Finding the CASTLES in all of this CHAOS!

Want and NEED

2011-12-21T07:05:00.000-08:00

This holiday season, I just have "want and need" on my mind. I think we are totally confused about what those words mean. I'm talking to all of us. To clear up any confusion.. want, according to Webster's Dictionary means.. "to feel a need or a desire for"... need means..."Something that is necessary for organisms to live a healthy life".

Now that we've cleared that up, I just feel so burdened by the confusion we have and are creating in our kids for what we want vs need. My 12 year old does not NEED an iphone 4gs.. and neither does yours. I do not NEED a larger house. I may enjoy some of the amenities that a larger house would offer, but I don't NEED one.

Recently my kids were complaining about our house. Honestly because the majority of their friends live in houses that are signifigantly newer and larger than ours. As I was listening to them, I was thinking about truly what they need that they don't have. I couldnt think of anything. So, I ask my daughter, " Okay.. so while I look for a new house for us, tell me what you need that we don't have so I can find the right one". She just looked at me and could think of nothing. The reason why?? Because we have all that we need.

I see us as Americans so wrapped up in wants. I am guilty. My kids are having ridiculous Christmases. I'm just being honest. They are all getting things they don't need but want. It does frustrate me a little that we say we "need" the expensive jeans or we "need" an xbox. No we don't NEED any of that.

Another thing my girls do not "Need" is a boyfriend. These girls at 14 and 12 do not "Need" a boy to make them feel like they are somebody. The very day they start thinking they "need" that to be happy is the day our problems begin. What a hard life for a little girl who grows into a lady thinking she "needs" the presence of another to be somebody. I will be the first to tell you that my husband is my everything. He is all that plus some and I do "need" him. I do think he contributes to me having a healthy life and living.. as the definition says, but with that said, we've been married 15 years, and he has become part of me. These young girls do not have that bond nor do they need it. What they need is to grow into ladies who love the Lord more than anything else and trust God to provide them an excellent spouse at the appropriate time. They don't "need" to be heartbroken and hurt beginning at age 12 with a repetious cycle continuing through their young adult life. Just my soapbox. Now, I'm all about the date to homecoming and the harmless "going with" boy that you never actually go anywhere with, but I want to clarify that the moment our kids "NEED" a person in order to be happy, we better stop and look at what we're doing. You think I'm kidding... I drive lots of carpools, listen to lots of conversations with kids and read lots of texts. Stop and listen and you'll be amazed by what you hear.

I'm preaching to myself here. The Lord has shown me what I "need" so many times and taught me patience along the way. I patiently waited for Chad. I didn't have lots of boyfriends in highschool, and I know it's because I was waiting on Mr. Perfect. The Lord has brought me to a point before where I needed $600 to pay my house note, and patiently waited until the Lord delivered at the last minute. I lost my first baby, and patiently waited on the Lord to provide me with kids. It wasn't easy, and I wasn't feeling patient at the time, but I see now where he was working on my patience and showing me what I truly "need". The list goes on..

Anyway, I just want us to remember that it's not always about pushing forwarding for what we want. I see us all doing that, yes, even me.. and it scares me. If my kids want the top of the line best thing now, what do they have to look forward to working for? And yes.. I say this as I'm wrapping Miss Me Jeans and other things that we do not "NEED" and putting them under the tree.

Is it really you and Dad?

2011-11-30T07:56:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday Clayton woke up early and while the other kids slept in, we decided to have a date to go see Santa at the mall.

I'm trying very hard to remind myself that Clayton is still young and that he still likes doing things his siblings find "uncool". So, we got dressed cute and took off to see Santa. On our way there, here's what happened in the car. ( I'll be writing it just as Clayton said it.. although I can't reproduce the cute voice, I can reproduce the grammatical errors :)

"Mom, is Santa real? I think he's just your Mom and Dad putting out gifts."

"Well, Clayton, you know Mommy doesn't like to buy toys, so what do you think?

"Well, I'm just being real. Let's just think about it, how many people lives in Texas?"

"Wow.. I'm not sure.. alot"

"Well, how many hours is it dark at night?"

"About 8"

"And, kids have to be asleep, right mom? Let's just think about this. How can Santa go to all the kids's houses in all of Texas in 8 hours in one night" AND.. How can he eat all of those cookies by himself and not feel sick?"

"Well, Im not sure, Clayton. Since I'm not Santa, I'd just have to say it's Christmas Magic"

"Christmas Magic is not real and think about it... reindeer can't fly. They don't have wings and NO animals can have a glow on their nose"

"Well, they just push their legs back and forth so they'll go fast, or maybe there's a motor on the sleigh.. and as far as the glow, I think maybe it's just the way light shines on Rudolph"

" There can't be motor because it would burn the reindeers and light doesnt shine up that high and then how can the reindeer see the food we put out? And another thing, was Rudolph the lead reindeer when you were little?"

"Yep, Rudolph has always been the lead reindeer"

"Well, then I know this can't be true. There's NO WAY Rudolph could still fly if he's been flying since you were little. He's WAY old"

" And another thing.. how can Santa fit EVERY kids toys on one little sleigh. I mean, I get big stuff. There's no way it all fits in that one little sack on a sleigh."

So, the good questions continue and we get to the mall. I'm sad at this point thinking that my youngest no longer believes in Christmas magic..

We get to the mall and see Santa. He's the REAL Santa! REAL beard, REAL stomach.. Real outfit.. GREAT Santa. Clayton sees him and excitedly waits his turn in line. We get to the front and Clayton climbs up on his lap. Santa asks, "Have you been a good boy this year".. looking at me. I fib a little because he had honestly had the worst weekend EVER. I smile and say, "Oh yes, he's a good boy". He tells Clayton that he thought so because he didnt see his name on the naughty list. Clayton's eyes light up and a huge smile comes over him. Santa asks him what he wants for Christmas and promises him a Christmas visit.. the whole time looking at me for approval. So, Clayton hugs Santa good bye.. walks out and looks right up at me and says, " Thanks for tricking Santa and telling him I've been good"...

So after all of that, I think we still believe.. even though my smarty pants, inquisitive child still has lots of unanswered questions. It's fun to keep it that way, and fun for mommy to still have Christmas magic alive :)

2011-11-27T20:27:00.001-08:00

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How Blessed Are the People Whose God is the Lord...

2011-11-26T20:29:00.000-08:00

This year we made the decision to head to Baton Rouge for Thanksgiving. It is a long trip, but it's so worth it once we arrive. This year I found myself thinking about my family.. my extended family. As the youngest of four and now almost 40, I look back and see how I was raised, and how things turned out... with all of us. All together that's 26 people. Sure, no one is perfect, but the Lord's hand on our family has been obvious.

My dad has always been a true Godly man. TRUE.. as long as I've known my dad I have never heard him say a cuss word, never seen him drink alcohol, never heard him make fun of anyone... never. What I have seen is him praying for our family, supporting us financially, and loving my mother. I firmly believe that the blessings that the Lord has bestowed on our family are because of my dad's faithfulness to follow Christ and my mother's ability to always put family first, no matter the cost. What you see is what you truly get where my parents are concerned.

When I think of my siblings and their families, we've been so blessed. We have 16 healthy children between us, four marriages still intact, and our kids are good kids. Now granted, some are still very young, but we have kids who work hard, are not ashamed of the Lord, and who want to do right in all situations. Now, I'm not going to say that none of us have made mistakes, because that wouldnt be true, but to see right win over wrong is encouraging.

Along with all the good,I've seen many hurts our family has endured.. the heartbreak when a baby was lost by miscarriage after years of infertility issues, the loss of a job, leaving a family without work for months, struggles in marriage, depression..on several occasions, a premature birth, unexpected pregancy, health problems, a business falling apart, lots of tears, and lots of other heart breaks that just dont get mentioned. But, what I can see and know beyond a shadow of a doubt is that the Lord's hand of provision has been on this clan for many years. Somehow, He has always worked things out in his time and with His plan in mind, and continues to do so. He has been so good to us! In all of these circumstances, the Lord has reached in and healed hearts, guided decisions and blessed families.

I have truly seen this Thanksgiving that God is so good. He has blessed our family in more ways than we can ever appreciate. It

makes me realize the realness behind "How blessed are the people whose God is the Lord" Psalm 33:12. There were plenty years where hurt seemed so deep and it seemed like God wasn't there, but looking back, it's so obvious to see that He was holding us the whole time.. and He will continue to. We are still trusting Him for complete healing of my sister's Parkinson's Disease. I believe He will do that too!

Just thinking about the song "Blessings" by Laura Story. The last phrase of the song says " What if our greatest disappointments and the aching of this life is a revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy. What if trials of this life are your mercies in disguise." Amazing, strong words. Sometimes it takes stepping back, and really looking. God is so good.

2011-11-19T11:40:00.000-08:00

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Happy 14th, Kate Lauren!

2011-11-05T09:59:00.000-07:00

Kate, I'm sitting here thinking about when you were born. YOU made me a Mommy. YOU were my first born. I remember quitting everything, because suddenly nothing mattered. I would literally sit and rock you all day. I knew the daily order of all the talk shows and didn't care if you slept through your whole nap in my arms. I LOVED it.

Now you are turning 14! Wow... time flies. I love you so much, Kate Castle!

My 14 Favorite Things about You... in no particular order.

1- You are always willing to be my right hand man. You are a second mother and you bless me daily by serving your siblings.

2- You give everything your very best.. your schoolwork, your orchestra, your friendships, Bibles study.

3- You care about others..genuinely. This is a learned thing for most of us, but I honestly think few are born with it. You are.

4- You turn to God to help you with things. You allow Him to be the Lord of your life, even when it's not the popular thing.

5- You are so much fun to be with. You talk freely with me and make me laugh all the time. I LOVE shopping days with you!

6- You love your siblings. I see you interact with Clayton and see you be patient with him when no one else will. One day you will be an excellent mother.

7- You're Caroline's best friend and confidant. I love watching you take care of her, and her not even realize it. I'm so thankful she has a Christian sister walking along besider her and watching her back.

8- You're beautiful.. but don't know it. I love that you are as pretty as you are, but act like you're just anyone else. On that note, sometimes you need to see the beauty we all see. Inside and out..

9- You are a friend to everyone. I have seen you take in people that others wouldn't.

10- You strive to do what's right. Not just the Christian what's right, but what's right in all matters.. and if ever you mess it up, you fix it and make it right. Love that about you.

11- You set your mind on a goal, and work your very hardest to achieve it. This goal setting will truly help you as you continue through life.

12- You made me a mommy. That is certainly a favorite thing about you.

13- I love how you support our family. You don't like missing others soccer games, baseball games or gym meets. You're all of our cheerleader.

14- And last but not least.. You are truly my friend. I have to remind myself often that I'm your mom and not just your friend. Thanks for giving me that spot.

I LOVE you with all my heart. Here's to a great year as a 14 yr old!

Happy Birthday, Caroline

2011-11-03T19:54:00.000-07:00

Well.. it's birthday time again. My girls are both having a birthday this weekend. I can't believe they are 12 and 14. It's crazy!

Caroline had her bday party this past weekend. She did a Halloween/Birthday party. She was unable to narrow her list down and had 56 kids at her party.. Boys and girls. It was a TON of work, but crazy fun for all. The kids loved it and Caroline was on Cloud 9. Even though the girls share a birthday, I'm going to post their birthdays seperately... So, here goes...

My 12 favorite things about Caroline Grace.. in no particular order..

1- You have serious determination.. I mean.. serious. You never give up and never let something get the best of you.

2- You are friendly to everyone.. even my friends. I love that you love them and in turn, they love you back.

3- Your sense of style is so fun. You love to wear your personality.

4- You are resiliant. You just take life as it comes living each day to the fullest.

5- You have an old soul. A maturity that most kids your age don't have. It's fun to watch you as a little adult.

6- Your smile is gorgeous.. It shines all the time and shows your love for others.

7- You are extremely protective of those you love. You aren't about to let anyone hurt your siblings, even though you would never admit that to them. The way I've seen you stand up for them in situations has been beautiful to me.

8- This one is not too sweet.. but I think it's impressive that you can not study, be in all GT classes and have straight A's.. Makes that part of parenting easy for me.

9- You compliment your parents in front of your friends. That makes me feel like the best mom ever.

10- You're fun to hang out with. You make me laugh and can have full conversations with me. I love it.

11- You love Jesus and aren't ashamed to show it.

12- You love and care about your friends by honoring their friendship and protecting it.

Caroline grace, here's to your last year as a preteen. Live it to the fullest.. Stay a little girl as long as you can and keep living for Jesus.. We love you so much and are so glad Nov 5, 1999 happened!

9 of my favorite things about you.

2011-10-11T07:54:00.000-07:00

My handsome little son is quickly becoming a big boy. I remember the day I discussed with Daddy that we should have another baby. We had two adorable little girls, but I always wanted lots of kids. As I was trying to convince daddy that we needed another baby, I remember him saying.. " I just don't know. We are living tighly right now and I don't know if we can afford another child." I explained to Daddy that we won't always be living on such a tight budget and that we should not let today determine our forever. He agreed with me and about ten months later, you were born. We didn't let that day determine who we'd be forever. God has blessed our family and we are truly grateful.

So, today, Cort.. Since you are turning 9 years old I want to tell you 9 of my favorite things about you.. in no special order!

1- You live life to the fullest everyday.. enjoying all that you do.

2- You are an encourager to others.

3- You are super polite and kind.

4- You love your sisters, even when they don't treat you with love. This is called unconditional love.

5- You truly know how to make me feel like I'm doing a good job as your mom by appreciating me and making me feel special... even if this means informing random people that I am already "taken". :)

6- You remind me of how much I love your Daddy. Looking at you is like looking at him. In your personality, appearance and your heart.

7- You are ALL heart. You play ball like you mean it. You give it all you've got and always try your very best.

8- You love Jesus by doing what is right and listening to the little voice in your head reminding you that He's the most important part of your life.

9- You are the best big brother EVER to Clayton. You make him feel like a superstar at anything he tries to do. You protect him from others and always stand by his side.

Happy Birthday, Cort... Here's to many more great years.

Conversations with Clayton

2011-09-19T16:10:00.000-07:00

Today I had the sweet pleasure of about 10 minutes alone with Clayton in the car driving kiddos to and from. I just wanted to give a run down of how this sweet time went...

Momma... Who do you think will die first? Me or Reagan?
Well, Clayton you both are very young I bet you will both live a very long time.
Hmmm.. when I die who do I give my money to? I know, I'll give it to you, Mom. Wait... no that won't work.. You'll die before me because you're old.. that won't work. I guess I'll have to give it to Cort. That sounds good.
I take this opportunity to be spiritual and hope for a divine moment...
You know Clayton, when you die you will go see Jesus, but you must ask him to come live in your heart.. like Cort did when he got baptized.
Oh Umm Yeah.. Ummm Mom... how does our car run?
Well, we have to put gas in it.
What is gas?
It's a liquid that makes our car run.
Where does it come from?
Ummm Not sure.
Oh well. is it under the car in bottles?
Well, kinda its a tank that allows the gas to run through the car.
Where does it go after it runs through the car?
It evaporates into the air.Oh...
Mom, Do you think roadrunners can fly?
Well, I've never seen one fly, but I can't say for sure.
Why is it a bird if it can't fly?
I'm not sure, Clayton..
Well, why do they call it a road runner if it's sitting in my front yard?
I don't know baby. Somethings just don't have an answer...
Mom, is Dad home.. I need to ask him the stuff you don't know.. :)
Love me some sweet 6 year old boy! An inquisitive child is a good sign for sure!

Some things never change...

2011-08-05T07:59:00.001-07:00

Last night I came across these pictures and BOY!! did it make me sad. My kids are GROWING UP. As I was looking through them I started noticing a pattern in my pictures. It seemed like in all of these pictures Cort was either holding a ball, throwing a ball, watching ball or hitting a ball. Then Caroline was either hanging upside down, running around in a leotard, or standing on her head. It made me think about the passions they were born with.

I spend my life trying to help my kids pursue their passion. I know we all do as parents. It's what we love to do... see our kids excel in what they love. From the day Cort could talk he said "Ball". Literally, it was his first word. He just wanted a ball. Ask our babysitter, Sarah Dalton, what she was paid to do. Of course, she was paid to make sure our kids didn't kill themselves or somebody, but pretty much she was paid to pitch a little ball back and forth to Cort for him to either bat or catch. He was born with a passion to play ball.

I also remember Caroline being on the playground as a little bitty girl and another mom saying " Ma'am, Your daughter is flipping around that bar". At 3 years old she was scaring me to death trying to swing around bars over concrete. I knew she needed a safe place to flip, so we started gymnastics and she was in LOVE. Gymnastics birthday parties, every fun day there was, extra practices... the gym was her second home.

These two still have that passion inside them. They both still love to play. When a game is going on, Cort just can't drive past and not take part, or watch. Caroline is the same way. While there's not always a gymnastics meet in town, the athlete in her wants to play whatever is going on.

I spend my time reminding my kids to "Commit your way to the Lord, trust HIM and he will do it" Psalms 37:5. We spend a lot of time talking about how we should commit our gifts to the Lord and ask Him to give us the best He has for us. We pray with the kids before games or meets, even if just a whisper in the ear, for the Lord to do a good work in them to HIS glory. Even when we have our down days, we remind them that God has a plan even in that.

More than often I feel judged by other people for keeping such a schedule. But even though other parents don't understand my willingness to drive to out of town tournaments, make the effort for the extra practices, sit out in the burning up hot each Saturday, run like a mad woman in the afternoons trying to make it happen and live in a modest house so that I can afford all of this, it's all worth it to see my kids living out their passions. I hear so many comments and opinions from other families on how busy we are, and how we just need to say no, or how they would never run all over like we do... but as I try to defend myself all I can say is..as long as my child still has the passion for their activity, gives it their all, makes the best of their opportunity and keeps up with their schoolwork... what have I to lose? Shooting for the end result of winning a tournament, perservering through the hard work of achieving a skill, and learning to work together as a team are all excellent skills that will help my kiddos their whole life. Watching them do their thing is the highlight of my life. I guess.. that is MY passion :) Now.. here's to a crazy busy fall. May I please stay strong... in the name of Passion :)

To drink the caffeine or not drink the caffeine.. that is the question

2011-06-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

This blog for me started out to be a memory book for my kids, but I just sometimes get inspired by something that I want to write about that is not necessarily a "memory" for my kiddos. But, you know, I figure that this is my blog and it's quite possible that by the time my kids actually care that I have a blog, they'll be mature enough to maybe learn something from their old momma's insight. So... here I go with my "thoughts from Kes" moment.

So I was recently reading a magazine that had lots of self help articles in it. That's kind of my idea of a good magazine. I'm not into who is dating who in Hollywood, or if Brad and Angelina have gone to Uganda again... whatever.. I just like to read new tips for food, recipes ( not that I plan to cook them), and new exercises. Well, this particular magazine had an article about how to naturally make your breasts bigger... Hmmmmm this is interesting.. do tell..... and in the next few pages there was an article on how to get rid of cellulite naturally. The cellulite article caught my attention because I was just rejected by Chad when I suggested that I go try out the new laser system that supposedly zaps all your cellulite. Chad was..."ummmm.... no.." when I suggested I go try the new methods. So, I'm reading along and there are several methods.. one of which is to drink lots of caffeinated drinks and use caffeinated lotions. Apparently that will act as a diuretic and will rid your legs, buttocks, arms, etc of cellulite.. Hmmm I'm thinking about this as I turn back and begin to read the article on how to naturally increase your breast size. Laughingly I realize that the main goal there is to avoid all caffeinated drinks as retaining fluid will make your breasts larger... Ok.. so I'm sitting there thinking, well, there's a decision to make here. Do I want less cellulite or larger breasts.. I'm guessing if we're talking self help methods, I have decision to make.

This just got me thinking. What difference does it make? I mean, honestly... Chances are if I asked Chad what I should do.. drink caffeine for thinner thighs, or avoid caffeine for bigger breasts, he'd probably say.. whatever gets you to bed earlier. He just wants ME.. What does it have to take for ME to just accept ME.

If you know me at all you know that I've spent my life struggling with self esteem. I'm pretty sure it stemmed from the kids in my Christian private school calling me Elsie because I was a little cubbier than the other kids. This is one reason my kids are in public school. I had some seriously mean kids growing up in Christian private schools. Left a bad taste in my mouth.. Anyway, here I am at 39 years old losing sleep over things that just don't matter.

