Whatcha doin'??

Hey there friends!  Long time no see....

Got a great idea over at Lindsey's blog to do a little survey thing-a-majig...and you know how much I love those!  So, since I haven't blogged in like FOOORRREEEVVEERRRR (in my best Sandlot voice) I thought I would join in on the fun.  Maybe it would light a fire under my bum and make me get my blogging into gear.  Yet again.  {{sigh}}

watching:  Well, the Disney channel, of course...something called Bubble Guppies.  What in the world is a Bubble Guppy?  Anywhooo....Avery and Braxton are here because my sister is in London.  I know, jealous. :) We have watched a lot of things I haven't watched in a long time. ha!  They watch Disney during the day and Macy watches it in the afternoon.  There is a big difference.  Macy said during the day was for babies....Avery begged to differ.

eating:  Praise and Glory for coffee...that's what I'm eating. 

drinking:  oops.  Coffee..  Praise!  I think I might just have an addiction.  (I did have an omlet to soak up my coffee)

wearing:  Will you still be my friend if I say my PJ's?  Ok, my PJ's.

avoiding:  I am totally avoiding sweeping my floors.  They are nasty.  They are dusty.  They are a pain in my rump.  We got hardwood floors in our new house and although I LOVE them they are a little harder to keep up with.  Thanks to the purchase of my handy dandy shark sweeper....it has made my life a little better.  Now, I just need to get up and do it.  Um, maybe later. 

feeling:  totally blessed, happy 

missing:  my mom and dad...It has been awhile since I have been home.  I didn't get to spend Thanksgiving with them so I am looking forward to Christmas.  We had Thanksgiving at our new home with Troy's family.  We had a GREAT time!  I had 28 people in my house!  It was great!  We totally broke my house in..haha!  I was so glad to have more room for everyone.  We have already made sweet memories in our home.  I am super thankful for two wonderful families....

thankful:  Thankful that Macy still has a love for Santa.  We are having so much fun with her Elf on a Shelf this year.  This morning "Larissa" got in our pantry and raided the snack basket...sneaky Elf!  The look on Macy's face was priceless.  It's the little things, people.  ;)

weather:  Well, its Texas y'all!!  Its 44 degrees now but later in the afternoon, I'm sure I'll be sporting some flip flops.  Yeehaw!

praying:  for my sister to have a safe trip home

needing: a little motivation today....you know to sweep the floors, do my bible study, do the dishes, laundry, think of something for supper, and get my running in.  All in a days work.

thinking: I am thinking that I really should have started my Christmas shopping a long time ago.  Why must I do this to myself every year??  I do work better under pressure but this year I am a little more stressed about getting everything done in time.  Don't know why....I always get it done.  Breathe!

loving:  my peppermint mocha creamer, coffee, my bible study, being a mom, being a wife, I love being an aunt...Jaxon, Maddi, Avery and Jaxon are super cool, I love long hot baths, getting a pedicure, listening to Christmas music, I love my Christmas tree...especially at night when everyone is snoozing and its just me, the tree and my DVR shows...OH YES!

So, what about you, my friends?  What are you up to today?  Come on and join in on the fun, if ya want!

Are you ready for some football.....

Two bits, four bits, six bits a dollar...

All for the Texans stand up and holler!

(I don't think that is really an NFL cheer but whatever!)

We had a great time at the Texans game a couple

of weeks ago.  We are so thankful for sweet

friends who share their tickets when they can't go.

Reid and Troy were so excited about getting to 

go to the game.  We even went to Academy

the night before and all got new Texans

shirts.  When we go to a game to cheer we 

mean business!  Not to mention we looked 

cute, too.  Yes, even the boys. 

Presh!

The boys always love a good Sunday football game.

 Especially when the Texans are involved.  Not

only was it a great game the weather was perfect!

Macy and I love watching the cheerleaders, talking,

watching the boys get all crazy, sharing a coke

and a huge baked potato with all the fixings,

and taking self portraits...of course. It's a great way to

pass the time.  No really, we love the game and Macy

and I cheer LOUD!  Reid brought a friend from school

so we couldn't act too crazy.  You know us Sab's. 

We can get a little crazy and wacky.

 I got the stink eye a few times just for talking.

 Geez, am I that embarrassing?

Don't answer that.

*********************************************************************************

 

I couldn't let today get by without saying something...



AND last but certainly not least...

Happy Veterans Day

 to all the men and women who serve our wonderful country.  (My sweet Poppi included)

I admire you.

I pray for you.

I am forever thankful.

I love you.

God Bless America!

Yaya the Builder

For the past month I have been trying to get the guest bedroom/office set up. You know, for all our company? ha! Well, you have to be prepared, right?


Anywoo...I had the mattresses and boxspring but needed the frame. So, I took my happy self to the mattress store and bought a queen size frame. The lady promised me it was easy to set up. She looked at me like I was going to set it up or something.  I think I looked at her like...Um, I have a husband that will do that!  But, I acted like I knew what I she was talking about.

Right!

Troy has been on this outage at work and I have hardly seen him. I knew that frame was going to sit awhile.  He kept promising me he would do it.  I knew he was too busy so we all just walked past it, stubbing our toe on the box and running into the stupid thing in the night.  So, the box sat....for a month. Or so.
Until last week....

