Too young to be starstruck

We had my family over at our house for Thanksgiving. My niece got clothes with Hannah Montana on them. Addison, who is all of 23 months, went crazy saying," Anna onana!!"

When does a baby know who Hannah Montana is?? Is that crazy or what!!

writing

If my camera's battery wasn't dead I would post a picture of Payton's artwork on her closet wall.

I don't know about your kids, but mine love to play in the closet. I went in there to hang up clothes and just happen to move a lid to a container. It was leaning on the wall. I found Addy written "ABBY" and the beginning of "PAY".

Now I know that Addison didn't do it because, let's face it, she isn't a prodigy....yet. And Jacob just isn't into spelling right now. So, that only leaves one other person. One that loves to do classwork and begs for more letters to write. How could I punish her for writing on the wall when she is so excited about how well she is doing on spelling.

When Mo is doing school work, Payton wants to do hers. So I get all three of them settled at the table. Payton is excited and races through her letters. Asking for more. Jacob grumbles, trudging through the first page asking if he is done yet.

I know that my Mom is grinning as she reads this. It reminds her of a time when a certain little girl of hers engraved her name in the door of our old, blue van. Backwards L and Y so proud of spelling her name.

I guess the saying goes....Like mother like daughter.

"Why do we have Christmas?"

P,"Ummmm."

"What is the most important thing about Christmas? What do we celebrate?"

P,"Santa brings us presents."

**blushing with embarrassment as I type this**

"Yes, but that isn't why we celebrate Christmas."

J"It's Jesus' birthday."

"That is right. That is why we have Christmas."

J," When is God's birthday?"

"Jacob that is a great question......"

How do you explain that one so a 5 year old can understand?

Will I still be Jacob?

J and I went to get our haircut the other day. Getting out of the car, J asks me, "Mom, when I grow up will I still be Jacob?"

"You will always be Jacob because that is your name. But when you're older you can be Jake."

J said, "I'm not Jake. I don't like it. I'm Jacob."

No identity crisis there.

progress

Todd got his paperwork yesterday from BH. It looks like the ball is rolling now. He has to go through a few procedures before we know if he is officially hired or not. Please keep praying about this job. We want T to get hired but only if it is right. He will be back in town tomorrow afternoon and will have to finish up the packet BH sent. From there he has all the usual stuff that goes with any new job. I thank you all for your continued love, support and prayers for us.

on my knees...

For those of you who have had the privilege of speaking to me this week, I sincerely apologize for my crabby, sarcastic, rude, emotional and ugly behavior I have exhibited. You all did not deserve my snide remarks and I hope that ya'll are in a forgiving mood. So I am REALLY sorry.

It is said that when you are going through struggles your true colors come out. How faithful you truly are. I guess I have some major work to do on my self.......Like it is written, "God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again." Philippians 1:6 I have a devotional that has this prayer in it. I wanted to pass it along to you all.

Father, help us not to minimize our struggles; yet, at the same time, help us recognize that any struggle we have is small in comparison to the great God we serve.

struggles

****Forgive me if I am all over the place on this post.****

It has been a rough few days here. It has been 2 months since T lost his job because of Ike. He has had 3 prospects and nothing has happened yet. We are still in the waiting game because he hasn't heard back from an interview he went on Tuesday. I think that is the worst part. WAITING! Not knowing one way or another. You can't go forward because you don't know if something will come about . But you don't want to stand still because you feel like you have to keep moving or you sink.

We know that God is trying to tell us some thing, teach us. He wants us to Be still in His word and presence. To listen and He will guide us through this. Rely on Him completely because T will get a job in His time not ours. It is hard when you're trying to obey but your flesh is telling you to take control. When you know, you can't do it alone, without the Lord. And you have satan in one ear working on every doubt, fear, struggle, worry, what if's going through your brain.

We are struggling. We want the quick fix, now. We want answers and just to get this over with and move on with our lives. But we know, without a doubt, we will miss out on the true blessings God has in store for our family. We will be stronger in faith and closer to our Lord and Savior when this battle is over.

I once heard Beth Moore say, " Our problems may be above our heads' but they are below God's feet." I find rest in that, knowing that nothing is bigger than our God.

update

Hi, all.

Todd said that his interview went well. He is waiting on some paperwork, physical and drug test. So we should know by next week if he has the job or not. We have discussed it and both know that all of this is in God's hands and it doesn't help for us to stress out about the waiting game. If it is the one, that is great. If it isn't, we keep our faith that God's plan is better than ours'.

Yesterday, I got a call for an interview. How funny is that? In the same week Todd does. It is for WalMart of all places. Todd says I live there so why not get paid for it. Friday I will talk with someone. We aren't sure how this will play out if we both get hired. All we know is that God is going to work it all out. We just have to sit back, relax, listen, seek Him, and rest in His peace.

P had a "hat day" at school. We stopped by Gma and Gpa's house last night to borrow one of great Gma's hats. She was excited to wear the one she picked out. I will post a picture later.....just too tire right now. I asked her about what they did and she said,"nothing". She did say that they wore them but nothing else. I'll have to ask her teacher on Tuesday.

Tomorrow we are going to the zoo with our home school group. Pray for clear, beautiful skys. There is a 60 percent chance of rain. We're going to have a fun time either way.

Love to all!!! I am off to bed, I am exhausted.

send a prayer

My wonderful hubby has an interview tomorrow morning at 9am.Would you mind sending a prayer up for him? If this is the job God has planned for him, make it clear to the interviewer,Todd and anyone else involved.If this isn't,help Todd and all the rest of us rest in peace knowing that God is working and has some thing so extraordinary waiting for him.We just have to be patient,be still and listen carefully to His words.

