Happy Fake Birthday

Because Reagan was blessed with being born on Christmas Eve, we have lots of fake birthdays throughout the month of December. This year for her "friends" birthday party, I decided to take them to a hotel for swimming. Now this seriously limited the number of friends she could invite but we had a blast. I picked all the girls up from school and we headed to Waco. Our first stop was at the mall to see Santa and then we headed to the hotel. They quickly changed into their swimsuits and we headed for the pool. They swam, at pizza, ate cake, and swam some more. Finally around 10:00 we headed to the rooms. They all took showers and then cozied up in the bed to watch Fred Clause. Two o the kids had to leave early the next morning for UIL events but the rest of us lounged around in our pjs. I fixed the girls hot chocolate in bed, they watched cartoons, and I, believe it or not, read my book for about an hour. Then we headed down to breakfast where I fixed waffles, cereal, oatmeal, fresh squeezed orange juice, cranberry juice, coffee, the works. Okay, maybe the hotel provided all of that but I did have to help the girls get it all together. After breakfast we headed upstairs to get our things and head home. We had a fabulous time and Reagan has some super friends. This may have to be a repeat birthday party. (Of course if we do it next year, I am sure that little sister is going to want to be a part of it as well.)

This week both my girls have their real birthdays. Reagan's is the 24th and Henlee's is the 26th. I think God thought I should only be stressed for one week of the year. I also think he was testing my faith - do you think?

Vance

Hey Vance McAnally, this song reminds me of you. I heard this song yesterday and immediately thought of you and our summer vacations and your lapses into hable Espanol.

Happy Birthday Lisa

Today is my favorite sister's birthday and here are a few reasons why she is my favorite:

1. She is my very best BFF ever and for always. Since I was born and despite being 10 years apart, my sister has been my very best friend in the whole wide world. I have never thought of her as just my sister. I went everywhere with my sister, even to college. During the summers, I would spend many weeks with her at her apartment and her friends were my friends. I still talk to them today, just ask Karen Krueger sometime if you see her. I had more fun going to college with my sister than I did when I went. One of the saddest times in my life was when we took my sister to college. I cried every weekend for at least a year when she would have to leave.

2. Her faith in God is amazing and contagious. I often joke that Lisa has "special connections" with God. When I make it to heaven one day and God tells me that he sent Lisa to be my angel on Earth, I will not be surprised.

3. She is a wonderful Mother, but she is an even better Aunt - just ask Reagan. There aren't even words to describe how much love Reagan has for her Aunt Lisa. They have had a special bond since Reagan was born and it just seems to grow stronger with time. Reagan cries everytime we leave Lisa's and can't wait for Christmas vacation so she can spend her time with Aunt Lisa.

4. She has a very warm and loving spirit about her. Everyone can see it. We can be in Wal-Mart and people see her and just start spilling their guts. Her students for sure see this. I was the one to get my actual degree in teaching but I always knew that my sister was the born teacher - she listens not only with her ears but mostly with her heart and her students know this.

As you can tell I love you very much and you are the reason I wanted Reagan to have a sister. I have to tell you, I think Henlee is going to love her big sis as much as I love you. Happy Birthday Lisa!!!

Mean Mama

Back when Reagan was smaller and we were on our way to Waco, we passed by the prison system in Gatesville. Some of the lady prisoners were outside working and Reagan wanted to know what it was. I think my sister and I, at the same time, told the children that that is where mean mamas go. Needless to say everytime we go by there, Reagan has to say something about the mean mamas. Well, the other day, as we were headed to Temple to take the Jetta down to the shop for the upteenth time, we passed by there and you know what my beloved first born said, "I wonder what their number is?"

I said, "Why, you don't need it."

She says with a smirk on her face, "I don't know, I might someday."

Give Blood, Give Life

Last Sunday morning a 14 year old boy was killed and his 18 year old brother was severely burned in a car accident outside of Roscoe. They had been hunting with their father and were headed home to Midland. Anyway, their Father goes to church with my sister in Weatherford. I have been thinking and praying for this family all week because being an outsider that is about all I can do. I just finished reading their carenet page (you can go here to read more http://www.carepages.com/carepages/tylerseedig) and found that there is one more thing I can do and you can do also if you find it in your heart - give blood. If you give through Carter Blood Center and give them the sponsor number SPONO47291, they will credit your gift to him or just donate blood at the Red Cross or wherever because it is a precious thing. God gave each of us the ability to donate our blood to those in need and this is something we can do that costs us nothing - just a little time. I plan to donate this weekend while I am in Weatherford.