Everyone hold on to your hat. I put the fool thing together! The frame was the easy part.  It ended up wrestling those heavy mattresses onto the frame was the worst part and it totally sent me into a sweaty tail spin.  If you would have had a hidden camera in there I am sure we would have won some major money. 

I was so excited for Troy to come home and see what I had done. I had felt like such a big girl....yes, he spoils me.  So, when he got home the kids and I gently coaxed him into the guest room/office where we told him he really needed to check his email.  The kids were just as excited as I was. SURPRISE! Mission accomplished...I think he was suprised.  He couldn't believe that I had put the whole bed together.  I got a little kiss. 

It had taken me all day to clean the room, organize all the bills, shred old checks from 1998, and put things back in the desk in a more organized fashion. I really love how it turned out. I still have some decorating to do but the bed is up and ready for company.

OK so who's coming?

Flu shot....or not?

So, what's your take on the Flu shot?  I got mine today because last year I waited and waited and then waited a little TOO long.  Yep, I got the flu.  Bad. 

Reid also got the flu.  (He was actually the first reported case at his pediatricians office.....that's not necessarily a contest you wanna win, huh?)

We were pitiful!  I felt horrible and so did he.  We were quarantined to one room and Troy just slipped food through the door with his shirt over his nose.  So sweet, right?  What happened to in sickness and in health.  Oh, well!  I think he was scared of us.  At one point Reid leaned over to me and said, "Mom, could you please get me some chicken noodle soup and some Advil?"  I said, "No, honey, you will have to get it yourself."  It was pretty sad.  It wasn't one of my proudest moments as a mom.  Man, we were so sick.  I can still feel those chills....and that fever!  That was the worst!  Reid missed so much school, too.  He loves to miss school but not because of the flu.  No, thanks! Thankfully, Troy and Macy never got it.  I think they have an immune system made of steel.  (knock on wood)

I DO NOT want to go through that again.  So, last week Troy told me they got a flu shot at work and that I needed to get mine.  He sweetly reminded me of last year.  I think secretly he doesn't want to be my nurse again...or he loves me and doesn't want to see me whine.  Which ever...I knew I needed to get one.

So, this morning, I went and had my flu shot.  I took Reid after school to get his shot....well, after our weekly Buckee's trip.  (IT is Thirsty Thursday, you know.)  He did great.  Macy gets hers in the morning...that might be another story.  That girl cries just at the thought of a needle.  Can you say....DRAMA!

So, all this to say....I know this is just in my head but I have always heard that you can get the flu from getting the shot.  What is your opinion?  Do you get the flu shot or do you just take a chance?  I'm just curious what y'all do.....

For some odd reason this afternoon I feel a little sluggish.  uh-oh!!

A little bit of this and that



Warning....ramblings that could cause boredom and/or sleepiness

*I did NOTHING, I repeat NOTHING yesterday.  I barely got out of my PJ's.  I hate those days.  But, in my defense I wasn't feeling all that great.  I think all this moving and other stresses in my life have caught up with me.  So, after I took Reid to school and put Macy on the bus, this Mama went BACK TO BED.

Yep, I'm a slacker.

There was no laundry done.  There were no beds made...what SO ever.  Usually I try to make our beds...it just feels good.  I don't know why it makes your house feel more clean, but it does.  It felt really good getting a little more sleep but then when I woke up I had Mom/Wife guilt. You know, thoughts of my hubby and kids working and studying while I am snoozing in LaLa Land.  Why do we feel guilty when we take time for ourselves? Thankfully, for my families sake, my naps are far and few/few and far between.  Sadly, yesterday I was doing good to get up and make my yummy pot of coffee.

Which is a must.

*I've been toying with the idea of getting my jewelry/crafty/scrapbooky stuff out again.  I think I toy with this idea on a daily/yearly basis.  But, after moving and finding all my stuff I have had this itch to make something.  I also think Pinterest has a little something to do with it.  I have found so many things on there that make my mouth water.  It probably helps that they make it look so easy.  In the past I have had a lot of ideas but no time....or space.  Now, I have a little more space, still no time but am determined to try to do something for me.  I really want a little nook just for me.  Even if I do nothing more than stare at the walls or pick my nose at least I would have my very own nook. (I really wouldn't pick my nose..ha)  My mom found a picture of a lady who made a little nook in her closet.  My friend Lacie did that when she moved and it was super cute.  I am -----this close-----to starting my own closet nook. 

I'm super duper excited about that!

*Today I started my morning out with my ever-so-lovely cup of coffee with Pumpkin Spice Creamer...DUH...and I am feeling much better than yesterday.  There are no naps for me this AM.  I am hoping to get a lot more done than yesterday.  Maybe beds made?  Maybe finish unpacking boxes?  Maybe finish spray painting a bookshelf that is still sitting outside?  Maybe laundry?  Maybe go for a run?  We will see...

* What is on your agenda for today?

