The Days I'll Remember

When he's not looking

2011-09-11T12:56:00.000-04:00

I love catching the boys doing things when they have no clue that I'm looking. This morning, I heard the front door slam shut and I knew that our little mischief man, Tucker, had escaped once again. As I headed out to get him, I noticed he had his guitar in his hands. I stopped dead in my tracks, turned back around and went for my camera. When I came back he was strumming the remaining two strings and singing his little heart out. If I would have tried, there is no way I could have removed the smile that was on my face. He was in his own world, completely content, and loving every minute of his guitar playing. As I watched him strum a tune for our dog, Cowboy, I couldn't help but think would he still have a love for music when he's older? He didn't once have a clue I was taking these shots through the window and the front door. So glad I was able to catch these... I must say, they're some of my favorites!

Shadow

2011-08-30T13:18:00.000-04:00

He looks just like him. He acts, smiles, and grins just like him. I'm talking about Tucker. He couldn't be anymore Travis if I tried to make him. This little boy is a sport now. He was bound and determined that he was going to help Travis with our garden.

I know I say it probably way to much, but how can children grow so quickly? It's like you wake up one day and the child they were yesterday is a thing of the past. They're into new things, they're saying new stuff, they just amaze me. It never ceases to amaze me at how well they are at mimicking our every move. Think about that, that's a deep thought. We must be great examples for our little shadows or we could lead them the wrong way.

It is my prayer that God will allow the words of my mouth to be kind, the steps of my feet slow and steady. May I always think before I act so that my shadows will learn to live in love, and peace. I'm just human and I make mistakes, but I can do my best each day to better them as they grow.

Field to the Hill 2011

2011-08-30T12:57:00.000-04:00

Travis and I are members of the Florida Farm Bureau. In May, we had the opportunity to represent our county in Washington, D.C. for the annual field to the hill meeting. We packed up and headed north with four other Farm Bureau members. When we arrived in D.C. we headed to the hotel to drop our stuff and then it was out to do some sight seeing.

The buildings were beautiful. I enjoyed our visit to D.C., but I'm certain that D.C. is not the place for this country girl. Give me dirt roads, small towns, and the peace and quiet we have here on Cow Bird Lane. The lifestyle in D.C. is fast passed, go-go-go, and I really don't think the people ever sleep. I've never been on the Metro, or a subway. Wow. You either pay attention, or you get left. That's it, end of story. As Thomas and I learned, you have to watch the map and make certain of where you need to get off or you'll ride the metro for a good 15 minutes that you didn't need to ride! Good thing we had T-rav with us!

We visited China town, the local Target which by the way is two stories, and it's nothing like what we have here at home. Oh, and if you buy something don't think they'll just bag it for you. Oh no, get ready to pay for that bag! Sure enough. China town, again... not my cup of tea. Travis and Thomas were ready to eat at the first little restaurant we came too. Me, not so much. I wanted something I knew what it was. We settled for a burger joint that was delish!

Overall, we had a fun time in D.C. We met with our congressman, walked through some tunnel that you were not supposed to go through unless you were escorted by someone of much higher authority, oops! We ate at some great little restaurants, but most important to me was visiting the site where our friend Casey Watters was laid to rest in Arlington.

Let me just say what a humbling experience this was. Travis and I opted to view Arlington for ourselves. We did not take a tour, we walked down the quiet streets to the place where Casey rests in peace. As we came closer, I could feel the emotions stirring inside of me. A thankfulness, sadness, and then the thought of how many young men and women have laid their lives down for our country. I've watched movies, documentaries, read books and saw countless pictures of this place, Arlington. Not one of them can hold a candle to the emotions you will feel as you stand and look for as far as the eye can see of the white headstones. Humbling is truly the only way I can describe it. I felt a tear trickle down my cheek as I stood to the side of Casey's grave.

I stood in silence. Thankful for Casey, his life, and the bravery he showed our country. Thankful that I had the chance to meet him, his family and I prayed that God would comfort his family as I'm sure they miss him each and every day. We started our walk back to the main building when we looked to our right and there on the hill was a horse drawn carriage. A family, dressed in black walked behind the carriage. Atop the carriage was a casket covered with our American flag. We stopped in respect of this soldier. As if viewing Arlington wasn't enough to speak to you but to watch a service underway really spoke to my heart. We would not have the freedom we have it weren't for the many soldiers that rest in peace in Arlington, and the ones that are on the front lines of battle this very moment. I must say that visiting Arlington was by farm my most favorite part of the trip. It touched me in more ways than one.

