We Heart Chick Fil A

Long Time, No Post

2011-09-11T18:06:00.000-07:00

I have missed you blog. I took a self-imposed sabbatical from blogging. Not for any deep, spiritual reason. Just a bunch of reasons. And then the whole getting behind on blogging and I don't know how to catch up thing happened.

Honestly, the day after my last post we had some really sad news for our family. My sweet cousin Shannon passed away suddenly. It was such a shock--I still can hardly believe it. She was house-sitting (which she did often) and got sick and just died. I imagine it had something to do with her diabetes but we still don't know for sure.

I got to help clean out her apartment. It was a sweet way to learn a few things about her that I didn't know before. She was a list maker! She made budgets for everything--to make sure she could afford everything. She loved her preschoolers. She didn't like to clean her apartment. She loved the Lord with all of her heart.

She will be greatly missed by our whole family.

Shannon Crawford

I also had surgery the week after the funeral. You know, female stuff that included losing an ovary and whatnot. The recovery was not fun. July was not the month we had planned at all.

And do I even need to mention the heat? Dreadful. And that I gained about 15 pounds? Awful. But true. I guess that whole eat-what-you-want and don't-do-a-single-bit-of-exercise really can lead to weight gain. Who knew?

So I was a little down in the dumps some of the summer. I had fun with the kids for sure. We saw more movies than we planned. Watched more tv than I wanted. But we did almost everything we had on our big summer list! We went roller skating, to GattiTown, saw Cars 2, Winnie the Pooh, the Smurfs, went swimming at several pools, had sleepovers, etc. The two big ones we didn't get to are DisneyWorld and making a spy movie. Maybe someday!

I got to do something else really fun this summer. My best friend Jenny remodeled her home this summer. I got to help in almost every aspect of the remodel! So fun!!! I am actually hoping to do this "on the side" more and more. I will blog more about it soon. (I actually may start a new blog--if I can figure it out!) So here is a quick peek of the finished product. More to come! Thanks jenny for the opportunity to design and decorate your home. Loved it.

We took a mini family vacation to the Gaylord Texan late in the summer. The kids loved it! We met the Bindras for a day of fun at the water park at the Gaylord. Here are the kiddos! (Oh yeah, we left Hank with my folks. PTL)

These two are old pros at posing together. They are quick to hug and smile.

We have to keep telling these two to get closer and closer.

These two girls are really sweet friends. We are lucky to have all the Bindra girls.

And then the summer was over! It went by so fast. Except when it went so slow. :)

The kids were so excited to go back to school this year. We like our teachers and they each have friends in their class. What more can you ask for?

Lainey (3rd), Sam and Rhody (1st)

Next year boys!

After school. It was over 100 degrees.

I took a few pics of #2 and #4 this past weekend. They love each other!

The end. For now.

Catch up with photos. . .

2011-07-05T13:45:00.000-07:00

Who can believe it's July? We are having a great summer. We have been swimming, playing (indoors a lot), seen lots of movies, and enjoyed play dates.

We enjoyed some sweet treats! Hank and Clara love chocolate!

Happy Father's Day to Pops (Poppy!)! 14 grandkids think you Rock!

We did a week of VBS at LHUMC. The kids had such a great time. Here is Bo on Crazy Hair Day!

Another fun summer with Mrs. Debra! She is for sure the best swim teacher ever. We look forward to our two weeks with her all year long!

One of our dear Young Life friends Michelle (Meesh to the kids) got married to a great guy last month. Bo was the ring bearer and Kyle sang. It was such a great celebration. We have known Michelle for 14 years--since she was a sophomore in high school. We love her a lot!

Bo and Mary Elizabeth (gee gee).

Just a great pic of my mom and dad from the wedding!

We went to the annual 4th of July parade here in LH! My brothers and I used to be a part of this same parade-- 30 years ago. This year we were spectators and collectors of candy thrown to the crowd!

Sweaty boys. Rhody, Asher Davenport and Bo--waving to the LH football players or cheerleaders--can't remember which one.

Andy's family is in town visiting. Got a few pics of their precious children. Here is baby Andee Laine!

Asher -- my boys love playing with him. He is all boy. And a sweetheart.

This is Ayla. She is like a little pixie. So adorable. She is two and a half. Lainey wants to keep her with us. She is lighter than Hank --even though a year older.

Here are all the kids after the parade. The Bone girls, the Davenports and our 4 kids.
Man, it was HOT!
and fun of course.

Have you heard about the planking craze?
Here is our air plank with Rhody!

A fun day with Asher!

Lots more of summer to come!

Summer School

2011-06-18T11:29:00.000-07:00

This week Rhody and Lainey and I have been helping with a Summer school program for some precious kids that live in the Lake Highlands area. They are refugees from Burma.

We weren't really sure what to expect. L & R asked what these kids look like. I didn't know exactly how to explain it to them. Then we pulled into the complex and Rhody said, "Oh, maybe these kids look like Thue!" Thue is a boy that was in kindergarten at White Rock with Rhody.

Then about 5 minutes later as I was getting set up, Rhody said, "Mom! There is Thue!" (see cute picture below of Rhody and Thue). Rhody has been reading and writing with several boys this week--including Thue.

Lainey worked with some preschoolers this week. She even had to co-lead a group with another elementary aged child. They worked on letters, sounds and read stories so they could hear English. The picture below is 3 out of the 4 kids in Lainey's group. All of the kids in our group were so eager to listen and learn.

One day at the end of the lesson, I told a few of the boys that I would come back early the next day and bring a soccer ball. I really wasn't sure if they understood what I was saying. But they all showed up at 8:15 am ready to play soccer with Rhody.

These boys are waiting for their turn to get into the game.

What a fun week to get to know these boys. They are seriously wonderful children. It was great to help them read and even better to tell them that Jesus loves them.

Birthday Fun!

2011-06-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was jam packed with birthday and family fun! June 6th is Lainey's birthday and June 12th is Kyle's birthday. The last several years we have scheduled Lainey's party on Kyle's birthday. So that means a whole lot a nottin' for Kyle's birthday.

Our baby cousin Maddox was in town too! She is 10 months old and just precious. She got lots of hugs and kisses! She lives far away and so we treasure any time we can get with her!

Lainey had a roller skating party! It was fun (and easy)!

Sherry threw a last minute surprise party for Kyle at our house. She made one of her famous cakes! Thanks Sherry for helping celebrate Kyle. He was surprised!

Here are a few pics of Maddox. You just want to squeeze those cheeks!

All the Richardson grandchildren.

And one of Hank.

Kids dancing

2011-05-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

We were looking at some fun family YouTube videos today. (After we did some times tables, read some of War and Peace, memorized a sonnet or two--of course)

I came across this old one from Blair's birthday party a few years ago. Rhody is almost two. Lainey is 3 1/2. You will see Cobb, Charly and Sam Thomas as well. Bo was just a baby. Hank wasn't even a thought yet.

The quality is not good but you can see how much they love to dance. Rhody is the one you see first.

Also, I added the video of Bo at his program in the previous post.

Bye Bye Preschool.

2011-05-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

This is our last week of preschool for Bo and Hank. Sweet and sad. It is our 3rd year to have Mrs. Hopkins. We love her (and Mrs. Boekemel)!

A lot of people ask us if any of our children have any singing ability. The answer: we have no idea. Yes, they have their father's genes. They look a lot like him. But they have my no-singing-ability genes as well. Only time will tell.

I have no idea if Bo can actually sing. But he does enjoy the stage. Just take a look at the pics below. See video below!!!

We love you Bo!

Hot Head Hank

2011-04-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

We had a great Easter with the family. Well, minus the 15 mins that we took pictures. Hank was not having it today. Can you tell?

It actually hurt when he pulled my hair. Precious thing. See below for more examples of how much Hank enjoyed the pictures. His 17 year old cousin was at a loss of what to do with our angel baby Hank.

If you look really close, you can see cousin #14 made his debut in the cousin picture! Tribb Thomas is in the purple onesie. He did great for the pictures. He is really an angel baby!

It was so humid outside today. That is good for Hank's curls but the rest of us were sweating like pigs.

Look at the 5 girl cousins! They love each other a lot!

Elle was our model for trying to get the right lighting for the picture. Great smile Elle!

Here are all the big cousins. Man, it sure is easy getting a picture of them. They stand right where I ask them (the first time). They hug each other easily. They don't wail and throw themselves on the ground and demand a piece of cake. They just smile and look fabulous. We will be there someday. Right?

Cute Clara and Blair.

Happy Easter.

He is Risen!

Family update

2011-04-20T08:41:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update on things around here.

Rhody is doing better and better everyday. He is slowly getting back to school--a little everyday.

Actually, one of the sweetest moments happened yesterday at school. I took Rhody to class about an hour after school started. He had missed 7 days of school! His adorable classmates started clapping and cheering for him as we walked in! It was just precious. Rhody was a little embarrassed but loved it too.

Hank is doing great. He is thick and healthy. He talks constantly--but you can't understand anything he says. He leaves a huge mess in his wake. And he can be incredibly demanding of my attention. He drives me crazy at times. All of that. . . and I am still crazy about him.

Lainey is swimming along. Her favorite thing right now is to plan her birthday party. She spends about 6 months out of the year planning her party. The theme, the location, the colors, the girls to invite, the food that will be served, etc. To be honest, I am a little over planning her party. She likes to discuss it often. I am betting we end up with a roller skating party. I vote that over a swimming, cooking, movie watching, slumber party. I like a start and end time that fits within a 2 hour time period. But I let her keep dreaming and planning.

Bo is. . . Bo. Crazy and fun and loud and sweet and crazy. He is big into threatening me. "If you don't let me go outside, then I am not going to come out of my room for 100 days!" "If you don't let me eat that candy, then you are not my sweet mommy anymore." I tried to explain to him the concept of empty threats, but evidently he didn't understand.

Well, I have realized some unfortunate things about me today. It has been exactly a year since I signed up for my second triathlon with Team in Training. I was starting from scratch with my training. And with a 6 month old. A year later. . . I am back to that "scratch" point. All that training, down the proverbial drain.

And to continue that patheticness, I also realized that at this point, I color my hair more than I work out.

Sad but true.

That says a couple of things about me. I haven't been in the gym at all. And my hair is shockingly gray. And grows entirely too fast.

A couple of weeks ago I met a dad at the playground. We ended up knowing a few of the same people. Most of the people we had in common were from the triathlon. When I mentioned that I had also done the triathlon in the fall, he seemed absolutely shocked.

Shocked.

Somehow his first impression of me was that I wouldn't be the type of person that would do a triathlon.

I am slipping into a deep funk right now after writing all of this down. I think I might need some chocolate to help me out of it.

Where the heart is! (cheesy but true)

2011-04-15T19:17:00.000-07:00

After a long week, we are home!

Rhody was cleared to come home today. He had an Xray this morning that showed his pneumonia had not worsened in the last 24 hours. That is good news. He still has pneumonia. He is still on 3 different drugs to fight it. But we get to do that at home now.

No more IV (he hated that). The worst part of the whole thing for Rhody was the removal of the tape and the IV.
Children's Hospital was a great place to get the treatment Rhody needed. We had some great doctors and nurses everyday that we were there.

We are happy to be all together under one roof. We are so grateful for all of our friends and family that jumped at the opportunity to serve and encourage us. We feel loved! (and full--from some yummy treats)

We are still praying for Rhody. For a complete recovery.

And grateful that he got to take a shower. It had been like 5 days or something. Pewee!

Update #3--Thursday

2011-04-14T07:07:00.000-07:00

Hello from Children's Hospital.

We are still here. Rhody had a much better night. His fever got pretty high again yesterday. Since then he hasn't had a fever. He has been eating more and drinking more.

This is a regular occurrence down here. Rhody playing on the iPad. Angry Birds and Face Melter are his faves.

The IV is driving him crazy. They only have to administer meds in the evening but he still has to have it on/in all day. So he can't use his right arm. Good thing he is left handed.

We are about to head to the playroom here at Children's. He needs to get up and walk around some. It's good for his lungs.

We are watching the original Robin Hood movie--the cartoon one of course. Man, those old cartoons are so slow moving. Rhody doesn't seem to care!

What have I learned today? That I really like the pale pink shade of Reese's wedding dress.

I haven't done much today. But I did get to brush my teeth and change clothes. That is a step up from yesterday.

We will keep you posted.

Update #2

2011-04-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

It's now 10 o'clock on Wednesday. Rhody has just perked up a little bit. I think the Motrin kicked in and he feels a little better. He ate some jello and is watching some more tv! Kyle just came back to the hospital.

We will be here until tomorrow--at the very least. He is taking IV antibiotics once every 24 hours plus an oral antibiotic. Today we will just be hanging out at the hospital and resting. He does have some fluid along the outer edges of his left lung. We are hoping the medicine alone will get rid of that!

We are so grateful for all the offers to help with our other children or with anything else we might need. Thank you so much. We are doing ok right now.

On a lighter note, I did learn this morning that if a crocodile gets too cold--it can't move. To warm it up, you should throw warm water on the crocodile. But who would want to do that? Gracias, Diego and sister Alissa.

What have you learned today? :)

Thank you for your prayers. We want Rhody to feel better. For the pneumonia to go away---sooner than later. But no matter what, we trust in the Lord and His great love for us. For Rhody.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

My favorite part of that verse is when God says if I pray--he will listen. I know that for sure.

It's Not Just Strep

2011-04-13T00:57:00.000-07:00

Long story short.

Rhody has pneumonia. We went children's hospital on Saturday and discovered his pain in his chest was actually pneumonia. We changed medicine but he really never got a lot better. He got a fever today (Tuesday) so the doctor wanted us to go back to the hospital.

It's now 3:00 am and rhody and I just got to his room. He has slept off and on. They have him on IV antibiotics to try to fight this infection. The good news is that the latest Xray shows that the pneumonia is in a more layered pattern rather than in small pockets. It is much more difficult to heal when it is in pockets. Usually there needs to be a surgical procedure done to drain those pockets. So we are hopeful that it wont develop into a pocket formation.

We are grateful for your prayers! Rhody is not thrilled to be here. Although he seems fine right now He is watching Little Einteins--at 3:00 o'clock in the morning.

Hopefully we can both get a little sleep. What are the chances that they have an extra ambien lying around?

Update tomorrow. Or a little later today.

Medicine 4 Ways

2011-04-08T13:47:00.000-07:00

This has never happened in our house but all 4 kids are sick. They have strep. That was a fun doctor's appointment with all 6 of us in a room. And Bo was in rare form. His crazy came out.

Rhody is the most sick. He feels awful and has slept a ton. We have meds now so hopefully all will be well in 24 hours. Or at least moving in the right direction.

Like my subject matter for practicing on aperture and ISO? It's our world right now.

And that makes 14!

2011-04-08T07:11:00.000-07:00

Rob and Haley had their sweet baby Tribb yesterday morning!

He is precious. We are all so glad to finally meet him and hold him. His name is Robert Tribble Thomas. He is already greatly loved!

This is Charly looking up at Mommy and baby Tribb. She will be a great big sister.

That makes 14 grandchildren for my parents. Ages 19-1 day. 5 girls. 9 boys. 12 blue eyes. 1 brown eyed child. 1 undetermined. So fun. So glad you are here Tribb!