11.1.11 and Miss Frankie Stein

There is something about weird and funny dates...you just have to post about it.  You know just to write the date, I guess.  This morning I had to write Reid a check for lunch money and I said, "Hey, it's 11.1.11.  How cool."  His response, "uhhuh".  Maybe it was the fact that it was 6:45 and I was talking to him.  How dare I speak before 7 am.  The nerve of me.  He took the check and headed to the car.  Let me tell you, teenagers have a vocabulary and an attitude all of their own.

Lord, help me.

Anywoo, all that to say.  Happy 11.1.11.  Isn't it cool?

Please don't say "uhuh"

Yesterday we had a great time Trick or Treating with our new neighbors.  They are so sweet.  We had a great time getting to know them better.  Halloween wasn't always my favorite holiday.  Its kinda weird.  I remember having fun when I was a child at Halloween, but I was more about the candy.  Obviously.  I never loved dressing up, Reid doesn't care too much for it either.  Now, Lulu...that's a different story.  The more face paint and the bigger the wig, the better.  She has always loved dressing up and because of her, Halloween is more fun at our house.  I am soaking it up as long as I can.  I know all too soon, she won't want to go with me.  Boohoo! 

 Here she is getting a sign all ready to hang on the front door.  She was so excited to get to see some trick or treaters.  She wanted them to feel welcome.

 We got just a little festive and made some candy.  We love putting our aprons on and getting all dirty in the kitchen.  We had melted candy all over the place.  They make it look so easy on the box.

 Didn't the teeth turn out cute??  These were our favorite.  Don't you remember wax lips as a child??

Here she is.....Miss Frankie Stein!  Isn't she SCARY!  She wanted to be something scary this year but still cute.  I think she looks adorable. 

She wanted some scars and lipstick...that's my girl!

 My sweet Trick or Treaters.  Reid stayed home and passed out candy while we hit the streets with our neighbors.  He has never liked Halloween.  I should have realized that the year I tried to dress him up as Barney.  He was NOT a happy camper.  He's like me, though.  He did it for the candy.  I was glad he let me get a picture before we left.  He is such a great kid.  :)



Here are the Trick or Treaters with something.  I have no idea what they are standing by...whatever it was it talked.....and was cute.  ha!  Macy with Austin..our new neighbor.  They had a fun time hitting all the houses.  They had so much candy we had to come home, dump out and start over.  

I hope y'all had a good Halloween with lots of sweets, treats and FUN.  I had such a great time looking at Facebook at all the pictures of the kids costumes.  There are some good things about FB.  It's really annoying me lately.  That's for another time.

Now, on to November.  I love November...the weather has been beautiful!  You can actually go outside and not melt.  Can I get a woohoo!

Oh, can you believe on the radio I heard we only have like 53 days until Christmas??!!  AND to top that off they are already playing Christmas commercials.

YIKES!



How was your Halloween? 



Wordless Wednesday is so last year

I was going to "cop" out today and just post a picture for Wordless Wednesday.  I am busy today, you know.  The laundry, cleaning, mopping and scrubbing toilets are keeping me hopping around the house today.  Some days I just spray Lysol in the air or put Fabuloso in the sink so when Troy walks in it smells nice and clean.  You know, so he will think I have been busy all day.  Shh, don't tell him my secret. He thinks I am a busy little bee.

NOT!

But, seriously today there needs to be some real cleaning.  My floors look like we have had a heard of muddy cows come through.  How is it that ones floor and or house can get so dirty.  I mean seriously.  I have dust bunnies the size of Texas up in here.

But, today I have blogging on my mind.  I don't know why it bothers me so much when I don't blog.  Last year I did a bloggy book and I am constantly thinking I need to update my blog so when it is time to do my book again I have a lot of material and my book looks nice and thick.  There is nothing worse than a weak bloggy book.

Is that bad?

Well, I don't think so because since my scrap booking is few and far between my blog is all I have to document my life and my kids life.  Wait, there is my journal...but that's for my eyes only.

I hope when I die my kids don't freak out when they read my journal.  Maybe I should burn it, lock it or write in code. ha!  I'm afraid when they read it they will think their Mom has gone and flipped her lid.

Wait, I have.

So, here is some random tidbits happening at Heather's House.  Some are recorded with pictures and some are not.  For some reason I have been terrible at toting my camera around lately.  It just seems like one more thing to do, to carry around and to be in charge of....I will get better.  Basketball is right around the corner.  Get ready for some action shots of my boy.

*Macy has BEGGED to ride the bus since she was in Kindergarten.  Thankfully, we lived so close to the school that we had no bus service.  That was always my excuse.  Now that we have moved, we have service. 

Stink!

So, after the first couple of weeks of school, I gave in.  My baby rode the bus.  I was so nervous.  I always hated the bus and thought she would get beat up or learn about the birds and the bees before her time.  Well, who knows what they talk about but I know she is all kinds of smiles when she gets off that bus.  I just pray that the ride there and back are filled with laughter and that she doesn't hear what her little ears shouldn't. 

Our bus stop is right outside our door and that makes it so easy for me.  Thankfully it doesn't come at the crack of dawn either.  We all know I am NOT a morning person.  I walk her to the bus stop with coffee in hand and visit with all the other moms and dads.  It is like a coffee party in the morning!  I love it! 

