THE ROOM IS FINISHED!!

The masterpiece is finished -- completely finished!! Things put away, clothes are hung, diapers are stacked. . . just waiting on a baby! ;)

Here's the link to the pictures:

http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=fyhgbqj.9a96x9j3&x=0&h=1&y=760452


If you looked at them before, not much has changed. . bedding is in, mobile is attached, and things are put away -- for the most part. I had just gone shopping that day and that's why there's stuff on the changing table.

So, now it's the waiting game. Evan asks me every day when I'm going to go pick up our baby. Boy, I wish it was that easy!! ;)

The Golden Compass

I have received an e-mail about this movie several times over and I thought I would post on here. I haven't read the books and I haven't seen the movie, but from what I read, I think we should all be careful when considering taking our kids to see this movie. It comes out on December 7th and has been made to look like the Narnia series, but it is far from it.

I am going to do more research on the subject, but I plan on having something to hand parents about the movie on Sunday. I don't think we should be Christians who get a rise out of movies and get all crazy about boycotting them. I just think we need to be informed about movies -- especially ones that are directed at our kids.

So, here's a link that a children's church curriculum writer put together:
http://truthquest.net/newsletter/newsletter-goldencompass07.html

At the bottom of the article, there are different research places to see for yourself. This week I'm planning on researching this out.

Update & Fancy Bedding!!

Less than 3 weeks. . . . less than 3 weeks. . . . LESS THAN THREE WEEKS!!!!!!!

I can't believe it's less than 3 weeks!! I had a dr. appointment yesterday. I gained 3 pounds in 2 week -- yuck! He checked me and said I'm 1 cm dilated. That kind of freaked me out because I never dilated before going into labor with my other ones. I wasn't expecting that at all. But, it is nice that the contractions that I am having are doing some good! He also said he is really low and when it does happen, it should be quick. That was good news! Do you think I can hold him to that?! WOW! Less than 3 weeks!!

On another note, I ordered my crib bedding off of Ebay. It said it was 800 thread count Egyptian Cotton. I thought "OK, whatever". I thought the shipping was a little high ($45), but some people make their money on the shipping, so I didn't really think much about it. I just wanted plain navy bedding.

Anyway, the place sent me a tracking number and the shipping place was one I had never heard of, but it said in cooperation with UPS. So, I entered the tracking number to see where my package was and it said "Cairo Egypt"!! This bedding is REAL EGYPTIAN COTTON -- STRAIGHT FROM EGYPT!! I thought it would be weeks before I actually saw it, but the UPS man showed up on my doorstep today with it!! It was tightly bundled with this string and put in this envelope. It must have cost more to ship it in a box. Anyway, I cut away the string and this 5-piece bedding is all rolled up like a sleeping bag and VERY TIGHT!! I love it and it is very soft. Just can't believe my baby will be sleeping on 800 TC sheets!! I don't even have any of those!! ;)

My Favorite 4 Year Old

Photo Caption: Mom, take a picture of me working!

Ahhh. . . at this time 4 years ago, I was sitting in the hospital with our new bundle of joy. Who knew how much fun this kid would be?!?! Who knew how silly he would be? Who knew that he would be the king of goodbyes? Who knew this kid would be obsessed with Cars? Who knew he would love football so much? Who knew he would know names and numbers of NFL players? Who knew he would be such a people person? Who knew he would be so laid back and relaxed? Who knew how much he loves to have his picture taken or take random pictures himself? Who knew how much I would love this kid? Who knew how much I would love his personality? Who knew how much I would want to be more like him?

So, today as I celebrate my baby turning 4 years old, I am so thankful that he's my kid! I'm so thankful that I get to watch him grow up. I'm so thankful that he is my favorite 4 year old!!

Creativity

"You're so creative!" I've heard that several times over the last few weeks and I have to say that is my favorite compliment. . . not necessarily how good I look or how good my hair looks, etc, but that I'm creative. I love to be creative!

I have realized over the last month or so that if I can be creative for just one hour a day, it makes my day so much better! Sometimes I sit down and plan out some cards. Sometimes I have project going in my scrapbook closet and I leave it out where I can stop by and work on it for a few minutes at a time. Sometimes I find a creative tv show and sit for an hour or so soaking it up.

My favorite creative show lately has been "Ace of Cakes". These guys are AMAZING!! They make different cakes, but they aren't your everyday kind of cakes! The other night, they made a gumball machine cake and one lady was working on a Scrabble cake. I cannot even begin to describe how much these cakes looked like the real thing!! One night they made a cake for the 80th birthday of a guy who started a local hamburger joint a long time ago. So, they made him a cake that had a hamburger (no veggies because that's how he served them) and onion rings. They made this red basket thing with the paper underneath the hamburger. Again, I cannot tell you how real it looked when they were finished!!

The creative part isn't always how the cake is going to look, but how to make it look like whatever it is. The other night, one lady was working on a slot machine. She wasn't getting the look she was going for, so she had to go back to the "drawing board" and figure out how to make it bigger so that it looked more realistic -- problem solving -- another one of my sometimes favorite things to do.

Anyway, I went to a children's conference one time and they talked about creativity and how most people don't look at themselves as creative. But, the Bible says that God created us in HIS IMAGE and let me tell you, my God is CREATIVE! Just look around you. . . He made everything and no two things are alike!! How creative is that?!?

OK, so I'm off to be creative for an hour before my day really starts (aka when Evan gets up). I'm going to challenge you to do something creative today. . . get those creative juices flowing!! ;)

My Weekend

I can honestly say that I am really nesting!! Friday I was determined to get Jaxon's room pulled together before my shower. I started cleaning out that room/closet and by the end of the day, I had a mess from the back of the house to the front!! It was everywhere!! I did throw away 2 bags of trash and started on a third (sorry Becky. I told you I threw away 3). THREE BAGS OF TRASH IN MY HOUSE -- JUST TAKING UP SPACE!! WOW! That felt good!!

I cleaned up my scrapbook mess that was happening in my living room due to baby shower hostess gifts. I had my laundry piled HIGH on the couch. My house was a wreck!!

But, today it is all pulled together -- well, for the most part. My laundry is put away. My scrapbook stuff is put away for now. I cleaned out and reorganized the hall closet. Jaxon's room is mostly clean and my dishes are all done. Yes, I'm sure that I'm nesting!!

Monday, my plan is to attack my scrapbook closet. I know there are things in there I will never use and it's time for me to downsize a little bit!!

Aaron's at the World Series right now as I'm typing this. I'm watching on tv and I have to say that I'm almost a little jealous!! His brother caught a home run ball during batting practice and they were first in line to get into the stadium!! Aaron sent me a picture of him from his seat -- definitely nosebleed seats, but I am sure it is fun anyway!! Right now, they say it is 39 degrees in Denver . . maybe I'm glad I'm not there! ;)

My shower today was great!! I love a good theme party and it was all Dallas Cowboys!! Amy had a great idea to make a flower vase out of a football. They cut off one end and put some rocks in the bottom to help it stand up and they put flowers coming out of the top. It's too cute!! The whole thing was great. There weren't many people there, but I thought it was so much fun! We were able to sit around and talk about mommy inventions. Lots of things left to get for Jaxon, but that will be fun, too!!

Aaron's mom and sister took me to Sharky's tonight for dinner. It's been a few weeks since I've been in there and it was so good!! Aaron's mom wasn't all that impressed -- like mother, like son! We got it to go because my boys were with Joel and I was afraid they would come home, but her food got cold on the way home and it wasn't as good. I think she should give it another try at least!! ;) I sure enjoyed mine!!

I think that's all for my update of the weekend so far. Aaron's mom and sister are coming over after church tomorrow and the boys are going to paint some little piggy banks that Aaron's sister bought for them. Please pray for my boys! They are really missing their dad -- and I mean REALLY REALLY missing him!!

Dr. Appointment

Yesterday I went to the dr. for another ultrasound to see how big Jaxon is getting. I gained 6 pounds -- UGH! Anyway, Dr. A measured his head and the due date came up as October 27th!!! I thought it was a miscalculation, but Dr. A said, "Well, his head is larger than average." Great.