Last week was a tough week for me. I feel like Satan was sitting on my shoulder reminding me of what I am not. Or better yet, trying to convince me that I am not. I was suffering pretty bad and just miserably trying to find myself and what it would take to make me happy. Trust me, Satan knows my weakness. If I open any little door for him to sneak into my life and talk down to me, he will. This is unacceptable. I will NOT let Satan convince me that I am anything other than who God meant for me to be. I will NOT let Satan sneak into my marriage and whisper in my ear that my husband won't like me if.... or won't accept me if... I won't do it.

So, here is where I am... Last week I was praying for the Lord to heal me from these awful thoughts of failure and comparisons to others. I was asking the Lord to speak into my heart and remind me that the earthly worries don't matter. Would you know that within two days my precious 8 year old boy walked right up to me and whispered in my ear " Don't change anything about you, Mommy. I like you just as you are". Moments later my friend wrote on facebook " More of Him, Less of me", just a few moments later I was in my car driving my daughter around and the song "Beloved" by Kari Jobe came on. I PROMISE that the volume turned up so loudly when Kari sang "you're beautiful to me...so beautiful to me". That is honestly the only part of the song that I heard. God reminded me that "Greater is He that is in Me than he that is in the world." How about that? How about the Lord just simply reminding me that I am Fearfully and Wonderfully Made. It was awesome and a great slap in the face to the Satan who tries to remind me that I am not.

Guess what I am. I am a mother who is devoted to her children. I am a friend to many. I am a wife to my husband, who loves me as me. I am a daughter and a sister. I am an example to my daughters. I am a woman of God.

This life is so short. I picture myself lying with my husband years from now when one of us is heading to Jesus and I see myself regretting all the time spent worrying about appearance and wishing back any moment I had to embrace this woman that God made me... loving me for me. Living my life to the fullest.. being the best God can help me be.

So, my decision about the caffeine... who cares? No one.. that's who. The King is enthralled with your beauty. Honor Him.. for HE is your God! Thank you, Lord.

Cort's Baptism

2011-06-16T21:54:00.000-07:00

What a sweet moment! Cort was baptized! It was absolutely precious. Chad baptized him with all of his family present. It was darling and a gorgeous moment for our family.

Kate's Dance Recital

2011-06-16T21:38:00.000-07:00

This year Kate danced in SIX dances.... One of which was her competition Dance... and Ohhh so cute. I was so proud of her. All of her family came to watch and cheer her on. She was incredible!

Bluebonnets

2011-06-16T19:32:00.001-07:00

I just have to laugh when I think about bluebonnet pictures. It's just something I have to do every year. This year the bluebonnets were not very pretty. They were just dry and crispy and few and far between. The kids complain something terrible about taking the pictures every year. They whine and gripe the whole time and act like I'm just killing them. But... funny enough... the first thing they do when we get in the car and drive off is fight over who gets to look through the camera first, then complain that "there's no good ones of themselves". Well.... maybe there would be if you'd just hush up and smile instead of complaining :) One day I'll be out there with their children and maybe they'll thank me for it then.

Easter 2011

2011-06-16T19:19:00.000-07:00

I'm just catching up on my blog a little. Easter was great this year. We had the Durands in town and boy, it spoiled me. I miss my Shan so much and Cort sure enjoyed having CJ. We took a girls day and went shopping in Round Rock, then on Thursday Shannon and I took the boys to the new Legoland in Grapevine. It was great fun.

If I only teach them one thing...

2011-04-06T07:21:00.001-07:00

As a mom there are soo many things I do wrong. Most nights I lay awake and just think about opportunities I missed, things I said, you know, just the normal mom worries. Well on Monday I was reminded of something I must have done right!

Monday afternoon Kate had an orchestra audition for school. In Midway, it's a dog eat dog world. You have to truly earn all of your spots because it's just such a big school. Kate was wanting to be a part of the Chamber orchestra next year. This is an advanced orchestra that is audition only. She did not make Chamber orchestra last year, and was disappointed, but faced the year with Symphonic orchestra and did great. I contacted all of my family and had them praying for Kate on Monday at 1:30 as was I.

Monday after school Kate got in the car all smiles and said " I know I did good mom" . She told me that she walked in and saw the music she had to sight read and immediately got nervous. She told me that she prayed a prayer in her head that God would help her. I'm just listening this whole time... then she excitedly told me that somehow her fingers just played the piece and when it was over, she was like WOW.. I think I got it right! Mom... it was weird. I felt like God was helping me.

Can I just say what my heart did at that moment? Just to have my daughter tell me that she followed the verse we've always taught her and felt it! Psalm 37:5 " Commit Your ways to the Lord, Trust Him and He will give you the desires of your heart" WOW.. WOW ... WOW... I'm sooo proud of her for remembering that, acting on it, then sharing it with me.

There are so many things I do wrong that make me an annoying parent. I dried her very favorite sweater and now it fits Caroline, I embarrass her in front of her friends all the time, I don't always speak in love, and I leave her to babysit her brothers far too often, but if I only ever teach them ONE THING and one thing only ... teaching them to call out to God is it!

These days there are so many things that I can't control for them. I can't protect them like I could when they were babies, and that is scary. Everytime Caroline leaps over that beam I panic that her foot will slip and she'll be injured. EVERY TIME!! Not to mention flying over the vault upside down and swinging like a monkey around a bar over and over. I just have to trust that she's commiting her acts to the Lord and that He will protect her.

Each time Cort goes out to play a game, my prayer for him would be that he would learn to use his talents for the Lord and with that what could be against him? And Clayton... well, I'd just like him to memorize the verse at this point :)

Thank you, Kate, for reminding me this week that I'm not all that bad and through my errors as a mom... God is still working for good :) And...I'd like to Announce that Kate will be a member of the Chamber Orchestra next year. SHE MADE IT! Congratulations, Kate.

Just As I Am.. flip flops and all

2011-03-20T11:44:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been absurdly busy. I mean... spring has SPRUNG amongst the Castle Family. Yesterday the boys had 3 baseball games, 2 soccer games, a birthday party and Kate had dance and K life social. I also had tickets to take the girls and a friend to Gotta Sing Gotta Dance, so the day was just crazy. Well, two of those baseball games included a tournament which continued today, Sunday.

Last night late we got the email that Cort's Select team, The Midway Missiles, would be playing this morning at 9:00 am. When I see those kinds of emails I just get a funny feeling in my stomach. I wasn't raised to miss church on Sunday and especially train my kids to believe that their sports are more important than acknowledging Christ in worship on Sundays. It's just a conviction I have.

Coach Davis and Coach Castle aka, Dad, share my conviction, I'm sure, but also have the conviction of my son completing what he started which means finishing out his baseball tournament with the team. Plus, he's a crusher and a team player who couldn't feel right about leaving the team down one. These tournaments are few and far between at this point, so it's not like this is the decision every Sunday. Regardless, it's still tough for me.

Today the Missiles played hard, but lost their 9:00 game. So sad that they lost, but this left me plenty of time to make the 10:30 service at church. YEAH! I rush away from the field, head to the car, get to church, park, am rushing in and look down and realize.. OH dear... it's Sunday morning, I'm in the choir, and I'm wearing my comfy jeans, a Midway Missiles Spirit Shirt and flip flops. What to do? Well, I'll tell you what I did... I walked right in, ended up on the front row of the choir and worshipped my heart out.. And all because I know God loves me Just as I am.

That's such a great feeling... to be loved just as you are. In a world where so many of us pass judgment on each other, sometimes without even realizing it, just to know that God sees straight to our hearts. He ignores the clothes, the make up, the hair do, and just sees our hearts. Not comparing us to another, and not counting our faults... just loving us. Gorgeous thoughts, I'll tell you. Just to know that God loves this busy, proud mom with a heart for worship just as I am. Flip flops on and all. Thank you, Jesus.

We're going Skiing.. Oh Dear!

2011-03-05T23:53:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow morning we leave for a LONG LONG drive to take our kids to Pagosa Springs, Colorado to go snow skiing. This is their first experience, and we're looking forward to it.. But, It is not their momma's first experience.

I have terrible skiing stories.. all three times I went! The first time our church youth group chartered a bus and drove down to Santa Fe, NM. About 2 days in, a friend of mine fell and injured her knee terribly. The poor girl was is so much pain on the way home. She was laying in the floorboard of the bus the whole way back with her knee up just praying through every terrible bump that we hit. It was awful.

The second time I went skiing our youth group loaded up to Crested Butte, Co. My grandad was the pastor of our church and he and my grandmother decided to come along with the youth. Well, as soon as we arrived, my "Padre" fell to the ground and had a massive heart attack because of the altitude. He was taken to the hospital, but did not survive. Our entire family... devastated... took a flight home together and said goodbye to our precious Padre.

The final time I went skiing was when I was newly married and Chad and I went with some friends. I did the greens the first day and was feeling pretty confident. Chad talked me into going up a double lift.. in Taos... and ended up on a blue. I couldn't get down... spent 3 hrs on the mountain crying with my husband of only 6 months and was finally taken down by the ski patrol. I remember crying as our friends were all watching us from our ski in ski out condominium window. Totally embarrassing.

But, this week, I'll be putting on the skis one more time and doing it in the name of my children. I think they deserve the opportunity to try out skiing and decide for themselves if skiing is for them or not. Let's all hope that this opportunity is my first postive one. Lord, be with us :0)

Why are "I'm Sorry's " So hard?

2011-03-05T23:24:00.000-08:00

So once again it's 1:26am and I can't sleep. Could it be the Pepsi Max that's currently in my refrigerator? While I'm laying awake and the house is quiet, I'm just thinking and praying and having some good ole soul searching time. I just started thinking about I'm sorrys... You know, the I'm sorry that you're hurting or I'm sorry I was late.... just the meaning of I'm sorry.

To me, I'm sorry is so powerful. Sometimes it's just what we need to hear to get a feeling of peace instead of dread in of our hearts. And it works both ways. Everytime I've ever delivered an I'm sorry.. It actually felt GREAT too. It's amazing how an argument just can't continue when I'm sorrys are delivered.

I can think of a couple of times as a little girl when I got fussed at pretty heavily by my mom, went to my room crying, and a little while later had my mom come find me and say " Kes, I'm sorry. I went too far. " I can't tell you what that meant to me as a little girl. And now as a mom, thinking about the example that set for me is priceless.

Recently, Caroline received a text from her friend that was something to the affect of "That was really not nice what you did at lunch," Well, my Caroline.. and love her, I do... often times doesnt even realize she's upset a friend. She's just programmed a little like her Daddy and sometimes her sensitive side doesnt show up. She just doesn't even realize. Well, as soon as this text arrived to her phone she told me about it. I asked her what she did and she couldn't remember.. but clearly she never meant to hurt her friends feelings, and obviously it was bothering her friend. Caroline simply texted back.. with some mom coaching, "I'm so sorry I hurt your feelings. I would never mean to. Please forgive me." Those words are so powerful if you think about it. She kept her friend.

Last week I sorta blessed out the director at Clayton's Pre K. She slipped a note in his lunchbox telling me I owed $10 for a late pickup. Well, I couldn't for the life of me remember picking him up late, but it's probable with the life I lead. I went in and asked about it.. she got defensive, I called her bill pathetic and walked rudely out.. in front of others. I KNOW>.. totally embarrasing. Well, it bothered me all day. As much as I tried to justify that I was right, it still bothered my heart. I knew that I should have handled the situation better and really didnt honor Christ with my words, so later that day I called her and apologized... with all of my kids in the car.. totally embarrasing, but honestly, I couldn't live with myself until I did. It felt great!

I always find myself apologizing to Chad too. I'm sorry I ran the debit card out. I'm sorry I didn't wash your undershirts... I'm sorry I got a speeding ticket in your new truck ;(.. which reminds me... The I'm sorry with the Police officer got me NOWHERE... Any way. Sometimes apologizing to the ones closest to us is the hardest.

Last week Caroline had a friend say, "My mom said I have to tell you I'm sorry.. so, Sorry". Some would say that wasn't heartfelt and forget it, but what I say is Kudos to mom for teaching her daughter the importance of I'm sorry... being humble and precious before a friend and making a wrong situation right. Teaching our children to have a heart for others and not always for ourselves is so important. It speaks volumes.

So, I guess I would say all in all... if your heart tells you that you need to, just say I'm sorry. You'll both be blessed :)

Telling one on my guy... Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-10T17:31:00.000-08:00

In honor of Valentine's Day, I'm going to tell a fun story about my husband :) Chad and I met through our roomates our Sophmore Year at Baylor. He asked me out, we did Homecoming and it was great. But, I didn't really see a future with him, so we opted to just be friends. We were GREAT friends. He was my FAVORITE friend as a matter of fact. We set each other up on dates and would even double date with different dates. Kinda funny for sure. Well, suddenly one day about a year and half later, I decided that I actually thought of him more than a friend. We discussed it, kissed, and a dating relationship began.

Well, Chad.. bless his sweet heart.. doesn't have a history of being the best gift giver. Thankfully, he's improved tremendously over the years, but in 1993, he had serious issues.

It was Valentine's Day. I, in my usual sentimental state, had worked long and hard on a picture collage of the two of us at all of our events and was planning to present it to him on Valentine's Day. He worked late and I finally got word that he was home from work at his apartment. Over I went proudly with my Valentine's gift. All wrapped... all done up... all proud. Of course he graciously accepted my gift.

About 2 hours later he came knocking on my door holding a 3 foot tall Cornplant with a red bow around it. Yes, my friends... My now husband never considered Valentine's Day until it was almost midnight. At which point he went to the Baylor florist moments before they closed and bought what they had left. No roses... no teddy bears... no candy... A Cornplant. :) But, I loved that Cornplant because it came from my Valentine.. My love.

Happy Valentine's Day, Baby.. But, please, no cornplant this year :)

Snow Day 2011

2011-02-06T19:37:00.000-08:00

What a fun day! We were blessed with lots of snow this past Friday.. no school.. and lots of fun. Nothing better than a surprise four day weekend. The kids enjoyed snow ball fights, sledding and building snowmen. Thankfully, I've been gathering clothes for the kids to take on our ski trip for spring break. These sure came in handy. It was so much fun and just a nice day.

Wearing the Mickey Ears

2011-01-12T14:10:00.001-08:00

If you've ever been to the "World" of Disney, then you will completely understand what I'm about to write. While in the "world" you will see people all over wearing Mickey Ears... proudly... without any hesitations at all. There are big Goofy Hats, big Minnie Mouse headbands, Hollywood Studios cone hats, Buzz Lightyear hats.. anything crazy... that Disney fans wear around just in honor of where they are and for the fun of it. No one looks at you crazy if you're wearing a Mickey headband with feathers out of the top... even if you're 38..You just wear it and don't think about it. Even our teenager wore the Minnie Feather hat proudly all week. We buy these things and wear them knowing full well that we would never come home and wear these hats to school or the grocery store or anywhere but Disney.. or maybe a costume party.

Well, this got me thinking while we were riding buses from park to park looking at all of the Disney fans proudly wearing their gear.. It made me think of my life, or OUR lives, as Christians. Do we wear our "Christian" hats when we're just surrounded by Jesus lovers, or do we wear them always? Are we proudly honoring Christ in all circumstances, even when it's not the popular thing, or are we putting our hats away when we're not in the comfort zone of other Christians. It's just a thought and a good reminder to me, and I hope to you :)

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes.

Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Our Disney Vacation 2011

2011-01-10T20:17:00.000-08:00

This year Chad had a work conference at the Disney Yacht Club the first week of January. As soon as we learned of this, we started checking the school calendar and decided that we would surprise the kids with a Disney Trip for Christmas. We had the BEST TIME!

We stayed at the All Star Family Suites again. While the All Star is considered one of Disney's Value Resorts, it's right up our alley. We love the large suite with 2 bathrooms and a seperate room for mom and dad. We also love the large food court and the fun pools. The kids LOVE IT there! So, why change a good thing. Once again.. the service was impeccable.

We started the trip with a visit to Hollywood Studios. It was the last night for the Osborne Family Lights. They were GORGEOUS. Words just do not describe how awesome they were. I'm so glad we got to see them! We spent three days in the Magic Kingdom... which is always a favorite. There is just something about the Castle that is so much fun and so gorgeous. We spent two days in Epcot. The world showcase is beautiful and so much fun to learn about and experience different places around the globe. Chad was in a conference for 3 of the days, so it was just me and the kids in the parks then. It wasn't too bad. It's very liberating to be without a stroller. Hooray for that! We did several charater meals. We ate with Pooh at Crystal Palace, With Mickey at the Cape May Cafe, and with the Princesses in Norway at Epcot. The food was delicious and as always the company was delightful.

A few trip highlights were the fire in our hotel room, which Kate calmed me down enough to put out :), getting stuck 25 minutes on the Haunted Mansion ride with Caroline, Cort and Clayton 15 rows behind us...together.. in one car... alone... arguing... in the dark , and Clayton getting chosen for a random search at security. There are just always a few things that keep a trip fun... right??

Just the way you are... because you're mine!

2010-12-29T20:54:00.001-08:00

Kate needed some Pointe shoes from a store in Austin and all of our guys went to the Baylor Bowl game, so today became a girl day! So exciting! Today after Caroline got done at the gym the girls and I headed to Austin for an afternoon/evening of shopping and being together.

I love girl times. My girls and I just laugh and enjoy each other so much. My girls are really close. They have separate rooms, but sleep together every night. They sit up laughing and talking together. They rarely fight, and I think they truly are each other's best friend. How that blesses me!

When we're together, we have great conversations in the car about relationships, friends, Jesus. We share stories that we've heard and the girls have a great opportunity to ask me things that they would just never ask me sitting at home or surrounded by their brothers. It's just precious priceless time.

They've even gotten a little better about asking for things in the stores. I now make sure they both have their own money, and for the most part.. we seem to get along just fine with the "Not todays... and the well, if you want to spend your own money". Tonight was one of those times. I just needed a great relaxing time with kids that love me just because I'm me. That's what I can always count on with my kids. There's something about the feeling of being loved and accepted just as I am. They don't care if my roots are showing, if my thighs look fat, if my outfit looks silly... they love me just because I'm theirs and they are mine. There's so much comfort in that. Just being loved unconditionally and unjudged. Now, I'm not going to say that my teenager is not occasionally embarrassed by her mother. That would just be unusual if she wasn't, but for the most part.. there's nothing like being together with my kids who love me just because I'm me. In the same way, God loves us just because we are His. How precious to know that our Father enjoys the same time and relationship with us that we enjoy with our kids. WOW!

I know these times won't always be. My girls... and my boys... will grow up, fall in love and have their own families to be with and to grow. But, I will cherish these times while I have them and do what I can to keep them up as long as I live. There's nothing like that unconditional love!

A Tribute to Shannon

2010-12-21T09:56:00.001-08:00

Well, today is a sad day for me! The moving truck is here. My precious friend, Shannon, is moving all the way to California. I still can't believe it and I feel numb to it. I guess I knew it was coming, and I even sold her house... but, it still doesnt seem real.

About 11 years ago I was in the nursing room at Highland with my baby, Caroline. In walks this pretty blonde lady that was so bouncy and full of energy. She immediately started talking to me, complimented my baby, and that was the first day of a beautiful friendship. She and Steve watched our girls grow up and walked with us through the boys' pregnancies and births. Shannon was even planning to be present when Clayton was born, except that she got sick and couldnt come :(

We cried with each other through the loss of babies, the arrival of babies, the loss of jobs, the hard times financially, the great times financially, and I think she probably knows every fight Chad and I have ever had. And sometimes she even took his side... rightfully :)

Thank you, Shannon for the Best friend you have been to me. The gift of you is something I would have never imagined. It proves to me that God plants people in your life for a reason and for good. Your family has been a tremendous gift to our family. We will miss you in Waco, but will be happily supporting your life in Cali. Go be a California Girl... but don't forget us.. Love you.

He promised me Good

2010-12-20T08:59:00.000-08:00

Well, this is a difficult topic for me, but I think I'm ready to talk about it in hopes that someone else may benefit from it. I realize I write this mostly for me and my family, so it may not even get out, but it's on my heart.

For the past 3-4 months I've been dealing with terrible depression and anxiety. I know... we say.. how can a Christian mom who seems to have it all on the ball be depressed? Well, I dont know either... but I know that it's real and that it has hurt like nothing I have ever experienced before. I know that I can look into the eyes of my gorgeous husband and my precious kids and cry just because. I can walk around the house and see a mess and cry just because. I can drop my daughter off at school and cry just because. It makes no sense, but it's real.

