6K Madness

15 years & 35 weeks

2010-10-07T08:11:00.004-06:00

I am amazed at how quickly this pregnancy has gone. I guess I shouldn't be since life is passing us by in a blur.

How is it possible I've been married for 15years? I remember my parents 25th like it was yesterday and I was just a few months pregnant with Joshua. I feel overwhelming blessed today as I relish the good and even bad times that have brought us to today.

Our little girl is due in about 5-7 more weeks. I'm spending lots of time resting as my blood pressure is elevated. She seems to be doing well though and I'm getting anxious to meet her and add her to our home.

The kids are excited and Josh very intensly insisted last night that he is 3rd in line to "hold her first". This meant a lot as his enthusiasm has decreased over the last few months. WHY I worry? Because I'm me.... I know she is going to be absolutely rotten! LOL!

23 weeks and counting!

2010-07-13T13:00:00.002-06:00

Where did the last 13 weeks go? This has been an unbelievable whirl wind! Early, on time, or late I am half way through this pregnancy now!

The baby is so very active and I'm trying to relish in every minute of it. The kids are having so much fun watching the baby move and my tummy grow.

Madi doesn't ask quite so often "How much longer" but they are all counting down the days.

We have a beautiful wicker cradle and that's about it! LOL! It's amazing how you learn you need so much less with subsequent pregnancies.

All is well and we are oh so blessed!

Dr. Cummings........ my modern day miracle

2010-04-18T17:17:00.002-06:00

So, we have approached week 10 of this pregnancy. I'm still sick all day long (some days worse than others), but that's a sign of lots of hormones right? (Smile) Atleast that's what I say to myself!

Two weeks ago, I selected my new OBGYN. I really haven't had one I liked a lot since Madilyn was born.....BUT

Laurie has been telling me for years that IF I ever got pregnant again I just had to go and see Dr. Cummings. (She saw him in seminar at a midwifery conference a while back.)

So, miracle number one was getting a consult with him. He is planning to retire and not taking new patients. When I was in the office with him he mentioned that he had received a phone call from someone stating that he really should consider taking me on as a patient. This was BEFORE I even made the appointment!

We talked for 30min or more and he graciously explained all my options and answered my questions....

He sees no reason why I can't have a natural childbirth instead of my 5th csection!

I'm absolutely beyond excited! To top it off I had a sonogram a few days later and could see our little Elvis' (dubbed affectionately by Vince of course) heartbeat. Looks more like a puffy Cheeto than an Elvis to me.... but I'm not up to arguing.

God is So Amazing!

POS-I-TIVE?

2010-03-28T12:51:00.002-06:00

5 years, 3mos. and MANY days after the birth of my sweet baby Madilyn. My LAST baby. The last one I was to carry, give birth to, nurse, potty train, see off to school...

A positive pregnancy test?????

WAIT....WHAT???? Who's running this show?

Oh yea, NOT ME!

Praise God, He has a bigger and better plan! I was quickly reminded of one of my most recent favorite songs, "My Savior My God" (Thank you daddy!)
"I am not skilled to understand, what God has willed what God has planned, I only know at his right hand.....stands one who is my Savior"

So after three days of crying, lots of phone conversations with my awesome supportive mother, and my sister who knew all the right words to say, oh and 2 weeks to get used to the idea ~ I'm getting a little excited.

I can't fathom a life without faith in God and His perfect hand in everything.....

7 months in a F-L-A-S-H

2010-03-21T18:08:00.004-06:00

Where does the time go? I blinked and the Holidays and half the school year flew by.

Here is a review in a nutshell...

Joshua started public school again, 7th grade to be specific. He is doing really well. He played and fell in love with football. He is also playing the euphonium in the band. He is first chair and doing really well. His voice is changing, he's taller than me, and just a really sweet young man.

Noah is in his final year at Hyman. 4th grade has provided it's challenges for him but he is doing well. He played soccer in the fall but is taking this season off. He loves his skateboard and being outside. He has become a wonderful helper with the girls and especially cousin Elijah. He has a kind, soft, sensitive heart and still maintains he will be a preacher one day.

Caitlyn is changing. My first baby girl is a big girl now. Tall and skinny little thing. She is a crazy sports enthusiast, talented in just about anything she tries. She has developed quite a shy streak lately, but that keeps her from trouble in her first grade class. She is a strait A student and our little princess.

Madilyn is in pre-K, learning to read and write. She loves being the baby of the family. The boys still dote on her hand and foot, as does Caitlyn quite often. She is manipulative and sneeky and OH SO CUTE! I find myself laughing at her so often. It's really hard not to.

Vince is doing really well. He has lost 70+ pounds and become a totally new person. He is no longer working for his company but rather in a warehouse doing shipping. He is happy and content and we are so very blessed.

I have been with Instaff now since July-ish. I'm crazy busy at work but it's fullfilling and a nice pay check. I miss being home with the kids but we are making things work.

The biggest change is that Vince and I are both in school now. We are attending University of Phoenix and starting from the beginning. We hope and plan to graduate before Josh does! LOL! It's hard but very rewarding.

Did I seriously miss the whole summer?

2009-08-15T09:27:00.012-06:00

Wow! June4th as a post... Thats pathetic!

What was I doing? Oh yeah! Working 3rd shift, hardly sleeping and then WAM~ truck accident.... 3 hour therapy sessions and pain! LOL! Well atleast now I don't feel as guilty.

Let me TRY to catch us up ~ just in time for school to start.

The school year ended with a bang. My Caity bug graduated from Kindergarten and Noah got lots of awards to end his 3rd grade career.

The truck got totalled....I miss that truck!

But because of God's plan....I got to spend most of the summer home with the kids! Alot of my time was spent at the doctors office but we did hit up Hurricane Harbor almost once a week. Laurie took most of those pictures. Its hard to be motivated to take them yourself when you have the most talented photographer around! LOL!

We had a lot of fun at Sarah's bachlorette party!

Family came down from Missouri for the 4th of July

And then to top it all off ~ my little cheerleaders made their debut ~

To end the summer with a real bang~ A fantastic friend hooked me up with a DAY job and all is happy in the Kile household "for now" anyway ;-)

May Mayhem

2009-06-04T16:24:00.003-06:00

Wow...busy times. I must say this was the fastest school year EVER! I just can't believe its over.

We used our Hurricane Harbor passes for the first time on Memorial Day weekend. I have no pictures because I wasn't sure what to expect with all the kids and stuff we had to carry in. But I'm sure there will be lots as the summer progresses.

Caitlyn had to make an insect out of stuff around the house. She was VERY proud of her ladybug.

Noah (you can barely make out his head) sang with his choir on a field trip.

We went to the FREE Casting Crowns concert at the Ballpark and watched the Rangers beat the A's.

We had a great time at Field Day (fun Day)

My 12year old finally consented (I know I'm the boss) to getting his pictures taken. Laurie did so great with him!

I am now officially the Duncanville Council PTA President....

Mothers Day

2009-05-13T14:23:00.004-06:00

We had a very nice Mother's Day weekend. It started out Saturday with 3 tournament soccer games and Noah. He has gotten so much better!

Its really fun to watch his team play as they actually put the strategies of the game together and don't just run around in clumps kicking at the ball.

Turns out they beat an undefeated team that hadn't been scored on ALL year...3-2!
YAY HotShots!

Saturday night, Vince got a new dog. His name is RIP. He's 3 years old and he's in my home on TRIAL! LOL! Caitlyn keeps saying have you made up your mind yet?

I'm scared to death of this dog around my kids but he's actually warming up on me. He is SO sweet and well behaved. He was raised in a very loving home and just wants to be loved on.

The kids made me an apron for work with decorations and their hand prints... Very cute! I forgot to take a picture and its already at work :-(

Hope your Mother's Day was equally blessed.

All Work and No Play.......

2009-04-18T14:24:00.015-06:00

Wow! Can't believe its been 3weeks since I posted anything. Thats terrible. It feels like all I do is work and sleep but obviously we have been very active based on the following post. LOL! I guess I just kinda sleep walk through it all.

We have been very busy with soccer. Caitlyn and Noah are both playing and that fills our Saturdays. Lucky for all of us the field is 5min from the house. Noah has improved SO much! He scored his first goal in a few seasons last weekend..(he usually plays defense)

And Caitlyn is still super fast. She's always begging to run on the treadmill. I'm sure she'll make her Grandad proud one day! LOL!

Faithful fans....braving the cold winds.

We got very VERY lucky last week and had the opportunity to suprise the kids with a trip to Great Wolf Lodge. We've been wanting to take them since it opened and it just hasn't been feasable. We got to suprise them and it was WONDERFUL!

We had a "Wolf Den Room"

Josh playing Magi Quest

Noah sporting his Pirate Tattoo...He's very proud of it!

My crew in their fancy coolibar swimsuits compliments of Grannie and Grandma Cash. They are mainly for this summer when they are out in the sun but it sure made it easy to find them in the crowds of the water park!

The girls got an Ice Cream Sundae Pedicure. They thought they were SO cool! They pick their "flavor" of water...Caity got vanilla, Madi chocolate..... She promptly informed me that THE LADY...got her feet dirty with the brown water and exasperated let me know NOW SHE NEEDED A BATH! What a hoot!
They don't let mom's help in the color scheme process.

We did get around to coloring Easter Eggs but it was Sunday evening! I will do another post on Easter soon.

Noah sang in the school choir program last week.....

Finally last night I got to help Laurie with another wedding. I always have fun with her......just trying to have an ounce of her creativity.

Kissing

2009-03-26T07:03:00.003-06:00

Seriously?! A conversation about kissing? Well, its bound to come up sooner or later...... Amazingly it wasn't a conversation with my 12 year old ~ it was the 6 year old!!!!

It went a little like this ~

Caitlyn: "Daddy, ((blank)) at school said I'm hot and he wants to kiss me."
Vince: "SHAUNNA!" "Caitlyn, go tell your mom, I can't breathe"

Me: blah blah about how nice it feels that someone likes you but kissing is germy and you shouldn't just kiss a bunch of boys, its special, blah blah blah

Caitlyn: "Well he said if I don't kiss him he's gonna kiss (((blank))) instead."

Me: If he wants to kiss you AND another girl you definetly don't want to let him kiss you!!! Bottom line your too young for this! He is too young to ask girls for a kiss!

Caitlyn: AS SERIOUS AS COULD BE. Pauses....Thinks... "MMMM--ooooo-MMMMMM, he is 6 now too!"

ARGH!ARGH!ARGH!

The conversation finally ended well. Good grief I'm not old enough to handle this!

3's

2009-03-11T21:21:00.004-06:00

What a wonderful birthday I was blessed with. This one didn't depress me at all, I was anxious for the ME day. I was talking to a friend and we were discussing how much the celebration of bdays changes as you get older and especially after you have kids. This year I felt especially selfish and relished in the attention (when I wasn't asleep that is)

So, on magical 33 I reminised about the other years of 3 in my l-o-n-g life....

At 3, I was an adorable toddler. LOL! Actually I was a sassy little know it all with a huge vocabulary, tons of attitude, but respectful to adults, just not friends.....sorry Karin! When I was 3 my real life baby doll was born! I thought she was spectacular even though she was supposed to be a boy ;-)

At 13, I was pimple faced and still a little full of myself....Actually, at this point I had lost most self confidence. I was in 7th grade and had just really started noticing that boys were more than just fun playmates. I had way more guy friends than girls. On a normal day I was with my junior cousin Joel and the other members of our church youth Cody, Dustin, Jeff, PeeWee, Chuck, Sean etc.... I *think* that was the summer Dustin decided he loved me and named the two children we would have. One summer movie with him, mom, laurie, and the babysitting kids prompted me to end that phycho "relationship" LOL!

At 23, I was a mom to Joshua. He was my everything!!!! The month before this birthday I almost lost Vince to a serious illness and it forced our relationship to a different level.

Now another 10 years has passed and I'm at 33. I was talking to my mom telling her its so strange because I remember when SHE turned 33! I look forward to the next decade and all it will bring. I certainly feel surrounded by an amazing group of friends and family.

I love you all ~ Thanks for making my day special.

I'm alive!

2009-03-07T15:48:00.004-06:00

Just semi-comotose! LOL!

Getting used to it though so thanks for all the prayers and well wishes.

We are laying low this weekend, just hangin out and resting.

Here are pictures from the last few weeks.

The grandkids waiting anxiously for Grandad at the Cowtown. And then Super Grandad in his 60th marathon!!! He leaves for Rome next week for #61...Can't wait to see those pictures!

Noah and Buddy Liam at the Science Fair. And their 1st place win.

New Schedule

2009-03-02T08:41:00.000-06:00

Day 1 (night one) was good. I made it 24hrs no sleep and actually didn't get a nap until 3pm on Saturday. We took the kids out to see Dad at the Cowtown marathon (#60) isn't that crazy?!?!? I just couldn't sleep.

So I got 2hrs sleep last night and then got up and I'm about to head to bed for MY night! This is so odd!

Need prayers ~

Thanks

Had a great week!

2009-02-21T19:54:00.003-06:00

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday I thought I wasn't gonna make it! LOL!!!

I haven't been so sore and tired since Brenda kicked my bootie at racketball..... But 2 days later I'm adjusted, excited and ready to be on my own. I have one more week of training and then they will set me loose on 3rd shift. I gotta say I'm surprised at how much I like it. I love being able to help Vince out .....This is working for us for now and his business is doing great right now too despite the economy. (a surprising change from just a few wks ago)

Noah and his friend Liam won first place at the district science fair this week and it was really exciting for him.

