tres alejandros

Na Na Na Na...Na Na Na Na...Hey Hey Hey, Goodbye

2011-06-24T15:20:00.000-04:00

Can you believe it has been 5 years since I started this blog? FIVE years. Wow. Time sure does go by in a hurry. And now that we, in just a few days, will no longer be Tres Alejandros, it is time for one blog to close and another to continue on with the journey.

Thanks for joining us in our daily adventures as a family of three. We hope you will COME AND LISTEN to what will be happening in the future of our family!

**Be sure to add http://come-and-listen-to-what-hes-done.blogspot.com to your blog reader or bookmark for easy access!**

Headed to the Big Apple

2011-06-09T14:56:00.060-04:00

Usually, Summer Spectacular (aka VBS) is late June. But with JD being one of the two top dogs for this event and having a baby due the last week of June, it got moved up this year. Yes people, our baby caused the date change.

I am so thankful for this man and ALL he does for the Kingdom!

But it is the last event before the baby comes, and for that we are super excited. We had a great week in the Big Apple. Over 750 children (400+ 1st-5th graders and 350+ birth-K5) joined us! WOW!

JD and crew spent many hours preparing the worship room with environmental projection and decor. Doesn't it look awesome?

Each day during the closing celebration the sun would set on the "city of New York". The kids LOVED it and would go crazy!

And they even had a taxi outside for the entire week. Pretty NYC if you ask me. Since we had the keys we went with a little photo op.

But isn't it more about what is on the inside that counts? Lives were changed this week as we talked about faith, love, trust, others, and life. Watch this:

Thanks to Alex for all the pics and the videos. You rock!

Here's the Church

2011-05-25T17:27:00.024-04:00

This spring the preschoolers at church have been learning about what it means to be the church. To finish off the spring semester they presented "Here's the Church!" to the parents in song. It is amazing the difference in LilE from Christmas 2009 to today. She LOVES to sing. And I LOVE listening to her.

Holding hands with sweet GB. Oh, how we will miss this friend!

Most of the K4 kiddos. It is a small, but consistent group.

All the preschool choirs. LilE is in the middle on the right side.

I remembered to bring the small video camera, but our seats weren't the best. But you can see her and listen to her for a couple of seconds. Maybe next time we will master the camera.

I Wanna Get Away

2011-05-20T20:37:00.055-04:00

Each spring the ministerial staff at church is able to get away for a time of retreat. Over the past 7 years it has varied as to what they have done. Wives v. no wives; Wives the entire week v. wives for an overnight; planning v. playing, etc. Last year was heavy on the meeting and discussing vision. This year was a bit more heavy on the team building (read--encouraging each other every night) and playing.

We were able to find two homes on Fripp Island, SC that could accommodate the entire staff (23 of us on the trip). We had all but one meal in the home. You know, it did seem like we ate all week. Seriously. But the food was awesome!

Just before lunch one day we saw this awesome view from the porch. Amazing!

The island has deer everywhere. They would even come up to us and beg for food, especially this mangy one. Most had their "amenity card" (aka ear tag) unlike this one.

On Thursday morning, half of the staff headed back home. We did not have any commitments and our friends were willing to keep LilE one more night, so we took advantage of one more free day on the island.

We headed out to Hunting Island State Park, the island right next door to Fripp. Several movies have been filmed on the Island: Forrest Gump, GI Jane, and Rules of Engagement. While there we went letterboxing with some friends. We went to the light house on the island.

JD had never been in a light house. We rested while he took the 167 stairs to the top. And then he showed us the view from the top.

The next box we went after was on a trail that was closed. But that didn't stop the boys from walking 50 paces. And I guess we paid for it too, ticks. That's right, ticks. We brought a few out of the trail with us. Hmm.

One box we weren't successful in finding was on the marsh. We took a long boardwalk over it. There were teeny crabs everywhere. Thousands of them. And most had a dominate claw. Pretty funny looking.

We had a great day with friends and enjoyed the evening relaxing after some golf carting adventures. You just never know what may happen--what happens at Fripp Island, stays on Fripp Island.

Party Time, Excellent!

2011-05-14T14:36:00.029-04:00

This weekend we had 3 birthday parties--THREE! Fun, but busy weekend.
No pictures from the 30th birthday. Guess that is what happens when you get old. :)

On Saturday we had two 3 year old parties. And yes, I took my camera them. In the morning we headed to the fire station to celebrate with theEdge. This is the best group shot I got. I forgot how distracted 3 year olds can be.

The fireman gave us a quick tour of the station and then showed the kids all about the truck. And they even got to get on!

Later that evening, we headed to the picnic shelter for an Alice in Wonderland party for another 3 year old. You can get ALL the details from MC's mommy HERE. It was amazing!

They had a "photo booth" area and the girls and I took advantage. Fun idea!

And we couldn't go without a creeper picture.

Baby even had his/her picture taken. You can see it HERE.

Fore

2011-05-10T14:57:00.017-04:00

About two months ago, JD took up a new hobby, one he swore he would never take up because he didn't like it; it was boring. Now those words have come back to haunt him. Ha!

Mid May the church staff will go on our annual retreat. This year all the boys are to play golf. Yes, boring golf. And in order for him not to make a fool of himself, he decided to head out to the driving range and hit a few. One of our neighbors LOVES to play and this gave him an opportunity to get on the course with him.

Over the next few weeks he had in his possession a nice golf bag, full of clubs, balls, and tees, golf shoes, and gloves. Really? Who is this man? But he has enjoyed spending time with the boys at work. He was even able to play in a fund raiser for Child Evangelism Fellowship at the Cliffs. An extremely nice course to play on for the first time!

CTW

He has been given lots of tips along this journey and had lots of encouragement from the boys. Thanks to all who have helped him learn. He seems to actually enjoy playing and is competetive enough to conquor this new challenge.

Although it looks like it may all is well, you can watch this video to see the bumps in the road.

Happy Cow Creamery

2011-05-09T14:35:00.064-04:00

When LilE was 2, she stayed with some friends who home school while we were out of town. She tagged along on a field trip to a local dairy farm and loved it from what I was told.
Since then, I have always wanted to take her back and check this place out. Supposedly, their milk is awesome! And they have strawberries you can pick also. And since it is now strawberry season, I thought it would be a perfect time to do both. Until I called and realized all the tours were booked until July. BOO! Who knew it was so popular? But, because we had a teeny group, we were able to join in with another group! YEA!!

We loaded up the Tahoe with car seats, camp chairs, picnics, and ice chests and make the trek 40 miles down the road. The kids were so excited!

We arrived early to eat our picnic lunch. And we had a little photo op with the 'dry' cows, otherwise known as the maternity ward. I felt like I fit in right there in the parking lot.

Near the picnic area they had a milking area for the kids to practice.

Due to prices of strawberries, we chose to pick our strawberries a bit closer to home. And boy am I glad we did. It. Was. HOT.

We started the tour. Not too much to take pictures of. We took a trolley ride out into one of the fields. They rotate their cows and the types of grass to keep the cows eating green grass all year long. Eating grass in the fields is what makes their cows happy. The tour lady said that in the beginning the cows were cooped up in the barn and were making about 50 lbs of milk at each milking time. Then the cows decided they didn't want to be in the barn all the time and they escaped. After eating the grass in the fields they then began to produce twice as much milk a day...200 lbs!! Holy Moly that's a lot of milk. And that is why they keep green grass all year long. They also bottle their milk on site after a low temp pasteurization--which keeps all the natural vitamins in the milk (they don't have to be re-added like the milk in the store).

We were also able to go into the milking barn and see how that is set up, but it wasn't milking time, so we didn't get to watch the entire process. Fortunately, we saw that at the State Fair of Texas last fall.

And after the tour we were able to taste test some products: strawberry milk, chocolate milk, whole milk, and of course, ice cream! It was all so rich, thick, and SO good!! We brought some home for JD to try as well.

We had such a fun day. I think I was more interested in the entire process than LilE was, but that's okay. It was well worth the drive! And I would love to go back again one day when we are studying the farm!

The Last as a Mother of One

2011-05-08T16:31:00.000-04:00

In K4 the last big hoorah of the year is the Mother's Day Brunch. The room was decorated in pretty pastels. Tables made up with table cloths, hand printed placemats, and homemade flowers. It was perfect! (And didn't think to take a picture to show you. Sorry.)
The kids were so excited to have all the mommies come. They started with a little presentation of all they had learned this year--Psalm 23, Nursery Rhymes, the days of creation, and a cutesie little song about mother's. The program ended with a slide show of the kids throughout the year. It was super sweet.

We then got to sit down with our crowns on and have our lemonade and cookies. So yummy!

The kids did such a great job making us feel so special!

On Sunday, we had our typical morning at church. Well, kinda. I started the morning off in the nursery full of newborns who had been dedicated that morning. So glad I am not having 14! One I think I can handle! As I was leaving the nursery, I had several people stop me and tell me what a great job LilE did. Thanks? JD had said I was going to get one of my gifts at church, but I assumed it was a picture or something in a video. Oh. My. Instead it was an ENTIRE video of my daughter dancing and playing in her room. She was the video! I just about melted right there. And yes, I was the mom sobbing in church! My heart was so full of love for that girl! She was only a teeny bit confused at why I was crying.
If you have not already seen it, take a minute and enjoy my precious first born!

Isn't she beautiful? I sure think so!

After church we headed to Olive Garden with everyone else in town. We actually went with some friends and which made the hour and a half wait more bearable. We had the best conversations which made the hour and a half go by quickly.

Can you believe I didn't take a single picture on Mother's Day? Who am I? BUT I did take a picture with my girl the day before, so it will just have to do for this year.

Snip Snip and Away

2011-05-05T20:50:00.001-04:00

LilE loves arts and crafts. She has a new love for cutting. Other than ONE incident, we have not had any issues. I have heard horror stories about kids cutting their hair off at the scalp and we have been fortunate that has not been the case in our home.

Today I was running some errands when I received a phone call from LilE's teacher. My first thought was she was sick. But then the words came out of her mouth. "The kids were working at their stations and I gave them their supplies. Turned around and a second later I saw LilE cutting her hair."

I gasped and paniced. Seriously started to sweat a bit and freak out. I LOVE her hair. It is so long and so pretty and the thought of it being a buster brown haircut made me want to cry. But her teacher calmed me down and told me that she couldn't even tell she cut it. But I still wanted to know, "how much was cut?" She told me it really wasn't much. She picked up the locks and put them in a baggie for me to see when she got home. She told me LilE cried for an hour at school. She had taken the scissors away after explaining we don't ever cut our hair. Poor thing just melted, not because she was in trouble necessarily, but because she couldn't finish her craft.