So several months ago I noticed my normally outgoing friendly personality start to be still... just quiet inside. I started missing my workouts, not eating, dreading shopping... now this is NOT me. I lost 12 pounds and started wearing my 13 year old's jeans. The whole time I'm looking around at other people feeling like I'm on the outside looking in. Just wishing some days that I could be that happy smiling big lady, or that friendly looking old person. I just started feeling like I didn't measure up as a mom, a wife, a friend, and especially as a Christian. I started wishing for the day I could just meet my Lord and be free in Him.

I immediately started seeking the Lord. Just asking Him to heal my heart and also insisting out loud that Satan flee from me. I just felt like Satan was sitting on my shoulder speaking lies to me all day... like he was a fog hanging over my head. Clearly I know this feeling is not from the Lord, so it must be spiritual warfare going on all around me. So, I started diving into the Word and pouring Christian music over my heart all day. I dealt with this internally for about 2 months not wanting my sweet Chad to know that I was not his perfect wife. That my heart was vulnerable and I am weak. Finally, I could no longer hide it. He, as well as my friends, noticed and immediately started praying and supporting me.

I will just say, there is nothing like the prayers of your spouse over you. One morning my husband prayed thanking God that he was chosen to walk with me through this and help me out of it. What a true blessing! It has brought us closer than ever and is a precious feeling of support and love here. He has taken over some things that I have been unable to do... cooking, kids homework, just some smaller things. He even handled the family Christmas card this year. Baby... you rock:)

So, I guess as I'm sharing this I am just wanting to say that I know that the Lord has promised good to me. He has promised me peace and love. He has reminded me that I am created in HIS image. He has reminded me that He is entralled with my beauty... the beauty that I do not see. He is my beholder.... my strong tower. It has amazed me to hear Him speak to me through other people who don't even know my hurt. The times he reminds me He's there holding me are incomprehendable.

I'm continuing to work through my sadness and every day feel better. I am confident that the Lord is healing my heart and will use me to His glory to speak to other Christian and non Christian women out there who need a touch. As I'm healing, I'm already praying for divine opportunities to serve His precious daughters. Thank you Lord for promising me Good! May I remember to count it all joy.

Happy 15 Years!

2010-10-20T10:29:00.000-07:00

Well .... today marks 15 years married to my best friend. I just thought it would be fun to share some wedding pictures and rather than buy a card, write a card :)

I understand that not everyone has a marriage that absolutely makes their life. I recently heard someone say that no man can ever complete a woman.. that's just a line from a movie. I have to say I completely disagree. I guess not everyone finds someone who makes them feel complete, but I did and I'm so thankful.

I've been spending some time looking back at old pictures and remembering all we've been through. You know, pictures seem to always show the smiles and the laughs and the posed moments, but we both can look through the picture and remember the not so happy moments and the times when things weren't just great. The things that only you and I know. The moments that pulled us together and brought us to this place. I'm so thankful that when we had those moments and when we have more of those moments, we'll be together to fight through them as a team.

I had no idea 18 years ago when we met how much that precious moment would impact the rest of my life. I'm so glad I didn't because the surprises along the way have been so much fun.

Thank you for being an awesome best friend, for always supporting and defending me, for forgiving me when needed, for providing for me, for standing next to me and holding me when things hurt, for loving me unconditionally and for having mercy on me:). I love you with all my heart. Happy 15th.. Here's to many more.

Mother/Daughter Weekend

2010-10-10T18:52:00.001-07:00

So as the boys were gone camping, the girls and I enjoyed a weekend home together. It was quiet and clean and a much needed break from the hustle and bustle of soccer and football games.

We did lots of shopping, spent too much, and saw a Chick Flick with the sweet Durands. Kate danced at the fair with her dance company, so I thought I'd share some pictures. Caroline tumbles tomorrow night at the fair, so I'll just upload a picture of her then :)

Father/Son Camping Trip

2010-10-10T18:41:00.001-07:00

So this weekend was the annual Father/Son Camping Trip that Chad takes the boys on. I thought I'd share some pictures. I don't know that I can write much since I wasn't there, but I understand that they had a great time and truly enjoyed being out together.

They went to Mineral Wells, Tx about 2.5 hrs away. Another Dad brought a huge grill, so they ate in style all weekend. Homeade everything right out in the wilderness. With tents and sleeping bags and all. Chad says the campfire was the favorite.

They also went rock climbing and saw some gorgeous views from very high. The boys thoroughly enjoyed themselves and are looking forward to going again next year.

It's the One on One time

2010-10-04T20:17:00.001-07:00

So I'm sitting here writing.. the house is quiet... all except for one little girl sitting behind me in her zebra snuggie reading her library book and eating a spoonful of cookie dough.. I know. It's 10:15pm, but who cares. She's skinny, I've only spent 2 hours in her presence today, and I just don't care if she's up late eating cookie dough. I'm just enjoying being with her.

It's just a reminder to me that the small moments of one on one time are so precious. As a mother of four and the youngest of four,I feel like I am qualified to discuss the signifigance of one on one time in large families.

I can remember times that my mother spent with me away from the others. Time that was JUST the two of us. No fighting for her attention while my sister was yaking or my brother cutting up.. just us. Once I remember my mom rocking me while she watched MASH. I was much too old to be rocked, but I remember loving it and hoping it wouldn't end. I also remember a time or two that she checked me out of school for a dentist appointment. My favorite thing was our lunchtime afterward. Just us!

With four semi little kids, I try so hard to savor those moments. Last week I stole Cort after school and took him to Starbucks. At first he kinda looked at me like I was crazy, but once he got his Chocolate Chippity Frappucino and got involved in talking to me, he was pretty happy with the choice.

Clayton gets his mommy time every Monday and Friday. He's enjoying his last year as a Preschooler. And Kate, well, she kinda gets it often because she comes and finds me and is old enough to enjoy whatever I'm doing. Usually it's an hour of "Say Yes to the Dress". And Caroline, well, we have to work on it. She lives a crazy life with her gym, but somehow we manage to find the time.

Now, I'm not going to lie. There are plenty of moments when I hear "Mommy.. will you read my book... Or Mommy, will you lay with me... Or Mommy will you go for a bike ride" that I just shutter and say "not now"... and I usually regret it later because I know it was important to that child. But, I'm doing my best and pray that they see that.

And last but not least, Daddy gets his one on one time too! It usually is a little harder for him with four needy kids, but we make it all work. All I can do is thank God for the time he multiplies for me and the precious moments as they come.

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2010-09-28T19:55:00.001-07:00

Daddy just turned 39 on Sunday. One more year, Honey! For his birthday his mom came down. We went to Ninfas and to Ritchies to let him pick out some Cowboy boots. He got some gorgeous boots that he's so proud of. After a little monster cake and a few other gifts, we called it a day and celebrated Daddy. Happy Birthday, Baby!

Cort's First Football Game

2010-09-28T19:44:00.001-07:00

As if Cort needs another sport... he's decided to play football. I was just a little too apprehensive to let him play tackle so young, so we went with flag football at the Woodway Family Center. He LOVES it! Tonight was his first game.

His team, The Cobras, played The Longhorns and won 12 to 8. Cort scored a touchdown which was so fun to watch. He ran around... cut back.. and in the end zone he went. After that he did a little celebrating in the end zone, of course. He also came very close to intercepting a pass and made some really great blocks for his teammate to score another touchdown. Needless to say, he was pretty excited and has found yet another sport that he just can't live without. Looks like we're adding another to the schedule.

Just moments after his football game he asked to go out to where his baseball team was playing and cheer them on for the remainder of the game. They won 7 to 5.. at which time Cort said.. well... it looks like the Tigers can win without me :)

The Boys First Major League Game

2010-09-24T23:56:00.000-07:00

This year for father's day I decided to surprise both my dad and Chad with 4 tickets to see the Chicago Cubs play the Houston Astros. This was a little selfish on my part because it ensured a visit with my parents.

Mom and Dad met us in Kemah, Tx where we spent the night at the Boardwalk Inn, then traveled over to Houston for the Astros Game the next day. The guys went to the game while the girls shopped. It was a perfect match for all of us.

Clayton even got a game ball. He was so cute and SOoO excited.

Playa Del Carmen 2010

2010-09-24T23:19:00.000-07:00

So while I'm playing catch up, I'm just going to write about the fabulous trip Chad and I took to Playa Del Carmen this summer.

We figured out early this year that all four kids were going to be at camp over the same week. Chata was sweet enough to keep the boys all week while they attended day camp, and the girls were going to Preteen camp with church. This was so exciting that Chad decided to plan us a surprise trip. He didn't tell me where we were going, just that we were in fact going somewhere. Well, I was PUMPED! We were going somewhere alone for 4 nights. It was fantastic, and a great time together.

We were a little nervous as a large tropical storm was over the whole coast where we were headed, but we boarded a plane to Cancun anyway, then took a shuttle to our resort in Playa Del Carmen. We stayed at a gorgeous all inclusive resort called The Royal. OH.. it was fantastic. The food was delicious and Chad even reserved us the Jacuzzi suite which had a spectacular view. The hotel even offered us the Anniversary specials which included champagne and strawberries in our room as well as other pastries and flowers throughout our stay. (We were celebrating our Anniversary early )

While we were there we took at snorkeling excursion where we snorkeled through a cave and also in small bodies of water. It was gorgeous and something out of a picture book. We met some really fun people. We felt old since most of them were honeymooners, but hey.. we out swam all of them :)

The restaurants at the resort were delicious. So good that we were often too full to eat the next meal. One of our favorites was the Italian place. The Salmon was out of this world! Honestly, they were all good. I think the best part was just sitting across the table tooking at each other each night.

One thing great about Playa was the little shopping town that was walking distance from the resort. It was a fun place to go looking and hanging out.. although Chad was approached and asked if he wanted Grass or Girls.. WITH ME STANDING RIGHT THERE!

Oh.. such a gorgeous place that I pray we will return back to soon! Thank you, Baby.. for the great trip. Love you:)

Catch up and Clayton's First Soccer Game

2010-09-24T23:06:00.001-07:00

Well, this is just embarrassing. I have not written in so long, and I've just decided that I really liked blogging and plan to keep it up. It's so fun to look back over time and remember what was going on in life. Sometimes it gets so busy, it's hard to really look at what's really happening.

Tonight I got out several old picture albums and was reminiscing about old times. Old times meaning my honeymoon and Chad's 30th birthday... Caroline's first tooth.. you know.. the good ole times. It reminded me that in these days of not printing pictures and just having online albums this blog could truly come in handy one day. It was fun to read back over it.

Well, the kids are back to school. I have four kids at four campuses which is an adventure, but one that has worked out quite well I must say. Little Clayton is 5 and really should be in kindergarten this year, but we decided to have him wait an extra year. He's super smart and can read lots of words and knows his numbers, etc.. but there's just something about his maturity level that could stand one more year at home. And frankly.. I'm loving it.

Clayton's big news is that he has started Soccer at HOT. He's so cute playing. It's strange to see him as one of the youngest on his team. With a June birthday he barely makes the age requirement to play with this group. In the long run, I think it will be better for him to play with older kids. It challenges him. This past Saturday his team lost big time. I think maybe 20 to 2, but my Clayton scored one of the two. We were so proud of him. :)

All in a days work....

2010-05-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

I was going over some old post that weren't published and found this one from May. As I wrote below... I forgot this day already. So glad I wrote about it. It even made me laugh:)

So today I woke up knowing it was gonna be an interesting one. We had a terribly busy weekend with 13 soccer games total, 2 birthday parties, a couple of sleepovers and church, so I was already on overdrive. I know these days are few compared to the span of a lifetime, but I remind myself that if I don't write about these days, I risk never remembering them... would that be bad?? I'm just not quite sure?

This morning started as normal. Hollering throughout the house for the kids to get up, making their breakfast, hearing a few complaints about who doesn't like the juice or the breakfast I cooked. You know, the normal kid complaints. I see that Cort has his clothes on, but notice that Cort he doesnt have his socks or shoes on. Well, that's just great.. His response.. I forgot. It's about 7:33. The bus arrives promptly at 7:34. Rush around.. the bus waits.. Cort gets his shoes on.. the elementary students are on the bus.. Yeah!

Next I drive Kate to school. It's a pretty uneventful drive. Stop at Walmart to purchase gas for the Excursion. Some kind men offer to pump my gas. No thank you.. I'm fine.. Very nice gesture though. Finish the gas pumping to arrive home and help Chad finish packing for his 3 day trip to Philadelphia. Thirty minutes later.. he's gone.. I'm officially on my own.

I go to wake up Clayton and .. yep... tee tee smell in his room, but I don't find tee tee... Strange. He eventually gets up, admits that he did wet his bed, but did so at the foot of the bed because he just couldnt make it to the potty in time. Sheets, comforter, mattress pad off the bed and in the washer. Just as a side note.. the sheets had only been on the bed for a total of 9 hours. AND.. yes, its the top bunk. Yeah Me!

Clayton and I make it through a pretty uneventful morning. I attend my step class at the Y, I take Clayton to a birthday party, and then I join Kate for lunch at Midway Intermediate. Definitely a highlight of the day... well, except for the part where I embarrassed her to death by taking her friends pictures for the yearbook.. but anyway.. Love those girls!

After a few work phone calls that are kind of high maintenance and dealing with my iphone that has unexplainably quit sending email, it's time to get the kids from school.

I have my carpool, arrive home to get Caroline to head to the gym and sure enough.. now the Excursion won't start again. Oh yeah! Chad's gone, no family in town and my car won't start. I call the shop that gladly took our $800 just 3 days before for a new alternator and 2 batteries and they're on their way over. Now this is where it gets fun... The man who came over drove a car that said KENDRICK Tire and BATTERY. This is important because he comments to me as he leaves that he's not real good with the battery belonging in a Diesel. Well... Yeah... He's clueless and I just paid him money!So much for my Tire and Battery Guy. He realizes he didn't tighten an important part 3 days ago. He does it, it starts and off I go.

Caroline gets to gym... late.. but there... I make it to Kate's dance while Cort is at soccer practice and poor Clayton is just riding along. After some Take Out dinner from Fazolis, showers for everyone and lots of spelling word call outs, vocab reviews for grades 6,4 and 1,and a large sibling brawl because a boy used the girls' bathroom, the house is quiet. I now go to lay in my bed only to find 3 of my four kids in there since Dad is out of town. Oh well.. this just means one of their beds is free for me. I need it after this day.

My Son is an Addict

2010-04-19T19:11:00.000-07:00

It's true.. It really is. My son, Cort Castle.. age 7, is a sports addict. I am not exaggerating or making anything seem more intense than it is. It's just the cold hard truth.
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We live at 371 Broughton. If you are familiar with Waco and have a boy ages 6-12, then you realize what kind of problem this address is for an addict.... a sports addict that is. We live about 7 houses down from the little league ball fields. We can't drive past and have ANYONE out there playing without my son BEGGING to be sitting there in the stands watching every ball pitched. We have had him in bed before and heard him upset because he can hear the ding of the bat and the shouts of the game, and just can't stand it that he's in bed while other boys are out pitching, catching and just playing the ball.

Recently we drove past the fields where he saw his friend and his dad using the batting cages and having a little batting practice. This immediately resulted in phone calls to dad.. "Daddy.. where are you? When are you going to be home? Other kids are practicing ball.. hurry up and come get me and take me to play." It's constant. He walks straight in from school and puts on whatever uniform he's playing in that night. Forget that the game is 3 hours later, we gotta be ready.

Currently my son plays soccer and baseball and he participates in a karate class. In the winter he plays basketball. He doesn't just PLAY these sports, he lives and breathes them. Honestly, it scares me. He wakes up.. walks in the kitchen and says what do I get to play today. And GOD HELP ME if it rains!!! A rainout results in about half a days worth of breakdown and then eventually leads to dad taking him out to the Y to shoot baskets, or the indoor batting cages just to get some game in.

Just tonight he talked his dad into taking him down to watch a game. As they were sitting there watching he says to Chad, " You're the best dad ever. Thank you so much for taking me to watch the game." Makes it hard to say no.

He's recently started asking me to play football in the fall. Now, I've kind of had to put my foot down on that one. I'm just not into watching my son get tackled all over the field and worrying that he'll never use his legs the same way again. But, somehow I think he and his dad will win out on this one...just as they have with the four other sports he plays.
On that note.. I think I have some uniforms to wash.

Bearing Their Burdens

2009-08-13T21:09:00.000-07:00

Is it just me.. or does anyone else get physically exhausted from bearing our kids burdens. It is amazing how worked up and concerned I get for my kids.

This week is the week that Kate found out her school schedule. It's always a kind of tense experience because each child has their idea of expectations for the year... who they want to sit with at lunch, have class with, which teachers they "heard" are good.. etc. Somehow even though I am not the 6th grader, the feelings, concerns and stresses all treat me like I am. I'm sure I'm not the only one with this problem.

Then, I have one little person who I've just come to realize doesn't ever want to invite friends over. She just doesn't ask. I offered her the opportunity recently, and she just said.. No thank you. I'd rather go out and do something special with you. What does that tell me?? Do I read too far into it when I assume that she's become antisocial, or do I just appreciate that she's feeling like she needs a little more mom time. Could it possibly be the 21 hours she spends at the gym surrounded by girls and maybe just needs a break from people? Or, is she not clicking with girls her age because she's always surrounded by older girls?? I don't know.. but I'm still laying awake worried about it. Throw in her gym routines, her diet (she barely eats) and her school schedule next year.. and I'm up all night.

Then there's the cute little third child who is incredibly overlooked due to his ability to entertain himself. Should I be worried that he asked if he could move in with his cousin for the whole summer just so he can play summer baseball on his team?? Forget me and Dad.. the coach asked him to play.

Well, Clayton is just one in himself. His main concern is making sure his dress up clothes still fit and what he wants to be next Halloween. Even still.. I find myself worrying about his prek next year, his inability to sleep without a diaper (all of my other kids were in underwear at night by now), and his still crying about things he "wants". I just think we should be past fit pitching at age 4.

It's just stressful to bear it all. Now, I ask myself.. is my concern going to change anything? No, but I never want my kids to feel alone in their hearts. I just want them to know that they don't have to bear anything alone. Just as Christ does for us. Sometimes I just have to ask myself... is any of this going to matter in 10 years? Probably not....

It just all happened so fast!

2009-07-04T09:13:00.001-07:00

So our June has been very FULL and exciting.. It just all happened so FAST!.. I want to write a quick update on everything we've done in June. CRAZY... Now.. for the rest of the summer....

Last Day of School.. Cort graduated from Kindergarten.

The first weekend in June was Kate's Dance Recital... See previous post.. It was wonderful and we were so proud of Kate. She looked absolutely beautiful and danced her heart out. She smiled and gave it her all. After looking at her in recital makeup, Chad has put double locks on her bedroom doors and is now monitoring her cell phone... Just Kidding.. but her growing up is making me very nervous. And, by the way, she will not be wearing makeup for awhile.

Kate with her BFF, Maddie

The first week of June Caroline had gymnastics camp from 8-2 and Cort did VBS at Highland. This is where he asked Jesus to live in his heart. AMEN. And somewhere during that week I had my birthday. This was also the week of the boy's swimming lessons where Clayton learned to swim.

The next week all of the kids did VBS at First Baptist Woodway. And CLAYTON TURNED FOUR. He had a fun little rainy party at the Waco Water Park.

This was Clayton's little family party on his actual birthday. The cute monster cake was only 5.99 from HEB Hewitt. It as the perfect size.. just fyi..

June 19th we left for FLORIDA to visit with Chad's mom and sister and their families and we also fit in a trip to visit my family in Baton Rouge. It was amazing and beautiful and so much fun! We stayed here at Eden Condominums. in unit E204. We're excited to go back.

June 29th- All three older kids left for Camp. More to come on that later.

I have Him in my head... but I want Him in my heart.

2009-06-12T22:36:00.000-07:00

Today was my 37th birthday!! I can't believe I am that old. It just seems like yesterday I was a little girl having an outside summer birthday party with a handful of neighborhood friends. Now... I'm a mom with kiddos asking me questions, needing me and wanting everything.
Chad and the kids made it a very special day for me. He took half the day off and we went to Ninfas and to see the movie "UP". Chad surprised me with my Baylor ring. One of the diamonds had fallen out, so I hadn't worn it for years. He took it and had the diamond replaced and the ring fixed for me. I'm so excited!
But.. not nearly as excited as I am that Cort decided this week at VBS that he wants to live for Jesus.... Here's the story.

I had decided sometime ago that my kids would do VBS at FB Woodway this year. Honestly for no other reason than that Clayton could attend... they accept 4 year olds and HBC doesn't.. and just because of convenience of location. That's honestly it. So, I hadn't even considered signing the children up for HBC VBS.

