Heather's House

word.

2012-01-25T08:52:00.000-08:00

Rooster #25

2012-01-16T14:43:00.000-08:00

People often ask me what I have been up to and this is what I usually say...

BASKETBALL, BASKETBALL and you guessed it, BASKETBALL

That's whats up.

And I love it.

Every minute.

He would be super mad if he saw these pictures. He doesn't like to be the center of attention or to be on my blog. But, hey...I'm the Mom and I get to do whatever I want. Anyway, he doesn't even read my blog. whew!

I am so proud of Reid. He has done such an awesome job this year. I was so worried about his first year in high school, at a new school, new friends, and getting involved in high school sports. He has proved yet again that he can handle anything that comes his way. I am loving watching him grow into a sweet young man. I am loving listening to his stories and the way he confides in me. God has great plans for this kid and I am so excited for him. He doesn't like me to brag but I have to say that he is one awesome teenager.

I love that boy.

For reals.

A peek inside.....Heather's House

2012-01-12T20:25:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that its January 12th. Where has the time gone? I feel like just yesterday I put my tree up and now there is NO sign of Christmas in my house. What-SO-ever.

Praise!

Now, my house is bare and I feel the need to make a Hobby Lobby and/or Marshall's Home Goods stop. You know for the necessities. Yeah, the necessities. Shhh...don't tell Troy.

Here are some things I have been doing around my house...its still a WORK in progress. I have a feeling it will be that way for a while.

A long while.....baby steps

Unless I win the lottery.

The entry way

Outside...my perfect coffee spot!

My entertainment center needs major attention. ha!

My dining room....needs to be decorated. I'm still not sure what to do in there.

Macy's room...she loves it!

The game/media room. We had the built-ins built and we love them. (hi Reid!) By the way,
this is where Reid lives. I thought I was going to have a craft room. Boy, was I wrong.

Reid's room. We still have a way to go in there. He was doing good to pick a bedspread.

Hey, maybe I should make this my craft room.

Macy and I spray painted this old picture frame to make her a chalkboard.

She has loved writing on it.....I get all kinds of messages. Love that girl!

I made this for the wall by my stairs.....

Our room. :)

We are in our new home, settled and loving every minute of it. God has showed us so many things over this whole moving process. Some things have been awesome and some things have brought us to our knees. There have been lots of prayers, lots of laughs, a few tears, lots of hard decisions and more stresses over picking colors of walls, floors and cabinets than I ever knew possible. Seriously.

I just want to say more than anything that we are so thankful. God has blessed us abundantly. We will praise Him all the days of our lives.

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

.......and just for a good laugh! I love these guys!

When they are together there is never a dull moment.

Troy and Will....brothers at heart.

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

Happy 2012!! Love, peace and God's blessings to you......

Whatcha doin'??

2011-12-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

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.....

2011-11-11T09:46:00.000-08:00

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

2011-11-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

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?

2011-11-03T14:55:00.000-07:00

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

2011-11-02T07:01:00.000-07:00

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

2011-11-01T09:41:00.000-07:00

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

2011-10-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

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

2011-10-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

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

2011-10-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

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

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

2011-10-06T13:49:00.000-07:00

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...

2011-08-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

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!

2011-08-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

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!

2011-08-07T14:46:00.000-07:00

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

2011-06-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

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...

2011-06-08T08:23:00.000-07:00

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....

2011-06-07T13:22:00.000-07:00

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.

2011-05-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

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

Knee deep and a case of hives

2011-05-12T06:18:00.000-07:00

I'm knee deep in boxes. Knee deep in memories. Knee deep in old pictures and artwork. Knee deep in handprints and letters from my kids. Knee deep in tape, sharpies and newspapers. I have had black hands all day from wrapping all my pretties. Call me crazy but many times throughout this whole process I have wished I was Samantha from Bewitched. Twitching my nose seems like a far easier route than the the one I am on. ((twitch, twitch)) Um, nope. Nothin'. Guess I will keep on keepin' on. Knee deep...here I come.

Yesterday I got a LOT done! We had workers here working on some things that we needed get to get done before the closing. Which is June 3rd. Can I just say...ugh! Anyway, I hadn't planned on packing yesterday. It just happened. I thought for a split second that I could get caught up on all my favorite shows, play on the computer or maybe take a nap. Then I quickly decided that would not be the best decision. So, I started packing. Man, it really is good therapy. Once I started packing I was a wild women. Well, that is until I got to my scrapbooks.

Oh, man. If you want a good cry just sit down for 45 minutes and flip through your life. All those memories came flooding back and the flood gate of tears opened. I can't believe how big my kids have grown. All those pictures seemed like I took them yesterday. I am so thankful for the memories and for a split second I wanted my babies back. Then I thought about it and I love the age they are. They are fun and independent. They love God and they make decisions that make me and their Dad proud....sometimes. ha! I mean what teenager and tweenager really do things without asking. I still have to nudge a little. They are still kids and still love on me and need me. I love that. They are really showing their personalities and I catch glimpses every now and then of how they might be as an adult. I am so thankful for them....and my scrapbooks. ha!

I got about 10 boxes packed yesterday. Between tears and giggles I feel like I am making a little head way. It feels good to get a little bit accomplished. I still have a long way to go. Long way. Makes me break out in hives just thinking about it.

Now, speaking of hives we are looking to find a place to live for the summer. Our new house won't be done until the end of August. So, I have also been knee deep in apartment and hotel hunting. Why is it so hard? I better not ask that. The Sab's might just be pitching a tent or sleeping in the car for the summer. Hey, it will be an experience we will never forget. ;)

Happy Birthday to Macy

2011-05-06T13:07:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Little Girl

by Cheri Keaggy

Beautiful little girl, discovering all the world

I wonder what she'll be, will she take after her Daddy or me

Careful to hold her hand and help her to understand

how much we love her so and how much we like to help her to grow...

Into a woman who loves her maker and who knows what she's living for, so that nothing cam harm or take her from you, for a woman who loves her maker has a quality you can see that will certainly mold and shape her into the woman she’s meant to be.

Beautiful little child

adorning a lovely smile, eager to learn to fly.

There's almost nothing she wouldn't try.

Lord help us do our part to give her a Godly start.

Teach her what she must learn and guide her until she’s ready to turn...

Into a woman who loves her maker and who knows what she's living for, so that nothing can harm or take her from you, for a woman who loves her maker has a quality you can see that will certainly mold and shape her into the woman she's meant to be.

Happy Birthday to our beautiful little girl! I can't believe you are 9 years old! Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you. You are the most beautiful, sweetest, kindest, gentle, loving and tender-hearted soul I know. Having you as our daughter is one of the greatest gifts God has ever given us.

We love you, Mommy and Daddy.

Embracing the Camera

2011-05-05T13:42:00.000-07:00

I know that Embracing the camera with Emily is all about putting yourself in front of the camera. Well, sadly I have done a horrible job of that lately. But, I promised myself I would do better. I mean seriously, how hard is it to ask someone to take your photo? I guess hard because I hardly ever do it. I guess I am embarrassed or scared of what they would think of me. Story of my life. Anywoo, I thought these pics were cute. So, enjoy and embrace life today. It is a gift.

Now, if this isn't embracing the camera I don't know what is. My little poser!

Cuties pies...We were celebrating Macy's 9th birthday!

I love this one because he wants ME! haha! He is embracing his YaYa!

Go linky up with Emily!

Have a great day, friends. Come back and see me. Leave me some love, if you feel it. ;)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T06:35:00.000-07:00

guess what?

yes, we are crazy.

Explaining the hard things...with faith, hope and love

2011-05-03T12:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had to explain to Macy about the death of Osama Bin Laden. It was hard because she had seen so many people on TV cheering for this man's death. She didn't understand that. And honestly, I didn't either. I mean, come on. He did some horrible, horrible things...but to cheer? I don't know. I had mixed emotions about the whole ordeal. As an adult I know what he did. It makes me sick at my stomach. But her, she had no idea of the magnitude of his sins. So, I explained it to her as best I could and she shrugged her shoulders and went on to Barbie land. She has since forgot but me, its still on my mind.

Today as I was looking at many blogs, emails, and other fun things on the WWW and I came across this great article from Relevant magazine. I really thought it hit the nail on the head....but that's just my own little opinion. Isn't that what blogging is all about? :) I really want my blog to be an encouraging place people can come. I want my it to be fun and have people chuckle at some crazy story I might post. I mean lets face it, my life can be quite comical at times. But, with a tragedy like this I only want to encourage and give as much faith, hope and love for others as I can.

I have never read anything from Relevant Magazine so can't promote it, I just thought this article was good. And I wish I could remember how I got to this particular article to give props to someone, but in my old age, I have forgotten. oops. So, thanks to someone for leading me to it...so, here it is...

Editor's note: The death of Osama bin Laden is a difficult paradox for Christians, which is why we asked Jonathan Merritt to unpack it. We think what he has to say is good and important, but we also know it's not the end of the conversation. So we ask that you weigh in with your thoughts on this world-changing event. We want to know what you think, too! We also ask that you write with grace and patience for your fellow comm enters.

The snuffing of Osama bin Laden’s life has left White House officials beaming, news reporters busy and the thumbs of Twitterers raw. I can’t blame any of them. After all, this is one of the biggest events of the last decade. When I got the call Sunday night and turned on the television, I could hardly believe it was true, even though it was in bold print across the bottom of the screen: “Bin Laden Killed by Navy Seals.” My heart leapt with joy.

But as the night rolled on and I watched the reports come in and then President Obama speak, I found myself flooded with twin emotions. On the one hand, I was elated that a man responsible for so many deaths was finally brought to justice. On the other hand, I was deeply saddened knowing that someone who by all accounts never confessed Christ had passed from life to death.

I began to question my reactions, asking myself which emotion was more appropriate, more Christian? Should I rejoice at bin Laden’s death ... or mourn it?

After the announcement was made that the world’s most infamous terrorist was indeed dead, the Twitter-sphere blew up. As many as 4,000 tweets per second posted to the social networking site—each one a 140-character reaction to an event that undoubtedly deserved more. For many Christians, it seemed they were not wrestling with how they should feel. Celebration was their clear choice.