I was a little on edge the rest of the day. But when I picked her up from school there wasn't anything noticable. Praise the Lord. I acted as though everything was normal and I didn't know anything. She was a bit hesitant with me, which makes me laugh a bit at her sinful nature. As she does every day, she wanted to show me the stuff from school. We went through everything and the baggie was amongst all her papers. (There was some MAJOR relief as I had to squint to see the 10-2" hairs in the baggie. It was not as much as I thought.) I asked her what it was and she answered her hair. The poor girl thought she was going to get into trouble and when I asked her how it got there, she said she didn't want to tell me. So, we had some lessons on being honest and telling the truth--even when it is hard. And since she had kinda already been punished and she was heartbroken over her choices, there were no further consequences on our end. She did start crying on the way home so I stopped and took her out of her seat and just gave her lots of love. She sure did need it!

We had to run and pick up the camera from being cleaned (woot!). So on the way we stopped for a little happy hour treat! Maybe that will help her realize that we love her enough to give her a treat to make her feel a bit better about life. I know they sure help me feel better!

Strawberry Season

2011-05-03T20:07:00.001-04:00

This is one of my favorite seasons of the year. Spring. The weather is starting to warm up without being too hot. The flowers are blooming. And the fruit is growing. And we LOVE to have fresh strawberries in the house.

LilE and I loaded up to meet a few friends and ended up meeting the entire church at the strawberry patch (well, maybe just two other playgroups and another staff family).

LilE and I found a spot all by ourselves and picked away.

Two gallons of strawberries.

They were yummy!

We talked about how the plants grow and the flowers bloom.

Then the strawberries grow out of the blooms.

Isn't it great how God created these wonderful plants for us to enjoy?!?

We took some other pictures just because we could. I have one beautiful princess with beautiful friends.

The next morning we gathered our supplies to make freezer jam. I am so thankful for a friend making it for us a couple of years ago. We have forever been changed.

I cut the strawberries.

We crushed the strawberries.

Add the sugar (and it's not just a little sugar).

Boiled the pectin.

Mixed the two together.

And poured it into the jars.

I ended up using all two gallons of strawberries to make 4 batches of jam. Yielding 24 half pints. If we run out of jam this year we need some serious help! But really, it IS that good!!

The Royal Jewels

2011-04-29T22:04:00.009-04:00

Tonight we had a girls night out. And in honor of the Royal Wedding, it was themed. To be honest, I didn't even know about this wedding until I got the invite for the party. Maybe I should watch the news more often. Nah.

We had such a fun time getting all dressed up in our fancy headbands, hats, and ginormous rocks on our fingers.

We enjoyed tasty treats and even a wedding cake for dessert.

But the real reason for the get together was to buy some jewelry to support Florence and Ayiko.

A friend of mine met this mother and son while on the mission field in Uganda, Africa. It is such a sweet story about how the boy and Alissa became best buds. When Florence realized Alissa was not the same age as her boy, she just had to meet this girl. Even though Alissa is now back in the states, they are still dear friends and she continues to help Florence. Here is her story:

"Florence Kamure is a single mom from northwestern Uganda. In February 2010, she was unemployed and she and her son Ayiko, were homeless. In June of 2010, she began creating and selling paper bead jewelry. Since then, the proceeds from her jewelry sales have provided for Ayiko's school fees and allowed Florence to purchase a plot of land where she hopes to build a home soon."

Last summer a friend (GC) went on a short term trip to see Alissa. When she came home, she brought a sampling of these paper bead necklaces. For only a few dollars, I snatched one up. I LOVE it and wear it all the time. And the best part is knowing that a mom worked so hard making it to provide for her child.

When my friend Rhonda invited me to a party at her house to browse though necklaces for Florence, I was all in! There were boxes and boxes of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

We shopped and shopped. It was so fun trying on all the different styles she is now making and the fun colors.

In just a few short hours, Florence made a little over $700!! Praise the Lord! I cannot wait to see exactly how the Lord will use this money for her family!

And we couldn't let the evening pass without a group shot!

If you are interested in hosting a party in your home or want to buy some jewelry for yourself or a gift, please let me know and I will send along Alissa's contact info.

The Easter Dress

2011-04-26T22:11:00.009-04:00

I saw this dress over at TaDa! Creations. It had a $145 price tag on it. Woah. I didn't necessarily care for the Mary had a Little Lamb apron on the front, so I thought to myself, "you CAN make this." And so I did.

I had THIS peasant dress pattern (with multiple sleeve options).

And I knew how to make a gathered skirt from THIS tutorial.

The sash, it was the biggest challenge. After a couple of tries, and some advice from a friend, I got it to work. I didn't have a pattern. And I won't bore you with the how to, unless you want me to share. Send an email.

The finished product.

Oops. Wrong lighting setting on the camera...hence the blue tones. 

Now isn't it fun? And LilE wore it ALL day long. I think she liked it too.

The Tomb is EMPTY!

2011-04-25T21:48:00.015-04:00

A couple of years ago we made Easter Story Cookies. They we fun to make and we enjoyed the reading that went along with them. But we didn't like the end result (the taste, not the "empty tomb" analogy).

This year I decided to give the Resurrection Rolls a try. (And I kinda tried to take pictures along the way...kinda).

Gather:

One can of crescent roll dough (I had biscuits, so I used those...be sure to keep reading)

One large marshmallows for each roll you’ll be making (not pictured, oops)

Melted butter (1T was plenty)

Cinnamon sugar

Bible or Easter storybook

Assemble rolls and read the story:

1. Read John 19 while the oven is pre-heating according to the package directions. If you’re really on top of things, spend the week before reading John 12-18 with your kids.

2. Unroll the crescent rolls. Explain that this is like the cloth they wrapped Jesus in.

3. Give your child a marshmallow and explain that it represents Jesus… all white and pure because He was without sin.

4. Roll the marshmallows in the melted butter. This symbolizes the embalming oils.

5. Roll the marshmallows in the cinnamon sugar. This is like the spices used to prepare his body for burial. (or use a spoon because you don't like to get too dirty)

6. Wrap the marshmallow in the crescent roll cloth, pinching the dough together securely. Don’t worry about the shape so much, they’ll taste the same no matter how you roll or bundle them. This represents how they would have wrapped Jesus’ body.

7. Lick fingers.

8. Put the rolls in the oven (symbolizing the tomb) and bake for the amount of time specified on the package.

9. While the rolls are baking, read John 20:1-18.

10. Open the tomb (oven) and remove the rolls.

YIKES! They are supposed to be closed up. And obviously, they are NOT! Note to self, use crescent rolls next time!

11.When they’re cool enough to handle, break one open and discover what happened to the marshmallow. Jesus is risen! At this point, I also read 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18. Jesus is coming again!

Shew, this one was closed enough to see the 'emptiness'. These tasted SO good! Live and learn!

Here Comes Peter Cottontail

2011-04-24T20:16:00.001-04:00

Or maybe not.
But it is Easter weekend!

We took it easy on Saturday morning, baking and preparing for Sunday.

Saturday afternoon we had a couple of Life Group (aka Sunday School) parties at one of the lakes around here. It was a perfect day to be outside. We got to catch up with some old friends as well as meet some new ones.

Once home, I had put the final touches on LilE's Easter Dress (that will be another post in itself!) and gathered all the goodies for her Easter basket. It wasn't too exciting, lots of candy and a pillow pet--the Purple Unicorn. She is in love with Maggie. She goes everywhere with us now.

But the real celebration was on Sunday! What an amazing day of WORSHIPPING the LORD! I am so thankful to have the freedom to openly worship the Savior! I think I take that for granted just about every day. I shouldn't!

After church we got together with the "framily" for lunch. Ham, green beans, mac n cheese, biscuits, strawberry salad, and Kentucky pie. ALL so delicious! And yes, we put the kids in front of a movie so the adults could talk. Don't judge. They weren't getting into trouble!

After a nap, we went to hunt some eggs in the front yard. The egg hunts this year just weren't working out as planned. The first go-round we made it hard--because LilE is now a big girl and has to hunt with the big kids. And we learned at one hunt that she doesn't run and fight after the eggs. Therefore, we made it a big of a challenge. And she wasn't really up for it. So we did it again a little more on her level and she had fun.

And she did just about eat her weight in sugar on Sunday. But didn't we all?

Spring Break

2011-04-22T16:50:00.038-04:00

Spring has sprung and with Easter right around the corner, Spring Break has arrived! We had lots planned for the week.

Monday: Picnic play date at a local university
We played and watched the ducks before having our picnic lunch.

Tuesday: Trip to the zoo.
We met up with some new friends for a walk around the zoo and a picnic lunch. We are so thankful that it was a free trip to the zoo!

Wednesday: Shopping and Dinner

LilE and I took it easy all morning and then headed to the outlets in the afternoon. I had seen some stuff awhile back at the Carter's outlet, but wanted her to try stuff on. Plus I had a 20% off coupon (to add to the already way reduced prices). We came out of there purchasing $198 of clothes paying only $92!! Score! Three knit dresses, two short/shirt sets, one skirt and matching shirt, and three pairs of PJs. I feel like we hit the jackpot. That is about as bargain shopping as I can get. And I LOVE how modest Carter's is. The older LilE gets, I am realizing what a challenge modesty is going to be.

We ended the evening trying out a new Mexican place in town with some friends. It was tasty, but a bit of a drive across town. I might go back again and try out something else on the menu. I hear the fajitas are awesome.

Thursday: Egg hunt

This morning we had planned to hit the park and have an egg hunt with friends. But the rain came in and we had to go to plan b. And inside hunt. Fortunately, the gym at church was open for free play. Then we headed upstairs to the children's area for the hunt. (There are perks to sleeping with the children's minister.) We had a picnic lunch in the cafe before heading home for a bit of quiet time.

Friday: Work/Good Friday Service

Bummer--I had to work. First time in seven years the office has been open on Good Friday. BUT it was a quiet morning and I was finished at noon. I didn't make it back to church for the noon service, but I did make it to lunch with the family and some friends. Pizza, followed by Yogurt Mountain. So yummy!

So, as you can tell, it was a busy and FUN week for us! What did you do for spring break?

Have You Seen the Bump?

2011-04-18T16:55:00.001-04:00

Don't forget that all things baby (and baby bump) are being posted at Come and Listen. Head on over and check out the growing belly.

Don't forget to subscribe via your reader of choice. Only 10 more weeks before Tres Alejandros is no longer. We are super duper excited about the change!! And we don't want you to miss out on finding out if Baby Alex is a boy or girl!!

Daddy Daughter Date

2011-04-16T16:34:00.014-04:00

JD has been talking about taking LilE on a date for quite some time.

LilE has been trying to read for quite some time. She likes to read signs as we drive along. Waffle House is one she has learned.

JD and LilE have a tradition of making waffles together each and every Saturday morning while Mommy tries to sleep a bit. Each time LilE gets to pick out the color of the waffles. It is a sweet time for them. It's funny that when I roll out of bed, JD is usually asleep on the couch.

Therefore, the first official daddy-daughter date was to...drum roll, please...Waffle House.

LilE got all dressed up.

She even picked out Daddy's clothes.

And they enjoyed their time together eating yummy waffles.

The only negative? My two favorite people smelled like they had each smoked a pack when they got home. Hmm...

I learned a valuable lesson though. When I say, "take the camera," I will give instructions for them to have a picture taken...together. All I got was what you see and Emma's pictures of Waffle House staff. I want them to have pictures other than cups and waffles to remember one day!

