tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57611651852272093432024-03-12T20:28:11.628-05:00*Life As I Know It*Just me, Blogging away about my wonderfully, beautiful life!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-61472658737059210222014-06-06T15:52:00.000-05:002014-06-06T15:52:13.777-05:00Oh, Life!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Aj7fL_TzYJ4o9pk8irvJHD_GxUtvtmIfF6wKrO3_gUrQ1AOznxYd0OXbFDOEV0JlkgfLHyNmf6Pj8mGlbEnJF5-6qtflg85uzC9iU8Ce8aJrq72UNVB7rDxslzc9aZzezivrHXGeVq4-/s1600/keep-calm-because-this-too-shall-pass.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Aj7fL_TzYJ4o9pk8irvJHD_GxUtvtmIfF6wKrO3_gUrQ1AOznxYd0OXbFDOEV0JlkgfLHyNmf6Pj8mGlbEnJF5-6qtflg85uzC9iU8Ce8aJrq72UNVB7rDxslzc9aZzezivrHXGeVq4-/s320/keep-calm-because-this-too-shall-pass.png" /></a></div>
How does this magical, wonderful, amazing, LIFE just pass us by so quickly? I tend to always say I want to do this or that and document this or that, and just never do! Blogging is such a release type thing for me. If I write about a fear or problem or even a joyful occasion it allows my brain to process it and then I can move on. Weird, I know!
So very much is going on in my life right now. I want to slow down and enjoy the day to day joys of being a mom and a wife but I feeel like I just cant. Sometimes the devil will test us to see what we will do in a situation.. to see of we will sin and give in to temptation. He will also throw in the bad so that we will overlook the countless good that is also going on. I deal with this daily. I have so much to be thankful for but for some reason I cant dwell on that great stuff, I just tend to dwell on the bad when it does happen and let if affect so much.
Today is a good example of that. I cant even begin to go into the issues I have delt with today, but instead of sitting here and being so happy that I have 4 wonderful kids here with me today and that God has shown me so much good this week during VBS, I am sitting here in my room pouting about the problems I have had to deal with today. Not to say that these problems aren't major life issues because they are, but they arent the end of the world and this too shall pass!
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-25636133176247068192013-02-07T10:23:00.003-06:002013-02-07T10:23:32.086-06:00Where have I been?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikpjhkChzTjfa_ibpHmXaxMozzJPG32DMCNg1IV41f8oW_ZXtmxWAfJ9iiE4ybY6ZfzOz32NQq_JUheRp7JEvx6hAaoiU-1EfWZgNjW8V2eXNRWUPKC2hWmqKJzqYZ3oeg1F_8drtCZ-GB/s1600/wellHelloThere.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="196" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikpjhkChzTjfa_ibpHmXaxMozzJPG32DMCNg1IV41f8oW_ZXtmxWAfJ9iiE4ybY6ZfzOz32NQq_JUheRp7JEvx6hAaoiU-1EfWZgNjW8V2eXNRWUPKC2hWmqKJzqYZ3oeg1F_8drtCZ-GB/s320/wellHelloThere.jpg" /></a></div>
Wow, I didn't realize how long it had been since I made a blog post! Sorry! Where to begin...
To sum up the past year:
My kids have grown up so much!
We are expecting another little boy, Holden Wayne Hanks in April 2013! :)
Wayne has started a new job! And, a 2nd job too!
I have recently become a stay-at-home Mom! (We have too many kiddos)
I have started couponing again!
I have grown as a Christian so very much!
We had to buy a bigger vehicle to lug our ever growing family around.
I love my husband more and more each day.. which I didn't think was possible! :)
Spent more time with my family!
Gained some wonderful friendships!
And.. I could go on and on!
Basically, I really enjoy putting my life and thoughts into blog post and am going to make it a priority to do it more often.
<3 Alana
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-47567098507081732552012-04-28T08:54:00.000-05:002012-04-28T08:54:38.168-05:00Feeling CheatedFor some reason, this continues to weigh heavy on my heart and I just cant let it go. What entitles someone to deserve something better than someone else? Why is it other do the same exact thing as you, yet they get so much more? Expecially when you really need it. I am sure at this point you are wondering what the heck she is talking about, but I am referring to my baby shower. And yes, I know to some people this may sound stupid to be upset about but I am. This feeling all started when we found out we were expecting Edison. It was like pulling teeth to see people excitement for us. We wanted to tell everyone and most peoples reactions were, "Don't you know what causes that?" Or, "Another baby?" WHAT????? We are married and I haven't had a child in over 7 years! WOW!
So, as expected, when it came time for my baby shower I made list and my sister mailed out invitations. We got a few RSVP's but not many. I thought to myself that maybe people just don't really RSVP anymore. The morning of the shower, the text and calls started. I cant come, I cant make it, something has come up, I have to go to work... one after the other. My spirits were crushed.. not because I wanted free gifts, but going to someones shower, regardless of what for, means a lot and is a few caring way to show that you love that person and are interested in the things going on in their lives. So when the shower started, 4 people had decided to attend. And those 4 I was so very thankful for, but inside I was hurt, upset, mad, and most of all depressed. I thought, maybe no one really does care about us and us having a baby. About halfway through the shower, I couldn't hold it in anymore. I excused myself and went to my moms room and called Wayne. I cried and cried and told him to come get me. Him being the rock he is to me calmed me down and assured me I should stay. I put myself back together and we back to my party. I had cake and talked but just really wanted to leave.
On one of my thousands of bathroom trips, I wiped and there was blood. I was bleeding. I was really freaking out. I called my sister in the restroom and she suggested I call L&D at my hospital to see if I should come in. I did.. I was 100% effaced and having random contractions. I was told to go home and rest, and most of all not stress out. YEAH RIGHT! I have never really told anyone my feelings except my husband because I didn't know how to say this. Yes, It really upset me that out of all of my friends and family that only 4 of them thought that coming to support my growing family was a priority.
And, I guess the straw that broke the camels back.. So to speak, was when Edison was born. Do you know that the only people to come and see us when he was born was my mom, dad, sister, mother-in-law, and father-in-law???? No one else. Not a friend, not a co-worker, not a church family member, NO ONE ELSE! And shortly after he was born my mom and other family went to the lake with Eden and I was left without my Mom... the one person who I knew could help me after having a baby. She knew me and understood what I was going through just having a baby.. and she was gone for a week.
