Rodriguez Family

Maybe Next Month....

2010-06-03T20:19:00.000-05:00

I thought maybe I would get to update this blog and get back to it regularly, but it doesn't look like it is going to happen this month. BUT...I have completed most of my New Year's Resolutions from this list.

1. I have gone to the theaters 3 TIMES!!! We watched a Veggie Tales movie, Back-up Plan, and How to Train A Dragon!

2. I have done a lot, but still need to repaint the living room....any volunteers???

3. I was running more and going to the gym, but haven't since mid-May.

4. This month will be tough. Please pray for me.

5. Vegas next month or August!!!! Just the two of us-NO KIDS!!!

6. Not yet!

7. YES!!

8. Can't ever do it enough....

9. Still a work in progress!

10. Something for me...one of these years! Wait, Bible Study counts, right??

See you soon!

Happy New Year—2010!

2010-01-02T18:36:00.001-06:00

MY PERSONAL NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS!!

1. I resolve to go watch at least 1 movie at the theatre this year, even it means leaving the kids in the car alone!!

2. I resolve to finish all current projects before starting a new one!

3. I resolve to exercise more…even if it means I have to get up @ 5am to jog around the block!

4. I resolve to play more trains with Logan, do more hair and nails with Ariel, and read more teen magazines with Alexia, even when I have a big school project due!

5. I resolve to get out of town by plane with the hubs, even if it means leaving the kids home alone with a box of cereal!

6. I resolve to call my Grandma and talk to her for one full hour or even two just to make her smile!

7. I resolve to spend more time with friends even if it means traveling out of town to see them.

8. I resolve to tell my husband how much I love him and appreciate him and show him more respect on a daily basis.

9. I resolve to slow down, listen, and soak in every word my kids and husband are saying to me.

10.I resolve to do a little something for me every now and then!

May your New Year be blessed!

Gift Ideas for School

2009-12-07T09:22:00.001-06:00

Every year after Christmas, I try to find teacher gifts for the next year. Last year I purchased several of the snowman magnets and a couple of the picture frame ornaments for about 50 cents or less. My girls want to give gifts to everyone they come into contact with at school. I thought ornaments on clearance was a good solution along with some homemade treats.

Yesterday Alexia and I spent our entire day decorating 27 bags for her basketball team. We made a template of a paw print out of freezer paper and then spread Mod Podge and glitter over some of the bags.

We used fabric for the zebra bags and Mod Podged it on as well.

The polka dots are from scrapbook paper. We filled the bags with fruit, whales, and a water bottle. We made a label for the water bottles that said ‘Sink the Pirates’. I found the template online for free here. I thought bags like these could also be used to decorate and hand out at school.

I also included a candy cane in the bags with the following poem. Some of the girls may not know the true meaning of Christmas. What a way to sneak in some Jesus!!

Candy Cane poem

A significant symbol of Christmas
Is the Simple Candy Cane.
It's shape is the crook of the Shepherd
One of the first who came.
The lively peppermint flavor is
The regal gift of spice.
The White is Jesus' purity.
The Red is sacrifice.
The narrow stripes are friendship.
And the nearness of his love.
Eternal, Sweet Compassion
A gift from God above.
The Candy Cane reminds us all
of how much God cared.
And like His Christmas gift to use
It's meant to be broken and shared.

Last year Ariel handed out little baggies filled with marshmallows and hot chocolate mix with the following poem attached. Everyone loved it.

Magic Powder and Snowman Seeds

Winter is here. Outside it is cold. To keep warm inside read below.

Directions: Place magic powder in a mug. Add hot water and stir. Drop in snowman seeds, Enjoy!

Ingredients: enough powder and seed for one cozy treat.

Love, Ariel

I hope you can use some of these ideas for your kids at school or church.

Christmas Present Idea under $3.00

2009-12-05T23:37:00.001-06:00

I purchased these tote bags for less than $2.50 each at Wal-Mart. I wanted to make totes for my nieces to take to church.

I am totally loving all things monogrammed lately.

I printed out a letter /E/ and letter /S/ in font size 600.

I used interfacing for the first bag I made. Lay your letter backwards onto your fabric. Cut it out and then sew it onto your bag….if you want to do it the hard way like I did.

I got smart on the second bag and pulled out the BIG GUNS! This isn’t just HeatnBond. This is UltraHold!

Iron onto your letter and then iron onto the bag. Seriously, took me less than one minute.

Now I have one gift bag for Samantha and one for Emmaly.

I bought little magnet dress up dolls to put in the bags so they can play with them during big church. Coloring books and crayons would work well also. You can even give them as gifts empty.

You could easily do this project for less than $10.00 for both bags even if you had to purchase the HeatnBond. They are versatile also. I really should make one for my son.

***By the way….I am loving Windows Live Writer. If you haven’t checked it out you should. When I inserted my pictures they were turned the wrong direction and in the wrong order. With Windows Live, I was able to move pictures around, add more, and rotate without deleting the original pictures and starting over. I am having a hard time figuring out the font thing, but I will get it figured out and let you know what I think.

I think I am done with my shopping. One trip on a Saturday, with busy crowds, is enough to call it good!!

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas…

2009-12-02T09:50:00.001-06:00

View Full Album

I wanted to put up our Christmas Tree in ~~July~~ the week before Thanksgiving, but the Hubs wasn’t feeling it so we waited until Sunday afternoon. I still have totes spread throughout the living room trying to find a place for everything. I didn’t realize I have quite a snowman collection. I love it!!

I’ve been busy with school, Thanksgiving, Alexia’s 14th birthday, and my growing list of projects around the house, and that thing they call BLACK FRIDAY!! Since we stayed here for Thanksgiving and my sister and her family came down to celebrate, we decided to be like the other crazy women and leave the house by 4am to snag some deals. I found some great gifts for the girls and also bought my first pieces of St. Nicholas Village Collection. I am going back for one more piece to finish off the look.

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. More Christmas pictures to come!

I am posting this in Windows Live Writer! I think I like it!! I need to play with it some more and figure out the picture thing.

No Messes & Uninterrupted Sleep

2009-11-10T12:14:00.003-06:00

I am guilty of complaining about all the messes I have to pick up daily. I often whine about not getting a full eight hours of sleep. The Bubs left on Sunday to spend one full week with Grandma. This is the longest we have been separated. I suffered from separation anxiety when he pulled out of the driveway with Daddy.

There is not anything in the world I would trade for this little guy. Not a spotless house. Not eight hours of uninterrupted sleep. Nothing! I love this little guy. Bubba teeth and all!

Can ya' help a girl out?

2009-11-04T17:57:00.004-06:00

I have been searching high and low for the perfect khaki/beige/tan color. As you can tell I have not found what I am looking for. I have bought a gallons worth of samples and still have not found the perfect color. I have bought 4 colors to go from Sherwin Williams and samples from Benjamin Moore and Ace Hardware! I obviously need your help. This picture is just one side of the livingroom! I have more samples on the other side too. Yikes!
Our walls are painted an off white and stained. We used a paint brush and painted the stain on and then used rags to wipe it off. We are not happy with the color of the ceiling. We want to find a color to paint the ceiling and maybe the entire living room, master bedroom and bathroom.

Do you have a favorite khaki color?

Halloween Costume

2009-11-03T16:45:00.003-06:00

I found this Peter Pan costume idea at Make It and Love It. I made two because the first one was too small. Mine did not turn out nearly as cute as the inspiration costume. I am a lazy sewer. I did not even take time to change out the thread colors.

I bought the leggings at a used children's clothing store for $1.49.

The hat ended up being way too big and he would hardly wear it.

I found a Tinker Bell costume at Target, but my daughter did not want to wear it because it had a picture of Tinker Bell on it. She ended up getting strep throat so we ended up not doing any trick or treating anyway. She went back to school today and is feeling much better.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-30T09:07:00.003-05:00

We made some edible eyeballs to get in the mood for Halloween. They are made out of vanilla pudding.
They look like this when done. I had some that were really bulging. I think they suffered from a disease! I found the recipe here. They are really easy.

We also made this huge spider to hang outside by our front door. He keeps falling down, but we love him. You can find the directions here.

Have a safe and Happy Halloween. I'll post my homemade costume tomorrow! Another borrowed idea!!

I made it without my Hubby (almost)

2009-10-27T13:33:00.004-05:00

What do you do with all the leftover fence panels when hubby has just finished building a new fence?
Purchase scrap wood at Home Depot. See the green spray paint? That means these 4 feet 2X4's are 51 cents each. Wink at Sexy Hubby and promise him anything in the world if he will recut all the wood because after I ran them through the table saw each leg was a different height. Oops!

I needed a new entry table and wasn't willing to spend big bucks to get one.

I pulled off all the old pickets and used the 2X4's from Home Depot to make this entry table. I am still playing around with the accessories, but I love it!

Ours measures 4 feet long by 30 inches tall. I had the black paint already. I bought the 2X4's for $2.00 and a box of screws for $5.00. Not bad for a huge entry table that I love. The price makes it even better.

I am linking up to DIY day here. Go check out how creative these women are!

Come see my new table!

Picture Frame

2009-10-18T19:30:00.003-05:00

I took this frame that I bought about three years to make a gift for a friend that was having a baby.

I used a piece of scrapbook paper from this fall stack...

Used Modge Podge to stick it to the frame.....

Now I have a new fall frame to sit in my entertainment center.

Sewing appliques

2009-10-15T10:37:00.003-05:00

My friend Christy had a baby boy in July. They named him Davey. I finally got to meet him last week. I had seen some onesies with appliques sewed on at TreyandLucy.blogspot.com that I was dying to try.

BTW...he fell asleep in less than 30 seconds after his mom put him in his car seat. How sweet is that? I had to take a picture.
I made one applique onesie with a tie and one with a guitar. They didn't turn out as cute as I had visioned. I basically sewed white onto white. Duh! Not the best choice.

Here is big sister Brenna, Christy, and baby Davey.

See how the contrast looks much better. I had the zebra fabric and Ariel had the plain shirt, so I got to work.

I figured out the hard way that it works best if you iron the heat N bond onto the piece of fabric your going to cut, first. You waste a little fabric doing it this way, but it makes it much easier to trace and cut out.

1. Find a pattern you like,

2. trace it onto your heat n bond,

3. cut it out,

4. iron it onto your clothing,

5. sew around the perimeter.

Piece of cake! Enjoy your piece of art!

My 100th post

2009-10-05T09:27:00.004-05:00

It only took my a year and a half, but this is my 100th post. I promise to do better!!