Vince and I are so blessed. Blessed in our daily life together, blessed to have friends & family like you.

I hope last week and the upcoming week are as blessed for you and yours.

XOXOXOXO

Managing in the Middle of the Month....

2009-02-14T11:48:00.006-06:00

Happy Birthday to the first man I ever loved. You are an inspiration to me (not to run!!!! But to be a great parent and better person daily)

Last weekend we went for haircuts. Caitlyns had gotten long and really REALLY hard to keep tangles out of.....

BEFORE:

Her's isn't so drastic as she wanted to keep it long....

But isn't Madi's adorable!!!!

Its been a busy first half of the month.

Caitlyn had 100's day at school where she decorated her shirt with 100 things....

Noah won first place at the school science fair with his friend Liam.

Caitlyn was Squanto in a class performance. They all had to do a report on a famous American who made a difference.

Noah got to sing at the PTA Lifetime Membership Banquet.

And Vince got to be loved by all of us...... All in all I spent less than $15 and he got quite an impressive loot ;-)

Work is going well. I finally started training on Friday for my new position. I should be over night in approx. 2wks.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

My 22 year old "prodigal" son!

2009-01-31T17:39:00.005-06:00

Well technically he isn't a prodigal but I do feel like the real prodigal sons Father must have. I want to put on a big feast and jump up and down. My Brazilian son just called me!!!!

I can't even remember how long it has been since I talked to him, but atleast 2 yrs. I've been calling his house and his mom doesn't speak any english so we can't understand each other!!!! I had a friend from school call on Friday and was able to speak enough Spanish/Portugese that they understood each other........And he CALLED!!!!

He was here with me for 11 months in 2004. He was an unexpected gift from God, one I didn't ask for, but one He just knew I needed. I took a lot of our time for granted and was so wrapped up in the stress of life (being pregnant, Vince getting laid off, etc...) that I didn't appreciate all our time together.

He was a good boy, very sweet and respectful...so fun for my kids. Josh, Noah, and Caitlyn talked to him (Madi only remembers from pictures)......sigh I'm just so happy...

Anyway, he just called and said those three little words that mean so much. "I love you mom!" Awwwwww ~ he is mailing me pictures and I'll post them then.

A Night of Stars, Ice, Wind, and Fire

2009-01-28T12:47:00.006-06:00

We got tickets to the Dallas Stars game for Josh and Noah's birthday. (Vince has a friend with Season Tickets and he sold them to us for this game at a great price.) So we have been looking forward to it a long time. When the weather forecast called for ice and rain Tuesday night we almost gave up on our plans.

Then by a suggestion from a brilliant man who I love and trust.....we decided to ride the DART rail downtown to the AA center. We left early and the boys were so excited!!!

The game was great and we planned to leave at the end of the 2nd quarter to get home at a semi decent hour. It was 9:05 when we reached the platform....and it was below freezing outside so the 8min wait for the DART home seemed like forever. We had to make one train switch at the West End and that was another 5 min wait......

We were laughing and chatting about how long it would have taken us to get home if we had been in our own car on the roads and suddenly as we reached the Trinity River bridge the train lost power!!!!!
The operator tried for a while to get it up and running again but finally had to reverse back to the last train station. Once there we were ordered off the train to wait for a bus.

Yes, thats right....get out of the warm train, stand in the sleet, don't slip on the icy bricks and we waited!!!! Its now 10:07 and the bus finally arrived at 10:28pm! Brrrr! As if it couldn't get any worse. The bus driver didn't have a clue where to go and people were shouting at him to turn left or right. One guy tried to get off the bus but the driver wouldn't open the door..... (thats the fire reference btw!)

One more bus transfer and tons of stops later we finally arrived at Westmoreland. and rushed as fast as we could "skate" to our car. Upon arriving there the doors were frozen shut, and of course the windows iced over. We drove around the parking lot with the front doors open so Vince and I could see where we going until the heater got warm enough to help melt it...

Home at 12:04am ~ we snuggled and quickly fell asleep ~ Happy to learn its an ice day ~ NO SCHOOL!

WOW! Moral of the story....sometimes don't listen to super smart people that you love and trust even when they have a bright idea! Just kidding you know who you are!

Daily Prayer

2009-01-20T19:32:00.003-06:00

My father was inspired one day as he was logging his daily miles (crazy man!)....we are having a theme each month at church and he started January with Prayer. The goal is to pray atleast 3 times a day.

I pray a lot throughout my day (for the food, when I'm loosing my temper with the kids, when I hear someone is sick, or I don't know how we will pay the electric bill) but with a focus on Prayer I decided to really devote my effort to making my prayer fervent this month. I also struggle with my mind wandering during prayer... I'll pray for this person and then think about how I haven't called them in awhile or what we did last time we were together......

So here I am pouring my heart into it this month. I set myself small goals and totally focus my thoughts into praising and glorifying and also begging for answers...

WOW!

1. I have never been more in love with my husband. Its the same gushy crazy love as when we were teenagers. Its the head over heals I can't wait until I see him love. The passionate WOW newlywed love!!!
2. Vincent's work is being so incredibly blessed! He is crazy busy and the money is actually coming in! I landed an awesome temp job that I'm really enjoying.
3. I feel myself smiling more and complaining less.
4. My children are happier and things just seem to get done even though I can't figure out how!
5. I see the beauty of His creation in everything around me and I just can't stop marveling in His Majesty, Perfectness, and Grace.

My Bible study this morning "just so happened to be" in Proverbs. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, lean not into thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths."

I pray His blessings and His AWESOMENESS will be evident in your life today!

I leave you with two little miracles I am so blessed with. Laurie took their 6yr and 9yr pictures last weekend.

My own personal tornado!

2009-01-16T19:41:00.006-06:00

Last Monday at precisely 9:47a.m. a tornado hit the top of my head and I've been flying in five billion different directions.

I landed a great gig (thanks to Kelli) at Solo Cup Company and am assisting the HR Generalist there. Love the job, the people, the drive (approx 8.375 min from home!!!), the hours (7am-3pm), and the paycheck!!!

I'm blessed definitely! That's the wind from the South (the warm wind), the eastern chilly breeze is that the PTA fundraiser started on Wed. and I'm trying to help manage that and place the responsibility on my wonderful unsuspecting friend (thanks Jen!)....

The western blow is that Praise the Lord....Vince is SWAMPED at work! It came out of no-where, but he is flooded with jobs and is getting home no earlier than 830 every night. And I need help. Scratch that...... I WANT MY HUSBAND!

Finally, the cold blue northern that has everything blowing nuts is MADILYN!

I survived the Terrible Two's (she was pretty sweet),

the Tantrum Three's (not so rough even though the attitude really came out--she gets that from me),

But OH MY the Frantic Freakin Ferocious Four's are here and I think she may spend the next 10 months in her room(I must be reaping what Vince sowed)!!!!!!

Have a bluster free weekend! MWA!

Off to a great start!

2009-01-07T17:03:00.007-06:00

What a busy week! The kids(well Noah and Caitlyn)started back to school on Monday. I watched two neighborhood kids who go to a different district and one of them accidentally caught Madi in the eye with the Wii remote. She has a doozy of a bruise..... It didn't show up too well in the picture.

SHE is cracking me up lately. She acts so silly, like a tomboy AND still prissy, and little miss know it all. She goes round and round with Josh (who doesn't start back to school until next Tuesday). I know I should knuckle down on her but she is just so darn cute! Todays "argument" which I won by the way was because she didn't want to wear her purple crocks ("They don't match my jeans and pink shirt!") but she couldn't find her tennies that would match her outfit. She is all about matching and making sure the colors go together. Funny since she is such a rough and tough tomboy.

Noah had a nice birthday that ended with family coming over for yummy chocolate cake.

Joshua my "pre-teen" opened his first savings account today. He was SO reluctant to get his picture taken....but I told him I drove so suck it up! LOL!

Caitlyn is changing. I can't pinpoint it yet but theres just something different about her. She and Madi are best buds these days and for that I'm soooo thankful.

I hope your New Year is going as well ~

Happy 9th Birthday Noah!

2009-01-06T08:24:00.006-06:00

Oh sweet darling boy ~ 9 years old and so full of potential and promise. You are a joy in my life. You are my little miracle boy.

I remember the day I found out I was expecting you. I prayed and prayed while I waited for the results of my pregnancy test. 2 weeks later I cried and prayed as I had some complications but you remained fine. You kept your "manhood" a secret from us until I was 33 wks along and WOW was Joshua excited when he found out you were a brother.
Your nursery was painted yellow and blue with moons and stars. Hand me downs were prepared....new clothes were abundant and the day of your arrival finally came. I tried to labor with you but God knew you were going to be sick and couldn't handle the stress of labor.
You were a BIG baby and had lots of hair. You nursed great from the start and I was just so happy.

When you got very sick on day 2, I can't describe the emotions of fear and yet peace that God was going to do whatever was best for you. When you were 5 days old and you crashed again they made me go home. It was one of the worst moments in my life. I cried the whole way home from the hospital and laid on the floor in your nursery begging God to heal you and let me bring you home.

9 days later we drove you home from the hospital. You have had health ups and downs but God has been so gracious to you and us. I am positive He has something Amazing in store for you Noah.

You were a fun baby! Full of smiles. You absolutely adored your big brother and as your sisters came along you were always super sweet with them too. You love playing soccer now and you are amazing with a bow and arrow.

Noah, I just want to remind you of one thing on your 9th birthday. We have so much to be thankful for as we look over the first 9 years of your life. All the odds were stacked against you (statistic wise) and sweet heart.....God saved your life twice. Once when you were newborn and the second time when you accepted Christ as your Savior. Daddy and I can't describe the joy and pride we felt when you said you wanted to be a preacher like Grandad.

If those plans change and God leads you in a different direction someday ~ just follow Him baby. Trust Him and listen to Him and He will never guide you wrong.

I love you so much ~ The happiest of Birthdays to you my dear.

Mom

New Years Eve

2009-01-01T19:48:00.002-06:00

We spent our New Years Eve as we always do.....Ring in the New Year in church. Its a lot of fun. We have testimonies and "sermonettes" from folks in our congregation then fight with each other over Spoons...or other games.

Its good food, good laughs, and our favorite way to start a New Year.

Hope you all had a good safe one!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-31T09:55:00.007-06:00

I can't believe almost a week has gone by since Christmas! The kids had a great one!

Christmas eve we had church and then went to my parents house and played Family Feud and other trivia. Then the kids posed for their annual Santa/Christmas cookies picture.

Christmas morning Santa delivered and the kids were stoked!

We then loaded up and went back to my parents house where we played games and ate great food all day!

My parents gave our entire family Six Flags AND Hurricane Harbor (thanks Becky) season passes for 2009. So you know loose flab will be on the top of my resolution list tomorrow!!! The kids (especially) the younger ones don't always "get" it the day off....but they sure love spending all the time we do out at the parks!

Christmas evening we went to Vincents family's house and the kids were excited to see what Grandma and Grandpa had for them to open.....

Happy Birthday Joshua!

2008-12-27T08:33:00.003-06:00

First off let me say, I am NOT old enough to have a 12 year old!

Josh,

I can't believe how time has flown. I remember the day I found out I was pregnant with you, my first doctors visit, the sonogram where you squeezed your legs shut tight and the moment you were born and the doctor said you were a boy.

I remember your precious chubby hands clapping "YAY" for the youth group practicing their songs.... I missed your first step but I chased you around as you learn to run.

I loved the way you said "Cow-boys" and "memon nade"

Your first day of Pre school and how independent you were.

The first time you went down grandma's slide and swam across the water alone.

The day you asked to accept Jesus into your heart and then when you were baptised.

Your first HIT in baseball followed by your first homerun and catch.

Your first roller coaster and the tears before it....but smiles afterward.

Your first piano recital and the nervousness you had.

Okay, I'll stop with the reminising and move on to the great kid you are.....

You are stubborn, quick to anger, and you pout alot....(you get that from me! sorry) but you are a sweet boy. You love your sisters, brother, and cousins and you are SUCH a big help. I trust you and have confidence in you to make the right choices for your life.
Now that you are making choices on your own and noticing girls I worry about you more than ever before. But when you were a tiny baby your dad and I gave you to Jesus. We know he has a purpose and plan for your life and that if you trust Him he will guide all your decisions.

I love you my precious baby boy. Happy 12th (gulp) birthday!

Mom

Christmas Break

2008-12-24T13:07:00.004-06:00

We are having a lot of fun this Christmas break just hanging out at home and baking together. Caity and Madi helped me bake goodie trays(cookies,lemon bars, triple layer brownies & fudge) for Vincents work and a few friends.....

Having fun eating the left over marshmallows....

Madilyn when she found out she COULD NOT eat the fudge or other goodies......

I got to watch my nieces and nephew while Santa did some last minute shopping and we made Cookie Christmas Ornaments....

Josh and Jason too "old" for kiddie fun played Guitar Hero.

Prayer and Assignments

2008-12-22T07:43:00.003-06:00

My friends closest to me know I've been going through a rough patch. Depression over money woes, unexpected events, the struggles of day to day life, developments in my marriage, and even my faith and walk with God.
Let me explain that one as there hasn't been a lack of faith....I believe but I've been guarding those beliefs. Trusting God to take my burden but picking it up on my own again two seconds later.......which in some ways could be interpreted as NOT having faith. (Thats a whole other sermon) LOL! Anyone else ever do that?

