The Memoir of a Mommy

2010-05-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

Wow, has it really been 4 months since I posted? Either my life has been extremely un-noteworthy or extremely busy! I also need to change my layout. But that will have to wait for another day!

Well, the quiz year is going great. I posted an update on that on my sidebar.

The kids are doing well in school, all of them making straight A's. Denae is still enjoying preschool two days a week and as the teacher of her class, so am I. We have 6 kids in the class and it is lots of fun.

Dallas started softball in our church boys club this year. He is the youngest player and Kevin coaches his team. They have been enjoying that. The teams are made up of 7 to 11 year olds and there are 3 teams that play each other.

We enjoyed a visit from my mom and dad last month. They were able to come in for a few days and saw Dallas' team win a softball game and saw the kids quiz in a tournament at our church. And of course they spoiled us all while they were here. We can't wait to see them, and hopefully the rest of my family sometime this summer. Still keeping my fingers crossed that I get to go back for a couple of weeks with the kids.

Yesterday the kids were in a parade on our church's childrens ministry float. It turned out so cute and was lots of fun. I took pics, so when I get them on my computer I will post them. What? Is that laughing I hear? I sense that some of you don't believe me. I sure don't know why. I am such a faithful blogger! lol

We are also starting our practices for another kids play on Father's day. These are so much fun and all my kids are participating this year. I really enjoy helping and even got Kevin involved this year!

Well that is about it for now. Stay tuned for more exciting updates in the near future as I share some great news! And no, Jessica, it's not about a baby!

It's Christmas Day!

2009-12-25T00:07:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone!! It is just a few minutes past midnight here. Kids and Kevin are still up playing with new toys received from Kevin's family at our gift exchange tonight. We had such a good time tonight with friends and family, eating and playing. And now it is Christmas Day. The day we celebrate the birth of our Savior. A day focused on spending time with those we love, friends and family alike. We have a whole day of fun and fellowship to look forward to. But for now I will wish you a Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Spelling Bee Slide Show

2009-12-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

Spelling Bee Champion!

2009-12-04T07:01:00.000-08:00

On November 17, 2009, Delaney was able to participate in her school spelling bee for grades 3-6. They had a list of 275 words, which she had about 9 days to study. After 17 rounds, Delaney became the first 3rd grader to win the school championship! She did such an awesome job, so poised and confident. And she was so surprised and excited to win!
Here are some of the words she had to spell: Celebration, commentary, miraculous, burdensome, theory, lobbyist, pandemic, elevator, unsentimental, curfew, eclipse, candelabra, musquitoey, pilgramage, scalpel, and oncologist. I think I missed a couple of words, but that gives you a general idea.

She is now eligible for the Sac Bee Spelling Bee, which is the stepping stone for the National Spelling Bee. So now we are studying over 1100 words, the defintions, the roots and origions, and all kinds of rules to get ready for that. It is pretty interesting.

And, on this past Tuesday, Dec 1, Delaney celebrated her 9th birtday! She just finished her first set of piano books, which she started in Mid September. She is doing a great job learning to play. And she has really stepped up with studying her quizzing, doing quite a bit of it on her own. Her grades at school are great: straight A's! We always receive glowing reports from her teachers about how helpful she is and what a great learner she is. Now if we could only get her to keep her room clean and to stop fighting with her siblings! lol Really,we are so proud of our princess, and so glad God blessed us with such an amazing oldest daughter. And I'll brag on my other kids for their b-day, but this post is just hers! lol Darilyn's post will be coming up on just a few weeks as her b-day is at the end of Dec!

'Tis the season to be jolly . . .

2009-12-03T14:22:00.000-08:00

Fa la la la la la la la la! Christmas music is playing in the background. Christmas lights are twinkling from the tree, and garland, and snow village. Christmas smells fill the air. Yes, it is that season! I love Christams and all that it brings. I love finding presents for friends and family. I love wrapping them. I love decorating the house and making those scrumptious Christmas treats. I love the parties, the colors, the hustle and bustle. It is just a fun, joyful, exciting time of year. And it is all in celebration of the Our Lord and Savior. When I keep Him, the real 'reason for the season' in focus, all the hustle and bustle brings me feelings of love and joy and yes, even peace.

So enjoy this wonderful time of year. Get together with family and friends, drink hot chocolate and eggnog, go look at Christmas lights, turn on the Christmas Carols and decorate the house, make goodies for eating and giving, shop for presents for loved ones, Say 'Merry Christmas' to those you pass in the stores, and above all, keep Jesus close in your heart. This will be the best Christmas Ever!!

Update in a Slideshow

2009-10-21T21:17:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the Good Life

2009-10-21T17:40:00.000-07:00

I am currently sitting in my living room thinking about the past few months and what I should post for an update. If I could sum it all up in one short sentence, which I probably should because the long version would get incrediably loooong and boring, I would just say, "God is in heaven and all is right in the world." We have been blessed over and over again. Our jobs are going great, our health is good, our kids are perfect . . . okay, not really, but one can always hope, right? Seriously, everything has been great.

The oldest 3 took part in a kids musical production at church for Father's Day. It was about Noah and the Ark. Very cute production. The kids all had solos and each did fantastic if I do say so myself. It was Dallas's first time in a play and he had a small solo. He sang his part like a pro. And the girls sang very pretty as well. In fact, I think all the kids in the play did phenomenal under Sis. Tishauna's dedicated tutelage. It was lots of fun.

Bible Quizzing Regional Finals took place towards the end of June, which was the last tournament for our beginner quizzers. All of the kids did such a good job. Just finishing out the year at this age, and learning 184 verses, is such an accomplishment for anyone, really, but especially for our young quizzers. Our church program had a really good showing in the Beginner Division. Darilyn and her teamate and friend, Kayla, took 3rd, another 2 friends, Oriana and Raney took 2nd, and Delaney and her teamates and friends, Cali and Breighlyn, took first. Our friends from the Rialto church took 4th. Then the all tournament team was, from 5th to 1st, Kayla, Logan (Rialto), Darilyn, Oriana, and Delaney. Delaney then won a very high honor of being voted Quizzer of the Year for the Beginner Division. She was suprised and very honored to get that award as the other quizzzers and coaches all vote for who to give that award too. I must say, I was very proud of our kids this year. And by then very ready for a break!! lol

We took a trip to Tulsa in July for the National Quiz Tournament, which went great, and were able to spend some time with my mom and dad as well as see my niece Mallory, my nephew Logan, and my niece Jacy.

The kids then started school. They are in 3rd, 2nd, and kindergarten. School has been going really well for all 3. Delaney will be taking the test for the gifted and talented program on Saturday. Darilyn is doing great in all her subjects. Dallas is recognizing sight words and learning to sound out words, too. He is doing really well in the math related subjects as well. He did have some adjustments to make with paying attention and not talking, but those issues have been worked out to the teacher's satisfaction.

Denae and I began preschool together, her as a student and me as the teacher. There are 6 other children and we have class 2 days a week. We are having fun and learning a lot, although at this point I think I have had the most to learn! lol

Delaney and Darlyn began piano lessons in the middle of September. They are really enjoying the lessons and it is fun to hear them practicing. With my limited knowledge I am able to help them some, but I am enjoying the chance to 're-learn' many of the things I had forgotten. The girls also love their teacher, Janell Coskun. She is really great with them, always encouraging them with what they do and giving them the opportunity to push themselves.

Bible quizzing has resumed, at least partially. Tournaments won't begin until January. I updated our Quizzing Sidebar so check out that for the lastest news.

Well, that about sums up our last few months. Oh, except, I rejoined choir after about a nine year "break." I will post pics of the kids in a little while. Till then, God is great!!!

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-25T07:51:00.000-07:00

Today is a beautiful day, full of sunshine and picnics, water fights and hot dogs, friends, family, and fun. But before it all gets started, I want to say Thank you.

Thank you to those who have served our country, protecting our safety and our freedom. You have made it possible for the fun of today to even occur. Thank you and God bless you for risking your life so that my life and the life of my children could be enjoyed with liberty. And for those families whose loved ones have paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms of this country, Thank you and God bless you for your sacrifice. We have not and will not forget.

Happy Birthday, Denae

2009-05-16T01:00:00.000-07:00

My baby turns 3 today. She is getting so big and acts like it too! She told me a couple of days ago that she was already 3 (she got her b-day present from her aunt early). I told her not till Saturday and she said yes she was. I told her we didn't have to have her birthday on Saturday then if she was already 3. She thought for just a second and said, "I just kiddin'. I not 3 yet." She's not gonna miss out on getting to have a birthday!

Mommy and Daddy love you, Little Angel! You bring such joy to our lives. You love to be the center of attention and make us laugh. Most of the time! You are such a big helper when I need something. You love to cuddle and wrestle and play with babies and cars. A princess in pig tails, wearing fluffy dresses and church shoes one minute, and a country girl, running around outside barefooted with dirt on your nose the next. Can't wait to see what the next year holds, especially since Dallas goes to school, leaving you with nobody to play with but me! At least we will be doing preschool together in the fall for 2 hrs, 2 days a week at Miss Dawn's, you as a student and me as the teacher. Should be lots of fun!! Happy Birthday, Denae Alysse. So glad you are ours!

Note: I typed this on the laptop, so no pics. See two previous posts for the two different sides of Denae, the princess and the country girl.

Denae

2009-05-14T19:44:00.000-07:00

Okay, I couldn't resist posting some more recent pics of my baby. Kids are so fun to photograph at this age. It's like they can't take a bad picture. And Denae loooves to have her picture taken. She really hams it up! Grandma and Poppa, these pics are for you! Hope you like them!

Denae showing off her pretty new dress.

Being Silly after church

Now that's a pretty smile!

And another pretty smile!

Caught her in action

So sweet!

Our borrowed pet

2009-05-14T19:33:00.000-07:00

Hey, Denise! These pics are for you! My kids are sure enjoying taking care of your "baby" while ya'll are on vacation. These pics are from last week. It didn't take long for Denae to warm up to Bo, and Dallas has taken a real ownership of the dog. He takes his turn feeding, checking water, and basically spends all day outside playing with Bo. He makes sure Bo rests too, finding nice, cool, shady places for him to lay down and then sitting beside him, petting him. The girls play with him too, but with school, quizzing, etc they don't have as much time. The kids are really going to miss him when take him home. Now we'll have to get a dog!

Southwest Regional Tournament Results

2009-05-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

1st place - Sac 1 (Delaney and Ranier)

3rd place - Sac 3 (Darilyn, Kayla, and Bethel)

All tournament team
Delaney - 1st, Oriana - 2nd, Darilyn - 3rd, Billy - 4th, and Kayla - 5th

This past weekend we had a Bible Quizzing tournament here in Sacramento, and boy did our beginners do a good job!! Our Sacramento Rock Church Beginner teams took 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place with a competative team from Rialto taking home the 4th place trophy. Sacramento quizzers took 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th on the all tournament team. Of course, I am especially proud of my two quizzers. Delaney and Darilyn did a great job on their teams. Delaney and Ranier (Sac 1) took 1st and Darilyn, Kayla, and Bethel (Sac 3) took 3rd. Delaney was the highest scoring quizzer of the beginner tournament with a 131 point average. Four of her 6 quizzes were perfect quizzes, meaning she hit 6 questions and got all 6 right, earning 10 extra points for quizzing out (the max # of questions a beginner can get right is 6, at which point they "quiz out" earning 10 extra points and recognition for the acheivement). In each of those four quizzes Delaney hit 4 twenty pt questions and 2 thirty point questions (her Dad's game plan) and earned 150 points for her team. Darilyn was 3rd highest scorer of the tournament, with her teammate Kayla taking 5th. They are a good team, very well matched. We go into each game with the job of each girl getting 3 ten pointers, 2 twenty pointers, and 1 thirty pointer. They work their hardest to do this and come pretty close most of the time. Darilyn had a one quiz where she scored 100 points for her team. All in all they did an excellent job and we are very, very proud of them. Sorry if it seems like too much bragging, but as this blog was initially for the benefit of the Grandparents, others will just have to understand! lol

2009-05-10T07:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day to all you awesome moms out there! Especially to the moms in my life: Mom, I love you! Wish I could be with you today!; Katrinia, Love ya! Take some time to pamper yourself! Raising 1 kid is hard, much less 6, like you do!

Before I was a Mom,
I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,
I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth,
The joy,
The love,
The heartache,
The wonderment
Or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much,
Before I was a Mom ...

Happy Mothers Day!!

Easter 2009

2009-04-15T06:27:00.001-07:00

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-15T06:11:00.000-07:00

Sunday was at our house with Kevin's family and Carlos, Denise, and kids. We had more fun grilling out and then the kids enjoyed an Easter Egg hunt in the back yard.