Again, I still feel hurt by this and wonder why? And wonder why do other deserve more? I am not jealous.. just hurt by the fact that to some people, having a baby is wonderful and worth supporting, but to most.. its just a hassle and a burden. They feel, ugh more gifts and things like that. I find this really sad and I have made it a point to not be this way in my own personal life. When someone is getting married, or having a baby, or moving into a new home. I strive to go out of my way to make that a big deal and to shower them with love and gifts if at all possible. They deserve that and I feel I did too.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-26804711961201284372012-04-11T20:52:00.000-05:002012-04-11T20:52:57.560-05:00Life Changing Decisions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJJ-Nc0S6dEiGm5B-OeJgV9fPrlvTg-aTu3wCxEG9K3qC5In4KyI6Ouxsv1iKeRSux-RiGNjMRgxtTcnVmImhJhZPz28zcHLDucvzgv5M3yl9MZ88bAIdBDqG8tqTgcsdGLpt0lIqQOVG/s1600/decisions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="247" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJJ-Nc0S6dEiGm5B-OeJgV9fPrlvTg-aTu3wCxEG9K3qC5In4KyI6Ouxsv1iKeRSux-RiGNjMRgxtTcnVmImhJhZPz28zcHLDucvzgv5M3yl9MZ88bAIdBDqG8tqTgcsdGLpt0lIqQOVG/s320/decisions.jpg" /></a></div>
How can one conversations, one phone call, and one decision change so much? Well, it will and already has! :)
Wayne and I still sometimes feel like we are kids living in this big old world. We more so feel this way when we have to make decisions that effect not only our lives, but others around us. It is kind-of a surreal feeling but such a fulfilling one at the same time. Example, when we decided to build our house. It was very very scary to think that someone would lend a couple of crazy in-love 20 somethings that much money. And then the thought that we would owe that much money to someone still sends chills down my spine, but, we need a roof over our heads right? :)
I am not really sure if feeling this way will ever go away. When will I feel like the grown up I have been for several years? I love my life and have never felt regret for any decision that I have made. Even though some decisions do not fully make since or the complete path of that decision isn't clear yet, it is still extremely rewarding to me to come to a decision.
Alright, now that I have said decision 2000 times in this blog post..
The End :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-48172858181498232492012-03-04T09:17:00.000-06:002012-03-04T09:17:17.233-06:00What a difference a year can make....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WAjc7W-ScCbdaO5Mlqh8Li_4CEIMM_66TAOdAmkASNnRMuEHPtIz_Si3EWf4o0Kh_4Q2RQimh32AG1Bp5a3Zilm9KQ6jN0NV8I4z3MBPmuPFuPKC6Lwt-3lhNadTwuUNRgNilP15MNXL/s1600/One+year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WAjc7W-ScCbdaO5Mlqh8Li_4CEIMM_66TAOdAmkASNnRMuEHPtIz_Si3EWf4o0Kh_4Q2RQimh32AG1Bp5a3Zilm9KQ6jN0NV8I4z3MBPmuPFuPKC6Lwt-3lhNadTwuUNRgNilP15MNXL/s320/One+year.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This time last year I was anxiously waiting the arrival of our 2nd child and impatiently waiting to see his sweet face and to touch his tiny hand. I knew that he would eventually come, but in his own time and way. I tried to keep myself busy, to make the time pass. I really didn't have very much going on last March. I has stopped cleaning houses because my huge belly just got in the way and I was honestly too tired to do much at home either. So, I would sit in is room and dream or wash his clothes over and over. I loved the smell! Or, I would go walk around Wal-mart (alone, what a crazy thought now) and get little things we really didn't need, but I was over preparing myself for the unknown. I just felt like I needed to walk. I know that probably didn't do anything, but thats what all of the older, wiser ladies would tell me! I remember that I would check my hospital bag and Edisons diaper bag over and over. And repack it over and over. I was so worried that I would forget something. At that point, it was difficult to find things to wear. My belly has its own zip code and that meant my shirts were wayyyyyy to small. I often would wear Waynes shirts. I look back at that now and laugh because they are so big on me now. :) To be honest, I really didn't know what to think or how our lives were about to change, but I was so ready! <br />
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One year later our lives have gotten a little crazier, a little busier, but A LOT more fun! Edison is now almost a year old and the joy and love this child has brought me isn't fathomable. I often reminisce on how our lives were before Edison and think of the little things that were different but, I honestly can't vividly imagine our lives before. I know I got a lot more sleep, but hey.. who needs 8 hours when you can be awake seeing our two sweet faced children. I know I had a lot more free time but teaching Edison his ABC's and counting and colors are just adorable! I never ever knew that a year could go by so fast, but it has and I am a little sad about that. Don't get me wrong, I am happy some of the baby things are over with, but at the same time, I will miss them more than I know now. <br />
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So one year ago I was filled with hope, wonder, and baby and today that has been replaced with unconditional love, joy, and just a little more baby fat to loose! :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-60337351494959614032012-02-04T09:26:00.001-06:002012-02-04T09:30:58.475-06:00Oh how I love mornings like this....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYxByCKynFD1XAMnTPakxFpt-NbDNbEYjR99KwsLboVbus4_Sx2eksIB8pCb0LEf2Zx-qrDJGk1FYmgpmrpgSWv-Ut1e2nTIz1-OWn7vOIJ7RdUNDIKKOMz0HhrkguMfPb1HgtG2eG-Jr4/s1600/valentines-day-printable-019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="214" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYxByCKynFD1XAMnTPakxFpt-NbDNbEYjR99KwsLboVbus4_Sx2eksIB8pCb0LEf2Zx-qrDJGk1FYmgpmrpgSWv-Ut1e2nTIz1-OWn7vOIJ7RdUNDIKKOMz0HhrkguMfPb1HgtG2eG-Jr4/s320/valentines-day-printable-019.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I have so much to do today, this Saturday morning, but I got up before everyone else and started laundry. Shortly after the kids and hubby got up and we hurriedly got Eden and Wayne ready for their upward basketball game. On a side note, Edison and I no longer go to those games because my son is a LOUD butt! :) But as I rushed them off I fixed Edison his morning bowl of whole wheat baby cereal with organic applesauce, his favorite. My mom usually feeds him this because we have to drop him off so early, so me being able to do this is such a treat. After he gobbles it down, he is always still in eating mode so I give him a "snack". Today he got organic apple juice with water and yogurt bites. I turned on NickJr for him to peak at and sat down for a second before starting another load of laundry. As I look over at Edison in his high chair carefully choosing his next bite and then sipping on his juice, I thought to myself, "Wow, he is a big boy. My son is growing up!" I remember just mere months ago how he would wake up and I would rock him as he drank his morning bottle with rice cereal. And now, I feed him his breakfast and he feeds himself part of it. I all of a sudden felt this overwhelming feeling of love for him and how I am so proud of him but, why? I cant quite figure out why so much pride is being felt right now but realize.. this is what being a parent is. This feeling right here. I love this. and I love being a parent more than God could have ever prepared me for. As you hear in many different ways, it truly does feel like your heart is living outside of your chest. And it just keeps beating and beating.. and growing and growing. <br />
