high heels to spit up spills

Conviction

2015-04-19T22:08:00.001-05:00

I've been wresting with something. Something deep within my soul for some time. I know it's there. Lurking. Holy Spirit keeps whispering it to me.

Discipline--To train oneself to do something in a controlled and habitual way.

Confession time. I have been content to float along as the wind blows, doing what needs to be done as it comes up.

Menu planning healthy meals for my family, eh...I'll get to it.

That laundry pile on the end of my bed, eh, I'll get to it, but first Netflix!

Oh, the gym? Yeah, I'll get back there "one day."

Bag of chips and a Dr. Pepper? Sure!

I want it to stop before it becomes..."Nah, Lord, I'll get to what you have to say tomorrow."

"For lack of discipline they will die, led astray by their own great folly." Prov 5:23

"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." Hebrews 12:11

How do we learn it or do you even "learn" to be disciplined? Is it something that only comes from great practice? One foot in front of the other, doing what is right, what you are called to do. Habitual.

"A sluggard's appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied." Prov 13:4.

Recently, in a message, we heard "Conviction should always lead to action." This has been stirring within me for two weeks now.

Conviction should always lead to action.

Conviction has been sitting heavy, action has been nil.

The space between action and conviction is procrastination.

"If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do ans doesn't do it, it is a sin for them." James 4:17

So, here I find my self deciding on action and asking why I procrastinate.
Am I afraid of expectation, or not meeting expectations?
Am I resisting like a petulant child not wanting to clean their room?
My Heavenly Father loves me and only wants whats best for me. We KNOW that as parents, we only want the best for our sweet children.
How much more does the Lord love me? How much sweeter could my life be if it was FULL of obedience?

On my crossfit shoes I have this verse, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God has prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

I have not been doing ALL my good works.

One thing. That's how it starts. Just doing one thing, making it habitual, disciplined.
Conviction. Action. Success. Confidence. Then one more thing.
Before you know it, you have all last weeks laundry finally put away!
Take the one step to the gym, be a good steward of your health.
Conviction. Action. Success. Confidence.
Choose a salad instead of a cheeseburger.
Conviction. Action. Success. Confidence.
Share what the Lord is doing in your life with that one friend! Do not be afraid.
Conviction. Action. Success. Confidence.

Will you join me in seeking out a well disciplined life? What's your one thing you can do?

Words of Truth

2015-02-02T09:39:00.001-06:00

Once upon a time, I was a cheerleader.

It was the one thing I could do well, I loved it. I studied it, craved it. My senior year I learned a life long lesson. Seventeen years later I still think of it often.

That year, 1997-1998, was supposed to by MY year. I had paid my dues, put in my time, and worked hard. Was ready to take my team to the next level!

New coach, new rules, new team mates.

We had worked together all summer leading into school, ran many miles, lifted many weights (YES cheerleaders lift weights), and attended several camps, we were ready to start off right. It was time to elect leadership. Names were put into a hat and the outcome was decided quickly.

Names were announced, congratulations extended and dreams were crushed as I found out it was not going to be "my" year as I had expected. I would love to share the part about me being a good sport, but I can't. I was teary and sad. I was a "leader," everyone said so, wasn't I supposed to be the Captain or even the Co-Captain?

Amid my tears, Coach Linda, who was the epitome of tough love, sat me down and spoke these words of truth,

"You don't need the title, to be a leader."

Boom.

That sentence changed my entire perspective. With that sentence, I could still use my God-given abilities to lead by example, encouraging and supporting my coach and teammates (with exception of a hair cutting debacle) and share my ideas in confidence. It challenged me to be the best I could be. With a great team, we went on that year to place in the state competition for the first time in the history of our high school, also moving on to compete in the national competition. It was an unexpected year indeed.

Friends, I write this to you as an encouragement. Have you been passed up for a promotion you thought you deserved? Are you missing a piece of paper on your wall that leaves a gaping hole for insecurities to sweep in and steal joy? You are good enough. You always have a choice.

Don't wait for someone to tell you can do something or your not qualified enough, don't wait for a "title" that says you can, just go and do what God made you to do.

What is holding you back right now?

Go! Lead, Dance, Influence, Sing, Care, Serve, Give!

Sacred Blankies

2014-10-20T13:55:00.001-05:00

As you well know we have kids.

My kids all have blankies. Each blanket has a special name from each kid. Significantly enough, these were the blankets we bought for them as soon as we found out we were having a boy or girl.

We have a 10 yr old Blankie Pink, which is now a well loved shade of greyish-pink. It started off a plush pink side, and a silky smooth satin side, which were affectionately referred to as "cold side or warm side."

For 7 years we have had a duo blanket team, because one cuddle blanket was not enough for this kid! They are Blankie Blue, and Blankie White. They also are composed of a "cold side" and a "warm side."

The newest addition to the family is a 4 yr old Blankie Green (which is actually mostly white, but Blankie White was already taken.) All of these of the same composition. Over the years though, blanket manufacturers got fancy, and started adding texture. You can see this evolution in our blankie family.