Kindergarten Field Day

2011-08-30T12:36:00.000-04:00

Kindergarten was filled with super fun days! Carter always enjoyed going, he never complained, and he always looked forward to P.E. day. When he found out there would be a field day he was on cloud nine! He ran in four of the races and did his very best. The determination on his face was too cute. The even started off with the Cha Cha Slide. Carter LOVES to dance, and the Cha Cha Slide is one of his favorites!

As I stood on the sideline before one of the races, I looked over to see him and two other classmates placing their hands on top of each other. I smiled from ear to ear, they were a team! They ran as fast as they could and although they didn't win, they were still winners. You couldn't wipe the smiles from their faces.

Tucker was doing his own stunts that day, pole climbing with Papa Donnie!

Puddle Jumpers

2011-08-30T12:26:00.000-04:00

The boys are truly growing quicker than I ever dreamed possible. It seems like we were just playing outside while Tucker looked on from his bouncy seat. Now he's bouncing right along with Carter. Everything Carter does, Tucker does. If Carter says it, Tucker says it. There really is a bond between these two little boys that blesses my heart each and every day.

A few rain showers passed through our area and what do boys do? Boys find the mud. Big boys, and little boys. When I looked out from the back porch I saw Carter making his way towards the biggest puddle he could find. It was just mere seconds and Tucker was hot on his trail. Moments later, Travis joined in the fun. Their giggles still ring in my ear. I really don't know who was having the most fun. The boys, Travis, or me as I watched on. It's moments like these that I hear God telling me to take it in, embrace it, and forget the possible stained clothes or the fact that the sun is setting and bedtime awaits. This is the moment.

Mud was flying, giggles coming from both of the boys, Travis speeding around on the four-wheeler (dangerous... well, you know), and me just standing there in the driest spot I could find. Secretly, I was hoping that they would not even think about getting me as dirty as they were!

They weren't happy when the mud party was over, but that's how the cookie crumbles. I believe that they would go to bed dirty if I would let them. Must be a boy thing.

I sure do love these muddy fellows!!

Tucker Tuesday...

2011-08-30T12:17:00.000-04:00

What do I say? I've been lost in the moments of summer. I kept telling myself, 'you need to blog, you need to blog', it never happened. But, here I am and what a better way to start than with this adorable little face. It's Tuesday, so in our world, it's Tucker Tuesday!

Fishing

2011-06-08T13:14:00.000-04:00

Carter has been begging to go fishing. I told Travis we had to take him since we had nothing else planned. I love seeing Carter get so excited about spending time with Travis, doing "boy things". Tucker, he's always along for the ride!

I must say all these boy activities, secretly have me wanting a little girl to share things with. Sure, I like to fish, ride four wheelers, play in the mud but I don't think the boys will ever be on board to go for a pedicure with me, or shopping. For now, I suppose I'll just continue to pray and see what God has in store for us and if it's not a little package of pink, I pray for wives for my boys that will love their ma-in-law!

For now, I'll be in the mud, on the back of the four wheeler, or hanging out by the pond if you need me.

Happy to be a Momma!

2011-06-08T12:56:00.000-04:00

Nothing beats being a mother. There are trying times but the happy, fun, memorable times out weigh those trying times by a country mile!

Tucker didn't want to have his picture made with me, so... it's just me & Cart this year!

Happy Mother's Day 2011!

Simple Saturday mornings

2011-06-08T12:53:00.000-04:00

Simple and Saturday, do those two words even belong in the same sentence? I love the Saturday mornings that we wake up and just hang out at the house. The morning I took this picture was just that. There were chores to be done, laundry piled high, and we were staying home. The boys and Trav went outside and when I looked out the screen door this is what I saw.

I love seeing the three of them together. It's often like I'm on the outside of their world looking in, and I love that. Granted this is just them fixing up a monster tricycle, thanks to Uncle Thomas, I still love the simplicity of the pictures. I love my three fellas with everything I have in me.

He's going to hate me for this

2011-06-08T12:47:00.000-04:00

I asked Carter to go out and feed Cowboy. He had already taken a bath and was in his jammers (better known as his under-roos and t-shirt), but he ran out the back door looked for some shoes and as I saw him walk off the back porch I knew I had to grab my camera immediately to get his picture. When I made it to the barn, he was coming out the door. He looked at me and tilted his head to the side and said, "where are you going to put these pictures?" Does he know me, or what?!

Just look at his face, he knows he's doomed!

He's so funny!