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Ohh, I have to go... my heart is crying :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-13241810535688593262012-01-14T16:31:00.001-06:002012-01-14T16:32:27.948-06:00Resolutions-2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8IZudU6FtPJj7f6jHsrbvPnZkiWX1A7YdyxzomLgbuLgO1sF7jCUOL3iFr4umMfp-vfBSdUWchhJ6w32I1NyvZ7uMaTJtA5vq5DyPavpl7PdcWXOMlVyUDIYW2DcuaSkXHPXI5LvnmLjE/s1600/smart-goals1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8IZudU6FtPJj7f6jHsrbvPnZkiWX1A7YdyxzomLgbuLgO1sF7jCUOL3iFr4umMfp-vfBSdUWchhJ6w32I1NyvZ7uMaTJtA5vq5DyPavpl7PdcWXOMlVyUDIYW2DcuaSkXHPXI5LvnmLjE/s320/smart-goals1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I have set several new years resolutions/goals for myself and feel documenting that will make me more motivated to stick with it! So.. In no particular order, here they are:<br />
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1. Get in shape - I have a little weight to loose but most of all I need to loose the flab and get some muscles in its place. I have a lot of toning to do from the baby still. So far, I haven't done so well, but I hope to get started soon. <br />
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2. Eat healthier/organic - I feel the things you eat directly affect your energy, health, and so many other things we can't comprehend. So, it is really important for me to eat less processed foods and more things that are fresh and organic. I also plan to start our spring garden when it gets warmer because there is nothing better than a home grown, vine ripe tomato from your own garden! :)<br />
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3. Become more organized - Having this organized and all in its place is an ongoing goal for me. I feel that it not only saves you time, but allows you to do more productive things with your time. I feel I am half way there with this. I just need to get more storage options and have the time to start space by space.<br />
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4. Document our life more - This is a hard one for me. But, I now have all of the resources to do so and am working hard at it. When Eden was little I didn't have a video camera and that really makes me deeply upset that I do not have ANY footage of her when she was born till about 2 years ago. But, all I can do it learn from that and make it such a priority to have our lives documented by video and pictures and blogging so that we and generations to come and go back and see how wonderful our sweet little life was!<br />
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5. Last but not least.. More time to myself - This is a hard one but a must! I realized earlier that I haven't really gotten to sit down to a meal and ENJOY what I eat rather than scarf it down before Edison starts crying or getting into something in about 6 months. I used to keep my nails and toenails manicured and painted but now I am lucky to if they are cut. Also, sadly... I really need to get more up-to-date on fashion because most of my clothes are WAY out of style and sadly again, do not fit. SO, I need to clean our my closet and slowly replace those items with new, more mom-like trendy things. That makes me excited. :) <br />
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I know these things are all easily done but with Wayne and I working so much its hard to get anything done when we are off because we just want to spend time with the kids. Or its so much easier to just do the convenient thing than take the time and cook or put things in their proper place. I am excited about 2012 and excited of the things God has in store for my family and I and the things he has to show and teach me.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-88165105541511764952012-01-13T17:43:00.001-06:002012-01-13T17:45:16.276-06:00Awesome Give-a-way!If you know me, you know I love jewelry! Well.. a friend of mine is doing a give-a-way for a beautiful bracelet and if you click the title above it will take you to the video of how to enter and WIN! :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-91779241070275792212012-01-08T19:57:00.000-06:002012-01-08T19:57:11.412-06:00Edison's 1st Birthday Party Planning: CakeI have started doing lots and lots of thinking and planning for Edison's 1st birthday party! I have picked a theme: Elephant Fun. I have decided on the patterns for the party supplies: (Picture)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJCiCrXMYehWFu6w9BA04O4rcbfi19WMdnP7Lf68O02iGaTa_RYaXMMFbyKTi3r5jgJ99E7V3hvlRi2GWHpR8jJD7dNKx3uFcpB5X2fgscA2Msn0vRDu0qwrjlFLepxs2c2K422gUVVrP5/s1600/Boy-Elephant-Tableware.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="174" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJCiCrXMYehWFu6w9BA04O4rcbfi19WMdnP7Lf68O02iGaTa_RYaXMMFbyKTi3r5jgJ99E7V3hvlRi2GWHpR8jJD7dNKx3uFcpB5X2fgscA2Msn0vRDu0qwrjlFLepxs2c2K422gUVVrP5/s320/Boy-Elephant-Tableware.jpg" /></a></div>I have picked a date: March 10,2012 @ 2:00 p.m.<br />
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But as I started to try to plan his cake and a lot of red flags were thrown up for me. I haven't given Edison sugar really, at all yet. He mostly eats really healthy fruits and veggies but I sometimes sneak him a bite of something I am eating. So.. why would I all of a sudden jam him full of sugar on his first birthday with all the cake he can eat??? No! I started researching healthy/natural options for his birthday cake and found some really great options! Here are a few links below:<br />
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http://wholesomebabyfood.momtastic.com/tipFirstBDay.htm<br />
http://mamanatural.com/healthy-cupcakes-that-kids-love/<br />
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We plan on trying to do this just for Edison's cake and have regular cake for us! :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-61807608494295253142011-12-17T11:38:00.000-06:002011-12-17T11:38:06.627-06:00Christmas Memories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58Ws0xR7Pm8AI0HwikrbafbCb58TSAKa2vjgoiw9OHVG4saFa9KtvbsyinIEmy4RmeLPn0g1CVy_7_LTEOCcMSeDUr5Xu4PIEfgn3rNV3BSGuVCvChPU7EA12E585ENBJrJqzVi68k8cx/s1600/old_fashioned_tractor_christmas_memories_card-p137359614294045233z7suj_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58Ws0xR7Pm8AI0HwikrbafbCb58TSAKa2vjgoiw9OHVG4saFa9KtvbsyinIEmy4RmeLPn0g1CVy_7_LTEOCcMSeDUr5Xu4PIEfgn3rNV3BSGuVCvChPU7EA12E585ENBJrJqzVi68k8cx/s320/old_fashioned_tractor_christmas_memories_card-p137359614294045233z7suj_400.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Now that I have my own kids I often find myself reflecting on my past 28 Christmas'! I do have to say, I have wonderful past Christmas memories. My mom and family has always done the little things that we often overlook or take for granted to make our Christmas special. We always have wonderful treats that my mom and late mamaw would make.. such as ritz crackers with peanut butter middles and covered in chocolate.. or fudge.. or divinity.. or white chocolate covered pretzels. We are a weird family(I LOVE YALL) but we don't like to have turkey and dressing again for Christmas after just having it for Thanksgiving. So... we always do a theme or just have random homemade things. This year we are having GUMBO! Ohh yes baby! I think about all of the wonderful little yummies that people would bring that have passed away and could kick myself for not asking them how they made it. Such as my mamaws pea salad or my Aunt Deb's bacon wrapped jalapenos. I can always try to re-create them, but its never the same. <br />