Please keep the Seedig family in your prayers. Tyler, the 18 year old, is having his first surgery today (the doctors say that he will probably have a surgery a week for at least the next 4 months), and the family is burying is 14 year old brother tomorrow. I can't imagine the emptiness this family is feeling right now.

Happy Birthday Mom

Today is my dear Mom's birthday. Now I know we all love our Moms with all of hearts but my Mom is extra special. These are just a few of things everyone should know about my Mom:

1. My Father died when my sister was 13, brother 10, and me 3 AND we lived in Gruver, Texas, which is 800+ miles from all any family. My Mom never missed a beat. She had always been a stay-at-home Mom but when this happened, she had to go to work to support her family. She didn't pick any old job. Since she still had me at home she chose jobs that would allow her to be with me and earn some cash to feed us. She worked at the public library in Gruver and guess what - she was able to take me with her to work. Is it any wonder that I love to read? We stayed in Gruver for 4 more years and then my Mom made the decision to move to Hamilton where both sets of my grandparents were and all my aunts and uncles and cousins. At the time, this was a very hard decision for her, but it was the best one for all of us. We now had the love and support of all of our family. I spent the summers and sick days with my grandparents who taught me to fish, play card games and dominos, appreciate farm life, about the old days and traditions, and just life in general.

2. How many of you cook at least 2 meals a day? And no, cereal or instant oatmeal doesn't count as cooking. My Mom got up every morning and COOKED breakfast. We would have eggs, biscuits, pancakes, cinnamon toast (with homemade hot chocolate), french toast, hash browns, sausage, etc. When it was game day, she would fix my sister biscuits, my brother pancakes, and because I was the baby, cinnamon toast. And at night, she always had something hot to eat.

3. How many of you iron all your clothes? My Mom did. There wasn't a stitch of clothes in my closet that wasn't creased or had wrinkles. And no, nothing went to the cleaners unless it had to be dry cleaned.

4. She taught us the love of God and that through Him all things are possible.

5. As much as she loved us, her children, I think she loves her grandchildren more, if that is possible, and this love is reciprocated by her grandchildren. They love to stay with Momo. Nothing makes her happier than for all of her grandchildren to be at home - her house.

6. She loves to go on vacation with us. Right Mom? In the summer of 2007, my sister, my Mom, myself and our children all took a road trip. We went to Nashville to see Charlie Pride at the Grand Ole Oprey, we went to Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and back home to Texas. My sister and I did the driving and my Mom would make sandwiches for all of us. And of course we all had to have something different - cucumber salad, ham, turkey, or pb&j. She was the referee between the children. Needless to say, we had a wonderful time. The children still talk about this trip and want to go again. Then this year she went to the coast and to the lake. She has even been to Cancun with us and put her feet in the ocean and took a submarine down to see the reef. When she doesn't go with us, we don't feel quite complete and say things like, oh Mom would have loved this.

My sister and I often joke that we could let Mom retire, sell her house and she could live part time with each of us. We haven't quite sold her on this yet.

I love you Mom. Thank you for all your sacrifices and life lessons. Have a wonderful blessed day.

Reagan Gets Her Ears Pierced

****** UPDATE********* Yesterday at the end of my entry I mentioned that my niece's dance team (Weatherford Blue Belles) will be performing in the Adolphus Children's Parade. We just received news that they will LEAD THE PARADE and will be dressed as toy soldiers. They will be on stage for the entire opening number (5 minutes). There is also a strong possibility that they will have additonal TV time with the Why Guy on Good Morning Texas on Friday. They also perform on Saturday afternoon at Six Flags.

Reagan has wanted her ears pierced since she was very little, but being the mean Mom that I am, I told her she couldn't have it done until she could take care of her ears herself and change out the earrings by herself. Well boys and girls, we hit that milestone about 3 weeks ago. She decided that since she was turning 8 very soon, it was time. Off to Weatherford and then to Fort Worth we went.

Here Reagan and I before she the piercing. She looks a little nervous, don't you think?

Reagan was very brave and didn't even whimper. Reagan has meticulously taken care of her ears without much prodding or help from me. Her sister was very patient while she waited on us to finish. Many people suggested that I go ahead and get Henlee's pierced too. I politely said no thank you.