You see my kids know these blankets by no other name. These blankets are sacred. They are loved. They are security.

These blankies have been to nearly every doctors appointment, healed nearly every wound, and have wiped more tears (among other things) than you can imagine.It's a privilege for this mom to wash these well worn soldiers of our home.

Usually when I can sneak them away, these well loved blankets are dirty, smelly, and just plain gross. But soon they are washed clean, smelling new, and just as fluffy as they once were, waiting to be held.

My children have these blankets near them most of the time they are home. Just recently, my 10 yr old has started to question if she should still have a blankie...that it might be embarrassing to still sleep with it even trying to sneak it to a slumber party.

Reminding me so much of our faith.

As children we PROUDLY walk around spouting off bible verses and never wavering in our belief, confidently carrying around and loving on our Savior. But somewhere along the way we question if its still cool to carry Him around so boldly and proclaim our love.

We are diry, smelly, gross sinners. Im so glad He washes new every day, waiting to hold us. Renewing us.

I pray, that my children continue to CLING to Him as much as they do their blankies. I will always encourage them to hold dear to that which they love. No matter if it's still cool or popular.

Love on Him, lean on Him, let Him wipe your tears, and heal all your wounds, wash you clean.
His love never fails.

Warning to future spouses: Be prepared to get a special sentimental gift one day that has a "warm and a cold side" and goes by the name Blankie.

Spiritual Amnesia

2014-09-01T11:54:00.001-05:00

Am-ne-sia
1. memory loss: loss of memory as a result of shock, injury, psychological disturbance, or medical disorder.

Synonyms: loss of memory, memory loss, forgetfulness, obliviousness, blankness, a total blank.

How am I so quick to forget?

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." Psalm 107:1

Daily I forget. When life gets messy. Right now, in this moment, I have 2/3 children in their room for losing their tempers and flat out being mean. There is no kindness, no compassion. I have found myself crying out, where is the thanks in this moment!

How can I teach them to overflow with love, how can I watch them turn out this way when the words and actions I have spoken to loved ones in the last 24 hours have been a desert, dry and dusty. Amnesia. A total blank. No joy.

God is speaking directly me so much through reading "1000 Gifts" by Ann Voskamp as I mentioned in my previous post. Once again as I picked it up in thirsty desperation, He spoke through the story of Hagar, Genesis 21. Hagar and her son were sent away into the desert, once their supply of food and water were gone, Hagar thought all hope (and joy) was lost. She left him under a bush not wanting to watch him die. She was afraid of the way it would turn out.

But all she had to do was open her eyes to see the well and they were saved.

"Do I really smother my own joy because I believe that anger achieves more than love? That Satan's way is more powerful, more practical, more fulfilling in my daily life than Jesus' way? Why else get angry? Isn't it because I think complaining, exasperation, resentment will pound me up into the full life I really want?" (Voskamp 126)

Open your eyes, when the amnesia hits, just open your eyes. Where there is thanks, there is always a well of joy. Where there is joy there is love, forgiveness, compassion.

Thank you Lord for saving me. For reminding me to look for the well. For waking me up from my amnesia.

Giving thanks is the way to a full life, seeing God in every moment; not just the "good" moments, but the soul searching hard moments. He gives us those too.

I am thankful for this moment to be transparent and vulnerable with you. Now, to go and humble myself and pour out love and compassion to my children and husband.

Eucharisteo.

Growth

2014-08-18T09:30:00.001-05:00

Friends, it has been approximately two years since I have even THOUGHT about writing on this blog. I will not get into all the details, but we are all now older and wiser and...cheerios still stick to my floors.

Wanted to take a moment to share what's going on in life, at least spiritually. Our heart is like any muscle, we can't expect it to grow with out exercise. And for me exercise is not always enjoyable, I crossfit because it's necessary for my health, and I love to see my body and mind do what I once thought was impossible.

Spiritual growth is not always fun either, but necessary for a full life, for joy. We also can see impossible things done through spiritual growth, as with physical capabilities.

Last week I started reading a few books, catalytic, life changing, books. One of them is Ann Voskamp's "1000 Gifts." With the power of the Holy Spirit, and through her words its like my soul has been ripped wide open only to be stitched back together with hope, thanksgiving, and grace. Here is a note I wrote to a friend before diving into "1000 Gifts."

At 34, with 3 kids ages 3.5, 7, 10 I have found myself in the trenches of parenting, you know the daily picking on each other, the fights over the last spoon of rice, and the endless laundry and dishes; l love my job as a mom. But child rearing is not for the faint of heart!!! Some days I wake up, put on the ref jersey and blow my whistle all day until my handsome relief gets home.

Yet I've found myself mourning the loss of these times (it's crazy I know!) The passing minutes that could have been better...more grace filled, patient, regret over tempers lost. Already seeing the end...hoping and praying they all turn out as God-fearing, loving, and kind adults.

Knowing each second they are one step closer away...how can you be one step in the present and already mourning the future?