God love him, I just couldn't resist. He's such a good sport. I just hope he remembers the laughs we had when his future girlfriends/wife see this photo one day!!! I love you Carter, thanks for being such a fun kid!

Lesson learned.

2011-06-08T12:40:00.000-04:00

When you leave your children in the care of their Uncle, don't always trust that things will stay in order. Easter Sunday we left the children in the care of the men for just a moment and this is what happened.
Note, Tucker's wearing that same "my parents are exhausted" shirt! It seems to be our motto!

All good times come to an end.

Only the love of a Nana could love this mess!

My lesson learned, watch the kids yourself if you don't want to clean up mud!

Easter

2011-06-08T12:37:00.000-04:00

***WARNING... lots and lots of pictures***

Easter recap, hot, fun, hot, and more fun! The boys enjoyed baking cookies with Aunt Jessica the night before and coloring eggs. We made a special egg just for Big Papa!

Easter day we enjoyed a wonderful family lunch at Big Granny & Papa's. I do believe it is the first time that our entire family, cousins... everyone has been together in many, many years. The kids had a lot of fun playing together and looking for eggs.

Looking around at the family we are so blessed with, I couldn't help but wish that Papa was more aware who each one is. He watched them all play but in my heart I know he wasn't really sure where he was or who all of these people were. Regardless of that, I was so very thankful to spend another family day with him.

Kindergarten egg hunt

2011-06-08T12:30:00.000-04:00

Carter's class enjoyed a fun little egg hunt during school. It was so cute to watch them run around looking for the eggs with their name on it.

My parents are exhausted!

2011-06-08T12:24:00.000-04:00

When I saw that Travis had given Tucker a hammer, my initial thought was well this probably won't end very well. Look at him sitting there all cute and calm. Read his shirt, it's written in the stars what's about to happen here.

Is that the slightest look of mischief I see in his eyes?

Then.... it happens! Yep, you guessed it. A bonk right to the top of Trav's head. I love the finger to the head, look of 'who me?!' on Tuck's face!!

But who on earth could stay upset with this adorable little guy?!

Moral of the story my friends, 2 year old + a hammer = NOT A GOOD IDEA!

Forever Friends

2011-06-08T12:01:00.000-04:00

Friendships come and go. There are those few that you know are super special and have that ability to be lifelong friendships. Gaige came into our lives several years ago and has been nothing but a perfect pal for Carter every since. Carter thinks the world of Gaige and always brings up his name when we talk about planning a party, or a trip to Disney or a water park.

When Eric called and said he would have him for a few days I was tickled to have the opportunity to surprise Carter with a visit from his very best pal! A surprise is just what we did!! I met Gaige and Ms. Debbie at CVS before I picked Carter up for school. I think I was excited as the kids would be. When Gaiged got in the truck, I told him to climb over the back seat and lay down so Carter could not see him. When Carter got in the truck I asked him how his day was and what he would think if he could see his best friend, Gaige. His response was something along the lines of that would be awesome. About that time Gaige popped his head up and said, "well here I am!"

The look on Carter's face was beyond priceless. He didn't have a clue what to say, that was a rare moment! I do remember him saying, "are you kidding me?" They played, they laughed, wrestled, chased each other and had the best time ever! They even talked T-rav into playing duck, duck, goose. That was the best part of the day if I do say so myself!

I can't help but wonder how many great memories they will share together as they grow up. We thoroughly enjoyed having Gaige over, and look forward to more visits with him this summer. The pictures from the day show that it was a energy packed, fun filled day!!!

Gaige, we love you buddy! Can't wait to see you again soon!

Big Boy now

2011-06-08T11:40:00.000-04:00

His smile and giggle are a true indication of how sweet and wonderful Carter is. His giggle is simply contagious and his smile is ever so sweet.

At Carter's last dental visit I mentioned that he had been complaining of pain with his bottom front tooth. The assistant told me she'd mention it to the dentist and let me know. When he came out from his cleaning the assistant informed me that he was having pain but it wasn't caused by a cavity. The culprit was... my baby would soon be losing that little baby tooth. I know, I know... I'm a crazy nut, but I seriously teared up at the thought of that little tooth falling out. I managed to keep my composure in the office but deep down inside this little tooth was causing me much sadness.

For nothing would Carter wiggle that tooth to aid it's way out of his head. I was okay with it until he complained so much about it hurting and the new, big boy tooth was already breaking the skin behind this little tooth. I finally explained to him that it had to go. That little tooth need him to help him get out.