On another note, this weekend my niece, Rylee, will be dancing with the Weatherford Blue Belles in the Niemann Marcus Adolphus Children's Parade in Dallas. We are all going to watch and will be sitting in front of City Hall. They danced last year (they were the train conductors) but we weren't brave enough to go. This year we decided we couldn't miss this opportunity. Look for us on TV Saturday morning at 10:00 on Channel 8.

What You May or May Not Want to Know About DW

My fellow blogger, Betsy, tagged me so here it is:

EVERYTHING YOU MIGHT WANT TO KNOW ABOUT MY HUSBAND!
1. Where did you meet? We knew each other since elementary. We grew up 2 blocks apart, went to the same Church, had brothers the same age, our siblings were in the Church youth group activities together, and my friend in 2nd and 3rd grade lived next door to him. Saw him all the time. However, it wasn't until my friend Becky and I were riding around in her Camaro with the t-tops off and I jumped up out of the top waving like crazy because I thought it was someone else, did he see me in a different light. I went to the pool a lot that summer and Jennfier Whitehead (Pendleton) was a lifeguard and a good friend of mine and she kind of set us up for a real date. Our first date was to the Old Settler's Reunion on July 28, 1990. Of course we went with Jennifer and Chris B. I don't remember when we had a date and it was just the two of us. We were always with other people.

2. How long did you date. We dated for about 2 years before getting engaged, and then about another year before we married.

3. How long have you been married? 15.5 years

4. What does he say that surprises you? I love you. (he isn't the real lovey-dovey type.)

5. What is your favorite feature of his? His eyes.

6. What is your favorite quality of his? His dry since of humor.

7. Does he have a nickname for you? NO, I don't think so.

8. What is his favorite color? white

9. What is his favorite food? Steak - grilled or chicken fried

10. What is his favorite sport? Car Racing - Nascar or drag racing, it doesn't matter.

11. When and where did you first kiss? In his pickup in my Mother's drive

12. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple? Go to the races

13. Do you have any children? Yes, two daughters

14. Does he have a hidden talent? No, not that I can think of at the moment.

15. How old is he? 39

16. Who said "I love you" first? He did.

17. What is his favorite type of music? Rock-n-Roll (Van Halen, Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, etc.) and older country like Tom T. Hall, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, etc.

18. What do you most admire about him? He is a Christian and loves his family. I think when you marry your husband, you first love him for who he is but then when you have children together, you love him more and differently for the Daddy they become.

19. Do you think he will read this? No, not unless I show it to him!

20. Where did you go on your first date? Oops, I covered this in the #1 above. We went to Red Lobster with Jennifer and Mike for our second date.

Okay Betsy, I did it. I don't think there is anyone else for me to tag. If you are out there and want to participate, tag you're it.

Amy Mac this is For You

My last post was about how much fun we had at the races a couple of weekends ago. My friend Amy asked how come I didn't post about the spring races when we went with them (because I wasn't a blogger yet, duh). They have tickets for the fall races as well but Vance is a football coach and can't go and won't let Amy go without him. So the fall races, we have to make do without them. So here is a recap of the Spring.

For the last couple of years we have gone to the spring races with Amy and Vance. Vance and Darrell have been friends since kindergarten and have LOTS of history, right Amy? Anyhoo, we always have a very good time, but this was the first race weekend that we took our camper. The boys took the camper up on Thursday night and almost blew away. If you remember, there were all kinds of tornadoes up in that area that night. When Amy and I called the next morning, the boys didn't even know that they were almost carried away to the Land of Oz. Amy and I finally arrived Friday around noon and picked up where the boys left off. Big and Rich were in concert Friday night so my sister and her family came and stayed with us. We had a Big and Rich time. There are actually photos of DW but I'm a little scared to post them because I might offend someone. Most of you have seen it already anyway - it would be old news. After the concert we headed back to the campsite for a bite to eat and then we were headed to the camping ground across the street where all the partying goes on. Vance and Darrell went ahead of us and Amy I followed later. We found Vance but DW disappeared. He did this again on Saturday night. Oh well, he doesn't know what fun he missed out on. Here are a couple of pictures that Vance the tourist took. I think Amy said he took hundreds of pictures but she weeded through them and sent these.

