The Middle of Eleven

We Will Never Forget–Remembering 9/11/01

2011-09-11T07:51:00.001-05:00

Catching Up…

2011-08-28T17:53:00.001-05:00

It’s been over a month since I last posted. Time has just flown and we are simply living our daily lives with lots of sweet moments mixed in with the every day, ordinary stuff. Sometimes I get caught up in the ordinary and forget to enjoy the simple moments that make life extraordinary.

Since I got back from Texas in May, it seems there has been so much going on at work and I had about one week where I actually felt like I had things done… caught up. But, that didn’t last long. We are currently working on changing up our Wednesday night kid’s program and I have been really absorbed with getting everything done that needs to be done. We start in about two weeks.

Since I last posted, my sister went back home to Washington state. She was able to stay for a month and I have to say that I got really spoiled having her here. She moved out to go to college when she wasn’t yet 18, and when we moved from California to Arkansas she was in college so we left her behind. She later married and moved to Washington and we haven’t been able to travel back and forth near enough. So having all my sisters close for a month was pretty special for me. I spent as much time as I could up and my mom and dad’s while she was here and before she left, we went for a girl’s day… lunch, a haircut, and pedis. Fun!

Now that I’ve covered work and my sister’s visit… pretty much everything else revolves around my family…

I picked this little gem up one day from day care and took her to see “Rango”.

We made a couple of trips to my mom and dad’s. Mads (like all the other grands) loves my Dad’s golf cart that he gets around his place with.

We had a family movie night – “Bambi”…

…enjoyed a cool morning in the back yard…

… a couple of girl’s days…

…and found some pretty sweet slippers…

All in all, life is good!

Family Movie Night

2011-07-22T20:53:00.001-05:00

I ordered "Bambi" for Maddie and it came in today. She was SO excited. So after supper, all five of us sat down with her for family movie night. She's usually all about Mémère, but today she was Papa Dave's girl. (There sure was a lot of shootin’ going on in that movie!)

LOVED this!! God Bless America!

2011-07-20T10:05:00.001-05:00

Quite Possibly The Sweetest Thing I’ve Ever Seen…

2011-07-09T23:52:00.001-05:00

Tyler and Daisy showed me this video last night. (This is “their” song and today marks the day one year ago that they started “talking” to each other.)

These kids are adorable and I love how they put God in the center of this special moment…

2011–4th of July Cookout at the Goulets

2011-07-04T23:40:00.000-05:00

My sister (Cathy #1) is in from Washington State. She hasn’t been here since my parent’s 50th wedding anniversary in 2006. So after Kale and Kayla left on Sunday, Dave and I headed up to my parent’s for a family get-together… there were 46 Goulets in attendance!

We got a couple pictures with all the Goulet girls together, since that is such a rarity. Do you think we look alike??

I am so blessed to be a part of a big family.
I’m blessed to have my sweet, little family. I looked out on the porch this morning and this is what I saw:

I’m also blessed to have been born in this great nation.
I love this Country… thank you, thank you, thank you to all the men and women who have fought and are defending Her today! God Bless America!

Happy Independence Day!

2011 - 4th of July Weekend with All My Chicks

2011-07-03T23:42:00.000-05:00

It’s hard to believe it’s the 4th of July again. Kayla hadn’t been “home” since last 4th of July… we were so glad to get her back up here for a visit even though we didn’t have much time together. They got here Thursday evening and had to leave today after church.

We started off on Thursday night by visiting Ms. Charlsie. Tyler came home late from work, but showed up while we were at Charlsie’s. After our visit, we headed to eat pizza and then the boys took David to Lowe’s and surprised him with a belated birthday/Father’s day gift – a new grill.

Friday, Kale’s friend came up from Conway and he and Kale and Tyler all went golfing while Kayla-girl and I headed to Branson. We left late in the day and made a short day of it, but it was the first time in forever that we’ve been able to spend a day together. (I MISS YOU, KAYLA!)

We met the guys for supper at Cadron Creek Catfish House… Kayla’s one request for food while she was here.

Yesterday was SO hot… we spent part of the day indoors and later that afternoon we loaded up and went to our farm. Tyler had made plans for all of us to fish out of the pond with Dave’s sister and her daughter (and granddaughter). It got overcast just as we got there, so I think it was a bit cooler than it had been all day. It was a lot of (hot) fun, though.

The boys

The girls

David

Mémère brought along a spray bottle to 1) keep Maddie cool 2) keep Maddie occupied

So cute!

My niece, Lindsey, and her daughter, Rylee – and David’s sister, Carla

Kayla might have got her line caught in the tree

For supper, Kale grilled some burgers (his special recipe) on the new grill and then we had s’mores in the backyard.

It was a nice, family day.

Today came all too soon and after church and lunch… we had to say goodbye. I still cry every single time I see them leave (or I leave them). But, it gives me something to look forward to when we get to see them again!!

Life is sweet.

Have I Mentioned That I Love My Mads?

2011-06-27T23:09:00.001-05:00

We had a fun weekend. After we wrapped up VBS and put the church back together I headed for home. You can’t imagine how just sitting in my quiet car was so relaxing! Ha! That evening, I asked Maddie if she wanted to go visit Ms. Charlsie with me. And she did.

Saturday morning, Tyler and Daisy were going on a float trip really early, so they spent the night with us. Friday night after supper, I explained to her the rule for spending the night with Mémère on a Friday night… “you must sleep in!” Of course, she wanted to know why, and I just told her that if she didn’t sleep in she’d have to have coffee with Papa Dave in the morning. She said, “Yuck” to that.

As it turns out, she woke up about 6:30 and Dave kept her entertained until I got up at 7:00. We set off for our “day date” a few hours later. I told her earlier in the week that we may go to the library and she was so excited. About half-way through the drive there, she fell asleep (I think 6:30 must’ve hit her – it was only 10:15!) When I woke her up she was a little out of sorts, but then we walked in to the library together while I talked to her about having a quiet voice inside. She was SO good and loved it! It’s a brand new facility and it’s really amazing! We went to the puppet show that had just started and after about 15 minutes of that she whispered to me, “Let’s go read books.” So we headed downstairs to the children’s department. We read several books and then she discovered the puzzles.

After the library we went to eat at McDonalds where she ate her WHOLE nugget Happy Meal – a first!

We finished the outing at Walmart – where else? I had promised her that she could pick out one color of nail polish… she asked for two, but I stuck to my guns. Of course, she picked the sparkliest pink she could find.

After Daisy and Tyler got home we all went to Chili’s for supper. On our way back home the college was putting on a fireworks show, so we pulled over and let her out of her seat to watch. Her favorites are the pink ones… of course.

We had a GREAT day and she never gave me a moment of trouble. Only one (small) fit in a whole day for a three year old is just pretty good in my book.

I can’t wait for our next “date”.

PS. If my nephew (Dominic) happens to see these pics… I just bought a Shark Navigator Lift Away vacuum (per his recommendation and he is a vacuum genius). I LOVE it, Dom!! It’s great!

Vacation Bible School 2011 and What We’ve Been Up To Lately

2011-06-20T20:12:00.001-05:00

Were you wondering about me (again)? We have been preparing for Vacation Bible School for the last several months, but the month or so before VBS things get pretty crazy. This year has been no exception, BUT today was Day One at “The Big Apple Adventure” and things went pretty well!

We had a HUGE set on the stage. A (talented) woman in our church worked for weeks on it… the Preacher built all the support frames, and I’m proud to say Tyler made the “taxis” and the “jumbo-tron”. (The set turned out so big it blocked our big screens, so we made a “Times Square” jumbo-tron and it worked GREAT!)

Other than that… Tyler and I have been doing a few projects around the house. We took a HUGE load of stuff to the dump. We looked like the “Beverly Hillbillies” pulling up, I’m sure. Most of this was in David’s shed. He knew we were going to clean it out and he didn’t fuss that we got rid of so much. Ha!

After a full day of work in the yard and cleaning out the shed… we took Maddie on a date at Chili’s.

I took their picture…

… and then she asked to take ours. She gave me instructions to move to the other side of the table so she could take a picture of Papa Dave and I together…

She did pretty good!

This girl loves her corn.

I’m turning in early tonight… looking forward to Day Two in “NYC” tomorrow!

Texas Trip #5–Part Two

2011-06-01T22:11:00.000-05:00

The day after I got to the K’s (Thursday), they both had to go in to work. So I had a quiet day to myself … just me and Bosley.

I did a lot of playing with my new “toy”, a little reading, caught up on “American Idol” and sat out on their back patio enjoying the warm weather and reading.

We waited on Kale’s tomatoes to get ripe while I was there, but they waited until I left… and then the squirrels got to them. Kale is on serious squirrel patrol these days.

I felt so bad for Kayla. It turned out she had to work every day, but one (Sunday), when I was there (because someone went on vacation)… she even had to work longer hours than normal (11 hour days).

Friday morning, after Kayla left for work, Kale and I headed out to the mall to the Apple store. I bought a smart cover for my iPad. It took me forever to decide on a color…

… but I finally went with…

We met Kayla for lunch and spent most of the rest of the day hanging out… that’s pretty much what this trip was about. I was really looking forward to being there and just relaxing and visiting with the kids and I got lots of that! There’s not much, if anything, I’d rather be doing.

Has It Been Two Weeks? My Birthday and Texas Trip #5

2011-05-31T22:58:00.001-05:00

Today is David’s birthday – “Happy Birthday, Dave!”

* * * *

I can’t believe it’s been over two weeks since I’ve posted. It just goes to show you that without structure, I am wandering aimlessly. (Do I need to do Project 365 to actually keep a blog??)

Two days after my last post – it was my birthday and the present I gave myself was a trip to Texas to see Kale and Kayla. I went ALONE. I flew alone. Did you hear that? And I did it without nerve medicine. Haha!

Before I left, I knew I needed some Maddie time, so I picked her up from daycare (there’s nothing better than hearing her scream “Mémère” when she sees me come in the door!) and off we went to Wal-mart.

When you live in the sticks, travel isn’t all that “convenient”. It takes three hours to get to the airport. The flight from Little Rock to Houston is only an hour or so… unless you get a plane with THESE…

…then, it takes about two hours. Ha!