The sweet Lord, answered my cry for help the very next day through the pages of Ann's book. Here was my reply, 24 hours later.

The key to finding joy in your present and living FULLY, is thankfulness in all things. Jesus gave thanks in even the hardest and trying circumstances. Today I found myself being thankful for my abundance of laundry, we are blessed. Thankful for my arguing kids, that means they are healthy, full of spirit! Thankful for the words of Jesus giving thanks to His father even though it was hard.

We have been living in a sin of ungratefulness. Yes, a sin. Any discontent, want for more, coveting of others gifts, this is a sin. Thinking we "deserve" more is a sin. God's gifts are always enough. We don't have to have something HUGE, and magnificent to see the gifts God has given us. As Ann says, the key to peacefulness is thankfulness. Wow. What a huge thing to lay down before God, to apologize to him for a lifetime of thinking you need more that you deserve more. That you won't be happy unless you have...I need just more time in my day to do it all. I am learning, practicing, we have it all, already. Can you see the gifts in your life? Are you able to see the little gifts of love the Lord gives us each day? Jesus gave thanks over and over again. He gave thanks on the cross as he was dying. He broke bread and gave thanks as an offering.

So, friends, I am putting pen to paper, I am working-out my soul, and I am writing my 1000 gifts, the everyday blessings we overlook because we think we need to see something grand as a gift.

1. Experiencing things through my kids for the first time
2. Coffee
8. Sharing cake with my husband late at night
19. Forgiveness shown and given
20. Little boys' "I love you"
22. Joy over losing a tooth

If you find yourself feeling time and patience stretched, slow down, and give thanks for anything and do it often.

Thank you, Lord for exposing my sin of ungratefulness and growing me into thankfulness.

Grounded

2012-10-09T19:20:00.002-05:00

I am in a rough season in my journey as a parent. It seems everyday is a battle and often wonder where those sweet times of cuddling went.

This week my children were told to clean up the living room as their chore after dinner. After repeated reminders, Phineas and Ferb still won over. Mom stormed in and shut off the TV. In my haste, I promptly declared that they were ground from TV for the rest of the week! In my head I was thinking (There, take that!!!)

Little did I realize what I was really doing to myself.

When we get home from school they are allowed to watch about 30-60 minutes of educational TV, or PBS (after homework, of course!) This gives them time to unwind from the stimulus of school, have a snack, and get ready for dinner. Our normal routine after dinner consists of something we have penned as "Settle-down time." This time is bath, and sitting with mom or dad while we watch TV as a family.

Now, what I thought was appropriate punishment for not obeying ....I grounded my children from TV. What really happened is I grounded my self from any kind of free time to do dishes, cook dinner, or laundry...ummm, is that really free time???

My referee shirt is getting overtime use. And hopefully we are all learning the consequences to our actions!

Cheerios

2012-05-30T10:01:00.001-05:00

I love my white tile floors...most of the time. Scratch that. I strongly dislike my white tile floors, with a self feeding toddler.
They show EVERYTHING and EVERYTHING sticks to them.

Cheerios are a staple at our house for snacks, projects, and for breakfast.

I don't know if you know this or not...but cheerios when softened with milk become highly adhesive. No, more like a compound. They are nearly impossible to get unstuck off the floors. If NASA could bottle that, they could probably save their shuttle program alone.

Rice, mashed potatoes, bananas, these are all things I have found impossible to get up off my floors. I almost want carpet. Almost...

Keeping up with the Mrs. Jones'

2012-05-29T16:26:00.002-05:00

Hello friends, I have missed you and have missed writing, so here I am sitting in the home office, surrounded by unfolded laundry and Friends reruns to stop and write to you! It must be some sort of crazy self therapy?

I know I have posted before about the moms who are seemingly put together, but there are moms out there who do in fact, do it all..on Pinterest.

Since I have last written, I have discovered the wonderfulness that is Pinterest. I sit and pin, and pin, and pin. I have boards for all these great crafty ideas, organization ideas, awesome healthy recipes, how to clean your house lists, activities to do with kids, and exercises for toned abs and buns. If you are on Pinterest, YOU KNOW what I'm talking about.

Aside from the random recipe I try, it's all pretty much a fantasy land. Your house isn't full of custom painted art and furniture? Your closet isn't full of J.Crew clothing either? You don't have the firm, flat tummy of that random girl? Are you kidding!? I am lucky to have one piece of art that is hanging even straight! I am lucky to have Cheerios up off the floor and a wearing a clean t-shirt from college with my ratty jeans. And I won't even talk about going to the gym.

But I love it....I love my fantasy land, aside from my minor Pinterest depression...

Going into this summer, I vow to not hold my self up to the Mrs. Jones standards of doing everything Pinterestly perfect! I will do what I can, when I can, and with my 3 wonderful children. And I fully plan on implementing some of the fun crafts I found on Pinterest.

(I know, this is not my best post...it feels a little rough around the edges, but maybe I will have more time this summer to get back into it!)