Game Day

2011-04-02T15:19:00.000-07:00

If you are wondering what we did today or what we will be doing for the next month of Saturdays, here it is.

You will see that Bo is always willing to pose for a picture. Even in the middle of the game.

Big brothers!

The beginning of T-ball for Bo. He was wanting a little more action! (like soccer)

Rhody's favorite "move" is the pull-back. Here it is!

Mommy Makeover #3

2011-03-30T05:22:00.000-07:00

Well, it's the post you have all been waiting for. At least 3 of you! And me for sure.

I love a good makeover. Seriously, it's one of my favorite things ever. (kind of weird, I know that)

It has been a long time since I posted a makeover so I was anxious to get started.

There is an added feature to this makeover. I am "practicing" my photography skills. I borrowed a lens from my brother Rob. Thanks Rob. And now I must purchase the lens for sure! I used my basic editing skills on the pics as well.

My Mommy Makeover victim this time is . . . Jennifer Jenkins!

She is my neighbor and our kids love to play together. She has three precious boys that my boys (especially Bo) just love. Her Shep and my Bo are two peas in a pod. They love to laugh, play the Wii, wrestle and laugh some more.

Another interesting fact is that Jenn and I actually went to high school together! Go Cats. I am a year older than Jenn but we knew each other--more like we knew of each other. Rob probably knew her better than I did.

In fact, I thought it would be fun to take a look at both of us back when we met. Let me set the scene. I was driving a baby blue, stick shift Nissan Pulsar. I had a variety of musical interests: Guns N Roses, Information Society, U2, Whitney Houston, Depeche Mode. I owned acid washed jeans, shoulder pads, navy blue eyeliner, Keds, and lots of obnoxiously large and sparkly earrings. Fashion was about wearing over sized tops, pleated pants with tapered legs (super flattering), and lots of makeup.

And hair? The bigger the better. Bangs had to be high. Perms had to be scrunched. Hair was damaged. Hot Sticks, spiral curling irons, sponge rollers, hot rollers, Aussie spray, Stiff Stuff, teased and highlighted.

Jenn and I were no exception. We had some awesome 80's hair. I have proof below!

Missy circa 1990

Nice shoulder pads and brooch. I never ever wore that brooch -- except for that picture! You have to admit, that was some awesome hair. And such a natural pose. I often lay like that to watch television or read to the children.

Jenn circa 1991

Jenn sort of reminds me of Cindy Mancini in this pic. She just needs a white leather outfit she borrowed from her mom to impress the other kids that then gets stained at a party which means she has to date Dr. McDreamy to be able to pay for it. You look awesome Jenn!

Back to the makeover.

Let me make something very clear. Jenn did NOT need a makeover. I needed a someone to play dress up with. She is a beautiful girl. She has her own style. She likes to shop and knows her body and what looks good on her. This was more like me playing dress up with Jenn. She let me do her hair and makeup and pick out her clothes.

Here are the official BEFORE pics.

Here are the AFTER pics!

The Skinny cargo pant is a good purchase for the spring. I ran to Target the morning of our "shoot" and picked up this pair for Jenn. She has a great figure. She has small hips and great legs. Shopping for her was super easy. I just picked anything that was cute and would look awful on me--knowing it would look fabulous on Jenn! Actually, pretty much anything would look great on Jenn.

I like this shot. The metal sheeting draws your eye right to Jenn's face.

I wasn't able to get a good shot of Jenn's shoes. But they are super cute. Definitely go to TJ Maxx to look for some affordable and fashionable shoes.

The cream colored crocheted dress was a resale shop find of Jenn's. The outfit below is a great representation of Jenn's style. Her favorite leather jacket (steel gray), the dress and her cowboy boots. Casual, eclectic and cool. I coined a phrase for her style. Rocker Granola Chic.

I am pretty sure Stacy and Clinton will use that phrase any day now.

Easy breezy smiling Jenn.

Did I mention the nicest thing Jenn ever did for me? I moved into the neighborhood when I was pregnant with Hank. Jenn had just had her son Shaw. She offered to loan me her nice pair of maternity jeans for the rest of my pregnancy. Isn't that so sweet? Like I could ever fit into her maternity jeans--even not pregnant. Seriously. But she offered anyway.

I knew I was going to like being friends with Jenn.

Thank you for being a fun makeover Jenn.

Stay tuned. I do have plans for another makeover soon.

Happy Birthday Pops!

2011-03-28T05:14:00.000-07:00

I don't want to brag or anything, but my Dad (Pops) is awesome. He is kind, encouraging, generous and giving. He is the biggest believer in me and my kids. My children adore him. All of his grandchildren adore him. Hank specifically is obsessed with him. Thank you Dad for loving me and my family so well. It is one of our greatest blessings for sure.

(thanks Rob for making the video)

Desert Storm: A Love Story?

2011-03-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

It was exactly 20 years ago that our country sent troops to Iraq. Remember?

As I was packing up my suitcases, getting a perm and preparing to leave home for my first semester at UT, President Bush sent a bunch of our troops to Iraq because of some crazy guy named Saddam Hussein.

I lived in a large dorm (SRD) in Austin. A girl in our dorm had a friend in the military and asked a bunch of us to write a letter to the troops.

So being the patriotic 18 year old that I was, I immediately wrote a letter to a soldier. It was a generic letter of thanks--not addressed to anyone. I kind of forgot about it to be honest.

Until later on that fall, I received a letter from a soldier! I was so thrilled. I was just excited that someone had received my letter. Plus, this soldier was incredibly thankful for my letter--and all the letters to his buddies.

His name was Matt. He was in the very first group (platoon?) of Marines that were sent to Iraq. He was from California. He seemed very nice and grateful. Poor speller but nice.

So I wrote him back. (Remember, this is before email and texting) And then I decided to keep writing him--not just waiting for his letters. It would take at least 3 weeks to get letters back and forth. I thought he might need more encouragement than that. I sent some magazines. And gum. Anything that I could think of that would be interesting to him.

I looked forward to checking my mail everyday. It was fun to get letters from Matt. It was a light-hearted stuff. I learned a little bit about him. He learned a little bit about me.

I sent him a small care package to him. It had a disposable camera in it. I told him to take pictures and send it back so I could get it developed. (Remember--1991) However, he took the camera to Saudi Arabia and got it developed and then sent me the pictures.

He was tall and blonde and really cute. Well, news spread fast throughout our little world in SRD. Lots of girls had written letters to soldiers. But none were corresponding as frequently as Matt and I were. And I had pictures! And he was cute! Lots of girls were interested in my relationship with Matt.

Can't you see it now? A city girl in her freshman year at the University of Texas meets tall, blonde Marine who bravely defends our freedom in a foreign land. They meet, fall in love and . . . live happily ever after. We had all just watched Pretty Woman 73 times--my story seemed quite possible!

Did I mention that I was still dating my high school boyfriend? Yeah. I somehow never mentioned my soldier letters to my boyfriend. That's the beginning of a healthy relationship.

Wow--this is taking forever to tell the story.

Fast forward a little bit.

He sent a Christmas card and some small gifts. I got a collect call from Saudi Arabia on Valentine's evening at like 2 in the morning. I was on the other line with my boyfriend (almost ex-boyfriend). And then had to tell him I had to click to the other line because it was a soldier from Iraq that he didn't know about. (Wow. I had some great relationship skills back then)

Anyway, if you remember correctly. We invaded Iraq the first week of March in 1991. It took just a few days for the war to end. I knew Matt would be the first to invade. I watched the TV coverage constantly. We all did. My whole dorm was invested in this soldier.

Then I heard nothing for 3 weeks. I knew the conflict was over. There had been a few casualties. But no names released. I was worried a little bit. But I still was able to manage going to class 2 hours a day and work on my tan at the dorm pool.

Then I got another phone call. It was Matt! He was safe. Actually, he was also the first group sent home! He called from California.

I can't remember too many details. One memory I have is laying out by the pool with a bunch of girls and talking all about Matt. He told me he was going to come to Texas in the summer. We could meet. He wanted to take me out.

We talked a couple of times. He seemed nice on the phone as well. I was looking forward to meeting him.

Then one time I called him. I know, I know--I should have listened to my parents. Never call a boy.

I called the base. That's the number he gave me. I now realize that is a little strange. He didn't live at the base exactly. But I didn't know that so I called.

The conversation went something like this:

"Hello."
"Is Matt ____ there?"
"Matt ____?"
"Yes. Matt told me I should call him at this number."
"Oh, Matt isn't here right now. Have you tried him at home?"
"No, I don't have his number."
"I can give it to you. He lives in Married Housing."

What did he say? Why would Matt live in Married housing?

Once again, I'm 18. Naive. Confused.

So with the help of one of my friends, I called that number. Well, she called that number. A woman answered! I can't remember what my friend said but she got the woman to confirm that she was Matt's wife!!!

We hung up. We prayed that they didn't have the new call return phone feature *69! (they didn't)

Well, that's how it ended. Well, that and I did talk to Matt once and let him have it. He didn't seem to think it was that big of a deal. So he had forgotten to mention that he was married. No biggie. So he had said he wanted to come to Texas to take me out. To say thanks. No biggie.

I might have been 18 and naive. But not stupid. That was the last time I ever talked to him.

Not quite the love story people dream about.

The End.

Spa Day for Mommy

2011-03-15T18:15:00.000-07:00

What a great day I had today!

I got my hair colored today. A warm chocolate brown that deliciously covers my gray hair.

Then a hair cut-- a trim really. And a deep conditioning treatment. (Can you say split ends?) And then a blow out.

And a deep cleansing facial followed by a make up application.

Oh, and a manicure.

And lunch with people I love!

I am not super girly--but I love a day of beauty. Seriously love it.

You know what? After reading back this post, I realize that I might have misled you.

I did all those things listed above. But. . . I never left my house.

Thanks to Nice N Easy #6 and some protective gloves, my hair is colored. I trimmed my own hair. Bangs and the ends and a little off the layers. And the blow out was me too. I even got out my hot rollers and added a bit of volume.

When I say facial, I mean I used my ClariSonic cleaning brush to deep clean my face (while in the shower--so a "steam clean" as well).

I then applied a moisturizer and a fresh coat of make up.

And by manicure, I mean I took off a 2-week old coat of taupe nail polish that had chipped away.

Did I mention that all 4 of my kids were here the whole time? Hank took a good nap and the kids played upstairs together. And I worked really fast.

Plus, think of the money I saved! Literally, hundreds of dollars. $200 for a cut, color, condition and blow out. $100 for a facial and makeup application. $40 for a manicure. And about $50 for childcare. Plus tip for all those things.

Kyle, your welcome babe. I am such a thrifty wife. :)

Here is one of my lunch buddies from today! Me and the kids went to Picasso's for a pizza (I had a coupon!). Aunt Marian is so frustrated at my grammar right now.

Who Am I?

2011-03-07T12:09:00.000-08:00

So I have been thinking about stuff lately.

Why do I have so much gray hair? When do you use "gray" and when do you spell it "grey?" What's the difference?

Back to my point.

I am quickly approaching the end of my 30's -- in about a year and a half. A lot has happened in my 30's. I had all of my children. I did 2 triathlons. I moved twice. I got lots of gray hair.

You know how people like to sum up decades of our lives with what we learned about ourself during that decade? Well, some people do I guess.

So I think my teens were pretty typical. I was transitioning from being a daughter and sister to being Missy. I was pretty achievement oriented. I was into sports--mainly soccer. I was into school. Making good grades was important to me. Pretty good self confidence. Thought I could do a lot things.

My twenties were all about really figuring out the kind of person I wanted to become. And then try to become that person. I did a lot of ministry with YoungLife. Lots of kids. Met most of my closest friends--including Kyle and Jenny.

Then I turned 30. I had my first baby. And then another and another and another. Did I mention the gray hair?

But another thing that I realized lately. My 30s is also about figuring out what I am NOT. Evidently, I am not a lot of things I thought I was.

I am not as athletic as I thought. Or maybe I should say I am not the athlete that I thought I was. I gotta be honest, when I think back to my teens--I thought I was one of the most athletic girls in school. I was no Karen Warner or anything but I did play varsity soccer as a sophomore. Which means exactly nothing as a 38 year old woman with 4 children and desire to not do anything too physically strenuous.

I am not a "get things done" kind of girl. You know the person I am talking about. When their name is attached to something, you know it will be done well, on time, with no mistakes. The kind of person other people like to put in charge of things. I am usually that person only by default at times or if it involves hair styling skills. I have a few friends like this (Sarah & Rebecca to name of couple) and I am in awe of them. I can blame the kids (which I do at times) but who are we kidding--it's not the kids. The only funny thing is. . .I thought at some point in my life, I WAS the "get things done" girl. Now, if by "get things done" you mean two things, then I might qualify.

Now that I am getting closer to forty, I can not just eat whatever I want and let my fabulous metabolism do its magic--like when I was younger.

Just kidding. I was never that girl with the great metabolism. Not at 23. Not at 18. Not even at 13.

Evidently, I am not a reader, I am not competitive, I am not a great cook, I have no marketable skills (unless a business degree from UT from 1994 when Al Gore had just invented the internet counts).

I am interested in a few things (hair, make up, photography, design--you know, the deep things in life) but master of none.

Don't misunderstand, I am not down on myself. The realization of these things has just hit me lately. The Lord is good. He let me believe for most of my life that I could do almost anything. My Dad helped in that area too. But I can't. Never could. I don't need to be great at everything. I can be awful at somethings. Just not the important things.

Wife and mother and friend. I just need to focus on those things. (But wait, that's more than two things!)

Did I mention that my skin is aging like crazy since Hank was born? That's another whole boring post.

Lily. Age 7.

2011-03-04T18:07:00.001-08:00

Lily. Age 7. a photo by missyandkyle on Flickr.

Happy Birthday Lily!

I remember the day you were born. It rained a lot. And American Idol was on. We were so glad to meet you that day!

We love you!

Gracie and Rhody

2011-03-04T17:59:00.001-08:00

Gracie and Rhody a photo by missyandkyle on Flickr.

I am working on linking my Flickr account to my blog. Let's see if this works.

A New Lens on Life

2011-03-01T20:44:00.001-08:00

Rob let me borrow his lens for my camera. Well, it's officially my dad's camera.

So thanks to both of you for letting me use all your nice photography equipment!

Here are a few pics of Hank that I took today. I will have more photos to post soon I hope.

Also, a Mommy Makeover is making a come back!! Should be able to post soon.

Chances are that Hank is opening his mouth to either a) eat anything or b) say "Momma!" for the 537th time that day. Precious.

The next two photos have been edited with Pioneer Woman actions in photoshop.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T18:31:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Valentine's Day a little different this year. Kyle and I went to a movie together yesterday.

But today we celebrated with our kids. He took Lainey to see the Justin Bieber movie and had dinner with her. They had so much fun. She really loves that time alone with Kyle. She remembers details from some of their dates from 3 years ago! She looks just like her Daddy. She loves to give gifts to her friends and family--also just like her Daddy.

I took the boys out for a Valentine's date. We headed to Top Golf for a mean round of miniature Golf. What great weather! It was a lot of fun. Luckily, Will and Allison Caire did a swap with me. I took their two oldest boys with mine to play golf. They took Hank. Evidently, Hank took to Will. He tends to prefer some of the men in his life. Thanks Will and Alli!