Pastor Rick Warren sent out Proverbs 21:15, which says, "When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers." Coincidentally, The Atlantic reported that Warren’s Scripture choice became the #3 most tweeted verse on this subject. Jordan Sekulow of the American Center for Law and Justice tweeted: “Crank this up as you celebrate the termination of bin Laden http://youtu.be/Fk8IbcHf0Cs.

I admit that there's a part of me that wants to pump my fist, signal a flyover and spit on the dead man’s corpse. But is this an appropriate response for a Christian, to celebrate the death of the wicked? Or, to push it further, can a Christian ever celebrate the death of a non-believer?

I’m reminded of the words of Ezekiel: “As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live” (33:11, TNIV). The outcome that God desired and we should have too is that while Osama bin Laden was still breathing, he would have rejected doing any more evil and confessed Christ. This would have been cause for a true celebration—even the angels in heaven would have rejoiced (Luke 15:7). Anything short of this is a tragedy.

If nothing else, the propensity we feel to celebrate his death unveils the human tendency to want retributive justice for the sins of others but not for our own sins. Christians claim to believe all humans—yes, even Jesus-followers—deserve death (Romans 6:23). Justice demands such a penalty from each one of us. But we don’t want justice for ourselves; we want grace. Luckily, God has provided such grace through Christ.

“Rejoicing in the death of another, however wicked, involves forgetting the depths of our own depravity and the astonishing reality of our own salvation,” wrote Gideon Strauss of the Center for Public Justice in response to bin Laden’s death.

When a Christian points her finger in the face of the wicked getting what they deserve and shouts for joy, she is only revealing that she has forgotten her own need for grace. How can we celebrate God’s saving grace in our own lives on Sunday morning and celebrate retributive justice for others on Sunday evening? Is this not the ultimate hypocrisy?

And when justice is served to those who wish only to harm others—as it was last night—we may perhaps express relief. Relief in knowing innocent people woke up to a safer world this morning. But relief ... not celebration. God loves those innocents, and I believe He desires to see them free from fear and violence. Yet even as our spirits lift knowing that this man will do no more evil, our eyes should burst forth with weeping knowing that bin Laden will likely spend eternity like he spent his life: separated from the true God.

What do you think the Christian response is to bin Laden's death?

Jonathan Merritt is a faith and culture writer whose work has appeared in outlets such as USA Today, The Christian Science Monitor and CNN.com. He is author of Green Like God: Unlocking the Divine Plan for Our Planet.

So, what do you think about the whole ordeal? I would LOVE to hear your comments. I would love to know what you thought of the article. How did you tell your children about the death that was ALL OVER the news? It was so hard to shield them from it....would love to hear your views. Pretty please, with a cherry on top?

"Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice, or the LORD will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them. Do not fret because of evildoers or be envious of the wicked, for the evildoer has no future hope, and the lamp of the wicked will be snuffed out."

Proverbs 24:17-20

Crazy busy

2011-05-02T09:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been around lately. I know my readers are just at the edge of their seats. Yeah, right. Anyway, just a little shout out to my peeps to let them know I am alive and kicking. Just really busy. Like crazy busy. There is a lot going on in my little 'ole mind and in my little 'ole life. A LOT.

I hope to get a post out soon. There are so many ramblings that I need to get off my chest.

Have a great Monday, y'all....

TAKS Tuesday

2011-04-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

Today is the math TAKS test for my baby girl. The first real TAKS she has ever taken. It is such stress for an almost 9 year old. She is so worried about being done last. She said all the boys said you are stupid if you finish last. Oh, those boys! I told her it meant you were way smarter because you took your time and went over your answers just one more time. She thought about it for a bit...maybe it got through.

Who knows.

Any way, I hope she takes her time and can focus. We had a really good breakfast this morning. She requested an egg and cheese omelet with bacon on the side. I felt like I was a waitress at IHop. I waited on her for at least 15 minutes. I swear she needed more juice, more bacon, a knife, oh, and a napkin. Please! I would not make a good waitress...especially in the morning. I have never confessed to be a morning person. Just sayin'.

After our yummy breakfast she told me she felt full of energy and ready to go! I know she will do good, I just hate all the pressure they put on our kids to take these standardized tests. It's crazy. I do admire her sweet teacher, though, because she has really prepared Macy and the whole class to do their best and understand the concepts. The teachers at our school are the the best cheerleaders ever. They cheer them on to success! Macy has a wonderful, loving, sweet and AWESOME teacher. We are so blessed this year to have her and I know how much she loves my baby and wants her to succeed. I can feel her genuine compassion. We need more teacher like her. Thanks to all the teacher out there for their precious time, for their love and for the way they care for all the kids!

Please pray for all the children taking the TAKS today....and the parents who are stressing. Amen.

Hoppy Easter 2011

2011-04-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a 3 mile bike ride. Call me ~~healthy~~ crazy if you want to y'all but I'm done {{whew}} and feel better...now that I've cooled off. I don't think bike riding today was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I should know better after living in this city for 11 years that the spring/summers are brutally hot. Bike riding at 1 in the afternoon is well, stupid. But, nonetheless, its over and I've done my workout for the day. Praise and Glory.

Our weekend was great. We missed Reid because he was at church camp all weekend. He loves going because its only the weekend. My Rooster isn't the best about staying away from home for a week so summer camp just isn't for him. Who knows, maybe this year he will surprise me. I learn something new everyday..isn't that how it is with teenagers? Anyway, after he got home and he unpacked all those stinky clothes we stayed up late and I got to hear all about camp and the funny stories. It sounded like they had a great time and I love hearing all that he gained from being there. We are so lucky to have a wonderful youth group.

Macy and I were on our own for Easter. Troy had to work. :( Peter Rabbit found his way to our house and brought lots of goodies. Reid even made a little haul. Macy was so excited that the bunny brought something to her brother. She was worried that he would be left out. That girl! She is always worried about others.

We ended up not going to the 'Ville this weekend and we sure missed being with our family. Since it was just us girls, I wasn't sure what we were going to do for lunch. Maybe Cracker Barrel? Wendy's? Luby's? Chick-fil-A? Nope, not open on Sundays. No worries. We went to the best place of all. The McKinnis house! Kim invited us over for yummy pot roast, green beans, taters & carrots and the best pineapple upside down cake you have ever tasted! We also had the best egg hunt ever with the sweetest friends ever....Macy's basket was so full it was almost embarrassing. ha! The rabbit that stopped there had a LOAD let me tell you! We are so thankful for their hospitality and love that they showed us while we were there. We always feel at home when we are with them! Thank you Kim, Jason, boys, Olivia and George...We love you guys!

Don't you just love this note? I was cracking up. There is even a little diagram of the type of shoes that she wants. I mean, this girl loves some shoes. She has more pairs than I do.

I hope you all had a wonderful and blessed Easter. What a wonderful God we serve!

Rising HE justified, freely forever. One day HE'S coming O Glorious Day!

I'm back....and feeling a little sappy

2011-04-22T21:04:00.000-07:00

I love staying home with my kids. I really do. I always dreamed I would have kids and be able to have a husband who would provide for us and want me to stay home with our kiddos. Of course a perk to SAHMs is to do the fun mommy things. I always loved packing up my kids and going to bible studies, play groups, the mall and the all yummy Mickey D's. {{ick}} Give me Chick-fil-A any day. Oh, let me tell you, I could open my stroller and load a kid in a nano second. I was always ready for an adventure with my friends and their littles.

I have been blessed many times over and I thank God for the times I got to rock my babies while watching The Young and the Restless. Of course, when they were little babies it was a crazy madhouse at the Sab's. This house was wacky messy! The kitchen looked like Rachel Ray had been in there and forgot to clean up after herself, the bathroom needed some much needed scrubbing bubbles and the laundry...well, let's not even go there. All day it was crazy and just when I thought that I just couldn't take it anymore, there was bedtime. There was something about the bath time and bedtime routine. It was so sweet! I loved those moments when you tuck them in bed and they smell so good. You snuggle for a bit and then hear the sweetest prayers in the world. Makes my heart swell. Then when they were all tucked in bed and fast asleep (fingers crossed) then I could sit on the couch for a minute, watch my recorded DVR shows, drink my hot tea, snuggle with my hubby and think.... thank goodness that all is good in the world.

Now, years later I look at my precious kids and realize the babies that I carried on my hip all over town are long gone. Now I have one sweet "wanna-be" pre-teen and one awesome sweet teenager. And these years that are upon me make me nervous. Just thinking of Reid driving down the main Interstate in this big 'ole city makes me want to puke. I love that Reid still needs me for things and that he still tells me he loves me. I love that Macy still is my shadow and doesn't like me out of her sight. She still needs me to lay with her, to tuck her in and to say those sweet prayers. We always read nightly devotionals and I hope that never stops. I hope my kids have sweet memories....

I miss not having babies around but I love this new season of my life....the all-fun teenage season. It's here and y'all, I embrace it! Bring.it.ON! I still have a wacky messy house, a crazy kitchen with dishes to the ceiling, a dirty bathroom and laundry out the wazoo. But its ok. It's a crazy life, but its my life and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Day

2011-04-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was this sweeties birthday....

Happy Birthday to you,

Happy Birthday Dear Nana,

Happy Birthday to YOU!

And many more...on channel 4.

Happy Birthday, Nana! You are the best and you mean the world to us....always. Wish we could sip some coffee and have some red velvet cake.

Macy wants to know what you want for your birthday....it's all about the presents when you are 8....or 37 and 80something-or-another. :)

WE LOVE YOU A BUSHEL AND A PECK...

Words of Wisdom Wednesday....

2011-04-06T10:15:00.000-07:00

...and the church says...AMEN!

I love you...

2011-04-05T19:25:00.000-07:00

Momma's Next Food Network Star

2011-04-04T14:59:00.000-07:00

Ever go to a fancy-schmancy restaurant and find a nasty hair in your food? Well, not at the Sab's fancy restaurant. We wear hair nets around here....AND don't you forget it. :)

I am just thankful for help around this joint. This cute little chef is one of the best helpers I have ever had. The only meals this sweet, little chef can makes are tuna fish, sandwiches and taco soup but I can deal with that. Oh, and she is cheap pay, too. {{haha}} Gotta love that!