I think the kids were pretty happy with all the 'treasures' they had found!!

Coloring Easter Eggs

2009-04-15T06:04:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to Kathy's to color Easter Eggs, have a Easter Scrapbook page contest, and enjoy grilling out and homemade ice cream. We had a great time.

For those of you wondering, yes Austin is in a wheelchair. He broke the top of his femur and had to have surgery. He gets around on crutches a lot, but has a chair, too.

Quiz Results

2009-04-13T10:44:00.000-07:00

All tournament team (Delaney-1st, Kayla-2nd, Darilyn-3rd

Delaney and Rainer - 1st place team

Darilyn and Bethel - 2nd place team

Singing and stuff

2009-04-13T10:36:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post a couple of pics of Delaney singing a solo with the kids choir. She did a great job and we are proud of her. I wish I had a video clip to post, but I don't. I know the pictures are dark but you get the idea. The firs pic is a zoom in on Delaney and the second is a picture showing more of the choir in the loft and the chorale holding mics.

And of course, I have to add some pics of my 'baby' who will be 3 soon. She really does love the camera and enjoys making lots of faces.

The results (and pics) are in!

2009-03-16T05:21:00.000-07:00

The results and pics are posted! Go to the link for Apostolic Bible Quizzing on the side bar to see the results of the 2nd Southwestern Tournament. The winners and scores are posted as well as pictures, including pics of my cute girls. Thank you Bro. Phillip Booker for doing such an awesome job for Bible Quizzing as a regional coordinator and senior Quiz Master! And to Bro CJ and Bro Ruiz for being the QM for our Beginer and Junior divisions! Our kids are blessed to have you both!

New Look part 2

2009-03-15T23:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I have a different color scheme now with a different background, etc. I don't know if it's what I'll stick with yet, but the link for the background website is no longer over my post title, so that is progress. Of course, I'm not sure why it is in the corner now. It's not anything I purposely did. It was just suddenly there! I may stick with this arrangement simply for that reason alone!

New look

2009-03-15T14:48:00.001-07:00

I've been playing around with my blog the last couple of days trying to find a new look that I really like. For some reason, though the link for the website where I got the background is displaying over my post title instead of in the corner like I see it on other blogs. Not sure what's up with that. But anyway, we'll see which look I decide to stick with.

What's a horsie say?

2009-03-13T16:27:00.000-07:00

As all our family and friends know, we call our 2 1/2 year old Nae-Nae for short. A while back, to try and help her remember what a horsie says, we told her it says her name, neigh neigh. So keeping that in mind, this was my conversation with her yesterday:
Me: What does a cow say?
Denae: MOOO!
Me: What does a kitty cat say?
Denae: Memow!
Me: What does a horsie say?
Denae: De-nae, De-nae!
Hmm? Maybe our little memory trick didn't work out so great, but it did make for a cute story!

How do you spell "Sloppy Joe?"

2009-03-07T20:38:00.000-08:00

This afternoon when Kev and I were discussing what to have for dinner, Dallas told us he wanted sloppy joes. I decided later, though, that BLTs sounded better. As Kevin was cooking the bacon, Darilyn came and asked what we were having, then ran off yelling to Delaney, "Guess what we're having for dinner? BLTs!" Dallas popped his head out of his room and asked, "Does that spell Sloppy Joes?"

Dallas turned 5 years old

2009-03-03T23:32:00.001-08:00

On Feb 13, Dallas turned 5 yrs old. Here are some pics of his birthday celebration and a few of his gifts.

The fireman raincoat was a Christmas present from Aunt Kathy, so she got him matching rain boots for his Birthday.
Cool! A fishing pole and lures (he got a tackle box too!)

Letting Delaney play with his excavator before church.

Pictures of Denae

2009-03-03T23:26:00.000-08:00

I took some great pics of Denae hamming it up for the camera a few weeks ago before church.

This is her monkey face, which she did with no prompting!! lol

Bible Quizzing Update

2009-03-03T21:54:00.001-08:00

We just finishe our second Bible Quiz Tournament of the year and it was great. All of the kids quizzed so well and had such great attitudes. Of course, I think my kids did exceptionally well, but that's my right as a mom and I can be biased, right? I am actually going to go back to the first tournament and start my update with that. Last year the girls always quizzed on the same team, but this year we split them up and they each are the captian of their own team. Because of their age/current quizzing ability, we put them on teams that we felt would offer them the best opportunity to develop their own quizzing ability. Delaney is paired with other, newer quizzers, which means she really has to step it up on the harder questions later in the quiz. Darilyn is paired with another littler girl her own age that is a great quizzer like Darilyn, and they make a great team, but Darilyn can't rely on an older quizzer to do all the work. It seems to be working really well and we have seen great things from our girls so far.

So, back to the first tournament in January. Darilyn and her teamate took 3rd and Delaney and her teamate took 1st. Delaney was the scoring champion of her division with 144.5 points per quiz. She quizzed out every quiz (which means 6 correct questions) and only missed 2 questions the whole tournament. Darilyn was an honorable mention, and although she did not quiz as well as we expected, she did do a great job and learned a lot.

Darilyn and Kayla

Delaney and Bethel
Dallas, sitting with Korina

Darilyn, taking a break

She likes to swing.

Delaney, taking some time to 'chillax'

Denae sitting with our beginner Quiz Master as the 'honorary QM'

Delaney helping run the computer scoreboard, another thing the girls are learning to do.

Delaney and Bethel, 1st place beginner team

Darilyn and Kayla, 3rd place beginner team

Beginner all tournament team (Delaney is the champion in 1st place)

All right, so back to this past weekend. We flew down to Rialto, which was very enjoyable compared to a seven hour drive! We went with Kathy and Austin, and shared a room and van. It all worked out great. At the tournament, Darilyn and Kayla found their team rythm and did an awesome job. I was able to be their coach and enjoyed it tremendously (although I must give credit where credit is due: Kevin helped when he wasn't coaching Delaney's team. ) Darilyn and Kayla won their first quiz, and then lost to Delaney, Cali, and Breighlyn, although they quizzed well. They then got a break for a while, as Delaney and her team won four quizzes, putting their team into the championship position. When it was time for Darilyn and Kayla to quiz again, they turned up the heat, winning 4 quizzes in a row to meet back up with Delaney's team for the championship quiz. Darilyn and Kayla proceeded to win against Delaney, Cali, and Breighlyn in a very close quiz and had to then quiz each other again. (This is because the tournament is double elimination: A team has to lose twice to be out, so D/K had to beat D/C/B two times.) Once again, Darilyn and Kayla persevered, winning the quiz to take first place in the tournament. This was really a big deal as the whole tournament I was having to deal with Darilyn and Kayla feeling inferior to some of the older more experienced quizzers. For them to actually rise above the mental 'fear' and let God help them to do their best was a great thing. Of course, Delaney's team only lost twice, both times to her sister. Delaney's team ended up in 2nd place, with Delaney as the the scoring champion. Darilyn and Kayla were a great team, placing 3rd and 4th on the all tournament team with only a little over a point seperating them.

Delaney, Austin, and Darilyn - they were mistaken for siblings so many times it was funny!

Kevin helping the girls study on Sat morning at Starbucks.

Darilyn - ready to quiz

Darilyn and Kayla - what a cute team!

Delaney, Cali, and Breighlyn - All beautiful girls!

Darilyn and Kayla - excited about 1st place!

Delaney, Cali, and Breighlyn - worked hard for 2nd place

Beginner All Tournament Team - Delaney was 1st and Darilyn was 4th

Delaney, Cali, and Breighlyn after the tournament

Kayla and Darilyn after the tournament

And the year keeps marching on . . .

2009-01-22T08:35:00.001-08:00

We are having a great year so far. It started with revival with Bro. Cody Marks and a communion and foot washing service. Revival is awesome. Already so many wonderful things have happened. Kevin and I have felt such a refreshing and renewal. We know that God has great things in store for us this year and the dreams we have had over the years are going to happen!! The girls have received some awesome touches, too. And that makes it worth it all. These have been the types of services that will be remembered for years, and not just with a "That was a great revival" type of memory, but the type that is a memorial in our lives, when things were changed and new things began.

The girls are back in school for a few more weeks. They go off track on Feb. 7 I think. They go to school the first week of Feb and then are out until they go back the second week of March.
They are doing great learing their Bible Quizzing verses. They will be through Luke 10:11 by the end of this week and next week they won't learn any new verses but will focus on better preparing themselves for the tournament on Jan 30 and 31. The tournament is over the 34 verses they learned from Luke 4 and 6.

I registered Dallas for Kindergarten last week. I was finally able to get his shot records from our "care provider" in Oakland. It's a long story, but Dallas was only a little overdue on his last set of shots, so we were able to get that done and get his Kindergarten paperwork turned in! Yea!!! Dallas is also learning Bible Quizzing verses. He is doing really well considering he won't be 5 until Feb 13 and he doesn't have someone to learn with like the girls did their first year. He just has me! But he has memorized 22 verses so far. And he can answer questions, too. He just hasn't totally caught the concept of putting the reference with the verse. But that will all come with time. This year is really just about letting him practice and learn how to memorize. He might quiz at the first tournament if I can get him through the 34 verses by then. Plus Kevin promised him a new pair of cowboy boots if he knows the verses for the tournment. I think the girls should learn a lesson from Dallas on bargaining for prizes!!

We've been sick around here the last week. It started with Denae coughing and running a fever for a few days, staying at around 103 for 2 days (when she didn't have medicine). She still has the cough and yucky nose but no fever. Dallas began coughing a few days after her. He hasn't ran a fever yet, but he has a yucky nose too. And yesterday I started coughing. Today it is really bad with a sore throat but no fever. So now a sick mommy has to try and take care of two sick babies. Fun times!! I do hope no one else gets it or the girls will be dangerously close to being sick when tournment time rolls around next week. They would really be disappointed if that happened. And I hope Denae and Dallas get over this soon. Not sure if it is just a cold or virus or if I am going to have to take them to the Doctor. I guess if Denae goes much over 7 days I will take her to the Doctor. Today is her seventh day of being sick, but with no fever anymore I am just debating.

Anyway, such is life in our house. Revival is great, the kids are sick, Bible quizzing continues, and through it all God reigns supreme, blessing His people, saving the lost, and showing grace and mercy to us all. Hope you all have a great day!!

Dr. Newheart's Christmas Cure

2009-01-03T21:21:00.000-08:00

On December 14, Delaney and Darilyn participated in our church's children's Christmas production. They practiced every week since early November and it turned out wonderful. Delaney had a solo and also another part she sang with another girl. Darilyn was part of a sign language group and signed a solo. Both girls did fabulous. Sis. Tishauna Jones, who heads up the Music is for Kids program every year does a great job of using as many children in special roles as possible and then coaching them to their best performance. I am really glad to have been able to help out with the signing and as a chaperone in practices. I helped Kim a little with the costume stuff and although I didn't do much I was just glad to be a part. lol Seriously thought, it was great fun. I think I enjoyed it as much as the kids. Can't wait for the next one!!!

Darilyn's Baptism

2009-01-03T20:49:00.001-08:00

On our way to church (yes, we walk)

Waiting to get baptized. Isn't she excited?!

Listening as Bro. Young explained the importance of baptism and what to do.

"I now baptize you the wonderful name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins." Just as in the days of Acts, our daughter is following the plan of salvation spelled out in the Bible (Repent, be baptized in Jesus name, and receive the Holy Ghost)

What a wonderful thing, seeing Darilyn speak in tongues after being baptized in Jesus name! There is nothing like knowing your child's name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life!

Feeling Great!!

Darilyn was baptized on Nov 29, 2008. We are so excited that another one of our children has received the Holy Ghost and been baptized in the precious name of Jesus. She asked us about getting baptized, so Kevin wanted to make sure she understood the importance and significance of baptism. We had a family prayer evening after she asked and we discussed this with the kids, complete with an activity to keep the youngest two involved. It was a lot of fun. I'll have to post pics of that evening as well. Darilyn was excited to get baptized, but more important, she understands why she needed to be baptized in the name of Jesus. We were also glad to share the important event with not only Kevin's family here in town, but my mom and dad visiting for Thanksgiving. Truly a reason to be Thankful!!

Pics of Thanksgiving since the slideshow wouldn't work

2009-01-03T19:34:00.000-08:00

There are a lot of pics, but not as many as I had in my slide show. They are also mixed up and out of order. Sorry about that. Hope you like the pics though.