Finally on April 6, 2011, I peeked in on him while he was watching cartoons in his room. I caught him wiggling that little tooth. When I jumped up on the bed to see the flood gates opened. Poor guy was so terrified to take that little tooth out. For the life of me I couldn't understand how he could be so afraid. Travis soon joined us and we both tried to explain that it wouldn't hurt.

He finally fessed up told us, "but it's going to bleed!" I laughed and told him that sure it was going to bleed but that wasn't so bad. I told him we could get a wash cloth and wet it to help with the bleeding. That's all it took. He jumped down out of that bed, and off to the bathroom he went. He wiggled, he turned, he sniffled, complained a bit more and then all of a sudden I hear him say gasp, "Ooh, Momma! It's out!"

He held that tooth between his tiny fingers and just stared. His eyes were huge!! It did bleed a little bit but he was okay with it. He was too amazed that he had finally pulled that little fella out of there! There he stood with that now toothless smile. Again, I need no one to remind me of what a mush I am, but I couldn't help but tear up. We had moved on from the days of a paci (or a pipe, as he called it), diapers were long gone, sippy cups were tossed and the only thing that kept my baby a baby was no gone. He was officially a big boy, doing big boy things.

As I look at his little smile now with that gap, I can't help but smile and remember the road to getting that little tooth out. Now the one that once lived next door is loose and we're heading down the same path. Cart's thought is this, "it'll come out when it's good and ready momma. I'll just wiggle it every once and awhile." Oh how I love this sweet child.

And he's out!

2011-06-08T11:02:00.000-04:00

This never, ever happens! You've seen the pictures of the kids that fall asleep while eating lunch or dinner, not my kids. They rarely fall asleep watching t.v., or anything. When Tucker fell asleep, moments after laying in the floor I knew something was up. For my kids to crash, surely it had to be something other than sheer exhaustion, right? Check out the dirty feet on that critter!

Merry Go Round, Swings, and cotton candy!

2011-06-08T10:59:00.000-04:00

We love the fair. It's plain and simple. If there is a fair in town, you can guarantee that this bunch is going. Carter is getting to the age now where he can ride just about all the rides. This year he was perfectly content with riding the swings. No exaggeration, if he rode them once.... he rode them 15 times! Each time he giggled, and smiled from ear to ear. Tucker was well entertained by the ride next to the swings. They were large plastic balls that you climb into and then roll across the water. He watched in amazement.

The Clay County Fair has many, many memories in my mind. I remember each Spring, Momma would load us up and we'd make it an all day event. I was like Carter, give me the swings and I was good to go! I hope the memories we are making as a family are as special to my boys as my childhood memories are to me.

Rain, Rain... it's time to play!

2011-06-08T10:51:00.000-04:00

Rainy days are begged for right now in our area. It is so dry and dusty I almost feel like we live in the dessert. We've had a few showers that lasted for just a few short minutes but nothing that's really kept us in doors for the day.

Several, and I do mean several weeks ago we had a nice day of clouds, rain, and indoor fun. While Carter was at school, Tucker managed to move every chair in our kitchen to just where he wanted them. From there he lined up all his furry friends to watch morning toons with him. It was seriously one of the cutest things I've ever seen!!

We picked up Carter and the gloom of the day continued to keep us in. Stir craziness set in really quick, as it does with most two and five year olds. Carter continued to complain of being bored and Tucker just wanted Carter to play. So, I gave them a large tupperware bin and from there I went from having a boat in my living room to a pirate ship!

Oh the giggles that were made this gloomy afternoon. I often wonder if the boys will remember days like this when they are older. Maybe by reading this it will spark their memory. However, it will always warm my heart and soul.

Perfectly imperfect.

2011-06-08T10:43:00.000-04:00

Ever wonder how God gets everything just right? I look at my boys and each and every time I am amazed at how God made them. From their eyelashes to their sparkling eyes, to their ten little toes. He formed each of us individually, perfect in our own special way. Sure we may have things about us that we would change but to God we're just perfect. He loves us for our imperfections. I like to think our imperfections are what make us better people, if we allow them too.

As most mothers do, I don't see anything wrong with my sweet boys. I'm sure as they grow older they'll find a thing or two they personally don't like but I love them just the way they are. I love to look into Carter's green eyes and Tucker has the pretties pink lips I've ever seen! Thank you Lord for allowing me to be the mother of these perfect little blessings!