I couldn't get a great shot. But you get the picture. (Is that a pun of some sort?)

I took all 3 boys to Picasso's for some pizza. It went pretty well. I think they saw (and heard in my voice) the urgency of a speedy delivery of our meal. We kept the milk and crackers flowing for Hank. And Bo only fell backwards in his chair once. Luckily it wasn't Rhody. His screaming and crying and gnashing of teeth might have caused a bit of a scene.

We had a really great time. I am exhausted. We love you kiddos!

Happy Birthday Rhody!

2011-01-31T05:00:00.000-08:00

My first born boy is 6 years old.

He came 4 weeks early. He cried a lot in the first few months. Praise God for swaddling and sound machines.

He is a precious boy. He still cries easily. He has a sweet nature about him. He plays well with all of his siblings. He is a bit quirky. He loves sports. Loves to play sports. Loves to watch sports. Loves to talk about sports. He has great rhythm and loves to dance.

We are crazy about this kid.

Quality Stuff

2011-01-04T18:51:00.000-08:00

Don't worry, the title is not referring to any of my silly bantering that I usually do on the blog! That is for another day. I need to tell you about how I was up at 1:30 am on Christmas morning taking a shower to clean vomit out of my hair. What a teaser, I know.

But seriously, I just wanted to give a shout out to our friends Sarah and Christman Fifer and their company. Christman is very talented. He can make beautiful furniture, great-looking frames and really anything you need for your house! And he is a contractor. So if you need a new kitchen or bathroom or 2nd story--he is your guy!

Here are just a few pic of their great stuff! Click here to go to their blog.

Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!

2010-12-20T07:59:00.001-08:00

Today is my Mom and Dad's wedding anniversary!

We honored them by making a memory/photo book for them. Family and friends wrote sweet messages to them. And we dug up old pictures that we (Rob and Blair) scanned in to make a great book.

I love you mom and dad!

Here are a few of my favorite pics!

2010-12-17T17:36:00.000-08:00

A new and creative video from my brother's company.

Very relevant. I think that is what the hipsters would say.

And I always thought "hipsters" was just the name of the undergarments I prefer.

Back to the video. . .

Great job as usual Rob and your team!

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all!

2010-11-26T20:26:00.000-08:00

Here is a snapshot of our Thanksgiving this year!

That is 53 people. 28 kids. 24 of those kids are 7 and under.

We are a serious group.

Thanks Mom for hosting all of us again. We love to see all of our cousins and their families. Jake and Amy came from Kansas with 3 kids. Andy and Amy came from Georgia with 4 kids--including one 2 1/2 week old baby girl!

On a different note, I actually went out on Black Friday to shop a little. I don't think I have ever done that before! I didn't go at 3 am or anything. But I got a chunk of shopping for Christmas done in a short amount of time.

However, the most interesting part of the morning was at Old Navy. The lady standing next to me in line said she didn't feel well and that she might faint. Well, she did. She fainted and fell backwards and I caught her.

My first thoughts were, "I am so glad I caught her before she hit the cement ground." and "I am so glad that this is a small woman so that I was able to catch her before she hit the cement ground."

Evidently, she is pregnant and hadn't eaten enough before she went shopping. She is fine now. No thanks to any of the teenage employees at Old Navy. They didn't see the urgency in the lady laying on the store floor that I saw. But she is fine now.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Sweet Lainey

2010-11-09T18:18:00.000-08:00

I just took some pics of the kids the other day. They grow so fast. But I was especially struck by how old Lainey looks now. She is 7 years old now. In second grade.

We have real conversations. She has hard questions. She is growing up.

She loves Hank so much. She loves all babies. She wishes he didn't weigh so much!

But Lainey is still a normal kid with normal moments of whining, fit throwing and selfishness. We had an interesting trip to the mall the other day. I took all 4 kids on a beautiful Sunday afternoon--assuming everyone would be outside. Evidently it was the last day of Partners Card--everyone was at the mall.

And on the short drive to the mall, I think all the kids had some sort of meltdown. Except for the actual baby of the family. He was fine. Lainey's meltdown came when all three boys were out of the van, the baby in the stroller and ready to go in. She sat on the floor of the (newly cleaned) van and said with tears in her eyes, " I want to go home."

I asked her who she was thinking about right then. (right answer--herself) She said, "But mom, I brought paper and colors for all of us! (meaning--she was thinking about others). I affirmed her and thanked her. Paused for a minute. Then asked again. "But who are you thinking about right now?"

She paused with a tear still running down her face and said, "I don't get me!"

So true Lainey. I don't get me either sometimes. Or you for that matter. But I really love you.

Here is little Lainey. She was two years old. It goes too fast!

I'm No Politician

2010-11-02T11:00:00.000-07:00

Evidently, there is a big election today.

Guess how I know that? The Today Show. Matt Lauer said there was a big election. So it must be true.

I need to admit that I am possibly the least politically interested person I know. I am not proud of it. It's just how I feel. But I do vote. I will tomorrow--unless the lines are too long. But I do plan to vote.

I just can't stand all the political fighting.

One side blames the other for the mess our country is in. The other side returns the blame for not being able to get us out of the mess we are in. And back and forth. The mudslinging, the name-calling, the arrogance--I just can't get into it.

And it seems to me that people vote candidates in and out of office--not unlike they handle their shampoo choice. (I know--it sounds deep, doesn't it?)

You know when your hair starts to get limp and lifeless? Unmanageable? Or just plain boring? So you start looking around for a fix. A new product. A new shampoo. It promises root-lifting volume, long lasting shine and improved hair texture. So you switch.

It works! Gee, your hair sure looks terrific!

And then months, maybe even years later, your hair starts to slump back into it's volume-less mess. You start to complain about your once beloved shampoo. And start itching to find something new. Something with more promises. Something different.

It seems that voters think about politicians like shampoo. Ready to switch with any perception of failure. Always looking for a promise of hair success.

I know--your brain is swimming right now in the deep ocean of this political analysis.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T18:53:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again! Time to dress up and get candy for free!

The weather was perfect here. Great to walk through our neighborhood and see all the adorable kids. And the scary kids. And the creepy parents dressed in questionable costumes.

Here are our kiddos. Rhody was Wolverine. Bo was Ironman. Lainey was SuperGirl. Hank was the Incredible Hulk. Or Incredible Hank as we called him!

I love all the different expressions and poses you get in 5 seconds of picture taking with 4 kids!

Here we all are! Yes, that is me in an authentic mu mu. I totally win most comfortable costume award. Kyle was not Elvis or Elton John. Kyle was "It is 5:15 pm and what am I going to wear for Halloween tonight?" He was Paul Lind and I was Jo anne Worley--for those of you old enough to even know what I'm talking about!

Incredible Hank. Or our future place kicker for the Cowboys.

Just cute of Hank.

Our regular Trick or Treating buddies--the Bindra girls! We were all Super Heros!

Taking a break from all the walking and getting candy.

Luckily we ran into our cousins. Best buds: Sam and Rhody

The cutest kitty ever! Clara and Hank

Wolverine Twins: Rhody and Jack plus Bo

It was a great year. When we got home from Trick or Treating, Bo sat on the front porch handing out candy to all our visitors. He loves that kind of stuff. Bo for Mayor!!

Not Back to the Future

2010-10-26T18:24:00.000-07:00

So it's been 25 years since the release of Back to the Future.

OMG. Seriously?

I know this because The Today Show told me. As Lainey said recently, the Today Show IS the news.

I loved that movie when it came out. It was so cool. Who didn't want their own time machine in a Delorean?

But I sort of had a flashback when I saw the whole cast on the Today Show. (just a side note: I saw Mary Steenburgen on the show and could not for the life of me remember her in Back to the Future. Then Kyle reminded me she was in the 3rd one. Not the same. Doesn't count)

The movie came out in the summer of 1985. I had just finished the 7th grade. For some reason I remember a lot of details of my life based on that movie release.

Here is a snap shot of my 12 year old (but almost 13) self that went to Northpark I & II to see the movie.

I woke up one morning in the summer of 1985 and could not get out of bed. My knee was so swollen that I literally fell when I tried to get out of bed. I ended up going to the doctor and getting the fluid drained out. (I eventually had surgery at 15 yrs old on that knee--but that's another post).

But I had to wear a leg brace that was from hip to ankle. And use crutches.

And then like any normal child of the '80s, I got a perm. I went to the J. Michaels Salon on Skillman and sat there for hours as they rolled my super thick hair into tiny plastic rollers. Then they covered it with ammonia and other stinky stuff. I did this the day before we went to see the movie. Remember you can't wash your hair for a couple of days after getting a perm?

So I tried to help with day 2 of the perm by using hot rollers. Not a great idea.

Yeah. So I went to see Back to the Future with huge, bushy, stinky hair--and braces--and wearing a large, white, Velcro leg brace. Using crutches.

I was praying I wouldn't see anyone I knew. Especially Mike Edwards.

I don't remember seeing anyone. But I do remember loving the movie.

Long live Marty McFly.

If I Can Make it There, I'll Make it Anywhere.

2010-10-22T19:17:00.000-07:00

Well, happy anniversary to us. (our 10 year anniversary was in August--but who wants to go anywhere in August? Just too darn hot)

Kyle started planning a trip for us in March! Guess who is the planner in this relationship? We spent more time planning the trip than planning our wedding. ("we" may be a little strong. "I" did nothing but get the kids ready and figure out what I was going to wear in NYC).

We were gone for 6 whole days! Only possible because of the greatness of our parents. Both sets of grandparents took care of all 4 kids for several days at a time. No small feat.

Hank is adorable but a full time job for sure! We can't thank you enough for allowing us to celebrate our anniversary together and without kids. Our kids had a great time and we loved our time alone.

If we had to title our vacation, it would be called, "Eating our way through New York City: One cupcake at a time."

Not very catchy is it? I'll work on it.

Here are a bunch of pictures. I will do my best to narrate our trip through these photographs.

One place that was everywhere in NYC was a fresh sandwich/salad place called Pret A Manger. Now you are supposed to say it in a French way (something like Pret a mon jay). Of course, we used our thickest Texas accent to say it the way it looks. Pret a Manger. Like baby Jesus was born in a manger.

We went there several times. The food was delicious, fast, not too expensive and not so heavy.

Kyle had an app on his phone that we used a lot. Hipstamatic. Here is the beautiful St. Patricks Cathedral.

See me and Matt Lauer? He is totally checking me out.

Side note: You will see an insane amount of pictures of me. We used Kyle's camera and not mine as much. The photographer is now the subject.

Best money we spent--we bought a 7 day subway pass. We rode it all the time. It took me a while to really navigate the subway system well. And on the last day I got cocky and got on the wrong train--twice.

I love the subway. But the subway stations are filthy. Mayor Bloomberg--can you take care of that please?

Just some more cool pics. I forgot what this is called. It is in Washington Square. You know the scene in When Harry Met Sally, when she drops him off in New York? It's here.

We went to so many bakeries while in NYC. Kyle wrote down any cupcake place we saw on Food Network or read about in a magazine or heard about. We went to almost all of them.

Here is my favorite one. Butter Lane (Ted Allen's recommendation). I liked the chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter frosting.
We went to Grand Central Terminal. Just like in the movies. So cool. Our pics didn't turn out so great from the inside. Lighting wasn't great. But it is a beautiful building.
Still in Grand Central Terminal. (Not too far from our hotel)

We went to two Broadway shows. The Addams Family and Promises, Promises. Here I am outside of the theater waiting to see Promises, Promises with Kristen Chenoweth, Sean Hayes (Will & Grace), and Molly Shannon. It was awesome! We had front row seats. I could see their spit--they were that close. It was Molly Shannon's opening night. She was so fabulous. She played a drunk and overly flirtatious female. It was a stretch for her. :)

Eating a muffin at the famous Magnolia Bakery. After going to the Regis and Kelly show. Delicious.
In the audience at Regis and Kelly. They were great. Very gracious. Regis is old! Kelly is about Lainey's size! Tiny. She visited with the audience during the commercial breaks. We saw Condalezza Rice and Hilary Duff and a surprise guest--Jim Parsons (Big Bang Theory).

We walked across the Brooklyn Bridge one day. So cool. It was beautiful the whole week we were there. I love the history of the bridge. Did you know that a woman was the one in charge of the building of the bridge in the last years? And on the first day it opened in the late 1800's--150,000 people walked across the bridge. If you want to know more about it, just let me know!

We saw Pat and Gina Neely from the Food Network. They did a 45 minute cooking demonstration--with a little cooking and a lot of talking. It was fun!

After we saw the Neely's, we met Meredith Davis. She is an old YoungLife kid that now lives in New York City now. It was so fun to see her and have a "local" show us around. I had never been to the Chelsea Market and Meatpacking district area. So cool. I love the West Village area as well. Meredith was a great tour guide! We loved visiting with her. And evidently, when using the term "hipsters" she is NOT referring to the style of underwear I prefer. I guess that means I am not included in the group called hipsters.

Me and Meredith on The HighLine.

On our last day, we went to Central Park and the Boathouse. We saw a commercial being filmed in the park--right by this fountain. Then when we got back to the hotel and turned on Law and Order: SVU--this same fountain was in the opening scene. Pretty cool.

Of course, we had to stop by the Today Show--or as my kids call it, "the news." It was a chilly morning so we didn't stay around too long. We just wanted to see Matt and the gang. He was super friendly to everyone and we got on tv!!

We went to little Italy to eat our last evening. When we went to New York 5 years ago with Blair and Nicole and my parents, we went to Angelo's. It was so good that we went back. It is delicious, authentic Italian food. It's our "regular" restaurant now.
After Angelo's we walked right around the corner to Ferrara's to get some pastries. This is another food network find. I don't usually like treats like these but they were delicious! The lobster tail pastry was so rich!

Here are a few other things we did:

Lunch @ Five Napkin Burger

Took wrong train (but no biggie!)

Audience member of Late Night with Jimmy Fallon (he was great)

Went to H & M--like 4 times!

Ate at Pret a Manger (again)

Went in New York City Library (don't worry--didn't read anything)

Crumbs cupcakes

Went to Times Square (way too many people for me)

Ate at Freemans (very obscure location but the best meal we ate)

Found Butter Lane bakery!

Ate at The Standard Grill with Meredith

Saw a Tory Birch store--didn't go in.

Went to a place called Milk and Cookies. Got a cookie (of course)

Saw NYU campus

Went to Tenement Museum

Ate at Stage Deli

Hit Starbucks a lot (Kyle)

Walked through Lincoln Center

Ate at Shake Shack

Went to World Trade Center

Kyle did so much for this trip. Thank you so much babe for taking the time to plan all of this for us. It was so much fun! I love you. Looking forward to the next 10 years!

Hank

2010-10-03T17:08:00.001-07:00

I haven't posted pics of Hank in a while. Or taken very many pics.

I just wanted y'all to see this precious face that I look at all day. Even more lately. He has been sick and needy. And just loves to crawl right to my leg and pull until I pick him up. Precious.

His hair is so cute. It's like a curly blonde mohawk.

He squishes his nose at me a lot. Can you see the enormous gap between his two teeth? He spit a pea through it. Well, not literally. But that would be cool if he could.

We Did It!

2010-09-14T11:58:00.000-07:00

We completed the triathlon!

1 mile swim

25 mile bike

6.2 mile run

Yea!!

