The Shoemake Family

SF photos

2012-02-13T12:35:00.000-08:00

If you look really close in the window there is underware hanging. It was all over chinatown.. have some pride people

The seals at pier 39

Raw chicken with hair and feathers in china town

thought the boys might like these hats....negative

We went to the see the famous painted ladies

While the boys were hanging out in the park a man came and asked if he could sit and take a picture with them, I think it was Travis' hair he was interested in.

Wine country is wonderful and the drive was amazing... I couldn't believe how pretty it was and it was not even grouwing season..

The boys hanging out at uncle richards house

uncle richard and trey picked out all the crab meat for us for a crab louie salad it was so yummy

saw these cookies in the bakery and had to laugh....

there was a cute trout festival in the town of healdsburg where my brother lives...

More pictures to follow

SF

2012-02-07T12:32:00.001-08:00

Headed to SF to see my brother with Robert and the boys. Looking forward to seeing my brother and seeing his new house. If mom were alive, I am sure she would be going with us. Praying for a wonderful trip with lots of fun memories made.

19 years and counting

2012-02-07T12:31:00.001-08:00

Robert and I celebrated our 19th anniversary in December I gave him a deck of cards with 52 reasons I love him. It was fun to make this for him. I would challenge you to do this for your spouse. It was super fun.

Travis

2012-02-07T12:29:00.000-08:00

I Can't Believe you are 12. I remember finding out that we were having another boy and realizing my dreams of pink were over, but never have I missed being a girl mom. Since day one you have been headstrong. Coming weeks early and causing quite a fuss your first year. You always knew best how to do everything yet still wanted mama close by. You began memorizing scripture at an early age and came to know and love the Lord. You have always had a soft spot for the little ones. Little t soon turned into little and you took the name in stride even telling others that was your nickname. You are VERY competitive and love to compete with your brother for everything. Your life has been less than easy but VERY blessed. Your stamina and character are marked by joy, peace and persistance. I love your ability to learn or try anything once you know it's safe. You continue to amaze us with your athletic abilities and your competitive spirit. You will fight till the bitter end. You love school and your friends, sometimes friends more than school. Daddy and I are so proud of your learning to read again with Libby and all that it takes to get it done. Your love for your brother shows daily as you encourage him and praise him for a job well done. Your love for books is something you shared with your mimi. No one loved you more than her and in her eyes you could never do anything wrong. She was your champion. Thank you for being you and all that God has called you to be. We know that the Lord has mighty plans for you. Use those gifts well and continue to bless others with your sweet spirit, smile and of course that hair. Looking forward to another year of fun times with you. WE love you mom and dad and Trey.

And these two cuties

2012-02-07T12:16:00.000-08:00

shopping at Hollister to get the cool clothes mom... Oh my when did we hit the teenage years?

All grown up and still as sweet as can be to their mama. I love it....

100 days of kindergarten

2012-02-07T12:14:00.000-08:00

Now who can take me seriously in those glasses.....

Fun with Friends

2012-02-07T12:12:00.000-08:00

A fun ladies night out at the mavericks game....

Stress Fractures.

2012-02-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

How can one have four stress fractures in their foot and not know the cause? I am not sure how it happened but four stress fractures later my foot is in a boot for 6 weeks. It is lovely and matches all my outfits. All the rage in footware....

Where to begin

2012-02-07T11:54:00.000-08:00

No I haven't fallen off the face of the earth and usually no news is good news but in our case lack of postings doesn't always mean lack of goings on.... ha Trey will have jaw surgery again on Feb 23. to remove the bone spurs that keep growing. This scooter incident seems to continue to cause issues. Trey is less than thrilled with the idea. Keep reminding him that one day when he is grown he will appreciate the fact that his jaw is not distorted and his teeth are aligned. We will see....

more snow pictures

2011-12-25T16:20:00.000-08:00

Guess where we are?

2011-12-23T16:53:00.000-08:00

more reasons to laugh at yourself in kindergarten ha

2011-12-15T07:49:00.000-08:00

yet another reason to teach kindergarten

2011-12-09T13:02:00.001-08:00

You can wear your PJ's to school when it's Polar Express Day....

White Rock Marathon

2011-12-09T13:01:00.000-08:00

Our family volunteered at the White Rock Marathon and the dress was well... you figure it out...

New Mexico

2011-12-09T12:59:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Dinner

2011-11-24T15:43:00.000-08:00

Angel Fire

2011-11-23T16:37:00.000-08:00

swim meet

2011-11-11T11:39:00.000-08:00

Travis

2011-10-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

Travis woke up this morning and his face was swollen and had a rash all over it. YIKES. Benadryl is working on and steroids seemed to have helped. It's always something at the Shoemake House....