Thanksgiving Slideshow

2009-01-03T18:09:00.000-08:00

We had a great time with my mom and dad at Thanksgiving. They came in on Wednesday. We were all so excited to see them. I had already picked up most of the stuff for cooking, so Mom and I enjoyed making the Holiday meal together on Wednesday night and Thursday morning. Thanksgiving day was great. I got out the kids Little People Christmas Village and they enjoyed playing with that ALL DAY!! How great is that. Of course, after Thanksgiving Dinner, it was a universal nap time. I think everyone had a snooze. Friday we went shopping. My mom and dad actually got up at 4 AM to go out!! Of course that is 6 o'clock Texas time, but still!! We were keeping them up late to visit. Anyway, they came back around 9 and we all went back out. The kids love to shop with grandma and poppa. They get way too much stuff lol!! We also enjoyed the lighting of the Christmas Tree at K-street mall downtown. The fireworks surprised my kids at the end as they were let off almost directley above where we stood. Very Loud!! My dad was holding Denae and he said when the first one went off she looked up wide eyed and shocked, and then just buried her head in his shoulder. I was really glad at how my kids took to my mom and dad, especially Denae and Dallas. The girls are old enough to remember the last time they saw them and all, but Denae hasn't seen them in 9 months, a pretty long time for a 2 year old. And Dallas hadn't seen them in 15 months, so he was only 3 last time he saw them. Any way, after the Christmas tree lighing, we took some pics of the kids at some holiday displays and went home to have Christmas with Grandma and Poppa. That was fun!! We lit a fire in the fireplace and opened gifts, listening to Christmas music. The girls got gorgeous dresses, including a set that matched for all 3 girls. Dallas got some much needed (and loved) 5 pocket basic bluejeans, his all time favorite thing to wear, and a new suit for church, his next favorite thing. The next day we went to Applehill for the day. That was fun. We got there pretty early and hit a couple a favorite spots before the crowd. We went to our most favorite spot last, and by then it was pretty busy. Lots of people out getting the fresh cut Christmas trees. We went to church, of course, on Sunday. I always enjoy the opportunity to be in church with my parents. Darilyn was baptized on Sunday night. I will post pics of that in another slideshow. All in all, it was a great holiday and we enjoyed my parents visit. Can't wait for the next one!!!!

(I created a wonderful slideshow of this visit, but unfortunately the aformentioned problem of the wrong slideshow posting is happening again. What is going on?!!!)

SUPRISE!!

2008-12-21T18:23:00.000-08:00

Are you shocked? Now that you have picked yourself up from off the floor where you fell from the utter shock and amazement that I have actually posted something new, I would like to say: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! And while I am at it, here are all the other holiday and special greetings I missed out on wishing you during my absence form "blog world/land": Happy Fall, Happy Thanksgiving, Happy Birthday Paul, Happy Birthday Delaney, and Happy Birthday Granny! Awful isn't it that I would let so many wonderful chances go by without a single word or pic on my blog. Want to know why, do you even care? Well I will tell you why. I wrote a great post about fall and our fall festival at church complete with a slideshow, but everytime I pasted the slideshow into my post, what I ended up with was not my family at all! I did this many times, even starting from scratch a few times, all with the same aggravating results. So, to keep my sanity and salvation (lol) I took a break from my blog lest I break my computer!!! Well, once I took my break, I began to feel overwhelmed with all the things I needed to catch up on and just remained out of blog world. I didn't even visit my favorite blogs because of the guilt and conviction I would feel at not updating my blog. So for all of the faithful few who have regularly checked back on my blog, thank you. Thank you for believing in me, for believing that I would one day return to take up this blog and once again enlighten all that read its words on the happenings of my little family!!! So I will be spending the next few days updating, adding photos and hopefully slideshows, and maybe even some useful tidbit of information in amongst the other stuff. Till then, I will leave you with these photos I took today of the kids before our wonderful Christmas Service.

How many people have YOUR name?

2008-11-14T13:16:00.000-08:00

There are
3
people with my name in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Southern Belles

2008-11-13T17:17:00.000-08:00

*Southern women appreciate their natural assets:*
Clean skin.
A winning smile.
That unforgettable Southern drawl.

*Southern women know their manners*:
*'Yes, ma'am.'
'Yes, sir.'
'Why, no, Billy!'

*Southern women have a distinct way with fond expressions*
'Y'all come back!'
'Well, bless your heart.'
'Drop by when you can.'
'How's your Momma?'

*Southern women know their summer weather report:*
Hot, Humid
Hot, Humid
Hot, Humid

*Southern women know their vacation spots:*
The beach
The rivuh (River)
The crick

*Southern women know the joys of June, July, and August:*
Colorful hi-heel sandals
Strapless sun dresses
Iced sweet tea with mint

*Southern women know everybody's first name*:
Honey
Darlin'
Shugah (sugar)

*Southern women know the movies that speak to their hearts:*
Fried Green Tomatoes
Driving Miss Daisy
Steel Magnolias
Gone With The Wind

*Southern women know their religions*:
Baptist
Methodist
Football

*Southern women know their country breakfasts*:
Red-eye gravy
Grits, Eggs
Country ham
Mouth-watering homemade biscuits with momma's homemade jelly

*Southern women know their cities dripping with Southern charm*:
Chawl'stn
Meem fis
S'vanah
Foat Wuth
N'awlins
Addlanna

*Southern women know their elegant gentlemen*:
Men in uniform.
Men in tuxedos
Rhett Butler

*Southern girls know their prime real estate*:
The Mall
The Country Club
The Beauty Salon

*Southern girls know the 3 deadly sins*:
Having bad hair and nails
Having bad manners
Cooking bad food

*More Suthen-ism's*:
Only a Southerner knows the difference between a hissy fit and a conniption
fit, and that you don't 'HAVE' them, you 'PITCH' them.

Only a Southerner knows how many fish, collard greens, turnip greens, peas,
beans, etc., make up 'a mess.'

Only a Southerner can show or point out to you the general direction of 'yonder.'

Only a Southerner knows exactly how long 'directly' is, as in: 'Going to
town, be back directly.' (correctly pronounced 'drectly')

Even Southern babies know that 'Gimme some sugar*' *is not a request for the
white, granular sweet substance that sits in a pretty little bowl in the
middle of the table.

All Southerners know exactly when 'by and by' is. They might not use the
term, but they know the concept well.

Only a Southerner knows instinctively that the best gesture of solace for a
neighbor who's got trouble is a plate of hot fried chicken and a big bowl of
cold potato salad. If the neighbor's trouble is a real crisis, they also
know to add a large banana puddin!

Only Southerners grow up knowing the difference between 'right near' and 'a
right far piece.'

They also know that 'just down the road' can be 1 mile or 20.

No true Southerner would ever assume that the car with the flashing turn
signal is actually going to make a turn.

A Southerner knows that 'fixin' can be used as a noun, a verb, or an adverb.

Only Southerners make friends while standing in lines, . .. and when we're
'in line,' We talk to everybody.

Put 100 Southerners in a room and half of them will discover they're
related, even if only by marriage.

In the South, y'all is singular, all y'all is plural.

Southerners know grits come from corn and how to eat them.

Every Southerner knows tomatoes with eggs, bacon, grits, and coffee are
perfectly wonderful; that red eye gravy is also a breakfast food; and that
fried green tomatoes are not a breakfast food.

When you hear someone say, 'Well, I caught myself lookin',' you know you are
in the presence of a genuine Southerner!

Only true Southerners say 'sweet tea'and 'sweet milk.' Sweet tea indicates
the need for sugar and lots of it -- we do not like our tea
unsweetened. 'Sweet
milk' means you don't want buttermilk.

And a true Southerner knows you don't scream obscenities at little old
ladies who drive 30 MPH on the freeway. You just say,' Bless her heart' ...
and go your own way.

To those of you who are still a little embarrassed by your Southerness: Take
two tent revivals and a dose of sausage gravy and call me in the
morning. Bless your heart!

And for those that are not from the South but have lived here for a long
time, all *y'all *need a sign to hang on *y'all's* front porch that reads 'I
*ain't* from the South, but I got here as fast as I could.'

Just a little Southern humor for all my Southern Sisters out there. We know who we are!! By the way it is hard to raise daughters to be Southern Belles while living on the West Coast, but I am tryin' my best!

Kids say such funny things!!

2008-11-12T08:38:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my Dad for sending these to me. A reminder of the innocence and sincerity of children is just what we need right now. Hope everyone gets a chuckle out of this. I did! Have a blessed day!

Beautiful days and Old friends

2008-11-06T20:12:00.000-08:00

Well, apparently I was in a nostalgic mood tonight without even realizing it. I was sitting in the living room listening to my two youngest play as loud as they could on two Kindermusik harmonicas and I started to hum a tune and then sing. "It's a beautiful day, a beautiful day. Sunshines come into my heart to stay. It really doesn't matter what the weather men say. It's a beautiful, beautiful, beautiful day."

That song took me back many years to when I first heard one of my best friends sing the song she wrote for a school contest. So I began to try to remember all the words and didn't take me long to remember this:

"Somewhere it may be raining; somewhere the cold winds blow;

somewhere it may be snowing, but this one thing I know:

It's a beautiful day, a beautiful day. Sunshines come into my heart to stay.

It really doesn't matter what the weather men say. It's a beautiful, beautiful, beautiful day.

Somewhere over the rainbow, I've been told,

there lies a place called heaven. Streets are purest gold.

Some day I'm going to go there but till then,

I'm going to walk in God's sunlight . . . and live every day for him.

It's a beautiful day, a beautiful day. Sunshines come into my heart to stay.

It really doesn't matter what the weather men say. It's a beautiful, beautiful, beautiful day."

I love that song. It may have been written by a child, but the words are oh, so true. What a beautiful day every day is when we are serving God. Growing up, our church motto or theme was "Serving God is Beautiful." Of course there is wonderful song that goes with that theme,

"Serving God is beautiful. Serving the King of kings.

I serve Him because I love Him you see.

Serving God is beautiful to me."

(written, I believe, by Sis. Ronda Hurst, my pastor's wife at that time in my life.)

Life will present us with challenges and problems, trials, etc, etc. But you know what, it's still a beautiful day, a beautiful life, because the King of kings is in control and He is making me into what I need to become to fullfill His purpose. My life is about more than the day to day obligations or even the plans I make for the future. It is about the eternal purpose of God. That is important to remember when trials want to drag me down or I want to worry about problems. I just need to cast my cares upon Him. After all He cares for me and loves more than I could ever fathom. He has a plan for me and a future, plans to prosper me and keep me, and not to harm me. So it is a beautiful day, no matter what the weather man or any other man or devil, might say, because I am walking in God's sunshine and living every day for Him!!

Okay so after I spent some time singing the kid's song, I started trying to remember another song my friend wrote as a young teen.

"I wish you well. I wish you well.

You're my very special friend, and I wish you well.

Wherever you may go, I want you to know,

We'll be friends forever and I wish you well.

If I could paint a picture, here is what I'd do,

I would paint a rainbow and a bright sun, too.

And when the paintings over, a story it will tell

Of happy ever after and I wish you well.

I wish you well. I wish you well.
You're my very special friend, and I wish you well.
Wherever you may go, I want you to know,
We'll be friends forever and I wish you well."

I may not have remembered every word correctly, but I wanted to say a special message to my "very special friend." If you are reading this, I want you to know that I haven't forgotten. No matter where we are in life right now, the water that has passed under the bridge, I still remember and I still count you as a special friend. I don't think you came to mind so strongly tonight for no reason. I believe God laid you on my heart in a special way tonight. Maybe one day we will have the chance to get together, to catch up, to watch our children play together, but if not, you are still in my heart and prayers. Love you, girl!

Happy Birthday, Jaci

2008-11-01T23:53:00.000-07:00

Happy 1st Birthday to Jaci! Her birthday was yesterday, but I did want to wish my little niece a very special happy birthday. You are so precious to us. Denae always tells me her name is Jaci when she is "pretending" to be a baby (like she has to pretend to hard. She's only 2 1/2 lol) We all love you bunches!!!

2008-10-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to a great father, Poppa, friend, advisor, mentor, man of God, and the list could go on and on. Hope you had a wonderful day and enjoyed the little seranades you got from your grandkids today. We all send our love and we can't wait to see you at Thanksgiving. You have been the best father a girl could wish for and I appreciate all of the help you have given over the years. There are so many little things that I like to look back on from my childhood and most of them involve my daddy (and mom too, but this post is about you lol), like you playing games with us and the neighborhood kids on Melinda Lane (t-ball, toss-the-tennis-ball-over-the-roof), wrestling and playing keep away and football with you in the living room (3 kids against 1 daddy) you teaching me to ride my bike, the stereo cabinets you made each of us one Christmas for our new stereos, the smell of the wood shavings in the garage when you did your wood working (I still love that smell because it reminds me of you)learning how to drive with you in the passenger seat, the feel of your hand on my head and the sound of your voice as you prayed for me on many, many occassions, and walking down the aisle with you at my side on my big day. You were always there at each big moment in my life and all the not so big ones too. And you still are, because even though you can't always be with me in person, I know you are always there in love and support. I love you and happy birthday. Love, your 'baby girl'

2008-10-11T16:04:00.000-07:00

First of all, let me say a very happy birthday to a very special man: my hubby! Kevin's birthday was yesterday but due to a busy weekend with Ladies Conference and Retreat, I didn't post yesterday. But, I do want to say what a great guy I am married to. He watched the kids for me so I could take off on his birthday and go to Retreat. And he didn't complain at all. I want to say, I love you and happy birthday!!

