Had a thought.
15 hours ago
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Who loves ya, Baby?
I love this picture of ME. Her new favorite thing is to kiss by puckering her lips as far as they can go (think duck bill), lift her head high, and lean in for the kill! She makes a face afterward like, "Aren't you glad I graced you with my presence and offered up one of my famous kisses?" She kisses everyone in sight. If she is restrained by her carseat, she will air kiss repeatedly! I guess she is a lover, not a fighter!
Sunday, November 27, 2005
A visit from Riders of the Son
I love my church. I feel like the members at Crestview really have a heart for the poor in our community. Every year, we have a toy drive to benefit Mission Waco. This is a wonderful organization in town that helps give the poor and destitute a hand up. A toy store is opened during Christmas and the poor are able to buy the donated gifts for their children at drastically reduced prices. This helps give the parents ownership in the process.
I love how the toys are collected! On the first Sunday after Thanksgiving, a group of motorcyclists known as The kids get a kick out of all the noise and they are able to take pictures on the bikes. It is always fun hearing the roar down the street in anticipation of them coming!
This year, Matthew and Thomas asked that everyone coming to their birthday party bring toys for Mission Waco instead of giving them to the boys. They were so proud this morning to hand the toys to the bikers knowing that many of them were donated by them. The head of Mission Waco talked to Matthew and told him that many little girls and boys would be happy because of his decision to give his toys. He was so happy!
I love how the toys are collected! On the first Sunday after Thanksgiving, a group of motorcyclists known as The kids get a kick out of all the noise and they are able to take pictures on the bikes. It is always fun hearing the roar down the street in anticipation of them coming!
This year, Matthew and Thomas asked that everyone coming to their birthday party bring toys for Mission Waco instead of giving them to the boys. They were so proud this morning to hand the toys to the bikers knowing that many of them were donated by them. The head of Mission Waco talked to Matthew and told him that many little girls and boys would be happy because of his decision to give his toys. He was so happy!
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Happy Thanksgiving!
I am thankful this year for:
God, who continues to shower me with blessings.
My three happy, healthy, beautiful, funny children who keep me hopping!
My husband who loves me and works so hard to support our family.
My mom and sister who, along with Bryon, are my biggest support system.
Friends who help make life fun!
My brother finding a fiance' who is beautiful, funny, and a great addition to our family!
My daughter who finally started walking!
Dave Barry
Bryon loving taking the kids on little dates to the movie store, hardware store, grocery store, etc. It gives me a 30 minute respite which helps replenish a little energy.
Matthew's kindergarten teacher who lets me help in Matthew's class and always happy to fill me in on his progress.
Thomas's MDO teacher who goes above and beyond to make class fun for the kids.
Thanksgiving
Christmas coming up.
My digital camera.
Diet Coke, coffee, Diet A&W root beer
Birthday cake (I have absolutely no will power with this!)
Rediscovering frozen cappuccinos at the local coffee house.
Bryon being off for 4 days!
My nephew who is healthy and will be joining our family in April!
Matthew constantly cracking me up with what he says.
Thomas snuggling with me and enjoying taking care of his sister.
Matthew and Thomas's close relationship.
ME and her funny personality.
ME dancing everytime she hears music.
TiVo.
Food Network.
Having lots of hobbies I enjoy.
Oprah, Grey's Anatomy, CSI, The Office.
Rediscovering my love of the piano this year.
Living close to my family.
Even when life is hard and I am mired down in work, I have so much to be thankful for. Thank you, God, for all of my blessings!
God, who continues to shower me with blessings.
My three happy, healthy, beautiful, funny children who keep me hopping!
My husband who loves me and works so hard to support our family.
My mom and sister who, along with Bryon, are my biggest support system.
Friends who help make life fun!
My brother finding a fiance' who is beautiful, funny, and a great addition to our family!
My daughter who finally started walking!
Dave Barry
Bryon loving taking the kids on little dates to the movie store, hardware store, grocery store, etc. It gives me a 30 minute respite which helps replenish a little energy.
Matthew's kindergarten teacher who lets me help in Matthew's class and always happy to fill me in on his progress.
Thomas's MDO teacher who goes above and beyond to make class fun for the kids.
Thanksgiving
Christmas coming up.
My digital camera.
Diet Coke, coffee, Diet A&W root beer
Birthday cake (I have absolutely no will power with this!)
Rediscovering frozen cappuccinos at the local coffee house.
Bryon being off for 4 days!
My nephew who is healthy and will be joining our family in April!
Matthew constantly cracking me up with what he says.
Thomas snuggling with me and enjoying taking care of his sister.
Matthew and Thomas's close relationship.
ME and her funny personality.
ME dancing everytime she hears music.
TiVo.
Food Network.
Having lots of hobbies I enjoy.
Oprah, Grey's Anatomy, CSI, The Office.
Rediscovering my love of the piano this year.
Living close to my family.
Even when life is hard and I am mired down in work, I have so much to be thankful for. Thank you, God, for all of my blessings!
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Thanksgiving memories
I love Thanksgiving. Maybe because it is my favorite time of year. Maybe because it is a good excuse to be with family. Maybe because I love the food. I just love it.
We have spent every Thanksgiving since we were engaged in Conroe, where Bryon's family is from. They have graciously invited my parents to come every year to celebrate with them, so I get to be with both sides of the family on Thanksgiving.
This year my mother in law asked me to bring the dressing. Dressing is my favorite part of the meal so I feel an extra burden to make it the best I can. My mother cooks it "in the bird" and I think it is so much better that way. So....I bought my first turkey yesterday for the sole purpose of cooking my dressing inside! I will freeze the meat and eat it next week.
