Neena's Nest

2009-10-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

Please Be Gentle By Jill B. Englar Please be gentle with me for I am grieving. The sea I swim in is a lonely one and the shore seems miles away. Waves of despair numb my soul as I struggle through each day. My heart is heavy with sorrow. I want to shout and scream and repeatedly ask 'why?' At times, my grief overwhelms me and I weep bitterly, so great is my loss. Please don’t turn away or tell me to move on with my life. I must embrace my pain before I can begin to heal. Companion me through tears and sit with me in loving silence. Honor where I am in my journey, not where you think I should be. Listen patiently to my story, I may need to tell it over and over again. It’s how I begin to grasp the enormity of my loss. Nurture me through the weeks and months ahead. Forgive me when I seem distant and inconsolable. A small flame still burns within my heart, and shared memories may trigger both laughter and tears. I need your support and understanding. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. I must find my own path. Please, will you walk beside me?

“…you must not carry on over them like people who have nothing to look forward to, as if the grave were the last word. Since Jesus died and broke loose from the grave, God will most certainly bring back to life those who died in Jesus…”

2009-08-11T10:39:00.000-07:00

About a week after Daddy died, we received this special bundle from Heaven. I have no doubt that she received his stamp of approval for our family.

Maddux Grace ( Maddi ) has helped to fill a big hole in my heart. She landed here on June 30th, 2009 weighing 7'11" oz and is just as beautiful as her sister, Jaxon and the rest of her cousins.

Bless you sweet baby. And happy birthday, Daddy.

2009-08-02T21:23:00.000-07:00

So many people have told me that this grieving process is in steps. The problem is I don't know how to grieve and I certainly don't know the steps to do it. Right now, it's just this incredible emptiness I feel all around me. There are still tears. Especially at church. Especially there. He was such a big presence there. He tried so hard to not be but he was. So many times I could see him out of the corner of my waiting to shut the double doors to signal the start of the service. Then all of a sudden he would be quietly shuffling down the outside aisles to check the thermostats so that everyone would be comfortable for an hour of worship. He then would sit for awhile beside Mom and me. Not for long though. Someone late would be coming in and he was up and to the back to help them find a spot to sit. Then he would check the ladies in the nursery to see if everything was alright. Then he would slide back down by Mom. These last few years when he would sit still for any length of time, he would fall asleep. Mom would nudge him and he would fumble with his bulletin or write her a note that said, "I was just resting my eyes a minute." Then after communion service he would get up and assist with taking the trays to the library for the nightly service if anyone needed it. Then he would head to the office to stand by the locked door while the secretary counted the contribution. A few minutes later he would appear again but may be be sitting on another pew. Resting his eyes again. There was another silent signal that he responded to when service was almost concluded. He knew to get up and open up the back double doors. Then he would come back to "our" pew and sit. Just briefly because he had to be at the doors greeting people as they left. When everyone had cleared out is when his work really began. He refilled all the bathrooms with new rolls of paper, soap and hand towels. All four bathrooms. He made sure he was the last one out so that he could be assured the doors were all locked properly.

So, see. I see him everywhere. I catch glimpses of a shadow standing at those doors out of the corner of my eye a million times during the service. I see him everywhere. But, I turn and no one is there. I would give anything to turn around and see my Daddy standing there. All handsome and dressed to the nines like he always was. The longest month of my life just completed. The one without my Daddy.

No one is doing all the things that he did. No one has noticed it yet. Oh, they notice he is not there but they haven't noticed that the things he did just a few weeks ago are not getting done. They will.

2009-07-14T19:23:00.001-07:00

I must confess. I am not in the mood to blog. I haven't been for some time and I may never be again. My life is starting over with new chapters and new time restrictions. Blogging for me takes time.

It's not that I don't like to blog. I do. I really do. I have made so many friends here that I just love to pieces and I never want to lose contact with them. But, I just can't blog.

Three weeks ago my Daddy died in an accident. He was almost 87 years old.

If you know me or if you don't and just read this blog then you know that my Mother and Daddy are incredible people. We are a close knit family. They were the rocks of our family. Our big family. Our amazing family. They shared a life together for 67 years. And for 57 of those years I worried about what would happen to my life someday when one of parents passed away. Now, I know. We are grief stricken for sure. We are stunned. But mostly we are just broken and feel so incomplete. We have physical pain from his absence.

For Daddy's sake we are happy. He is home. For our sake, we are sad. We are here. His car is still in that garage. His clothes are still in the closet. His Old Spice after shave sits by his toothbrush on the sink. The shoes he wore that last day are at the foot of my bed.

I wanted you to know. I wanted you to know why I am not here. My heart is just not in it right now. I'd love to tell you about my beautiful new granddaughter that was born 2 weeks ago. Oh she helped my heart so much. I could tell you that I am tired but I am feeling great. Did you know that I am going to be a grandmother again in February? That makes me very happy. Or, you might like to know that my children are all healthy and leading productive lives full of joy. I could tell you that I am abundantly blessed because I am. I know I am and I am so grateful.

But, I just don't want to talk right now. Because of my Daddy. He died 3 weeks ago and my heart will never be the same.

2009-05-13T19:36:00.001-07:00

I've had several ask me in person, via email, and comments if I was ever going to blog again. I really had some hesitation because frankly my life is crazy. I feel like the things that I am dealing with on a personal level can't possibly be of interest to anyone else. Sometimes I even feel whiny and I don't want that.

Then on another level I have missed the contact. I was so very grateful last month when I know so many of you were on your knees praying for my mom and dad. You were praying prayers when I couldn't even find the words to start. I was literally washed out. I couldn't even put together a complete thought much less a complete sentence! Whatever lesson this has prepared me for I feel stronger. So. Thanks for caring if I update or not!

Mom is better. She is gaining strength everyday. She feels like it is slow and rightly so. But, I see the progress from different eyes. She has come so far! On her 85th birthday she endured a major major surgery and then the next week another one and then the next week another hospitalization via an ambulance ride. My sisters and I were literally running in every direction to make sure we had mother settled and Daddy at peace with how things were going. Let me tell you that it was not nor is it yet an easy job. But, we are getting there. We are having ups and downs but every moment God is continuing to guide us down the 'road'.

The family is all fine. Since I posted last we have celebrated Avery's 2nd birthday and Macy's 7th birthday. We are anxiously awaiting Jaxon's new sister Maddux to be born a few days before Jaxon's 2nd birthday in July. Camp Neena lifetime membership roster will be boosted to 5. That is a full week a piece! Or more is fine with me.

Gordon took a lateral tranfer to another LCRA facility last month. It was a great move for him personally. It is a shorter commute and is a much better working environment. It was not a raise but we are thankful for the "promotion" and the company's faith in his experience for the last 25 or so years. When this position became available we were so hopeful but also realistic that he would be the oldest candidate amidst a group of fresh out of college boys. But, experience reigned and the fact that he still has valuable lessons he can "teach" that younger generation to take over were rewarded.

I have 2 more BOOKWORM library Wednesdays. Truthfully? I am totally burned out. If it weren't for Tawana and all her hard work keeping it and me going I would have already thrown my hands up. We both have decided that this will be our last year. We loved it and have enjoyed the planning and the children but......she has 2 new granddaughters that she plans to visit alot and I am hoping that I can visit mine more too. Please feel free to slap me if I ever volunteer for anything again. Slap me hard.

For now, I think that about covers it. Stay tuned. There is never a dull or slow minute around here.

2009-04-04T21:50:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to let you know that things remain the same with mother. We are basically waiting on Tuesday. This will be the day of the open heart surgery to repair her right mitral valve. Which, excuse my language, has been regurgitating. That was straight from the diagnosis. She seems to getting a little more anxious and restless everyday while waiting. And understandably so. More pitiful still is to watch my daddy watch my momma. He wants to make it all go away for her. He wants to take her home. Tonight, we sisters, left them alone at the hospital to spend the night. We told them it was the honeymoon suite. And then I found the nearest restroom and had a meltdown. It was much needed so please don't think I want pity. It was a cleansing cry and I don't have to do those often. But sometimes nothing else will work. All we basically know factually is that open heart surgery will be performed on Tuesday to fix this problem. So, updates may be few and far between after this post. I'll be facebooking reports for those who have facebook. Just know that your prayers, those of you who know me and those of you who don't, are very much loved and appreciated by my family.

2009-03-31T11:34:00.000-07:00

See that beautiful smile? That is my mother. That smile is what holds our family together. That and the humongous, loving, generous, giving, humble-spirited, caring, happy, free spirited, pleasant, positive, "never says a bad word about anything or anybody", heart that beats inside her. She is our rock. That man? My daddy absolutely adores her. I could tell you that he tells her everyday at least 100 times that he loves her. I could tell you that he leaves a quarter on her nightstand every night for her hard work. I could tell you that instead of a chocolate on her pillow, she gets a Hall's cough drop. Those are all true statements and a few of the ways, in his witty way, that he conveys his love for his bride of 67 years.

But, right now, today we find out that her physical heart is not working too well. Some of the tests that were run over the weekend showed that sometime in the past few months/weeks/days she has suffered a rather significant heart attack. We sort of have an idea now that are looking back as to when it happened but can't be sure. We just know that it happened. The plan for now is to proceed with a cardiac catherization to strengthen any areas that were not affected by the event. In other words, if there are any blockages they will stent them and if there are any other areas that can be seen that need repairs they will do that. But, basically what has been damaged is damaged. After that procedure, she will participate in a cardiac rehab program to build up her heart muscles.

So, please pray for her as we prepare for Thursday's surgery. Family is coming in to be with each other. Everyone, I mean everyone, loves this woman. I feel certain that we will receive our mother's heart repaired and healthy. In Daddy's words to the dr. , "She needs to get back to her mowing obligations!" And she has never mowed a day in her life.

2009-03-24T15:07:00.000-07:00

I changed my mind. I did have something to say after all.

I go into the CITY tomorrow for my 6 months nuclear cardio study, which was moved up a couple of months, so more like 3 months. Prayers are coveted. Thank you very much.

Then after that 3 hour ordeal I am headed for a much needed girls night out. Two of my friends, from SHS days, and I are headed out to Nancy's weekend home on the lake. A little shopping, dinner out, alot of laughing and relaxing on the deck are just what I need.

Not to mention that shopping sacks make me happy. Very happy.

2009-03-24T12:56:00.001-07:00

Today? Believe it or not. "Not" for those who know me.
I have nothing to say.

2009-03-13T07:40:00.000-07:00

Not a grandchild. At least of mine. Can you say "U.G.L.Y. you ain't got no alibi" ?

Now, this is beautiful. Yes, this is mine.

Beautiful too. But, some serious bed head.

A little cousin love.

2009-03-11T20:52:00.000-07:00

Spring break used to thrill me. Now, everyday is spring break and my "kids" have to go school. Something is wrong with this! So, I taught my innocent babes how to play hooky yesterday.

I got to Houston in time on Monday night to watch Rooster as the starting pitcher for the Twins. He pitched his way to a team victory.

Obviously, this gal has some serious dry skin issues.

Yes, sireeee. I took my babies to the zoo.

A little spring grooming going

on here! Just be glad you

don't have to eat your

"mates" mites.

Tiny Princess didn't like this exhibit and wanted to move on to the crocodillios.

Avery doing a little "fish watching" while waiting for chicken strips and fries.

OH puhhhhhleeeezzz. Get this girl a pedicure.

My favorite eerie scene. The jelly fish under black light.

I will never go past the ankles at the beach again. EVER.

My next trip back will be to watch this prima ballerina perform. It's worth all 4 hours sitting in the auditorium to watch the 3 minute dance. But, this year as a special treat, her mommy, along with 40 other mommies will be tapping together in a dance. Yes, my 36 year old baby bought some tap shoes. This girl can move.

PS...I HATE BLOGGER TONIGHT.

2009-03-07T21:51:00.001-08:00

A post of extreme contentment and rest. I am headed off to bed after a wonderful day. We slept in and then stayed in until after lunch. Then decided it was time to run to Walmart. We chased around in there picking up odds and ends.. Came home and grilled burgers outside. Nana and Poppi joined us. Now it's time for bed because we lose an hour of sleep.....THANKS DST. I'll pay for that for the next month! Tomorrow is a roast lunch with all the trimmings. A lazy afternoon after that.

Jaxon is learning her way around Neena's and we are loving having her, She is one of those amazing children that is just so much fun to be with me. Monday we are headed to Houston to watch cousins take swimming lessons, tap dance and play baseball. Can NOT wait.

2009-03-05T08:57:00.000-08:00

Avery has been gone for just 24 hours and I'm already lonesome. But, as usual, things are picking up around here. The D bunch is on their way tomorrow to spend Spring Break! Then, "insert excited face", JD and Jaxon are going to stay for a few weeks. I have not seen them since Christmas. TOO LONG. I get to love on them exclusively. I get to pat JD's sweet belly and talk to my newest granddaughter. She can hear me now or so the Baby experts say. She will know my voice before July 3rd! We hope to spend the next few weeks doing all kinds of fun things. That will def include a trip to H town to visit all the cousins. We hope to see Riley and Brooks, and of course their mommy and daddy. Cade???? Wouldn't that be exciting timing! ( OK, Aunt Kellianne & Aunt Danni...you too, I'll share!) We hope to catch Reid's ballgames and some of Macy's adventures. Of course, cousin Avery will be along for the ride too when we go.

You know how happy Neena is when all her "chicks" are in the nest. WAY WAY WAY happy!

2009-03-03T16:49:00.000-08:00

This blog world just gets smaller. I have asked you before to pray for friends I have never met, Jenny and Brad Wims and their children. Brad has been battling cancer for 2 years now. And man was he in a battle. His little bit of a wife never left his side while still comforting their children, parents, families and the expansive blog world that she kept posted.

Brad passed away yesterday. He had known that this time was coming. You should not have die when you are just starting your life. His Christian example was evident to all....his church family rallied around him continously. His friends played cards and games with him until the end. Their home ( and that is what it is ) was filled with family and friends for months as they embraced the ending of Brad's life. They literally surrounded him.

You can link off the side of my blog to Faith, Family and Friendships and read about this exceptional family.

His little boy, Zeke, today said he thinks his Daddy is running and breathing in Heaven. I think so too, Zeke. I think so too.

2009-03-01T12:46:00.000-08:00

Just an update to let everyone know that the wildfires are settling down in our area. If the winds will cease we should be able to hear they are contained soon. With our EXTREME drought conditions this scene has been a worry to all for sometime. Yesterdays unusually high winds made it all worse....much worse. Law enforcement patrolled door to door checking on citizens for miles. They came through our driveway too. Although we were advised to be on stand by for a probable mandatory evacuation of our home last night, we were able to stay home. We sat outside until dark watching the helicopters loaded with water going back and forth to the scenes. I say scenes because it was miles and miles long and deep through the woods and home areas. At last count close to 30 homes have been lost and countless acres of farmland, miles alongside our State Park ( unknown how the park was affected ) and unknown wildlife and livestock. Our church, along with other churches in town, and the City Recreational center are hosting families who are displaced from their homes. We had good friends who lost their homes and everything. As I sat out in the yard last night listening to sirens, ambulances, and helicopters I thought about seriously what I would grab if I had to leave. I started out with a very long list.....yes almost everything, including Christmas ornaments but when it all came down to it? I just would have gotton my purse and left. That's it. There is not one thing that I place that much value into and if you know me and how much I love my home and my pretties, then you know that's something for me. Seriously. The panic around here yesterday just made me imagine what the war torn areas of our world that deal with panic and crisis on a daily/minute by minute basis and how brave our soldiers ( and firefighters ) are. I still hear all the choppers in the distance as I type but I am safe and sound. And blessed. This world is not my home anyway.