Here are 100 things about me:

1. Bellybuttons and armpits totally gross me out.
2. I am afraid of heights. Don’t do well on Ferris wheels.
3. My favorite book is…to many to list.
4. I love the movie Hitch. Have you seen it? Cracks me up every time!
5. Favorite color is purple, but I don’t like to wear it.
6. I love to read.
7. I hate snakes.
8. I don’t read between the lines. If I have hurt your feelings or said something to offend you, you need to tell me straight up, because I won’t get why you’re trying to avoid me!
9. I love it when the seasons change.
10. I always wanted three kids.
11. I don’t like my feet to be dirty.
12. My parents divorced when I was a little girl.
13. I have lived in Texas, Oklahoma, California, Nevada & Washington.
14. I don’t like change.
15. I usually take the same route everywhere I go.
16. I’ve used the same brand of deodorant for the last15 years. Not same roll, same brand. Dry Idea roll-on. Powder Fresh.
17. I love riding motorcycles and four wheelers.
18. I like to create things, but often have to steal others ideas. Wish I were more original!
19. I was raised by my daddy with my little sister.
20. My sister and I each have one boy and two girls. Her boy is the oldest, mine is the youngest.
21. I love seeing the beauty in all the things created by God. Mountains, flowers, beaches…
22. Baby giggles make my heart happy. Actually any little giggles.
23. Favorite outfit is blue jeans, t-shirt, and tennis shoes.
24. Clothes on the floor drives me berserk.
25. I have a hard time sitting still.
26. I really should join a Dr. Pepper’s Anonymous group.
27. I am going to spoil my grandkids and annoy my son-in-laws…unintentionally and with love, of course.
28. I was baptized at age 25 with my then 7 year old daughter.
29. I love the smell of rain.
30. One day I will play the piano and speak Spanish fluently.
31. I really enjoy baking and think it would be fun to own a bakery.
32. I love to snuggle up with my hubby and watch a movie when it’s getting cold.
33. Starting a fire makes me feel mushy, along with watching the movie The Notebook!
34. I have seen God answer prayers.
35. I am a full time college student.
36. I have been married for 12 years, to the same wonderful man!
37. Clutter makes me feel antsy.
38. I love family pictures.
39. HGTV is my channel to watch along with the other fixer upper shows.
40. I am ready for a new house with a huge craft room.
41. There are not too many movies or books that I will read or watch over and over.
42. I want to live some place that stays between 75-80 degrees year round! With little wind.
43. I plan on running a marathon at some point in my life.
44. A triathlon would be cool to participate in.
45. Never thought I would be a coffee drinker, but now I cannot wait to get up and have a cup or two of coffee.
46. I would like to learn yoga, but I think it would be too mellow for me. I’d probably get bored very quickly. I think that is part of myself diagnosed ADD.
47. Beef enchiladas with red sauce, refried beans, and rice is probably my favorite meal.
48. I love being a mommy and all the things that come with parenting. Hardest job, but most rewarding.
49. I’m really not much of a football fan.
50. I liked school mainly for the sports and friendships.
51. I really was a goof off in school. I would bring things like sulfur to school and leave it some one's locker.
52. I was really tomboyish when I was younger.
53. I am goal orientated.
54. I usually plan, down to the bathroom breaks (not really), and make lists.
55. I really need my full 8 hours of sleep…every night.
56. I like to take trips. Small ones and big ones.
57. I DO NOT like pears or cantaloupe.
58. I really miss being close to family. It makes me really sad.
59. I love pumpkin pie with cool whip!!!
60. I love me some George Strait.
61. I learned to drive a standard before an automatic. I thought it was so cool.
62. I have hundreds of things I want to make.
63. I love working hard.
64. I prefer warmer colors over pastels.
65. I have green eyes. If you dare say they are brown, I will gouge your eyes out with a fork! Just kidding.
66. I’m a jello fanatic.
67. I am incredibly blessed.
68. I listen to K-Love in my car and I love it when the kids say turn it up!!
69. I like to save quotes. I have a little journal that I write them in.
70. I like to take old and/or ugly things and fix them up.
71. I’ve been coloring my hair since I was 25.
72. I think it’s against the law to get up before 6am.
73. I have been hot air ballooning. It is gorgeously fun!
74. I was born in the great state of Texas, as were my three children.
75. I enjoy gardening.
76. I have a really weird sense of humor. I blame that on being raised by my dad.
77. I once flushed a little fish down the toilet because he was stinky.
78. I am pretty simple. Don’t wear much jewelry or nail polish.
79. Pretty content with what I have. I don’t have many wants.
80. I am 5’3”.
81. I miss living in Amarillo.
82. I think marriage and raising kids takes a lot of hard work. Sometimes I get lazy.
83. I am saved by the grace of God.
84. I am struggling with school right now, because I just want to do all the mommy stuff instead of homework or studying.
85. I have a rule that bad and scary dreams aren’t allowed to be told.
86. I’m still not convinced that my 13 year old needs a cell phone.
87. We do not have TIVO. If you feel sorry for me and led to give me one, just email me and I will give you my mailing address.
88. I love watching my kids play sports and cheering them on.
89. I listened to Milli Vanili, Michael Jackson, Vanilla Ice, and MC Hammer back in the day.
90. I am forgiven!
91. Mercy Me’s I Can Only Imagine is one of my favorite songs. I want it played at my funeral.
92. I love praising God in worship.
93. I have been to Canada and Mexico.
94. We went to Six Flags for our honeymoon.
95. I don’t ride roller coasters or anything else that looks scary.
96. I am usually an active listener. I like to hear other’s point of view and then sit back and think about it.
97. I take my showers at night because I think it takes too long to get ready in the morning if I don’t.
98. I have already started buying for Christmas. Have you?
99. I have worked as a babysitter, dishwasher, waitress, cashier, secretary, Land Tech, and Landman.
100. I love my husband!!

Flashback

2009-10-03T16:35:00.003-05:00

It was homecoming week and the middle schoolers participated in dressing up too. They had eighties day and we didn't have anything. So we took this outfit....

And turned it into this. Lots of makeup, big hair, fishnet stockings...Perfecto!

How many of you used to dress like this?

FREE!!!!!! Will & Trust Kit

2009-09-29T10:18:00.003-05:00

Suze Orman is offering her Will & Trust Kit from Hay House for free for one week. Go to suzeorman.com from September 27 to October 3 and click on the Will & Trust link. Then click on the Gift Code Button and enter code 898989.

When you enter your code, you'll receive an activation code that allows you to upgrade to the all new on-line version of her Will & Trust kit for free. I haven't looked at mine yet so I don't know if it is the real thing, but I just get excited when I see the words FREE!!! If you check it out let me know if it is a good deal!

Sewing

2009-09-21T13:18:00.008-05:00

Since I pulled out my sewing machine I have made a few things that I have had on my to do list. I saw this Twirly Jean Skirt on Makeitandloveit that I thought was just adorable. Ariel had a pair of jeans that fit in the waist, but were too short. We cut them off....

Ooopps! I cut them off way too short. My antique sewing machine won't sew through the thick pockets. I was tempted to cut off a pair of her new school jeans, but thought I better not. So now we have a pair of cut off jeans that are really short. Anybody have any ideas on what I can do with these before I throw them away?

Remember my no sew pillowcase curtains. I used the left over material to make a sofa pillow.

I painted a Fleur de lis on the opposite side. That little thingy is really growing on me. They will soon be painted all over my house! I found a picture of a Fleur de lis that I liked on the internet, printed it off and then traced it onto freezer paper. I then cut it out and had a perfect stencil.

Did you notice I now have two panels and even a curtain rod? What do you think of the final product?

Now if I can just get a blind like this one below I think it will look tons better. I am just afraid enough light won't shine through. That window is the only one in the living room. I got an estimate a while back for a custom made shutter for that huge window and the estimate was over $1,000.00. No thank you!

Any window ideas for me? Notice the window above where you can see the dark lines. That is a metal separator on the outside for each window pane. I thought maybe we could get 2X4's and make it look like 4 separate windows from the inside and then hang smaller blinds. They would be cheaper than one great big blind. I am just afraid it would make the window look like it was from the 70's.

Halloween Dress

2009-09-18T19:59:00.003-05:00

I am such a copy cat. I saw this idea here so I had to make my own. It took ten minutes to sew these dish towels into a cute Halloween dress. I made two for my nieces and one for Ariel.

The purple one is for my niece Emmaly. She can wear it with a turtleneck and tights.

Logan felt left out so he had to do a little modeling as well!

This one is Ariel's. The back is striped like the bottom of the dish towel...I mean dress. It will be super cute with a turtleneck underneath.

I sewed the edges with right sides together. At the top I left 6 inches for the arm holes and then sewed a casing 1.5 inches for the ribbon. Leave a total of 7.5 inches at the end when you begin sewing. I suck at tutorials so read the other posting for better instructions. She also made dresses out of bandannas. They are adorable.

Greyson's Gift

2009-09-16T08:50:00.003-05:00

I saw this posted on another blog and thought it was a wonderful idea. I can even get the girls involved in a little sewing lesson. They are in need of 82 more....read below!
Posted by Meryntha
I am looking for your help. Hospitals all across the country are in need of small, very small, baby blankets. In cases of fetal demise, babies are so tiny, even the smallest nursery blanket is much too big to wrap around their tiny bodies. I know how parents feel when they are presented with their tiny baby, for the first and last time. Having to deal with a large blanket that doesn't fit, is a distraction. And, unnecessary. If you can sew or crotchet/knit, would you please help me to supply blankets for these mothers?My doctor informed me that 30% of all pregnancies end in fetal demise!I know we can make a small yet, dramatic difference in the experience these mothers and fathers have in the hospital. It is heartbreaking for the nurses to try and present these tiny babies in the best way possible to grieving parents. They are extremely appreciative of any donations we can give.

For more information, go here http://greysonsgift.blogspot.com/

If you are interested in helping, leave me a comment or email me. Even if you do not sew, there are other ways you can help.

Pillowcase or Curtain?

2009-09-10T08:28:00.003-05:00

I had looked and looked all over the big city for material that I liked that was burgundy or green. I was laying (or is it lying) in bed one night thinking about what I can do for curtains in my living room and it was like an epiphany....these $3.99 TJ Maxx pillowcases solved all my problems!
I could hardly sleep. I got up the next morning washed the drool off these things, ripped the seams, heat and bonded the edges (thank you Thrify Decor Chick)and waaaaalaaaaa.....

I finally have ONE curtain panel that I love. I still need to finish the other one and buy a curtain rod or do you think those tacks are working up there?

Now if I can just get rid of that ugly blind I'll be in heaven! Not bad for less than $6 bucks!

Blowout, E.R., Motorcycle Wreck

2009-09-08T09:13:00.004-05:00

We experienced all of these things over Labor Day weekend. We took the kids out of school early on Thursday like really bad parents! We headed out of town and had a blowout on our camper! This was the first sign we should have stayed home. Luckily we were still in town and just drove it the tire shop and had it replaced.

Friday Logan's head met a golf club. We had to take him to the E.R. He didn't need stitches. The doctor pinched the skin back together and used superglue like stuff. I pulled myself together long enough to snap you this picture. See how I love you!! This is just to warn you that if you decide to start gushing blood around me, I start acting like a crazy woman and you'll need somebody else around to save you!

Logan was fine by the time we even got to the hospital. The worst part at the hospital was when they took x-rays of his head. Afterward he got gum and a Popsicle, walked out of the E.R. and was running around the hospital playing with his cousins. This picture is on the way back to his grandparents. We got back to the camper, changed our bloody clothes and went to the football game.

Saturday Jose and I got to visit with old classmates and enjoy Rhett Akins at a street dance in our hometown.

On our way home we were exiting off the freeway onto the access road when a motorcyclist got in a hurry and tried to pass us on the curve. He hit gravel, wiped out, and slid across the street. He was darn lucky that we didn't run him over. He apologized to hubby for being stupid. Hubby said he agreed with him and told him if he does something like that again he might get himself killed. This is the second time we have witnessed a motorcycle accident right in front of us. Hubby says we need to post a sign on the truck that says "Motorcyclist are prone to crashing around this truck."

We had a good weekend overall, but a little too much drama for me. I was ready to be at home and try to figure out how to keep Logan in a protective bubble!

Home Decor or Dust Collector?

2009-08-18T18:07:00.002-05:00

I have seen little moss ball decorations all over blogland and it gave me an idea for these stars I bought at a garage sale for 50 cents each.

I started out using a gluegun to attach the moss (purchased at Dollar Tree for one whopping dollar) but it wasn't working effectively so I decided to use spray adhesive instead. I sprayed each star and then started laying the moss on the star. I bought two clay pots at Wal-Mart for about $3.00 and used a piece of foam to secure the stem into the pot. I painted each pot white. Once the paint was dry, I used a papertowel to paint the pot with wood stain. I then took a clean papertowel and wiped the stain off. I didn't want the pots stark white because we don't really have anything white in our livingroom. You can't really tell that well in the poor pictures. Do you like the way they turned out?

My entire star collection on the mantel. I bought the middle star on clearance in Ruidoso.

I hate our fireplace brick, layout and the mantel cove. I was thinking about painting it white, but hubby wants to stain it darker to match our entertainment center. What do you think?

I even thought some beadboard would look good up there painted white. I would have taken a picture of the entire fireplace, but then I would have had to clean off all the junk and that would have taken too long!

So are these crafty decorations or just new and improved dust collectors?

The mantel is still missing something. What is it? Help?!

All A Girl Wants is Diamonds

2009-08-13T07:34:00.012-05:00

Preferably a Princess Cut diamond, but since I ain't gettin' one of those (hint, hint), I settled for Harlequin Diamonds.

Wednesday I finally finished little Mermaid's room. I first started this at the beginning of the summer, but the instructions I found online the first time did not measure out the way I wanted them. I found that out the hard way after marking off the entire wall in pencil.

I sulked, cried, and pouted.

I got over it and began erasing all of my first set of lines and started over.

I luuuuvvvvvvvveeeee the finished product!

