Our Journey

Little Ladybug

2012-01-24T08:19:00.001-08:00

She is 3! Can you believe it?

She was determined to have a ladybug birthday party........

Cristie and Aunt Janet "GaGa" made these absolutely adorable marshmallow pops and ladybug pretzels!!!

I set up a photo booth with homemade props.....the bigger kids didn't think this was cool :) I loved it!!!

Can you spot the mustache?

It wouldn't be much of a ladybug party if we didn't have live ladybugs...now would it?

I ordered them from a nursery in California.....we experienced the "Great Ladybug Escape of 2012" on the way home with them....hahahaha (the minimum order was 1500!!!)

The Big D

2011-11-11T12:31:00.000-08:00

***Update*** 2 meals down!!! Not too bad ;)

The time has come........

I flipped my head over to dry my hair this morning and there it was...............fat............hanging right over my jeans! I was reminded of the pizza I devoured that night...and the Halloween candy....and cookies I made for small group. ***Sigh***

I am not concerned about the number on the scale, not at all actually. But I don't like the fact that my clothes are tight and I avoid an entire section of cute clothes in my closet.

So I am doing it! The big D.....

I know it is probably best to "eat right and exercise". I would get a big fat F if that was my plan.....so I am going to try out some popular diets. Let's see which works the best :)

All this fun will start Monday...***forced grin*** So I will weigh and measure and see how it goes!

First up is the 3 day diet.

The 3 Day Diet meal plan:

Day 1

Breakfast

Black coffee or tea, with 1-2 packets Sweet & Low or Equal

1/2 grapefruit or juice

1 piece toast with 1 tablespoon peanut butter

Lunch

1/2 cup tuna

1 piece toast

Black coffee or tea, with 1-2 packets Sweet & Low or Equal

Dinner

3 ounces any lean meat or chicken

1 cup green beans

1 cup carrots

1 apple

1 cup regular vanilla ice cream

Day 2

Breakfast

Black coffee or tea, with 1-2 packets Sweet & Low or Equal

1 egg

1/2 banana

1 piece toast

Lunch

1 cup cottage cheese or tuna

8 regular saltine crackers

Dinner

2 beef franks

1 cup broccoli or cabbage

1/2 cup carrots

1/2 banana

1/2 cup regular vanilla ice cream

Day 3

Breakfast

Black coffee or tea, with 1-2 packets Sweet & Low or Equal

5 regular saltine crackers

1 ounce cheddar cheese

1 apple

Lunch

Black coffee or tea, with 1-2 packets Sweet & Low or Equal

1 boiled egg

1 piece toast

Dinner

1 cup tuna

1 cup carrots

1 cup cauliflower

1 cup melon

1/2 cup regular vanilla ice cream

In addition to its strict daily food prescription, dieters drink 4 cups of water or noncaloric drinks daily.

What A Weekend!

2011-11-02T10:18:00.000-07:00

If I told you work was consuming every ounce of my being right now.....that would be an understatement. Sometimes we go through periods of joy and progress...when it seems like everything is going right. That is not one of these times. If something can go wrong, multiply that by three and that's what we are going through. (With smiles on our faces of course)

Honestly, it is so crazy right now the tears have turned into a crazed giggle :)

Jeremy's birthday was last Thursday. He was out of town, so I planned a surprise party for Saturday. He got home Sunday morning at 3am. Nice.... so that was cancelled. We had planned on taking the girls to the Grapevine Halloween festivities on Saturday night as well. I got the three pretties all costumed up and headed out. It is really hard keeping up with a cat and peacock while carrying a monster! To be frank, I was really disappointed. I had envisioned a group of us going together after the party....and it was just me. The night actually turned out wonderful.....we were a little cold, so we ended up going to Chic Fil A and then to Target. We bought candy and swords....went home and had a sword fight. What more could you ask for?

Grace

Faith

Addi

I read a quote the other day (probably on facebook....because lets face it, that's the only reading I do these days) that really made me think.

What if you woke up tomorrow with only the things you thanked God for today.

Wow! I would not have much left.....and I would be missing the things I am most thankful for!

I need to focus on my blessings! God has put me in this difficult situation for a reason. It is difficult for me to see it, but I want to try to follow the path that has been set for me with a joyful heart. So here is the start of my journey towards a thankful life......

Jeremy and I did not start our relationship in church....or with God for that matter. But our path came to a dead end....and right in front of us was God.

We bought our home (which to some was a crazy move). So we had this home that had been in foreclosure, we had months of plans for it and we still had our other house, which I don't think we even had listed yet. On top of this stress, our marriage was shaky at best. The truth about marriage is that it is HARD! The truth about blending families is that it is even HARDER! However, this single decision to buy this house changed our family and relationship.

Our new neighbors mentioned their church in passing. A very small church going through changes, First Baptist Church of Bedford. One Sunday we decided to give it a try........you know it's a fit when for the first month I cried every Sunday and Jeremy left saying "I think this sermon was specifically for me". Not only did this house (ok really God) give us awesome neighbors but it lead us to our church. Our neighbors also invited us to a small group bible study they were starting at their home. Life changer! We now have a group of friends that we absolutely love! We are so very blessed! We have since joined the church (if you know me...this is a gigantic step....moving away from my Dad's church!) and have recently started hosting the small group at our home. Somehow they also talked me into leading the study on Revelation....really no pressure God....no really I won't stress out about it. hahaha

Okay Brook, do you have a point? Why yes I do.....

I am so thankful God has a plan for my life. I can't do this on my own. I am so thankful for my awesome neighbors and my wonderful church family and small group friends. I am so thankful for a preacher that is a walking example for my husband. I am so thankful that God can forgive me for my semi stubborn attitude....okay over the top stubborn attitude.

It's amazing to me that a simple conversation with a neighbor can change your life!

CVS Savings

2011-07-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I love, love, love coupons! Why not save money........on things you need ***very important :)

Yesterday I went to CVS.......here is what I purchased

First transaction was $30.88 minus $10.83 in CVS Savings (on sale stuff).......then I used $14.25 in coupons.....paying $5.80 plus tax.

I received $10.99 in Extra Bucks and Coupons

Second transaction my purchase was $29.05 minus CVS deals $5.28 and used $11.89 in coupons......then I used my EBs $10.99........paying $0.89 plus tax!!! Whoo Hooo

And......I received $10 in EBs!!!!!

Sooooo I purchased $59.93 total, was out of pocket $7.32 and have $10 extra!

CVS paying me $2.68 to buy $60 worth of items is great with me :)

I have thought about posting my shopping lists so everyone can save......let me know if you are interested :)

And share with me your savings!

Cheese

2011-06-27T11:55:00.000-07:00

Just a little update in photos.....

Faith would love to be a ballerina

Ryan and Destinee at Graduation

yay!!

Ryan with MeMe and Leonard at Baccalaureate

Boys.........thanks for the bunny ears ;)

Ivy Cutting

Mom and Ryan

A wax figure of Ryan

Trying to fit in some park time

Fabulously Frugal Friday

2011-05-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

Destinee and Ryan

2011-05-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

I took some engagement pictures of Destinee and Ryan this weekend. They are so dang cute!! It was a ton of fun!

Haha this makes me laugh every time!!

New Adventures

2011-05-04T08:38:00.000-07:00

New Adventures of Addison

Loving Golf

First Day of Early Preschool!!!!!!!

Lots of love and praise from Gee on her first day of school :)

Having the apple and the apple cookie after school....and of course in the swing that she never gets out of !!! seriously

Ranger Game

Before the game even started she poured our lemonade all over my hotdog, kicked a few people and made friends next to us. Lucky for us there was a short rain delay in the third so we headed home :) Next time we need to buy at least two extra seats!

This look pretty much sums up all the wonderful two year old things we are going through. (you know exactly what I mean)

Loving our little bug!!!

Did you know?

2011-04-04T06:21:00.000-07:00

Did you know that a 2x6 isn't actually 2x6?

Did you know that a framing square is actually a triangle?

Oh the fun things I learned this weekend! :)

We are redoing the deck that's outside our master.......(on the second floor).....fun times during our first decking experience.

My original idea was to put iron in the center on the panels.....but I might paint the original bars black for now....just to see what I like.

I am pleased so far. It is so much safer feeling. Jer brought my lounge chair out last night (I truly could have fallen asleep out there)!

Entrada

2011-04-01T12:05:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I have been working at Entrada (Jeremy's company)....because they are so very busy! Thank you God! I will be the first to admit....I love working here! Well I just wanted to share a few of my favorite jobs!

Happy Birthday Faith and Grace!!!!

2011-03-30T06:52:00.000-07:00

My little monkeys are 6!!!! Let me say this again.....6!!!! 6 years old! I am overwhelmed with the thought of that.....I can still feel all the emotions that I had on the day I found out I was having twins.....7 weeks along. The love I have for my baby girls is unmeasurable......I have no words to describe it. It sounds so cliche, but I literally feel their joy and pain.....that indescribable bond! Birthday Morning.....smiling pancakes and candles

they picked out the fabric and helped make their birthday outfits

And of course.....Chuck E Cheese (that is the only thing they wanted to do....mainly because of the ticket booth)

Addi had a blast....she told me yesterday that she was going to a party at Chuck E Cheese :)

Jeremy surprised them with more tokens!!!

Kitchen Help!!!!