I am so excited about cooking my first turkey and dressing. It is a no stress way to venture into the most famous meal of the year.
Having the cornbread in a big bowl on the counter brings back so many memories. When we were growing up, Thanksgiving wasn't a big extended family affair. Our closest relatives lived more than 800 miles away, so it was just the 5 of us. From the first memories of Thanksgiving, my mother cooked the entire meal for the 5 of us. No going to a local cafeteria. No pie from the local grocery store. Everything was homemade. Our holiday was quiet, but magical thanks to our wonderful mother. We always enjoyed watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade while Mom cooked and we could smell the turkey, dressing, sweet potato casserole, and rolls cooking when Santa Claus appeared on the TV ending the parade.
When I met Bryon, I was introduced to the "35 members of the family Thanksgivings" that I had always seen on commercials. Bryon's mother always enjoys having the entire family at her house.
We usually go to Old Town Spring on Friday with my parents and go shopping. We eat at Wunsche Brother's restaurant and watch the A&M/UT game and buy a few holiday decorations.
I am looking forward to the holiday weekend and excited/anxious about my Thanksgiving turkey and dressing debut!
We have spent every Thanksgiving since we were engaged in Conroe, where Bryon's family is from. They have graciously invited my parents to come every year to celebrate with them, so I get to be with both sides of the family on Thanksgiving.
This year my mother in law asked me to bring the dressing. Dressing is my favorite part of the meal so I feel an extra burden to make it the best I can. My mother cooks it "in the bird" and I think it is so much better that way. So....I bought my first turkey yesterday for the sole purpose of cooking my dressing inside! I will freeze the meat and eat it next week.
I am so excited about cooking my first turkey and dressing. It is a no stress way to venture into the most famous meal of the year.
Having the cornbread in a big bowl on the counter brings back so many memories. When we were growing up, Thanksgiving wasn't a big extended family affair. Our closest relatives lived more than 800 miles away, so it was just the 5 of us. From the first memories of Thanksgiving, my mother cooked the entire meal for the 5 of us. No going to a local cafeteria. No pie from the local grocery store. Everything was homemade. Our holiday was quiet, but magical thanks to our wonderful mother. We always enjoyed watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade while Mom cooked and we could smell the turkey, dressing, sweet potato casserole, and rolls cooking when Santa Claus appeared on the TV ending the parade.
When I met Bryon, I was introduced to the "35 members of the family Thanksgivings" that I had always seen on commercials. Bryon's mother always enjoys having the entire family at her house.
We usually go to Old Town Spring on Friday with my parents and go shopping. We eat at Wunsche Brother's restaurant and watch the A&M/UT game and buy a few holiday decorations.
I am looking forward to the holiday weekend and excited/anxious about my Thanksgiving turkey and dressing debut!
Monday, November 21, 2005
Signs my boys are obsessed with football
*Matthew brings home a paper today that he signed "Dru Bledsoe"
*Matthew wants to change his name to Drew Bryon Bledsoe.
*When the boys are fighting about who gets the green cup and who gets the blue cup, Thomas says, "I want to be Baylor, not SMU!"
*Most of the journals Matthew writes in school have to do with Shawn Bell, the quarterback for Baylor.
*Matthew recently saw a sign for BBQ and he said, If you turned the letters around, you would have QB which stands for quarterback!"
*I recently took the highlights out of my hair. When Matthew saw me, he said, "I hate the Aggies and I hate your new hair!"
*Thanks to my brother-in-law, who is a huge Georgia fan, Matthew now sings "Glory, Glory to Old Georgia!" at the top of his lungs whenever possible.
*Thomas makes me participate in Baylor cheers at home. "I say Baylor and you say Bears, Mama!" Or he says, "B-A-Y-L-O-R, Baylor Bears Fight!"
*The boys live for the weekend to watch football. I can usually hear one of them screaming, "Go, Baby,Go!" at the television.
*Both the boys can tell you who Baylor beat this year.
*The only book the boys wanted from the book fair this year was My Brother's Side about Tiki and Ronde Barber.
*Matthew wants to change his name to Drew Bryon Bledsoe.
*When the boys are fighting about who gets the green cup and who gets the blue cup, Thomas says, "I want to be Baylor, not SMU!"
*Most of the journals Matthew writes in school have to do with Shawn Bell, the quarterback for Baylor.
*Matthew recently saw a sign for BBQ and he said, If you turned the letters around, you would have QB which stands for quarterback!"
*I recently took the highlights out of my hair. When Matthew saw me, he said, "I hate the Aggies and I hate your new hair!"
*Thanks to my brother-in-law, who is a huge Georgia fan, Matthew now sings "Glory, Glory to Old Georgia!" at the top of his lungs whenever possible.
*Thomas makes me participate in Baylor cheers at home. "I say Baylor and you say Bears, Mama!" Or he says, "B-A-Y-L-O-R, Baylor Bears Fight!"
*The boys live for the weekend to watch football. I can usually hear one of them screaming, "Go, Baby,Go!" at the television.
*Both the boys can tell you who Baylor beat this year.
*The only book the boys wanted from the book fair this year was My Brother's Side about Tiki and Ronde Barber.
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Party weekend
We had a great birthday weekend! Friday was lots of fun. Thomas, ME, and I brought doughnuts to Matthew's class and he enjoyed his "King of the Universe" status! He got to be line leader and lead most of the songs during the day. He kept saying, "This is the best day of my life!"
The party on Saturday was my favorite party that we have thrown. Since Thomas's birthday is in a few weeks, we decided to have a joint party as many of the same kids would come regardless.