We are edgy around here because he has been out of work for some time but God has provided for all of our needs.He has also shown us where we have spent money unwisely and how to be better stewards of what He gives us.We are learning....

saving

The grocery store I shop at had an awesome sale going on that ends today. I was able to buy 10 item combinations, limit 3 times, and get 5 dollars off when checking out. I happened to have coupons for numerous things which worked out FABULOUS!! The total cost of my bill was $131.28, I saved $76.03. So I walked out of the store only spending $55.25 of the total bill. My jawed dropped when the cashier told me how much I saved. I am a believer of coupons now. Oh, I did learn some thing new. You might know this already but if you don't FYI. If you have a store card that gives you more savings, if it isn't scanned before they start scanning your groceries. It won't double or triple any of your coupons. Sneaky.

can't win for losin'

I am once again reading Creative Correction. It has been quite a few years since the first go around. Then I was a young mom, in a different stage of heart and mind. I thought that there was no way any of Lisa's ideas would work so I didn't stick with it.

I realized, lately, that all I seem to be doing correction wise with the kids is spanking, time out, and screaming because I am at my wits end. I needed a change and fast. So I decided to give it another try and have an open mind and be more diligent in applying some of her ideas. I really have enjoyed reading and I actually like some of what she says. So whenever I get a chance I try to implement an idea of hers.

We were cleaning up before Todd got home Friday night. I told the kids that if there were any wet towels left on the floor and I found it, the slacker would wash towels the next day. It sounds good, doesn't it?

Well, after the younger ones bath tonight I went by J's room and spotted his wet towel. I casually announce that I see something on the floor that doesn't belong. P comes running down the hall with another towel yelling, "I didn't put mine up. Can I wash towels tomorrow?!" She was genuinely excited about the thought.

O.K. did I miss something in the book? Todd said to take advantage of it.

My drama queen

Oops, I mean princess. Addison is the queen around here.

J and P were in the backyard, Addi was napping, Mo was doing school work and I was in the shower. P comes in and asks to play in the front with the neighbor. I tell her not now because she couldn't be in the front alone. She leaves the bathroom.

I get out about 5 minutes later. As I am toweling off, here she comes again. She is whining trying to tell on Mo. I tell her that I cannot understand her when she whines. Also that she needed to think about if she was tattling to get someone in trouble or because someone was going to hurt themselves by doing some thing wrong. We are working on not tattling so much around here. She continues to have a whiny tone. I tell her that she needs to come back when she can talk without whining. I turn her toward the door and guide her out and shut it.

Going into my room I can hear her and J talking outside. I peak out the window and listen. P is standing by the trampoline and J is jumping. P is pouting with arms crossed in front of her, lip protruding. It really was a site. J is showing concern for his younger twin. He asked if she was upset because I wouldn't let her play with the neighbor.

Here is what my darling daughter replies. "Mommy said that I could go out in front after she is out of the shower. She is and I was trying to say to her and she pushed me like this(hitting on her shoulder) and shut the door!!" J spots me peeping then,so that was the end of that little white lie.

I know that P didn't think that she was stretching the truth. I had hurt her feelings and that is how she felt....like I had pushed her out the door and slammed it in her face. I have to tread lightly with this young lady. She wears her heart on her sleeve.

She is better now, her Daddy came home tonight. She got lots of snuggle time. So much that her bedtime came and went....maybe an hour and a half later. But it was worth them enjoying each others company.

free

OK, you might not get excited about this like I did. But I am going to post it any way. I have never been a coupon clipper. I always thought that it was too much of a hassle and wasn't worth the few cents saved. I have just recently become a believer of clipping. I should have kept up with all of the money I've saved so far.....sorry Susan.

Any way today was the first day that I actually got some thing FREE. Yes, I said free. I printed out a $5.00 coupon for science diet dog food. Petco has 5lb bags on sale for $5.00 so I got it for nothing. The checker asked were I got the coupon and said "sweet" about 3 or 4 times.(young guy) He said that if he was me he would do it again but to make sure that he wasn't working. I'm not going to.It felt weird walking out with a bag and not having to pay for it. But oh so nice.

Introducing......

Ladybug....aka.....Addison who had a fun time being silly. She was definitely in the zone of being a bug, pesky little thing. She hammed it up for the camera for as long as she could stay still. Quick little bug she is. We could get her to look at the camera but a second and then she was off again. The wings didn't last long on but she still looked cute. One lady at the festival told me that I was young and could make another baby just as cute as her, so she was taking Addi home. Then she saw Payton and oohed and aahhed over her.

Ironman...aka....Jacob. Daddy had the honors of getting him ready. Pull on the suit and POOF, muscles appear. He thought that was cool. He was in an uncooperative mood when it was time to take pictures. His mind was on one thing and one thing only, CANDY. He didn't want to fuss with getting his picture taken. He wanted to get to our church fall festival NOW. Not ten, fifty, or twenty minutes...NOW. (what can I say, he is just like his mommy.)

We stopped by Grandma and Grandpa's to trick or treat and got lollipops. He was excited about getting his first piece and wanted it then. We tried to get him to show off his muscles but he was being shy. He did see a lot of other Ironmen at the festival.

TinkerBell.....aka.....Payton. She was so fun to dress up on Halloween. I really think that this might be a favorite occasion of hers. She actually gets to wear make up away from home. She was too cute getting ready. I pulled her hair up in a ponytail and curled it. I applied powder, blush, eyeshadow, liner, mascara and lip gloss....she was in heaven. To top off the outfit, Nanny sprayed gold glitter ALL over her hair and body.