I love this picture of me and Amy. She is my complete opposite but we get along fabulous. I thank God everyday that Vance married her.

(You get my drift Amy?)

This is Vance in one of the tent shops.

Isn't this a cool picture - the track reflected in her sunglasses?

Amy, thanks for being such a great friend and making me remember how much fun we had. I have been smiling and laughing the whole time I wrote this. I think I am going to have to come see you guys, soon.

The Races

Eweee!!! I think I am about to get caught up from playing last weekend. My last load of clothes (it is actually rugs) are in the dryer, my floors are all mopped, the bathrooms are clean, and most of the furniture is dusted.

Here is Lisa waking up from her nap that she took Sunday morning before the races. She seemed to think that we sang too loud and had too much fun Saturday night and disturbed her beauty rest.

Here are two of my most favoritest people. Isn't Rylee a gorgeous Jeff Gordon fan?
And of course here is me and Rylee taking a picture of ourselves. Rylee was instructing me how to do this since teenagers seem to love to take pictures of themselves.

Sorry there aren't more pictures - like of DW, but we had a wonderful time and met some great people (they were our camping neighbors). We basically ate every meal with them. We hadn't planned great big cookouts or anything so we were going to have sandwiches basically all weekend. But as luck would have it, we set up camp next to people who LOVE to cook and do a darn good job at it. Friday morning we had breakfast tacos (either I was really hungry or they were really good), Saturday morning we had breakfast tacos again but they were delivered to our camper with hot coffee, Saturday night was steak night, and Sunday morning we had made to order omelets with bacon, sausage, onions, bell pepper, mushrooms, cheese, the works. DW and Lisa made bloody marys for the cook since we were such moochers.

We are very much looking forward to the spring race and for our new friends to meet up with our old friends, Vance and Amy.

Cinderella is going to sign off for now and see if she can make it to the ball tonight.

Perfect 10 and other nonsense

Henlee had her 9month well-baby checkup yesterday (but she is 10 months old). She is 28 inches long, 21 lbs, 10 oz., has 4 teeth with more on the way. Loves banana nut bread or whatever her Daddy is eating. Hates when I put her down or leave the room. She is definitely more opinionated now.

Reagan went to the doctor yesterday with her heel/achilles tendon. Dr. Robbye says Reagan is very flat footed and her achilles tendon is very tight. She is sending us to a podiatrist. My nephew went through this last year. I hope we can get this fixed because it really hampers her ability to run.

Darrell and I are headed to the races this weekend while the girls stay with my Mom, Becky, and Joy.

Go Vote

Reagan is very interested in the Election this year. She has watched the debates with us, likes to visit about McCain vs. Obama, and pays particular attention to the political signs. Since she has been so involved, I took her to vote with me today. I showed her the ballot and explained how I could vote for all the Republican candidates if I wanted by marking one box or I could vote for each individual in each race. I particularly showed her McCain/Palin and Obama/Biden and our candidates for the State Representative seat and the Sheriff's race. So much history will be made this year, whether it is a black president (or Muslim?) or a woman as a vice-president (Go Sarah), that I hope to make this memorable for Reagan.

I am very proud of her for taking such an interest. It couldn't possibly be because I am so outspoken at home could it? At any rate I am trying my hardest to raise a good American and a true blue RED Republican.

Tag, I'm It

Okay, I have played along. This is the 6th picture from the 6th file in my computer at work. I was actually going to be ambitious and post one from my work computer and one from my computer at home but as you can see that didn't happen.

This picture is of Reagan and my niece, Rylee, when we were at the airport waiting to go to Disney World. They are looking at a book about Disney World. Rylee had already been there several times so she was giving Reagan a quick orientation and deciding what rides and shows they wanted to see first. This brings back great memories because we had such a great time.

I have no friends (who blog who haven't already been tagged) to tag so I am the last mohican on this end.