Here is a blurb off the Austin news web:
Highway 71 is open after a fire consumed more than 650 acres in Bastrop County and destroyed homes and businesses.

Crews are still fighting hot spots near Highway 71 between Bastrop and Smithville. But firefighters are estimating only 50 percent of the fire is contained.

At least 23 homes and structures were burned to the ground. Plus three businesses and four vehicles were also destroyed.

The wildfire charred 650 acres, and 150 homes had to be evacuated.

The fire started at about 12:30 Saturday afternoon after strong winds knocked down power lines.

Law enforcement shut down Highway 71 at Mcallister and turned motorists around.

Crews fought the blaze from the air and the ground, and say drought conditions and high winds made their job that much more difficult.

Bastrop County Judge Ronnie McDonald declared a disaster for Bastrop County. That allows the county to receive federal aid to fight the fire.

One fire fighter was treated for smoke inhilation. No other injuries have been reported.

2009-02-22T14:58:00.000-08:00

This picture sequence cracks me up. Avery is giving Jaxon a coloring lesson. Notice her "blurry" head while she gives her speech. That is a "hold your color this way...... yada yada yada".

Notice Jaxon's face. She already knew all that.

2009-02-19T16:17:00.000-08:00

The last several years that I have been blogging have flown by. I started as a way to stay in contact with my children, nieces/nephews, sisters, cousins, etc. Just sort of a newsletter. None of my friends blogged and I surely wasn't out to win any awards. I just truly liked to keep in touch with everyone so easily. Along the way, I started reading other blogs. Don't ask me how I ended up finding some of the ones I did. I really don't have a clue. All of a sudden there was a little group of us that read each other's news everyday and left encouraging or humorous comments. Friendships were made without ever a handshake or hug. Dear friendships. Ironically, or God driven as I like to think, we all were similiar in age ( no offense to you younger ones ), we all had similiar upbringings, we all were socially in the same type of life situations, but most importantly and amazing is that we all shared the exact same faith. We all "hailed" from the same type of pews, so to speak. Each and everyone of them has been a daily encouragement to me for years now. We pray for each other and share lots of things on here and by emails. We've all had trials and we've all had happy things happen to us during our past years as friends.

Right now, one of "us" is going through a health scare. Kelley is waiting on some lab work to confirm some type of diagnosis for her recent sicknesses. We are all praying that is going to be a simple fix. That she'll be as good as new and back to serving God in her bubbly way. Also, heavy on my heart is a young guy named Brad. He is not one of this group that I speak of but I have been following his story for a year now. He is also a servant of God and has a beautiful wife and 2 little children. A year ago he was diagnosed with a serious and rare cancer. Since that diagnosis he has been literally, along with his wife and family, fighting for his life. He is in daily pain and distress. His biological family has moved in to help and his church family takes care of all their needs so they can all be together. They are in constant prayer and vigil. Especially now. He is in a really big fight right now. His days and nights are long as he struggles to breathe and sleep. Fear is closing in on him and they are all weary and tired. So, tonight as you count your friends....count the ones you know and see everyday but don't forget the ones that you don't know and may never meet this side of Heaven. Please remember Kelley and Brad in some intense prayers tonight.

2009-02-17T13:41:00.001-08:00

I've been tagged by several of you to post the "10 Most Random Things About Me". I've procrastinated doing it because I couldn't remember if it was 10 or 20 so let's just go with 10. Since, I already mentioned the procrastination issues I have, I'll leave that out of the top 10!

10 RANDOM THINGS ABOUT ME ( Trust me, there are more! )

1. I can't stand the inside of the microwave to be dirty.

2. I have absolutely no sense of direction. I could get lost in my own neighborhood.

3. I'm very spontaneous.

4. I always notice people's teeth.

5. I MUST hear a child laugh everyday.

6. I can't hold grudges.

7. I like to have at least one thing on my calendar to look forward to.

8. I think I am a very happy person but yet I deal with depression at times.

9. I love to have parties/ get-togethers/ guests in my home.

10. I possess alot of left over advice that I didn't finish handing out when my kids were growing up. Now, they don't want it. Go figure.

10 1/4. I over plan stuff. WAY WAY WAY overkill.

10 1/2. I can not for the life of me follow simple directions.

10 3/4. I am a multi tasker. I really really think I am undiagnosed ADD.

2009-02-16T17:10:00.000-08:00

I have been holding back the news until the OFFICIAL official official notice that I can tell it.

It's now official.

Camp Neena's newest camper that is coming in July is another GIRL! We are so excited. God has made me another perfect and beautiful granddaughter. I can't wait to hold her, snuggle with her, hear her little voice coo and see her beautiful big sister, Jaxon, interact with her. Her cousins are pretty excited too! FUN times are coming. If you want to see her precious little feet on the sonogram you can hop over to her Mommy's blog, Mitch and JD, and you can see for yourself. As for how he knew it was girl from the feet, I'll never know. Teehee. Times are a changing! Seriously.

2009-02-13T20:13:00.000-08:00

I HOPE YOU LOVE THIS AS MUCH AS I DID! Beautiful angel baby.

2009-02-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

If you live for the next world,
you get this one in the deal;
but if you live only for this world,
you lose them both.

C.S. Lewis

2009-02-08T13:28:00.000-08:00

I started to say, "Just a short post....." but I realize that I am probably not capable of just being short with words.

So, thanks to all of you for the following:

1. Wearing RED on Friday. It turned out great here too and I was able to raise a good total for the AHA. The shirts turned out super cute and I don't even know if I got one picture. The city of 'ville proclaimed it GO RED DAY... thanks to my classmate the MAYOR!

2. Wishing me a HAPPY birthday. I have never gotton so many emails. My cup runneth over.

3. Praying for my parents. They are both feeling better and were in church this morning. My sister, Jody, has been here for the weekend and she always perks them up ( and me too! ) . Then baby sis, Kathy is coming later in the week and they will be doing handstands by then. Seriously! My sisters are the light of my life. It seems we never get to really visit. It used to be because we were chasing kids and now when they come we are so busy. I treasure our visits together so much. They love me so unconditionally. Jody made me a wonderful birthday dinner and RED velvet cake today. And, I didn't have to do the dishes! Thanks Ashley and Jody.

4. My children called me all day on my birthday and through the weekend to check on me and the g'parents so that was a great thing to get to hear all their voices. Even though we all talk everyday anyway! I am so so so so blessed by "babies"....grown and not.

5. Thanks to my sweet Tawana and Becky for making sure I had a happy birthday and taking me OUT and making me relax.

6. To Duronda and our precious minister, Chris for stepping in and making sure we had everything we needed and to making my Daddy listen to reason about going to the dr.

I have gotton so many phone calls, emails, cards, and visits from everyone who for some reason are worried about me. Don't. I am fine. It's a privelege to be able to be the head nurse for my parents.

2009-02-02T21:05:00.000-08:00

JUST A QUICK UPDATE from days gone by.....

Mom was released from the hospital last week. I left with her not feeling so hot and we both ended up recup'ing at home. I got better. She did not. So, today she is back in the hospital .....same room...same nurses.......same doc. She has been having these nightly episodes where she gets up to go the bathroom and somehow falls enroute back to the bed. So far, all has been fine. But, last night she fell and could not awaken Daddy and spent the night on the floor. This morning when Daddy got up he was looking for her. All is well from that standpoint. Her chest sounded clear, and her UTI seemed to have cleared up. We did discuss the prospect that she might be taking unnecessary medications that could account for her memory lapses. So, the dr.s are re-analyzing her meds to see what she could NOT take. We also want to rule out that she did not have a small stroke. Something is just not right. Vital signs and all are normal and stable which makes us think we are dealing with something else. Hopefully, she'll get a good night's rest! Thanks for your prayers for her. Keep 'em coming.

Also, our son in law Brian's mom, Barbara is not feeling well. A rise in her blood pressure at work today caused her to black out and be rushed to the hospital. She is home now with orders to see her dr. ASAP. Pray for Barbara too!

THANKS.

2009-01-28T15:10:00.000-08:00

GO RED TEXAS!

GET SMART ABOUT HEART DISEASE!

Some facts you may not know!

*** Heart disease and stroke are the Number 1 and Number 3 killer of ALL women over the age of 25.

***Cardiovascular disease, including stroke, claims nearly twice as many women's lives as all forms of cancer.

***One in 2.6 women die of heart disease compared with one in 30 from breast cancers.

***64% of all women who died suddenly of coronary heart disease had NO previous symptoms.

***Within 5 years of a recognized heart attack, 25% percent of women will have another heart attack ( THIS HAPPENED TO ME ) or a fatal cardio event.

***One in three adult women in the USA currently suffers from some form of heart disease.

Feel free to check all these facts out on the website for the American Heart Association~ there are lots more facts too. Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk of heart disease and how you can prevent or slow the disease. Schedule an appointment just to check up your heart~ DO IT NOW. GET SMART about going red.

OOOOOOHHHHHH. These next few months are going to be crazy ones. I am, this week, taking donations and t shirt orders for GO RED for WOMEN. S'ville has declared Friday, February 6th GO RED day. Everyone will be decked out in RED hopefully that day. 100% of all proceeds will go to the AHA.
My oldest daughter, Heather, took up running several years ago. She started running and she can't stop! She loves running. Heather has been training and trying her best to beat her "bad genetics". She completed her 3rd half marathon a few weeks ago. Troy joined her. We won't say who beat who. Just notice the nice completion ribbon/medals.

Precious Tiny Princess had a little boo boo on the back of her head that had to be taken care of at the dr's office. Some antibiotics are making it all better but is that the most pitiful face you have ever seen. MY POOR BABY!

As soon as my GO RED heart fundraiser is over my family is switching gears to the March of Dimes. Last year, daughter Ashley coordinated a large group of our family and we walked in Houston in the annual Walk for Babies. TEAM BROCK AND BRODY are training again. Well, maybe I say training rather "loosely". But, we are going to walk!

This is from last year's walk. Cousin Macy sits atop Uncle Mitch's shoulders for a small portion of the walk. The rest of the time she rode her scooter! All 5 miles!

I am feeling some better tonight. I got out and did the BOOKWORM program at the library this morning and plan to go to church tonight. Mom is better too. We made a post hospital visit to the dr. this afternoon and she seems to be progressing towards recovery. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. Tomorrow if things go as planned, I am headed to the city to watch Reid perform in the 6th grade band concert.

2009-01-22T14:16:00.000-08:00

For those few of you who might be wondering where I have been....My mom has been sick and hospitalized with pnuemonia and some other complications but is doing much better and has been discharged and is home now. Thanks for all of you who have been asking.

The second night she was in the hospital I noticed that I was not feeling my usual "perky" self. I had chills. I would have come on home but it was 3 AM and I wasn't sure I could drive home, that is how bad I felt! I just hope I don't make her "sicker". At least she has 3 gallons of antibiotics in her, thank goodness. I actually climbed into the hospital bed with her night before last and stayed there all night. I am not sure who the lab drew blood from when they came through at 5 AM. Hopefully, they read her armband. We both slept through her breakfast. I came home before they discharged her and found I was running a 103 temp. I haven't had a fever in YEARS. I felt horrible. Don't remember much about last night! It's now about 5PM and I am feeling some better. Fever is gone~that is good. I am sitting at the computer ~ good sign. But, not for long. I am off again to my bed. So, if I don't "see" you around here, just know I am recuperating from something that you don't want.

2009-01-13T08:11:00.000-08:00

Actually my rant yesterday felt pretty good! What thought I intentionally started out with in my poor little brain really got lost.

What I meant to talk about was...... Now, these guys would work for a days pay. Anyone know where I can find some good ranch hands?

I bought some new light fixtures and when I got them home hubby mentioned that he would really like to get an electrician to hang them even though he can do it. He wired the whole house with a friend when we built it and we haven't burned down yet after almost 25 + years! I really don't want to pay more to hang them than I paid for the fixtures! So, it set me to thinking (oops...) Where is the good old practice of bartering gone these days? I need alot of little things done around here! I could furnish a good warm meal for a days work. Just like in the cowboy days. Hey, while we're at it, I could use a garden. Then I would like someone to paint my front door. I have the paint. Oh yeah, I really need someone to hang some blinds for me. Don't forget that while you are at it to go on and put up that iron curtain rod I bought. I've been wanting some new bathroom faucets. If I run get some could you maybe work in putting those on for me? OOOO.. remember when hubby fell off the ladder and my painting "the house" got sidetracked? I still have the master bedroom to go. Think you could work that in too? If you could would you also stack some more firewood at the back ? It would save me some steps in the COLD. While you are out there at the woodpile check out and see if you can get me a new flower bed going up against the house by the AC unit. I am just wanting to plant natural things in there so it will be easy to maintain. Don't worry! There are a few other little things I wanted to have you check out too......we can work this out. This may cost me about 50 meals. Maybe a months room and board. But, I get to control the remote in the evenings, if you have your chores done and get to watch tv. Come to think about it, it's like having children. Kids....come home.....I have work to do. That was what I meant to say yesterday.

2009-01-12T08:35:00.000-08:00

I am the first to admit that I get very annoyed by the number of "homeless" people with signs standing on every street corner and major light in the city. Probably, because I can't fathom how someone can let themselves get to that point when I see businesses plastered with NOW HIRING signs everywhere. The main reason might be because I am selfish and ignorant and live in "another world" full of too much goodness for myself. I have seen TV documentaries, movies and read articles so I know that a person just like myself could end up that way. Yet, I still feel like it could never happen to me. I know this world is full of dishonesty and crookedness. I've seen it firsthand. I have wanted to trust people so bad. I have tried so hard to find good in people that are down on their luck. Admittedly, I find it harder and harder to trust and believe in people. I want to believe that people are really willing to change and not just using other people for their own gain. I must remember that this world, as full of evil as it is, is also filled with goodness and God's love. I have been too quick to judge ( help me ) and over analyze!

Because when I see this sign

I quickly imagine that it says this or that they want the money for drugs. Then I rationalize that I would be helping enable them for crime!

I know that God's hand is on me and I hope that I will be more aware and grateful of this blessed life I have. I guess it could happen to me. I hope I am aware everyday of my blessings!

This started out in mind as turning into a humorous and hilarious post but all of a sudden it's not funny anymore. I remember where I was going with the topic but it got all turned around in my head. The lesson of judging others hits very close to "home" and my heart today because of some particular circumstances around me. I don't want to be selfish! So, remember me when you pray.

Proverbs 19:17

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.