Saturday night was the play of Peter Pan. Guess what Miss Thang wore? Yes, her Tinker Bell costume. Jacob decided that he wanted to wear his too. I think we got our moneys worth out of them.

No pictures of Mo. She really hasn't dressed in the last 2 years. Pre-teen years have begun.

I'll post the rest of our pictures on the shutterfly website. Go check then out.

busy busy busy

*******I found out today that the zoo trip is next Thursday not this one. That helps out a lot this week. Mo presented her report on Coronado this morning. She did very well. She said that one other kid did the same person. The teacher did not inform them that they had to present it without reading it from their paper. Mo did awesome!!! Some times I think that she isn't listening or paying attention. I guess I am wrong. I need to learn to give her MORE credit. Although it wasn't graded, the teacher did give her scores in each area. Oral, visual, speaking clearly,interesting...etc. Her next one is on Indians. She is somewhat excited about this because my Dad's grandmother was a full blooded Cherokee Indian. She is going to incorporate her in it.************

Today we are sooo excited!! Daddy comes home after being gone for days. We cannot wait!! We have missed him terribly.

Tonight we will go to our church's fall festival to have tons of fun and get lots of candy. I will post pictures of the kids in their costumes. So you just have to be patient to know what they are going to be for Halloween.

My mom is also coming to stay with us this weekend and go to a play with us tomorrow evening. My good friend Robin and her daughter are involved in a fantastic group. They are called Christain Youth Theatre and are just fabulous, talented kids. Most of them are home schooled. We went last year and saw them perform Beauty and the Beast. My kids LOVED it and couldn't wait for this production of Peter Pan.

Monday I have an appointment.....too time consuming and boring to go into more details.

Tuesday, Mo has co-op and has to present an oral essay about a Texas Explorer. She picked Francisco De Coronado, he looked for the "city of gold". As part of her presentation she needs something visual. We came up with making a clay model of the so called golden city. Hopefully with the help of her Daddy's creative ability, they can put it all together. I just come up with the ideas.....not an artist bone in my body. Did I mention that she has to talk and present for 5 minutes. She is nervous about that. Pray, pray, pray.

Wednesday, J and P have a check up. I am also asking the doctor to give P a referral to an urologist. She is having some issues and we need to figure out why. I am praying that things will go smoothly with this because you know how difficult insurance companies can be. P needs attention about this and not weeks and months from now.

Thursday is suppose to be Mo's science museum day but the home school group is going to the zoo instead. Of course I am keeping J and P home from preschool so that we can make a family day of it. Maybe if Daddy is home he will tag along.

Friday is free, so far. I may keep it that way!!! We have a busy week ahead of us.

single white female looking for lost husband

Have you seen him? He is about 5'10", blond hair, blue/grey eyes, very good looking. He went missing this morning at 6:30am. If you see him, would you point him back in our direction?

Todd is in San Leon until Friday. He is helping rebuild damaged homes from Ike. My great Uncle is gracious enough to hire him out for the week so that we can pay a few bills. We are thankful for the help but it feels strange not having him at home. He was driving me a little crazy but I miss him all ready....and so do the kids. I had to call him before putting Addison down tonight. Every time a car went by the house, she got excited and called ,"Daddy!!"

As of now until Friday night it is just us girls and my little man of the house.......

"A"

Payton has show and share on Thursdays at school. It always co insides with the letter of the week. This week it was A. So we were brainstorming what she could take.

Payton said "apple"

Daddy said "Addison"

I ,being sarcastic after battling the pesky ants in our kitchen, said "ants"

Guess what she wanted to take........ants.

What she ended up taking was a photo ALBUM that grandma put together which happened to also have pictures of ADDISON in it.

No ants unfortunately. Her teachers might have been a bit mad at us if we had allowed that.

back home

Our visitor stayed over one night. Mo took her for a walk the next afternoon and the owners were driving down the road. They were sooo happy to find her...so were T and I. They thanked Mo for taking great care of her. Mo was a little disappointed because she thought that we would keep her. ( we don't know where she got that idea? )

a visitor at our house

This is what Mo found on our doorstep tonight. Her name is Teddybear. She was hungry, scared, and shivering. Poor baby. She has a collar on but the number has been disconnected. My neighbor suggested googling the number. It was an address in HUMBLE. We think that someone has moved to our area and hasn't changed the dogs tags yet. So for tonight, we have a visitor that will sleep over. Hopefully we can find her owners tomorrow.

Jacob asked if we were keeping her? It figures, the one who is teffified of dogs. He actually rubbed on her a little. Todd and I made sure we let him know that she all ready has an owner. We just have to find them.

other plans

Unfortunately Todd didn't get the job I posted about earlier. He is frustrated about the whole thing. I could tell that he wasn't enthusiastic about the position but he feels like he has to get any job to provide for us. He wants to change careers because he is burned out. Which I can completely relate to.

My prayer has been that God would make it clear if this was the right job for Todd or not. I guess He did. I am actually at peace about him not getting hired because he would have been miserable doing something he settled for. God knew that and a lot more than we do. God has the job for Todd. One that is better than that other job. One that Todd is going to enjoy and will fit well with us. I pray that Todd realizes that this is a blessing. That God is still working on him and us for that matter.

I told Todd what we have been praying for. I can tell that something is going on inside that head and heart of his. God is working.......was there any doubt?

Belting out

Payton and Jacob had a fantastic time playing in their new crab sandbox that Grandma and Grandpa gave them for their birthday. So much that they were covered from head to toe in sand.