She is always grabbing her apron looking for any chance to stir or brown something. She is always very eager to help me in the kitchen and does so almost every night. (thanks to Granny for making her cute apron) Honestly, I have no idea where she got the hair net. When I came around the corner and I saw her wearing it I cracked up laughing. She said, "Mom, are you gonna blog this?" Oh, my kids know me so well. Anyway, I think I just might see a cooking show in her future.....hopefully without the lunchroom lady hair net.

Sunday Snippits

2011-04-03T17:42:00.000-07:00

Today my LuLu is sick. Just a little headache and sore throat....she is feeling better now and wants to go outside and put Mentos in a coke bottle to shoot in the air. Seriously?

So, today I am laying low and loving every minute of it. I missed going to church but sometimes its nice to stay home and drink your coffee while thinking of how much we are loved by God. I hate when I miss church because I love my congregation so much. I love the people, the songs, the sermons, the leaders and the legacy that I am leaving for my kids. I think about how much I want them to walk the christian walk and I am hoping by planting the "seed" that it will help them on their way. Its a scary world....you need Christan friends and a strong church to make these days. I am so thankful for my LC church.

We spent all Saturday morning at the ball park. Our team got beat pretty bad. But, let me tell you, we have the best group of boys ever on our team. They gel together so well and have so much fun. It helps that they have been friends forever, some since Kindergarten. You can tell that they all love to play together. It is so heart warming to watch them cheer each other on and call each other by their nicknames. I love to hear "GO ROOSTER" from the stands. It makes me sad that next year they will all be going to high school and be split up. These big schools have their downfalls and one of them being that they separate all Jr. High kids to 2 different high schools. I loved being at good 'ole SHS because you had the security of staying together with your friends from K-12th grade.

After our game and lunch we headed off to our friends house for swimming, visiting and supper. The boys (10+ of them) had a blast swimming and eating yummy craw fish. There was even a little friendly game of baseball in the pool. You know, the game where you use a boogie board as a bat and a wet spongy kickball as your baseball....then you run around the pool and hit pretend bases? Yeah, I had never heard of it either. These boys make up sporting events on a daily basis. Thankfully, there were no major slips running around the pool. There were plenty of Moms yelling to be careful. We just knew any minute that we would be making a trip to the ER. We just got a few ever so lovely eye rolls. They are some wild and crazy teenage boys!

We have had 3 showings this weekend. Yes, our house is still on the market....11 months later. God is still working on this journey for our family. We are truly blessed to feel His hand in our lives. You know, sometimes, life throws us curve balls. This was just one small one and we have dealt with it. Sometimes the curve balls are easy to swing at and other times we strike out in a major way. I have done both. Experiencing both has taught me to be patient and wait on God. God has always been there for me even in my dark hours when I think He isn't listing to a single thing I'm saying. I know He hears me, I do. Sometimes waiting on Him is one of the hardest things we as Christians will ever do...other times it is one of the easiest. His timing is always perfect and sometimes I forget that. I can't wait to see what is in store for us....

You know in this post where I talked about how we give our kids money for certain things? Well, Reid finally saved up enough money for his all precious iPad2. He has had a smile on his face for days. I am so proud of him for saving all that money. He had been saving for over a year and was very patient in waiting for the prize! We drove all over town looking for one and finally found one....and it was white. Just what he wanted.....and, if you know Reid, you know that no one can touch it unless your hands are clean. Oh, my sweet boy.

I am super excited about the Country Music Awards tonight. Macy and I love to sing along with all the bands. We are weird.

That's a lot of snippets, I know. Hopefully you hung in there reading all this jibber-jabber. If you did read it all....thanks y'all! I am so glad you follow me! Hope you had a wonderful weekend.

Some Carnival fun & Embrace the Camera...Enjoy!

2011-03-31T17:28:00.000-07:00

Saturdays are for school carnivals and cotton candy, right? Well, that's what we did last weekend. Macy claimed it the best Saturday she ever had. I have to agree to a point. I had a blast watching her play games, eat cotton candy, eat the ever famous carnival hot dog, play "book" walk and get two awesome chapter books, get her sweet face painted and get the all popular tattoo. You wouldn't think she would miss that tattoo, would you?

Thankfully, it was a beautiful day for a carnival and we didn't sweat to death. The weather here has been awesome the last few days. I am not looking forward to the 100+ degree summers that we have around these parts. {{yee-haw}} I would love for it to be Spring all year around. I love wearing jeans and flip-flops and/or shorts and sweatshirts. It makes me happy.

My sweet girl...You can't see if very well, but she has a pretty cute

shooting star on the side of her face. If she isn't getting a tattoo she is getting

her face painted. Should I be worried?? Don't answer that.

Who doesn't love a dunking booth?? Well, Macy's teacher, that's who. Mrs. P

was such a great sport....for 30 minutes! Poor thing got dunked a few times

but always came up with a smile. I love this pic of her feet! ha! I didn't ask her

if I could put her face on my blog. So, her feet will have to do. :)

Best Friends....forever! Aren't they the cutest little turkeys.

Macy and Mandi in a race....I love their faces! Macy was so serious

and competitive. She takes after her Mama! :)

My WINNER!

Oh, my....there is the ever famous tat! She washed around it for days...

It's that time again....time to linky up for Embrace the Camera! Check out Emily's blog over at The Anderson Crew. Her adoption story will tear at your heart...so will her pictures! They are awesome. Go check out her blog, and join in on the fun.

Me and my sissy.....aren't we just precious. We always have a blast together and can talk about anything. Sisters are a true blessing from God and when you can call them your best friend you are doubly blessed. I am doubly blessed.....

so, are you ready to embrace the camera?

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-30T16:26:00.000-07:00

Batter swing....

2011-03-29T08:11:00.000-07:00

I've always rewarded my kids with moolah for doing good. If that's bad, well, too bad. It's too late. Reid made 35.00 during basketball season and was proud of it. We have already had about five baseball games and I owe him a total of about 30.00. YIKES! Tonight we play again....the pocketbook is getting slimmer by the minute.

It was so funny....on our way to the very first game of the season, I told him that I would give him 5 dollars for every base hit. If he made a double that's 10 dollars and for a triple it would be 15. You get the picture. I said if you smack me a home run I will give you 25 bucks! He said, "Um, Dad said he would give me 100.00."

Really? Maybe the hubby and I should chat before we make deals like that.

Do you reward your kids with money or am I the only sucker?

Made to Crave

2011-03-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

I know y'all are just on the edge of your seats waiting to hear what I will say about Chapter 1 and 2, right?

Yeah, right.

I haven't forgotten about my whole Made To Crave deal. I should have never said I would do posts about what I read because I am a s-l-o-w reader. Ok, maybe not slow, that sounds like I have a reading problem. The deal is just that I just don't have the time. I have been carrying around this book in my purse for weeks thinking I can read a little in the car line or sitting at the ballpark waiting for the game to start but that hasn't happened. Things happen and life happens way too fast. Then at night I try to read a few pages and fall dead asleep. It's a sad story.

FYI...I am on chapter 8....so I guess that's not too shabby.

Ok, so let's see...

I loved the title of chapter 1...WHAT'S REALLY GOING ON HERE? Do you know how many times I have asked myself that same question? Every morning when I get up I am pretty sure I say that to myself in one way or another. Especially when I try to put on my skinny jeans. Who named those anyway? Skinny jeans? Please.

She talked a lot about the dreaded hunger pang. (BTW, who knew it was pang and not pain? It's always been a pain in my book.) She reminded me of a commerical that I remember seeing long ago with a orange monster chasing around a woman tempting and taunting her with foods that she knows aren't healthy. Just trying to sabotage her. Dumb orange monster. Oh y'all, I have met him. The commerical is a good reminder of how it feels to be harassed by cravings of sweet and salty yummy-ness all day long. It's exhausting.

Also, she helped me see that we do crave certain things. That its only natural. That I am not losing my mind. We just need to choose the right things. I laughed at one point because she said unfortunately, we don't find fresh fruits and veggies in a nearby vending machine. Wouldn't that be awesome, though? I would love that. I mean I would totally pay $1.25 for some carrot sticks. Maybe.

We were made to crave....long for, want greatly, desire eagerly and beg for....GOD. Not junk food, money or any other things of this world. But, here comes that nasty Satan trying to get us to crave something else. Something that we think might be good and look REAL good but not good for us. He's always playing those tricks on us. We need to focus our eyes on the Father. Things are always better for us when we do.....for that I am thankful.

"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world--the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does--comes not from the Father but from the world."

1 John 2:15-16

Chapter 2 was all about replacing our cravings. Easier said than done, huh? We do, as humans, tend to rely more on things we can touch, see or feel rather than the Holy One. I am guilty. I would sometimes rather drown my depression in a box of Swiss Cake Rolls than read my Bible. I would want something to fill my tummy and not my heart. Failure. She gave a suggestion....to pray when you crave something that wasn't part of your plan. I love that. I think mine would go something like this...

"Dear Lord, could you please send the Little Debbie guy and the chocolate donut man on a long vacay and let them not make their way to my grocery store? Um, thanks."

It's up to me. It's my life. I only have one sweet and precious life to make the right choices, the right decisions for me. Help me God to be satisfied with YOU in all areas of my life.

Baseball, Anyone??

2011-03-26T14:54:00.000-07:00

"Take me out to the ball game,

Take me out with the crowd.

Buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks, I don't care if I never get back. Let me root, root, root for

the home team,

If they don't win it's

a shame.

For it's one, two, three strikes,

you're out,

At the old ball game!"

GO RICE!

Good-byes are hard...