Whispers from God

2011-12-17T19:57:00.002-06:00

Tonight, my heart is heavy and my soul is burdened with the losses and tragedies that my friends, loved ones, and acquaintances are suffering.

As I left church tonight, I found myself asking God, "Why?" Why are some asked to take the hard path? There is so much pain and grief...and nothing I can do to help.

I know God has a plan for all things, and I know its all for this Glory, but it doesn't make it any easier or accepting it any easier.

About this point in my drive home, I turned up the radio. This song below is what was playing. I truly believe it was God speaking to me through these two songs...God is so good.

"Allelujah"
http://www.klove.com/music/artists/the-museum/songs/allelujah-lyrics.aspx
When hardship comes to prey on hopes
And troubles seem to linger on
When death rolls on taking ones we love
You are the hope that keeps us on

(Chorus)
Alleluia, Thine the glory
Alleluia, Amen
Alleluia, Thine the glory
Revive us again

When all this seems the battles lost
And such disease is spreading on
When life grows dark and our lips are parched
You are the hope that we sing of

Chorus

When death is past and sins are gone
Alas forgiveness here is won
Daughters and sons we will stand as one
We're safe at last in the Father's love
We're safe at last in the Father's love

I was singing at the top of my lungs praying this song and I was in awe. Then this song played.

"Better than a Hallelujah"
http://www.klove.com/music/artists/amy-grant/songs/better-than-a-hallelujah-lyrics.aspx
God loves a lullaby
In a mother's tears in the dead of night
Better than a Hallelujah sometimes.
God loves the drunkard's cry,
The soldiers plea not to let him die
Better than a Hallelujah sometimes.

We pour out our miseries
God just hears a melody
Beautiful the mess we are
The honest cries of breaking hearts
Are better than a Hallelujah.

The woman holding on for life,
The dying man giving up the fight
Are better than a Hallelujah sometimes
Tears of shame for what's been done,
The silence when the words won't come
Are better than a Hallelujah sometimes.

We pour out our miseries
God just hears a melody
Beautiful the mess we are
The honest cries of breaking hearts
Are better than a Hallelujah.

Better than a church bell ringing,
Better than a choir singing out, singing out.

We pour out our miseries
God just hears a melody
Beautiful the mess we are
The honest cries of breaking hearts
Are better than a Hallelujah.

We pour out our miseries
God just hears a melody
Beautiful the mess we are
The honest cries of breaking hearts
Are better than a Hallelujah.

Better than a Hallelujah sometimes
Better than a Hallelujah
Better than a Hallelujah sometimes

Thank you, Lord for speaking to my soul tonight.

Happy 1st Birthday!

2011-11-27T21:39:00.004-06:00

My sweetest Derek,

Lil D, bitty, bitty tiny, bitters, punkin, baby bear, lil bubba, bubs, bubby, Der, Der-bear, punkin doodle, chubby bunny, chubbers...

These are just some of the names that, you, my sweet boy have come to be known by in the last 365 days. I can't believe you are a year old. My last baby, is turning 1 year old.

Not sure when that technical threshold is of when a baby turns into a toddler, but I am certain that you will never elevate above the "my baby" status. EVER! You, Derek, will always be the baby.

You came as such a surprise to all of us. Both in the news we were having another baby, and also in your hurried delivery into this world, oh boy is that a story!!! You are just the right fit and are an amazing blessing to our family.

I love to watch your personality develop everyday. You love your brother and sister so much, and just can't get enough of playing with them. And I think, not 100% sure (*wink), but they completely are devoted to you as well. I have no doubt that you three will be thick as thieves and mom and dad are certainly outnumbered.

That is a challenge we are lovingly taking on each day.

I can't wait to walk through life with you and see the child, boy, teen, and man you become. I know God has wonderful, great, things in store for you.

So please excuse my tears today, for they are tears of joy, I can't believe I have been so blessed to be your mom and I can't imagine what our life would have been like without you. I am so glad God knows what he is doing!

I love you and cherish you every second. Now I must go, for you are calling me from the bedroom...yes, you STILL don't sleep through the night!!!

xoxo

Momma

A Mother's Love

2011-11-21T21:35:00.005-06:00

I usually spend my time on here writing about nonsense. My ramblings on about being a mom. About how "hard" it is, about what goes wrong or right in my very own everyday life.

Recenlty, I got back in touch with an old friend from college through Facebook. I love the thing, and I also really hate it at times. This was a good time.

This friend was so much fun, we never got to be very close, she was so full of life, fun and so sincere, I always felt a kindred spirit with her. I firmly believe that in another place, or time we could have, should have been best friends. I was so excited to read about where she's been for the last 7-8 years. What she's done, who's shes married, where they live, how many kids, etc. All the business you can find on Facebook. It didn't take me long to find out two things:

1. My heart was broken over the loss of her sweet sweet baby.
2. What an amazing example of Christianity and motherhood she is and strives to be.

My perceptions on faith, life, love, and loss, were immediatly and profoundly impacted. PROFOUNDLY impacted.