Pinecove weekend

2011-10-31T12:41:00.000-07:00

My boys went to pinecove this weekend and this is what they brought back for me... a mound of laundry

SWIM team

2011-10-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

world series picture

2011-10-25T12:03:00.001-07:00

World Series...

2011-10-23T18:37:00.000-07:00

Trey Travis and Papa Bob are at game 4 of the World Series. Robert had to be out of town so he isn't able to go..ugh... But boys said they would take tons of pictures for him. Go Rangers.

Middle School Homecoming Dance

2011-10-23T18:32:00.000-07:00

My two precious boys before their homecoming dance... are we really old enough to have 2 boys in junior high...

Travis and Mama before his first dance... and BTW I have lost 20 didn't know this dress was so fattering....ha

Joys of Kindergarten

2011-10-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Guess where I went??????

Travis

2011-09-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

Travis was a trooper. He took the needle like a champ and didn't even flinch. I was so amazed at his bravery. Praying that the injection helps with the pain. Thanks for all your prayers.

Updates on Travis/trey

2011-09-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

Travis will have fluid from his right knee drained and then a steroid injection. Both sound painful to me. The fluid will be checked for infection and then the steroids will be for the pain. The tumor in the left knee is benign but will be monitored every 6 months by xray. Praying that stays that way. Travis is very ok with all of this. At this point, I think his knee hurts enough that a shot doesn't sound too bad. If the steroid shot doesn't work then he will have surgery to remove the fat pad however, at this point we have to get all the swelling down. Praise his IGG levels were up with the increased dose of medication. We will continue this as the new drug still isn't available yet and hopefully IGG levels will remain ok until after flu season and then we can change drugs then. Trey is having major hip issues again,so pray that the pain will subside and normal activity can resume.

Rootin Tootin Cowgirl

2011-09-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

This little boy told me I looked like a rootin tootin cowgirl. Gotta love kindergarten. They are so honest. Wasn't exactly the look I was going for but it works. Ha

THE Ritz

2011-09-06T12:15:00.000-07:00

We decided to beat the heat and head on over to the RITZ. The boys are spoiled and as you can tell enjoyed it quite a bit.

Pictures REALLY mom

2011-08-29T08:05:00.000-07:00

Trey got his braces off last week and his ortho has a lady who takes their pictures for his wall of fame. I scheduled the picture on Saturday and talked trey into wearing something nice. Never in his wildest dreams did he know that he was going to have to pose for the pictures. He was mortified. Here are some of the poses.I hope they turn out because there is no way that I will EVER get him to pose again....

Ranger baseball in SUITE style

2011-08-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

we had the great pleasure of watching a baseball game from an owners suite last night. it was WONDERFUL!!!!!

Oh I love kindergarten....

2011-08-25T12:43:00.000-07:00

This little boy told me I was as pretty aws a princess... OH I LOVE IT...

and then she said oh no a movie star.... I love it.... I'll remind myself of this when they ask me why my hair looks so bad or when they tell me they don't like my clothes... the honesty of these little ones.

Straight teeth.

2011-08-23T12:07:00.001-07:00

Trey got his retainer yesterday and he also got his pictures of his teeth of before and after. I'll let you be the judge... I would say that our 10,000 was worth it....

You know you teach kindergarten when....

2011-08-19T08:22:00.001-07:00

You have a blister and you think it's normal to wear a transformer bandaid... OH MY!!!!

BRACES NO MORE

2011-08-17T12:43:00.000-07:00

here is our 10,000 smile

Prayer Requests

2011-08-17T12:42:00.001-07:00

Haven't blogged in a while, you would think that with my summer off, I would have time to blog more but it never happens. Trey is doing well, but continued prayer about arthritis. Travis has a possible torn ACL and still has a broken back. Continue to pray for healing for both.

New mexico

2011-08-17T12:41:00.000-07:00

Trey on his oxygen at night in the mountains. He loved it and slept great.

Eating at our favorite place, the Roasted Clove...

Robert loves to get his picture taken...

Turning 14 can you believe it. I am not old enough to have a 14 year old.

I would say the oxygen is working well since he slept until 11 everyday.