Thursday night after a series of Unfortunate Events..... a friend blessed me in a way that is just unimaginable. I've been walking around in the awe of it and then now....

I want to share with you what happened to me yesterday ~ and I hope that in turn you will comment and leave a blessing you yourself have received. I just really need a time of Thanksgiving and Glory in revelling in the majesty, power, and WOW of God and how he answers those prayers.

Yesterday morning after an emotional song service where the praise and worship chorus' really touched my heart..... the sermon followed suit and touched me in such a personal way. Seeing as how the pastor is my father its doubly tempting to think the sermon was written just for me (but I know it was written weeks ago before vacation....) its just Step 1 in God's amazing day planned just for me.

Step 2 was following the Holy Spirits lead as my husband felt the same alter call and we went forward to pray. We once again laid down our burdens at the feet of our Savior and pleaded for his guidance in every aspect of our lives. Determined to NOT pick them up again we continued to talk about this on the way home from church, and as we made lunch for our kids.

Approx 15min after we finished eating lunch I got a phone call and what ensued over the following 2 hours was my modern day miracle. I won't go into any of those details to protect the privacy of the people and situation involved but let me say...

WOW! God is so good! We already knew that, but to have such instant reconfirmation of his control and power was just WOW for me!!! He truly blessed us beyond measure and poured out His love and grace on our family. I could list multitudes of times when I've seen his hand at work and when his power and love has amazed me.

Can you share just one time in your life when you've been WOW'D? Today I just want to marvel in his Greatness!

XOXO

2008-12-21T20:06:00.000-06:00

Tagged!

I was tagged by my sweet friend,Sunni . She is a great friend, and is expecting her second daughter soon! So, here are 8 things about me...

8 TV Shows I Watch:

1) Private Practice
2) Grey's Anatomy
3) The Mentalist
4) Numbers
5) American Idol
6) Little House on the Prairie reruns
7) Prison Break
8) Survivor

8 Favorite Restaurants:

1) Outback (I love their spicy ranch)
2) PF Chang's (lettuce wraps)
3) Texas Roadhouse (rolls)
4) Olive Garden
5) Cheesecake Factory
6) Mercardo Juarez
7) Pappasito's
8) Chapps

8 Things that Happened to Me Yesterday:

1) Mourned the Cowboy game
2) Got the girls all dolled up in their Christmas dresses.
3) Went to church
4) Came home and made tostadas for lunch while Vince made a warm fire (YAY!)
5) Met a friend for starbucks and shopping
6) Used a gift card at PF Changs for dinner
7) Found the LAST gift on a shelf after 6 stores for one of the kids
8) Snuggled by a NEW fire

8 Things I Look Forward To:

1) Baking with the kids today
2) Vince coming home after work
3) Our Christmas Eve church service
4) The kids reactions to Christmas gifts
5) Time with all the family at those events
6) Holiday in the Park
7) Warmer weather
8) School starting back up! LOL!

8 Things I Wish For:

1) Vincent's business to flourish and grow
2) My mom to never have another headache and feel well.
3) Happy and healthy kids
4) Financial security
5) Our church to grow
6) Peace among family
7) Health, wealth and happiness of my friends
8) A better economy.

8 People I Tag:

1) Laurie
2) Summer
3) Jill
4) Brenda
5) Erin
6) Melissa H
7) Melissa E
8) Lyndsey

I Want FABULOUS!......

2008-12-18T08:18:00.003-06:00

...."It is my simple request. Only fabulous...bigger and better than THIS!"

I love the High School Musical movies. In fact one of Madi's gifts this year is a requested pink golf cart with the initials SE on it (for Sharpay Edwards in HSM2). I found it on the back of a rack for $8.00 WOOHOO!

Even better than this I'm vying for a FABULOUS K makeover on my blog. Check out her site, she does SUPER cute work. If I don't win it I think I'm gonna start saving my quarters and get it for myself. I deserve it RIGHT?!?!?! I blog enough ~ LOL! And, I'm ready for something cute for ME!!!

Go check it out!

Ice Skating WOW!

2008-12-17T17:00:00.000-06:00

Every year PTA purchases a little something for our students for Christmas. Its always a struggle to find a "worth while" gift while not breaking the bank! After all when you have almost 600 people to by for your per person $ isn't much!

This year we voted to rent the Dr Pepper Stars Center in Duncanville and invite our entire school to come go ice skating. We weren't sure how it would turn out but were hoping to give the families a real treat.

Lucky for us, it was WONDERFUL! The place was packed out!!! We had over 635 skaters and probably another 400+ spectators! Everyone had a great time!

Josh won an Ipod Shuffle in the raffle.

Vince played Santa so theres atleast one picture with Elijah & Santa and no tears!

These are just SOME of the skates people had checked out that night.

Makeover Lottery

2008-12-17T05:01:00.003-06:00

I need a life makeover AND a blog makeover! You guys know I'm hooked on blogging. I've never spent the money on *myself* for a blog makeover (I've always used the free ones), but This site has Fabulous prices.

I'm trying to win a FREE makeover. Check out the site and keep your fingers crossed for me! I'm not getting any thing for Christmas so maybe this can be my special suprise!!!

Just click here and check it out.

Can't sleep

2008-12-12T00:38:00.002-06:00

UGH! There are 3 billion things running through my mind and I can't get to sleep. Why WHY does it work that way?????

Worrying doesn't help. Staying up all night doesn't help.

YAWN!

Happy Birthday Madilyn (3 days late)

2008-12-09T11:32:00.003-06:00

Dearest Madilyn,
I'm sorry this is late, but its been crazy around here. I posted about YOU back in October kind of updating on our relationship and your personality. I am so thankful you round out and complete our family.

I thought you were the most precious baby ever!

I loved that you sucked your thumb....None of the other kids ever did that. And then when you *broke* yourself of the habit at 10mos ~ I knew then you were gifted
;-)

You still wrinkle your nose this exact same way when your frustrated, being silly, or want to be dramatic.

You love Gabi so much and Im so happy ya'll are so close.

You were so thrilled to meet Cinderella and beg for the day we will go back.

I have high hopes for you my dear. Your way too much like me and my temperament for my liking but hopefully you'll learn from my worst flaws and turn it into something beautiful and wonderful. I love you my precious baby girl.
Mom

Party...Party!

2008-12-08T08:33:00.014-06:00

Well, we have two birthdays down and two to go now.

The girls' "together" party was the weekend before last. We invited a ton of little girls to wear their pajamas,bring their baby dolls and watch the "Kit" movie. Unfortunately, Madilyn was VERY sick. She missed the entire party. My mom wasn't well either so she came over and stayed in my bed with Madi.

With Madi down and out, Caitlyn comfortably assumed her roll as Queen Birthday girl. No shyness here!

We had pizza ~

Painted toenails ~

We did a small "face mask" on the girls

Decorated cupcakes ~

Blew out candles ~

Opened presents ~

And watched the movie~

I think the girls had a lot of fun. Atleast I know Caitlyn did....

After everyone left, Madi woke up momentarily and took a peak at her presents. She wasn't really excited until two days later though :-(

~Thanksgiving, Reunions, & Birthdays ~

2008-12-07T13:50:00.008-06:00

Its been a busy couple of weeks. It will take me a bit to blog it all so check back often if you want all the "news".

We had a very blessed Thanksgiving. We spent the day at my mom and dad's in Grand Prairie. Its a long 5min drive 4 exits up the highway. ;-) My sister and her family were able to join us as was my grandmother. We had all your basic Thanksgiving fixins and the Cowboys won!!! We never seem to get pictures of the spread we put out but we did have some fun playing Wii and running around the backyard.

That evening time was spent at Vincent's mom and dad's home. While there the girls got to open their birthday gifts and they were super excited!

On Friday, Vince had to go back to work but the kids and I joined my parents and Laurie and her kids at a mini family reunion for the Bacon side of the family. It was such a wonderful time......
The boys were NOT happy about going. I heard lots of grumbling of "people we don't know...boring...I wanna stay home...."

I of course was excited to see cousins and aunts and uncles I haven't seen in years. But the icing on the cake for me was what conspired right after lunch was served. Two guitars, two players, and a couple of dozen voices harmonizing in Praise to the Lord.

A little background on that..... When I was growing up we always spent Christmas day at my Grannie Bacon's house. I loved her soooo much. She had a very small home with creaky wood floors and homey touches. After lunch was served and the Cowboys game was over the entire family....Grannie,Grandpa, Mom, Dad, 3 Uncles, 3 Aunts, 6 cousins, and maybe a scattering of other guests or family would crowd into her den and sing while my aunts or uncle played the piano. Its my absolute favorite memory of my extended family growing up. Far beyond playing with cousins in the yard or even the delicious homemade chocolate pie with fabulous meringue topping.

Its probably second only to the feeling I get at youth camp surrounded by 300+ people singing "Beulah Land" accapella. Its a feeling of awesome praise and closeness with family. A feeling, I imagine anyway, that I will feel when I'm in heaven praising and worshipping my Lord and Savior time a billion.

Caitlyn and Great Aunt Ruth (my grannie's sister in law) hit it off. She played with Cait and her dolls and couldn't shake Caity off the rest of the day!

Okay, back to reality. It was just FABULOUS. As we left that day my boys excitedly remarked about how FUN it was...playing football with cousins and "mom, mom...the best part was that singing. That was so cool. We knew most of the songs and it was just so pretty.

*Sigh ~ utter bliss

Happy Thanksgiving my dear loved ones ~

2008-11-26T15:31:00.003-06:00

I'm posting early because I'm bound to forget in the rush tomorrow. We always have a special thanksgiving service at church the night before Thanksgiving and I've been making my "list" all day.....I just wanted to stop and tell those of you who I *know* read my blog what you mean to me. If your not listed you should comment occasionally so I know your out there ;-) LOL!

Mom & Dad ~ I love you. I'm thankful that I was born into a Christian family with values and love. I know the years of parenting me weren't always smooth and easy and you inspire me daily to work harder with my kids. Thanks for your unwavering faith in me and the knowledge that you'll always support and love me.

Laurie ~ What a great year its been. I'm thankful you are my friend. I love you and your precious children so much.

Jen ~ Words don't describe how much your friendship means to me. You always go above and beyond the call of friendship and I hope that one day I can repay you for your mentoring and kindness.

Reveau ~ I can't believe 4 yrs have passed so quickly. Thank you for your beloved little boy who is so great for my Noah. Thank you for raising him with such great standards that he is an example to my guy. You are such a dear friend. Thanks for just listening and offering a kind word.

Brenda ~ Thanks for pushing me and giving me confidence in myself. Thanks for not letting me feel sorry for myself but rather lifting my spirits and encouraging me.

Sunni ~ Wow! Hours on the phone and I know you hate talking on the phone. You were there for me when I needed it most and I'll never forget it. I love you dearly.

Crystal & Lyndsey ~ Thanks for sharing your precious little families with me. Ya ll are amazing mom's. I feed off the energy you have!

Chris & Pat / Jim & Gail ~ Thank you for my Vince. For giving him to me to love and for your love for my kids.

Melissa H, Jill, Melissa E, Summer, Erin Thanks for welcoming me into your circle. For including me and making me laugh. For respecting my beliefs and teaching me about yours.

If I missed someone....make sure you comment on something and I'll catch you at Christmas.

I love you my friends. I thank God for each and everyone of you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Tagged ~ The 8's

2008-11-24T22:29:00.003-06:00

Tagged

The 8's in my life

8 Favorite TV Shows
1. Mentalist
2. Numbers
3. Grey's Anatomy
4. Lipstick Jungle
5. Private Practice
6. Survivor
7. The Cowboys Games
8. Baby Story
9. Chuck
10. Knight Rider

Favorite Restaurants
1. Outback
2. Chipotle
3. Salt Grass Steak House
4. Mercardo Juarez
5. Texas Roadhouse
6. El Fenix
7. Golden Corral
8. Cheesecake Factory

8 things that happened yesterday
1. Played Wii
2. did Laundry
3. watched London and Tyler
4. had Breaunna here all day
5. packed boys for Grandma's
6. took girls to Grannie's
7. talked to my Grandma
8. had a date with Vince

8 things I am looking forward to
1. the kids coming home
2. a day with family on Thursday
3. Christmas Shopping
4. PTA ice skating night
5. Madilyn's 4th birthday
6. Christmas
7. Josh and Noah's birthdays
8. Starting a new year

8 things on my wish list
1. hardwood floors
2. living room curtains
3. backyard playset for kids
4. down comforter for my bed
5. to be 40+ pounds lighter
6. Vince to get paid on time
7. new wardrobe
8. New Moon to come out soon and with a big budget! LOL! ;-)

8 people I tag:
1. Laurie
2. Mom
3. Sunni
4. Lyndsey
5. Jennifer
6. Crystal
7. Erin
8. Kandi

Student of the Month

2008-11-22T12:57:00.005-06:00

Caitlyn was selected as Student of the Month and the banquet was Thursday on her actual Bday. She wanted to be all dressed up so here is her "before" pose....

Boy she has that pose down!

I took a candle and we sang Happy Birthday when she got her cake. Most of the people in the room joined in and she was quite embarrassed. (YAY! LOL!)