2011-03-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

I found out today that my crazy, funny, quirky, loud but gentle and sweet uncle James Keith passed away today. It makes me sad to think of the years that we all missed together. He was a truck driver and was gone for the better part of 10+ years. Thankfully, we got to see him over Christmas and got to spend some time talking about the good 'ole days and reintroducing ourselves and our children. He had never met Macy and the last time he had seen Reid he was 4 years old. That is sad. The only thing he remembered about Reid was how much he loved his 18 wheeler. Now, a teenager was staring him in the face and only cares about sports and girls.

I feel for my sweet Daddy who lost a brother. I can't imagine. There is a bond between siblings whether you see each other on a regular basis or 10+ years. The memories that you have growing up are special and often times so vivid you feel like just yesterday you just ate watermelon while swimming in the river. Only the Doty's remember how fun that was....

I know that my Dad and his brothers had some crazy times. I'm sure they gave my grandparents a run for their money. I can only imagine. I hope the memories of his brother will help my Dad during the next few, hard days and in the future.

I know that James Keith is reunited with his son, Keith, who passed away in his early 20's, and his Dad, our Papa. What a sight that was, I'm sure of it. :)

Please pray for my Mom and Dad, Jarrell and Earline, Mimi, and James Keith's family. I know they will all appreciate it. I will too.

Thanks, friends...

Embrace the Camera, Y'all

2011-03-24T14:43:00.000-07:00

Linky on UP! Over at The Anderson Crew she always does a fun Embrace the Camera spilly-roo! I thought it might be fun to participate. Come on and join me. :)

As a mom, we tend to NEVER be in any pictures. If we are they are out of focus or our heads are cut off. Husbands usually don't have an eye for pictures. Sorry, honey. Thankfully, for our kids sake we are always the ones taking the pictures. I always tease Troy that if something ever happens to me there will be no pictures of me for the kids to have to remember me by. He rolls his eyes.

But, seriously, we as moms need to Embrace the Camera more. Get out from behind that camera!! Don't be afraid to ask for someone to take your pretty little photo! Sometimes its embarrassing to have someone to take your picture, but when you see it, you are always glad. Right?

I am thankful that Macy has learned some pretty gnarly photography skills. Since she loves to take pictures there are more of me (and her) than in the early days when my kids were babies. I love that when Macy grabs the camera she likes to take a self portrait of the two of us....It's not usually frame-worthy, but a picture nonetheless.

embrace the camera is about YOU being IN the picture.

not just a picture of your kids.

not just a picture of your animals.

not just a picture of that random object.

now, if you are in any of those pictures, then that is embracing the camera.

but the point of it is to get out from behind the lens...and to get in front of it.

So, grab a camera and take a pretty picture of you with the ones you love....or by yourself. :)

My rule is, since this is my first Embrace the Camera, they can be old or new. shhh!

Now, we have a lot of pictures together...20 years worth!

Now, that's a beauty.....not!

Look at how little and sweet my babies were! ;)

A little of this and that

2011-03-23T08:52:00.000-07:00

There never seems to be a dull moment in the Sab household. It seems like we are always on the go. I guess that's how it goes when you have a teenager and a tweenager. Spring Break was a nice break from the hustle and bustle but now we are back on! Thankfully, the weather has been wonderful so when we are sitting outside at baseball it is somewhat bearable. I know that all too soon it is going to be so hot that I will wish my arms were tank top ready. I feel weird in a tank top. Anyway, that's a different story. For another day.

This week at school, is our annual basket fundraiser. We have Family Fun Day coming up and these baskets are part of our big money maker. Each class puts together a basket and each class has a different theme. Ours was All About Art. So, um, guess who was in charge of that? You guessed it.

Moi.

All the children brought money and I had to go shop at Wally World for all the goodies. You should have seen the ladies face at the check out when I pulled up with my basket full of art supplies. I know she wanted to ask what in the world I was doing with all that loot. I finally told her it was for a fundraiser for school. She looked relieved for me. It was pretty funny. So, $250.00 later I was loading all this stuff in my car thinking, what was I thinking doing this again. Oh, well. Honestly, it was fun throwing stuff in my basket.....probably because it wasn't my money.

The things we do for our kids.

I finally finished, ordered and got my Blurb book in the mail. I was so excited! {{yippee}} For those that don't know about Blurb, let me tell you. It is your blog all wrapped into this cool, hardcover book. It took me forever to finish it but is was way worth it. It has all my blogs in there from 2004-2010. I thought it wouldn't be that many since I am the worlds worst blogger, but it has about 250 pages. I was shocked! I guess because it did cover a span of 6 years. That's sad. Anywoo, The website "slurps" all your blogs together and then you go through and set the pages up how you want them. I had so much fun. Since I haven't scrapbooked since about 2004 I was so glad to get something that had some pictures of my kids. I couldn't believed how much they had grown. Some pictures of Macy she had that precious baby face, baby teeth and pigtails. {{Tears}} The ones of Reid were the ones that really made me cry. He has grown SO much ...

Time has gone by so fast. I am thankful for memories....

Now, let me tell you a little about this.(and don't judge the dirty tiles) Over Christmas, Macy got some bath crayons in her stocking. We have had so much fun using them. It went from her drawing pictures every night of hearts and flowers to her and I leaving love notes to one another. I would write to her and Reid almost every night. Macy would usually respond with a long note and picture and Reid would on occasion, but just a "thanks" or "love you, too". He is my little man of few words.

One night, after a LONG day of running around and craziness, I went to get in the bath. The kids were all asleep, finally, and Troy was working. I wasn't expecting to see a "love note" from my baby. I pulled opened the curtain and saw his sweet handwriting...Joshua 1:9

"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

When Reid was in elementary school, he had some anxiety issues. So, I started with this verse to ease some of his fears. It has turned into "our" verse. I would kiss him goodbye in the morning before he got out of the car and would tell him to be strong and courageous, do not be afraid! Sometimes, we just said BE Joshua 1:9 today! We still do that to this day and it does make our mornings more special. Especially when you hear your 14 year old say the verse and to ask you to pray for him later. {{Tears}}

I love it when I put my camera card in the computer and all these random snapshots pop up. Macy will take my camera and take self portraits and pictures of bugs, dolls and whatever else she can get her hands on. There are even some funny videos that her and her BFF made and they "star" all the Barbies and Little Pet Shops in her room. It is quite comical. I have a feeling this sweet girl is going to keep me young and on my toes.

I hope that everyone has a wonderful girly day! Be strong and courageous today....Be Joshua 1:9.

A flower for my peeps....

2011-03-22T06:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday Everyone!

"May the words of my mouth and the meditation

of my heart be pleasing in your sight,

O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer."

Psalm 19:14

Wiffle while you work (that's all I could come up with)

2011-03-21T15:41:00.000-07:00

It's no wonder with a title like that I have no readers, comments or followers. ha! It's as cheesy as they come. But, with all the wiffle balls that have been floating over my house lately that is all that is on my mind.

You can buy this boy a bag of wiffle balls and he will destroy them in a matter of minutes. He hits them so hard that he cracks them in half...then on to another one. Its quite hysterical. There is no telling how much money I have spent on wiffle balls the last 10 years. I give him a bag every year at his birthday and then all the months in between. He is worth it, though.

He wasn't too happy with me when he saw me come outside with my camera. He is at the stage where he ducks when he sees me coming with my big, bad camera. (I LOVE my camera) Anyway, I pretended that I was taking pictures of flowers, Macy and an occasional butterfly. He wasn't buying it.

He's so smart. Smarty pants, that is.

BATTER SWINGGGG

...and again, and again. Don't boys get tired of that?

This was after he picked up most of them. I am praying he doesn't break my window. He hits HARD!

This picture is the one I got caught snapping. He wasn't happy. He wouldn't look. Punk.

One day over Spring Break, Troy and I took the kids to ~~Fattyland~~ Gattiland. You are never too old to participate in the craziness that is pizza, games, tokens, tickets and prizes!

Macy and Reid LOVE Colorama and can blow all their tokens in minutes. They are promised some tickets but you never know if you will hit the famous jackpot. Gamble, much? It's a little scary.

This boy has all the luck. BTW, for the last 10 years, he has been saving his Gatti tickets and has almost 10,000. Serious. He is a saver. His sister on the other hand. Bless.

SEE....jackpot. I think they are counting out 100. He was thrilled. Macy was not.

Then Dad and Son tried a little luck on Let's Make a Deal. Let's just say there was no Deal that day. It wasn't in the cards.

Macy LOVES the prize counter. I think we stood there for 30 minutes. She had about 500 tickets that day. She bought a couple of things and then saved the rest. She is learning from her big brother how its done. Thankfully.

She really did pick a bouncy ball and some crazy glasses....all for the grand total of 15.00. Really?

Today the kids went back to school after a wonderful Spring Break. They were not thrilled.

I went to the mall.

Spring Break 2011

2011-03-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

We thought it was time for a little family trip to Fiesta Texas. Thankfully, Spring Break arrived (can I get an AMEN) and for the Sab's it was the perfect time to pack up the family truckster head on the road. We left after Reid's baseball game on Friday night so we ended up not getting to San Antonio until 1 AM. I closed my eyes for a bit and woke up with some pretty smelly teenage feet in my face. I felt like Ellen Griswold.

Last time we went to Fiesta Texas the kids were little and all we did was the kiddie stuff. Now, don't get me wrong....I love the kiddie park and after this trip I love it even more. Especially where Reid is concerned. He talked big on the car ride there about all the roller coasters he was going to ride. I knew he liked them because he loves to ride the Bullet at Kemah. But, the Bullet doesn't go upside down and isn't anywhere near the magnitude of the ones at Fiesta Texas. So, I knew he wanted to but would he? Would he really ride the Goliath? The Superman? The Rattler? The Poltergeist?

Um, yes.

The boy is fearless. It's scary.

Now, for the girls and Dad? We were happy with the Gully Washer, the Log Ride and the Kiddie Koaster. Those are more our speed.

A funny about the Gully Washer. Unfortunately, we chose to stand in line for an hour and half for this ride. Not one of our better decisions. The things you do for your 8 years old. She just knew that this was going to be the best ride EVAH.

Not.