Second, all I can say about Ladies Retreat was WOWOWOWOW. It was absolutely awesome! Bro Todd Nichols preached Friday night and Saturday and he had a word from the Lord for the Ladies of the Rock. It "makes me want to shout, Hallelujah, Thank you Jesus, Lord your worthy of all the glory and all the honor and all the praise!" I am so excited to think about what God's doing right now in us and with us. What a revelation to realize the power that God has given us is being exactly how He made us to be: meek, compassionate, virteous. A miraclulous change will take place in our homes and our lives when we learn this truth that the world tries to twist and manipulate into something crude and loud and ugly. And we are waiting on God's promise, not allowing the birth of an Ishmael, a mocking spirit, but waiting for God to fulfill His promise in our lives. And the spirit of prayer that moved on our ladies group this morning was phenomenal and life changing. Like I said, WOWOWOW.

I am excited about next year, especially with the format being the same: Conference services on Friday night and Saturday at TRC with Food and Fellowship at the Retreat hotel Friday pm and Lunch after service Saturday. We had a blast at the hotel after service this year. I was up til 3 am playing games and talking. Fun, fun, fun!! Jill did a great job getting it all together with her team of helpers. Anyway, I am marking my calendar for Oct 9 and 10 next year (sorry, Kevin, its your b-day again, I know, but hopefully the changes you see in me after this retreat will make the sacrifice worth it!! love you!)

And anyone who can make it next year, needs to plan on it. The sacrifice of time and money (which is minimal) are worth it when you come away with your spirit renewed and refreshed, your mind set on the promise of God, and your heart clean and full of the Holy Ghost.

Happy Birthday to a Special Lady

2008-10-03T01:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Mom!! We love you so much and miss you everyday. Wish we could be with you on this special day, but since we can't, know that we are with you in our hearts and are sending all of our love your way. Hope your day is as wonderful as you are.

You have had a tough summer. I think you were in the hospital more than you were out of it. And you had just moved into a new house. And you were trying to study for your big CTR Certification test through it all. But through all of that, you had the faith and the strength to lean on God and you persevered! You are getting better, slowly but surely. You passed your test and are now a CTR with a great new job. I am proud of you. You have showed me time after time that if a person trusts in God , giving it her all, she can accomplish anything.

You are an amazing example and mentor, a lady of God, a devoted wife and mother. You are a Proverbs 31 woman. I am blessed to call you mom. Kevin has the best mother-in-law (even he says so!!) My kids have the most loving and wonderful grandma in the world. You have been there for us through thick and thin, loving us and supporting us and encouraging us. Have a very happy birthday with many more to come. We love you bunches!!

A New Story

2008-09-24T21:13:00.001-07:00

Delaney recently wrote a story and wanted to post it on my blog. Hope you enjoy!

A Butterfly's Wish

By Delaney Reighard

Once upon a time, a little butterfly larva was eating food. Then a big butterfly flew by her. The little larva said to the big butterfly, "I want to be like you, a big butterfly."

"Well," said the butterfly, "You have to do a lot of eating, turn into a pupa, and then form a hard case around your body, which is called a chrysalis or a cacoon. When you emerge you're a beautiful butterfly!"

"Like you," cried the larva.

"Yes, like me," said the butterfly. On and on the butterfly flew to find nectar.

The larva obeyed the butterfly. She ate and ate and ate until she was ready to be a pupa. When she was a pupa, she formed a hard case. Then when it was time, she emerged as a beautiful butterfly.

Now she will tell her children what she did and tell them to tell their children what will happen in their life.

Can you tell she was studying the life cycle of a butterfly in school?

She also illustrated her story, but I wasn't able to post those pictures.

Darilyn's Award

2008-09-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

Darilyn received an award at the monthly assembly. Her teacher honored her with a Sightword Superstar award because she can recognize and spell all of her sightwords (about 70 right now) and also the Math Whiz award because she has the highest math grade in her class. You go, Darilyn! Mrs. Askins, her teacher this year and last year, told me that Darilyn is also very responsible in class and is the type of student you want to have in class. We have a parent/teacher conference tomorrow and I am expecting to hear great things about Miss Darilyn.

Accepting her award certificate from her teacher.

Mrs. Askins, Darilyn and the other 2 award winners

Miss Darilyn proudly showing off her award

Darilyn showing off her empty space in her mouth. She recently lost another tooth. This one on top as you can see.

In Honor of Our Heros

2008-09-13T08:54:00.001-07:00

Happy Anniversary to Me and Kevin!

2008-09-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

September 13, 1997 Kevin and I pledged to spend the rest of our lives loving, honoring, and cherishing each other. We are now 11 years and 4 kids later. Still in love, still committed, still excited about what the future holds. I love you, Kevin! You are a wonderful husband and father and I am so blessed to have a life with you! It just gets better and better!

Camping Out

2008-09-05T01:21:00.000-07:00

One of the fun things we did this summer wast to camp out in our backyard. We set up the one room tent, which I then filled with airmattress and pallets from wall to wall. We cooked out (hot dogs, an all time family fave). And then we made smores, yumm! The kids love it! And it was very affordable lol! (Denae was actually asleep on the couch for a lot of this, but did wake up in time for a hot dog.) After playing chase in the dark, we let the kids change into their jammies in the tent (Kevin and I cheated a bit and used the house to change) We then piled up in the tent, enjoying the night sights and sounds through the tent window, which included watching a search helicopter fly around with its big light shining looking for someone (thankfully the helicopter was not very close by or our camp out would have been over). After a bedtime Bible story we snuggled down to sleep. At least most of us did. I think Delaney and Darilyn whispered for hours. Everytime I woke up, they were whispering, had rearranged their "bed", or had changed into the next days clothes and back into jammies. Good grief! You'd have thought they didn't share a bed every night! lol But all in all it was great fun and I think we will do it again.

A few more pics of the kids

2008-09-05T00:50:00.001-07:00

On our way to church on a Sunday morning. I took a picture of Delaney, too, but where she was standing there was too much shadow so it didn't turn out.

Delaney received an award at the first awards assembly while I was in TX. It was for Academic Excellence. Great job, Princess!

Hey, I'm back!

2008-09-05T00:23:00.000-07:00

Well, technically I've been back home for a couple of weeks, but I haven't been back on my blog for a while. It was so good to see my mom and dad and brother and his family in TX, but I sure did miss Kevin and the kids. Kevin came to the airport to pick me up and he brought Denae with him. My goodness, was I ever glad to see them! They had a good time while I was gone, but I think they were glad to see me, too! lol

The girls got their school pictures taken and back already. I think they turned out really cute this year. They wore their new cowgirl shirts. The bottom picture is the whole outfit that shows in the class pic. I took it before I sent them to school.

After I got the girls school pics, I decided to try to get some pics of Dallas and Denae so Grandma could update her picture frames with something more current than Dallas at 6 mos and Denae at 6 mos (I am horrible at getting new studio shots of the kids by themselves). These turned out really cute too, and the ones below are my favorites. I love the one of Denae looking back and laughing at Dallas because he said cheese in her ear.

And, the girls are doing really well in school. Delaney got her first progress report which they send out every month. She has straight A's. Darilyn got a great report as well, but it didn't actually have any letter grades or precentage points. They should get their first report card at the begining of Oct, right before they go off track for 4 weeks.

I have started doing preschool with Dallas and of course Denae has to join us. It is going really good. We are working with Dallas on letter recognition. We have flash cards that we use with capital and lower case letters. He is doing well and is starting to try to write some of the letters, too, although at this point it is more like drawing the letters. Denae has flash cards too. They are actually first word cards, with a picture and the word below it for begginner readers. She just tells us what is in the picture. For the cat, dog and horse she also gives us the sound it makes. She also "blows out the candles" on the pic of the b-day cake after telling us it is cake. And the gift card is a 'prize.' Anyway, it is fun for her to have her own pre-school cards and she stays out of Dallas letter cards and the girls' math and sightword flash cards.

I am going to post some more pics in another post, but before I close this one, I wanted to welcome back my long lost neighbor and friend, Kim. She is finally home from visiting her family in Oregon for a month (I wish!!) We missed you!

Howdy from Texas

2008-08-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

I've been in Texas for the past couple of days spending some time with my mom and dad. Kevin stayed home with the kids so that I could come check on my parents and help them in getting some things done around the house. Not totally a vacation, but still a break from the normal day to day. First, a praise report! My dad's diagnosis on the tumor came back benign! Hallelujah! The roots are there of course, but we are claiming a complete healing. And my mom is doing better, although still in recovery. I was able to help her get her house cleaned and get some stuff unpacked. The kids really wanted to come, but it was just better they didn't this time. When I was telling the kids that I would be flying to TX, Denae looked at me with her big blue eyes and said, "I come too?" It was so sweet. Then she spent the whole day before I left running around the house in excitement saying, "I go fwy!(fly)" The girls gave me a little letter before I left saying that they wished they could come and that they were praying for me and grandma and grandpa. They also drew a picture of an airplane on it. When I talked to Dallas the other night, he wanted to know when I was coming home. He also wanted to know why he couldn't hear my mom and dad when I was talking on the phone. I guess he thought they should be as loud as the kids are when mommy is on the phone! The kids are being really good while I am gone, or so I have been told. Kevin's mom and dad came down to help him while I was gone. I guess Denae's potty training wasn't going as well as it had been, but with her mommy gone, I guess that's to be expected. Anyway, I'll post more when I get home, but I have really enjoyed my visit 'home.' As Kim said, "Home is where the mom is!" I think that is true no matter how old we get! Hopefully I'll get to bring all the kids and Kevin back for a visit, maybe next Christmas. I can always dream, right?

Denae's 'Up-do'

2008-08-03T00:54:00.001-07:00

All fixed up for church, just like her big Sisters!

Prayer Request

2008-08-03T00:34:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know (and even those who do), my mom and dad have really been through it the last couple of months with my mom being in and out of the hospital with surgery, etc. She is doing a lot better and is at home, but still needs prayer to continue getting better. However, recently it has come to light that my dad has lumps in his right hand. It turned out that the dr thought they were most likely benign tumors and he had surgery to remove them on Thursday. During surgery, the doctor discovered that it was actually one very large tumor that had grown extremely fast and did not look good. He wasn't able to remove all of the roots as they went to far into the muscle, etc. and to do so would have cost my dad use of his hand, especially his thumb. This is very important to his livelihood as a millright. Anyways, the surgeon called a pathologist to come in to look because even though they originally thought the tumors would be benign, he no longer was certain of this due to the speed of growth and the look of the tumor. Now we have to wait 5 days to find out the results of the labs to know if it is malignent. If so, the dr will have to go back in and remove the rest of the roots, which will mean Dad won't be able to use his hand like he needs to. And of course, cancer treatment. Please pray for my dad and my mom, that God will intervene in this situation for my dad and continue to heal my mom (and for me, because I am going crazy worrying about them but am not able to be there).

First Day of School

2008-08-03T00:23:00.000-07:00

For those of you who do not know, my girls are in year round school, track D. Their track, as well as tracks B and C, started back to school on July 21, two weeks ago. So, they are already hard at work in school, even though summer's only half over. And for those who might feel bad for them, we actually like it, especially when October and February get here and we get 3 and 4 weeks off. Anyways, this year Delaney is in 2nd grade and Darilyn is in first. Darilyn has her same teacher from her 1st/kindy combo class last year, Ms. Askins. We really like her, so I know Darilyn will do well this year. And Delaney has Ms. Gaskins. She really likes her so far this year too, especially since Ms. Gaskins gives her students 'smart sticks' aka red licorice, for being smart and doing well. I think Delaney has gotten at least one everyday for things such as asking if stories can be past down 'from generation to generation' to coming up with 24 ideas for a story during a brain storming session (the page only had 14 lines, so she turned the page over and continued writing on the back) So far both of the girls have brought home great work, but as Delaney told Darilyn, "This is all review from last year, so it should be easy!" I think they are doing more than just review, but I am very happy with their work so far. And as to how Dallas and Denae are doing without the girls, well that is stuff for another post. In fact, a few more posts, probably!