With her yard sign

Happy Birthday my sweet little girl

2008-11-20T07:35:00.010-06:00

I cannot believe how quickly another year has passed by! You changed A LOT this last year. You are the most independent and confident little thing. You are still tiny (not in comparison to other kids your age, but compared to your brothers and me at your age). This year you wanted to grown out your hair to be "like Jayda's"...Its gotten very long but I think your about ready to cut it off again! You played soccer during the Spring but decided to take a break and go back to ice skating. You miss soccer I can tell, and your really fast and good at it......
I'm so proud of you my little sweet one. You are a wonderful sister to your brothers and Madilyn. You share, you compliment, and you include them in whatever your doing. I love to hear you laugh and play together. You love going to school and you work very hard at reading and writing your sentences. You have lots of friends and you aren't too stuck on that. You are just happy to be wherever you are in the moment.
I pray amazing things for you my little beauty. God's plan for you holds greatness if you make him first in your life. I love you always and forever ~ Mom

My first good look at you....I couldn't believe you were a girl. Let me tell you for a long time you looked liked a baby dipped in Pepto Bismal!

(This morning we had Happy Birthday blueberry muffins before school. You opened cards from Grandpa and Grandma Kile, Aunt Laurie and Great Grandma Cash.....I will take cupcakes to school at 3 and then tonight we will have cake at the Student of the Month banquet. Your party is next Saturday)

Josh's Science Project

2008-11-13T19:56:00.005-06:00

Joshua was required to do a Science Project for his 6th grade Science class and tonight they had a showcase of the projects. This has consumed WAY more time than I prefer but I have to admit we had fun together doing it. In the end he did a GREAT job!

My mom came out to support him despite an "almost" migraine.....and my other supportive Mom (in law) was able to join us as well. What grandmas won't do for their grandbabies!!!

I just wanted to share a bit of his hard work. He (we) built a wind turbine and it worked AMAZINGLY!

He learned alot about energy and waste and what we could do to make things more efficient and cheaper.... His mini turbine actually lit an LED bulb and could make a music box play his Grandpa Chris' "favorite" song...."Its a small world"

Its Nov 10th and I haven't blogged Halloween YET!?!?!

2008-11-10T20:08:00.008-06:00

Goodness maybe this should be a "you know Shaunnas busy when..." post.

Let's see....

A few more pumpkin pictures that I got AFTER the original post...

We raised $927 for Leukemia/Lymphoma this year. It always amazes me what a difference change can make!

Then the cookie dough/candle fundraiser came in.

I waited at the school with my wonderful friends from 330pm until after 8pm.....Missed soccer practice, ice skating practice AND dinner because of #%^&*%# parents who can't read handouts and don't give a flip about my time. *Deep breathe I'm over it.....

The day before Halloween Caitlyn had her second dental appointment.... Here she is excited because I told her she won't remember any of it and it won't hurt like last time.

Here is why she won't/doesn't remember any of it. Can I get a PTL for special magic juice?!?!?!

Halloween night ~
12 year old Joshua ~ says he a baseball player left in the outfield waiting for balls too long.... (That's an inside joke)

8 year old Noah the Ninja

5 year old Caitlyn aka Gabriella (from HSM)

3 year old Madilyn the Fairytale Princess or Cinderella (depending on the mood when you asked her....

And finally followed up by an amazing entire day of soccer. Noah's team played in a tournament and after a rather unsuccessful season (if you looked at a record) they claimed 2nd place! It was a great day. Noah got the "Most Improved" award from his coach and ended the season with an excitement and zeal to keep playing. That's a great ending any day in my book!

That almost brings us up to date. The camera battery has been dead for over a week and I'm still adjusting to day light savings so everything else is blury......

Missing Daddy & the Abusive Mom

2008-10-27T08:08:00.008-06:00

I mentioned Vince is working alot. He has a few big projects plus business has picked up. Juggling it all has become a problem. He leaves at 730am and get home around 8pm. It totally stinks. I feel so disconnected and miss him terribly. While we are thankful there is work and money in spite of so many others struggling and getting pink slips..... I just want a tiny bit of time with him KWIM?

So the kids and I try to keep busy. Especially during the weekend when they are used to him being around.

Friday after school I took them to the cheap showing of HSM3. Everyone but Madi loved it. Its definetly an "older" movie and she just wants the music, Sharpay, and Gabriella...skip everything else. LOL!

Then we raced home... Threw on Halloween costumes and rushed up to some friends Ward for a little Trunk or Treating and games.

I love the ladies in this group. They are really true friends and have just filled my life with so much joy this last year. Its also given my girls some delightful friends.

Saturday we had Noah's last reg. season soccer game and then we spent the rest of the day at home.

The boys took turns reading books to Caitlyn and Madi.

And they all 4 "helped" wash the dogs....

While I worked on my never ending project.... This is ACTUALLY organized! I have everything sorted in sizes newborn to 5T !!! I'm listing it on craigslist and ebay if you know anyone who needs baby to toddler clothes. I have some beautiful dresses! (I haven't even touched the boys stuff yet.....and don't ask why I still have all of this!)

Finally, I don't think the picture really shows it but Caitlyn has a blue/black eye. I elbowed her the other night when I was hugging Madi and reaching over her in bed. Oops! I felt terrible.

How about them Boys!!!

2008-10-27T07:40:00.005-06:00

So yesterday we went to church like any other Sunday, except I was cherishing every second with Vince because he was planning to leave immediately after service to go to work (thats a whole other post!) In between Sunday School and Main Service a church member offered Vince a parking pass and 6 tickets to the Cowboys game.

WOOHOO! Poor Vince debated and debated....he really DID need to go to work. But I suckered him into throwing that to the wind and spending time with ME! He has worked 21 days strait now and I miss him. What better way to enjoy each other than to watch the Cowboys game!!!!

Mom and Dad graciously accepted the beg to babysit the girls and we tried to invite our two nephews to go with us....That didn't work out and so at the very last minute we grabbed our two favorite newlyweds and we were off.

We were late of course because we waited until church was over and then we had to make a quit pit stop for a change of shoes, clothes, and to grab the camera.

We dumped the kids on the side of Loop 12 so they could walk up to the game while we waited to park.

Lucky Josh and Noah were already in Cowboy wear. Vince and Kelley got quite a few heckles for their Longhorns and Steelers garb.

The seats were great. (not in the sun, perfect view, and FREE!)

As for the game. We won! Thank you Cowboys defense. I actually miss Romo as Johnson is NOT on my list of great people today. And I'll leave you with this.....
Notice Johnson (#14) during the post game "good-game-good-game".....

Noone is trying to interview his stinkin hiney. Tampa Bay's coach is doing one of two things and I'll let you decide.....
1. "Thanks Brad, for giving us a shot today you really bit the big one. I mean you barely threw for 100yds and you have all those great WR."
or option 2
2. "No, I'm sorry Brad. When you get canned or bumped to 3rd string we can't trade ANYTHING for you. Not even our water boys!"

**Oops I should also add, my poor Vince did have to go work AFTER the game. Hopefully this will end soon. I miss him!

3rd Annual PTA Pumpkin Charity Drive

2008-10-22T11:36:00.002-06:00

Its time for our Leukemia Pumpkin Drive again. Just wanted to share a few of my favs this year.

Of course I'm biased so ......My kids' classes are the best ;-)

This is Caitlyn's Kindergarten classes clown "Clownie"

All of 3rd grade did characters from Arthur...Noah's class chose "Mary Moo Cow"

3 more cute ideas....

Staying true to my Silver and Blue

2008-10-22T10:29:00.003-06:00

UGH~ I gotta stop down for some football talk ladies. So just skip this post if you need to. I wanna change my background to fall stuff so badly but I refuse to be a fairweather fan.

My football season is NOT going as planned. It started off bad with the loss of my FF quarterback Tom Brady...and has gone downhill from there!

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?!?!?! How on earth did we loose to the RAMS last week? Do you know what my home has been like since Sunday. Vince grinning....Sporting his RAMS wear....making sly little comments about HIS team.

I will.....We will get even.

Common BOYS!

(End of rant...I feel better)

What a Weekend!

2008-10-22T10:07:00.006-06:00

So I FINALLY downloaded the airshow pictures. It was our first time to attend a show and the kids had a lot of fun. Caitlyn stopped to have her "leg" painted...

And the acrobatics had already begun. There was some really neat stuff going on in the air. Made my tummy swirl just at the thought of it!

The boys especially liked the decorated planes.

These Thunderbirds were UNbelievably loud and UNbelievably close to each other.

Noah's day is always wonderful when Liam is near by!

Noah helped Dad and Grandad in the concession stand right before we left.

This weekend.......

The morning started off with an early piano recital for Noah. He did WONDERFUL!

Followed by a great soccer game....

And a carnival at Josh's school.
It was a lot of fun.

2min after arriving...Josh's friends had thrown him in "jail" & cracked confetti eggs on his head.

Atleast they had their priorities strait....My kids spent their money on the cake walk and WON....5 times! :-)

Strep ~

2008-10-16T07:02:00.003-06:00

Well the weekend didn't quite go as planned. Friday night Madilyn ran a high fever. Saturday she still wasn't right but we attended Noah's soccer game. When the game was over mom graciously took Madi home with her and I took the other 3 kids to the air show.

We had a nice time. (I'll post pics later) Around 7pm Sat night Caitlyn started running a fever. Josh had asthma issues and Madilyn was sooooo grumpy! I had a bad headache Sunday morning so I was going to stay home with the girls while Vince took the boys to church.

About the time he was ready to walk out the door with them he got a call to go into work. He was NOT happy.

So ~ we hung out at home all day.

Monday I had a funeral to attend in the morning and then I took the kids to see Beverly Hills Chihuahua. Very cute!

That was our 3 day weekend excitement.

Yesterday, Josh had a high fever and sore throat and I got a call from school around 130p saying Caitlyn had 103.7 fever. She's home today.....

I'm so ready to get this junk OUT of my HOUSE!!!!

P.S. Back from the doctor. Its a lovely case of Strep....Atleast we know what it is now....may the antibiotics take over!

Fantastic Friday!

2008-10-10T10:54:00.002-06:00

YAY! I love Friday. The kids wake up in a good mood ready for the last day of school for the week. Fall is soooo in the air. This weather is WONDERFUL! Vince has a busy schedule at work today but excited about his prospects.

Its been a different kind of week.
We started with Noah's soccer game. I'm so proud of him. He is giving it everything he's got.

I made a new cupcake. Its not perfected, but it was fun....

Joshua mowed the lawn for dad WITHOUT complaining. Can I get an AMEN?!

And a dear friend and cake extraordinaire Ginger surprised Vince and I with a little cake for our anniversary. As always it was heavenly! I'd recommend her to anyone.

Tonight I'm taking the kids out to Fright Fest at Six Flags......
Tomorrow after soccer I'm taking the kids and some friends to the Ft Worth Air Show. They are super excited. Dad and Vince are working it for Leukemia.
Sunday, Vince said we'd do something fun for the family after church. The kids are out of school on Monday but he needs to go to work. So......

Lots more to come! Have a pleasant weekend.

P.S. We had a cousin in our family pass away tragically and unexpected this week. It always makes you stop and think to tell those around you how much you love them.
If you have this link and read my blog you are a friend.... just want you to know I love and appreciate what you add to my otherwise boring life. MWA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

10 Things I hate about you......

2008-10-07T17:18:00.002-06:00

Have you ever seen that movie? Its cute. Its about a teenage girl who is afraid to love this guy who is interested in her. So she writes a poem for class entitled "10 things I hate about you." Kind of a teen flick but Vince and I are young at heart so we like it. Vince especially likes so on our lucky 13 I thought I'd give him my list. :-)

1. The smell of your feet! Holy Cow!
2. The way you can look at me and the worry disappears because of the confidence in your eyes....(when I still want to worry)
3. The way you put in Eagles and Redskins fantasy players and cheer for them against my Dallas Cowboys!
4. While we are on sports.... The way you could watch endless hours of sports. I'm a sports fan but COMMON....curling & tennis just because they are on ESPN!
5. The way you won't honk the horn even when the other driver is the total idiot!
6. The way you melt with Madi and Caitlyn say "please daddy" and don't help me discipline...your such a softie!
7. The way you can sleep and sleep and sleep no matter what day or time, but I can't sleep when the sun comes up.
8. The way you make a better dessert & steak than me.
9. Your love for infomercials! That drives me nuts. But atleast you don't buy from them.
10. I don't hate anything really. I'm totally completly head over heals in love with you. I love you more every day. And I'm eternally greatful that God created you for me.

My Madilyn

2008-10-03T11:12:00.003-06:00

I'm having so much fun with Madilyn. Its been a very long time since I've had a lot of one on one with any of the kids. Noah and Caitlyn definetly got shorted! Josh was home when Noah was little and I was working and then along came Caitlyn. She and Noah got to share me then when Josh was in school and when I finally quit work Noah was in PreK and I was pregnant with Madilyn.

She's a spitfire, full of attitude, opinions and to sum it up a little mini-me! I spend more time laughing at her antics than disciplining her for them. That scares the tar out of me! Anyway, I thought I'd take a minute and just write what I've noticed and cherished about her most lately.