First day of school

2011-08-17T12:37:00.000-07:00

Nothing like going to school when it is still over 100 ugh

New Mexico

2011-07-17T05:35:00.000-07:00

We headed west to NM where the weather is cooler. When we arrived on Friday it was 66 outside. I actually wore a jacket. Nice treat from the 107 in Dallas. The boys ate enjoying playing outside without sweating so much. We had oxygen delivered for Trey on Friday and he is suppose to wear at night and during day as needed. Yesterday I think the altitude was bothering him but past asthma experiences had him panicked. He used the oxygen yesterday for a while but seems to be much better. His O2 sats were much better after sleeping with oxygen. Looks like fishing, airsoft guns and hiking are our plans for today. Vacation with boys:). I can't figure out how to add a picture from my phone. But will try to figure it out.

Eye appointment

2011-07-11T14:28:00.000-07:00

Trey has to have his eyes checked every 6 months due to his arthritis. Thank goodness we were all clear.

Trey and his sleep

2011-07-11T14:27:00.000-07:00

I've always heard that teenagers sleep alot but whoa... trey has always liked his sleep and now that he is a teenager he's no exception. Most days I have to wake him up around noon, and then he is upset that he has missed his breakfast. Oh well....

Way to go TEAM TRAVIS

2011-07-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

CHASE, 5

I WISH TO GO TO WALT DISNEY WORLD

Every child dreams of making the trek to Walt Disney World. This wish came true for one little boy named Chase, who suffers from a life-threatening medical condition that limits him from many aspects of life. However, the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of North Texas was able to give Chase a gift of a lifetime and granted his wish to go to Walt Disney World!

After arriving in Florida, Chase checked into his very own villa at Give Kids the World Village. The village is a special place reserved just for wish children and their families. It is filled with wonderful places such as the Gingerbread House Restaurant and the Ice Cream Palace.

From the very beginning, Chase had his sights set on meeting Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Cinderella. His wish to see the characters was fulfilled when he arrived with his mother, grandmother and grandfather in hand. Chase received special treatment from the characters, which made his Walt Disney World adventure just that much more memorable!

Thanks to his Make-A-Wish gear, Chase was treated like a star his entire trip! Unlimited ice cream, hugs from the Disney characters and front row seats to every attraction are just a glimpse of what Chase received at “the greatest place on earth”. Thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of North Texas and supporters like you, Chase’s dream was fulfilled and he will never forget the power of a wish®!

THANKS TO YOU A WISH CAME TRUE!

Team Travis

Travis... that child of mine....

2011-07-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

playing outside and decided to use magnolia leaves for who knows what.... is this called creative play??????

monkey see monkey do

2011-07-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

saw these super cute monkeys at northpark and can't wait to copy them...for my kindergarten class of course

concert

2011-07-03T10:42:00.000-07:00

Just a few random pictures from a concert at the park

Bedtime story

2011-07-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

This year at the FBA auction, I had a bedtime story with Mrs. Shoemake. This little precious kindergartner won the bedtime story. With the crazy end of school stuff, we waited until summer time. We went to dinner and then a bedtime story. We had so much fun...

Busy NOT gone...

2011-06-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

have lots of things to post so instead of posting lots of little posts I'll post a BIG post of all the stuff going on.
BASEBALL both boys have made the allstar baseball teams for Dallas Little League so needless to say that is where I have been. We have had 56 baseball games between the two boys so that is why you haven't heard much from me.
House... Our house is STILL for sale, no action yet on our house, we have a contingent offer on the other house but no contract on our house yet.
Trey... arthritis is still an issue and we got some news from the kidney doctor that he suspects that there is the beginning of kidney disease not sure what kind or when it's symptoms will rear their ugly head so we WAIT. a kidney biopsy would be next but not sure when .
Travis... IGG has been very low since we switched to new medication. Working in getting the IGG up and are VERY thankful that it is not flu season.
School is out and it seems my room will be remodeled this summer so again, another crazy summer without being about to do my room until the last minute.yikes
So that is us in a nutshell... I will post some pictures and try to be better about blogging.

beach already

2011-06-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

after school on Friday we headed to the beach for our annual beach weekend. We returned tan and sandy....

Another year of kindergarten gone.

2011-06-02T06:46:00.001-07:00

Kindergarten graduation... such a wonderful class, sad to see them go...

Happy Birthday to Robert and 40 reasons that I love HIM...

2011-05-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

We'll see if Robert even reads my blog...
Welcome to the 40 club...remember 40 is the new 30...