Kale picked me up from the airport and shortly after we got home, Kayla got off work. I miss them SO much, they are always a sight for sore eyes! We went to eat at a really neat little "family" cafe (Eden Cafe) and I got chicken pot pie. I haven’t had that in forever and it was so good! (I crunched up my crust before getting a picture. Ha!)

After supper, the “kids” gave me my birthday gift – an iPad2!!

It was a hard gift to accept, but I pretty much ran with it after I got over being overwhelmed!

All in all, it was one of the best birthdays ever! (That’s saying a lot when you get to be my age.)

I’ll post more about my trip tomorrow. Until then,

* * * * * *
Dear Maddie,

Look what Mémère got for you!

The Commute

2011-05-16T22:04:00.001-05:00

Does your ride to work look like this? Only in the country …

…and right after he turned off, look who pulled out in front of me…

Today’s average rate of speed on the way to work – 20 mph.

The End of a Long Stretch

2011-05-15T23:00:00.001-05:00

This little girl and I took a drive to pick up this little girl…

I haven’t seen her since Wednesday and it seemed like forever!!

Of course, we had to stop for a slush. Haha!

Celebrating Cortney

2011-05-14T22:00:00.001-05:00

The Goulets had another reason to get together and celebrate today. My brother Kevin’s (#10) oldest daughter, Cortney, is graduating from high school next weekend!

Cortney is a BEAUTIFUL girl, inside and out. It seems like just yesterday she was a little bitty baby.

We love you and wish you all the best in life, Cortney!

Mother’s Day 2011

2011-05-08T22:32:00.001-05:00

By the time we got home last night, Maddie wasn’t feeling very well. I gave her a bath and afterwards she said in a pathetic little voice, “Miss Jacquie, my head hurts.” So, we left her with Dave and Tyler and Daisy and I went to get her some medicine. When we got back, this is what we came home to… out like a light - so sweet.

I know I’m way too old to STILL want babies, but I got to sit right behind THIS in church this morning…

Isn’t he the most adorable thing?? I seriously wanted to just hold him.

I hope y’all had a happy Mother’s Day. I am always so thankful for my mother. She really is the model mom. I’ve never heard her say an unkind word about anyone and she is the most submissive wife and sacrificial mother you will ever find. (I didn’t get all those character traits, unfortunately.) I am so thankful that God chose her to be my mother.

I’m also SO thankful for my boys… and the women God has placed in their lives. They always make me feel special and loved – they know my love languages.

Last night, Tyler, Daisy and Maddie gave me an early Mother’s Day/Birthday gift. A little book they made. I LOVE it and it was just so thoughtful!! (Here are a few of the pages)

We’ve had a lot of really significant and special moments in the past year …

…and they captured so many moments for me to remember always.

I started crying when I got to this page – our first time getting to take care of Maddie.

Getting Maddie’s nails done for her birthday.

Flying to Texas – Maddie’s first flight

Loved this page!

This has been a really meaningful weekend for the Goulets… and getting to finish it off with a wonderful Mother’s Day has heaped blessing upon blessing.

“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19 NIV)

Family Day!

2011-05-07T23:50:00.000-05:00

My day started out really good. After coffee with Dave, I spent most of the morning at home catching up on some R&R. I was still in my robe after my shower and talking on the phone with Kale when the UPS man pulled up in the yard. After freaking out, I put on some pajama pants (they were turquois to my hot pink robe) and went out to meet him. I apologized for the pj’s and he was sweet enough to tell me that’s what weekends are for! Ha! Then he handed me this Mother’s Day gift from Kale and Kayla. Look what “Brown” can do for you!!! YUM!

Later in the afternoon David and I headed up to my parent’s house for a large (isn’t it usually) family get-together. My sister, Suzanne’s (#3) daughter from New Mexico had come in and most of us were able to go up to visit.

There is always so much going on that it’s hard to get very good photos, but here are some that I took.

Kristin (#11), and my nieces - Sophia and Rebecca

Erik entertaining Daisy and Tyler

Darren (#7) and one of his sweet grands (Abby)

Kristin and Sophia

My dad’s golf cart gets a lot of “use” when the kids are around.

Suzanne (#3) and her kids (Jennifer, Rebecca and Brandon) and sweet little Maggie – adorable!!

Maddie Moo was looking especially cute today, too.

When we were there, we got word that my nephew, Cory (my brother Jim’s (#2) son) was in a motorcycle accident. I’m not clear on all the details, but his grandma told me that somehow he rolled himself out the way and the oncoming truck just missed him and ran over his motorcycle – totaling it. He was released from the hospital this evening and is pretty banged up – but okay. So many of you prayed – thank you for that! I know that God was watching over him.

Nurse Moo

2011-05-06T23:14:00.001-05:00

Maddie climbed up in Dave’s lap tonight and discovered a “boo boo” on his head.

She let him know that it was there and went right to work “doctoring” it. I think she spent about 30 minutes going back and forth and getting cotton pads wet and “cleaning” it.

She was so tender and gentle.

He told her she was going to make quite a nurse someday.

Picture Day, Final Four, and A Goodbye

2011-05-05T22:31:00.001-05:00

Daisy sent me a “good morning picture” this morning. Someone was looking pretty cute for “school picture day” today!! Love that girl!

I was VERY happy with the Idol results tonight! My prediction is James and Haley in the finals. We’ll see…

On a sad note, Jodi had to have her dog, Mercury, put down today. He was almost 16 years old. This has been a really hard decision for Jodi and I know she’s going to miss him. Merc has been there for almost half of the years we’ve been BFFs!! Sad day.

My Co-Worker, A Birthday, Idol, and Kids Say…

2011-05-04T23:14:00.001-05:00

Look who got to go to work with me this morning. She had her “annual” at the vet today, so she got to spend the morning under my feet at my desk. I think she’d like to go with me every morning.

Today is my sister’s 50th birthday!! Happy Birthday, Val-face (#4)!! I’m not too far behind you.

Wow! Tonight’s Idol was amazing!! James won me over emotionally and Haley, in my opinion, had the best performance for “House of the Rising Sun”. It was crazy good!! This season, I have wished over and over that we could just vote for the one we want to go home… it would be so much easier!

I have to tell you this story from church tonight. It cracked me up. I had just finished story time and was making small talk with the kiddos (3s, 4s, and 5 year olds). Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed one of the little girl’s dad had come to the door to pick her up. About that time the kids started talking about being scared and climbing in bed with their parents. I asked them who sometimes sleeps with their mommies or daddies and a few hands shot up. One little girl said, “I do, on Friday nights!” Ha! Then, I asked, “A” – who is better at cuddling? Your mom or your dad?” She answered, “My dad, but I HATE his breath!!” It was SO funny!!

I Don’t Even Know How To Title a Post Anymore

2011-05-03T23:56:00.001-05:00

I am SO used to counting my posts and now that I have no direction at all, I’m at a loss. Haha!

I know y’all were wondering what I might post about today – I’ve been wondering that myself. Today has been a pretty typical day except for we actually saw the sun shining today! (It seems like it’s been forever!) Everything is really green and overgrown now and having a sunny day was so refreshing.

The makeovers on Biggest Loser were SO good … but the girls were AMAZING! (I love Tim Gunn, too. I know my Mom doesn’t think so, but he reminds me of my grandpa.)

I’m on a “youversion” kick right now. Jodi showed it to me on Sunday morning. It’s a free Bible app on the web (www.youversion.com) or for mobile devices. I installed it on my iPhone and have been playing with it ever since. It has all the Bible versions as well as reading plans that you can choose from.

What phone app can you NOT live without??

365–This Time It’s For Real

2011-05-02T22:16:00.001-05:00

So this really is my 365th post for Project 365. I may have some perfectionist traits and let it totally bother me that I skipped a post number. I may have gone back and corrected them to the right numbers. Can you say OCD?

It has rained here pretty much all day again today.

It just keeps coming.

I got excited when I opened my mailbox today and these were in there!!

These are THE BEST workout socks in the world. They are cushiony!! And you can run in them and sweat like a hog and then take your shoes off and lo and behold – they stay dry! Amazing!! They’re not easy to find around here… I have to drive a couple of hours to get them, so when I found these in bulk on eBay, I was thrilled!

* * * * * * *

Today has been an interesting news day. I am ever so grateful to our military for the work they do to protect us and to rid our world from the threats we face. Bin Laden was an evil man, and while I am thankful he is gone, I’m also aware there is someone who is more than ready to take his place. He is only one. His death doesn’t make me feel “safer”. There is only One who’s death changed my life, sealed my security, and gives me hope!

I am committed to praying for God’s hand of protection over our servicemen and women daily as they remain in harm’s way defending this great Country! I say “thank you” from the bottom of my heart to each and every one of them today and every day.

“For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways…” (Psalm 91:11)

364–Women of Joy–Day 3 and I DID IT! (Updated)

2011-05-01T23:11:00.001-05:00

We got up bright and early again this morning for our final day at WOJ.

Our speaker was Lisa Harper and she was so good. God allowed her to really speak to my heart and it was probably the message I needed most this weekend.

When we got out of the conference, it was already raining (again) and it was getting cold. So, after stopping at just one store, we headed for home. But, what a fun weekend.

I DID IT! It is so hard to believe that I actually finished Project 365 - a post and photo a day for a whole year! (It even amazes me. Ha!) I STILL don’t know where I will go from here. They say you develop a habit after three weeks, but somehow I don’t think taking a picture and writing a post a day has become a “habit” yet. But, I have enjoyed the journey and I have enjoyed being able to look back and see what I was doing throughout the year.

UPDATE:
As I “wrapped up” my Project 365, I realized I got off a post somewhere (it was #141). So, I stand corrected and y’all will have one more post. Haha! Bless your hearts…

363–Women of Joy–Day 2

2011-04-30T22:48:00.002-05:00

Another great day!!! I actually saw a sunrise from my hotel room this morning.

Worship was amazing this morning. Here we were on the front row bright and early this morning (poor quality, but - Stacie, me, JoJo, and Stacie’s mom, Cheri)…

This evening before the “Casting Crowns” concert, I stood in line for over 2 hours to preregister for next year.

We’ll have five in our group… we’ve added our friend, Lorna, and my TWO girls are planning to go! I am SO excited about that!
The highlight of our day was the concert… they were so good! (I know it was for women, but I really was wishing Tyler was there with me tonight. He would’ve LOVED it!)

We’ll have one more service in the morning and then we’ll be heading home. (Is it okay that I’ve missed My Maddie??)