2011-03-23T15:40:00.000-07:00

Okay....here are some pics of my kitchen......in all it's dirty glory! ;)

Cinnamon Sugar walls....dark iron

dining table is dark too

I am really glad we did the ceilings the same color as the walls....but the combination of the dark cabinets, floors and walls just isn't doing it for me.

I am thinking of doing all the cabinets distressed ivory and leaving the bottom half of the bar area stained....give you the island look maybe???? I also want to put glass in the doors on the three cabinets you see in the pic

OK.....so you know we worked hours....no really days.....OK in reality...weeks on our kitchen cabinets. Well, I am not entirely happy. I fell like it is too dark....dark stained cabinets, dark slate floor, caramel walls and ivory trim.....(will post a pic later). So....as Jer rolls his eyes....I would love to lighten it up a bit. What do you think of two toned cabinets? HHHHEEELLLPPPP! I really would like some input!

Go Stars!!!

2011-03-21T15:16:00.000-07:00

Faith and Grace are playing soccer this year......gggoooo Stars!

We stayed in a hotel on Friday night before their soccer game in San Antonio.....needless to say, all three girls thought it was the coolest thing we have ever done! hahaha

Where's Addi?....you ask

Addi is my little 2 year old going on 6! I will definitely post more pictures later when I am at my computer (at work)

We have a lot of "she touched me!"

and some of these.......

don't you just love terrible twos :) (she is requiring a lot of extra Mommy time and love....which is kinda awesome)

Killing Time.....

2011-02-17T17:01:00.000-08:00

I had big plans of downloading a few things from my phone while I waited for Jer (we are still at work)....but my phone died....so this is all you get....

A BIG salute :)

Addison in Wonderland

2011-01-17T18:36:00.000-08:00

Our little girl is 2!!!!! Can you believe it?

Saturday we had her birthday party, Addison in Wonderland. She had a blast!!!

Birthday Girl

I made "Eat Me" picks for the cupcakes and cake balls, and "Drink Me" signs for the glasses. We had tea pots, stop watch and a rabbit hole.

I also made a ribbon topiary for the first time....I think it turned out really cute!

Who needs a fork? Just dive in!!

The Tickle Me Elmo reaction was a mix between pure joy and terror :) She was hilarious with it!

Shannon and Aunt Kel sent a huge cookie bouquet....it was a big hit!

Again.....just dive in...not very patient :)

I made goodie bags for all the kiddos....I embroidered their initial on them....but what was the big hit? Yep...the glasses and fake mustaches

You could say the birthday girl played hard!

Mom and I are running a 10k in February....so i need to get ready! We ran 3 miles on Sunday and tomorrow I am getting up at 5:30 to run again :) Good night!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T19:13:00.000-08:00

Hello....

2010-11-18T16:28:00.000-08:00

We have been working non-stop at the house. In fact, Thanksgiving will be a day of work for us.....and Gee and Grumpy :)

Since I haven't blogged in a while, I have so much to catch you up on....so here goes.

Our Target started carrying groceries, which is great! Until tonight....I just opened my sweet baby greens for my salad....and what do I see...mold...everywhere. Disappointed....so I have strawberries, almonds and feta cheese...nice :)

Yesterday I was standing in line at The Children's Place and the ladies behind me were talking quite loudly. The conversation went something like this, "Go on Facebook and find my friend...she had 4 eggs implanted...that is just crazy we only had 3 done and I would go no higher than that....with the 3 that I had implanted, we got twins and I was soooo sick...just miserable...thank goodness only one kept...I felt so much better (one child in the stroller)....we still have 6 frozen, I am thinking of only doing 2 next time.....you start getting higher than that and the chances of having multiples is great....just crazy...too sick with multiples". Anyways, something like that. I was about to go nuts.... First, I started missing the girls like crazy!!!! I mean to tears! Second, I wanted to beat the fire out of the lady for talking about multiples like it is the plague....and like babies coming into the world is something you can toy with....like they aren't sweet babies.... Well, I will not go any further into this conversation, it just really upset me. Just know that there are people in this world that would love to have twins, triplets even quads. Not everyone has the luxury of selecting the number of children they have or don't have. I said lots and lots of prayers during and after this conversation, for all of my dear friends that have children (any number) and for the ones that have suffered a loss.

Ok, on a lighter note, the house is coming along!!! We have started packing and will start moving things over Thanksgiving!!!

Here is the powder bath.....I did a copper/bronze color on the wall with a granite finish, lighter granite counters and a white vessel sink to lighten things up. I did the floors first of this week (talk about a sore back)....we were going to do whole tiles, but I really love the way the mosaic turned out! And I was able to use left overs :)

The last coat of poly was put on the wood floors today. This is the sitting room....was originally going to be blues and grays...but those colors moved upstairs :)

The only furniture we have purchased or really need to purchase right now is for this room. This is the chaise and sofa I picked out :)

Yes a little swanky...but it's my room, I can do what I want :) haha Jer helped pick them out too!!

Upstairs bath...kind of my left over room. I used the grass cloth I had left from the master bath...Jer and Grumpy framed the original mirror, Gee and I painted the existing cabinets and we put up a piece of "seconds" granite.....and I am so pleased!

Addi in her "Go Frogs" shirts....worn especially for Cody and Liz :)

I finished Addi's Indian shirt for Thanksgiving :) If anyone needs anything embroidered for the holidays, Children's Place is having a steal of a deal on plain tees!!!

Well, the fish people are about to be here to look at the tank (it's being moved tomorrow) so I guess I will stop the randomness :)

Halloween Fun!

2010-11-01T13:47:00.000-07:00

My little bug had tons of fun this Halloween! Gee, Grumpy, Cody and Liz came over and we headed to Grapevine's festivities on Friday. (way too crowded for me!!)

Mommy and bug

Giving Daddy that look...

Her first piece of candy!!!

All she wanted to do was this hamster ball.....she was the smallest by an entire head!! hahaha it was too cute!

Cody, Addi and Liz

We hope everyone had a wonderful Halloween weekend......

and no way I can pass this up......

SIC 'EM BEARS!!!!!

Pumpkin Patch Fun!!!

2010-10-25T13:07:00.000-07:00

Gee and I took Addison to the Pumpkin Patch in Flower Mound.......needless to say she had a blast. We also ran into Emily, Claire and Jacob!

Cutest little ghost!!

I put together little Halloween baskets for Faith and Grace...and our soon to be new neighbors Aiden and Sierra.

She loved, loved, loved the merry go round

You can see what she thought about the bounce house....

Addison and Mommy.....she was a little overwhelmed when we first got there :)

State Fair

2010-10-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

I picked up Gaga on Friday and we headed to the fair! It was a very interesting trip......Gaga got attacked (OK not that dramatic) by an Emu.....we ate a corn dog, fried caramel, funnel cake and a fried Frito pie!

Best of all, when we were walking to the car (we parked in $5 parking, so you can imagine what it was like....by the tracks) we hit a bump and our drink splashed out....Janet said "I think a little got on Addi".....hmmm nope she was soaked! We had to walk with the tracks across the street, so I carried Addi while Janet pushed the stroller......once we were across I noticed we had lost a shoe. I turned to go back and noticed it on the track....not 2 seconds later did the arms lower down and the train came barreling by, smashing and tossing our little black shoe.

Addi made the comment to close the night...."bye, bye shoe....bye, bye". hahaha Never dull!

some animals

she loved the big elephant statue.....running to it and latching to the leg :)

we spent a lot of time in the petting zoo

Gaga allowed her to be more adventurous....

Sic 'em Bears!!!

Watching the parade....she clapped and clapped!

there were 4 officers on break by the huge Baylor truck

staring contest with Gaga

we loved the floats

Going home :) surprisingly she didn't even fall asleep in the car!

Clarification

2010-10-06T15:30:00.000-07:00

Just to clarify, the inappropriate comments were made on my previous post, "Play Date". Just pictures at the park. Therefore, implying that I brought this on myself by posting inappropriate pictures is ridiculous! Because some readers look at my girls and have immoral thoughts, I am making my blog private. I am very disappointed.....I was hoping to share Dad's sermons, etc. with everyone...not just family and friends. I will consider starting another blog with no pics to share those things. I will have to start over on my followers, so I will send an email out if I have your address....if not, email me sbrookbell@yahoo.com.

It is my belief that I am not qualified to judge others..... their thoughts, feelings or actions. It is not my place. I am perplexed by this sense of god-like entitlement. We are seeing this everywhere; look at the homosexual community.....people are being judged and ridiculed and it is pushing them to DEATH. It is my opinion that the "Christians" that are picketing funerals of homosexual individuals, etc are pushing people further away from faith. Why would someone want to believe in God when "his people" are hateful, hurtful and judgemental.

Your words hurt people...they do not help! If you have a cause that you want to support, that is wonderful, but make sure you have enough information and know how to pursue your goals, not push people away and look crazy doing it.

A few years ago, your negative comments would have me second guessing my abilities as a Mom. But today, I look at my three little girls and I am proud of what they are becoming. I am proud the of values and freedoms we have taught them. I am their cheerleader and protector and will do both with all of my heart.

Thank you for all of your support ladies (it's always something.....just like to keep it entertaining) :)

Winky!!!

2010-10-05T07:05:00.001-07:00

There once was a kitten named Winky
The girls promised, "Mommy it won't be stinky".

Gaga teased and tantalize,
trying to get Mommy to finalize,
an answer but Daddy said no

They said their heart would be broken
at the answer that was unspoken
....Gaga I am working on changing that, you know.