And these words...Matthew 25:33:

On the last day, Jesus will say to those on His right hand, "Come, enter the Kingdom. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was sick and you visited me." Then Jesus will turn to those on His left hand and say, "Depart from me because I was hungry and you did not feed me, I was thirsty and you did not give me to drink, I was sick and you did not visit me." These will ask Him, "When did we see You hungry, or thirsty or sick and did not come to Your help?" And Jesus will answer them, "Whatever you neglected to do unto one of these least of these, you neglected to do unto Me!"

2009-01-09T08:36:00.001-08:00

I had to laugh at the tag thing I posted yesterday. Don't I sound so exciting? Funny thing is, that is about as motivated as I get these days. I thought it would be amusing if I told you the things I thought about doing. I really did think about them. But, thought about them only briefly. Briefly is all I think anymore. I blame it on medication. Crazy doctors.

Things I Thought About Doing Yesterday

1. Cleaning the house
2. Spending an hour in deep physical exercise and meditation
3. Running 3 miles
4. Reading the Old Testament
5. Cleaning out all the kitchen cabinets ( I actually bought some organizational stackers for this. Wonder how long they'll sit on the cabinet?)
6. Washing and folding every piece of dirty laundry and placing them in the newly cleaned out drawers I was going to do
7. Deep shampooing the carpet
8. Setting up a new year's household budget
9. Cleaning out the closets and packing bags for Goodwill
10. Painting the master bedroom
11. Refinishing some old pieces of furniture
12. Spending some time in solitude ( What is that? )
13. Baking
14. Landscaping the yard
15. Cleaning out and labeling things in the garage storage area

I am tired just thinking about it. Thank goodness it's free to think.

2009-01-08T14:23:00.000-08:00

My baby sister said TAG I'M IT and SO did my FRIEND Mindy so...I GUESS I'M IT

Here goes:

4 Things I did yesterday

Worked on a friend's shower invitations
Fixed lunch for Mom and Dad
Went to the library for BOOKWORMS
Went to church

4 Things on my wishlist for the year

To be able to carpet my house ( not looking too good )
For Gordon and I to be able to go on a cruise for our 38th anniversary
To be able to love the fur off all my grandkids more...especially my new one
that should be here in July
To take more control of my health and well-being

4 Favorite Restaurants

Nancy's Steak house ( local )
LaCabana ( local )
Red Lobster
Olive Garden

4 Favorite TV shows

HGTV all day during the day is on...I may not be watching but I'm listening
Grey's Anatomy
BIGGEST Loser
All the CSI's

4 Friends to tag

The first four to read this. Awwwww c'mon.

2009-01-07T12:04:00.000-08:00

When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed..

When you are discouraged thinking all is lost...

Count your many blessings .... name them one by one...

And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.

It never surprises me. He has done way more than I could imagine.

2009-01-04T14:15:00.000-08:00

OK. If you don't laugh at this story something is wrong with you. I'm laughing to keep from crying. The truth hurts.

I ran to Beall's yesterday to pick up some make up from the Estee Lauder girl. You know the one. Perfect skin. Not a pore in sight. No make up unless mascara. Flawless. Young. Dewy. Plus, very sweet and helpful. I'm trying not to stare but raw beauty stuns me since I am, unashamedly vain.

Before I stopped by to stare at her, I ran over to check out these brown pants that I had seen before Christmas. I thought they might be on sale. I figured if my size was there then they were meant to be mine. There they were. So, I grabbed them and dashed over to Miss Estee Lauder covergirl.

I couldn't tell the sale price because someone had yanked the tag off but when covergirl rang them up these $38.00 pants rang up $ 6.99. "YIKES", I said. She just lightly tossed her perfect little ponytail and said,"well I can't believe these are on for such a great price." She even admitted there must be a mistake and went to check. There wasn't another pair to compare it to so....I got them for $ 6.99. She looked at me and said did I see any other sizes in them in maybe another color? I thought to myself, "Oh bless her...she wants a pair too."

Then she ruined it and said........."my mom could use some new pants."

2009-01-02T21:33:00.000-08:00

"For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well." Psalms 139:1 3-14

The new year has brought to mind all the exciting things I have in store for me. The top of the list is our new grandbaby who will be born in July. I am beside myself with excitement. Tonight I googled what a 14 week old baby would look like if the skin were a clear bubble! Even though he/she is so very tiny still it is very clearly a baby. I AM IN LOVE again. It seems like July is so far away. Please pray for JD and the baby. She has been sick with pregnancy related "stuff" and dealing with an almost 2 year old too. Plus, trying to take care of my son, who I am sorry to admit is spoiled rotten. By me. Sorry, JD.
No, actually I must admit and praise my son. He is a super husband and a wonderful daddy. He shares all the duties of fatherhood and then some. His life is very busy and demanding but his little family comes first! The miracle of life has always been just that to me. SUCH A MIRACLE.

Back in the 70's when I was beginning my journey as a mom, technology was just coming into the age where we could understand a little more of the miracle. But now? Oh my goodness. It just blows me away that now there are ultrasounds where you can actually see your baby just like a photo was sent through an email! So, now not only do we know before hand the sex of the baby but we know what they look like too.

Being a mother was what I was born to be, I suppose. If I could relive earthly moments just for one short time I'd choose the first time I looked down at my own babies in my arms.

Almost (?) all my friends are expecting additions to their families this year too. Don't be startled....I mean in the way of grandchildren. Although, stranger things have happened! I think it was a contagious year. It's a year of showers, pinks & blues, nurseries, waiting, waiting and waiting. Both of my surrogate daughters, the sister crew of Tara and Tracy are expecting girls! I am so excited for BOTH of them to be able to raise their little princesses together and such fun for Tawana. I can't wait to see their lives change as mommies. I remember being there when they were each born. I'll be Neena to those girls too! And, I hope to be sitting in the waiting room to hear those babies first cries. The fun never stops.

And, for those of you who have never experienced this grandmother season let me tell me you that it is amazing. I LOVE being NEENA. I have loved holding each of them in my arms for the first time and watching them grow. It's the most wonderful time of my life.

2009-01-01T01:20:00.000-08:00

“This is what the LORD says— he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.”

Isaiah 43:16-19

I don't particularly care for New Year's Resolutions. Sometimes it's just another way for me to feel like I couldn't follow through on something or the big FAIL word. But, this year in particular I am going to try my best to commit myself to finding words from God that speak to my heart. I don't know if I am capable alone ( HE is mightier than me ) but with His help I'd like to even try to memorize more verses. I am going to put it high on my list of can do's. I will say this though in lieu of resolutions.... I do promise these things for 2009.

* To continously pray for my family, me and all of you..... for God to touch and convict every one of our hearts.

* For the leaders of our country to look to our Father for the answers to heal a broken world.

* To be a better and more Godly person, wife, daughter, sister, mother, Neena, aunt and friend.

* To pray without ceasing.

* To realize that life is not a dress rehearsal. This is real folks. No second chances when the trumpet sounds.

* To fully understand that I am not supposed to know what tomorrow holds. And that the Holiest of Holies has me in his keeping no matter what.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009

2008-12-31T01:13:00.000-08:00

When 42 people are making plans something has got to go wrong. It has nothing to do with communication. It has everything to do with what you hear. For instance. Let's say that I am a little loopy anyway and I'll take total blame for the ALMOST fiasco. We decided to stray a little off the traditional path and have spaghetti for Christmas dinner. We had just done the turkey blow out meal 3 weeks ago. So, we thought that spaghetti, garlic breads, salads of all kinds and lots of desserts would fill the tummies of all our family. Sometime during the day of Christmas Eve I heard my sweet sisters say that they would do all the shopping for dinner. And then I said, "I want to make my special sauce." To which I got a resounding yippeeeee. I didn't stop to think that they would not know what to buy for "MY" sauce. So about 9pm on the eve of this lunch I started to leave for home and we were planning times for lunch etc.....I mentioned getting my groceries they had shopped for and going home to make sauce. Blank stares met my always blank stare. They assumed rightly that since I was making special sauce I'd have to shop because how would they know? OOOOOPPPPPPPPPS. Now, we had spaghetti noodles and NO hope for sauce. The ONLY store opened in our town on this eve night would be 7-11. Runs were made there but no ingredients that I would need. Friends we could call to "borrow" sauce ingredients? At almost 10PM on this eve night? I think not. So, daughter # 1 and I started home wondering how we were going to pull off this late night cooking miracle with what I had in my pantry. As we neared home, I noticed that the convenience store was still opened by our house although they were turning off lights as we pulled in. I knew that they did not stock what I needed but I was desperate. They let us in and locked the door. I mentioned that I wondered if the attached restaurant ( that I eat in at least twice a week ) would loan me some spices and sell me some hamburger meat. They totally were ok with all that and asked what I was up to this late. I told the story of the noodles with no sauce and the guy and girl looked at each other and smiled. They had spent the previous day making stock pots full of homemade spaghetti sauce to freeze for themselves for months. Did I want it? YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME? We did pay them for their time and supplies and walked out with a huge pot of delicious sauce. Had we been 5 minutes later? I shudder to think how we could have pulled off a dinner of slimy spaghetti noodles with salads on the side. Even Pepperidge Farm garlic bread couldn't have cured that.

Not in relationship to the meal but everyone in my house has had runny noses and coughs. We just seemed to all be wiping little and big noses all week. We have kept KLE*ENEX in business. We also learned the wonders and the miracle of nasal saline washes. Sounds gross but trust me......it's a wonderful thing!

My sweet daddy was hand delivering a Christmas card to dear family friends and was bit several times by a dog enroute to their door. No one is to blame. The dog was doing his job as family watchdog! However, several hours in the ER treating leg wounds took up a precious part of our day. Daddy doesn't have much "meat" on his legs so some of the bites looked pretty bad. But, it NEVER slowed him down. He always is on a mission of some kind to help out anyone and everyone who needs him.

This dry winter has brought lots of field mice out of their hiding holes. They are searching for water and they think they found it around my house. We have set traps outside for months now and let me just say. I DO NOT CHECK THE TRAPS. It is not in my job description. Puking children were in my job description years ago. Suffice it to say that they have now found their way into the garage. Amidst......garage stuff. Yeah, let's just call it garage stuff. Anyway........"Santa" left a sack out there to be brought in at bedtime after all the children were sound asleep. A few hours later we went to retrieve it and a hole the size of the Grand Canyon was in the side. The foot long beef jerky stick was nibbled up and down. The pack of Big League chewing gum was ransacked.

Here's the happy little fellow wondering where the rest of the beef jerky is, looking for his nerf ball and wanting another chew of BIG LEAGUE bubble gum.

OH WELL......lots of lost receipts, mixed up presents, gifts that were duplicated, mislabeled gifts, and lots of memories. And lots of love, let me tell you. Lots of love. No, our last name is not Griswold. But, close.

2008-12-28T22:39:00.000-08:00

Just a short little blurb to let all of you know that need to know and those of you who don't need to know know and those of you who might just wonder a little. I survived CHRISTmas '08. It was quite a celebration full of love, hugs, presents, families, babies, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, food, confusion, shopping, eating, snapping photos, and looking for lost things. Some were found. Some were not. We shared sniffles, coughs, and lots of Kleenex. We ran out of hot water more than once. Cold shower anyone? We filled up 2 houses and 1 - 4 bedroom Bed and Breakfast. But we all had a GREAT BIG wonderful time. Speaking of time. There wasn't enough of it. All of a sudden cars started loading packages and luggage and leaving. Before I was through celebrating.

We had a few Christmas surprises too. More on that when I realize what day it is. What day is it by the way?

Please say a special prayer today for a wonderful young father/husband who is struggling as he battles the last stages of a horrible cancer that attacked him 1 year ago. He is walking down that valley right now with family and friends watching him and praying for him. Please join them in granting him peace from fear, release to breathe without panic, rest from sleepless nights. For his precious wife and children....his parents and other family. It's not a good day at their house. His name is Brad.

2008-12-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

A funny thing happened on my way down the ladder with my Christmas boxes. Then back up the ladder. Then back down again. A box was missing. A very important box. Box number 30 0f 32. The box that had all my special ornaments, 2 or 20 Christmas t-shirts, my sheer Christmas green and red beaded table runners, and a bundle of garland in it along with the wreath for my front door. I'm happy that this little Santa made it down. He is one of my favorites. All of a sudden I wasn't in a very jolly mood to decorate. What exactly all was I missing? It wasn't a box you could easily lose. How do you lose a box? But, 10 days later it has never been located. I think it was carried off by a pack of holiday crazed squirrels. So, not to sound like an un-jolly hostess, let me welcome you to the House of Neena minus the box. Where Christmas swirls around months prior to the actual day of Santa. As you step inside the den you are greeted first by an almost lifesize Santa.......

He may startle you at first. Believe me. He has startled me a time or two. Or three as I come around the corner.

He has this little scrunched up Santa face that really looks fleshy and his eyes are looking into your soul.

Moving right into the den to the large tree. The one with the presents under it that are wrapped. There are more that aren't wrapped. And I even confess, that there are more that aren't bought. SIGH. This is a new tree for our family this year. 9' tall with over three million lights. Or at least it seems like it. Actually only 900. We almost needed sunglasses when we flipped the lights on.

First thing I ever bought

on EBAY.

"BELIEVE". "Nuff said.

Our family has alot of sentimental ornaments. Most of them are the missing box. But, moving right along. Reid and Macy made these jingle bells the first year we watched Polar Express and drank hot chocolate. I will always treasure them!

Heather and I made these little snowman heads one year thinking we could make a million dollars on them at the craft sale. We didn't. But, they sure were fun and we did sell them all except for a few we kept for ourselves.

This little gaggle of snowmen look pretty content on their branches for goodness sakes. But, I mostly love the hangar ornaments with Santa's britches and coat hanging.

This silly little tree is for all the little ones in Neena's nest. It's full of Santas hanging on every branch.

Just because I think

he is pretty.

This little guy is getting ready for my annual Cookie Swap on Tuesday night. We'll miss you Connie! If you surprise us, could you bring those cute little mouse cookies? Please come home Connie. PLUHHHHHHHHEEEZE.

My gingerbread babies. All nestled in the corner of my kitchen. There are a few that are my favorites. One in particular has Heather and Ashley's teeth marks on them. Not from last year but from years ago! Trust me. I didn't fuss at them either.

There are more gingerbread sweeties gathered around my

kitchen and on another tree by the dining room window.

Just a cool crystal vase of red berries because I didn't know what else to do with them.

My lonely little stocking. Waiting.

To be filled with goodness. Because, I am good. I really am.

"Just hear those sleigh bells ringing a ring ring ringing a ring. It's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you"

This little smiling guy has brought lots of giggles to our house already this year. He sings very loudly as he throws his head back and rocks around the table in his sled in perfect time. He's a keeper for sure!

This card was sent to my grandmother by her Sister and Brother - law and I am guessing it is early 1900's. It's very old.

This old wooden box is full of Santa books. WHY you say? Because my babies like Neena to read to them. And Neena lovesto read to her babies.

