them? Hm something to think about...what with all the naked running around in the backyard. Well, the kids are doing that, not us. Just being clear.

Moving on...

(you're welcome,)

I really want to learn to be efficient with Pinterest. I'm not good at it, y'all. I totally like the idea of it I just can't remember how to take what I see to my own board or pins or whatever. Help me? Okay great.

It's raining right now. This reminds me of last weekend when I was at a birthday party and I looked across the yard and saw my son buck naked from the waist down just standing there. Um. I looked up to see my Mom, mortified at the same scene, telling me Ty's explanation under her breath, hoping I could talk some sense into him. I asked him why he took his pants off. "Well, I don't want them on anymore. They aren't good anymore." (He was wearing his swimsuit before the naked-ness.) "Why aren't they good?" "Well because they're just not. I want to take them off." "Well, no you put them back on. Right now." He eventually did, but it took some serious threats about the taking away of the baseball goodies.

My next point-Ty is loving baseball right now, more than life itself. He is a chip off the old block, that one. I spent my childhood watching my brother's games and love baseball very much. When I think of my adolescent years when I developed new crushes multiple times a day, I can remember that almost every boy I liked played baseball with my brother. It made sense, I guess, since that's the only people I was ever around. I didn't marry a baseball player. God has a sense of humor.

For a post about nothing I sure did write a lot. Sorry y'all. The rain is throwing me off. I'm gonna go watch it. Night Night.

WIWT

2011-09-15T19:03:00.001-05:00

Because it's Thursday...and because I had food poisoning on Tuesday and I'm now fully recovered, (thank you, Lord,) plus because I'm so tired from disciplining my newly minted 5 year-old, here are the pics-with minimal words.

Top: Ross
Skirt: Anthropologie
Shoes: Shopruche

Shirt: Johnny Was (hand me down from MIL-thank you Louraine!)
Jeans: Big Star (from Nordstrom 2 years ago)
Boots: Corral (from Sheplers)

Love this shirt. So pretty.

Shirt: Anthro
Shorts: Academy
Shoes: Clarks (from Ross) a long time ago

I took Charlie to Sam Moon for the first time this week.

She's found her new happy place.

"Mommy look at all the pink stuff! I'm so happy!"

Good night y'all. Yes I'm going to bed. Right now.

It's 7:03 pm.

5

2011-09-14T16:09:00.001-05:00

Ty's birthday is today. He's 5.

I could have never imagined how much I'd love you Ty. I'm so proud of you and how sweet you are. You are wonderfully made by God. When you were a baby I prayed that I could be a good mother to you. I prayed that God would help me during those sleepless nights when I thought, "God, I can't do this. This job is too hard for me. What if I fail?"

You taught me about grace and how loving me even when I fail is the perfect picture of how God loves and forgives me. Even when you've had a rough day and I've stayed on you constantly you still want me to comfort you and hold you.

I'm filled with joy because of you. Happy Birthday little man.

Never forget

2011-09-11T13:29:00.001-05:00

I saw this picture in an email and found it so powerful. Where were you ten years ago today? I remember where I was. I was paralyzed with fear, hundreds of miles away from home. I felt like I couldn't get back fast enough. I drove all night and all day to get there. I listened to the news, then my Ginny Owens CD, trying to figure out what in the world would happen next. And there was no answer but this: No idea. But He knows. He's sitting on His throne and He is watching us.

Praying for peace for the families who have endured horrific loss, confusion, and heartache.

"Come to me you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28-29

Hello love

2011-09-10T13:26:00.001-05:00

Yep it's time. Bring it on Fall we are ready!

Lunch date

2011-09-08T19:13:00.001-05:00

"Really Mom? Really? You're driving me crazy."

Can't you just see it in a few years? You know what he said for real after I took this pic?

Mom I sure do like Tuesdays and Thursdays 'cause it's just me and you. No girls."

Awwwww.

I didn't have the heart to tell him I'm actually a girl.

WIWW: I dye clothes edition

2011-09-07T07:31:00.001-05:00

I'm addicted to Rit dye. It's the cheapest way to makeover your closet. Exhibits A and B:

A: This shirt used to be a bright melon color, (but sleeves were too long for Summer for me,) and it's now the perfect Fall color. (shirt from Sams)

B: this one used to be a pale gray and now it's a much more happy color. (JCrew)

Tank top: Old Navy
Skirt: gift
Belt: Fossil (from Restyle)

Fave outfit of the week:

Top: J jill (Restyle)
Skirt: Anthro
Shoes: Miz Mooz a few years ago

I came down the stairs in this and Sean said, "Well that's one way to be colorful." Yes, yes honey it is. I loved it!

Y'all have a great day!

Just another day in paradise

2011-09-06T20:53:00.001-05:00

If you live anywhere near me it's safe to assume you've been loving this weather. Today was beautiful and yesterday was too. We've been to the park three times in the last two days. I'm so happy when we can play outside. Like any kids around their ages, my kids are too.