-----------------------------------------------

hahaha that's my poem about the cutest little kitten, Winky (who lives with Gaga) :)

If you didn't know, I have a little girl that likes attention :)

Faith

had to watch her every move

Grace

Faith

Addi bug

loving on Uncle Ryan.....didn't like the flash :) Ryan just woke up and was bombarded! lol

look how cute and fussy Winky is!!!

On a different note, I am considering ending my blog. I checked my comments yesterday, and had to delete several very very very inappropriate comments. Asking me to post certain pictures and starting off by saying "sorry for this comment....we are drunk"....

The purpose of this is to share with family and friends, but it seems that some pictures have been taken way out of the realm of (my) normalcy.

Does anyone else received random or inappropriate comments? Am I posting things that make me more susceptible?

I am not going to tolerate the awful comments about my sweet girls any longer!

Play Date....

2010-09-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

I left for Houston on Sunday and came home Tuesday....Jeremy left for New Mexico on Wednesday and is coming home tonight = crazy week!

Addi has had many special play dates with Mommy. We walked around the mall, Southlake and Wal-Mart :) We also played at the park......

and went home soaking wet!

They installed the wood floors today....they will sit for a few weeks and then be sanded and stained. Lots of progress on the house....we are doing so much ourselves, it takes a while :)

Hi Boys...

Three Day "Work" Weekend!

2010-09-06T20:39:00.000-07:00

We worked all weekend on the house! Gee and Grumpy (Sharon and Don) came over and the boys hung trim and the girls did wallpaper, paint and accessories....and we tore down door units :)

The girls room is going to have a light turquoise headboard with melon and turq accessories on brown walls.....so I would love to have this chandelier by Marjorie Skouras....but not in the budget for the kiddos room....so came the craft project. :)

Found the shape......

had lots of help

painted plastic (cheap) beads :)

work in progress....slowly taking shape

I think the total on this was $15 (Lowes gave me the basket for free!!!) I think the outcome will be cute in their room....I am going to hang it in-between their beds.

Grumpy has also finished our dining table....we loved the ceiling in their office....lots of beautiful trim, so we flipped it over and that's where the table idea came from :) all we need to do is stain it!

On Sunday, everyone was down for late afternoon "quiet time" aka nap time.....I had a snuggle partner that didn't think it was a good idea for me to take a nap :) I did enjoy having Dixie around this weekend! FYI - I didn't fix up all weekend (except for the TCU game) so excuse the pic

My sweet baby girls! Taken on my phone today :)

House Updates

2010-09-01T20:28:00.000-07:00

Laundry Room Door

Door in the master leading to the office

Stair rail

Gameroom

Doors in the office looking into the master

Just a little update in pics :)

I Feel Pretty....Oh So Pretty

2010-08-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

I sat her on the counter to do her hair.....lets just say she really liked it :)

Making faces in the mirror.....silly face...happy face :)

It has been a crazy day.....

While I was rushing to put on my jeans and top, Addi was being "crafty"...

Thank goodness for polish remover!

She also painted her toes purple and dumped out an entire bag of baked chips....man I am glad it is nap time :) She is a mess!!

Pig Tails!!!

2010-08-27T21:08:00.000-07:00

Just a few pics from the last two days....

We can now have pig tails and we are loving them! She says, "Two bows.....pretty!"

Taking after Daddy

Addi sitting in the flower bed....why you ask....just trying to get a drink out of the sprinkler head

I found the cutest black and white dress at Target. So I spruced it up a little....name, bows and rhinestones :) Addi loved it!

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. We will be putting up trim and making headboards. Gee and Grumpy are coming over and Meemaw is watching Addison :)

When I Remember My Favorite Things

2010-08-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

It has been a tough 24 hours.....

Addi has been sick...fever and fussy. Was up from 1:30am - 5am, then up for the morning at 7am....Mommy is tired! Ended up taking her to Care Now....we think it is a viral infection. Faith and Grace started Kindergarten today....I was not able to call tonight because we were at the doctors office. So I am not in the best of moods!

So I thought I would talk about my favorite things...."and then I don't feel...soooo bad".

In no particular order

Rizzoli & Isles - love it love it! Great show and I would pay to look like either one of them :) jk

iCarly - I know crazy! I love when the girls watch it....(I watch it without them too) It is addicting

Grape drink - so this the off brand Crystal Light grape flavor - I think it is awesome - kind of tastes like a grape medicine I had as a child - weird but I am hooked

Peanut Butter and Honey Sandwiches - I can't eat just one! I want to try peanut butter and fluff :) haha I am so healthy!

Honey and Oat Granola Bars - Sunbelt ones are awesome! I love honey and oats as a natural sweetener.....teas, desserts, etc. Jer says I am strange....and?

Target girls clothes - so cute!! I could go crazy for all of us! Walmart is starting to carry some really cute ones too.....and so inexpensive

Fabric - I am nuts when it comes to fabric...I say, "I can use this for something..."

I will think of more later...I know you are so interested :)

Now my real favorite things :)

Eating ice cream at the pool.....

Jumping at DeDes.

Good night all!

Dixie

2010-08-17T22:35:00.000-07:00

We have a new addition to the family....Dixie Belle aka Dixie Cup. Ryan, Addi and I went to the Dallas Animal Shelter and found the most wonderful, precious, crazy lab. She is awesome! She can sit, shake, doesn't jump on you unless you want it and is potty trained. I love her! (and I secretly want her to love me the most!) Ryan and Mom will have so much fun with her.

Addi and I meeting Dixie to see if she we wanted her.

Ryan of course was the decision maker :)

I will say, she really likes stuffed animals! and shoes...and raw biscuits...and quesadillas...and toddler food....and suckers (dum dums)

She has also encouraged Addison to explore new options...

On Monday morning, I left Dixie and Addison in my room so I could step into the bathroom to brush my teeth. I heard a commotion in the office and I found about 15 shoes on the floor and this........

Okay...it does not take long to brush your teeth....seriously!

I will say I miss that dog! I am headed to Meridian tomorrow so I will get to play for a while.

When we go to Target Faith and Grace love getting Icees. Well yesterday they won a bet with Jeremy so all the girls got to go to Target and pick out a bouncy ball and their favorite drink. On the way home Grace yelled, "Mommy, I have neck freeze!" I of course contained my laughter and said, "neck freeze?" "Yes, that is when your neck gets so cold you absolutely cannot drink anything else....it's frozen!" (brain freeze maybe?)

Oh and...they picked out the biggest bouncy balls I have ever seen! I had three of them in my car...flying and bouncing everywhere....they are so big it covered Addi's entire body when she held it in her lap. Never dull!

From the Eye of my Phone :)

2010-08-12T21:08:00.000-07:00

Did this faux finish in the guest bath...think we are doing it in the wine room too.

Okay...I have been looking for a dog for Ryan and Mom...and I found a few I need! I am a sucker for shelter dogs!! Right now Jer says no...sigh...

look at his name...it's fate!!!

I could snuggle up with this little pouch!

Look at these chairs...just saw them a TJ Maxx....very cool and crazy! :)

And I wonder why she is randomly hyper....she climbs up the bar stools onto the counter and into the candy dish...hahaha smart cookie

Tried to video her new dance...instead she lets everyone know how awesome my cooking really is!

We picked up Ryan...this was her reaction....she loves her Uncle Ryan! (see how she snakes out of her seat belt)

Last Week

2010-08-02T05:30:00.000-07:00

A little park time...

Chasing her shadow

Jeremy and I had a date night (Addi had some MeeMaw time)

Enjoying a little food :)

The Bell stand-off :)

Mom had this pic on her phone....I love it!!!

And a little baseball. Ryan had a playoff game on Sunday...

Addi helping Daddy install the wine gate.

"Now Dad you need to make sure it is level"

You see the plaster and paint all over her!! She is into everything!

Long Overdue

2010-07-28T20:37:00.000-07:00

This post has been on the verge of exploding out of me for months, so after a quick dinner discussion with Jeremy about my High School and College experiences, I decided it is time. (Not to mention that every prayer or quite time I have, this topic pops up).

I will never wish to trade my childhood. Growing up in a small town made me appreciate family, friends, neighbors and privacy. :) Growing up around grief made me appreciate each day. Growing up after I was already “grown” made me appreciate each minute.

I am a person that very easily forgives…I do have a problem with the forgetting part. I can still remember exact moments in high school when things were said about me or people did things to intentionally hurt me. Stupid things…..diet, body, picnic table writings, pictures…..stupid high school things. Don’t get me wrong, I have zero negative feelings about those moments, I just remember them. Because I do, it is very important for me to choose my actions and words very carefully. I think that is one reason I hesitate to post this, because it brings to light my imperfect life.

My divorce situation has caused lots of grief for me. I am not saying the actual divorce…yes that really sucked….but I mean the aftermath. I have had family, friends and acquaintances judge my decisions, friendship and mothering skills. I have even had “Christian” friends not be able to hang out with me because of my divorce and all. I have said a thousand times…..one should NEVER judge…you never know what others have been through.

So I am going to give everyone a small glimpse of what I have been through. I would be lying if I said this wasn’t for me at all….just typing it gives me a sense of freedom. I know a few years ago I felt trapped and lonely, I sincerely hope hearing a fraction of my story helps someone that might be feeling the same way.

I could type for days….so if this sounds choppy it is because I am having a hard time condensing my feelings. But here we go.