Finally - BQ Finals Post

2008-08-02T23:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, I finally sat down and did it. I made a slideshow of the pics I took at Finals 2 weeks ago. Wow, I am really slow! Anyways, finals was a lot of fun. Friday night we went to John's Incredible Pizza with everyone after orientation. We had a blast. I don't have any pics of that on my slide show because the pics all turned out too dark. But, the beginner girls all had matching outfits from Children's Place (Thank you Sis Horton for picking those up for us!) Everywhere I looked it was pink shirts and headbands! Then after a late night of partying (and even later night of Denae crying because it was very hot in our room and she was over exhausted), we got up for a big day of quizzing. Our church junior and beginner quizzers all wore navy, white, and yellow this year. Everyone looked really nice. After a long day of great quizzing by all of the quizzers, Delaney and Darilyn took 2nd in the beginner division. First place went to another Sacramento team, Karly, Oriana, Katrina, and Kayla. They were a tough team and quizzed very well. Delaney was highest scorer on the all tournament team with 99 pts per quiz. Darilyn was 5th. And this tournament, the juniors and beginners were able to participate in the Ultamate Challenge competition, normally just a senior thing. Delaney and Darilyn both did really well in this too. In the charting competition (locate as many 1 time words as your can correctly in 30 seconds) Delaney was 2nd and Darilyn was 4th. In the quoting competion (horizontal quote as many vs 1's as you can in 30 seconds -horizontal is quoting all of the same vs numbers through the material Gal 1:1, Gal 4:1, Gal 5:1, Gal 6:1, Eph 2:1, Eph 4:1, Eph 5:1, and Eph 6:1) Delaney took 1st and Darilyn took 3rd. Delaney actually quoted all 8 of the beginner verse 1's in 30 seconds. Juniors and Seniors, of course, have more verse 1's to quote. But, if I can brag a little more, according to Danny Barba, our Ultimate Challenge coordinator, Delaney did the best of all the divisions! And, Bro and Sis Horton, our beginner program directors, received coach of the year! In the junior division, my nephews Christian and Austin, took first place, with Austin being 1st on the all tournament team and Christian being 5th (that looks familiar). Faith and Caleb, our 'adopted' niece and nephew took 2nd, and Faith was the junior Quizzer of the Year. And Carlos and Denise, received Junior Coach of the Year. Everyone did such a great job and worked very hard. Of course, juniors and seniors are still working hard getting ready for Nationals just 2 weeks away, but Delaney and Darilyn are done for the year and this Mom is ready for the break. Kevin is working dillegently from the official side of things making sure everything will be ready for the National tournament and tonight is actually at Kathy and Craigs helping Christian and Austin study. So for all those still working hard, rememeber EVED (every verse every day!)

They Did It!

2008-07-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

Well, both of the girls beat the 25 min goal on quoting today. Delaney's time was 21 min and 12 seconds and Darilyn's was 21 min 7 seconds. Delaney is the overall faster quoter, but Darilyn has the overall faster recall time. Anyway, both did a great job and both decided to have thier Daddy buy them new tennis shoes rather get the money. A good choice as the tennis shoes will cost Kevin more money than the cash! So this afternoon Kim's going to watch Dallas and Denae for a little while and I will help the girls study one time words and practice interupting questions. Then tomorrow its off to Bakersfield! We won't quiz until Saturday, but we are having a End of the Year Pizza Bash at John's Incredible Pizza on Friday night, so that will be lots of fun!

Dallas Does It Again

2008-07-15T23:19:00.001-07:00

Okay, so tonight I once again had to take Dallas in to the Dr for x-rays. His sister, who will remain anonymous due to her horrible feelings of guilt and sorrow, accidentally slammed his pinky in the door of the girls' bedroom during 'nap time' (which apparently is defined as the time for Dallas to keep sneaking into their room every few minutes (or seconds lol), annoying them to the point that his finger gets slammed/smashed in the door as they attempt to keep him from coming in). It was very indented, bruising and swelling quickly. He couldn't/wouldn't move it, so we iced it down and called the Dr.
We then had to take him in for x-rays. This was the aforementioned mishap which kept me from being able to finish Darilyn's timed quoting before church service. Thankfully, it doesn't appear to be broken, just horrible disfigured for the present time.
While waiting on the nurse to bring in the splint, Dallas and I were looking at the paper copy of one of the x-rays of his hand. We were discussing the bones and joints and were comparing them to how our hand moves. When discussing the thumb and its various joints, I showed him how the one closest to the wrist lets our thumb move and then had him do it. Then I showed him how the middle joint works, and he demonstrated that one as well. Last, of course, was the top joint. He made a fist and then wiggled his thumb at the top joint. "This one's for pushing the buzzer," he said. Spoken like a true up and coming Bible Quizzer. (And also giving me another entry into my "Kids Say the Cutest Thing" file.)
Anyway, hopefully it will be looking and feeling better soon. In the meantime, we will ice it and splint it as necessary and hope that our next trip to the Dr/ER won't be anytime soon!

Now that's what I call quoting

2008-07-15T23:12:00.000-07:00

Kevin made a deal with the girls this week that if they can quote all 184 verses in 40 minutes or less, they will get $5. 30 min or less earns them another $5 (or a total of $10) and 25 min or less gets them a total of $20. Well, Delaney's first try was 32 min. She tried again today and did her verses in 27 1/2 min (that's all 184 verses with NO mistakes!!) She is now stoked to get an extra $10 out of her dad tomorrow by quoting in less than 25 min. I think she can do it, but it will take some serious speed. Darilyn's first try was about 47 min, but she wasn't really motivated at the time. Today, we timed her on half of the verses (92) and she clocked in at 14 1/2 minutes with only 1 mistake (and that was just due to quoting so fast)! This put her on a good track to finish everything in about 30 min, but we weren't able to finish her session due to a mishap which I will post about later. So, tomorrow morning Darilyn will get to try again for her $10, and let me tell you, she can speed through them when she gets to going! Let's see how much money they can get from their dad this week! I think I hear the mall calling me (I mean THEM haha!)

Baby Tales

2008-07-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

Everyday for a month Jessie had faithfully, diligently cared for her new baby. Since the day Baby Sally was placed in her arms, she had not spent one moment away from her new 'pride and joy.' Oh what fun she had been having, holding the precious bundle, rocking her to sleep, feeding her when she cried, changing her clothes, sometimes several times a day. She took Baby Sally with her everywhere, too. To the store, to the park, to see friends, and of course to Church. She loved that baby so much. She couldn't remember ever loving another baby as much as this one. And there had been many. Baby Darla, Baby Josie, Baby Suzy, just to name a few. But none were as precious as Baby Sally. Jessie loved to see Baby Sally's smile and her blue eyes. She knew that no one would ever take Baby Sally's place and she would never, ever need another baby to love and care for. But, as always seemed to happen with Jessie, after awhile of caring for and loving the baby, she woke up one day and forgot to get Baby Sally out of bed. She ate her breakfast, not hearing the baby cry. She got ready to go out, not remembering to change the baby. She left for the park, leaving the baby forgotten in her room. All day she went about her business with no thought for the baby that had once filled her every waking moment, indeed her every thought. Two days went by, then three. Oh, what was to become of little Baby Sally, so completely forgotten and left all alone? No one to care for her, no one to see that she was held and rocked and loved. Then one Saturday, as Jessie was cleaning up her room, she came across Baby Sally, where she had fallen to the floor and been shoved carelessly under the bed. "Oh, Baby Sally! I had forgotten all about you!" She picked her up from the pile of toys and brushed at her hair and clothes. "I'll sit you up on my shelf with all my other baby dolls. You'll look so pretty sitting next to Baby Suzy." Then she gently placed the doll on the shelf above her bed with the others in Jessie's doll collection.

Rodeos and Fireworks: An American Tradition

2008-07-13T21:19:00.000-07:00

For the Fourth of July we decided to go to the Folsom Rodeo. It's been a few years since we went, but we enjoy it and the fireworks are usually good. Besides, we thought it would be fun to see what Dallas, our resident boot-lovin' cowboy, would think of all the cowboys and horses and such. Kathy, Craig and the boys joined us and we had a great time. To be honest, the cowboy skills weren't that great that night, but we did see some good stuff. The mutton bustin' was the best part. Those kids were great. We asked Dallas later if he wanted to try that next year (all the participants were 5 or 6), but he decided he would rather tie up the calfs. And he didn't think he would want to try to ride a bull like Uncle Brent either. (One of the days we'll have to get Presley, Logan, and Dallas all together in their cowboy duds for a photo session. Uncle Brent could join them I guess, since he's the closest we have to a 'real' cowboy!lol) Anyways, back to the rodeo. They had a really cool flag presentation where a guy parachutes in with a humongo flag to the music of "I'm proud to be an American." We enjoy that everytime. I got a video clip of it (I hope that wasn't 'illegal'!), and if I can post it, I will. (I haven't had any luck posting video clips yet. Suggestions anyone?) After all the dust of the rodeo had settled, we got to see a great fire works display upclose and personal. We were only a few rows away from the arena floor where they shot off the fireworks. By this time Kevin was sitting on the row in front of us with Denae. When the fireworks started with a very loud BANG, Denae started crying. I thought, oh no, another one who doesn't like the noise. (Delaney is just now growing out of that.) She cried until she got in my lap, at which point the tears ceased, she pointed at the fireworks and said, "Yook, Mama! I yike it!" This is being interpreted as "Look, Mama! I like it!" She then spent the rest of the show pointing out the bright bursts of lights and colors to me just in case I wasn't seeting them on my own! All in all it was great 4th of July!

Kids say the cutest things!

2008-07-12T18:24:00.000-07:00

Dallas about why he was so excited about the Family Fun Night hosted by Bible Quizzing; "Oh, yeah, and God is going to be there too!"

Denae's version of what a kitty cat says: "Memow."

Darilyn's main concerning when finding out my mom was in the hospital again: "Does Grandma's antibotics (her word) taste like bubble gum?"

Dallas on why he wants to quiz next year: "So I can get first place!"

Denae, after mommy told her to tell daddy 'I'm cute': "Mommy cute!"

Delaney's obeservation regarding losing some quizzes and then taking first at the last BQ tourney: "I guess Jesus was trying to show us that even if we lose some quizzes, we can still win." (This comment struck me as kind of funny, but true, too. Even if we lose some, whether it be in a game or any part of life, including our spiritual life, if we keep playing, living, or doing our best, we can (and WILL) still win in the end. Even kids can have profound thoughts sometimes!)

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

I am proud to be an American raising American kids. God bless America!

One Way Street

2008-06-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

Kevin called yesterday afternoon about three with this spur-of-the-moment idea: Let's take the kids to see One Way Street tonight. They were doing a show at CLC in Stockton. So, we did and it was great! The puppets were really fantastic and we got some great ideas for our own "idea files." The best part though was seeing how much the kids enjoyed it. As soon as the puppets came out, Denae started pointing and saying "puppet!" She danced around in the pew to the music and waved her hands when the puupets would. Dallas' favorite part was the big huge "body" puppets that they used with the black lights, especially two that sang and danced at the same time. He said they were like twins. The girls liked the puppet shows that played on the the screen. Their was a really neat mix of screen shows, black lights, music and singing, and puppet/puppeteer interaction. Totally cool!

All Done!

2008-06-16T20:32:00.000-07:00

The girls finished learning all of their verses on Saturday. Yea! Now we just have to get them down enough to reference. They can reference 164 verses. The last 20, from Eph 6, they haven't started referencing yet, although they can quote them in backwards order, from verse 20 to verse 1. Tomorrow we'll mix that chapter up seperatley and by the end of the week, the last chapter will be in our reference stack with all the other verses. They enjoyed learning this chapter, especially about the armor of God.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-14T17:59:00.000-07:00

I have been so blessed to have wonderful men in my life that true examples of what it means to be Godly men.

First of all, Happy Father's Day, Kevin! You are such a great husband, daddy, provider, and leader of our home. You work so hard and do everything you can to take care of us and allow me to stay at home with the kids. Thank you for that. You take time to be with kids, whether its all together for a game of softball in the backyard or wrestling on the living room floor, or for special one on one times for a trip to Costco, to go get donuts, or even to go to work with you. You make each one of the kids feel so special and loved. We love you and appreciate you.

Also, Happy Father's Day to my daddy, the best Daddy and Poppa ever!! You have always been my rock, my hero. You were there for me when I was growing up and provided a safe haven during the rocky times. I remember playing ball with you in the front yard and the game where we would throw the ball over the roof of the house. I know that things would get tough sometimes, but we kids never knew it. As a young lady, you taught me what it meant to be treated like a lady and I knew to never, ever except less than the best. You were like a guard dog when it came to the guys, and I thank you for that. Now, you still do everything you can to take care of your kids and grandkids and we appreciate it. I love to watch you play with my kids the way you used to play with me. I know I can always count on you when I need I help. I guess I'll always be your "baby girl." We love you!