All 34 of our team Racing for Gage did it!

We also raised $175,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

We were honored several times at the big (huge!) LLS dinner the night before the race.

Rebecca Holmes was the keynote speaker! She was awesome!

We had a great time.

Did I mention it rained? Not just a little. The heavens opened up and just let loose on us--for hours!

But we did it!

I will write more details soon. With pictures.

But. . .

. . . one of the best parts. . .I got to be with friends! I literally crossed the finish line with Carrie and Jenny! How perfect.

Now Gage's finish line is Friday! His last chemo treatment!!

Tri Update

2010-09-04T18:31:00.000-07:00

It is only one week until we will be in DC getting ready to complete an Olympic triathlon!

I have not been great about posting about the tri this summer. It would have sounded a bit like this every week. . .

"I love getting to know my team! Such great women! I am tired. I like cycling. I stink at swimming. Finding childcare is a whip. Did I mention I love my team?"

Oh. . . and I would apologize to my neighborhood for consistently running in those compression shorts. I don't know why they are called compression shorts--they don't seem to compress anything. Or as my sweet child told me, "Mommy, your booty jiggles when you walk."

True, baby. So true.

It's all about the team for me. We have raised over $150,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society! We have laughed a ton! We have even cried together. And we have consistently seen each other in some of the most unflattering clothing and positions you have ever seen. Wetsuits, racing swimsuits, tri shorts, lake hair, google marks, etc.

We are all excited to finally get to DC. We have worked hard. Our husbands/wives have sacrificed a lot to help make this happen. People have been incredibly generous. But we are all a little tired as well. It is good timing--the race is very soon.

The best news is that Gage is nearing the end of his treatment as well. He got his port removed! His last treatment will be just days after our race. I will think of him and his family often during the (long) race!

I will try to keep posting about the tri.

Ten Years Ago Today. . .

2010-08-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

. . . I became a married woman!

It was August 19, 2000. It was hot. Over one hundred degrees. If you ask my mom, the temperature for that day rises every time she tells the story. (not unlike the number of hours she was in labor with me increases).

But I don't remember it being hot. I remember waking up at the crack of dawn to get ready for our 11:00 am wedding. We had a short engagement (3 months) and we took what we could get at Scofield. (Beautiful church. Great air-conditioning.)

I remember getting my hair done and then helping some of my friends and family with their hair. Everyone was so great and kind and supportive. I loved having everyone around me.

I remember my Dad being just a tad nervous. He doesn't do well in front of large groups of people. Kyle sang a beautiful song while I listened in the lobby.

I remember the doors opening and walking straight to Kyle. Dad and I held hands--not the formal hand-and-elbow escort pose. Everyone glanced at me and then turned quickly to Kyle. Because while its great to see a bride and her beautiful gown--it's the groom's face that is the sweetest part. But I did love that gown!

Todd Wagner performed the ceremony. So yes it was long and it was awesome. Now don't ask me to quote a lot of it but it was great. The music was perfect. The flowers beautiful.

We hurried back down the aisle. I remember waving to friends, family, friends of our family, lots of Texarkana folks who drove in, and lots of Young Life kids. (they are now adults!) My nieces ran up to Kyle and yelled, "Uncle Kyle!" for the first time.

We took pictures. I changed into white Keds decorated by my Grandmother with beads and lace. (yes-inspired by Father of the Bride). We headed to Northwood for the reception.

The praise team band was so fun. We danced to At Last! My cousins did a fun number to YMCA. Kids were dancing all over the place. The food was great--we ate some later on that day.

We toasted and then eventually we left--after we kicked our moms out of our limo!

It was such a fun day. Really with no hiccups. Except that the girl who did my hair was sick (didn't know it) and probably is the reason that on the last day of our honeymoon I had 102 fever and got strep throat for the first time! But really it went rather smoothly.

Thanks for a wonderful day mom and dad and everyone else who participated.

But that is just one day. Just a wedding.

Thank you Kyle for a wonderful, challenging, fun, crazy ten years of marriage.

I have learned so much from you. I have so much fun with you. Thank you for being patient with me.

Thanks babe.

A Day in the Life of Us

2010-07-29T18:18:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, Jenny sent me an old post from the blog--it was July 29, 2008. It had some snapshots of the kids. They have grown so much! Go check it out here.

I thought it would be fun to do the same thing on the same day 2 years later!

I tried to document today with my iPhone and my decent camera.

The day started early for me. We had a 5:45 am bike ride at the lake. It is way early but look at that sunrise! I love riding with friends.

I came home from the ride to find Kyle and Hank awake but that's it. We finally had to wake the big boys at 8:00 for VBS. But once Bo got up--we got a visit from Underwear Head Man!

We got a surprise 'pop in' from our some of our favorite friends--the Bindras! We were watching a few minutes of some random cartoon. The only way I can get their attention is to hold the remote hostage until they smile at me. Now that is some good parenting.

I am also the Bindra's unofficial family photographer. Here is a cute one of all the girls!

All of this week, my parents have taken my 3 big kids to VBS at their church. My parents have stayed and volunteered in their classes. They have had a great time. And it has been fun to have some time with Hank this week. Mom couldn't go this morning so Poppy took all the kids by himself!

As they were leaving for VBS, the kids saw my camera and posed for some individual shots. Such hams.

I ran an errand while the kids were in VBS and then picked up a Sonic drink for me and Allison. Yes, I took a picture of myself with my iPhone. I am cool. I thought it might be the only picture of me today. Gotta love Sonic drinks!!!

No, this is not a daycare at my house. These are some of our cousins. Well, technically these are my 1st cousin's kids. What does that make our kids? I can never get that right. 2nd cousins? 1st cousins once removed?

But the fun thing is that my cousin Will married a friend of mine Allison! She is so great and so are their kiddos. Of course, they got dressed to put on a show. Now that I think about it, we never really got a show. But just like high school, getting ready for the dance is way more fun than the actual dance!

After rest time, our cousins Sam and Jack came over. They actually walked over! How great is it that we have cousins that close by. My kids adore them. They have spent time this week planning a sleep over with Sam and Jack. Should be fun! I don't know where Sam disappeared to for this pic. But the boys love to play race cars on the hardwoods.

Hank spent some time in his high chair while I got dinner ready. Yes, he is eating a bat and a football and some sort of spreader from the kitchen.

Dinner with the family. We had chicken pockets, rice and green beans. It was good and the kids ate it pretty well--that's always great! Hank ate more than anyone! Please note our beautiful everyday china. That would be disposable dinnerware!

Silly boys at dinner.

We like to always have serious family dinners.

Just love Hank's curls after his bath. And just for the record--all the kids got baths tonight. Unfortunately, that doesn't happen as much as it should! Just being honest.

Now the kids are all in bed. I am on the sofa with my laptop sitting next to Kyle watching So You Think You Can Dance and eating a delicious chocolate cupcake (thanks jenny). Couldn't end any better. I love my life.

Sorry Hank

2010-07-18T18:57:00.000-07:00

When all of our older kids were 9 months old we took them to get professional pictures made. They were mainly black and white photos and I always got one shot with me in it.

I found a good photographer --she happened to live in Murphy (about 30-40 minutes). Not a big deal with one baby. A little more tricky with each child. And those pictures are expensive! Not a big deal with one baby. But it gets a little more difficult to spend that kind of money on pictures. I am buying school clothes, new tennis shoes, etc.

I suggested to our photographer that maybe we get some sort of 4-time discount this time. She didn't really go for it.

So I thought I might try to take some myself. It went ok. I need to do it again with some better lighting. (It would be totally ok with me if Uncle Rob wants to take a few pics with his super awesome camera!)

Sorry Hank. You aren't getting your own photo shoot. You wear pj's with holes in the feet. You are still in an infant carrier at almost 23 pounds. You don't have any sort of schedule. You don't have a baby book--unless you count this blog as your baby book.

But we all adore you. You make everyone smile in our family. We love to watch you clap--just moving your right hand. Every sound you make--we claim as our own name! You are starting to be a little shy with strangers but light up when your siblings walk in. Your hair is precious! Blonde and curly.

Here is our sweet Hank.

We love you so much. I can't hug and kiss you enough!

When Do You Know It's Time for a Haircut?

2010-07-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

And who says I'm not "deep?"

Occasionally people ask me when (or how often) they should get a haircut.

Actually, I don't get asked that much but I came up with a helpful check list anyway. Let's be honest, sometimes you might need a new style, a new color or just a fresh cut and who is going to tell you that? Other than your mother.

File this away somewhere.

If you answer yes to any or all of the above, go get your hair done.

1. You can't remember the last time you got a haircut.

2. The ends of your hair resemble straw or hay.

3. People ask you if you are about to donate your hair to Locks of Love--and you hadn't even thought about it.

4. It's time for a whole new style if your hairstyle also has a name. (i.e. The Dorothy Hamil, the Farrah, the Meg Ryan, the Rachel).

5. You use the word "frosted" when referring to your hair and not a display window during the holidays.

6. You wear a pony tail everyday. Or almost everyday.

7. You actually try to fix your hair, and it still doesn't look good. (This is especially how I know I need a cut!)

8. You look at an old photo--like an engagement photo--and your hair is exactly the same.

9. Seriously, read #6--that probably applies to you.

10. Your mother told you so.

Have a great (hair) day!

Here we Bo again

2010-06-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

Such a clever title, huh?

I seriously think I could devote an entire blog to my third child Bo. The things he says and does are quite interesting. Sometimes frustrating. Other times encouraging. But at the least--interesting.

I just want to record a few of his sayings lately.

Here is his issue: It's a power struggle. He wants the power. Bad. Really Bad.

I am guessing this power struggle will be evident throughout a lot of his life.

He is quite capable and independent. He is good a doing a lot of things. But he is 3 years old.

I cannot tell you how many times I have explained the chain of command in this house. Mommy and Daddy are in charge of Bo. (and his siblings--but he doesn't seem to care about that right then). But Mommy and Daddy must listen to and obey God.

It seems simple enough. But Bo does not think so.

In the last week alone he has said the following to me.

"Mommy! You are not the boss of me!

Me: "Actually, I am."

"And I tried to tell Daddy too--He is not the boss of me either."

Me: "Actually, he is."

Bo is just heart-broken at the news. He is sobbing and angry. I explain the chain of command and remind him that God loves him so much and that is why it is set up like this. . . blah blah blah.

He has started to threaten me.

He was angry the other day and said in a very stern voice, "I am not going to marry you now Mommy!"

And he threatened to not look at me again. And today he said that he would put on his angry face and then look at me all day long.

I guess he can't decide how to unleash on me.

My older kids just didn't think to do this.

He is unique for sure.

He is plays hard, fights hard and loves hard. He is the first to say he loves me and to tell me how pretty I am. (today he told me that the earrings I am wearing do not make me look pretty. the other ones do)

And I am pretty crazy about that kid.

Someone remind me of that when I am sitting in the Principal's office at Lake Highlands High School listening to the latest shenanigans that he has been a part of.

Did I just end a sentence in a preposition?

Just keep swimming

2010-06-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

A lot of people are so sweet and think to ask me how training is going.

And I have this weird compulsion to answer in a very honest way. I just can't help myself to share probably more information than they were planning to hear. So sorry.

I am an over-sharer. Another phrase for the masses to use.

So triathlon stuff is going great. I love our team. I enjoy seeing everyone at practices. Fundraising is going so well. I have such generous and giving friends and family! Thank you. But the actual training is a little rough. I am way more out of shape than I thought I was.

But you know I am a glass is half-full kind of person. I think I look younger than I do. I think I am thinner than I am. I generally assume people like me -- unless otherwise notified. I think I am stronger, faster and tougher than I really am.

So, I am still having a great time but the physical part of it . . . well, I have a long way to go.

But I really want to share a few observations I have made about the sport of swimming.

If you plan to join the sport of swimming, you gotta let go of any pride you might have.

First, you will be in a swimsuit in all your glory. And these are not 'miracle suits.' They are functional not fashionable. There is no underwire or padding or ruching to camouflage some of our problem areas. Stretch marks and cellulite are revealed.

Also, you can't judge a swimmer by their appearance. This is where swimming is SOOOO different from most other sports. I have been schooled in the pool by people that are seriously obese. I have been passed by a man that was about 100 pounds overweight, passed by a woman who was probably 7 or 8 months pregnant, passed by a woman who was at least 20 years older than me. . . I have to stop now. I am starting to get depressed. You get my point.

I have come to this conclusion. Once a swimmer, always a swimmer. No matter how old you are. How big or small you are. Or how fit you are. That is good news for you swimmers.

I, however, have never been a swimmer and it shows.

But I am pretty sure I can swim the distance of the triathlon (1 mile). Slow and steady. Or just slow.

"Just keep swimming. . . swimming, swimming." --Dori, the fish

Happy Birthday Lainey!

2010-06-06T12:15:00.000-07:00

Guess who is 7 years old?

Our baby girl is. That is too old! I remember things (well) from when I was seven. I remember my 2nd grade year and how I hated my teacher! And I cried everyday after school.

I guess I won't be sharing that story with Lainey for a while.

We love her so much. She is a sweet, kind and considerate little girl. She loves school and has a new interest in reading for fun. She still likes to play with dolls and draw pictures. She loves babies and flowers.

Lainey has a very cultured appetite. Her favorite foods are frito chili pie and mac n cheese. She chose Steak n Shake for her birthday dinner. And tonight she wants hamburger helper. Wow.

We love you so much!

Tri Update

2010-06-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

So many people have been asking about how training is going. Well, at least 2 or 3 people have asked me.

I am feeling like I need to blog-vent or post-talk. Those are pretty catchy phrases. I am sure they will catch on any day.

Anyway, I have started the EARLY morning workouts this week. Ouch.

On Tuesday and Thursday I did 5:45 am bike rides. I actually love being at the lake that early. It is beautiful and calm and not crowded. But I have to get up extra early so I can feed Hank before I go (he goes back to sleep). However, today Hank got up at 4:30 am which meant I have been up since 4:30 am. And like I always say, "Unless my name is Matt, Meredith, Ann or Al I should NOT be up that early in the morning."

My body is not adjusting well to these early mornings. Today I sort of felt like I had been hit by a Mac truck. I also felt like I wasn't really in my body--does that make any sense?

I forget that sleep deprivation also makes me just a touch emotional. I have to watch my quick temper. I can cry easily. I saw a woman walking down the street holding hands with her adult daughter who appeared to have Down Syndrome. I teared up. It was sweet. And I thought about how I hold hands with my kids walking down the street.

Already I hold Lainey's hand less than I used to. She doesn't need me to. She is ok with it now but one day she won't want to hold mommy's hand. I bet the daughter I saw was at least in her 30s or 40s. Her mom was probably not planning on going on afternoon walks with her daughter 30 plus years after she was born.

But that's not what God planned for that family. The mom held her hand with such sweetness. I will stop now. But see what this lack of sleep is doing to me?

I think this post was supposed to be about my training.

I did get a good swim in on Sunday at the SMU pool. And I love getting to train with friends. That part has been great.

sorry, I just dozed off a little.

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T05:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a new video from Rob's company. It is to honor our military families and their sacrifice for our country.

Well done Rob and team.

PS. Just a little trivia about the video. The voice overs are all my nieces. Charly Thomas, Elle and Catie Cullers. Great job girls! The old video footage is me as a little girl. Who can spot White Rock Skate center? And a Dorothy Hamil haircut?