For about three years I had this reoccurring dream….I would be watching my life from a distance, very specific things that happened to me. Every time I was crying and felt panic, then I would look to my side and my dad would be standing there. All he said was, “it is going to be okay Shelia B”. That’s it, every single time. I would wake up, cry a little, make it through a few more days and have the dream again.

A few years ago I found myself in a very foreign situation. I was surrounded by sadness, confusion and fear. It wasn’t until I “fell” on the bathroom floor (that’s what he said in court), very pregnant; that I realized I needed help. I promised my babies (belly at the time), that I would be the best protector and Mommy I could be. I spoke with a counselor, only to hear “Brook, don’t walk…run”. I am not joking…I really thought she would fix it. I read a lot of books about women in my situation….I would hide them under the couch but one was found and a comment about how he never put me in the hospital was made. Right, only once did I think he broke my arm. Looking back I realized how ridiculous it was!

After I had enough, things got a little crazy. Changing locks, retraining orders, 911 calls, the whole nine yards. I actually had the cops tell me they had to, almost literally, see him harm me to do anything….(kind of what I was trying to prevent). I even had to explain to my 2 year olds that Mommy was not going to ‘go to sleep and never wake up’. What kind of person says that to babies!! I had family, friends, attorneys and law enforcement fearing for my life and watching the house constantly. At this point, I was just pissed.

I have tons and tons of stories that I could tell about the physical, emotional and sexual abuse I went through and surprisingly enough I am happy to tell them. Why? Because these things made me the person I am today. I have been a struggling single mom, a successful working mom and the crazy lady crying on the cereal isle. (I didn’t know which cereal to buy…oh yeah…I’m serious).

Unfortunately, in the end, money won. Judge and jury decided that because he had a lot of money, he would be the best person to decide which school they could attend “custodial parent”. It’s amazing…because of baseball he wasn’t there when they were born or babies or toddlers…in fact he lived with them for less than 6 months total out of 3 years, but money wins. They didn’t deny the abuse or need for a restraining order but said that kids with more money are better off. Yep he did have a lot more money than me….can’t change that. They also said the harassment, abuse and need or “police involvement” was because he wanted his wife back so badly. I had an attorney say, “Brook, sometimes people enjoy watching a ‘princess’ fall”. Well, funny thing, I am not a princesses and facts are facts....I guess it is all in perception. I have erased this last paragraph 10 times but I want to share this because I am still living this. I still get crazy voicemails and text messages calling me names. I still have serious conversations with my girls that I shouldn’t be having. I will say that everyone is now on their best behavior, so the girls have the best of both worlds with Mommy and Daddy.

I am experiencing a normal marriage now with a wonderful husband and awesome little baby girl that already thinks her sisters are much cooler than mom. I am loving life, and taking in the good and bad. I have made it through my Lifetime movie.

I want to share these things because I am tired of hiding. I am sincere in saying that I don’t feel sorry for myself or type this for pity. I want only good to come out of my situation and experiences. I have put off a volunteer application for a local center for abused women and children because I was afraid I would have to share my story….well now my whole world knows…so what do I have to lose. If you know anyone that can benefit from my story or needs someone to listen please don’t hesitate to contact me. I will be happy to listen and share.

I know this goes without saying, but I love my family so very much! It is amazing the sacrifices they made for me! Focus on the blessings and the hard times will seem so small.

progress not perfection :)

2010-07-13T20:11:00.001-07:00

Well...a little perfection here :) Man she has been a little terror lately! She doesn't hold back....wonderful terrible twos!!

Helping with laundry!

Remember the awesome turq in the laundry room???

Well, Jer hated it! So now three wall are brown and the back wall with the sink is my blue :) At least I have an accent of color

The living room has all of that paneling. We are painting it a tawny color and staining the built-ins and wet bar. I am very pleased with the outcome!!! (Sure is taking a while though!)

This weekend Mario's crew is coming out and demoing several walls. We are actually knocking out a lot more than we originally planned....and I am really excited to see the outcome. We are also turning the "pantry" into a wine closet. I think Jeremy is bringing the wine gate home this weekend too. I should have lots of progress pics Sun :)

Before / During

2010-07-07T21:55:00.000-07:00

Just a few progress pictures....

Remember the "to die for" pear wallpaper?

Well, it's gone :) We textured the walls...the finished product will be more of a Tuscan orange. Doesn't your kitchen counter look like this?? Sandals, trash, paint thinner and soccer ball...

We also sanded all the cabinets and stained them darker. We are lacking knobs, trim, windows, sink and oven.

I don't have a good before of the laundry room. Before you see the "in progress pic", let me warn you, it is a little bright. I was a little excited at Lowe's without Jer. :) I love, love, love turquoise....I can't help it! Any shade! So Jer left for New Mexico and I went on a turquoise mission :)

It came out brighter than I planned, but it is so fun when you walk in. This room will have a lot of traffic from the pool and for laundry, so it might as well be happy :) I am going to tie in the orange from the kitchen....maybe window treatment and knobs ???

not great pics, but you can kind of see the progress

(to whom it may concern)....wink, wink (yep, I'm a little tired or maybe it's the paint ...who knows)

.....because we were talking about distressed kitchen cabinets, here is a pretty pic from Cottage Home Decorating. And a really great article about refinishing cabinets :)http://www.remodelingmyspace.com/kitchen/kitchen-cabinets/how-to-antique-your-kitchen-cabinets.htm

Before / After #1

2010-06-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

Before...

The truck, chain, Ryan and Jeremy pulled all the bushes out and we started re-landscaping!

Of course the plants are small now, but we left room for growth :)

After...

The guys worked so hard (Ryan was a huge help!!!) I think progress is being made :)

Bedrooms that Inspire

2010-06-14T22:14:00.001-07:00

Here are a few pics that will be my inspiration for the girls room and the guest room.

I am going to use my favorite....turquoise.

I love it paired....orange, yellow, pink....

I really like this softer turq. and the light trim.

This is my front runner....the room will have no headboard to begin with (although I am tempted to reproduce this one!!) Look at the lighting!!! Awesome! The pink touch is perfect.

When I showed Faith and Grace the pics, this was their choice....very princess they said! ;)

I will probably combined a lot of these elements

The guest room will have all black furniture, so I am wanting to add a little pop of color. I am loving melon/cherry and yellow

To make if versatile, I am thinking about going with a neutral wall, and making the curtains, bedding and accents the splash of color

Our furniture is much heavier than this, but loving the color!

Well I can't sleep as usual, so I thought I would share :)

This old hag...

2010-06-11T12:47:00.000-07:00

Oh....I mean house :)

This is the first room I want to share ideas about.....

Currently...dated wood waynes coating/wainscoting and built-ins, brick fire place and carpet.

Looking at the front door.....we are tearing down a wall in the entry...which takes out the beautiful shower in this bath....therefore, the left door with become a wider entry.

This is our inspiration.......dark blue walls, dark wood and light floors.....our furniture will be a little more traditional

My thought on the layout. Aquarium, two leather chairs in front of the fireplace and the game table by the window with the antique radio in the corner

And to humor you, my drawing....don't laugh...I'm not an artist!

We will do a really dark stain on the wood, the wall a navy blue (not 80s/90s blue) - sorry mom...hehe everyone I talk to or work with had that country blue :) and the light floors....probably travertine....rectangle tiles.

What do you think??? I'm still trying to decide too :)

Park Pictures

2010-06-09T13:30:00.001-07:00

Just a few park pictures.....

Dino had a very eventful day :)

Yep it's that hot!

Are we crazy???

2010-06-07T16:35:00.000-07:00

Maybe a little......

so here's the new house.....haven't closed yet (inspection is Wed)

Our goal....trees, yard, pool, try to get as close to our current size.

So we found this....total updating needed ;)

need total landscaping

builder loved built-ins :)

Addi checking out the storage space ....aka hiding places

sitting area off master....

office.....may be gameroom

going to knock out that wall to make the entry larger

living room

I've saved the best for last.....the pool

hahaha....ok it's coming out. This is actually in a bricked in courtyard on the left side of the house. So our plan is to dig this "bathtub/pool/pond" thing out, make this the play area and put a pool out back.

To say the least, we have a fixer upper :) I am going to be giving myself an interior design workshop......I will be posting my progress and room idea....I would love some input....seriously!!!

hmmmm

2010-06-07T15:48:00.000-07:00

I did delete a couple of comments referring to me as an idiot and talking about my girls private parts....(in not so nice words). I have not posted inappropriate pics of my girls on my blog, nor will I. They do not wear make up......with the exception of face paint. I am done with you stupid people! I will not delete my blog and I will continue to share my opinions and pictures with those of you that wish to view it. If you don't like it, don't read it.

For all of you moms out there.....you are doing a great job! Being a mom is hard...whether you work at home or away. (By the way...we have more education in our pinky toe than you....anonymous poster)

I am hoping to post some pics of the new house....yep...new(well, not so new) total fixer upper :)

Until then.....

For the Record

2010-05-30T22:16:00.000-07:00

Quite an interesting ride we are on with my last post. Interesting opinions we have and funny how the topic took a turn. So "for the record", I am not pimping my children and I am not going to post naked pics of myself :) So there you have it. I do not think I have posted anything that is inappropriate and my sweet girls will learn to respect others, opinions and themselves; and they will know what being "beautiful" is all about.

On another note, our house is for sale!!!! I know crazy! We got this idea in our head, and we are running with it! (not really surprising if you know us very well) If you know anyone looking in the Grapevine area, send them our way!!! We are very excited about all the opportunity and change happening.