The Beach Girls, Take 3

2011-04-10T17:18:00.035-04:00

I am blessed. So blessed to have such super great friends! The LORD is good!

The past two summers I have been able to get away with these girls. This summer would be a bit different. I was going to be super great with child and MF would have a newborn. Not the best plan for a relaxing weekend away. Therefore, we headed out a few months early this year before the babies arrived.

We headed out of town on Thursday night after a quick dinner with the girls. Food, what a great way to start the weekend. It was a running theme throughout as well.

Friday morning some of us slept in (while the grandma's headed to the grocery--love ya!) and had a relaxing breakfast on the front porch. We then made our way to the beach. But the clouds came with us. We were a bit chilled and ended up going back to the house to warm up a bit. Not our typical weekend at the beach.

Friday night after relaxing all afternoon not on the beach, we headed out to celebrate BAC's birthday! I just love her so much and was so thankful to be able to share the weekend with her! She is such an encouragement to me!

There was no one outside to take a group picture--so we took turns with the birthday girl!

After dinner we headed to the outlets for a little retail therapy--sans kiddos! It. was. awesome. Granted, most of us only bought for our kids. Oh well.

Saturday we got up and went for a walk. The weather was a bit cooler than desired, but being with friends makes the world go round. So a little overcast and cool weather wasn't going to get us down! We went out for lunch and then stepped it up a notch. We went to Professional Body Piercing by Jackie. MB wanted to get her nose pierced. So who more fun to do it with than the girls!

How 'bout that for some adventure?

When we got back a few of us went to walk on the beach. Yeah, it was a teeny bit cold.

We saw a few star fish (the day before it was over 100, but no camera) and one huge jellyfish. It was a monster.

That night we stayed in and played a little beauty shop while a huge storm blew through.

Sunday we got up and cleaned up before heading home. It was a fast weekend, but so relaxing and fun. I so enjoy these ladies who LOVE the LORD and who are such an encouragement to me. I love the talks we have about what the LORD is doing in each of our lives. It is such an honor to call them friends!

Out of Town Guests

2011-03-28T11:20:00.007-04:00

Mimi and Pop were ready to come out...and we were ready to have them! It has been 3 full months since we have seen them and 10 months since they have been out here. (We enjoyed LOTS of trips to Texas last year!)

Due to ticket prices, we got to have them for an extra day! Woot!! They flew out Thursday afternoon. We picked them up and then Mimi and I went grocery shopping. Sounds like your idea of a grand weekend, right? Next time hopefully I will be better prepared, but I do enjoy that one on one time with my mom. Usually LilE has her undivided attention.

LilE did have her plans for what Mimi and Pop were going to do with her when they arrived--color. And color they did. Isn't it great that her idea of a grand time with the grands is coloring. I love it! (but didn't take a single picture on Thursday)

Friday morning, LilE got up and went to school. We kinda piddled around the house. Mimi and I cooked a gourmet lunch--seriously. I tried out Pastor Ryan's Pasta Carbonara (from The Pioneer Woman). It was delicious! So, I am keeping that recipe for another meal.

photo courtesy of The Pioneer Woman

After lunch we packed up our letterboxing gear and headed out to the Science Center here in town. They have several boxes so we went on a hunt. And then we all got tired and called it quits after we found 4 of the 10. All that means is we get to go back and enjoy the facilities again. They release the butterflies in May. That sounds like fun. And while I was there I picked up some info and registered my sweet girl for some big girl summer camps!

Saturday it decided to rain on us. All. Day. Long. Boo. But my child was in heaven. That meant she and Mimi could craft and craft and craft!

We picked up some pine cones on Friday while on the Nature Trail. Didn't they turn out cute? It is our family in Pine Cone Bunnies. Awww.

Sunday we headed to church and then came home and rested the rainy afternoon away. My parents were able to rock it out in our new Modern service. It wasn't so bad, they said, but they will stick with the contemporary at home. :)

Monday was a laid back morning and day of packing and picking up and playing and picture taking.

After lunch, we headed to the airport. Back track a bit. LilE was out of sorts all morning. Nothing going her way. And we realized she understood Mimi and Pop were heading home in the afternoon. After we hugged and waved and blew kisses, LilE just buried her head in my leg. And as we walked away, she began to cry. This is the first time she has cried when company has left. It broke my heart. She is finally old enough to understand and it hurts her heart not to be with family.

But to our rescue came the TSA guy. (I know...out of character for those guys!) He gave us a website to watch Mimi and Pop's plane fly back to Texas! How neat! After their flight took off we headed on over to FLIGHT AWARE and put in our airline and flight number. This is what it showed us (click to see the detail):

How fun! Then we snuggled and watched a movie and she was good to go.

We are super-dy duper-dy excited that the next time we see them we will have a new baby in our house!! We can't wait!!

The Big 10

2011-03-24T12:01:00.061-04:00

And I do not mean college sports.

Happy 10th Anniversary to us!

There are days it seems like we have been together for ten years because I do not remember life post high school without JD. But then there are days when our love is so fresh it seems we have just been together for a short period of time.

I love that it has been ten years with the same man...the love of my life. He is a rock in my life. Keeps me in check with reality. Loves me when I am unlovable. Father to my children. Spiritual leader. Makes me laugh (did you see Sporty Wee? How could you not laugh?) Servant.

Has life together been perfect? Of course not. We have had our fair share of disagreements. But probably the biggest thing I have learned throughout our 10 years is communication. If something is bothering me--talk it out. If I see something I really like him doing--tell him. Many of the issues we have had over the years could have easily been blown way out of perspective, but in learning to talk it out and deal with it then and there has solved our problems. Talking and handing it over to the Lord.

I have also learned it is not all about me. I know, I know. Shocker. But it is about what I can do to serve him and make him desire to be at home with me. How can I make my home a place of refuge for him? I am still learning this one. But it is my heart's desire to make my home a place of warmth and love, not only for my family, but for anyone who walks through the door. I want Christ to radiate throughout.

Enough sap.

Our plan for our 10th was to go on a second honeymoon. Ten years ago we headed to the Poconos (you know the champagne tub in all the wedding magazines--yup, that's the one). We enjoyed horseback riding, snow, a day trip to NYC to eat at Windows on the World (located in the WTC North Tower) and watch Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. It was a great trip away. You can read all about our honeymoon HERE. But this time around, we wanted the beach. So that was our plan. Travel to some turquoise colored water, white sand beach, staying in a hut on top of the water. Oh, those trips aren't free are they?

Instead, my parents flew in for the weekend (more to come on that). Friday night we were able to go out to dinner, walk and talk, eat a dessert (or two) and enjoy our time together. No rushing due to FREE babysitting!!

For all the big milestone anniversaries I have had babies. So maybe we can plan to get away for our 15th. Maybe.

Here's to taking a step back in time...

Keepin' It Real: About 2 hours after I typed up this post, Satan hit our house hard. As in we had the biggest knock down, drag out we have had in a while. It ended with us giving each other the silent treatment for a bit. Then we finally talked it out, getting all our feelings out into the open. And yes, the number one problem that was discovered--we were both focused on ourselves. Awesome. At least we have moved on and are communicating and thinking of the other person again. I love forgiveness!

Family Photos

2011-03-21T17:31:00.013-04:00

Are you liking Sporty Wee's dressed up look? Isn't he handsome in a tux?

We couldn't pass up a bit of a photo shoot with JD looking a little edgy.

LilE was trying...

A little Momma/Daughter action

And our new photo to go in our living room. Or maybe it will just stay right here.

SHINE 2011

2011-03-21T13:51:00.069-04:00

**Note: The videos and reading will take about 30 minutes. BUT they are 30 minutes you WILL NOT want to miss. My JD wrote a large majority of the script for the first video. He did a bang up job. I am super proud of him and the team of ministers we have at our church. They work so well together and do it ALL for the GLORY OF GOD!!

This past weekend, our church's student ministry held it's 2011 DNow (Disciple Now--a weekend retreat in town for the students). The theme of this year's event was SHINE 2011. The verse they reflected on all weekend was Philippians 2:14-16--"Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, "children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation." Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. "

The focus being to shine, this years weekend event began with the 2011 Shine Awards. The hosts of the show were the first "boy band" from the 80s--Wee. They hit it big before NKOTB, Backstreet Boys, and Boyz to Men.

You can learn more about them by watching VH1's Wee Behind the Music. (It is not publically posted, so you will have to click the LINK. You won't want to miss this--hilarious!)

After Behind the Music, Wee was reunited for the first time in 15 years with a live on stage performance which kicked off the weekend.

Saturday between all the sessions, the students headed downtown to do a little flash mob action. It. was. awesome.

But there was more to the weekend than Beiber fever. The students were challenged to "not be held down" by the ways of the world, but to SHINE in a crooked and depraved generation. They/we are to be a LIGHT to the world--to SHINE for JESUS!

As a public committment to themselves and others, each student was given a balloon with an LED light inside. They released them--not being held down by the world, but shining for Jesus!

Commitments made over the weekend:

10 commitments to follow Jesus

101 commitments to SHINE for Jesus

8 commitments to full-time ministry

Here's a challenge to you and me--are you shining for Jesus or being held down by the ways of the world? I know I am praying and challending myself to SHINE for Him. Putting away the things that trap me into thinking only of myself and focusing on the ONE who created me to bring glory to Him.

Bargin Find

2011-03-15T21:57:00.001-04:00

I was walking around Target today waiting for my prescription to be filled (3rd sinus infection this pregnancy...awesome) and found an endcap with clearance items--75% off.

Back up a bit. LilE has been asking lots of questions about the Earth--is it really round, why are MereMere and Paul asleep while we are awake, etc. It is really hard to describe that the Earth is round when you can't physically see it as we drive down the road. I thought having a globe at home would be a great way to show her, but they are expensive. I knew I eventually wanted one to help with homeschooling (still on the prayer list), but it just wasn't a priorty to find the "right" one at this time.

Back to the clearance rack. There is a GLOBE sitting there. Two of them. Just staring at me. I take a closer look. It is interactive. It comes with this "pen" where you can touch any country and it tells you what it's name is, continent it is on, population, language spoken, just to name a few. You can also play games to test your learning. And it has a book that shows different places on each continent you can visit. Awesome find.

And here is the price tag.

Um, Was $89.99, now $22.48. Sold. I will take two. One for me and one for a friend.

LilE is already enjoying it. She even asked multiple times tonight if she could keep it in her room. She enjoyed it that much! Here's to FUN learning!

Snickerdoodles

2011-03-07T15:37:00.021-05:00

LilE and I made a little sweet treat this afternoon in prep for Bible Study being at our house tonight. She enjoyed baking with me as she always does. I am trying really hard not to be caught up in the major mess she is making, but to count it as a learning experience.

Snickerdoodles

1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup shortening
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
2 3/4 cups flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix butter, shortening, and sugar. Add eggs.

Add dry ingredients.

Roll dough into one inch balls. Mix 3 tablespoons sugar and 3 teaspoons cinnamon. Roll dough balls into cinn/sugar mixture to coat the outside. Place on baking sheet.