To my father-in-law, Happy Father's Day! You are a great dad and dad-in-law. We always know who to call when something breaks and needs fixed. You love your grandkids to a distraction and they return the favor by adoring you. You taught Kevin how to be a man and his loyalty, work ethic, and rock-solid faith are a direct result of your influence in his life. Thank you and we love you.

To Brent, Paul, and Craig: Happy Father's Day! Hope you have a great day! You are all great Dad's raising great kids. Kevin and I have learned a lot about parenting by watching each of you with your families. We are blessed to have such wonderful men our families training up our nieces and nephews.

Summer Bible Quizzing Tournament

2008-06-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

Last weekend the Rock Church hosted the Summer Tournament for Apostolic Bible Quizzing. We had a great time and saw some awesome quizzing. I kept score for Beginners most of the time, so I didn't get to see much of the Juniors or Seniors, but my goodness, those little quizzers can quiz up a storm! They started the morning with a warm-up game similar to Musical Chairs involving all of the quizzers. It was a lot of fun and the quizzers really seemed to enjoy it. While we watched the quizzers march around the table, I looked down and Denae was marching around the judges table all by herself. Monkey see, monkey do hehe!

I was really proud of Darilyn this tournement. She, for the first time in her 2 years of quizzing, was on the All Tournament Team. She was 5th highest scorer and received her "very own" trophy. She has worked so hard at memorizing her verses and has really improved in her quizzing this year. But, since she is one of the youngest quizzers, it can be hard to compete with the older ones. Against other quizzers her age, around 5 and 6, she can hold her own, but when she's put against the 8, almost 9, year olds, she gets a bit intimidated. So, for her to get a trophy is a real accomplishment and we are very proud of how well she is doing. Delaney was 2nd highest scorer, with Karlee beating her out for 1st again. Karlee sure keeps Delaney on her toes! The girls ended up with 1st place, after losing to two of the teams in the Round Robin. They came back in the championship round to win all their quizzes, all though there were some close calls.

I just want to say, I am very proud of how well ALL of the quizzers are doing. What they say is true: Everyone in Bible Quizzing is a winner. When you think about what all it takes for a child to take the time to memorize 184 verses in just a few months, it really is amazing. And for those who maybe get behind and haven't quiet memorized them all, well, even half the number of verses is more than most adults take the time to learn. Way to go, Quizzers! Just one more tournament for our Beginners! You can do it! (Check out the side bar under quizzing to see the girls progress in memorization)

On a side note, Christian and Austin and their team captian Audie took first in Juniors, with Chrirstian geting 4th on the All Tournament Team and Austin tying for 1st. Great Job, guys!

Check back after July 19th to see how Sacramento does at the Regional Finals!

Born Negotiator

2008-06-14T09:26:00.000-07:00

Dallas went to work at the greenhouse today with Kevin. He always enjoys working with his Daddy and Kevin can usually find him things to do to keep him occupied. Today he asked Dallas if he wanted to clean out weeds from under the plant benches. Usually Dallas would jump at the chance to be a "working man," but today he said no, he didn't want to do that. Well, Kevin knows that normally the girls and Dallas love the chance to make a little money, and they usually get a little bit for doing extra things like that, so Kevin told Dallas he would pay him if he pulled the weeds. Dallas, immediately, without even thinking about it asked, "A hundred dollars?" Then he began to negotiate down how much he had to do. "I'll just pull the big weeds okay?" Definitely Kevin's son, already learning how to negotiate a job to get paid more for doing less lol!

Some More Pics

2008-06-11T18:14:00.000-07:00

Denae brushing her teeth. She really likes to do this herself, but of course, Mommy gets a turn, too!

Pretty little Angel

What a hansome guy!

My little Lady is growing into a "young lady."

The Princess, so pretty in pink.

Kids, kids, and more kids!

2008-06-11T18:09:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, June 3, Elle and Ashley came over to stay with us for a little while. The kids really had a good time playing together. At the end of the day, they all decided Elle was going to live with us and Dallas was going to go and live with Elle's brothers. He really enjoys playing with Levi and Myles. Here are a few pics of their day with us. Denae is sitting on my lap as I type this, pointing to the pictures and saying, "Ahsee, Iwanna see Ashee."

Snaggle Tooth

2008-06-11T18:06:00.001-07:00

Delaney lost another tooth. Now she doesn't have her two front teeth. Of course, she'll get them in way before Christmas, so I guess she won't be singing that song come December.

Darilyn's Kindergarten Graduation

2008-06-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

The day after the zoo field trip, we had Darilyn's kindergarten graduation. It was really cute. We had it in the classroom with the other 8 kindergarteners and Ms. Askins even let Delaney stay with us. The kids sang a few songs. Darilyn got to do a special part at the end of one of the songs, and that was the high light of her day, I think. The kids then each got a diploma from the teacher. Then it was time for doughnuts and juice. What could be more fun than that? Funny thing is, we got up extra early that morning and took the kids for doughnuts as a special treat for Darilyn's big day. Of course they were all able to eat one more. We wouldn't want to waste an oppurtunity for eating sugar!

Trip to the Zoo

2008-06-11T17:29:00.000-07:00

Darilyn's class went on a trip to the zoo the day before the last day of school. (That last week was a doozy between fieldtrips for both girls and pizza parties and holidays!) I was able to attend as a chaperone and really enjoyed it. Thanks Kim for watching Dallas and Denae so I could go!!We were able to see everything except the repitile house. The kids were disappointed about that, but had a good time anyways.

Our favorite exhibit was the penguins. They were so cute! We went to see them first and had a hard time getting the kids to leave. And then, they wanted to go back at the end, even though we didn't have time to. We always enjoy going to the zoo and hopefully I can take Dallas and Denae soon. (I've heard rumors that Zoo Train's last class might be at the zoo. How fun would that be?!)

It's been a while since I posted, so . . .

2008-06-11T17:22:00.000-07:00

First of all, thank you to everyone who has praying for my mom. She went home today after being in the hospital for a week and a half. We are very thankful to God for touching her body and trust that He will keep helping her to heal and adjust. These kisses are for you, Mom!

I promise I will get back on track and try not to neglect my blog anymore. I really enjoy keeping track of my kids accomplishments this way. It gives me a chance to sit down and think about all the wonderful ways in which they are changing and growing up everyday. Normally just being a mommy doesn't give me too much time to sit and ponder, but having this outlet gives me a reason to do just that. So, if I am goint to get any of my updates posted today, I better get started!

World Class Families

2008-05-31T16:51:00.000-07:00

Awesome, awesome, awesome! That is the only way to describe todays World Class Families seminar for the ladies. So many timely things were said that I can't even begin to type them all here. To sum it up, I guess I would say we as mothers and wives need to spend time with our children, pray without ceasing, and devour the Word of God like never before. The ladies that serve as our examples at the Rock Church are World Class to be sure, and their leadership is unparalleled. Thank you Sis. Wilson and Sis. Young for your burden for our families and your committment to seeing the women of TRC become the BEST moms and wives in the World!

After a wonderful Holy Ghost filled first session with a question and answer panel and of course the great and inspired teaching of Sis Wilson, we had lunch out in front of the church by the fountain. The sunshine and fellowship were a great way to spend some time with fellow mommies sans kids. Then we reconvened to hear awesome teaching by Sis Young and breakout Q and A groups geared towards grandparenting, parenting boys, parenting girls, single moms, and homeschool moms. We could leave and join the groups throughout the time in order to hear advice and get answers on any of the subjects we needed. I started with the girl group lead by Sis Patty Felt. I heard some great ideas on spending time with daughters, encouraging daddy/daughter time, creating special memories and traditions, how to approach "the birds and the bees", and how to foster a child's independence. I then went to the boy group lead by Sis. Sargent and Sis Jill Lewis. There were many great ideas about how to encourage your boy to be independent, how to plan time for Dad and his son, and how to face those hard dating years.

All in all it was definitely World Class. We are taking a break for the summer, but I know I speak for many, many other ladies when I say I can't wait for the next one and I will spend my summer making those connections with my kids like Sis. Young suggested. Our kids and families are worth ever bit of hard work and sacrifice that we give and the love and devotion and satisfaction that we receive back are immeasurable.

Celebrating Denae's Birthday

2008-05-27T13:05:00.000-07:00

For Denae's Birthday, we decided to take her to a resteraunt with a playland. We don't do that very often, so we thought that she would enjoy it. We ended up getting free milkshakes because the meal took a little longer to arrive, so we did her cake the next evening after dinner. We got her a 10 inch bike with training wheels and she loves it. She can't make it go yet, but she sure enjoys getting pushed places and climbing off and on.

Here's the Birthday Girl!

Blowing kisses for the camera

Playing at the Chick-fil-a play land

We have to stay INSIDE the play equipment

Hi, Mom!

Delaney posing in front of the wacky mirror!
Wee! This is fun!!

MMM, this milkshake is good!

Having cake at home (the next day!)
She blew out the candles all by herself!

Enjoying her cake and ice cream

Time to open presents!
Wow! A giftcard to the Children's Place!!(Mommy's favorite kind of gift!)
Money! More favorite gifts!

On my brandnew Princess Bike!

What a great birthday!!!

She also got two new pairs of sandals. One pair is disney princess and lights up which she wears all the time. Another gift is still on the way. She is having the never-ending birthday!!!

Another trip to the ER

2008-05-27T12:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, for all those wondering what this picture is about: This is what Dallas and I did Saturday night, May 17. I was giving him a quick shower before bedtime when he slipped and fell, busting his chin open. (I was holding his arm, but the fall happened so quickly I couldn't catch him.) We then spent a couple of hours in ER waiting to get it stitched up. So much for getting to bed at a decent time on Sat night! He was a real trooper. He cried when he first fell, but then didn't cry when they looked at it and cleaned (irrigated) it. He did however scream and required 3 people to hold him still when the 'numbing' shots were given. Apparently that medicine really burns. After a few minutes he was fine and laid perfectly quiet and still while they gave him 5 stitches. His eyes, into which I stared for this entire procedure, still told of the trauma, however, all red-rimmed and full of betrayal. And I was still shaking from the screaming episode even when it was all over with. All's well that ends well, though, and his stitches were removed last Friday, with none of the drama and fanfare. The NP even gave him the stitches to bring home in a little plastic container.

Happy Birthday, Little Angel!

2008-05-16T13:11:00.000-07:00

Denae Alysse, my little angel. You have brought so much joy to your mommy and daddy. You are definitly the "baby" of the bunch, and you learned early on how to get what you wanted. You are our Diva. You make us laugh with your silly antics and you love to be the center of attention at home. With others, you can play hard to get, but you still manage to wrap everyone around your finger. You are precious and precocious, a bundle of joy and of energy. I love it when you snuggle close with your blanket, but those moments are getting more scarce as you have discovered your 'independence.' I enjoy watching you play with your brother and sisters. You just know you are big enough to do everything they do. You already figured out how to drive the Gator and are getting frustrated by those 2 wheel bikes that just won't stay up. You would play outside all day if you could. That comes from your "country" roots. Your imagination is really delveloping and you are a wonderful 'mommy' to your babies. You love to sing and will sing along even when you have never heard the song before. You love to pray. The other night in church, during alter call, you laid under the pew talking for a few minutes, then told me you "talk 'a Jesus." I am so grateful that God has already placed a desire in your heart for a relationship with Him. As the years go by, faster and faster all the time, I am amazed to see how much you have already changed from a baby into a "little girl." I know I still have many years to enjoy your childhood, and I plan to do just that, but oh, somedays I wish I could hold you a little longer, even as you wiggle down to play. What a great life you have ahead of you. Your mommy is so grateful to get to go on that journey with you. We love you bunches and bunches, Little Angel.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T01:00:00.000-07:00

I want to wish a happy Mother's Day to 2 very special ladies in my life.

First, my mom, Kathy McDaniel. You are the best mother I could ever have asked for. You have been my encourager, my confidant, my inspiration, and my friend. I really could not say enough to thank you for all you have done for me, from giving me life, raising me in the truth, caring for me, teaching me as only a mother can, and guiding me while letting me test my wings. And now that I am married with children of my own, you are a wealth of knowledge and support, someone I know will be there when I need someone to talk to, no matter what. You are always willing to do what ever you can to help me and knowing that you are there has been a comfort more times than I can count. Thank you for loving me and showing me what it really means to be an awesome mother and a Proverbs 31 woman. I love you, Mom! Wish I could be with you on Mother's Day, but I guess I'll have to wait a few more weeks to see you!