PS - #364 people!!!

362–Girl’s Weekend

2011-04-29T22:42:00.002-05:00

Jodi and I are in Branson for the Women of Joy Conference. Tonight was the first night and it was really good. I loved the worship!! Charles Billingsley is SO good!
The speaker tonight (Sheri Rose Shepherd) brought me to tears when she said the reason she was there, in ministry, a Christian, is because as a little Jewish girl growing up in a poor family situation, some woman was on her knees praying for the “faceless” girl who would one day be her daughter-in-law. I am so blessed by the women that God has given to my sons…and I’m thankful that I was mindful to pray for them from the time my boys were just little. My thoughts wandered to Kayla and Daisy as little girls in pig-tails when I was praying for them so many years ago. Having them in my life is one of the greatest gifts God has given me as a momma of two boys!

It’s late and we have to get up early… so we’re settling in for the night. Hope y’all have a great weekend!

361–The Week

2011-04-28T22:25:00.002-05:00

It has been such a busy week… with all the weather we’ve had and not being able to drive my car for a few days, things have just been kind of crazy. Tyler and I talked this morning before work about all the storms and the damage they caused both yesterday and throughout this last week. It is so sad and I’m praying for those who were impacted.

I wanted to show you this sweet gift I got in the mail this week from my friend, Marlene, at Stitchin by the Lake. She lives in the same town that my youngest sister (Kristin #11) lives in. She was also affected this week by the severe weather and I’m so thankful she and her husband are safe. Thank you, Marlene. I will be using my sweet bag and will think of you every single time!
I gave Maddie a little “lip gloss” last Sunday morning. She likes to sit in the bathroom with me and watch me put on makeup before church. She always asks for makeup for her, so I touch her little cheeks with my blush brush after I’m done and then she gets some lip gloss for her lips. That always satisfies her. She decided she wanted to take the lip gloss with her to church and since I have about 10 of them, I let her. She was a little upset after church when she couldn’t find it. We finally convinced her that it was probably still in her Sunday School class, so that’s the first thing she looked for last night when we went back. I got tickled this morning when I got to work and found this sitting on my desk. Haha! She’ll be looking for it again, I’m sure.

I’m so excited about tomorrow. Jodi and I haven’t had a lot of time together lately, BUT this weekend we’re going to the Women of Joy Conference in Branson together. It is going to be amazing, I know!!

360–Secretary’s Day 2011

2011-04-27T22:38:00.002-05:00

“Thank You!” to whoever worked on our dirt road the last two days! I’ll finally be able to drive my car to work tomorrow.

Ms. Judy came in today bearing gifts. I thought she was early for my birthday, but as it turns out, it is “Administrative Professionals Day”. I’ve been a secretary long enough that I still think calling it “Secretaries Day” is just fine. I am SO blessed to be able to work where I work, with the people I work with, and for the best church family in the world!

Late this afternoon, Tyler came in to my office with this sweetie pie! She said to me tonight on the way home from church, “Ms. Jacquie, you got me that Easter dress.” I said, “Yes, I did.” Then she said, “I think I need another one.” (She must’ve liked it.) She also informed me that I haven’t bought her a blue dress yet. Haha!
Do y’all realize I am only four posts away from completing “Project 365”?

359–Yet Again

2011-04-26T22:52:00.002-05:00

After work, I met JoAnn at the park for some cardio. We barely finished when our old friends “lightening” and “thunder” showed up again. I think we are finally on the downhill slide of this crazy weather pattern.
There was some good TV on tonight. Biggest Loser followed by The Voice. Next week is “makeover week” on BL! I love that episode.

358–Spring Flood 2011

2011-04-25T23:30:00.001-05:00

I only have 1/2 mile of dirt road, but even though it’s not far I couldn’t get my car across it to get to work this morning. It’s washed out in three places on the 1/2 mile stretch. So, Tyler drove me to work this morning. Looks like he’ll be doing the same tomorrow.
When he came to pick me up after work, we ran to Walmart for a few groceries and just as I came out the weatherman was announcing a tornado warning for our county – specifically our area of the county. As we drove home, the sky didn’t look too bad, so we drove slowly to see the effects of all the rain.
We took a few pictures of the ponds that are overflowing into the fields.

And water covering our road.

This is my dirt road…

When we pulled in the driveway, the sky was looking awfully threatening.

And the wind picked up and within a minute or two it was storming. Bad.

It didn’t last long, but I don’t think the ground here can’t take much more.

Things could be much worse. We’re safe and dry in our home. Some are not as fortunate.
But I sure am looking forward to some warmer, drier weather soon!

357–Easter 2011

2011-04-24T23:38:00.002-05:00

We had a really nice Easter Sunday (even though it’s been pouring most of the day today - again). Church was amazing this morning and we spent the rest of the day together as a family…

(Tyler’s little “family”. Maddie was being goofy!)

… and then this evening we went to my parent’s house for our usual Easter family get-together. Maddie snarled up her face when we told her that Erik and Sophia weren’t going to be there. She loves to hang out with Erik!
But there were still several kids there to play with (and boss around a little bit). Haha!

(Maddie and my little brother Kevin’s (#10) two youngest – Dom and Alissa.)

We stopped on the way home at Tyler’s friend’s house… his sister had some hand-me-downs for Maddie. I don’t know who was more excited about going through them – Tyler or Maddie.

They had a little fashion show. It was so sweet.
PS – I LOVED the Hallmark Hall of Fame movie tonight!! Did you watch it??

356 - Another Girl’s Day

2011-04-23T21:05:00.002-05:00

Daisy and I decided to spend this rainy day together at the movies. We saw “Water for Elephants”. I think we both agreed that we liked the movie better than the book because it was rated PG-13 and the movie left out the raunchy parts that were in the book (for the most part). After the movies, we went to get pedicures. We’ve been trying for almost a month to find a time that we could go and today was FINALLY the day. It was so relaxing after sitting in the movie theater for a couple hours to get a back massage in those pedi chairs!!
Tonight, as I write this, I’m listening to Miss Moo sing in the bathtub while Tyler and Daisy get a little quality time.
I heard a song on the radio today and it’s been on my mind and heart ever since. “What can wash away my sins? What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.” I am so thankful for what Jesus did for me on the cross!!

355–God Knows What He’s Doing

2011-04-22T22:14:00.002-05:00

God knows what He’s doing. I am simply not meant to have straight hair.

The hair dresser round brushed and straight ironed my hair today – it took a LONG time. It didn’t look too bad from the side or back, but I absolutely hated the front. The finished texture is really not natural and anyone could tell that it was “artificially” straightened hair. I have fought the curl my whole life, but I guess I’ll go with what God gave me.
Have you been seeing the previews for “The Voice” on NBC? We are really looking forward to it. It looks like it could be really good. And if you love Hallmark Hall of Fame movies – there is one coming on this Sunday night. I have my DVR set… I LOVE Hallmark movies!!

354–22 Years Ago…

2011-04-21T22:56:00.002-05:00

Twenty-two years ago today, I gave birth to my second child… Tyler. This isn’t news to him, but when he was born I was a little upset … I had totally convinced myself that he was going to be a girl (remember, we didn’t get ultrasounds back in those days) and when he wasn’t it upset my apple cart. Everything I had convinced myself of for months wasn’t true and I was going to have two boys instead of a boy and a girl and I wasn’t too happy about that at first. I actually told the doctor to “put him back” after he told me he was a boy! Terrible, I know.
But, an hour or two after he was born the nurse brought him to me and I spent every minute of the rest of the night holding him and talking to him and naming him (since I didn’t even have a boy’s name picked). I fell in love that night. Can you blame me?

I can honestly say that having two BOYS has been the greatest blessing of my life and I wouldn’t change it for the world now. Hindsight is 20/20.
For T’s birthday, I pulled out the journal I (inefficiently) kept for him. Here’s one of the entries:
May 23, 1992 (not quite 3 years old)
Tyler,
You know, the first year and a half of your life I thought you didn’t love me because you always clung to your Dad. But, you have so much love in you, I know that’s not possible for you. You have more joy and happiness in your little heart, mixed in with a little orneriness and quite a bit of toughness. It makes a wonderful combination and we absolutely love watching you grow up. I remember laying on my bed at night looking over the side at a (too large for the bassinette) four-month old Tyler. I couldn’t stand the thought of putting you in your own room. I wanted to look at you, touch you, hear you. It was one of the most precious times of my life and has been that way every day since, just sharing my life with you.
We have more nicknames for you: Mr. T; T.T. (Terrible Ty); Ty-boo; Monkey; Mookie; Titanic; Tidal Wave; Boo-Bear; Ty Ty; the list goes on.
You are a very loved boy. You have a wonderful personality. I am so blessed to have you! Kale is teaching you so much. You can do 200 piece puzzles. You can (almost) make your own paper airplanes. You have a plan for everything you attempt to do. You absolutely LOVE 4-wheelers! You love fun! You’re in the middle of everything that goes!
My heart is so full of love for you. You’re a sweet sweet boy and grow sweeter daily!
Love, Mom
PS. Thanks for the smiles and the tears!
Anyone that knows Tyler will find it funny that when he was 4 years old I wrote “Your facial expressions crack us up daily and your heart grows sweeter with each beat.”
This little story sums up how Tyler looks at life:
One day as we were going down the road, we saw a hitchhiker and Tyler asked, “Why is that guy giving us the ‘thumbs up sign’?” He thought it was the man’s job to be an encouragement to passersby!! Haha!
God gave Tyler a wonderful, warm and fun heart. The fun part of him was oftentimes a challenge for me as a parent… but I NEVER wanted to break him, only bend him in the way of the Lord. I am so so thankful for God’s hand in Tyler’s life. He is so tender-hearted and loving. He is a man after God’s own heart. And I am so blessed to be his mother.

* * * * * * *

Izzy gave Tyler a birthday greeting this morning before he left for work…

We spent the evening piled up watching “Sleeping Beauty” with Maddie-Moo (and the Idol results show – can I just say “finally”?).

We grilled pork chops and had mashed potatoes (my favorite!), green beans, and corn on the cob (Maddie’s favorite!).

And then there was Tyler’s favorite dessert – banana pudding. I think it may be another of Maddie’s favorites!

It’s been a good day for a birthday…
Happy Birthday, Tyler Wilson! We love you!

353–Is It Just Me?