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Some of my favorite Christmas memories are those involving my parents trickery! I remember one year getting a basketball goal(yes, I used to be slightly athletic, lol). My parents had it set up outside and when we went out, it was there waiting for me! How did they hide that? Or when we were littler, we would always go across the big field(which now as an adult living on the same property, I now see that what I once saw as a "big" field, not being so far and Big) to my Mamaws for Christmas Eve to eat and open gifts. And, while we were over there once SANTA CAME EARLY! My cousin had gone outside and saw reindeer poop(which was just regular dog poppy, lol) and we just knew that he had already came to our house. SO, we ran back across the big field, and sure enough.. he had came! HOW DID I NOT NOTICE MY PARENTS LEAVE AND GO DO THAT? They were good! Or one year(this will show my age), I wanted a pager.. yes.. a pager for Christmas. I never thought I would actually get one. So on Christmas Eve we were all opening gifts and all of a sudden our tree started beeping. And it beeped, and beeped, and no one could figure out what it was. Until I realized DUH Alana, go see. So I peeked into the center of the tree and saw my brand new little green pager! I couldn't believe that my parents had gotten me the newest piece of technology, that was so not like them. I loved it, but how the heck did they put that into the tree without me seeing? And going back and watching that Christmas video, I saw my dad in the kitchen using the house phone to call the pager to page it. How cute and sweet! <br />
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I guess the moral of my blogging today is that even though as a parent it sometimes seems pointless to do the little things and often we just tend to overlook them and focus on the bigger picture! But... at Christmas time I am going to make an ongoing effort to focus more on the little things and try my best to instill those small memories in my children so that one day... Maybe Eden and Edison will reflect and remember those and make them appreciate Christmas and all its glory!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-63069690033331688772011-11-11T16:48:00.000-06:002011-11-11T16:48:07.413-06:00Holiday Crafts: Week 1<div style='padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px'><a href='http://pinterest.com/pin/218459632/' target='_blank'><img src='http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/261912534548781278_IeRHRr8X_c.jpg' border='0' width='554' height ='741'/></a></div><div style='float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;'><p style='font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;'>Source: <a style='text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;' href='http://www.thehighheeledhostess.com/'>thehighheeledhostess.com</a> via <a style='text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;' href='http://pinterest.com/rachelbailey4/' target='_blank'>Rachel</a> on <a style='text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;' href='http://pinterest.com' target='_blank'>Pinterest</a></p></div><br />
My Mom and I will be attempting to make these Turkey Shirts for Eden and Edison. I love love love this idea and can't wait to have them done. We will be doing ours a little different though... We are using buttons for the eyes and a fabric piece for the beak. Also, for the legs we are going to use rick-rack and for the red thing under a turkeys beak, we will use a red ribbon looped! :) Edison's will be boy colors and Edens will be girl colors mixed in with fall colors too. I think we have most of the materials already and will be using a lot of remnants and ribbons we have left over from other projects. I will post a how-to blog and vlog about this as soon as we are finished! I am so excited to get started!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-56050212721688436612011-10-27T20:58:00.000-05:002011-10-27T20:58:06.100-05:00The power of a SongI think the first time I realized the true power of a song to provoke emotion was when I was about 4 months pregnant with Edison and I was driving home from the grocery store. I was listening to the radio, as usual, and a song came on about death of a young girl.. I can't remember the name.. but I had heard it several times with out really listening. I started to listen to the words and then think about my own child and just putting myself into that song... the tears started flowing. Not just crying, full blown boo hooo'ing while driving down the road.. Mascara was everywhere. I, to this day, will not listen to that song. If it comes on, I always change it. Another example of this was about 4 months ago Eden and I were driving home from somewhere rather late at night and a Rascal Flatts song came on "I wont let go" and I was singing away.. I LOVE that song and I hear Eden in the back start crying. I turned the song down and asked her what was wrong and she told me that that song made her feel sad. I asked why and she said because of the words and it made me think about you Mommy.. OHH MY.. I started crying. That touched me that she felt what I felt when I heard that song and she understood her feelings. It was really touching to me. Well, today I was driving to work, fresh face of make-up... very halloween themed I might add due to my pumpkin shirt I was wearing... and a Carrie Underwood song, "Temporary Home" came on. I had again, heard that song tons of times and just sang my heart out with not physically evoking emotion... until today. I started singing and started to think of the words of the song and how it was so very true. This is our temporary home and if I can make it through this life thinking that way and knowing what I can do to serve my God, that everything will be ok. And here they came... TEAR CITY! I often cry when singing songs about my God... frankly.. I often cry a lot for lots of reasons but hey.. thats me! :) But after crying for a good two minutes singing this song.. i just couldn't stop singing of listening.. I realized the person next to me at the MLK red light was staring at me. HA, oh well.. what could I do? I drove on and looking into my mirror... A HOT MESS! And I again start to think really let those words go to my heart and I felt myself getting emotional again and had to stop. I just realized that you really know that you have a wonderful song when it can do that to you. When it can make you put yourself into the song and think of you in those words. Or is can make you cry or smile or laugh at its words. Music is powerful, even to my 8 year old! :)<br />
BTW, I repaired my makeup and no one even knew I cried at work.. whew! :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-80396171836167484312011-10-25T21:09:00.000-05:002011-10-25T21:09:52.432-05:00So behind...I, which I am aware that this is not normal, worry everyday about getting up to date with our pictures. I take a lot of pictures(when my camera isn't lost) and try to make sure that I have pictures for each month of Edison and Eden's lives. Also, I like to have family pictures taken yearly and frame that and hang in our home. We had those pictures taken in April, and I still do not have that done. THAT DRIVES ME CRAZY! Also, I decided with Edison I would make photo books for him on Shutterfly! I think I will do a pregnancy one and a Edison's birth to 6 month one. Now, the hard part of this all is finding the time. I need to transfer pictures from our old computer onto the new computer and that task alone seems super daunting. I also want to take some fall/winter pictures this year and use one of those for our Christmas card. I always do those super easily by just picking a picture and going onto Walgreens.com and picking a photo card and having walgreens print them and go pick them up. SUPER EASY. I just need to get those pictures taken... AHH! Again, I have no time. I don't want to get really behind on this and I feel pictures are so important. I think I am blogging about this to remind myself frequently to do it. Alana... GET YOUR BOOTY IN GEAR... :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-87993341661231028852011-10-15T12:16:00.000-05:002011-10-15T12:16:14.133-05:00The Power of Breakfast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UIlgyNXvrNZc4UP6k81UV8P40UKg4k5XbasyHxO_X_bZC-d_yrD0pfQl6wEVknFbvkdc0MrlPCyiyiJtfl6FVFzIH7da1xdIQBOFTANYVkARt15argwkVVGbDcxuMBnkQ_2-pYrlah2k/s1600/bowl%252Cbreakfast%252Ccereal%252Cfunny%252Csmile%252Ccomida%252Cfotografia-43d1aae6599fb18d60f6ab8185c66f40_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="184" width="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UIlgyNXvrNZc4UP6k81UV8P40UKg4k5XbasyHxO_X_bZC-d_yrD0pfQl6wEVknFbvkdc0MrlPCyiyiJtfl6FVFzIH7da1xdIQBOFTANYVkARt15argwkVVGbDcxuMBnkQ_2-pYrlah2k/s320/bowl%252Cbreakfast%252Ccereal%252Cfunny%252Csmile%252Ccomida%252Cfotografia-43d1aae6599fb18d60f6ab8185c66f40_m.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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I am a firm believer that eating a healthy breakfast can shape your day. I try each morning to get Eden to eat something healthy and filling.. Such as: whole wheat waffles with honey, any kind of oatmeal, grits, cereal, toast with nutella and peanut butter, yogurt and fruit, or even biscuits with turkey sausage. It really is important to me that she gets to school full and can focus on learning and not about her tummy growling. <br />