“We come to love not by finding a perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly”

-Sam Keen

Spring Break 2011

2011-06-08T10:32:00.000-04:00

We took our week off from school and just relaxed. No big plans were made, we just enjoyed sitting back and relaxing for a week. We did make a visit to Fort Clinch in Fernandina Beach with Nana, Aunt Jeca, and Uncle Kyle. The boys were somewhat interested in the fort but far more interested in the beach! Carter took to the water like a fish, inching farther and farther into the water. If he had sensed in the slightest way that it was okay to go in, he would have!! Tucker enjoyed the sand, he kept his distance from the water. Once again, they are night and day!

Tucker Tuesday...

2011-03-29T07:00:00.005-04:00

These are just some recent shots of the cutest red head I've ever laid eyes on!!

If this shot doesn't make you crack up, you're just hard hearted. This smile and face is just to darn cute to not smile at!!

This picture cracks me up!! I didn't take it and haven't a clue who did... but it's hilarious!!

Thanks for stopping by, come back again soon!!

Memory Monday

2011-03-28T21:55:00.000-04:00

Whew, what a day!! I've been playing blog catch up all day. It's 9:50 p.m. and I'm coming to my final blog of the day. Good 'ole Memory Monday. These are going way back, that's why there is more than one. I just couldn't resist. All of these are from March of 2008.

One of my all time favorites!! <3

"Old times..."

2011-03-28T21:49:00.000-04:00

There's an old wooden house built by his hands. The house I begged to stay the night at. The house that welcomed me so many countless afternoons as I ran from the chores of my house. It was the place I ran too when I was getting into trouble. The house that welcomed anyone and everyone. A table that you are always welcome to sit down and make yourself at home. If they have something you need, you can guarantee they'll make it yours. This place is the home of my grandparents, better known as Big Granny and Big Papa. The memories I hold there are beyond precious to me. They are priceless and they fill my heart with so much love.

Hot summer days playing in the water sprinkler, eating watermelon. Lazy Sunday afternoons when all my cousins would come to visit and we'd run and play for hours. The echoes of red rover, red rover send Michael right over chime in my ear. Me tattling because my cousin Justin made me eat dirt. He made me! I was surrounded by boys. I chased frogs, climbed trees, and played in mud. The warm summer evening that I carried a five gallon bucket with Michael and Justin catching toad frogs, I still remember it like it was just yesterday. There still stands the tree that we would swing from each and every summer. The old rubber tire, best swing ever. There are the trees that I climbed to the tip top of, now Carter climbs them. Cane poles and old bread, sitting on a bucket, fishing with my best pals Justin and Michael. Digging potatoes in the garden, shelling peas on the back porch, the good times, the days gone by.

God bless our home... "Y'all come back when you can stay longer, God bless" something Granny says each time we leave.

These are just a few of the many, many memories I have of 'home'. Growing up, I didn't realize just how blessed I was growing up next door to my grandparents. Oh what I would give now to go back and relive a few of those days. I'd sit longer on the porch, I'd ask more questions about things I'd like to know. Papa's mind can't answer most of those questions for me now. I can't live thinking what I'd like to do. I can however, embrace today, make it a memory and treasure the day that God has given us.

Eyes that sparkle, a soul that shines...Our Papa

Yesterday was one of those days, one I'll treasure. It was the first day since February 17 that Papa was able to be home. Since his surgery, hospital stay, and now he's in the nursing home our lives have changed quite a bit. The mid week visits have turned into short visits at the nursing home. Sunday afternoons spent on their porch have been obsolete. You don't realize what means the most to you until you can't do those things. I've missed sitting on that porch watching him rock so much. His memory is nothing like it was before his last fall or the surgery. We knew this could happen but I suppose you hold out hope thinking that everything will just go back to being normal. I watched as he ate his lunch yesterday, grateful that he was home to sit at the table with us. His body becoming more frail. His memory much slower than it had been. His crystal blue eyes still sparkle though. His mind might not be able to keep up with all that's going on but his eyes and that wink he gave me several times yesterday let me know that he knows who I am. I hope that sparkle never leaves, it is my prayer that until God calls him home he knows who I am. I'm not sure my heart can handle him forgetting who I am. I'll never forget who he is too me.

The boys playing spoons like we did when we were kids. <3

We finished lunch and he laid down for a nap. It wasn't long he was up and looking for some dessert. He doesn't talk much but anytime he's ever been offered something sweet he's not turned it down. Granny fixed him a bowl of cake with strawberries and whip cream. As he always has, he finished it all. We all went out on the porch and it wasn't long, he joined us. My face gleamed as I watched him walk through that backdoor onto the porch. There he sat in his chair, rocking. A sight that I so many times have just rushed by, overlooking. Yesterday, I savored it. I know his days are few, that's something I've had to come to terms with. I sat for almost an hour as I watched him rock, sip his coke, and watch aimlessly as the children played around him. As I watched the boys play, I couldn't help but feel saddened by the fact that if I have more children, will he be here to know them.