So in Honor of your 40th birthday 40 reasons why I LOVE YOU...
1. He's faithful
2. He takes out the trash without me even having to beg him to do so.
3. He makes his own coffee.
4. He helps me raise our boys... he's truly a partner.
5. He stays in a good mood even when things are rough at work or he's had a horrible travel day.
6. He lets me do different project even if it creates a big mess...
7. He puts up with my obsessive nature on projects that consume me at times.
8. He minimizes life so we can enjoy each other at night.
9. He's game for anything....
10. He's happy with a simple meal and appreciates me for cooking it..
11. He understands a busy day.
12. He treats me like I am beautiful even though I am aging before his eyes.
13. He gives me down time.
14. He gets excited about things that excite me even though I know at times it's a stretch.
15. When I am worn out, he picks up where I left off, never missing a beat.
16. He provides for our family.
17. He stays active. always doing some challenge.
18. He cares for me and listens to me and sympathizes with me.
19. He involves me in his life, and shields me when needed.
20 . He is my best friend.
21. He was an awesome labor coach even though Trey came early and we never had a class.
22.He loves me unconditionally.
23. He married me in 1992.
24. He gave me two beautiful boys.
25. He orginally wanted 0 children and blessed me with two.
26. He is my one true love.
27. His intelligence.
28. His incredible wit.
29. His open mind.
30. How easy going he is.
31. The way to talks to our boys.
32. After 18 years of marriage, I still am dreamy when he kisses me.
33. He mourned with me in 2010 the loss of my mom.
34. He is strong.
35. He makes me feel secure.
36. He still pursues ME.
37. He cried joyfully when each of our boys were born.
38. He is very giving.
39. He loves God.
40. And then he loves me.

HOPE this means as much to you as it did to me to write it. I love you dearly and look forward to 40 more years with you. I love you... Love me...

My oh MY!!!!

2011-05-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

This small liquid gold is the new medication that Travis is taking. We used to take 11.5 mls in each leg now we just take 10 mls in each leg. This medicatin is more concentrated. Amazing that 20-30 people donate blood and then they spin off their anitbodies and create this human imune globulin. and each week we get one bottle of this. In the next picture you can see all the bubbles that are in the medication, this is from the detergent they use to wash the blood product. Don't even get my mind wandering about what is in it that are concerned with washing away....ugh.... so far so good. Only a few side effects so we are pleased with the new medication. Thanks for the prayers for the transition.

Crazy week

2011-05-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

It's been a week since I blogged and I bet people think I guess no news is good news ha. It's been a crazy week four baseball games last week, the stomach virus, our house on the market, and Travis starting new medication. This is the last week of school so am praying for a calmer week. Ha ha !!!!
Travis' new medication went well. Only a few side effects but considering most people had lots of side effects we will take a few. Please continue to pray that his igg numbers will rise. He didn't have that normal jolt when he gets his infusion. It might take a few weeks before the new medicine kicks in. Doing another treatment today am praying for no side effects today as no nurse is present for infusion. However, Travis said after last week, mommy you are more like a nurse than that lady. Ha. Seems like it sometimes.
Open house today so we are praying for a buyer.

Make a Wish .... Wish Night 2011

2011-05-16T07:42:00.000-07:00

This was Travis Before the event all decked out in his tux

On Stage as a wish kid presenting a thank you to the Marketing Arm...

With his favorite Basketball coach of the SMU mustangs....

Trey and I in the dance line... he was less than thrilled...

Sorry couldn't edit this. our crazy eyes in the picture. ugh

Me and my boys and the table...

NJHS

2011-05-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

Trey was inducted into National Junior Honor Society. We are very proud of him.

The things I do for kindergarten

2011-05-10T08:48:00.000-07:00

Mad science came to our classroom to do a presentaion on electric static. The kids loved it and of course they loved it most when I touched the ball and my hair stuck up everywhich way. Glad I can be a laughing stock to kindergarten and still feel great about myself. ha.

House update

2011-05-09T11:49:00.001-07:00

We are VERY close to finishing the deal on the house we are wanting to buy. A few minor changes to the contract and we should be good to go. Praying all that is resolved today or tomorrow. Now for the BIG request, our HOUSE. It is officially on the market and we are hoping for it to sell quickly. So if you know anyone looking in LH send them our way. It's 5 bedrooms and 3 baths. I can send you the link if you know someone interested. Pray that we would have wisdom in all the decisions regarding both houses.