I Like to TRI

2010-05-22T18:40:00.000-07:00

I started this blog almost 2 years ago--in the Summer of 2008.

Not so long ago. Yet, feels like a lot has changed. Hank wasn't even a figment of our imagination. I was still a mom of pre-schoolers. I had a lot less gray hair.

The catalyst for starting the blog was in large part the need to document the triathlon I was training for. I needed to vent or discuss or get feedback. I needed song recommendations for my iPod.

Well, I am doing another triathlon. The Nation's Triathlon in Washington D.C. on September 12, 2010. (I am not sure why I feel the need to announce this to the two people who read the blog--my mother and jenny--both already know this info!)

I am doing it with Team in Training again! And Gage Holmes will be our Honored Hero again.

But this time we have a team of almost 40 people! We are called Racing for Gage. Together we will raise over $100,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

A lot of our team are women in my neighborhood! Some are seasoned triathletes and some are newbies. I am so excited to do this with friends. I will definitely be posting about our adventures!

We are all raising a minimum of $3500. If you feel compelled to give, please know your donation is MUCH appreciated!

I would love for you to check out my website with TNT. Just click here!

Sweet Ride

2010-05-08T07:18:00.000-07:00

I think I have mentioned a few times that I am fully aware of how un-cool I am.

I wear jeans--some might call them mom-jeans. I love new crock-pot recipes. I can't tell you the difference between a merlot and a zinfindel. (I don't even know how to spell those correctly). I buy things in bulk like paper towels, diapers, wipes and v-neck t-shirts. I love Target with a passion.

But what seals the deal of my uncoolness is my vehicle of choice. The minivan.

But I have to admit that I actually really like it. The automatic doors are awesome! So it screams soccer Mom--but guess what? I am a soccer mom. And a t-ball mom. And a mom of a very strong-willed 3 year old. And the mom of a precious 6 month old that is the spitting image of his daddy. And a mom that loves to get pedicures. I am NOT cool.

But maybe this video will start to change people's mind about the coolness of a minivan.

Random Rhody Facts

2010-05-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

I was going to make this post about all of the children, but I just kept coming back to random things about Rhody.

I don't know if I have ever mentioned it before, but Rhody has the FASTEST growing fingernails and toenails in the history of mankind. I literally have to trim his nails twice or maybe three times as often as the other children. It is rather strange. I have been wondering if he has been ingesting Horse Mane and Tail. Remember that girls?

Speaking of Rhody, he also does NOT have the whole "safe toilet" syndrome. You know, how when you travel or stay somewhere that is not your home--it can be difficult to stay regular? My oldest boy will poop anywhere, anytime in front of anyone.

I sometimes wish he would ask for a little more privacy.

He has a very poor sense of direction. I am not sure if that's what you call it. Even when he was a toddler, we would point to something across the room and tell Rhody to go get it. He would literally look all around trying to even spot what we were pointing to. It was comical. He could never find anything!

Today he needed his baseball glove for practice. Like he uses for every practice. About 15 minutes before practice, I told him to go get it. He came back a minute and a half later saying he couldn't find it. Obviously, he hadn't really looked. So then I sent him to actually look. He came back 2 minutes later and still didn't have it. He said he looked all around. In the brown basket. Upstairs. Outside.

I highly doubt it. But I'm trying not to do everything for him. Of course, if you really want things done--you ask Bo, not Rhody. Bo will get it done!

Anyway, as he is taking his back-up glove to practice, I literally open up the brown basket and saw his glove! Once again, he has no sense of direction or ability to search for anything.

He will just have to find a wife one day that can find things. I guess Gracie B. is out. She and Rhody are two peas in a pod when it comes to this area!

Quirk #3--I am so not InStyle

2010-05-01T19:55:00.000-07:00

I fancy myself a somewhat stylish person. Somewhat.

Yes, on any given day my clothes are off the rack--the Target, Kohl's, or Old Navy rack. But when I need to get dressed up, I think I know what works for my body type. I can do hair and make up pretty well when necessary. I can wear something other than yoga pants and Gap t-shirts.

But I have a glaring fashion blind spot.

The Purse.

The Handbag. The Pocket book (as Oprah calls it.)

Whatever you call it, I don't have it.

What I mean is, I don't have good taste in purses. It is literally an after thought for me.

But I also literally "don't have it." That is because two weeks ago we came home from the awesome Young Life banquet around 9:30 pm and left our garage open by accident. Someone came in our garage and took my purse right out of our car. They used the first credit card at 9:55! We were still inside talking to our babysitter and never heard a thing. So frustrating.

I had a couple of credit/debit cards that we had to cancel. Plus, I had to get a new license.

But I also had a lot of gift cards or store cards with money still on them.

Remember Quirk #2? I save things like that to use at just the right time. I have been sort of living in denial about all those cards. But now I need to live in reality. I need to say good bye.

Good bye Home Depot card with about $30-$40 still on it. I guess I won't be getting extra picture hangers or a new light fixture any time soon.

So long Mariano's gold card with several punches in it. I have to start all over to earn that free meal.

The perfect shade of lip gloss will have to wait to meet my lips. My Sephora card is probably in a dumpster somewhere.

The $29.57 that was still on that Dillard's card that was going to help purchase the perfect summer sandal is gone forever. In fact, there were several Dillard's cards in there. All from credit that we have been using for the last ten years--from our wedding!!

There are others. But I am letting it go. Forever. Amen.

But back to the a-fore-mentioned faux pas.

You know all girls have their thing. Some love shoes. They would give their right arm for a pair of Jimmy Choo's. (I am not even sure if that is how you spell it!) Some love designer clothes. I would make some joke involving designer names but I am guessing that using the names Merona and Daisy Fuentes in a joke wouldn't really be funny.

I am not sure what my thing is. I love beauty products but don't actually have many. But that's still probably my thing.

One thing I know for sure, purses aren't my thing. I couldn't tell you anything about designer purses. I don't recognize them. I couldn't tell a fake from the real--unless the pleather rubs off on my blouse.

I don't know what is cool, fashionable or even cute. I picked up two purses the other day and brought them home. I showed them to Kyle. He thought they looked, "MaMaw-ish."

That's not really the look I am going for.

I am a lost cause.

But think of all the money I am saving our family by not buying all those expensive purses!

PS. The kids keep talking about my purse getting stolen. We have tried to use it as a teachable moment if possible. Telling them that we forgive the guys that stole my purse. Evidently, the kids haven't.

Rhody is convinced that the people who stole my purse are girls. According to him, who else would need a purse? Bo said that the guys who stole the purse will bring it back when Hank grows up. Fat chance.

Just a day

2010-04-22T20:32:00.000-07:00

The day started simple enough.

Get Lainey to school (Kyle does that). Get boys dressed and ready for school. Rhody needs to wear red for a school field trip to the Science Place. Lunch in a brown paper sack for him. Feed and change Hank.

Check.

Go to the DPS to get new license. (purse was stolen--replacing all cards. not so fun) It was a miracle--I was literally in the DPS for under 10 minutes! I think Hank was my lucky charm.

I had a great lunch with my friend Missy. (She has a daughter named Lainey too. It's a long story.) So much fun for me!

Then pick up happens. Put Hank back in the car seat. Go get boys from pre-school. Drive to elementary and wait for Lainey. Get Lainey and go home. In the 2 minute drive home, kids ask to go to Nana's house, Sonic, Jenny's house, Nic's house. Anywhere but home. I love you anyway kids. We went home.

Rhody has practice at 5:30. We all go to practice on nice days. So somewhere between 4 and 5 pm. The following happened:

I changed Hank's diaper and put him in his favorite --the Johnny Jump up.
Made snack for kids.
Folded laundry. (my nemesis)
Bo said, "Mommy, come see these stripes on Hank." What stripes? I went to go see. It was a small stream of poop that was running down his leg!
Major clean up that involved a bath.
Started gathering stuff for practice. Can't find cleats.
Probably checked email.
Started feeding Hank. While finishing, I heard a loud scream and cry--from Rhody. (Rhody is quick to cry but this sounded different)
I quickly place Hank on the ground and run upstairs.
Rhody hit his head on Lainey's bed. Her iron bed. I put my hand on the back of his head to feel the bump. I pull my hand away and there is a good amount of blood. Trying not to freak him out, I hurry him downstairs and demand Lainey join us downstairs to watch Hank. Oh, and Bo is crying in his room for some reason. Not sure why.
Rhody is ok. Head wounds just bleed a lot.
While I am still treating Rhody, Lainey goes back upstairs and informs me that Bo has tinkled in his pants and it is on the carpet. Oh boy!
I tell Rhody to hold his own paper towel on his head to stop the bleeding and run upstairs to clean up the mess. Bo was in tears because "I didn't mean to!"
I got that cleaned up and went back down stairs to check on Rho and Hank. Praise God that Hank is such a sweet-natured baby!
Eventually, got everyone cleaned, dressed and in the car for t-ball. Found cleats--in Kyle's car.

We all are ok. I cleaned a lot of bodily fluid today.

Thank goodness for a fun lunch, a great husband and the finale of Project Runway.

Good night!

Words from Kids

2010-04-20T18:57:00.001-07:00

A conversation with my Bo.

Me: Did you have fun with Shephard today?

Bo: Yes! (pause)

What Shep's Mommy name? I forgot her name.

Me: Her name is Mrs. Jenkins.

Bo: Oh.

Me: (oh great. . .) What did you call her Bo?

Bo: I called her 'Hey!' . . . . like "Hey, can I have a snack?"

Wow. Wow.

Sorry Jen. I can't explain that.

But he sure is cute?

Some Pics

2010-04-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Rob took some pictures of all the kids on Easter. Here are some of highlights of our fam! Thanks Rob!

Always quick to smile (especially with uncle robbie)!

Love the toothless grin on our big girl!

Seriously, this face will get him out of all sorts of trouble!

Slobbery, squishy love-able-ness!

Love them all! But I am a little biased.

Quirk #2--I Got a Little Change in my Pocket

2010-04-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder: A couple of posts ago I explained my Quirk #1--Extreme Body Dysmorphia.

I thought I would talk about another weird part of me. Once again, I don't really think I am weird or that this is a real quirk. But since my husband and my best friend disagree, I think I might not have the best perspective.

But I'm not changing.

It is all about how I handle money. Not all of our money. Just what I call Fun Money or extra money. Like Birthday money. Christmas money. Money from doing weddings. Money from my modeling.

I do NOT just get a check or cash and deposit it into our account. I like to cash it and place the cash in a designated envelope. If that extra money goes into our account, it is gone. Forever. It's like we never had it.

Let me explain why. I might get a little money for my birthday in August. And I think I might want to buy a cute pair of shoes. But in August I don't want to buy another pair of flip flops. I am done with flip flops. I might want a pair of fall shoes--animal print flats or even a pair of boots. But it is still over 100 degrees outside. Buy boots? At that time? No. I need to wait a month or two. Maybe I am giving too much detail at this time. (possible quirk #3).

So if I put that money in my account, come October it's not there. We've spent it on soccer uniforms, school clothes, etc. When I use our debit card, I feel like I am using our budget money for fun things--bonus things.

BUT if I cash the check, place it in envelope that is labeled shoes and stow it away, then I feel totally ok about buying those shoes in October or November.

This all makes perfect sense to me.

At any given time, I have an envelope labeled wedding/hair. I use the money from my weddings to buy my supplies. New curling irons, bobby pins, hair products, new makeup, more bobby pins. And sometimes I use it for my own hair cuts. Or for something I might want. A new fun top. (all girls know what I mean by saying "a fun top")

I also have an envelope labeled jeans. This is kind of a joke now. I want a pair of nice, designer jeans. I can't really justify spending that much money. But if I save a little here an there, then it doesn't seem like such a large purchase. But the problem is that I can't seem to pull the trigger. Gaining and losing weight back and forth for a few years doesn't help the situation. I never know what size to get. Anyway, I still have that envelope. Every once in a while I take about $30 out to get a cheap pair of jeans. Then I replenish it. Maybe one day I will go buy that nice pair of jeans.

See how when I explain it, it sounds perfectly normal?

I like my envelope system. It works for me.

Our Family Picture!

2010-04-04T13:52:00.000-07:00

I realized about a week ago that we don't have any pictures of our whole family! We finally got a good one today. And when I say good, I mean we are all awake and looking in the direction somewhere near the photographer (Rob) and we aren't crying.

My standards get lower and lower with each child.

But here it is!

Blog MD

2010-04-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

I think I could fill several days worth posts about my quirks.

Is that how you spell quirks?

But to be honest, I think I am completely normal. But there are some things that other people might consider quirks.

I have a condition called body dysmorphia. Self-diagnosed of course. (and it may not be a real condition but that is another issue)

Here is my definition:

Body Dysmorphia--the condition in which a person thinks their body is smaller than it actually is.

I totally have this.

You might be wondering, "How does one know they have this condition?" Or you might be wondering what other blog you could go read right now.

Here is an example.

I think I should be able to fit into all sorts of clothes that I actually can't fit into. And I don't mean that this condition is just temporary because I am still trying to lose baby weight. Even though it is particularly strong after having a baby. I feel so skinny after giving birth! Especially after my almost 10 pound baby! But shockingly, I don't just gain weight in my tummy! I couldn't get some pants past my knees. That's why I stuck with a lot of Lycra this winter.

You know the BMI? (Body Mass Index--I think). It tells me I should weigh about 15-20 pounds less than my own personal goal weight. And I think I am SKINNY at my own personal goal weight. I am supposed to weigh about the same as Jillian (Jillian Michaels of course). Whatev.

I could see a person my height and weight and I am convinced that I look healthier than they look. Not in a mean or comparative way. Just in a slightly delusional way.

I just saw a celebrity in a magazine--actually, Marcia Brady. It showed her before and after pictures. I have weighed both the before and the after. I really, really don't think I look like that. I look better.

It is a little strange that most women struggle with thoughts that they are somehow bigger than they are. And I think I am smaller than I am.

I just see it that I am a glass is half full kind of person.

Wishing it was half-full of a Frosty.

But I am dairy free right now. I will go get a nice cold glass of water.

Happy Easter

2010-03-29T19:22:00.000-07:00

Enjoy!

All the little cousins loved spending time in front of the camera with Blair (Darrell) with directing by Rob! They even did a real easter egg hunt for the kids after the video shoot. We love being a part of your work Rob!

The World According to Martha

2010-03-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

My mom (Martha) is a wonderful woman. She is a great Mom. A fantastic grandmother. A loyal friend.

She adores her family. She is the matriarch. She is the best hostess I know. She can make a house feel and look like a home.

However, she has a very unique and interesting way of viewing life. She has a lot of beliefs that shape her life--and others. I am not talking philosophy or religion. Just Martha-isms.

Here are a few:

If something is missing from her house (a tube of lipstick or a drill bit), Missy took it. Actually, my dad is in on this one as well. I am not sure when exactly this happened, but somehow they both immediately accuse me of taking all lost items.

If Missy or any of her children or even a stranger at the nail salon has a cold, Martha starts to feel a scratchy throat and sniffly nose. If Missy has the swine flu, Martha starts feeling feverish and achy all over. If Missy has morning sickness and constant nausea, Martha. . . you get the point.