It was a camping theme and it was on the nature trail near our lot. We couldn't have asked for better weather: sunny in the 70s. Perfect campfire weather! The kids enjoyed making walking sticks that quickly turned into light sabers, eating hot dogs, making s'mores, and going on a nature walk. Parties are always a great reminder of how much I love my friends and family who love my children!
The afternoon was spent watching football. Bryon, his dad, and brother took the boys to the Baylor game. They won! I watched the Alabama game on TV. They lost! Quite painful to talk about, actually. Thank goodness I had a lot to do to keep my mind off of it!
Saturday evening, the boys opened their gifts from Bryon's parents who had to leave early. Then my family came over and we ate eggplant parmesan and pumpkin gingerbread trifle. Then Matthew opened more presents. Thomas will get to open his on his actual birthday! Our house looked like Christmas morning! Everyone left at 8 p.m. and I was dead asleep by 8:30!
Today was spent playing with all the new toys and resting from a busy day yesterday. A funny story: Bryon took the boys to the grocery store and Matthew noticed that egg nog was for sale. Matthew ADORES egg nog and talks about it frequently during the year. Bryon bought a small bottle and Matthew had a chug tonight. After his first sip, he exclaimed, "This is just like old times!" What a hoot!
The party on Saturday was my favorite party that we have thrown. Since Thomas's birthday is in a few weeks, we decided to have a joint party as many of the same kids would come regardless.
It was a camping theme and it was on the nature trail near our lot. We couldn't have asked for better weather: sunny in the 70s. Perfect campfire weather! The kids enjoyed making walking sticks that quickly turned into light sabers, eating hot dogs, making s'mores, and going on a nature walk. Parties are always a great reminder of how much I love my friends and family who love my children!
The afternoon was spent watching football. Bryon, his dad, and brother took the boys to the Baylor game. They won! I watched the Alabama game on TV. They lost! Quite painful to talk about, actually. Thank goodness I had a lot to do to keep my mind off of it!
Saturday evening, the boys opened their gifts from Bryon's parents who had to leave early. Then my family came over and we ate eggplant parmesan and pumpkin gingerbread trifle. Then Matthew opened more presents. Thomas will get to open his on his actual birthday! Our house looked like Christmas morning! Everyone left at 8 p.m. and I was dead asleep by 8:30!
Today was spent playing with all the new toys and resting from a busy day yesterday. A funny story: Bryon took the boys to the grocery store and Matthew noticed that egg nog was for sale. Matthew ADORES egg nog and talks about it frequently during the year. Bryon bought a small bottle and Matthew had a chug tonight. After his first sip, he exclaimed, "This is just like old times!" What a hoot!
Friday, November 18, 2005
Happy Birthday, Matthew!
Six years ago today, my life changed forever when I became the mother of Matthew Bryon.
When I think about this day six years ago, the first word that comes to mind is LONG! The birth story began the day before when I went in for my 39 week appointment. I was expecting my doctor to say that I was 5 centimeters dilated and ready to give birth. What he told me was that it looked like I had at least another week and that it would be after Thanksgiving before Matthew arrived. I proceeded to burst out crying in front of my doctor! I am not a big crier so this event still makes me laugh! I drove home in tears and was too depressed to go to church that night.
Fast forward 12 hours later to 3 a.m., Thursday, November 18th. Regular contractions started and I was very excited about going into the doctor that morning and telling him he was WRONG! I was admitted to the hospital knowing that Matthew would be born on the 18th.
Fast forward 20 3/4ths hours later and it was 11:55 at night. My doctor said that I was ready to push and did I want Matthew's birthday to be today or tomorrow? I said I had worked hard all day so today had to be it! Matthew Bryon was born at 11:58 at night!
Matthew was a happy baby and always had a 1,000 watt smile on his face. He didn't sleep through the night until he was 9 months old so that was a tough introduction to motherhood!
The toddler years were quite difficult. Matthew has several qualities: high intellegence, insatiable curiosity, and lots of energy, that would converge quite frequently into a perfect storm which left a path of destruction that kept me in tears on many days! It seemed from 18 months to 3 years old, there wasn't a day that went by where Matthew wasn't popping my car into gear and going down the driveway, putting my lipstick all over his body, running down the center aisle of church naked during the service, "making dinner", or writing on his walls. Fortunately for Matthew, his charm and cuteness saved him from my wrath and tears of frustration usually gave way to tears of laughter.
From the time that Matthew turned 3, we were much more able to reason with him and life began to turn around. He started going to Montessori at almost 4 which also helped satisfy his curiosity and energy.
I am enjoying Matthew being in kindergarten and watching him interact with his teachers and friends. Everyone knows Matthew and he acts like he owns the place! He shouts "Hello!" to everyone in his booming "Moses" voice.
During his 6 years, Matthew has become a big brother twice. I marvel at how much he enjoys the role of "Big Brother". He and Thomas are inseparable and watching him baby ME is so sweet.
I am proud of the person that Matthew is becoming. His exuberance for life, concern for others, love of family, and love of God are such wonderful characteristics and I can't wait to see what he will do with his life!
When I think about this day six years ago, the first word that comes to mind is LONG! The birth story began the day before when I went in for my 39 week appointment. I was expecting my doctor to say that I was 5 centimeters dilated and ready to give birth. What he told me was that it looked like I had at least another week and that it would be after Thanksgiving before Matthew arrived. I proceeded to burst out crying in front of my doctor! I am not a big crier so this event still makes me laugh! I drove home in tears and was too depressed to go to church that night.
Fast forward 12 hours later to 3 a.m., Thursday, November 18th. Regular contractions started and I was very excited about going into the doctor that morning and telling him he was WRONG! I was admitted to the hospital knowing that Matthew would be born on the 18th.