Happy mother's day

2011-05-09T07:05:00.000-07:00

I made it through the day. Not too many tears. The boys headed to the mavericks game so they really enjoyed mother's day. ha

Mother's Day

2011-05-07T04:46:00.000-07:00

Not sure how tomorrow will go, especially in light of my meltdown this morning. Tomorrow should be no different than any other day except it is. It's mother's day and I don't have my mother here. Many have asked how are you doing? Tough question to answer most days. Am I moving on with life, busy with the boys yes but is there a day I don't think about my mom? NO. It seems I've finally stopped thinking I need to call her but the thoughts of wishing she were here are still there. I know it's only been 4 months but it just seems the tears still flow rather quickly. I made it through my mother's day kindergarten tea with only my eyes filling up, no tears pouring but alone and at home they flow freely. I still am very thankful my mom did not suffer and that she never knew about the lung cancer but just more time. I guess that's all we ever want with anyone who dies.When Robert asked what I wanted for mother's day my response was my mom. So even though your mom drives you nutty, requires extra time, or even makes you crazy, love them well and enjoy the time you have now. Happy mother's day!

Teacher appreciation

2011-05-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

These little notes mean more to me than anything. They are precious and I cherish them dearly. Love the drawing of Bella and myself.

Travis' "friend"

2011-05-04T11:46:00.000-07:00

He would be mortified to know that I am posting this on the blog but this is Travis' friend from school.

Moving?????

2011-05-01T17:32:00.001-07:00

Well we have found another house that we really like, or let me rephrase that, a house that I like. Robert has yet to see it. We are looking at it tomorrow and our house is going on the market asap. So if you know anyone looking for a five bedroom 3 bath house in Lake highlands, send them our way. Will keep you posted after we make an offer. YIKES.... haven't we done this before? If this goes through this will be our 5th house. Surely this will be our forever house... ha

Travis is at camp with school

2011-04-20T08:10:00.001-07:00

Got this great picture yesterday of Travis at Adventure camp with school.

Junior High Tennis

2011-04-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

Trey won his doubles match 8-2 yesterday. Way to go... It was 94 degrees already. tooo hot.

My great Date night

2011-04-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

Travis and Robert were at a basketball tournament and so Trey and I had a date night. Trey was less than thrilled to have his picture taken. Oh well the things we do for mom.

Our tree....

2011-04-15T12:03:00.000-07:00

Not a pretty site to wake up to this morning.... I don't like those spring time winds. yikes

Still one of my favorite things in Kindergarten

2011-04-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

Losing a tooth in kindergarten is the BEST thing ever. It's the little things in life that are great. As this little boy had a loose tooth one day he asked if I would pull it out. I tried and it wasn't quite ready. The next day however, it came right out, but he was quite nervous it would hurt and even said, it can stay in another day. After I pulled it out, a little girl said where is the new tooth? I said remember it takes a while for the new tooth to grow in, her reply was I don't like waiting.
As I reflected about this tooth, it reminded me so much of sin and change in our lives. We want to get rid of sin and be a better wife, friend, parent, sibling, but are scared it might hurt and quite frankly hold onto it because it's all we have known. Change is scary and we know that we need to let it go but fear and unknown start to creep in.
After we final decide we must change, we like this little girl expect the new growth (aka new tooth) to be right there. But we know we must wait, read HIS word, reflect on His word, train our heart in HIS word and do doers of the word not hearers only. So as I am at times discouraged myself, I am then encouraged because like the tooth, it takes time and many times, I look back over the time I waited for the new tooth to occur, The Lord has grown, molded and shaped me in ways that I never thought possible.

Surgery

2011-04-06T06:19:00.000-07:00

We met with the surgeon yesterday and he thinks the mass aka bone needs to be removed. It is not HUGE but since it was gone before it is still growing. He will do a biopsy. At this point, we are assuming that this is still from the fracture in the jaw from 3 years ago. After the surgery, we will have all the answers. The best thing is that we can wait until school is out. YEAH.. Not sure Trey was thrilled with that but that was an answer to prayer. Yesterday, just to be funny Trey said can I get another scooter. UGH not soooo funny.Thanks for your prayers.

this is also my child....

2011-04-04T06:19:00.000-07:00

Trey had his first tennis match on Friday and as I came back from devotions I saw this note on my desk, it says I left my tennis clothes in the car, can you get them. I did get his clothes then about an hour later I got a text that said, did you get my tennis racket too? What child forgets his racket and clothes on their first junior high tennis match. My ADD child I guess. I had to laugh... or else I would be crazy.