He measured his stomach and told me that that measurement would give us a good idea of how much he weighed right now. That measurement said he weighs 6 pounds 13 ounces -- RIGHT NOW!! I have 5 weeks left!! Dr. A said that since I'm tall, I'm more likely to have bigger babies. He is guessing that Jaxon will be between 8 1/2 pounds to 9 pounds!!

His leg measurements had due dates from November 2nd to November 17th. His heart was beating normal and it's definitely a boy -- no question about that!!

Now, I know women do it all the time. I know that Pam has done it every time and at home at that!! I don't know why, but the thought that Jaxon already weighs 6 lb 13 oz just flipped me out yesterday!! Dr. A said the ultrasound could be up to a pound off either way -- bigger or smaller and that Jaxon should gain between half a pound to a pound each week from here until the end. Payton was 8 lb 3 oz and Evan was 7 lb 11 oz induced 10 days early.

He was all bunched up, so we didn't get any pictures. He is head down and he has dropped, although he still feels like he's in my ribs. I'm not dilated at all, which was kind of nice to hear, but I sure wish these contractions I'm having were doing some good!!

Please Pray for Julian

This is a little boy I've "met" over the internet. He has the same cancer that my brother had. They thought it was in remission, but on Monday they found out that his cancer has returned. Of course there are several options for his parents. They meet with his head doctor on Thursday morning to discuss treatments. They are really leaning on God and believing, but I wanted to share this slide show to show this beautiful boy. Gosh! These pictures bring back memories of my own brother. WARNING: May cause tears to flow -- at least it did for me.






Makes the pinched nerve in my leg seem like nothing at all.

Yes, Jesus Loves Evan

Yesterday we went to look for some coats for the boys. They seemed to have a million and one coats last year, but they seem to have disappeared. Anyway, we found a Dallas Cowboys fleece pullover thing for Payton, but I didn't really want to spend $20 on that (although I know that's not a lot -- well, actually it is for a pullover).

Anyway, Evan kept telling me that he wanted a Chiefs coat. I kept wondering how we were going to find that in Texas without spending an arm and a leg for a coat he'll wear one year.

Anyway, last night Aaron told me to go to Goodwill this morning and see what I could find. We pulled in the parking lot and Evan asked why we were there. I told him we were looking for a coat and he said, "But remember, I want a CHIEFS coat."

We went in and were looking through the rack. I found a black and blue coat that was in good shape, but he wasn't having it. He wanted the CHIEFS. I went to the other side of the rack and look what I found:


He was so excited!! And it was only $3.24!! Yes, the sleeves are almost too short, but I just couldn't pass it up! He is SO proud of that thing!! I told him I had to wash it and he didn't want to take it off! I just kept laughing thinking that God cared whether Evan had that CHIEFS coat or not!!

The story behind the wall

I met this lady online on a scrapbooking board named Amanda. I was asking if anyone had some textured football paper. She did and through various e-mails, she asked me what I was going to do with it. I told her about my plans for Jaxon's room and the football field. She e-mailed back and said she had done a football field on her son's wall in the University of Alabama. I asked for help and she did that!! Her field looks AMAZING!!!

Anyway, we "talked" several times over e-mails about the room and how it was coming along. This week, she posted this post on the scrapbooking bulletin board:

First the not so good part: Friday I was told I probably had a brain tumor!

I was very scared. I am only 26 and have two children 3 and 1 year. This can't be happening to me.

So, today I went in for more testing.

We didn't tell but just my mom, my two BFFs, and my neighbor. Sunday in night church we had a missionary speak on how as Christians we say we believe in miracles but do we act like it? Do we believe that if we pray for someone they can be healed? At this point I was called out of service because Drew was crying in nursery. So when I came back in after the service was over Scott and my mom met me at the door to tell me I was healed.

Disclaimer: as a Christian I do believe in healing but I have always been weary of those preachers you see on t.v. that "heal" people on the spot. Now this guy dosen't speak to people before the service because he doesn't want to be accused of being a hoax. Someone who can talk to you, read your body language and then "heal" you. Please keep this in mind.

Back to the novel: So I thought they meant, yeah we got to believe I'm healed. Yadda, yadda, ya. But no. During the sermon he stopped and looked around the room. Then said there is a young mother here who has a brain tumor. She hasn't told many people but I am asking all of you to stop this service and pray with me that she will be healed. God has great and mighty things for her and she can't do them if she has this tumor. Although it is begining it still needs to be gone! So everyone, including my pastor whom we haven't told yet, is looking around trying to figure out who it is. They pray and go back to the sermon. At the end, he would call people out and say like sir in the yellow shirt, you have leukemia and you don't believe you will ever be healed from it. God just wants you to believe. Things like that. So I was the only one he didn't specifically call out, because I wasn't in there. After the sermon my mom told my pastor what was going on so they went and got me. As soon as I walked up to him he knew I was the one. He told me the same stuff he told everyone else and then a bunch of people gathered around and prayed for me.

Today, the doctor couldn't find the same stuff the first doctor did. They are redoing new bloodwork and I get another MRI Wed. But I know I was healed last night.

Please, do not think I am hookie or weird or anything. I don't go to a church where we play with snakes or anything. I go to a normal church where a wonderful Man of God came and REALLY did heal me through the grace of an everloving God.

I hope this doesn't offend anyone, but I wanted to share my news. I've heard of people saying they were healed but I've never actually "known" it to happen to someone I personally know or love. By the grace of God I will watch my children grow up. Thank you for reading this! I love you girls just like my own IRL BF (in real life best friends) and just wanted to share!

I am so excited for her. (The stuff in the parenthasis (sp?) is translation for the lingo we use on the board.) On this board, you do kind of develop relationships with women that you don't really know. There are a few on there that I talk to almost daily, but you never really know what they believe or much of anything else. Plus, it's a PUBLIC forum. She could have seriously taken some flack just for posting that!! But, the ladies on there really encouraged her -- testimonies about how they had been healed of something or how they knew of someone who had been healed. It was nice to see all these ladies who you "know" but you really "don't know" confess their beliefs and it just makes the board more neat, in my opinion. I was able to share with her the testimony of my brother and how God healed him from a brain tumor, too. The thread had been locked this morning because someone posted a comment about how could someone NOT believe in healing and another lady got offended, so the moderators locked the thread (nobody else can post on it).

The cool thing is that I can't help but think about her story every time I look at that football field. I think it has greater meaning for me than just another testimony. I'm not sure if healing will be "Jaxon's thing" or what it exactly means, but I cannot tell you how excited I am for this woman.

The coolest thing is that the same day or the next day, another lady posted this testimony:

Praise GOD!

Sorry if you don't believe, but my son is living proof of miracles and God's healing powers! We just got home from our 10 hour adventure to Childrens Hospital in Seattle to have Garretts follow up CT Scan and Neurosurgery appt.

PRAISE GOD! Our baby is healed!! No kidding, I was speechless when the neurologist said "I don't know how else to tell you this, but you don't need to come back here! Garrett's fluid levels are normal and his head is growing at a normal rate." I cried I was so happy...and of course secretly SHOUTING inside "Thank you LORD for your healing and answered prayers!!!"

This lady's son had excessive fluid on his brain and even had to wear one of those helmet things to keep his head from swelling. Again, ladies posted with encouragement and testimonies. I just love it!! Of course, one lady had to post, "I don't pray, but you will be in my thoughts today." Everyone else was just amazing with testimonies and excitement for this miracle.

Anyway, I just had to share how God is using a public scrapbooking forum to shine!!

The Curtains & My Toes!!

How's that for a title?!?!