Fast forward 20 3/4ths hours later and it was 11:55 at night. My doctor said that I was ready to push and did I want Matthew's birthday to be today or tomorrow? I said I had worked hard all day so today had to be it! Matthew Bryon was born at 11:58 at night!
Matthew was a happy baby and always had a 1,000 watt smile on his face. He didn't sleep through the night until he was 9 months old so that was a tough introduction to motherhood!
The toddler years were quite difficult. Matthew has several qualities: high intellegence, insatiable curiosity, and lots of energy, that would converge quite frequently into a perfect storm which left a path of destruction that kept me in tears on many days! It seemed from 18 months to 3 years old, there wasn't a day that went by where Matthew wasn't popping my car into gear and going down the driveway, putting my lipstick all over his body, running down the center aisle of church naked during the service, "making dinner", or writing on his walls. Fortunately for Matthew, his charm and cuteness saved him from my wrath and tears of frustration usually gave way to tears of laughter.
From the time that Matthew turned 3, we were much more able to reason with him and life began to turn around. He started going to Montessori at almost 4 which also helped satisfy his curiosity and energy.
I am enjoying Matthew being in kindergarten and watching him interact with his teachers and friends. Everyone knows Matthew and he acts like he owns the place! He shouts "Hello!" to everyone in his booming "Moses" voice.
During his 6 years, Matthew has become a big brother twice. I marvel at how much he enjoys the role of "Big Brother". He and Thomas are inseparable and watching him baby ME is so sweet.
I am proud of the person that Matthew is becoming. His exuberance for life, concern for others, love of family, and love of God are such wonderful characteristics and I can't wait to see what he will do with his life!
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Today, I am thankful for
Watching a norther come in and bring the temperature down 40 degrees!
Driving down a secluded road covered with leaves that have fallen off the trees.
Throwing a shower for one of my best friends and enjoying a great meal (and cake!) together last night.
Hearing Thomas tell me that he is excited for Christmas because, "Buddy will be so excited to get presents!" What a sweetie!
Seeing my daughter take steps in her thick, pink, footie pajamas that I remember wearing when I was a little girl.
Remembering the birth of Matthew 6 years ago on Friday.
Getting excited about having a big birthday meal on Saturday for Matthew.
Getting excited about the boys birthday party on Saturday and watching them get excited too.
I am having a great morning and hope you are too!
Driving down a secluded road covered with leaves that have fallen off the trees.
Throwing a shower for one of my best friends and enjoying a great meal (and cake!) together last night.
Hearing Thomas tell me that he is excited for Christmas because, "Buddy will be so excited to get presents!" What a sweetie!
Seeing my daughter take steps in her thick, pink, footie pajamas that I remember wearing when I was a little girl.
Remembering the birth of Matthew 6 years ago on Friday.
Getting excited about having a big birthday meal on Saturday for Matthew.
Getting excited about the boys birthday party on Saturday and watching them get excited too.
I am having a great morning and hope you are too!
Monday, November 14, 2005
Weekend happenings
This weekend was filled with a lot of cleaning, family time, and stomach viruses!
We continued to work all day Friday on the house. I worked on closets and Bryon worked on the driveway and back fence.
Friday evening, we did a retake of family pictures. Up to this point we had not taken a professional picture of the three kids. It was a valient effort on the part of the photographer, Bryon, and me, but I think we got a few cute ones!
Saturday morning, Mom and I went shopping. I wanted to get a few things for Matthew's birthday and the boys' birthday party. I also wanted to get Lauren a few little "boy" things to get her excited about having a son (as if she weren't excited enough!).
Saturday night, Bryon and I went to a friend's surprise birthday party. Usually when we go out with friends, it is "Boy's night" or "Girl's night". It was fun having all our couple friends together.
Sunday morning, I was up at church at 8:00 because my group was up to sing on the microphones during our service. When 9:00 rolled around I went into our class to greet our kindergarten class and Bryon walked in looking very flustered. This is very rare for Bryon who takes the three kids out a lot and never gets overwhelmed. He said that he had gone into Starbucks to get me a coffee and Thomas threw up. Matthew started gagging and almost threw up himself. Right about then ME had a blow out diaper!
I couldn't take Thomas home b/c I was singing and I needed Bryon to teach Bible class for me since we had 17 KIDS! Bryon is much better at crowd control than me! I sat out with Thomas during class then Bryon took the three kids home while I sang. During the middle of church I started feeling really bad but was able to stay until the end. Whatever Thomas had, he gave to me. I ended up parked on the couch all yesterday and up until 3 am this morning with a stomach virus.
Fortunately Bryon was home and we had a nice day yesterday all things considered. The boys' favorite book right now is My Brother's Side which is written by Tiki and Ronde Barber, twin professional football players. I sat on the couch with Matthew and Thomas and watched the NY Giants game and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers game so they could watch Tiki and Ronde play!
I finished The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency yesterday as well. A very cute, easy read that I would recommend.
I am feeling much better today and am looking forward to a busy week with the boys birthday party this weekend!
We continued to work all day Friday on the house. I worked on closets and Bryon worked on the driveway and back fence.
Friday evening, we did a retake of family pictures. Up to this point we had not taken a professional picture of the three kids. It was a valient effort on the part of the photographer, Bryon, and me, but I think we got a few cute ones!
Saturday morning, Mom and I went shopping. I wanted to get a few things for Matthew's birthday and the boys' birthday party. I also wanted to get Lauren a few little "boy" things to get her excited about having a son (as if she weren't excited enough!).
Saturday night, Bryon and I went to a friend's surprise birthday party. Usually when we go out with friends, it is "Boy's night" or "Girl's night". It was fun having all our couple friends together.