The events of my life pail in comparison, yet I share her grief in a way I could have never imagined.

To any woman who has kids, has had kids, wants to have kids, the loss of a child is unimaginable. To know and to believe that It Was Written, that God's plans for us were laid out long before life took shape, is amazing. Everyday, I read Summer's blog, I feel inspired to be a better mom. To love my kids more than I did yesterday, to love and to TRUST God more that I did yesterday. To have FAITH more that I did yesterday.

I will continue to pray for my dear friend and her family, I will continue to shed tears with her each day, hoping that, if enough of us share her pain, maybe it will lessen for her. But I know it will not, the peace that passes understanding is the only comfort.

Kiss and hug, speak the words you long to. Love your babies, love your kids, love your spouses and your friends with every fiber of your being. Enjoy every argument, tantrum, and every precious moment.

For our plans too have been written.

2011-11-12T14:28:00.002-06:00

Up until recently shopping at the Clubs was just too much of an investment for our family. There was no way we would ever get through that much peanut butter or cereal or toothpaste!

Now, it has become a monthly trip for us to stock up on necessities. Every time I'm there I walk past the toiletries aisle and think, "Wow, that's a lot of toothpaste!" I never, ever, buy it. Ha! I'm better off with the single box from Walmart.

Well, I am dumb. I just need to break down and buy the dang 4 pack of toothpaste. If I did I would avoid the anxiety I felt this morning over having no more toothpaste. And the dread of going to Walmart with all the kids in tow for ONE tube of toothpaste.

This morning as I was squeezing the last ounce from the tube I vowed to now be a 4 pack buyer.
Here's to learning the lessons the hard way!

GO BIG OR GO HOME ( or in my case...back to Walmart!)

Hearing Voices

2011-08-15T13:02:00.003-05:00

Hello all!
I have been away from this lil hobby of mine for quite some time. We have had a busy summer! I hope you all have had a good one and are ready to get back into a regular routine. I know we are!

My two oldest have been bickering on and off now for several weeks. They are SO ready for school! Mom is too...

This morning, my daughters beloved iPod was by the sink, yes the sink that holds dirty dishes and water. It was sure to be ruined. I asked her to come and get it, take it to her room. So...she came and got it, but the prized possession only made it to the kitchen counter, approximately 2 feet away.

Little brother, being well, the little brother, came and snatched it away as she walked away. He sat behind the counter listening to it for a couple songs...all this going on while I am trying to revive myself with a second cup of coffee, we have a busy day!
So he decided to test his limits once she didn't come looking for it or him and came waltzing into the living room ear buds in full view, just taunting her. As you can imagine, the battle ensued.

I had to intervene and collected the iPod. It went to the top of the fridge, which I like to refer to as "the place where toys go to die." But that could be a whole post on it's own.

Shortly after, we were out the door to take care of last few errands before school started. We had to be home before nap so we were hurrying out the door.

After we got home, I got everyone down for their naps. It was quiet. I was thinking maybe a nap myself...then I heard it. The voices.

I walked to each of the kids rooms to listen in, nothing. Went into my room to listen for Derek. Nothing. Checked the TVs, nothing. Opened the windows, NOTHING! I thought for a split second maybe I WAS really going crazy!

Then it dawned on me. Reached to the top of the fridge, and yep...the iPod. It was singing to me, very loudly.

Whew, I am not going crazy....YET!

Have a good week yall!
(hopefully each page will get updated the next coming weeks)

I'M BORED!!!

2011-07-14T12:21:00.002-05:00

Friends!
It has been a long time...I'm sorry. We have been busy not doing much of anything this summer! So, really I don't have an excuse for not writing.

This summer, I have been hearing this one little phrase from my 6 yr old more times than I care to count.

"I'm Bored..."

It's driving me crazy! I believe my aunt put it best when she said, "bored is when you are too lazy to find something to do." Or my friend Tara suggested, "only boring people get bored."
Both I agree with wholeheartedly.

The kids were begging to go outside and play, and so we did. Five minutes into it, my daughter came up to me and said she wanted to go inside...she was bored. BORED? Bored with what? The bike? The swing? The scooter? Running? Cartwheels?
I remember being a kid and being outside all day during the summer. ALL DAY, folks. We didn't come home under lunch or dinner.

After the "required" time of playing outside, we went inside to cool off. Five minutes into being outside she was bored again. "I'm bored..."
Bored with the Barbie Dream House Santa had to search high and low for? Bored with the endless coloring books and crayons? Bored with the closet full of books, babies, and dress up clothes?

My son, who's now the big 4, has no problem playing on his own. My oriental rug quickly becomes a dirt track for racing cars with him. Not sure how to get her to think creatively, which I KNOW she is a creative person. Not sure why she feels like she can't play in her room alone. What is the underlying issue?

But this house is full of things to do. She knows it, I know know it! But if I hear that sentence much more this summer I may be ordering a straight jacket!

Maybe it's time to do as Maureen says, and go scoop poop :)

Dad's Day!!!