Look at that smile.   That is everyday!  When she gets off the bus she is looking for me...such a sweetie!



*A few weekends ago I went on a girls weekend with my girlies.  I can't even begin to tell you how much I love these girls.  We had so much fun shopping in Salado, laughing, shopping at Target (twice), going to the movies, learning about new stain lipstick (thanks Lacie), eating a lot, crying, laughing some more, crafting and praying together.  We always have such a great time together!

 This is how great they are.....they had all seen The Help but knew I hadn't.  They paid for another ticket to see the movie with me!  aww!  That was the best movie!  Seeing it with you made it even better!  Thanks girls...

These feet have been a lot of places together and we aren't done yet!  Where oh where will they take us next??

*We are still getting settled in our new house.  Boxes are still taking over the garage.  I am still waiting for the box fairy to come help me.

*We finally got a fridge.  We had been without one for a month.  That should be a whole 'nother blog post.

*Reid has basketball tryouts next week!  Pray for my Rooster!  I know he is good because I am his mom but, let's hope the coach sees it.  

*Both kids are great.  Both Reid and Macy made all A's and B's on their report card.  WooHoo!

*Mom, JD, Ashley and I went to San Antonio for Women of Faith.  Let me say AWESOME!  We had such a wonderful time. If you ever have a chance to go...GO!  You will not be disappointed.  I loved spending time with my family...they are my girls for life.  We ate way too much Mexican food and laughed a lot.  I loved worshiping God with them all weekend.  It was a much needed faith lift.  Tears, laughter and food with your loved ones is always a good thing....I love you girls!  Let's do it again....soon!



*whew!  That was a long post. 

I've gotta go...need to get to cleaning this pit of a house....wait, maybe I'll just spray some Lysol in the air.  Happy Wednesday, everyone!

We will never be the same

This is absolutely amazing. I mean this guy has some talent. I think sometimes that I am crafty because I can spray paint a flower pot every now and then...but this is talent! It gave me goosebumps....

Hope you enjoy!

Have a wonderful Tuesday, peeps!

Papa John



In all our craziness over the summer, none can compare to the loss we had in August.  You know, that phone call you get that brings you to your knees?  I've had a few of those in my lifetime...and this is one of them.  Very rarely have I seen my husband cry.  He is the strong one, the one who thinks things through, the one that keeps me grounded, the one that when I am anything but calm....he is, the one that is the peacemaker, and a true example of a loving husband and father.  But, on August 7th, I saw tears.  I saw a man who felt helpless and heartbroken.  He got THE call.  The call that his daddy, his crazy but sweet daddy, had died at his home.  He had just turned 75.

After the call, the tears and hugs he automatically went into a "gotta get it done" mode.  I have never lost a parent, thank goodness.  My Poppi was the closest to a parent that I have lost.  I know how that hurt. 

Bad. 

But, I guess when you lose a parent there are things that have to be done.  AND guess what...YOU have to do it.  I know Troy and his sisters faced a really hard time but they did it and did it together. 

That week was really a blur.  As it should be.  I can't remember a lot but do know that I am super proud of my husband and the leadership role he showed to me and the kids.  I am one lucky girl.

Words cannot express how much we will miss Papa.  We loved stopping at his house on our way back to Houston from the Ville.  He was on the way home for us and our normal stop in Plum will never be the same.  We would always call him and tell him we were on our way....now, if you knew John and you told him you were going to be there at 3 o' clock...you better be there at 3 o' clock.  ha!  There were many times we were late and would get a little lecture.  ha! 

Now it's going to be weird passing his turn off knowing he's not there.  We always loved stopping there to play with Yogi and Snoopy, drive the mule around the little 'ole town of Plum, listen to old country classic music and listening to his funny stories.  Let me tell you, he had some funny ones.  We never had to stop at 7-11 for sodas for the car ride home because we always knew Papa would hook us up with some.  Of course, soda was not Papa's drink of choice but he has some soda just for us.  :)  I am thankful that the kids have such fond memories of hanging out at Papa's house. 

The kids even had a song about him....goes a little something like this: (not sure of the tune)

Paaaa-pa John

Paaaa-pa John

Papa John lives in Plum, picks pecans,

Paaaa-pa John.

Although we are sad and heartbroken over his passing, we know that he is better hands. God promises us that and for that we are thankful. 

RIP Papa, John, Tic, Daddy....We love you and will miss you always.

Why me Lord?
What have I ever done?
To deserve even one
Of the blessings I've known

Why me Lord?
What did I ever do?
That was worth love from You
And the kindness You've shown

Lord help me, Jesus
I've wasted it
So help me Jesus
I know what I am

Now that I know
That I've needed You
So help me Jesus
My soul's in Your hand

Try me Lord
If You think there's a way
That I can repay
What I've taken from You

Maybe Lord
I could show someone else
What I've been through myself
On my way back to You

Lord help me, Jesus
I've wasted it
So help me Jesus
I know what I am

Now that I know
That I've needed You
So help me Jesus
My soul's in Your hand
Jesus, my soul's in Your hands.