Sunday morning, I was up at church at 8:00 because my group was up to sing on the microphones during our service. When 9:00 rolled around I went into our class to greet our kindergarten class and Bryon walked in looking very flustered. This is very rare for Bryon who takes the three kids out a lot and never gets overwhelmed. He said that he had gone into Starbucks to get me a coffee and Thomas threw up. Matthew started gagging and almost threw up himself. Right about then ME had a blow out diaper!
I couldn't take Thomas home b/c I was singing and I needed Bryon to teach Bible class for me since we had 17 KIDS! Bryon is much better at crowd control than me! I sat out with Thomas during class then Bryon took the three kids home while I sang. During the middle of church I started feeling really bad but was able to stay until the end. Whatever Thomas had, he gave to me. I ended up parked on the couch all yesterday and up until 3 am this morning with a stomach virus.
Fortunately Bryon was home and we had a nice day yesterday all things considered. The boys' favorite book right now is My Brother's Side which is written by Tiki and Ronde Barber, twin professional football players. I sat on the couch with Matthew and Thomas and watched the NY Giants game and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers game so they could watch Tiki and Ronde play!
I finished The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency yesterday as well. A very cute, easy read that I would recommend.
I am feeling much better today and am looking forward to a busy week with the boys birthday party this weekend!
Friday, November 11, 2005
I am going to have a nephew!
I am excited to report that I am going to be an aunt to a happy, healthy, active nephew! Lauren's ultrasound went great and the doctor says everything looks normal. He moved around a lot during the ultrasound which made Lauren think that he was going to be like Matthew!
Lauren is a great aunt to my boys so I know she will be a great boy mama! Matthew and Thomas are so excited. Matthew has already said that he wants to teach him how to exercise! If anyone can teach him how to move, it's Matthew! Thanks to everyone for your prayers on my nephew's behalf. I can't wait to meet him!
Lauren is a great aunt to my boys so I know she will be a great boy mama! Matthew and Thomas are so excited. Matthew has already said that he wants to teach him how to exercise! If anyone can teach him how to move, it's Matthew! Thanks to everyone for your prayers on my nephew's behalf. I can't wait to meet him!
A break from cleaning
I am taking a few minutes break from cleaning to blog. Bryon took the day off from work since the courts are closed and we are using it to organize and clean the inside and outside of our house. The house is showing signs of neglect due to weeks of weekends full of soccer games and Baylor football!
In the next hour or two, we will hear about Lauren's baby. I can't imagine anything is wrong so until I hear otherwise, I am going to think positively. I can't wait to know what he/she is! Lauren is tough competition, but I think I am going to be the worlds most doting aunt! I can't wait to give Lauren a run for her money!
Matthew's soccer season ended last night. I am always so excited to start the season and always ready for it to end! This will be our last year to play in this league. He will be in the big city league next year. We will still be around the smaller league next year, though, when Thomas starts playing! How are we going to do both? I guess we will figure that out next year!
Well, back to scrubbing toilets. Have a great weekend!
In the next hour or two, we will hear about Lauren's baby. I can't imagine anything is wrong so until I hear otherwise, I am going to think positively. I can't wait to know what he/she is! Lauren is tough competition, but I think I am going to be the worlds most doting aunt! I can't wait to give Lauren a run for her money!
Matthew's soccer season ended last night. I am always so excited to start the season and always ready for it to end! This will be our last year to play in this league. He will be in the big city league next year. We will still be around the smaller league next year, though, when Thomas starts playing! How are we going to do both? I guess we will figure that out next year!
Well, back to scrubbing toilets. Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
My confident Mama's boy
While my younger two kids would prefer to be with Bryon over anyone in the world, Matthew is a bona fide Mama's boy. I find this to be quite interesting because he, too, was a Daddy's boy up until he turned three.
Anytime Bryon leaves to run an errand, Thomas superglues himself to Bryon's leg and ME holds out both of her hands, shakes with intensity, squealing for "Dada"!
Last night was fairly typical. Bryon got home and decided to go to the movie store for a rental. The younger two were in the car and Matthew came out to say goodbye.
"Please go with us Matthew! I want to spend time with all three of my kids."
"No thanks, I want to keep Mom company."
"Come on, Matthew. We will just be gone 20 minutes."
"I would rather stay home and give Mom the best 20 minutes of her life."
Bryon and I busted out laughing. You just can't argue with that!
At least we are raising a boy with confidence!
Anytime Bryon leaves to run an errand, Thomas superglues himself to Bryon's leg and ME holds out both of her hands, shakes with intensity, squealing for "Dada"!
Last night was fairly typical. Bryon got home and decided to go to the movie store for a rental. The younger two were in the car and Matthew came out to say goodbye.
"Please go with us Matthew! I want to spend time with all three of my kids."
"No thanks, I want to keep Mom company."
"Come on, Matthew. We will just be gone 20 minutes."
"I would rather stay home and give Mom the best 20 minutes of her life."
Bryon and I busted out laughing. You just can't argue with that!
At least we are raising a boy with confidence!
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
A prayer request
I got the news today that my sister, Lauren's, alpha fetal protein levels were low. This could be a sign of down syndrome. I have known several people who have had this test and it was a false positive. Apparently 60% of the time it is. If you have any words of encouragement for her, please drop her a comment.
She will have an ultrasound done on Friday and we will know for sure if my niece/nephew is healthy or not. And whether it is a niece or nephew!
Please pray!
She will have an ultrasound done on Friday and we will know for sure if my niece/nephew is healthy or not. And whether it is a niece or nephew!
Please pray!
Friday, November 04, 2005
Happy anniversary!
Today is our 10 year engagemaversary! No, we don't celebrate it every year, but 10 years is a nice time to reflect on the night.