Joy and Charlie went to school today for the second time and they both had a good time. I was a little worried this morning because Joy told me she wanted to "stay him wit yew Mommy" instead of go to school. I knew once she got there she'd have fun and I was relieved that when we got to the door to her room she walked right in. It makes the time away so much more fun when you know they are happy, doesn't it? Charlie loves it of course. Y'all know her-friends and toys with a hint of a snack and she's a happy camper. This morning she ran clear across the room to hug the director of her school and I apologized to the lady, (Charlie like body-slammed her,) and she said, "I love Charlie and she makes me feel like a rock star when she beelines for me every time she sees me." Um, y'all, it's a week into school and apparently she has done this many times already. Lord help me.

I ran a ton of errands during my free time today, (amazing how many places you can go in a few hours!) and I was so refreshed when I picked the girls up. I said, "Thank You, Lord," a hundred times on our way home. Mainly because when I picked Joy up her teacher said she talked more today and danced during their little music time. Those two things mean one thing: She's comfortable. Oh, and she ran back to hug her teacher when we walked away. HUGE.

Okay it's getting late and I've got two loads of laundry left to do. It's a glamorous life. And I'm loving it.

Celebrating

2011-09-05T07:30:00.002-05:00

Yesterday our pastor talked about living our lives in celebration of who God is instead of looking at our circumstances and reacting to them. He said that if we truly seek to rejoice in what God is doing our circumstances won't control how how feel. He gave us all cards to put up around the house with words from Philippians in The Message translation. Here is what the card says:

CELEBRATE GOD!

Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in Him!

Make it as clear as you can to all you meet

that you're on their side,

working with them and not against them.

Help them see that the Master is about to arrive.

He could show up any minute!

Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray.

Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers,

letting God know your concerns.

Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness,

everything coming together for good,

will come and settle you down.

It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry

at the center of your life.

Summing it all up, friends,

I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating

on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling,

gracious--the best, not the worst;

the beautiful, not the ugly;

things to praise, not things to curse.

Philippians 4:4-8 (The Message)

I need to put this all over my house and really work on doing it. It's remarkable how much you can face when you go into each day with an attitude of thankfulness and peace. Hoping to focus on Him instead of my anxieties today!

The weekend in pictures

2011-09-04T19:00:00.001-05:00

In n out (Ty's first request for his leggos)

New leggo table I found at the resale store for $15

New pink car from the resale store $2

Princess Charlotte

You could say it's been a same-ole, same-ole weekend. No house news but no bad news either.

Oh, and Gig 'em Aggies!

Flashback Friday

2011-09-02T16:24:00.001-05:00

Joy edition

The day before her surgery

Today going to Kroger. Eating a whole apple in about four minutes.

First Day

2011-09-01T20:35:00.001-05:00

This morning I went into the girls' room and said, "Today we all go to school!" I don't know who was more excited-Charlie, Joy, or me. Ha. It was so adorable watching Charlie teach Joy how to go to school. "First, we take a bath Joy and then we dry off and put on our clothes. With socks Joy because we wear real shoes to school," (opposed to crocs which is what they wear every other day.) "And then we brush our teeth because our teachers like us to have fresh breath, and then mom packs our lunch and we don't go crazy in the kitchen Joy because mom said so and then we get to get in the car but wait for mom Joy...when I tell you..." Ya'll, it's like she's the family narrator. She never stops talking. I love her with all my heart you know that. But she never stops talking. Anyway. When we drove up to the school I had to tell them to calm down they were so keyed up. We unloaded the mounds of stuff and somehow made it out of the car without using a stroller which is kind of amazing. And then they stopped so I could take their picture.

I'm dang near tears just looking at it right now. Off they went. Looking all bright and shiny. I wasn't sad at all this morning thankfully.

And I got to hang out with this little man.

"Yo Mom, whazzup."

He loved having so much attention and I haven't told y'all yet that Sean is home this week so it's been unlimited fun for Ty. Mom AND Dad at home, the girls at school two of the days? Oh man it's like his whole world opened up.

The million dollar question? What did I do with all of my free time? Considering that Ty only goes to school from 12-3 and the girls get out of preschool at 2 it narrows down the outlandish options a bit but strolling through any store for any item seems like the easiest task ever when I'm by myself. Not that i don't get out much-I do get out a ton when Sean is home. It's the secret to me not losing it with him traveling so often. Today was different though. From 12-2, I knew that all of the kids were at school, hopefully happy and learning and growing so they had that much more to tell me about when I did get to see them. So what did I do with all of the free time?

I dyed clothes of the girls because I was bored.

Yep, the secret is out. I get bored without my children hanging on my leg.