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I myself need to work on eating breakfast more often. I often find myself eating some yogurt and a peach, or granola bar and a banana. And, more often that not.. just coffee! I can really tell the difference in my work performance when I actually eat something and am not constantly looking at the clock waiting for lunch time or searching for a snack.<br />
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Also, Saturday mornings are always hard for us. Wayne always gets home late from a game and we all just want to sleep late but, that usually never ever happens. And once we are all up, we are grouches. But, all I have to do is open the turkey bacon and put it in the pan and my children's and husbands mood totally changes. Bacon is magic, lol! I usually make eggs or my husband will make is AMAZING french toast to go with our magic bacon. Having this wonderfully yummy start to our day really does get us going. Even though on Saturdays we are always just a little slower at doing things, we always have such a better day when we have some yummy in our tummy to start. :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-67605338953856397832011-10-14T16:37:00.000-05:002011-10-14T16:37:57.043-05:00My "Clumsy" Sunday'sFor the past several years my husband has deemed our Sunday's as, "My Clumsy Sunday's"! The reasoning behind that is if something is going to happen to me, if I am going to drop something, if I am going to break something, if I am going to hurt myself.... IT HAPPENS ON SUNDAY! AHHH!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-27238824584062863382011-09-30T08:01:00.000-05:002011-09-30T08:01:47.568-05:00A new addition to our Family...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg9wKm4z2byQ8SmsMi-W6Iik5ZYAHBT4QxqZp77HtvBPDL4ozfWQIYjb165v75AKqyZZev-l1N6h7D_OxJ8QOFgLiNXGVcnZ3oat7rR_JMiw_rALSx74mXto8pqe30AQT21ZGBAQYdnsse/s1600/gods+will.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="126" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg9wKm4z2byQ8SmsMi-W6Iik5ZYAHBT4QxqZp77HtvBPDL4ozfWQIYjb165v75AKqyZZev-l1N6h7D_OxJ8QOFgLiNXGVcnZ3oat7rR_JMiw_rALSx74mXto8pqe30AQT21ZGBAQYdnsse/s320/gods+will.png" /></a></div><br />
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For a really long time I have wanted a new car that better met the needs of our family. Having a vehicle that only sat 5 people with a car seat and two booster seats in the back seat was just not cutting it. So we have tried for over a year, well since I found out I was pregnant with Edison, and it just wasn't God's will at that time. Well, Wayne decided to surprise me and call our bank and get a pre-approval for a car loan. Once he did that he started searching for me and met me at church Wednesday night and said pick something out... we got pre-approved. I was so excited! :) :) I either wanted a Dodge Journey or a Ford Explorer but needed to find the perfect one! I had seen a few on Kinsel Ford's website and we just needed to find the time to go see them. And see... time is a hard thing to come by in this family. With Wayne working 7 days a week and working 10 + hours a day.. that is a hard thing. But yesterday he went on his off period and test drove a few of the Ford Explorers and I went on my lunch break and and test drove the Dodge Journey! I really didn't like what I test drove and wasn't satisfied but Wayne loved what he drove for me. Without seeing the Explorer or test driving it myself, Wayne called and said that will pay mine off and take off enough money to meet our budget and if we wanted... it was ours then and there! :) I said.. DO it honey! So.. when I got off... I went and dropped off my Trailblazer and picked up my new Explorer! I was so very excited, but bittersweet at the same time. I had had that Trailblazer for 5+ years. I brought Eden to her first day of school in that and we brought Edison home from the hospital in that car.. I was just kind of emotional but knew that it was for the better and this was a good thing! :) I also thank God for this because with out him providing and allowing this to happen, it wouldn't be possible! I love my new car and I love my God.... and I love my family! I am just in a loving mood today.. lol :_)<br />
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http://kinselford.com/Beaumont-Houston/For-Sale/Used/Ford/Explorer/2008-Eddie-Bauer-Gray-SUV/2970051/<br />
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Here is a link to the Explorer!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-79280006495578460172011-09-25T12:00:00.000-05:002011-09-25T12:00:14.742-05:00Our September Date Night<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhjdLIH3cwFyGBu3mUBg8EJSOafX9AVbWgmbhQLwLczNuNpPfzHvDGyKOwhZe_C4YenmvbSs9ky4sRkZnAQjauKZOSQE4A-EwItCXsgffG0u1Foq-8265d6yJqfV-DBVMmN8zmtIn6scn/s1600/love-quote-words-love-quote-bedanken-good-Love-quotes-sayings-cool-cute-my-pics-quote-favs-Klasse-orchid-popi-Monika-romantic-love-ngi-5-extras-romantic-love-comments-nadpisi-my-favs_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhjdLIH3cwFyGBu3mUBg8EJSOafX9AVbWgmbhQLwLczNuNpPfzHvDGyKOwhZe_C4YenmvbSs9ky4sRkZnAQjauKZOSQE4A-EwItCXsgffG0u1Foq-8265d6yJqfV-DBVMmN8zmtIn6scn/s320/love-quote-words-love-quote-bedanken-good-Love-quotes-sayings-cool-cute-my-pics-quote-favs-Klasse-orchid-popi-Monika-romantic-love-ngi-5-extras-romantic-love-comments-nadpisi-my-favs_large.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Let me start off by saying that I still get that giddy feeling when Wayne kisses me or when we get to go on a date just him and I. I was so giddy and excited last night to be able to spend time with him alone! :) We decided for our date that we would go to Saltgrass Steakhouse! We got there and really only had to wait about 30 minutes. We had both never been to the Saltgrass in Beaumont and were really excited to eat there! We ordered the spinach dip for an appetizer! It was ok, not as good as Cheddars.. but.. I am rather partial, lol! For dinner Wayne ordered steak and shrimp and I ordered chicken with goat cheese and a yummy sauce on top! Wayne and I of corse talked about the kids and about upcoming events but it was so nice to be able to finish a sentence with out having to stop and give the kids something. I love talking to my husband. Wayne and I are observers and we always say that we will never be like those people who sit together at a meal and maybe say 5 words to each other. We will never be that way. I talk too much and he makes me laugh a lot. I love us! :) But, when we got our food we did stop conversating.. because our food was AMAZING! I really really loved what Wayne and I ordered. I always love what he orders more and eat half of his food. I have always done that and he