Home Sweet Home

Words can't express how glad I am that our whole moving process is over.  It has been a LONG hard year of laughs, tears, bending friends ears over certain things, stress, cleaning, going through memories, apartment living, packing boxes, LOTS of boxes, and prayers....TONS of prayers.  God has truly blessed my family and I am ever so thankful.  I knew that in His time everything would work out.  My peeps kept telling me that!  ;)  Now looking back at all the drama, I see His hand holding mine....every step of the way.  I was just so blinded....that is until now.  Now it is all so clear.  He knew exactly what my little family needed. 

Seriously.  Why did I doubt that?

Anywhoo.

We are in our home but still looking at all these boxes that I worked so hard to pack.  I know that in time it will all be done and we will feel more settled.  But, for now, we are enjoying our new home, boxes and all.  We just kind of kick 'em around and hope that someone will unpack them.  I think that someone is me!  Most days I wish I was Samantha from Bewitched....that looks way more easy.

Twitch, twitch

Nope.

So, maybe tomorrow I will get serious about unpacking.  

Yeah. Tomorrow. 

Every girl needs a break now and then....



You must rest your muscles!  For real.



My peeps.  I love them!

 Macy knows exactly what she wants.  She made this sign weeks before we moved.  It hangs proudly

on her door for all to see....

 My favorite coffee cup!  So glad I found it and it wasn't broken.  There were

a few things that didn't make the move.  oops.

There has been A LOT of spray painting going on...I'm not kidding.  Here is an old gold antique mirror

that Macy and I had big plans for!  Yep, you guessed it...PINK!  Well, really it was Rose something or another but its hot pink people.

And TTTAAADDDDAAAA

And double TTTTTAAADDDDAAA!  Heather's House!

Home sweet Heather's Home that is.



Now, y'all stop by for coffee....anytime!  I'd love to have you.  I have a cup just for YOU!

"As for me and my house we will serve the Lord."  Joshua 24:15

Ramblings...

We are into the 3rd day of school and all is well in the Sab household.  I am so happy!  I was so worried about my kids starting a new school, making new friends, and trying to find their way around a brand new building.  We were at our other schools for so long that we knew the layout like the back of our hands.  But, I have to say, both of them have done wonderful!  I am so proud of them both!

I dropped Reid off on the first day of 9th grade and he had NO idea where he was going and didn't even have a schedule.  He missed Freshman orientation and had to go to the make-up orientation the Friday before school started.  So, when I dropped him off that morning I was praying he would get all the classes that he wanted.  I just knew when I picked him up that afternoon that he was going to be devastated because he likes to be organized, likes to know what he's doing and where he's going.  But, no!  He got in the car and said he had a great day.  The people were nice, the school was good but big, BUT he wasn't too happy about one of his elective classes.  He wanted Art 1 because he heard it was easy.  Well, so did all the other Freshman, so it was full.  He said, "Mom!  Do you know what they put me in??  Small Animal Management...what in the world is that?  I don't really like small animals."  hahahaha!  SO, guess who has an appointment to go visit the counselor.   

Yep, mama!

Macy got in car and declared her new school, "AWESOME!"  I think I was more worried about Reid than her because she is my little social butterfly.  She loves everyone she meets and makes friends fast.  She knew only one little girl in her grade and thankfully they got in the same class.  That made the first day SO much easier.  There were no tears, thank goodness! (only by me when I left...my babies are growing up)  She said her friend introduced her to a lot of girls!  She was so happy about that.  She said one little girl lives in our apartment complex and she was going to come by later.  Sure enough about 5:30 we hear a little knock.  There was a sweet little girl wanting to talk to Macy.  They went outside and I could hear lots of giggling!  That makes a mama happy.  Now, she wants to ride the bus.

Um, not ready for that yet.

As for me, I am trying to get used to the quiet.  I have heard them running around here all summer and now as much as I love the quiet I miss them terribly!  But, there's a lot to do around here and I'm busy until it's time to get in the car line (which can be a post all in itself....uggg....the car line!). 

Gotta go...gotta do some laundry..... I mean, it just doesn't wash itself, ya know!

Happy a happy, happy Wednesday, y'all!

Oh, those thoughts in my head!

15 years ago I became a mom.  It was one of those moments where I really had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming.  As a girl you dream of that moment and I remember looking at my little bundle feeling so overwhelmed but yet so overjoyed all at the same time.  Will I be a good mom?  Will I know what to do?  I mean I was 23 years old, married for a almost 2 years, still in college and working part-time. 

23?  yikes!  college?  yikes!!  working!  yikes! 

I remember at the time I felt so old....now, I realize how young I really was.  Was I ready for this?  Why did God choose me to be this sweet little boy's mommy?  So many thoughts ran through my head.....

Someone help me!  He's my responsibility!

It was also about this time 15 years ago that I made one of the hardest decisions ever...well, not really THE hardest, but close.  As I looked down at my new baby boy, who by the way stole my heart from the minute we met, I knew that he was going to be my most important job EVER.  So, I decided not to go back to college, quit my job and stay home with him.  I knew that God had given me this answer because I had cried out to him on many occasions for help.  I didn't know what to do but I did realize that this was the path for our family and I was humbled by God's trust in me. 