My table is ready to be set. My reindeer mugs are ready to be filled with hot cocoa. Cookies are iced. The turkey is thawing (well not really yet). And from our house to yours......a very Merry Christmas, Blessed New Year, and Prayers Galore.

and Peace on earth and Goodwill to Men. That is my Christmas wish to you.

GOD BLESS EVERYONE!

P.S. I don't know why blogger won't cooperate when loading pictures with
words. I won't even tell you how long I worked on this to get half way right. I am still not happy with the way it skips spaces between pictures and scatters stuff. Sorry. Maybe next year I'll be "smart" enough to figure out something besides blogspot.

2008-12-14T16:12:00.000-08:00

CONNIE????? CONNIE?????? Can you hear me? I don't want to do cooky swap without you.

Please come home.

2008-12-13T16:44:00.000-08:00

Don't forget the OPEN HOUSE tours coming up this week. I have my tree up as you can see. But, that's all I'm showing until the 15th. Don't forget to pour yourself a huge cup of hot chocolate and come back and tour all the homes.

2008-12-09T13:59:00.000-08:00

COUSINHOOD OF THE TRAVELLING BOOTS

Two little cousins set out on a mission one day. Neenas had given them some special boots so they decided to put them to good use. Their first stop would be to visit Tucker, the puppy, at the dog pen.

DO YOU THINK HE'LL BITE?
Jaxon reassures Avery that she'll be fine. Jaxon has 2 big big big doggie brothers named Petey and Tex. And despite her petititeness, she is not intimidated by dogs at all!

C'mon Avery, laughs Jaxon......you can do it!

"OKAY, Jaxon. If you are sure! I trust you like that. After all girl, you are my peeps and we are tight. Anyway, here comes your daddy and I think our adventure is over."

CHIPS

OFF

THE

OLD

BLOCK.
Have you ever seen anything so cute?
They had found these that I had bought them for Christmas while everyone was here for turkey day. They had so much fun with them. I think they logged quite a few miles on them already.

*****Pictures and idea stolen from my precious daughter in love******

Speaking of my precious daughter in love. OH yes, and my sweet son.

I AM GOING TO BE A NEENA AGAIN! YIPEEEEEEEEEEEE. Keep us in your prayers because come July 3rd Neena's Nest is getting ready for an expansion.

2008-12-05T11:22:00.000-08:00

Don't panic. The counter on the side that says how many days 'til Christmas? It's right. Everyday it clicks down one more.

Excuse me a few days while I collect my thoughts. Decorations are as scattered as my thoughts. When I am back to blogging in a few days I'll be ready to post the Christmas Open House tour at Deena's. Maybe then I'll be ready to be jollier. Until then? Slap me if I look merry.

2008-12-03T13:03:00.000-08:00

21 years ago we lived in town. Not the city, but in town. Our neighbors were dear people and lived next to us when we had no children and they had a houseful. 5 GIRLS to be exact. As my babies started coming along I had a steady stream of willing and able babysitters. In fact, there was never any grass between our houses. We had a trail for 16 years between our back doors. I just opened up the door and yelled for a sitter and never knew who was coming but knew someone would. It was great. Then we moved to the "country" which is 3 miles away. We stayed in contact of course and still see them around even though they are all grown with families. One of them just finished massage school and today I got to be her client. It was wonderful. I think I got special treatment but it was amazing. She brought her table and set up in my living room and I plugged into the headphones for over an hour. My muscles feel less achy, the headache I was getting went away, and I feel like I could run a marathon. But, instead I am going to catch a quick nap and enjoy this relaxed and renewed body!

2008-12-02T19:55:00.000-08:00

I'll start off this post with a toast! Our oldest daughter and her preciousness took off for a few days in Fredricksburg to celebrate their 14th wedding anniversary. They had so much fun just getting to do whatever that didn't involve basketball, baseball, dance practice or a Brownie meeting. Or a science project. Or a scheduled meeting. They had a great time and arrived in time for all the FUN. Happy Anniversary to Heather and Troy!

Anyone that was in this house last week has to admit that it was absolutely wonderfully crazy. We watched the grandchildren play together for hours and hours. The bigger two each had a baby to love on and there was lots of loving. The two little ones, Avery and Jaxon were precious together. It was really the first time they realized that they were family! The last time they were together was in March and Jaxon was so sick with an ear infection she didn't feel like playing but they made up for this time. TOO TOO CUTE. Reid stays with the big guys most of the time watching ESPN and any and every football game that is on. When he gets tired of sitting he hauls out the mower tractor and gives everyone rides around the property. All the little princess pile in the trailer delighted for his attention. Macy baked some with me and did lots or arts and crafts. I have signs and love notes hanging everywhere. All sparkly and girly girl. All that to say this.....we had LOADS of fun. Mom, Dad, Mimi, Jody, Jim, Jordan, all made the pilgrimage back and forth to our house everyday. We had our favorite family guests with us too.....Barbara and Katy came to stay a few days and we love it when they are here. They are our son in love's Mom and sister. They just pile in and make themselves at home. It's like we've known them forever. Plus, we all are in love with and share DNA with Avery! We pretty much finished off any leftovers. Then when it was time for everyone to go, all my kids pitched in and stripped the beds, washed towels, loaded the dishwasher one final time and vacuumed. That was SO SO SO much help. I can't wait to see them all in just a few weeks again.

2008-11-28T19:07:00.000-08:00

"There was an old woman......" Remember the rest? Seriously, this is what my house has been like over the holidays and I have loved every minute of it. We have had our own family, children, grandchildren, parents, sisters, nieces and nephews.....plus we always pick up a few "strays" that we love like family and they pile in too. There have been football games in the yard, basketball games on the driveway, Playstation tourneys, EATING, tractor rides, playing in the leaves, swinging on the old rusty swing set, and just in general FUN. The grown ups keep the children all way over stimulated with rowdiness. Next year, our crowd gets bigger with MORE family babies coming in the next year. ( More about that later ) Right now, blankets and pillows are spread out all over the floor in the family room and it's fixing to be movie night. After that, some make it to a bed ( the lucky ones), some find a couch, and the rest just lie where they can. However, I have MY BED. I usually fall asleep these nights to giggles and noise. It's a long time in between these kind of nights. Paps and I aren't near as much fun when we are alone, I think. We are rather quiet and in a routine. But, this week? Not one single routine. No planned bedtimes. Little teeth brushed? Maybe. Occasionally a crying baby. Nothing I can't handle though. Only one planned meal. The rest of the time we just drag all the food out and it's a free for all! Tonight we ate out. Tomorrow night we probably will too. These are wild weeks, you say? They are. And, I always look forward to them. Because after all, Neena's Nest is the happiest when it is full.

2008-11-26T13:10:00.000-08:00

Whatever you do. Wherever you go. Whatever you cook. Whatever you eat.

Wherever you wash dishes. Wherever you nap. Wherever you love. Be thankful.

2008-11-19T20:51:00.000-08:00

Most of my day was spent at the church building doing whatever I could find to do to help. Any pan I could find to wash. Any tea I could pour. We had a funeral service for one of our members who was such a special man. A very kind, sweet, and loving man who left his sweet family too soon after a very brave fight with cancer. They lovingly had been caring for him these past few months while he was in hospice care at their home. It 's hard to know what to say. Even for someone like me who always says whatever. He will truly be missed by lots and lots of friends and all his family, but tonight when his sweet wife lies down I know that a tear will fall as she realizes that there are many long and lonely nights ahead while God heals her broken heart. Join me and pray for her as you pray. Her name is Kathryn and she is brokenhearted. As are their children. Cancer is from Satan.

2008-11-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

OKAY. I admit it. Peer pressure follows me wherever I go. Honestly. I am a middle aged woman who still gets pimples, likes to hang at the mall, loves to try new makeup, adores fashions and fads, and after my sweet girl JD got me hooked on Gilmore girls a few years ago she thought HMMMMM , I'll really hook her now. She'll love this book series Twilight now turned movie. AND I CAN NOT WAIT for the weekend to see it. Sadly, I may have to go by myself. All my comprades are either in a cast or out of town! Sorry girls.......gotta go without you. It's really ok. A bag of popcorn a diet coke and some smuggled in candy and a little EDWARD and JACOB and I"ll be good to go. But, I'll watch it again with you. I promise.

2008-11-18T14:35:00.000-08:00

Obviously this is NOT my car but it is my car's twin. My car is in the driveway. But, the reason for this story is simple. I just made my LAST car payment. So, now that this has occurred I am starting to worry about what can happen now. I have taken very good care of her. I want to keep her a long time. I do NOT want another car payment. I want to enjoy the extra little $$$$ each month for awhile. It'll almost be like getting a retirement raise! Pretty good, don't you think?

2008-11-17T13:57:00.000-08:00

I've probably been teaching Bible classes since I was 15 years old. This is NOT to brag but it is simply a fact. I like to stay on my "own" mental level which is not usually above 5 or 6th grade. HA ! I relate to them and in return they relate to me. Once we get disciplinary class rules out of the way, also known as bribery, I never have trouble with them. Well, I guess never is kinda strong. Let's just suffice it say, I don't usually have trouble with them and when I do I just throw them out to sit in the hall for a few minutes and that does the trick. They know I mean it!

I love this painting of the Lost Sheep. It's always been one of my favorite comforting thoughts about God's love for us. Last Wednesday night we were in John 10 and there were alot of the analogies about the Good Shepherd and His sheep so we spent quite a bit of time applying those to our lives. They made up some very creative comparisons! They totally got it. Many of these children are our "van" riders who have never been exposed to the Bible, but they, for the most part, are soaking up the Bible stories. They are really learning to put it in their lives, at school and at home. I am so happy that I don't have to be a perfect person to teach a class. That I can enter into that room with those kids and tell them I am not perfect but I love God's word and I want to tell them why. I am not "equipped" to do alot of things in God's Kingdom but I hope that the things I do glorify him in my own little meager way. I don't really want a mansion over the hilltop. I will be perfectly satisfied with a little one room house over that hilltop. Even a sleeping bag. I just want in on the deal.

2008-11-13T14:09:00.000-08:00

How many times can you say 'no no' in a 20 seconds?

How serious is this child labor law in America now?

2008-11-12T11:58:00.000-08:00

QUICK! Somebody send help. I'm listening to Christmas carols.

I'm actually singing along too. Add to that vision a little holiday swaying. I'm even enjoying it. What about putting all my trees up with pumpkins scattered underneath? OK, maybe not.

2008-11-11T16:02:00.000-08:00

To all the veterans....I appreciate the fact that you protect our country and our freedom. For all the generations who served before.....I salute you! God bless you and God bless the USA.

2008-11-09T12:49:00.000-08:00

This time last week I was smooching this sweet face. I wish I could smooch it everyday! Sweet kisses for sure. I love the fact that she recognizes me now and remembers all our little private motions and words. She is still my TINY PRINCESS!

2008-11-08T18:32:00.000-08:00

I'm not real sure why but I am starting to get a little excited about Christmas.

2008-11-04T18:48:00.000-08:00

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9

2008-11-03T19:32:00.000-08:00

After my wild week of travels I am home. I feel like Gilligan must have felt on his "three" hour cruise!

All is well. Tawana is home and tucked safely in her own bed to recuperate.

Thanks to all of you for your prayers!

GOD BLESS AMERICA tomorrow. Land that I love.

Now, EVERYONE get out and VOTE!

2008-11-01T21:15:00.000-07:00

Well........where do I begin? Lest you think my life is boring here is a recap of the last few days for my loyal 5 readers. Bear with me as it is pretty newsy.

1.) Wednesday Morning I woke up about 1 AM with my left arm aching. NOT GOOD for a heart patient. In fact, both other HA's have started with that same symptom but the big "explosion" followed soon after. Stubbornly, I stayed in bed and prayed. Can the word stubborn and pray be in the same sentence? Hmmmm. By noon ( yes,10- ish hours later. ) I decided to call the cardio dr. I just told him that I had NO other symptoms other than that. He politely told me to GET MYSELF TO THE ER NOW. I did. All of the cardiac testing turned out negative. THANKS to God. I am fine!

2.) Enroute to Abilene on Thursday I received a call that my BFF Tawana had been in a head on collision on her way to DFW. I had Mom and Dad with me and we redirected ourselves to the TRAUMA center at Brack for the next 7 hours with Terry, Tracy and Becky BFF. God wrapped his arms around Tawana and saved her life that morning. Although her injuries are extensive, painful and will be long healing, she is alive and coming home sometime next week. Lacerations and broken bones can heal. It was a sweet and happy moment of rejoicing when we all realized that! Our trip resumed after her admission to a room to heal. I SLOWLY proceeded the rest of the 4 hour trip my heart heavy with compassion, sad to be leaving her but relieved to know that she will be home soon. LIFE is sweet. Life is precious. Tell your family you love them everyday. We pulled into Abilene at around 10:45 ish. I felt like .... well...... I felt a little tired.

3.) Everyone headed off to school on Friday morning and Mom, Jaxon and I went to Cracker Barrell for breakfast. About 1 we headed up to ACU to watch our own little family STAR soccer player, Jordan, play an awesome game. They lost 2-1. Sniff. I hope I wasn't a bad luck charm. Soccer ....man. How do those girls RUN for a straight solid hour. NON STOP. Back and forth.....And the wildest part was that Jordan had broken her arm the day before and she played the entire game! Not trying to brag but she played an unbelievable game. I am so proud of her. Then Fri. night we got to watch Abilene HS beat Richland Hills, leaving them undefeated and headed to playoffs. ONE more district game. I was grinning from ear to ear watching my sweet son interact / coach those boys. I couldn't help but remember what seemed like yesterday, when he used to sit in the press box with his little helmet on and dream of being a "football boy". Now, he is on the field running up and down being the cutest coach EVAH.....evah. They have a great bunch of boys and my FAVORITE 2 coaches. Another great part of the game was sitting the second half with Connie, Don, Mel, and Rob! We had a great visit. It just reminded what I already knew. We miss them SO much. Our lives both at church and away are VOID without them. They are the most amazing people. If you remember, they were our "family" that was so badly injured in a car accident in the spring near San Antonio. They have enjoyed their new lived in Abilene and being with Mel and her family. They get to watch their grandsons play sports and are enjoying settling in to a new church family at Hillcrest. Does Hillcrest know how lucky they are? They better! We love us some Adams' people!

4.) Things calmed down a little on Saturday. "Our" coaches worked at the field house all day, JD had to work a few hours so Jaxon and I headed out shopping. We both love that. I am trying to teach her a few strategies on bargain hunting. Then we had a big family dinner ( ROAST and all the trimmings ) at Jody and Jim's house. Jordan and Kyle joined us and we had a great time. All the guys and Jordan watched the TEXAS/tech game. We all know now how that turned out. Some were happy ...... some were not. Just saying.......won't say who.

5.) JD and I got to catch up on one of our favorite TV's shows she had recorded and stayed pretty lazy most of the morning. When she left for work I cooked a big pot of veggie meatball soup and a loaf of banana bread and Jaxon and I played with all the toys in the toy box. Then tonight I stood in the dark nursery with the sweetest smelling little bundle of happiness that has grown so much in a year. Her little head was snuggled on my shoulder. I could hear her softly sucking on her finger. We sang and swayed. When I layed her in her bed I realized that tomorrow night I would feel so empty! I've had so much fun here as I always do.