Well, Monday morning I woke up and realized that Caroline had gymnastics camp all week, Kate basically lives at friends houses, and Cort and Clayton would just be hanging with me all week... probaby in the Y nursery. I felt like maybe Cort should do VBS at Highland. I know the Jerusalem Marketplace curriculum would be something new for him and something he would really enjoy, so I woke him up and loaded him in the car to HBC.

It just couldn't have worked out better. We lined up to have him registered and he was able to get in a group with his two "besties".. CJ and Shep. I knew this was going to be a fun time for him. Sure enough, the first day he came home talking about how much he loved VBS.. which he was calling " Victory Bible Study".. His own Acronym I guess. He continued to tell me everyday about the stories he was learning at VBS.... the Bible Characters and the activities.

The next few days he got up so excited and anxious to go to "Victory Bible Study". I realized that on Thursday he had an appt. scheduled to have some pictures made, so I had planned on him missing VBS that day. Well, he wouldn't hear of it. He insisted that I call to move the pictures so he could be there. I did, and the photographer graciously offered us an afternoon appointment.

As it would turn out, Thursday Auntie Joy presented the children with the Plan of Salvation. Cort told me he immediately knew that he wanted to pray that, but it was suggested that maybe he was too young.

Well, today I picked him up from VBS and sure enough he told his leader that he understands and that he " knows he has Jesus in his head, but now he wants him in his heart". Can I just tell you what it felt like for me as a mom to see my precious little son make a decision to follow Christ?? I'm so proud of him and so excited for his decision.

More than ANYTHING ever for my children, I want Jesus to live and REIGN in their hearts. I'm so thankful for the workers at VBS (Ruby Kidd) and for the Lord for piercing Cort's heart, ordaining this moment for him and for prompting me on Monday morning to take Cort to Bible School at HBC. I know it was be something that will be a precious memory to him.. and me FOREVER!

I have told several friends and family members this before, but I believe the Lord is preparing Cort for something amazing. There is something inside his heart I see that is a geniune desire to be close to the Lord. I am so excited to see what the Lord has planned for Cort's future. Hopefully it doesn't involve a foreign country far away, or some kind of life of celibacy (we want lots of grandkids), but I'm certain it's going to be something that will put his outgoing personality and leadership qualities together to furthur the Kingdom! I can't WAIT to see what it is... well, yes I can.. for now, I just want to enjoy my little boy!

Kate's Dance Recital

2009-06-08T20:58:00.000-07:00

Besides a little Zumba here and there, I'm not much of a dancer and I guess I never have been. I didn't have the body type for dancing growing up and never took. But, this is NOT true for Kate. She loves dance and is really quite good at it. She has the long legs for it and the passion to do it.

This weekend was the much anticipated Dance Recital for Jenni Holley Dance Studio. Kate has been so excited about this as dance is now "her thing". She is part of the Junior Company at Jenni Holley and has thoroughly enjoyed it.

This past weekend we had three recitals. Yes, that's right... I sat through three recitals and actually enjoyed each one of them. I was so proud of Kate and what a great job she did.

I just thought I'd share some pictures.

This was her ballet costume. She was just gorgeous in it.

This was her jazz costume where she danced to " Dancing In the Streets".

Yes, Chad went too! I think he enjoyed watching Kate dance, but did not enjoy seeing her in so much makeup and with leotards on showcasing her long legs!

This was my favorite costume and favorite dance. It was tap to " It Don't Mean A Thing"... So cute!

What a pretty leap! Kate is in the yellow!

This was Le Jazz Hot with her whole company.. Senior, Teen and Junior. It was incredible. And yes, friends.. You counted correctly. I had to purchase 5 different costumes for the recital. If you've ever had a dancer, then you feel my pain. But, it was well worth it to see the smile on her face and the fun she had doing it.

My Violinist

2009-05-20T18:07:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share some pictures of Kate at her spring Orchestra concert. I'm so proud of her for sticking it out this year and working to learn the violin. She has done so well and really enjoys playing. She has chosen to keep it up and continue in Orchestra as her elective for 6th grade as well.

I think it suits her so well. She's very detailed and studious and enjoys practicing the music. Sometimes the practice gets a little... well....frustrating inside the house, but anyone who has a child that plays an instrument knows that practice is a must.

This also leads to me to point out another advantage of Midway Schools. Kate has been able to learn her violin and get excellent instruction at school during classroom hours. We have had to pay for no outside lessons, and her concert was actually impressive for first year Orchestra students. It was delightful. Yeah Midway!!

Keep up the good work, Kate.

Heart of a Child

2009-04-22T06:21:00.000-07:00

This morning as I was getting Cort ready for school, I was talking to him about his Awanas for tonight. We were covering what jewels he's earned and what he still needs to do. One of the requirements is for the club members to bring a friend to Awanas. Well, this is impossible for me because my cup runneth over with children on Wednesday nights. So, the alternative is to pray for a friend.

So, this morning I told Cort that we need to pray for a friend.. anyone. He stood there for a short minute and said, "I'd like to pray for Thomas." I know he doesnt have a friend named Thomas at school, church, baseball... anywhere... Don't know Thomas. I say "Are you sure Cort?"... he's sure... we pray for Thomas.. who we don't know.

About 3 minutes passes.. he's eating his breakfast, I pick up my iphone and check my email. I get an email from Gary Rhodes, and read it aloud to Chad as he's standing right next to Cort. It reads like this:

Dear Choir,
I am very saddened to give you the tragic news that Jolie Gant was killed in a car accident yesterday. Please pray for her son, Thomas as he has lost his mother."
Gary

Cort is listening and says... "Did you just say, Thomas?" I was so distracted by the terrible news, that I didn't even hear the child's name. But, my 6 year old son did. He looked at me with the... see Mom... look.. Just so sure of his decision to pray for Thomas.

Cort has never met Jolie Gant, a fellow alto in choir and friend, nor does he know Thomas, as Thomas is much older than he. Some would say this was just a coincidence. I would like to believe that my Lord, who is amazing, can speak through the heart of a child and place another on his heart to pray for.

Amazing Morning!

Cort's First Baseball Game

2009-04-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

If you've known Cort very long, you know that his LOVE is sports. He has has a glove and ball in his hand since he could walk... and I'm not exaggerating. He has spent countless hours having his Daddy "throw" to him from the couch. SO.... Cort FINALLY being able to play REAL baseball has been a huge deal! Sure, he's played tball, but according to Cort.. that was no challenge. So, I thought I'd have to mark the moment where Cort had his FIRST REAL game!

This would be my son excited after he just got someone out at first base. He loved playing first base for his first game!

This is Cort getting a good solid base hit on his very first pitch on his first at bat... Can you tell I'm just a little proud?

Easter with the Castles

2009-04-14T20:04:00.000-07:00

This was Easter Sunday after church. We don't have any pictures as a whole family because Daddy was serving at the church before and after service. There was a lot to be done!

This was the Lifegroup Easter Egg Hunt at our house!

More Easter morning pictures! It was a beautiful service and a fun day!

We took the kids to The Embassy Suites next to the Dallas Galleria on Good Friday night. The kids LOVE that hotel. The hotel ran a special for the night. We enjoyed it very much because all of the suites offer a seperate room for mom and dad, a nice indoor pool/ hot tub, a made to order breakfast, and two huge flatscreen tvs.. The main event is the gorgeous swans that swim around the hotel. We LOVE watching them.
We also took the girls to American Girl Doll store at the Galleria. I'm so thrilled that my 11 year old still wants to go to the doll store.

This was Cort's first time to ice skate... watch the video.. he says... I'm gonna fall, Daddy! So cute....

Bluebonnet Babes

2009-03-29T18:23:00.000-07:00

Tonight was our annual bluebonnet picture night. The day was just gorgeous and perfect weather for an outing to the park. We went over to Whitehall park about 7:00 and got it done.
It's always an adventure getting four kids dressed in something clean and happy to take pictures. This year went better than most. I guess the older the kids get, the happier they are. I wish the same went for Daddy. He's not always a good sport about going out... even just to help. I think he hates it as much as they do, but since Kate was born, I have a picture every year in the Texas Bluebonnets, and this year will be no different.

Lucky Jeans...lucky me!

2009-03-17T15:23:00.000-07:00

Nothing like St. Patty's Day to bring luck and fortune :) ! Here's my lucky story for today..

This morning I was loading my car with armloads of clothes to take the the Care Center at Highland. As I was filling the back end of my car with both mine and my kids clothes, I was contemplating taking all of them to the resale shop instead of giving them to the needy. I was going over in my head what I could probably get for them, and what I would do with the money. They were for the most part, name brand clothes. But, then I was thinking about how they would be a blessing to someone who couldnt afford to shop even at the resale stores. I was remembering stories Chad has told me about the folks that frequent the Care Center, and I didn't give the resale shop another thought. The clothes were given and I was going on with my day happily.

An hour or so later I had just about 45 minutes to spend doing something I wanted until I had to pick up Clayton from Mother's Day Out, so as usual, the mall seemed the perfect place to spend my extra time. I wandered through JC Penney with my coupon in hand not needing a thing, but looking just because I could.

I wandered to a sale rack of jeans. 19.99. I remembered that my friend had told me about a favorite brand of jeans she liked from Penney's, so I ran across some and picked them up to try on. Right next to them was a pair of LUCKY BRAND jeans. They just happened to be my size, so I took them in the dressing room with the others... honestly, just because they looked comfy. I'm completely unfamiliar with LUCKY brand.

The JC Penney jeans were great.. but the zipper was broken.. DARN. The LUCKY jeans were a perfect fit and so comfy, but I noticed they did not have a price on them anywhere. HUMMM... They were hanging on the 19.99 rack, but we know how that goes. The only thing on them was a Brand hangtag, but no price. I look around for more, but there are none in the store.

So, I walk up to the register and ask the young little sales lady how much cost. She said they don't look familiar and called for the manager. The manager walked over and said, "Maam, we don't sell this brand. They are in here by mistake. I'm not sure what the story is, but my best guess is someone traded these jeans for a new pair and just left us theirs. I'm so sorry."

Well, I still want the jeans.. You know, I am NOT against shopping at a retail shop, and I've even been known to shop at Goodwill, so a pair of jeans that were worn before don't scare me. That's what the washing machine is for.

The manager instructs the salesclerk to just throw them in the trash because
"We can't sell them". Well, I just stood there and said, "Now ladies, let's not trash a perfectly good pair of jeans. Couldn't I just have them if they're going in the trash anyway? She looked at me and said "Doesn't bother me.. Take them!"

Well, there I go walking out of Penneys with my money, my coupon, AND a new pair of jeans. So, I immediately call my sister and tell her what just went down. She informed me that last week she was shopping with her teenage daughter and saw LUCKY jeans for $115. So, looks like I got a bargain!.

They've gone through my washer and dryer, they're all clean, AND they still fit! This leads me to think two things...1- The Lord blesses those who give.. and 2- While I'm not Irish.. I will claim the Luck of the Irish today for my new jeans.

Cotillion.. Cruel and Unusual Punishment?

2009-02-18T22:06:00.000-08:00

The past six weeks Kate participated in Waco's Annual Cotillion Classes. If you are not familiar with Cotillion, it's a etiquette class for boys and girls that meets on Tuesdays for an hour and teaches 4th - 7th graders proper etiquette in social situations. It was a time for Kate to practice the polite way to address adults, and how to accept an invitation from a young man to dance.

Kate griped and argued about having to go. Most Tuesdays turned into some sort of argument about what dress she HAD to wear, why she had to fix her hair, how unfair it is that she had to go do something so ridiculous. But for Chad and me.. it's just something she needed to do. Most of her friends in Midway were also signed up, so how bad could it possibly be?

Several of the Tuesday classes were theme days. There was 50's Day sock hop, Western Day and this past Tuesday was Father/ Daughter... Mother/Son Day. Chad took her and was able to get some fantastic video for me. And well, it's just plain funny. I couldn't upload the videos because apparantly they are too long, but boy, have I gotten a good chuckle over what these cute little awkward preteens did at Cotillion.

My sweet little Kate is about a head taller than all the little boys there. I'm sure that had to be fun! Oh well, it's over for little Kate and I'm sure it's an experience she'll always have fond memories of.

Cort and the Harlem Globetrotters

2009-02-04T12:26:00.000-08:00

I'm posting an email my hubby sent out to his business email recipients. Since he was actually there and I WASN'T :(.. I figure his story will be more accurate. It's so much FUN!

Ok, I can't resist. These emails are normally reserved for more economic and/or financial information but please let this father have his moment.

Last night my son, Cort, and I were graciously invited to watch the Harlem Globetrotters at the Ferrell Center at Baylor. Our court side tickets were courtesy of our good friends David Ridley and Robert West with KWTX News Channel 10.

The whole production was a great deal of fun and the crowd was much larger than I had anticipated. Throughout the game the Globetrotters would play tricks on the referrees and with folks in the audience. The entire length of the game Cort kept saying, "Daddy, why can't I go on the court with the other kids?" Well, he got his chance.

With less than 5 minutes to play in the game "Big Easy" came to our side fo the floor, pointed to Cort, and asked him if he would come on down and take a shot for him. Cort looked at me and I said, "Go make a basket!" He pops from his seat and makes his way onto the floor.

"Big Easy" gave Cort the ball midway between the free throw line and the base line. The ref calls timeout and questions "Big Easy" as to whom this child belongs to. "Big Easy" responds by saying that Cort is his son, and can't he see the family resemblance. Then "Big Easy" hands Cort the ball and tells him to take a shot. What follows next makes this father really proud.

Cort shoots. Cort scores. The crowd erupts with cheering. Then, with no prompting, Cort begins to dance a little jig that includeds the following: his fingers pointing in the air, high stepping, heel kicking, and booty shaking. Needless to say, the Globetrotters, and the crowd, broke into laughter and began to dance right along with him. Hillarious!!

Fortunately I have pics of the whole affair. Take a look at the below link to the picture section of the Globetrotter website. Just above the first pic of Cort you will see where you can scroll thru pics 68 - 81.

Thank you for letting me brag a little bit.

It's a Small Town Thing!

2009-01-16T06:59:00.000-08:00

Wow! I just realized how long it's been since I've written a new post. Life just took off around here after Christmas, just like it does all of us.

We received a call Tuesday morning that Chad's Grandmother from Caddo Mills, Tx had passed away. She was 88 and had been dealing with Alzheimers for about 10 years, so we know she is in a much better place now... reunited with her husband and enjoying a new mind and fullyabled body. So, we made the trip up to Caddo Mills, Tx to plan and attend her funeral on Thursday.

Caddo Mills is the town Chad grew up in. He spent his whole life until he left for college in the town with 1100 in population, one stop light, one tiny grocery store that's overpriced and about 30 students in his graduating class at Caddo Mills High School which named him the Valdectorian.

I used to kinda secretly snicker and tease Chad about his small town, but I have never been more embraced, taken care of and loved as we were from this sweet little town yesterday for MeMaw's funeral. The visitation in the little Caddo Mills funeral home was packed with people of all ages coming out to show support to Chad and his family. There was food everywhere, flowers galore, people lined up just to give a pat on the back and I think, just to see Chad again.

No one was worried about what they were wearing or better yet, what anyone else was wearing. No one noticed who had on designer boots or whose hair looked perfect, who had on the most stylish outfit. None of that... these good folks had just come from work in their clothes and strickly cared about being there for the family.

At Chad's dad's house, the doorbell rang and rang with people dropping over homecooked casseroles, desserts, salads, or just there to talk, remember and hug. You name it and we had it. Then, for the actual funeral service, we showed up to the church and the sweet ladies from the tiny little First Baptist Caddo Mills, that probably has 80 -100 in attendance each Sunday, had a spread like I have never seen prepared for the family to have before the funeral. They were serving our plates, helping with the children, making drinks, they even had a playroom set up for the kids to go to.

After the sweet funeral done by the current pastor of the 1st Baptist Caddo Mills, we headed to the cemetary. The ride there was the final thought that made me realize what a sweet town my man grew up in. As we were all in a line behind the hurst with our lights on, cars were actually pulling over, men on the side of the street were removing their hats, tractors on the road stopped moving, a garbage truck actually pulled over and the driver inside removed his hat as well.

The cemetary was full of gravestones from names I have heard over and over while in Caddo Mills... generations of families all in one place.

The whole experience made me stop and think about two things: First, I'm so thankful that Chad had the experience to grow up with these folks who truly treat each other like family and stop everything to bless those who need it. I honesty think it is the first time I realized what made him, HIM.. This small town that raised him modeled service and just loving people.
Secondly, It made me think about how our generation is becoming so busy that I'm afraid we're getting away from serving others and blessing families. I'm sure I'm just speaking to myself here. I hope that even in the larger towns, we'll always form and keep our special bonds with our dear friends and will give them a "small town" feel when it's needed! It sure blessed me!

New Year Resolutions!

2009-01-01T22:45:00.000-08:00

Let's have some fun and talk about our NY resolutions. I know, it's that time of year. The time we all try to say what we want to do and then fall off the bandwagon a month in. I'm sure guilty of that. BUT, because it's tradition, I feel like I'm going to make some anyway.

1- Chad and I decided to go on a cash only basis for our spending. I feel like there was a sign given to me from above when I lost my debit card last week. So, now, I have no choice but to use cash. I'm not the best cash spender. I'd way rather swipe a debit card than worry about having cash, but I think we decided that it'd be something we'd like to try for a while. It's really not about "charging" things as we typically don't have a problem with that... but more about keeping up with the family budget.

2- I want to be a better mom. I think I'm pretty decent at setting time out for my hubby.. In fact, I think we spend quite a bit of time together and enjoy it. But, I feel like I need to give my kids more one on one time and focus on them individually. More single kid date nights, etc. I also need to improve my patience with them. They're just kids and they really do need to ask mom 100 questions each. I also want to spend time showing them things and taking them to new places. Even just places around our community and surrounding areas that are interesting. A trip to a Mexican Beach might be nice too!! I'm sure I could squeak that under the "being a better mom" resolution.

3- I'd like to make some improvements on the house. I really want to focus on painting some things, replacing some things, cleaning out some things.. You get it. All of the things that take time and effort.. and money, of course.

4- I want to cook more decent meals. I "prepare" things and we all eat around the table each night. But, Preparing a meal and cooking a meal to me are two different things. Anyone can "prepare" a box of mac and cheese and baked potatoes, but cooking a meal takes a little more thought and effort. My kids really need to broaden their horizens with what they eat, and I feel obligated to help them do it by offering a bigger variety.

Thanks for letting me share. Anyone else have NY resolutions?

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

2008-12-24T05:54:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Christmas is already here again! I LOVE this time of year, but am always a little sad when it's over.

Last night we took the kids to see the lights in Belton. If you've not been, you must go. It's terrific. While we were viewing the lights and talking about all the hard work that went into putting them up, a conversation started about how special the Baby Jesus must be to have everyone go to such lengths to celebrate his birth. We laughed and talked about how crazy it would be if we all had such enormous birthday parties celebrated by so many people on OUR birthdays. It just reminded me that through the commercialism and stress of Christmas, it's about Jesus and Only Jesus. As long as we can stay focused on that, Christmas will always be a special time of year.

Happy Birthday, Jesus and Merry Christmas to all of our friends and family. We literally couldn't be us without you!

In My Opinion....

2008-12-22T22:21:00.000-08:00

Christmas this year has brought up a lot of interesting thoughts to me, and I'd just like to share them... well, because I can!

1- Target really needs to fix their exchange policy. I was reading it today. While I love their product and think their store is great, how can they not exchange ANYTHING without the receipt. Now, I understand return for cash, but EXCHANGE should be doable. With Walmart returning and exchanging just about anything you can dig out of the closet, how can Target not improve their plan?

2- People should not be buying their 6 year old an Ipod or cell phone as a Christmas gift. It makes it that much harder on those of us who are unwilling to buy them for our 11 yr old... and furthermore, Kids should be kids and get kid stuff while they're young. Quit making them grow up so fast!

3- The movie theaters really need to have some late morning shows. I mean, why can't they open at 10:00? Especially at times when they know kids will be home from school. Don't they know Preschoolers nap starting at 12:00 when they open? I'm telling you, a morning movie for the kids would be a huge success.

4- We all need to curve our spending at Christmas time. My sweet friend, Angela, had such a great idea and really got me thinking about giving money to others less fortunate. Why do we spend so much money trying to buy each other presents and hope to get presents while people in other places.. and in our own country for that matter, are barely eating. Something just feels wrong about that. We all need to step back and take a look at our consumerism. If we'd all do it, it'd make it easier on the whole bunch. It's hard to explain to kids why they get one gift when their best friend is getting a phone, ipod, laptop and Vera Bradley purse all in one morning.