just expects it. LOL. I will subsequently order something I know he likes because I can never eat all of my food because I eat his... So he eats mine! :) As we ate we saw them walk around with the dessert tray and were so excited to order a big ole' piece of pecan pie with some vanilla ice cream... until... we thought about going to the Yogurt Spot! I have heard so many good this about it and we decided to go there for dessert! :) :) Once we got there there are about 8 to 10 flavors of yogurt that you help yourself to. You can put them all of you want lol. After you choose your flavor( I got cheesecake and caramel and Wayne got strawberry and peach) you pick your toppings. I chose strawberries and heath bar! It was kinda pricy but very, very yummy! There were lots and lots of teenagers there, even some of Wayne's students, so we ate and left... too much drama with them lol! We then headed to Target for a few things and ended up getting Edison's new car seat. The Graco My Ride 65. It is a big purchase for us and I have done lots or research and was very excited to finally get it! :) All in all it was such a wonderful, special time with my hubby. He works 7 days a week so anytime that I get to spend with him that I am not falling asleep during is such a gift! :) Thank you Mamaw for watching out babies so we could go on our wonderful date night! I LOVE YOU WAYNE, you still give me butterflies... even after 9 years!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-21006913531394813992011-09-22T22:49:00.000-05:002011-09-22T22:49:41.065-05:00A beautiful surprise...I love it when you get something that is totally unexpected and no matter how small that gesture or item may be, it makes everything right in the world. :)<br />
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Today at around 2, a women walks in with flowers and I just knew. I just knew that they were for me! My whole body smiled as I accepted them and read the note he wrote me:<br />
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"Because I love you"<br />
Love,<br />
Hank<br />
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And the reason is signed it "Hank" is because it is a joke with us because everyone calls him that when they can't remember his name is Wayne, lol! But, I was very humbled by this gift and love that he thought enough of his wife today to send her something to, once again, take her breath away and remind her how much I she is completely head-over-heals in love with that man! <br />
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I LOVE YOU WAYNE and thank you for choosing me! :) :) :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-27430681204574629712011-09-13T18:14:00.000-05:002011-09-13T18:14:05.066-05:00LossI do not deal well with loss. I don't like to think about it and when the situation arises I find myself turning into a different person. I turn into someone who is super sensitive, very productive, and overly sympathetic. Which is my state today!<br />
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My Aunt was diagnosed with cancer all over her little body just over a month and a half ago, and today, as I type... She is loosing her battle with that cancer. She isn't expected to live more than 24 more hours. I went and saw her last night and we knew that it wouldn't be long. She is hurting all over and it makes me, more than ever, wish I could so something to help find a cure for cancer. Cancer is something that is affecting my family so, so often and is slowly taking members of my family away. This all was so fast for my Aunt.. It feels as though she just found out. I find myself not being able to go to the hospital right now for two reasons. One, no baby sitter, and two I cant stop looking at her son(my cousin) and putting myself in his position and thinking about my children seeing me this way before I pass. It just crumbles me to think about that. I can't even imagine what he is thinking or feeling. And then I think.. what am I going to do when I lose a parent? This is all a bit overwhelming to me and when I am overwhelmed, I write. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigyOLpiJWuzSMVzPbRu47vCksqfISBQVbrujWOMUphEtuZSyBIwb6JF8d5cutkM_1UtnA7zJS4dbsZ7htp4mtSu6VH2kUfrodknIJVomrBIBEo-Yyd4Rxw3bLtYQMg9IP1_yQUOuhsaq8j/s1600/28397_10150173492220061_884325060_12434231_1235334_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigyOLpiJWuzSMVzPbRu47vCksqfISBQVbrujWOMUphEtuZSyBIwb6JF8d5cutkM_1UtnA7zJS4dbsZ7htp4mtSu6VH2kUfrodknIJVomrBIBEo-Yyd4Rxw3bLtYQMg9IP1_yQUOuhsaq8j/s320/28397_10150173492220061_884325060_12434231_1235334_n.jpg" /></a></div>Here is a picture of her at my bridal shower! :) She's the one standing!<br />
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I love my Aunt and her memory will forever be etched in my heart for so many reasons. I thank God for her and all she has done for me thruought my life. I hope she goes knowing she was very loved and will be so so so very missed!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-2268732397105663182011-09-11T11:37:00.000-05:002011-09-11T11:37:45.059-05:00Where I was...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pPdb94a5ViPHaKkGdis3KPb5n7hrRyu_ksI1NCm0WliQlS8Jtj_Fe-_MRM7IKLTqkcFcLgI7aleKAW1k_iGAeZ6HKeiWw5QHYHZmj5e6kQmobFv_LHQnLpAPYXaj-DwPZBO-bauuhgeP/s1600/world_trade_center.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pPdb94a5ViPHaKkGdis3KPb5n7hrRyu_ksI1NCm0WliQlS8Jtj_Fe-_MRM7IKLTqkcFcLgI7aleKAW1k_iGAeZ6HKeiWw5QHYHZmj5e6kQmobFv_LHQnLpAPYXaj-DwPZBO-bauuhgeP/s320/world_trade_center.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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On this day 10 years ago, it started like most others. I got up, got ready, and went to school. I was a senior in high school and had my whole, unknown life, ahead of me. My first period class was Mrs.Sherrod's government class. We were taking a quiz that day and were almost finished when our principle came on the loud speaker and told everyone that there was an apparent attack on the U.S. and for the teachers to turn on their T.V.'s in the rooms so we could see what was going on. As a senior in high school, you can't fully comprehend the extensive toll this would take on our Country, but we knew this was serious. We sat and watched the 1st tower smoking and saw on live T.V. when the 2nd tower was hit with another plane. I then started to think to myself of all of the things that could go wrong from this. All of the lives lost and those that will be effected by this attack. I was so worried that something would happen to us and felt a need to call my Mom. We couldn't call and that was before everyone had cell phones. I sort of felt alone and even at that age wanted my parent with me. I also worried about my Dad who worked at an oil plant because they are sometimes thought to be targets to terrorist attacks. <br />
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As the morning went on we got to watch T.V. in each class. We would change classes and talk about what was going on and then watch the news coverage. For most of the students, this was a break from the everyday schedule that we were all used to. Others took it differently due to family members either being in NY or one of the other effected areas, or that their family member is in the military and feared that they would be deployed. I had no one that I knew that was directly effected by all of this, but was very worried for my own safety. When I was younger I really didn't like history. I was learning about things that I wasn't around to see and really didn't care too much to learn about, immature I know. It was my least favorite subject, but when something like this happens it really makes you stop and re-ascess your feeling on our U.S. History. Being married to a History teacher has really changed me now. I find myself wanting to know more and more about history and am constantly asking Wayne questions. He, to me, knows everything and that is so amazing to me! I LOVE HIM! <br />