84

Last night Henlee and I went to my Aunt Wyvonne's house while Reagan and her Daddy went to the football game. My Aunt Ethel and her husband Osteen came in and my cousin Boobie and his wife came over to play 84. I love to listen and watch them play. I like to play too but Henlee was a bit needy. I learned a little bit more German, learned that the preachers back in the "old days" were very adamant about the kids learning the Catechism, Psalms, and songs, and that I love to spend time with my aunts and uncles. I can remember back when I was a kid and there was a birthday in the community. All the families would get together, eat sandwiches and homemade pies and then play 84. My Grandma was the best 84 player I know of. She knew what everyone had in their hand before a domino was played. Now my Uncle H. C. likes to go pistol and their is no one that pistols like him - its like PISSSTOLL. I was very happy that I was able to take Henlee over there to visit with her great aunts and uncles (by the way these are brothers and sisters that married each other, maybe when my sister guest blogs for me about the cousin reunion she will explain how all this works) and to remember the good days but also to make new memories for my girls.

LIke Mother Like Daughter

Just a warning Lisa. You better go use the bathroom before you read this because I wouldn't want you to wet your pants.

Just a little background info for those of you who don't know me so well: When I was younger, my Mom used to hate to take me shopping because I would not buy a pair of pants without buying a shirt to go with them. Even if they were the best fitting, most fashionable, my most favoritest pair ever. When I wore that pair of pants, only the shirt that I bought (at the same time as the pants of course) would be worn. Regardless if they were black or blue and regardless if I had four different shirts that would match. I was the same way with hand-me-downs. If pants came without a shirt, I might as well not keep them because I wasn't going to wear them.

Present Day: Normally Reagan will pick her clothes out herself the night before. Last night, because we had soccer practice, we were a little later getting home. While the girls were in the bath tub, I went and picked out a pair of navy shorts with a white shirt for her to wear today. This morning when she goes to put on the clothes that I picked out for her she informs me that and I quote, "I am not going to wear those shorts unless I wear the shirt that goes with them." And being the great Mom that I am, I said okay, turned and smiled to myself. If I wasn't sure before that this was my child, I am now. Gotta Love It.

39 and Barely Holding

My man turned 39 today and what a great man he is. Reagan and I sang Happy Birthday to him in bed this morning and we gave him a book on the Rolling Stones. He was super excited (I think). I'm not going to try and list 39 things that I like and love about DW because I would only hit the top of the iceberg by only listing 39 things. Just know that we love you more and more each day and as Reagan told him this morning,"Daddy I love you more than the moon and stars above but not more than Jesus."

P. S. It is also Doug and Tammy Wagner's 15th anniversary today.

TV Junkie

I am a TV junkie during the fall. In fact it is very hard for me to watch all the shows I do allow myself to watch: Tuesday: NCIS; Wednesday: The Practice; Thursday: Grey's Anatomy and ER; Sunday: Amazing Race and The Unit. Believe it or not, I have cut some extraordinary shows like Desperate Housewives and Survivor, I just don't have enough time. I thank God every night for DVR or else I couldn't watch what I do. Darrell get's pretty perturbed when I have the TV in the bedroom and in the living room tied up recording something - like last Thursday night when Grey's was a 2 hour premiere and ER premiered at 9:00. I know my Mom is going to read this and not feel sorry for me anymore that I can't seem to get all my housework done but I so enjoy watching these shows. During the summer we don't even turn the TV on except to catch the news every now and then. Gotta go and see if Meredith and Derek are going to be together at last.

Daredevil and wrecking ball

I know everyone thinks Henlee is so cute and adorable, but her personality is starting to shine through. Her new thing is to climb on her bouncy seat. I snapped this picture the other night and when she caught me looking at her she squealed with delight as if to say, "See Mom look what I can do now." She is also into shredding any paper she can get her hands on. This will keep her entertained for hours - maybe not hours but in babyworld 5-10 minutes is equivalent to an hour. Her other new activity which has earned her the nickname, wrecking ball, is to undo everything. The magazine rack, her diaper bag, her toy crate, anything that has stuff in it.

Henlee brings so much joy and happiness to all of us. Nothing makes my heart swell more than to hear my two girls laughing and playing. Even though they are 7 years apart, they are already developing that bond that only sisters can have. I would have been just as happy with a boy, but I prayed that if God was to bless us with another child that He would give Reagan a sister so that she could give and receive the love that only sisters can share. I should know because He gave me the best sister.

Fun at the Lake

On Saturday afternoon, after soccer, the tractor show, etc., we headed to the lake with Beck and Dave and Beck's parents. Oh yea, we took the kids too. Of course, Madison and Reagan had a fabulous, ginormous fun time tubing. Beck's parents have a pontoon boat which was perfect for Henlee. This was her first boating experience and I think she will go again, especially if Granny Joyce brings bananas, chips, and crackers. We stayed out until dusk and then we loaded up and stopped at Gustine for steaks. Thank God for friends, especially friends with fun toys (just kidding, I really am not that shallow).