5- The Y needs to have extra late hours around Christmas for those of us who want to go run off those extra pieces of fudge we ate. Wii fit just doesn't always do it for me!

6- Last, but not least, the stock market should NOT be open on Christmas Eve. Let's just think about it.. do we really want to trade stocks while we're broke from overspending? Most of all, the stock market being open keeps Daddys away from families for the day :(

Thanks for letting me share what was on my mind today!
Merry Christmas!

Let's just be honest here....

2008-12-15T10:53:00.000-08:00

I was recently tagged by my friend, Angela, with this fun little assignment. Here are the rules:

When you receive the prize, you must write a post showing it, together with the name of who has given it to you, and link them back. Choose a minimum of 7 blogs that you find brilliant in their content or design. Show their names and links and leave them a comment informing that they were prized with 'Honest Weblog'. List [if you can and/or dare] at least ten honest things about yourself. Then, pass it on!"

To just be honest in no particular order...

1- I am extremely frugal and also suffer from buyer's remorse. I go to the store and buy something and sit around for hours thinking about how much it costs and how I should have spent my money differently. $20 is a lot to me regardless of the item.

2- I hate losing things. I even hate when my kids lose things. If I start to look for something and can't find it, I can't move on until I figure out where it is. If it's bad enough that I really can't find it, it bothers me a great deal. This is the same for my children losing school papers, receipts, ds games...etc.

3- My mom was a strict parent. It wasn't her fault. Because of my dad's job, she did a lot of single parenting, and trust me , I know how hard it is to control four children. BUT, because of this, I think I am extra lenient on my kids. I am not the disciplinarian and don't like to try to be.

4- Some Sundays I don't want to go to church.. I know... Big Gasp! We are every Sunday church goers and to tell you the truth, sometimes a Sunday off as a family would be inviting... which leads me to number 5.

5- I don't like our current Sunday schedule. I miss worshiping WITH my husband and family. Between hubby attending two Sunday schools and me being in choir, I'm not sure how to fix it. I'm working on the solution though.

6- I am very bad about comparing myself to others. That's really all I will say about that. I

7- I don't like to cook. AT ALL. I do cook, but I cook out of obligation and obligation only. I think it goes back to number 1. I just don't like spending money at the grocery store and then my picky kids don't eat what I cook anyway, so I HATE cooking.

8- I am reliving my childhood through my children.. mostly my daughters. It's true. They have opportunities I didn't have for various reasons, and I will tell you that I love making sure they get there and do what they love. I couldn't be prouder.

9- I am competitive. I'll tell you that I LOVE to watch my kids win at whatever they are playing. BUT, I am a quiet competitor. I can hide it very well, but inside I'm just dying.

10- I think I married up. I never imagined I'd deserve a husband that loves me so much and takes such good care of me. That's just the honest truth. Another little honest truth about us is that we chat on the phone numerous times a day. Love that, but some friends think it's a little over the top!

Now, I'd like to tag, Chastity, Heidi and Adrielle.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2008-12-12T06:45:00.000-08:00

Today is my mom's birthday. She's probably over in Baton Rouge doing something to serve either my dad or one of my three siblings, or one of her 16 grandkids. That's just the kind of gal she is... a servant.

I don't think I ever fully appreciated my mother and all she did/does until I became a mom of four little kids close together and know all that goes into it. But, my mom isn't just any other mom, she's the kind of mom that had homecooked meals around the table EVERY night. The kind of mom who gave up every one of her Saturday mornings to make the children's choir at church OUTSTANDING, which, by the way, I know is responsible for training me to sing. And the kind of mom who took us shopping on the weekends just for the fun of a girl's day out. I still look forward to those days as an adult too!

First and foremost my mom is a terrific example of a dedicated wife. She has always loved my dad with the uptmost sincerity and been his top supporter. Her love and devotion to him is an example to all wives out there. She's his best friend and would do anything to bless him. What a beautiful example.

I love you, Mom. I miss being able to drop by your house and just visit. I miss you seeing my kids grow up on a daily basis and them getting to benefit daily from your servant spirit. Thank you for all of the hours you put in praying for me and helping me be a better me. It has not gone unnoticed! Happy Birthday! I love you!

He just wanted Batman

2008-12-05T12:31:00.000-08:00

Okay, get ready for this one.

This afternoon Clayton was having a good day, so I decided to run into the Hewitt Walmart for a few items. I really just wanted to look at a couple of things. No big shopping list. Well, as I was shopping Clayton spotted a Batman toy that he wanted. He put it into the buggy and was acting as if it was going home with him. I was NOT buying Batman, so I simply put it back on the shelf kindly telling Clayton "Not today". We'll ask Santa."

Clayton did not like that I wasn't buying Batman and started to let the whole store know it. I WANT BATMAN... BATTTTMMMMMAAANNNNNNNN!! I did NOT concede to the Batman screams, but I did rush along trying to do the best I could, and finished up getting the 2 or 3 items I needed. The whole time I'm whispering in his ear.. "When we get home, Mommy is going to spank your heine".. That then led him to scream out " I DON'T WANT A SPANKING".

Clayton screams through checkout, even while the lady has to do a price check.. just my luck.. We leave the store. He's still screaming "I want Batman". I get to the car just dying to spank his bottom, but don't because all I can think of is the survelliance cameras all over the place and God knows I did NOT want my picture all over the national news as a child abuser!!

The ride home sends endless. He's screaming, I'm speeding.. just so irriated at him. I get home,shed my sweater and boots because by now I'm burning up hot. I take Clayton into his room, spank his bottom and lay him down for his nap. Of course telling him that his behavior is unacceptable.

About 3 minutes passes and someone knocks on my door. Clayton is STILL screaming. It's the Woodway Police. He says..."Mam did you just get home a short time ago" "Yes" " Do you drive a dark colored Excursion" "Yes" ( I'm just waiting for my speeding ticket here) "Well, Mam we have a call of a possible child abduction in the Walmart parking lot. We had some calls that a child was screaming and being kidnapped"

All I can do is just die of embarrassment. OH MY GOSH!!! Does it get worse? I told the officer about Clayton wanting Batman and that I was NOT buying Batman today. Is that against the law.. I really want to know? The officer was friendly, but got my name and all of my information, was forwarding it on to God only knows who else can listen on the radio that I have a screaming kid.. Like all of Woodway couldn't already hear it!!!!

He insists on seeing Clayton before he goes. The very large uniformed 6ft 3 officer walks in his bedroom. Clayton immediately silences and reaches for me. Thankfully the house was squeaky clean, so hopefully I did not fit the bill of a child abductor.. I took the opportunity to tell Clayton that the police had to come see him just because of his bad behavior in Walmart. The officer looks at Clayton and says " Are you okay, son?" Clayton says " NO" The officer says "What's wrong?" And, my Clayton responded back with " I just want BATMAN"... UGGHHH!

I offer to show the officer Clayton's birth certificate or the family photo album, but he passes and is fine with the inspection.

The officer left, but I'm still sitting here as embarrassed as I've ever been. I'm sure Yost Zachary and the other Woodway Police Officers are going to have a field day with this one!!!

If commenting, please tell me what you would have done in this situation? I know I was right not to spank in public, but what else could I have done? Oh dear!

Ohhh.... the Magic!

2008-12-04T15:14:00.001-08:00

I just thought I'd share some of our Disney pics and some highlights. We had such a great time and loved every second of it. I already want to plan another trip. I HIGHLY recommend a Disney vacation at least once in your child's life. Hopefully we've made some great memories for the kids

We had one major scare within 5 minutes of us being at the airport. We had arrived at DFW before 7am and were checking in along with 5,000 other holiday travelers. Chad advised me to go get in line. I did along with my four children. I stood there about a minute and a half and did my first head count and came up one short. I panicked, turned and walked toward Chad hollering "Do you have Clayton?" Of course, he didn't.

After about another 2 minutes of me running up and down the baggage check screaming "CLAYTON" with everyone looking at me.. I see Clayton holding his blue blankie, crying walking back toward me with a security guard. The whole family cried, took a deep breath, and went on. I immediately walked over to baggage check, got one of the paper bag tags and wrote " IF LOST CALL..." and quickly hooked it to Clayton's belt loop in his jeans. He wore his luggage tag most of the week. Thankfully, there were no more scares.

I would HIGHLY recommend the All Star Resorts. I was a little skeptical because it is what Disney refers to as a "Value" resort. It was fantastic and if we had to do it all over again, we'd choose the same place! We had a family suite with was a bedroom with a queen size bed and a living area with TWO full bathrooms and a kitchenette. It was great and a great location. The food court was fantastic and so convenient.

This is a picture of the resort from our room door.

Anyway, I could go on and on. I have more pictures on Facebook for any of you Facebookers if you want to view. It was just a fantastic experience and definitely worth the money. I told Chad that I want to work at Magic Kingdom and have a Disney ministry. All of the people are so friendly, I'm sure they'd be happy to listen to the message!

Another First

2008-11-23T19:42:00.000-08:00

Today Caroline got her first pair of glasses. That makes her the first of our children to need them. Hopefully, maybe, the only.

The school nurse sent a note home last week saying that Caroline struggled on the school eye test, so off I went to the optometrist to find out that the trusty school nurse is completely correct. My baby needs glasses.

I just wanted to share a picture of her proudly wearing them. I think they're precious on her. When she first wore them she said out loud, "Wow! Is this what everything is suppose to look like?" How exciting to finally be able to see things with clarity. I completely understand her as I have terrible vision and wear contacts myself... so here's my new glasses cutie!( by the way, YES, that is my Christmas tree put up and decorated behind her)

I also wanted to share some other pics. This is the sweet little Thanksgiving Feast that the Kindergarteners had at the Elementary school. Cort was a darling little Indian Chief wearing feathers he had earned during the week. He was so proud.

I also wanted to share my favorite picture from Caroline's last meet of the season! It was this weekend in Fort Worth. She did a fantastic job and completed a great season. Now, we can take some deep breaths and enjoy some free weekends until next season!

So, now that the gymnastics season is complete, the glasses are purchased, the Kindergarten feast is all done... it's time for me to start packing because FOUR more days until we take the crew to the "World"... Hello, Mickey...

I hope all of my blogging buddies have a fantastic Christ filled Thanksgiving!

Lead Me On, BABY!

2008-11-15T21:05:00.000-08:00

Last night was FANTASTIC for me. I had the outstanding opportunity to enjoy a blast from the past and go with my sweet girlfriends to see Amy Grant and her Lead Me On tour with NO song played that was written after 1988! It was AWESOME. If you know anything about me you know that I LOVE Amy Grant.

If I died and could come back as anyone, it would be Amy Grant. In high school I used to try to make my hair look like hers. And I've always been proud to be an alto, just like Amy. I wanted to be her, people! Yes, I know.. She's a Christian artist who's been divorced. I DON'T care and you shouldn't either. Move past it. Be happy for her and Vince and get over it.

Anyway, last night was so wonderful for me. She sang songs that will always be favorites.. Stay for Awile, Saved by Love, El Shaddi, Father's Eyes, Love will Find A Way, Lead Me On... just the goodies.

Growing up in a small baptist church anyone was allowed to sing the Sunday Anthem. I can not tell you how many times I've heard the gorgeous song, El Shaddi butchered. It doesn't matter...I can think past those awful times and still LOVE to hear it sung by my Amy.

Unfortunantely, I've never had the opportunity to meet her, and that's okay with me. Sometimes it's better not to know more than necessary about the person that's been allowed a special place in your heart. But, last night myself and about 700 other Amy fans enjoyed 2 hours of our favorites in a show that I'll never forget. Thanks, Chad for the ticket and thanks to my girlfriends that were willing to go with me. Lead Me On, Baby!

Please Pray

2008-11-13T13:56:00.000-08:00

Friends and Fellow Bloggers-
I'm asking you to please pray for my precious little nephew, Reese Dean. He's 3 1/2 and has been complaining of a backache. His Daddy, my brother, Kyle, is a physician so of course he's been checking out his complaints, but was not real worried about it.

My sister in law, Debbie, took him to his pediatrician where she did routine Xrays and a CAT scan. They saw some spots on Reese's spine that are suspicious and could be quite serious. They arranged for an MRI for December, but the doctor felt it was important that Reese do the MRI right away.

He is scheduled for an MRI tomorrow morning at 6:30 in Baton Rouge. He will have to be put to sleep for the test. PLEASE join me in praying that Reese has no signs of anything serious and that he will get a fantastic, clean report tomorrow. Thank you ALL..

Praise the Lord! HE is the great physician.

Happy Birthday, Kate and Caroline!

2008-11-05T11:33:00.000-08:00

Today is such a special day for me. Both of my girls were born on November 5th. The first cool air of fall always reminds me of the sweet days I brought my fall babies home. I will never forget the moment Kate was born. Being my first baby I was absolutely awestruck at the process of giving birth and how amazing God is to have come up with a plan so sweet.

I remember 11 years ago holding my little 8 lbs 13 oz Kate and being on cloud nine because I had a baby girl. Her delivery was the least painful of the four. I had the best epidural of the four too, but I did have trouble right after she was born. I'm not sure what it's called, but my uterus wouldn't contract back by itself and I had too much blood loss which caused me to feel extremely weak for quite a while after her birth. But, all in all, her delivery was fantastic!

Then, two precious years later, my little 7 lb 5 oz Caroline was born. I remember the whole experience feeling like deja vu. We parked in the same parking space, had the same birthing room and Kate was born at 5:34 and Caroline at 4:34. It was just too wierd.

I was THRILLED to have two girls so close together. I remember Caroline's delivery as being the most painful of the four. I was not as impressed with the epidural guy that worked the day she was born. Something just didn't take quite right, but none the less, I had my sweet Caroline.

I wanted to post some pictures of Kate's 2nd birthday party that took place on my hospital bed at Hillcrest the day Caroline was born. It was a precious moment.

It's an interesting thing having my girls share their birthday. My sister and I also share a birthday 2 years apart. It's a very special bond that my sister and I have. I can't stand to be apart from her on our birthday. It just makes me feel like a part of me is missing. So far, my girls have sometimes complained about sharing a birthday, but all in all, I think they wouldn't have it any other way.

Happy Birthday, Girls!

Weekend Chaos

2008-11-02T20:00:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I survived this weekend. It was just crazy. It has caused me to really think about what we are doing to ourselves by living by this chaotic schedule.

Friday the kids got out of school all hyped up and ready to go for Halloween. Caroline had gymnastics, as she does every Friday, from 4:00- 6:00. Her Halloween party with her team started at 5:00. She was Dorothy and insisted that I be there with Todo aka T bone (our new Yorkie) as part of her costume for the party.

Of course, we left there at 6:00 and met our fantastic neighbors for a round of trick or treating in the neighborhood. After about an hour the kids decided they were tired and hungry and wanted to call it quits. So, we headed to Whataburger for a very nutritious dinner and then home.

Saturday was just crazy. Chad was giving a financial workshop from 10:00 -2:00 and Caroline had her district meet in Weatherford at 12:45. Kate had 2 birthday parties, so she decided she wanted to stay in Waco. So, Friday night she slept over with her BFF, went to the Baylor Homecoming Parade and got to her Birthday parties.

Caroline and I dropped the boys off at Nana's on the way to the meet.. which, by the way, Caroline ROCKED! She received first place on bars and fourth place all around with a 36.925. OUTSTANDING.. This places her in the gold division for state which is a tremendous accomplishment.. Anyway.. Nana kindly offered the keep the boys overnight so Chad and I could go out with our friends for our annual anniversary celebration which I was rushing home for after a LONG meet.

With Kate at a slumber party and the boys at Nana's, this left just Caroline with us. Chad and I decided that having a night out alone was a rarity and decided to pawn little Caroline off on the Stevens. Imagine their delight when Caroline showed up with her overnight bag.. :) I started to leave her and she leaned down and whispered... "Mrs. Stevens didn't know I was sleeping over". Oh.. dear.. Sorry! I guess I didn't specify that we wondered if Caroline could stay for the WHOLE night. Thank you, Kim! I owe you!

Saturday night was a fantastic time of fellowship and food with good friends.So, on Sunday when the alarm went off on what should have been a luxurious sleep one hour later day with NO kids to dress for church Chad says.. " Why are you so crabby already?" Then I began explaining what Sunday entailed that was making me so crabby.

I was scheduled to be on Praise Team, which means a 8:30 arrival. After church I would have to leave early to go meet Nana with the boys in Hillsboro, drive straight to Caroline's soccer party, which Chad was IN CHARGE of.. Burgers, Hot Dogs, Grill, Tomatoes, Ice,... all of it. And immediately after the soccer party was lifegroup at OUR house at 4:30 - 6:00. Then, to top the lovely day off, Caroline has a school project due tomorrow. Somehow in all of this chaos I have to figure out how to make a freestanding Ben Franklin out of a dried out apple head.

So, it's Sunday night 10:24. It all got done... I even worked in an hour workout tonight just to help me stay sane, but it was stressful.

Now, I get to look forward to doing it all over again next weekend. Two girls in a soccer tournament, both girls birthday parties at MY house, and the children's musical at church!

I LOVE this crazy life and I wouldn't know what to do without it, but sometimes a boring weekend would be GREAT!

Happy 13 Years, Honey!

2008-10-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

Chad and I are celebrating our anniversary this month. I'm so thankful for a Godly man to share my life with.

I'm currently doing the Beth Moore Bible Study, Believing God. It's just fantastic and is requiring us to look back over our lives and answer some really tough questions. Sometimes things that we don't always want to remember. Well, one thing the Lord revealed to me this week through the study was how His hand was all over guiding me to Chad, my greatest treasure.

I'm so thankful that the Lord kept both of our hearts forgiving toward each other as we dated and led us to move on together and eventually get married. It's just amazing to me when I think back on how we met in HEB one day, became friends, and now we've been married 13 years, have four kids, and are serving the Lord as a family. I'm so blessed!

A few days ago, Chad and I were discussing our businesses, and he said to me... "Don't you see it, Baby? Together we're unstoppable". I loved hearing those words, and believe them. Thank you, Chad, for being my life's BEST decision! Well, besides following the Lord, but that goes without saying!

I can only imagine!

2008-10-22T10:09:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share this family photo with you all. I've always found it quite intriguing and just amazing!

Years ago my paternal grandfather, "Padre", who passed away 23 years ago, acquired this photograph. Padre was a very sincere true Christian who was also a Baptist minister. His love for the Lord shone through him. I am so blessed to remember him coming into my room at night, laying hands on me and praying for me. It is not unusual at all for me to remember the prayers he prayed over me and account them to the blessings the Lord has laid out in my life.

Anyway, the story behind it is that it was taken at a funeral my grandfather did. A man by the name of GA Newman thought the clouds looked amazingly beautiful and snapped a photo. Upon developing the black and white film, this was the image in the clouds. Mr. Newman gave this photo to my padre hoping he could use it in his ministry. It is an ACTUAL old fashioned black and white photo. It has been in my family for years. I recently asked my mom to scan it and send it to me for a school project Kate is working on. It amazes me every time I see it.

This picture was taken back in the day when computers weren't even existent, so no photoshop can account for this image. I LOVE it! Thank you, Lord for sending your angels to guard us.

Psalm 91:11
For God commands the angels
to guard you in all your ways.

Happy Birthday, Cort!

2008-10-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

This month we're celebrating Cort's Birthday! I still can't believe that my son is SIX and in kindergarten. Where does the time go?

I'm so thankful for Cort and the energy he brings to our family. He's our little evangelist. He is always quoting God's word and telling his sister what God doesn't like about what they are doing. It's really amazing the heart he already has for God at such a young age.

He's active and very much all boy. He always wants to be playing ball and wrestling. He insisted that his birthday party be all boys and they had to play football. Well, it turned into a group wrestling match on the trampoline.

My favorite recent Cort quote is something he said to me when Chad and I left to go to North Carolina. I told him goodbye and I'd see him when I get back. He said, " I'll always remember you Mommy! You're that pretty girl with dark hair that always wears lip gloss". It was precious and was so cute to hear what my 6 year old son thinks about his momma.

Happy Birthday, Cort!

Oh the Joy of a Peaceful Retreat!

2008-10-14T19:42:00.000-07:00

Chad and I were able to get away for a few days to the most gorgeous, peaceful resort in Asheville, NC.. The Grove Park Inn and Spa. Chad had a conference with his company and I decided to tag along.

The mountains with the leaves changing colors were just beautiful and the weather was very mild. It was just an outstanding scene.. a perfect picture of my favorite season.. FALL!