I told them to strip down outside(in the backyard..don't worry I'm not teaching them to be streakers). Payton has no problem. She pokes her head inside and asks if she was suppose to take ALL her clothes off. I don't know why she asked because she was all ready naked. She dashes through the house and into the awaiting shower.

Jacob, on the other hand, is my modest little man. He asks me if he has to take EVERY thing off. I can tell he isn't wanting to. I tell him to take it all off but the undies. He is happy with that. So off he goes to shower.

After about ten minutes, Todd and I hear this loud, singing coming from the bathroom. She is making sure that Jesus and the entire neighborhood can hear her beautiful song.

" I have decided...to follow JEEEESUS. I have deeeeecided ....to fooooolow Jeeesus. No turning baaaack...Nooooo turning baaack!!!"

Payton very rarely is the singing one. At church Wednseday evening this is the song they learned. They were so proud of themselves because they both got a prize after singing it to their teacher. Payton and Jacob have been singing it ever since.

Praying that my children will decide to and keep following Jesus today, tomorrow and all ways.

Job??

Todd worked the weekend at a mechanic shop. He will go in Monday and find out "officially" if he is hired or not. He is sure that he is but the boss hasn't said it aloud yet.

He said Friday was good. The guys liked him and he worked well with them. ( I had no doubts. Todd is a great person.) He was really tired when he came home and sore. Saturday he had a bad day. Not necessarily bad....but a bit discouraged. He used the word...rusty...when doing something. Sometimes he tends to be harder on himself than he should. He doesn't realize how smart and talented he is. When he doesn't get some thing the first time...he's very hard on himself. Not to mention the fact that he is being evaluated to get a job.

Would you send a prayer up for my hubby? It has been stressful for him the last month.(stress being an understatement) Pray for wisdom with this job and any other that might come along. For God to make it perfectly clear where He wants Todd. Pray that Todd can relax and be at peace because God is in control.

More pictures of our fun time at the Pumpkin Patch. Thanks to grandma and grandpa!!

new bike!!!!!

Thanks to our great neibor Mr.Phill i got 2 new bikes awesome right?I got a mongoose bike that is blue and another bike. If you didn't know 1 of my old bikes got stolen and the other got ran over.tomorow me and dad are going to ride to gether.Now that my dad doesn't have a job we have been spending alot of time to gether and it has been relly fun to. Now i don't have to walk or ride Jacobs bike the is to big for him.. YAH

Pumkin Patch

Today we enjoyed a wonderful day at the Pumpkin Patch. We had decided that is where we would take J and P for part of their b-day celebration. Also to make a family day of it. We invited Grandma and Grandpa to come along with us. The kids had a great time and we did too.

We took tons of pictures with the pumpkins and the kids liked to climb all over them. We went on a hayride through the patch and saw the Christmas trees, animals, and playground. The patch is near a small airport so planes kept flying over us. There was a giant spider made out of hay bails and pipes that the kids liked to climb. There was also a pen with two goats to feed and watch. We were so proud of Jacob because he touched the goats. He is scared of animals and was very brave today. It didn't take any coaxing.

Payton was so funny. We were able to borrow wagons to pick out our pumpkins. She was so grown up pulling her wagon along searching for just the right one. Jacob decided his was too hard to pull and asked if I would help him. Mo being the amazing sister she is, had Addison in hers looking for both of them pumpkins. Addison loved being toted around....for a little bit. Then ,the big girl she is, she had to get out and do every thing her older siblings were doing.

We had an extremely good time today. We really were happy that G'ma and G'pa came along with us. I have added a new album to our other web page of our trip today. We got some good shots so go check them out.

twinkies Birthday

Yesterday was my babies' birthdays. J and P turned five years old. I am in denial that my twinkies are growing up. It was a long pregnancy with numerous scares and lots of stress. Preterm labor at 24 weeks and about three months of bed rest. But by God's grace, and His alone, my babies are here with us healthy, happy, and just plain enjoyable.

They both make me smile daily. They are complete opposites in every way but two. They love the Lord with all of their hearts. They love their family and show it all the time. They enjoy lots of cuddles, kisses, and plain ole luvin'.

I pray that J and P will continue to grow in their faith to our Lord. I pray that we do them justice in raising them. I pray that they will never lose their compassion for others. J and P are amazing kids that I know will be successful in all that they do.

Happy birthday Jacob and Payton!!!!

lots of stuff

Jacob," K's not a word. Right Mom?"

"Yes, Jacob. You're right. How did you know that?"

Jacob," I know lots of thing because I turned five today. I'm going to know lots of stuff now."

its Mo

heyy the Science museum was awsome! we walked around after our 1st class thats when we did the star fish.they had a jiant bucket full of them and we only used 5 of them 1 for the teacher, 3 for my class mates and 1 for me. i didn't want to do it at first but then i changed my mind. it was all gooie in side we cut off 1 leg and cut another 1 in half . Then it was over the guys were like finaly and im like NNNNNNOOOOO.well guess what im the only girl in my group of 2 teachers , 4 kids including me but im not complaing im used 2 it most of my friends are guys.

Saggin Butt

Got your attention!!!

We went to Old Town Spring the other day with my aunt. It was a very nice day. We really just went to window shop, let the kids run around some, eat lunch, and visit. We stayed a few hours and enjoyed going into a few shops and letting the kids play up and down the stairs and on the decks. The owners didn't mind.