It helps if you have one or more of these hanging around. Free labor. Is that legal?

He is pretty good at measuring and making sure the lines are straight and level.

I once saw him holding the level with his feet.

They were dirty.

He left footprints on the pink wall.

My first set of diamonds. I was so proud!

I told hubby that when we get ready to move, this room will sell our house! That's how proud I am!!

This room should make all mommy's want a little girl!! I'll do my best at giving step by step instructions on how to create your own Harlequin wall. I read somewhere that it will make a small room seem bigger. I've seen them entries, bathrooms, and kitchens.

While I was working on this I had an idea for a headboard. Just use molding to frame out a headboard and then do the diamond pattern within the molding. It would be super cute!!

Have I mentioned that I'm lovin' me some diamonds right now! Even if it isn't sitting on my finger (hint, hint)!!

You will need:

pencil

erasers

painter's tape

level

tape measure

base coat

paint for diamond color

I had a Black & Decker Sight Line Laser Level and it was a big help for the vertical lines. I couldn't ever get it right for the horizontal lines, but with a level it works out ok.

1. Take vertical and horizontal measurements of wall where you want your diamonds. This website is a good place to start to get an idea of how many rows of diamonds you will need. At the bottom of this website there is a calculator that can help you get an idea of the measurements for your diamonds. The rule of thumb is that the height of the diamond should be twice the width.

**DO NOT follow the directions from this website entirely because that is how I first made my mistake and had to start over from the beginning.
2. Make a vertical line down the center of your wall. This step will keep you from ending up with the last row being really narrow. Once you have done this step, I would measure each half to recheck and figure out how wide the diamonds should be and then start marking off the rest of your vertical lines. The level comes in handy when marking off all of the lines. I ran into some problems with the walls not being straight and had to adjust my dimensions a little. I read that the width can be adjusted a little, but never the height.

3. Decide how many rows of diamonds you will need and mark off your horizontal lines with pencil. Make your initial mark and then use the level to finish the rest of the line.
4. By the end of the third step you should have a bunch of rectangles. Marking everything off is the hardest part!! Now you should go back and pencil off the center of the top, bottom, and both sides. This is where the sight line laser level came in handy. I would find the center of one diamond and then get the laser on that mark and then go down the entire row and mark off the center of each diamond.

5. After marking off the center of each diamond, use your level to basically connect the dots. I marked everything off in pencil and then went back and used my painters tape. Keep in mind that all of your pencil marks will need to erased. If you are using a dark paint within the diamond you won't need to erase the pencil marks because the paint will cover it. Where all of my pink paint is, I still need to go back and erase all of my pencil marks. I also read that the kneaded eraser works better, but I had a hard time trying to get all the pencil marks off with it too. It will be a tedious job, but well worth it.
6. I used my painters tape to outline every other diamond because I didn't do a very good job of not covering up the diamond beside the one I was taping off.

7. After you have your diamonds taped off you are ready to paint.

8. Fill in your diamonds and then remove the tape. Once your painted diamonds dry, you can begin taping off the rest of your diamonds. I finished painting mine in one day.

For the black paint I used one part paint and two parts glaze. I didn't want the diamonds to be solid or really dark. I'm still not sure if the glaze was necessary because I ended up sponging the paint on anyway. I really luuuuvvvveeeeeeeeeee the finished product. Just in case you were wondering.

Let me know if you have any questions. I'm sure the instructions are as clear as mud!

Johnny Carino's Homemade Bowtie Festival

2009-08-12T07:20:00.005-05:00

This was a really easy recipe and very delicious.

I was so proud of myself.

Back in the day when I worked and had money to eat out this was my favorite dish and I always ordered it from Johnny Carino's.

I didn't have a red onion so I used a white onion.

I also didn't have asiago cheese and it still turned out great.

I used cooked bacon out of a bag. The stuff that is made for salads and it was still good.

Ariel picked out the chicken.

Logan gagged.

Had hubby been here he would have added crushed peppers.

Haven't gotten a report from Alexia. She ate later after practice.

But it doesn't matter what they all think. I'm telling you it was GOOD!!!

I luuuuuuuvvvvvvved it!!!

Now go make you a batch and tell me what you think!

JOHNNY CARINO'S BOWTIE FESTIVAL

FOR THE BOWTIE FESTIVAL:
1 oz. Melted butter
1 tsp. Chopped fresh garlic
1/8 cup Diced red onion
1/8 cup Diced cooked bacon
1/4 cup Diced Roma tomatoes
3 oz. Sliced cooked chicken
1 oz. Heavy (whipping) cream
3 oz. Alfredo sauce (recipe follows)
1/8 cup Asiago cheese
1/2 tsp. Salt, pepper, and garlic salt
10 oz. Precooked bowtie pasta

ALFREDO SAUCE
1 quart Heavy whipping cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp. Black pepper
1/4 cup Whole milk

Preparation
In a heated saute pan combine butter, garlic, onions, bacon, tomatoes, chicken, and spice mixture.

When onions begin to turn translucent, add heavy cream and Asiago cheese.

Once cheese and cream have reduced by half, add Alfredo sauce and bowtie pasta. Toss until well combined and remove from fire. Allow to cool for a few minutes so the cheese and sauce thicken.

Saute heavy cream, milk, and black pepper to a consistent boil. Remove cream mixture from heat and fold in parmesan cheese. Store completed sauce in refrigerator until use.

Yea Me!!

2009-08-11T13:37:00.002-05:00

Right now I am totally into monogrammed decorations. I love them. I saw this idea on Southern Hospitality's blog and had to make one of my own.

I had to buy a piece of wood from Hobby Lobby. It was less than $1.50.

I already had this letter R that I purchased at a garage sale 2 years ago for .15 cents. They had it stained. I spray painted both black. I distressed the R because I really like that look right now too.

I purchased a piece of scrapbook paper in black and white because I am really into those colors right now also. I used spray adhesive to adhere it to the wood and hot glued my letter R onto the paper.

Warning: Don't spray the adhesive onto your arm. If you have hairy arms like me, it will make your arm hairs wig out! Trust me!!

I really like how it turned out. I want to buy a little stand to put it on so I can add it to my collection on the entertainment center.

I have found a ton of other craft ideas from some thrifty crafters that I can't wait to get my hands on. I want to do a big letter R for my front door, but I can't remember which blog I found the great idea. I plan to make some shutters for the front windows of our house and I have another project that I am working on that will be pink, black and a diamond pattern. Can't wait to share it with you! If I pull it off, I will have earned myself a big delicious cake to eat all by myself!

Today was my lucky day

2009-08-01T21:17:00.006-05:00

Today I felt lucky! I could feel it in my bones (that's what the girls always tell me). I knew I would find the piece I only dreamt about. Today, I found it here.
This bargain makes for one happy two year old and one happy Momma! After I saw this idea here, we went shopping and it was fate. It was meant to be. Guess how much? They retail online anywhere from $80.00 to $250.00. $25.00--that's it!!! I was going to spray paint it to clean it up, but I think we might leave it as is. We wiped it down with Clorox wipes and Thomas was ready to go.

Have I mentioned that Logan is obsessed with Thomas the Train? Every week we pick up the same books from the library and we each read him the same books over and over.

Guess which sound he prefers on his sound machine. Yes. The train tracks.

I know what Santa will be bringing him for Christmas because we only have two Thomas toys and at the moment we can't find either of them. Uh oh! If we left them at your house there is one little boy that really needs his Thomas toys!

Motivate Me Monday

2009-07-26T19:56:00.009-05:00

I copied this from another blog about motivating fellow bloggers with their household chores, exercise, or personal life. And I loved the idea. Of course I copied it because it would strain my brain to come up with something original!

This week's topic is LAUNDRY!! I know we all have dirty laundry and I know we all hate it. Do I hear an AMEN?

I have learned the hard way about managing my home and family. I did not have a mom, grandma or an aunt to tell me the secrets to an orderly household.

This week's tip comes from FlyLady.net. She recommends staying on top of Mount Washmore daily. Some people prefer to have one day devoted to washing, drying, folding, and hanging up all the laundry. I prefer to do laundry daily.

Otherwise I would get eaten up by the Laundry Monster! You never know what you'll find if you have piles and piles of laundry lying around.

The Laundry Monster really exists. I have proof!

(Click the picture to get the full effect!)

(The inspiration for this post!)

Logan has been warned that playing in his sister's dirty clothes could have deadly consequences!

Laundry Tips

1. Wash. Dry. Fold/Hang up. Put away. Set your timer if you need to be reminded to put the laundry in the dryer and then set it again to remind you to hang up your laundry (straight out of the dryer) or fold. Don't leave it stacked on top of your dryer. Take your clean clothes to the rooms where they belong.

2. Get your laundry room organized. I have four tall bins in my laundry room so everyone can sort their clothes by color. I can tell if I have enough for a load with a quick glance of the bin.

3. Lastly, declutter! Get rid of all the holey socks and clothes that aren't worth wearing or washing!

Happy Washing! If you have a great laundry tip, leave me a comment. I'm always looking for ways to improve!

I'm still acookin'

2009-07-25T21:10:00.003-05:00

I have been trying new recipes, but tonight I fell in love with this Fettuccini Alfredo and I thought I better share it with you. It was quick and simple and totally delicious. We had a late lunch so I didn't add any vegetables or chicken. The only thing I did differently was add a whole clove of garlic to the cream mixture.

However the girls did not fall head over hills as I expected. ..

Ungrateful little animals.....

I think I'll serve it for breakfast in the morning!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU....

2009-07-13T13:39:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to yooooouuuuuuuu

Happy Birthday to yoooouuuuuuuuuuuuu

Happy Biiiiirrrrtttttthhhhhday

Dear Carlyyyyyyy

Happy Birthday to you!!

Hope you are having a blessed day and I pray that you have an even better year!!!!

Sure do miss you!!

Just another poop story....

2009-07-10T21:30:00.007-05:00

The other day we pulled up the public library and I told the girls they had two minutes to return books and pick out new ones because Momma was "pooped". You know the "pooped" where you are exhausted and need to take a breather.

My sweet and innocent Mr. Logan, sitting in the backseat, safely buckled in, absorbing every word said, as sweet and kind as he possibly can say "You pooped Ma?" I answered Logan "Yes Logan. Mommy's pooped."

Ariel and Alexia are giggling as they grab their books and head into the library.

At this point Logan is really concerned about Mommy being pooped. After I unbuckled him and was carrying him into the library he was straining to look over my shoulder, down at my britches, again so concerned for Mommy, asking "You pooped Ma?" At this point we are close to heading into the library and I am trying to explain to him-no Mommy's not pooped.

Stop it.

Leave me alone.

Quit looking at my booty!

Logan loves his Mommy!

When we got into the library I put Logan down so he can look at books. I walked over to the magazine section. I had my nose in Back Yard Living when Logan walked behind me, smelled my booty, and asked ever so sweetly "You pooped Ma?"

The library was filled with people in line ready to check out and I am positive they heard every word!

I nonchalantly shooed him away and pretended I didn't know whose kid he was!

What I have been doing....

2009-07-03T11:19:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I made this and it was surprisingly easy. It tastes great and is probably much healthier than what we are used to buying at the store. I think this weekend since we will have company, I am going to use the left overs to make this.

The other night for supper I tried this and again it was really easy and pretty good. I would definitely add some chicken or I thought even some type of sausage would be good, but Jose thought it would be good with shrimp.

Today I am making this to satisfy my handsome Mexican's preference for hot stuff.

There are many recipes I want to try from these websites. I don't know if they sound good because they take pictures and I can see what it looks like, but I have been having fun picking out new recipes!

Have a Happy and Safe 4th of July!!

I'm Addicted

2009-06-30T23:28:00.002-05:00

I have spent most of today and yesterday checking out blogs that are full of new, different, exciting, easy, quick and fast recipes when I actually should have been doing this.

I am hooked. I think I can plan meals for the next month. I found this website that helps busy Moms create a menu for the week starting on Monday. I haven't checked out the entire blog to see what she has to offer, but I think it is a great idea.

I also found this blog that offers tons of recipes with step by step instructions...even includes pictures!! There are so many recipes that I want to try. She has a recipe for homemade blueberry syrup and an upside down blueberry pancake that I bet the kids will love.