I was able to have two days of fantastic workouts. Their facilities are outstanding and the surrounding Country Club neighborhood made for a fabulous morning run. I found a little cottage that I hoped to talk Chad into buying, but the $999,000 price tag is a little too steep for our weekend home. As I was jogging through the neighborhood I saw wild turkeys literally in people's front yards. Groups of them.

I was able to be an adult with no responsiblities for 3 days. No homework, dance, gymnastics, karate... you name it. Many thanks to my dear friends, Kim Evans and Julie Helton, who made it possible by keeping my little people. I love you ladies and am so appreciative for the time you allowed me to have.

But, all good things must come to an end. I DO have responsibilities and 4 little people that count on me, so I decided that we better come home and back to the real world. BUT... getting away was GREAT!

CHICKonomics

2008-10-12T08:42:00.000-07:00

My dad is a physician in a small area. As I was growing up, strange as it may be, I remember my mother constantly stopped by friends asking her what she thought about their ailing back, or sick stomach or any other ailment. Remember I said my DAD was the one with the MD behind his name, not mom. Well, lately a similar senario has been happening to me based on Chad's profession. I get questioned about my opinion of the stock market and what it's looking like. I don't mind it, of course, client relations are extremely important to us both, but I feel about as secure discussing the stock market as my husband feels discussing the sensations experienced when nursing an infant.

Well, that has changed for me. I was given the opportunity to spend 3 days with Chad at a conference surrounded by his peers...men.. and a few women.. who are experts with investing and the stock market. This group of investor coaches are impressive and extremely successful, experienced folks. I feel like I learned so much about the current market and was actually able to put a CHICK spin on it, so I'm going to attempt to explain the stock market and why I'm not worried in Chick terms.

I would like to make a disclaimer that in NO WAY has what I'm saying been given the stamp of approval from my husband, or any other financial coach. This is absolutely my spin on it. So, take what you will!

Let's say you went to Dillards and found a fantastic pair of shoes. They cost you $115. You think they will possibly be worth more in six months or a year, so you've decided NOT to wear them right away because you really don't NEED them. You're interested in seeing what they could be worth a little later and possibly selling them on ebay to someone else at a higher price later.

Six months passes and you go to Dillards to look for more shoes... WHAT?? The gorgeous pair you purchased for $115 is now on sale for $30. You're upset... You're so worried that now your pair of shoes have LOST most of their value. The busy sales clerk sees your dismay and begins to counsel you by telling you "OH.. don't worry. This is a SPECIAL sale and these shoes are going back to their original price in a few weeks". You start to stomp out depressed, then you remember that you've just put $250 in your "secret stash". You get smart and use your $250 to buy as many $30 pair of shoes as you can hoping that you can sell them later for their original price of $150 and make a tremendous profit.

A little bit of time goes by and you're still worried because the shoes are still only worth $30. You panic and start to want your $250 back. You want to return them and just take what you can. But, the smart investor side of you says to stick it out. SMART DECISION... Six months later, you walk in and see the same shoes for $200 a pair. You run straight home, list your shoes on ebay and reward yourself with your good returns! You were patient and it paid off.

Just like the "take an extra 40% off" sale at Dillards comes and goes, so does the stock market. Patience will prevail. Continue praying for our country and the economy and stay calm. AND.. if you have ANY extra money.. call your investor coach, Coach Chad and BUY BUY BUY!

Yellers.. Give Us A Break!

2008-10-04T09:28:00.000-07:00

Today as I was walking up to Kate's 8am soccer game I heard a woman in the stands screaming like a crazy woman at her daughter on the field. M A RI A ... RUN... NO... GO FASTER... YOU'RE JUST STANDING THERE.. I'm talking about yelling like I have never heard before. She even exchanged words with the umpire. She continued this the whole game, and I'm just sure she left with no voice. She became a spectacle and a source of a lot of jokes from the other side of the stands.

Maria's mom, whoever that is, left me thinking about why parents are so hard on their kids during sports. My three oldest all play sports, and so I'm in the parent fan arena on a weekly basis. I just don't get it. What ever happened to encouraging our kids and complimenting them. It is just amazing to me how parents belittle their children in public. And, I'm not just talking about Maria's mom.. Again, whoever poor Maria is, it's at least half of the parents out there.

For example, I have watched a child, who happens to be the best player on the field, giving her absolute all out there with very little support from her teamates, and I will hear her parent on the sidelines just hollering "MAKE THE SHOT".. NO DIDNT YOU SEE HER. GO PAST HER. or DONT WAIT.. so loud the whole complex hears. Then, the child makes the shot, scores the goal, and never hears the same hollering in a positive "THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT... GOOD JOB. Why is it that some parents are so quick to just yell the negative? Frankly, it's embarrassing to the child and belittling.

How many people would yell out loud in front of all of our kids classmates.. YOU MISSED ONE ON THE TEST. YOU DID IT WRONG! PAY ATTENTION! Hopefully no one, yet parents will stand and run up and down the sidelines like idiots yelling something equally as hurtful with the whole squad and everyone else around listening.

I am an encourager. I am grateful that my children want to play sports and I'm excited that they are out there. If I were the kid with the yelling mother, I'd be looking for the first opportunity to quit sports just to avoid the embarrassment of being the kid whose mom won't shut her trap!

Knowing Kate

2008-10-01T21:15:00.000-07:00

Today is a Kate day.. That simply means that I'm spending a moment reflecting on what all is great about my Kate.

If you knew me when Kate was a toddler, you'd know that she was the ultimate of life's challenges. She was an absolute Pill! I remember countless times of having to leave stores because she was laid out on the floor pitching fits that she couldn't have the toy she wanted. Or, I remember the days that we had to rig her bedroom door to stay closed because we couldn't get her to stay in her bedroom at bedtime. I also remember the day she was kicked out of First Baptist Woodway's Mother's Day Out for biting the teacher.. and the day that my sweet friend, Shannon took her in at Highland Mother's Day Out. Boy, I bet Shannon regreted that after having to hire an extra person to sit in a room with her during nap and hold her so tightly she couldn't move. Then came the phone call for me to pick her up early on Tuesday and Thursday because she was bothering the other kids.

There are countless stories about my Kate as a toddler. I think it was the year she started PreSchool that she changed. I remember Chad and I expecting the teacher to call and say, "Come get this kid NOW!".. Well, that didn't happen. We got one good report after the other and that was that. She blossomed into this sweet little girl that enjoys rules and guidelines.

Now, she is my best helper and such a natural little mommy to the little ones. She genuinely cares about others and is a true pleaser. She doesn't have much of a sassy mouth and seems to truly enjoy spending time with both Chad and me. It's just wierd the transition.

If you know Kate now, you probably don't hear much from her. She has really turned into a little intravert. She is very outgoing with her friends and, of course, family, but I just can't get her to come out of her shell with adults. Any ideas on that are appreciated!

But, for now, I just enjoy the talks we have and the little girl she still is. I'm guessing I only have a few more months until the almost 11 year old wants to trade in her American Girl Dolls and Build a Bears for make up and a razor. AHHH! It's bad enough that she's had to tell boys at school that she's not allowed to DATE. As IF!

So, if you have a little one that's giving you the biggest struggle of your life, just keep submitting it to prayer and Keep "Believing God". It is possible for a terrible toddler to turn into a terrific tween!

All Around CHAMPION

2008-09-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Caroline!

Caroline and I traveled to Euless, Tx on Saturday for a Gymnastics Meet where she brought home the Gold for First Place on Bars, Beam and Floor. She also brought home the gold for First Place ALL AROUND... Hooray, Caroline!

Happy Birthday, Baby!

2008-09-25T14:17:00.000-07:00

Today, My hubby, my one and only, is 37! Happy Birthday, Baby!
37 of my favorite things about Chad Castle... my man! (in no particular order)

1- I love that you're excited about taking me with you to North Carolina.
2 - I love that you keep me grounded and remind me that the important things in life are the people and experiences and not the "stuff".
3- I love that you are willing to be "Coach Chad" to all four of our children.
4- I will always remember immediately after Kate was born and you standing by my side. I remember saying... I'm fine... Go meet our daughter. I loved how you wanted to be with me.
5- I love how you were standing right beside me during all four deliveries. You never fainted.. and always told me I was your hero.
6- You are an excellent father who our kids will always admire.
7- I love how you compliment our girls and help nourish their self esteem.
8- It was so much fun at our first apartment our first Christmas when you decorated the outside with Christmas Lights for the complex competition. We SHOULD have won!
9- I love that you appreciate traditions and encourage them in our family.
10- I love that you didn't yell at me when I got the truck stuck in the mud at HOT soccer.
11- I will always remember and appreciate you loving and supporting me through that fourth pregnancy. I needed the "you can do it" boosts.
12- I love to wake up and feel you beside me every morning.
13- Hearing you pray for me with your arms around me is priceless.
14- I appreciate that you know my stubborn side and are always the one to reconcile after an argument.
15- After 13 years of marriage, you are still a gentleman. You open my door, pull out my chair, order for me... etc.
16- You are so cute in your suit and tie.
17- I appreciate that you work hard to help our family be debt free.
18- You are a true servant and a blessing to everyone you serve.
19- I love that we can look at each other across a room and immediately know each other's thoughts.
20- You know all of my secrets and love me despite them.
21- I so appreciate that you are the household "homework checker". It keeps me from having to relearn 5th grade math.
22- I appreciate that you always encourage our children to be their best!
23- I love your sensitive side that comes out during life's precious moments.
24- I love how you can stop me mid sentence to tell me you think I'm beautiful.
25- Which leads me to... I appreciate that you ALWAYS listen to me as I tell you every detail of my day.
26- I love that you are so smart and so successful in your job.
27- I so appreciate that you ALWAYS write the bills and handle the checkbook. THANK YOU!
28- I am so thankful that you never question me when you see me pulling tags off of new clothes. You just say it looks nice and rarely ask the cost. :)
29- I love when you walk up behind me and put your arms around me.
30- I'm so thankful that you're willing to spend the money and take our kids fun places.. ie.. Disney...:)
31- I love that you always eat my cooking...even when it tastes bad.
32- I love that YOU cook for ME.
33- I love that you are willing to "get" anything that the girls and I deem "scary".
34- I am ALWAYS proud to be your wife.
35- You appreciate Date nights... thank you.. I live for them... I like our evening walks too!
36- I love that you are showing our sons what a godly man looks like.
37- I so appreciate that you chose to spend your life with me. You are my life's biggest blessing and my very favorite thing. Happy Birthday, Baby! I love you!
Kes

Expectations

2008-09-21T19:14:00.000-07:00

Why do we put so much pressure on each other and ourselves to meet expectations? I've been thinking about this today.. just about the expectations that I put on my spouse and on my kids and about the expectations that are put on me and that I put on myself.

It reminded me of the Christmas just before Chad and I got engaged. I spent Christmas in Baton Rouge with my family without Chad. I remember several long phone calls where we discussed him going to look for engagement rings. Knowing that we were definitely in love and meant for each other, I was just sure he'd bought one, kept it a secret, and was going to give it to me all wrapped up as a huge surprise when we exchanged gifts back in Texas after Christmas.

So, the day came to exchange gifts... I carefully chose the outfit I would wear. I certainly wanted to look perfect for my engagement pictures. We sat down at his mom's house and there was a big pile of presents there waiting for me. I just KNEW there was a ring in one of those presents. So, I opened the first one. It was a trunk Organizer... Yep... you know the kind that fold up, but when opened hold all kinds of things that could help keep a clean car. Yippee!!! Then I opened a roll of Shop Towels to go in it. I was still thinking that he'd hidden the ring somewhere. A few Armoralls and Windexs later, I realized there was no ring. And not only that, the gift I was given was in NO way romantic, sweet or sentimental in the way I expected it to be. It just did not meet my expectations. It was years before I told Chad about my disappointment. I would never have wanted to hurt his feelings.

However, as I later learned, my now husband actually spent quite a long time in the store trying to get the perfect gift for me to help keep my car organized. It was a nice gesture, but because I had my "expectations" set, I couldn't see the thoughtful treat that it really was.

Sometimes expectations are an unnecessary evil. The expectations that we build up in our heads of our children and our spouses, or of the dream day we're going to have together. Or the fun vacation we've planned that ends up being the trip from hell... the fantastic meal we're going to have at our favorite restaurant that comes out cold and all wrong!

The pressure we put on each other to make lots of money, cook perfectly healthy, organic meals for our families, serve on the PTA, serve the church, keep up with laundry, be polite and welcoming to everyone,look healthy, keep a tidy house,... you get the idea. It's just too much! If we'd just be thankful for what we get, we'd never have to be disappointed! Trust me.. the expectations I put on MYself are much greater than the expectations anyone could EVER put on me. So, I just remind myself to be cautious with my expectations and pray that the same is done for me.

Lemonade Stand

2008-09-16T14:44:00.000-07:00

The call to earn money just screams at my children all the time. They are constantly looking for something... anything... to do to make money. One of their favorite things to do is set up a lemonade stand in the front yard. We don't live on a busy street at all, so clientelle is minimal! It's usually a Saturday or Sunday occurence that mostly consists of the neighbors who are doing yardwork walking over or the one of two passerbys that feel sorry for them stop.

I honestly think it's a pretty messy scene. I've looked out the window to see one of my children sticking his hand in the ice and then placing it in a cup while his sister pours lemonade from a pitcher on it. YUCK..

Well, the last time they had a stand, Kate decided to make some strict lemonade stand rules. I guess in order for them to be strict, she had to type them up on the computer and make an official document out of it. So, I thought I'd share the rules with you. As you read them, just notice the two quiet girls taking advantage of their outspoken little brother.

Jobs for lemonade stand

Cort: you hold up the sign and yell lemonade. You also watch for me to point my thumb up and yell we except tips!

jobs for lemonade stand!

Caroline: you help me pour the lemonade and help hold up the signs.

Jobs for lemonade stand!
Kate: pour lemonade and help count money!

Determination

2008-09-10T11:12:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share a video clip of Caroline doing her bar routine last weekend. To an untrained eye, like my own, it looks like a simple little routine that any kid could just hop right up and do. It so is not. It takes a lot more than it looks like.

These little girls spend 14 hours a week in the gym working to compete in gymnastics. They do lots of strength and conditioning, running, and all of the stuff that isn't always so fun. It is a huge commitment and takes a lot of determination to keep at it. We're so proud of Caroline for sticking it out and always giving it her best shot.

Caroline received a third place medal for this routine last weekend. Her team also won Third Place all around.

Way to go, Caroline!

Skinny Genes

2008-09-07T20:14:00.000-07:00

I don't have them.... Skinny Genes that is. I wasn't one of the lucky ones born with a metabolism that runs like a race horse. I have to work for mine to wake up and get going.

I've always been intrigued by people's before and after stories. Having been a little chubby girl growing up, I appreciate the before picture because I realize what the person in the before picture felt like. And, of course, I appreciate the after picture because I realize all the struggles and hard work that went into looking good for an after picture.

Well, I thought I'd share a before and after pic and post about my most recent weight loss tricks. I'm going to get real with you and just tell it like it is.

First of all, I'd like to say UP FRONT that it's all a matter of where you come from. Perspective I should say. Do I think I look fantastic now and have a hot bod.. NO.. If you know me well enough, you know that goes without saying.

Someone who was born a little skinny thing and has stayed a little skinny thing, will not be able to relate to this post. You know who you are. You're the girl who is a size 2 on your chubby day, but still only wear full tankinis with a skirt, while those of us who have worked our heine off to be a size 4 with problem areas, wear a two piece. It is all perspective. Where you're coming from. So, this is where I'm coming from!

This is a picture of me when Clayton was 6 months old. That's about the time I realized that any weight that I was going to lose just because of giving birth was gone. The rest was going to be work. I had given birth to four children, did not wish for any more, but was still feeling bad about where I was physically. This is the no exercise Kesleigh and just eating whatever was easy Kesleigh.

I'm so proud to show my picture 20 pounds lighter. I know what you're thinking... and NO, I am NEVER done toning up and trying to lose a few more pounds. It's where I come from and how I think, but I would say all in all at 36, I'm pretty okay with my size.... most of the time.

I sometimes have people ask me what kinds of things I eat and what I did to lose weight. It started with Metabolic Weight Loss. I did not go there. I did not buy the products. I had a copy of the diet and followed it. The first ten pounds came off quickly and I was sold on the program.

As I was doing that program, I realized that exercise was going to have to be a major part of my life, so I go to the YMCA at least 5 times a week. Sometimes I even catch myself doing light weights, push ups, situps and squats while I watch tv at night. I have just realized that anytime you can be moving is much better for your body than being still. I like to do step aerobics and was doing body shaping religiously until my schedule changed. I highly recommend aerobics classes rather than exercising alone only because having people around you doing the routines encourages you to keep going.

I also learned to realize how many unnecessary calories I was taking in. I realized that I was snacking while talking on the phone and not even thinking about it. I was getting up for seconds and never realized I was doing it. Just mindless eating.

I also weigh myself every day, religiously. It keeps me in touch with if I'm gaining or not. I have a digital scale that is always on full battery and always available in my bathroom.

Now, I don't live on Metabolic Weight Loss. It's not a plan meant to live on. But, I do have to maintain somehow. So, I modify. The plan is always on the back of my mind. I know it well. I eat a ton of salad.. only Spinach leaves with different toppings. I love the Kelloggs protein drink mix and HIGHLY recommend it to everyone. And, I also recommend the South Beach Bars. They are high in protein and that helps you stay fuller longer. AND, they're really good. I highly recommend the Light bread at Braum's restaurant. Any time we are going through Hillsboro I pick some up and freeze it. It's delicious and is only 40 calories per slice versus the 90 calorie regular bread. And, I must admit it, I live on Diet Pepsi. It's my treat and one luxury I afford myself.

Again, as a person who spent the better part of my life heavier than most people around me, I will always consider myself bigger and will always be on a mission to take control over my physical self just to prove that it's possible. I'm always "on a program". It's just who I am, but that's not to say that I can't enjoy a good piece of pie every now and then. And, it sure did feel good to go to my annual OB/GYN appt, weigh in and realize I weigh less now than I did 4 kids ago.

Thanks for letting me share...

Things I've learned this week!

2008-08-30T16:41:00.000-07:00

We learn alot over a week's time. Even at the age of 36, I learn new things all the time. Here are some of the things I've learned this week. Or, you may just call them random thoughts:

1- Little kids love fundraisers. Parents hate them.

2- Some rumors are ridiculous. Just to clear one up - Chad is not ever, never has and never would consider being the new discipleship pastor at HBC.

3- It is possible for me to love a dog.

4- People in Waco will wear anything to the pool. SCARY

5- Dillards has a great 75% off sale, but even at 75% off, things add up.

6- I am not a bad mother because my children ride the bus for 5 minutes to school.

7- Kindergarten parents are clueless in the carpool line. In case you ever need to know: DO NOT exit your vehicle while loading your child, AND furthermore, by Kindergarten Bobby really should know how to buckle his own carseat.

8- Hitting a pothole really will ruin a tire. Which leads me to #9...

9- When purchasing tires, always buy the warranty.

10- Evidently no one in my family knows how to load or unload the dishwasher, but they are very clear on leaving dishes in the sink.

11- I really don't like my cell phone. Especially between 3pm and 8pm.

12- My kids ROCK on the soccer field.

13- The drive in movie in Gatesville is worth the drive and lots of cheap fun.

14- There is an old white haired lady with a handicapped hangtag driving a Buick in
Woodway that is ruthless and will race on the freeway and eventually cut you off. You can't beat her.

15- Some attorneys are rude, not all, some.

16- Asian tourists are hilarious! That's for my bunko friends.

17- My kids like nothing I cook.

18- Shipleys runs out of sausage and cheese kolaches around 10:30 on Saturdays.

19- More people live above their means then should.

20- My husband is the kindest man in the whole world. He's a servant and has a gorgeous heart.

These are just few things that I've either learned or figured out in the last 7 days.

It Happened!

2008-08-27T07:17:00.001-07:00

The First Day of School, that is.. My oldest went off to the Intermediate School, Caroline entered 3rd grade, and CORT STARTED KINDERGARTEN. Woodway Elementary rolled out the red carpet and stood outside cheering and claping as all of the kindergarten students were escorted in with their parents.

All in all it was a good day. Cort had fun, but asked to go home at lunch. He only wanted to stay for half day. Unfortunately for Cort, half day is not an option in Midway.

Caroline said her teacher is super nice and is excited about the friends in her class. So, she's happy.

Kate is a little indifferent about the Intermediate School. It's a huge change and takes some adjusting. She has fantastic teachers and lots of friends, so once she gets the hang of things, she'll be fine.