I told her as we were waiting in line that there was a possibility that she would get really, really wet. Hence the name...the GULLY washer. But, she insisted. So, onward through the line. I won't even mention how hungry Troy and I were and how we kept giving each other the look. You know "the look"....like why are we in this line?? Why don't we have a fast pass and Reid does? Why did we buy him a fast pass? Why do we spoil our children? I just knew Troy was reading my mind.

ANYWOO, to make a long story short. We got on the boat. Troy and I were dry as a bone and Macy was so wet we had to take off her shirt, wring it out, and put on her jacket for a shirt. Her shorts were wet for hours. There were tears.

I did say I told you so. Bad mom.

I am so glad Macy likes to take pictures. She is a pretty good little photographer.

Now if I can get her to learn photoshop to make me look a little younger. haha!

Macy driving me around....a picture of things to come??

We rode this Kiddie Koaster about 10 times. It is so my speed.

Waiting in line for the Gully Washer....no pics after...too many tears.

Yet, another pic by our fabulous photographer, Macy.

My LOVES!

What to do while your brother is riding Goliath for the millionth time? Well, you dance....

you make monkey faces.....

and you get your feet massaged

Reid riding THE SCREAM. I still can't believe I let me baby ride this...

There he goes...

....breathe.....breathe.....

You are looking at $8.00 worth of candy. I'm sure it was worth it.

Should I be worried that my daughter loves tats?

We stayed until the bitter end. Tired, wet feet and all.....We all declared that we LOVE Spring Break and will definitely go to Fiesta Texas again....soon. Macy said next time we go back she will get her tattoo earlier so people can see it in the sunlight.

UGH!

An American Girl Adventure

2011-03-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had a wonderful GIRLS trip to Dallas! It was for our sweet friend, Mandi's birthday.

We let them skip school on Friday and they thought that was the best thing since sliced bread! After a llooonnngggg 6 hour trip to Dallas we finally made it. There was a lot of giggling and story telling. ....and that was just from the moms. ha!

The long trip was so worth it. We got there at a decent time and was able to check in to the hotel and freshen up before we ventured out to find supper.

Our hotel was great and it was walking distance to TONS of eating places. We chose Mexican.

Duh.

After dinner we just knew that they would be ready for bed after the long car ride. We were wrong. They were wired and ready to pull an all niter...we were not! We were some tired mommas.

Finally they went to sleep and dreamt of all things American Girls.

The next morning they woke up ready to go. It was so cute watching them get all dolled up. I think there was even a little make-up involved. They usually don't get to do that but since the weekend was such a special time we allowed a little mascara. I think we made big brownie points. :)

Our first stop for the day was to get our nails and toes all prettied up. They thought they were somethin' at the nail place. There was even a special chair for kids. There might or might not have been some tears over who would go first, second and last. When you are 8 being last is tragic.

Seriously.

Next stop...the AG store. The girls were so excited they forgot all about the tears over the "chair"{{whew}}

Driving up to the AG store there were grins and a lot of jumping up and down. I will remember that moment forever. It was one of those mental pictures I randomly snap in my head that I hope I will remember forever. (Please tell me that y'all do that, too) My little girl is growing up right in front of my eyes.

Their eyes were as big as saucers when they walked into the store. It was precious. Let me tell you, that store is AMAZING. There is everything under the sun for those dolls...even a salon!

Seriously.

YEAH!! We made it to the best store EVAHHHHH! The girls were so excited! And to be quite honest with you, so was I....I felt like I was 8 again.

Before we made it to the AG store, we HAD to get a manicure. Can you say spoiled??

We also had to have a midnight snack of ICE CREAM DRUMSTICKS..can you say YUM! I mean the trip wasn't complete until then. :)

Look at those cute little piggies! That polish lasted all of 30 minutes. ha!

Here are the 3 Musketeers waiting to go inside the AG store. They would hardly take this picture because they wanted to go in so badly!

Macy posing with Addison....her baby. She fixed her hair and got her all ready for the big day.

My sweetie pie

Silly girls...

This is Macy with all her loot. She had so much fun shopping and I had so much fun watching her. I had just as much fun throwing stuff in the bag as she did. We are t-r-o-u-b-l-e when we shop together. Troy gets a little nervous when I say we are going shopping.

Here is Macy paying with her own money! I was so proud of her. She really was being careful and watching her dollars...then I paid for the rest. {{wink, wink}}

I love this picture because she was calling Troy to tell him how much she spent and about all the loot she bought. It was too cute. She was so excited!

Ok, if this isn't the craziest thing...they have hooks in the bathroom so you can hang your doll while you potty. Isn't that hilarious. What is the world coming to....

Linda and the birthday girl, Mandi

Me, Macy and Addison

Cassie, Jaycee and Kit

Happy Birthday Mandi!

We hope all your wishes come true....

There is nothing better than FRIENDS....

So there you have it. A little recap of our Dallas extravaganza. It was a HUGE time and we would do it again in a heartbeat. I think Houston needs an AG store.

Better yet, never mind. :) My pocketbook would never recover.

Thank you Mandi (and Linda) for letting us share your special day with you. Happy Birthday sweet girl!

My March Scripture

2011-03-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

I haven't forgotten the scripture challenge....promise! But, since things have been busy around here I haven't had time to post my latest verse. So, here is my verse for March....Proverbs 3:21.

Originally it started out that Beth Moore brought a challenge to bloggers and fellow bible study Siestas to memorize 2 scriptures a month. One on the first and one on the 15th. I was READY to start...I think it is an AWESOME idea.

Then life happened.

So, I decided to do one a month. For now. Maybe when things slow down in the summer I can focus more of my time to trying 2 verses a month. I feel like a failure because how hard can 2 verses be? But, I have to be honest and say that I was stressing out over this challenge and thought trying just one a month might be better for me right now.

As me and my BFFs say....its just the season.

Made to Crave....the intro

2011-03-02T20:22:00.000-08:00

Finding your want to....

Isn't that something. Sounds so easy, right?

Wrong.

I have been really enjoying the book Made To Crave by Lysa Terkeurst. So far, it hasn't seemed like the typical weight loss book. Although I am just on the introduction. Anyway, I have read many books on this subject. Some books I have read all of and others, just half. Those that know me well know that is just me. Honestly, I have done so many diets and read so many articles, books and blogs on how to get fit it can make a girl go crazy....all that and have never had any success. I have spent most of my adult life trying to get healthy. And I am still on that journey....hoping for success and trying harder than I ever have before.

Honest.

So far I have read a few chapters and have really loved what she has said....Her take. In finding your want to (which is just the introduction) I have seen myself. I have read the pages and thought, WOW, that is me. Over and Over. For instance, the days of eating junk food, hiding junk food or buying junk food at the store and then saying, "Another day, another time. I'm doing the best I can." Was I really, I think not. Am I now? It's getting better.

Honest.

She talked about the journey described in Matthew 19 and how the rich young man who comes to see Jesus explains that he is following all the rules but still feels something missing from his pursuit from God. "All of these rules I have kept," he says to Jesus. "What do I still lack?" (Matthew 19:20) I thought a lot about the moral of this story. I feel that way. I am following all the rules but still feel like I am missing something. Something BIG. If I am lacking, Lord, please help me fill my tank with you and not ~~Little Debbie cakes~~ food. I want this, I do.

Honest.

I think pleasing God is easy. He is our Father, he loves us more than anything. He wants us to be close to him. I believe that He wants us to do our best to follow Him through prayer and studying his teachings. He wants us to CRAVE Him. One thing that she said that stuck out to me like a sore thumb was that when Jesus says Follow me it is not an invitation to drag our divided heart but to follow him and deny ourselves.

Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." Mark 8:34

I can honestly say that this journey is going to be hard. Not the God part because I love Him with all my being, but the food part, now that is another story. Putting my focus on God when I feel a craving come on is going to be a new one for me. Whenever I crave food, I eat it. I've gotta step away from the sugar and put my focus where it should be. On Him. I am ready to break the cycle of diets, find my want to, stop worrying about the scale and to have a healthier relationship with God.

Honest.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-23T07:26:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Brax!

2011-02-15T12:35:00.000-08:00

It was a great 1st birthday celebration of our little sweetie pie, Braxton. His party was a blast and all Mickey Mouse theme. It was precious and right up this little guys alley. Every time he hears the Mickey theme song, he comes a runnin'. Well, maybe walkin'. Or crawlin'. He almost has the walking thing down. It is too cute to watch him waddle to where he wants to go. It won't be too much longer and there will be no stopping this boy. He is adorable....and he has the best snuggles ever!

We all had fun visiting, laughing, eating, watching the kids run around in circles and playing with all Braxton's new toys. This little man made a haul. He got some really cute and fun toys. Oh, BTW, you should have seen the sugar high that these kids were ALL on. It was pretty funny. Between the cake, candy and juice boxes...well, lets just say it was crazy...FUN!

He LOVED his little cake. He ate about the whole thing. I think he was thinking, "Hey, they are letting me eat ALL this...oh, yeah!!" After he ate he went straight to the bath and his highchair went outside to get squirted off by the water hose.

Happy 1st birthday, little man! I love you!

Made to Crave...

2011-02-12T22:09:00.000-08:00

Everybody hold on to your hat. I bought a book. Not just any book, but one I have been wanting to check out for quite some time.

I have been on the weight roller coaster for most of my life. I have made many changes to my life, diet, exercise and yada, yada, yada. I know you have all heard it a million times. I promise not to go on THAT rant because honestly, I know you don't want to hear it. Neither do I.

I'm a little bitter.

Ok, enough of that.

Lysa Terkeurst, president of Proverbs 31 ministries, has a new book out called "Made to Crave" and it looks really good. I haven't started it yet, but I will try to keep you posted. I liked the title and the description that we should be satisfying our deepest desire with God, not food.

Ouch.

I hope to learn a little about breaking the cycle and to finally start feeling good about myself, to stop worrying about the numbers on the scale, replacing rationalizations that lead to failure with wisdom that leads to victory, and to reach healthy goals and grow closer to God in the process. Those are the things that Lysa says she wants us to get from this book.

All I know, is I am ready to stop fighting this battle. I know that this book is not a cure all. I know that God is the only way that I can fight this and with Him I know I can do anything.