2011-06-18T20:37:00.005-05:00

In case any of y'all forgot, tomorrow is Father's Day!! So hurry, go get your tie before the stores close!

Tonight, we were discussing our plans of taking Daddy out for breakfast and giving him the special card they made for him, when my oldest pops up and says, "I wish there was a Kid Day like they have one for Mommy's and Daddy's!" My response to her was EVERYday is a Kid Day. She didn't like that answer much :)

But seriously, dads are amazing. I can't help but miss being near my dad on these days, (even though I am a slacker and didn't get anything in the mail to him.) But I think I am closer to my dad now as an adult than I was growing up. It's funny how your relationships with your parents change when you grow up. I think about all the sacrifices my parents made for everything we had. I love the work ethic that was instilled, the family values, the personal values. I love that my dad taught me how to work on my Volkswagen when it broke down. Even though I didn't then, I do now, I love the time we spent on the tractor working hay fields. I love that my parents weren't compromising on so many things, that made me the woman I am today.
LOVE YOU DAD!

I look at my own husband, and love the daddy he has become. I love that he wrestles the kids, I love that he teaches them with a Can-Do attitude. I love their bedtime routine of dad carrying all of them on his shoulders (at the same time!!) I love the thoughtfulness he puts into his time off with them, the special things they do together. I adore the way he will wait for Dillon to mow the lawn because he knows how much Dill loves to help! I love how he encourages Kasey with her gymnastics and reading. And it melts my heart to watch him cuddle the baby. Can't wait to watch and see their relationships develop.

But most of all I love that my children adore and look up to him in everyway and love him with all their hearts.

Thank you Dads (and Moms!) for holding the special places in all our hearts. Thank you for being the hand to guide us, and the support for us to lean on.

ITS EVERYWHERE!

2011-06-15T10:28:00.005-05:00

I am thinking of changing the name of my blog to "High Heels to Poo poo Spills." What'd ya think?

I am coming to you fresh off scrubbing my living room white carpets that my lil one destroyed in one fell swoop, or poop should I say.

This week, bitty (that's the baby) has been trouble, more trouble than usual sleeping. Last night was no exception. Last night he was up grunting and tooting all night trying to relieve himself. We were up all night with no progress. The day before, we couldn't stop him up...if its not one thing it's another.

After the kids were fed, I bleary eyed brewed a cup of much needed coffee (Kona blend, if your are curious.) Momma just wanted 10 minutes of peace to drink coffee and read the news. So I put bitty in his bouncer and the big kids were being entertained by the much beloved Dinosaur Train.

Just after my first sip, Dill comes running into the kitchen yelling...Derek just threw up everywhere!!!!! I jumped up and ran into the living room to assess the damage. Here are my next few words..

"That's not throw up, that's POOP!"

Somehow this kid had managed to get poop in a two foot radius covered from the waist down, with out one spot on the bouncer. When I scooped him out of the bouncer, I was covered. When I ran the tub to put him in, the tub was covered. I have never seen a Poop of such epic proportions!! (I have a pic, I'm scared to share it. If you want to see a pic please go to Hints, Tips and Tricks **i have taken it down**)

How do you even clean up this stuff up!?

With the baby clean, and the carpets stained a lovely color of baby poop yellow, it is now time for Mommy to get clean.

**Real time up date** Dillon just came from playing outside. Here is our conversation.

Why is your hair wet? Are you sweating?

No, the dog's been licking me!!! (grinning from ear to ear)

Off to the tub for him...No shower for mommy yet...

Perfect Package

2011-06-07T13:58:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I took my little brood to Sam's Club for some shopping. We needed dog food, and fresh produce. I belive they have the best (produce, that is)!

Last trip there, we bought some amazing plums that were perfect and lasted almost 3 weeks. We did our little bit of shopping and then enjoyed a lunch of Sam's pizza and shared a coke. It was a delightful trip, and for those of you who follow regularly, know that's rare.

As I was putting away our groceries, I stopped to admire and ponder the packaing of the peaches. When I had first picked them up at the store, I thought how inconveient and bulky. But when I got home and all my peaches were PERFECT, not one bruise or scratch I came to appreciate the package.

They were in a perfect, little, square box. Each peach had its own cubby to rest in. Covered with a plastic lid.

This morning, as I was getting my children ready for Mother's Day out, I was wishing I had a nice, neat little box to place my children in. One that would protect them from all kinds of bumps and bruises.

Cheers, to being a Mommy!

Sharing the Love

2011-05-06T14:04:00.006-05:00

Right now, I am not being a very good mommy. Today, was field trip day for the kindergartners. We went to the zoo and then to the park for a picnic lunch.

60 kindergartens y'all....that's all I have to say.

Needless to say, by the time I got everyone in the car, there were tears flowing from 3, almost 4, sets of eyes. Kasey didn't want to come with me, Dill didn't want to leave, and poor lil baby Derek couldn't wait to get home to his bed.

So I hurried up and laid everyone down so I could look at the surprise that was at my door when we got home!