Bake in 350* preheated oven for approx. 10 minutes.

For CRUNCHY cookies, follow the above directions.

For SOFT cookies, chill dough and cookie sheet for 15 minutes, then roll into balls and bake for 10 minutes. (New trick I just learned.)

Friends

2011-03-06T11:47:00.013-05:00

Nearly 7 years ago, we moved to the Southeast. Seven years. There were several key families that stood beside us back then and continue to stand by us today. Isn't God so good? We could not have done it without their love and support.

One of those families is Joyful Pilgrims. A was in first grade and J3 was 3. Seriously? 3. J2 and B have been such great supporters of our ministry, but also great friends in life. We just love them! I love the friendships that have formed with all the boys. They have a blast together. JD even brought them over to the dark side--they are now Cowboy fans! Ha!

The first spring (2005) we were here, our church put on a huge drama thing (there was no talking, just still scenes to the music) at the local theater. JD was asked to play the role of Joseph (as in Jesus' earthly daddy). J3 was asked to play the role of Jesus as a young boy being visited by wise men. They had such a fun time together that week. See? (This was a dress rehearsal. JD doesn't usually wear a turban on his head.)

J3 continues to grown into such a sweet young man. He is such a great friend to LilE. And she absolutely adores him. And even as a ten year old boy, he will still play with her and make her feel super special. He has a gift and he makes everyone feel like the most important person in the world to him.

This weekend we were able to celebrate his 10 years! JD was invited to the party! Love it! The girls tagged along too. Who can turn down a good piece of birthday cake?

Happy Birthday J3!

PS. You notice a theme here? The bearded man. Stay tuned for the reason why!

Chips and Salsa

2011-02-28T14:47:00.000-05:00

I am Texan. And I LOVE me some good salsa. I think 7 years ago I called it hot sauce. You Southerners are rubbing off on me a bit. But not on what kind of salsa I like. I like it warm to hot. Not this mild tomato sauce you call salsa. Typically, restaurants are good for me. They have enough flavor and warmth. But the store is a totally different situation. Great Value and Pace are just about the only two choices. And I do not like either. That is when my journey to find the perfect recipe began. And today, I have found it!

Someone suggested the Pioneer Woman's recipe. I tried it, still without enough flavor. I tweaked it to my liking and this is what I came up with:

1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes with juice

2 cans (10 oz) Rotel (one mild, one original)

1/2 cup chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 whole jalapeno, quartered and sliced thin

1 tsp sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp cumin

1 cup cilantro

juice of whole lime

Combine all into blender or food processor. Pulse until you get the salsa to the consistency you'd like. Test seasonings with a tortilla chip and adjust as needed. Refrigerate salsa for at least an hour. Serve with tortilla chips.

Introducing...

2011-02-26T15:53:00.000-05:00

Come and Listen (click to be redirected)

This is our new blog! Thanks so much for all those who spurred our little brains. I have been working on it non-stop for the past week trying to get it up and running so you can read all about our growing family.

There are just a few posts (with lots of words), so be sure to scroll ALL THE WAY to the bottom to get our story from the very beginning. You won't want to miss it, I promise!

And, as always, I love feedback--from family, friends, neighbors, and blog stalkers. Come out come out whereever you are!

Happy Reading!

PS. This blog will still be the foundation of our family of THREE. So, until we become a family of FOUR, you can find anything non-baby related still here at Tres Alejandros.

It's a Rainbow Day

2011-02-19T16:26:00.001-05:00

You may have heard that when you decorate a room you need an inspiration piece. For LilE's 5th birthday party, I found my inspiration piece--the cake. And I in turn talked her into the theme--rainbows. I mean really, how can you go wrong with so much color?

JD and I set the room up. Lots of color on the tables (including Skittles), rainbow pieces on the walls (used for a game later), and a big painted rainbow on the wall (also used for a game). Balloons and streamers everywhere. It was super festive inside that room!

When the 16 girls arrived, they were able to do two "early bird" activities--fingernail painting and watercolor painting.

After everyone arrives, the games began. I put JD in charge of crowd control and game instructions. It is something he does very well (remember that kid whisperer thing). First game-Skittle race. The girls broke into 3 teams and had to move their jar of skittles to an empty jar across the room via spoon. There was a lot of concentration going on!

Next, they went on a scavenger hunt for pieces of the rainbow. As a part of the decorations, I had different sizes of semicircles around the room in the colors of the rainbow. The girls had to find one of each color. They took them back to their seats to glue the rainbows together. This was one of their favors.

The final game was "pin the cloud on the rainbow." I gave each girl a cloud to cut out. They were then blindfolded, spun around, and were able to place their cloud.

Cake Time!

Inside was a BIG surprise!

Presents! LilE was so blessed with goodies! Thanks again to all her friends! She loves each and every one of you!

A Whole Hand

2011-02-15T20:32:00.084-05:00

That's right! My baby girl is a whole hand--FIVE years old! Where did the time go?

LilE, you continue to grow into such a precious young lady. You love your friends and look for opportunities to include new friends when they are lonely. You show mercy to those around you. Most times you show us how big you are by doing things by yourself. You are affectionate, helpful, and organized. Everything has a place and you know right where it is. You continue to remain focused on the activity at hand. Empathy is a quality you show. You love Jesus and sing praises to Him often. Daddy and I love to share what He is doing in our family with you.

Here are a few things you are doing these days:

-You love K4. You love your teacher and all the girls in your class. (You may like the boys too, but you don't talk about them. Let's keep it that way.)

-You love to dance. You still play music in your Tinkerbell CD player and spin around in princess dresses. Dancing brings you great joy!

-You love to sing. And I love to hear you sing, especially when you sing to God.

-You LOVE to pretend. Whether it is with Groovy Girls, Little People, or stuffed animals, you love to make things "talk". It keeps you busy for HOURS!

-TV is currently your favorite past time. You enjoy Angelina Ballerina, Super Why?, and Dora the most. We have to limit your TV time. No more than 2 hours a day and even less on school days.

-You love to play outside. You and I are both ready for the weather to warm up so we can soak up some Vitamin D.

-Changing clothes multiple times a day is now a common occurrence, even when I tell you I do not appreciate folding laundry time and time again.

-You and Daddy have special Daddy/Daughter time each week. Every Saturday morning you two make waffles. The color of the waffles changes each week.

-Coloring is also something you enjoy. You like to make crafty things. There are always papers in your room of all your artwork.

-Napping is a thing of the distant past. But you do still have quiet time each day. You pretend with your animals, "princessesses", read books, work puzzles, and color during this time.

-This year you played two seasons of soccer. This was another opportunity for some extra time with Daddy.

-You are THRILLED to be a big sister! You talk to the baby, kiss the baby, feel the baby, and give the baby hugs. Oh how I cannot wait to see you interact in the coming months with this new little one!

Now on to the family party!

Before we left for dinner, we opened gifts/cards from the family. You got your first ever Barbie from Brother and Elle, a super cute rainbow outfit from Rudy and Doug, and a gift card from Nonnie to get whatever your heart desires at Target!

Mommy and Daddy had a special surprise up our sleeves! It was so big, it couldn't be wrapped. We had you wait with your eyes closed.

Surprise!

It is a car seat for your baby Sarah Kate!!

She now rides in the car with us everywhere we go. A couple of days before LilE's birthday she told us she wanted a car seat for her baby to ride on one side of her and then my baby to ride on the other side. Such a God thing--we already had the car seat (a hand me down) in our possession. It had some dated fabric on it, so I found some cute fabric and recovered it! So thankful for that sewing machine!

As for dinner, we told you you could pick out the restaurant (or your favorite home cooked meal) for birthday dinner. You decided you wanted Dairy Queen because you know that you get ice cream for dessert when we eat there. But you also LOVE Moe's tacos. Therefore, we decided to do dinner at Moe's followed by ice cream at DQ!

It is so much fun celebrating your birthday with you. Daddy and I love being with you and are so thankful God put you in our lives. Happy 5th Birthday!

The Day of Love

2011-02-14T20:12:00.022-05:00

LAST YEAR we went all out for Valentine's day. This year I was planning a surprise 35th and a rainbow 5th birthday party and Valentine's got the short end of the stick. Shouldn't we practice showing each other love every day? That is my motto this year anyway.

I did get my girl a little something. I found THIS free printable online. IT IS PERFECT! I sing her this song all. the. time. And it matches her room. And as a real bonus, I already had the frame. FREE gift! She immediately went and put it out in her room. She loves it!

I also printed up THESE coupons for LilE. They are for an after school treat, an outing with Mommy, building a fort, eating dessert first, etc. She was excited about them. Since she can't read, we will have to see if they will really work. we may have to pull them out in a few years.

And since I was finding all kinds of free printables online, might as well print the ones for her school friends too. I picked THESE. LilE picked out which ones were for the boys and which ones were for the girls. Since they only fill out the "from" section of the cards, she decided (without any promting from me) to write the boys in blue and the girls in red. Smart girl!

JD and I had a little dinner date at home. I cooked a nice meal (roast, creamy potatoes, salad) that I knew LilE wouldn't eat. We put her to bed and enjoyed a nice meal...just the two of us. Doesn't that sound super romantic? Funny. We were super tired and ate dinner in our PJ's. But the quiet was nice. We need to do dates like this more often. Because, you know FREE is great!

Super Bowl Surprise

2011-02-06T22:07:00.043-05:00

And if the book weren't enough, I had to go and plan a surprise party. I know, I really went over the top this year. I planned for all our "framily" to come for a little super bowl party. JD thought it was just a few families--boy, was he wrong! 60+ came out for the festivities. I told you--some people love my man!

I really can't believe I pulled it off, but then he reminded me of his surprise party in 8th grade. He had a girl come up to him after school and said "see you at your party tonight." And he still was surprised. Never even connected in his brain. Poor thing. But his cluelessness worked to my advantage!

Thanks to all our peeps for coming out and making this birthday super great for JD this year! I could not have done it without your help and encouragement! You guys are the BEST!

Thanks to the Host Home and to Tracy for taking the pictures! Awesome job!

Surprise!

And it was only appropriate to be Cowboy themed...after all, they are America's team.

Our Growing Family

Our "framily" in the Southeast

The Host Home has a fantastic backyard! The kids had a blast playing.

After the sun went down and the game came on, everyone was back inside. It warms my heart how the kids gravitate toward him. He truly is the "kid whisperer".

It was an absolutely perfect evening!

The Big 3-5

2011-02-03T11:02:00.006-05:00

Five years ago, when JD turned 30, I think I was so focused on how cool it would be to have a baby on his 30th, we didn't do anything else. Sorry, Love. And in the past five years, I have been super focused on planning LilE's parties that his birthday was just 'in the way'. There I said it. I am a horrible wife.

This year, being a half-decade way milestone, I decided to do something special. And yes, it involved some copying from other family members, but I knew it would be super special just the same. The gift was an book of encouraging words--not just some Hallmark book, but a book full of letters and pictures written specifically for him. Family and friends (new and old), co-workers, Life Group teachers, and families in the ministry all contributed to the birthday cause! I was brought to tears more than once over who took the time to write and the words that were written--about the man I love! VERY HUMBLING!