I confess I did get to the parking lot at fifteen til 2 but I managed to stay in my car until 10 til. Then I went in. Now remember this was Charlie's second day at this school. Plus she went all year last year, (and loved it more than life itself,) but this was Joy's very first day. She still cries sometimes at church especially if her favorite gals aren't both in sight immediately when she walks into her room. Shout out Amanda and Danielle!! Joy loves you :) So anyway I was thinking of her pretty often during the day hoping she was doing okay. And look

She was just fine. Only almost cried once her teacher said. My response: "Good Lord she cries way more than that at home with me in a five hour stretch!" She made it and said she liked it and it was fun. Charlie ran out of her room saying she had the best day ever, (her normal response when I say, "how was school?") So today was a success.

Other than nearly falling asleep approximately 47 times between getting home and bedtime, Joy acted normal. Not any more insecure or clingy. She played with her Transformer mean guy toy from McDonalds just like any other day.

To make you feel better she actually also plays with baby dolls.

See ya'll tomorrow for Flashback Friday!

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-08-30T21:44:00.002-05:00

This week has been full of beginnings. Ty has had his first week on a new school bus to and from school. In his world a new bus is like a trip to Disneyworld every single day. The bus is super cool to a four year-old! (It's his second week of school.) The girls start school this week too--Charlie went today and Joy starts Thursday. When I picked Charlie up she said she loved her new friends but she didn't know any of their names. Hmmm.

The first outfit was just to show you the thrift store boots again. Actually this whole outfit cost $21.

Dress: Target clearance
Belt: antique shop in my hometown
Boots: thrift store in Edwards, CO

This shirt got three outfits' worth of wear this week. I wore it Sunday tucked into khaki linen pants, (which looked best I think,) and then yesterday.

Shirt: Anthropologie sale
Shorts: Fossil

This was what I wore to the dermatologists office and I ended up leaving it on the whole day because it was like wearing pajamas.

Skirt: ASOS
Shoes: Ross about 5 years ago

I love to read Kristina's blog and totally copied her outfit here. She has a fun and heartfelt blog about her life and wearing girly clothes.

Since I wrote the check to secure my girls their spots in preschool for the year we've had three showing appointments made, (one today, two tomorrow.) I
told Sean now that I'm settled into the idea that we'll live here through this year and paid for everything/made plans we'll probably get a bite on the house and need to move out in two weeks. It's just the way it works around here sometimes. :) Thankful to be here right now...and thankful that I honestly feel that way.

Out of order but so what

2011-08-28T19:55:00.001-05:00

Instead of telling y'all more about the trip I thought I'd pause to show you what I've been working on since we got back. A recent change of events made it possible to sign Joy up for preschool. Yipeeeeeeeeee! She will love it and has already said, "I go school too with sista!" I'd gotten Charlie ready equipment-wise but as of Friday I started figuring out what Joy would need. Because Friday was the day I signed Joy up. Lord knows if I can't fly by the seat of my pants I don't know who can.

Mom made Ty's nap mat, which is now Charlie's. Ty only used it for a few months before starting his current school where he doesn't nap. Charlie used it all last year and mom put her name on it for her. It's made of fun numbers fabric from Ikea. Right after finding that fabric we found similar fabric with hearts on it and mom agreed that one of the girls would use it someday. Well my friends, that day is today.

I used the roll of fabric, (I think it was $8.99) plus some soft fabric that mom found at her thrift store. Bonus: somebody had already cut it into squares. So today while Ty played with his leggos, (an early bday gift,) I went to town.

See the pins? There were around 51 million of them to hold my blanket together. I worked on the blanket first because I'm actually begging myself to learn to quilt. I don't know why really I just notice quilts now and want to make one. So this was my first very uneducated attempt. I sewed all of the squares together then sewed the finished side to a piece of the heart fabric. Then I made the nap mat. I copied what Mom did with Charlie's, minus the actual seamstress work. I sewed the sides together, flipped it inside out, then stuffed it with quilt batting. Then I sewed the ends together again real wonky-like. It's a masterpiece. See.

Not sure if you can see it but I use white thread for everything I sew. Ask my Mom. It drives her crazy.

I know one little girl who won't care if it's all wonky. This girl

Man does she love watermelon.

Anyway.

During my sewing fiasco and after the girls woke up we played baseball.

That's home plate.

Ty never stands still anymore. It's like the boy in him just went all-boy on me. He wants to play baseball, basketball, or tackle football all day. Emmy took him to a Rough Riders game last week (they're the Rangers minor league team,) and ever since he can't get enough baseball. The little league world series couldn't have come at a better time!

Okay I'm tired from all the sewing. Sean looked at me all covered it scraps and thread a minute ago and said, "Little did I know I married that chick from Little House on the Prairie."

Goodnight.

The full story: Part 1

2011-08-27T20:24:00.003-05:00

So y'all know that we are home from a quick trip to Colorado. I forgot to mention a few details:

The high the first day we were there was 80 degrees. The low? 42.

The second day we were there was 79 degrees. The low? 45.

The third day, well, you guessed it. LOWER THAN IN TEXAS.

We truly wanted to stay there. Not that we wouldn't miss it here, mainly because our friends and families are here. But to be able to play outside with the kids and to see them just blissfully happy to play out in the sunshine--it was enough to make us think about the possibilities of living away from this Texas Africa Heat. No way it'll happen though. Just dreamin'.