We have decided to put Caroline and Cort on the bus in the mornings. It just makes sense with 2 different campuses to drive to now. The bus came this morning at 7:45. We are the very last pick up. My kids will have to ride the bus for a total of 5 minutes. It just makes sense. Cort was THRILLED to be getting on the big yellow school bus. We made Caroline commit to stay focused and walk Cort to class. She was not as thrilled to be riding the bus.

Yesterday when I dropped Cort off, I held it together surprisingly well. Today, when I saw him get on the bus, I just cried and cried. I'm so thankful for Clayton. He's still home and keeping me company.

But, we decided as a family that we need another baby. It's just not the same without a baby, so we've decided to adopt. It's a big decision for us, as our plates are full, but what a blessing to have one more. Please meet:

T Bone Yoda Castle
13 weeks old

Can Supermom really be in four places at once?

2008-08-21T19:30:00.000-07:00

It's here.. Oh dear Lord prepare me. I can just feel it now. It's a weekday. Three o'clock approaches, and I realize it's a little more difficult for me to breathe. I'm a little jumpy and just downright nervous! No, school doesn't bother me. It's AFTER school that bothers me.

The rush of carpool traffic and lines...will I catch this redlight and have to wait another 8 minutes? I mean, the clock ticks. I MUST get Caroline home ASAP or she'll have NO time to change and get a snack before gymnastics at 4:00 EVERY day except Wednesday. Then, I try to keep up with who has soccer on what day and where are their shoes? Is it a karate day? Who's driving? Hopefully I'm not the only one with this stress.

Being that I'm married to "Coach Chad" all of my kids participate in some sort of sports. Extracurricular activites are a good thing around here.. I mean, after all we don't want our daughter to be unable to be on the dance team in High school because she didn't start taking classes at age 2. And, by golly, Cort can't sit out of soccer for a year. If so, he may not make the select team in fifth grade!!! Okay, so I'm exaggerating a little, but truthfully, I feel like my kids are going to miss out somewhere down the road if I don't provide them the opportunity to participate.

It's really not any ONE child's schedule... well, maybe Caroline's, but all of them together adds up to a really stressful after school schedule. "Coach Chad" and I both agree that each of our children should be able to pursue what they love even though we have multiple children. I mean, they didn't decide to give birth four times. Should it be another child's schedule that prevents one from doing what they love?

So, we persevere, just "Coach Chad" and me.... no family in town to help drive, just the two of us. And somehow, we get it done. All in all, I think our kids are well rounded, happy and excited to participate. So, I write the checks, buy the gas, get the uniforms, do the fundraisers and just stinkin do it!

Just for your entertainment, I'm posting our weekly schedule below. It all begins next week. God bless us!

Monday- Caroline gymnastics 4:00- 8:00, Kate Soccer 6:30 - 7:30, Cort Karate 5:30-6:15

Tuesday- Caroline gymnastics 4:00 - 7:00, Caroline Soccer 6:00 - 7:00 (guess we're picking her up early)

Wednesday- 5:45-8:00 Children's Choir and Awanas

Thursday- Caroline gym 4:00 - 7:00, Caroline Soccer 6:00 - 7:00, Kate dance 5:00-6:00, Kate soccer 6:30- 8:00 and Cort karate 5:30 - 6:15.

Friday- Caroline gymnastics 4:00-6:00, Kate dance 4:00 - 7:00, Cort soccer 6:30-7:30

And little Clayton is just along for the ride! Thank you Lord for providing us a home within 5 minutes from all of these events.. except church, a crock pot to cook dinner in, and for chocolate and Diet Pepsi for me to have while I'm trying to do it all!

I LOVE San Antonio!

2008-08-17T20:49:00.000-07:00

This weekend Caroline had her first meet of the season. We have seven more to follow. She did outstanding and placed in every event.. Way to go Caroline. The meet was in San Antonio. Of course, I used this as an excuse to take a family get away on the Riverwalk. It was GREAT! In fact, this short trip was the highlight of my summer.

I used Priceline and with much difficulty and frustration, finally got them to accept my price for a hotel actually on the Riverwalk. FYI.. when using Name Your Own Price on Priceline to stay on the Riverwalk on the weekend.. cheap rates are non existent.

We stayed at the Holiday Inn Riverwalk and loved it.. well, everything except that the parking garage doesn't allow Excursions or other large SUVs in because they can't get out. BOO! But, besides that, I would highly recommend it. We creatively fit our family of six into a room meant for four,but for one night on the gorgeous San Antonio Riverwalk in a nice hotel, who can complain??
Clayton had his own little "bed" made up of two arm chairs and lots of blankets. He loved it and slept all night!

We were able to get some good Mexican food, do a little shopping, ride the Riverboats, see the Alamo, go to the IMAX and eat at the Rainforest Cafe. The kids behaved well and we all thoroughly enjoyed our time there. I'm already excited to go back! It's just so relaxing and beautiful and very romantic!

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2008-08-15T07:26:00.000-07:00

August 15th is always a special day for me. It's my Daddy's birthday.

This is my dad, Herschel B. Dean. Around his community, as long as I can remember, he's been known as the favorite, most talked about doctor, Dr. Dean.. EVERYWHERE he goes. EVERYONE knows Dr. Dean. I've always believed that it is because he is one of the most devoted men I've ever known.

My dad is devoted to his family, his church and his patients. I've never seen him treat anyone with less dignity and respect than another, and he's always been welcoming to anyone who wants his company. Especially my boys! Cort loves his Pop and requires him to play ball with him everytime they're together. It's become a thing with the two of them to make sure that whereever we are meeting up, they each have a glove. Cort always looks forward to playing with Pop.

Because of my dad's schedule growing up and the demands on physicians years back, we didn't get as much time together on a weekly basis as I would have liked. I know it's because my dad was working hard to meet the needs of four kids, a wife and a huge load of patients. I've always respected that work ethic in him and never more than I do now having a family of my own. I will always appreciate my dad's desire to make sure that we had everything we needed growing up, his willingness to load us into a Ford Conversion Van and drive us all over America to see all the wonderful things America has to offer on his only weeks off, and his gracious heart in working hard so I could attend Baylor debt free.

Most of all, the love he has for the Lord shines through his life. In EVERY aspect of his life. It's obvious to all who know him, and especially those who know him best and see his heart. He is a a fantastic example of the Lord. More than anything I can ever say about my childhood, I thank my Daddy for being a true, honest, follower of Christ and setting the mark for me in what that looks like. For that, I am very grateful! I love you, Daddy! Happy Birthday!

The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him.
Proverbs 20:7

My Praying Week

2008-08-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

I will always remember the first day of school as a 3rd grader. This was the first year I went to the first day of school without my mom. Being the youngest of 4, I felt silly having my mom walk me in. I went to a small private school and KNEW that I was NOT to have Mrs. Lapeze, the "mean" teacher. I was to have Mrs. Thornton. Well, sure enough, I walked so confidently to Mrs. Thornton's door to see that my name was NOT on her list. This must have been a mistake because I was NOT stepping foot in the mean teacher room. What if she made me stay? So, as an eight year old, I started crying and just looking around like...well, a scared little 8 year old. Eventually I found my way to the school office. Just as I was walking in I heard the office attendant saying.. "Well, Mrs. Dean, strange that you called. Your daughter is standing right here next to me in tears". About 10 minutes later my mom appeared in the school office and worked it out for me to be with the teacher she had requested. My mom has always said that the Lord actually stopped her in the middle of her morning chores and told her that I was not okay. That brings tears to my eyes now as a mom. We just kind of know, don't we?

Every year I refer to this week, and technically next week, as my praying weeks. I catch myself praying harder than I do MOST weeks of the year. This is the week or weeks that someone somewhere is sitting at a desk with mounds of registration forms on his/her desk deciding which child will be placed in which classroom, with which teachers and with which other children. They're deciding where my little Kindergarten boy will fit and who his friends will be his first year from home. Where my little 3rd grader who sometimes can't remember that we walk on our feet and not our hands will end up. Will it be a teacher who will love her for who she is? What about my 5th grader? Will the school know that she is a very anxious little girl and needs someone that understands her? This idea naturally brings me a great deal of stress.

We have trusted God for the last 6 years and put our children in Woodway Elementary knowing that we could move them to a smaller private school if we chose. This was strange for me at first because I never spent a day in a public school. We have loved it and been blessed 10 times over every year. We have not had a bad experience ever. I know and never question that it's because our children are where God wants them and His hand is ever present over them while they are away from home. That is not to say that I don't do some request writing (that doesnt usually work), politicing,and a lot of worrying and talking to the Lord about what I see as best for them, but we all know that in a large school district sometimes it's just the luck of the draw. I'm just thankful that my luck is really the Lord's hand.

This year I have an extra concern as Kate enters the Intermediate School with kids from all over the district. I am feeling so confident for Kate as she is a likeable precious little Christian girl who treats others the way she wishes to be treated. My prayer for her is that the other little girls in her new classes and at her new school have also been taught to be inclusive and encourage quality friendships. I can't stand the idea of my sweet girl not knowing anyone in her block on the first day of school and feeling lonely. But, I know that no matter how much I write about it, lay awake worrying or talking to others about it, ultimately the Lord knows right now who my child will sit with the first day of school and what her experience will be. I'm so thankful to be able to place my kiddos in His care where these big decisions are concerned. Now, if I could just take a deep breath and trust Him to do His work in their lives this year!

Thank you, Lord for being ever present.. Even for my 5 year old.

Spray Tan Gone Wrong

2008-08-08T12:57:00.000-07:00

Our family just returned from a funfilled four day trip to a gorgeous lake house at Lake LBJ for some boating with friends. This trip has turned into an annual trip, and it just loads of fun for the 12 kids and 8 adults involved.

I noticed this week that I counted to four in my head more times than I ever have in my entire life. Chad and I have code names for our children. They're quite simple... 1,2,3,and 4. This comes in really handy when I'm taking a head count. With all of the lake swimming, a beach surrounded by lake and a black bottom pool, I found myself constantly counting heads.. 1,2....4.. "Chad do you have 3? That kind of thing. It was a lot of work and a little stressful making sure all of the kids had their heads above water and were accounted for, but all the fun they had was well worth it.

This year I came up with the novel idea that I should give Chad a spray tan before the trip. If you know Chad, he's quite fair and does NOT tan EVER... So, this was a perfect idea, right? Well, it didn't turn out quite like I planned. He was streaked really bad and I think he was kinda embarrassed. Sorry, honey... Here are some pictures of the trip. Maybe you can see his spray tan gone wrong.. or maybe not.

Six Flags for Cort

2008-07-30T20:08:00.000-07:00

This is Cort...my sweet little five year old boy. He is 100% boy always, all the time. He loves to play sports, watch sports, and I'm sure he sometimes just thinks sports. On the soccer field, he has no regard for the feelings of any player around him. It's just give me the ball and move, or I'll assist you with moving. Same with tball. He's decided that he's no longer playing tball because he wants to hit a "real ball" at a "real pitcher".

He's also very much a middle child. He is very go with the flow,which is a great quality to have in a big family. The only problem is, I'm afraid sometimes that causes him to get overlooked. He's one of those kids that I lay down in bed at night and think..did I give Cort enough attention today. Most days, he just doesn't require it. He doesn't ask for things over and over, he doesn't complain, and he's almost silent in the car. Just a pretty easy kid.

Cort doesn't seem to be the child that gets many invitations to do fun things. I'm sure it's alot because of his age. He's still so young. He watches his sisters get invited with friends to cool places almost daily while he just sticks with me. Well, Tuesday he got the BEST invitation of the summer. He was invited to go to Six Flags with the Heltons.

Now, there are very few people I'd send my five year old off to Six Flags with. Julie Helton has been one of my dearest friends here in Waco for about 12 years, so I had complete confidence in her watching out for my little middle child. We've not taken Cort to Six Flags as a family, so I had no idea how he'd do on rides. I assumed that given his total boyish nature and his " I am invincible" attitude, he'd be on any ride they would let him ride... WELL..... Let this picture be an indicator of how he did on Tuesday at his first visit to Six Flags.

Notice his clutching the handle while all of the other little girls are just sitting back relaxing. He was SCARED to death! Bless Darrell and Julie for sitting off of the "big" rides with Cort while the other kids rode! Amazingly enough, he had a fantastic time and is asking to go again. Blessings to the Heltons for giving my son such a sweet opportunity. I'm sad I missed it!

Best Friends

2008-07-27T21:48:00.000-07:00

My Kate has found something in life that is very precious. Something that is hard to come by for kids these days.... A Sweet, Christian Best Friend. I'd like you to meet, Maddie. She and Kate met for the first time the very first day of Kindergarten., but actually became best friends about 2 years ago.

I can't imagine how relieved I would have been on that first day of kindergarten if I had known then that Kate would meet such a precious little girl that would be such an important part of her life right there in that class. You know, wondering if your child will have a friend in class is every mother's fear.

It's just precious to have a best friend... someone that you can be real with and who likes you for who you are. It blesses me to know that Kate has a friend that is trustworthy and who likes her.

These girls are the kind of friends that ask constantly to be together. They always want to be having sleepovers, shopping trips, swim dates.. you name it. The number one question I hear from Kate is ... "Can Maddie come?" I've watched these girls scheme together and discuss who's mom will say yes. I've seen them play silly tricks on neighborhood boys and then act innocent. Many times I've seen them defend each other. They've even cried and argued.. but always made up! These girls have something special.

I never had that as a kid. A best friend, I mean. I was very close to my sister, but she always had a best girlfriend, so I was kinda third wheel. I was kind of a difficult child that had an unpleasant personality at times. I do remember that about myself and was also reminded of it by my family members occasionally.

Well, I'm so thankful now that I have a best friend. Someone that loves me for who I am and encourages me to be the best I can be. Someone who builds me up and reminds me of the positive things I am. Well.... and the negative when I need to hear them. I'm so thankful that I have a best friend that will argue with me, but always make things right with me before the day ends. Someone who's best at listening and supporting me when I most need it. Someone that I laugh with, play jokes with, scheme with, cry with and sneak away with. What's even better, is I get to fall asleep and wake up right next to him every day!

Isn't he so cute too!

How Time Flies... or NOT!

2008-07-21T15:18:00.000-07:00

Saturday all four of the kids and I, yes only I, loaded the car for a 9 hour journey to Baton Rouge. We were off to take the girls to meet their cousins for GA Camp. WOW! It doesn't take too long for me to be alone with my kids to discover that they do indeed know who's the disciplinarian in our family. It's NOT me!! All day it just seemed like time stood still.

I learned alot about my kids on Saturday. Several of the new truths are, Clayton can't ride 9 hours without a pull up no matter how many bathroom stops we make, Caroline and Cort are to NEVER be seated in the same row of seats in any car ever again, Kate can't read while driving- it makes her carsick :), and finally, kids 5 and older will do just about anything for money. Bribery works well as a last resort for peace and quiet!

We finally arrived here in Louisiana right back to the home I grew up in. The only home I remember as a child. Here are a few photos. My room was on the bottom left. I believe we moved in when I was 2.

Now, here I am, 36, I drive in the driveway with all four of my kids and suddenly I feel like a child again. The big 3 acre yard and the LONG driveway just sitting there waiting for my kids to run free, just as I did when I was a kid. There's a bike for everyone, yes, even adult bikes. I get on one and ride with my kids, and there I am 10 years old riding down to my friends house, or at least telling my kids about how I WOULD have ridden down to my friends' house 26 years ago.. OUCH!

The feeling I get everytime I'm here amazes me. I walk in, hug my Momma and Daddy.. aka... Grannie and Pops.. just like I would have everyday of my life when I lived here. My dad unloads my stuff and mom immediately starts feeding everyone. From that moment on, the eating never ends. There's always something good to just "have a bite of". Oh, it's all delicious!

My siblings and Me.. Karen, Kyle, and Kim

Having 3 older siblings and 12 nieces and nephews, there's always activity around here. Somehow Grannie and Pop's house is the "hub" for all activity... especially when cousins from Waco are in town. I try REALLY hard to be the cool aunt. Sometimes that means I drive my older nieces and nephews to the 24 hour fitness center at 11pm, or taking them for smoothies, or to the mall, or anywhere else they want to go. There's always something fun they want to do.

Anyway, it's all fun and games until I unload my things, visit my "virtual office" here at my parents' house and realize that I am in fact an adult and do have obligations and commitments. Thank goodness for the virtual office that allows me to meet all of your real estate needs from any location. www.thecastleseller.com (Just plugging my business here) Please call me with any questions, concerns or other matters. :)

The only negative thing about this "vacation" is that my one and only is not with me. Somehow being 9 hours away without him makes me wish I never left Waco. I can't stand to be without him. Seven days is TOO long!

Lastly, I'd like to share some pictures of the camp where my girls are spending the week . It's just a little camp back in the country that offers horses and just lots of fun. Last year they both rededicated their lives to Christ and came home fully understanding the love of Jesus and the sacrifice he made for them. NOTHING is more precious than that...Makes the 9 hour drive a piece of cake!

My Spa Weekend

2008-07-11T20:45:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting my pictures from my fantastic spa weekend posted. I am typically not the type to go anywhere without my hubby, but this invitation was far too inviting and a perfect birthday gift for myself. It was a nice get away and the perfect amount of time away from my 5 sweeties.

Myself and 3 friends, Julie, Andrea and Shannon left Saturday morning at 9:30 and headed to Lake Austin Spa. It was fantastic! In order to use the spa for the day you must have an appt on the books AND pay a $25 fee. The spa offers many delightful treatments. Massages, pedicure, manicure, hair, waxing, etc... but all at a ridiculously expensive price. Knowing that we were going to be doing some shopping later and not wanting to spend all my money up front, I agreed to have the cheapest thing offered at the spa.. a $20 brow wax. :0 Boy, my brows looked great and I must say, it was the most relaxing brow wax I've ever experienced.

Of course, while we were waiting for our treatments, we were able to lay around the pool, walk around the gorgeous lake, sit outside in the covered courtyards, eat fruit, drink water or tea and all in a fluffy comfy white robe. It's so funny because EVERYONE was wearing white robes. It was like if you didn't have on the cushy white robe, you just didn't fit in.

After the spa experience, we left for our hotel. It was the Renaissance and it was gorgeous. It would definitely be a place I'd like to go back with my hubby. It was very upscale and just calm. There was a gorgeous outside pool and my favorite was the inside pool that joined the fitness center. If you know me well, then you know I enjoy a hotel that has a decent fitness center. It's an amenity I like in a hotel... a nice place to work out. This place was top notch! I definitely recommend the Renaissance.

The Renaissance is surrounded by upscale shopping as well. It was an outdoor mall with all the best shops. Also there was a Cheesecake Factory where we ate dinner. It was way too much food and delicious ( thus the need for the hotel fitness center).

After our fun spa day, then shopping and eating and LOTS of girl talk, we spent our last day at the outlet mall in Georgetown. I highly recommend that too! It was easy to navigate and easy to spend lots of money too. I went to spend my birthday money. Would you believe I spent most at the Disney Store. You KNOW that was not spent on ME!

The best part of all was when I got home from my weekend out.. by the way, I've not been out of town without Chad or the kids EVER.. yes, I said EVER.. anyway, when I got home the grass was mowed to perfection, the house was spotless, candles were burning and upon entering the house, there was a big sign that said WELCOME HOME MOMMY, compliments of my kids. It was precious! SO FUN
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Blast from the Past

2008-07-10T18:09:00.000-07:00

This is a pic of my 4 just as they are. After gymnastics, soccer, swimming, sleeping, playing.. you name it.. Just as they are.

I've taken on the humongous task of having a garage sale. It's a tremendous task...especially with 4 little "helpers" wanting to work along beside me. Well, in getting ready for the garage sale and going through stuff I ran upon some old CDs and cassette tapes. Of course, I just had to pull some out and listen to them.

I came across a cassette tape that Chad made for me when we got dropped. If you were in a fraternity or sorority then you understand dropped. It's when your boyfriend buys you his fraternity symbol on a penant and presents it to you. It's the step before getting engaged. This was a huge deal in my sorority which included passing a candle and listening to songs of importance to the person who has been dropped. OKay.. so , Chad actually recorded himself speaking to me about how much he loved me. This was outstanding because Chad does not do these kind of things often. So, it's very precious to me.

Well, on the tape was a song that was sung at our wedding and one I have not heard for some time. As I was listening to it, I realized that it means far more to me now than it ever did then. I tried to download it here, but I had some difficulties and no time to sit around trying to figure it out. But, here are the lyrics. It's Wayne Watson's song "Somewhere in the World".