I took all the letters and compiled them into a MANLY scrapbook. It took a couple of days (and some lying) to get it all put together, but it was finished and wrapped just in time for our birthday dinner at Don Pablo's. And I wanted to be able to talk about something other than "I did a load of laundry today" so I made him open it before we headed out. HE. LOVED. IT!!

Why did I do it? Good question. Several years back we put together a book for my MIL's 65th. And we then did another one for my dad's 60th. Just priceless pages and pages of encouragement.

Step back in time with me a bit. Before JD and I got married, we read The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. I related to Quality Time, followed by Physical Touch. JD's were Physical Touch and Quality Time. Six months ago (or maybe less) I asked him if his had changed (mine had not). He said they had. He really thought his, even way back then (kinda hard to tell when you are young, in love and living 250 miles from your girl) was Words on Encouragement. That is when the idea first hit me!

A gift is so much more fun when it is a surprise. What a blessing it was for me to be able to read cards from so many people who LOVE my husband. I love the ones of friends long ago sharing what JD meant to them and how his example made them a better person. I adore the hand drawn pictures from first graders with misspelled words. I cherish the co-workers words that share of his integrity. And I am thankful for the family who is encouraged by his words.

What an honor it is to be married to such a great man of God! Not only did this gift fill my husbands love tank, but it also was a humbling experience for me, and a great reminder of the GIFT God has given to me in him.

Happy Birthday JD!

Snow Week

2011-01-13T15:39:00.046-05:00

Seven inches. Seven whole inches of snow. Pretty much unheard of around here. It was enough snow to close schools for the entire week. Close JD's office for 3 days. But not enough to keep us inside!

Monday we had friends come over to play, play, play!

Front yard, obviously.

All the littles. There were lots of them!

Chasing each other with snowballs.

Snow angels.

Helping the baby pack a snow ball. It's hard when the snow is super powdery.

My favorite of the day!

And the whole gang!

Tuesday we headed to the hospital to see the new baby!

Later that afternoon we got out because we were stir crazy again. (Not sure how everyone stays inside for days and days. I am super duper thankful for a husband who likes to drive and play on the ice!) What did we do? We went Letterboxing. Seriously? I know. I just happened to click on the website and someone else who was stir crazy planted one right down the street!

And since we were about 30 seconds away from some friends, we decided to drop in unannounced with three little girls. Fortunately, we are good enough friends I felt like we could get away with it. And while we were there we got in on a little MJ action. It was a 'thrilling' thing to watch.

Wednesday we took the girls home. JD and the big kids and Daddy Bodo played outside in the "sn-ice" and the 4 wheeler. I didn't get any pictures as I was inside sipping hot chocolate and loving on a sweet new baby. Pure joy!

Thursday I had to work. JD took me, just like the good ol' FW days. It was crazy! The office had been closed for the past 3 days. Shew.

Friday JD was at work while LilE and I stayed home. JD took the 4WD, so we were stuck. But it was nice to get some things done around the house after a week of being out and about!

Bodo Birthday

2011-01-11T15:39:00.043-05:00

Our friends the Bodo's just had #8! We loved having the two little girls over while they were welcoming sweet Caleb into their family.

Monday morning they all hit the dress up drawer fresh out of the bed. Don't you just love the rock star look from my princess? Obviously it was before we got out the brush.

It snowed all morning, but those pictures will be in the next post.

Tuesday morning we got up and headed to the hospital to meet the newest boy. Oh how sweet he is!

The girls were mesmorized over their brother.

LilE was pretty smitten by him a well. She is told me she loved him so much she wanted to take him home with us. Soon baby girl, soon, we will take one of our own home!

Holiday Sewing Projects

2011-01-08T15:23:00.009-05:00

This year I worked to make lots of our Christmas gifts. Enjoy!

Ornament Shirt/Ruffle Pants

Dishtowels (for Teachers)--Applique by Distinctive Embroidery

Pillowcase Dresses for the littles

Peasant Dress (made post Christmas)
Straight Sleeves

Gathered sleeves

Other Texas Stuff

2011-01-02T14:44:00.009-05:00

While in Texas we did some other non-Christmasy things.

1. High School Friends. JD had lunch with some HS buddies. He took the camera, but forgot to take a picture.

2. College Friends. We had dinner with one of my college buddies. Heckler and family met us for dinner one night. We loved catching up with them. We had not seen them since their oldest was born. She is now 9. Too long.

3. Speaking of dinner, we had lots and lots and lots of Mexican food. And that craving was satisfied. Two Christmas dinners, Mexican pork and bean burritos by Nonnie, tortilla soup by Mimi, Mexican Inn, El Chico, and Abeulos. Plus leftovers. I was loving life!

4. Catching up with sister friends. You know the girls who are you sisters, even if you don't share genetics. Oh how I LOVE these girls. Friends you haven't seen for years and you can sit down and talk as if you just saw them yesterday.

J (on the left) is expecting her first baby in May and C (on the right) has 3 girls of her own. The four girls have grown so much since THE LAST TIME we saw them. LilE named her new Baby Sarah Cate after one of her friends. Guess they hit it off!

5. Home school. LilE played some school with Mimi. Lots of book reading and some worksheets she got in her stocking were on the list of assignments.

6. Game time. Pop got a new set of dominoes and Mexican train set for Christmas. We sat down several nights after to play. All aboard!

7. Letterboxing. You know we can't travel and not do some boxing! We traveled to the big city, where Brother and Elle live, one day and found 7 or so! A good day for us! Have you ever seen a cemetery in the parking lot of a Best Buy? Well, we have now. Interesting things you find while LBing.

8. Uneventful travel home. After a crazy trip out to Texas, the trip home was boring. PRAISE THE LORD! We were able to stop and eat lunch with some friends from Pine Cove, do some letter boxing along the way, and just enjoy each other. Such a GREAT 17 days in the Lone Star State!!

Christmas with the Smiths

2010-12-26T20:53:00.007-05:00

Hmm...didn't know that was my maiden name, did you? You can say you learned something new today.

The night we arrived in C-town, we had a Mexican dinner with Mimi's family. I just love the little cousins. The girls, ages 5, 4, and 3, just played and played and played.

*Hoping my mom got a better picture than I did. Waiting on that CD to come. Hey Mom, Can you burn a CD? Thanks.*
Elle made these super cute toboggans for the little ones. Doesn't K look like a gangsta with the toboggan and jewels?

After the extended family left, we did our traditional one gift on Christmas eve. Typically we do PJs all around, but this year we rocked the boat. For as long as I can remember, all 30 something years, my parents have purchased PJs for Christmas eve (except that one year...). I love it! And it is something that I want my children to remember that their parents also did for them. So, the torch has been passed and now the grandkids are the only ones getting PJs from now on. There you have it...I ruined Christmas (HA!).

But we still got a picture of the big kids.

Christmas morning LilE woke up to a plate full of cookies, just as requested.

We played our games while opening presents.

This year, Christmas Bingo.

LilE got lots and lots of goodies. She received a new ballerina outfit in hopes of taking some lessons this year (which she immediately went to put on and wore for the rest of the day)

and a Bitty Baby of her own (since Momma will have her own come June).

Did you know newborns like to play airplane on the day they are born?

Oh, and LilE got her gangsta hat too.

On the 26th we headed to visit Pop's family. More cousins!! I really wish we lived closer to our family. Both sets of kids had the best time! Obviously, dress up was a fun time for all.

We had such a great time with our extended family!

We are so blessed with family who we also call our friends.

Happy Birthday Jesus

2010-12-23T15:45:00.001-05:00

This year Rudy suggested we do a Happy Birthday Jesus party for the family. I thought it was an awesome idea. I looked up some ideas online, but they were for a party with lots of little ones. And we have two. Therefore, we decided to go with dinner and a birthday cake.

She had the place all decorated! I love all the fun colored balloons.

After dinner on the fine china (seriously, I was a bit nervous my girl would break something), JD told the Christmas story with the help of some Little People.

My one contribution was the cake. I found a great idea online and I ran with it. It was a 3 layer cake that tells the salvation story. The chocolate layer represents the sin we each have in our lives. The red layer stands for the blood of Jesus that was shed on the cross for our sins. When Jesus died on the cross he cleansed us of our sin and made us pure (white icing). We are to be in the Word every day, growing closer to him which is represented by the green layer. One day, when our life on earth is finished, those who have accepted his FREE gift will be with him in heaven, where the street are made of gold (yellow icing). Around the top of the cake are 12 candles, one for each of us at the table. The red candle represents Jesus. The candles are lit to remind us we are to be the light of the world and to shine for Him each and every day.

The inside

We had a great evening of celebrating the gift our the Savior this Christmas and we look forward to celebrating in the years to come!

Christmas with the Alejandros

2010-12-22T15:04:00.007-05:00

We arrived at 11:00pm on Saturday night and were up bright and early getting ready for Christmas on Sunday with JD's family. We love that everyone was able to be together again this year! (Last year the ice kept one of JD's sister's away. Boo.) We were able to enjoy a couple of meals together as well as playing with all the new toys! FYI. I did not take many pictures today. I enjoyed the view in front of the camera.

The kids, big and small, coloring

Our beautiful nieces

JD's second sister had to head back home Sunday afternoon. We hate that we can't see her more often, but enjoy the time we do spend with her.

One night, when it was about 65 degrees after dark, we headed out to look at the Fantasy of Lights. It is a 70+ year old tradition in the town. Due to the perfect weather, we were able to walk around and look at all the displays--from the Nativity to the Three Little Pigs.

Santa's sleigh--Texas style

One night we went to Rudy's house. They have a super great backyard. And since the weather was still perfect, the kiddos got to play outside in the HUGE pile of leaves.

On another day, we headed out to do some Letterboxing. Call us crazy. We know. It was the day the cold front came through and it was 40 degrees out. But it was the only day we had free and we needed to get out. One of the boxes was located in the same park as the falls, the same falls that the city is named after. Or the man made ones. Anywho. We walked the extra 1/2 mile to see the sight since JD and I have been together for 11 years and I have yet to see them. Now all my dreams have come true! (Note: sarcasm was inserted here.)

And a trip to WF would not be complete without a trip to Green Pastures. Jess does such a great job preparing for the little ones to come out and ride. She has 4, maybe 5 horses, and she rode them all to see which one would be the best for a 2 and 4 year old. She is awesome.

Daddy even got a turn

The horses love being fed carrots. LilE is not the biggest fan of feeding the animals, but Duke LOVES to feed them.

We had a great week with JD's family. We always love spending time with them and wish we could see them more often. But we are thankful for JD's vacation schedule that allows us time home with them each year!

Travelin' to Texas

2010-12-18T23:37:00.004-05:00

Six and a half years ago, JD and I packed our bags and drove I-20 all the way from Texas to South Carolina. We didn't really enjoy 18 hours in the car. We knew the day we drove it again would not come too soon! We praise the Lord that we have not had to drive that interstate since June 2004. That is until this Christmas. JD's mom is moving this coming spring and since we have some things (furniture and childhood keepsakes) at her house, it was time to load them up and bring them home.