I wish everyone a wonderful holiday weekend!!!

Want to piss me off???

2010-05-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

Apparently one person did. I received this lovely comment on my post about camping outside and painting the girls toenails.

Anonymous said...

Is this a kind of American lifestyle? To start the human make-overs in time? You paint the toenails on children and teach them that natural beauty is not enough? You teach the girls that they are girls and need to pimp up their looks? Breast implants planned for when? Collagen lips? What make-up are they going to wear and when is it time to put on cheek implants? I thought Heidi Pratt was something negative and unique but with mothers like you I fully understand why girls in US never feel pretty enough. Their fucking mothers teach them that they aren´t pretty enough and need improvement and it starts when the girls are toddlers. Shame on you!!! Shame on you!! Shame on you!!!

My comments....you ask???

Shame on you for judging situations you have no idea about. Implants and collagen....seriously? Did you see the pictures of me....all natural buddy! Birthmarks, blemishes and definitely not blessed up top :) I have lots of imperfections....huge red birthmark, no calf muscles, big feet, plump nose, hips....do I need to go on? If I were concerned about what is "beautiful", I would drive myself crazy....in fact, if I were concerned about what people like you think, I wouldn't have made it through high school! "Mothers like me" paint toenails because its fun.....do you think I told them they needed to "pimp their looks" so lets do rainbow colors on your toes...you idiot!!!! "Mothers like me" put make up on my girls so that we can have a circus (zebra and cheetah)....no, I forgot, I told them we had to impress the other shoppers at Target!

I have three little girls that are absolutely beautiful!! Not because they have green and pink polish on their toes, but because they are kind and caring. They will grow up knowing that "ugly" people make stupid and judgemental comments. You should learn a lesson from my little girls......everything is pure and simple for them. You wear a dress because it's comfortable and doesn't itch; you paint your nails because "I am going to be an artist Mommy!"; you brush your hair and teeth because it "makes them sparkle" and is good for you!!!

Everyone likes to feel confident....whether you get that from getting your PhD or a face lift...who cares!! Thousands and thousands of people make the decision to get breast implants...whether it is because of vanity or after breast cancer...I say go for it girl! I don't think it is any ones business to judge their decision.

I sincerely feel sorry for you. Your comments are worse than what you loathe.

Please stay off of my pretty little blog!

hmmm....think I might want to be a little plumper up top :)

Photo Update

2010-05-09T19:23:00.000-07:00

Arlington Relay for Life.....

Addison would not stop looking at Major Cluck.....it was funny!

Addi running from me :)

Daddy keeping her "contained"

Ryan was named Pitcher of the Year at his college!!!!!!

Mom, Ryan and Meme

Mother's Day Weekend.....lots of playing!!

she was peeking around the tree saying "Boo"

Addi has to do what her sisters do....and they love it

And we got to wear our new swimsuits from Gee!!!

We ate all weekend...in fact, every pic someone has food on their face :)

on the way home....one of the only times she smiled....as many of you know she doesn't like riding!!

We are sleeping outside!

2010-04-03T17:33:00.000-07:00

Don't think that will last too long....

Jeremy joined in and made a fire and cooked hotdogs for everyone! I, of course, took pictures :)

Jer thought there was no way I was getting them painted....look at that :)

Miss Faith and Bear

Grace inside the tent

Addison inside the tent sharing food with Bear

The girls decided on rainbow colors for their toes

Birthday Snow!

2010-03-29T18:37:00.000-07:00

Five years old.....can you believe it! It's just crazy!!!! Last weekend we celebrated their birthday....all they wanted was to go to the Waffle Way....so we went and they surprised the girls with candles in their butter :) They were very excited! Then we took them to best buy...they helped pick out their new tv and movies. Then.....it snowed!!! I can't tell you how happy that made me....they have missed every snow here!!

Of course Addi is loving life :)

The birthday shirts I made them...

Watching their new tv....the funny part....

The scary part.....I guess Addi is "speak no evil"

Faith helped Daddy put the tv together

And the Birthday Snow!!!

You have to try it!!

I know...the hair is awesome...have you ever tried to get three girls ready to go out in the snow???? Nuts!

Miss Grace

Miss Faith

Guess what we had for dinner tonight???

Uncle Ryan!!!

2010-03-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

So I was going to type some silly baseball chant....but this might embarrass Ryan anyways so I don't want to push my luck :)

Check this out!!!!

http://www.mcphersonsentinel.com/sports/x99754038/CCC-gains-split

I am soooo proud!!!!

Not too sure about the March mustache but ya know....I will never understand boys.....Dad use to have "no shave" ski trips....it's a guy thing I guess :)

Love you Ryan!!!!!

Wacky Week

2010-03-10T21:47:00.000-08:00

After a wacky turn of events in life, I was offered a job today.....it only took them 4 interviews to decide :) I review my offer letter tomorrow morning so keep the fingers crossed and prayers coming!! I am so worried I am going to make the wrong decision....but how do you know until you have done it????

On a side note....Addi is still fascinated with unrolling the toilet paper without tearing it!! Today I turned the corner and found an entire line of toilet paper running out of her bathroom, down the hall, up the stairs into the entry. Jeremy and Daniel say that's skill :)

Additionally, I had a great time at dinner with two "unnamed" Bosque County ladies!!! I am glad we are all clear about "cans".....geeezz the aluminum ones you sickos......::wink::

Crazy Day

2010-03-03T16:33:00.000-08:00

So today Addi and I had lunch together and then decided to take a little stroll around the mall. I just wanted to spend some time with her and get away. And of course, by some miracle we ended up in a dressing room ;) OK so picture this I am undressed (I look like a super model hehehe) and Addi crawls underneath the dressing room door and runs!!! Crap what do I do....grace everyone with my pantied presence????? I threw on a top....long enough to be a dress and found her in a different room.....thank goodness no one was in there!!! While we were walking to the car I put on my sunglasses and they literally broke in half....one lens falling out. Nice. I get her all buckled in and start collapsing the stroller....will not happen. After a nice self conversation, the stroller ended up in the backseat with Addi fully open. Crazy Day!!

Yesterday we wore our Texas shirt just for Daddy :)

Miss A

2010-03-01T18:10:00.000-08:00

Sunday was a very relaxing day around our house......a little cleaning and a lot of Olympics.

We did find out that Addison loves Oreos........I wonder where she gets it????? hmmm not hard if you know my mom!!! All she would say was "peezz"

Of course before we could go to dinner with Gee and Grumpy we had to have a bath.....well actually shower, because she would not let me shower alone!!! Mommie! Mommie!!! So I let her shower too :) Needless to say, I was not ready when it was time to go....I know we have all done it, but it is not easy blow drying your hair with a 1 year old in your arms......

She did not like the pig tails, but I was able to keep the bows in :)

And today.......it was definitely one of those..."I am going to scream days" :) She is into everything!!! Does not like the word no.....and if you dare say it she responds ***sigh*** I will try to video the tantrum for your viewing pleasure !!!

New House

2010-02-21T08:26:00.000-08:00

ok ok it's not mine.......sigh

To be honest, I don't know what I would do with a house like this....it's crazy!!!

OK Jeremy is doing work in Louisiana on two houses.

On Thursday afternoon I found out Jer was heading back up to LA and was leaving at 2am.....so I went along :)

The guys putting the frame up for the second floor....on this house we are doing the steel frame too.... scared the crap out of me....I was so worried someone was going to get hurt....Jer looked at me like I was crazy!!!

This is the 10mil one....

The master bedroom trim...... I don't care for the bronze and yellow together, but I am sure it will all come together

The side view

The library!!!! The lowest ceiling in the house is 17 feet.....this one goes up about 2 1/2 stories

I want this room.....her craft room!!! The sewing machine has a device that lifts it up and down from inside the cabinet

Master bath....

I know.....but they are beautiful!

The house probably has 30 to 40 columns .....two on the inside go up the entire back glass wall

Jer's ironwork.... The stairs are not finished yet...but still beautiful....this ironwork is up both staircases in the entrance and all along the back balcony !

And the custom front door.....about 30 feet high!! The side doors match this too....I think they are beautiful!!!

The house is just awesome.....of course you need a theater, 4 kitchens and elevator..... The homeowners are extremely nice!!!! The husband was up on roof.....driving a forklift.....very active :)

Just wanted to share some pics of what Entrada has been up too :) He has been so busy lately....but busy is good!!!!

2010-02-14T12:49:00.000-08:00

So I redecorated our room....again :)

Before....yes I just posted a pic with my bed a mess and curtains tucked in the window...ya know :)

After....found these wall plaques for $8!! All I had to do was a little faux finish

I like a little funky touch....hehehe in the process of painting this I got a touch of blue paint on the carpet! Crap!!!

Still not finished...need to decided about throw pillows and such. Jeremy's favorite part of the new room is that we mounted the tv.....hmmmm....yeah...I mean that's cool and all.... :)

Brushing our teeth!!!!

OK....running from the bathroom.....must be going to tell mom we are out of tp.....you should have seen the ground!!

Already loving purses!!! :) Don't know where in the world she gets it?????

This is a restyle I just did for a client. Before......

After......always fun to have a new look for very little $. This pic is not the final...we were in review stage :)

A few more changes in my home....did a little entry table here because everyone uses the garage door :)

The entire time I was making this Jeremy was....."you are using feathers!!!! Why those little balls????" Well I personally like the stuff in it!!! :)

Working like a mad woman lately :) Right now just designing for clients and working insurance. Will update you all soon. Jer is headed to Louisiana today....will be home Wed.....going to be lonely around here!!!