The second lady I would like to honor is my mother-in-law, Karen Reighard. You are a wonderful mother-in-law. Thank you for accepting me into the family when I married your son and moved out here. You really did believe that you did not lose a son but gained a daughter. Thank you for doing such a great job in raising Kevin. He is a wonderful husband and father and a great man. I know the work of a mother is never done and that even when kids reach adulthood a mother's love is still hard at work. Thank you for including me in that love. I love and appreciate you, Mom!

And to all moms, have a blessed and happy day. Enjoy the family God has given you and relish the time spent together. Have a very Happy Mother's Day!

Bible Quizzing Progress

2008-05-09T20:14:00.000-07:00

Wow! Have you checked the girls' progress on Bible Quizzing lately? It is on the sidebar with the cute picture of them wearing quiz shirts when they were 2 and 3. We are already gearing up for the Finals Warm-ups tournament to be held here at the Rock Church June 6 & 7. The girls are in the home stretch of learning all their verses this year. They have 9 more verses to learn to qualify for this next tournament, so we will finish up Tuesday I think. But looking at the bigger picture, they are 40 verses away from having memorized all their material for this year! And they can reference it all, too. We are so proud of how hard they are working.

We also started doing one time words with them. The Beginners will start having questions about that this next tournament. Questions like "Abba. Quote the verse of study that contains this word." Or the question might ask them to locate the verse instead. Last night I played a game with them for the one time words. We used Monopoly money and they got $10 when they got one right, or they paid me $5 if they missed it. Then the other player would have the chance to earn $1 if they could answer it. That's what they are playing in the above picture. Darilyn was concentrating on locating a one time word. Delaney won by a little bit, but both of the girls had over $300 in Monopoly money by the time we were done with one page of our one time words.

They also did very well at practice on Wednesday night. Kevin has told them that whoever quizzes out or scores over 100 pts for the night can pick out ice cream to bring home after practice. And if one of them does both, then that one gets to pick out any of the "frozen novelties" in the ice cream department. (Dallas and Denae love this arrangement, too. lol) Well, Wed night, both girls got to bring home something special. Delaney played in 3 quizzes and scored 420 total pts and quizzed out 3 times that night. And Darilyn played in 5 quizzes, scoring 500 total pts and quizzing out 3 times. I guess they had to start subbing her in at the middle of the quiz. Of course it was only practice, but it was really good for Darilyn to realize that she really does know the answers.

Anyways, the girls have worked hard and are excited about Grandma and Poppa being here for the next tournament to watch them quiz. I am too!

To All Moms Everywhere

2008-05-07T10:06:00.000-07:00

I saw this on Katie's website and thought I would share it with all the moms outthere.

Updates

2008-04-25T21:06:00.001-07:00

I haven't posted a lot recently about the happenings around our house and life, so I thought I would lump everything together in this post.

A couple of weekends ago the girls went with Kevin down to Ontario, CA for a Bible Quizzing tournament. Kevin was able to coach the girls team and they ended up taking 2nd with Delaney being the 2nd highest scorer on the all tournament team. All of the Sac teams did extremely well, but as I wasn't there I do not have any pics to post. If you click on the link for Apostolic Bible Quizzing you should be able to find results and pics of this tournment soon.

Denae is really enjoying her Kindermusik class taught by her Aunt Kathy. Dallas likes it to, but technically it's not for his age group although he does participate.

Denae also has enough hair to put in a ponytail now. This picture doesn't show it very well since the bow is about as big as her head, but it's a cute bow so I posted it, lol!

The other day, when taking Denae out of the truck, I noticed a yellow jacket on a little nest on the truck door where in where it closes. I had to take some pics because Delaney wouldn't get close enough to see it, although the other kids did. Kevin took care of it for us and we were soon on our merry way, but the kids thought it was kind of cool and wanted me to share it on the blog.
Thank goodness for zoom!

The rest of the pics are just random pictures I have taken of the kids. Hope you enjoy!

Denae and Dallas during alter service. Not praying yet, but oh so close!!

Denae cheesing for the camera last night. She wanted me to keep taking her picture while she hammed it up for the camera. She must be taking after Dallas, as you can see in the picture below. lol
Darilyn showing her beautiful smile. She is such a cutie.

Delaney's big news is she lost another tooth! This one on top. Nolan and Krista were over last night and he ended up pulling it for her. She must have really healthy gums, because it was a tough one to pull, even though it was almost falling out. Thank goodness Nolan kept her laughing.

By the way, as a side note, Nolan ships out to Iraq in just a few days, so keep him in your prayers!!

I also have some video clips I have taken of Denae driving the battery powered Gator and of kindermusik, but everytime I try to upload them to the blog, it never finishes loading. I will try to figure this out since I know Grandma and Poppa would love to see some clips of the kids.

Happy Belated Birthday, Austin!

2008-04-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

Austin turned 10 on Monday, so Happy belated B-day, Austin! Austin is becoming quite the young man. He is a great Bible Quizzer and has taken top honors in recent tournaments, including the highest scoring individual at our tournament in February. He excels at school and does extremely well in the Boys club sports playoffs. We are proud of you, Austin, and look forward to all the great things God has in store for you! Love ya bunches!

Funny Home Remedies

2008-04-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

Our cousin Delinda sent us these very funny 'home remedies.' They made me laugh, so I thought I would share them all my blogging friends. And just in case any of those people whom warning labels were created for happen across my blog and read this post:

WARNING: DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME!!!

This blog and writer will not be held responsible for any injury and/or other problems caused by someone actually doing one of the below suggestion that were just meant for laughs, including someone dying laughing at the misfortune of the unfortunate one who does one of the below suggestions that was just meant for laughs.

AMAZINGLY SIMPLE HOME REMEDIES

1. If you are choking on an ice cube simply pour a cup of boiling waterdown your throat. Presto! The blockage will instantly remove itself.

2. Avoid cutting yourself slicing vegetables by getting someone else tohold while you chop.

3. Avoid arguments with the Mrs. about lifting the toilet seat by usingthe sink.

4. For high blood pressure sufferers: simply cut yourself and bleedfor a few minutes, thus reducing the pressure in your veins. Rememberto use a timer.

5. A mouse trap, placed on top of your alarm clock, will prevent youfrom rolling over and going back to sleep after you hit the snoozebutton.

6. If you have a bad cough, take a large dose of laxatives, then you'll be afraid to cough.

7. You only need two tools in life--WD-40 and duct tape. If itdoesn't move and should, use the WD-40. If it shouldn't move and does,use the duct tape.

8. Remember: Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.

Daily thought: SOME PEOPLE ARE LIKE SLINKIES. NOT REALLY GOOD FORANYTHING BUT THEY BRING A SMILE TO YOUR FACE WHEN PUSHED DOWN THESTAIRS.

Hope this brought a smile to your day. Remember, laughter burns calories and smiling causes less wrinkles than frowning!

Denae praying

2008-04-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

Last night, Denae did the most precious thing. After church, the kids all had a snack and were put to bed. I layed Denae in bed with me while I read for a bit and Kevin finished up some paperwork for his job. She tossed and turned and layed on me, crawling all over the bed while singing and talking to herself. She finally laid still and started singing a song I couldn't recognize, but after a few minutes I realized she wasn't singing. She was talking. So I listened for a minute. She kept saying, "Jesuh, Jesuh," which is being interpretted, "Jesus." I looked over at her and she was laying on her back with her hands clasped in front of her face, praying. I began to listen and watch to see what she would do. Sometimes she lifted her hands, other times she covered her face, but the whole time she was praying. I wasn't able to understand it all, but I did catch "Jesus," "Dallas be a good boy," (a frequent prayer in our house when praying with the kids!), "Momma" and "Daddy." She also said, "N-n-n-n-nobody," which is part of a song the kids sang in choir Sunday that Denae picked up on and likes to sing. (Who is like the Lord? Nobody! Who is like the Lord? N-n-n-n-nobody!) After a few minutes she got quiet and her eyelids began to droop. Soon she was fast asleep. Denae prayed herself to sleep! I thought this was so precious. Jesus adnonished us to become as little children for such is the kingdom of God. I can just imagine Him smiling down on Denae as she prayed in her own way until she fell asleep. Sweet dreams little one!

Spring School Pictures

2008-04-15T13:33:00.001-07:00

Okay, help me out here. I can curl my daughters' hair on Sat night for Sunday church and have curls that make it through two services, naps, school on Monday (including recess) and the various hairdos involved with these multiple activities. However, on school picture day, I curl the girls' hair the night before and fix it so cute for the pics and the curl doesn't even last until pic time. Of course, on this day they had to run laps for PE time before the pics. Hello! Does anyone understand this mystery? Oh well, the pics still turned out cute, but the cute curly hairdo was loong gone!

Family "Church"

2008-04-07T21:45:00.000-07:00

Every Monday night we have family time of prayer and Bible reading with a lesson. About a month ago Kevin and I decided to start making this time even more "kid friendly" by having some type of object lesson or experiment or activity to reinforce the Bible truth for the night, kind of like a mini kids church. We thought it would give us a great opportunity to try out ideas we have read or seen on our kids so when the door opens for the childrens' evangilism we have praying about, we will have had all kinds of hands on experience. So far we have found out that balloons with water won't pop when over a flame (like being filled with the Holy Ghost helps us endure the fire of temptation), that even a small force will make a big difference on a pendelum, no matter how heavy the weight (like our prayers can move mountains), and that a small strand can bind us up if we get wrapped up in it enough times (like bad habits or sins) and that small strands can also be used to make strong ropes that help us (like good habits and prayer). Soon we are going to add some puppets to our family church night. But anyways, the kids LOVE it so far!! They talk about it all week and remind us all day on Monday that "Tonights our family church!" Tonight we played a hide and seek game with the kids and taught about the lost coin, lamb, and the prodigal son. Then we spent time in prayer. We have been following the Lord's prayer since our time of focus on that as a church in January. It has really helped the girls in learning how to pray. Well, tonight God just reached down and touched us as a family and we had an awesome prayer meeting with the kids! We even had some Holy Rolling going on. Oh wait that was Dallas rolling around on the floor. Well, we can always hope lol! Dallas did really get into his praying before his holy rolling started. He was sitting on our fireplace hearth rocking back and forth and hitting the ground with his fist. I wish I would have got a video clip of it, but I was praying with Darilyn at the time. We ended with Dallas in Kevin's lap and my arms around the Delaney and Darilyn praying for family unity, etc. Denae was there too, and soon she pushed between the girls to bury her head against me, and the girls put there arms around her. It was so sweet and precious. What a great way to end a prayer meeting.

Happy Birthday, Christian!

2008-04-05T09:54:00.001-07:00

Wow, Birthdays are abounding in our family! My oldest nephew turns 12 years old today, so Happy Birthday, Christian! He is officially in the youth group now, so the DRAMA can begin! Anyone who has ever been part of youth group knows what I'm talking about! Christian is a great kid and we hope he has an awsome birthday! Below is a picture of Christian with his 1st place team trophy and his all tournament team trophy from the first ever Apostolic Bible Quizzing tournament held in Feb of this year. Congratulation to him and his brother for their great achievements. We look forward to seeing the awesome things that God is going to do with Christian's life!

Happy Birthday, Logan!

2008-04-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Logan! You turn 3 years old today! That is so exciting, although Dallas keeps reminding me that he is bigger than you, since he turned 4. We love you bunches. Have fun in Branson! Wish we could be there with you. Give baby Jaci a little kiss from us and tell her that her Meme and Uncle Kev and the kids love her very much, too.

Happy Easter!

2008-03-26T20:16:00.001-07:00

Belated Birthday Wishes

2008-03-18T15:27:00.001-07:00

This is a late happy birthday wish for my nephew Presley. He turned 5 on March 8 and I haven't yet posted a Happy Birthday to him. So, Presley, from your family in CA, Hope you had a great 5th birthday. From the looks of the pics on your mom's blog, you did! We love you very much and are excited about all the great things in store for you, like Kindergarten! Yea!

No Limits

2008-03-15T23:28:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted for a few days, but I did want to add a bit about No Limits. The services were wonderful! I don't have time to post a lot of details, but suffice it to say that once again God met with His people in an awesome way! Many ministers were ordained on Friday night through Reach World Wide Inc. And on Thursday night I lost count of how many people pledged support to local ministers in Africa. It was one of those nights that touches the heart in a way that will not soon be forgotten.

These are a couple of pics of the kids at the service the last night of No Limits. The girls all match in the dresses we made. Dallas was being onery and wanted to pose silly in all of the pics I took of him. I finally gave up getting the "perfect" picture. With him, you get what you get! By the way, he is holding a "gold nugget" he received in Children's Church. He was very proud of that!