Krissy came over today and we got the curtains hung up!! I LOVE THEM!! They really make the room!! So, here's a picture of those:


Then, in the last secret sister round, Candy gave me a gift certificate to Creative Nails for a pedicure. I've put it off and put it off because I'm really not fond of people touching my feet. But, I had until Saturday to get it done and decided to go today. Here's the picture:


Yes, they're blue. Guess I might have gone a little overboard on this whole Dallas Cowboys thing!! ;) Now, the big question is -- So, what did you think? I liked it, I guess. Probably not something I'll keep doing, but it would be nice every once in a while, I guess. I did like having all the dead skin scraped off of my feet. They look SOOOOOO much better!!! The girl that did mine was really sweet although she didn't say a whole lot. Her husband was doing the lady next to me and told me they were expecting their first child. It was funny to listen to all of them talk. I liked paying attention to all their toenails. I wonder if it's mandatory that they all wear sandals and show off their toes?

Anyway, it was a good day. I have a story I'll share later about the lady who helped me with the football wall. . . gotta run for today!

I just can't wait!!!

I just can't wait to show you guys the pictures!!! I'm so excited about this room and even though it's not quite finished, I just have to share!!

So, instead of trying to upload all of them to here, click on this link and you can see the slideshow from start to almost finished!

http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=fyhgbqj.cb6yyud3&x=0&y=7tu0eu

I am so pleased with this room!! Just a few more things to get done. The curtains are going up tomorrow and the ceiling fan . . . hopefully this week. Then it's time to move the furniture in and just the littlest details!!

WOW! I can't believe how close it's getting!!

It Is FINISHED!!!

Well, at least the paint is finished!! The nursery is done!! Now all that's left is to hang the curtains and the ceiling fan, move in the bed, and move the dresser from the closet. I am so excited!! I'm not quite ready to share pictures just yet. I actually have the star to attach and then my masterpiece will be complete!!!

Speaking of that star, it has been my biggest headache over the last few weeks -- trying to figure out how to do the star and the end zones. I found some print out stencils online that were perfect, so that was taken care of, but it was that silly star!! There was a Cowboys magnet at the mall that I thought was $6 and I thought I could trace it and then paint it in. But, when I went to pick it up, it was actually $13!! Not paying that for a large magnet that I have nothing to do with except put on my fridge after I'm done!!

Then, my genius friend, Krissy, said, 'Hey! What about those stars that you see at places like the prom where they hang them from the ceiling?' I went straight to Card & Party Factory and there were the stars -- in about 8 different colors and about 6 different sizes!! So, I bought a large blue star, a smaller white star, and an even smaller blue star. I stacked them on top of each other and it looks just like the Cowboys star!! And, I didn't have to paint anything!!!

Anyway, I am so very excited that it is complete. I'll be sharing pictures within the week. I just want to get the curtains hung first.

Also, here's a little something that Aaron found that I absolutely love and I thought I would share it with all of you!!!

www.grocerylistmaker.com

You HAVE to check it out!! You can check off the things you need and it prints out a list of just those things and it's all categorized!! And, if you need something that isn't on the list, you just add it yourself. I checked off everything and printed it out to hang on the fridge. I have a highlighter near by and when we run out of something, we just highlight whatever it is that we need. Today I went to Wal-Mart with my list and was checking out in 30 minutes!! Now, it wasn't monthly grocery shopping or anything, but I loved having my list all highlighted!! I think it just makes my life easier!!

I am determined!!

I wanted to title this blog "I am OBSESSED", but I think a better word is DETERMINED. I'm DETERMINED to get this nursery finished!!! I feel like I've been working on it forever. Although, it's only been a few weeks off and on, I guess just because I've had the whole thing in my head since July and how many times I've drawn it all out on my graph paper, it feels like it's been forever.

I can say that I think I know more about the Dallas Cowboys than I ever thought I would. I know their colors, what the field looks like, I even know a few players and their numbers. I only have one wall left in the nursery to finish and it's the football field. So, I've been checking out the Dallas Cowboys website and looking at the new stadium through the hole in the roof down onto the field. All the while, learning about the tradition of the open roof and the Dallas Cowboys. I've been trying to match the font of the field. I can't find the right stencils, but last night I realized that I have my scrapbooking die-cut machine (my Cricut (pronounced Cricket)) that can cut letters out and I can make the stencils. . . I just don't have the right cartridge.

Right at this point, Aaron would think that I'm nuts. He thinks I'm getting too detailed on this room. I just keep telling him that it will be AWESOME when it's finished. I already have a few kindergarten boys that are wanting to move in there!!

I did find a lady online who has done the whole football field thing on the wall. She did her son's room in the University of Alabama. Her wall looks AMAZING!! I just hope this wall looks half as good as hers when I'm finished!!

BUT, the reason that I'm able to focus so much on this room is because I'm learning to delegate. I am so thankful for that!! By delegating things out, I'm able to focus on the nursery. I'm able to focus on my house. I'm able to not be all stressed out about how many things I have to get done in a day or this week. And, in learning how to delegate, I am so thankful that I get to go to children's church on Sunday morning and I don't have to do a single thing -- just be there.

I'm even getting "the night off" tonight. I'm thinking about heading to the scrapbook store for a few hours of crop therapy. Gosh! Before, the only time I really had to do that was the last Sunday of the month. I don't know what I'm going to do really.

My goal for today is to:
* Finish taping off the yard lines in Jaxon's room and get them painted
* Get Payton & Evan's room picked up and organized again (aka throw a bunch of stuff away)
* Get my laundry all done

Then, maybe tonight I'll head to the scrapbook store for a little R & R and use her Cricut and the cartridge there.

Gosh! Maybe I should have delegated someone to finish Jaxon's room!! No, I'm too much of a control freak for that! ;)

P.S. Here's something neat that happened to Aaron last night. Ever since we got married, Aaron has wanted to go to the OU vs UT football game (aka The Red River Shootout). But, tickets have been expensive and hard to get. About a week ago, Aaron's cousin called and said he MIGHT have Aaron a ticket, but he had to make sure it wasn't taken already. Aaron got excited, but that started to fade after days of not hearing from Ryan. But, last night at 10:30 pm, Aaron's phone rang. His cousin has him a ticket on the 50 yard line on the first row on OU's side!! Aaron is so pumped!! He kept telling me it was an answer to prayer. I just laughed. He thinks I'm not excited about him going, but I really am. Yes, I have to take my kids to 3 birthday parties on Saturday -- two of which are at the same time, different places -- but I'm really excited for him. And, I'm excited that at least the boys and I have something to do on Saturday!! So, if you watch the game, rejoice with Aaron that he's there!!!

Brandi's Birthday Party

Here's the info:

Brandi's 30th Birthday Celebration

Friday, Sept. 28th

7:30 pm

Kelly N. (nursery Kelly)'s house

Other info: It is a SLUMBER PARTY, but staying the night is optional. If you can't stay the night, please come for the other stuff!! We'll be making pizza, so bring your favorite pizza topping -- we'll have the cheese, sauce, & crust. Call me if you need more info.

Happy Birthday, Brandi!!!

In honor of Brandi's 30th birthday, here's my list of 30 reasons why I love her. I know there are more than 30 and these are in no particular order, but it's a start!!!

1. She is so creative.
2. Her thoughtfulness surpasses all others.
3. She loves homemade gifts!!
4. She started a coffee group that I miss tremendously!!
5. Her personality is like no other!
6. She's been through some rough things, but they haven't changed the way she is -- she isn't bitter about it all.
7. I love her phone calls!
8. She has some of the most well-behaved children I've ever been around.
9. She has the patience of a saint!
10. She spends half of her day loving on nine kids in kindergarten!!
11. She likes to scrapbook!
12. She can wear those shoes she bought in Arlington and get away with it!
13. She loves & supports her husband.
14. She is such an encourager.
15. She loves to send people cards.
16. She is a friend to everyone.
17. She is a great listener.
18. She is a great gift giver.
19. As a life group leader, she took on the task of teaching the kids in her life group.
20. She loves to worship.
21. She is very relaxed and she doesn't have to have everything perfect.
22. She is the reason we are at KLF. (Well, her and Randy)
23. She is the reason Payton goes to Cornerstone.
24. The first time I met her, she had me with "Do you scrapbook?".
25. She invited me to mommy group.
26. She has 5 kids and they are not a burden to her.
27. I love the times where we've laughed about something so hard we can't breathe!
28. She is an amazing writer!
29. She hears from the Holy Spirit and she's obedient.
30. I just love her because she's Brandi -- and everything that means.