So here's the run-down of events: On Sunday afternoon Mom and Dad took us to the airport. They were going to keep Max, (lucky them,) so it made sense for them to drop us off since they also have a suburban. We ended up taking our car, (???) but still, it made sense. I managed to pack all of my stuff, all of Charlie's stuff, and all of Joy's stuff into one big suitcase. Sean packed Ty's clothes in his bag, which is his work bag that is small enough to carry on. So for five people we checked one bag. Sweet, right? And that is how it's done, you seasoned travelers. This rarely-flying momma has got it all figured out.

At least until the trip home when my bag weighed 59 pounds. And at least until I found out that if your bag weighs more than 50 pounds you pay $100 American dollars. Um, chunking the lotion, gel, toothpaste, switching to the heavy shoes for the flight, etc.

Moving on...

We arrived in Eagle at 6 local time, 7pm Tx time. The kids go to bed at 7 so it was kind of interesting how they acted once we got there. Obviously they were excited about the plane, the people, the dogs that were on the flight, (there were like, 5, no lie--people from Colorado apparently travel with their pets everywhere,) so they weren't tired at all. Joy cried the last ten minutes of the flight and held her ears. I kept trying to give her things to eat and drink but she didn't want anything. Once we landed she was much better, and when she saw Pops, Sean's dad, she was so happy. We loaded the car and started the drive home. About fifty yards from the house Joy started vomiting.

Moving on...

She was fine after she got out of the car and I was reminded of many car trips to Colorado when either my brother or I would get sick from the altitude change. We made sure she was better before bed and then made sure to give her a 1/2 of a Dramamine on the flight home. We let the kids play while we set up their beds and since there were two rooms close to each other we put them in one of them and we took the other one. They loved sleeping in the same room. Like their joy was palpable. I kept hearing them that first night giggling and I thought, man, this is pure joy for a mother's heart. Then I heard them telling knock-knock jokes. Then it was a surprise game where one of them surprised the others with a crazy dance. Then it was just a mess. Then we went in and made them go to bed. It was about 10 pm Texas time.

And we paid for that the next day ten-fold. But after that night they settled right in and enjoyed pretty much everything for the entirety of the trip. They swam, they played, they got to go up the mountain, they showed their grandparents all of their tricks,and they tried new things. We rode the gondola up the mountain and though we were worried that Ty wouldn't like it or be afraid he cozied right up and had a blast looking down at all of the trees. Both of Sean's parents went up too and they enjoyed seeing the kids' faces when I jumped on the trampoline. I tell you what-nothing makes kids more proud than their parent jumping on a trampoline and doing an occasional back flip. It was one of those trampolines connected to a bungee cord. Who knew after all this time I could still do a flip? Well, connected to a very strong piece of elastic that basically created artificial gravity. I had so much fun that I was still sore this morning. Joy jumped beside me and she wasn't afraid or apprehensive at all. She still says that jumping was her favorite thing she did in Colorado. Oh, and she also rode a pony. Her big bro and sis? Nada. They watched and weighed their options then decided to sit back and have their fun from afar.

I've posted pictures already so I'm sure I'm remembering things out of order but y'all don't care about details, right?

Right?

Okay I should stop with the play by plays then! Gotta hit the hay. More on Colorado tomorrow!

Flashback Friday

2011-08-26T18:05:00.001-05:00

Little toots in the Fall edition

Two years ago we left baby Joy with Sean's mom so we could go to the Dallas Arboretum and see the pumpkins. It was a fun day, mainly because it was a little cool outside. What I'd give for a little slice of cool today! I tried to bring the cool air back from our trip with me but it didn't work.

Happy Friday!

Don't Mess with Texas

2011-08-25T13:25:00.001-05:00

We are home. Dang it's hot here. About halfway through the flight Charlie asked me of we were in Texas. I told her no but we are getting close. She said, "Oh I'm glad mommy. I sure like Texas the best."

Amen sister. But that weather in Colorado could certainly convince me to move there. Until winter rolls around and I get so cold I change my mind.

Anyway.

Here are a few more pictures.

The girls on the trip home this morning

Joy was suffering from altitude sickness (ahem...the gross kind,) on the trip from the airport to the house in CO so today we gave her 1/2 of a Dramamine. Thankfully I checked with the pharmacist before we left to be sure she could have it! I thought I'd need it for Ty but he did great. So anyway Joy was tired on the flight home. She never slept though.

Y'all, I love a bargain. When Sean's mom told me there was a thrift store down the street from them I begged her to take me so she did. Then I went again on my own the next day because I regretted not buying one of the finds from day 1. These are the best deal I found:

Tony Lama black boots in my size, barely worn. 15 American dollars=score. I also found a tricycle for $8 and four Oilily shirts for Charlie for $2 each. It's things like this that make me believe it's worth it to hold out for a bargain. It's also things like this that cause my bag to weigh 58 pounds at weigh-in today, which apparently means that you either chunk stuff to make it lighter or hand over $100. Bet you can guess which one we chose.