I was nervous. A four year old in the car for 18 hours. Shew. I planned and planned for this adventure. Lots of snacks, movies, games, gifts, letterboxes, etc. all along the way. Each marked on the map so they were evenly spaced along the route. Little did I know how much of an adventure it would really be!

The original plan (a) was to leave after school on Friday (around lunch) and drive straight through, arriving mid day on Saturday. But after looking at the school calendar, showing LilE's party on Thursday, we changed our minds and decided to leave early on Friday (plan b). Our plans changed once again (plan c) as the kids were out of school on Thursday due to ice, therefore moving the party to Friday. Then after 9 days of having a cold, I decided I needed some antibiotics if I was going to be in the car for 24 hours. My OB was closed, therefore I was worked into my primary's office at noon on Friday. We ended up pulling out of town at 2:45pm on Friday (plan d). AHH!

3.6 miles out of town we hear the first "how much longer?" Really? (But that was the ONLY one we heard over the 2 days until we were 10 min from Nonnie's.) We hit Atlanta at 5pm. Really? That took way to long to get through. And since we wanted to drive a little over halfway, stopping in Vicksburg, MS, and it was already getting dark while we were ~~driving~~, sitting in Atlanta, I knew it was going to be a very late night!

LilE opened trinkets during the daylight and watched lots of movies by night. We stopped for dinner in Birmingham and changed LilE into her PJs. She slept for about 2 hours in the car and was wide away at 11:30 pm. We continued on, movie playing in the back and were asleep in our hotel room by 2am. (Did you know you get a prorated room if you check in after midnight? Just sayin').

Our sleep was abruptly stopped at 3:30am when LilE woke up screaming and crying. Her ear hurts. What in the world? We get her to fall back asleep, only to wake up again at 4am. That is when I realize this is NOT good! We are in the middle of no-wheres-ville Mississippi. In the middle of the night. I did not bring Motrin. Have you ever tried to teach a 4 year old how to swallow half of an adult Tylenol in the middle of the night while they are crying out in pain? Well, I have. And it didn't work. So, she crawled into bed with me in hopes of allowing JD to sleep a bit since he is the driver. But she continued to wake up every 30 minuted for the remained of the "night". After 8am, I went downstairs to ask about an Urgent Care. Praise the Lord there was one! We got ready and ate breakfast and then headed to the hospital to find this Urgent Care. The hospital was empty on a Saturday, but I finally found the clinic--It was a Pediatric Clinic!!! Thank you Lord!

We had to wait 2 hours (we were called back at 11:30am) to see the doctor. While waiting, LilE asks me if she is going to get a shot. "No, it is just an ear infection. They will give you medicine to drink." Do you see where this is headed? The nice doctor comes in and tell us, yes, the ear is really infected. And since we are traveling and it looks so bad, she wants to treat it aggressively and start with a dose of Rocephin (translates into shot) and also Amoxil. What? And this clinic says she is too old to give it to her in the leg. What, what? So there I am, a big fat lier to my kid and then I have to go and hold her belly down on this table. "LilE, I am so sorry. You can have whatever you want!"

Oh, but it just gets better. The doc writes her a prescription to take to the pharmacy. This is small town, so there is no Target or CVS, just Mom and Pop pharmacy. They proceed to charge more than double what I pay for Amoxil at Target. And I bought a bottle of gold, I mean Motrin, to help with the pain. I took the Amoxil out to the car and before driving off we gave her a dose. If my memory serves me correctly, Amoxil has always been pink bubblegum at Target. But this was white chalk flavored. She about spit the whole dose on me. I go back inside to said Mom and Pop pharmacy and ask for them to flavor it for me. It cost $3. Target flavors their medicine for free when it doesn't come preflavored. (And I have even had them to tell me if it is not enough, to bring it back and they would add more flavor.) But, after some Dr. Pepper and the Grape ~~Gold~~ Motrin, she was better.

"LilE, what do you want for lunch? Yes, you can have ice cream! Anything you want!"

Now it is 2pm and we are just now leaving Mississippi. Whatever. We drive and actually stop a couple of times to pick up some fun letterboxes. Lots of gifts open. Way to much TV. But, zero complaints from the back seat. ZERO! And that was both days. She never whined, complained, anything. Ear infection and all. We were flabbergasted!

We praise the LORD for getting us there, even if it was 11pm! Not in any way we planned, but HE provided for our every need. I am so thankful for the MD we saw. She was super aggressive with the infection. Otherwise we might have had a repeat of two years ago--ruptured ear drum. JD is thankful for Bubbllicious. It kept him awake during those late night/early morning driving hours. And LilE is thankful for "Princesseses". I think she watched every single one on the drive!

4 wheeling good time

2010-12-14T20:35:00.073-05:00

A post from JD.

What happens when you combine

these people...

with these bikes...

on these trails

in sub-freezing temperatures?

You get one wild man,...

one injury,...

one of these...who's that?,...

one really good time,...

and a view that makes you praise God for all you are blessed with;

a fun staff to minister alongside, great people in the church who plan these days for you to enjoy, and did I mention warm clothes? Very thankful for warm clothes...it was 12 degrees when we started the morning. It truly was a 4 wheeling good time!

(let's play a game: Who can guess the first names from left to right, in order, of everyone in the top picture)

Praise 'n Tation

2010-12-12T22:25:00.000-05:00

It is once again time for my sweet preschooler to sing to Jesus! Publically that is. These kids are just the sweetest things!

And our video camera died, so there is no funny video (remember the lifting of the dress from LAST YEAR? Yes, that was my kid). And if you want more video, please send us money for a camera. :)

But, you know us, we took pictures. But pictures aren't as much fun as skirt lifting videos. Ha!

All the choirs--K3, K4, and K5. All dressed in red!

Sprinkles are Good

2010-12-11T21:17:00.004-05:00

Our friends have let us be a part of their little tradition of decorating cookies. Some years we are in town and some we aren't. Take a look at how the kids have grown: 2007 and 2008.

We were glad we were in town again this year. The girls just love it! They are super serious about getting those sprinkles just right...all 10,000 of them...per cookie. I love it!

And theEdge was just about eating the cookies. Who can blame him? They were delicious!

365: Week 25

2010-12-10T16:59:00.009-05:00

June 28, 2011 : Melissa's Shower : HollyWild

The Big Sister : Turtle Cheesecake : "Princessessess" Galore

Disney on Ice

2010-12-10T14:52:00.002-05:00

One of our church families gifted us with tickets to Disney on Ice. Blessed are we!! LilE took the day off school and I took the day off work for us to enjoy this day as a family.

All the princess stories were told and we just sat back and enjoyed! And of course LilE kept asking TONS of questions. That is what she does best these days.

It's really hard to take pictures in the dark. But we tried. Here are the more decent ones for us to remember the day.

HollyWild

2010-12-07T22:40:00.003-05:00

Our friends went to Hollywild (wild animals who used to be in movies--get it?) for the first time last year to check out all the lights and feed the animals. They said it was awesome. We wanted in on the awesomeness this year. We all piled into the Tahoe and were on our way.

The lights were fun. Tons and tons of lights. No pictures, so you will have to check it out on your own.

The animals were fun to feed. Well, all but the crazy cows. I like the little deer and zebras and emus. But those cows. You know the saying that "everything is bigger in Texas"? Well, it's not true folks! Those cows were so stinkin' big. Their backs were as tall as the Tahoe and half the width. Huge. And they can smell a cracker a mile away. And then they stick their whole head in the car to get said cracker. And slobber all over you. Just gross. Our family rolled up the windows. The Brooks thought it was awesome. So we let them do all the feeding while we laughed and made comments about how disgusting the cows were. And then we would move onto more deer, and the cows would follow. Hilarious.

After feeding the animals in the car, we headed into "Santa's Village" feed a few more hoofed beasts. It was a blistery 27 degrees out, so we quickly headed back to the car and had some yummy hot chocolate.

Fun night. Fun friends. Love the holidays!

365: Weeks 23 & 24

2010-12-03T13:58:00.007-05:00

Hooded Towels : Ruffled Christmas Pants

Nativity : Fail : Reading with Nonnie

Thanksgiving Dinner : My Little Ponies

The Attack of the Gingerbread House

2010-11-26T15:03:00.002-05:00

We have never made a gingerbread house. *gasp* While Nonnie was here we decided to take that Friday and do something fun and new to get us into the holiday spirit.

First stop: Target. To buy the boxed gingerbread house. Sign says $9.99. Register says $19.99. So sorry to the lady behind us. You were so very patient as we waited to prove the sign said $9.99. And yes, we only paid $9.99. My guess is we were the last customer to pay that price!

Next stop: Home. Friday morning. Christmas music playing. Open box and lay out all the pieces. LilE asks to eat just one piece of candy. No. Candy rolling on the floor. Quit playing with the candy. Put candy in bowls to help it from falling on floor. Asks for a piece of candy. No. Somehow the candy is still falling on the floor. I thought I told you not to touch the candy. We must put the house together first. Must mix up icing to get it warm and squeezable. Ice, place, hold for one minute. Must hold together longer than a minute because it fell apart. Try again. Can I have a piece of candy? NO. Maybe 2 minutes will work. Holds a bit better. Stack candy bowls and move the temptation away from 4 year old. Wait one hour to decorate. Lets play a game. Every 5 minutes for the next hour "can we decorate yet?". One hour finally over. Must remush icing bags as it is cold in the house and icing is not squeezable. Argh. Move house a bit and the wall falls in. ARGH! Frustrated. Must start over. Once house is officially set, try and decorate. Must squish up icing again. Really? Then have to cut a smaller hole in bag to outline the windows. Icing will not come out of bag. Totally losing my patience. Call in the patient reinforcement and artsy one--Daddy. He makes very little process. LilE tells him where to put icing, then licks the icing off. She can finally touch the candy. And continues to ask if she can have a piece. We tell her there is no telling how old the candy really is. Random placement of old candies. She doesn't want to make it cute like the box. Whatever. Icing doesn't really work even in my Wilton bags. Daddy not longer has patience either. Icing all over the table now. LilE is licking the icing. House about half decorated. Yes, it only snowed on one side of the roof. Done trying. Santa and tree are next. Quick, easy, and ugly. Glad this is not a contest. Icing (or whatever it is) now in trash. Leftover candy, trashed. Want to trash the house. But keep it up because it is LilE's work of art and she is proud. So glad we did not pay $19.99. It was NOT worth the $9.99 we actually did pay. Total FAIL.

Thankful

2010-11-25T15:39:00.000-05:00

Nonnie was able to come and celebrate Thanksgiving AGAIN with us this year. We are so thankful for our precious families and were glad to have JD's mom visit!

Wednesday was a day of shopping and cooking. We got some last minute things and then headed home after lunch to cook and bake.

On Thanksgiving day we headed to spend the day with some friends at their lake house. Beautiful views and lots of fun, games, and laughter.