Brandi, I love you so much!! I hope that your birthday was amazingly special!! This list by far doesn't do you justice, but they are just a few things I love about you!!

For everyone else, we're having a SLUMBER PARTY on Friday night for Brandi's birthday. Of course, there will be a few twists that I'll tell you about later. But for now, mark it down and be there!!!

Brandi is THE WOMAN!!

I get a phone call on Thursday that says to be at Brandi's house at 7 pm on Friday night. That's all the information I got. Now, I don't like surprises, but I was trusting Brandi on this one!!

We got to Brandi's house at straight up 7 pm and when the door opened, I hear "New York, New York" playing on the CD player. I was so excited!! But, not near as excited or amazed as when I came into the living room and saw this:


And, I can say that I don't think the pictures even do it justice!! It's a HUGE mural of NYC and we all have our own stores!! It is complete with a Business Records Management building, Jaxon's Baby World, Evan's Pet Store, Rachel's Scrapbook Heaven, and Payton's Sporting Goods!! I'm trying to find a place in my house to really hang this thing! It was so awesome!!



I head to the kitchen and see this spread of food!! New York hot dogs!!


I love New York t-shirt cookies that Brandi made herself!!


An Empire State Building cake made by Donna herself!!


Songs about NYC playing in the background!! I was in heaven!! I was so surprised!! I loved EVERYTHING!!!

We ate dinner and then opened presents -- oh how I love presents!!

ERICA, STOP READING FOR A SECOND. JUST SCROLL DOWN:


I got an Andy Warhol bag that is black and white with purple flowers on it. On the handle, it says "My favorite smell is the first smell of spring in New York. . . " I love it!! It has a banana shaped coin purse inside of it! It is so cute!!! Thank you, Joel & Trish!!


OK, ERICA, YOU CAN START READING AGAIN:

I got a really cute card from Brandi. It was so cute!! On the envelope, it had Brandi's name with a big X over it and then it had my name. On the inside, was written a really cute note by Christy (Miles' nurse) and it was marked out with a note from Brandi on the other side. The P.S. said, "Look, it was either a handmade card OR a party! I went with the party!" I'm so glad she did!! It was awesome!!

I got a zebra wallet from Dustin & Krissy that I love!! On the inside of it was a gift card to Sharky's and a gift card to Lowes and some cash!!!! I love it! It has so many pockets and places for stuff!! And, it matches my purse that I have now and when I do "upgrade" to a zebra purse, it will match it, too!!

Then, Brandi tells Randy to go get the present. Randy comes around the corner with this zebra suitcase!! I said, "Oh my gosh!" outloud! I was so excited!! I had been in the store a few weeks ago with Aaron's mom and I saw it there. I stood there trying to justify the purchase, but I couldn't. And, there it was -- all mine from my amazing friend!!! Now it's even more special!! Brandi told me I could use it when I really do get to go to NYC!! I love it!!

Then, we all played a game of "Apples to Apples" (get it? NYC -- the big apple?) when in the middle, the doorbell rings. In walks Mia & 2 of her friends as "show girls". I don't even remember the song they danced to because we were all laughing so hard!! Oh, I think it was "All That Jazz". That was definitely one of those things you just had to be there to see. Describing it wouldn't do it justice -- at all!! Thank you, Mia!!!

Randy ended up winning Apples to Apples, but we kept playing. I think Cody won "second" -- or first loser as he put it.

I had Aaron take a few pictures of me with Brandi and Randy. I cannot believe how much work they put into that mural and the party itself!!

I'm telling you, I am so blessed to call Brandi my friend. Someone asked me yesterday how we ended up at KLF and when I was thinking back on it, I remember the first thing we ever went to was Brandi & Randy's life group at David & Candy's house. Jocie was a little baby. We just felt comfortable there. Then, at the end of the night, Brandi said, "Do you scrapbook?" Right then and there, she had my heart!! ;) Who knew at that moment, I had made a friend for life. For that, I am very thankful!!

So, here's to the bestest best friend in the whole wide world!!!
(Yes, I had to crop Randy out of this photo. In the picture of just me and Brandi, I blinked. And, don't pay attention to the rabbit ears!!)

ETA: Oh my goodness!! Thank you so much, Trish!! You ROCK!!! Your idea was the BEST!! Thank you for taking my feelings into account (that I hate surprises, etc.)!!!! You were instrumental in me having the best birthday party EVER!! Not to mention that bag!! I love it!! Thank you so much!! I could never thank you enough!!!

I am the most blessed person in the whole world!

I cannot tell you how amazing my birthday was and how amazing my friends are!! Here's how my day went yesterday:

* My birthday present from Aaron was a hair appointment. Weird, I know, but that's what I asked him for. But, I thought he would be able to watch Evan for me, but he had a big job, so he couldn't. I called down a list of people on Friday morning to see if they could watch him and I couldn't get anyone! But, PAM came to my rescue and agreed to watch him for me!! THANK YOU SO MUCH, PAM!! It was so much easier without him there for 3 hours!!

* I was supposed to meet Aaron at Sharky's for lunch, but my appointment took a little longer than planned. He called at 12:15 and I told him it would be another 20 or 30 minutes. He tells me that my college friends are there! I had no idea they were going to be there! I'm so disappointed, but they waited on me.

* I head to Sharky's and call Pam to tell her about my surprise lunch and she says to go and have fun! THANK YOU AGAIN, PAM!! We got our Sharky's burritos to go and headed to their house to enjoy some Donna Halliburton salsa -- the thing that started our friendship!! It was a blast! I love hanging out with them because they just love me. They don't look at me as an "old married woman", but they truly love hanging out with me. Not to mention, they gave me a $50 gift card to Hobby Lobby!!! WOW!! I love those girls!!

* I go pick up Evan and head home. Pam, I cannot thank you enough!!

* Aaron gets home and I know he's hiding a surprise in the garage. It's 2 more dining room chairs from Brenda, my sister, & Aaron's grandma!! THANK YOU, BRENDA!!! I really did need more chairs for as many people as we always have over here!! I was very excited to see them!!!

My party just deserves a post all of it's own!! Stay tuned for that one!!

Happy Birthday to ME!!

It's 5 am and I can't sleep . . . more like I can't breathe. Please pray for me today! These allergies are making my nights (and sometimes days) miserable! It would be awesome if God healed me on my 30th birthday from these things!!

Anyway,

HAPPY 30TH BIRTHDAY
TO ME!!

Deep Conversations . . .

With Payton having the chicken pox these past few days (yes, you read right -- chicken pox), we've had an opportunity to have some interesting conversations. I just thought I would blog about a few of them.

I was painting Jaxon's room and Payton walked in. Here's how our conversation went:

P: Mom, what if a black person and a white person were in love?
R: Well, I think that's ok. They're just people, right?
P: Well, it would be weird.
R: I think it's only weird if you make it weird. I think it's just fine for a black person and a white person to love each other.
P: (just kind of shook his head yes and walked away)

It was just weird having that conversation!! Remember that staff meeting (for those of you at staff meetings) where we were talking about race? It was just weird to have that conversation with all of you and then have it with my six year old (six and a half if you ask him).