And my favorite is this blog that is nothing but crockpot recipes. She has recipes from cobblers, macaroni and cheese, and yes even homemade--in the crockpot--yogurt. I am going to have to try this one just to say I made yogurt!!!

I just wanted to share my new excitement with somebody. Jose wasn't too thrilled when I called him at work to share my joy and excitement over recipes! You would think he would be just as excited as I am about not eating the same thing over and over!!

Happy cooking to you. Let me know if you find one that is to die for!!

Ruidoso, New Mexico

2009-06-11T22:03:00.007-05:00

This post was started last week....just now getting around to finishing it!!!

This past weekend my sweet, sweet husband pulled our camper to Ruidoso for a weekend full of camping. Friday night was family night for the camp that Alexia is at. This is her second week there. She did not know we were coming because Jose wanted to surprise her. She has been there as a missionary in training. We kind of got a kick out of hearing her tell us that she has had to wash dishes and scrub toilets!! I loved it!! She knew she was serving the Lord so that made me proud!

We camped at this great little RV park called Little Creek RV. Logan and Ariel are sitting at the entrance that has a cute little pond and gazebo.

Jose cookin' us up some hobo dinners. We love these things and save them only for camping. We are not allowed to have them for dinner when we are home! He also cooked sausage and scrambled eggs for breakfast the next morning. Jose makes the best scrambled eggs ever.

Deer grazing in the field behind our campsite. Logan repeated and repeated "More deer Momma"! He loved to just stare at them. We threw carrots at them, but I never saw them eat them.

Ariel blowin' out that flamin' marshmallow gettin' ready to make her a smore!

This was the first time we ever went to the horse races in Ruidoso. Jose and I loved it. We thought we could go back and enjoy it again, but without little distractions!! Actually, Ariel and Logan loved it too. We stayed for a couple of hours. Again, Logan was repeating "More horsies Momma"!

Over the weekend, Jose and I celebrated 12 years of perfect, wedded bliss. Ha! I thought you might get a kick out of seeing some OLD pictures. Did you recognize Alexia? She was 1 1/2 yrs old when we married.

Prom 1994. Our first date. Check out the hair on Jose! he he

Just a picture while we were dating. We often have to take our own photos. I looked and looked and I couldn't find a current one of us together. Isn't that sad ;(

12 THINGS I LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE FUTURE WITH JOSE:

1. I can't wait to be Mimi and Pops. I think Grand kids will be a blast!! I don't want them too early though. If you know what I mean :)

2. When we retire we want to travel in one of these. Jose jokes that when we have one of these the horn will sound like the La Cuchara (?) song so the grand kids will know it is us when we pull up to pick them up.

3. I look forward to seeing and doing what the Lord has planned for us individually and as a couple.

4. Growing old together, sitting in our rockers, drinking some Maxwell House coffee!

5. Learning more about each other.

6. Seeing our beautiful children grow up and start families of their own.

7. Making each other laugh and laugh.

8. Being there for each other when needed.

9. Visiting other parts of the world.

10. More date nights.

11. Cuddling!!!

12. And you know what else **SMILE**!!!! he he

I love you Jose! It gets better and better every year. Thank you for loving me even with all of my faults and imperfections. I look forward to many more years of marriage with you.

My favorite Play Dough Recipe

2009-05-22T14:02:00.003-05:00

This is by far the best recipe for Play Dough that I have found. It stays moist for a very long time and it smells great, plus it makes a ton.

2 C. flour
1 C. salt
2 Tbl spoons cream of tartar
2 packages of Kool-Aid--same flavor
2 C. water (easier to mix kool aid, baby oil and water together then pour in flour mixture)
2 Tbl spoons baby oil

Mix all ingredients together. Microwave for 4-5 minutes, stirring every 30-45 seconds. Continue until ball forms.

Your kids will love it and you might too!!

Here's your sign....

2009-05-18T11:31:00.001-05:00

You don't have to tell me twice....I'll come back later!

Thought you might need a laugh today!

South Plains College Graduation

2009-05-16T18:30:00.008-05:00

It only took ten plus years, but I finally graduated Friday, May 15, 2009 at 10:00 am with an Associate of Arts in Teaching. I wasn't too crazy about walking, but I thought it would be great for the kids to be there and be a part of the graduation. In the end, Ariel was the only one to attend because Alexia had earned a trip to Joyland with the school. I told her my feelings would not be hurt if she did not attend my graduation.

Posing with my sister Terra before graduation. My sister drove down from Booker Thursday, but had to return back to her family early Friday. We had a great evening watching Grey's finale on Thursday night and got up early to visit and drink a pot of coffee together Friday morning. We do not get to spend enough time together.

Posing after graduation...

After graduation with hubby Jose and Ariel....

Yeah Me!!

I'll transfer in the fall to Texas Tech (most likely) and graduate again in two more years!

Thank you to everyone who has helped out with kids while I attended class, or writing a paper, or doing homework. Jose deserves a big pat on the back for taking care of the kids when I had a ton of homework to do. I love you and you're the best husband in the world!!!

Logan's 2 year checkup

2009-05-11T20:16:00.002-05:00

Logan is growing all up. Turned two years old March 27, 2009 and grew a mustache! I guess I cut off the top of his head or you could have seen his Alfalfa do (from Little Rascals).

We went to the doctor a month late on April 30, 2009.

Weight: 25 lbs 8 oz 20 percentile....little guy needs to beef up!
Height: 34" 50 percentile
Head Cir.: 19" 50 percentile

He is soooooo ornery!!

His new favorite words or phrases are:

I'm done.
I want that.
I want more.
Pee Pee
He has been naming things lately, like: bird, tree, rock and he'll say tweet tweet when he sees a bird.

He is doing really well with potty training. He does good at church and with the babysitter. He really enjoys peeing outside and has even learned if he sways his hips he can make the pee fling around! The other night he squatted and left two big surprises on my garage floor. I say that is a good thing since he doesn't want to go in his underwear. He was just too busy playing and didn't have the time to come inside.

He is a wonderful blessing and I thank God for him everyday. He has changed my life.

Crazy Eight

2009-05-02T21:25:00.004-05:00

I was tagged by http://dawnjenkins.@blogspot.com. So...
The rules are:
1. Mention the person that tagged you.
2. Complete the lists of 8's.
3. Tag 8 other bloggers.
4. Tell them that they have been tagged.
8 Things I Look Forward To

1. Being finished with school.
2. Spending time ALONE with Jose--our 12-year anniversary is coming up!
3. Visiting with my sister and her kids this summer.

4. Finishing our fence and other projects around the house.

5. Logan being completely potty-trained and sleeping in his own bed all night!!!
6. Camping this summer at the lake!

7. Memorial weekend in Amarillo.

8. The girls being out of school for summer break.
8 Things I Did Yesterday

1. Studied for final exams that are this coming week. They were moved up 1 week b/c of the swine flu.

2. Cleaned house.

3. Played frisbee with Ariel.
4. Talked to my sister on the phone.
5. Ate Jose's grilled pork chops and veggies.
6. Kept Rayden & Casen for Haylee while she was being spoiled by her hubby.

7. Watched Logan play outside.
8. Prayed for my family.
8 Things I Wish I Could Do

1. Play the piano.

2. Speak Spanish fluently.

3. Keep a spotless house 24/7.

4. Stay fully charged from morning to night.
5. Remember everything I read, word for word.

6. Be more patient.

7. Travel the world.

8. Be Super Mom.
8 Shows I Watch

1. Grey's Anatomy

2. NCIS

3. Private Practice

4. Brothers and Sisters

5. Lost
6. Desperate Housewives

7. Rachel Ray

8. Bones

8 Bloggers That I Tagged..

Everyone I know has already been tagged....so now you are double tagged!

What do you think this is?

2009-04-27T16:41:00.003-05:00

Jose asked Ariel what she wanted on her hamburger. She replied ketchup, mustard, and three pickles. We thought we would be cute. Notice her pickles? We didn't have sliced pickles so we improvised. They must think we run a McDonald's assembly line! Kids! Don't you love them?!

Couple's Weight Loss Challenge

2009-04-18T15:07:00.005-05:00

Jose and I are competitive by nature and we need an incentive to lose weight! Who would be interested in doing a couple's weight loss competition? We haven't worked out the technicalities yet, but we need to come up with something quick. I know nobody would want to share their current weight so we need to find a place where we could do weigh ins and have them recorded for each person. We were thinking everyone could pitch in some money for a grand prize. The amount depends on how many couples sign up. Jose is even going to throw in a FREE NIGHT'S STAY AT THE DRURY INN.

Let me know ASAP if you are interested in a little competition...say by Monday so we can start doing some weigh ins. Invite as many people as you want so we have a better chance of a fabulous Grand Prize!

It's Official

2009-04-17T15:06:00.002-05:00

You are my accountability partner. It is your official job and responsibility to make me get fit! Jose bought me new shoes so I can start running again. These are Nike Air Alvord VI. They are for trail running. Don't they look fast?! Running is great exercise and can become addictive. I have always wanted to run a marathon and Jose said he would run with me. Jose has been working out for several months now so he is one step ahead of me. That means I have to train extra hard now so I can beat him ;)

I weigh the same weight I did when I went to my six week checkup after having Logan. I am obviously not going to be able to change my eating habits so I have to exercise. I have been eating more salad and vegetables--which I love! Eating vegetables makes me feel better overall and they're delicious with ranch! I have also been trying to cut out as much sugar as possible. I bought a DIET Dr. Pepper today--regular Dr. Pepper is my weakness! I just can't lose any weight without exercising so I am going to start TODAY! I just have too many bad eating habits.

You are more than welcome to run with me...or I mean walk! I might need somebody to call the paramedics for me!

Well, I better get trail hunting!

More supermodeling

2009-04-06T18:41:00.003-05:00

Alexia and I went out today after Jose got home and played with the camera. We took some great shots!

My absolute favorite! I told her this is her supermodel pose....

By and old door...

Against a dirty old wall....

My other favorite...

We had some not favorites too. I tried to get her to do the real supermodel poses, but they just looked goofy! We will have to practice some more later! Just wanted to share.

Happy Birthday Logan

2009-03-30T19:46:00.006-05:00

Logan turned two years old on March 27, 2009. We celebrated by leaving the house at 6:30 am for High Plains Surgery. He started running a fever again that Wednesday when he was still on antibiotic. I got him into the ear specialist early on Wednesday. He said Logan needed tubes in his ears because neither ear was healthy and he could do it on Friday. I was apprehensive at first because of how quick the doctor wanted to do it and plus it was his birthday, but Jose and thought we should do it so he will start feeling better.
In the waiting room.....waiting...

His pretty nurse once we got called back to the other waiting room! They gave Logan a little bit of medicine to make him relaxed. Jose was laughing at him because he was acting pretty loopy!

After the surgery. He did pretty good afterwards. He wanted his Daddy. Jose walked around with him and he was pretty content. Since the surgery Logan has been sleeping much better. He has been going to bed at 8:30 and waking up to get in bed with us in the middle of the night and then he goes right back to sleep and I have to wake him up in the mornings to take the girls to school. He used to be up between 6-7 am. It seems like he is talking more too.

Saturday we celebrated his birthday with a small party. Logan picked out this monkey pinata. Isn't he cute! Logan getting ready to beat the monkey until he spits out the candy...

Rayden chopped off the monkey's legs. It was funny watching the kids. They had a blast.

We are ready for ice cream cake. See the cute monkeys. Thank you Haylee http://hayleepotter.blogspot.com/! You are turning into quite the cake lady.

Logan just wanted to dig in!

Logan got a t-ball set from the Potter's. He loves it. He refuses to hit the ball until you count 1, 2, 3...and then he will hit the ball and ask if we want more!

We got Logan's new bedroom furniture http://www.ashleyfurniture.com/ in on his birthday too. Check out this link and you can see his bedroom suite pop up. I can't wait to get his bedroom fixed up for a big boy! We are doing Texas Longhorn theme...requested by his Dad!
Logan's new words are pop-corn, gum, yum, and I'm done. He still loves to play outside and loves, loves his sisters. He wants Ariel continuously....he is asking for her all the time. He has been riding her around on the back of his tricycle. He loves it when Ariel takes a bath with him. He loves to blow kisses. We are working on getting him potty trained. He had his first poopy in the potty Thursday night! He does pretty good if we take him. He doesn't tell us yet that he needs to go.