I was going to Texas State at the time...well, WAY back then it was Southwest Texas State. Good 'ole SWT! I loved going to college, really, I did.  I was going for my Elementary Education degree.  I had so many dreams.  I had even collected apple things for my classroom.  Girls, do that you know.  Anyway, it was quite funny.  I found the box of apple collectables as we were moving and got a good chuckle out of it.  Man, were they outdated.

Sure, there are times when I wonder what kind of teacher I would be.  I had taken so many education classes and was looking forward to the possibilities of changing kids lives.  

So, in 2001, I decided to drive my little self to the University of Houston at Clear Lake.  I talked to an advisor, got the catalog and started the application process.  I got my transcripts ordered and sent over.  I was ready for orientation.  My counselor was very supportive of me and was a great help in getting me back on track.  I only lacked a few semesters.  I was looking forward to trying this college thing...yet again. 

Then.....

Yep, you guessed it.  I found out I was pregnant with my sweet little girl.

Isn't life funny?  God knew exactly what I needed.  He knew that I needed to stay home with my babies and he has given me all I need to do just that.  In between all my drama....my sweet hubby was able to get his degrees....even graduate with a Masters!  So, who needs a degree!  ha!

 All this to say, I have loved every minute of being a mom.  I have never regretted any decision on being a stay at home mommy.  I have loved watching everything they do and getting to see the new things they learn everyday.  Sure, there are crazy days but they are my days and I love them. 

As we celebrated Reid's birthday last week and I dropped both of them off at school yesterday, I realized what a lucky mom I am.  Degree or not.  I am still their mom....and they love me.  That's all I need.

Me and Reid....Isn't he handsome!  We are so proud of the young man he is becoming.

First day of school.  We went to celebrate with some yummy ice cream!

My sweet baby girl ready to conquer the world!

My love getting ready to take high school by storm!

Happy 15th birthday Reid!

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9

I've been everywhere, man!

I have been trying to blog for days and blogger has not been nice to me!  I have been trying to do an InstaFriday for 2 weeks.  I have tons of pics and it really aggravates me when I get them ready to add and it won't let me.  ugh! 

*Things are going great our way.  We are really enjoying our summer.  We have been gone.  A lot.  Which is why my little 'ole blog has been neglected. 

Sorry.

You know that song..."I've Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash?"  Well, that is the Sabs.  We have been to San Antonio, New Braunfels, Smithville, Ennis, Port Aransas, Smithville, Galveston, Bastrop, La Grange, Elllinger and our stop in the big town of Plum, Texas.  Salute.

*With all our traveling, I'd like to thank the makers of Apple, Nintendo and Skull Candy headphones.  I'd also like to thank the inventors of the I Spy game, Riddle-Me-Riddle-Me Riddle Marie, Alphabet Game and the all time favorite License Plate game.

*We are also enjoying our apartment.  We are loving having a swimming pool and try to go as often as we can because its so stinkin' hot in Texas!  What in the world?  I saw a funny sign the other day and it said, "Satan called and he wants his weather back."  ha!  I thought that was funny.  And true.  It's so hot I sweat just walking to the car.

*I have also been spending time on PINTEREST.  Two words.

OH MY!

It is my new favorite place to spend my computer time.   It has so many wonderful ideas for your home, crafts, funny quotes, and recipes.  You really need to check it out.  I am in L-O-V-E! 

* I can't believe that school is right around the corner.  I really can't believe I will have a child in high school.  It makes me sad and happy at the same time.  He is excited and ready for this new chapter.  He will be in a new school and instead of being nervous, like I would be, he is excited.  Macy is ready too...that girl is ready for anything. 

*Our house is going great.  We should be in the house Sept. 2nd and we are thrilled!  Although we love our apartment we are ready for some more space.  I think the kids are ready to have their own rooms back.  Secretly, I think they have enjoyed sharing a room but you didn't hear that from me.  :)  As far as pictures, they are on my other computer and stuck on my phone so I have to figure that out.  oops. 

I guess that is all for now...where have you been this summer?

Just checkin' in

Hello friends! 

Just thought I would check in with the 'ole blogger today.  So, whoever is reading...hello and I'm glad you stopped by.  :) 

My laptop battery is dead.  So, no pictures today.  I was thinking about a Wordless Wednesday because its easy.  But, no.  I am on our house computer and the pictures I have on there are from 2009.  While, cute..they are a little old.  I was going through them earlier and got a little weepy.  My kids have grown so much in 2 years. 

We went to Splashway with the family yesterday.  We had so much fun.  Splashway is a little water park stuck in the middle of nowhere...Sheridan, Tx.  I have no idea how I got there...I am just thankful for my good 'ole GPS or I would still be riding around.  Anyway, we all got a little too much sun, ate way too many dippin' dots (which I wish I would have invented) and enjoyed floating around all day.  The Lazy river was my favorite...that and watching the kids have a blast.