6.) We are headed home in the morning early. My mom's cousin passed away and we are planning to go to the services at A & M church on Monday. She and Daddy were both really sad about his passing. But, we all agreed that his Heavenly homecoming would have been worth witnessing. I know that there was rejoicing from the Lingleville crowd when he arrived. NO sadness for him.

**I think my next 12 weeks will be spent helping by being one of Tawana's nurse/cook/ housekeepers. Between Mom, Becky, and myself , we should have her covered. I know that our church family will pitch in and help with meals too. Because, that is how we all roll....we are close.

**Remember me as I try to continue the library program without Tawana. We had just outlined our next 7 weeks of the year for BookWorms. She had them all organized and books pulled. She had even filed crafts for each lesson. Little did we know.......sort of weird now that I think about it.

2008-10-22T14:11:00.001-07:00

Last night the weatherman mentioned a norther moving into our area this evening. Now, in Texas that is big news. Especially after we are used to most days being at least 80's or 90's. We rarely, if ever, have snow. And by snow I mean it falls from the sky but never hits the ground. Maybe we do get too excited over ice days which occur two or three times a year. But, for some reason the news of the FIRST norther or frost just totally excites most of us around here! I have to cook a pot of chili for the annual event. It's ready and the cornbread is set to put in the oven. I keep opening the front door to see if it has gotton here. So far at 4:19 PM? It's still hot.

No wonder the meterologist doesn't leave his cell number on the bottom of the news screen.

2008-10-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

**This is too funny. Can't take credit for writing it but sure did get a chuckle out of it. **

THIS IS HAPPENING RIGHT HERE IN OUR OWN COUNTRY! We Must Stop This Immediately!

Have you noticed that stairs are getting steeper. Groceries are heavier. And, everything is farther away. Yesterday I walked to the corner and I was dumbfounded to discover how long our street had become!

And, you know, people are less considerate now, especially the young ones. They speak in whispers All the time! If you ask them to speak up they just keep repeating themselves, endlessly mouthing the same silent message until they're red in the face! What do they think I am, a lip reader?

I also think they are much younger than I was at the same age. On the other hand, people my own age are so much older than I am. I ran into an old friend the other day and she has aged so much that she didn't even recognize me. I got to thinking about the poor dear while I was combing my hair this morning, and in doing so, I glanced at my own reflection. Well, REALLY NOW - even mirrors are not made the way they used to be!

Another thing, everyone drives so fast these days! You're risking life and limb if you happen to pull onto the freeway in front of them. All I can say is, their brakes must wear out awfully fast, the way I see them screech and swerve in my rear view mirror.

Clothing manufacturers are less civilized these days. Why else would they suddenly start labeling a size 10 or 12 dress as 18 or 20? Do they think no one notices? The people who make bathroom scales are pulling the same prank. Do they think I actually 'believe' the number I see on that dial? HA! I would never let myself weigh that much! Just who do these people think they're fooling?

I'd like to call up someone in authority to report what's going on -- but the telephone company is in on the conspiracy too: they've printed the phone books in such small type that no one could ever find a number in there!

All I can do is pass along this warning: WE ARE UNDER ATTACK!
Unless something drastic happens, pretty soon everyone will have to suffer these awful indignities.PS: I am writing this to you in a larger font size, because something has happened to my computer's fonts - they are smaller than they once were.

2008-10-20T13:03:00.000-07:00

OCTOBER is officially BREAST CANCER AWARENESS month. I have done my part and had my annual mammogram. Have you?

I personally think that insurance companies should lower the age requirement so that all women, even youngun's in their 20's - 30's should be able to qualify for coverage. I have seen too many young women be diagnosed even when it's not hereditary.

Too many family and friends I know have had to deal with the nightmare of C.A.N.C.E.R. and the horrible treatments. I have a precious cousin fighting for her life right now and sweet friends who are doing the same. Life is hard enough ! PRAY FOR A CURE! But, do what you can to help yourself and others! Get your mammogram and support cancer research.......

2008-10-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

FOR those of you stopping by for the FALL OPEN HOUSE.....scroll down a little past my little blurbs 'of late' and you'll find it. I got a little anxious and posted early. THANKS for stopping by and thanks to Deena for organizing!

2008-10-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

They don't always seem it but today has seemed like a LONG day. I guess because I have had a busy past few weeks and all of a sudden NOT.

I slept until 8:30 AM and then wandered around with a few cups of coffee for about an hour assessing(LOL). I was going pretty good by 9:30 AM. By 4:00 PM I had cleaned the bathrooms, made the bed, stripped the guest beds, washed, folded and put up 3 loads of clothes, cleaned, cooked dinner, run to the pharmacy and the ranch store to pick up "ant" killer, organized some library thoughts that Tawana left me for Wednesday, did a few emails, and now I am fixing to bake something sweet. I haven't even watched TV. Trust me there is plenty more I could do but at 6 PM I just realized it was a holiday.

So tomorrow? I'll have my own private holiday. Just because I'm retired doesn't mean everyday is a holiday. Everyday is just Saturday.

2008-10-12T11:39:00.000-07:00

SO, here are the rules;

1. Link to the person who tagged you http://www.ashleyallenphoto.net/
2. Post the rules on your blog. Copy and paste onto your blog, then fill in your own answers.
3. Write six random thoughts about yourself
4. Tag six or so people at the end of your post
5. Let each person know he or she has been tagged
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is posted

Six random things about me:
1. ] I'm very spontaneous about everything I do.
2. ] Most times I think with my heart and not my head
3. ] I learn something new ( or 2, 3, or more ) things everday.
4. ] I feel most secure and content in my own "nest". I think I could never leave my house for days sometimes. Then I crave the social world!
5. ] I am a compulsive sales shopper... Know of any good ones going on now? I love to buy for other people.
6. ] I love jewelry! Mostly bracelets. My motto? When in doubt over-accessorize.

I am so random that I could have gone on and on. 6 was too easy!

I tag:

Jenna
Hollie
Kelley
Christine
Kathy
Sheila

I think Ashley already tagged Heather and JD if not...TAG.

2008-10-08T13:33:00.000-07:00

When I retired one of the children painted me this portrait of myself. Don't you think she captured the real me? Even down to the jewelry I was wearing. You gotta love 2nd grade art class. I enjoy it everyday as it hangs by my desk.

2008-10-03T17:58:00.000-07:00

Several years ago, my friend Deena over at Can I Be Pretty In Pink ( and yes, she can ) started hosting an open house for all the seasons, so although miles separate most of our blog friendships, we can visit through pictures. So, here is where I spend my time. Here is where I nest, love, sleep, and make memories.

Welcome to my house. I love FALL. I don't like Halloween, witches, skeletons, RIP signs, ghosts, and scary masks. But, I do love pumpkins, scarecrows, fall colors, falling leaves, the smell of cider, the hope of a "soon" roaring fire, and the drop in temperature after a blazing summer. I love opening the windows for a breeze and caramel apples. I love the first real nip of cold air because that means soup.

This funny little guy guards my front door and keeps the little RED birdhouse safe. I never know when Mommy Wren is going to show up to raise a new family.

Scarecrows do NOT scare birds.

Do you see my LIZARD friend who stays on porch year round? He likes to hang around and watch every season change. I swear he is prehistoric. His favorite perch is these solar lights. He is watching me make his picture AGAIN. This summer his wife was with him for the portrait. Can you see him on the metal rod on the side of white post?

Come on in. Watch your step up there. Even after all these years I still fall in sometimes! Usually because I am admiring the pictures of my grandchildren on the wall!

This old window that sits up on the piano was off the farmhouse that my son in law's grandparents lived in for over 70 years. I like to think that his grandma Salas used to look out this same window!

I love pretty books to display.

I told you I like pumpkins. They are scattered and hidden everywhere. I wonder if I counted them how many I would have? I have some that are "not real" but they sure look it until you pick them up!

I haven't set the Thanksgiving table yet but I use all my emerald green glass dishes and glasses that are in the cupboard behind my table. I started collecting the green glass years ago and love to find new pieces. It works for all occasions. I love it at Christmas too with all the red. Even Easter bunnies look good on them! I like to use my special things instead of saving them for "something special". EVERYDAY is special! Get out that china, girlfriend!

If you want, you can sit in the kitchen and have a cup of hot apple cider. Or join me in a cup of coffee. I love to crank up the pot about 3 every afternoon. I inherited this trait from Mom and Dad.

I bet I could find something good to eat too.

It is still too hot in TEXAS to have a fire in the fireplace but until I can I keep candles burning in there. It's some kind of therapy for me.

Let me tell you that some good naps happen in this room!

I also love to collect OLD books and hymnals. I have quite a collection and some of them were actually my grandmothers and are in great condition. Some I have bought for myself and I am always looking for a new favorite one. I have a basket of really old hymn books. I thought I had made a picture of them but couldn't find it when I started looking!

Even the laundry room has to have a little fall. I spend ALOT of time in there. How in the world do 2 people have so much wash?

This old book was actually one of my own children's books. I am so glad that my mom saved things like this for us. I have several of my old story books. I guess it qualifies them as antiques. DON'T ANSWER that.

This is my side of the bed. It is always a peaceful place to end the day. See the alarm clock with all the letters off the around the alarm buttons? I haven't used that clock for "getting" up purposes for 2 years and I LOVE IT. I forgot how to set it. I try and always remember to blow out the candle on my side but it smells so good. It is the BEST candle ever and I stock up at this time of the year because Walmart only puts them out in the fall. They are seasonal, they say. For $ 5.00 and they last forever.

The smell just overtakes the house but it is not strong and overbearing. The first thing anyone says is, "your house smells so very.....CAN YOU SAY YUMMY..Everytime I go to Walmart I buy a candle to put away and save for summer when they are off the shelves and scents like this are gone.

Don't be afraid to drop by anytime because this sign says it all. Plus, I love to have guests.....even unexpected. Well, if it's after 10 AM!

Why does blogger scatter words and pictures everywhere? It should be easy to set something up and save it and it actually stays that way....grrrrrr.

2008-09-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

Jaxon's weekend at Camp Neena was a blast. We didn't really do anything exciting but snuggle and watch TV. She is such a good girl and was game for anything. We did take Nana to Dairy Queen and played with Poppi while he was trying to take a nap. We went by Auntie Tawana's house and played with all the goody's she had. We ate at Cabana. We went to church. We stayed busy. I had an utterly fun weekend watching her and all her precious little mannerisms. She was very good! I hate being so far from her that I can't just get a hug whenever I want. But, for now I'll consider myself fixed up until next month. The truth though? Neena never gets enough hugs.

2008-09-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

We finally got our precious little refugee family back to the Houston area. Things are fine there. Some trees down and part of a fence but the house is fine. And Tucker was here too and he is feeling 100% better. He still has a couple more vet visits to get dismissed and get his last shot but trust me. He had plenty of energy and spunk back while he was here. And we were very glad. I had the cutest little "sidekick" to ride with me so I wouldn't be lonesome on the way home. Aunt YaYa, Reid and Macy were ready to get home with their Daddy and their life back to normal! Which is busy. So, we met Uncle T, Aunt Ash and Uncle B, and Avery and I had all 4 of my babies together for at least an hour! But, Jaxon is here for the weekend. YIPEEEEEEEEEE. Her mommy went to a wedding and her daddy is way deep in EAGLE football. So, I was so excited for her to have her very own first OFFICIAL Camp Neena. We are having loads of fun although we miss all of the cousins who played with her and loved on her. Now it's just down to us! We have been singing lots of songs, reading lots of books, making lots of animal noises, watching lots of Dora and Backyardigans, and just chilling. She is a snuggler and I love it. She like to sing too so we just curl up! Honestly, could she be any more precious and beautiful. I AM SO BLESSED.

2008-09-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

We tried to help the kids get home today to check on their house and property. We all knew they wouldn't be able to stay because of electricity outtages but at least they could see that things were still standing. Schools are closed there indefinitely for now. BUT.......we never made it past Katy. Road closures, traffic chaos, and detours that you couldn't get out of made us turn around and head the 1 1/2 hours back. With our luck, we would have gotton stuck in that traffic with no way to exit or turn around and be roaming for days. Keep on praying for the next return effort!

I am going to be "playing" hostess with Deena sometime this week. We are opening our houses up for a fall open house.....stay tuned.

2008-09-13T08:47:00.000-07:00

Most of the time I hate "hoopla" that has no basis or accuracy. You know what I mean by that? To me it is when everyone get's all riled up by a situation and then after it's over it's like, "Is that all there was to that?" Don't get me wrong. I know this weather situation along the gulf has been horrible. And no telling what the end will reveal when people can get back to their homes. The news people are going nuts! It was well deserved hoopla! I guess what I mean is that if this was a Catergory 2, I can't imagine what a Category 5 would have been like. DEVASTING! It has just been totally consuming our every move. We have been watching it for days and yesterday and today, we have kept the computer on a Houston station watching all the familiar places being attacked by water and winds. I am so grateful that it wasn't a rerun to the devastions before that almost took Galveston in the early 1900's. I guess we can be so thankful to mass communication and modern technology for that! I realize that there was tremendous damage, probably loss of lives ( unknown SAD stories that will knock me down emotionally) loss of businesses and monetarily crippling people as things unravel today. We've already heard some pretty sad stuff on the news.

I expected to wake up to rain. We need rain so bad and it looks like Ike bypassed us on that. I am seriously dreading the news that my daughter might hear today about her house in Clear Lake. They are here safe but remembering so many things that they wish they would have brought with them. Pray for them. The kids in Katy rode out the winds in the darkness, as scary as they sounded. Why are things worse in the dark? Everyone of "mine" are safe and for that I am very grateful. The material things we'll replace if needed. But, today there are board games, snuggling, maybe a movie, tv coverages, and chicken and dumplings.

2008-09-11T00:40:00.000-07:00

It may be rather hard to tell by the picture but the most handsome soldier is my Daddy. He is the first one facing the front on the far left. I am not sure where this was but it was during WWII. Now, as we reflect on another 9/11 day let us all remember this new generation of soldiers everywhere today that are fighting again for the freedom of our country. For all the people on that scary day that lost their lives so tragically, and for their family members and friends, may they all be granted peace and healing. Pray that America finds peace and that soon everyone is home and this war is only on the pages of history books. Pray that the powers of satan retreat realizing that as Americans IN GOD WE DO TRUST. Pray that we have a new President that respects the Lord as our creator and honors the people he serves. Pray that all the leaders of this country strive to work out the issues and problems of these times with honesty and integrity. Most importantly........pray that God blesses America once again.

2008-09-10T06:58:00.000-07:00

Thought for the day!

2008-09-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love FIRST GRADE? You can finally read, you love the playground, you have a list of your friends divided up by GOOD SIDE/BAD SIDE ( meaning nice or not ) and it's perfectly acceptable to do that in the first grade, you don't have to worry about making the house payment, you don't have teeth and it's ok, you think that HIGH SCHOOL musical is real life, you can wear braids and pull it off, you are a fashion expert for the school, there really isn't that much homework yet, popsicles are waiting at home, and NEENA picks you up!