He may be from the south but don't offer him sweet tea... he ain't having it!! Coca-Cola only.

Jason sat on the far end of the porch strumming Granny's guitar. Granny soon joined him with her guitar. Listening to them play and watching Papa as he looked on, took me back to those summer days that I mentioned earlier. It was that lazy Sunday afternoon from my childhood. Only difference, I wasn't the child playing in the yard, my children were.

I love to hear my Granny sing, always have... always will.

Oh, what a moment. I can't explain it to you. It was something I will treasure until the day I die. It was just like I was reliving my childhood all over again, and it was so special to me. Granny's sweet voice sang I'll fly away, I sang along but my voice cracked as I fought back tears. I had to press my lips together and look away before I lost it. I was so very, very thankful for that hour with my family. The most precious grandparents in the world, my dear mother who goes above and beyond, my aunts and uncle who each mean something so different yet so special to me, my boys running and playing where I once made so many memories. God was there, no doubt about it.

Carter & Jake, boys will be boys.

I wasn't the only one aware of just how special yesterday afternoon was. Each person there knew just as well as I did, we were blessed. I walked around with my camera to capture a few of the things that remind me most of 'home' when I'm there, and when I'm not.

Granny has the greenest thumb of anyone I know.

It was the little things that as I looked around and thought if I were never able to visually see my grandparents home again, what would I remember. Their family name sign that hangs in the tree just off the porch. Papa's hands gripping the arms of the rocking chair. Granny playing her guitar as she had done so many times before today.

Kids playing, laughter, reminiscing, singing, and just good family times.

My babies making memories on the porch I once played on. <3

I sat down in the chair beside Papa and I asked him if he was okay. He just nodded his head. Continuing to rock, I waited another minute and asked him what he was thinking about. His response to me, "old times". Words that I will remember for years to come. It's the old times, the good times, the memories that make us who we are. Papa has always had a way of saying just one or two word answers that have stuck with me. He's to the point, no beating around the bush. A few weeks back as we stood around his bed in the nursing home I asked him, Papa...do you have any suggestions on what I should do with these two boys? He looked up at me and grinned, "have two more".

This is me and Pa doing our "Papa smile" better known as his scruchy smile.

Little did he know that my heart desires more children. Funny thing is, the night we went to tell my mom we were expecting Carter it was Christmas Eve 2004. I walked into their house with my normal loud entrance. As I made it half way across the room he says, "are you pregnant?" I quickly responded with NO! I didn't want to spoil the way we were going to tell my mom. He looked at me and said, "yes you are, or either you're getting fat". My point in saying all of this, he knows me. He has a special way of knowing what's going on with me. It's that bond that I have with this blue eyed man that I will one day miss.

Aunt Kathy & Papa

Aunt Angie & Papa

The old times, the traditions, the family each something I want my children to know and hold dear to their hearts. Life is so rushed now days that we don't really enjoy the time that we are given unless something drastic happens. May we all slow our lives down, put the things that mean most back at the top of our list.

Momma & Papa

Uncle Faron & Papa

I love my Papa with all my heart and soul. Without him and his support there's no telling where my life may have gone. He's the rock of our family, though his words have always been few and his ways of saying I love you have been uniquely his own, there's not a shadow of doubt in my mind that he loves us each and everyone. His mind might be fading but his love is undying. I'm grateful for the hours he spent at home with us all yesterday. I pray that God will bless us with more happy, memorable days with this sweet man. Please continue to keep him and my dear little Granny in your prayers.

Here's to old times and sweet memories!!

~Blessings to you all~

Easter Lilies

2011-03-28T15:25:00.000-04:00

As a child I remember this time of year wondering why it was the Easter Lilies were only in some areas. I always thought about how pretty they were and I loved picking them and filling the window of my mom and granny's kitchen.

Sunday as we were heading out to Big Granny and Big Papa's I pulled off the side of the road and picked these beautiful flowers with Carter. He had a big bunch in each hand for Mom and Big Granny. When we arrived at their house he couldn't wait to give them there fresh flowers.

It's my hope to make this a yearly tradition with my boys, picking Easter Lilies and sharing the meaning of such a special holiday.