We decided to hit one more store before leaving. It was full of different bath ducks which the kids loved. As we were leaving, the owner stopped me and gave me a free gift. He said it was because my kids were so well behaved. I said thank you, feeling pretty good about getting something for free and having someone notice my kids behavior. That is the good behavior.

As Mo and I are walking away we look at what he gave me. It was some bath salts which I love. But as I turn it over to see what kind...I was somewhat offended...at first.

Saggin Butt Bath Salts.......
When your butt's a saggin, just pour 2-3 tbs under hot running water. A blend of essential oils etc.....makes a great soak for sore muscles& aching joints.....

I mean, YES, I carried 4 kids,2 at once. And I still haven't got my prebaby body back(will I ever!) But did he have to call attention to my derriere. *grin*

a mom's request

I received an e-mail from my mother in law, Susan. She started out by saying how much she liked reading our blog. I always know something else is coming when she begins with the positive stuff first. He He. I love you, Susan.

Then she goes on by asking me to change the color schemes because her "old eyes" can't read it that well. So, because I have such an amazing 2nd Mom and I love her dearly. I abidded by her request. Here's to you,Mom.

Love
L

update

My sister and her family finally got their electricity back on late Saturday night. It was 2 whole weeks that they were without power!!! Can you believe that?

They packed up and went home Sunday evening. I know that they are happy to be home. Now we are trying to get back on track here. M, J, P and A are all in their own beds at the normal bed time. It has been rough getting on our schedule. There has been whining, back talking, arguing, moodiness, and struggles. I can't blame the kids. Their lives were turned upside down for a couple of weeks, I can't expect them to jump right back to the way things were. It is going to take a few days....or even a week.

J and P finally went to school today. It has also been 2 weeks that they've been off because of Ike. They were sooo happy to go back and see their teachers and friends. I am glad that they are enjoying preschool. P's teacher told me that she thoroughly enjoys her. That she is very creative and not shy one bit. That made me feel good for P. It puts my mind at ease some what to know that she is doing well when I am not around. The first day she was clingy and wasn't sure about being in a class without J. She is my sweet girl and has been wanting extra attention from me lately. I have taken advantage of it too.

J told me that he made 2 new friends. He also said that a little girl in his class kissed him. What kind of school am I sending my kids to! Ha ha. I guess he's going to be a lady's man. I can definitely wait on that. He is a sweet boy and is always concerned for others....especially the girls. I was on the phone yesterday and he sat down by me and started rubbing my back. I asked what I did to deserve that. He said only because he loved me.

Mo's homeschooling is going well. We have to play catch up since we weren't doing work while my sister's family was here. But all is well because there is no stress with trying to get every thing done at a certain time. We are blessed and truly are having a good time with this new adventure. I have seen a subtle change in her attitude and attention span since we have begun homeschooling. I know that this is what we are suppose to be doing. Mo is a smart girl and will succeed in every thing she sets her mind to.

opportunities

Morgan has the opportunity, once a month, to attend classes at the science museum. The first one was the Thursday before Ike and was cancelled because of traffic and safety issues. The make up day was yesterday. She was extremely excited about going. I was unable to go with her so she rode with a friend. When she got home she couldn't talk about any thing else but dissecting a starfish. She thought it was fantastic to be able to use the scalpel and actually cut open a starfish....or any thing else for that matter. She explained how they cut one of the "legs" off and saw what was inside. They had enough for each child to have their own. I asked what else she did. Oh, they had a skyscraper class and just walked around was her reply. They didn't see the hissing cockroaches, butterfly exhibit or go to the IMAX. I couldn't get any specifics out of her because it wasn't as interesting as dissecting. My Mo's favorite subject is science. I am grateful that she is able to do this. One of the wonderful opportunities of being home schooled.

Trust

There is a verse that keeps popping up in my life. In my mind, on KSBJ, during services,....you get the point.

It is Proverbs 3:5-6. "Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all of your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths strait." I believe this is the story of the Wilsons' lives. If we could just trust in our Lord and not try to figure things out on our own our lives would be so much easier. If I wouldn't try to understand every little thing that God throws at me......and just TRUST in His word He will guide us on a strait path.

We're not sure about our paths lately. Todd is out of a job because of Ike. I quit my job the first part of August to home school Mo and be a full time wife and mom. So we are in a tight spot. We have taken advantage of benefits from FEMA but that will only go so far. I tend to let these things consume my every thought. I feel like I have to fix the problem right now instead of being STILL. Laying all of it God's hands.

Don't get me wrong,we are blessed in sooo many ways!! God kept us safe during the hurricane. Our house had minor damage and wasn't really caused by Ike but he made it worse. (a leak in the roof) A tree uprooted and took down some of our fence, falling the OPPOSITE way from our home. We were out of electricity for only 2 1/2 days. We have a home that family can take refuge in since their electricity has been off since Ike. It is going on 13 days that we have had company. It has been cramped and nerves are on edge but we really have enjoyed being with them. Todd's home and the kids have really enjoyed spending all of the extra time with him. I have too, not to mention loving the fact that Daddy's around to help more with playing, corralling, disciplining, cooking, loving, and just being here.

But there is still the nagging in my mind.....how are we going to pay our bills, will Todd find a job soon, what if some thing else happens, we're negative in the bank because we needed things during Ike and thought that we would have money to replace it....now what???!!! Do I need to go back to CFBC for a while until Todd gets on his feet?

Why can't I just lean on God and have complete faith that He's going to lead us down the strait path. Why do I continue to beleive that I have controll over our lives. Why can't I just let go and give all of my worries to God and leave them with Him. I once heard Beth Moore say that our problems maybe above our heads but they are below God's feet. Nothing is bigger than Him!! There isn't any thing that He can't handle.