All the problems in the world --or at least in my house, would be solved if I would just have dinner prepared by 6:30. That is A.M.!! Seriously, she says this one about 3 times a month to me. She only had dinner ready that early like 3 times EVER!

A baked potato can cure all. Upset tummy? Scratchy throat? Pink eye? You need a potato or potato soup. If that doesn't work, try a LifeSaver candy (the other cure-all).

If anyone calls on call-waiting while I am talking to her, she immediately and abruptly ends our conversation to click over to talk with the other person--no matter who it is. A phone solicitation from the Republican Party? Good bye Missy.

She has a sixth sense. She can tell at all times what temperature my baby is. He is either way too hot or freezing cold. Never just right. (this goes for all babies--not just mine!)

She is convinced that all my fashion wants and needs can be satisfied at ColdWater Creek. Enough said.

In reference to a woman being high maintenance or low maintenance: "Why would anyone ever want to be low maintenance?" There you go.

The truth is that these little quirks about Mom make her so much more interesting and fun. She would do anything for me and she adores my children (and all of her many grandchildren).

I Love you Mom!

Why I Wear Mom Jeans.

2010-03-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

It's true. I wear mom jeans. I not only wear them, I like mom jeans. Here is why.

First, there is the obvious answer. I am a mom. I wear jeans. Therefore, by default--I wear mom jeans.

But that's not really what we are talking about here, is it?

The SNL sketch about mom jeans is hysterical.

I hope my mom jean's aren't really that bad. But they might be close. And you know what, I don't really care.

The cool lower rise jeans just don't work for me. (Thank goodness that the ultra low rise jean is finally going out of style. Someone might want to find the young girl I saw at the carwash and tell her that her jeans with the 3 inch rise that reveal far too much of her back side are so 2008.)

Those jeans tend to hit me at the widest part of my hip. Not pretty. And since having a fourth child (did I mention he weighed almost ten pounds? I am milking that for all it's worth!), I am not only wide but also 'deep.'

That should be a song.

So this horrible deep and wide combo equals needing a jean at a larger size than I want, that forces all excess skin to the top of the jean. Then it spills over--causing what is commonly referred to as the muffin top. Or love handles. Or the dunlap--my baby fat has done lapped over my jeans. Do I need to say it? Not pretty.

So until I get a little less wide and less deep--I'll go for the mom jean.

I found a cheap pair at Kohl's. My go-to store. It has a higher rise. I feel nice and tucked in. Not like a puddle of pudding on top of my jeans. I don't worry about my shirts clinging to my not-so-in-love with my love handles.

I sacrifice style over function almost every time.

If I tuck in an oversized button up shirt paired with a quilted vest and a concho belt into those jeans, then someone call for an intervention. Because that's just not right.

But if I pair my high rise jeans with a fun top (not tucked in of course) and cute shoes with some pop of color--then call me stylish.

Make it a great day!

Catch up post

2010-03-09T19:49:00.000-08:00

I haven't been able to blog in a while.

Who came up with the word "blog" for what this is? It is a noun, a verb and sometimes an adjective. Random.

Here are some pics of what has been going on.

Our community group at church did a shoe drive! We collected shoes from friends, classmates and neighbors to give to Brother Bill's Helping Hands. These shoes are going to kids in the West Dallas area that need them! We collected over 250 pairs of shoes. Thank you to everyone who donated their shoes! Here are our shy kids.

I might have mentioned that Hank doesn't have many (any) friends. Well, evidently I lied. Look at all these friends! They clearly adore each other--can't you tell?

Actually, this play date at our house was such a treat for me! All those mommies are former Young Life kids of mine! Now we are having babies together. Wow! I have known Annie, Lindsay and Tori since they were in 8th grade and I began leading their YL group. Well, I officially met Annie when she was a lot younger. I was 16 years old and babysat for her and her brother and sister. I drove my Nissan Pulsar to her house and most likely wore some acid washed jeans and a Forenza shirt with shoulder pads and keds. Not that anyone asked what I wore or drove.

I can't tell you what a treat it is for me to still know these girls. To watch them grow up and now become mommies. What fabulous mothers they are and will be!

Hank (born in October), Tanner (November), Brittain (December), and Will (September)

This is my niece Catie. She is a SENIOR this year!!! Can you believe it? She is going to A&M in the fall. She is such a wonderful girl. She is kind, mature, funny and we are so proud of her. We love Catie!

More later.

Here's Hank

2010-02-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

For those of you concerned for our physical and my mental health, we are doing ok over here!

It did get a little worse before it got better. Rhody and Lainey both complained of pain in their ears and both ended up on antibiotics. But it could have been a lot worse.

That's me with a positive attitude. A glass is half full kind of thing.

I have been slacking on taking pics of Hank lately. My flash card was full. It's a beating to get the camera out with all the kids around--they all want to take pictures or be in pictures, etc.

But no excuses. I need to take pics of our baby. When he is in therapy as an adolescent, at least he won't be able to use that against us.

I will be right back. . .I hear Hank crying from the laundry room--where he took his nap.

Possibly another issue for counseling.

Here is our precious Hank at 4 months!

Embrace the Crazy

2010-02-12T14:13:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you about the last 24-36 hours or so.

Thursdays are usually great days. The 3 big kids are in school and Hank and I get to hang out. We run errands. See friends. Eat lunch. Occasionally clean the house.

Yesterday, Kyle and I decided to go ahead and celebrate Valentine's Day. We were going to catch a movie and lunch with just Hank. Not so romantic or anything but it was time together--without the children who can talk (interrupt).

We ended up not seeing a movie because Kyle knew we had to take Hank to get tubes in his ears on Friday. He couldn't miss that much work.

So we grabbed lunch at P.F. Changs. It was delicious and Hank was great. Good times.

Then preschool let out early because of the weather. Indifferent times.

Bo came home and took a good nap. Good times.

Lainey got to play with friends in the snow. Thanks Lacey. Cold and good times--for Lainey.

The weather while already ruining the Today Show on Thursday is starting to really bug me. We don't know what to do about Hank's surgery. Should we send the kids to my mom's? or not. Should we cancel the surgery on Thursday night or wait until Friday? or not.

We send the kids on to Nana's for the night.

Actually, it is not that easy. We can't get our car out of the driveway. Dad comes to get kids. We eventually get the car out. Thanks Mr. Kelly.

Kids are at moms. I am thinking dinner at home with television and lots of laundry to fold. I'm actually looking forward to it. Sad but true.

Mom calls. My Aunt and Uncle lost power. They trump us and the kids have to come back. Wow, this is going to be fun to explain. Sad times. Mom gets kids pumped up to come home (not Lainey--she doesn't fall for that stuff).

Then, Aunt realizes she can't leave her house and my kids can stay at Nana's. Evidently, mom's cheerleading days in the '50s were effective--now the boys don't want to stay with Nana and Pops.

Long story short (who are we kidding). They all stayed. With much bribing and persuasion. Good times.

An hour later, our power goes out. Dark times. Potentially cold times.

We decide to go to Nana's and protect our infant son from hypothermia.

Blair and Nicole's power is out too. Nic and her infant daughter come over (Dad had to go get them too).

We shuffle our sleeping children to different places throughout Nana's house. Eventually, Blair and the boys show up too. (About 10 minutes after they left their house--the power was back on. Hindsight and all that).

Count it. 6 adults. 7 children including 2 infants. It's a full house.

At this point, we are thinking no way to the surgery. The surgery center is way up in North Plano. The roads will be "treacherous"--according to David Finfrock.

We all do ok throughout the night. Oh yeah, Mom and Dad slept in the recliners in the movie room. Talk about taking one for the team! Thanks Mom and Dad.

Mom made a great breakfast for all. Then their power went out. Oh wait, before the power went out, Sam threw up and his ear drum burst. Can you tell the ear trouble runs in the family?

Our power and Blair's power is back on. We slowly get all our stuff together to go home! How do we have so much stuff for a 12 hour stay?

We called the surgery center and they said to come on out. The doctor is still there. That means Hank has to skip a meal.

Here is sweet Hank right before surgery. He has been a champ! Love that baby!

Oh yea, Bo feels hot and acts super cranky. He has a fever. We make him an appointment for the afternoon with the doctor. Sick times.

Mom and Dad have to come to our house so we can take Hank for surgery. They don't have power at their house but I'm sure they would love to spend the afternoon resting after all of their surprise houseguests.

The roads look good. We made it to Plano. Hank has surgery. We head home. Safe times.

Walk in the door, wake up Bo, take him to the doctor. Diagnosis: Strep Throat.

I actually have to go get dinner ready. . .

Did I mention that our cable is out too? Mom took it upon herself to fix our cable troubles. She went to the cable place twice--to get a new box and then to get a new remote. However, while we needed a new box, our cable is still out (blame it on the snow). And all of our recorded shows are now sitting in the Time Warner office on Greenville.

So long Project Runway from last night. Hope to catch you again Burn Notice. Glad I watched Community last night.

So when people ask how it is with four kids, I usually answer that it doesn't feel that different than 3.

Except when it feels like 14.

But I still love the crazy.

Hair it is.

2010-01-19T18:27:00.000-08:00

Some interesting and sometimes funny things have happened to me lately.

You know how your body changes so much during pregnancy? Some good, mostly not good. The good really just being that there is a baby in there underneath the stretch marks and skin that will never bounce back to its former shape.

Remember how I mentioned that one of the biggest pluses for me is that the hair on my legs stops growing during pregnancy (with my boys)? I know, totally awesome.

I guess I am ever the optimist and always hope that it will stay that way. It's like laser hair removal without the laser and the without the cash!

But no such luck. The hormones have settled down or up or whatever they do after giving birth. The leg hair has returned. Cue the sad music.

So I went to get a much needed pedicure the other day. I went to a new place--well, a remodeled place in the neighborhood. I walk in and someone yells, "Can I help you?"

I answer that I need a pedicure. They yell, "Pick your color!" And then motioned for me to sit down in one of the pedicure chairs.

I sat down and started reading my latest issue of InStyle--it's full of cute, stylish and incredibly expensive things. I usually can afford about 2 items per issue. I never buy them. But I like looking at the pictures.

Anyway, don't you hate how they suck you in by sitting you in a chair and then never telling you how long it will REALLY be? I waited a while and then reminded them of my need for their services!

I got a man pedicurist--is that what they are called? Anyway, this guy was really nice and super smiley. I couldn't understand everything he said but I just smiled back and kept looking at my magazine.

Did I mention that this guy has a really loud voice?

So he looks at me and says, "So glad you here. You have ingrown nails."

I didn't quite understand him, so he repeated it louder this time. Loud enough for all to hear it.

I know I sounded like an idiot when I looked shocked and confused and kept babbling on and on about it. But I have never had an ingrown nail! Seriously. I guess I can thank pregnancy for this as well.

Then I got to a section in the magazine about dressing to highlight your best feature--your legs, your arms, your waist, etc.

So I was initially drawn to the section about highlighting your waist. The clothes they suggested were all cute and definitely emphasized a small waist.

But I don't have a small waist anymore. I guess I can thank pregnancy (#4) for that as well.

I looked for a section for people with muffin tops but that wasn't in there.

Or for people with with ingrown toe nails and hairy legs. Not there either.

Wow. Anyone else totally grossed out by this post?

I think everyone stopped reading when I got to the leg hair part.

Dear Ole Dad!

2010-01-12T07:56:00.000-08:00

My Dad (Bob, Pops, Poppy), is such a great man.

However, not so great in front of cameras--video or still.

Here is an interview that Dad needed to do for one of his websites. Actually, this is the bloopers version. The laughing behind the camera is my brother Blair.

Enjoy.

You might want to double click on the screen and watch this on YouTube. It shows more of my Dad.

Love you Dad! or as I like to call him Awkward Man!

Resolutions

2010-01-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

I am thinking about making some resolutions. You know, because it's the new year and all. I know it's a little late but we had a little stomach bug over here and we just took down Christmas. We are just moving a little slow.

But I am a little uncomfortable with the word "resolution." That means I resolve to do something? I have resolve? Say it 10 times in a row. It's a weird word. Plus, I feel like George W. when I say it.

Can I make New Year's Possible Things I Might or Might not do instead of resolutions?

I might need to do this in outline form. In no particular order.

(evidently blogger doesn't like my outline form. Try to imagine it in outline form)

I. Lose some weight and get in shape. I know, original.

A. Admit I am a sugar addict. It's the first step.

1. Slowly stop eating sugar.

2. Well, at least think about eating less sugar.

B. Start exercising

1. Find exercise clothing that fits

2. Feel the burn

3. Don't look in a mirror while exercising

4. Is watching the Biggest Loser exercise?

I am already exhausted just thinking of things.

II. Be better about cooking and going to the grocery store

A. Pray for a miracle--that somehow a personal chef

would show up at my door and beg to work for me with no pay

B. I got nothing else--but you can't have an "A" without a "B"

III. Read more

A. I am hoping that magazines and blogs count

B. Actually, I want to read some fiction and some non-fiction (sort of)

IV. Clean some things

A. Some drawers here and a closet there

B. My car

C. The floors--those darn floors.

V. Be a better friend

A. Be real and honest

B. Initiate

C. Go out with the girls (figure out who "the girls" could be)

D. Find friends that are ok with the chaos I bring

VI. Be a better parent

A. Come up with specific parents techniques for each child

B. Read/discuss a parenting book with community group (check!)

C. Pray for patience, understanding and wisdom

D. Don't sweat the small stuff

E. Have fun and take some pictures!

I think I am done for now. I don't like to give myself too much to do.

I used to be such an achievement oriented person. What happened to me? I also used to be a rule follower. But Kyle has taken over that role in our family. I used to think of myself as someone that could get a lot done. Now, I'm happy when I get a shower and dinner cooked in the same day.

Of course, I wouldn't change a thing about my life.

Except for those things listed above that I want to change. But you get my point.

Some Things I Like

2010-01-06T12:25:00.000-08:00

I was going to do a list of my favorite things but "favorite" might be a little too strong of a word. I was just thinking of listing some things I really like.

Before I get to the list, I was wondering...do you think it is weird that I was wishing that I had on Spanx today when I did my very first workout in over 3 months? I was needing something to hold in all the jiggles. I think Spanx should totally make work out clothes. And Wow, I am so out of shape it's not pretty. I have a long road ahead of me. And I think I will start with these chocolate covered pecans I am eating right now!

Back to the list.

These are in no order and I have already forgotten a few of them. What a great a build up, huh?

1. I have said it before, but I still love it: Clairol's Root Touch-up! What a great product. I like the shade called Medium Golden Brown and I guess Clairol does too! At Target, it was almost three dollars more than Medium Brown. What up with that? Of course, I'm a sucker and bought the one I wanted anyway.

Tip: If you try this product, go with a lighter shade rather than a darker shade.

2. My BFF Jenny. For a lot of reasons, but this week because she literally made a menu for me of dinners for this week. And she included recipes that I might not have. AND she made a shopping list for me. And she said she would do it again! How awesome is that? The only thing better would be to have a personal chef. And since I'm not Oprah, that's not happening. Thanks Jenny.

3. Tivo or DVR. Seriously, do I need to explain this one? Awesomeness. And I will be using this fabulous bit of technology in the next weeks to record shows like American Idol, Project Runway, Community, Glee and White Collar. Maybe a couple of other shows but I don't want to seem like a loser!