So now I am still the happy owner of my new finds BUT we now need to replenish our supply of contact solution, shampoo, deodorant, lotion, and sunscreen.

It's the important things in life.

See y'all tomorrow for Flashback Friday!

Pets

2011-08-24T09:17:00.001-05:00

Mimi and Pops have two dogs and a cat. Everybody likes the dogs.

They share space with them.

They give them treats and put on 'shows' for them.

Then there's the cat. He's 18 years old and very very moody. If the cat comes within twenty feet of Ty it scares Ty to death. But the girls...well the girls think it's hilarious when he hisses at them.

So far going up the mountain, (Beaver Creek,) yesterday and watching the cat are the girl's favorite parts of the trip. Ahem.

Today's agenda: go swimming at the indoor pool in Avon and sitting outside for as long as possible to soak up the cool air.

By the way we are hoping our flight gets cancelled tomorrow so we can stay in this weather until November. I'll keep you updated.

We've only just begun

2011-08-23T22:53:00.001-05:00

Highlight of the trip so far for Ty

I did this too. Not kidding.

Having fun!

Colorado

2011-08-22T18:12:00.001-05:00

Goodbye Texas, hello Colorado

The flight

2011-08-21T22:01:00.001-05:00

There was pure joy

And pure exhaustion

And only ten minutes of crying. From Joy not me...thank the Lord! Where are we? I'll show you tomorrow.

Six

2011-08-20T09:54:00.012-05:00

Today is our wedding anniversary. Six years ago we signed up for a marriage, not knowing for sure what it all meant but knowing that we loved each other and it was worth it. We stood in this small church with even smaller air conditioning capabilities and said our vows. The future was mysterious and bright. I was so grateful for who Sean was and how he loved me. I loved how grounded he was. He was grateful I was spontaneous (his word) and flighty. (my word...) We had no idea just how dynamic those differences would be :)

One of my bosses used to tell me that if you want to learn to be like Jesus you should get married. What he meant was that it would take the patience of God Almighty to withstand everything your spouse might throw at you. Ha. And while Jesus has indeed had to help us thousands of times, we have Him with us. We ask for help when we need it. We push through scary times like we had with Joy before she was born. Like now when we need to sell our house and it hasn't sold. We trust that God is molding us to be more like Him and His grace allows us to keep on trying. We have more understanding of what our marriage is now=It's one half circus, one half very calm nights by the stream. Not that we have a stream by our house but you know what I mean. The kids provide the circus. It's our imperfect life. It works. It is a gift and it is wonderful.

Happy Anniversary babe. I love you more every single day.

WIWW

2011-08-17T21:25:00.001-05:00

Late edition

And one outfit edition.

Be excited. Be very excited.

Shirt/tunic: Forever 21. Very lightweight, not as hot as it looks

Shorts: gift from my MIL

Shoes: Ruche

Got a lot going on around here...taking a family trip soon and my self-counseling skills are being put to use. Airplanes and I have a long long history. Prayers appreciated.

Up to speed

2011-08-16T20:48:00.001-05:00

It was a fun weekend. I'll let the pictures do the talking.

She wanted to go home with the pony. She was the only one brave enough to ride the pony, by the way. I mean of my kids.

Yesterday I cleaned out my makeup drawer.

Exciting, I know. But for me cleaning out anything is monumental.

Today I kept a friend's kids while she took one of hers to the doctor.

An 8 week-old baby...me...you never know what will happen. I'm happy to keep a baby now, what with all the sleep under my belt and my ability to give them back to their momma at the end if the day...but still...I'm not always a good baby person, y'all know that.

Here I am, frazzled. Do I still have the touch?

Yep yep I sure do. Keep in mind I had a bottle to give him so I wasn't totally on my own. Her other two kids who stayed at our house entertained my kids so really it was a breeze. Who knew six kids five and under could be doable when I'm in charge. I'm as surprised as you are.

This afternoon Emmy took Charlie out for a little date.

Could she BE any happier? No.

And Emmy bought her a pink heart-shaped necklace. She is complete.

Tonight we went to the rec center since the days of pool fun are dwindling. I'm sad but the ending of pool days means school is starting and Fall is coming. In other words, relief is in sight!

See y'all tomorrow for WIWW!

Flashback Friday on Sunday

2011-08-14T11:27:00.001-05:00

And today

Meet Buck

2011-08-11T19:02:00.001-05:00

Buck is our newest pet. We all love him and visit him often.

He's a good pet.

We don't have to worry about him biting the kids. Or us.

Charlie asked if he could sleep with her in her bed.

Um yeah.

Thank you, Cabelas. You are as good as Disneyworld to us.

Giveaway Winner

2011-08-11T11:26:00.001-05:00

The winner of last week's giveaway for a cute accessory from Sassy Sugar Blossoms is...

#1, Abby! Congratulations Abby!