2011-04-20T21:53:00.002-05:00

Do they look alike or is it just me???
Maddie was so happy to find these “hidden” in my living room for her today…

She and I are gonna have a “movie date” soon!

While we were out on the playground with the Cubbies tonight, I took this picture of the sky. The clouds were beautiful.

352–Storms and Biggest Loser

2011-04-19T21:52:00.002-05:00

There were some severe storms in the area today. It looked kinda scary for a little while, but in the end, they pretty much went around us. I am scared to death of severe storms, but do you know what’s helped me more than anything to be less afraid?? Watching “Storm Chasers”. Go figure.

Have y’all been keeping up with “The Biggest Loser”? The contestants are really looking good and there’s still lots of time left (between weeks on the show and at-home time). I am always amazed at the transformations. I don’t really know that I’m rooting for any one person, but I like the sisters (Hannah and Olivia).

351–My Developing Phobia

2011-04-18T22:35:00.002-05:00

I used to LOVE going to Walmart. But, for some reason in the last six months or so, I just absolutely dread going. It’s not Walmart, in particular, but shopping for groceries. Here are some of my reasons:

It takes a sweet forever to get in and get out.
You can never find everything you went in for. (They stock something long enough for you to get dependent on it and then they yank it from the shelf.)
You run in for a thing or two and leave with a cart load.
You ALWAYS forget something.
Plastic bags. Enough said.
From start to finish – you handle an item SIX times. Count ‘em… 1) Off the shelf into the cart. 2) Out of the cart onto the conveyor. 3) Move back into the cart. 4) Move from cart to trunk. 5) Move from trunk to kitchen. 6) Finally put it away!
Once you’re done, you realize you’ll have to do it again in a week!

Am I the only one that feels that way???

350–Woman’s Best Friend

2011-04-17T23:43:00.002-05:00

I tell people all the time that Izzy doesn’t like to be very far from me. This is how I spent my Sunday nap …

(She kept her chin on the back of my neck or shoulder the whole time. Ha!)

Such a sweet, sweet dog.

349–Fun Saturday

2011-04-16T22:41:00.002-05:00

Daisy and I spent the ENTIRE day shopping while Tyler and Maddie had a “date”. We MIGHT have eaten at the Olive Garden and had Zeppoli for dessert! (Always makes me think of you, Kayla-girl!! Only a month left!) It was a fun girl’s day and it’s not often that Daisy gets a shopping day without a three year-old to keep under control. Ha!
We stopped at my Mom and Dad’s house on the way home. My sister, Kristin #11, and her family are in for a visit. Tyler and Maddie met us up there. Maddie loves Kristin’s kids, Erik and Sophia. Here they are playing in the “wood box”…

Check out that hair on Sophia!!

I took Maddie home with me while Tyler started his second “date” for the day… this time with Daisy. Mads wasn’t too happy when her momma left her to go with Tyler, so while I was driving (and Mads was wailing) I distracted her by asking her to tell me about “Tangled”. She told me the whole story from beginning to end. Then she said, “What happened to Snow White?” And I tried to remember the story and told it to her best I could. She wanted me to tell her another story, so I told her about “Cinderella”. I remembered that one pretty well, so I really elaborated on that one. Then we moved on to “Sleeping Beauty” and then she wanted me to tell her about “Cinderella” again. We spent the entire drive home (about 30 minutes) telling Disney stories. Every time I said, “and they lived happily ever after,” she would say, “THE END!” Love her!!
When I got home, Dave had done the dishes and was standing in front of the dishwasher looking at it. The house smelled like something was hot or something… and he said, “I think our dishwasher is about to go out! I think the motor is burning up and I’ve been keeping an eye on it.” I asked him if I could open it and he let me, so… I did and there was a plastic spoon in the bottom touching the heat element. Haha!!

348–Friday Recap

2011-04-15T22:28:00.002-05:00

Today has been a busy day. Ms. Charlsie had another episode where she blanked out for a couple of hours this morning. Her blood pressure has been doing really well for the last week or so, so I can’t blame it on her B/P being too high. It is very scary for her when it happens, but I’m happy that she was feeling much better tonight when I talked to her.

This afternoon I spent most of my afternoon at the car dealership having my car worked on. It gave me lots of time to nearly finish my book. (I did finish it tonight. I LOVED this book as well.)

There’s one more in the series (“Every Now and Then”) and I checked it out of our church library today. Can’t wait to start it.
Tomorrow Daisy and I are planning a shopping day. Someone’s birthday, ahem Tyler, is next week and we have a few things on our list.

347–So Close and Yet So Far

2011-04-14T22:11:00.002-05:00

After work, my friend JoAnn and I met at the river to do our cardio. I have to talk myself in to doing cardio, but when the weather is so nice and the view is this beautiful, it’s becomes just a little bit easier.
I just realized because of a Tweet tonight that Kale is in Arkansas (about 3.5 hours away). So close and yet so far.

346– American Idol Night

2011-04-13T23:13:00.002-05:00

Tonight after church we watched our recorded episode of American Idol. Maddie often points at the TV and asks me “Ms. Jacquie, what’s him’s name?” She has a thing for names. She also really likes to watch them perform and sometimes dances along with the song. Cracks me up!

Tonight she chose to dance while Paul sang. I think she might’ve wondered about his suit, too. Haha!
Just before she left, Daisy told Mads to show me how she can stand on her head…

Funniest thing EVER!!
The Idol contestants were all really good tonight. First time that I actually liked Jacob’s performance. (I’m not a fan, but I liked “Bridge Over Troubled Water”.) I think Lauren was my favorite this week. AND, I agree that J-Lo is gorgeous!!! It would be so hard to have to look at that every day in the mirror. Poor girl.
I finished reading “One Tuesday Morning”. LOVED it. Loved it. I’ve started “Beyond Tuesday Morning” and am really looking forward to the rest of the story. It’s so hard to believe it’s been almost 10 years since the September 11 terrorist attacks. I will never forget that day.

345–Maddie, the Photographer

2011-04-12T22:59:00.002-05:00

We had a ladies fellowship at church tonight. We had such a good time and it’s fun to get out with some great ladies, too!
While we were there, Tyler babysat Maddie-Moo. Those two are a mess.
When we got home, I let Maddie take a few pictures with my phone…

Haha! Funny girl.

344–Twenty Left and I Got Nothin’

2011-04-11T22:24:00.002-05:00

I am TWENTY posts short of completing “Project 365”. It has really flown and has me wondering if I will keep up with a post/picture a day from here on out.
With that being said… I’ve had a pretty typical day (translation – boring). Nothing much to post about.
Unless you want to hear how I brought my sweet Izzy to work with me this morning while the “bug man” came to spray at my house.
Or how I did a circuit workout at my lunch hour.
Or ordered my usual Subway sandwich – turkey/ham on wheat with pepper jack, lettuce, spinach, tomato, green pepper and onion (which goes over real well with my coworkers).
Or how I nearly had a nervous breakdown getting groceries at Walmart tonight – it was a madhouse.
Or how I spent the evening watching last night’s episodes of “Army Wives” and “Coming Home” …and cried during both… then spent the rest of the evening reading.
I’m sure you don’t want to hear about that, so I’ll just post a picture of my Mads… the cutest little “fairy” ever.

343–Our Sunday and a Happy Birthday

2011-04-10T22:13:00.002-05:00

We ate lunch with a group of about 17 today. There were lots of kids there. These girls had some fun together (I wish the cup wasn’t in front of Maddie’s face on this picture).

Church and lunch wore Mads slap out. She was loving her new sunglasses! Ha!

While Maddie finished out her nap, Tyler mowed at Ms. Charlsie’s and Daisy and I watched “The Last Song”. That was a sweet movie. Sad, too.

* * * * *

Today is Jodi’s birthday. We have been celebrating birthdays together for 33 years. She’s been there for me through thick and thin and I can’t imagine what my life would have been like had God not blessed me with her.

Happy Birthday, JoJo!! I love you!

342– A Funeral and a Birthday Celebration

2011-04-09T23:36:00.002-05:00

Our day started with my uncle’s funeral. I always dread funerals. They make me so sad. But, they also remind me of what’s really important in life… and funerals almost always bring family and friends together who haven’t seen each other in a while – many times since the last funeral. I am so thankful for a HUGE extended family and wish that we could spend a lot more time together.
After the funeral, we came home and just hung out. Tyler had just got home from a church ministry project and Daisy and Maddie had just shown up. David went to check the cows and then to Ms. Charlsie’s to do some garden work. I read for a while, until my eyes started getting heavy and then I ended up napping when Maddie napped. (“One Tuesday Morning” so far is SO good!!!)
Tonight, several friends got together at a restaurant to celebrate Jodi’s birthday, which is tomorrow. We had such a good time visiting. Maddie enjoyed all the excitement, too.
When we got home, she wanted a bath. She LOVES bath time. I took these pictures of her brushing her wet hair like a big girl.

She makes my heart smile.

* * * * * * In Memory * * * * *

Richard "Dick" Vinton Hood
November 29, 1935 - April 3, 2011

Richard “Dick” Hood, 75 years old, departed this life Sunday, April 3, 2011, at Baxter Regional Medical Center in Mountain Home.

Richard was born November 29, 1935 in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, and grew up in Blackstone, Massachusetts, the first son of Vinton and Claire Hood. He married Rosemary Morris February 15, 1958 in Orange, California, celebrating fifty years of marriage in 2008. Richard lived in Mountain Home since 1989, but was a resident of Arkansas since 1977, relocating from California.

Richard graduated in 1953 from Worcester Boys Trade High School in Worcester, Massachusetts where he trained in industrial machinery, and tool and die. He was employed as a machinist after high school. Later he began a machine shop in California which he ran for several years. Upon moving to Arkansas, he owned and operated Hood Machine and Manufacturing Company; and also the Valve Service Company in Yellville from 1977 to 1989. Richard, along with his wife, Rosemary, also owned and ran Hood General Store in Yellville during the 1980s. He then was the proprietor of Hood Performance Machine, Inc. in Mountain Home from 1989 until he sold the company in 2002. He worked at Sherwin Williams in Mountain Home until he retired in 2010. Richard enjoyed family and friends, classic cars, car races, handy work, camping, waterskiing, and spending summers relaxing on the family’s boat on Lake Norfork. In the 1960s, he belonged to a bowling team. He was recently a member of the Classic Chevy Club of North Arkansas. He was a parishioner of St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church for 33 years.