Our house is coming along great.  We have a meeting with the builder tomorrow and then they should start sheet rocking.  We are so excited and feel so blessed.  It has been so awesome watching it go up.  Those builders are so fast!  I love watching the kids run in the house to see what they have done in their rooms!  They already have their rooms picked out and Macy already knows that she wants a pink room.  Girl after my own heart.  :)  We are going to really appreciate our home even more when we move in after being stuck in this little apartment all summer. 

We are having a good summer so far.  What are y'all doing to stay busy this summer??  Do tell...

Finding Treasures...

I have found some really great things while packing up my house.  I have almost 10 years worth of love notes, letters from friends and family, articles and pictures that I have saved.  I consider myself somewhat of a clutter bug.  There are somethings that I just can't part with.  I saved some of the fun things I found and thought I would share them with you!  Some are funny, some are sad and some will make you go, "Why did she keep that?"  ha!

Today's treasure is one that I found way, WAY down in a drawer that was something I got YEARS ago.  Reading though it, it does sound a little outdated.  But, its still rings true for teenagers.  They have their own ideas and as a parent we need to let them soar...as hard as that is and will be for me. 

I am sure Mom saved this article for me when Reid was 3.  She's good at clipping articles.  And now...years later...I need it.  I can't believe that I have a teenager....he's a great kid and I hope as a parent, I do right by him.  I am so proud of him and hope that I always let him do the things that will make him a great man, like his Dad.  Anyway, I thought this was a great read....especially since it comes from the teens point of view.  It's a little long...so bear with me.  :)

Teenagers Bill of Rights

1.  Stand by us not over us.  Give us the feeling that we are not alone in the world, that we can always count on you when we are in trouble.

2.  Make us feel that we are loved and wanted.  We want to love you, not as a duty, but because you love us.

3.  Train us by being affectionately firm.  You will really achieve more with us through patient teaching than by punishment or preaching.  Say "no" when you feel you have to but explain your rules-don't merely impose them.

4.  Bring us up so that we will not always need you.  Teach us how to take on responsibility and become independent of you.  We will learn this faster and better if you will let us question you, your ideas and your standards.

5.  Don't act shocked when we do things we shouldn't.  It is going to take time to learn how to grow into life properly.

6.  Try to be as consistent as possible.  If you are mixed up about what you want from us, why shouldn't we be mixed up, too, in what we give you.

7.  Don't try to make us feel inferior.  We doubt ourselves enough without your confirming it.  Predicting failure for us won't help us succeed.

8.  Say "nice work" when we do something really good.  Don't hold back the praise when we deserve it.  That's the way to spur us on.

9.  Show respect for our wishes even if you disagree with them.  Respect for you will flow from your respect for us.

10.  Give us direct answers to direct questions.  But don't give us more that we ask for or can understand.  When you don't know...say so...but find someone for us who does know.

11.  Show interest in what we are doing.  Even though by your standards our activities may not be important or interesting, don't reduce them in our eyes by your indifference.

12.  Treat us as if we were normal, even if our conduct seems peculiar to you.  All God's children have problems;  that doesn't mean we are all problem children.

13.  Sometimes all of us run into emotional difficulties.  Should that happen, obtain for us professional counseling.  It isn't always easy for boys and girls to understand themselves or know just what they want.  That's why there are specialists in personal adjustments and vocational selection. 

14.  Teach us by example.  What you are speaks louder than your words.

15.  Treat each one of us as a person in his own right.  Children are people, not carbon copies of grown-ups.  Treat all children in your care fairly; that is as of equal value to you.  That is how we will learn to respect the rights of other people and treat them fairly.

16.  Don't keep us young too long.  We want a chance to prove what we can do as soon as we are ready to give proof.  Don't hold us back by love which over-protects and paralyzes.

17.  We need fun and companionship.  Help us share our interests and happy feelings with groups of friends.  Give us time to be with them and make them welcome when they come and visit.

18.  Make us feel that our home belongs to us.  We are at least as important as the furniture.  Don't protect things at our expense by making us feel like intruding bulls in a china shop.

19.  Don't laugh at us when we use the word love.  The need to love and to be loved starts early (and never ends).  We have the eternal desire to want to belong to someone and have someone belong to us.

20.  Treat us as junior partners in the firm.  Democracy starts at home.  If you want us to be worthy successors to you, take us into your confidence, and let us help you in managing our family, our school and our community.

21.  Make yourself an adult fit for a child to live with.  Prove to us "it ain't so" that parents are the worst persons in the world to have children, or that teachers are precisely the people least suited to teach.  Show that home and school are not simply places where children learn how to get along with disagreeable adults.

22. .  Find out what we can do or want to do before you force us beyond our capacity or make us become what you want us to be. 

23.  Give us the right to a major voice in our own lives.  Decisions that will affect our whole future should be made with us, not for us.  We have a right to our kind of future.

24.  Let us make our own mistakes.  To make wise decisions takes experience.  That means we have to try ourselves out and find out for ourselves.  We can only learn from our own actions...not yours.

25.  Permit us the failings of average children, just as we permit you the failings of average parents.  Let us both break the rules sometimes.  We can grow only at our own rate, which means in easy stages.  We want to become the best we can become, but we would not be human if we were perfect.

"How to Be Happy Though Young"

George Lawton

     

All moved in and so thankful....