Somewhere in the world today
A little girl will go out ot play
All dressed up in mama's clothes
At least the way that I suppose it goes
Somewhere in the world tonight
Before she reaches to turn out the light
She'll be prayin' from a tender heart
A simple prayer that's a work of art

And I don't even know her name
But I'm prayin' for her just the same
That the Lord will write His name upon her heart
Cause somewhere in the course of this life
A little boy will need a godly wife
So hold on to Jesus, baby, whereever you are

Somewhere in the world out there
That little girl's learnin' how to care
She's pickin' up her mamas charms
Or maybe, swigin' around in her daddy's arms
Somewhere in the world to be
Through the future's not real clear to me
Theirs could be a tender love
Grounded in eternal love above

So I'm in the garage going through garage sale stuff when I'm listening to this song and Cort walks out to join me. I have big huge tears in my eyes and of course he's asking "Mommy what's wrong". I just made him sit on my lap as I finished out the song.

Have you ever really thought about the people our children will marry? I mean, who would have ever thought that a little chubby girl in Baton Rouge, La. would be destined to marry a country boy from Caddo Mills, Tx. Just in the same way, God has a mate chosen for my kiddos. Somewhere out there are little kids just like mine that God has already chosen to spend a lifetime with my children. God has written MY child's name in his/ her heart. Scary to think about.

This led me to think about the job I am doing here preparing my kids for marriage. WOW... gosh when you really think about it, the jobs we have as moms are tremendous. I have to prepare these cute little faces to be godly wives and husbands. Obviously I need to be praying daily for this. I just have kinda taken it for granted that God is preparing them to be a blessing to their families one day. They are watching everything we say and more of what we do!

My children are so lucky because they have such an outstanding example as a father. Chad is one of the very best dads that I know. My boys' wives will be lucky because hopefully they will follow Chad's example, but my girls' husbands better have game on, or the girls will be disappointed.

It has just been an emotional reminder that I need to be praying DAILY for the cute little girl that has CORT or CLAYTON written in her heart. Or, the little boys that God has picked for my girls. Who knows where they are now... Just something to think ... or cry... about...

IF anyone knows how to download the song, just tell me... :) It helps to hear it with music.

The Almighty Dollar and the Budget!!

2008-07-06T20:41:00.001-07:00

This weekend I decided to do a little shopping and take my girls to see what kind of July 4th sales we could find. My girls don't wear uniforms to school, so I usually try to stock up on some back to school clothes mid summer so it doesnt hit me all at once. I hang them in the back of the closet so the first few weeks of school my girls have some nice looking new clothes to wear. You know, first impressions and all.

I am one of those moms who thinks that the way my girls dress for school is a direct reflection of me, so I try to frugally find the cute little clothes that I like to see them wear. Now, with that said, in our school district it is not just about cute clothes, it's a lot about brand names even by 4th grade. That is an unfortuante truth. I mean, if Sally has the Justice shorts then, by golly, fit or not, we all better have Justice shorts.

This weekend I realized that with 2 girls I am just never going to be able to keep up with this situation and I better think of a plan fast. I realized that for every " Yes, let's get that" that I say, there are 15 " No we don't need those". It's so frustrating. I will leave a store with a bag full of sale items that the girls love and that "fit the bill" , but somehow it seems like my girls are still leaving the store disappointed about what we left behind? The things that we just don't need. Is ANYONE getting me here? ANYONE with older kids????

SO, Chad being the financial planner he is, has decided that the girls are going on a budget. He sat the girls down and told them he's giving them each $40 a month to spend on whatever they like, but first they must give 10% and save $8. They are welcome to spend the remainder on extra school clothes, a swimsuit, a movie outing with a friend, junk food, flip flops, makeup, earrings, cds, dvds, pjs, you name it...All the Mommy NOs everytime we go out. His expectation is that they buy their own stuff... Of course, this doesn't mean I won't buy their necessities. Don't start calling CPS or anything. It's just hopefully going to teach the girls how fast money runs out and how to understand the value of the almighty dollar. The real question will be.. will I be able to do it without a guilty conscience? I'll let you know how it goes!

Western Night at Bunko!

2008-06-29T17:56:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a picture of my Bunko group... minus 2 of my favorite friends who couldn't make it! We missed you Dona and Angela!

Deep Thoughts by Caroline Castle

2008-06-27T06:01:00.000-07:00

You may remember the segment on Saturday Night Live called "Deep Thoughts by... whoever.. it was". Well, I have one of those kids that just asks me questions constantly. The funny thing is, with this child in particular they are either very high level questions...things neither I nor anyone else normal cares about, or just plain ole "blonde" moments. So sorry to all of my gorgeous blonde friends. I know you are all brilliant.

Well, I thought I'd list some of the recent questions I've had to field from my 8 year old. Some of those... what does it matter and who really cares questions.. Although, I NEVER say that to this precious little smart girl! To tell you the truth, my answer is almost always, "Let's ask Daddy when he gets home"
All of these are Caroline speaking.....

1- If the sprinkler is on full blast and is running for 2 hours, how many gallons of water do you think that would be?

2- Do you know the song the National Anthem? When it says " what so proudly we held" what exactly are they talking about? What war? Who wrote it? What song did they sing at events BEFORE this song was written? Who gets to pick the song?

3- Who makes gasoline and why does it come out of the ground? Who gets to pick how much is costs?

4- If I am at gymnastics from 8:20 - 12:00 does that mean I'm there for over 13,000 seconds?

5- About Christmas, why did Jesus have to be born at the END of the year? Why do they call it Christmas anyway. I mean, what's the "mas" for.

6- If there were astronauts in outer space and the world ended, what would happen to them? Where would they go?

7- Why does the bible verse say " to the ends of the earth?" I thought since the world was round it doesnt ever end.

8- Who thinks up words and puts them in a dictionary?

9- If this book has 237 pages, how many pages do I have to read every day to get this book read in 1 week and 2 days. OH... how many minutes each day will that take?

10- What makes up the earth?

11- Why does the lady in the bank window get all of our money?

12- Who started the Alamo and what good did that battle do? ( This one is a little more difficult for me since I took Louisiana History and don't always know exact details about Texas)

These questions just make me laugh. I would say she asked me all of these in the last 2 weeks. I'm so missing Mrs. Metz, Caroline's 2nd grade teacher. She encourages questions and I'm sure would have a fantastic reasonable answer to all of them. OH it exhausts me. I much prefer the " Mommy, can we go to Keva Juice" questions....

God bless this STRESS!

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

Ever feel like there's just not enough of you! Boy, have I been feeling that way lately! It's like suddenly school let out, four kids are home and someone opened the flood gate and BOOM everything at once! It's not always a BAD busy, but just plain BUSY..

Praise the Lord the Real Estate market really picked up in the last month. I was just wading through work this spring, when the boys WERE in Mother's Day Out, then the minute school let out there was a HUGE tidal wave of business! I'm so thankful for the rush and the beautiful houses I'm listing as well as selling! It's just crazy. BUT, I didn't plan on a lot of childcare for this summer, so it's been really interesting, but doable, juggling the kids.

These girls I have are wearing me out too. I always thought the boys were the real task. OH NO. They don't require NEAR the time the girls do. With Caroline doing 14 hours a week of gymnastics, and then coming home an absolute crab because she's plum wore out, it's just taxing. Then, she wants to have friends over, which I try to encourage because there IS more to life than gymnastics! She's is quite persistant and doesn't take no for an answer very easily.

Then there's Kate. She recently made Dance Company at Jenni Holley. (Congratulations, Kate) So she is busy going to dance classes and camps. She too is always asking for things. Like enough is not enough. Can I have a friend over? .. Okay now, can we go swimming, .. okay now can we go to the mall? . Alright now we want to rent a movie. I mean the asking NEVER ends. The whole time I'm meeting all these girl needs, the boys are just riding along in the car hoping for a little smidgen of attention. It's TRUE!

It seems like this summer every day has been packed. I kinda miss the days of "filling time"... "keeping the kids occupied".. between showing houses, inspections, phone calls, gymnastics, karate, dance and swim lessons, there is NO time filling here.

One thing that I have found that has helped me not turn into a maniac and continue to gray so quickly is exercise. I have found myself stress eating, so exercise is very beneficial. The other day, I was in the middle of a tense situation and looked down to find myself just eating Pirate birthday cake by the forkfulls. Well, if you don't know me very well, I'm quite health concious, very aware of my weight and don't often eat cake. This is another very stressing thing for me.. is being so aware of my size and what I eat. I was not blessed with a flying metabolism like my daughters and my friend, Heather, so I have to work at it. Thankfully, I caught myself eating that delicious chocolate Pirate cake with buttercream icing, and just moved right away. Yum! If I would have kept that up, then I'd be on the scales stressing like this gal.

This week Chad is out of town and Kate is at camp. While having one less kid is helpful, it is my older kid who is capable of helping out at the house when asked. So, It's just me and the little guys.

Thank God for sweet little Rachel, my babysitter, who's coming tomorrow to give me a small break. AND, I'm soo excited about this weekend. I am going with some girlfriends to a spa in Austin and just having some good rest and relaxation and, of course, shopping. This was Chad's Birthday present to me. I'm SO excited. I haven't had a girls' weekend since COLLEGE. NO LIE.. I'll post pictures of that later! So, I will continue to run like the wind, but thank God that I still can!

Life's Little... or BIG..surprises

2008-06-20T13:20:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CLAYTON!
This week we've been celebrating Clayton turning THREE! I still can't believe 3 years and nine months ago I was sitting in utter shock trying to figure out what in the world I was going to do with FOUR kids! I remember telling Chad, "I'm sure I'm not pregnant, but I feel like I better check".. Then I remember viewing the results, calling Chad at work and walking around in absolute disbelief for about 9 months!

Well, it's true, God does have a much better plan than we can EVER imagine.

I just think about his rocky pregnancy,long labor day, the scary moment they thought he had a major heart problem, his stay in the NICU, all the visits with Cook's Children's Cardiologist, the expense of it, and then, Praise the Lord.. the day he was released from their care. It was ALL worth it. All the middle of the night feedings, the constant crying in the car... boy! he CRIED in the car!!, the paci throwing, all the hardships and IT WAS ALL WORTH IT..

As his birthday has come and gone, I can't help but think of how much better life has become in the last three years. God has blessed us beyond what we could have ever imagined. We've gotten a new home, sustained two businesses, watched both of our girls accept Christ and be baptized, maintained fantastic friendships that we will always cherish, and have built a fantastic marriage and continue to truly love each other. So, the next time you come upon one of life's surprises that you're not so sure you're on board with, just remember that God's plan is not only best, but phenomenal! Thank you, God, for our little surprise 3 years ago!

Now, if I can just remember these thoughts as he's throwing temper tantrums in the store, running away from me and laughing, saying NO, hitting siblings, running around the slippery swimming pool and tee teeing in the front lawn!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CLAYTON!

Need Ideas!

2008-06-19T14:04:00.000-07:00

So, to anyone kind enough to read my blog, thank you! I am sure I read yours as well. I read many more than I actually comment on. Shame on ME! ANYWAY, I need some ideas.. Please shoot them at me.

Chad and I have been given the opportunity to get away from our sweet children for a weekend. The lovely woman pictured above, Chad's stepmom, has kindly offered to keep ALL FOUR! Now, we need something fun to do. I was hoping something a little romantic, not too hot (Texas heat, I mean), just good ole relaxing. We've done Priceline before and have gotten some super deals. I'm certainly open to doing that again, but thought I'd ask if anyone has a special place that would be extra fun.

Chad's parents live in Dallas, so I'm sure we'll have to meet them that way with the kids. I won't be able to talk Chad into going too far because of gas prices and our rather large diesel SUV, but I'm sure he'll drive a little way if something were in it for him !!

So, please shoot your ideas this way. I'd really appreciate it!

Couples Who Pray

2008-06-08T18:31:00.000-07:00

Our church has just presented a 40 day challenge for couples to pray together at least 5 minutes per day.

Well, to tell you the truth, up until this time, Chad and I have not been the most consistent prayer partners. I guess we both have just assumed that we were praying for each other, just not together. Which, honestly, HAS been the case.

So, my hubby is such a fantastic spiritual leader and instigated us taking the challenge the church has laid before us. Me being the skeptic I am, felt like our marriage is fantastic, we don't struggle to get along... what will we pray for??

After our first precious prayer together, I was SOLD that I never want to go another day without being next to my sweetheart talking to my Savior.

It's just amazing to be held by my husband listening to him verbally thank God for the gift he was given. What could be better than HEARING my husband acknowledge the difficult job of mothering four kids, keeping up with a house, AND trying to work outside the home. It was just precious to hear Chad ask blessings over me.

In the same way, I prayed for him in a way I've never prayed before. I was able to present specific requests for Chad and fears I know he has, but doesn't talk about. It was fantastic.

I believe it will also help our parenting. It's interesting to hear the different prospectives we have regarding our children and who they are becoming. Each perspective brings a different request to the Lord. I believe our children will be blessed ten times over because of the commitment to pray.

In a world that is ruled by material possessions and who has what and when they got it, it's nice to be able to have something special that NO ONE will ever be able to take away and that will reward us far more than anything money can buy. Thank you, Jesus, for the gift of YOU.

I'm excited to continue the 40 day challenge and continue to watch what the Lord does in our marriage and in our everyday lives. I strongly encourage you to take the challenge!!!

10 guilty pleasures

2008-05-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

1- Sunbathing- I know I shouldn't because I have had precancerous spots removed before, but it is so relaxing.

2- Tater Tots- I LOVE Sonic tater tots. I have been on my own little weight loss "program" for some time now, and somehow tater tots always seem to make it on my menu. Not on purpose, but OH they are so good.

3- Date nights- I just crave time alone with my spouse. Of course because I enjoy being with him, but also because it is one night we can eat in peace and quiet. I LOVE it.

4- Chocolate Chips- I just love to eat chocolate chips straight out of the bag. It doesn't seem to make me feel as guilty as eating a candy bar would.

5- Hair Appts.- Getting my hair done is always something I look forward to. It is so nice to leave with no split ends and no gray hair.

6- Going to bed early just to watch tv- I am usually the last one up, but sometimes ( maybe 3 times a year) I just go into my room turn on something that takes no thought from me and just lay there alone and watch tv in peace.

7- Compass Trading Co. - If you have not been there, you MUST go. There are more beads than you will ever see in your life. It's Waco's own Sam Moon.

8- Debit Card- I used to HATE writing checks. Now, thanks to my hubby who so kindly stays on top of the bank statements, I just swipe the debit card while I'm holding a screaming child hollering for M & Ms and I'm outta there! Which brings me to....

9- Shopping- Who DOESNT love shopping? I LOVE to go look for clothes. I am very budget minded, so it doesnt happen too often, but I am glad when I find the bargain.OF course, it's not a guilty pleasure if it includes my kids coming along begging for things!

10- Eating out- I'm always glad to go out to eat. It keeps me from having to cook.

Go Girls Go!

2008-05-25T19:44:00.000-07:00

Woodway Elementary Field Day at Midway High School.

I LOVE that my girls are athletic and love to compete. They pour their heart and soul into field day.

Kate was the fastest girl in her class and was chosen to be the anchor leg in the four person relay for her class.

This little guy seems to really like Kate. For now, I am sure they are just sweet friends.

Caroline insisted on wearing her "fast" shoes and her "fast" shorts.

Mrs. Metz 2nd Grade class won 2nd place. Should have had first, but one team had fewer students and kept letting their fast kids run twice.

Even Clayton enjoyed field day!

Tired of these faces!

2008-05-19T18:32:00.000-07:00

Someone please tell me.. What DO kids eat? Are my kids the only ones making faces when I try to offer them something new?

Tonight I made a pork tenderloin, which, by the way, was incredibly moist and delicious, sweet potatoes, and watermelon. My kids turn their nose up at it and act like I'm asking them to eat gizzards. Or asking them to eat what I'm eating.. SALAD.

One thing I ALWAYS said I'd never do is allow my kids to be picky. I watched my niece grow up on chicken nuggets and Macaroni and swore that would never be my kid..My kid would eat what I prepared, by golly! Now because they had been at school all day, run errands this afternoon, gone to a program at school, then a tball game, and it is late and everyone is starved I forget that promise to myself, tell myself that I can't stand for them to be hungry, and allow them to make something they WILL eat. So, after all that planning and cooking my kids end up eating flour tortillas with butter and honey.

My children don't have a weight problem, and a couple of them could stand to put on a couple of pounds,so I'm lenient tonight. I realize that they're not going to be proving the childhood obesity statistics true anytime soon.

But, I can't help but remember when my kids were babies, and sweet potatoes were their favorite baby food. They'd eat the whole large jar dry. So, I ask you.. what suddenly happens that makes a child, once he or she turns 2,turn away from veggies and most meats, make awful faces, and only agree to macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets, PB & J,hot dogs, or in my case tonight... flour tortillas? Where did I go wrong?

Our Vacation Plans

2008-05-12T21:42:00.000-07:00

A couple of my fellow bloggers have been writing about their summer plans, which inspired me to discuss our upcoming vacation. I can not call this our "summer" vacation, because we are going in the fall. But, because of the sheer expense of visiting Mickey world, we've forgone any big plans for this summer to concede to our kids' dream to spend a week hoping to get a glimpse of Mickey!

We're leaving on Thanksgiving Day and staying through the next week. Yep.. it's 6 months out and I've already got our plane reservations (we were worried about airfare rising), our accomodations booked (family suites on Disney property fill very quickly) and I'm trying to work through making meal reservations!

If you've ever done the Disney thing, then you know the effort you have to go through to make sure you get the "full" Disney experience. Should you go to Hoopty Doo, Chef Mickey's , Breakfast with Cinderella, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party??? How much is too much to do with four kids ages 10 -2 in a single day? Or, is it possible to do too much at Disney??

I've already read the "Unofficial Guide to Disney" and am aware of www.allears.net . These sights have been helpful and almost are information overload.

I'm opening this post to anyone who has any kind of advice for what to do or not to do at Disney. I'd love to accept any tips and welcome the opportunity to learn from those of you who have already undergone this ridiculously expensive endeavor!

View the Waco, Hewitt, Woodway MLS

2008-05-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

Viewing homes for sale in our area is fun! The internet has made it easier than EVER. You just never know when you might see your "perfect home", take the plunge, and move.

Some of you may not know that you can view the MLS listings for all of Waco and surrounding areas just by visiting my Keller Williams Website. http://www.thecastleseller.com . Simply click on Property Search, click on Waco MLS, and enter your critieria. On my website, you will NOT be required to enter your personal information or anything like that. Just have fun and search the area.

The pictures above are of a fantastic home I currently have listed in Hewitt, Tx. It is a new home having been built in 2005. It is a 4 bedroom 2 bath home in the new Chapman Farms addition. For those of you who do not know, Chapman Farms is in a prime, growing location in Hewitt. With the new Hillcrest Hospital opening up, it is the perfect place to be.

This home has gorgeous stained concrete floors. This technique with flooring has become very popular and makes for a very attractive home. The kitchen is also fantastic. It has all of the newest features and the newest designs.

The floorplan offers an isolated master bedroom with a large master bath that offers a whirlpool tub, as well as a separate shower. It's just perfect for the growing family. With Midway ISD as the school district and more specifically Spring Valley Elementary as the grade school, it boasts an excellent educational experience for kids.

This house is very fairly priced at 169,900. This makes it the best bargain currently for sale in that neighborhood. If you'd like to see more information about it, visit my website. http://www.thecastleseller.com .

I'm Blogging... It's About TIME!

2008-04-29T20:10:00.000-07:00

That's what it's all about, isn't it.. TIME??? Have you ever thought about how everything we do in life centers around time. I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not, but just like it says in Ecclesiates 3... "There's a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." I'm so thankful for God's perfect timing in my life. Well, now is my time to start a BLOG!!

Timing is everything, I've learned. It's interesting how my just being in the HEB down by Baylor at the right time about 15 years ago led me to meet my most treasured lifelong friend... and husband. CHAD! Thank you, Chad, for needing those groceries just at the same time I needed mine. So glad we met.

And, well, we know it takes perfect timing to become pregnant. Some planned, some not, but somehow, through God's perfect timing we got four.

Now, in our house, "TIME" is a dreaded word. "It's TIME to go" is the "all call" for we're getting in the Excursion again and going somewhere else! It's probably the word I use more than any other word. TIME to get up, TIME to go pick up sisters, TIME for School, TIME for breakfast, TIME for dinner, TIME for gymnastics, TIME for Soccer ( for 3 different teams at 3 different times). You get my point... Sometimes I wish life didn't revolve so much around TIME...

Anyway, now's my time to blog. Let's just see how TIME serves me here!