This night marked the end of the 5 most magical months of my life. The last 10 years have been wonderful as well, but there is nothing as magical as first falling in love! During those 5 months, I also went to Europe for 5 weeks and moved in with my best friend.
Bryon, who is horrible about keeping secrets, had already told me that it would be between Harding Homecoming and Thanksgiving. We had something planned every weekend between those two dates so I kept wondering when it would happen.
Saturday, November 4, 1995, Bryon was a groomsmen in his friend, Shawn's wedding. We spent most of the day in Dallas, and then it was time to go home. Bryon asked me where I would like to eat dinner, and I told him I really didn't care. I was tired from the day and would have been happy ordering pizza in my apartment!
He told me to get dressed because he was taking me to Waterworks. This was my favorite restaurant at the time which has since shut down. They had great steaks and seafood. This is also where we had our official first date. We were going there to celebrate the news that Bryon had passed the bar exam which he found out about on the 3rd and to celebrate 5 months of being a couple.
When he picked me up, he drove me to the law school. He parked the car and gave me a rose and said how thankful he was that he had decided to go to Baylor Law School because he met me. How romantic, I thought! NO CLUE what he was doing!
Then he drove me back to my apartment complex and gave me another rose. He said he loved my apartment because we had spent a lot of time talking and getting to know each other there. This is where I cooked for Bryon for the first time (Actually, my mother had cooked everything and brought it over to make it look like I had made it!) and where we kissed for the first time.
Then he drove out to my parents house. There he gave me another rose. We sat in the car and he told me how much he enjoyed getting to know my family. How much he enjoyed Dad being our Sunday school teacher and he looked forward to my family eventually becoming his family.
Then he drove me to church. He gave me another rose and said how happy he was that he decided to go to our church. That is where we met and the reason we got together. This is where he had asked me to lunch 5 months before that started our relationship.
At this point, I still had no clue. I figured he was giving me 5 roses for the 5 months we had been dating which was very romantic and fairly common for Bryon back in the day. I tried to guess where the last place would be.
Then we pulled up to Waterworks and he gave me the last rose. He said this is where our first official date was and where he had fallen in love with me.
Well, we went inside and enjoyed a nice dinner. At one point, I told Bryon I would like to look at dishes sometime soon, and he said that he really didn't want to think about dishes until after we were engaged. Any hope I had that this was the night were dashed.
After dinner, the waiter brought me one dozen white roses that Bryon had brought over while I was getting ready for our date. After the waiter left, Bryon got up, got down on his knees and asked me to marry him! I would love to tell you what he said, but I was in such shock that I have no idea!
What a night! What a relief! Weeks of anticipation had led to this point. Turns out Bryon was just waiting on his bar results because he didn't want to get married until his future was secure. We decided that night that August 3rd, 9 months later would be THE DATE.
Happy Engagemaversary, Honey!
This night marked the end of the 5 most magical months of my life. The last 10 years have been wonderful as well, but there is nothing as magical as first falling in love! During those 5 months, I also went to Europe for 5 weeks and moved in with my best friend.
Bryon, who is horrible about keeping secrets, had already told me that it would be between Harding Homecoming and Thanksgiving. We had something planned every weekend between those two dates so I kept wondering when it would happen.
Saturday, November 4, 1995, Bryon was a groomsmen in his friend, Shawn's wedding. We spent most of the day in Dallas, and then it was time to go home. Bryon asked me where I would like to eat dinner, and I told him I really didn't care. I was tired from the day and would have been happy ordering pizza in my apartment!
He told me to get dressed because he was taking me to Waterworks. This was my favorite restaurant at the time which has since shut down. They had great steaks and seafood. This is also where we had our official first date. We were going there to celebrate the news that Bryon had passed the bar exam which he found out about on the 3rd and to celebrate 5 months of being a couple.
When he picked me up, he drove me to the law school. He parked the car and gave me a rose and said how thankful he was that he had decided to go to Baylor Law School because he met me. How romantic, I thought! NO CLUE what he was doing!
Then he drove me back to my apartment complex and gave me another rose. He said he loved my apartment because we had spent a lot of time talking and getting to know each other there. This is where I cooked for Bryon for the first time (Actually, my mother had cooked everything and brought it over to make it look like I had made it!) and where we kissed for the first time.
Then he drove out to my parents house. There he gave me another rose. We sat in the car and he told me how much he enjoyed getting to know my family. How much he enjoyed Dad being our Sunday school teacher and he looked forward to my family eventually becoming his family.
Then he drove me to church. He gave me another rose and said how happy he was that he decided to go to our church. That is where we met and the reason we got together. This is where he had asked me to lunch 5 months before that started our relationship.
At this point, I still had no clue. I figured he was giving me 5 roses for the 5 months we had been dating which was very romantic and fairly common for Bryon back in the day. I tried to guess where the last place would be.
Then we pulled up to Waterworks and he gave me the last rose. He said this is where our first official date was and where he had fallen in love with me.
Well, we went inside and enjoyed a nice dinner. At one point, I told Bryon I would like to look at dishes sometime soon, and he said that he really didn't want to think about dishes until after we were engaged. Any hope I had that this was the night were dashed.
After dinner, the waiter brought me one dozen white roses that Bryon had brought over while I was getting ready for our date. After the waiter left, Bryon got up, got down on his knees and asked me to marry him! I would love to tell you what he said, but I was in such shock that I have no idea!
What a night! What a relief! Weeks of anticipation had led to this point. Turns out Bryon was just waiting on his bar results because he didn't want to get married until his future was secure. We decided that night that August 3rd, 9 months later would be THE DATE.
Happy Engagemaversary, Honey!