All Time Update

2010-01-10T20:25:00.001-08:00

Well.....lets see........Jer and I just got back from Colorado (for Christmas I gave Jer floor tickets to the Nuggets/Cavs game) It was a blast....very relaxing :)

Addi had her first Christmas and 1st Birthday!!!! Can you believe it......a year old!!!! I know, I know...time flies when you're having fun!

Before the game.....we were on the first row!!! Birdman looked right at me...twice!!! Mr. James winked at me :) ok ok he didn't, but he looked my way!

Addi in Santa's lap for the first time!! I missed it....working sucks!! But Daddy, Gee and Uncle Cody made the Santa experience pretty darn fun!!!

Santa....aka Gee and Grumpy gave Addi her first car :) We stayed the night at their house on Christmas Eve.....we had an awesome Christmas....lots of food and presents!! :) And I got to sleep in :)

On Christmas late afternoon, we went to MeMe and Grandfather's house! More food and gifts :) Addi loves this rocker!!!

MeeMaw bought Addi a Dora for the bath and an Elmo that laughs when you shake it......these are now her babies. Baby....officially her favorite word! She was so funny when she opened them......(I have to get her new "evil" laugh on camera....it is hilarious)

Faith and Grace "peeked" at their presents when they were at DeeDee's house before Christmas....all they kept saying was "all I want is a green hippo Mommy!!!!" She knew what she was about to get!

Addison having a serious conversation with Faith :)

And we had CAKE......

Not so excited about the Birthday hat :)

All in all it has been very busy here!

We have a new mac and I haven't quite figured it all out yet....so if anyone has any advice on how to navigate and create publisher type files...I would greatly appreciate it :) Actually, any tips would be awesome!!

Holiday Pictures

2009-12-17T08:17:00.000-08:00

Addi and I went to the park to do a little photo session :) She was surprisingly cooperative !!!

I know I have been MIA.....just a little crazy here. Started a new job. Assistant Manager/Designer at Anderson's furniture in Allen. I love it! Of course....I can't complain.....interior design.....nope not complaining. If you have to work, it might as well be something that is girly and fun :)

I will try to be a better blogger friend! I am sure I have lots to share :)

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

I don't need a bath!!!

2009-11-20T19:01:00.000-08:00

All the girls love playing with that little medicine thing....can you believe we use to feed her with that!! This pic cracks me up.....

See all that hair!!!

Attributes

2009-11-16T14:30:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked what kind of experience or positive traits I possess.....it got me thinking.

I have never really been a "pink power/women rule/girls rock" kind of person......well here I go. I am freaking tired!!! "A woman's work is never done"....soooo true! Full time work, full time mom, cleaning, cooking, clients, dog, fish, children, laundry, dishes, decorating, entertaining, emails, claims, paperwork, phone calls....oh yeah...wife. Anyways, it's really not that bad, I am just really tired today :)

OK so here is my list:

I can.....
carry 7 grocery bags and a gallon of milk with one arm
open the back door with my pinky finger
close it with my heel
turn on the lights with my elbow
answer all of my clients questions while quietly loading the washer
hold a baby on changing table with knee while bending over to get the cream I dropped
put on "face" mirror less
keep up with the claim info I wrote on the trash in the diaper bag
cook dinner while keeping baby off the stairs and dog out of the kitchen
work in an office with two 4 year olds and a 10 month old boss
make the best chocolate milk ever
get a sleepy baby to sleep and answer emails simultaneously

....see....I am just having one of those days :) I wouldn't trade it for anything!

On a side note, this weekend I peered into the bedroom to see Jer vacuuming with Addi in a football hold and his eyes glued to the tv.

Thanks for listening :)

New Milestone

2009-11-10T20:50:00.000-08:00

Miss A is standing and taking steps on her own. She is going crazy!! Trying to run....seriously! She takes about 3 or 4 steps at a time....really, really fast steps. Of course, you have to clap each time :)

Grumpy made a new top and doors for the fish tank....he is so talented!

Go Frogs!!!
Uncle Cody and Liz bought Addison this adorable outfit.....of course, I had to have a little photo session. :)

A few pics of the girls from Halloween and Addi in one of her new Sunday dresses....

A Devil, Unicorn and Strawberry....

2009-11-04T13:19:00.000-08:00

Definitely fits their personalities :)

Here are a few pics from this past weekend.......

Friday Grapevine had their Halloween festivities downtown......bounce houses, face painting and candy. The girls did more trick or treating on Saturday!!!! It was such a great weekend!! However, I don't think I took one picture with eyes open :)

Butterflies

2009-10-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

I can't even begin to tell you how much fun we had this weekend! Mom came in and we took all three girls to the Butterfly Flutterby in Grapevine. With butterfly wings in tow, we released butterflies, ate popcorn, built teddy bears and took lots and lots of pictures!

I downloaded 102 pic just now, so I will share a few :) (Do you see the teeth?)

We enjoyed the sunny but cool weather today!!

Lazy Sunday

2009-10-11T12:41:00.000-07:00

Let me see those teeth!!

Oh how I love bath pictures!

A few pics from the last warm day (hopefully). She loves wearing her ruffle skirt. She also thinks it is hilarious to pull off the bows mommy puts on her. Isn't the rhinestone initial adorable! Jenifer (Bowkadots) made one for all three girls!

A Few Pics

2009-10-07T18:07:00.000-07:00

Today I tried to get some pics of Addi in one of my flower hats, but of course she wanted no part of it!! ;)

Here lately, Bear has really enjoyed sharing Addison's meals.....I was surprised he ate the peas tonight!

Loving the Weather

2009-10-06T16:24:00.000-07:00

Addi is loving her swing!!!! When it was really nice out, I opened the back door, put Addi in her swing and we just enjoyed the weather. She took a long snooze! Everyday since, she has taken a nap in her swing.

Friday night, Daniel, Logan and Chuck came over to play a little cards. Normally I'm right there taking all their money but of course I was drugged in bed :)

Addison is very intrigued by this drawer. After dinner we let her play a little.

Just a couple of videos I took yesterday. I am fully aware that I am partial, but she cracks me up!!!

October

2009-10-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

I love fall!!! I also love decorating the house for every season. However, I still can't convince Jer that we need some pumpkins for the front.......so this is all I have out right now :(

We have a big helper around our house. Whatever we are doing, she has to be right there with us. Don't misunderstand......she doesn't want to be with us......she wants to be in the middle of the action. She is a very nosey 9 month old!!

She would not let go. When Daddy tried to pick her up, the dishwasher went with her :)

So many outfits......so little time!

2009-10-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

That's why we started celebrating today!

Pouting because Mommy keeps putting this stupid headband on me.

Happy Halloween everybody!

haha Mommy, you aren't fast enough today to take this away from me!

Oops! MeeMaw is watching too

She loves the girls baby dolls! She does look at me crazy because I am always saying "bay-bee"

Addi has so many cute things for October....thanks to Gee and Mommy. We have done a lot of "she has to have this!"

3am Update

2009-10-01T01:23:00.000-07:00

I had to get up to take my pain meds, and of course I can't go back to sleep. So what better to do than give a little update :)

The surgery went very well. Considering I have had 5 surgeries on my belly, there was very little scare tissue. The doctor was pleased by the lack of "stuff" he found. I was not, because I wanted answers and a solution. Surprisingly, the large anomalies that we thought we would find....just disappeared. As Mom says, "It's all the prayer". The doc is hoping that the surgery and clean up with help, if not he will send me to a specialist.

As expected, I am very sore. Tonight has been tough because all the big mamma drugs have worn off.....but the orders of setting my alarm to take my meds have definitely helped. I have an awesome family (if you wanted to know)! MeMe, Mom and Jer took me to the hospital and brought me home, MeeMaw kept Miss A and I had countless phone calls! Mom made roast and veggies tonight!! She and Gee both are cooking for us tomorrow to get us through the weekend. .....I am secretly hoping something turns out bad because Jer can't get use to this good stuff :) Gee is coming over tomorrow. I just absolutely love my family and how close we are......really I do!

I am trying to talk Jer into thinking it is a good idea if I go to my meeting on Monday....we will see :) I did have to respond to two work emails a few hours after surgery.....I am terrified to read them.....sigh......who knows what I said!

I have been corrected about one think from my previous post......

The other day Grace went with GaGa (Aunt Janet) to an American Cancer Society function. Janet let her wear the purple survivor pin. She asked GaGa, "am I a survivor?". "Yes you definitely are Grace"! Then she preceded to tell everyone that she was a survivor including me. (this is the correction) She also stated that her favorite colors were orange, silver, rainbow and PURPLE....because she is a survivor! (not red unless it is in the rainbow) :)

I am drugged....I just did spell check and I probably had a dozen error.....hope I have made sense :)

Just a little pic of Grace in her rainbow swimsuit from Janet. You are right Janet...I love this pic!

Day at the park

2009-09-29T20:18:00.000-07:00

Since I won't be able to lift Addison for a while, I decided to spend a little "Mommy - Daughter" time at the park. This afternoon was also the first time I broke out the new "big girl" camera.

She did not like the hat!

Look at that.....a smile.

Oh....it's the yummy sticks you are eating!

Showing me patty cake

And of course her Miss Texas wave :)

She loved swinging! Mainly because she could watch all the other kids.