So why is it so hard then?

can you hear that??

It's silence!! My wonderful, fabulous Mother in law, Susan came over and took 4 of the 6 kids to the mall. They were going to the museum and to ride the carousel. We have had 10 people at our house since last Sunday. 6 kids and 4 adults. My sister and her family have been out of electricity since IKE. My other sister and her family are roughing it too. I ran out of space for any more people.

So you can imagine how crowded and stir crazy it has been over here. So Susan, who is awesome, called and told me that she would take ALL the kids today. I wouldn't do that to her and neither would my sis, Shelly. My nephew,18, went to work with his dad and Addison stayed with us. I wanted some time with her alone, without the other kiddos. But that hasn't worked out because she has been sleeping since every one else left. She needs to catch up on her rest though, so I am letting her sleep.

This is much needed for all of us, including the kids. We were all getting on each others' nerves. THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH SUSAN, YOU'RE THE BEST!!!!

unwanted visitor

Ike got to our place late Friday night, early Saturday morning. He was like a distant family member that shows up at your house, stays way too long, messes up every thing and leaves with a few things that don't belong to him. No particular person in mind!!

The last picture is our back fence and the tree is uprooted. We are truly blessed!!!!

Praying for all that have been affected by this storm. Love to all.

I know

Yes, I know that all of you have seen most of the pictures in the slideshow. I was trying to post it permanently on this blog but couldn't figure it out. Computer illiteracy over here. I also didn't want my hard work going out the window either, so there it is. Any way, who wouldn't want to see all my kids pictures again. They're so darn cute.

slideshow

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Baby Girl

Here is my baby girl. Yes, I still call her that even though she is almost 12 years old. She will always be my baby. Isn't she beautiful???

Mo is the best. I don't tell her that enough and I am working on it. Sometimes I am way too hard on her. Todd tells me to lighten up and he's right. I want Mo and I to have the best relationship possible. If I don't relax with her....it isn't going to happen.

She was the only kid around our house until she was almost seven. She completely embraced her role as big sister to twins...and then to Addi close to two years ago. She is growing into a wonderful, loving, caring, sweet, strong willed, faithful, compassionate young woman. It is happening too fast for me. I want time to stand still for a little longer so that I can cherish her more. Before I know it she will be grown and out of the house. But for now.....we're making the most of it.

We started our chapter of homeschool last Tuesday. J and P also began preschool that day so we just had Addi with us. Morgan did great. We dropped the twinkies off and was back home by 10. We ate breakfast and got to work on her studies. We did have some music playing and she was able to focus on her work. Every once in a while we kidded and played around some. It was a very laid back environment, no stress to get it all done. Mo went at her own pace and before we knew it she was finished and it was almost time to pick up J and P.

I really have a complete peace about homeschooling Morgan. I realize that she doesn't have to sit at a desk all day working on math, spelling, geography, etc etc. She can study about 2 or 3 pages of each subject and take a brake when she needs to. Her attention span is limited and her mind begins to wander if she sits too long on one thing. That is when we do something fun and active. Burn some energy off. Then we go back to school work. This works for Morgan. Homeschool works for Morgan. She is stress free!! I am stress free.

Pillow

It seems like I am always telling the cute, funny things Jacob says and nothing about my Princess Payton. She is the more serious one when it comes to the twinkies and Jacob is the comedian.

Well, she had me and my mom giggling the other night.

Me, " Payton, you need to put your pillowcase on your pillow."

Payton, looking at me very serious, " I can't Mommy. It just won't let me."

Since when do pillows and pillowcases have a mind of their own.......

homeschooling life saver

O.K I have heard a lot of great reviews about this homeschool planner. It has lesson ideas, helpful articles, recipes, calendars...whatever you need as a homeschooling mom the planner has it. I desperately need this planner and maybe you do too.

You can get a sneak peek of The School House Planner.

http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=2499&zenid=f1538c6589d3ceb21c3d05b06e0117f9

Sorry, I gave up trying to get the cute schoolhouse picture link. I'll figure it out one day.

PS I have a chance to win this awesome planner that would help this hectic, chaotic, unorganized thing I like to call our life.

It worked!

The other night it started storming before Todd got home. Jacob stops eating and runs over to me in a panic.

"Mom, it's storming!!! Let's pray that Daddy gets home safe."

So we all bow our heads and pray for Daddy's safety in the rain.

About 30 minutes later, Todd pulls into the driveway. The girls are squealing because Daddy is home.

Jacob is so exciting, yelling, "It worked , Mom. It worked! Daddy got home safe!" It took me a second to realize what he was talking about. Then I was sooo proud of my little man for his sweet prayers for his Daddy and realizing that God does answer them.

Mirror image

All my girls resemble one another. We went to the pool last weekend and out of all the pictures I took. I think these are almost mirror images of one another. Morgan loves to play with Addison and has really matured into an awesome young lady. She takes on the responsibility of older sister and does so with a happy, loving heart. Addison loves her very much and on occasion picks her over me..her own mommy. I think it is great that all of my kids enjoy each other and love one another tremendously. I am amazed at how blessed Todd and I are with our children.

School

Today was the first day of public school. It felt strange not taking Morgan. We are going to begin homeschooling after Labor Day. I am in the process of buying her curriculum. I know that I should have had it all together a month ago but all of this is a little over whelming. Especially being our first year and not really knowing the in's and out's of all of it.