So, if you are interested in learning more about Lysa, her website and books...click here to find out more info. I think you will be blessed.

I plan on giving you weekly updates...that will help keep me accountable as well.

Keep the Faith

2011-02-09T16:09:00.000-08:00

I don't consider myself a great writer. Not even a good writer. I am often amazed when I read other blogs, letters, emails or even tweets and the writers words flow so well together. I have all these ideas and words floating around in my head and they usually don't make it to any type of page. Usually, I do all my best "writing" in the shower. The funny thing is, that is where most my wonderful ideas, prayers and conversations happen.
Pretty sad. I know.

But, if it makes you feel better about me, I don't answer myself.

Most times.

Anyway, I have had this blog floating around in my head all day. I have been thinking of my sweet Nana all day long. She has finally completed her radiation treatment for breast cancer. Can I get a PRAISE and a GLORY! Oh, yes!! This has been such a hard time for her. She has been such a trooper through this whole ordeal. I have no idea how I would handle such a situation and once again she has handled it with grace and most of all she still has that glow. I think the glow is much more than she realizes. The glow that touches all she meets. The glow that happens the minute that she walks in the room. The glow that only comes from THE ONE. The glow has always been in her.

Always.

I am thankful for her glow, for her love and mostly for her christian example of what a godly woman should look like. She has a face of faith, don't you think? I love that they sign a survivor tree... What an accomplishment! I know at MD Anderson, they ring a bell. A bell, a tree...its all good. :) Most of all, it signifies the end.

See ya later cancer.

Here are Mom and Nana at the radiation "party". I mean look at those two...they are just too precious for words. Mom...you are an angel and we are so thankful for all you do! You are such a wonderful mom, caregiver and friend. What a blessing you are to everyone! Love you so....to the moon and back!

I love that all the doctor and nurses celebrate the special time...what a blessing. Don't you just love the party hats. It makes me so happy that it is over for her and now we can all just look to the future. Love you Nana...a bushel and a peck!

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11

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

On a much different note. Today it's cold.

Again.

And, again, the city of Houston is going crazy. They are even thinking about cancelling school tomorrow?

My kids are doing a snow dance as I type.

I am not.

p.s. Spell check isn't working. I'm not promising there isn't a typo or two. Or three.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-02T14:33:00.001-08:00

A little bit of this and that....again.

2011-01-30T13:06:00.000-08:00

This post is way over due! It seems like I do most of my posting on the weekends. I guess because my weeks are so super crazy! We had a wonderful family night at the Shaw's a few weeks ago. Out of that night I only took two pictures...what in the world! Well, I had one more but it was of Robyn at the trash can and she would have killed me for putting that out on the world wide web! ha!

I love the pictures of Annelise and Macy with their crazy faces! These girls are too funny. I really wanted to get them to do a cute picture but this is what I ended up with. Aren't they precious. We had a wonderful time laughing, singing, praying, eating and playing games.

This is something we love to do and will hopefully keep it going.

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

This week has been full of games, girl scouts, dance, birthday parties, play dates and who knows what else. Our girl scout troop had a fun field trip to one of our local Italian restaurant to make their own pizzas. They are trying to earn their cooking try-it badge. They had so much fun...especially when the chef gave them their own pizza dough. After a few flips up in the air and most of them falling on the floor (some dough was put on top of some heads..won't say whose daughter that was) all of their pizza dough looked...um, well...gross. I think they all had fun and learned a lot about cooking and they even got a tour of the kitchen. They all loved that!!

This weekend has been a weekend of nothings. Which I love. I guess because, usually our weekends are full. I know our weekends are fixing to pick up with baseball right around the corner. We have already started baseball practice and basketball isn't even over yet. We love getting to cheer for our boy.

Macy has been on a Nintendo marathon. She said it makes her smart. Um, ok. Whatever makes you feel better.

Please continue to keep my sweet Nana in your prayers....she is half way through with radiation! PRAISE! We are so thankful for her and are so glad she is almost done with that part of the treatment. In a couple of weeks she will go back in for surgery to put her pacemaker back where they moved it from...not sure what side, but you get the gist. So, please pray for a successful surgery. We appreciate your prayers for her and for her healing.

Also, keep one of my BFF's Holly in your prayers. Her Daddy went in for surgery to remove some cancer. He is still in the hospital but doing well. They said they think they got it all! PRAISE! He should come home soon...I know that she would appreciate your prayers. He is such a wonderful man and we are praying for complete healing!!! You can go to her site to read the sweet post she did about her Dad!

And one more...,another BFF, Kim, whose Granny is just getting home from the hospital. She is really needing our prayers for healing and to continue to get stronger.

Also, please continue to remember all those who are taking care of the sickies...they need our prayers, too. ;) Man, I am in the praying mood today. Thank you in advance for your prayers.

God is good all the time, all the time God is good....

Happy Thursday!

2011-01-27T10:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Thursday everyone! It has been one of those crazy weeks! I think everynight we have had something going on. I love it, though....that just means we are alive, well and kickin'. ha

Reid had a game last night and it was a nail biter! They lost but played their hearts out! A few games ago I made the mistake of telling him I would give him a dollar a basket.

Um, I owe him 30.00.

Whoops.

Neena and Papaw came down for the game and to spend some time with us. We had such a wonderful time and a fun visit. When the kids were in school, the adults went out to eat. It was so nice getting to sit there and just talk. After school, Mom made the trek with me to take my carpool to dance class...that was a hoot. Macy loved that Mom was watching her through the window. ha! Mom and I had fun watching all the little girls try to keep up with the teacher. We also did a little shopping while the boys napped at home for a bit...shocker, I know. Thanks for coming! We loved the visit...

Of course, I didn't have my camera. Typical.

Trust me...it was a crazy week...there is just no proof.

Happy Saturday....again!

2011-01-15T12:25:00.000-08:00

Has it been a whole week since I blogged? WOW! I was going to be so much better at keeping up this year. I am pretty sure I say that every January. That's why I love the new year...new year, new beginnings.

The scripture memorization is going great! Proverbs 16:24 will be my new one for the end of January. I love this verse. I love how true it is...Pleasant words make all the difference in the world. Seriously. Pleasant words and kind looks. You gotta love some Proverbs!

Now, how do you like my little image? I made it all by myself. Now, don't laugh at how simple it looks...it was...but for me it took a while. Even though it was easy squisey I still have to toot my horn. TOOT TOOT!

I hate tooting my own horn.

But, here it is. I downloaded Photoshop and it has really tried my patience. My sister came the other day and helped me download some stuff and gave me a mini tutoring session. She can scoot around PS like a ~~crazy woman~~ true professional. What is even more impressive is that she taught herself. I am so glad she came and helped me out. Thanks sissy! She even gave me some really cool brushes and paper. You can also download them from different sites online. We got some cool things off of The Pioneer Woman. She had some free things you could download as well. And, who doesn't love Ree! So, all that to say that PS is a whole new ballgame! Let me tell you it is a BEAR to figure out. But, if you can get it, its worth a try. I downloaded the free 30 day trial and I can already tell I am going to need WAY more than 30 days to figure this bear out!

What's funny is that when I sat down to blog I started to google images for my verse and then I remembered..

Duh, I have Photoshop.

So, ya better like it.

Happy Saturday friends, family and all my fabulous followers. Which who are my friends and family. ;) I feel the love.

Weekend with the Sab's

2011-01-08T17:40:00.000-08:00

This weekend has been WONDERFUL! We have done nothing. Well, maybe nothing is putting it lightly. So, when I say nothing I mean we got to stay around here, sleep in a little, and play, play, play! I love those kind of weekends. So, here is some of our weekend in fun and crazy pictures. Note: I feel like a bad mother because there are more pictures of Macy because she still loves to pose for the camera. Now, the teenager? Well, he runs and hides when he sees me coming. He's a punk.

You might as well JUMP!!! These two girls are like two peas in a pod. The only bad thing about us moving is this little girl and her family....these girls love playing together. Living across the street from a friend is wonderful. They play and fight just like sisters.

See, here is my baby posing. This won't be the first posed picture you will see with her new American Girl doll! She has LOVED this doll. It is the best money I have ever spent. AND Let me tell you these babies cost and arm and a leg but, oh so worth it. She is growing up so fast and as long as she wants to play with baby dolls it is OK with me. This doll is supposed to look like her. It's the AG Just Like Me doll and I think it looks pretty close! She named her Addison, Addyson or Addisyn. I am not quite sure. But, she calls her Addi, Addie, Addy?? ;)

Now, I can get a picture of the teenager if he is moving full speed. Even then it is hard. I got a new EOS Canon Rebel T1i a few months ago and let me tell you I have loved, loved, loved it! I am still trying to figure it out...hence the blurry action shots, but I am learning. The pictures come out way better than on my old point and shoot. Especially in the gym. I never could get any pictures during basketball season because it was too dark in the gym. But, now they are better and hopefully I can figure out how to get him with our him looking like a blurr. I love this picture of him because he is totally fighting for the ball. I love his face!! Btw, he got the ball, and got a basket! Yipee!!

See...blurry! But, in my defense he was running like a mad man. This boys got SKILLZZZ!! I think he takes after his momma!

OK, now, this cracks me up. Yesterday, I was cleaning like crazy because we had a showing on our house. It is sad that I only clean like crazy when someone comes over. I mean, don't get me wrong, I clean, but when there is a showing or company it gets a little more TLC. So, anyway, I was putting up laundry and went into Macy's room and found Addy reading. She is so smart, especially with her glasses on. ha! Love it!

Flash or no flash?? Can you tell the difference? ;)

If you are ever in a panic and can't find the teenager....HAVE NO FEAR! He will be in his room playing PS3. I snuck in and captured this picture and then got a "look" because he didn't want it to end up on Facebook. ha! I told him I wasn't. But, I said nothing about blogger. Isn't he cute? Excuse his room, who knows whats on his bed or under the bed for that matter.

As for me, there are no pictures. I will spare you...today. But, just in case you wondered what my weekend was like, here it is. I love laundry, don't you?