This is MY child

2011-04-01T07:57:00.001-07:00

As you can see Travis was asked to get his baseball clothes out, school clothes out and clothes for a sleep over. He folded them all neat and nice and put them in piles and next to it was his stuff for school this morning. Yes this is my child. Nice Neat and Organized. Trey for sure takes after Robert. Ha

Never get used to this

2011-04-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Trey had a CT scan of his jaw to determine exactly what this mass is on his jaw. We have been assuming that it was a bone spur but after several years we are beginning to think otherwise. Pray as we wait on results.

Happy Birthday to my Mom

2011-03-31T07:51:00.000-07:00

My mother's students had a party for her on her birthday. How Sweet. She would have loved it....

Awards Chapel

2011-03-31T07:50:00.000-07:00

Very proud of Travis, dyslexia and all he made all A's and B's and All E's in citizenship. Way to go Travis!

Blue or Black

2011-03-28T12:05:00.000-07:00

Wish night is on May 14th and it is a black tie event. Last year I searched everywhere for a dress and finally found one but spent way to much since it was so close to the event. This year I am on top of it. I found two dresses and think I have settled on the blue one. Your thoughts?

Race for wishes

2011-03-28T12:03:00.001-07:00

It's a MIRACLE

2011-03-28T12:01:00.003-07:00

Last night as we were getting ready for the week, things at the shoemake house were messy. Projects started, treatment going, laundry to be folded, things to be picked up... I put it all back together without the boys help and Trey said as I was tucking him in, wow you did a miracle here. At least he recognized it.

March 22

2011-03-22T07:43:00.000-07:00

Today is my mom's birthday, she would have been 70. I've had several people say how are you doing? That's a hard question to answer. For sure more good days than bad but still when it's bad it's bad and I never know when it's going to hit me. The Lord has a way of bring peace and comfort to me in those hard days and moments but it's still super hard. There still are moments I want to call her or think she'll be calling any moment. I can't bring myself to delete her texts to me yet. It still makes me sad when my kids are sad as well. Continue to pray for more good days than bad and for happy thoughts to fill my mind.
Happy Birthday MOM...

New Mexico again...

2011-03-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

We are in the mountains again, Thanksgiving, Christmas, February and now spring break. Travis has skied 18 days so far this season and we still have a few more days. The 5th graders ski free program, he put it to the test. Trey's arthritis keeps him from going as much but they both seem to enjoy the slopes. Yesterday we took a break in the morning and went to the ojo spa and resort. It was quite a treat as we soaked our bones in the mineral spa waters. It didn't heal Trey but we still had a laugh at the spa. Travis and Robert are enjoying lots of night skiing as well and today I might venture out and go tubing. Hope you are enjoying your spring break as well. More soon and pictures I promise.

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-10T12:49:00.000-08:00

Of course tomorrow is the last day before spring break and St. Patrick's day is during spring break so we are going to celebrate tomorrow in kindergarten. No telling what that man in the elevator will think tomorrow as I am wearing shamrock socks on Friday March 12 NOT st Patrick's day. Oh boy... praying I don't see him or anyone else for that matter. HA

Oh that explains alot!!

2011-03-04T08:40:00.000-08:00

We park in a public parking garage and we see the same people in the elevators daily. Today as I was wearing this shirt a man we see often and he says to me, Oh you teach kindergarten, that explains a lot... Not sure what he meant by that and I didn't ask to find out. I figure some things are better left unsaid.

Belt

2011-02-28T08:48:00.001-08:00

These girls said that I looked SKINNY with my belt on.. I am going to wear a belt everyday... Love it.

WOW date night

2011-02-27T06:28:00.000-08:00

Last night our church did a WOW date night. Get a sitter, go out to eat and talk... they provided the questions. Robert and I went to Houston's, YUM one of my favorite places, waited an hour to eat, but well worth the wait. We talked on the way to dinner about things that WOW us while we were dating, then at dinner things that WOW us now, things that WOW us that others don't know and things that WOW us that we do as parents. We laughed, shared and expressed our feelings. And to top it off I had key lime pie MY FAVORITE ever. (Robert doesn't like so I got the whole piece). A great date night without kids and a time to reflect on our relationship WOW. on a scale of 1-10 wow it was a 10 WOW....how's that for a date night.

Kindergarten birthday

2011-02-22T12:05:00.000-08:00

Wow what a day. Kindergarten was full of fun and birthday wishes. Flowers, cards, gifts and cake plus little ones more excited it was my birthday than me. I loved it.....