You wouldn't believe he curriculum options out there. I went to the home school convention a few weeks ago and there were about 200 vendors. Too expensive for us. I also went to the 1/2 Price Book Store and was soooo excited about all of the choices but couldn't narrow any thing down. I have been to Mardel's a few times and am like a kid in a candy store. If I won the lottery, I would definitely hit that store.

I spent about 1 hour and 20 minutes in there. I finally bought a science workbook, Math book, a music book for a friend, and a teacher's lesson planner. Oh, and an assortment of colored pens so that I can color code our calendar for the school year. With 1 homeschooler and 2 preschoolers I needed a calendar so I won't forget any thing.

I need to get on the ball and figure out what other things I want to teach her this year.

I went to her old school today to check her out. I was told they don't do that any more. When I told her she would be home schooled I had to sign a form. The attendance lady said that she would just be considered a "no show". I am concerned about that because of truancy. I don't want a truant officer showing up at my house because they think that she JUST isn't going to school. Hopefully they don't misplace the form.

calling all bakers..or anyone who likes sweets

I was watching Martha Stewart and there was a lady on there that came up with some really cute ideas for cupcakes. If you like to bake like I do check out her blog.

http://bakerella.blogspot.com/

I think I might try out some of her ideas. Too cute!

We went out to eat for lunch. Payton got a kid's meal that had a car for the prize. If you know my middle daughter, you know she is the ultimate girlie girl. I asked her if she wanted to keep it and her first reply was no. Then after a second to consider it she changed her mind. Her reason you ask.

" I think I'll keep it because Jacob doesn't let me play with HIS cars! That way I can have one to play with if I want." You have to imagine her sitting at the table, sassy voice, head tilted and nodding as she says it. Like I'll show Jacob not to let me play with his stuff....I'll get my own.

She's some thing else!!!!

Recipes

Calling all cooks....I need new recipes because I'm stuck in a rut. I need good, cheap recipes that are easy to fix for a family of six. Any suggestions???

Come on all you stalkers that haven't posted ( you know who I'm talking about ). I need your help....Todd and the kids would really appreciate it.

No siblings around....blame the dog

Addi and I are in the kitchen preparing lunch. I smell an aroma that is not food.

I ask, "Addi, did you poo-poo?"

Her reply, "NOOOOO Asey!" (no, Chasey!)

Poor dog, the 18 month old is all ready blaming her.

It has begun

O.K. Todd informed me last night that the game was starting at 7pm. You ask what game??? Football of course. It is still preseason....but it doesn't matter.

So from 6 until some time around 10-10:30 that is where my hubby was. In front of the TV. During commercials he would emerge from our room to refresh his drink, get a snack, or to shoo a toddler out. Addi just didn't understand why Daddy didn't want her to scream during his game. It was bedtime and she was being a bit honory.......oh...wait ...if you know Addi she is normally that way. But we love her any way.

I didn't mind that Todd was out of commission yesterday. He works hard all week and deserves a brake. He did have all 4 kids in bed with him at one time. I heard screams, squeals, and giggles. Daddy is the official tickle monster. Jacob has started a new saying. I have no idea where he got it from. He gets in a stance and holds up his fists and tells you to"BRING IT ON!" Sometimes he just doesn't realize what he is getting himself into. Payton just loves to snuggle up next to him. Or get on his back and say"giddy up" which brings Addi to get a ride too. Mo is the wrestler.....no explaining needed.

So from now until the end of the season don't call Todd during any of the games, you'll have to talk to me.

.......it's a good thing we have more than one television

God is working

I have felt the need to post some thing like this lately. I think that I have started about 3 of 'em and ended up deleting them. It is hard to admit when you've strayed from the Lord or realized that you haven't completely been living for Him. Or that your relationship isn't where it is suppose to be.

If you know me, you might know about my past. That I was 11 or 12 when I asked Jesus in my heart. That it was only a few short years later that I strayed from my walk with Him. It wasn't until I was in my mid twenties that I rededicated my life to Him. I have gone to church, volunteered in the children's' Sunday school department, worked during the week at that same church and felt like I was doing God's will and obeying Him.God has just revealed to me that that isn't so.

A few months ago, something happened that rocked my boat and caused some waves. My faith was tested and I didn't do so well. Actually, I did HORRIBLE!! It was all about me. Why did this happen? I have done what I am suppose to do, why am I being targeted? This isn't all what I had planned, why are you letting this happen? You know I can do this ,why are you taking it away from me? Me Me Me.....

I stopped cold. I stopped volunteering in SS, I stopped going to church all together. I only prayed every once in a while. My life that I thought that was so full of faith for my Father was a lie. I checked out when my world as I thought that it should be ,crumbled. I am embarrassed to confess this but feel the need to do so.

I turned in my notice at work mainly because I felt betrayed and I had lost my passion for my job...and my home church. I know, it wasn't the right thing to do but like I said I really wasn't walking in faith. God never left me though. He was reaching out to me, through people in my life and through the Holy Spirit. I turned back to Him after months of trying to do things on my own and lots of guilt.

I started reading scripture which wasn't something that I was dedicated to doing before. Now I realize that was some of my mistakes. How do I expect to know what God wants me to do and actually obey Him if I don't know His word?2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, "All scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching,rebuking,correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good ." This is a verse I need to memorize and apply to my life.

I am doing a bible study through Priscilla Shirer called HE SPEAKS TO ME. She mentions how God interrupts us. We don't realize that it is from God. We get irritated, frustrated because we are so focused on doing some thing that the interruption( hubby,child,phone,run in our hose,etc) is inconvenient and not noticed as a Godsend. As maybe a time out from God or Him redirecting us to His plan. I know that He is using my kids constantly. I get so frustrated and annoyed that I snap at them. I need to take my timeout and focus on the true important thing.THEM!