1. She wakes up every morning with a scowl because Caity snuck out of bed (to get ready for school) without her.
2. She is extremely independent...dressing herself, accesorizing, and trying to tie her shoes.
3. She is a wiz on the computer. I love listening to sing along with the songs on pbskids and nickjr. I love it that she comes to me and askes for disney.org or pbskids.com. That cracks me up!
4. Everything is "in 4days can I go to Grannie's"....."in 2 days can I play with Gabi" Probably because mommy procrastinates on doing Madi things! Shame on me!
5. She ALWAYS says thank you when I least expect it. And it absolutely melts my heart and makes me want to do more every time....
Thanks mom for washing my clothes for me.
Thanks mom for putting my cup in the cabinet.
Thanks mom for making my bath so I can play.
6. Also the smart mouth little things she says that actually make sense!
Mom, "I can't eat with my mouth shut I have to open it to put the food in.... "See"
7. She loves LOVES her daddy! Its a beautiful love, so accepting and deep.
8. She loves her dogs and they love her. She often reminds me of the old picture of the little girl at the beach where the dog is biting her diaper and she tries to walk away. I love hearing her gigle as they nip and tug at her and her toys.
9. She's smart and I love hearing her play make believe and teach her dolls rules and colors.
10. She's mine. Sweet, special, and sassy.

I'm so blessed.

cre A+ ive

2008-09-23T14:23:00.008-06:00

Okay, so yes I get these wild ideas and mess up my whole house working on them for two weeks then the passion fades.... The new passion is fun cupcakes. I've got all kinds of projects lined up for fun ways to say, "Hi!" or "Have a good day". Look out Sprinkles here I come!

Enjoy the passion of the week just for a moment!

But first on a side note the First Project was:
I FINALLY made my first digital scrapbook. Good grief, join the new revolution right! It was so fun! I love it soooo much! The cover photo was taken by none other that the genious Laurie

If you don't ask to see it soon I'm sure I'll wrangle you down for a peek eventually! I'm waaaaay too proud!

Okay on to cupcake passion.

These are my Spaghetti Cupcakes! I sent them to Josh's 3 teachers for Teacher Appreciation week. They were soooo easy and oh so yummy!

Back to the Soccer Field!

2008-09-22T08:23:00.007-06:00

We had a lot of fun watching Noah play soccer this weekend. He loves to play!

Grannie, Grandad, Aunt Laurie, Breaunna, Gabi, Krisalyn, Elijah came out to catch the action.

He definetly had the largest cheering section!!! Laurie helped me tremendously as I got half way to the game and realized I had forgotten my camera. (I still wasn't feeling well) She got graciously took some great pictures for me!

The team lost but Noah worked really hard. It was very very hot outside in the direct sun. I can't imagine running back and forth up the field. He didn't get to play much. Coach is still getting used to the kids and who can be subbed in for who. He did get to play forward for about a minute and he really liked that! Maybe soon we will have our first goal pic.... In the meantime enjoy these great defensive moves.

Week in review....

2008-09-12T10:40:00.004-06:00

I really have nothing to update. I thought about stealing Kandi's idea and just posting a flower but thats cheating. My mind is full of thoughts and things so surely I can get on here and write about something.....

Unintentionally, most of the pictures involve Caitlyn. I guess she's just on my mind.

We are settling into homework. One of my favorite times of day is when the kids are reading. Probably because I love it so much. Anyway, here is Caitlyn reading to Madilyn with a little help from Noah.

I love this perplexed look ~ and then when she "GETS IT" the smile that follows...

Here she is at her ice skating lesson this week. She is doing well. They want her to be in a show in October. (we'll see)

PTA is going great. We have more members signed up earlier this year and the overall comradarie seems to be high. We had a Hot Dog Dinner on Tuesday followed by the PTA meeting with these cuties saying the "Pledge".

If you haven't seen Vince in awhile you missed his crazy hair! I know I posted he got a perm awhile back and his hair has been growing longer and longer....When he brushes it out on purpose it looks like THIS....

Pray for my husband. I love him so much. He has made some hard life choices lately and is trying to make some big changes in his life. Here is his new "Hair Do" to go with the "New Him"

(Mom, I know your happy! LOL!)

Our COLD.....HOT....COLD.... Labor Day

2008-09-02T21:30:00.006-06:00

Oh what a fantabulous weekend! Saturday was soooo relaxing! Sunday was wonderful! And then ANOTHER day of sleeping past 6am! What is this strange world????

We aren't used to no baseball weekends. I guess we've been doing it so long that we find ourselves actually searching for something to do!

Monday we drug ourselves up from our laziness and went to J.J.'s hockey game. Its really fun to watch him play. Its like mini little pros out there on the ice. And now they can hit each other which makes it double the fun.

After Jason had secured a wonderful second place medal we left the frigid arena and went to Putt-Putt.
I don't like to Putt. Never did! Vince takes it soooooooo seriously

But the kids love it and have been begging for awhile. To add to the fun ~ Grandma & Grandpa joined us. They were babysitting James and he was able to come along too! As if Noah could get any more excited that just sent him over the edge into Labor Day Heaven!

After the heat of the sun and the fun that is Putt-Putt. We retreated home where Josh finished up some last minute studying.. We ate a wonderful dinner from Grandma and then Caity had to go to COLD ice skating lessons.

If you'll remember she took lessons a few years ago and did fairly well.
THEN (so cute and sweet and innocent)

Here she is NOW in her new skates....(my word she's full of herself!)

This last picture has Madi in it....Just to prove she was with us all day. She was in a MOOD all day! Total PMS'ing

Copy Cat

2008-08-29T16:01:00.002-06:00

So I copied this from my friend's blog....

1. Leave one memory that you and I had together, as a comment on my blog. It doesn't matter if you know me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll hope you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you. Have a nice little trip down memory lane!

BE NICE! ;-)

SLAP me!

2008-08-28T07:27:00.003-06:00

I did it again! I promised I wouldn't over extend myself but doggonit I'm so gullible!

At the end of the year last year I was nominated for Duncanville Council PTA. Vince thought it was an amazing honor. I thought it was a desperate plea for people because no one else would do it. LOL!

Joshua's school was looking for volunteers so I'm now their New Parent Liaison...answering questions and hooking old families up with new families.....Not too bad. I'm also helping buddy Jen with Teacher Appreciation (but that involves food so~ cool!)

Now on to Hyman. I've served my two year term as President and was quite ready to step back and let someone else hold the reigns. Unfortunately the two ladies who we had ready to go have now suddenly backed out. Enter sucker Shaunna who just can't resist. I love our school, the faculty, and especially our principle. Lucky for me I have Jen who is ever faithful to help.....

Back to council PTA. My first "duty" as Vice President was to fill in for my chief while she was out of town. With less than 24 hours notice I had to write and give a speech in front of every teacher, staff, custodian, cafeteria worker, and administrator in Dville. I was scared to death but it all worked out and I obviously survived. The pictures are of the crowd....

So... busy times are here again.....

School Days

2008-08-27T10:27:00.006-06:00

I have to preface with a hardy YAY!!! I love school! I love the routine it brings to my house. Its a little harder this year as Madi is my last one at home. She is a tiny bit bored but she is also enjoying the attention that is sure to do her EGO a world of good. HA!

Joshua started last week and I'm happy to say, "He's happy!" He isn't one to be excited about school or learning but he's really trying to find the happiness in his "career" for the next 11+ years! LOL! No college is NOT an option so he is bucking up and going for the gold! I'm so proud of him. He's in 6th grade!!! Isn't that wild!!!

This is Caitlyn on meet the teacher night. She was super excited to be there!

Noah reluctantly let me take a picture on Monday morning. He is Sooooo OVER the picture thing!

Caitlyn on the other hand is soooo full of herself! LOL! She thinks she's cute and isn't afraid to pose. Her grandma & daddy fuled the fire by praising her and telling her how adorable she looked! I had to have a long talk with them about inner beauty! UGH! LOL!

She was happy to let Daddy walk her to class while Noah ran on ahead to his room....

He did let me sneak in and snap a picture of him....He is next to best friend Liam and remarkably they haven't gotten in trouble for talking yet. I think they are doomed for trouble but we'll see.....

The end of a very long first day!

One more thing ~ Madi keeping busy with Grannie while everyone else is gone.....

San Antonio Day 2

2008-08-26T15:54:00.006-06:00

Sorry it took me so long! Vincents friend found a virus on the computer. Did a whole bunch of cool numbers and letters, buttons, and beeps and we are back in business. Back up your pictures you guys!!!! I was freakin out for 3 days!

Fiesta Shirts

Kids in front of the "Giant" ~ wonderful ride!

Allllll the kids! I can't believe we got Gabi and Caity out of order but you get the gist.

Joshua on some crazy flip and spin ride. He's the short red headed one! LOL

Noah and Breaunna on the old timey cars...

Madilyn and Daddy....

Time for some water fun!

5 of us racing. Obviously the heaviest wins!

I LOVE this picture! Josh, Noah, and Juan

Caitlyn and Madilyn got their faces painted.....

While Josh, Noah, and Vince had fun with those silly games. We NEVER let them play because its such a waist but they chose this as their souvineer.....

This is the "Frisbee" it whirls round and round while swinging you from side to side (like the boat at Six Flags) CRAZY!!!@!!!!

Last ride ~the log ride.

It was a great trip. A great weekend... A great end to the summer.

Computer Blues

2008-08-22T19:51:00.004-06:00

My computer is on the fritz....Vincents friend is going to come over to try to fix it tomorrow. In the meantime I'm sadly behind on posting Part 2 of our trip. I'll catch up soon though I promise.

Joshua started school this week and LOVES it! YAY!

Noah and Caitlyn start on Monday.

Meanwhile, I'm seeking refuge in tween books! LOL! My book club ladies are reading Book 4 of the Twilight series. I hadn't read book 1 yet. And I gotta tell you I made a lot of fun of them....vampires, teens in love, blah, blah, blah....Common we are 25-30+ here dude!

I can't put them down! I've read the first 2 in 4 days and when Cat gets back in town on Sunday I will get book 3! WOOHOO!

A Whale of a Time!

2008-08-19T07:11:00.013-06:00

So, we've been back from San Antonio just over 24 hours and its taken that long for me to recover! LOL! I think its always hard on the mom's with the pre planning, packing, getting everyone to and from safely etc.... Here is a "small" recap. LOL!

On Friday evening we loaded up the church van with clothes and snacks for 14 people. We got little ones strapped in car seats and gameboys, coloring books, Leapsters, and Ipods within everyones reach. Gabriella stepped up to the curb for Uncle Vinnie to lift her into her seat and promptly vomited everything in her stomach. ARE YOU KIDDING ME???? Bless her heart ~ Laurie took her in for a quick shower and 10min we were on our way bowl in hand. (She was sick through Saturday but by Sunday was almost back to her normal self)

We got into San Antonio around midnight and early Sat morning headed to Sea World. This was mine and Vincents 5th trip with kids and I must say this was our first disappointment ever. The Viva show (our favorite) was closed, Shamu left a lot to be desired, and it was more crowded than I've ever seen. BLECK! But we managed to snag some smiles from the kids.... Here are a few of the 517 pictures taken....what can I say Laurie and I are addicted! Check out more on Laurie's blog.

The kids dream of the moment they get to feed the dolphins!

Here is our family picture. We made t-shirts so we all matched and could find each other easily.

The one and only highlight of the Shamu show. Josh, Noah, Ginny, Bianca, Breaunna, Caitlyn, and Juan about to get really wet....(notice the camera is very far from the splash zone!)

We ate lunch outside the park to save a little money. It worked out wonderfully and made a huge difference on the pocket book!

Krisalyn, Bianca, Madilyn playing in the splash factory

The braver, cooler folks on Journey to Atlantis...

Finally its time to really get wet!

He loves me! Elijah checkin out the seal show....

Day 2 comin up....

Chuck E Cheese Fun

2008-08-14T06:43:00.003-06:00

Last week I met some friends from High School at Chuck E Cheese. Its so nice to meet there because the kids all run off to play and we can catch up.

Here are Melinda and Keri

Trent and Andie (Keri's little ones)

Blake and Lydsey (Melinda's older two....Little Luke kept ducking from the camera!)

This is Austin. He belongs to Melinda's little sister Crystal. He was a sweetie.

Tomorrow, my family, my sisters family, my mom, and college student from church, and our neighbor (19 of us) Leave for San Antonio. We plan to crash through Sea World and Fiesta Texas and then return late on Sunday night. Vince just can't miss work and Josh starts school on Tuesday so this will work. The kids are sooooo excited! I'm sure I'll have lots to post when we get back.

~S

More FUN!

2008-08-05T11:04:00.005-06:00

Laurie and James the uber-cool Aunt and Uncle that they are.... filled a ton of balloons with water and invited us to have a sling shot contest. Even Vince had fun!!!! Bless his heart after a day in this Texas heat he doesn't want to step foot outside for anything. But he put a smile on his face and even laughed a couple of times!

For Gabi's birthday Laurie got an ice cream cake....the kids loved that!

Then we swam at Grandma Pat's house.

Our great friends Maggie and Matt were in town and we got to spend a few hours with their family.
Here is Gavin. He was born a few months after Madilyn.

This is Riley. He is not quite two.

Uncle James provided endless for for the older kids. They hung all over him and dunked him and he dunked back!

Madilyn and Maggie used to be great friends.....after quite a bit of coaxing she let her hold her.

I've been working hard to get this braiding thing down. I can do the regular french braid fairly well now. This was my first attempt at the over french braid and I was soooo proud! LOL!

We met our other dear friends Xavier and Sunni for dinner in Ft Worth that night at Joe T Garcia's. It was our first time and we thought it was great! It was great to have the 6 of us together again. Its been ages.

This is Caity with Sunni's daughter Ava.