While you were out....

2009-09-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

well...Mom was home but the weekend was all about remodeling!!!!

For those of you who have not seen Mom's kitchen in a while, I will paint the picture for you.

Remember when I was in high school and junior high? Ya know, wooden counter tops......white walls......forest green blinds.....and of course the matching curtains, table, chairs, hutch, plates, glasses....all forest green :) OK now that you have that image....keep it.........that was her kitchen on Friday.

Well it was time for a little change! We changed the walls, counters, cabinets, doors, furniture and then I went through and decorated. We were also able to do a lot of spring cleaning.....

We stayed with green because as Grace says, "Green can't be my favorite color because it is Dee Dee's....that's why I like orange, silver and rainbow". The walls are a green apple lime green (make any sense?), the cabinets and door are a light ivory and the counter is now black. It looks so cute! You want to know the coolest part.....Mom, MeMe and I did the whole thing....we had a fun yet exhausting girls weekend!

I forgot my camera so the pics are from my phone.

I have the blinds and curtains coming. Mom finished attaching all the knobs.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I found out today that I will have surgery on Wednesday. A little rushed for me because I like to over research and analyze everything. This surgery will hopefully diagnose the problem. Right now they are not doing any type of "partial hysterectomy" that was talked about previously.....I am very thankful. Jer and I would like the option of having another baby, but we know we are so blessed if that is not in our cards. Right now they are going to do 4 procedures on Wednesday, I am really hoping this will be the only thing that needs to be done! But after Wed. we will have answers :)

Baby Girl

2009-09-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

Just a few new pics of my baby girl.......

Isn't this a great picture of Miss A and Gee!!! Addi was very happy because she was able to drink the diet coke out of the straw!!!!

She loves playing in our bath.

I'm sorry but naked baby bottoms make me smile!!!

Shelby loved being here for snack time.....nilla wafers....yummy!

Miss You!

2009-09-14T23:23:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to come visit!!!!! (Brooke moved to London)

Dear Brooke,

I am extremely happy you are able to be this world traveler and all....but who am I suppose to call when I do something really embarrassing or crazy or stupid.......maybe I just want to sing a little "shake your....." nevermind (another day for American Idol stories).

Well, found this pic...thought I would share :)

We are equal!

2009-09-14T20:19:00.000-07:00

Addison has been babbling for a while now. Ba ba ba ba ba. She will even copy "Bye Bye" and wave her hand.

Well.....I have been encouraging......"Addi say....Ma Ma....Ma Ma" Everyone knows she is a Daddy's girl. I mean a true Daddy's girl. Mommy is chopped liver.....seriously! It was very important that she at least throw me a little shout out.

So today what did she say...................................Da Da.

sigh

Of course I worked and worked when I got home......"Ma Ma.....Ma Ma"

She finally did it! (I think it was more of a "if I say it once will you please shut up Mom!")

So officially.....she said them both on the same day :)

Don't tell Jer, but I am so glad she is a Daddy's girl....that is such a special relationship!

First Punch

2009-09-13T18:56:00.000-07:00

Jer took Addi to bed tonight.

He walked back into our bedroom with bloody nose!!!!!

I am cracking up!!!! She apparently did not want to go to bed :)

Of course, it was an accident....just a little knee to the nose......oh...you never know what is going to happen in this house!

8 months old!!!

2009-09-09T15:39:00.000-07:00

We had a fun day! Miss A is set for winter!!!! Gee and I took Addison shopping........while we were out, we decided to get her pictures done :)

They turned out pretty darn cute......I am glad Gee said we hhhhaaaaavvvvveee to get them done!

So here are the proofs......Addi....8 months old!!!

Just relaxing....

2009-08-29T22:49:00.000-07:00

Didn't really do much today.....lots of lounging around in our comfy clothes ;)

Miss A hanging out with Dad on the deck.....and of course trying to take her bow out

While Jer and I were watching a movie the other night, I decided to get some things out and play...this is the finished product. Jer says it's too girly :)

Park Play

2009-08-26T18:01:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I took the three girls to the park last week......I love dressing them alike :)

OK....do you see the scrunchy on Grace's leg....she is starting a new trend....

This is how Miss A sucks her thumb :)

My three little angels

"scoot closer so I can get a picture".....sigh

Faith loves sleeping with her hair braided so that it is wavy the next day :) My 80s girl

Addi slept most of the time we were at the park.....Grace said that she needed her giraffe to sleep. This is the giraffe the girls bought for her when I was pregnant

Way too tired to type

2009-08-26T17:02:00.001-07:00

So here are some pics........

We celebrated Grumpy's bday at our house. We had so much fun.....family, friends, good food, and relaxation....hmmmm...where's Grumpy?

Absolutely refusing to let me take a birthday pic :)

Yes Uncle Daniel...that is exactly what she needs....blue icing!!

Yep we had a long night :) Ya know....a sugar rush night

Watching Baby Einstein

Just got back from Tulsa, Austin and Houston...so I am going to crash :)

Will post more later

Still Learning

2009-08-05T18:51:00.000-07:00

(I have been thinking about how i should start this blog....so I am just going to jump right in).

Six years ago today was my Dad's funeral. It is true, time does help....but it ABSOLUTELY does not heal. This year has been hard for me. I have so many things I want to share with him and ask him about. I think one reason it has been tough is because I have no distractions this year. So instead of finishing off the rest of the brownies, I decided to let my Dad do what he did best....teach me! I pulled the envelope that holds all of his sermons out of my bedside table and started reading. This is the one I pulled out......and of course, it is exactly what I needed.

..........................

"I offer you a role model, who at an early age determined the path he wanted to follow.

What God can do with just one person

Josiah became king of the nation of Judah when he was eight years old. A pretty intimidating place for a young boy. But young Josiah set a direction for his life that would change a nation.

it says that as a child "He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and walking the ways of his father David." He chose to follow the example of his godly ancestor.

When he was sixteen years old, "he began to seek the God of his father David." This seems to indicate that he was seeking a personal relationship with God.

At the age of twenty he put his faith into practice. He purged the nation of the idols and pagan images which had polluted its soul. This was not a real popular thing to do, but the resolve of this young king was unshaken.

God wasn't finished with Josiah just yet.

At the age of 26, Josiah commissioned a massive restoration of the Temple in Jerusalem. During this work a priest found the book of Deuteronomy. When Josiah read this book he torn his robe in personal repentance.

He pledged his personal obedience by saying he would "follow the Lord and keep his commands, regulations and decrees with all his heart and all his soul". "As long as he lived, they did not fail to follow the Lord".

If this young king could be here today I think he would challenge our young people and the rest of us to take these three actions.

First: ask God to make your life significant, no matter your age.

Josiah was only eight when he became king of Judah. Bill Gates wrote his computer program when he was 13. On the other hand Moses was 80 when he led Israel out of Egypt, and Joshua was 80 when he led the people into the Promise Land. It is never too soon or too late to ask God to use your life for something significant.

Second: ask God to make your life significant, no matter your circumstances.

Josiah's father had just been assassinated and he finds himself in charge of a nation on the edge of extinction, but this young man saved his nation by the power and grace of God.

Nearly half of our nation's 20.7 million middle and high school students drink alcohol every week. Alcohol-related car crashes kill nine teenagers everyday. 2,000 teenagers commit suicide every year. And for every suicide, there are 350 failed attempts (700,000).

But, young people, you don't have to become what your world is. Like Josiah, you have a choice. you can ask God to make your life significant, no matter how much pressure our society puts on you, no matter how unpopular righteousness is.

To lead the orchestra, you must turn your back on the crowd. Make that choice.

Third, ask God to make your life significant, until it is done.

You are not finished serving God until he calls you home.

Bill Graham was asked what about heaven he looked forward to the most. Dr. Grahams answer was that he looked forward to sitting down and talking to Jesus. He was then asked, what do you think he will say to you? His reply was that Jesus would say to him, You should have done more."

If Billy Graham should be doing more, I'm in serious trouble. But as long as he has this attitude he will never stop trying to do the job that God has set before him.

My prayer today is that God would raise up another Josiah among us today."

........................

I am so grateful that my Dad was able to make his life significant. He said that it use to be a "Leave it to Beaver" world and now it is a "Beavis kind of world" (ya know...beavis and ....). I can only imagine what he would think 6 short years later. He constantly showed me how to not get sucked into this "Beavis world". How to be significant by turning your back on the crowd. All of his lessons were taught by example.

I didn't really get it until this day 6 years ago. To hear all the stories and see all the people that he changed......just by being a small town man that followed God. He never stopped doing the job that God set before him.

The path that my Dad followed has shaped me into the mother, sister, daughter, wife and friend that I am today. Most importantly, his path as made me the "starting to try harder" Christian that I am today.

God knew that I would listen to my Dad......I really needed to read this tonight!

There has been so much good come out of my Dad's death. I am sincerely grateful that God allows me to see those things.

I am still learning from my Dad's words, actions and spirit.

I hope I didn't cut the sermon too short. :) I just really wanted to share this.

A day in the life...

2009-08-04T20:21:00.001-07:00

a little shopping bag time.....

lots of "nap" time in my boppy....

and of course a little pool (when Daddy isn't looking) :)

Jer and I took Ryan out for dinner a couple of nights ago. He has been helping out so much around the house. I have been trying to get more pics of the adults lately :)

Has anyone read "the shack"? Mom gave it to Jer for his birthday last year, so I decided to pick it up. I am officially in a "black hole" of depression. For some reason I catch myself skipping entire paragraphs just to finish it. Maybe the book is horrible or maybe the book touches on things I need to hear......whatever the situation, I can't wait to finish it and lock it away somewhere. Anyways, I am contemplating somethings I would like to share.....maybe tomorrow :)

You have got to be joking!