I think this kid is going to turn in to a monkey as many bananas as she eats.

Domestic Diva

Soccer Season began this past weekend. Reagan's team didn't fair so well but she had a good time. My house is always the cleanest during soccer or basketball season because it forces me to stay at home at least through Saturday morning. After the soccer game on Saturday, we went straight home and I started cleaning. Reagan invited a friend over and they played all afternoon. Of course, Henlee decided she didn't want to take a nap on Saturday, but between Reagan watching and playing with her, I was able to complete the daunting task. Then I invited our friends Dave and Beck over for my once-a-year dinner - chicken enchiladas. We always eat at Beck and Dave - usually once a week. They have a great patio, the kids play outside, and Beck will grill something. She loves to cook. I told her she has more patience for cooking than I do. Our house was buzzing with activity Saturday night. The big boys were watching Smoky and the Bandit for the one millionth time, the kids were playing with all of Henlee's toys (they make lots of noise), and Beck and I were trying to visit. We had a wonderful time. On Sunday we all went to Church. The Men's Club at Church was having a fish fry so I made meringue pies - chocolate and buttermilk. Then I folded and put away ALL the laundry - yea me.

For people who know me really well, know this is a lot of domestic activity for me in one weekend. However, next weekend, Darrell is going to the drag races in Ennis and I think I am due a trip somewhere, somehow.




R
Henlee's first soccer game.








My meringue pies.

Hey Mom

Hey Mom. This is how Reagan starts every sentence when she is talking to me. My response back is always hey Reagan. But then I got to thinking about this, and guess what? When I have something to tell Reagan, guess what I say? Hey Reagan! Just another minute example of how influential our actions and words are to our children.

Happy Birthday Bryce Charles

Our boy turns twelve today. I remember the day he was born too. They induced Lisa so we weren't in any big hurry. They hooked her up and about two she was still sitting up in bed writing thank yous and birth announcements. I decided to go run some errands and my Mom went to get Rylee from Preschool. When I got back at 3:00 the lights were off and she was not doing well at all. I can still remember rubbing her feet with Freesia lotion from Bath & Body works to help her through the pain. (Man, that stuff smelled good.) Of course she didn't get her epidural in time to do any good. Lisa kept telling the nurse she was ready to push and the nurse finally checked her. Needless to say, she immediately called the Dr. He came squealing aroung the corner in his BMW and arrived just in time to catch Bryce Charles. Bryce weighed in at 9lbs 7 oz. Quite the change from Rylee who was a mere 6lbs 3 oz. My heart grew a little bigger on this day as well. Here are twelve reasons why we love Bryce.

1. He hangs out with us girls all the time and doesn't really seem to mind. He is going to make some girl a great husband. Of course, we probably won't ever think anyone is good enough for him.

2. He loves Reagan and Henlee like his own sister. Wait a minute, I have seen how he and Rylee fight so maybe he loves them more than his sister.

3. He is cuddlely.

4. He is very perceptive.

5. When he decides to do something, he does it right the first time. He will sit, watch, and study for a long time and then when he tries it, he masters it.

6. He loves to shop. This is a by-product of hanging out with us girls all the time.

7. He thinks I am hilarious.

8. He loves to go hunting and fishing.

9. He is a good friend.

10. He loves his Mom. There is something about little boys and their moms.

11. His laugh is infectious.

12. He is a great conversationalist.

My prayer for you today is that God would continue to bless you and keep you safe at all times. That God continue to guide you in your daily life so that others can witness God's love through you. And thank you God for blessing us with Bryce.

Red

Red is my favorite color. When I see this color I see strength, courage, and sacrifice. If any of you watched Gov. Sarah Palin's speech last night at the Republican National Convention, you should be seeing red. WOW! I was blown away. It has only been in the last 10 years that I started identifying myself with a particular party. I was always for the best person for the job. However, I have a hard time getting past all the Democratic ideals (and lack of morality) and have declared myself a Republican through and through. But if I hadn't been a Republican before last night, I would be this morning. She doesn't just talk a good game, she delivers.