2008-09-06T17:48:00.000-07:00

MEN ARE JUST HAPPIER PEOPLE

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY A married man should forget his mistakes. There's no use in two people remembering the same thing!

NICKNAMES If Laura, Kate, and Sarah go out for lunch, they will call each other Laura, Kate, and Sarah. If Mike, Dave, and John go out, they will affectionately refer to each other as Fat Boy, Godzilla, and Four-eyes.
EATING OUT When the bill arrives, Mike, Dave, and John will each throw in $20, even though it's only for $32.50. None of them will have anything smaller, and none will actually admit they want change back. When the girls get their bill, out come the pocket calculators.
MONEY A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs. A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't need, but it's on sale.
BATHROOMS A man has 6 items in his bathroom: toothbrush and toothpaste, shaving cream, razor, a bar of soap, and a towel . The average number of items in the typical woman's bathroom is 337. A man would not be able to identify more than 20 of these items.
ARGUMENTS A woman has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.
FUTURE A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband. A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
SUCCESS A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend. A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
MARRIAGE A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn't. A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change, but she does.
DRESSING UP A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants, empty the bin, answer the phone, read a book, and get the mail. A man will dress up for weddings and funerals.
NATURAL Men wake up as good-looking as they went to bed. Women somehow deteriorate during the night.
OFFSPRING Ah, children. A woman knows all about her children. She knows about dentist appointments and romances, best friends, favorite foods, secret fears, and hopes and dreams. A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the house.

2008-09-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

GOT TAGGED BY KELLEY

1) What's your favorite salad dressing? honey dijon 2) Have you ever smoked heroin? Are you kidding me? NO! 3) Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving and Christmas 4) Favorite drinks at Sonic? Diet cherry coke or orange flurry 5) Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Just anxious not really nervous, I am an old pro at it now 6) What do you think of hot dogs? I can only eat them at a football game or the gross ones at the movie that go around on that wheel! 7) Favorite Christmas song? Ava Maria and O' Holy Night ) What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Coffee 9) Can you do push ups? How many are we talking? 10) Can you do a chin up? no 11) What's your favorite piece of jewelry? I'm a jewelry freak and love it all but I would have to say jingling bracelets 12) Favorite hobbies? photography and decorating 13) Ever been in a car wreck? yes 14) Do you have ADD? Actually, I really think I do. Some type of ferocious adult onset! 15) What's one thing that you love about yourself? Having great kids a fantastic husband, family and being able to be empathetic to others 16) Middle name? Lynn 18) Name 3 things you bought yesterday? Gas $$$$ actually that is all 19) Current worry? health tests, world situations, some particular finances 20) Current hate right now? SATAN and his underhanded powers......so many illnesses around me and unhappiness 21) Favorite Restaurant? Nancy's Steakhouse 22) How did you bring in the New Year? quietly at home just like I like it....calling all the kids at 12 23) Where would you like to go? Italy 24) What's your favorite food? Seafood 25) What's something exciting in your life? My children and keeping up with their lives 26) What shirt are you wearing now? Actually, my swimsuit top 27) Do you like to sleep on satin sheets? NO 28) Can you whistle? NO 29) Favorite color? don't have one really I love them all at different moods/seasons 30) Would you be a pirate? No, they are not usually up to any good deeds 31) What songs do you sing in the shower? I actually like to talk in the shower 32) Favorite girl's name? Stella it was my grandmother's name and I have always wished I would have used it. Maybe I should have tried for one more girl because I love my girls names too. 33) Favorite boy's name? Mitchell and Reid! 34) What's in your pocket? right now, probably lint 35) Last thing that scared you? about 30 minutes ago when BA honked at me as I walked in front of his truck, but I actually was expecting it and it is my FAVORITE prank to play myself! I told him he would have felt funny if I would have collapsed in front of the truck! LOL LOL 36) Favorite TV show? Trauma show/medical shows, Biggest Loser, Grey's, American Idol 37 ) Do you love where you live? LOVE IT 39) How many TVs do you have in your house/apartment? 4 40) Who is your loudest friend? Becky and I love it! And I am probably her loudest friend! 41) How many pets do you have? none 42) Do you have any tattoos or piercings? my ears are pierced 43) Whats your husband's/wife's name? Gordon 44) What is something you can't live without? God's love and my family 45) What is your favorite candy? Hershey's kisses 46) What's your favorite sport to watch? FOOTBALL! 47) What were you doing at midnight last night? finished reading Eclipse 48) What's your favorite store? Steinmart and Target 49) What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? Yea I'm alive! 50) What time is it? 9:35 PM Monday night

2008-08-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

Weather is amazing and frightening. I remember being really afraid of storms when I was younger but now I find them rather intriguing. I can easily say that right now since I am in the safe path of the latest Hurricane headed to the Texas coast line. I might change my mind if I had a home in Galveston! However, my kids are in that area and I am trying my best to persuade them to "come to Mama" today instead of waiting for the predicted chaos if they issue a mandatory evacuation. I remember what it was like last time when they had to evacuate for Rita. What normally would take 2 hours to get to my house took 18 hours! In traffic moving practically 5-10 mph and in a total stop alot of the time. People were running out of gas etc. C.H.A.O.S. I remember Macy had just gotton potty trained and refused to put a diaper on just in case! So, hurry my babies and come home. I don't like worrying about you getting stuck in that horrible confusion again. God Bless the people that have already been affected by the storm's wrath and those that must face it yet.

2008-08-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

Several have asked about Tucker! THANKS. He is doing better. He has rallied although he still has a ways to go to regain his strength and weight. He was a very sick puppy. The vet still says that we have to get him 100% before he can finish his vaccinations. The kids are loving on him 24/7 and TLC is the best medicine of all, don't you agree? We were so happy to see his tail wagging and to hear him bark. The yard is off limits for long term visits and quarantined too because the virus still lives there! Creepy! Plus, the dreaded Sago palms are still back there. It's going to take a crane to get those babies out of the yard! The only known chemical to kill the parvo virus is CLOROX. Of course, he can go out to do his "business" but in he comes. Thank goodness for the trusty "pooper scooper". The tiles stay 'cloroxed' where he stays. I think he has decided he likes the air conditioning too! If you lived in Texas you would too!

2008-08-26T17:51:00.000-07:00

BLOGGER IS DRIVING ME NUTS TOO....what is up with it? It takes forever to get your posts organized and layed out. TOO MUCH TROUBLE.....I wish I knew how to switch to something better and still free.

OH boy.....how we get attached to our kids.... I mean our animals! I think pets are second to getting to be a mother.

Obviously, Tucker ( shown here with his brother, River ) is a much loved addition to our already plethora of granddogs Petey, Tex and Tater.

At 12 weeks, Tuck was being the usual mischievous and pesky lab puppy. Eating everything in sight...shoes, plants, paper, wood, you name it!

One day last week, I believe Wednesday, he started acting peculiar. We discussed what to do over the phone and whether to worry yet or not. Heather patrolled the yard and found that he had dealt havoc with alot of bushes/plants along their privacy fence where he had made little "play areas". One spot in particular was where he had obviously EATEN on several of her Sago palms. The ones is their yard are huge, mature plants but unbeknownst to her and alot of us they are SERIOUSLY poisonous. They will kill pets and children if ingested. Then the rapid onset of severe vomiting/diarrhea started. So, off to the emergency all night vet clinic. $$$$$$

After several tests/ labs/ exams $$$$$$$$$ that night it was determined that he was indeed showing effects of the plant. But, he also tested + for parvo. Which in itself is a deadly canine virus. It wasn't looking good. They were devastated as was I ! We stayed in contact 24/7 for the next few days. He was very very very sick. Vomiting/diarrhea / and almost inability to walk, drink fluids or focus. He spent that night in the "hospital" $$$$$$$ and by Sunday night it was still looking bad. Daily trips to the vet for fluids, etc were needed for him to survive. $$$$$$$$ I spoke with her Sunday night about 5:30 and it didn't sound like he was going to pull through. The kids were starting school the next day and she is getting ready to go back to her MDO job at church and hadn't had time to work in her room. What would happen if he died the morning the kids went back to school? They would be heartbroken! She was in tears. Which made me in tears. Which made me feel like I couldn't stand it. We discussed how far do you go with treatment? $$$$$$$$ How do you put a price tag on that? $$$$$$$$ We hung up and I just felt helpless. I threw some stuff in a bag and headed to Houston. They had no idea I was coming and it was quite a surprise. Tucker was even glad to see me. As pitiful as he was. We took him back to the vet $$$$$ yesterday. He is showing some signs of improvement. Slowly. Getting him to drink this puppy pedialyte $$$$$ is almost impossible. His appetite is gone. They have been trying to give him Gerber baby food $$$$$$$. They say if they can survive 3 days that the prognosis is pretty good for a recovery. Although he can't finish his vaccinations until he is well. $$$$$ And the parvo vaccination is one of them. This world is a rough place. Getting rougher all the time. But, I can't stand to see children and animals suffer. Even my own children who are not children anymore! God bless the beasts and the children.....for in this world they have no choice.

2008-08-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

SCHOOL DAYS are back....

After a long (?) summer all the 'young-uns' in my life are headed back to school next week. New back packs and school supplies are laid out and ready. New clothes are hung in the closet. I remember those exciting few moments until the reality of homework and science fairs were sent home with DUE dates on them! For the second year school will start without me and I am not sad at all.

I'll be looking forward to hearing about everyone's first days and hoping they are good. Just remember about being a good friend, being true to who you are, being honest and being respectful. That's all the advice that Neena has.

2008-08-18T17:04:00.000-07:00

I know exactly where I was 12 years ago today. I may not remember where I was last week but I will never forget August 18th. This was the day that I learned how DEEP a Neena's love goes. Unbelievable. It is amazing how much I love being his Neena. He makes me happy. He makes me proud. He makes me feel young again. He makes me feel special. He is such an example to his sister and his cousins. He is an exceptional young man. Everything he does, he does it 110%. Happy Birthday ROOSTER. You know how special you are to Paps and I and how very much we love you. Don't ever forget that!

* Don't mind the mess from painting in the background. Just as we were nearing completion...Paps feel off the top of a 6 foot ladder so painting has stopped for now.

2008-08-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

I've said it before. Some things just bear repeating. I was born to be a mother. I am not happy unless my nest is full of commotion and my feathers are all ruffled from love. The problem with living in BIG old Texas is that it is hard to get everyone in the nest at the same time. Seriously though, on Friday another one of those WILD August birthdays rolled around in our family. It was JD's birthday and I wasn't there ( on the other side of Texas ) to share cake with her.....I actually don't know if we have ever actually been together on her real birthday but we celebrated it together in San Antonio a few weeks ago with a shopping trip and lots of fun. I didn't actually "give real birth" to her. She is my daughter in law. But, I detest that title. To me it just conjures up all kinds of evil and wicked visions of in-law jokes and people that are forced to be family. I am happy to say that is not the case with my in law children. Not my sons or daughter. I totally and absolutely adore and love them all. Having JD in my life just sort of completed that circle of happiness for our family. I am sure the first time she met me she thought, HEAVEN HELP ME! But, how could she have known that I had been praying for her all of her life. I never knew she existed in reality until 5 years ago. I never saw that beautiful face or heard her contagious laugh. I had never even really imagined how beautiful a bride she would be as she took my son's hand. I hadn't really realized how I would feel when I stood outside that delivery room door and waited to hear that she was OK and my tiny princess was safely here. I had never snuggled on the couch with her and watched a million episodes of GILMORE GIRLS in our pajamas. I had never talked and talked and talked with her. I didn't know her cell phone by memory or have it on my speed dial. I didn't talk to her almost everyday. My other daughters didn't know that they would be getting another bestest friend. And I didn't either. At least not yet. But, I knew she was out there somewhere. I knew the girl that I wanted to love my son and be my daughter was finding her way to us. She is the last piece of the puzzle for our family tree. Now that I have her, she has blessed me beyond measure. She has given me a beautiful granddaughter. She is the most awesome wife and mother. She knows that my door is always open. I'll always switch over to take her call. I'll never EVER betray her confidences or our talks. I'll always be her listening ear or her shoulder to lean on. I'll always try to give my advice ONLY when asked for. I'll never reject her advice to me. I'll always take her advice on books and movies! I'll never ever take her for granted or wish she was "like someone else". I love her just like she was, is and always will be. My son's wife. My daughter in love. Happy Birthday Jennifer Dawn. I LOVE YOU!

2008-08-14T08:12:00.000-07:00

It's all in a word, isn't it? The last few months Mother and I along with my sisters have been going through and organizing (?) things at their house. We found boxes of cards and letters that she saved. Most of which there could be no price tag on them! Letters from Daddy during WWII while he was away, cards from sisters and family members but mostly cards ( homemade ) that Jody, Kathy and I had made when we were small. Or maybe before Hallmark! Anyway. Maybe it is just our family but we save sentimental stuff! Look over on Heather's blog from yesterday and tell me she'll throw this away! I think NOT. Another generation of note writers. I always think I am the worst saver of "stuff" , but maybe not. I opened my Bible last night at church and stuck in the crevice was a note from Heather scrawled in preK handwriting. When the kids were young and we would quarrel ( WHAT! Us quarrel? ) we had a routine that we would stop the yelling ( WHAT? Us yell? ) and correspond the rest of the misunderstanding by note/letter. I have had many notes/letters shoved under my door and taped on my mirror. I have saved many notes, cards, and letters from all my kids. Some are in boxes, some are on display shelves and some are framed but most of them are saved in my heart.

2008-08-13T21:08:00.000-07:00

As with everything I attempt and I mean EVERYTHING it ends up being way more than I had initially planned. I have really do have such good intentions. I pick the best paints and always buy GOOD brushes. That paint color is Toffee Crunch and it's on the walls. Color is VERY IMPORTANT. But my good intentions, they never seem to turn out that way. And this curse drivels down into all aspects of my life. Not just home projects. As noted a few days ago, I began a massive indoor painting project that had been needed to be done for Y.E.A.R.S. So far, the prepping I( the most important part of the project has gone well. I have taped and taped and taped. The paint cans I try to so carefully pour from and seal back up start looking like these. PAINT is everywhere. But, I am actually getting very good at prepping. Then when the actual painting starts is when the nightmare starts. I am a maniac. No matter how many times I gently wipe my brush into the bucket or re roll my rolller to get off excess I still have about 30 extra pounds of paint that go flying all over. This project was a 2 coater too. I've had to stop to do some second coats on the baseboards and I ran out of paint for the main color. I figured that I painted 8 1/2 hours on Friday and 11 hours on Saturday. My sweet daughters finished up a few door facings and "furdowns" over the windows for me. But, I rested Sunday, Monday and today. Mainly because I ran out of paint but actually because even when I stand on the tip top of the ladder I still cannot reach the vaulted corners. So, as soon as hubby takes pity on me. (? Not looking good ) I'll finish. I have one more massive piece of furniture to move and I'll be done. There are somethings I just can't do dang it.! So, I'm off to paint myself into a corner until I get help. And it better come soon. Otherwise, I'm in this corner for a long time. And I may start liking it.