Email me at marykathryn139@yahoo.com to claim your prize!

Thanks for entering y'all!

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-08-10T07:33:00.000-05:00

Y'all I hope you start joining in this party. Remember, it started as the personal challenge of a mom who found herself wearing sweats every day. I know that once I decided to start wearing my "real" clothes I felt really good and there was an extra spring in my step. When it's this hot outside I have to change clothes mid-day sometimes and I still go straight for a t-shirt and flip flops...and I stand by that since it's 109 outside. Some days it's just miserable and not worth the effort! I told Sean I'm gonna wear real clothes every day this Fall. He said he notices the extra spring in my step these days. See, it makes a difference!

Top: Anthropologie sale last Fall ($14.99)
Skirt: Anthropologie sale
Shoes: Ruche

Top: Anthropologie sale (a $9.99 find)
Shorts: Gap outlet
Shoes: Ross

Dress: Walmart last year
Belt: Anthropologie
Shoes: Ruche

Top: Old Navy
Shorts and shoes: Ruche

Any of you read Dear Lizzy's blog? See how I full-on totally copied her outfit? I have leggings that I'd wear if it wasn't 110 outside. This particular day I didn't leave the house and had I gone somewhere I'd have put leggings on. That Lizzy is just too fun. She makes the cutest scrapbook stuff! Do I scrapbook you ask? I did one time. One book. It's pretty in-depth. Scrapbooking is a wonderful way to preserve memories but kids will have to traipse through this here blog to see recorded memories. Bless their hearts.

You have until tonight at midnight to enter the giveaway for something sassy and sweet (ha) from Sassy Sugar Blossoms! I'll post tomorrow to tell you who the winner is!

Rhea Lana's Consignment Sale

2011-08-09T13:40:00.002-05:00

Rhea Lana's Back-to-School/Fall and Winter Event is quickly approaching to start it's 3rd year in Frisco...August 10-13 at the Preston Village Shopping Center (Southeast corner of Hwy 121 and Preston Road behind Chick-fil-A and next to the PGA Superstore)! Our Private PreSale for Volunteers, Consignors, Moms-to-Be (Print a Pass on-line at www.rhealana.com) and guests is Tuesday, August 9.

Wow look at the goodies!

Shopping with Rhea Lana's can't be beat...find everything your kiddos need all under one roof and for a huge bargain! Admission is free...always! :) Don't miss HALF-PRICE days on Friday and Saturday, August 12-13 for even better deals!

Details on all the "in's and out's" of Rhea Lana's can be found at www.rhealana.com OR like us on Facebook at Rhea Lana's of Frisco.

Great right?

The big sale starts tomorrow y'all so plan your day around it. You won't be sorry!

WIWW: Sassy Sugar Blossoms giveaway

2011-08-04T14:27:00.000-05:00

WIWW is about what my girls wore this week. After trying out a few adorable headbands we were sent I'm ready to show them to you and give one away to one of my readers!

These are a few of the headbands:

This one goes with everything and is comfortable. I know this because Joy forgot that she had it on.

Pink and brown oh my

Oh this one is just adorable.

So fun. I love the bling on this one.

Of course Charlie's favorite one: whichever one is pink

Aren't these headbands precious? A sweet new friend named Angie has created the most adorable accessories for little girls. Her business is called Sassy Sugar Blossoms and we thought it'd be fun to feature her designs here and show you gals, (near and far,) her work! What better way to do that than have my two crazy-haired girls model the headbands?

Check out their Facebook Page
"LIKE" the page, and leave a comment on this post telling me which product is your favorite for a chance to win a cute headband of your own!

Giveaway open to US residents only and will run until next Wednesday, August 10th. If you'd like another chance to win just link to this blog post and leave another comment telling me you did so. There you go- two possible chances to win. The winner will be chosen using random.org and will be able to choose a headband from all of the adorable choices! Good luck y'all!

A preview of what's up for grabs

2011-08-02T18:34:00.001-05:00

The girl is not up for grabs, (as of right now...last Sunday after she made herself vomit during a fit I'd have totally worked out a deal) but something in this picture is.

Prepare thyself for a giveaway.

Details coming tomorrow!

When his Daddy comes home

2011-07-31T18:14:00.001-05:00

Every time Sean gets home from work I'm so happy. When I hear the garage door opening I'm always relieved. He is home where he belongs. Even though I'm always, (well...usually...) the first to hug him Ty is always next in line. The boy loves his daddy.

So much so lately that I wonder how he's gonna do as he gets older. Will he ever lose that giddiness? I sure hope not. When Sean comes in he usually unpacks right away and since Ty was about 16 months old he has always helped him. It's a fun thing to watch. Over time he has learned what everything is called and where it all goes. He always puts on Daddy's ID tag, his hat, and his shoes. Then he prances around and tells us that he's daddy. This week was especially sweet because while I was bathing the girls in the other room apparently this happened:

After the suitcase was empty Ty crawled into it and said, "Let's try this Dad. You can take me to work next time. I fit right here."