Dreading my Birthday

2011-02-20T10:29:00.000-08:00

I know most people would say really it's just another year but this year is different. This is going to be my first birthday without my mom. From as early as I can remember, my mother has always made my birthday very special. When I was younger I always got to choose what we had for dinner and then what kind of cake you wanted as well, usually from stein's bakery. As I got older, my mom always was the first to call me on my birthday and always had special treats usually flowers or something fun for spring to wear or just treats for the day. Many times over the years I often thought I'm too old for this but I have to say I really enjoyed the love from my mom. She as I've said before loved to share joy and birthdays were no exception. So the next time someone has a birthday in our family, I think I'll continue with my mother's joy and ask them what they want for dinner and what kind of cake they want.

WE did it

2011-02-19T05:25:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Trey and I mixed up the medication only took 25 minutes and a lot of reading directions but we did it. Trey said they probably write the directions for people that aren't very smart... hum what do you think he meant by that? Anyways... we got the medication mixed and the shot given.

OH Brother

2011-02-17T07:13:00.000-08:00

Trey's embrel has been burning when we inject so the doctor wants us to try the embrel that you have to mix on your own. Sounds like no big deal... I am stressed to the max on this. Look at this instruction sheet. It has instructions front and back. I am doing this tomorrow so please pray as I read and follow all these directions. When I asked the pharmacy how to mix he said, I'm not sure, they should have instructions. UGH. surely with a master's degree I can figure this out. Oh Brother.

Their first Valentine

2011-02-14T10:53:00.000-08:00

I know that for most of you valentine's day is a day of love and romance.... however, with 3 boys in the house that is not usually the case.. BUT this year both boys have girls that they are sweet on and wanted to get them a valentine surprise. Mommy's heart was sad but love the fact that they both are so sweet and sensitive. Had to laugh outloud when robert was talking to them this morning about how to deliver the items. PRECIOUS.... Will let you know how it turned out.

Valentine Surprise....

2011-02-14T10:52:00.000-08:00

Robert outdid himself and got me this gorgeous ring for valentines day.... WOW how lucky am I?

Things that make me HAPPY

2011-02-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

I bought this bulb for my mom for christmas, but of course she never got it. I thought about throwing it away but decided to see if it would grow. Every day since Christmas, I've seen it grow and then the other day this is what I saw.... amazing. and it make me happy to think of my mom.

As most of you know, my mother was a HUGE Flordia gator fan and this weekend I found a charm at the brighton store of a gator. This makes me happy....

Happy Birthday TRAVIS

2011-02-13T06:18:00.001-08:00

I can't believe you are 11. I remember the day you were born so vividly. Your daddy had been our of town for a long trip and just returned home only to have to take me to the hospital. Your actual due date was April 4th. You came into this world small and couldn't breathe but within hours your TRUE personality came through. Pulling out tubes and wires and being annoyed at anyone who touched you. I would come to visit you in NICU and the nurse would say we JUST got him settled. Now 11 years later you are still the same. As soon, as we get you settled, we leave you alone. :).... You have endured many many hospital visits, doctor visits (I know where we spend most of our time) pokes, IV's, bloodwork, MRIs CTscans, Bone scans.... you are quite the DR when it comes to all the information you know. You are very brave and amaze me on so many levels. NO 11 year old should be required to have this life, however, GOD made you very special and you embrace that. Your love of the LORD and your ability to recognize HIS faithfulness in all situations is amazing. You daily make us laugh with your constant announcing. Even announcing about brushing your teeth can make us all chuckle. We all know ONE day this will pay off. Your sparkling personality and grateful, sensitive heart teaches us all a thing or two about love. You always have a hug or a kiss for me and a snuggle too, this makes me happier than you know. You and your brother are the bestest friends anyone could ever ask for, fighting and all you two have a special bond that NO ONE can ever divide, Remember that as you grow old, brothers are always there for you. Your curly hair that everyone loves especially 80 year old women and that shy personality when they touch it. Most of all we are so proud of you for loving the LORD wanting to serve him and love that each day you try to have a golden heart. We don't always see it but you are always quick to say I'm sorry and for that we appreciate you. Happy Birthday Travis...... We love you dearly....

Houston

2011-02-10T12:17:00.000-08:00

Trey and I went to Houston on Tuesday for our appointment with the arthritis doctor. He had a good checkup and she thought the embrel was helping with his flexibility. Not what Trey wanted to hear but at least we have the right drug cocktail. She also said he could double his sleep medication and at this point sleep is very very important for his arthritis. He loved that and said maybe he should not go to school but sleep. NOT....

I survived 100 days of kindergarten....

2011-02-07T12:32:00.000-08:00

This was my normal picture before the craziness of the day started.....

I mean who can really take me seriously as I had on these glasses all day....