2008-08-08T22:49:00.000-07:00

Don't ask me how or where it came from but my missing post returned. Go figure that one out and get back to me.

In other news, I took a little trip to Home Depot today because I decided we need to paint our house. Especially, the front room, den, kitchen area and master bedroom. I pretty much have the other side of the house looking good. So, here it is at 12:30 and I am just washing up brushes and cleaning up my mess only to start again tomorrow. This is going to take at least 1 or 2 weeks because I am doing it right and trying not to make too big a mess ( I'm a known maniac with a paint brush!) . However, I haven't seen hubby since we got back. Maybe he thinks he isn't up for this type of work. OH OH I have news for him in the morning. We are going to paint paint till the sun goes down. It is looking pretty good so far. HGTV is responsible again. I have totally planned this remake in my mind several times. It's moving the furniture that I hate and the reason it has taken me so long to get started. The secret I think to painting is all the prep work... Then when I finish the painting I am starting ripping up carpet. One room at a time. We'll see how far I get! Pray for me though. This is important to me and I won't to be able to use my house and be a happy hostess! Where are all my big strong nephews and son that would do anything for me. Yeah right! I'll get it done , don't worry. But, if you are looking for work, give me a call.

2008-08-07T07:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am on my soap box. It takes forever for me to get a blog post just like I like it. Even then sometimes, I just have to walk away and leave it as is. On the 5th, I did a post about family birthdays. It is partially still there. About an hour after I posted it, I went back and added a part about my own daughter's birthday. I had 2 additional comments after that. Last night I got on, and the whole edited version was gone along with my comments. I know that "blogger" is having some issues and it's just not me but it still drives me crazy. Is anyone else having blogger issues?

2008-08-05T12:43:00.000-07:00

BIRTHDAYS. This is the month for most of our family birthdays. Seriously. Every week we have one, two or three celebrating! Yesterday began the insanity with my son-in-love Troy's birthday. Followed closely today with my dear daughter Ashley's. Then tomorrow is my nephew, Matt's. Next week on the 11th we will be honoring my Daddy's 86th. Followed close behind on the 15th with daughter-in-love JD's. Then, the day we have been waiting for on the 18th....my "baby" Rooster's birthday. He'll be 12 and I can NOT believe it. On the 28th JorJor ( or Nunya, as Reese calls her ) will be celebrating. Isn't that crazy?

On one of the most memorable nights in my life, the 5th though, Laura Ashley came into our lives. Just as loud and unscheduled as she always is and stealing the hearts of everyone along the way. Always having to make an entrance and throwing plans out of the way, that's my girl. We were down to the last day of the annual VBS in our little congregation. I was exhausted. The grand finale program was the next day. Little did I know I would be having my own ceremony! About 6 of the younger moms ( me, then! ) had picked up the week's program and were all teaching classes, doing the crafts and running the JOYBUS to pick up kids all over town. It wasn't unusual to have over 100 just for one day. We were still worshipping in our little "almost one room" church with the wooden floors and pews. The one where you had to lift up the floor under the preacher to get to the baptistry. Remember? Kids and adults were everywhere because there was no where else to go along that little street. Trying to get everyone out of the parking lot, the bus loaded, and everyone gone for the day. One more day of VBS to go! If you know me, you know that VBS is not on of my favorite activities! I am not sure why because I feel like it is an important one. Anyway, I was the one waddling around in the August heat carrying 28 pounds that I hadn't seen since I had done this before in 1973. Hot, cranky, fat, uncomfortable, achy and hungry. I was ready for it to be over. As usual, I went home with my mom so I could lie down and she would watch Heather. I was spoiled like that. Still am. Later in the afternoon I knew that I was feeling fatter, more uncomfortable and more achy than usual. Sure enough, all those trips to the bathroom confirmed there was no stopping now. My water had broken. We called the hubster to tell him to stay at work ( it was on the way to the hospital ) and that Mom Heather and I, would be "flying" by to get him. The plan was that I would pick him up and we'd proceed on and Heather and Mom would ride back in his vehicle and come into Austin later. Mother drove of course and flying wasn't an exaggeration. Sure enough it wasn't a false trip. Around 7PM my favorite OB stopped by to tell me I had just interrupted his supper of home fried chicken and potatoes. Too bad, I said. We had important work to do here. And we did. Not the birthing part but the baby part. I couldn't wait to meet the new addition to our family. We didn't know the girl/boy part back in the 70's. So, it was just another suprise when the black haired/ black eyed baby girl came into our lives. Along with a most proud little blonde haired sister! To say she was an added blessing is an absolute truth. I loved the idea of two girls to play with! To say she changed our lives is an understatement. We have not had a dull day since 1976. And we have never had so much fun. Happy Birthday Ashley! I love you.

I wish they were all close enough so that we could have a huge cake. But, it might be a fire hazard if we added up all the years of candles. So HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY PRECIOUS FAMILY BIRTHDAY HONOREES!

2008-07-31T17:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary you two! Four years ago tonight I know where I was and what I was thinking. I was exhausted, excited and just watching the scene unfold. All my children were there together, my family ( immediate and otherwise ) along with a couple of hundred friends and that itself was enough to make it wonderful. All the months and months of planning and organizing and dreaming were coming into action. We had already had an exciting afternoon before the wedding. Unbeknownst to the bride and groom ( we didn't want to upset them) but Macy, who was only 2 had taken some medication out of Ashley's purse thinking they were TIC TACS. They were at Walmart at the time and had to call 911. She sat in the ambulance for an hour or so and finally the EMT's deemed she was fine. The flower girl spent the night telling everyone at the wedding she took drugs! But, the most beautiful part of the wedding was at the start. Everyone was seated.....the music was playing and everyone was waiting on the bride. Especially the groom. Finally, the massive back double doors of the church spread open and the setting sun cast down the most beautiful rays into the church aisle and through J's veil. I kid you not, people gasped. It was the most amazing moment. She looked like a beautiful angel and yes, M ( my big strong son ) cried.

The past few days I have been in San Antonio with M, J, and J. Two reasons really. 1.) Mitch had to attend the Texas State Coaching School (?) and J & J were tagging along since it was their anniversary/vacation and 2.) I wanted to see them since they were only an hour away instead of the usual 5! Once football practice starts they are captive in A'town. Literally captive. GO WAR EAGLES.

But we had a blast. Can you imagine asking your mother in law to go with you on a vacation to celebrate your anniversary? By day M went to classes ( like UIL rules, plays, strategy, videography of the game ) and meetings. And we shopped, shopped, walked, talked, ate and ate and sight see'd. Thank goodness for a "cadillac" stroller with cup holders and plenty of purse/sack room. Then in the evening we would walk the three million miles back to the hotel and they would get all dressed up to go out on the town with their friends. I got J all to myself for the evening. I was in HEAVEN. San Antonio is a FUN place. There is so much to do. We didn't drive around once we parked at the hotel but there was plenty in walking distance. We would have loved to have gone to SeaWorld but the tickets are outrageous $$$ and we thought J might be a little too young yet. We'll do that next year. This year she was content to sit in my lap and give me kisses, let me love all her "sugar" off and totally entertain me. And that Shamu can never do.

2008-07-25T15:54:00.000-07:00

My house is quiet. Again. But, for a whole week it was mass chaos, endless giggles, night time snuggles, library books to read, serious talks, movies to watch, color books and colors, paints that left precious marks on my dining table. It was sleeping in the middle of the "worlds" biggest bed on the floor. It was teeth not brushed and hair in tangles. It was wet towels and floaties. It was popsicles for breakfast. It was the exclamation after supper one night, "Another great one Neena." It was pretend time and it was days with no schedules. No clocks. No where to be except where I was. No where I would have rather been. And I pray that no amount of time can steal these memories from me.

2008-07-21T13:50:00.000-07:00

SUNDAY at Camp Neena was a typical Sunday. We spent most of the day going back and forth to church! We ate a yummy roast lunch over and Nana & Poppi's house and then came home. We did stop at the $ Store on the way home and picked up some things to keep us entertained. I believe we watched the BEE movie again. It was just as funny the second time. Then, believe it or not, we actually fell asleep before midnight.

MONDAY pictures will be forthcoming later.

2008-07-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

These pictures were actually from Day 2 but all the campers had a late night last night and we didn't get our post made! So....enjoy the fun from yesterday!

All the signs got posted at the Camp Neena entrance. We had an little late morning manicure.

The above was our afternoon grocery list. You'll be happy to know that we were able to locate all the items. We took Tucker over to visit his brother, River. They had so much fun playing puppy games. Reid is holding Tucker and Macy is wrestling River! Actually, even if you can't tell it.........Tucker was packing on a little more weight than his brother. Then Macy decided that she would take a trip somewhere exciting. Maybe, Florida she said. So, she dressed up looking like a movie star or Hanna*h M*ontana and off she went.We made a trip to the local library to check out some books on puppy training, sports and ballerinas. While we were there they checked out the memorial sidewalk out front that had a brick with their baby cousins names on it! They thought that was pretty neat. When we got home Reid gave us a few badmitton demonstrations and some techniques! He is one of our family sports experts.

Then he picked up some limbs and sticks for the brush pile we have by the creek. We are in a burn ban right now so we can't burn them. By fall, we will have a bonfire if we don't get some rain. POOR TUCKER. He was all "tuckered" out after our busy day.

TODAY? We have plans for swimming of course. Then some crafts. We are going to watch the BEE movie. Dinner at LC ( for all you locals ) and a big frog and lizard hunt tonight. We have the tank ready! This is Macy's quest not brother's! She is not afraid at all!
UPDATE: Already caught one toad in the flower bed and it's not even 5 PM. She talked baby talk to him and wanted to kiss him but I suggested against it. Not unless I had thought the whole "kiss a frog" theory was real would I have allowed that. Even then it would have been questionable.

2008-07-17T16:20:00.000-07:00

CAMP NEENA DAY ONE

WE are happy to let everyone know that Camp Neena is in SESSION. I picked up my THREE special campers last night. I was so excited to pick them up. You are wondering why I said three? Because, Tucker is here too! I met their Mom and Dad halfway last night and we loaded up all the necessities and headed off to the 'ville which is Camp Headquarters. We spent the night last night at Nana and Poppi's just to make it special. I wish I had a picture of our sleeping "pile". We pulled out the sofa bed. I slept in the middle and we all fell asleep laughing about Macy getting school shoes at the Dollar Store. No offense intended if you get your shoes at the Dollar Store but she wants some Shox. Which are pretty cool shoes, I hear. We were all snuggled together. After they fell asleep I just stared off in the dark and thought "It doesn't get any better than this!" Well, maybe if Avery and Jaxon could have been in our "pile" it would have been super better.
Today at lunch we had BBQ from Z's. The best place ever. Macy set the table and this sign adorned the middle.

After lunch.......you guessed it. We jumped in the pool and stayed in all afternoon. Until our toes and hands were all wrinkled and pruney.

Then look here! It's Rooster! He showed us all how he could dive and scuba. We floated awhile until the diving ( off the step ) exhibition started.

As you can see Tucker wasn't very happy he couldn't get in the pool too. Diving Olympics look out!

2008-07-12T21:33:00.000-07:00

WHAT TO DO .......WHAT TO DO........ WHAT WOULD YOU DO? I am still contemplating this "closing" my blog to private and deciding if it really is a security concern. I really, really have been thinking about it alot. Of course, I want to do what is safe and right for my own family and their privacy first and foremost. But, let's face it. I don't have alot to say usually. We are not high profile people ...... we are just your average "run of mill", normal- middle class, hardworking, lots of loving families. I respect people's privacy as much as the next guy. And I know that all of you who have expressed a desire to read my blog choose to do so either because you are bored out of your mind or because you see a likeness in our faith, our lifestyles, maybe our hurts and our happy times. I like the idea that you realize that I do have unusually beautiful babies in my family! Perhaps in the world and you don't hold that against me. LOL. Truly. I don't mind that at all. I like making new friends on here and I like when we can comment back and forth. I have made some really sweet and REAL friends. Friends that think like I do. They were raised similiar to me. Someone I would call to come over for dinner if I knew the number. Like Deena, "Pretty in Pink". If could I would go visit her in a heartbeat. And Snapshot. I want her to come to my house for a week and give me a Cooking Course for my HEART condition so that I can learn to eat healthy and cook healthy. I don't want to read it out of a cookbook. I want her to come here and show me! If Ree called me from Pioneer Woman to be a judge in the upcoming Cowboy Bachelor, I'd be there too. I've read stories of families who have buckled under tragedies and the blogworld hammered the gates of Heaven with prayers for strangers we didn't even know. Families who have lost loved ones to to the sting of death. Young mothers, fathers, and children. Accidents, illnesses, and other tragedies. We pray together on line for total strangers and then we read their blogs daily to see of changes and updates. Then we stay in contact and prayers continue. I have read many stories of mothers, much like my own daughter, who had to deal with infertility issues and eventually bury baby sons and others daughters. We prayed for them like they offered prayers up for us. When I write about a need, be it serious or light, I am convinced that my blogfriends know what to do. I don't know their phone numbers. Their cell numbers or their addresses. But, I know I can contact them through here and have and answer from someone in lightning speed. I like the idea that when I have a need and I write it out of a genuine heart that you will know about it and respond to me. I love the comments. I wish all lurkers made comments. To me it is like making new friends everyday. I like knowing that you know enough about to realize when I ask for a prayer or have a need that you care...... And trust me. I will have a need. The other fact that worries me about closing this and making it "invite only "is, I'll lose some of the people that may have never commented but for some reason they found a moment of time to relate to something I said or felt. So, with that being said. I will use discretion and study the matter for awhile before making a final decision to close it. If my family wants me to leave their personal photos off, then I will respect that and leave them off. Give me some time to make this decision. You know how I am when backed up against a wall. I realize I can't please everyone so I just stay on the wall. I want to do what's best and right for all.

2008-07-09T13:06:00.000-07:00

I have decided to take my blog to a "invite only" status. Obviously not for the hundreds of readers I have but for overly cautious and psychotic reasons of privacy for my babies and family. And because Ashley suggested it. The reasons are really pretty clear cut. If you blog, go on to the google bar and put in your blogs name. Then hit the "images" and watch all the pictures of your life pull up. It's kind of like googling the map to your house. Creepy. So, just leave a comment if you want me to include you in my list of readers. I've lost contact with some of my friends who have done this and I don't want to lose you if you like to see my blog.

2008-07-07T14:32:00.000-07:00

AVERY NAOMI

JAXON BLAIR

MY OWN BEAUTIFUL BIRTHDAY BABIES ~ A YEAR in CONTRAST

But these weren't the only family babies this year! We proudly present the rest of the FABULOUS FIVE.

l to r:

Brooks Reese Sam

2008-07-06T20:56:00.000-07:00

This is how I plan to spend Monday. Notice the smile she has? I may not have that. Notice the eagerness with which she appears to start her projects? I may not have that either. Any suggestions?