Thursday, November 03, 2005
The morning after
Well, I am feeling much better this morning. Yesterday, I was diagnosed with strep throat and, childbirth notwithstanding, I can say that I hadn't felt that bad in years and years.
Trying to take care of a 3 1/2 year old and 14 month old when I saw black spots everytime I stood up was scary. Thomas, bless his heart, was such a great helper! He would bring me the things I needed and moved Mary Beth when she was in harms way.
Two miracle drugs helped me on my road to recovery. Penicillin and Lipton noodle soup in the box. I always prefer the homemade version of everything, but something about the soup when I am sick always cures what ails me!
The afternoon wasn't too bad. ME took the longest nap of her life (3 1/2 hours) and Thomas had a movie marathon! I was able to get an hour nap which was helpful. Bryon came home around 4 to watch the kids so I could rest. He took them out as soon as he got home and other than dropping off the soup, I didn't see him until after church which ended at 8! Bless that man!
I am feeling much better today despite the fact that I can hardly move the leg that my penicillin shot went into. Those things hurt!
Trying to take care of a 3 1/2 year old and 14 month old when I saw black spots everytime I stood up was scary. Thomas, bless his heart, was such a great helper! He would bring me the things I needed and moved Mary Beth when she was in harms way.
Two miracle drugs helped me on my road to recovery. Penicillin and Lipton noodle soup in the box. I always prefer the homemade version of everything, but something about the soup when I am sick always cures what ails me!
The afternoon wasn't too bad. ME took the longest nap of her life (3 1/2 hours) and Thomas had a movie marathon! I was able to get an hour nap which was helpful. Bryon came home around 4 to watch the kids so I could rest. He took them out as soon as he got home and other than dropping off the soup, I didn't see him until after church which ended at 8! Bless that man!
I am feeling much better today despite the fact that I can hardly move the leg that my penicillin shot went into. Those things hurt!
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
A visitation, a recital, and memorable Halloween memory
Yesterday was a strange day as you can imagine. I spent most of the day hugging my kids. A cold front moved in with tornado warnings and the atmosphere really fit my mood...cold and dreary.
A few things I am reminded of after the death of a friend's husband. We only are promised this moment. Live each moment like it was your last. Don't spend so much time worried about petty things.
After I dropped off the carpool, I ran home and got Matthew dressed in his costume for his first recital. All of the children and instructors from the Baylor piano program were to be in costume. We then raced over to Baylor to watch the recital. I had a few minutes between Matthew's individual lesson and the recital so I took the younger two to the Chilis and Starbucks parking garage on campus. Of course they had nothing like this when I was there! It was my first time in there and I stuck out like a sore thumb with two children in tow.
Off to the recital. Thomas, ME, and I had to walk quite a ways. Looking around the Baylor campus, I was reminded of my time there. So many fun memories. I also couldn't help to think of Jen. So much of her life revolves around Baylor.
Matthew's recital was a hoot. He was asked to make up a composition that reminded him of his costume. Seeing how he was a cop, he played the keys up and down several times to sound like a police siren. He played his pieces perfectly and insisted on doing it with his handcuffs on!
When we got home, Bryon was waiting for me. He came home early to help with trick or treating so I could go to the visitation. We got the kids all dressed up and out the door. Time for the visitation.
I got there 10 minutes after the doors open and the line was already wrapped around the corner. In the line were mostly college students as well as a who's who of Baylor 10 years ago. It was so nice seeing people I hadn't seen in 10 years although quite akward under the circumstances.
After standing in line an hour, Jen's best friend came through and showed me where Jen was. I wasn't interested in seeing Kyle's body, I just wanted to give Jen a hug. She looked so frail and helpless and my heart ached for her. Hard to describe the scene so I think I won't even attempt to.
I went to my parents to meet up with Bryon and the kids. We were laughing thinking back to Halloween 10 years ago. I was at Baylor and Bryon was in Temple. He called to say he was on his way to pick me up. This should normally take 30 minutes. He didn't show up for a hour and a half! I was so mad/relieved when I saw him!
I found out later that he had asked my parents to marry me. He would start on his prepared statement and then, "Ding Dong! Trick or Treat!" It took him a while to say what he had to say with the interruptions!
When I was reunited with my little family last night, I just looked at all of them and thanked God for them. I only have this moment. I am going to savor it.
A few things I am reminded of after the death of a friend's husband. We only are promised this moment. Live each moment like it was your last. Don't spend so much time worried about petty things.
After I dropped off the carpool, I ran home and got Matthew dressed in his costume for his first recital. All of the children and instructors from the Baylor piano program were to be in costume. We then raced over to Baylor to watch the recital. I had a few minutes between Matthew's individual lesson and the recital so I took the younger two to the Chilis and Starbucks parking garage on campus. Of course they had nothing like this when I was there! It was my first time in there and I stuck out like a sore thumb with two children in tow.
Off to the recital. Thomas, ME, and I had to walk quite a ways. Looking around the Baylor campus, I was reminded of my time there. So many fun memories. I also couldn't help to think of Jen. So much of her life revolves around Baylor.
Matthew's recital was a hoot. He was asked to make up a composition that reminded him of his costume. Seeing how he was a cop, he played the keys up and down several times to sound like a police siren. He played his pieces perfectly and insisted on doing it with his handcuffs on!
When we got home, Bryon was waiting for me. He came home early to help with trick or treating so I could go to the visitation. We got the kids all dressed up and out the door. Time for the visitation.
I got there 10 minutes after the doors open and the line was already wrapped around the corner. In the line were mostly college students as well as a who's who of Baylor 10 years ago. It was so nice seeing people I hadn't seen in 10 years although quite akward under the circumstances.