AT least my kids thought I looked normal....

Race for Wishes

2011-02-06T07:15:00.000-08:00

This picture was from 2 years ago at race for wishes but taking a break from the superbowl and the weather to give a plug for Race for Wishes. The event is coming soon and TEAM TRAVIS is going to be out in full force. For the last two years, team Travis has raised enough money to grant a wish for make a wish. Start planning to attend and make a wish come true for a child. Last year we actually knew the child who received the wish, our neighbor. Look for more details to follow.

SNow Days

2011-02-05T06:40:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken out our front window. I woke up around 4 am and the white snow was so bright. What an amazing picture of what the LORD does with our sins. Washes it white like snow. It was beautiful and amazing how bright it was at 4 am

Valentine Fun

2011-02-05T06:32:00.000-08:00

With the boys away and extra time on my hands, I decided to get crafty. Something fun to do without boys around to say why are you making those or when are you going to make us lunch. I got all my stuff out and am happy to say it is still sitting out on the table for more work today.

A 3rd SNOW day

2011-02-03T09:46:00.000-08:00

UGH, one day was fun two was extra fun but now this is awful... 3 days in an all boy household... get me back to kindergarten. Yesterday Robert had to work on our electric gate for over an hour to get it unfrozen, and he finally had to remove the chain and pull the gate open. After he got the gate open we had to get sand and salt to see if the car could make it uphill backwards to the ice filled alley. Can you tell that I don't like the ice. The boys are leaving tonight to head to the mountains to ski. An all boy ski trip sounds like heaven. NOT.... after being home with all boys for 3 days I am ready for some girl time. I will be thrilled to NOT watch ESPN anymore. Travis said "mommy who will you watch the superbowl with?" my response of "I don't know if I will watch it.." was not a good response, I could see the disappointment in his face. I might rent lots of girl movies and eat fruit salad and soup and finger sandwiches and enjoy my no boy household.

SNOW DAY

2011-02-01T07:43:00.000-08:00

Snow day snow day good ole fashion snow days.... The boys are thrilled. Of course, as a teacher mom I am thrilled for Trey as he doesn't feel great but at least he's not missing anymore school which means no additional makeup work today. Hope you enjoy your day home as well.

UGH

2011-01-31T12:43:00.000-08:00

Trey has been sick since last Sunday and is NOT getting any better. We have had 3 trips to the doctor and a trip to the ER and no one can seem to find the issue. They all keep telling me it is viral and probably the FLU... Well not sure what strain of the flu this might be but if it is... it is a long flu that is making me crazy and making Trey feel horrible. he has fever, headache and generally just feels horrible. Not to mention the fact that he is missing so much school and the makeup work... holy kamole..... pray for this viral infection to go away!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good Days and Bad Days

2011-01-26T11:41:00.000-08:00

Everyone keeps saying that there are good days and bad days in the grieving process. I am waiting and clinging to the Lord's promises for the Good days to come. It just seems to be one bad day after another. It still seems so unreal to me that mom is gone. I try to be strong, I try to smile, I try to laugh, try to enjoy life and I feel like I am in slow motion as the world is spinning around me. Please pray for good days to come, for tears to slow down and for the empty feeling to be filled with JOY.

NOT what I want to see in the afternoon...

2011-01-24T11:31:00.000-08:00

I took off on Friday to finish the last minute details for my mother's memorial service and Trey and Travis went to school. I laid out their ADD medication and after they went off to school, I found this lying on the table. Bet Friday was a GREAT day for Trey's teachers. Oh WEll...

Emotionally and physically drained....

2011-01-23T16:35:00.000-08:00

WOW.... the memorial is over and I am drained beyond belief. The memorial was perfect and a great tribute to my mother. It was so nice to hear all the wonderful things about my mother. I knew her as a mother but to hear about her as a teacher was an awesome thing. The music was great and the message was wonderful. Many life lessons to learn. I learned many things from my mother but the greatest lesson from her was to enjoy life to the fullest. At 60 picking herself back up after a divorce, she never complained. She could have looked back but instead only looked forward and with a grateful heart. She never worried about money, health or sweated the small stuff. She was full of joy and it showed. My life will never be the same without her but my memories I have with my mother and my boys are precious and nothing can erase those memories. I know the road ahead will be hard but I also know who will be guiding me along this rocky path. He will never leave me or forsake and I am clinging to this promise. Please continue to pray for my family as we continue to process this loss and the pain and sadness we feel. Thank you so much for helping to honor my mother and loving our family along the way.