My great and talented friend Lindsey Stice , who is also a mommy to the most adorable red head ever, dropped off our family pics, I have been so excited to get them and share them with everyone. Also, please notice her creativity on my fancy new blog title...I love this gal and would be happy to recommend her to you for any of your photography occasions!

So posted here are some of my favorites by Mrs. Lindsey Stice.

Wow! I love Technology

2011-04-30T14:09:00.002-05:00

More than I love technology, I love when I figure out how it works all by myself!
Yay me!

I just figured out today, how to add other pages to my blog...I am so behind the times I know! But bare with me as I play with them and try to find a direction for them to be put to good use.

Be sure to check back soon to see what's going on!

What are you wearing?

2011-04-20T09:57:00.008-05:00

My fashion sense has changed a lot throughout the years, and mostly based on need. By that I mean, it has evolved with my ever changing lifestyles.

High school was basically jeans, sweatshirts, I believe I had a silk shirt at one time...it was blue. Awesome. And tennis shoes. Pretty sure I owned some sort of Guess something or Girbaud as they were THE hot brands in high school. But my most worn ( and probably most $$$) article was my cheer uniform. It was worn probably twice a week, sometimes more. Think "Cheerios" on Glee.

In college, it was all ripped jeans, flip flops, tiny sweaters, anything and everything from Abercrombie and Fitch. And to add some "variety," anything Chi Omega or ENMU, especially ENMUfootball (often seen sporting #44), related.

My first job out of college was not teaching like I was supposed to do, it was at Dillard's. I had to wear slacks and blazers...all the time...pregnant. NOT FUN. But slowly started to build up my "grown up" wardrobe.

When I started my career in the business world, I had to put away my flip flops and ripped jeans , and don my heels, button down tops and slacks. I loved dressing up everyday, I even miss it. But I always felt like I was playing "grown up."

Now in another season of my life, I am finding dust on my heels, and hanger creases in my slacks. I have pulled the ripped jeans off the shelf only to find them more fragile than ever, and well my favorite flip flops from college broke.

NOW WHAT DO I WEAR?! What does being a grown up look like at this stage? Maybe I need to submit myself to What Not to Wear but I really don't want them to tell me 30+ year old shouldn't be wearing ripped jeans or sweats.

Oh well, it will be an on going quest to find my new fashion sense!

Leave a comment and tell me, What's your favorite outfit?

Love and Laundry

2011-04-19T10:15:00.003-05:00

This week's post is a song that I can releate to on every level. Wanted to share it with you!

Song and Lyrics by Point of Grace
http://youtu.be/Y06GnOMqItw

"Here is go again it's another messy morning
Walk around the clothes that are covering the floor and
Take my Kiss and coffee to go
Then put on my mascara while Im driving down the road
I thought that I could do it all
Turns out I was crazy
Man, I need an iphone and a cleaning lady
We haven't had a date night in what seems like forever
It might take a miracle to get myself together

Oh I wish that there were more than
24hours in a day
I haven't found it yet but there's gotta be a way
And I keep on praying that
I can get everything done
And still have time for love
And a load of laundry

I'd sure liek teo relax laying in a bubble bath
But then I'd have toe clearn the tub and really who's got
time for that
There goes my day dream Im just wishful thinking
Oh shoot Im running late, I gotta make it to a meeting

Ive been waiting for this moment all day, just you and me
The lights are low, next thing I know
We're both drifting off to sleep

Kicking Back

2011-04-14T08:18:00.002-05:00

This is me right now at 8:19 am. I am putting my feet up and enjoying my coffee while I post this up. As a side note, I love my sweats and flip flops, also my chipped nail polish that desperately needs to be redone. Not on the list of things to do....

It has been a busy but wonderful week. Spring is in full swing here in Texas and we are LOVING it! Our grass always looks great this time of year, we mow it, cut it, nurture it...and then summer comes and its too hot to do all those things, poor lawn.

So here's a week in recap.

Monday my daughter got her first cavities filled. I was sick with worry over it. All my experiences at the dentist at that age still haunt my nightmares. Dad took her in and and sent the worry-crazed mom play by play text messages. Thirty minutes later they were finished. Much to my surprise, she was in NO pain. They didn't even numb her mouth up, just a little gas through the "princess sniffer" and she was good to go. Wow! So impressed with dentistry these days.

Tuesday I had the opportunity to get back to the gym. Right before #3 came along, I was full swing training for a triathlon. Running, swimming, and cycling everyday. Yes, EVERYDAY! So, this week I decided it was time to don the swimsuit and get a few laps in. Was so excited, that I had not lost too much fitness, and practically picked up the laps I was doing before pregnancy. I can't wait to get back in the pool, will hopefully start riding my bike to the gym, and get two of the three.

Frozen yogurt palooza! We have had an onslaught of frozen yogurt places open in in town in the last couple months. Seriously, how many do we need. Currently we have three, and one of them opening a second location. People flock to these shops and lines run out the door. Everyone can be heard saying "Why didn't I think of this!" We got to try out one of the newer ones this week, the interior was uber cool, and flavors were light and fresh. We will be back!