We are so thankful for ALL that GOD has blessed us with!

365: Week 22

2010-11-19T15:39:00.003-05:00

Bedtime Story : Pilgrim

Messy Room : Cheesy Tortilla Soup

Thanksgiving Party

2010-11-19T15:38:00.013-05:00

LilE's class had a Thanksgiving party right before Thanksgiving break. Here are the sweet pilgrims.

Family of Five

2010-11-18T15:38:00.026-05:00

JD, LilE and I had the wonderful opportunity to keep two super sweet girls while their Mommy and Daddy took a trip to Alaska. Why Alaska in the fall? They have been called to mission work there. God has orchestrated, in a way only HE can do, an opportunity for them to spread to Word to the lost that are right here in our own country. Just amazing. You can read their story HERE. They will be heading back in March, taking the entire family with them this time for 3 weeks. I ask that you pray with us for them and this transition, as well as the financials involved in traveling with a family of 10.

We enjoyed our 8 days and nights with their babies. They are so well behaved and fit right in with our family and schedule.

We didn't take many pictures, but here are a couple of sweet ones.

One thing I learned is three kids make 10 times the mess as one. Never really knew that. So here is what happened after about 15 minutes of alone time in LilE's room. Oh well. It was totally worth it!

365: Weeks 20 & 21

2010-11-12T15:37:00.015-05:00

There I go major slacking again. Obviously, I am not taking more than 4 pictures most weeks, but these two weeks were just plain bad.

Stocked : My Cowgirl : Operation Christmas Child

I Voted : Pumpkin Cheesecake : Encouragement from the Home Office

Family Pictures

2010-11-09T15:37:00.016-05:00

Last summer my friend Jana took our family pictures. She is the greatest! She is running a fall special right now and we decided to take advantage and get some updated pics with the pretty fall leaves.

Here are a few of our favorites. You can see them all HERE.

Thanks Jana for doing another amazing job with our family!!

Fall Festival

2010-10-31T21:35:00.019-04:00

Last year, for multiple reasons, our church did not host a fall festival. But this year it was back and bigger and better than ever! Wow! Two ball fields and a park covered with food, inflatables, carnival rides, and games. And it was a good thing it was spread out. There were over 3400 people there! Holy Smokes!

My Little Cowgirl

LilE and I arrived a few minutes before start time. Perks of living with the man in charge. :) She was able to ride the Ferris Wheel and hit about all the inflatables before the lines were formed. Once the people arrived we played some games for candy and rode two different trains.

We then went to eat our hot dogs, boiled peanuts, popcorn and cokes before scoping out some more candy.

Such a great night to be out. The weather was perfect and God provided for all those who attended. What a blessing to be able to share with the community. And what is even greater is 150 people asked about having a relationship with Christ!! What an opportunity we have as a church to spread the love of JESUS!

Fall Harvest Party

2010-10-29T15:35:00.009-04:00

I was able to take off work (actually, these days I am not working much. at. all.) and head to LilE's Fall Harvest Party--the first party of the year. They were all able to dress up for the day.

They had a parade for all the K3 kiddos and then went to the church offices to Trick or Treat. They were so stinkin' cute!

Then they headed back to class for some yummy fall treats. Gotta love the simplicity of being 4!

365: Week 19

2010-10-29T15:34:00.004-04:00

Pumpkin Cookies : Princess Yahtzee

George the Train : Trick or Treating at Church

The Summer Gang

2010-10-23T21:34:00.012-04:00

Every Wednesday this summer I had the blessing of keeping 3 great kids! We had some fun summer days together. Not sure what I was thinking, but I never took a picture of all 4 kids together.

After having some withdrawls not being able to spend time with them, JD and I had them over one night while Mom and Dad could have a little date night. We had a fun boys v. girls game night!

And I finally took a picture! Yea! I guess I should have taken it earlier in the evening, then maybe the baby wouldn't have been crying. Oh well. I am not used to trying to make FOUR kids smile!

365: Week 18

2010-10-22T15:33:00.006-04:00

Groceries : Quilted Rag Letters

Applique : Rock Climbing

JD on Belay

2010-10-22T14:31:00.023-04:00

One Friday while I was working, JD took LilE rock climbing after school. He loves to climb. Remember the USNWC climbing wall? I am sure he had some great lesson about trust to incorporate into the climb. They had a great time and JD even took some pictures for me so I could see how much she enjoyed it.

She said her favorite part was rappelling. He would have to pull her up so she could bounce all the way down.

She has such a GREAT Daddy!! Oh how we both LOVE him!

365: Week 17

2010-10-15T13:35:00.004-04:00

Watching movies : Riding

Texas Star

Chisholm Trail : Runaway Train

Pokin' Around

2010-10-14T13:35:00.036-04:00

Well, a bit more than pokin' around for the last two days in Texas. But we did take it easy on Wednesday, since Tuesday was so FULL and FUN!

On the edge of town there is a new historical "park" of sorts. My hometown was a part of the Chisholm Trail back in the 1800s. This "park" is typically a toured event, but there were no tour guides there. We enjoyed walking around and scoping things out.

We also did some playing around the house. There aren't dress up clothes at Mimi and Pop's, but there is JEWELRY! She seriously had those clip on earrings on ALL day!

Thursday we headed out to do some letterboxing. There is a nearby city that had quite a few in town. Some of the "boxes" have more than one box in the clue. We found one clue that listed 4 boxes. Three of them were located in a park. The directions to the fourth one started at the park, but included crossing railroad tracks. We saw a train in the distance. But it looked far enough away that we had plenty of time to cross. Umm...next time we will wait. It took a good 10 minuted for my heart rate to return to normal. Here is the train that nearly took our lives. And yes, letterboxing can be dangerous!

That night Brother, Elle, and my aunt came down for some yummy fajitas! They were so good. We WILL be having them again when we are there for Christmas!

Brother played Sorry! with LilE.

Snuggling with Pop

Thanks Mimi and Pop for a fun few days!

The Great State Fair of Texas

2010-10-12T13:35:00.060-04:00

Tuesday morning we got up and headed to see this guy:

We were in Texas during the three weeks of the State Fair. JD and I went back when we lived in Texas, but had not been back since. I thought it would be fun to head up to Dallas and teach LilE about the Texas culture, since she told me the other day she was born in Texas. (That one was kinda hard to correct. So glad she shares our love for Texas!)

We started the day off by meeting up with one of my besties from college!! Kama made those first two years so stinkin' fun! Not sure what I would have done without her. She came to the fair with her two boys under two! She is super mom for sure!

We then we to a Butterfly Release. It was this hot and humid room full of beautiful plants and tons of butterflies. Well, not as many as I was expecting, but they were fun to watch.

After the kids had been cooped up unable to run around, we headed to the kids farm. They each got an apron and feed. They were able to feed the chickens, gather eggs, milk cows, and plant, water, and harvest the crops. Then they took their crops to the Farmer's Market and were paid for their crop. A great teaching tool! And they all loved it and didn't want to leave.

Time for grub--FRIED grub! Gotta love corn dogs, funnel cakes, and chicken fried bacon. Seriously.

After lunch we headed to the cow milking presentation followed by the petting zoo. There were so many new babies born at the fair!!

Time to go for a ride! We rode the carousel and the Ferris wheel. LilE had been asking all day when she could ride. It was by far the highlight of her day. And I kinda enjoyed it too.

By mid afternoon, LilE was pooped from walking so much. She was such a trooper. I told her I was not going to carry her and she did not complain. But when we did stop, she sat. Every time. She just makes me laugh!

Thanks so much to Mimi and Pop for such a fun fun fun day! We loved it!

Takin' a Ride on Green Pastures

2010-10-11T13:34:00.027-04:00

My fourteen year old niece is amazing! She is beautiful on the outside as well as the inside. She is smart. She is a very talented barrel racer, complete with a couple of belt buckles she wears with pride. She also has a love for her family, particularly, the little ones.

Since she first met LilE the summer of 2006, she was smitten. And LilE took right to her as well.

They also share a love for animals. Fortunately for us, we can go visit all the animals on Jess's farm. Here they are with both George's.

As she continues to grow into such a precious young lady, she did not complain about not getting to sit at the "grown up table", but embraced having tea with LilE.

Last Christmas she taught LilE how to text.

While in Texas this October, we were able to stay with Jess and family. They were able to rearrange their schedules (aka skip school) to play with us! LilE is still talking about her day with the horses! Jess was so great with the two little ones. A gift for sure!

And I love this one from behind...

And couldn't end without letting you all see the champ in action!

365: Week 16

2010-10-08T21:29:00.009-04:00

Sunset : Proud Pumpkin Owner

Friends

Christmas Presents : Soccer Star

Field Trip

2010-10-06T23:10:00.020-04:00

LilE had her very first field trip to the local orchard/pumpkin patch. It was so fun to watch them pile off the bus. They were so excited to be there.

There was a small petting zoo. Rabbits, cows, sheep, goats, and pigs to feed.

Photo op in front of the maze. She did a super job weaving her way in and out

Everyone got a small pumpkin and a bag of apples. She's so proud.

LilE's K4 class--precious!

Grace Filled Weekend

2010-10-03T23:10:00.026-04:00

We had the privilege, once again, to keep two precious girls while their parents were away for the weekend helping with the Middle School Retreat. Middle schoolers aren't my thing, but I love to serve by keeping these sweet girls.

The car was full.

The big girls played princess memory...

...while the little one played with the baby.

We took LOTS of pictures with the cell phone. "Cheese"

We headed out to the park for lots of running around, and sliding. LOVE that they are holding hands!

Pigtails!

It was a fun, but busy weekend. I even got all three of them, by myself to church EARLY! How about that! And what's even more fun--we may have them again in the not so distant future!!

365: Week 15

2010-10-01T23:09:00.005-04:00

Girls : Apple Dumplings : Painting

Cutting : Sewing : Genealogy

Genealogy

2010-09-30T10:06:00.054-04:00

After an eventful summer, we have semi-slowed down this fall. Maybe slowed down is not right, but we have become more scheduled in the evenings.

Monday-KLee Bible Study
Tuesday-LilE soccer practice

Wednesday-church

Thursday-FREE

Friday-LilE soccer games

We have decided to make Thursday night our family night. (Let me state that we started this once before. Hopefully this time will be better.) I have always wanted to have a family Bible study time, but there is never consistency because of our schedules. But now we have it all worked out! Well, at least for two weeks we have.

It is hard to say no to dinner invitations and girly-parties. We enjoy all these things, but we are having to make tough decisions. All these things are good, but what is best? We have already seen 4 1/2 years fly before our very eyes. We want to hold on to the years we have left that will continue to fpass before our eyes and know that we did our best raising our daughter to fear the Lord and walk in His ways.

Which brings me to the title...Genealogy.

We recently upgraded LilE's Bible. We loved The Beginner's Bible, but she had outgrown it. We had read through it 10+ times and she was bored. Our new Bible is The Jesus Storybook Bible. Awesome! (Thanks to my many FB friends who recommended it.) My favorite part is that ALL the stories are directed back to Jesus. Isn't that just how our lives should be too?