2009-08-03T08:22:00.001-07:00

So last night our neighbor from a few houses down came banging on our door. He asked if a white pickup just left our house.

Come to find out, he caught a guy running out of our garage with stuff in his hands and then he jumped in a white truck. We were in the process of moving things around upstairs, so Jer's truck was full of furniture and the garage was up. The guy kept saying that he threw something down.

We couldn't find anything missing until Jer asked Ryan to look in the fridge. Yep, they stole two cases of beer. Are you joking!!!! We all search with flashlights and found the cold, full beer can he dropped while he was running out of the garage.

OK, I know times are tough...... but leave us alone. We don't live in a scary neighborhood. In fact it is a nice and "safe" cul-de-sac. What the heck is going on!!!! What if I had walked outside while they were in the garage? Hopefully they would have just run.....but no offense...if you are stupid enough to steal beer from people that are clearly home and going in and out constantly......

Anyways, I am more pissed off than scared. We, us and a few neighbors, are going to start the process of trying to get a gate put on our little street for privacy. (They did it for Bush) Our HOA is just our little street....12 houses...so I really hope it won't be a problem.

More Diving Pics

2009-08-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

Rebeca and Jim (the couple we met scuba diving) emailed me the pics she had on her camera. I look terrified in some, so I didn't post them all :)

This is when we were swimming back to the boat.

We had just jumped in the water

Just waiting.....

That is my "I'm going to die" smile.

Here I Come!!!!!

2009-08-01T15:16:00.000-07:00

First I have to check my mirrors....

Watch out......here I come!

Miss A is getting along very well these days.....today I noticed that she takes little breaks by resting on her side. Jer says she's just chillin' :)

By the way, belly rolls are the new six pack.....trust me!

She loves loves loves standing up! It is coming way too soon in my opinion.

You seriously have to watch your toes around her.....her little teeth are sharp!

Photo Session

2009-07-31T20:38:00.000-07:00

I turned our hour wait at Uncle Julio's into a photo session :)

I haven't been putting bows on Addi because people think they look silly (Jer).....but I ya know....I like them!! :)

Would be a good pic if Miss A wasn't pouting :)

All Smiles

Addison was fascinated with Daddy's drink

Then she found out the cold bottle felt really good on her new teeth!!!

Ya Mommy had to stop all the fun......(no she didn't get a drink)

Once Upon a Time in Mexico.....

2009-07-30T18:26:00.000-07:00

I almost died..........twice!!!

OK so maybe I am over exaggerating....but not by much :)

Jer loves scuba diving......so we decided to go while we were in Puerto Vallarta. We were able to get certified at our resort. The classroom stuff was great, putting the gear on was OK, going under water nearly killed me. The pressure made me feel claustrophobic and I kept forgetting to breath. I finally got it....with lots of hand holding from the instructor....literally.

The next day we woke up and realized a storm had blown through....."oh Jer, it looks like we aren't going today" ;) No such luck.....come rain or shine....they will make you scuba dive.

My anxiety was pretty high riding in the taxi....well....a full blow panic attack came when I realized we would be going an hour and a half out on the boat. "Excuse me....you drop us off here and we swim back to the boat?" Once I forced myself to get all the way to the bottom (if Jer can do it...I will make myself) we had a blast. There were only 6 divers....the rest of the 50 people decided it was safer to snorkel.

I think my hair is pretty awesome :)

I also snorkeled.....it was only me and one of the other scuba divers.....for some reason the fish kept attacking me!!! Oh....wait....that's because Jer was throwing bread at me...nice!

We also decided to parasail. Craig went first....it looked great...just really high! He landed very smoothly on the sand. I went second and the wind kept swinging me around! It was scary...but that is what made it fun. You could see for miles.....Jer looked like an ant!! When it came time to "land", I could tell something wasn't right. The boat kept slowing down and speeding up and doing circles. All of a sudden the the guys on the beach started running to the water......yep I crashed into the ocean......almost taking out a father and son and clotheslining a swimmer. Come to find out, the guys weren't going to let us go because the wind was too high....Craig and Jer "talked him into it"! While Jer was up in the air, Craig said, "yeah, they said they might have a problem getting you to land because you don't weigh enough". Thanks guys!

We did have a blast on our little vacation. Of course, when it comes time to being a real tourist....I forget the camera at home!

I took these pics of Miss A last night. She loved Boston Market's sweet potatoes :)

Puppy Love

2009-07-29T22:14:00.001-07:00

When we were decorating Addison's room, Sharon and I thought this puppy was way too cute to be in her toy bag, so we displayed him on the changing table. While changing Miss A the other day, I decided to see if she liked him........

yeah mom he is cool

he is a lot of fun to talk to

most importantly, he tastes great!

hehehe I love the baby drool

just a couple of old pics....do you think all the girls look alike?

I let Faith and Grace design a shirt. They picked out everything.....shirt color, thread color and layout. The loved helping me on the embroidery machine :) I originally wanted all three girls to have matching ones.....somehow they even talked me into letting them design Addi's too (not finished yet....it is a 12 month).

A Day at MeMe's

2009-07-16T19:47:00.000-07:00

All of us girls spent the day at MeMe and Leonard's........Jeremy was in Louisiana all day. The girls had a blast!!! (all three were asleep by the time we got home)

Everything goes to Addison mouth.....even if it just hangs there :)

yep....doing what she wants....when she wants to do it

Grace found a "magic stick"

It turned into a home run hitting stick! They had so much fun outside......and with all the shade trees it wasn't too bad!

Miss Faith

Miss Grace

At one point, the girls were really quiet.......hmmmm...

And where was Miss A during all the action??? Asleep in MeMe's arms! She took both naps today while MeMe was holding her......all she wanted was her MeMe!

We had such a great day!!! We all had so fun and got to eat homemade chicken and dumplings (Jer's request but he didn't make it!)!!!! I took lots of pics with our nice "dinosaur" camera (I have to get them developed)....I will post those soon.

We love you MeMe!!!!

Last Dance Class

2009-07-15T11:08:00.000-07:00

Faith and Grace went to their last dance class for this session. They have been in really funny moods all day. The middle pic is fuzzy.....I know....but it made me laugh so I couldn't delete it.

OK, so the video is sideways.....I don't know how to rotate it. Faith caught me while I was trying to discretely video.

As I said, the girls have been really funny today. They were upstairs in their playroom about to have a party.......

Grace...."I need to get dressed up"

Faith....."No Grace, we must always be ourselves"

Grace....."Oh no, I must be FANCY!".....putting on necklaces, bracelets and a boa.

About two seconds later....

Faith....."Oh my, we cannot have trash at our party!"........she was talking about a piece of paper on the floor

(If you haven't read my prayer request below, please do)

Big Prayers for a Tiny Miracle

2009-07-15T08:11:00.000-07:00

I have a HUGE prayer request for my cousin Matt's sweet baby boy.

His story....(updates from Aunt Tammy)

God is SOOOOO Good! Matthew Pecos Duke was born yesterday, 6-11-09 around 5:30 p.m. He weighed in at 1 lb 15 oz and 12.6 inches in length. He went straight to Neonatal ICU where he is doing great considering his size. Pecos, also known as "Rooster" is currently receiving bubbled "Room Air" and nurishment through a tube in his belly-button. He had a real good night last night. They are keeping his incubator covered and dark and trying to just let him rest and grow. They are telling Matt and Stormi that they will take it one day at a time and that the baby will stay until his original due date, sometime in September. Doctors have advised that for now their main concern is his lungs. One of the pictures attached shows the baby and one of the nurses gloved hands -- which gives you a good idea of how small he is.

I spoke with Matt and Stormi reports that Pecos now weighs 2 lbs, 6 oz and has grown to a whopping 14 inches! That is 7 oz and 1 1/2 inches since his birth on the 11th. All test ran thus far, with the exception of the blood vessels around the heart, have come back normal. As far as the blood vessel issue (PDA) they are still open but not causing any major issues. Therefore, they will just wait it out. These vessels can eventually close on their own, or, as discussed in previous emails, could require surgury if the lining of the heart or lungs become infected. Our prayer is for God to touch Pecos and close these vessels Himself.

Pecos came through the surgery great! They took him back around 12:30 and started around 1:20 p.m. They were able to go through his left side, between two ribs, then deflate the left lung to get to the heart. There they found the leaking vessel - with a larger hole than expected...but were able to repair it, re-inflate the lung and close. They did the surgery at Cook Children's Hospital, then rolled him across the catwalk back to his NICU unit at Harris Methodist for recovery. Stormi and Matt were able to see him about a hour or two later. They said he looked really good, but would be sleeping for possibly the next 24 hours. James and I hope to get a peek at him tomorrow. They said the next 24-48 hours were the critical times. Matt just called and they are with him and he is doing great!

*****

I ask for tons and tons of prayers for Pecos. As we have seen, God is so good and continues to bless Matt, Stormi, Pecos and the entire family. Matt is traveling back and forth because he is back at work.....please pray he is safe during his travel. Stormi is staying in Forth Worth so that she can be with Pecos everyday......please pray that God continues to give her strength and comfort during the journey ahead.