Mr. Hood is survived by his six children: Linda Sims of Corona, California; Lori Hood of Mountain Home; Brian Hood of Springfield, Missouri; Bruce Hoodswain of Plano, Texas; Alan Hood of West Plains, Missouri; and Allison Menke of Haslet, Texas; thirteen grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother Dr. Wayne Hood of Nevada City, California; and brother Neil Hood of Tigard, Oregon. He is predeceased by his wife Rosemary Hood.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, April 9 at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church with Reverend Innocent Okore as celebrant. The family expresses gratitude to all who befriended, helped, and loved Richard throughout his lifetime. In memory of Richard, it is requested that a donation of a good deed be given to a neighbor.

341–Maddie Made My Day and a Little “American Idol” Chit Chat

2011-04-08T23:03:00.002-05:00

Look who had a spa day at the vet today…

After work and my workout today, I went to town to run an errand for Ms. Charlsie. I texted Daisy to let her know I was near her work… in case she might be getting off work early. She did get off early and we toyed with the idea of getting our first pedicures of the season. It’s flip flop time!!

We decided that we didn’t have quite enough time so we went to get Maddie from preschool instead. Daisy let me go in the room to pick her up (I’ve never picked her up before and Maddie wasn’t expecting to see me)… they were watching a movie and the room was pretty dark so I had trouble finding her. Then, I heard her yell, “Ms. Jacquie!!!” and she came running and jumped in my arms. Oh yeah. I loved that!

Before going home, we stopped at Ms. Charlsie’s for a visit. We had just picked up the dogs from the vet and I left them in the car with the air conditioning running. When we came out to leave, the dogs got excited and I heard the car doors lock!! With my keys were in the car. Ha!! Daisy and I had to try to lure the dogs to come to the window to get them to accidently UNlock the doors. It took a few minutes, but after a little bit, Izzy put her foot on the driver side door and rolled down the window (the only one that wasn’t locked shut). I guess I need to be more careful.

Were y’all surprised Pia got voted off of American Idol last night??? That’s further reason to change the voting process. I think they should change it to one of the three options: 1) Each person gets ONE vote TOTAL per night; 2) Each person gets ONE vote per contestant per night (you can vote for any or all of them, but just once); 3) Each person can vote for the contestant they want to vote OFF. Do you agree with the way the voting is done currently? What would you like to see them do?

340–I Love When…

2011-04-07T21:07:00.001-05:00

I love when the grass changes from brown to green…

… and the dogwoods start to bloom

… and Spring-time comes to the Ozarks.

We are surrounded by God’s handiwork.

339–Things That Make Me Smile

2011-04-06T22:26:00.001-05:00

A few things that made me smile today…

… the preschoolers on the playground at church this evening. Love them!

…getting out my lip balm and knowing that Maddie had it last. She likes to roll it all the way down.

… Tyler stopping by work with my girl, Izzy!

It’s been a good day.

338 - My Next Book and a Little Time with JoJo

2011-04-05T22:16:00.000-05:00

I bought my next Kindle book tonight. (Are you proud of me, Kayla?)

One Tuesday Morning / Beyond Tuesday Morning Compilation Limited Edition

Two books in one for $9.99!

Jodi and I talk to each other A LOT. But, we haven't seen each other for a while lately, until today. I meant to take a picture and totally forgot... so I'll just show you how we spent our time together.

Four miles along the river. It's a beautiful walk and an hour of girl time!

337–Sights from Today

2011-04-04T20:00:00.001-05:00

I saw these turkeys on the way to work this morning. We’ve been seeing them around a lot more lately.

The sky was beautiful when I was leaving Ms. Charlsie’s this evening. This is her view from her front porch. Nice, huh?

We had the best weather this weekend… and today it’s been freezing and windy again. I’m wondering if it will ever be Spring.

336–Spring Sunday, What I Thought About “Water for Elephants”, and A Sad Loss

2011-04-03T22:00:00.001-05:00

After church (and naps) we took Maddie to a nearby park. Izzy and I went for a short walk – it was almost too hot for her today (mid 80’s) to do much exercise. So we took it easy.

The park is right by the river and has a spring. Kids were jumping off the rope into the spring … I KNOW that water is cold!

There was lots for Maddie to check out…

Some of y’all asked me what I thought about “Water for Elephants”. Let me just say, first off, that I typically only read Christian books and this one is not. The story was really good, but there were a couple of parts that were very graphic (hard for me to read through), and there was also quite a bit of profanity. I’m going to try to start doing a little more reading. Kayla wants me to read “One Tuesday Morning”. I haven’t read any Karen Kingsbury books yet, but they (along with Francine Rivers books) are the hottest things going in our church library.

On a sad note, my cousins got news today that their dad had a massive stroke and wasn’t found for a day or two. He passed away this afternoon. He was my Aunt Rosemary’s husband (she passed away in October 2008). My heart is so heavy for them. It seems so soon since they lost their momma. We love you, Hood cousins!!

335–My First Kindle Book

2011-04-02T22:29:00.001-05:00

Kale will be proud of me. I spent the day reading my first Kindle book. I don’t have a Kindle, but I did download the “Kindle for PC” application and used it today. I wasn’t sure I’d enjoy reading a book on my computer as much as actually holding a book with pages in my hands. It was really pretty enjoyable! I could close my computer and go do a few things and come back later right where I left off. I also found it easy to see the words (I’m old - enough said). I haven’t found time to read an actual book in a LONG time, so it was nice to spend a day in a book…and I’m looking forward to starting another.

While I read, Dave was at the farm and Tyler took the girls to the farm to fish at our pond. They just came in a little while ago and Maddie told me she caught some BIG fish. I think it’s safe to say she had a good time.

334–Pizza and a Movie

2011-04-01T23:50:00.000-05:00

April 1st!! Can you believe a quarter of this year has come and gone already??

Tonight Tyler invited our neighbors over for pizza and “Tangled” with the kids. That’s such a cute movie and the kids really enjoyed watching it together. They played for a while afterwards. Maddie has a tent that is missing the supports (that Tyler is supposed to rig up for her at her house, but hasn’t yet) and the kids decided to play in it anyway…

333–24 Years Ago…

2011-03-31T22:39:00.001-05:00

Twenty-four years ago at this exact time my life changed forever. I became a mom and nothing about my life has been the same ever since. I see things differently. I think things differently. I feel things differently.

I started a journal (and I’m ashamed to admit I did a horrible job of keeping up with it) when I found out I was pregnant with Kale. (I started another one for Tyler when I realized we were pregnant again.)

Here are a few things from some early entries…

[On being pregnant with him] I loved you from the moment I suspected you were there. I fed you, talked to you, patted you, rubbed you, and treated you as if you were already born. I don’t think there was one unhappy moment of pregnancy.

[On knowing he was a boy – I never had an ultrasound] I knew all along you were a boy! I had your room painted blue 5 months into my pregnancy.

[On how big he was – 9 lbs. 8 oz. at birth] You are over 2 months old now, wearing 12 month outfits, and I can’t imagine how we ever made it without you. You are the love of our lives… all 16 pounds of you!

[On how special our relationship is] I feel so connected to you. We are very close. I hope that never changes. My love for you grows with every breath you take. You are such a good boy and good friend.

I am still amazed at how the character traits and personality of both of my boys has remained the same from infancy until now. The words I used to describe Kale as a baby and young boy are still true about him today…sweet, sensitive, caring, loving, funny, trustworthy, very intelligent, a leader, independent, respectful, head strong, responsible to name a few.

I used to think about how the years ahead of me would bring change and my little boys, who were so dependent on me, wouldn’t need me any more. I worried that would mean loneliness and emptiness for me. I never, in my wildest dreams, imagined that as that happened our relationships would change into something even better. I am blessed to be Kale’s mom and even more blessed that we are the best of friends.

On his 8th birthday, I finished my entry with these words… they are still true today:

You are certainly a wonderful, special and loving young man! And I am the luckiest Mom on earth!!

Happy Birthday, Kale David!! We love you!

332–A (Wednes)Day in the Life

2011-03-30T22:53:00.001-05:00

Look who came to my office today!! And she had the Preacher running up and down the hallway in the office. Too cute!

Wednesdays are pretty busy. One of the hardest things is supper. Daisy doesn’t normally get off work until 5:00 and it’s usually 5:30 0r after by the time she picks up Maddie and gets here. We eat supper FAST and run out the door to get to church by 6:15. It’s always crazy. So, tonight was great because Tyler went to the store and got stuff for supper and cooked for us!!

Maddie didn’t really want what Tyler made, but she did want to eat this apple.

Maddie LOVES to see her friends at church. She would go every night, I think.

After church, we all sat around to watch American Idol (which was GREAT). Tyler likes to have me pop corn in my Whirly Pop.

He and I like ours with parmesan cheese on top… which usually ends up on our shirts. Izzy was after Tyler’s leftovers.

331–Randomness–Sick Dogs, Tangled, and Texas (again!)

2011-03-29T22:28:00.002-05:00

My poor, poor Izzy had to go to the vet this morning. She’s on antibiotics for a week or so and then she should be fine… just a little scary for me. You’d never know that I’m NOT a dog person, would you? Jodi’s dog, Mercury, was there and had been in overnight… but I don’t think Izzy got to visit him. Mercury is 15 years old!! He has been going down-hill for a while now. They’re doing the best they can to keep him going (and comfortable). This is a tough time for Jodi… Merc has been her buddy for a long time.

Maddie is going to be excited when she sees what I got in today. (I’m a little hooked on Amazon.)

Tangled (Four-Disc Combo: Blu-ray 3D/Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy)

I talked to the K’s tonight and I think I’ll schedule a trip to Houston for my birthday in May! Happy Birthday to me!!

330–It’s That Time of Year Again & “Army Wives”

2011-03-28T22:22:00.001-05:00

We got our Vacation Bible School order in at church today. We’re “going to NYC” this summer for the “Big Apple Adventure”. VBS takes lots of planning and work and we are always blessed with so many faithful workers. (If you go to our church and want to volunteer to help this year… you can register online at www.fbcflippin.com. Parents can register their children there as well.)