After promising a swim day with friends...... I finally gave in. We have Josh with buddy Juan, Noah with best buddy Liam, and then friends of everyone....Avery, Bianca,& Lilly. Of course nephew James, Caity, and Madi are in there too.

Finally thanks to the expertise of Jill and a little teaching from Reveau I can make cute socks now! Woohoo! I have tons for Caity for school and am on to friends and family.

I hope your summer has been as full and blessed as mine. Only two weeks from today and Josh starts school......The week after that Noah and Caity. I'm looking forward to my alone time with Madi. I think its gonna be a great year!

Where in the world is Shaunna?

2008-08-01T09:50:00.012-06:00

I have heard that sooooo much the last couple of weeks! LOL!

Today marks the 2nd week in a row that I have been a stay at home mommy again. And I am trying to catch up on all the summer fun with my kids!! Its been hard working on the office stuff here from home. Mainly, because I have to do it at night late when the office is closed and thats my "Vince time" but I'm getting a new routine down. I feel so blessed to get to work from home.

First we had to finish up Cailtyn's swimming lessons ~

Then we had to make a day trip out to Bedford Splash to test her skills. We had a lot of fun! Grannie, Aunt Laurie, Aunt Amy, and all the cousins joined us for a day of fun fun fun and Brownies! LOL!
This is at the end of a 7hr swim fest!

The older, "cooler" boys....

Breaunna

Noah

Caitlyn

Jenna and Madi

Julianna

Jayda....so happy to get to go down the slide!!!!

Amy, Nana, Me, Krisalyn, and Madi

Madi on "her style slide"

The other kids join her on her "oh so cool slide"

This day was followed two days later with an all day trip to Six Flags! Such fun in the 110 degree heat! AAAHHH! The kids loved it though.

Tea cup fun....

Josh and Breaunna on the bobsled

Noah and Josh on the big boat

Aunt Laurie, Breaunna,Caitlyn, Noah and Josh rode the logride while Fantabulous aunt Shaunna did the following..... (in no particular order)

Got Madi and Gabi on a little boot ride.......

Talked Krisalyn into getting her fingers out of her mouth and smiling for her favorite Auntie....

gave Elijah sleeping potion and managed to lay him down without waking him up...I ROCK!

And I still managed to get back over to the log ride to take this most fabulous picture of the nuts screaming SHAUNNA,MOM, as they came over the top of the hill... LOL!

Time out to catch some waves.....(its so fun now that Bre and Caity can ride more)

My brave 3rd grader, Noah, rode the Tony Hawk ride and loved it so he went back for a second go round.....

And we ended the day with a fantastic sweet concotion purchased by adoring Grannie and called "THE PINK THING"

So that was week one...And I didn't even get to talk about all the house cleaning and hard work I put in too..... Thats okay Post 2 to follow. :-)

100th post....

2008-07-29T06:54:00.003-06:00

I've been trying to think up something super creative for my 100th blog post but right now my brain is in clean and dump mode not creative mode.....

I do have a ton of pictures to post from last week and I promise to get to that soon.

I can't believe I have posted 100 times and that you all read and look! LOL! I find your blogs and lives so much more interesting! (Of course my kids are adorable and their pictures make me smile but......)

Point being ~ Here's to you my friends. Thanks for your endless support and care. Thanks for your kind words and uplifting advice. Thanks for being a part of our little family here. And to those of you who KNOW who you are that read and don't create your own....shame on you its time to catch up :-)

Much love,

S

Close .....

2008-07-19T20:43:00.004-06:00

Not an exact match but close.... She certainly acts like me! Oh my!!!

Installment one....

2008-07-14T07:19:00.008-06:00

Finally.... I'm posting pictures!

This summer is flying by. Probably mainly in part because I only have two full days with the kids each week. We've stayed busy though. Almost everyday there is swimming and riding bikes..... We are not taking a vacation as Vince is starting up this new buisness. But we still have plenty of photo ops.

Josh and Noah had Mohawks until yesterday when we shaved their heads to prepare for school starting back up.

My dad installed a tire swing in their back yard and had to prove to the kids it worked..... So sad they didn't know what a tire swing was!

Madilyn learned how to ride Caitlyn's big girl bike and Noah FINALLY is happy without training wheels.

Josh's baseball team had a party to celebrate their winning season.

Swimming has been a highlight almost every day. Caitlyn is taking lessons and all over the pool now. Madilyn is happy in the security of your arm floaties.

Our 4th of July left lots to be desired. Noah and Madi fell asleep before the fireworks began and only Josh and Cait could see them from the top of Vincents truck but they were satisfied....

We did enjoy the Duncanville Parade early that morning though. We were quite a spectical on the side of the street. We had our family of 6, Laurie and her 4, Kirk and Jen and 3 of their kids, AND we took 4 of the kids friends along for fun....

We had a garage sale this weekend and the boys sold drinks from this cute little stand my mom bought..... All in all so far a great summer!

I need help

2008-07-10T06:13:00.002-06:00

I'm desperate. My family is dealing with demons beyond my control. I need fervent and earnest prayer lifted up for myself and my husband.

I don't want to go into details but I know my God is magnificent and in control. I know he has my best interest at heart and that he loves me.

Just pray for us please.

Shaunna

Counting our Blessings

2008-07-03T09:13:00.003-06:00

We have had a crazy couple of weeks....I have so many pictures to post and I keep forgetting.....

Joshua and Noah had a great time at church camp. I'll post pics soon. Upon their return Josh turned around two days later and went to another church camp with a friend. Monday night he got sent home because his friend had scabies! Ewww! Lots of prayer, laundry and one treatment later Josh never got them and noone else has either.

Caitlyn on the other hand got a bug bite a little over a month ago. I treated it daily with stuff but it just wasn't getting better. 3 weeks into it she started getting a strange rash. It started small but got worse for about a week. Apparently the bug bite was severe enough that it poisoned her blood stream and caused the rash.
Two antibiotics later we are on the mend. She still looks icky and is itchy but the worse is past us.

Noah FINALLY learned how to ride his bike. He of course loves it. He has trouble with coordination and I think that was his delay. Otherwise he is doing well. He and Josh are sporting Mohawks this summer and they love the attention.

Madilyn is rough, tough, and sooooo sweet. Her vocabulary astounds me!

Vince is just overflowing with business. Things are going really well. I'll write more on that later.

As for me ~ I've lost 9lbs on Weight Watchers and I'm doing well. I gave notice at my job and will return to the stay at home mommy life I love soon.

Haireeeeeeeeeeee Buisness

2008-06-20T16:15:00.005-06:00

So, for as long as I have known Vince (16 yrs) he has talked about growing his hair long on top and getting a perm.
Low and behold Vincent's mid life cry for his youth.....

Then "sweet" Madilyn grew up on me today. She has been begging for awhile now to get her hair cut "just like Gabi"...

Today I finally gave in. I think it turned out sooooooooooooo cute!

Before ~

Such a big girl sitting in the chair for her first "real" hair cut. She was so happy that everything was about HER! "Her movie" "Her seat choice" "Her Hair" "Her Pictures"

Getting her first look!

Isn't she sweet!

Its sooooo quite!

2008-06-18T09:04:00.002-06:00

Joshua and Noah left for church camp on Sunday afternoon. The girls have been so much fun to watch and play with. I think the one and only disadvantage to having so many children is its hard to spread yourself out and get quality time with each one. Josh and I have had lots of extra time this year because of his new school schedule and the girls usually get the most attention just because they are younger and need more help.

Next Monday, Joshua will leave for another church camp and I'm hoping for some alone time with Noah.

On a different note ~ I've worked out 3 days in a row now. Its really hard to get up at the crack of dawn while Vince and the girls are sleeping. Its dark and the house is soooo quite. UGH! But I feel so good when I finish. I really miss getting to be there with my friends but atleast I still have two days a week with them.

I also joined Weight Watchers last night. I think making that payment will push me a little harder. Last time I did it was right after Noah was born and I lost 16pds fairly quick. Its the only "lifechange/diet/eating habit" that seems to work for me. Mainly because I can really have whatever I want in moderation and below my point total for the day. Otherwise I freak out over the limitations other diets provide. (Did you even care to know all that! LOL)

My goals are HUGE and seem so far away so I'm trying to think of something little to reward myself with.
I'm not a big shopper so a new outfit seems like a waste unless that is my waist is smaller and I need one ;-)
I love food so maybe a special treat?
I don't know I want it to be a good one!

Any suggestions I'm listening!

I have a great incentive going for Vince right now and he has lost 17pounds in the last month......

~S

tons to say.....no time

2008-06-13T09:52:00.003-06:00

UGH! I have tons of pictures to upload but no time to get to it so maybe next week.

Schools out! YAY! Everyone gets to move up a grade (no shocker there).

We are doing boys scout camps, baseball camps, 2 church camps, baseball tournaments, swim lessons, and still managing to find a few hours to sleep and definetly EAT!

I got to work out today with friends which always makes me soooo happy.

Will post next week.

Happy Fathers Day Daddy! I love you so much! Thanks for 33 amazing years.

Week in Review

2008-06-04T11:17:00.004-06:00

Actually its last weeks review but hey better late than never!

Madi had a little graduation at her pre-school. They sang a song and were given certificates graduating them to the 3yr old class. She didn't cry and we were happy! LOL!

The dogs are getting along well. They bite at each other and roll around. My only complaint is Prissy is barking more often. I'm so tempted to get one of those collars!

I assisted in hosting a baby shower this weekend for my doll of a friend, Reveau. She is due with a little girl this month and I just can't wait to snuggle her!

The cake was made by another friend Ginger....(gotta do a plug for her)

This is a sweetie I get to snuggle with often. Her name is Lauren and she loves me!
Not as much as her momma but she loves me just the same!

And finally ~ Joshua is doing MUCH better. He wasn't able to participate in his baseball tournament this weekend. But we did get to go out Sunday and support his team. The kids were SO nice and genuine to him and to top off a wonderful weekend ~

The Rough Riders are the North Zone State Champions!!!! YAY Team!

Memorial Day Fun

2008-05-31T16:42:00.010-06:00

So we spend our Memorial Day weekend relaxing. With no baseball or soccer all weekend we slept a bit late and hung out. Well some of us did. Josh of course was in misery and so that meant a little less sleep for Vince and I but it all worked out.

Monday we invited friends to BBQ and swim and Vince's mom's house. Only 1/2 showed up and it was a full house!!! We had a great time. Its always nice to be with friends. All in all there were 20 kids!!!!!!!!!!

Caitlyn and Breaunna

Joshua and Austin Petersen

Avery Sloane

Grandma Pat and Krisalyn

20 kids and where are the daddies???????
CAR SHOPPING!

Jenna (Justin and Jessicas little girl - Vince and Justing work together)

Lilly Sloane

Brooklyn Petersen

Elijah and Laurie

Lauren Petersen

Ella Petersen

Madilyn

James and Noah

Life Lessons

2008-05-29T12:07:00.008-06:00

You never know when your going to happen upon a wake up call as a parent. We never see them coming or if we do its in a split second where we can't prevent it. From a quick grab of a curling iron....to a cut from a sharp spot on the coffee table we should have covered.... Anyone done the "its not that bad" to a screaming child only to watch an hour later as the bruise gets darker and bigger!

UGH!

Here is my most recent life lesson and PLEASE let it be a lesson to all of you my dear friends.
The post before this was all about the wonderful day my kids had at the lake with Grannie and Aunt Laurie. Unfortunately, the drama following has not been wonderful but a scary, frustrating, emotional roller coaster.

This picture is of my kids about 3 hours after we got home from the lake. While mind you the "group shot" in the post below was minutes before we left. The continual reddening of their skin was AMAZING!

Noah in misery.

Joshua in misery.

I'd like to preface the rest of this with... YES sunscreen was applied! I don't know for sure how often. But the ladies who love my children *almost* as much as me, did a great job of making sure noone drowned and to their credit...... Madilyn, Krisalyn, Elijah, Gabriella weren't red at all. Caitlyn and Breaunna had areas on their backs that were burned and they hurt but not too bad. My *guess* is that the boys went back out in the water before the sunscreen on their abdomens could dry. Because their faces and necks were not burned more than your average little too much sun burn the following day.

Noah is usually my tanner. I put sunscreen on him as a protectant only because he gets really dark in the summer. He had a fairly significant burn on his back and a few water blisters on his shoulders. Enough to make clothes hurt and he was stiff for a few days but he's on the mend now.

Joshua our little red head was a different story. He cried and didn't move much all day Saturday. I did the whole "Its just a bad sunburn" "You'll be better in a few days" "Stop complaining theres nothing more I can do besides aloe" routine.

On Sunday morning things changed. Vince dropped both boys at mom's house while we went to church. Between my house and being at hers for 10min blisters began popping up all over his body. These pictures don't do it justice really. You can't see the hundreds of little blisters. And you can't see the pain.... :-(

We took him to Care Now and they prescribed Tylenol with codeine and some burn cream.
This did NOTHING to help him.

Tuesday morning first thing we took him to our pediatrician, and she was really concerned. She said he had 2nd degree burns on 17% of his body. He had gained 5lbs from the fluid build up and swelling. If we had medical insurance she would have sent him over to Cooks Children's burn unit but since he was no longer vomitting, she spoke with them and we came up with a plan to make him comfortable at home "if possible".