Lordy I love my boys.

Does Ty look 12 in this picture or is it just me?

Ok I'm done.

Flashback Friday

2011-07-29T11:14:00.001-05:00

This looks really good right now.

Yeah lots of snow would be fine with me.

The End. Happy Friday!

Today at 2,3, and 4

2011-07-28T19:48:00.001-05:00

Nattie made new shirts for the kids using her super fancy skills.

Hi

I'm how old?

Oh, 3! But I'll be four in November y'all know that? I want to have a big big pink party!! (direct quote)

Ty doesn't get a shirt with tulle on it. Sean is grateful.

The poses didn't go well today. When we go to Waxahachie the next time we are gonna line them up on Dad's truck again for their real 2,3 4 picture.

Nothing like stretching in Northpark.

Thankfully no one was there at 10:01 when we got there.

And now a flashback

Man how they've changed

Oh my they've grown. I'm so grateful we are all still in one piece. Seriously that's what I think when I see these pictures. God is gracious!

WIWW-red shoe edition

2011-07-26T18:37:00.002-05:00

Go over to visit The Pleated Poppy blog for the story behind WIWW.

My red shoes have set the bar high for any future shoe purchase. They are as comfy as can be and much more fun than my tan flip flops that I tend to wear every day when it's this hot.

Ruche used to have them and today when I looked they were not on the website so I'd suggest looking up the shoes by brand/name and find another place that sells them. The brand is Chelsea Crew and they are called 'Jiminy.' Or watch for them on the Ruche website-they have a 'Back in Stock' tab and you can always look there for things that have previously sold out.

They have these shoes in green too. Swoon. See Ty at my feet. He was telling me to move but because he said it just like that, "Move Mom..." I told him he needed to ask nicely and it gave me an extra five seconds to get the picture taken. He said, "Please move over Mom," and I did as soon as I took the picture. I am parenting at it's best. Laziest and best I tell you.

Dress: Forever 21 sale rack- $5.99. One side of the ribbon tie belt was missing and the neck seam needed mending so a total of three minutes of sewing and it was ready to wear. I added a slip for length since I'm not 21 anymore. Not that I could have ever worn a short skirt and looked presentable. Ask my mother.

Denim jumper: Forever 21 last summer. This is a date night outfit. Woohoo that means we went on a date this day.

Purse: gift

Does Max always lay right there, you ask?

Yes he does. When I'm getting ready in the morning he lays right there until I turn off the bathroom light signaling I'm ready. It's weird. Or maybe it's totally normal dog behavior I just can't tell anymore.

Shirt: Nordstrom last winter
Shorts: Gap outlet

Ah the pregnant dress.

Dress: Ruche
Shoes: I think brown flip flips from AE when I was in college.

The pregnant dress story: about a month ago while in line to check out at Dollar Tree a sweet, (well-meaning) lady turned around and asked Charlie if she was excited to have a brother or sister on the way. Now y'all know Charlie...she said, "Oh yes I am!! It's a girl her name is Joy!"

The lady was so sweet y'all, and so old that I just couldn't correct her. She would have died right there on the spot if I'd told her she just ruined my self image. Ha! No really I wasn't offended. I just ate fewer mini nutter butters that day. She left the store probably praying for my unborn baby and feeling joyful. If I'd told her that I HAD the baby two years ago she would have been embarrassed and mortified. See, I made the better choice.

Anyway, so now that's the pregnant dress.

You're welcome.

The weekend and questions

2011-07-24T19:47:00.001-05:00

This weekend flew by and I'm not sure that we did any more than normal but it feels like we did. I think this heat makes walking around outside feel like exercise. So just living wears me out. That's my excuse for being out of breath after going up the stairs.

Anyway, here are a few pictures from the weekend.

I finally conquered a fear I've had for two years: taking my kids by myself to the rec center in town. There are so many fun reasons to go there but the thought of the three of them going different directions scared me. I'm sure that's a rational fear, (as opposed to my irrational ones...) but I've taken the big kids enough to be able to trust them to stay where I tell them to stay. Joy usually stays home with Sean when I take the other kids but that limits us to only going when he's home. Also known as times when activities aren't scarce anyway because the head entertainer is home. So anyway I took the kids last Thursday night. College students count Thursday as the start to the weekend so I am too.

I'm happy to report that I made it home with all three kids. And the bonus, (getting home with them all was my only goal,) was that they all loved it and it wasn't scary at all. Turns out Joy doesn't LOVE it there so she stays close to me. And big sister wants to be by Joy so really I only had to watch Ty and he's the most reliable as far as obeying my boundaries/rules. This wasn't always the case but I've told him that I won't bring him to swim there if he doesn't obey. Suddenly he's as pure as a child can be. Imagine that.

Our princess supply has been growing in size so now we have almost every room in the house outfitted for princess play. Poor Ty has lost his main playmate-Charlie-to the other little girl in the house. Poor Ty. He needs another boy to play with.

Don't even go there.