On another note… do y’all watch “Army Wives”? It’s in its 5th Season, but I think I started watching the night of the 3rd Season-opener. I love that show!! Last night was the most emotional episode ever. I cried from the beginning until the end. Just so sad… and the truth is, every day families in our nation are losing loved ones in combat as they fight for the way of life that we take for granted every single day. I try to make a point to thank a service man/woman any and every time I can. Our society idolizes celebrities and athletes… the men and women serving our country are truly my heroes!!

329–Fun, Full Sunday

2011-03-27T21:57:00.001-05:00

We’ve been busy all day and yet, this is the only picture I took. After church (and lunch), Tyler, Daisy and I made a trip to my ol’ alma mater… well, at least to the parking lot of the school. It’s a pretty good half-way point between us and where Maddie’s grandma lives. Maddie spent the night with her grandma so we drove out there to pick her up. Afterward, we headed to my parent’s house. Yesterday was my Dad’s birthday and we wanted to wish him a Happy Birthday.

It’s been a fun, full day.

PS – Are y’all watching “Secret Millionaire”? What a great show!!

328–Me and My Shadow

2011-03-26T20:43:00.001-05:00

I’ve been lazy pretty much all day…trying to keep a migraine away. Most of the morning I watched the “Investigation Discovery” channel and the rest of the day we’ve watched the NCAA tournament.

Izzy has been my shadow …

327– A Friday Night First

2011-03-25T23:32:00.001-05:00

I had a little virus scare yesterday… so, of course, I called Kale to get reassurance that I had handled it right. He got onto me (a little) for using IE… so this picture of Google Chrome is for you, Kale David. Better?

I just noticed that I took that photo at 10:50 AM and it was only 37 degrees here at that time. We’ve lost our Spring weather!!

I took Izzy this afternoon and ran some errands for Ms. Charlsie. Bless her heart, I took her to the doctor yesterday … her appointment was scheduled for 4:45 PM, the nurse called us to the back a little after 6:00 PM, the doctor came in just before 7:00 PM, and we FINALLY left the office at 8:20 PM. She and I were both worn out. Who knew a doctor in this day and time would keep those hours?? He is working with her meds to try to keep her B/P down. I hope it helps soon. She’s had a rough week or so.

After I got home, Daisy and Maddie came over. Tyler and Daisy went on a date and Maddie stayed with us. Dave was late getting home… so we did a first for us… we ordered Chili’s to Go. I know for some of you that’s not all that unusual, but we live about 20 minutes from town so we don’t normally order carry out – unless it’s pizza. It was SO much less of a hassle than taking a tired 3-year old out at 7:30 PM, but the food is MUCH better when it’s fresh in the restaurant.

I have had a hankerin’ for this for several weeks now. Love their Santa Fe Wrap!

When I was reading “Pinkalicious – School Rules” to Mads tonight, the book said that Pinkalicious missed her unicorn while she was at school and it made her sad. Maddie (who is so compassionate) asked me why she was sad and I told her that she was missing her unicorn. She replies “why?” and I said, “it’s like when I miss Izzy” and she says real quick, “NO! You miss Kale!!” Oh, yes I do! (She remembers me sitting in the car crying after Kale left a couple of weeks ago.)

Speaking of the Ks, I’m trying to decide on plans for my next trip. I’m hoping they’ll be able to come in for the 4th of July, so I’m trying to decide if I want to make a trip between now and then or after the 4th. Maybe in the Fall? I’m planning on it just being me, by myself, and spending several days just relaxing and hanging out with the kids. I’m thinking the weather in Houston will be better in May than, say, September???

326–Crazy AI Results Show (If you haven’t watched–Warning: Slight Spoiler)

2011-03-24T22:29:00.001-05:00

This is what the end of my day looked like. A Shamrock Shake. (I know, I know.)

I am usually pretty good at picking “the bottom three” on American Idol. Tonight, I had two out of three right, but would have never guessed Casey would be included. I’ll just say, without giving away too much, that it was one crazy results show!

325–Cold Weather, Hokey Pokey & Idol

2011-03-23T22:18:00.001-05:00

My photos for today are horrible. So, I apologize in advance.

I took a picture of this bush in our neighborhood today, because Spring has sprung and from the looks of the weather, we’ve got a winter blast coming through next week. Dreading that.

Maddie was entertaining us tonight with the Hokey Pokey among other songs. Silly girl.

(Dave just got in from working out and at the farm… you can see him in his work boots and gym attire behind Maddie. Haha!)

Did y’all watch American Idol tonight? I could have easily voted for SEVEN of the ELEVEN in the competition. I’ve never felt that way at this stage of the game before. There are some talented people this year. Steven Tyler is still cracking me up.

324–Filling the Space The Piano Left

2011-03-22T21:25:00.001-05:00

Kale’s huge piano left a gaping hole in my living room. (I’m still not used to not walking all the way around the piano.) I ended up spreading out my very cramped seating and moving my old antique armoire to the wall near where the piano sat. It’s a big piece. We have very low ceilings in this house and there’s barely enough room to put stuff on top of it. This is one of my favorite pieces of furniture.

Kale made arrangements to buy back our old upright piano – that he sold when he got the big one – so, soon I’ll have to rearrange again. I just know that I want to have something that Kale can play when he comes for a visit.

323–Spring Day

2011-03-21T23:02:00.001-05:00

It was another perfect weather day today!! The trees are in bloom and I am so happy Spring time is here!!

I tried to get a picture of the super moon last night (it was too cloudy on Saturday night). When I went outside around 9:00 (I think) the moon was still really low and the tree line was in the way. I had a hard time finding it because it was so low, but then I saw a huge orange mass.

It was a pretty cool sight!

322–Sunday

2011-03-20T21:34:00.001-05:00

We’ve had a good Sunday. Church, lunch (Mexican, of course), naps, and then while David was checking the cows, we all went to the park (joined by Bryan and Andrea and their kids). While they all played, I walked Izzy. The weather was perfect… around 80 and sunny. That’s my kind of weather.

While I was walking Izzy, Ms. Charlsie called and told me that she’d been fighting with her blood pressure again all day. This has been a rough week for her. I went by there and stayed with her for a while before going back to church. I checked on her again this evening and her B/P was high, but within safe limits.

I made an appointment for her to see the doctor this week. I sure do hope we can get some answers and get her nerves settled.

321–There Shall Be Showers…

2011-03-19T20:34:00.001-05:00

Today was a fun day. Aside from the fact that I spent the morning (still) getting tax stuff done. I always have my taxes filed and my return sitting in savings by now. This year has been hard to sit down for any length of time and get stuff done. I got David’s mileage all entered today and all I lack is updating the cattle inventory. Then I can send it off to my CPA/brother-in-law.

All that to say that the day was fun – aside from taxes.

This weekend there are two showers on the calendar. One baby shower and one bridal shower. Daisy and I got this little outfit for a sweet baby boy who’s expected around the first of May.

They had an amazing cake at the shower. AMAZING, isn’t it?

Check out that little “pea in a pod” that was on top. What a talented lady!

I’m not usually a fan of the taste of cakes with fondant, but this one was delicious! Note to self… remember to call this lady when Tyler gets married … to a certain someone.

While I was at the shower, Tyler, Daisy and Maddie were at a wedding. Then we all hung out at the house for the rest of the day and ordered pizza in for supper.

Look who’s tired from a whirlwind trip to Illinois…

After dinner, I took Maddie outside to see if we could see the “super moon”, but it’s way too overcast here. Bummer. We’ll see if we can see the (almost) full moon tomorrow night.

320–Easter Dress and Another Scare

2011-03-18T22:46:00.001-05:00

Sorry, this is the only picture I took today. I found this sweet dress for my Mads at TJ Maxx tonight. I thought it would be a cute Easter dress. (The picture doesn’t really do it justice.)

Today was a rough day. David called me from Ms. Charlsie’s at lunch time and said that she’d had a little accident and her medicine was dropped on the floor and asked if I could come get it straight. The first thing I thought was “how is Charlsie?” Every time we have trouble with her medicine getting messed up it’s usually because she’s had another “episode”. He seemed a little odd when he answered, but told me she was okay. So, after I got off the treadmill I headed to her house. When I got there the medicine was pretty messed up and she was visibly shaken. Her blood pressure was like 212/110!!! David had her take a pill that the doctor says to take when her top number goes above 160 and we stayed there and monitored her to see if the medicine brought it down. Finally, this evening she was back to herself and feeling better. Her B/P was back within normal range.

She was pretty frightened because she had a segment of time this morning that she can’t remember. I talked to her at 8 AM and she was fine, but sometime after that it happened and she barely remembers talking to me on the phone. She’s done this before and we believe it’s another TIA (mini stroke). We left there at around 7:30 this evening and she was doing well, though. I know she’s in God’s hands, but it is so worrisome to me. I sure do love that woman.

319–Jacquie’s Favorite Things

2011-03-17T20:18:00.001-05:00

If I were Oprah, I would include these on my favorite things list…

… but actually, I love these even more…

(I may have a slight obsession with all things dental floss.)

Do you have anything you would recommend to Oprah for her “favorite things” show??

318–Nice Weather and a Prayer Request

2011-03-16T22:35:00.001-05:00

This time change is SO hard on me. By the time I get home from work, I am so ready for a big ‘ol nap. That’s just not possible on Wednesday nights, though. So, this post will be short and sweet, because I’m heading to bed.

The weather today turned out to be really pretty, so it was the first night that we could take our Cubbies out to play on the playground.

(A couple of sweet friends who loved playing on the playground together.)

Tyler and Daisy did the craft time with the kiddos tonight. I am so thankful for those two, they really do a good job interacting with the kids.

Tomorrow after work, Daisy is going to be driving to Illinois to meet up with her family for her great-aunt’s funeral. PLEASE be praying for safe travel for her and Maddie. I’m not thrilled about her making this trip when she’s tired from a long day at work (she’s been on medication for her thyroid and it hasn’t helped much with her fatigue yet). Her family has suffered a LOT of loss in recent years… and I’m praying that God will be very present to them as they face another loss.

317–Another Goodbye

2011-03-15T22:58:00.001-05:00

I am a little sad today. This evening some movers came and took Kale’s baby grand piano. He’s decided he’s been without it too long and sent for it. Soon, it will be in their study.

Now… to fill that big empty space in my living room…

316–The Death of A Heater and a Ms. Charlsie-ism

2011-03-14T22:43:00.001-05:00

I know this may not mean much to you, but seriously, it’s pretty life-altering to me.