BOYS WILL BE BOYS!!!!

2009-03-06T09:35:00.006-06:00

Logan is finally feeling better. Through all of this sickness he has morphed into a "real" boy. You know the kind that you pray your son never becomes or the kind your pray your daughters never marry. The kind that flicks boogers, farts and then blames it on his bootie, burps, throws food, and spits in your face! Somewhere in between all the antibiotics, injections, Tylenol and Motrin, Mommas little boy has developed every bad habit you can think of. How did I get so lucky? He practically has new living quarters in a cold metal chair now known as "The Hot Seat"! This is the same little boy who can't fall asleep without cuddling with his Mom and gets his feelings hurt if I roll over and turn my back to him in the middle of the night. The same little bundle of sweetness that says "Bless you Mom" every time I sneeze. Now, how does a mother with two daughters seek revenge on her little bundle of sweetness when he has turned into an ornery stinker?

Isn't she...I mean HE beautiful?!

Jose said these pictures were not allowed on the blog....

Both the girls wore this cute little summer dress. I think it was a garage sale find.

This will be used many years to come. I'm almost certain!!

Cloudcroft, New Mexico

2009-02-24T09:49:00.005-06:00

Two weekends in a row we enjoyed time away in New Mexico mountains. Valentine's weekend Jose and I went to Ruidoso with some friends from church...without the kids. Can you believe it? We need to do that more often. Jose's mom came down and watched the kids for us. This past weekend we went to Cloudcroft, New Mexico with Jose's Mom, and two brothers and their families. We were hoping to take the kids tubing, but there wasn't much snow in Cloudcroft. We instead drove to Alamogordo to enjoy the White Sands.
Jose and his mom....you can see the white sands for miles....

Our family on top of the hill we were sledding down......That's Logan and me sledding down the hill...he still isn't sure about it...

It took Logan a little time to warm up to the idea of this cold white sand, but eventually he started playing in it and eating it! After playing all morning and having a blast, later that evening Logan started throwing up and running a fever...again! Please pray for this little guy. He has had a rough February. He is still running fever so please pray that he gets better soon.

Jose with his Mom and brother Sergio...this was their first time to the white sands. They really enjoyed it. If you have never been it is a really neat place. You can see white sand for miles. It looks just like snow.

Alexia jumping off the hill...

Just a silly picture I took of us....just wanted to get my face on the blog for once! he he

Here comes Ariel....

The real reason I wanted to go to Cloudcroft....blackberry pie...it is awesome with a scoop of ice cream! The small Mountaintop Mercantile makes fresh pies and donuts everyday!

Jose chose caramel apple pecan...doesn't it look delicious! It is their best seller.

Isn't it great that God gave us wonderful mountains, wildlife, white sand, and fruit to enjoy everyday if we choose. Be thankful for the little things God has blessed us with to enjoy!

Brownie Points for Me....

2009-02-11T16:22:00.007-06:00

Call me Super Mom!!!

I made chocolate covered strawberries for Alexia to take to church tonight for the youth.... to set the mood for Valentine's Day!! HE HE

God is Love. 1 John 4:16

May you have a wonderful Valentine's weekend. I hope you get the opportunity to show God's love in a special way!

"For God so loVed the world,
That He GAve
His onLy
BegottEn
SoN
That whosoever
Believeth In Him
Should Not perish,
But have Everlasting life."
John 3:16
(The letters are supposed to all line up to spell "valentine" but they aren't staying that way when I publish post. Sorry!)

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY FROM THE RODRIGUEZ FAMILY!!!!

About me...

2009-02-09T13:16:00.003-06:00

Thank you all for the birthday wishes by phone, text, and blog. Sorry I haven't responded or called you back. I promise I'm really not that stuck up! Logan has been sick with RSV, FLU, Pink eye in both eyes and just found out today that he tested positive for strep on Thursday, but they failed to tell us that...so he could have been feeling much better had he gotten on an antibiotic on Thursday instead of yesterday. He had been running a high fever, but overall he still had been a pretty good trooper. I got to hold him, rock him, and love on him a little more than usual. Which I completely enjoyed every minute! So he is on his way to feeling better and let's just pray that nobody else gets sick because I don't want to leave a sick kid so I can go to Ruidoso this weekend....that would just make me feel like a horrible Mom, but I'll do it...lol. Not really but just please pray for healthy babies.

I thought I would share a little about me...how much do you really know about me?

1. Favorite music-Heavy Metal. Mega Death, AC DC, Pantera, Five Finger Death Punch.

2. I have 4 tattoos- one that I can't show you.

3. In high school I got a DUI my sophomore year.

4. Skipped school a lot in high school.

5. I never wanted kids.

6. I have assault and battery charges.

7. I take Anger Management classes on a regular basis.

HA! None of that is true...I just thought it would sound more exciting because I'm really a boring person!

OK...for real now...

1. I love to read.

2. I have lived in Oklahoma, Texas, California, Washington, and Nevada.

3. I have butchered, plucked and gutted hundreds of turkeys. (Not by myself though)

4. I love being a wife and a mother.

5. I love learning.

6. I loved basketball in high school.

7. I love traveling.

8. I am conservative. I prefer to drive a modest car, live in a modest home, and save money to travel. Material things only last for so long, but you will always remember experiences!

9. I have a younger sister who also has two daughters and one son.

10. I love Jesus! My aunt started taking me to church in Washington when I was in the 5th grade and I thought it was so weird that she always dressed up to go to church! Isn't that funny!

11. When I lived in Washington most of our weekends were spent cutting and loading firewood or #3.

12. When I was in high school I wanted 3 kids. I always wanted a boy and finally got one by surprise.

13. I would go to a foreign country in a heartbeat if I felt led by Jesus to be a missionary.

14. I'm a do it yourselfer. I like the idea of fixing up something old.

15. I hate hand washing vehicles...don't know why, but I just do!

16. I love camping.

17. I prefer the mountains instead of the beach.

18. Jose and I started dating my sophomore year in high school.

You don't know how hard it was to come up with the first list. Hope you got a good laugh.

Have a great day!

Ariel's Birthday pictures...

2009-02-08T22:17:00.003-06:00

I'm behind on posting pictures from Ariel's party. She invited every girl from her class and then some others from another class. We had way too many little girls in the home!!! Her birthday is January 25th and she had her party on the 16th.

She wanted a High School Musical cake for her 8th birthday....

We had cake, ice cream, scavenger hunt, movies and nail polish....these are Bub's sweet little feet. Somebody left the pink polish out and he got a hold of it. He was so proud of his paint job...

Oh...we also had brown cows...just plain rootbeer floats!

Ariel didn't ask for much from us. I think she told my sister she wanted a dog and a chinchilla (sp?). We really didn't know what to get her, but I think she told every girl in her class that she wanted fake nails. She got like 5 boxes of fake nails. Now guess who is picking up all those nails off the floor?

There's my sweet Ariel.....

She keeps things light around here. She is such a blessing. She is so loving. I love how easy going she is. She loves to help with Logan and will do just about anything for anybody. She has such a sweet spirit. She has a laugh that you can hear clear across town! She is so funny and so smart. I love her to pieces. Happy Birthday Ariel Faith! I love you more than the moon, the stars and the sun!

God's Princess

2009-01-12T17:05:00.007-06:00

Alexia in my wedding gown from the 1900's....
With her husband. He's a midget, but a fine young man...

If she grows a few more inches, it will fit perfectly....

I have been attempting to clean out my closet since Christmas break. I have never had my wedding gown preserved. We pulled it out and had a little fun! Alexia kept telling me how skinny I was...that made it even better! I told Jose we need to spend the couple hundred to have it cleaned, pressed, and boxed up so maybe when one of the girls marry they can use it and it will save us some big money!

As most young girls do, Alexia sometimes struggles with thoughts of thinking she isn't pretty enough, the boys don't like her, she isn't the most popular, etc. It is so hard as a mother to handle this tough subject. We all think our children are the most beautiful, but kids can be so mean. She has had boys and girls tease her and say some really ugly things to her. I pray about this subject a lot, almost nightly, and ask God to really just bless her with great friends and confidence.

Driving back alone from Amarillo in October, God really just gave me this great way to explain or talk about body images with Alexia.

I've told her to imagine being held in the hands of God formless. No shape, a blank canvas. I told her to imagine God creating her. Carefully choosing each body part. God has held each one of us. He sat there studying this blank canvas and picked out the perfect hair color. He chose the dark brown hair with highlights of blond peaking through, just for Alexia. Then, he chose the shape of her eyes. Bright and open with long eyelashes. This isn't something God just threw together. We are His masterpiece. He thought about it some more. Looked back at the eyes and chose the perfect shade of brown. Then God proceeded to choose the perfect shape for her nose. He then moved to her lips choosing the perfect shape and the perfect shade of red He gave her beautiful hands with long slender fingers. Her feet are His masterpiece too. He then decided he wanted a cute little freckle placed right below her left eye.

We are all God's masterpiece. Who are we to say God made a mistake in how we look? Is He not the GREAT I AM, the KING OF KINGS, THE ALPHA AND OMEGA, the CREATOR OF THE UNIVERSE? I believe He is and He loves us just the way we are. After all, He is the one who created us!

Psalms 139:13-16 reads:

13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.

When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,

16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.

God created you to be the person you are. He loves you infinitely and sees you as His beautiful Princess!

Boyfriends and Girlfriends

2009-01-12T16:06:00.005-06:00

Hmmm...interesting topic huh!

Well, today I went inside to pick Ariel up from school and a little boy walked up to me and asked if I was Ariel's Mom. Naturally, I said "Yes."

Just a little background information for those of you who have not had the privilege of meeting little Miss Ariel. She is in second grade and will turn 8 years old on the 25th. She is naturally a likable person, unlike me! She doesn't have to work so hard at being likable. Very easy going, likes everyone in her class. I haven't met a person who doesn't just love Ariel. Or at least they haven't told me otherwise! he he Ariel is the family comedian. The best part about her is that she can take a joke too. I just love that about her. She makes it really fun. She is a really great big sister to Logan. She helps him with whatever he needs and she puts up with so much from people. She comprises very easily. She is very lovable and affectionate. She works hard in school and does really well with her school work. Anyway...on with the whole point of this post.

The little boy, Jonathan continues to tell me that he asked out Ariel. He asked me if she could be his girlfriend. I am caught off guard here, but I did ask him if Ariel asked him a question and he said no. I am still drilling it in their sweet heads, but both girls know when they are allowed to date that the young boy they are interested in has to love God. So I asked him "Do you love God?" He said "uh yes." I asked him if he went to church. At this point I had to run off and chase Logan, so I didn't get the answer to that question.

For now, I think I dodged this one by telling him he has to call the house and talk to her Dad. he he My sister said I was wrong that I should have just told him that she isn't allowed to have a boyfriend. I'll just pray that he doesn't call! he he

Whoa! Talk about not being ready for that one!! You have to give the boy credit for talking to me. I love it! The best part is, I think his Mom was sitting on the bench listening to the whole conversation. She didn't say anything, but I hope a seed was planted if they are not believers.

You may not agree with us, but the rule in our house is when we believe the girls are mature enough, and Logan of course, they will be allowed to date. Not when they turn 16 or 17, but when we know that they are mature enough to know what is right and wrong, listen to their instincts and definitely able to say "NO!" The second part to this rule is that the young man has to come to the house and talk to us about the plans for going on a date. For example, when he would like to pick her up, where they are going, and when he will bring her home. I am not crazy about the whole midnight curfew, do what you want until then. I pray that setting these guidelines will somehow impact the girls and Logan of course in a tremendous way. And Logan will have to do the exact thing that we ask of boys desiring to date his older sisters. He will go the young ladies home and speak with her parents. If they are not home when they say they will be....well we'll deal with that subject when we get to it.

I grew up in a very strict environment and was not able to date (with permission) until I was a sophomore in high school. I just want there to be ground rules and for the kids to understand what dating is about. Not to just have a boyfriend to have a boyfriend. Anyway, what are your rules or what will your rules be and do you agree with our rules or disagree?