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This attack on our country has effected so much and as the years have gone by has changed more than we could have ever predicted. The loss of life isn't comprehendable to me but saddens me so deeply. Today, 10 years later, I sit with my husband and two children and watch children and family members read the names of lives lost and tears are streaming down my face. My life has changed so much in 10 years and to see children that were babies when this happened are now 10 years older and to think that their family member or parent has missed them growing up is numbing. Those children are so brave and are amazing to me. I pray for them a lot. I also pray that something of this magnitude will never happen to our country again! I will never forget where I was when this happened and the U.S. will never forget 9/11 and the lives that were lost.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-69196857848356788652011-09-08T21:50:00.002-05:002011-09-08T21:55:00.948-05:00Little Things...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_oh5dcSst_Uk_DJbFIM3w15qP3sFJkeXGRs1XV8o4j4YNurhqWAOq7RjcYfpKH3-lRwsMYd-1e0iFk30x9y92wQR2pGWyqwtitt32JlOYafDW60mj2BCu_-jXbK7y6cYu1fgckVzBjhz/s1600/Enjoy-The-Little-Things.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_oh5dcSst_Uk_DJbFIM3w15qP3sFJkeXGRs1XV8o4j4YNurhqWAOq7RjcYfpKH3-lRwsMYd-1e0iFk30x9y92wQR2pGWyqwtitt32JlOYafDW60mj2BCu_-jXbK7y6cYu1fgckVzBjhz/s320/Enjoy-The-Little-Things.jpg" /></a></div>I love the little things in life that are just special to you and make you so very happy! Here are a few of mine:<br />
*Starbucks<br />
*My husbands hands<br />
*A great book<br />
*A fall day<br />
*My Christmas Tree<br />
*The smell of coffee in the morning.. It lets me know that it is the start of a new day and that anything is possible.. even if I am assuring myself of that due to a cup of coffee lol<br />
*A good pen<br />
*A friends text<br />
*A compliment from a stranger<br />
*Make-up<br />
*Going to the grocery store alone<br />
*Wearing my favorite shirt<br />
*Curling my hair<br />
*Buying a magazine<br />
*Making my Mom laugh<br />
*God answering a prayer of mine<br />
*My Son's eyelashes<br />
*My Daughter's Feet<br />
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And, Last but not least... My chair.. You know... the chair in your house that you always go to to relax. And, even though it really isn't YOUR chair, you claim it and when others sit in it you are secretly so mad and jealous! <br />
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I know some of these things may seem silly to you, but some of these little things get me through my day. They promise me of something safe and comfortable to come, or something fun and challenging for me! It also reminds me to stop and appreciate the little things and realize that you don't need a lot to be happy.. Just YOUR little things! :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-50292381280106450132011-08-28T18:30:00.000-05:002011-08-28T18:30:35.850-05:00A dream/goal I will fulfill...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwfPozmJlbwCAcb28FYB2GvVRtBwOEpk1sWywzSlflMt3UwKJnL9Uj4GXsJ-hZxasKILCxsai4UdqyAo1vWIpgfpS4Zikut6mGLJh05VJpFmd1gmj8Zl_jJQUorD94FFTQXGc7b60XHUW5/s1600/dream+goal.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="179" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwfPozmJlbwCAcb28FYB2GvVRtBwOEpk1sWywzSlflMt3UwKJnL9Uj4GXsJ-hZxasKILCxsai4UdqyAo1vWIpgfpS4Zikut6mGLJh05VJpFmd1gmj8Zl_jJQUorD94FFTQXGc7b60XHUW5/s320/dream+goal.jpeg" /></a></div><br />
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Over the past few years my heart has really been heavy on what I am supposed to be, career wise, for the rest of my life? I always just assumed I would do something dental long term, but wasn't sure!! I really didn't have to think much about this but, I instantly knew that if I could be anything what it would be. I would be an RN! I really have a passion and drive for this profession. For example, we were at Sears yesterday and an elderly women tripped over something and was possibly severely injured. I instantly went into professional mode and helped her because the staff at Sears just stood there.. and did nothing. She ended up being fine, just a few scrapes, but her daughter thanked me more times than I can count and told me that she felt God put me there at the right time to help that situation. Wow, what an impact it had on me and I have been thinking about this seriously ever since. <br />
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There are a lot of things in my way to prevent this from happening, but it will happen one day. To start this process I will be starting my pre-reqs(which I had taken a lot already, but it has been to long since I took them and have to start over) at night in January! I will need to go to Lamar and get a lot more info, but it is a start. :) I know I can do this and I know this is the direction my life is supposed to go. It may take my longer than most, but my first priority is serving God and taking care of my family.. and this goal will all just fall into place, I pray! If anyone has any info on what path to take to getting this degree while working and having a family, please email me! Alana09199@gmail.com<br />
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Success isn't a result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire. ~Arnold H. Glasow<br />
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Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal. ~Henry Ford<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-84938648388692830922011-08-24T17:59:00.000-05:002011-08-24T17:59:57.987-05:00Feeling Cheated...You know the feeling when you know that your opportunity to do something wonderful is over? That you will never be able to experience something again? Well, I feel that way. After a visit to my OB last week, we discussed future children and labor and delivery and if the occasion was to ever arise and I was pretty much told that I would never be able to deliver a child vaginally again. I would always have to have a c-section from here on out. WHAT? VBAC's are common aren't they? Well, giving my history and the positioning of my children, Dr. Long doesn't want to chance it and will only do section births now. I really feel cheated. I felt that way after having Edison, and I feel that way again. I want to experience labor and birth. HECK yes it hurts, but the outcome is amazing. Our bodies are meant to do this, and now my chances are over to experience one of the most wonderful miracles that women go through. I just cried and cried after he told me that. I don't know.. it just hit me very hard. I don't know for sure if Wayne and I will have anymore children, but if we did, having a c-section, in my opinion, takes a lot of the "fun" out of the experience. Takes away the anticipation of labor, takes away the unknown, and adds the worry of surgery, well.. at least for me. I really just can't express my feelings well about this.. I just feel cheated. And feel that even though that precious child will be the outcome, everyone deserves to have the birth that they want, and I can't ever have that. BOOOOO! <br />