The rest of the week has been filled with running kids to and from practices and Dr appointments. Paying bills and of course the never ending slew of laundry. My days as a stay at home mommy feel busier than most days at the office did!

Amid all the hustle and bustle of this week, I have got to share some great moments. My lil punkin Derek is a funny boy and loves to laugh at mommy. We laughed together a lot this week. Baby giggles and squeals are the best! The weather has been so beautiful I took the boys (sad Kasey was in school) on a little picnic lunch. Any energy that can be ran off is great! And I have got to watch my daughter be cool and mature at some things she was apprehensive about.

So cliche, they are growing up too fast, but I am so glad I am here to witness these moments and share with them. I love spring and all the newness to things it brings (hahaha I'm a poet)!

The accident

2011-04-06T09:38:00.005-05:00

This weekend was a dear friends birthday party for her sweet one year old. All three of my kiddos were invited, and were so excited to attend. They love parties. My friends family has a trampoline that the kids were most excited about, we don't have one, nor will we ever, so this was an extra special treat for them. I don't know how many of you know the game, "crack the egg," but its a tramp game that you take turns sitting down, crossing your legs and holding them tight while another jumper tries to "break you open" with a forceful jump. The kids were all playing this game having a good time, (do you see where this is going yet?) all the parents had an eye on them, but then again, all it takes is just one second. I turned around...and heard my child screaming. Then I saw the blood. My heart dropped out. That's all. I ran to him to see what had happened. My daughter, the little mommy, was screaming worse than he was...she was so scared. It's amazing as a mom how fast we can change gears, you are so afraid, but yet somehow a rational calm came over me. We had a busted lip and bleeding teeth. Poor baby just wanted to go home, so we loaded up and headed home for daddy to take a look at, and calling the dentist along the way. When we got home my husband is looking him over and asked him, "What happened? I thought you were Superman!" Dillon replied, "I didn't wear that shirt today..." Too finish up the story we are dealing with three broken roots, hoping and praying for a miracle that they heal on their own! Moral of the story, make sure you always have your Superman shirt on!

An Untouchable Moment

2011-03-23T15:14:00.002-05:00

Now, y'all know I don't normally post twice in a week. I just don't have the time. But I just had a moment, a moment that I wanted to share and not forget.

It's been a little bit of a rough start to the week. I think coming off spring break, everyone is out of whack and out of routine. I myself was feeling a little down...was missing the easy validation one gets from working at a job. When you "work" inside the home, you rarely get those pats on the back of good job, or a mention of a great idea. You don't have colleagues coming to pick your brain for ideas. The job satisfaction comes from things like having a clean, or semi-clean in this case, house. Kids having full bellies of healthy food, and a husband who is happy to come back to his place of rest each night. These things don't often get vocalized.

But today, just now, my sweet Dillon, woke up from his nap. Kids waking up is my favorite time, their sleepy eyes, and red cheeks. I just love it.

I got a smile. A genuine happy grin of a loved and happy child that went straight to my moping heart. Then I got an, "I love you, Mom."

That was it, that's all I needed to know I am in the right spot.

Thank you Lord, for your bountiful blessings!

5 Random Questions

2011-03-22T08:45:00.004-05:00

For this blog post I whole heartedly planned on discussing on what a "break" Spring Break really ISN'T! But I have decided that would be pretty negative and wanted to focus on the positives this morning.

So, I read this cute little questionarie off another blog I follow The Fabulous Life of a Coach's Wife and wanted to have some fun myself.

1. Have you ever testified in court? For What?

I have not, I have been called in for jury duty only one time in my life. It took more time for me to drive there than I actually spent waiting. I was dismissed right away. Yay! I got to go back to work.

2. Do you still have your wedding dress?

Yes! Of course I do. Can't fit into it, but it is boxed up nice and pretty in a keepsake box. One of these days, I will hopefully break it out and share it with my daughter. But as I have discussed before, she is NOT getting married and NEVER leaving this house.

3. Is there a special place you go when you are happy, sad, stressed, etc?

Only one place. The bath tub. One of my favorite things to do is read in the tub, and it just so happens the bathroom has locks on it. No entry for curious kids. I will take a bath for all the above, something about the soak, especially if I have Lush products, makes everything better or even MORE better!

4. If you have kids do they sleep with you?

I think I dedicated a whole blog to needing a bigger bed, read here . Yes, the kids all have had their turn sleeping with mom and dad, but two seems to be a good age to transition. But with my husband working the occasional nights, it is sometimes nice to have an extra bed buddy, or three.

5. Do you watch late night TV?

NO! If I can get in bed and be asleep by 9 pm I am ecstatic. But in my house the only thing that comes on after 10 is ESPN SportsCenter and that usually does the trick to putting me to sleep...at least until the baby wakes up again :)

There you have it folks...everything still kinda took a negative bent! And might I just add, I am SO happy Spring Break is over! I'm exhausted.