My heater bit the dust last Friday. But, have no fear, I had a backup…

And, just because I want to remember this… I took Ms. Charlsie for a tax appointment this afternoon and when we were almost back to her house, she looks down at her watch and says, “What time are we enjoying?” I told her it was 5:30 and she says, “Oh, I missed my program!” (Haha! Jeopardy.)

I love that she said “what time are we enjoying”. I don’t guess I’ve ever heard anyone say that before.

315–Baptism and Bye Bye

2011-03-13T23:53:00.001-05:00

Our day started off great… this morning, Daisy (and two others) got baptized. What a blessing! (We’re so proud of you, Daisy!)

Kale had to leave this morning after church. As usual, I had a mini-meltdown saying good-bye. It’s just so hard to give him back.

After seeing him off, we went to our favorite Mexican restaurant with friends. While we were in the car, Maddie kept asking me what was wrong (she was so empathetic and concerned about me) and I told her I was just missing Kale. She told me she missed him, too and said, “we will go see him tomorrow.” So sweet!!

We enjoyed our lunch and after the kids got done eating, their mom’s gave them their iPhone’s to entertain them for a while… how cute are they?

I told myself not to take a nap today after this time change, but around 3:30 I couldn’t take it any more and laid down until about 5:00. Getting up in the morning is going to be SO hard!!

314–Gardening

2011-03-12T22:50:00.001-06:00

We’ve had a productive day. Kale has an old piano that we had to load and haul and unload (well, he and Dave pretty much did that part). They went on to the farm from there. While they were “farming”, I cleaned out an old computer cabinet and made it my new “office”. When the guys got home, we went to visit Ms. Charlsie. She and Dave decided it was time to till the garden...

… and plant some potatoes…

…then it was time to sit a spell before heading home.

313–Hanging Out

2011-03-11T22:27:00.001-06:00

We spent the whole day at home, just hanging out. This afternoon David went to the farm and Kale and I took Izzy to the park for a walk. While we were there, Tyler showed up with Maddie… he picked her up from preschool after he got off work (so sweet).

Tonight we took Maddie to eat pizza while Daisy and Tyler went to a concert (Brandon Heath, Dave Barnes, and Kristian Stanfill). Mads sure likes having Kale around.

It seems everyone does…

312–He’s Home

2011-03-10T22:48:00.001-06:00

Kale got “home” this afternoon… he met me at the church since I wasn’t quite done at work yet. Since then, we’ve visited Ms. Charlsie, got a few groceries, made lasagna for supper, watched American Idol, “face timed” with Kayla, and he has totally redone a computer for some friends.

It’s been a good day!

311–Novocain and New Glasses

2011-03-09T22:56:00.001-06:00

I had to go back to the dentist first thing this morning to (once again) work on that crown from last Spring. UGH! I am never thrilled to have dental work done, but today I had a little crisis. About 5 seconds after he gave me the Novocain, I felt a spiky feeling (like when your foot goes to sleep) at the base of my skull and it sort of “crawled” around my face. I got scared and my heart started racing and when I realized I wasn’t able to really cope, I admitted to him that “I wasn’t feeling just right.” He assured me it was just anxiety (really? it can do that??), but I seriously thought he was numbing my brain!!! Anyway, I’m done at the dentist until August. Thank goodness!

When I was on the way back from the gym at lunch today, the eye doctor called to let me know that Ms. Charlsie’s glasses were ready for her. So, I ran back to town with her late this afternoon to get them. She asked me if they made her look good… I told her she looked 20 years younger and she said, “Oh, that’s too young!” Here she is sportin’ them…

310–Refrigerator Art

2011-03-08T22:31:00.000-06:00

This letter (dated in November) came in the mail last week. It is from our Compassion child, Amit. I am always so excited to hear from him. When we began sponsoring him, he was five years old – now he is seven. Our letters used to have a few crayon marks where they let him write something to us… this time there were the two sweet pictures you see above. (It doesn’t take much to make me want to cry.)

The average income for Amit’s family, and families like his, is $40 per MONTH. Forty dollars. Our sponsorship basically matches one month’s salary. I don’t think I could do anything more rewarding for $38 a month.

Last month, Compassion sent us an updated picture. I keep it on my fridge. It does my heart good to see him every day and it serves as a reminder to pray for him and his family in India. Isn’t he precious???

Now, just take a look at that backdrop. Breaks my heart, people. Breaks my heart.

If you would like to sponsor a child, click on the link on my sidebar (or on the picture of Amit).

309–From Toddler to Teen in Ten Hours

2011-03-07T23:51:00.001-06:00

This morning – so sweet. So innocent.

This evening - Oh my! I don’t think we’re ready for this.

308–Family Tree and Secret Millionaire

2011-03-06T21:51:00.001-06:00

Since yesterday’s post, I’ve had my mind on our “family tree”. I spent the biggest part of this afternoon on www.geni.com – we have an online family tree there. It goes back to my 7th great grandfathers on the Goulet side there.

I’ve been seeing previews for “Secret Millionaire” for the last several months, so I set my DVR to record it tonight along with “The Amazing Race” and “Army Wives” (poor DVR gets a workout around here!). Each week the show (similar to “Undercover Boss”) takes an incognito millionaire to one of America’s poverty-stricken areas. They spend a week working alongside the needy and ultimately decide how to give away at least $100,000 of their own money. I LOVED it!!! Did you see it??

307–Who Do You Think You Are?

2011-03-05T22:25:00.001-06:00

I spent the morning catching up on some DVR’d television. Do you watch “Who Do You Think You Are?” I watched three episodes this morning and cried in all three. Some of the stories are happy, some are really sad, but they’re always interesting.

I love genealogy and that show makes me want to go back and discover my own roots. Not just see the names on the family tree, but to know their stories. To know about their lives.

On Lionel Richie’s episode, he began his story by telling how he grew up in the South (Alabama). His family took measures to shelter him and his siblings from the events that were unfolding during his childhood (the civil rights movement). He describes it as “living in a bubble”. When I describe my childhood, I almost always describe it that way.

My parents (whether intentionally or unintentionally) shielded us from the “bad” that was all around us. I knew VERY little of things such as divorce, murder, child abuse, crime, etc. as a child. About the scariest thing I remember from my grade school years (besides the witch on “The Wizard of Oz”) is having to do “duck and cover drills” at school (in the early 70s).

I don’t know how my parents did it, but all my childhood memories are of a time that seemed so innocent. I was protected. I was taken care of. I was happy. I am SO thankful for that!

306–Randomness

2011-03-04T23:15:00.001-06:00

David and I stayed home for a quiet night – I’ve been fighting off a migraine all day – but Tyler and Daisy went out for supper with Maddie. I took this picture of them piled up in the chair after they got back…

I was happy to see this number roll around today:

In less than a week, Kale will be home for a few days. I wish Kayla could come for this trip, but we’re hoping she will be able to come for the 4th of July.

I got gas in my car today. One of the gas stations in town had the price at $3.47/gallon and another one was $3.39/gallon. Which do you think I got??

I was so saddened today by the news of a brutal crime at the Northpointe Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas. Of course, as a church secretary, it hits awful close to home for me. I read on one of the news articles that the church had a security system in place and was kept locked and guests were buzzed in. I don’t know if that is true, but it makes me wonder what on earth took place. They assume robbery was the motive, but most (or all) churches don’t keep money at the church… the robber (or robbers) may not have realized that until it was too late. The pastor was only in his late 20s and his secretary was in her 60s. It is just so so sad…we have so much to pray for and about all around us.

305–Short and Sweet

2011-03-03T23:05:00.001-06:00

I’m too tired to say much tonight…but Maddie got some new goodies since she started preschool this week. She’s all about Minnie Mouse.

Daisy also got her a pig “bento box”. So cute!

304–Flowers for Mommy and AI Girls Night

2011-03-02T22:27:00.001-06:00

Tyler picked up Maddie from preschool today. They came by the church and Maddie rode back to the house with me. On the way home, I pointed out some daffodils on the side of the road and Maddie asked if we could stop and pick some.

When we got back in the car, she held them proudly and said, “These are going to make Mommy happy!”

She and Tyler had a big time playing a little ball in the back yard…

Tonight was “girls night” on Idol. I LOVED LOVED the last singer (Pia)!!! I also really liked both Laurens, Haley, and Thia (15 years old!)… this is such a fun season!!

303–Something to Smile About & Something To Cry About

2011-03-01T22:52:00.001-06:00

This just makes me smile.

And tonight’s episode of American Idol made me smile, too. Casey Abrams is amazing!! I also really liked Paul (Rod Stewart-ish one) and Scotty (the country boy).

Tyler and I just got done watching tonight’s Biggest Loser, and SERIOUSLY, I bawled through the whole thing. That was just pathetic. I don’t like the game play at all. But, I was so happy to see the life-changes Arthur has made since being sent home. That’s a happy ending!

302–Ruby Red Slippers and an Earthquake

2011-02-28T22:15:00.001-06:00

Look what my sister found on the floorboard of my car today when she got in to go with me to the gym. I guess Maddie is missing her ruby red slippers.

Last night when I was washing my face before bed (around 11-ish), I heard a noise that I thought at first was a jet flying over. It caught me a little off-guard, but I didn’t think that much of it. Then, when I got in bed the TV mentioned that an earthquake had hit in central Arkansas and was felt in our area. So, it turns out my “jet” was an earthquake.

About an hour and a half later we were hit by severe storms. I am terrified of storms, but after about 10 minutes I went back to sleep.

I was confused this morning when I went out to my car and it was covered in dirt after that heavy rain. I told Ms. Charlsie that I couldn’t figure out why… unless it was from pollen or something off the trees. I just saw on the news that there was dust in the air coming up from a Texas dust storm and that caused us to have “dirty rain”. Isn’t that crazy??

301–Sunday

2011-02-27T21:43:00.001-06:00

We had a nice Sunday.

Great church.

Lunch with friends.

Nice naps.

And we finished the evening with home-popped popcorn.

Good weekend.

* * * * *

Praying the storms tonight will go completely around us…

300–Mugs and Muffins

2011-02-26T23:50:00.000-06:00

Last night Tyler, Daisy, Maddie and I went to visit Melody, one of my best high school friends. She just so happens to live in the same town as Kelly, so while we were there we went to her church for Mugs and Muffins. It was great to get to hear Angie Smith speak and to be able to be there with two people that I think so much of. (Tyler and Maddie had a “date” while we were gone.)