We showed LilE pictures of our grandparents and explained how they loved the Lord and taught our parents about Him, our parents in turn taught us, and now we are sharing with her. Just as our forefathers did--Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We pray we will be able to open her eyes and show her how God has walked with our family throughout the generations and will continue to walk with her and her family in the future.

Family Tree

Marble Works

2010-09-26T20:18:00.030-04:00

Back in the day Brother had a set of Marble Works. These tubes with twists and turns, windmills, and strait sections to build momentum. Drop one marble or 100 into the top of the tube and watch them race to the bottom. A great toy for imagination and some physics lessons I am sure. (Ha!)

I hadn't thought about MW for a LONG time! Until tonight.

We had a small group reunion. The precious couples we started meeting with over 2 years ago got together for dinner and conversation. It was a fun night to see what all has been going on. I love having friends that can pick back up right where you left off. No awkwardness. Just joy!

Anywho. Back to the point. The D's boys are grown and therefore toys are limited. But K does bring out a few toys and books when we are there. This weeks treasure? Marble Works!

The sound of the marbles (all 100 of them at once) going through the shoots brought back memories from my childhood. It was sweet. And I LOVED listening to her giggle out of giddiness. It was precious!

365: Week 14

2010-09-24T17:03:00.006-04:00

Apple Butter : Cc is for cookie : Fence

Apple Bread : Make your own pizza

Apple Pie : Sunset at The Solitary Place

Baking Fail

2010-09-22T23:47:00.023-04:00

This week LilE is studying the letter Cc. Before school started, I picked this week out knowing I could make chocolate chip cookies. I had seen this post before even making them into the shape of a C. Score!

I wasn't exactly sure how big to make them or how much space them out. On the first pan I tried several different ideas to see which one would come out the best. Still I am super pumped! Something about wanting to be super mom. Haven't I heard over and over, "don't try to be super mom." I didn't listen.

But I should have. It was a total fail. See what I mean. The only one that would have remotely worked was about 5 inches tall. It would have never transported without breaking carrying them from the car pool line to class.

Instead of trying other methods, I just gave up. After all, it was 9 o'clock on a Wednesday night and I still had an entire bowl of cookie dough to ~~eat~~ cook. LilE's class would have to settle for ROUND Chocolate Chip Cookies. *Gasp.*

Pizza Chef

2010-09-18T23:36:00.002-04:00

Not sure those who make pizzas are considered chefs, but we will go with it.

We had some friends who introduced us to make your own pizza night for kids. Super cheap and super yummy pizza!

Pinch the dough

Poke it with a spork

Stretch it

Spread sauce with said spork

Sprinkle with cheese

Ta-Da!

Can't wait to do it again in two weeks!

365: Week 13

2010-09-17T20:43:00.006-04:00

Outdoor Baptism : New toy : Twins

Organized Chaos : Apple pickin'

Teriyaki Beef with Noodles

2010-09-16T11:20:00.006-04:00

Remember how I said I would post all those recipes I cooked at the beach? Well, I forgot. Hmm. And I bet you did too.

Teriyaki Beef with Noodles
1 lb beef boneless sirloin, cut into thin strips
1 can (14 oz) beef broth
¼ cup teriyaki stir-fry sauce
Dash of ground red pepper (cayenne)
1½ cups frozen snap pea pods
1½ cups (3 oz) uncooked fine egg noodles (angel hair pasta works also)

Spray 12-inch skillet with cooking spray. Cook beef in skillet over medium-high heat 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until brown. Remove beef from skillet; keep warm.

Mix broth, stir-fry sauce and red pepper in skillet. Heat to boiling. Stir in pea pods and noodles; reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook about 5 minutes or until noodles are tender. Stir in beef. Cook uncovered 2-3 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened.

Fried Rice
White rice, cooked
1-2 eggs
Green onions, thinly sliced
Butter
Soy sauce

Sauté onion in butter. Add eggs and scramble. Add rice and enough soy sauce to get desired flavor.

Take Off Tuesday

2010-09-14T17:36:00.003-04:00

After a fantastic weekend, JD was able to take a day off. We decided it was our turn to head to the orchard and pick some apples! When we arrived there were only about 6 other cars in the lot! Unfortunately, there were no apples on the tree. WHAT?? So we walked around a bit to make sure and then headed back to the hut to buy a bag of apples. So disappointing.

Oh, I lied. JD found one apple.

We decided that since there weren't any apples, we might have more luck with Letterboxes. There is a large park in a nearby town that had a couple and we found them! And just a couple of pictures with my new lens. Fun!

God Filled Weekend

2010-09-12T17:05:00.002-04:00

This weekend was a jam packed, to God be the Glory kind of weekend. Our church added a third worship service and a third Life Group hour. For months and months this weekend has been planned. We have studied over the summer how to have a Radical life for God, and this Sunday was one opportunity to put our actions into play. We promoted, prayed, fasted, studied, and invited in preparation. And boy, did GOD show up!! Such a powerful day of worship where lives were changed. People walking through the doors of the church for the first time, because someone asked them, and they were transformed by the goodness of God! Can I get a WOOT WOOT!!

And if that wasn't enough, that afternoon we had our outdoor baptism at the state park. Over 30 people showed up to outwardly display there love for Jesus in believer's baptism!! Awesome, awesome day!

Glory to God forever!!

But it doesn't just stop after a great weekend. September 12th isn't the end. It is just the beginning. After seeing how God has answered prayer after prayer, I see what He is doing. And I want to be apart. I want to build relationships with non-believers so I can invite them to have a life changing relationship with Jesus. I want them to come and worship the most high God with me. All I have to do is be willing to be used by HIM!

Are you willing to be apart of this amazing journey?

365: Weeks 11 and 12

2010-09-10T22:21:00.005-04:00

Week 11 was a fail. So I combined these two weeks together.

Blurry moon : Guess Who?

Green Beans from OUR garden : Home school

Discipline : First game

Happy Birthday to me : Are you living in the Sweet Spot?

Furman Soccer

2010-09-10T20:21:00.020-04:00

LilE once again wanted to play soccer "just like Daddy." She really does enjoy it. She is playing with a different local organization this season that teaches Brazilian soccer. And you know how much we like Brazilians! Basically, all they teach the first couple of years is how to dribble. I really enjoyed the first game. 3 v 3. It was called "new ball." Each time the ball went out of bounds, a new ball was thrown in. All the parents were cheering for both teams and the idea was to get every kid to score a goal. I loved that both coaches were helping the kids on both teams. Hmm...that doesn't always happen with team sports, does it?

Maybe next time I will take a few more pictures instead of cleaning dog poo off my shoes. Can you please clean up after your dog?

Pumping

2010-09-06T16:33:00.001-04:00

Guess who learned how to pump on the swing?!?! It finally clicked! YEA!!!
And she dressed herself in her favorite T-shirt today. It is a hand me down. Super soft. And who cares that it has lots of stains. As long as she is comfy!

365: Week 10

2010-08-27T12:31:00.005-04:00

Bike riding : Angel Oak Tree : First Practice

Palmetto : First Day of school : Door Hangers : Fancy Nancy

Fancy Nancy Soiree

2010-08-27T12:28:00.018-04:00

Our first Soiree! That is so fancy!

The library here has been having lots of programs this summer. We made it out for the Fancy Nancy Soiree! Who is Fancy Nancy? She is a young girl who is all about being fancy--in the way she dresses and the way she talks. A super cute book series for little girls. You can see more about her HERE.

LilE got all dressed up, with curls and ribbons in her hair and dressed up in one amazing dress.

She enjoyed listening to the original Fancy Nancy book. Afterward they had all sorts of stations set up to decorate a tiara, feed the posh puppy, ring toss, clubhouse to read books, fingernail painting, and tiara making. Just to name a few.

At the end they had a dance. Oh how LilE loves to spin to music. She was in heaven! And then they walked around with bubbles.

I loved being able to spend such a extraordinary evening with my precious girl!

First Day of School

2010-08-25T12:28:00.020-04:00

I love summer, but after a incredibly busy one this year, I am ready to return to some routine. LilE loves school and being with her friends. She is a sponge right now. It is so amazing how much they can retain quickly!

We are super excited about K4! She will have more structure this year in preparation for K5 next year. She will be working a lot on her handwriting. She loves to write and spell! She will also start sharing things (show and tell) with her classmates. She is not super shy, but she does tend to be bashful when she is not initiating the conversation. And there the Bible curriculum is more in depth this year. She has another awesome teacher this year. I can't wait to hear all about what goes on in the classroom!

Photo Shoot

2010-08-24T23:23:00.020-04:00

You can't go to the beach without at least one photo shoot. I have the greatest subject! She is just a beautiful little girl with a heart for serving others. Oh how I love her!!

Help me decide which one to frame. Numbers are above the pictures.

The Beach, but Not the Beach

2010-08-24T21:22:00.068-04:00

This year we did venture out a bit and had fun away from the sand. I also cooked and cooked. But that will be some posts in the days to come.

We worked two puzzles. (700 and 1000 pieces).

We played games.

I read an entire 500 page BOOK. I can't wait to read the second in the series.

And since I am the photographer, there is no proof.

We fed turtles.

And this guy showed up.

We went for bike rides. And went letterboxing, while visiting a 1500 year old tree--Angel Oak.

Funny thing, there are about 10 people on the other side of this tree. They just happened to all be behind it when I took the picture.

HUGE!

We also found some LBs in a rookery in the I'On Village. It is a quaint community with awesome homes. This rookery is in some neighbors backyards. Awesome views. There were several look out towers with porch swings to over look the pond. Anyone want to give me a million dollars so I can move in?

Look, I really was on this trip!

We watched the sun set.

And loved to see my girl having a blast, just like her Mommy and Daddy!

8 Days and 8 Nights

2010-08-23T12:27:00.003-04:00

That is how long our vacation was this year! Fabulous!! After such a long summer with nearly 3 weeks apart from JD in the weeks prior to our vacation, it was a MUCH NEEDED getaway! We are so thankful for friends who treat us like royalty by lending us their home!

This year wasn't much different in our activities than LAST YEAR (click to see). We spent hours on the beach. We went exploring and found shells, star fish, sea weed and jelly fish.

We played in the sand and built sand castles.

We all went to the "deep end" of the ocean to enjoy the waves.

JD and LilE flew the kite.

We saw the cloud covered sun rise...

...in our pajamas!

And just played and played and played!

And even got into her little pretend world and began to sing and dance in the water.

365: Week 9

2010-08-20T12:31:00.005-04:00

High Seas Missions : Gator : Vacation Dining

Sunset : Puzzles

365: Week 8

2010-08-13T12:30:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday Duke! : Reading : Cookies

Just a Swingin' : Fire Engine : Friends

Friends

2010-08-12T19:46:00.001-04:00

During Big Brother's meet the teacher night, I was able to keep Little Brother. They played and got along so great! Before we even really got started, parents were picking him up. Boo.

But I did get a sweet picture of the two of them. Sweetness.