Then, today we were on our way into town and the boys both had suckers. Evan's stick was sticking out of his mouth and it looked like a cigarette. Payton told me about a boy on Ethan's football team who picked up a cigarette butt and put it in his mouth and tried to convince the coach that he was really smoking. So, here's how this conversation went:

P: Mom, have you ever smoked a cigarette?
R: Yes.
P: What was it like?
R: It was gross -- really gross. I took one breath and didn't like it.
P: What happened when you smoked it?
R: I started coughing and choking so I just put it out. I've never picked up another one.
P: How old were you?
R: I was 17.
P: Who were you with?
R: My friend.
P: What was her name?
R: Lori
P: How old was she?
R: Probably 18 or 19.
P: I only know one person in our family that smokes and it's Uncle (my brother). He also drinks beer. Mom, have you ever drank beer?
R: Yes, once.
P: What happened?
R: I was with my friend and she told me it would be good. I took one drink and almost spit it out. It was really gross.
P: Why do some people think beer tastes good and some people don't?
R: I'm not sure.
P: Who was your friend?
R: Lori.
P: The same girl?!?!
R: Yes. You know what I learned, Payton? I learned that just because my friends are doing something, it doesn't mean that I have to do it.
P: I know, Mom. Mom, how old is Lori now?
R: Probably 32 or 33. I haven't seen her in a while.
P: Does she still smoke and drink?
R: I'm not sure if she does or not.
P: I bet she does because once you start those things, it is hard to stop.
R: I bet you're right.

WOW! Who knew all of that was in my 6 year old?!?! I love how he's already thinking about things and I'm glad he felt like he could ask me those questions. I pray that those questions will continue and he'll keep asking me.

My Saturday in a Nutshell

* 2:00 am -- Got to go to bed after most of the girls were asleep at the camp out.

* 7:30 am -- Some girls were awake. Head to Clyde for the morning donut run.

* 8:15 am -- Make it back to the camp out after stopping by my house to pick up coffee creamer because some of the girls wanted coffee and Erica said ok (I secretly thought that was kind of cool). Start tearing down tents and getting girls stuff together. We still seemed to manage to lose a few pairs of shoes and I came home with someone's pillow.

* 10:00 am -- Head home after making sure Kelly's house was all clean and tidy.

* 11:30 am -- Head to Wal-Mart for children's church stuff

* 12:00 pm -- Aaron and the boys move the "swingset" from Arrowhead to our house -- Thanks, Kathy!

* 1 pm -- Make it back home. Search for Aaron's hammer. It's disappeared.

* 1:45 pm -- I realize that I bought two kids in children's church gift cards to Wal-Mart. . . their parents don't shop there!!

* 2 pm -- Lay down to take a nap because my allergies are acting up.

* 4:30 pm -- Wake up to see these pictures:


Good thing -- Aaron did have them both cleaned up by the time I woke up.

* 4:50 pm -- Evan gets tackled in a bed of fire ants. Payton comes running in the house and Evan's screaming. Aaron knocks all of them off of him and this is what was left:


(The blue is left over paint . . . not from the fire ants.)

* 5:00 pm -- Payton has a theory on the fire ants. He says, "Mom, you know how Jesus arose? I think what happens is that dad goes out and puts out the poison on the ant bed and he puts water on them because that's what you're suppose to do, but on the third day, they come back to life. It's kind of like they're just knocked out or something." Payton is proud that he was Evan's "hero" and got Aaron so quickly.

* 5:40 pm -- Evan's running around and most of the bites have disappeared.

* 6:15 pm -- Aaron leaves to go take Cole's trailer back and go turn on the a/c at the school for tomorrow morning. He then heads to Abilene for Bryan's party. I'm staying home with the kids because my head is all still plugged up and I feel like I can't breathe. Evan complains a little that his bites are hurting again.

* 6:35 pm -- Payton decides to teach Evan how to ride a big boy bike (without the training wheels)


* 6:37 pm -- They crash.


* 6:45 pm -- Sit down to blog about the day.

* Now heading to my scrapbook closet to try and finish Justus' calendar and another "secret surprise"!! ;) I'm secretly hoping to get Jaxon's room taped off so I can start painting this week!!

I'm DEFINITELY God's Favorite!!

Over the last few weeks, I've been trying to get a plan together for Jaxon's room. I had the idea, but I had to get it on paper. So, I made a list of everything I needed for his room to be complete. I decided that the first thing I wanted to do was paint and it would be the coolest Dallas Cowboys room ever!

So, yesterday I got my graph paper out and sketched it all out -- where the lines are going to be and how big they're going to be. It actually came together pretty quickly.

Now, here's where it gets awesome -- Trying to match the Dallas Cowboys colors. I've been to Lowe's 3 times trying to find paint chips that would match. For hours, I've thumbed through my paint book that Randy gave to me trying to make a match. When I went to take my laser level back, I was again looking at paint chips and I realized that all I needed to do was take a jersey in and have them match the color! DUH!!

But, the tricky color was the green for the "field". Today I went to Home Depot to find paint for the field. On my way there, I realized that it was just before 2 pm and I had to buy the paint and go to Wal-Mart before I had to pick the boys up at 3 pm. I was a little panicked, but I prayed and asked God to help me find the right color very quickly and help me make a decision on it -- something I'm not good about right now. I also prayed that there would be someone at the paint counter when I got there so I didn't have to waste time trying to find someone.

So, I walked in Home Depot and headed for the paint section when I see this Dallas Cowboys jersey up on the wall. I saw a huge poster next to it that said something about your "team colors". I went down to the Glidden paint chips and there was this pamphlet there with all the NFL, NHL, NBA, and college teams. They had already done the work for me!! There it was -- Dallas Navy, Dallas White, Dallas Silver, & Dallas Blue!! Hip Hip Hooray!!

But, today I was specifically looking for the green. I turn the page and there is a room with a football field on the wall. I took it to the lady (who was already at the counter) and told her I wanted that green and that white. We found the color and she mixed it up!! I walked out of Home Depot at 2:07 pm.

I cannot tell you how excited I was!! I made it to Wal-Mart and made it on time to pick up the boys, but if I had to stand there and find a color and make a decision, I either would have walked away (again) with no paint or not gone to Wal-Mart (which was a necessity trip -- we were out of TP) to get the boys on time. God totally had me taken care of!! Of course He did!!!! I'm his favorite!! ;)

Remembering 9/11

I didn't realize what day it was until I got in the car this morning and heard them talking on the radio. The question was: Where were you on 9/11?

My answer:
I was at home at 710 West Palm in Enid. Payton was a baby and he had slept in that morning. I got up around 9:30 and turned on the Today show. Both buildings had been hit. I wasn't sure what was going on. The news crews were quiet. Then, the first building fell. I thought maybe they were demolishing some building in NYC. Boy, was I wrong!

I was glued to the tv most of the day. . . listening to most of the theories on what was going on and who did it. I remember that Aaron came home from work for lunch and he said, "My guess is that Osama Bin Laden did it." I had no idea who that even was.

Gas prices went through the roof. I went to a friend's house that afternoon and there were lines everywhere of people trying to get gas. Gas prices were well over $3 a gallon (I can't remember the exact amount). People were kind of freaking out about it all. I guess it was kind of scary not sure what was going to happen. I was amazed at how many theories there were. All kinds of "formulas" to the reason it happened on 9/11 to the flight numbers.

I remember knowing that I was witnessing history. The thing that my kids would someday study in history class, I was witnessing it first hand. The thing that you would remember where you were and what you were doing when it happened. The thing that would change our nation and the way my kids grew up in it.

Update on Payton

First off, I want to say a HUGE thank you for everyone that has called to check on Payton and for those of you who have been praying for him. It has been over a week now and there aren't any signs of Mono!! YAY God!!! He hasn't had a fever in a few days and he has been playing football at school and hasn't been tired that I know of!! His nose running is part of allergies, I think, and although I believe God can heal that too, I'm just excited that we aren't having to deal with the mono!!

Strange Request

Anyone have a laser level? One of those level things that shoots out a laser so you know when things are level? I'm going to start painting Jaxon's room soon and I'm going to do a few horizontal stripes and I thought it would work perfect, but I don't want to spend the money on one if someone has one. If not, seems like I saw one at Target for $15 a while back.

UPDATE: The more I thought about it, the more I figured I would use a cool tool like that, so I just went and bought me one. So next time someone needs one, I have one! I also have a wallpaper stripper machine thing if anyone needs it sometime (at least I hope Erica still has it!).