The media and the Democraps (oops I meant Democrats) need to lay off her seventeen year old daughter Bristol. As a parent you do the best you can to teach your children to make the right choices, but in the end the child is the one to make that choice. So Bristol evidently wasn't thinking too wisely at some point and is now pregnant. It happens. The best thing to do now is to embrace that child and the baby growing inside her. That seems to be what Gov. Palin and her husband have done. I wonder how many of her critics have been in the same situation and terminated the pregnancy so that it wouldn't tarnish THEIR image ?

I almost cried last night when she was talking about her family and their sweet special needs child, Trig. (Did you see the daughter holding him and spit-wiping his hair?) Through my sister, I have been exposed to some very sweet special needs children. They make you look at the world a little differently and make you focus on the important things.

This lady is just like the rest of us. She started out at PTA and look where she is now. (Hey Lisa, you maybe could be the next Pres and I could be your Chief of Staff. Oh, that's right I already have that title.) Seriously though, John McCain and the Republican Party hit a homeroom when they picked Sarah Palin to be his running mate.

The Three Rs

Running - Saturday Reagan was very ambitious and ran the 1 mile in the Dove Festival 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run. I was very proud of her. She tells me she didn't run very much of it, but she came in running. She finished and that is what counts.

Reagan and her cousin Emily

Rodeo - Friday night Becky and I took the girls to the rodeo for a girls night out, while the Dads kept the babies. We had a very good time but both the girls didn't think it lasted near long enough.


What a fun weekend. I think this could have been one of the best Dove Festivals we have had. We went to the rodeo again Saturday night with the entire family. I think Lisa spent most of the time in the Saddle shop with Henlee. It was nice and cool in there for a little nap.

Relaxation - Sunday we hung around the house and did nothing. My Mom cooked breakfast for all of us and then we watched tennis and beach volleyball. Misty May and Kerry Walsh got beaten.

I am at home today celebrating labor day. I have been to Wal-Mart, to the school for lunch with Reagan, home again to unload and put clothes in the washer, and I am about to leave again to go get Reagan. Staying home is definitely more labor intensive than my regular job - you know the one that give me a paycheck every week:}

Hope everyone had as great a weekend as we did.

Thankful Thursday

I haven't posted a thankful Thursday in a very looooong time but I feel the need to count my blessing today, so here goes:

1. I am very thankful for my friend Vicki. When I arrived yesterday to pick Reagan up, she had cooked dinner for me. We had chicken tamales, queso, and a salad. It was absolutely delicious. Of course DW in all his wittiness, wanted to know if it was perro or gato. Vicki stopped by today and told me it was road kill.

2. I am thankful that Reagan loves second grade. Much less stressful than 1st - however it has only been 4 days. In a month or so I might need to edit this statement.

3. I am thankful for Basha and all her insight into creating a completely health person instead of just treating the symptoms. I am not knocking the medical doctors. I use them just as much, but I think Basha is a great compliment to their abilities and knowledge.

4. I am thankful for Iaka. That sounds very silly to be thankful for a dog but she is a great dog. When she comes in the house, she checks each room and then comes back and settles in front of the couch. We haven't seen any bad puppy habits yet - in-other words we haven't lost any clothes, furniture, or shoes. Also, she is very patient and kind to the girls.

5. Finally, I am very thankful for the family that God has blessed me with. A wonderful husband and two beautiful daughters. All of them together complete and compliment me.

1st Day of 2nd Grade

Oh the start of school. I'm not sure who is ever more nervous, Reagan or me. Actually, I don't think she was nervous at all. She was very excited to see her friends and make new ones. Her homeroom teacher, Mrs. LeJune, is new to second grade and to HISD. Her reading teacher is Mrs. Chapman who reminds me so much of my sister. She knows every kids name and tells all of them that she loves them. She makes me want to be in second grade. We are looking forward to a great year.

The day had to start a little earlier for me today than it has for the last 3 months. We had breakfast to cook, lunch to pack, pictures to take, and a sister to load up. For Reagan's first day of second grade she had a chocolate chip waffle for breakfast. She informed me that she would toast her own waffle for tomorrow because I evidently toasted it a little long and it was crunchy, not how she prefers it. For lunch I fixed the ultimate pb&j, string cheese, a can of mandarin oranges, and water. She advised me when I picked her up that the lunch was good, she just needed more of it.