We bought white sheets and 4 new pillows and sterilized everything. He and I went to my moms house in Grand Prairie so the kids and dogs wouldn't be bothering him...plus its germier ;-) She perscribed a bucket (literally) of sylvadine burn cream that we apply two times a day. THAT is so hard. He cries and begs me to stop and keeps asking why.... She also gave him some very VERY strong pain medicine.

He had more small bubble blisters than I could count, 3 the size of grapes on his arms and one the size of a golf ball on his back. It made getting him in a comfortable position next to impossible. So we set up a white throne (as he affectionately refers to it) on my moms couch in front of her coffee table which has a raisable lid. We raised it and he leans forward and sleeps with just his head on a pillow on that table.

Blessed blessed sleep....... that pain pill knocked him out cold and he slept for 7+ hours Tuesday night.

When he woke up Wed. morning it was evident immediately that our prayers had been met more that abundantly! All the blisters had opened over night and the swelling had decreased significantly. He was in a great mood! The pain was so much more manageable!!!

Thursday he is even better. He has a very raw section on his back where the golf ball blister was. And the itching is driving him wild. Benadryl helps some.....

So now the prayer is for protection from infection. She is very concerned about him getting a staff infection.

Make sure and lather up your kiddos. This is an experience I hope noone else ever has to learn from. I should also add..... God has been so good and gracious to us through all of this. His healing touch is evident in the progression of Josh's getting better! Praise and thanks to Him!

The Best Grannie and Aunt Laurie in the World!

2008-05-27T16:25:00.006-06:00

On Friday (the 23rd) Mom and Laurie took all 8 kids to the beach at Joe Pool Lake. I had to work so I missed out on most of the fun,unfortunately. But here are some great pictures that were taken. The kids had the best day EVER and can't wait to go back soon.

Here are a few that were willing to "pose" for a picture.

Josh and Noah having a great time together. I LOVE it when they get along.

Grandad came out and the kids enjoyed time with him for awhile.

Noah enjoying lunch

Caitlyn loved playing in the sand

Elijah (my little booda man) joins the fun.

Cait and Breaunna

Madilyn and Krisalyn THINK about taking a nap....

then they decide its more fun to fight over a stick.

Gabi was a natural little fish

Happenings ~

2008-05-22T06:50:00.007-06:00

Noah had his end of the soccer season party and here he is getting his trophy. Coach Brenda said a lot of nice things about him. It was very nice.

Caitlyn had her end of the year program on Tuesday night. She just grinned and sung at the top of her lungs. It was really sweet.

Below is a rare moment in Hyman Elementary History. A field trip....GASP! This is Noah's (and his friends) first field trip EVER!! Ridiculous I know...don't get me started.
The first picture is with friends....Trinity, Brenden, Jenna, and Molly

These should come back in style. This and a muzzle would be a mom's best friend some days! LOL

Noah and best friend Liam..."quite the cowpolks".

Why Men Can Pee Standing Up!

2008-05-19T18:00:00.010-06:00

Busy Days

2008-05-18T21:16:00.004-06:00

Lots of STUFF going on around here. Just busy....busy....

Soccer is over for Noah and Caitlyn and we all welcome the break.

Joshua has one more regular season baseball game and then tournaments begin.....
He has finished his school year and is SO HAPPY to be on summer break.

Madilyn is just hanging in. She is indifferent about school these days but is still learning and happy when we pick her up in the afternoon. She has a little end of the year ceremony on Thursday.

Work is going well for myself and things are looking up for Vince.

I'm off to bed ~ The STARS play tomorrow night so I need to "prepare" to be up late tomorrow. LOL

XOXO

I've lost my mind!

2008-05-07T13:00:00.002-06:00

If you know me you know I'm not a huge animal guru! And Vince is even worse than I am! So most of you were shocked when we got Prissy...Therefore you'll be floored when you see we now have puppy #2. He was nameless until last night. Lots of arguing going on there! In the end the boys talked the girls into "Vader". He doesn't look or seem like a Vader to me. But I'm just the mom I didn't get a vote! He's soooooo sweet!

Prissy is going to the groomer tomorrow and then I'll post some cute pictures of the two of them together. They are getting along great. The only time Prissy gets made is if he tries to nurse on her LOL!

Soccer...Soccer...Soccer

2008-05-07T06:53:00.002-06:00

Saturday=Soccer Day!

And what a fun one it was! We were off from baseball for a weekend and it was a beautiful day outside....

Here's Grandad with the girls at Noah's game ~

Noah loves playing defense. Here he is kicking the ball away from our end of the field.

Caitlyn seems to be a natural at soccer. Here she is driving down the field.

One of 4 goals....

Six Flags Fun

2008-05-05T12:25:00.005-06:00

A few pictures from a recent trip to Six Flags....
we love to go on Sunday after church when the crowds are light.
This particular trip my mom came along to help with the kids. She's so great to help out like that ~ And they love to have her along!

Goooooooo STARS!

2008-04-30T14:06:00.004-06:00

YAY Vince! He scored us tickets to the Dallas Stars game last night. It was sooo much fun. After a brief nose bleed (haha) we had a fantastic evening. I think of all the sports games I've ever attended this was one of the best. There is just something crazy about hockey fans. I'm an avid sports fan. I love almost every sport. I definetly stay up late and log the hours during playoffs....But this was my very first hockey game to attend.

After an intense 3 periods we went to overtime!

OF course was there any doubt we would pull out the victory???

STARS WIN! STARS WIN!

A dear friend of mine was at the game too. She had a slightly better view and definetly a better perspective....as she is a die hard hockey fan. She told me there is nothing better than a crowd after a win! Boy was she right!
The screaming,chanting, horn honking, and towel waving was still going on as we fought our way out of the parking lot 30min later!

Hopefully she'll take me a long for a few games next year. I think I'm "sold" on hockey!

Everyone's exercising but Me!

2008-04-19T16:39:00.005-06:00

ACK! I've gotta find a way to work in my work out! I really miss it. I miss the time with my buddies, the fun on the raquetball court and the sore muscels! I'm nursing a sore wrist from some volleyball action but I can literally feel my hips spreading as I sit at work everyday! LOL

We are keeping VERY busy! Still adjusting to life as a full time work family. But we are really happy.

Vincent's business is going well. I LOVE my job! The kids are doing well in school. Joshua is re-enrolled at Grace for next year and is taking 5 classes this time. Let me tell you his thrilled! :rollseyes: He is enjoying his baseball season. I don't have pictures because its too hard to do that and keep score.

Noah is enjoying boy scouts and loves his soccer team. He's doing well. He prefers to play defense and is thrilled when his coach puts him there! He's getting more coordinated and is really good in the spot.

Vince and Caitlyn are undefeated on their season. She LOVES soccer and is very good at it. She's just fast and really able to cut the ball off too. She's scored a bunch this season and that thrills her!

Madi still likes school which is such a blessing! "Miss Brenda is soooo nice to her", she says.

This is Madi, Caitlyn, and friend Ella watching their brothers play soccer.

Love you all ~ don't stop praying!

Sorry....

2008-04-16T06:00:00.001-06:00

I'm trying!

High School Musical Mania

2008-04-03T19:02:00.004-06:00

Okay you may remember from the pictures at Disney my children are High School Musical FREAKS! The novelty has worn off some for the boys but the girls are still crazy about it. I'm sure mainly because of the music.... all my kids love music and singing.

Anywho, Vince and I saw that the Disney on Ice was coming and since I've been working so much we haven't had a "family time" in ages. I looked online and found a great deal for opening night. Against all the rules we stayed out late on a school night (gasp!) and had a FAB-U-LOUS evening! After all that was our one and only simple request......

The kids got to pick ONE souvineer a piece and they all wanted those stupid sno cone cups! (Sunni I thought of you and Ava!)

These are the faces that make it all worth it!!

Grand Finale!

Madilyn's First Day of School

2008-03-31T21:00:00.002-06:00

I didn't go..... I thought I'd just rip the bandaid off and let her leave the nest. Sniff Sniff. But the friend that takes her and pickes her up 3 days a week promised to take pictures and she did a wonderful job!!!

Madilyn was soooooo excited! Here she is leaving the car and walking in on her own. She had her backpack loaded down with lunch box.

Walking down the hall to her classroom........ (Thats Brooklyn following along)

Checking out her classroom.

Posing for a photo op with her teacher.....

Dear Sweet Madilyn,
I can't believe you are so anxious to leave me! I'm happy your independent and sure of yourself and I'm thrilled you feel safe and secure and desire to learn. I love that any time we drive past your school you yell at all of us that its YOUR school and make sure we know what a big girl you are. I love that you are eager to tell me about your day and show me your papers.
I hope that this first school of many brings you joy and a fun start to your education. I love you and miss you so much when we are away from each other.

Mom

EASTER Sunday

2008-03-27T11:28:00.006-06:00

I have so many posts to update you with its hard to know Where to begin!!!!

First of all "Thank you Lord Jesus for raising from the dead that 3rd day and giving a reason to celebrate!" "Watch the Lamb" is one of my favorite Easter songs along with "He Lives", and "You are Holy"..... Sunday morning my Daddy treated us to a wonderful rendition of "I Bowed on my Knees" and an equally wonderful sermon. Its always a treat to stop and have The Lords Supper and spend time being thankful.

I was especially thankful to have my first full Sunday off in 6wks. There was no rushing kids places or hurrying to work. It was just blissful peace and rest. Sooo much rest in fact that after we left church I didn't remember to pick up the camera again. (OOOPS!) But I did get some cute pictures while there.

Madilyn (her first year to "get" the concept. Didn't collect much because she opened each egg to see if it was worth keeping before moving to the next!)

Caitlyn (fully aware of the concept OVERFILLED her bag!)

Noah (joined in the fun for a bit)

Joshua (sneaky little booger! SAYS he was helping the girls! LOL)

The whole clan together. Its impossible to get a perfect shot! But atleast we were all present!

FREE at last!

2008-03-25T08:35:00.002-06:00

Last night I completed my work at Dillards. 99% of me is soooooo excited and happy to put that behind me. The other 1% teared up as I said goodbye to some great people who made the experience fun and interesting.....

Now, I get to return to more mommyhood and for that I'm ecstatic!

Between getting all 4 kids to different places during the day, practices, games, and homework the pace won't slow a bit!!!! But I'm NOT COMPLAINING! :-)

I'll post about Madi's first school day and Easter soon.

Few Pictures

2008-03-14T06:40:00.004-06:00

Few pictures Joshua took from Caitlyn's first soccer game.

This is Caitlyn's PK line at Hyman. It was Valentines Day so we were headed to the class for a party. Mrs Flores generously allowed Madilyn to walk in line with the class. She is #2 in line. She begs to go every day. SO CUTE!

Sooooo behind!

2008-03-12T10:28:00.004-06:00

Wow am I ever behind on this huh?! Well here is an update on the Kile Krew....(if your reading this and there are no pictures check back tomorrow and I'll have them loaded)

Madi is spending several days a week with Grannie and Grandad. She LOVES it. Probably for the most part due to the constant attention and over feeding of her ego. She looks at me or says things sometimes that remind me of ME!

Caitlyn is doing great in PreK. She is really picking up on the reading and LOVES doing addition. Thats absurd to me that they do it in PreK but whatever....she's happy. She spends a few mornings a week with Grandma Pat who currently is feeding her shoe and shopping obsession!!! Boy you get my girls one on one and they are attention stealers!!!
She had her first soccer game with coach Daddy on Saturday. It breaks my heart I missed it but she scored 3 goals!!!! There are lots of pics. courtesy of big brother Josh.

Noah is adjusting to the new schedule well. Bless his heart he is so patient. He definetly gets "forgotten about" more than the others because he's just so good. School comes easy to him and he's just happy to "be". He wrote an adorable paper we got to read at open house last night and it was basically all about how much idolizes Joshua. He is performing as a rooster in a school play on Friday and I'm anxious to see him.

Joshua is sooooo headed for the "diseased" years as my dad calls them. He's 11 going on 16. I'm SOOOOOO happy we chose this route of school for him. He is onery but still so sweet and respectful the majority of the time. He's struggling a bit in school right now with some new math concepts but they push them to excell so hard in his school that its good for him. Please pray we can send him back there next year.

ME. I'm still working both at Dillards and at the secretary job. I really enjoy Dillards during the evening. Its the weekends away from the family that make me sooo sad. Its hard missing events and missing out on time with Vince. Hopefully, I won't be there much longer. As for the other job. It has suddenly gone from part time to very full time. I LOVE it! Its just another adjustment period we need to go through. I feel so blessed that God placed the opportunity in my lap when I needed something and fast.
My birthday was a bummer but thats chalked up to cookie dough nightmares and too little money. Besides who wants to celebrate when you get this old????? LOL

Vince ~ I have finally diagnosed my psychotic husband with Too much Stress Syndrom. Bless his heart. He is such a good man he just goofs up on the little stuff like:
1. sharing the stress
2. confiding in me
3. telling the truth about the little things he doesn't think "matter"
He has been under an enormous weight of pressure for the past 6+ months and he thought he was sparing me the stress and frustration and holding the burden himself. Little did he know he was making me CRAZY!
Long story short ~ (call if you want the juicy details).... He is no longer working with his partner but has begun a new adventure in the same field and the benefits seem to be endless. Most importantly he's nice, sweet, caring, relaxed, and back to the Vince of old (Hallelujah!)

Pray for us as God is moving us in new directions. We are soooo blessed!

Love to you all,

Shaunna

Caitlyn and Madilyn are in love!