UPDATE #2: Why didn't I think of Randy? I think I'll take mine back and let someone get it for me for Christmas. I know the perfect person for that!! ;)

I'm BACK . . . well, kind of

I'm back at a computer and anxious to blog about our weekend!! We had such a great time!! We got to Dallas before rush hour (very important to us). I got a phone call just blocks from my friend's house to tell me that she is engaged!! We missed seeing her by just a few minutes, but it was too crazy to turn around and try to find out where she was.

Anyway, we went to Joann's to look for some Dallas Cowboys fabric. They had some, but not what I wanted. So, we went down the little strip mall to a few stores. Then, I took Sally to IKEA and we walked around, but I don't think she was as impressed as I was!

Saturday morning, we got up and headed to Canton. We walked from 8:30 am until 3:30 pm without stopping. Let me tell you, by the end of the day, my legs didn't want to move!! We saw close to the whole thing this year. We thought we did that last year, but we found out that we were wrong last year!! I bought some wrapping paper and some tulle. I also bought a zebra print diaper bag. I also found the "ribbon guy" that was there last year, although I didn't buy as much ribbon this year. It was crowded, but not too bad. It was hot, but not scorching. We had a $5 corn dog for lunch with our $2 bottle of water!! My sister hit the jackpot on a few things, but most of the things there are more her style.

We hit the outlet mall on the way back to Dallas and I bought Jaxon a few outfits at Osh Kosh for $3.99 & Gap for $2.99. I was going to take Sally to Sam Moon, but it was already closed. We went to the scrapbook store, but I walked out without buying a single thing (I know, shocking!!). We went BACK to IKEA so my sister could get some blinds and I bought Jaxon a dresser. We ate dinner at Chili's, which tasted so good after our busy day. We totally ran out of money, so we decided to head back on Sunday.

This morning, we got up and Sally wanted to go to the Bass Pro Shop before we headed out of town. We decided that it would be a shorter drive for her if we just went to Wheeler and I could meet up with the guys and head home on Monday. We stopped at a junk store -- well, antique store -- on the way home and Sally was almost in heaven! Me, not so much. So, after 6 hours of being in the car, I'm in Wheeler with the boys. We decided that we will be going again next year and save up some money this time . . . well, we said that last year, too. Oh well! It was a blast!!!

Please pray for this: My hands and fingers are swollen. Even my toes are swollen. I know those are "normal pregnancy symptoms" but they are annoying. It hurts to bend my fingers. Even my watch isn't fitting right now.

Heading to the Big-D & Canton

I am so excited about my weekend away with my sister!! She's coming in tomorrow (Friday) and we're heading to Dallas for the night. Then, we're going to Canton Trade Days on Saturday. From there, we'll decide if we want to stay in Canton or whether we want to go back to Dallas for the rest of the weekend. I'm planning on dropping by IKEA while we're there since my friend that we're staying with lives just down the street. . . ok, a few miles, but she's close enough. I don't have a lot of money to spend while I'm gone, but my sister and I can have a blast on next to nothing!!

The boys are heading "home" and hanging out on the ranch and going camping. I'm sure they'll have fun, too!! We'll all be back on Monday ready to start another week of school!!

Pray for Payton

Payton has had a headache since Saturday. He's been running a fever off and on, although we haven't been able to "catch it" to see how high. It goes up and he feels bad and then it breaks and he feels fine. He has wanted to go to school every day and we've sent him because I know how that works -- he gets up and starts feeling better by 9 and still gets to stay at home all day. I didn't want to do that, especially the first week of school.

Last night, his voice was weird and he was saying that his throat hurt and his head hurt. We went to Krissy's to swim while the boys had their fantasy football thingy. He jumped in a few times and said he was ready to go. I thought it was because Ethan wasn't there and the water was really cold from the earlier rain shower that came through.

Anyway, he got up this morning and he was sweaty like his fever had just broke and he was still saying his head and his throat hurt. So, Aaron took him to Dr. J's this morning and Payton has the early stages of MONO!! YUCK!!!

Dr. J said he isn't contagious now and it's still really early, but he was sure that in 4 to 7 days, it would be full blown mono. He said Payton can still go to school because he's not contagious yet, but he can't do any activities (like P.E.) and when he gets home, he has to lay on the couch and watch a lot of movies (words of Dr. J) and I'm sure Xbox goes in that category, too.

So, I'm believing that the symptoms will stop and Payton will be instantly healed. We definitely don't need mono going around our house or anyone else's house!

Explaining Babies . . .

Yesterday I had to go take my one hour glucose test and Evan went with me. While we were passing the hour sitting at the health department, I asked Evan if he wanted to go see Baby Justus when we were finished. He got all excited and here's how the rest of the conversation went:

E: Is he already out?
R: Yes, he was born yesterday.
E: Mom, how do babies come out of your tummy?
R: Well, that's kind of tricky.
E: Do they cut your tummy open?
R: Sometimes they do.
E: Wow!! That would take a lot of band-aids!!

We did go see Baby Justus and Evan was so excited to see him! Justus was in the nursery at the time, so we got to see him through the glass. Evan wanted to know everything about it. Why did he have a gold heart on him? (The temperature thing). Why was he only wearing a diaper? Why did he have that black thing on his tummy? All kinds of questions. I love how interested he is!!

Edited to change the spelling from "Justice" to "Justus".

Kudos to Joel & Trish!!

Last night I was working on a project for Cherith's shower. . . no, I can't tell you what it is. You'll just have to wait until tomorrow!!

Anyway, I had my lime green paint in one hand and a paint brush in the other and the thing just wasn't coming together when my doorbell rang!! I opened the door and there was Joel & Bella. They said they had brought me a present. Have I ever said how much I LOVE presents (definitely my love language)?!? It was all this mulberry paper in a lot of colors!! And flowers -- oh my goodness!! Not "on the stem flowers", but flowers I can use for scrapbooking!! They are so cute, I don't want to use them!!!

Joel also brought over 2 sling shots. . . I just laughed and told him that I would keep them for myself! He said he would bring over wine bottle corks so they wouldn't hurt each other. ;)

Anyway, so they left and I opened up all the papers and I see this lime green paper!! It was PERFECT for my project!! I did have second thoughts about using it, but it was just too perfect!! I got it all cut and tonight I'm going to put it all together. I just had to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Joel & Trish!! I cannot tell you all the times they have been such a huge blessing to our family!! We REALLY missed them while they were gone!! And, just yesterday Evan asked me if Joel was busy!! My boys love him! And, I think Evan has a secret crush on Trish, too!!

Just Be Patient. . .

Ever just wonder what God is up to? Here's what He did for me yesterday:

A few weeks ago, I was in Wal-Mart and they had a double water slide on clearance for $150 (normally $300). I got permission from Brenda to go back and buy it for water day. But, when I got back to Wal-Mart they were all gone. I called every Wal-Mart between Sweetwater and Eastland and nothing. I was so disappointed!! I had $152.17 in the children's church account. I thought buying the slide for $150 was perfect because it would be the last purchase before somewhat new budgets came out and I wouldn't have to pay tax at WM.

But, after I couldn't find the slide, I realized that I had pools to buy and tearless shampoo for the giant slip-n-slide -- all of which would have had to come out of my pocket if I bought the slide. But, I've blown ALL of my blow money for the month and even some for next month due to a few projects lately. So, I wasn't sure where the money would come from. I thought about just spending the money and getting reimbursed out of the offering on Sunday, but it was a good thing I didn't, because we didn't have any offering this last week!!

But, I didn't find the slide and decided we would just use Kathy's (which is totally falling apart, but might be good for one more day). I went and found some pools and shampoo at Dollar General and it cost me $30 and I was content with how water day was looking. Then, the pecan grove was more like a swamp, so we had to postpone it until September 9th.

So, yesterday I had to go to Academy to get some new shoes and while we're there, Payton wanted to go look at the toy guns (surprise) and on our way over there, I saw the summer stuff clearanced for 50% off. I convinced Payton to check it out. They had a slide (one lane) with a little pool thing at the end that was normally $199, but I wasn't sure it was 50% 0ff and I couldn't find ANYONE to help me.