After standing in line an hour, Jen's best friend came through and showed me where Jen was. I wasn't interested in seeing Kyle's body, I just wanted to give Jen a hug. She looked so frail and helpless and my heart ached for her. Hard to describe the scene so I think I won't even attempt to.
I went to my parents to meet up with Bryon and the kids. We were laughing thinking back to Halloween 10 years ago. I was at Baylor and Bryon was in Temple. He called to say he was on his way to pick me up. This should normally take 30 minutes. He didn't show up for a hour and a half! I was so mad/relieved when I saw him!
I found out later that he had asked my parents to marry me. He would start on his prepared statement and then, "Ding Dong! Trick or Treat!" It took him a while to say what he had to say with the interruptions!
When I was reunited with my little family last night, I just looked at all of them and thanked God for them. I only have this moment. I am going to savor it.
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Horrible news
My heart is so heavy as I write this. I was just informed that a friend of mine's husband, Kyle Lake, was electrocuted and died while performing a baptism University Baptist church in Waco this morning. Here is the Drudge Report article on it. The church was packed with people who were there for Baylor homecoming. He reached for a microphone and something went horribly wrong. My friend was there to watch her husband die.
My friend, Jen, went to undergrad and graduate school with me. She took over my job when Matthew was born. As soon as she took it over, she became pregnant. We both joked that something was wrong with the seat at our desk. She had her beautiful daughter 5 years ago and twin boys who are 3. Matthew and Avery, their daughter, became friends at Mother's Day Out this summer because they both wore glasses.
I remember sitting with her the week after she got engaged. She told us all the sweet things Kyle had done to propose. I remember her calling me the day she found out that she was having twins. "Twins! Kyle and I thought we would have 2...maybe 3...I guess we are done!"
I am so angry about it. Why did this have to happen to a vibrant young preacher? Why did it happen when he was baptizing someone? Why did Jen have to witness it? Why is Jen a widow at 30? Why do her children have to live without their Daddy?
I am so angry and sad. Please keep Jen and her precious children in your prayers.
My friend, Jen, went to undergrad and graduate school with me. She took over my job when Matthew was born. As soon as she took it over, she became pregnant. We both joked that something was wrong with the seat at our desk. She had her beautiful daughter 5 years ago and twin boys who are 3. Matthew and Avery, their daughter, became friends at Mother's Day Out this summer because they both wore glasses.
I remember sitting with her the week after she got engaged. She told us all the sweet things Kyle had done to propose. I remember her calling me the day she found out that she was having twins. "Twins! Kyle and I thought we would have 2...maybe 3...I guess we are done!"
I am so angry about it. Why did this have to happen to a vibrant young preacher? Why did it happen when he was baptizing someone? Why did Jen have to witness it? Why is Jen a widow at 30? Why do her children have to live without their Daddy?
I am so angry and sad. Please keep Jen and her precious children in your prayers.
Friday, October 28, 2005
Happy Friday!
Another week bites the dust. I am ready for this weekend!
Bryon had to work a lot this week. He was out of the office most of last week and then came back and immediately was in trial all of this week. He has been putting in a lot of extra hours to make up for being out for almost two weeks!
The end of my P.T.A. campaign is today! We have been able to add over 100 books to our school library with this program. Last night, was open house at school and I wanted parents to see their children (and nonparticipating parents to feel guilty !;) so I hurriedly put up over 80 matted pictures of the participating children in a library display yesterday! What a task!
Open house was a lot of fun last night. It was great taking a peak into Matthew's new world. He showed us all the work he had done in his class as well as Music, P.E., computer, and Art. His P.E. teacher laughed with us about Matthew's booming voice. We don't call him the Voice of Moses for nothing! He was so funny walking down the halls like he owned the place, waving at all of his newfound friends.
In other news:
Little ME has made us laugh so often lately. She is developing quite a fun personality. Her Mother's Day Out teachers say she is very easy but definitely has her opinions! She has a very expressive face. When she is unhappy or looking at a person that doesn't agree with her, she has a huge scowl on her face. I will say, "Now, Mary Elizabeth! Put a smile on your face!" She INSTANTLY puts on the cheesiest, nose-scrunching, smile you have ever seen! She is quite the ham!
She is also saying more words. She says cookie, coke, baby, mama, dada, bear, moo! (for cow) nana, and deedah.
Bryon had to work a lot this week. He was out of the office most of last week and then came back and immediately was in trial all of this week. He has been putting in a lot of extra hours to make up for being out for almost two weeks!
The end of my P.T.A. campaign is today! We have been able to add over 100 books to our school library with this program. Last night, was open house at school and I wanted parents to see their children (and nonparticipating parents to feel guilty !;) so I hurriedly put up over 80 matted pictures of the participating children in a library display yesterday! What a task!
Open house was a lot of fun last night. It was great taking a peak into Matthew's new world. He showed us all the work he had done in his class as well as Music, P.E., computer, and Art. His P.E. teacher laughed with us about Matthew's booming voice. We don't call him the Voice of Moses for nothing! He was so funny walking down the halls like he owned the place, waving at all of his newfound friends.
In other news:
Little ME has made us laugh so often lately. She is developing quite a fun personality. Her Mother's Day Out teachers say she is very easy but definitely has her opinions! She has a very expressive face. When she is unhappy or looking at a person that doesn't agree with her, she has a huge scowl on her face. I will say, "Now, Mary Elizabeth! Put a smile on your face!" She INSTANTLY puts on the cheesiest, nose-scrunching, smile you have ever seen! She is quite the ham!
She is also saying more words. She says cookie, coke, baby, mama, dada, bear, moo! (for cow) nana, and deedah.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