I also started reading a book called Created to be his Help Meet. I haven't finished all of it and I don't necessarily agree with all of what she says. I do feel like I have neglected my family the past few years, putting my job outside my home before my husband and kids. That is my true job, taking care of Todd and making sure that he is happy and his clothes are clean and put away. Dinner is ready when he gets hungry and that the kids are taken care of. Making my husbands life less stressful. Being his Help Meet because God created woman for man not man for woman. I know that I might offend some of you, but this is my beliefs.

Todd and my marriage hasn't been all kisses and hugs. We truly have struggled over the 11 years we have been together. Don't get me wrong, we love each other and know that we are meant to be together, but have had our fair share of troubles. We don't always see eye to eye on issues like finances, raising our kids, or some thing simple like what is for dinner. I never thought about how disrespectful I have been to him. Any time I doubted his judgement or questioned his motives. I didn't know that I was telling him that I didn't trust his ability to take care of our family. Not only was I disrespecting Todd but I was disobeying God.

As I continue to learn scripture and what God says about being a help meet and marriage, we will be blessed. I am reminded that I knew who Todd was before I married him. I fell in love with him faults and all. Instead of trying to change him.... I need to try to understand him more. To pray for wisdom which leads to understanding....and much more.

I am sorry I have been all over the place with this blog and it might not make ANY sense to you but I feel better. I have a long way to go with my walk with the Lord but I am glad that I am on the right track.

Blessings to all.

imagination

Jacob and Addi have been each other's only playmates recently. Here is what they were doing the other day. I never put up the playschool nativity just because the kids enjoy playing with it all year. Jacob couldn't find all of the figures so he improvised....with Addi's help. Yes, I realize that baby Jesus isn't there but J didn't forget about Him. He just couldn't find Him at the moment.

Spongebob, Sandy, a kitty from a pet shop and a kids' meal dinosaur made an appearance. Your eyes are not deceiving you.

underwear

I am working for our church's Summer program so my kids get to participate. As we are walking out the door, Jacob was showing me his craft that he made. It was a dr.'s case that he decorated with bandades, q-tips, and cotton balls. He was very proud of himself.

I asked him what the bible story was about. Here is how our conversation went.

J:It was about a man walking down the road. Some guys came up to him and beat him up. They took ALL of his clothes. They didn't take his underwear though. They took all his clothes.

M: (trying to keep a strait face) Well, that was good that they didn't take his underwear. What else happened?

J: Another guy came and helped the guy. He put bandades all over him.

M: I am glad that the man helped the other man. What does Jesus want us to do if someone is hurt?

J: HELP THEM!!!

prayer request

I have a very dear friend that is need of prayer. For the last month or two she has been undergoing some procedures. She had major surgery about two weeks ago and has been trying to recoup from that. I talked with her on Tuesday and she said that she wasn't doing well at all. This is unusual to hear from her. I was concerned after our conversation. Today I found out that she was admitted to the hospital in ICU. She has blood clots in her lungs. They are giving her blood thinners. The doctors also found out that the surgeon left something inside her. They don't know what exactly. I am not sure what further steps they will be taking and when. Please pray for her. She is an awesome, caring, compassionate person who is always willing to help anyone.

Thank you.

couldn't resist sharing

We went to the pool today. Wouldn't you know it, as soon as we get into the water they call adult swim. Well, the kids did well "waiting" for the whistle to blow for everyone to go in. Mo played with Addison and I got a good picture. Payton held out as long as she could...in she went before allowed and had to sit in timeout. I had to take a pic. Her feelings were so hurt. She is very sensitive. I took the one of Jacob after he'd been in the pool awhile. He was actually avoiding a wasp that liked him alot. We had a fun day with cousin Krysta too. She is staying with us a few days.

Yes, we are still here

In case any of you are wondering, like Susan, we are still here. I just haven't had the time to sit and write a good post lately. It's been easier to say some thing short and swet on our shutterfly page. Those of you going to that one and commenting, I will figure out how you guys can post under your name instead of mine. It looks like I am the main one commenting on myself......a bit conceited huh?

We are all doing great. Mo goes to preteen camp with our church on Wednseday. She'll be back on Saturday. She loves going because it has tons of outdoor things to do. If you know Mo, she is the outdoorsy girl. I'll get her to tell you about it when she gets home.

J, P, A and I are going to Nanny and PawPaw's on thursday. Todd is going to be in heaven with the house to himself. Makes me think that he won't miss us....well I know he'll miss the kids. Only kidding, distance makes the heart grow fonder.

OK, duty calls.........feeding hungry kids.

cousins

I am so behind on blogging.

A few weeks ago Todd's sister and her boys came to visit from Nashville. We had an awesome time getting to see all of the cousins play and get reacquainted with one another. (and of course to visit with Lindsay and Neal...can't leave you guys out).

Jacob was really happy because he had boys around his age.....he is kinda the odd man out around here with 3 sisters. I was so glad that he and Sam got along well and seemed to really enjoy playing together. He liked playing with Gabe too but unfortunately I wasn't able to get a picture of the two of them in the pool. He was a bit under the weather and had went down for a nap.

Lindsay is the photographer in the family and has tons of pictures posted on her blog if you want to check out our handsome kiddos. She also has ones of when Morgan went back to Nashville with her and the boys. She took wonderful care of my baby girl and showed her a fantastic time. So much so that she didn't want to come back.

We miss the Watson clan terribly and hope to be able to see them sooon.