As I was putting away my laundry, this made me smile. My sweet hubby always leaves me sweet notes and brings me flowers. Yesterday he brought me pretty pink tulips. So, sweet!

Here is hubby watching the Aggies! WHOOP!

More posing....Macy needed my reading glasses to look like her AG doll! They even have matching PJ's.

You know whats really funny.....When your daddy falls asleep while watching the Aggies, you put a doll in his lap and take a picture. Now, that is funny. ;)

He then wakes up when he hears the Blue Bell come out of the fridge. Don't you love how now Macy and Addy have on Hawaiian leis? She is always dressing up. For Christmas my mom gave her a AG Scarf set. The bad thing is is that you have to knit it yourself. Well, those that know me, know that I don't knit. So, opening up the package was a little overwhelming. Have no fear, I opened it and have started it. It really isn't "knitting" it's more like making pom-pom balls and then sewing them together. It has been fun. Yesterday, she asked if I could hurry up and finish them before its summer. Geez, I'm tryin'.

I hope that you have all had a wonderful and relaxing weekend. Enjoy every minute....

A little of this and that

2011-01-06T19:27:00.001-08:00

I have been sitting here for a while trying to think of something to blog about. Why is it that when I want to blog I can't think of an important thing to say? Or, when I sit down for a little blogging time someone in my family needs something. It's always the teenager. He just asked me for the stapler. It is in the same place it has been for 5 years(ish).

I guess I can ramble a bit. Let's see.

**School is back in session! Can I get a praise and a glory? I love my kids, don't get me wrong but when they are in school I get so much done. Like, today, I went to the movies with my husband. Don't judge...the laundry, dishes and dusting can wait.

**Report cards came home today for the teenager and he made all A's and B's! I am so proud of him. He works really hard balancing his school work and sports. There are nights when he stays up until midnight doing homework. Then up and bright eyed and bushy tailed (well, that might be over-doing it) ready to go again. He is a great kid and I am proud to be his mama.

**Macy gets her report card tomorrow and I know she will have great grades as well. She LOVES homework. I'm sure that won't last much longer but for now I love it. I know my time is coming, especially when she gets older, when she will dread it. Like, next year when we have to do a science fair project. Man, can I tell you how much I hate that. I think they are stupid. But, that's a whole 'nother story. Hey, I wonder if I could use one of Reid's old ones. I am pretty sure they are in the garage.

**Our house is still on the market. {{sigh}} We are still not sure of God's plan for us but we are hopeful that things will work out.

**I am sitting here listening to my son and hubby laugh about this commerical. They love it. It just came on and we all looked at each other and cracked up. For some reason, I can't remember how to get YouTube to work on my blog....ugh!!! So, click on it if you want a chuckle.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhlWddAXSRA

**I finally picked a word for 2011! I know....its a shocker! I don't think I have ever had one. I was trying to remember if I did last year. I guess I didn't since it didn't make much of an impression. haha! So, hold on to your hats. I know you are so excited...{{insert sarcasm here}}...all my 10 followers. My word is DREAM. I will elaborate more on that later.

**I am working on my scriptures for this year. I am also following Beth Moore's scripture team. We are to pick two verses a month..on the 1st and the 15. I am so excited to get started. I have done this since 2009 and have loved it. Now, don't get me wrong, there are months when I don't do as good as I would like. But, thank goodness for grace...and new mercies every morning! So, my verse for Jan 1-15th is....

"Above all else, guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life." Proverbs 4:23

**Oh, and one last thing. I am in the market for a new bloggy facelift. If anyone knows of anyone who does that for a good price, please let me know. I have been looking around but not sure of who to use. There are a lot of good ones out there in bloggy land but some are a little out of my price range. Who knows, maybe I can teach myself how to do it....

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-05T14:32:00.000-08:00

1-1-11

2011-01-01T11:06:00.000-08:00

Happy 1-1-11 everyone! I love when the date does cool number sequences. Like when it was 8-9-10. I know. I'm weird. I can't believe it is 2011...where does the time go?

We rang in the New Year with some friends and then off to the annual church youth group lock-in. It was a lot of fun. Troy was working so it was just me and the kids. Macy and I left the church after a wild game of Romans and Christians. My kids LOVE that game. They have been playing that game for ever and I am glad they keep it going. There has been quite a few injuries over the years....these kids take it seriously. I'm just glad our AWESOME youth minister keeps it going. It is like a wild game of hide and seek....in the dark. The Romans are trying to catch the Christians. You kind of have to be there to see it. ha! You couldn't pay me to play. I hate people chasing me. Macy even played. The teenage girls are so sweet to her. She thinks she is one of the girls!

I guess Macy and I left around 2:30am. I know, I am a bad mom. But, in my defense my kids are night owls. She was getting sleepy and I was too. I kept thinking of all the crazies that would be on the road and whispered a little prayer for me and my baby girl. Let me tell you, I am so glad I did. God totally protected us last night. I was at a stop light....with no one else around, fixing to go and I see a truck coming towards us and he has lost control of his vehicle. He skidded off the road and hit a short brick wall at the building across from us. Thankfully, he didn't run through the light I was sitting at....yikes! There was no one else around so I called 911. The dudes air bag came out and I had no idea if he was OK or not. I feel bad but I wasn't going to get out of my car. I was scared he was a crazy drunk or something. Macy was in the back crying like we were in the wreck so I hated to get out and scare the pants off her. Poor thing. I pulled off the road and watched the car and saw a man get out of the passenger seat. He looked fine but I have no idea how many people were inside. I asked the lady on the phone if I should get out and check on them and she told me I could go because emergency was on its way. I still feel bad about leaving and hope that they weren't hurt. When we got home Macy and I snuggled in my bed and I was so thankful we were OK. Macy even prayed for the man in the car.....sweet girl.

So, I hope 2011 is good to us....it started out a little crazy. As far as New Years resolutions...I have nothing. I think that this year I am just going to kind of fly by the seat of my pants. The only 2 things I want to improve is my prayer life and learn more scripture and I don't think that qualifies as a resolution. ;)

Happy New year from our family to yours.....

Merry Christmas everyone!

2010-12-20T10:37:00.000-08:00

WOW! I can't believe there is only 5 days until Christmas. This time next week it will all be over. We are so excited to get to be with family. Reid and Macy are counting the days until we leave. I love that they will always remember our traditions at Nana and Poppi's house. That they think that Santa only comes to Smithville. That they know where their "spot" is for their Santa gifts. That we make the biggest mess with wrapping paper that you ever saw. That there are so many presents under the tree that we feel guilty. I love that we eat ourselves silly. I love Kathy's sugar cookies. I love remembering all the fun times we had playing hide and seek with the McAdams clan. I think about the Christmases past when Poppi walks behind all of us picking up our crumbs and wrapping paper. He spent most of Christmas Day making trips out to the alley to take the trash out. I think we would have about 10 bags of trash. ha! We sure miss him. We are looking forward to this Christmas and looking forward to many more memories. Thinking about memories already made are so special to me and I keep them close to my heart. It makes me smile. My cup runneth over.

Our December has been so busy....hence the no blogging. It seems like there is something every evening. Enjoy some of the pics from our busy but fun December. I love the hustle and bustle of the season....

Macy at her Christmas program at school. It was so sweet and I might or might not have cried. Things get to me more these days. ha!

She was so proud because she had a little speaking role. She was a Grandma. ha! So cute.

Our Ward Stars! This is the 3rd grade program....they worked so hard!

Braxton stayed with us for a while and he loved the program. He would clap and smile when the kids would start singing. We loved having him. Macy was a fabulous babysitter.

The magic is still alive! I love it. We had a Lunch with Santa at the Junior League and had a wonderful time. I love getting all dressed up for Christmas activities! We went with friends from dance and enjoyed our time eating, talking to Santa, laughing with friends and making crafts.

I had to take a picture of my baby! Look at that. He was 4 years old. I love all my homemade ornaments. I can't believe how time has flown by.....

The cutest little Rudolph around! We went caroling with the Girl Scouts. ;) If you want to call it that. I think the Mom's did all the singing. They were too worried about all the crafts and snacks.

From 4 years old to 14 years old! ha! Who has time to talk to Santa or make a Christmas list when you have shooting to do. Seriously.

Pink Christmas....One of my most favorite times of the year. I love these girls!

Have yourself a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-01T14:33:00.000-08:00

Five for Friday

2010-11-19T16:28:00.000-08:00

1. I am so ready for CHRISTmas music! I set my ringer to Rudolph the Red nosed Reindeer and when it rings I don't want to pick it up. I find myself singing along, tapping my foot and feeling the spirit of the season...then I miss my call. I love this time of year!

2. Today we all had an answered prayer! My mom went in for a stint because of some blockage and thankfully there was none! YIPEE! She thought she was going to have to stay overnight...even made a run (well, not a run...she does have heart issues) to get a new nightgown and robe. Now, she can wear it in the comfort of her own home! We are so thankful!

3. Reid has started basketball. His games will start Dec. 1st. We are excited about basketball season. I think it is his favorite sport.....but that's just me. I'm sure he would say that baseball and basketball run a close race for favorite. The only thing I hate about school sports is the practices after school. He doesn't even get home until 6:30 and because of the silly time change its dark outside. I miss the days when he would come from school and ride his bike until dark. I think he misses it too!

4. Troy finally has 2 days off...Saturday and Sunday. I am so glad. He has worked for 2 months straight with only 3 days off. He is ready for a relaxing weekend. So am I!

5. Today Macy and I participated in her schools Diabetes walk. We walked 3 miles this morning. It was so much fun. The weather was great and it is so cool to walk with all the kids around the neighborhood in their school shirts. Its like a walking rainbow. Macy's class is lime green....the boys in her class are just glad they didn't get hot pink. ha!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Football-2010

2010-11-18T19:10:00.000-08:00

Football is over and basketball has already started. But I couldn't let too much time pass by before posting some pics of Reid's special fans! It was a great game and even more special because Neena, Papaw, Nana, Bubbie and Jaxon came to watch. It was a great time....

Paps giving Reid a hug after the game...there is nothing sweeter!