2008-02-29T07:39:00.004-06:00

He's already a month old now ~ isn't that hard to believe!!!

They asked about him daily, beg to go see him, and can't keep their grubby little hands off.

Truth is ~ I can't EITHER!!!! Happy 1month birthday Elijah!

FLU--------EWWWWWW!

2008-02-26T14:30:00.003-06:00

Everyone is sick on this side of town... Vince is the latest victim.

Right now life is just kleenex, motrin, blankets, fans, and lyesol!!!

Hopefully I'll have more fun to update next week....

New Girl on the Block

2008-02-22T08:37:00.003-06:00

Wow! What a difference a week makes!

I've gone from stay at home mommy to working two different jobs in the matter of days. But I feel soooo blessed.

My first part time job was Dillards. I'm very excited about this. Its a brand new store and everyone is new. The building and things in it are new and fresh and everyone is at the same "level". I will work 6-9pm during the week and on Sundays 12-6pm. I know there will be some Saturdays thrown in but I'm hoping and praying to keep those to a limit.... We will see!

The clothes I got to buy for ME are sooooo cool and its fun to wear new things. I'd forgotten how good it makes me feel.

Of course my new smaller size thanks to the YMCA doesn't hurt my feelings!!! I've got a long way to go but we are working on it.

My second part time job is with a friends husband. He owns his own chiropractic office and need some office work done about 10hrs a week. I started Wed for training but then his secretary went on vacation so I've been thrown in full steam ahead..... NOT that I mind! I LOVE this kind of work. I thrive in it and I'm GOOD at it! I'm very very excited about the opportunity.

While the changes are fun we haven't had anytime to transition as a family. Its gonna take us awhile but we can get it figured out. Mainly because I have the most amazing friends and family in the world who just keep boosting me up, praying for me, and being supportive.

I love you all!

S

Happy VALENTINES day!

2008-02-14T07:03:00.003-06:00

Happy flowers, chocolate, and stuffed animal day! LOL Walmart was a "madhouse" last night! A frenzy of men mostly and then a few mom's thrown in with last minute aspirations to find a teacher gift!

Mine got gypped this year but Hey ~ I've been busy!

I woke up to a plate full of luscious chocolate covered strawberries.....

The real WOW moment of Valentines Day 2008???????

Joshua bought a stuffed animal and candy for a little girl he has a crush on! Her name is Katie and boy I hope this ends well or tomorrow the post might be about the red head with a "broken Heart".

By the way, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!!! I love you very much!

Things that make me SMILE

2008-02-11T12:25:00.000-06:00

1. Finishing a great work out at the Y ~ where I'm super sweaty and know I worked hard.

2. Seeing the tredmill reach a mile faster than it did last week.

3. Scoring points on Brenda in raquetball.

4. My nice new clothes that mom picked out for me.

5. My new Old Navy jeans that are ONE SIZE SMALLER than my last pair!

6. The laundry room floor because I FINALLY got caught up on laundry again.

7. My new Creative Memories software that I finally loaded last night and LOVE!!

8. Joshua smiling because he "gets" the history lesson.

9. Madilyn asking me to rock her.

10. Five minutes of peace in which I got to update my blog!

What a great blessed day!

Survival Guide

2008-02-06T08:11:00.000-06:00

If ever faced with the insanity of 7 children, a husband, and a dog.... Who won't give you just a moment of piece. Put on the drill seargent hat and

WORK EM' OUT!

Gabi and Madi sit on the boys' feet so they can do sit ups

Laurie's Birth Story (from her adoring, thankful, admiring older sister Shaunna's point of view)

2008-01-28T10:11:00.000-06:00

At exactly 6:25am on Friday I got a phone call from Laurie that she was having a lot of really low contractions, cramps, and was indeed sure that it was time to get everyone situated and herself off to the hospital. She said to take my time and shower and do what I needed to do..... So I took a nice hot shower, got Noah ready for school and got Breaunna and Caitlyn ready for the hospital.

At 7:30am I got a more anxious phone call from Laurie asking where I was! She wasn't in a panic but James wasn't home and she was alone with Gabi and Krisalyn so I think she just wanted someone there.

I drove her, James, and Cameron (her friend and acting Doula) to the hospital while mom had Breaunna, Caitlyn, and Joshua in her van. Actually, I drove them to Race Trac because her van was out of gas and there she frightened the attendants because of her waddle to the restroom.....(((memories))) Also, lucky for all of us it was raining and Vince wasn't able to work so he got dubbed babysitter for the day.

We checked in to Baylor Hospital around 915am. After some brief monitoring, a hep lock (just in case) and the only midwife check of the day.....we were excited to hear she was 6cm dilated, 90% effaced, but that the little rascal had scooted back UP and was at a -3 station! (MEN!@!)

Lyndsey (the midwife) discussed options with Laurie and they opted to poke a few holes in her bag of water rather that break it all together. This happened at about 10:15am.

Here things blur for me a bit. Laurie stayed in bed for a little while so that the baby's head would come down some before a cord or anything else...... She walked the halls some but not much. It actually seemed like labor slowed down a bit and contx were anywhere from 10-15min. Laurie was in such good spirits laughing and talking between contx and just soooo excited the day was finally here.

Back in her room (The NEW room--- the nurse Nikki saw what a great support system Laurie had and we told her more people were on their way so she moved us to the largest laboring suite they had on the floor! It was HUGE and sooooo nice and spread out).......Laurie got in such a comfortable pattern of walking, rocking, sitting on the ball, and using the restroom that we spent the rest of the afternoon in there.

Nikki floated in and out of the room. I don't know for sure but I would guess she came in every 20-30min and listed to the baby on a doppler. Lyndsey came in several times and was finally shued away to get some rest. Laurie was too concerned with how Lyndsey was feeling to concentrate on her own body and I know it relaxed her to know her midwife was resting not just waiting on her.

Around 1pm Laurie was in the restroom and had a long conversation with her very first doula Cathy. (Cathy wanted to attend the birth for Laurie but was unable to because of a long night with another laboring mom the day before.) Cathy encouraged Laurie soooo much. She told her it didn't matter what the timing of the contx was, all that mattered was they were helping her body change so that her baby could be born.

In my mind this is when the real change began. **** Disclaimer**** I'm no doula. I have no training or skills, but if you watch and listen to a woman in labor you just know. Or maybe its a connection between Laurie and I as sisters (after all my csection scar itched all day -and it never does! -- and I have that breastfeeding let down feeling when she first nurses).

Anyway, she totally relaxed! She climbed into bed and was on her knees with the birthing ball in front of her. She would rock on it, Cameron would apply pressure to her pelvic area during contx and I just soothed her and tried to help her relax, make her moans deep....low....and open. She did many pelvic rocks with Cameron's guidance at this point as well.

**Oops! I'm supposed to be the photographer. That was my "job". I did get some awesome shots. They are all on Laurie's camera and I'll have to get them from her. But at this point I couldn't focus on pictures...no matter how hard I tried. I was drawn to Laurie's side whether she wanted me or not! Actually, I know I helped so Im sure she'll forgive me. Plus Joshua got some great pictures. Most of the ones I'm posting he took.... Back to the story.

At 1:55pm the nurse checked the baby's heart rate. Laurie and Cameron laughed because it was 2pm and thats what time Laurie had guessed he would be born. She made a few jokes and said she need to use the restroom again. Cameron was on a phone call ~ I think to Cathy again. When Laurie stood up she started laughing and we were kinda holding each other up the laughter got so silly. She kept yelping "I've gotta pee I've gotta pee"...... As I could see a puddle forming on the floor and her THIRD pair of pants get soaked through I was laughing because I thought she indeed had to pee. NOPE ~ That water was finally really breaking!!! YIPEE! Not the constant draining it had done on her first two pair of pants but indeed splash!

Laurie made it to the restroom and had two very hard contx there. The kind where your toes curl back and she begins to shake her head, her eyes get big and you can see her brain screaming "why the heck are you people letting me do this natural for I'm out of my mind......." She made it back to bed at 2:13 and resumed the previous comfortable position.

But things WERE in deed different. With every contx which were coming every 45sec-2min. Cameron and I could make eye contact and tell she was getting close. She began pushing a little with those contx. We asked my dad to go out and ask Nikki if she would call Lyndsey to come to the room. We told him not to act in a panic and he didn't but the nurse still came running. We just told her it was getting close and we'd like Lyndsey to come in. Cameron began asking Laurie if she was ready to get into the pool but the contx were so intense and so quick that she wasn't focused enough to make a decision. With Cameron's probing I reasoned with Laurie and told her it was time if she was ever gonna make it to the pool...

After the next contx we helped her move. It was amazing the transformation she underwent from bed to water..... She stepped into the pool at 2:38pm and this picture is DURING a contx!

Nikki showed up then for another doppler reading.

Nikki left to get a drink of water and Lyndsey came in. Lyndsey leaned up against the wall and assessed the situation. With the next contx Laurie's voice changed. She said...."He's coming! His head is coming"

Lynsey grabbed gloves and indeed he WAS coming! Without so much as a push his head was out! Laurie had to have quick assistance from Cameron to pull back her legs as Lyndsey guided the shoulders out. James and Lyndsey caught him and placed him up on Laurie. He was born at exactly 2:43 (5min after getting in the water!!)

After a bit of rubbing and no cry..... it was noticed that his cord was around his neck.......a little "french kissing" and some oxygen later and Elijah was pink and in the warmer! That was at 2:46:45

Laurie got out of the tub and was able to deliver a perfect looking "Elijah home".

After she was snuggled under the covers and getting warm she met her little man.

He took to nursing right away and is a little charmer! At least he's stolen his Grannie and Aunt Shaunna's heart. Not too mention Breaunna, Gabriella, Caitlyn, and Madilyn who are obsessed! I LOVE THIS picture!

To Laurie: You are an amazing woman. I can't find words to express how grateful I feel that you share your experience with me. You made it all look sooooo easy!

Thank you for my precious little nephew who I promise to spoil rotten!

I'm an Aunt!

2008-01-27T07:43:00.001-06:00

We had a sweet handsome little boy on Friday afternoon around 2:43. Really crazy birth story to tell and L-O-T-S of pictures so I'll post soon. I still have all the kids and I've gotta get ready for church right now so stay tuned.

Welcome

Elijah James Campbell
8lbs 13oz
21 inches long
TONS of black hair
and most importantly a huge heart for his Aunt Shaunna! HE LOVES ME!

Explain Cheaper by the Dozen???

2008-01-23T12:43:00.001-06:00

Okay who came up with that slogan? There is no way possible for that to be true!

I have 7 kids living under my roof until Laurie has her baby and I have no food, no hot water, and no sanity! LOL

All of them are on their best behavior and and it has its bright moments but OH MY WORD! You should see my laundry pile and I'm running the dishwasher twice a day!

On a bright note I got my happy endorphins this morning at work out AND Finally....finally the day arrived! The scales inched their way down a bit and I've lost 4 pounds!

ITS gonna be a GREAT day! :-)

I Won the Lotto!

2008-01-19T08:34:00.000-06:00

.......not the actual money. But the mommy lotto at least!

I just have to brag. My mommy-o-meter is over the top and I'm just bursting with pride.

Joshua was supposed to spend the night with a friend last night, but around 11 o'clock he came home. His friends parents rented a video game rated "M" for mature that we had specifically told him he could not under any circumstance play. Its a game with robots and guns, blood, guts, and gore....plus bad language.

Josh told his friend he couldn't play that game and went down stairs to watch a movie with the parents. The friend went ballistic yelling at him, calling him baby names, and complaining telling him he should just play the game we would never know.

But my little one stood his ground. He told his friend that he wasn't complaining that he choose to play it but that he was going to obey his parents rules. He could tell him when he was ready to do something else. By this time the parents heard what was going on....checked out the game....took it away from the kid......and brought Josh home because of the way the kid was acting.

He did cry when he got home. He said he didn't want to hurt the boys feelings and all that.... We just praised him and praised him for doing what was right and talked about how those decisions are just gonna get harder as he gets older.

One battle down ~ a bazillion to go.

ME Time

2008-01-16T20:39:00.000-06:00

I can't think of anything "fun" to write about lately. Its been a nice downer since the Holidays and Birthdays...but super boring for Blogger world.

So I'll try my best to entertain you.

I am pumped for Scrapbooking!

Years ago ~ and I do mean years....I was an avid scrapbooker....I worked hard to make sure Josh had a scrapbook and then suddenly Noah, Caitlyn, Madilyn, a dog, 6 boxes, and 10 years had happened.
I'm soooo far behind. But I'm pumped. I love the new ideas C.M. has and Im ready to tackle the photo pile!!!

On a workout note ~ I'm still faithfully attending. I am really enjoying racket ball. I really stink at it but I am having some fun. I think I've worked my way up to 8-10 points now! LOL
I may even have talked myself into trying on some new jeans just to see if there is enough change. If not, atleast I feel great! Kelli gave me a new hair color today and Vince loves me. What could make a girl feel any better than that???? (I know size 8, perky boobs, and no wrinkles ~but HEY, I'll take what I can get.

Laurie update ~ no update.....lol Baby Elijah is holding on strong although her body seems to be working its self into something.

Husband update ~ I'm the luckiest girl on earth. My man loves me and takes such good care of me. He's given me a lovely home, 4 fantabulous children, and he works soooooo hard for us. I'm just so thankful. Sorry to bore you with the sappy junk but I just feel so blessed lately.