We are done.  We are in our sweet little two bedroom, one bath apartment until the end of August or beginning of September.  That is when our house should be finished.  Our cute little home on Oak Chase Dr is no longer ours.  Of course, I cried when we left the driveway and I cried all the way to the closing.  It was so sad.  Driving away was a lot harder than I thought it would be.  We will miss that house and all the memories that we made there.  Even though we were ready to move and ready for more room....when it came down to it, I wondered if we had made the right decision.  Was I really ready to leave my comfort zone?  Was I really ready to leave the neighborhood and all those that know me?  Was I really ready to leave MY house?

That house is where my babies have grown up.  Where we brought Macy home from the hospital.  Where they learned how to ride their bikes without training wheels, rode their scooters and pushed baby doll strollers for hours.  Where the sidewalk chalk was plenty and pictures of smiley faces and footballs stayed on my driveway for days.  Where there were numerous lemonade stands with friends and making $5.00 to them felt like a million bucks.  Where the neighborhood kids played basketball in the drive,  Reid played wiffle ball in the yard and Macy walked to Jaycee's house about a zillion times.  Where we loved our schools so much and the friends that we had there.  Where Mandi, Jaycee and Macy would play for hours and where sleepovers were crazy fun.  Where we had block parties until all hours of the night and bonded with friends.  Where Cassie and I would drink our coffee while the girls rode their bike around the cul-de-sac.  Where my sweet family grew and where we loved and laughed together.  It's where birthdays, anniversaries, and all kinds of celebrations were made.  It's where at times there was fighting, maybe a little discipline and yelling but where love ALWAYS prevailed.  Where we loved each other and loved and served a God that is ever so faithful to us.  Where we always felt protected and secure.  Where the fondest of memories were made that I will hold forever in my heart. 

I know that our new house will hold many special memories as well and I am looking forward to the new chapter in our lives.  As long as I have my loves...my precious family...it's all good.

So, now we are on to enjoy our summer and the apartment pool.  Let me tell you...that has been nice!!  The Girl Scout camp, baseball camp and summer baseball games have started and we are loving every minute of it.  Never a dull moment with us.  :)

"Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, REJOICE!" 

Philippians 4:4

Welcome to Crazy-ville...and I am the mayor.

Isn't that a beautiful sight!  We are so thankful we sold our home!

I was going to make this post a Wordless Wednesday, because it would be easy, but I hated to cheat y'all out of all my craziness.  I can't even begin to tell you how busy we have been.  I could write a country song about it.  That's how sad it is. 

I thought I would fill you in on some of our crazy-ness..long 'ole list style.  Enjoy!

*We are still looking for somewhere to live this summer while our house is being finished.  We have been apartment hunting all day.  It's exhausting.  And FYI, they like to add fees, fees and more fees.  What's up with that??

*We are packing boxes and I see NO end in sight. Doesn't my living room look lovely??

*I went to the liquor store to get boxes and he knows me by name.  Isn't that sad.  I don't drink.  But, man those boxes are GREAT!  ha!

*I had a wreck Monday.  Fender bender.  My fault.  UGH!  I guess I could put a picture of me with a sad face but I will spare you the pout.  Just use your imagination.

*I went to the Museum on Tuesday and was in charge of 10 3rd graders.  Do you know they hate the museum??  It's sad because I loved it!  I bet I heard  I'm bored about 100 times.

*We had girl scouts on Monday.  Our bridging ceremony is next Monday and somewhere between now and then I have to make 14 green ribbon sashes and puff paint names on them.

*Macy had talent show try-outs yesterday with her 2 BFF's.  It was cute. 

*Macy had field day.  Fun times!  She had such a blast.  Look at that face.....can't you tell she is loving every minute of it!

*I need to laminate some stuff for Macy's teacher sometime this week.

*Reid has a game tonight and a tournament on Saturday and Sunday.  That boy has kept us busy this season.  No complaints...we love it!

*I am having a garage sale on Saturday.  I am not looking forward to that but know that it has to be done.  You should see all the junk I have.  If you are in my area on Saturday...stop on by! 

*Macy has her recital on Sunday afternoon.

*Macy has dance today and she gets her 7 year pin!  I can't believe she has been dancing that long.  I love watching her...she is a natural.  But, then again I am her mother and all mothers think their kids are naturals, right??  ha!

*I have been going through boxes of my kids baby clothes from the attic.  Yes, I cried.  Yes, Troy rolled his eyes.  I found a box of Reid's baby clothes....0 to 3 months.  I have held on to them one year too many.  ha!

*We go to the design center sometime tomorrow to figure out things we want in our new house.  I am super excited!  More so than last year when we built.  This time, it just feels right.

*Reid goes on his field trip today to tour high school.  sniff, sniff.  I told him I would chaperone.  He said, um, no.  I wasn't really going...I just like to get him all riled up.

And by the way, this post is in no way, shape or form a whine.  :)  I am thankful for my life, my crazy life.  It just means I am healthy, happy and energetic.  I just thought you might like a sneak peek in our wonderful, crazy-ness. 

Have a wonderful Wednesday, y'all!  Thanks for stopping by!

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

 

Jeremiah 29:11-13