So, I got up front and asked the first lady I saw and she said everything was 1/2 off back there, which would make the slide $100!!! I headed back to get it trying to figure out how I was going to get it off the top shelf (since the lady was shorter than me and wasn't really interested in helping me anyway) when I see Jordan B. in his Academy shirt!! He said, "Hi, Miss Rachel." I told him hi and asked if he would help me get the slide and he did!! There just happen to be a shopping cart a few aisles over that was abandoned, so we snatched it and put the slide inside. I get up to the register and the total was $108!!! I was so excited, I forgot to tell them it was tax exempt -- oh well!!!

So, here's my lesson I learned in all of it. Here lately, I've been "needing" some things. And when the money didn't come, I just figured it out myself (via my credit card). And, although my balance really wasn't that much (and it's paid off now), I saw yesterday how if I'll just wait, God will make it all work out. I could have dug myself a deeper hole by trying to make it happen out of my pocketbook, but God worked it out.

Here's thing #2:
I'm going to Dallas & Canton with my sister next weekend. But, as I mentioned, I've blown all my money for this month and the first half of September. Last night Aaron asked me where I was going to get the money to go and I told him I wasn't sure yet, but I wasn't going to worry about it.

Today I realized this: I am working at Stor & Lok for Rhonda today and tomorrow. That will be my spending money for the trip!! I don't need a whole lot because I didn't find much last year at Canton (Canton Trade Days), but I wanted some spending money for IKEA (hip hip hooray!) and God provided.

I think after the slide & money for my trip, God's trying to tell me that He cares about the little things -- like a water slide & going to Canton. I've been a little bummed (ok, a lot bummed) about NYC, but I think my faith is being restored.

100 Days & Counting!!

There are only 100 days left until my due date!! Can you believe that?!?! 100 days!! I feel like there is so much to do in so little time. . . although, I know that I have plenty of time -- still just over 14 weeks left.

Anyway, how crazy!! 100 days. . . . wow!!

New York or Bust . . . I'm bust

New York, New York

(Ebb-Kander)

---

Start spreading the news
I'm leaving today
I want to be a part of it, New York, New York
These vagabond shoes
Are longing to stray
And make a brand new start of it
New York, New York
I want to wake up in the city that never sleeps
To find I'm king of the hill, top of the heap
These little town blues
Are melting away
I'll make a brand new start of it
In old New York
If I can make it there
I'll make it anywhere
It's up to you, New York, New York.

I want to wake up in the city that never sleeps
To find I'm king of the hill, top of the heap
These little town blues
Are melting away
I'll make a brand new start of it
In old New York
If I can make it there
I'll make it anywhere
It's up to you, New York, New York.

So, I'm not going, but as I sat down to type this all out, I kept hearing that "broadway music" -- da da da da da da da da da da. . . you know what I mean.

Anyway, so here's the update. Yes, my doctor said I could go. I was excited beyond measure!! I told everyone to watch out because God was going to come through for me on this one!! Monday night at WOW, I heard God tell me to believe Him for those wild and crazy things. . . not things that I need, but things I want -- even when they sound silly. I thought He was talking about NYC, so I went home just knowing He was going to do something.

Then, Tuesday morning, I got up and had this "second thought" moment. If a couple of grand landed in my lap (I was believing God was going to pay for my friends that wanted to go, too), I have doctor bills that are due (and more coming in a few months) and I probably have more responsible things to do with it than head off to NYC for the weekend. I tried to shake those thoughts and told the enemy to get behind me because I was going for it.

I got on the computer to check my e-mail and Aaron IMed me. He had talked to his friend in Tulsa who has seen, done, traveled it all and his suggestion was that it wouldn't be wise for me to go at 30 weeks because there is so much walking involved. He said I would have the baby in New York if I did that. He just didn't think it was wise.

So, Aaron IMed me to tell me that he didn't think it was wise either. I told him I had been thinking about it all morning and told him the conclusion I had come to. He said we should save and go in March for our 10th anniversary. He just inserted a smiley face and I walked away from the computer and went to take a shower.

While I was in the shower, I had a temper tantrum at God. It was easy to believe Him for the money to go, but the real battle came when I decided not to go. All the stupid thoughts:
* This is why I don't take risks. I jump, but there's nothing to catch me.
* If Aaron wanted to go, he would find a way.
* NYC is the last place Aaron wants to be and it wouldn't be fun to go with him.
* I can't believe for my wants, just my needs. God said He will meet my NEEDS according to His riches, but not my wants. I need to just be satisfied with my needs being met.
* Can I still believe God will give me the money to go even if Aaron doesn't think it's wise to go? Then, figure it out from there?
* Why can't we just load up and go next weekend and believe God will come through by then? I'll only be 26 weeks then!!

I can't even list all the thoughts that went through my head in the shower, most of which were not good ones. I had to gather myself and be a "grown-up" about this whole thing. But, I'm telling you, yesterday was not a fun day. I had a staff meeting on Monday where I told them how excited I was that I had clearance from my doctor. They were believing with me. Then, I had to walk into that room with those same people yesterday. I really was hoping that nothing came up, but we started talking about all the September birthdays, someone said, "Rachel, when's your birthday?" Everyone started getting excited. I told them it was on the 21st, but that was a touchy subject today because I was trying to decide if I should be the submissive wife or keep believing God. Bryan told me the submissive wife thing was good. ;) I HATED THAT!!! I hate how I felt like I went from the highest high to the lowest low in 24 hours in front of them.

We took the kids to Mr. Gatti's last night and on the way in, Aaron tells me that he wants to go white water rafting. I couldn't really talk about it. I was afraid that yet again I would break out into tears. I woke up this morning at 4:30 to go to the bathroom and couldn't go back to sleep and the tears started yet again! As I'm typing this, the tears start yet again. I'm lucky that I can blame it on pregnancy hormones, but it's still a battle in my mind.

So, I'm searching for a Plan B. But, you know how it is when you totally have your heart set on something, nothing seems to compare. But, I know in a few weeks I'll know the perfect plan. And, I've come to the conclusion that I'm still going to believe God for those silly things and for my wants.

This morning, I remembered Francesca's talk at the BFW and how she said she just had to come to a place where she just had to believe that God is good all time. I think I'm there today. Good news is that I did get my closet all cleaned out and organized yesterday! I love to organize while I'm processing . . . . weird, I know.

I have clearance!!

I had a doctor's appointment this morning. My blood pressure was a little higher, but nothing to worry about. I gained 6 pounds this month (!!!) but I knew it would happen eventually. Still only makes 9 pounds total, so I guess I can't complain. My stomach is measuring right on and Jaxon's heartbeat was strong and sounded good. Then, Dr. Anderson asked me if I had any questions. I said, "I just have one. I want to go to New York for my birthday. Can I still fly then?" He did some calculations and told me I was clear to fly!! I would just have to get up and walk and stretch my legs every 15 to 20 minutes on the plane. He told me I had to go to the Statue of Liberty and to the World Trade Centers. He also told me to go to Yankee Stadium if I had time. I explained that I wasn't sure I was going yet, but just wanted to make sure it was possible. He said yes it was ok and he hoped I got to go.

So, the only thing I need . . . the very small thing . . . the money to go!! And the money for my friends to go!! Seems so small!! And, I know it is a small thing for God to do. It will totally be a miracle if I get to go and I know that, but I'm going to err on the side of faith. . . just believe until . . . until whatever happens. Aaron still thinks I'm nuts!!!

Here's something funny that happened at our house Saturday night. I'm still laughing hysterically on the inside as I type this!! Although, this story definitely could be one of those "You had to be there" stories!!

We were sitting around the dining room table and we're all eating some pudding (or Jello) when Evan says, "Anyone want to see my butt crack?" Aaron and I just looked at each other and started laughing so hard!! It fueled Evan's center-of-attention-personality and he kept saying it, "Anyone want to see my butt crack?" We were laughing so hard we couldn't hardly breathe!! Aaron tried to tell him that we don't say those things, but he couldn't keep a straight face. We just kept laughing and laughing. At one point, we opened our eyes and Evan had his underwear pulled down and was mooning us at the table! Oh my gosh!! We were laughing so hard that my stomach hurt!!