4. My precious baby Hank. I know it might be weird to list only one of my four children here. But I am doing just that. He is almost 3 months old and I adore him. And you know what? He adores me. He likes to be held and likes me to talk to him. He doesn't whine or complain or talk back. He is so sweet and lovable. He is starting to have a little personality. I can't wait to see what he will be like. Hank is everyone's favorite over here.

Well, I never heard of list with just 4 things but that's all I got for now. All boys have been asleep and that is a miracle in and of itself. That could be my #5!

I just want to apologize for the unusually poor grammar in this post. Sorry Mom and Jenny.

Horse Time

2009-12-21T12:53:00.000-08:00

After Thanksgiving, Kyle and I and our two youngest children came back to Dallas for the weekend. Rhody and Lainey stayed with their grandparents for a fun weekend in Texarkana.

Bo needed a little special attention.

Isn't that what you say and do when your child is acting out and all other things seem to be ineffective?

Well, with a new baby and two older siblings, Bo doesn't get a lot of one-on-one time. So he got to spend some time with Kyle one day. He got a hair cut--sort of looks like Jim Carrey from Dumb and Dumber but he's still precious. He got to spend a lot of time with Nana and Pops as well. He loves them and that is always a treat!

I asked him what he wanted to do in Dallas during the car ride home. He said, "go see horses." Random, but ok. (since Bo doesn't say "H's"--that sounded more like orses)

Kelly and Paul Gittemeier (two of my most favorite people) allowed us to go visit their horse that weekend. The stable is right around the corner from our house!

Here are some great pics of our horse visit.

Bo loved it! He fed the horse. He sat up on the horse. I am sure he would have gone for a ride if the horse was set up to carry a 3 year old.

My other two children wouldn't have done half of that. They would have been afraid to touch him and especially feed him. Bo is fearless (most of the time). That's part of what makes him difficult at times but also what makes him so great.

Kelly G. (who has four of her own children--now grown) said it best about Bo.

She said, "He will keep life interesting!"

I bet he will.

Interesting

2009-12-18T12:54:00.000-08:00

I keep thinking something interesting will happen and I will HAVE to blog about it. Just to tell a great story to all my friends. (even though a lot of my friends don't actually read my blog. huh.)

Nothing too interesting has happened in my life lately.

Unless you consider projectile spit up hitting you at point blank range and then going down your shirt interesting. Or possibly finding your 3 year old pulling the clean, dry clothes out of the dryer while holding something suspicious in his other hand and then asking him why and he says he is trying to wash his underwear because it has poop in it and then you notice some poop on his leg. Only made more interesting that this happened about 3.5 seconds after you just changed clothes from the projectile baby vomit.

Can you say run on?

Or that your precious 9 week old baby boy (actually maybe 10 week old) is going thru an awkward phase--losing his hair, crusty eyes that don't always open right or at the same time. He sort of looks like a pirate baby, Arrrr!

Or that I did my laundry and literally every pair of pants of mine that got cleaned (probably a weeks worth) were all in the black family. All also having some sort of Lycra material. What's up with that?

Or I could write about my hatred of nursing bras. That would be good one for sure.

Or how much I am looking forward to the new season of Project Runway.

Or I could definitely give some reviews of all the Christmas made-for-tv Movies on Hallmark and Lifetime. The Hallmark movies always have characters that have lost a loved one and need a new love, a spunky kid or golden retriever to help them thru the holidays. Just try watching one without shedding a tear! The Lifetime movies always have "has been" actors as the stars. Baywatch's very own Nicole Eggert starred in two this season. Plus, what is a good Lifetime movie without Tom Arnold? He's a network favorite for sure.

Wow. I know way too much about that. All I can say is I'm nursing. And I like to watch something when I am nursing and the kids aren't around.

Gotta go. We are having family movie night. We are watching Frosty the Snowman. Or as Bo calls it, Costy the No-mam.

Photography 101

2009-11-27T09:31:00.000-08:00

We are so thrilled to have Hank here. But you would never know it if you look at my iPhoto. I haven't taken many pictures of this precious child.

Is this what happens to the 4th child? No pictures? No videos?

I will work on it.

Another issue with photographing my children: I am the family photographer, so there are hardly any pictures of me with the kids. At all.

I am trying to work on this one as well.

Here is one with me and Hank.

Big Yawn!

All the pictures I have of me and Hank have ALL been taken by either Lainey or Rhody! (including Big Yawn!)

Seriously!

Here are a few more shots taken by my amateur photographers.

Big Hug!

The next two shots are what you get when a 4 and 6 year old are taking the pictures.

Got Hank, where's Mommy? Look at those awesome guns! :)

Cute of Hank, some of Mommy.

It's the end. . . of a season!

2009-11-24T19:44:00.000-08:00

After many cancelled and rescheduled soccer games, the season is over!

Rhody and Lainey enjoyed their fall soccer season.

But Rhody really did! Look at his face below. Priceless.

Rhody really caught on to the game this season. He was always ready to play and never got frustrated or beat down. He was definitely into scoring goals and knew how many he got every game. He just never knew how many the other team scored! Perfect.

Go Sharks! Go Blue Angels!

A bunch of Nothing

2009-11-23T09:31:00.000-08:00

So I haven't blogged in a while.

I promise that not all of my posts will be about how I haven't posted. Maybe.

I once explained how I have these "blog" moments. Let me explain. I have some random thoughts about life and I quickly think about how to make these bits of wisdom or insight into a blog post. Most never making it to the blog. However, because of having four kids and needing to watch important things like the finale of Project Runway, my ability to post is thwarted. So then 3 weeks passes and no post.

You understand, don't you?

I have new blog moments these days. In the middle of the night when I am up feeding Hank, I have more blog thoughts. Like the other night, I had the most interesting and enlightening blog post all written in my head. I thought to myself, "I wonder if I will remember this in the morning so that I might share this great info with my adoring public. Or just my mom and jenny." And as quickly as that thought came to mind, I remember thinking, "There is no way that I am going to forget this!"

However, it was four in the morning and I totally forgot.

I just want to leave you with the bits and pieces that my sleep deprived brain did remember.

It was SO funny. (my thoughts that is) It involved making fun of Kyle Kaigler and his jean shorts that he wore in 1987 and still wears today. I think it had something to do with a ski trip with my friend Missy Giles and Young Life in the same year. And that I had a sweat suit from Sam's that I wore on aforementioned trip. And that I lied about my weight on the ski trip form.

The lie about my weight wasn't probably included in my funny blog post dream. Of course, I don't even remember my real weight--but I would be happy to be there now!

So as you can see, it would have been such an interesting read. Full of life-changing thoughts and ideas.

It's a wonder why I don't post more often.

And I kind of wanted Carol Hannah to win Project Runway. Irina just isn't very nice.

Halloween Pics!

2009-11-03T13:13:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I posted.

It could be because I have a 3 week old baby and a slow recovery from a c-section.

Or it could be that I read the entire Twilight series since giving birth--or having the swine flu--I can't remember.

I need to be clear on something. I am not a reader. I don't read. Not exactly true--I read InStyle to see how not in style I am. I read Real Simple to learn ways to make my life run more efficiently--ways that I probably won't incorporate into my real life.

But I got sucked in to the Twilight series. I am not a 'vampire' person. Or a reader. But it is a page-turner. (is that "reader" talk?) I recommend it.

Anyway, back to the post at hand.

Here are some of our halloween pictures from this weekend. It was such a great night to be outside. We met the Bindras and walked thru our neighborhood. It is our tradition now!

Lainey (mermaid) and Hank (cute cow).

The four of them. This will probably be our life in pictures for a while--like years. Someone always crying.

Hank (3 weeks old)

The Bindra girls and Lainey were all mermaids this year! And they are all smiling. As Jenny said, "it's a Halloween Miracle!"

All the kids (minus Hank who stayed home with Nana). Rhody had evidently cheered up by then. Or the sugar-high was beginning to take effect!

Who are these bandits? Clearly it is the Apple Dumpling Gang! I mean what 4 year old doesn't want to be Don Knox and/or Tim Conway for Halloween? The boys watched that old movie and decided that's what they wanted to be! It was all about the gun and the bandana!

New Family Pics

2009-10-18T18:09:00.000-07:00

We are loving being home with Hank. He is precious. The kids adore him (enjoy it while it lasts). I am glad to sleep in my own bed and hold my children (not necessarily in that order).

I am recovering--slower than I would like. But I'm no spring chicken ladies. And the 4th c-section was a little more difficult than I imagined. My skin seems to have lost all elasticity. I hurt in weird places. But--we got Hank!

The jury is still out on who Hank looks like. Seriously, he changes everyday. Here are some pics of Hank with his family!

Thanks for checking in on us!

He's Here!

2009-10-12T16:41:00.001-07:00

Here is a brief introduction to our new baby!

Henry Bascom Richardson

"Hank"

or as the nurses here nicknamed him "Hank the Tank!"

He was born on Saturday and weighed in at 9 lbs and 14 oz!

I was actually in labor while writing the previous post. I remember having contractions while writing it--probably why it is not as long and random as usual. Well, it wasn't very long.

We are so excited to finally meet Hank and hold him. We can't figure out who he looks like. But according to Bo who just saw him today for the first time, "Hank looks like us!!!" I guess "us" means all of the kids. Pretty cute.

We will post more later but here he is. . .

And it clearly takes a village to raise our children. Thank you to the grandparents for caring for the big kids for over a week now. And to all the friends who have helped with caring for them, sending emails, notes, gifts, prayers. We love our "village."

Thank you!

I'm Old

2009-10-09T19:43:00.000-07:00

I am home sitting in my bed. Super pregnant. Literally, never been this pregnant before (this many weeks).

I have been thinking in the last couple of weeks that pregnancy has an interesting effect on me. It ages me considerably. (Of course, the last few days has only solidified this thought)

I feel and act like an 87 year old. Not a 37 year old.

I move slow and sort of hunkered over like an old lady. Really slow.

I eat small meals that are bland (not too spicy). I would be happy eating dinner at 4:30 pm--to prevent heartburn.

I go to the bathroom all thru the night (and day).

I probably have unwanted facial hair but haven't had a chance to get to it.

Did I mention how slow I am moving? And the bathroom issues?

Hoping that I will start feeling my age in just a few weeks!

Plus, I will get to hold our baby soon.

Still here!

2009-10-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

I am still here at the hospital. I will be here another night. I feel a lot better (unlike yesterday when possibly a Mac truck could have hit me and I would have felt better). But I still have a crackling sound in my lungs. Or better said from my doctor and nurse, "your lungs sound like crap."

I am pretty sure that is not good.

The doctor thinks this is the safest place for me to be. For me and Hank.

We are basically not sure about Hank's arrival. It might be after Friday--just to give me time for a full recovery.

Some other random thoughts:

The post from yesterday was short and a little random. Could be because I was incredibly uncomfortable and using one thumb on an iPhone to enter in that post. It took 25 minutes for like 4 sentences. Wow. Good use of time. I seem to have a rather large and awkward thumb.

I might have experienced some slight brain damage from watching 12 hours straight of Lifetime movies on Saturday. Would you ever think a movie called "Weather Girl" would really be good?

I had an "ambien" dream last night that involved the pillows on my bed having names and personalities. And it seemed like a reasonable thing to happen. It wasn't until 10 am this morning that I realized that my pillows are inanimate objects and do not have it out to get me and keep me from falling asleep. (can you say "run on sentence?") 10 am would be several hours after being awake. I am just a slow learner.

I have a lovely view from my window--of the top of the building adjacent to this one. Lots of air conditioning ducts involved.

I got complimented on my hair last night. After a full day of feeling like crap and laying (or lying) in a hospital bed. At least my hair looked good. Because that is really what matters!

Seriously. . .

Thank you for all the prayers for me, Hank and the rest of my family. They are so appreciated and needed. We feel loved!

Thank you for all the offers to help--with kids, food, everything. I have the best friends ever! We will definitely be reaching out for some help. I know it is tricky because we need to try to keep our kids healthy and all my friends have kids (aka--little petri dishes for the flu and other diseases!).

Thanks to Jenny--best darn communicator ever. Who knew that in her job description was being my voice, answering-machine and everything else. Thanks Jenny! I owe you. How about some major baby-holding in a week or so?

Gotta go back to put my feet up and drink some more fluids!

mis

From the hospital...not what you think

2009-10-04T15:04:00.000-07:00

I am sitting watching the cowboys from a hospital room. Maybe not what I planned for this sunday afternoon!

I have the flu--type A. Which probably means H1N1. And I am super pregnant. Supposed to have a section this Friday.

They are looking at my respiratory system. Evidently, this large baby boy is compromising my lung capacity!!

I like Romo but come on!

We would love to be able to wait until Friday to have Hank. Can't believe I am saying that! I would love to feel a lot better when he is born!

Gotta go do nothing!

Finally Soccer!

2009-09-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

After two weeks of constant rain and cancelled practices and games, Lainey and Rhody had their first soccer games. It was an unusually hot late-September Saturday! Sam and Rhody are getting to play on the same team this fall. Rhody is thrilled to play--game, practice, all of it.

He immediately spilled all of his red Gatorade on his jersey following the game. Explains the no shirt! And I used half a bottle of Shout to get it out.

The adoring fans!

Cute sweaty Rhody after the game. He was just looking at this asking why his hair was all over the place! Good question.

Gobby and Diddy Daddy came in town and got to see some of the soccer games. Rhody was the photographer here!

Here is the only shot of Lainey that I have! My battery ran out. This game was a little more stressful for Lainey. They are playing real positions this year and she had no idea what to do. That is not a place Lainey is comfortable being! Good news is they had a game the next day and she felt a lot better about playing!

Our loudest, sweatiest fan out there! He can't wait to play.

Less than 2 weeks.

2009-09-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

Less than 2 weeks.

I have said it multiple times just in the last few days. To friends, strangers, family, and more strangers.

I have a rather large belly that draws lots of attention.

Men that say, "You look like you are about to burst!" (and that was 3 weeks ago). And "You got 4 kids in there?" (that was from a friend--no hurt feelings here!).

Women that empathetically say, "You look great!" And "You totally don't look like you are that close to delivering."

Either being empathetic or lying. Fine with me either way.

Most people questioning whether or not I will actually make it to my c-section date. Heck if I know. I just really don't want my water to break in church. Or Albertson's. Those are the things of my nightmares.

So I am trying to figure out what I can wear to church that fits and maybe is "slimming." Is that an oxymoron for a 9 month pregnant girl?

I am thinking I might do an over-the-top hairstyle and possibly garish makeup. Anything to draw attention away from my belly.

Or I might tape a sign to my shirt that says "Less than two weeks!"

Or just waddle on into church.

Have a few moments to worship God. Thank him for baby Hank. Praise Him for the children I already have.

Then get up and go to the bathroom (again) and put my feet up so that I might still have ankles.

In a little while.

2009-09-21T07:28:00.000-07:00

I will be back to post soon. I have been playing with a camera and photoshop and looking at blogs. And being 9 months pregnant, and cranky and impatient, and down right hard to live with. And trying to finish lots of projects around the house. And growing out of every single maternity piece I have. And praising God for black, stretch, yoga maternity pants.

Rhody, Rhody, Rhody. . .