2008-06-28T07:35:00.000-07:00

These last few weeks have had enough packed in to be the whole summer. Everyone within my "earshot" is wondering when it will slow down. Summer is here there is no doubt. Triple digits. No rain in the forecast. Everyone looking for a corner in the shade or under AC vent! Or in my case, my lounge float in the pool. Which I have missed this week because of VBS. By the time I got home from the church building it just seemed like too much effort to change gears to my usual "lazy bum" status. Here are some of the "happ'nings" of the past few weeks. Abbreviated, I might add.

I have had a house guest for the past week. She is 13 yrs old and the whole story is rather sad. So, in order to spare you all the details let me just say that for some reason I am certain that God placed her in my life for a short period of time this summer. Both to teach me something and her also. It has been pretty amazing and instinctively I am still capable of living in the house with a teenager! It has been a V.E.R.Y. emotional week for me because of her. It is hard to explain and I am not sure anyone would understand it if I tried. Let me just say that if I was 20 years younger ( and healthier ) her life and mine would be changing right now. However, I know my limits and I know my heart ( not the one beating inside but the emotional one ). Maybe I'll talk more about it later but right now just let me say, PLEASE pray for her as I return her home (?). I have no idea why I am putting parenthesis's on everything here.

And in the midst of all the other DEEP emotions of the week, one of our dear church friends passed away at 52 years old. He had a massive heart attack in his sleep. He had not been feeling well during the day. Obviously. We have known him and his family since youth. We also have lots and lots of memories of life with him. He was a GREAT guy and Christian. So, there is our comfort. B, T & I sang at his funeral yesterday and it was packed with friends and family. He was a quiet and unassuming guy. He saw good in everyone! He didn't hold grudges and always had that little boy smile that made him so sweet. He loved to study the Bible and I could remember all the many times I have sat in a Bible class with him and he would comment on something and I was like, "Wow, how did he know that?" He was an outdoor guy, sportsman, hunter and he was still a conductor for the railroad. He could see retirement coming and was really looking forward to it. They had his worn Bible and his pocket knife in his hand. Both of those things were part of him! Life wasn't always fair for him. He had lived through some parts of life he wouldn't want to repeat. But, he was a good man. From a good family that loved him alot! Our new minister likened his death to a fishing boat that starts drifting away from the shoreline. We keep watching him drift out and pretty soon we can't see him from our side of the shore. But, on the otherside of the horizon a different group of friends and loved ones watch his boat sail in to their harbor, out of our sight. His Heavenly friends. Isn't that cool? I'll always have good memories of him in my life.

Tucker is doing great! He is looking forward to seeing Reid and Macy this week. We are working on housebreaking and he is doing amazing. It is just like having a toddler in the house. He plays so hard in the morning and then he has to have a nap. Sorry, Heather but he likes to be rocked. Last night he stayed up with me rather late. I took him out one last time before I went to bed and he did all his "potty" business while I praised him and clapped. Then he runs to the door. I picked him up and he just snuggled down on my shoulder and I put him on his blankie in the bathroom and he was out for the night! I had been calling him cry baby but he is so much better about that. No more. He is content with me spoiling him. I think you can forget the crate stuff. He likes the AC. We went to the $$$ store to get a couple more toys and he is loving that. And eat? OMG. That little bag of food you bought? You better find a Pet**co somewhere close with coupons.

I have been on a movie kick this week. So far I have watched.......The Other Boleyn......... 27 Dresses......Sweet Home Alabama ( again ).........several LIFETIME movies........RUDY ( again )....... While You Were Sleeping ( again ).........and a couple of others.

JD will be proud of me. I am reading Twili*ght. And it started as good as she promised. I am enthralled so far and am looking forward to the next pages......and two books in the series. I love the writing style of the author, Steph*anie Me*yer.

So. My next adventure will be Princess J's birthday next weekend. Can't wait to be with them and watch her blow out her 1 candle. Then? Maybe the official Session One of Camp Neena can START.

Just so you know. The * in the paragraph above break up the title and the author or any other universal term that might provide a link. Then when people are googling stuff on the net for info my blog doesn't pop up for all the world to see. I didn't like that at all. That is also why I don't use titles anymore. It's just personal. And I am paranoid like that sometimes. I think I watch too many LIFETIME movies!

2008-06-25T21:20:00.000-07:00

CHANGE OF PLANS

As with any major undertaking, such as Camp Neena, one must be flexible. Our camp schedule had a slight calendar change but I think that within the next few weeks we should be back on schedule.

Macy did not get to come to Camp Neena yet. We had to rearrange the schedule slightly but Camp Neena is still open for business. I have been able to see all my precious babies in the last few weeks as they came through here on their way to various summer activities.

However, I do have one camper. He is a whiny little booger though. And, he is a messy eater. He also follows me every step I take and gets all tangled up in my feet. He is a snuggler though and I like that! Tonight is his first night without his mommy and brothers and sisters. It's going to be a long one.

Introducing my newest granddog, Tucker. I am not sure of his middle name yet. He belongs to Reid and Macy and he is staying with me until next Tuesday when they return from vacation. He is 6 weeks old today. Do you see those BIG paws? He is going to be a BIG boy.

He has already grown so much since they saw him a week ago! He misses them ~

Vacation Bible School has been in full swing too so I have had a busy busy week. I have been going in everyday. Aren't you proud of me Connie? I even have helped where needed without, well you know Connie.

This is the VBS Rainforest. Monkeys and jungle animals are hanging from branches all over the church building. Our van pulls up every morning loaded up with excited kids. Wish you could see all the rooms and hear all the little singers!

June is over for all account. Now JULY is on the way. My little Jaxon will be joining our family full of one year olds. Doesn't time fly when you are having fun? Even when you are not.

2008-06-11T18:46:00.000-07:00

Busy days of summer are here. It seems like when I looked at my dayplanner it was already getting so full I don't know when I am doing what. But, one thing I do know is that next week is the FIRST OFFICIAL WEEK of CAMP NEENA. I am so excited. My first camper is Macy and we already have some pretty awesome plans. We will be posting about them next week. She will be my co-correspondent. I think I will even let her write a blog with me. Stay tuned!

Then, our plans are to go the beach with all of our kids and their families the following week when we take her back. I am very excited about that! Baby Jaxon has not ever been to the beach that I can remember. They didn't get to go last year with us because Mommy was due any minute with her! This will be a fun year to watch them all.

Mother broke her foot last week. This is not actually her foot be it looks very similiar! I "googled" this foot picture for comparison! She was able to get one of the hard boots to walk in but it rubs her leg and is so heavy to walk in. But thankfully it is healing and she is mobile. OUCH!

My sister Jody has been here the past few days with her daughter Jenna Lynn and baby Reese. Reese is one of the fabulous five babies born last spring in our family. She has grown since this picture alot. They are on their way to North Carolina where Jenna, Matt and Reese are moving. Jody and Jim, and all of us, will miss them alot. But, who knows? Maybe I'll actually get to go on a trip there sometime. I would love it. Matt is now officially Dr. Cope and will be doing his residency at Duke. We are all very proud of him ! They have done alot of hard work to get where they are.

Then, Friday is my Uncle Bill's birthday. I won't get to share cake with him but I plan to call him and let him know how special he is to us. This picture was made last year at their anniversary party. How come I am the shortest one in this picture? I am named after my Aunt Mary Lynn. HAPPY BIRTHDAY UNCLE BILL!

2008-05-31T17:45:00.000-07:00

Our church family has been struggling along these past few months without a minister. We have a bunch of talented men who stepped up and covered preaching but we still felt incomplete. On top of all that struggling one of our dearest couples/friends/family/leaders moved away and we were really reeling in self pity and pain! We miss you Connie and Don, we have survived, barely. But, we have been blessed to find a young family that wants to be part of our church family. They moved into the "parsonage" today and are so excited to get to know us all. The good and the bad of us. And we are excited too. Pray that this is the start of a great big spiritual boost that is long overdue for many of us. Mostly me!

I was so proud to get to watch Reid's game a few weeks ago. He is quite an athlete like his daddy and his Uncle Bubbie. Whatever he chooses to do, he does it excellently. Not to mention that he is handsome, polite, kind, smart. He is finishing up a great school year. He aced the TAKS, even getting the principal's recognition for his high score. He was on the student council. He plays basketball too. When he finishes school next week he'll be officially headed to MIDDLE school. I can't believe it. But, before that he is enrolled at Camp Neena and I may never let him go home. I may open up homeschool! With no math. Anything to keep him from growing up too much faster!

Then there is my little blue eyed beauty. If she is the room then there is action going on. Her smile lites up the entire room. We were so disappointed to have had to miss her fancy, foo foo, dance recital a few weekends ago. Paps was sick and we couldn't go. But, she has promised us our own private recital when she comes. Complete with music and tututs. I may rent out the rec center! HA. I know it would be well worth it. She has soaked up every single minute of Kindergarten. She is reading and writing. She was a member of the Good News Club at school. Plus, she just realized today she has 2 loose teeth and she couldn't be more excited.

Speaking of tutus. Here is my latest little lovely dancer. She has learned to walk and has not slowed down yet. So, much to explore. And she does. She is starting to talk too and it'll melt your heart. She understands whatever you say or tell her. She is going through the "mama stage" right now and it's hard to get a hug but we work around that and get lots of loving on her when she is around. She is her mommy's buddy.

And my happy little contented princess, Jaxon! She is practicing her swimming skills for her turn at Camp Neena. She also has that million dollar smile and a contagious little belly laugh. And those eyes? OH MY. She's getting the teeth that her cousin Macy is losing! It won't be long and she'll be up and running with her cousin Avery.

Hopefully, my summer will be full of hugs, kisses and lots of visiting back and forth. And gas prices? For the love of Mike, not even that will keep me away from my babies!

2008-05-30T08:49:00.000-07:00

First let me say. This is not my wedding picture. But, my wedding picture would have been there if I could have figured out how to use my scanner and upload it into blogger. Blogger and I have a love - hate relationship with photos.

But, I will say this. Yesterday was our 37th wedding anniversary. I don't know where time goes. Somewhere really fast, is all I know. This boy child that married this girl child so very young on that day are now thinking they are still the boy and girl with just alot more things that ache and hurt! And alot of love that has taken some pretty good "licks" but is still very much beating.

If anyone of you has ever been in love, the real kind - the forever kind, then you know it's sort of like riding an eternal roller coaster, the fastest and scariest roller coaster in the world. You get on with this partner and you never get off. NEVER. There are times when you may want to jump off but never do.

I have learned alot of things about myself during these years. I have learned that I am selfish. I didn't mean to be and I've worked hard to change that. He's worked too on his own issues. Work. That's part of it. I've learned that love changes and takes on new feelings. I never agreed with that popular saying from the 70's that said, "Love means never having to say I'm sorry." I think it is so FALSE. Love has everything about saying I'm sorry. Admitting your mistakes, taking responsibility when you've made hurtful choices or said mean things. Words cannot be taken back. Apologies can ease that hurt. Love also changes and morphs into different seasons. These seasons are pretty unexplainable unless you have crossed over into them. During the early season there is so much learning to do. It is so important that within your own relationship you each are trusted to find your own support groups with friends. At least it was for us. For guys to do guy things and girls to do girl things. And you respect and honor those times. But, no matter how much you have known or been with the that person you do NOT know them. You spend years developing your own inside beliefs, morals, and friendship circles with this person. Sometimes the borders are hard to establish but in our case, these boundaries were established effortlessly and easily. We raised 3 strong children who were the center of our universe. Being a family was all we saw or wanted. We chose to teach the same things we had been taught. And despite our many mistakes they came out on the other side of our immature skills like troopers. All the while the marriage is still a work in progress. A flip of the roller coaster basket. And you hang on. Marriage seasons go very fast. Especially the one that involves the raising of the children. POOF. You almost lose your own identity and think you may have. All of a sudden the children are gone and another season enters. The season of "Who in the world lives in this house with me?" It's a fun and exciting season because you pretty much start back at the beginning for awhile and get to know that person with the familiar face. It's not all fun and games though. Somewhere in the midst and changing of the seasons it is very easy to lose who you were or thought you were. You have each learned to be the person that God intended you to be but you never realized that you/he changed. And grew. And became grown! No longer that handsome guy in the wedding picture looks the same or the bride with the big dreams. But, if you have prayed together and loved together, all those changes in that season bring you closer. Thankfully, your love has deepened to the extent that you accept, embrace, and love those changes even if you don't agree. Love is so much about being a good companion too. A better friend. A precious lover. It is someone who doesn't mind holding your hair back while you are wretchingly sick, or bringing you a sprite when you are sick. It is someone who watches the Lifelight helicopter take off not knowing .... not knowing if that last season will ever come. It someone who lets you be yourself because they know that is all you can be. It is understanding the word stubborn and thinking it is a good word. It's letting God lead your marriage and not running ahead to try to make it your way. It is scraping pennies to go visit the kids. It is decisions to be made and jokes yet to tell. It is still waiting anxiously for his car to come down the drive after work. It's all the little things. It's looking back and seeing only happy times not the mistakes. It is not roses, fancy restaurants, perfect words or lots of money. It's just that simple. And why do people, even me, try to make it so hard. Happy Anniversary my sweetie.

2008-05-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

I think that most of us in Central Texas will
agree.....SUMMER IS HERE. The temperatures have been waivering at close to 100. No rain in weeks to measure. IT's HOT. School is officially over for most next week. With the later start of school this year in Texas, everyone is going to classes through the first week of June. Camp Neena is ready to kick off. I think Macy will be the first camper. We are looking forward to it. She's our snuggle bug. She has already gotton some ideas for us to do. For one, I know we will be catching frogs again. Or should I say, she'll be catching frogs. I am the look out. We set her up a small aquarium tank on the deck to put them in and then like last year, we'll let them go on the last day of camp. We have seen several different species of frogs around so she should have fun. Along with the geckos and chamelons. She loves her animals! Then she wants to go and get her nails done. Professionally. Not by me. She said she will sit as still as a staute. So, we will do that. Maybe the movies. Then mostly swim and I'll steal lots and lots of love.

This is what I have been doing for the last few weeks. PEACHES PEACHES PEACHES. And also, blackberries, boisenberries or as I call them dewberries. There is very little difference but they are SO SO good. My cereal bowl has been full of them. G's bluebell icecream bowl has been full and our freezer is getting full. I have given away more than I've kept. The berries need to be picked again today and so do the peaches. Most of the branches on the peach tree have clusters of peaches in no less than 7 per cluster. They look like grapes! If you bring a basket by, I'll be glad to help you pick!

2008-05-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

MY RESIMAY

To hoom it mae cunsern:

I waunt to apply for the job what I saw in the paper.

I kin Type realee qwik wit one finggar and do sum a counting. I think I am good on the fone and I no I am a pepole person, Pepole realee seam to reespond too me well. Certain men and all the ladies. I no my spelling is not too good but find that I Offen can get a job wit my persinalety.

My salerery is open so we kin discus wat you want to pay me and wat you think that I am werth, I kin start emeditely. Thank yoo in advanse fore yore anser. hopifuly Yore best aplicant so farr.

Sinseerly,

Neena