Christmas Pictures

2008-12-29T10:35:00.005-06:00

Just wanted to share some Christmas Pictures. Poor Logan got all beat up on Christmas day. First, he flipped head first over the front of his little push bike. He hit his forehead, nose and lip. He had a bloody nose and a bloody lip. Poor Bubs! Then later he was waiting outside for Grandma and Grandpa to show up and he fell off the bench outside and scrapped his eye! He is all boy!

Ariel showing off new PJ bottoms.

Logan opening a present. He wasn't into it too much. Santa brought him a tricycle and that is all he wanted. He didn't care about anything else.

Opening family games on Christmas Eve. A new Wii game and the game Pit. The girls love both of them.

Logan snuggling with big sis during movie night.

For Christmas Eve we read the Christmas story, opened a present and watched a movie. Before the girls could open presents Christmas morning we had a little trivia game. They had to answer the question correctly before they could open each present. They really enjoyed the game. It was my way of making sure they know why we celebrate Christmas and to remind them that it is not about the presents.

Jose's family decided to come down for Christmas dinner at the last minute. We had a full house Christmas evening. They spent the night and ate breakfast the next morning and headed back home. It was a fast, but nice visit.

We have been enjoying our Christmas break. We made lots of reindeer poop, little pretzels with Rollo's, banana bread and pumpkin rolls. I tried to make two batches of Beth Moore's Toffee, but neither one came out right. Then I tried to make Jose some pralines and I'll never do that again. Those things turned out hard as rocks! Jose is off until next week so we've been hanging around like bums. At least I have anyway! I have even been sleeping in!!! We have been working on putting a 500 piece Polar Bear puzzle together. Surprisingly Logan has not messed it up. We have been enjoying ourselves. I hope you have had a blessed Christmas holiday and have enjoyed celebrating Jesus!

God Bless You!

I have lots more pictures of random things to post later!

The most

2008-12-15T08:49:00.003-06:00

Beautiful....

Kindest....

Smartest....

Precious... Talented....

Sweetest.....

Perfect....

Loving....

..........Kids in the world!!!!!!!!!

The proof is in the pictures!!!!

Have You Prayed For....

2008-12-06T09:00:00.004-06:00

Your new President?

For the team he is putting together to work with him?

For your spouse?

His job and the people he works with?

For your children?

For their future spouses?

For your future Grandchildren?

For your family?

For your pastor?

For your church?

For your friends?

For lost?

Have you prayed that God would use you in a miraculous way--beyond what you have ever imagined? I get excited just thinking about it!!!!!

Prayer is the most precious gift you can give of your time!

I hope you're enjoying this time of year and getting in the CHRISTmas spirit. This is my favorite holiday. I love giving! If I had the resources I would give, give, and give some more. But what I know I can afford to give is of my time. Take time to pray for all the people mentioned above. Love you and may you be blessed this holiday season!

OH! MY! GOSH!!!!

2008-11-30T16:23:00.003-06:00

Can you hear the fear in that title? It can't be true! I'm not old enough to have a TEENAGER!!!!!! Alexia Dawn, born November 27, 1995 at 9:12a.m., turned the BIG 13 on Thanksgiving Day!!

She had slumber party on November 21st. Jose and I made up a scavenger hunt for them to do around the country club in the freezing cold. They had a blast! She said it was the funnest birthday ever.

We bought her a camera for her birthday. I just uploaded 180 pictures. She's been taking pictures of everything! I thought she would be so thrilled about getting a camera, but she opened it and said "Oh a camera!" How disappointing is that? She told me later that she just KNEW that she was getting a cell phone for her birthday. Poor deprived child, huh!?

Alexia and her friends heading out for the scavenger hunt!

The monkey cake that Haylee made for us. Alexia loves monkeys. I found this tin at Hobby Lobby. I think she was most excited about the cake than anything else.

Alexia has been working really hard to earn money for church camp this summer. She has even picked up dog poop at Grandma's house. Her uncle paid her $20.00 to pick it all up and she didn't complain once! What a good sport!

She is competing in UIL on Tuesday. She is giving a speech on the potential dangers of children using the internet and having a MySpace account. Say a little prayer for her when you think about her!

Hope you all had a blessed Thankgiving with friends, family, and great FOOD!!

I know I'm really behind

2008-11-12T11:25:00.003-06:00

I should have some free time for myself since Alexia finished cross country and Ariel has finished soccer. It would seem that the taxi driver would get to relax a little, but that hasn't happened. Yet! I'm still hopeful!

This semester has been extremely time consuming with too many group projects, too much studying, and way too much homework! I'm taking a long weekend to myself starting tomorrow. I leave right after picking up the kids from school for my Walk to Emmaus. Satan's panties are in a wad. He has been working overtime on me these last couple of weeks. Please pray for me to go on this walk with an open heart and an open mind. Please pray for me to get the exact message that God wants me to hear over the course of this weekend. Pray for my family to survive without me and that Logan will be able to sleep without his Mommy. He is such a cuddler!

Here is a picture of Ariel's soccer team after their last game they lost a couple of weeks ago. It was so sad. They lost to a kick off and most all the girls started crying because they wanted to continue playing. It was so sweet and brought tears to my eyes. Who would have known they would start crying? This was Ariel's first year to play and she really enjoyed herself. She even scored a couple of goals and always hustled.

Logan chasing after his happy sister. Look at that beautiful smile!

My camera is acting up so I didn't get pictures of the finished products or pictures in costumes. Here a couple of pictures of Logan and Ariel painting their pumpkins for Halloween. If we take Logan's shirt off Ariel thinks she needs hers off too! This is a bunny in the making.

Baby Smurf in the making. Alexia and Ariel don't even know who the Smurf's are! Isn't that sad? What are we going to do about this generation!!

Crooked Tigger! Sorry, but I want you to see that I at least had costumes for the kids and I don't have time to delete this picture and redo it. If there is an easier way to fix, please let me know!

Have a blessed weekend and remember me in your prayers!

God Bless You!

I forgot to mention that I gave Alexia her first driving lesson the other day--in my car! I'm a brave woman! But it was actually hilarious. I thought I was going to wet my pants! She was so excited when I asked her if she wanted to drive. She got in the car and was ready to take off. I told her she had to put her seat belt on first. Then she was ready to put it into drive. I told she had to first press the brake and then she could put it into gear. Well, she accidentally floored the gas. It really scared her and she started freaking out when she realized that if it had been in drive we would have crashed right into the metal fence in front of us. I know you had to be there, but it was so stinkin funny. She was ready to get out of the driver's seat. I told her that it was my fault. I kind of just assumed that she knew what she was doing. What was I thinking? Anyway, I did a better job of explaining what everything was and that she just had to gently press the gas and break. She drove down the alley behind our house and even made a little turn that she thought would be too hard. Now I've created a monster. That's all she's been talking about and asking when she can do it again. Anyway, we had a good time!!

We have a new President

2008-11-04T23:26:00.003-06:00

This election is bittersweet. I confess. I cried and knelt down to pray when the television screen flashed in big letters that Obama had won the election. I fear what will become of this country having a President in the white house that does not believe in the Lord God Almighty. Obama mentioned in his speech what kind of progress we can expect in a century from now. I think of my children and my grandchildren and great grandchildren. I pray the United States of America continues to be the same strong nation founded on the principles of our forefathers.

It warms my heart to see that an African America man has been elected. I pray for the United States to unite and look past the color of a person's skin. I know it still exists today. Maybe this election will make a positive impact.

This is probably totally inappropriate, but this sign just cracks Jose up every time he sees it. This is the second sign a friend of ours has put in his yard. The first sign he put up was vandalized. The last word was cut out of the vinyl. He had another sign printed up to stake in his yard and added the word "STILL". He has even had his house egged. Just wanted to share!

Also, did anyone catch the end of Obama's speech where he said "God Bless You" to the audience? He's sending mixed signals here! Continue to pray folks. That's all we can do!

Good night!

I'm A Proud Mamma

2008-10-22T16:38:00.005-05:00

Seems like forever since I've posted. Did you miss me? he he

God is good all the time!! Jesus saved my baby girl! Ariel was baptized October 12, 2008. Looking at these pictures still brings happy tears to my eyes! I had been praying for the day that she would make her public profession and accept Jesus in her heart! I'm a proud mamma ;) There isn't anything more a parent could want than to know their child loves God. I'll continue to pray that she grows up loving God with all of her heart and serving Him in all that she does! He has big plans for this beautiful girl!

I have to share....

2008-10-02T16:42:00.003-05:00

I had to share these photos of Logan. He is obsessed with Jose's Blackberry. He was sitting in Jose's lap when Jose was on the phone. Jose gave the phone to Logan when he was done and this is how he fell asleep.
He will throw the biggest fit if he gets a hold of the phone and we take it away from him. He has an old Blackberry, but it's just not the same as Daddy's.
Here's another one where he is playing with these ear muffs. He likes them too.

My baby is 18 months....

2008-09-28T17:43:00.004-05:00

Logan's 18 month birthday was yesterday. I think I was about 5 months pregnant in this picture. It is all "Twinkie"! I'm still trying to lose that extra weight. Well actually I shouldn't say trying because I haven't tried anything but wishful thinking. Wishing I would wake up the next morning and "Poof", I'm ten pounds lighter! ha ha

March 27, 2007. Exactly one week late. I was going to be induced Tuesday morning, but started having contractions Monday night at one of Alexia's basketball games. He was jammed so far in my pelvis that I had to have a c-section. The doctor said there was no way I would have been able to have him naturally. He was delivered at 1:31 in the afternoon.
I took this picture in our front yard in a really big basket. Isn't he adorable?! He was about 5 months old.
This picture was taken in August at a friends house. Isn't he just handsome?! He makes the silliest faces. Makes us laugh constantly and gives the best hugs and kisses. We noticed Friday that he had bitten through his pacifier. He is officially pacifier free!! I cut the tip off with scissors and gave it back to him. He would put it in his mouth and take it and then laugh at it. He thought that was pretty funny. He hasn't been sleeping through the night constantly yet, but I'm hoping since we are done with the binky that maybe he will start doing better. The only way he would sleep last night was laying on my chest. I'm going to miss those days when he is too big and doesn't want me anymore. Makes me sad thinking about it!
I celebrated Logan's 18 month birthday by meeting my sister--KID FREE-- in Amarillo to do some shopping. It was a much needed break and I loved every minute of it! We decided we are going to have to do it again before Christmas. We went to all of the young hip clothing stores and tried on whatever we wanted to. For anyone who knows me-I do not care for shopping, but I think I enjoyed it, without kids in tow!! Jose was a Trophy husband and took Ariel to her soccer game, soccer pictures and watched all three kids yesterday so I could have a day off! Thank you baby!

I am going to schedule Logan's picture this week and try out Portrait Innovations that everyone keeps raving about. I'll post some of those pictures when we get them made.

First Day of School Pictures

2008-09-04T17:54:00.004-05:00

Alexia and Ariel before heading to the first day of school.

Alexia is a big 7th grader and Ariel is a big 2nd grader who thinks she is going on 20!!!!!!
Ariel had to have this shirt when we went school clothes shopping. She said it is her cowboy shirt. She is strange. She is also the one who likes tatoos, gothic colors, bones, and skulls. Please start praying for her now....and a little prayer for her parents too!
This picture is with her teacher. Mrs. Stephenson also attends our church. Ariel was very excited to have her for her teacher.

I know I am a little behind. It is only the second week of school, but I am exhausted already. Between taking Ariel to soccer practice and Alexia to Cross Country, I feel like a chicken with its head cut off. Actually, I can't wait for Logan to play football!!! Then, maybe I'll be the crazy chicken lady!!

We are going to my inlaws for the weekend to enjoy a small town Fiesta Night! Have a great weekend. Maybe I'll post pictures when we get back into town.

Logan

2008-08-29T13:55:00.003-05:00

Logan swimming this summer in the backyard. He really loved for Alexia to play with him in the water. He didn't like this floaty too much. He preferred that Alexia carrying him around in the water. He loves to help Daddy pick veggies out of our garden. He is a little possessive with his veggies. He liked to carry them around. He wants to keep them all to himself.
Logan got a Fraux Hawk...don't know if that is how you spell it, but he sure is adorable..even with that binky. I know. He is too big for it...but what am I supposed to do? He loves it!
Having a little snack of whipped cream.
Just being plain silly!!
Aaahhhh what a blessing!!!!