2009-09-02T11:09:00.001-07:00

I did a post about Bo and his birthday and Lainey and her first day of school so it only seems natural to post about my middle child today. Good thing he has given me a lot of material lately. And when I say lately, I mean in the last 24 hours. Precious child.

We are all adjusting to our new school schedule. Everyone is getting up earlier. We are going down for naps or "room time" earlier. We are eating our gourmet dinner a little earlier. (part of that one is true). And we are going to bed earlier. Get what I mean?

Rhody still takes a nap sometimes and has room time sometimes--depending on how tired he is. Yesterday, he woke up so early that I just knew he needed a nap. I sent him up to his room and told him an exact time (i.e. 3:34) that he could come down. He is a little new to this "reading the clock" thing. This summer Lainey told him what time it was and when it was time to come downstairs.

I remember thinking yesterday afternoon that I was surprised that he wasn't sleeping during his room time. I could hear him walking around a bit. But then I started reading, talking on the phone, watching the food network. I am such a multi-tasker! :) I wasn't paying attention.

Realizing that it was after the appointed time, I went upstairs to tell Rhody he could come down and as a treat could watch the Ranger game tivoed from the night before.

This is what I saw when I rounded the corner of the stairs.

He fell asleep on the stairs. Seriously. The front door was wide open in front of him. The tv was on. I was talking on the phone. None of that bothered him. I am not sure exactly how this happened because he doesn't know either.

Grab another nomination form for mom of the year and put my name on it!

I did wake him up because I was a little afraid he might wake up and roll down the stairs. Not a fun way to wake up from a cat nap.

*******

Today we went to the mall with Jenny and the girls plus a friend. I realized AFTER this trip that maybe I shouldn't take the boys to the mall in my current pregnant state without a stroller or some other straight jacket contraption for Bo.

I can't chase him. And he doesn't obey. Not a good combination.

I don't know why he doesn't obey. I seriously have questioned myself (ourselves), "Did we forget that chapter of parenting with him?"

But this post is about Rhody so I digress.

Rhody wasn't much better at the mall but doesn't run with lightning speed away from me.

On the way home, Rhody mentions that he has gum in his hair.

Because that is what I was hoping to do when I got home with these two awful and precious little boys. Figure out how to get gum out of his hair.

I did google it to see if there was some new awesome way of combining olive oil and mayo plus flax seed to get gum out of hair with ease and comfort. No such thing exists.

I got the peanut butter out. Here is Rhody with the gum--coated in peanut butter.

After much wailing and gnashing of teeth, we got both the peanut butter and the gum out. He got in the shower to get the smell out of his hair. I think it is all gone.
I could go on and on but I need to put my feet up and I think I might be getting carpel tunnel syndrome. I actually don't even know how to spell that!

Happy Birthday Bo!

2009-08-30T13:07:00.000-07:00

Guess who had a birthday this weekend?

Gobby made another fabulous cake for Bo. He wanted a sports birthday party. Actually, he would say he wanted a baseball party, then he wanted a football party, etc. We interpreted it as a sports party. But he definitely wanted a pinata! He wanted to "whack" something really hard! Gobby provided that as well!

Can you tell how awesome that cake is? Bo loved it!

Bo has several girl-friends that came to celebrate with him! Emma, Kylie and Mary Elizabeth (gee gee). Precious girls. They preferred the snacks and the cake to the sporting games!

Teaching him to say THREE! He started saying he was 2 1/2 about a week after his birthday last year. We will see what happens this year.
The "big" cousins! (we missed sam and jack!)
Enjoying the cake and ice cream with Davis!
We love you Bo! You are full of energy and life. You challenge us constantly and make us laugh even more. Can't believe my baby is three!

First Day of 1st Grade!

2009-08-25T16:56:00.000-07:00

Monday was the first day of school for Lainey and her friends! She was actually pretty excited about going back to school. The reality of homework and exams won't hit for a couple of more years--I hope!

Lainey and her brothers bright and early Monday morning.

Only decent family pic from the morning.

It was bright and early for Mommy and Daddy as well.

Lily and Lainey ready for school! Lily started Kindergarten this week. She was thrilled (and so was Lainey) that she got Mrs. Barnes this year!

Lainey and Addie again this year. They planned out their outfits a week or two ago! Lainey was disappointed not to be in Addie's class again this year but is holding out for 2nd grade!

Mommy and Lainey (and baby Hank). I generally shy away from pictures right now. However, I figure one day Hank or the other kids might actually want proof he is my child.

Lainey and Daddy. Kyle will start taking Lainey to school every morning now. It is a special time for them. Plus--Mommy doesn't have to get a bra on and leave the house.

Lainey sitting at her desk in Mrs. Ratliff's class. We are thrilled to have Hanna as Lainey's teacher. I have known Hanna (and her husband Ben) since she was a Young Life kid at Lake Highlands. She will be a great teacher for Lainey!

She had a good first day. She told me all about it. Her least favorite part was recess. She said it was just too hot and she walked around way too much. I mean she is a delicate flower!

What kid says recess is the worst part of the day!

I will definitely miss Lainey during the day. I am once again a "boy mom." I love that role too. She just seems so big!

Birthday Getaway

2009-08-07T12:43:00.000-07:00

My birthday was this week.

I am not afraid to say that I am 37 now.

It seems weird to see that in "print." It looks older than I feel. Well, older than I feel when I am not pregnant. I feel about 87 years old sometimes. But that is another story.

Kyle planned an overnight, in-town, getaway for just the two of us. The kids stayed with my mom and dad--they were pumped. We went to Hotel ZaZa. Pretty swanky, huh?

We started by having lunch at the Dragonfly restaurant at the Hotel. It was delicious! We had the place to ourselves. I was just happy not to order off of the kids menu and to not have to keep a 2 year old in his chair constantly.

The Dragonfly Restaurant

Hotel ZaZa

Look at these awesome draperies in the lobby. Huge!

We ate--a lot faster than we needed to. It's hard to get used to taking your time while eating a meal. Then we walked over to a little shopping center. I saw a Texas Rangers store and knew we needed to go in--just to see.

Just to see that everything was so expensive. And that Rhody would have loved everything. Anyway, we picked up some birthday dessert while shopping (not at the Ranger store!) and headed back to the hotel. We did get a couple of small things for the kids--that Lainey was unsatisfied with because she doesn't like baseball.

Here we are waiting for our room to be cleaned. Kyle wasn't happy about that but once again I was fine just sitting there in the absence of questions and whines and tears. Just fine.

This is our room. Not a great iPhone picture but you get the point. It was a concept room or suite. Each one is different. Ours was called West Indies. It was decorated with that theme. Very cool and comfortable.

That's the overnight bag that Kyle got me for my birthday.

\ I was in desperate need of a bag! It is great.

Here is the dessert that we picked up. One for each of us and one to split. Remember, it was my birthday! Unfortunately, I have been on a 3-day pass for desserts on my birthday. As my dad would say, "I gotta get back on the program!"

We went to Coalvines for dinner that night. We sat outside (open to the inside behind me) and enjoyed a part of Dallas we never see! It felt like we were out of town--without the price of airline tickets or a couple of tanks of gas!

Dinner was delicious.

It was nice to getaway with Kyle and do nothing. It is a funny thing that what is a great gift to me right now is getting away and doing nothing. Putting my feet up a lot (no shopping). Watching a movie (not PBS). Eating a dessert and taking my time at a meal. I felt cared for and loved spending some alone time with just Kyle. He is my best friend and we have a great time together.

Happy Birthday to me!

Thanks babe!

Band of Brothers

2009-08-04T16:58:00.000-07:00

I have two boys--right now. I will have three and then I will have new observations about my three different boys.

But right now I have two very different little boys.

Rhody and Bo. Rho and Bobo.

They don't look very much alike. They have totally different features and different builds. They do have the same coloring and a similar haircut so they look more like brothers right now.

But I am thinking more of their personalities and temperaments.

Rhody is kind, tender-hearted, quick to smile, loves to laugh, loves baseball, cries easily, scared of dogs and masks, and loves lots of hugs.

Bo is feisty, quick-tempered, funny for his age, likes people to laugh at him, surprisingly sweet with babies, likes baseball (hockey may be more his sport), aggressive, stubborn and fiercely independent.

We went to a playground today with our fun friend Brandon. There was a fireman's pole at the playground. It is about a foot and a half from the ledge of the playground. It requires a child to reach out with their arms and then leap (a little) onto the pole to slide down.

The boys differences were so apparent in this little playground experience.

Brandon went to the pole first. He quickly and easily jumped on the pole and slid down to the ground.

Rhody followed him and stood on the edge and looked at the pole and quickly called for me. I knew he probably would. He started saying, "I can't do it. I need your help."

I came over and talked him through it. Encouraging him and supporting him the first couple of times he jumped onto the pole. He then started saying, "I did it! I did it! All by myself!" (sort of Rhody)

I walked away and they went down the pole several more times.

Then Bo noticed the pole. He went up to the ledge and leaned out to reach the pole with his hands. (I was quickly at the base of the pole) Bo immediately starts yelling at me, "I do it myself Mommy!" I have to convince him to let me just put one hand on his belly while he jumps. He isn't that tall and he can barely reach the pole on his own.

Of course, he doesn't care about any of that. He wants to slide down that pole. The big boys did---so he must! He does learn how to slide pretty quickly. I never felt great about him leaping to the pole without me near.

Rhody left that part of the playground for a little while and then came back to the pole. He got to the ledge and started saying, "I can't do it!" He so quickly forgot how he was just doing that same pole, all by himself. I had to remind him several times that he could do it.

Rhody is not a natural risk taker. He is cautious.

Bo is a born risk taker. Caution is an unfamiliar concept to him.

I am grateful to have both boys. There are good and hard things about both of their personalities. God can use both of them and their given gifts and talents and personalities in huge and different ways!

Sometimes one personality is easier than another. But the goal of parenting is not to have "easy" kids or an "easy" time parenting. (this is me giving myself a pep talk!) I love them so much. I love how different they are. I desperately want to encourage them to be the boys (and then men) that God wants them to be. Not who I want them to be. My selfishness and desire for comfort and ease will get in the way. I might miss something in them because it seems to hard to "control."

Yes, it would be easier if Rhody didn't cry at the drop of a hat. But I can already see a wonderful, tender side to him that I would hate to squelch.

Yes, it would be easier if Bo didn't want to do EVERYTHING on his own. But God could grow him into a wonderful leader one day.

My friend Jenny just said the other day that she has hope in the fact that God is bigger than her parenting skills. I echo that truth. (not about your parenting skills, jenny--about mine!)

This is the best, most rewarding, exhausting, and thrilling job anyone could ever have.

I can't wait to meet my newest little one.

If we could only come up with a name for him.

Confessions of a Mom (that happens to be really pregnant)

2009-07-31T18:17:00.000-07:00

I have so many random thoughts. Perfect. I have a blog.

Maybe I can spare my husband precious moments of his life by sharing my randomness with you instead of with him.

When I say randomness, I mean nothing is related to one another except that it all effects me. (effects or affects? I never learned that one well)

So I am pregnant. Pretty pregnant. Probably more pregnant looking than actual gestation time elapsed. I am 29 or 30 weeks. Somewhere around there. I look a little farther along.

That must explain why at the wedding we went to two weeks ago a lady said, "Now when is your due date?"

I say hesitantly, "October."

She replies, "No! Are you sure?"

I am sure.

More from lady, "It has to be sooner! Or there must be twins in there!"

Exactly how does one respond to that?

Giggle a lot and walk away and go eat something chocolaty.

That leads me to my next point.

My doctor lowered the hammer last week. She said I had gained too much weight during this last 4 week period and it has to stop!

I was shocked. I hadn't noticed the scale at all. I have never been told that before in the other pregnancies. And I was even more petrified because my little enforcer daughter was listening in to the whole thing!

I will spare you all the details, but she said that I should start exercising more and eating all delicious foods less. Specifically no desserts. At least, that was the main thing Lainey heard. I quickly reminded Lainey that mommy's birthday was coming up and that birthdays are an exception. Whew!

The next morning was donut day. I hope I have properly expressed my love for donuts on this blog. Because I do love a warm glazed donut. Always have. Always will.

Kyle went to go get donuts. While he was gone, Lainey came up to me with a glimmer in her eye and said enthusiastically, "Mommy, the donuts won't cost as much today because we aren't getting any for you."

Since when did Lainey care about the financial status of this family?

Pregnancy does weird things to bodies. Different for different people. Let me be clear. I love having babies. I don't just love being pregnant.

One weird thing that happens to me during pregnancies--with boys only. The hair on my legs stops growing. Weird, huh? I can go weeks without shaving. And I have.

I just wanted to tell you that. I am not sure why. I have to try to focus on the positive sometimes. I can feel the swelling beginning, I have some pinched nerves, I have a plethora of unwanted facial hair, I can't buckle my strappy sandals very comfortably, I am not sleeping well, I can't eat desserts so gosh darn it--I am excited that I don't have hairy legs.

Potty training.

We are doing it over here. Bo has to be trained before school starts in a month. No time like the present!

It is actually going ok. We have had a lot of successes and not many accidents.

Potty training my boys has been so hysterical. They are definitely different than their sister.

Lainey learned how to tinkle on the potty. She learned how to poop on the potty. Nothing too exciting or newsworthy about the whole thing. It involved princess panties and M&M's--that's about it.

A little different for the boys. They are proud of their poop. And want to share their victory with all around.

Bo went a "big poop" yesterday morning around 9:00. We all cheered. He immediately said, "I'm gonna tell Daddy about my big poop when he gets home from work!"

I encouraged that.

Then he said adamantly, "Don't flush it Mommy! Don't flush it! Daddy see it after work."

I don't think so. Not at 9:00 am. We are flushing. What kind of mom do you think I am?

The kind that got my iPhone and took a picture and emailed it to Daddy to make my precious boy happy. I know--sick.

Well, that's a wrap. I have more random things but I need to put my ankles up before they swell to the size of grapefruits. Another great image.

Family Ranger Game Night

2009-07-22T20:56:00.000-07:00

We all headed out to Arlington to see the Rangers vs. the Red Sox this week. It was actually not that hot--even in July! Some Ranger games on Wednesday are half-price--we jumped on that!

We all had a great time. It was Bo's first game ever. Rhody told him that several times on the way there. "Bo! This will be your first Ranger game at the ball park!" Rhody said multiple times. Then when Rhody repeated it one last time as we were walking up to the ballpark, Bo said, "You are already told me that Rhody!"

Rhody was ready for any foul ball.

Rhody loved every part of it. The atmosphere, the fans, the loud music, all the players and the stats. It is fun to experience it with him.

Lainey didn't want to leave the game. She can name most of the players and their positions on the Rangers because Rhody talks about it so much. I wouldn't say she is some huge baseball fan like Rhody but she will watch it with him and will talk to him about it--a little.

Like Father like Son. Look at these two!

Just wanted to prove that I was actually at the game.

Bo was unusually calm and quiet during the whole game. He was soaking up the whole experience. When we were leaving 2 1/2 hours later, he said, "My favorite part was the Mascot. And the (he made loud sounds and moved his hands up and down) ?" I answered, "Fireworks?" He said enthusiastically, "Yea! Fireworks! That was cool. That was awesome."

It is a little strange to hear that little boy say awesome. And use it correctly.

Our Ranger fans. Rhody making his duck face. I can never get them all looking and smiling!