We came home early this afternoon and I spent most of the evening at the church… we got new projectors and screens put up and I wanted to make sure the video was ready for in the morning. I am so happy that everyone will be able to clearly read the song words in the morning!!!

299–My Favorite Moment of the Day

2011-02-25T23:33:00.001-06:00

(The picture didn’t turn out very well, but I took it really quick when we were about the drive off from McDonalds.)

298–My AI Thoughts

2011-02-24T23:18:00.001-06:00

I’m SO ready…

… for the Top 24!!

Casey (at this point) will be hard to beat.

Three nights next week.

Fun season so far.

Great job choosing J-Lo and Steven Tyler.

Totally disagreed with the last male cut (Colton should have stayed).

Not sure which girl will be the standout.

Your thoughts?

297–My Day in Pictures

2011-02-23T22:26:00.001-06:00

The morning started out a little rough… I dropped a contact down the sink (I guess?? I never could find it). I’ve been wearing contacts since I was 18 years old and have never lost one down the drain – until this morning. For those of you who pay like $25 per BOX… mine are $140 per box … that’s over $23 per contact!!! Yikes!

Then, I had a doctor’s appointment.

Need I say more, ladies??

The day got better when I got back to work.

Tonight Daisy had our Cubbies make “Noah’s Ark” with paper plates. Then she gave them Beanie Babies to put in them. So cute! Here’s Tyler’s embellished version sans the Beanie Babies.

296–I Love A Good Concert!

2011-02-22T22:57:00.001-06:00

I ordered tickets for this concert for Tyler and Daisy today. We live in a very rural area, so whenever a concert comes here – it’s a BIG deal! I would go, but Kale will be in town that night and there’s pretty much nothing that would pull me away from my time with him.

I’m just a little jealous because Darlene Zschech and the Hillsong team are going to be at the K’s church this Sunday night. We would’ve LOVED for that to have been when we were there. That will be an amazing time of worship!

295–How Many Can You Count?

2011-02-21T21:46:00.001-06:00

I took this picture with my phone tonight on my way home from work. It's just a sample of what we see most every day in our neighborhood. I think we counted about 80 deer one evening on our way out. It’s just one of the perks of living in the country.

What do you love about where you live??

294–Sunday Date

2011-02-20T22:42:00.001-06:00

Tyler and Daisy left right after church this morning to go to Branson and then Springfield. They are on part two of Daisy’s birthday/Valentine’s gift… a little shopping and the “Rock and Worship Road Show”. While they are on their date, we’ve had Maddie for a whole day “date”.

Even though she’s feeling a little better she’s still not quite herself. About 10 minutes after we got in the car to go to lunch, she was asleep…

… she was still asleep after we got seated at the restaurant.

After lunch we stopped at the “candy store” and got a few things.

I told her before we could play with her new stuff, she needed to lay down for her nap. We always read (just one) book before bedtime. She picked…

She went down (really well) sometime between 1:00 and 1:30 and didn’t wake up until 5:15!!! (Thanks for letting me get a little Sunday nap in, too, Mads!)

David had to be at a Deacons meeting at 6:00, so she didn’t have much time to play after her nap, but she did make us a little tea from her new teapot.

When we got home from church, we made brownies together.

Then it was coloring and puzzle time…

She’s back in bed now. I think she’s ready to see her momma… she asked several times at bedtime how long before her momma comes home.

I love when I say “goodnight” and close the door, she yells, “miss you!” Sweet, sweet baby girl.

293–Taxes, Dominoes, and Unfinished Business

2011-02-19T23:50:00.000-06:00

I spent all the live-long day doing paperwork for our taxes. Ugh.

Daisy and Maddie showed up early this evening and by the time David got home I was about to gouge my eyes out… so we decided to go to Jodi and Gary’s to play some Mexican Train dominoes. I even went in pjs and slippers.

Maddie is feeling a little better, but she’s not herself just yet. Here she is watching a little Nick, Jr. with JoJo’s dog, Ava.

I think she may have been arranging Jodi’s pictures, too. Haha.

Look what starts tomorrow night!!! It’s gonna be a good season – “the cowboys” are coming back!

292–Doctor Visits

2011-02-18T23:48:00.001-06:00

Ms. Charlsie and I spent the afternoon together… she had an eye appointment. (I really wish doctor’s offices would realize how hard it is for a 92 year old to sit anywhere, doing anything, for very long.) We spent two hours at the eye doctor and ran an errand afterward and she was so tired and more than ready to go home.

While we were there, the optical department was “closed for inventory”??? So, we couldn’t even look at new glasses for her. It looks like I’ll have to get her out again for another appointment.

Daisy texted me this morning and said that Maddie’s ears were hurting. Luckily, Daisy works at a doctor’s office, so she got her in to see the doctor. Turns out her ears are fine…but she has a virus. When she got here tonight, she looked at me and rubbed her forehead and said, “Miss Jacquie, my head hurts.”

Bless her heart… she doesn’t feel good.

291–Flood, Computer, Video, Brownies, and a Little Idol Talk

2011-02-17T21:21:00.001-06:00

It’s been an unusual week at work… we had a pipe freeze and bust and Sunday morning (when I was in Texas) they found it AND our choir room filled with water. We’ve had a restoration company here working on the clean-up all week. I also got a new computer in for our sound booth and Tyler and I have been setting it up and transferring files, etc.

Today, when I was transferring some video files, I came across the video Kale and Kayla made for their wedding. It was sweet to watch again!

When we were in Texas, I made some brownies and used Kayla’s “Perfect Brownie” pan set. They make really good brownies…so look what I got at the grocery store tonight…

Already made a batch – and, of course, they turned out “perfect”.

Did any of y’all get to see “American Idol” last night? We got about the first 10 or 15 minutes of it until our local FOX affiliate had transmission problems. No one local got to watch the group round. Facebook was lit up with some angry AI fan remarks.

I didn’t think I could possibly enjoy this season without Simon, but I think I have enjoyed this season more than any other so far!

290–So Funny!

2011-02-16T22:13:00.001-06:00

Tonight after church, Tyler wanted to stop by Jodi’s house to see if Jessica had some old art supplies that he could borrow. Jodi thought there were some in their garage. Maddie had never been in their garage before… so when we went in she asked, “JoJo lives like this?” I was like, “what??” and she repeated herself. I said, “yep!” Then she asked, “where her bed?” Haha! She thought Jodi and Gary lived in their garage.

They have lots of “toys” in their garage…I can’t imagine what her little three year old mind was thinking. Kids are so funny!

289–Back Home

2011-02-15T20:00:00.001-06:00

I got up at 4:30 this morning, (Daisy got up at 4:15!) to get ready to head to the airport. We gave Kayla hugs and kisses and left with Kale at 6 AM for our 7:30 flight. (It’s no wonder I’m always asleep at that time of day – it’s DARK outside still!)

When we got to the airport there was a crazy long line at the security check and we got on the plane SIX minutes before it was supposed to depart. I was a wreck! You know I’m deathly afraid of flying, but this trip, I did really well on the plane. I even watched out the window the whole time the plane was taking off this morning. Yay, me! (Thanks to those of you who prayed for me. I know it’s crazy, but it’s so scary to me.)

It was a beautiful day to fly…

When we got home, I headed in to work and then went to the vet to pick up the dogs from their grooming appointment. Izzy was awful glad to see me – even though she hid behind my driver’s seat.

Daisy wanted to ride up by me…

This evening David, Tyler and I are hanging out watching Biggest Loser… Izzy hasn’t strayed very far from me. Can you find her in this picture?…

It’s good to be home, but I always feel like I left a part of my heart in Houston.

288–Texas Trip–Day 4

2011-02-14T22:54:00.001-06:00

Everyone has slipped off to bed and I’m in “my room” at the K’s typing my last post from this trip. I told Kale tonight while we were cooking supper that I always get in a funk on the last day of seeing them because I dread being apart again. He reminded me that he’ll be home soon and (even though it’s not the same when Kayla can’t come) that makes me feel a little better.

But, here’s my recap of our last day here…

Kale started the day by making pancakes for breakfast – with a little help from the cutest thing in feet pajamas…

Every once in a while she’d run off and check on her “friends”…

(She was saying, “say cheese, baby girl” in the picture above. Haha!)

Kayla had to go to work at noon and we all hung out here. After Maddie’s nap her and Kale used the water hose in the back yard for a while. That was the most fun she had all day. (You can’t tell much from the picture.)

They also did puzzles…

Kale and I made a quick trip to the grocery store this afternoon. We made tacos for supper and I made brownies for dessert (to go with our ice cream).

After the dishes were done and the ice cream and brownies were attacked… the guys settled in the living room for “American Pickers” and “Pawn Stars” and us girls got cozy in the bedroom and watched “The Bachelor” together. We did more talking and laughing than anything. (Kale called us the cacklers.)

(Have I mentioned how much I love having daughters???)

We get up bright and early in the morning for our 7:30 flight home. (ICK!) So, I’m off to bed.

Thank you, Lord, for allowing us to get here despite all that snow and for the beautiful weather we’ve had… but most of all, thank You for my precious family that I love with my whole heart! You are so good.

287–Texas Trip–Day 3

2011-02-13T22:51:00.002-06:00

Today was girls’ day. Kayla, Daisy and I went to a really nice Outlet Mall while Maddie had a “date” with Kale and Tyler. I think they wore her out at the park near the K’s house because she went down for a 3 hour nap afterward. Ha!

Before we left Maddie was “accessorizing” from Kayla’s closet – you’ll notice them in the picture below with the new “friends” she has made here in Kayla’s spare bedroom. We’ve caught her talking to “them”. She says the pink one is the mommy and the black one is the baby. She’s also had an obsession with store mannequin’s of late. It’s so funny.

When we got back from shopping, we all loaded up and went to Chuy’s for supper. I have major love for their chips and jalapeno ranch dip. Oh my goodness!

After dinner, we went down the street to meet some of the K’s neighbors. They have so many really nice people in their neighborhood.
I got a little misty at the supper table tonight thinking about tomorrow being our last day here. We always have such a good time together. I’m so happy that Kale will be coming home (to Arkansas) in early March and then both the K’s are planning a trip home around the 4th of July. Makes leaving just a little bit easier.