A Little Bit of Everything

2008-08-07T15:28:00.002-05:00

Just an update about my dad. My dad needs surgery on his arm after all. His arm hasn't changed at all and it has been over 4 months. The surgery is scheduled next Friday. The Doctor will scrape his bone and either put in a plate or a pin. Please pray for everything to go as planned and that his arm will finally start healing. Please also be in prayer that he will have a smooth recovery. He has still been in pain and it is affecting his sleep because it hurts and he can't get comfortable.

***I'm on the hunt for a new bible. I just want your comments on your favorites. There are so many too choose from. I've heard The Message is really good, but so are so many others. Just send me an email or leave a comment so I can know which one is your favorite. I am really excited. I have been wanting a new one for a while. The one I have now I've had for over 10 years. I have been looking on cbd.com, but there are too many to choose from.

I am so proud of Alexia. She has been running at 7 in the morning and at 6 in the evening since Monday. Yesterday they ran from Brashear Lake to the high school twice. She said she got her first drops of sweat. She was so proud ;) I told her if she keeps up the hard work she will be a great runner and really conditioned. She has asthma so I get worried about her sometimes. She is working hard and not complaining one bit. Please pray for the kids' safety running in the heat and running on the streets.

Thanks for all your prayers.

Yoga

2008-08-04T13:27:00.002-05:00

Monday morning, August 4, 2008, Alexia started two a days for cross country. I had to have her at Brashear Lake at 7am. I’m thinking this is summer vacation. Who does two a days for cross country anyway? I drop her off and I start thinking I can relax in the quiet, read my bible and sip my diet dr. thunder. First, I start a load of laundry. I need to catch up on this dirty monster from being out of town this past weekend. On my way out of the laundry room I notice two yoga DVD’s. One of my sweet angels must have left them in there. Mind you, this was a Christmas present from me to Jose several years ago. He thought this was something he would like to start. Needless to say, they’ve never been watched. I’m thinking I’ve always wanted to try yoga. The kids are sleeping and I don’t want to get out of my normal routine. I’m a creature of habit. I’ll read later. I’ve heard about all the positive results of yoga and this DVD is Yoga-Conditioning for Weight Loss. Plus, I do want to lose 8-10 pounds. This will be a perfect time to start. Okay so I pop in the DVD, plop on the couch with diet dr. thunder in one hand and remote in the other, thinking this will be perfect if I can watch this and lose weight!! Ha ha
This is my warm up method. I have to warm up to the idea of doing these funny poses. Looks easy enough. I think I can inhale and exhale while sitting criss cross applesauce. I'll tell you, it is a lot harder than it looks! I thought I was going to hyperventilate doing the breathing exercises. I justify my panting by saying I’m just a Baby Yogini. I’ll catch on. I can do this! The instructor on the DVD is telling me to become one with mind and body while touching hands to earth. I can’t even touch below my knees. How am I going to touch the earth while keeping my legs straight? It’s impossible. I think they used special effects to make the instructor look like she is touching her forearms flat to the earth while keeping her legs completely straight. You know how good Hollywood is these days?

I moved on to the next segment that looks like something my dog does when he is taking care of business in the backyard. I’m still not feeling one with mind and body. My mind is drifting. I’m thinking maybe if I can get Ariel to push on my lower back my hands can touch the earth and I’ll get Alexia to pull my arms so I can do that walk the hand thing the instructor keeps mentioning. Now if I can just teach Logan to give me sips of my diet dr. thunder, I think I’ll have it made!

Maybe I can try again tomorrow morning after I drop off Alexia.

Nah, I think I’ll be better off reading my bible! I would probably pull a muscle anyway, right?

Weekend Camping

2008-07-24T09:48:00.004-05:00

Jose took off Friday to take us camping at Lake Altus. It was a really long drive to go for the weekend, but it was nice to get away.

Logan is searching for mud holes.
Eating hot dogs and frito pies...and I'm not sure what is going on with Alexia in this one!
Ariel and Hayden relaxing. Alexia is in the hammock in the background.
There is a lot to do at Lake Altus. They have water slides for the kids and a carnival, putt putt golf, fishing, hiking, train ride, and horseback riding. There is a lodge and cabins available for rent. We even enjoyed some paddle boats!

2008-07-24T09:38:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite pictures of my boys! That's Quartz Mountains in the background.
Feet....just in case you couldn't tell!
Logan's little feet. I wanted one of him standing up, but he couldn't resist digging with his toes!
Alonso, Netta, and Jessie chillin in the shade.
The kids' swimming hole!

Camping pictures...

2008-07-24T09:26:00.002-05:00

Look what we found in the sand at Lake Altus! Weird, huh?! he he

Jose proudly displays his crop from his garden. We cooked the zucchini with our hobo dinners on Saturday. They turned out really good with potatoes, carrots, hamburger patty, spices, and lots of butter!
Ariel and her friend, Hayden trying to cool off by watching a movie. Hayden is one of Ariel's friends from Oklahoma Christian Academy from when we briefly lived in Edmond, Oklahoma. They still keep in touch talking on the phone and writing letters. They had a great time catching up! You can see Logan taking a nap in the background.
Jose's little brother Alonso and his girlfriend Netta.
Jose, Alonso and their nephew Adrian slept in a tent so all the girls could have the camper. Wasn't that nice of them?

New living quarters....

2008-07-06T13:11:00.002-05:00

Jose has been keeping his eye out for a great deal on a camper. He found the perfect one for us this weekend. This is the kitchen.

Refrigerator and freezer.
Bathroom sink.
And it even has a shower!
What a beauty!!!!
It is a 19 foot Rockwood. It was built in 1993, but it is in great condition. It has an awning, a great air conditioner, heater, two propane tanks and the best part is that it comes with a shower and toilet!! The girls and I camped in our driveway last night. It is their new clubhouse. They have been playing in it since we bought it. Jose and I are excited to raise our kids at the campgrounds enjoying Mother Nature!!

WE ARE SO EXCITED....

2008-07-06T13:04:00.002-05:00

Alexia has claimed the top bunk. Sorry for the blurry picture.
This is the bunk bed closed.
Living room/bedroom.
Dining room/bedroom.
More dining room.
We are excited to get on the road. The girls now want to sell our house and live permanently in the camper. Can you believe they want to give up there own spacious bedrooms to live in this small of a space permanently. I don't think I could do it?!

Send us all of your favorite camping places. We are excited to explore new and exciting places!

Pictures from this weekend

2008-07-06T12:59:00.002-05:00

The crowd pigging out!
Logan ecstatic because somebody left a coke unattended.
We spend Friday morning scraping the popcorn off our living room ceiling. Lots of work, but it will look so much better when we get everything finished.
Jose was enjoying himself. Can you tell?

4th of July Weekend!!!

2008-07-06T12:52:00.003-05:00

We have had a wonderful, blessed holiday. We celebrated with friends, fireworks, and great food! The girls were busy decorating t-shirts, hats, finger nails, and toe nails. They even made a hat for Logan.

Showing off shirts and hats; beaming with pride!!
I think he likes his hat. What do you think?
Ariel with her friend Kelsey on the trampoline.
And Alexia with her friend Haley.

More modeling

2008-06-27T17:18:00.001-05:00

Supermodels

2008-06-27T17:12:00.001-05:00

Thought these pictures turned out great. They were takin in our backyard. Just wanted to share.

2008-06-27T16:56:00.002-05:00

In order to tour the Capitol and White House you must make a request through your congressman. Although they didn't grant us a tour of the White House, they did give us a personal tour of the Capitol and even flew a flag over the Capitol on our 11th anniversary (even on really short notice). Congressman Neugebauer was gracious enough to take time out of his day to escort us past the long line of tours and even posed for a picture.

Alexia and Ariel gettin' "lucky" in the Nation's Capitol. Supposedly touching this spot brings luck. If I remember right, it is directly in the center of the Capitol building and the exact center of Washington DC. Something like that anyway!
This is the room where President Clinton was impeached. It is the actual room that has been used by Lincoln and the Presidents after him. Although, it has been updated with electricity. Our tour guide said they tried to keep the "somberness" with dim lighting. Back in the day they used candlesticks for lighting at each table.
A picture of the Capitol walking East towards the Capitol on the National Mall.

Vacation pictures

2008-06-26T20:29:00.003-05:00

Here are some more pictures from vacation. My computer has not been working since the lightening storm on Sunday morning. I'm trying to post pictures as quickly as possible. As you can tell from the unsuccessful load (on the side) I haven't had any luck setting up a slide show. If somebody knows how to do it, I need you to teach me. Please!!

White House. We requested a tour of the White House, but we were declined. Do we look like terrorists? Look at those sweet, innocent faces?!!
Ariel was excited to see good ol' Abe.
Isn't this a beautiful view. The first thought that comes to mind every time I see this picture is MLK and his speech. I don't know why; it's not like I was there, but it is a very important piece of history!
I was surprised by how massive this temple is. Looks much smaller on the penny! ha ha

Arlington Cemetery

2008-06-21T09:56:00.000-05:00

Pictures from vacation

2008-06-20T15:20:00.002-05:00

We enjoyed ice cream cones and milkshakes from Carl's. One of the top 10 ice cream places in the US

That is strawberry ice cream...yyyyyuuuuuuuuuummmmmmmmmmmm
Pictures from Todd's ceremony.
Todd and his boss.

Pictures from vacation

2008-06-20T14:56:00.002-05:00

Eating at a Spanish Tapas restuarant in Virginia

Jose eating octopus!! EEEEwwwwhhhhhhhhhhh
The hungry group....

Pictures from vacation

2008-06-20T14:38:00.002-05:00

At my uncle Todd's retirement ceremony. He is the one in uniform...

The name of this restuarant just cracked Jose up. He tried to buy a shirt off the waiter but he wouldn't give it up.
Luray Caverns in Virginia....gettin' some love from one of my angels!!
Alexia, Sabrina, and Ariel..stopped to pose on the way down to Potomac River.
The group at Luray Caverns....we were in desperate need to find something cool to do. The heat, plus humidity about killed us!!
In front: Anna, Sabrina, and Ariel
Middle: Alexia, Jose, and Shannon
Back: Todd and David

Summer Fun

2008-06-03T08:29:00.002-05:00

The sweetest thing since sliced bread!! This little man loves it outside. We sit outside every morning. He plays in the dirt and I sip my diet Dr. Pepper!
Now this is a redneck swimming pool! This is our pond liner that we have been patiently waiting to have installed. We need to have an electrical line ran out to the middle of the yard. I can't wait to have it beautifully landscaped, to see goldfish swimming around and hear the trickling water!
The girls were splashing water at Jack. He is trying to catch it with his mouth. He is a crazy dog!
Family comedian....
Alexia lovin' on Bubs!
Jose is taking Logan to his sister's tonight for his lonely vacation. We fly out tomorrow for DC. Please pray for our safety and that Logan will be safe and content with his grandma, aunt and cousins. Please pray that he will have fun, eat and sleep well and won't cry for us. This is my first time to be away from him, but I think I've talked myself into having a good, rested vacation without him. It will make me a better mom, right?

Ciao!

Update

2008-06-03T08:24:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to let you know that my sister got out of the hospital on Thursday. She has started feeling better and getting back to her normal routine. Thank you for your prayers.

My dad went to the doctor and they gave him some bone stimulator cream to rub on his arm a couple times a day. If that doesn't seem to help in two months he will go in and have bone scraped away to encourage to new growth. Yuck! Please pray that his arm will heal and the bones will fuse together without a pin. The doctor is taking a more conservative approach and will put in a pin as the last option. My dad now has a more positive outlook on the treatment.

Thank you and love you all.

Please be in prayer

2008-05-27T16:17:00.002-05:00

My sister is in the hospital right now with a severe kidney infection. She is in a lot of pain. Please pray that she will be healed and start feeling like herself. She has three kids at home and a husband that needs her!!

Also, my dad's arm doesn't seem to be improving. He was scheduled to go back for a check up next Wednesday, but he called the doctor and insisted that he be seen tomorrow. He wants the doctor to get more agressive with his treatment. He said his arm is just flopping around and doesn't seem to be healing. He is ready for them to put a pin in or something. Please pray that his arm will heal and that he will have confidence in the treatment that the doctors want to do.

Thank you all!!