No homework this week - God Bless the second grade teachers. So after work we were able to come home and play with Iaka. She was ready for a little attention and schooling of her own. We are working on sitting, laying, and coming on command. I explained to Reagan that Iaka is a lot like kids are at school. You can't teach for too long because they lose interest. You have to be focus on a particular skill and then move on before she loses interest. She seemed to understand this.

Henlee is still in her pajamas at school. (Lisa, I know you are mortified but I assure you that she put regular clothes on at Bobbie's.)I was very thankful that she slept until we were ready to leave. Otherwise, that throws a few kinks in my plans and timing.


This is the only picture I have with Reagan on any of her first days of school. I am always the picture taker. After school, Reagan and I played around with camera and took pictures of ourselves.

Reagan has always had her picture taken with Gus on her first day of school - even preschool. I thought it pretty cool that we weren't going to miss a year of a picture with our dog. Lucky you Iaka.

And of course, Reagan and her Daddy.

We always have to meet Mom and Joy for the first day of school. Thanks Mom and Joy for being such Reagan fans.
Now on to the 2nd day of 2nd grade.

Iaka

Meet our new family member Iaka (long i, a is silent, ka). Darrell and Reagan left on Friday around six, picked her up in Amarillo on Saturday, and made it back to Hamilton in 23 hours. She is a very gentle and kind dog and is great with the girls. We thought about getting her a companion, another German Shepherd in Abilene. However, Baton was very hyper and Darrell didn't think he would work well with our girls. Of course when they got back to Hamilton, Reagan and I took off to Alco for balls, tug-of-war rope, treats, and a brush. We are all very happy not to have just a plain ol' yard anymore.

13 Thing on My Mind

Okay, this came from a friend who wanted all of her bloggy friends to play along. You know me, I am always up for a good game.

Thirteen things that are on my mind today:

1. Which German Shepherd will we get - Baton in Abilene, Ima or Ipod in Princeton, or Iaka in Amarillo?

2. I can't believe that you can fall in love with a dog just by pictures from the internet.

3. I can't believe that we are actually considering paying this much for a dog.

4. What will Reagan's classroom look like?

5. Who will we see at meet the teacher tonight?

6. What is wrong with Henlee's mouth? I think it is thrush but Dr. Robbye doesn't think so. I hope the Nystatin and yogurt I am giving her will do the trick.

7. I have got to clean my house. It is very overwhelming right now. We haven't been home on the weekend in 3 weeks.

8. What do I need to buy at the grocery store for Reagan's lunch?

9. What is my sister doing right now? I don't like it when I can't call her and get a response right away.

10. I pray my sister has a great year in 4th grade. I hope her co-teachers take their jobs as seriously as she does and don't use her.

11. Do Henlee and I go with Darrell and Reagan to look at the dogs this weekend or should we just stay home?

12. Should I make an appointment to have my knee looked at?

13. Why do I keep blogging? Do I like to just see my thoughts typed out or what because, I don't think anyone reads this thing except my Mom when I tell her I have updated it.

Okay, I did it Amy, and IF ANYONE ELSE READS THIS THING, get busy and let us know what is on your mind.

Birthdays, Shopping, and Hot Tubs

Friday, August 15th, was Rylee's 15th birthday. It is absolutely unbelievable that she could be 15. I still remember the day she was born. Darrell and I hadn't even been married a month when she joined our family. I was in the delivery room when she was born and I have loved her ever since. She is a remarkable young lady who is not influenced by peer pressure, who is a great witness of God's unconditional love, and has her priorities in order. Of course, I don't believe children are born with these capabilities, so kudos to her parents, especially her Mom.

Rylee and her Momo waiting to be seated at Red Lobster. Rylee waited all day to go to Red Lobster to have the lobster bisque. Guess what? They no longer serve it. So she settled for clam chowder and shrimp trio. Yum - Yum!
Here is Rylee and Quinton blowing out their candles. Quinton is Bryce's good friend and he shares a birthday with Rylee. Quinton turned 12.
Happy Birthday Rylee!! I can't wait to see where we get to go for your 16th! Disney World? Cancun? Hawaii? OR Aleman, Texas?

On Saturday we all took off to Fort Worth for a little school shopping and new car seat shopping. As you can tell, Henlee was tuckered out. When we finally got back to Weatherford, we ate cheese, drank wine, and enjoyed Lisa's new hot tub - fabulous. Thanks guys for another wonderful weekend.