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On a side note, I still love my Dr.! :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-76060129632804696352011-08-17T18:45:00.000-05:002011-08-17T18:45:46.582-05:00Eden Lost her 3rd Tooth & Is Starting 2nd GradeLast Friday, August 12th, Eden and I were cleaning a clients house(she was "helping" me) and she came and told me she had a loose tooth! News to me, I didn't even know. She hadn't mentioned it before! In the past, pulling teeth with her has been a challenge so I wasn't very optimistic about this one either! But, to my surprise I said OK Eden, lets just get it out.. and........ She said OK... here a napkin, pull it out Mom! WHAT? So, I just knew she was going to run away screaming when I actually tried, but she opened wide and I grabbed her tooth and twisted/pulled all at once! It was out just like that! No fuss or tears, just a little bleeding! She was so proud just as if she had pulled it herself! I love how mature she is becoming about some things. Ohh what a year will do for a child! :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gZ0kWEdizGz3Sopt-RgxkBNh_YYCJ_guJVQnrAhcaOqd0St2ykHgXJ9sumFalOY3Lzg0MmzI1RCOaV6reAWZaiGijvftQTxi-YyOECDuCyI3O-XeKG-y3iXjhyphenhyphenAU5M53e2Jj3MhIkvJg/s1600/edens+3rd+tooth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gZ0kWEdizGz3Sopt-RgxkBNh_YYCJ_guJVQnrAhcaOqd0St2ykHgXJ9sumFalOY3Lzg0MmzI1RCOaV6reAWZaiGijvftQTxi-YyOECDuCyI3O-XeKG-y3iXjhyphenhyphenAU5M53e2Jj3MhIkvJg/s320/edens+3rd+tooth.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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It is really starting to hit me that Eden will start SECOND grade GT on Monday! I know she is growing up because she is all the way up to my shoulder almost in height, but just thinking back on when she started kindergarten, it seems like yesterday! She has really grown to become such a wonderful daughter, friend, sister, and granddaughter! I pray each day for her to have a productive year and to do well in school. I also hope that she continues to grow her friendships she has made last year. This will be the 2nd year she is in a class with the same kids so I know long term friendships are being made. I hope she learns to cherish those! Her teacher will be Mrs. Robicheau and she was my sisters teacher a long time ago, so I am really happy about that! She goes for meet the teacher on Thursday, and I will miss it due to work, but that's OK.. Mamaw is going! :)<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761165185227209343.post-32898568292489893992011-08-12T19:51:00.000-05:002011-08-12T19:51:38.792-05:00A Tree Disaster...How can everything change with just one tree? <br />
Last week on Monday August 1st, Wayne, the baby, and myself were sitting in the living room having Subway (Eden was staying the night at mamaw's) for dinner and it happened! What sounded like a train driving into our home turned out to be the neighbors tree falling onto the side of our house! Wayne and I immediately ran outside to see what had happened and there it was, a dead, HUGE tree laying down on the left side. Destroyed our air conditioner and electrical on that side. We had several limbs through the roof and minimal structure damage. Whew! No one was hurt. Wayne then called 911, just in case! :) Then, due to the fact that it was so loud, several people were running down the road t words us and stopping their cars and getting out. And, by the grace of God, a fire fighter stopped and got out just in time. The electrical box on the side of our house caught on fire. I then started to panic. What were going to do? AH, Water hose... but before I could even do this, all while holding Edison, the fire fighter grabbed a fire extinguisher from his car and put the fire out. Then, after the initial madness wore off, reality set in. Where were we going to live? Do I need to call my insurance? Is this their fault? It was their tree after all. I called my mom, like most people do in a panic situation and told her to come straight over. By this time, mosquitoes are eating us alive and the police and fire department are there. The police were just taking a report of insurance purposes and the fire department were making sure nothing was wrong from the small electrical fire. With no power and it getting dark I started to realize I probably needed to go inside and get everything out of the fridge and freezer, that would soon stink. And then pack a few things up, we were going to stay at my Moms! After cleaning and packing, because I couldn't leave my house dirty, we left and went to my moms. I quickly wrote everything down we had in our fridge freezer and got everyone ready for bed. I was mentally and physically exhausted. Here are a few pictures of the damage:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4MfZa5uuCpm3AJErDC9BNTyEiaKsu28ZGTZx17jrXExJ6kJXPKbblG0OIYzegE9EAV9iYTaS3s21RKKA73cRo4FrpjOOZONy4hraTzf6FoJmoo8lie5sjZATv3ALCcnvJgnp1NGjupE_/s1600/115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4MfZa5uuCpm3AJErDC9BNTyEiaKsu28ZGTZx17jrXExJ6kJXPKbblG0OIYzegE9EAV9iYTaS3s21RKKA73cRo4FrpjOOZONy4hraTzf6FoJmoo8lie5sjZATv3ALCcnvJgnp1NGjupE_/s320/115.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPwbSDb3Sr-RWQZZCfez8D_SXTuFY2fKpmIynGDf9FM5u6i8ex6siRNu4MuNbLrjs5MLUeb1sR07zR9y1BVIjxgTcSgtShC8XpEJ6g3ohxEycDeUfLoQBSWS4p1JJ3qFWjcguhApDxb2pc/s1600/126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPwbSDb3Sr-RWQZZCfez8D_SXTuFY2fKpmIynGDf9FM5u6i8ex6siRNu4MuNbLrjs5MLUeb1sR07zR9y1BVIjxgTcSgtShC8XpEJ6g3ohxEycDeUfLoQBSWS4p1JJ3qFWjcguhApDxb2pc/s320/126.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5ORbOeND8upFI802IyaDFeyqbigs9mI4ZGIwwLoOT0P3sRyYq-AJqTrpPleH8KWTDsAczAmyVSD4O787RUFwHMohQ0UyW6QhiuxAhvjn35_dwNmS-JZjaL0-5uyHbzFcdETP-AJdKwcf/s1600/130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5ORbOeND8upFI802IyaDFeyqbigs9mI4ZGIwwLoOT0P3sRyYq-AJqTrpPleH8KWTDsAczAmyVSD4O787RUFwHMohQ0UyW6QhiuxAhvjn35_dwNmS-JZjaL0-5uyHbzFcdETP-AJdKwcf/s320/130.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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The next day all seems a blur! Insurance stuff is not my cup of Joe, but I had to do it and Wayne helped me too...All while at work! I had told them, so they understood and worked with me to go and take/make phone calls. There couldn't have been a worse person's tree to have fallen on our house. He at first told us he had insurance on the property and everything would be fine. Then, after a few calls, realizes, Hey, I don't have any insurance on that property. OMG! So after Wayne calling and nearly loosing his mind talking to him, he calls back and states that he does have liability at least! Well, ok! So for the next few days we waited and checked into a hotel in the town we live in. It is nice and had been great to have somewhere to go to at night! :) <br />
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Over the next few days we went back and forth calling insurances and trying to figure out what to do next. I finally just said lets call a contractor. We weren't going to have to, but our builder was way over on his bid and insurance didn't want to pay that. So, I called Glen Stanley, with Glens Custom Homes here in Vidor. He is the nicest guy and has really gone above and beyond during all of this. That day he sent a bid over and our insurance accepted and they started getting things going. FINALLY, some progress! Within two days the work was over halfway through and there were plans for everything else. I was and still am so very happy with Glen and his work. Really the most difficult thing during all of this was dealing with Entergy and Time Warner Cable. They are a joke when it comes to customer service, WHOLE different blog post, LOL! :) <br />
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As of today, August 14th, we are back in the house. Not everything is done. There is still cleanup, painting, and some electrical work to be done, but I was so ready to be home I came anyways. On a sad note, my stove and washer don't seem to be working. The electrician seems to think they got shorted out when the wires were pulled and it caused a small power surge. UGH! I love my stove and washer! Hopefully, insurance will pay for us new ones, or at least pay to have these fixed if they can be! So, that is a jumbled up story of how one tree can change so much! The End! :) <br />
P.S. Pictures of repaired home to come soon!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12770054595620740844noreply@blogger.com0