Dallas' Fourth Birthday Party

2008-03-09T10:04:00.000-07:00

We had such a good time Saturday night. Kevin's mom and dad, Kathy and Craig and the boys, and Carlos and Denise and the kids came over for Dallas' late B-day party. We had hot dogs, Dallas' food of choice, with chips and salas, another of Dallas' favorites. The kids played baseball and we all wore fire men hats to go with the theme. It was great! Enjoy the pictures!

Darilyn gets the Holy Ghost!

2008-03-05T10:13:00.000-08:00

Last night, while studying our Bible Quizzing verses, the girls and I took time out for a prayer meeting to address some attitude issues we were having. We began to pray, asking for God to help us learn His word and to help us keep a right attitude. Then we turned our prayer to the upcoming No Limits, asking God to touch us in a special way at the conference. I prayed special prayers for each of the kids, and as a mother will when praying for her kids, I tapped into Holy Ghost in a powerful way. The girls are very tender towards God and His moving, so they began to cry and call out to Him. Delaney started speaking in tongues and I encouraged her to let God touch her in a special way. Darilyn began to sob and pray for the Holy Ghost. Delaney and I prayed for her and when God began to touch her, I called Kevin on the phone (he was out of town for work). With her daddy praying for her over the phone, and her mom and sister praying for her, Darilyn 's lips began to stammer and she started speaking in tongues! It was so awesome to feel the spirit of God intensify in our living room as Darilyn got the Holy Ghost. What an awesome night! God touched both of the girls in an awesome way. When we were done, Denae, who watched the prayer meeting while destroying a magazine, came over to me and buried her face in our ottoman and started 'praying.' She then stood up and looked at me so I put my hand on her head and raised her hand and prayed for her. She raised her other hand and stood smiling so happy to get prayed for. I guess it is all about training our children in the ways of God. What precious memories.
Look at that happy face with the Holy Ghost glow

So happy to get prayed for

Revival in Oakland

2008-03-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

We just got an e-mail from a precious friend of ours in Oakland, a saint at Oakland Tabernacle, that one of the young boys who comes on the 'bus' ministry was baptized! He is a year older than Delaney, I think. He and younger sister (by about 1 year) have been coming faithfully since the outreach ministry started when we were there, 3 summers ago. His sister is getting baptized this coming Sunday. It is so awesome to see God reach into the hearts of these hungry children and change their lives so drastically. We are still praying for their mom, Star. She has been a faithful supporter from the beginning. In fact, she was one of the reasons we were able to start our outreach in her community. She would come every Sunday with the kids and wouldn't take any of their shenanigans. I can still hear here telling them to "leave that in the 'hood" when the kids would start to fight or behave in an inappropriate way. She many times would stay for church after Sunday School was over and was touched time and time again. She has had a tough life and many wounds and scars that need healed, but our God is big enough, strong enough, loving enough, caring enough to get the job done. Keep Star and her kids in your prayers. God has big things in store for this lady and her family, and I have a feeling it won't be long before we begin to see the enormous impact one firecracker of lady can have on her community when she lets God have His way.

Flower Bouquet

2008-03-05T09:48:00.000-08:00

We have been having such great weather lately and the kids have been enjoying their break from school the last couple of weeks by playing outside as much as possible. They go back this Friday, so this week was the "last hurrah." Yesterday they suprised me by bringing me a plastic wheel barrow full of flowers from our yard and trees. They were so happy with what they had found and wanted me to enjoy it as much as they did. I put a few in a vase and the little ones I put in a bowl. Darilyn's favorites are the little purple ones. She likes how they smell. What a sweet surprise and great way to enjoy a little of the wonderful spring weather inside. I suppose you could say that this was a great reminder for me to stop and smell the roses, I mean flowers. We have been pretty busy lately with getting the quizzing thing off the ground along with other of life's responsibilities, but taking time to enjoy the flowers with my kids and appreciate their beauty and the beautiful spirits of my kids was just what I needed to put it all in perspective.

New Post!! Yea!

2008-03-03T15:55:00.000-08:00

Okay, Okay. I know it has been a while since I posted. That's 10 lashes with a wet noodle for me! So, since my mom mentioned it, I am posting pictures from the tournament the girls went to 2 weekends ago. It was the first tournament of the year for this BQ season. And the first evern tournament for Apostolic Bible Quizzing. It went really really well. Kevin, Phillip Booker, and the others he works with did a great job getting it all together. I know first hand how much work went in to it and let me say how much I appreciate all they did to ensure that the kids have a first rate quiz program. So, hope you enjoy all the pictures.

Part of the group waiting for orientation to start.

Delaney, Darilyn and Kenydee
Waiting for quizzing to start on Sat. am
Looking at pics on Kim's camera
Delaney, Isabelle, and Darilyn listen to Bro. Horton
Delaney bringing me a scoresheet to put in the computer.

Denae sitting with our friend Mike

Dallas, Darilyn, and Denae with Mike

Delaney on the All Tournament Team

Flower Girls

2008-02-19T13:30:00.000-08:00

Delaney and Darilyn were in their first wedding this past weekend. They were flower girls along with another little friend of theirs. Excitement ran hight this week as we finished up the dresses and got ready for the "big day." They really had fun and did a good job too. And they looked just beautiful in their dresses and head pieces.

Waiting to take pictures.

Darilyn, Scarlet, Delaney, and Isabelle

Beautiful Flower Girls

It's over!

Oh Happy Day!!

2008-02-13T20:12:00.001-08:00

Over a year ago we received a new computer. In the process of moving pics from our old computer, which was close to demise, to our new computer, I inadvertently lost several folders of my most important pics. These included when Dallas was born, his dedication, and 1st b-day, when Denae was born and her dedication, as well as some others, such as various Easters and vacations. I knew I had e-mailed pics to my mom and dad, but they had been unable to find them on their computer. So, as dissappointed as I was, I had to resign myself never seeing those pictures again except in the photo albums of my mind and heart. However, today, something wonderful happened! My mom found the pics on her computer!!! So to celebrate I have included some pics of Dallas' first b-day, which I was not able to put in his slide show. I will share some of the other "lost and found" pics later. Enjoy!

Yummy cake! He just digs right in!
Look at all that frosting in his hand!
All done! Now I rub the plate on my head!
Exhausted! We tried to wash the frosting out of his hair, but without shampoo at the church it was to no avail. It made a wonderful smelling hair gel though! lol

Happy Birthday, Dallas!

2008-02-13T14:58:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can't believe my little boy is turning 4 today! He is truly all boy, despite having 3 sisters. Yes, he does have his moments of wanting to play dolls with his sisters just to have someone to play with, but his toys of choice are cars, trucks, trains, and dinosaurs. He is really into firetrucks and other vehicles with sirens right now. He likes to ride his bike (no training wheels) and drive his John Deere Gator. Mud seems to attract him like a magnet, and keeping him cleaned up is a full time job. But, he also loves to wear suits and he cannot leave for church without his Bible. He still loves the drums and will use anything that remotely looks like a drumstick to play drums on any surface. Even at this age he can keep the beat. I guess that comes from being born in "the 'hood." lol Dallas, you are such a special treasure to Mommy and Daddy. You have been a joy and a blessing and a trial (lol) all wrapped up in one precious little boy. From the moment we knew you were on the way, we have loved you and that love has just grown as the years have passed by. Watching as you have followed after your sisters, and then as you began to do your own 'boy' stuff has been so fun. You are one tough little dude, thinking you big enough to do what the big kids do, but you are still ready to snuggle up with Mommy or Daddy at days end. We can't wait to see what all new things you will learn to do this year and we know that as the years pass by, God is going to do great things with your life. We love you bunches and bunches!!

Texas Time

2008-02-08T19:31:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have been wondering why I haven't posted anything new in a while, it is because I have been living in Texas Time! This past weekend I flew in to visit my family at my sister's home and church. I went to see my two new nieces, but in the process was able to surprise my sister! It was such fun! I took Denae with me and Kevin stayed behind with the other 3. I was only there over the weekend, and really wished my husband and kids could have come, but still had a GREAT time. We laughed and cried and sang and laughed and sang some more. And the kids played non-stop, although we did get them cleaned up and sitting still in time for church:) I do have to tell a funny story from the trip. We were out eating at a local Mexican food place, enjoying the fellowship, when we noticed a b-day party going on closeby. As we got up to leave, one of the ladies asked to take a picture of Denae. Her grandmother, the guest of honor really liked the outfit, etc. Well, we said sure. Before I knew waht was happening, we were all gathering around so we could give the 90 (or so) year old grandmother a "treat" (my dad's words!) We sang "Happy Birthday to You", and appartently no one had given any fore thought to what to call her in the song. We were all looking at each other as that line in the song got closer, then my Dad saved the day! "Dear Mama!" he sang and we all followed along. I guess he had heard them calling her that. Well they loved it! They laughed and took pictures and it was the birth of "The Singing McDaniel's"!! lol If you want to see at least a million pictures of this past weekend, then go to my sister's blog at www.pkthrasher.blogspot.com. She has done a wonderful job on some slideshows, and as I couldn't do any better, I thought I would let you enjoy her work:) I told you I would this, Mom!!lol

Kids sing the funniest things

2008-01-24T17:44:00.000-08:00

Today I heard Dallas singing a Christmas song in his room and it really struck me as funny. He was trying to sing "Felize Navidad." However, his version said "Alysse Mom and Dad." Too funny! And I was fixing Darilyn's hair for church the other night as she sang a worship chorus from our services. She loves to sing and was really 'feeling' the song. The song is "More of you, Jesus. More of your face. More of your glory in this place." Darilyn was singing with all her heart, "No other, Jesus. No other face. No other glory in this place." Well, I helped with the words and sang with her and we chuckled about the different words. She then explained, as only Darilyn can, how her words worked as well, because we don't want any other Jesus or his face or glory in church. That child like wonder and innocence is always refreshing.

Happy Birthday, Haley!

2008-01-20T19:30:00.000-08:00

My niece Haley celebrated her 12th birthday yesterday. She has always been so special to me. She is the one who gave me the name Meme. When she was a baby, she would say Mama for her mom, Katrinia, and Meme for Aunt Melissa. The name just stuck. I love you, Haley! You are turning into a beautiful and remarkable young lady. I can't wait to see what God has in store for your future, but I am also excited to see what God begins to do, and is even doing with you, now. By the way, now that you are 12, do you think your mom and dad would let you fly out and stay with me for a couple of weeks in the summer? lol That's a long way, but we would love to have you. Hope you had a GREAT birthday and we love you sooo much!!!

Denae

2008-01-16T00:04:00.000-08:00

Okay, I wanted to post an update on some of the new things Denae is doing. She still "talks" all the time, although not all her words are understandable. I think if I made a list of all the words I can understand, though, I would be surprised. She also has great use of her voice inflections. She can really carry on a conversation. You can tell when she is saying something she thinks is funny (Her eyes get all smiley and her voice kind of sounds like she is laughing) or when she is tattling (she sounds just like the bigger kids, whiney with her feelings hurt, only in 'another language' lol) And when she is mad, she definitely lets us know!! lol She also likes to sing. Her favorite right now is the ABC song. However, it is mainly just the tune, as I have not heard a recongnizable letter to date! Her other favorites, which I can pick out words in, are "Jesus loves me", "Who does Jesus love", and "The Bible," all from Sunday School. When she is singing, if I start to sing with her, her face just lights up like she is so happy I knew what she was saying. She also likes to do "Down, Down Baby" a hand clap game that my mom taught me and I taught my girls. Do you remember it, Mom or Trinia? Another funny thing about Denae is that she loves strawberry milk. All of my kids have always drank white milk, going to fat free as soon as they can. When they got older, I started giving chocolate milk as a treat, but only sometimes. I didn't want them to have to always have to have it flavored. Well, Denae is just like the rest; she will drink white milk. But recently, if she is by me when I pour her milk, she will get the strawberry syrup out of the fridge herself and give it to me. "Thes, Momma. Thes," she'll say. And then, when I put it in her sippy, she starts laughing and clapping her hands, dancing in a little circle. It is very cute! The other thing is, with in the last month or so, she has gotten attached to her blanket. She now tries to call it her blankie, but it sounds like she is saying mickey. The nice thing about it, though, is while one blanket is her main "mickey", pretty much any blanket will do. She's not picky, I guess. She really likes to copy her brother and sisters and will do pretty much whatever they do, from summersaults to dancing to "quoting" bible verses. She is also a big helper. If she knows we are getting ready to go "bye-bye", she'll start bringing everyone their coats and shoes, whether it's the ones we need or not, or whether we need them or not! Well, that's all I can think of right now. They just grow and change so quickly at this age. Everyday brings a new accomplishment for them and a new challenge for the moms! I wouldn't trade it for anything, except maybe a weekend spa treatment lol!