We did get to a point where we could gather ourselves and tell Evan that we don't say those things and we don't ask people that. But, we still found ourselves giggling on the inside (and outside sometimes!)

Anyway, guess I just needed a good laugh on a Saturday night!!

The Boys are BACK!!

Evan and I were glued to the tv last night watching the game, listening to all the stats, blah blah blah. We just wanted them to show the crowd, but they didn't do much of that. They did show one family where the "dad" had on a Panthers jersey. Not sure if he was at the right game. ;)

Our car pulled in our driveway this morning at 1:45 am. Inside were 3 very sleepy boys who came in and went straight to bed. This morning, I asked them how it went and Payton said, "Good." Ethan gave me all the details (which I loved!). Aaron told me he got some good pictures and video of the game, so after he left for work, I went out to the car to get my camera.

So, here are some pictures from the game:


Doesn't he look excited?


Doing the WAVE:


Don't they look excited?


The cowboys sideline, although I don't know who any of them are:


They're close!!


Here's the Cowboys tunnel. These videos are short because if they get too big, my camera won't hold them:



Payton said he did have a good time and he would like to do it again sometime. I'm not sure Aaron does -- lots of cars and lots of people. Aaron said maybe once a year!

Are you ready for some FOOTBALL?!?!

Tonight's a big night at our house!! Payton has a chance of being on tv and he wants everyone to know and be watching FOX at 7 pm tonight!!

Aaron is taking Payton & Ethan to the Dallas Cowboys game tonight. It's the Dallas Cowboys vs. Indianapolis Colts pre-season game. Payton is so excited that he's going to get to see Tony Romo, Terrell Owens, Roy Williams, and Peyton Manning all in the same game!! He is so excited about it!! He's been on the phone this morning with Na Na and Purty making sure they're going to tune in.

They're going to be in one of the end zones (section 33) on the side. I had tickets on Ebay that were in the end zone on the first row, but I lost them in the last 30 seconds. But, we were able to get some more, so it all worked out in the end.

I'm sending my camera with Aaron and hopefully he'll remember to use it! ;)

P.S. Yes, I know it's a long shot in reality that Payton will be on tv. I just can't burst his bubble because he just knows he will be on there!

My Amazing Husband

Yesterday and today have been terrible days for me. Just when I think it's getting better, it slumps. Last night when Aaron got home from work, I was in tears from the stress of the day. All evening long, I kept finding myself fighting back the tears. I'm not sure if that was just from the day or just silly pregnancy hormones.

I got up this morning believing it was going to be different and it wasn't. I was taking a shower this morning and all heck broke loose in my house. I wanted to just lock the door and see how long the hot water would run. I got out and disciplined Payton & Evan. It didn't seem to work and at one point, I went to my room and shut the door and lost it.

I hate when I get that way. I came out of my room and when to the kitchen and started cleaning. I guess the boys had decided they better go to their room and get along.

But, then my husband came to the rescue. I got a text message telling me he would be home at 12:30 for lunch (which is very rare). I was glad to just have a break in the day, but then he told me he would take the boys for the afternoon to give me a break. I can't tell you how thankful I was for it!!

I wanted to go to Abilene and just waste the afternoon, but my "task oriented" personality wouldn't let me -- but it was good. I got some stuff done at the church office without my kids running and yelling down the hallways. I was able to think about some things and at one point, just sit in the office in the silence (or as quiet as the church office is).

Then, I decided to head to Abilene and go to Wal-Mart & Lowes. I saved $9 using coupons at Wal-Mart (YAY!) and then decided to go to Michael's and get a tool I've been wanting for a while. I went to Hancock Fabric to look for some Dallas Cowboys fabric. I dropped by the Wilson household to drop off a check. Then, I went to Sharky's (my new favorite fast food place thanks to Alicia) and got a burrito to go. I just got home and the boys aren't back yet. I'm about to watch the season finale of Hell's Kitchen (my favorite show lately) and just relax before they get home. I'm believing that tomorrow will be different. I just needed a break for a few hours.

I am so thankful that Aaron hears from God. In my "breakdown" this morning, I prayed that something/someone would come to my rescue today and not too long afterwards, I got that text message. I am so thankful that my husband hears from God -- even when he might not realize it. I pray that God would bless him 1000 fold for what he did for me today.

Edited to add: Season finale for Hell's Kitchen isn't until Monday. . . oh well, I did get to watch a little tv tonight while the boys played outside.

Soaking 101

Today in children's church, it was the most amazing service we've ever had, I think!! But, not because we did anything ourselves, but because God showed up and spoke to our kids!!

Krissy called me yesterday because she was going to teach the lesson, but after reading it, it felt like it was way over the kids' heads. She asked me if we could find another lesson to do and I was all for it, but as we talked, I was reminded that I always say that kids don't have a junior holy spirit and that this lesson was going to speak to their spirit man and they would understand it even if they couldn't articulate it with their brains.

So, Krissy and I threw around a few ideas and she said she was feeling better and we hung up. I had no doubt that God would give her an amazing illustration (better than the one in the curriculum) and boy, did He!!

She had the whole "audience" on the edge of their seats! Out of 59 kids, all but 2 of them were listening to her. I stood in the back just amazed. She had them running in place and freezing to illustrate "Be still and know that I am God". They all jumped up and started running in place and when she said 3, they froze -- every single one of them!!

She had this illustration of how when we soak, all that is is being still and knowing He is God and believing He wants to speak to us with pictures, words, colors, etc. It was AMAZING! Have I said how amazing the lesson was?!?

So, it came time for them to soak and we told them we were going to soak for 2 minutes and then talk. Then, we were going to soak for 1 more minute and then talk. Then, we were going to play their favorite game on earth -- the M&M game. They were pumped!

So, we split the 3 & 4 year olds off into their own groups where they could play in "God's Love" aka water with sponges and they could draw pictures. Joel did have his group all laying down for a few minutes, but I missed it with my camera. They could draw pictures of what God was showing them.
Evan drew me a picture of a boat. He handed me the paper, he said, "Mom, this is for you." I thought it was a really cute "scribble" in blue, but I couldn't stop thinking about it all evening. This morning when I was in the shower, God reminded me of a word I got when I was in California about how I was in a boat. I thought I was trying too hard to make something from his picture, but I can't believe it was an "accident".

We told the older kids that we wanted them to lay down or sit still and close their eyes because we were asking and believing that God was going to speak to them this morning. Several of them laid in the floor and some of them sat there, but for those 3 minutes, you could have heard a pin drop in that gym!! That in itself was a complete miracle from God!! ;) As I looked around the room, I remembered that I had my camera and this had to be caught on film. The pictures aren't all that great because we had the lights off and I was trying not to use my flash so I didn't disturb them.

Afterwards, we asked them what they saw and I didn't hear some of them, but one little girl said she saw God sitting on His throne and He told her that if she would just keep believing that He would give her the desires of her heart. Tears were streaming down her face as she was telling Krissy that. . . now what 8 year old uses the word "desires"? I realized this morning that it was kind of like the word that Pastor Bryan gave Paige last week, but this little girl wasn't there.

I hate that I can't remember more of what they saw, but we're going to start having an ESC Journal where we can write all those things down.

Anyway, I'm so excited about it and I had to share the pictures. Like I said, we had several kids that told Krissy what they saw/heard, but I haven't heard them all yet. At the end, parents were coming in and Krissy told them if they wanted to share what they saw, they could come and tell her on the side. I saw several kids over there, but I haven't talked to Krissy much since children' s church was over. I'll post some when I get them from her.

The only problem was that the adults got out way earlier than we expected, so there wasn't any time to soak for the second time or play the M&M game. I promised them that next week we would start off with the game, though. I think that helped!! ;)