Aw look at the boys playing the piano together. Today we had another open house, (I forget how many we have had honestly but it's on the other side of ten for sure,) so we went to Sean's parents house for the afternoon. During church I invited Carley and Cody to come too since her hubby wasn't here for the day and they rode in the car with us. My kids love having a friend in the car! They like to point things out like, "Hey did you know this is my car seat? isn't that neat?"

Yes, team honey Carley and Cody didn't know that. Thank you for sharing!

Meet my new build-everything-outfit-wise-around-them favorite things:

Hello. Posting pics of these Wednesday.

Now on to a different topic: Questions

I've kept emails and comments for a while now and thought I'd answer some of the repeat questions y'all have. I composed a list along with my answers, saved it, and tried to find it tonight to post then discovered that when I saved it I actually um, didn't. I don't know what happened but I know that it's not ground breaking news or anything. This is an invitation, though, to leave me a question and I'll answer it for you. If it's too personal and/or not fitting to share here but you still want to ask it just email me at marykathryn139@yahoo.com and I'll answer you that way. You could ask via email and I'll share your question anonymously and give my answer here. That's another option.

Some of the questions I am asked most are:

How much money do you make from advertising on your blog?

What is What I Wore Wednesday and why waste time worrying about you wear?

What pushed you to share your story about anxiety? What medication are you taking?

What did you do before you stayed home with the kids? Are you going back to it?

What denomination are you?

And my most asked question: How is Ty doing?

I'm so happy to share the answers to all of these and I'm working to compose another answer post. Just add one to my list if you want to and I'll answer it!

Flashback Friday

2011-07-22T12:15:00.001-05:00

Big sister edition

The Fall after Joy was born I took Charlie to the park and it was just the two of us. Even at that age she loved spending one on one time with me. She'd let us know when she needed more attention by whining to me even when nothing was wrong, (she still does this,) and I figured out that I needed to spend alone time with her. Now she will whine and I'll ask her is something really wrong or do you just need me to be with you and she knows the difference. She is so easy that way.

Feeding her baby. Also known as MY BABY.

I took her to the Ft Worth zoo by herself and the whole time she told me how much her sister would love it there.

Sharing a ride

Now that's what I'm talking about. I want to enlarge this picture one day to show her how much she helped mommy when Joy was a baby.

Charlie has asked me if we can have another baby and I've told her no but she can have a puppy one day. A long long time from now of course. I'm not crazy.

SeaLife Aquarium

2011-07-21T21:59:00.001-05:00

My bible study has play dates over the summer and we went to the SeaLife aquarium in Grapevine on Tuesday. I took some crummy blurry pictures.

You're welcome.

The kids really enjoyed it and grasped about 1/100th of what it all meant and what it had to offer. We will be going back with their Daddy hopefully soon.

Emmy went with us God bless her. I would've lost Joy without her.

The fish were being fed in one of the exhibits and my kids loudly exclaimed, "Look mom he's got a cheerio for breakfast! No it's a doughnut! Mom he has a doughnut! Isn't that great?!!!!"

I'm so proud.

Say 'cheese' girls

"No I not say cheese!"

Pink lights=happy Charlie

Sting rays are now called, "Pancake fishies" in our house.

Seahorses

NEMO!!

Don't remember

And... she's done. Blankie came out, thumb went in, and stick a fork in her. She's done.

After the girls napped at home Emmy made the kids their own aquarium to house the fish we got from the gift shop.

I was amazed at how long they played with this.

Future SeaLife employees

I don't even think to do stuff like this. What does that mean about me? Or does it mean that Emmy realized her calling as a teacher?

Hmmm...

Or maybe I was just worn out from all of the high quality photography work.

Good night y'all.

Ty's best day ever

2011-07-20T12:23:00.001-05:00

This is what we did during the showing today

We followed the trash truck all around the neighborhood.

I guarantee this is Ty's favorite thing we have done this summer.

The End.

WIWW

2011-07-20T08:27:00.001-05:00

Lazy edition. I got dressed more than twice this week but never took pictures.

Dress: JCrew outlet in FL
Cardigan: Target
Shoes: Resort from TJMaxx (gift from my mother-in-law)

Shoes: Miz Mooz that I found in a bag in my closet. I bought them at Nordstrom with Christmas money about four years ago and then couldn't decide if I liked them once Charlie was born. I thought about selling them at Restyle, (I think I even tried) but I'm so glad I still have them. Now that I am able to wear something besides running shoes or flip flops these are my kind of shoes. Ladylike, pretty, and comfortable...I'm crazy about them. I can run in them to catch a kid so they're here to stay.

Y'all forgive me for my lack of posting. Sean has worked a few back-to-back trips and after the kids go to bed I am just too pooped to look through my phone pictures and form sentences.

That may be the worst excuse I've ever given you. I'll be back soon to tell you all about what we've been doing. It's gotten interesting since we are averaging one showing per day. Good news, yes. Contract yet? Nope. Praying for a July miracle :)