Reid and Bubbie...after discussing some major plays from the game. :)

Paps, Reid and Neena...so sweet! I love this picture! Don't you love how Dad has all the lawn chairs. He toted those things all over. ha! We made him carry them all the way to the game and then we didn't even use them. Nana insisted on climbing in the stands. She used Troy's knees as a back rest. ha!

And this picture! Priceless...I love it! Reid and Nana posing before Reid had to catch the bus! He would have missed the bus for her though.

Me and Jaxon..we were really good cheerleaders. ha! Macy and I taught Jaxon a cheer or two. I think she had a good time. We even visited the concession stand a time or two! She looks scared but really, she was having a good time. :)

Thank you so much for coming all the way to Houston for Reid's game! It meant a lot to us. We are so glad you came and spent the night. We are ready for you all to come back. :) We love you all....

Just another day in paradise

2010-11-17T13:06:00.001-08:00

I don't have much time. I have had a crazy day. But, I wanted to stop by to say hello and mark the blog off my to-do list. I feel like I have neglected it once again. I love blogging. I hate it hanging over my head. I love the fact that all my daily activities and or pictures are on here for me to have...in case I ever forget. Which is very possible. I hate that blogs are like an online cyberworld popularity contest and those with the most comments, crafts, contests, give-aways, and pictures of how cute their kids are...win. So, I have to keep reminding myself that my blog is mine. It is where I can come and jot down my thoughts and my prayers for me, my hubby and my kids. To also put pics of my kids....because I think they are pretty darn cute. Who cares who reads it.

So, with that in mind I need to tell myself to stop being so insecure. It's just a little blog. Maybe I should keep reading my Beth Moore book, "So Long Insecurity". I put it down weeks ago to read the new book by Mary Beth Chapman called "Choosing to See". Oh my goodness, that book is SO good. If you haven't read it you need to go out and get it. If you want to borrow mine you can. It is an awesome story of healing! It also makes us realize that God is always with us on our journey even when we think he is not. Her triumph through her grief and struggles is amazing! It's a great book...coming from a non-reader. I mean, I can read, its just not my hobby. Like some friends I know.

Macy is my little photographer. I got a new camera and she has been going all over the house taking pictures of things. Like frogs, for instance. Really? She is a hoot, that girl. I just thought that this picture captured my crazyness. Since, today I was feeling crazy I thought I'd add it. You know. For me. What's up with my hair?

I just have to add a picture of my hubby....I think he is too cute for words.

The Friday blues

2010-10-22T11:29:00.001-07:00

I made a really big mistake today. I went to my new...well, was mine....house that is no longer mine. Does that make sense? I had to go turn in my cancellation papers to get some of our earnest money back. I was ok until I thought it was a good idea to drive by the house and see how it looked. I love the brick, the stone...I did pretty good, if I do say so myself. ;) Then, I thought it would be a good idea to go inside and see what all my "stuff" looked like. I mean I did pick it out. Well, it wasn't a good idea. I mean, don't get me wrong....it looks beautiful. The granite, tile and cabinets are all in. I heart my kitchen...it has an island.....but, now someone else can enjoy my colors, my sink, my tile, my fireplace, my pretty garden tub.... (((sigh))) I thought I was doing ok until Troy called to see how my day was going and I started to cry. It was that ugly cry. You know the cry where your nose starts running and you have no tissue so you have to use your shirt. Yes, that was me. I'm sure he thought I had lost my marbles. But, the sweet hubby that he is, he reassured me that everything was going to be ok and things would work out and we were blessed no matter what. I love that man!

I just have to keep thinking that God has other plans for my family. I have no idea what that is and I can't wait to find out. There are days where I need clarity on that and I think today is one of those days.

10-10-10

2010-10-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

I am really tired of looking at my old post so I guess I need to blog. There isn't much new to say but I felt the need to update. We have been doing the same ole, same ole around here. The kids are still keeping us busy and we are still loving every minute of it. I thought I'd post some pics for those who stop by. Since blogger is being a little persnickety today, they are in random order.

My #5 waiting to take the field. He is really loving football this year. He has got a lot of playing time and it is so sweet to hear him and his Dad talk about the game, plays, etc....

Here is one of the coolest cheerleaders ever! She loves to root for her brother. She even has some cheers memorized! It's hilarious!

Getting set up for a play! Go Eagles!

I have been going coupon crazy lately. I saved over 50.00 on this shopping extravangza! I think Poppi would be super proud of me.

We spent a fun fall Saturday at our local High School football game. Reid likes to go to hang out with his buddies and of course, watch football. Yeah, right. Macy and I love to watch the cheerleaders, band and Flairs! We really love the Flairs because we get to watch one of our favorite friends dance!

Macy and Reagan think that Victoria is the best! I have to agree! She is one sweet girl and we enjoyed our day getting to watch her perform. Way to go Victoria!

I had to make a post today since it is 10-10-10. Macy has been making wishes all day. I want to tell her how I wish it was that easy! She even asked me to tell her when it was 10:10 on 10-10-10. ha! Hope you have a great week!

Love is the answer...

2010-09-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

Thinking about all the men and women who protect us everyday....Thank you and God bless.

This morning Reid, Macy and I have been watching videos on 9/11. The kids and I picked this video for my blog. I loved the song because life really is all about love. There has been a lot of questions today and it sure is hard to answer some of them. Especially for Macy who thinks that this world is all good, there is no evil, and when you love God everything is perfect (well, that part is true). Reid has even taught us a thing or two because they have been learning about 9/11 in history class. They even watched some videos on you tube in class...the technology now a days. :)

I remember that day like it was yesterday. I had just found out I was pregnant with Macy and I was sick as a dog. I was sleeping and Reid was in the living room watching Barney, I'm sure. :) There was not a care in the world. Then the phone rang. Mom was at work and she told me to turn on the TV that America was under attack. It was the scariest feeling ever. So, as I sat there crying and trying not to puke, I couldn't believe what I was seeing. I called Troy at work and they were all sitting around watching it too. The plants and the ship channel were all under surveillance because they were scared that they might be next. It was so scary. I think we watched coverage of it all for weeks! It was unreal. It still is. WE WILL NEVER FORGET!

Lord, come quickly....

Five for Friday

2010-09-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

I am branching out today and particpating in a "Five for Friday". I have seen it done on many other blogs and have never done it. I have done many ramblings and snippits but never this....so here's to something new. I am always looking for that in my life...LOL.

1. Today Nana had her surgery. We were ALL so worried! My kids have been praying for her all week and were so concerned. Macy's prayers are so sweet. They are so tender and true and the way she prayed for Nana's surgery brought some tears to my eyes. It doesn't take much these days...can you say hormones?? ha! Reid called her last night and it was so sweet to hear him outside sitting on the porch swing talking to her. They have always had such a special relationship and that makes my heart happy. When we were neighbors Reid would get whatever he wanted....we all did! I remember when I moved to Houston I couldn't cook a darn thing because Nana always did all the cooking. We'd just walk next door and eat. Best take out ever. Nana and Poppi were the best neighbors we have ever had. :) The great news is is that the surgery was SUCCESSFUL and the cancer is gone. The doctor removed the tumor and she won't even need radiation. Thank you for answered prayers....

Me and Nana at the beach. She was cold and cozy and I was hot and sweaty.

2. Clear Lake Eagle football is in full swing. Reid had his first game on Wednesday. Who schedules games on a Wednesday night. Does anyone go to church anymore? We love our Wed. night bible studies and living in a big city they really don't care what you have planned. I remember growing up in a small town and that never happened. Oh, the joys of small town living. Reid did great at his game and even made a few tackles. For the life of me I can't remember what position he plays...typical woman, right? I just know he gets to go out there on offense and defense. There. That's all I know. I am a proud mama and he could go out there and stand on the sidelines for all I care. Actually, that would be great because then there would be no way he could get hurt. I told him last week that I was going to put a sign on his back that said, "Hey, YOU, don't you hit my baby"...he rolled his eyes. ;) Macy and I cheered away and she even took the camera and got a few shots.

My #5 taking a water break. It so hot you have to have some quality H2O.

Little Pow-Wow.

Heading to the bus....

3. (Lacie, you might want to skip #3..haha) Last weekend we went to the Texas Longhorn vs. Rice football game! We had a blast. Troy has been working so much it was nice to have a family outing. We thought we had stinky seats but when we got there they weren't too shabby. The boys had fun watching the game and the girls loved the cheerleaders and the awesome Longhorn band.

Sabrsula Fun Day

There are quite a few pics of me and Macy posing like this. ha! We had a great time.

My sweet kidos. Do you notice Reid's monster nachos. Seriously.

The men in my life....Love them!

Yes, our seats were a little high. Thankfully I remembered the binoculars that way Macy and I could see the cheerleaders better. haha

For some reason blogger won't let me post under this picture. ugh!! I love this one because Macy isn't quite sure if she is a Longhorn or Aggie. She is torn. :) She loves everyone! ha

Gotta get the "must have" feet picture.

Like father, like son...

Macy doing good walking to the car. We had to park a LONG way from the stadium.

Oh, nevermind! I spoke too soon. Her feet were hurting SO BAD! I have a feeling that Troy will be carrying Macy until she is at least 16. She's got her Daddy wrapped...

4. Our house still is on the market and probably as of this weekend the home we were building will be a distant memory. Sad, but still hopeful. No matter what I know God is in control. It is hard and I have had a few pouty moments but what can you do? Pout is all I know. :)

5. I never got around to posting the kids first day of school pics....just got so busy. So, here you go. My 3rd grader and my 8th grader. sniff sniff....where did the time go?

My little 3rd grader...so excited to start school!

My 8th grader! So proud of this sweet boy!

I love that she still lets me go in the room with her and take pics. Silly me forgot to get the annual pic with her teacher. Oh, well. I can't remember everything. :)

The three amigos....

So, there you have it. My five for Friday. Hope you enjoyed it because all these pictures were a bear to load. What is up with blogger sometimes. If you liked it, give me a thumbs up or something.

Have a wonderful weekend. And as one of my besties says....God is ever so faithful!