Barney Fife No Longer....

2008-05-24T12:32:00.005-05:00

We spent the morning out at our friend Casey's place. The girls enjoyed driving the ranger around the pond...Logan laughed, clapped, and said whhhheeeee...
Alexia practiced her driving skills, chauffeuring her little brother and sister around...
Logan riding with Daddy on the four wheeler...
Logan and Casey....
Ariel tried to ride the four wheeler, but we made her get off after she almost decapitated herself....she was driving a wee to fast and her little arms could barely turn the four wheeler...
Okay, I finally shot my pistol...with a little persuading from Jose. The older I get the bigger of a chicken I turn into. He first let me shoot his 22, which I thought was a good little pistol. My aim is off a bit, but I think it was because I was shaking and sweating so much. Guns just really scare me, but I think with a little more practice I can be a "Expert Shooter". Jose earned such a metal in boot camp for his shooting skills! He is such a stud muffin and a great teacher!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU....

2008-05-16T08:22:00.003-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU.....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR....

DAWN!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU.....

HOPE YOU HAVE A FABULOUS DAY!!!

See ya' tonight!

What A Wonderful Mother's Day

2008-05-13T20:21:00.007-05:00

First of all, let me just say that all of pictures are out of order. You can start at the bottom and work your way up if you want!!

I received a wonderful surprise after Sunday School on Mother's Day. Somebody secretly gave me the book Your Girl. It is a book on how to raise daughters to be godly women. I have been wanting to read this book since I heard about it, but had actually kind of forgot about it. Now I can't read it fast enough. It is a great book so far; really funny. Thank you for the wonderful surprise. It always feels good to be thought of. I have to say I was even a little teary eyed. Jose wouldn't tell me who gave it to him, but I think I know who you are! You are a wonderful blessing!! Love ya.

And for those of you with boys. They have Your Boy. The other one really is a great read and I bet this one is just as good. I will have to read it next.
Sunday afternoon Jose and our friend Casey tilled up part of our yard for a garden. Jose and I have wanted a garden for many years now, but something just seems to get in the way. Since they worked so hard in our yard first, Jose grilled steaks and I made baked potatoes and asparagus. We had a great meal. Monday night Jose went to Casey's to help him plant his garden. I tried to help with the rows, but Jose and Casey started getting a little territorial. They shooed us off because we were supposedly packing the dirt!

Ariel is helping Daddy plant some corn. I had to keep reminding him that she wants to help. See what I mean about being territorial?! Jose wants some sweet corn. They also planted tomatoes, squash, zucchini, bell peppers, jalapenos and watermelon. I might be at the Farmer's market selling me some organic veggies!! he he
Oh, and here is the "BIG" Mother's Day gift I received from Jose and the kids. I am proud to say that I am the owner of a shiny black 9mm hand gun. Jose said we need to go shooting so I can practice. I told him the gun wasn't ready yet that I need to dress it up with some bling!! He told me he is going to have to treat me like Barney Fife. I'm only allowed one bullet and I have to carry it in my pocket!! Talk about feelin the love, right?!?!

The girls were out of school on Friday so I took them to the park in Lubbock. They call it the "Castle Park" and they love it. Logan had a great time as well. The weather was perfect. I just followed Logan around and let him do his thing.

Isn't this the cutest picture. I just love it!!!
Logan thinks he is 7 or 8 years old already. This boy has no fear!! Kind of scary from a mother's perspective.
Alexia and Logan coming down the slide!
Saturday evening we went to Lobo Park to feed the ducks. The girls always love throwing bread to the ducks. I think their daddy even had a great time. The weather was beautiful. We didn't get a picture of the ducks, but here is one of us on the hill. Yeah, Logan wasn't very happy!

Anyway, we did a lot this weekend and had a great time. It was a wonderful Mother's Day weekend.

44 Things About Me Too

2008-05-10T19:50:00.005-05:00

1. Do you like blue cheese? no...although it is Jose's favorite. I tell him he's eating rotten cheese
2. Have you ever smoked? Ever? yes, not until I was 22 and then I vomited
3. Do you own a gun? A little bird told me I will tomorrow
4. What flavor Kool Aid was your favorite? tropical punch, baby
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? not too much makes me nervous anymore
6. What do you think of hot dogs? Oscar Mayer...beef only
7. Favorite Christmas movie? It's a Wonderful Life
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? diet dr. pepper every morning. I know I'm awful.
9. Can you do push ups? yes...I probably look funny though
10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? My wedding ring
11. Favorite hobby? Scrapbooking, reading, blogging, walking
12. Do you have A.D.D.? No, but maybe schizophrenia...he he
13. What's one trait you hate about yourself? That I come across so forward and blunt...I just say what I'm thinking w/out thinking about it.
14. Middle Name? Dawn...see how we're all connected? The cool people anyway!! he he
15. Three thoughts I am having? I should be painting, I'm so funny, my stomach hurts
16. Name 3 drinks you regularly consume. Water and diet dr pepper, and occassionally margaritas, but more dr. pepper
17. Current worry. summer classes and kids being home...can I handle it all?
18. Current hate right now? the wind
19. Favorite place to be? outside in the sun with temp between 70 and 80 degrees. My favorite weather.
20. How did you bring in the New Year? With friends in Amarillo
21. Where would you like to go? chill in the mountains
22. Name four people who will complete this? hummmm, Holly it's your turn
23. Do you own slippers? Yes but I don't wear them
24 What shirt are you wearing? funny colored San Antonio shirt
25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? I don't think I ever have!
26. Can you whistle? yes
27. Favorite color? purple
28. Would you be a pirate? Maybe, I'm a wanna be bad girl...but too chicken!
29. What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't sing
30. Favorite girl's name? Ariel & Alexia
31. Favorite boy's name? Alex and Noah, you can tell who is spoiled in the family...Jose
32. What's in your pocket right now? chapstick
33. Last thing that made you laugh? Logan, all the time
34. Best bed sheets as a child? I didn't have a bed...he he...I can't remember
35. Worst injury you've ever had? Maybe when I swang from a rope straight into a tree with my head. Wanna see the scar?
36. Do you love where you live? No complaints. I love our church and friends.
37. How many TVs do you have in your house? 2
38. Who is your loudest friend? hummmm
39. How many dogs do you have? 1
40. Does someone have a crush on you? hopefully my hubby
41. What is your favorite book? too many to choose...What to say when you talk to yourself is a good one
42. What is your favorite candy? maybe a kitkat
43. Favorite Sports Team? Whoever is winning
44. What song do you want played at your funeral? I Can Only Imagine...I want it to be a celebration, not a funeral.

Mother's Day

2008-05-09T11:32:00.002-05:00

3 Pregnancies
27 months of being pregnant
823 days of morning sickness
86 pounds of total weight gained
3 epidurals
2 episiotomies
1 c-section
14+ staples
fatigue
sleepless nights
stretch marks
10 pounds of unwanted weight

Alexia, Ariel & Logan: PRICELESS!!!!!

I couldn't resist!!

I know what you're thinking....

2008-05-08T13:18:00.002-05:00

How can I leave that sweet little face? Isn't he just the cutest? And, can you tell he is just a tad spoiled? He was eating a blue raspberry sucker that Ariel gave him and then he wanted his cheeto puffs. I couldn't resist when he said please in sign language. I've been teaching him some from this book I've been reading, but he mostly will only ask for more and say please in sign language.

He loves cheeto puffs and PIZZA. I think he would almost live on pizza. It's pretty funny. He's talking some more. He says more, mamma and daddy and I think he has been calling the dog, kitty. I think he has a special name for his sisters too. He loves them and his white kitty. He sleeps with it everynight.

We're counting down....

2008-05-06T12:28:00.005-05:00

We leave in 27 days for Washington DC. We are all very excited to take a much needed break. This will be a great educational vacation for the entire family, excluding Logan. Logan gets to stay with his Abuelita and cousin April while we are gone. We will stay with my Uncle Todd that I haven't seen since I was in high school living in Washington State. Todd is my dad's youngest brother. He is retiring from the Army on June 10. We will be there for his ceremony and retirement party. Before Todd moved to DC he was stationed in Italy where he married a beautiful Italian woman, Anna, pronounced Onna. They have a beautiful daughter, Sabrina who is Ariel's age. I think they will have a great time together. I am excited to meet my little italian cousin and aunt. I've already been telling Logan how much I will miss him. I wouldn't mind taking him, but I think it would be too hard hauling him around all of the museums. He needs some bonding time with his grandma anyway, right?

Call Us Brilliant

2008-05-04T20:21:00.004-05:00

Ever wonder what to do with all of those baby hangers you get when you buy clothes from the department stores? Well, do we have a solution for you! My husband is a genius!! He is very proud of his invention. Just had to share with you. Enjoy!!

Works great if you have a pantry. Kind of tidy things up a bit!!

Guitar Hero

2008-05-03T10:54:00.003-05:00

A couple of weeks ago we enjoyed a cookout and fellowship at the Jenkins house. Afterward, there was a little Guitar Hero competition. I think Cody won because he was the only one to do it like a "real" rock star! Pictures below...

Jose, showin' his stuff....
Dawn, showin' up the guys!!
Cody, the real guitar hero......

Mothers and Moms

2008-05-02T15:19:00.002-05:00

Thought this was just too sweet not to share!

This is for the mothers who have sat up
all night with sick toddlers in their arms,
wiping up barf laced with Oscar Mayer
wieners and cherry Kool-Aid saying,
"It's okay honey, Mommy's here."

Who have sat in rocking chairs for hours on end soothing
crying babies who can't be comforted.

This is for all the mothers who show up at
work with spit-up in their hair and milk stains
on their blouses and diapers in their purse.

For all the mothers who run carpools and
make cookies and sew Halloween costumes.
And all the mothers who DON'T.

This is for the mothers who gave birth to
babies they'll never see. And the mothers
who took those babies and gave them homes.

This is for the mothers whose priceless art
collections are hanging on their refrigerator doors.

And for all the mothers who froze their buns on metal
bleachers at football or soccer games instead
of watching from the warmth of their cars.
And that when their kids asked, "Did you see me, Mom?"
they could say, "Of course, I wouldn't
have missed it for the world," and mean it.

This is for all the mothers who yell at their kids
in the grocery store and swat them in despair when
they stomp their feet and scream for ice cream
before dinner. And for all the mothers who
count to ten instead, but realize how child abuse happens.

This is for all the mothers who sat down with
their children and explained all about making
babies. And for all the (grand)mothers who
wanted to, but just couldn't find the words.

This is for all the mothers who go
hungry, so their children can eat.

For all the mothers who read "Goodnight,
Moon" twice a night for a year. And then
read it again, "Just one more time."

This is for all the mothers who taught
their children to tie their shoelaces before
they started school. And for all the mothers
who opted for Velcro instead.

This is for all the mothers who teach their sons
to cook and their daughters to sink a jump shot.

This is for every mother whose head turns
automatically when a little voice calls "Mom?"
in a crowd, even though they know their
own offspring are at home -- or even away
at college -- or have their own families.

This is for all the mothers who sent their kids
to school with stomach aches, assuring them
they'd be just FINE once they got there, only
to get calls from the school nurse an hour later
asking them to please pick them up. Right away.

This is for mothers whose children have gone
astray, who can't find the words to reach them.

For all the mothers who bite their lips until they
bleed when their 14 year olds dye their hair green.

For all the mothers of the victims of
recent school shootings, and the mothers
of those who did the shooting.

For the mothers of the survivors, and the mothers
who sat in front of their TVs in horror, hugging their child
who just came home from school, safely.

This is for all the mothers who taught their
children to be peaceful, and now pray
they come home safely from a war.

What makes a good mother anyway?
Is it patience? Compassion? Broad hips?
The ability to nurse a baby, cook dinner, and
sew a button on a shirt, all at the same time?

Or is it in her heart?
Is it the ache she feels when she
watches her son or daughter disappear
down the street, walking to school alone
for the very first time?

The jolt that takes her from sleep to
dread, from bed to crib at 2 A.M. to put
her hand on the back of a sleeping baby?
The panic, years later, that comes again
at 2 A.M. when she just wants to hear
their key in the door and know they
are safe again in her home?

Or the need to flee from wherever she is
and hug her child when she hears news
of a fire, a car accident, a child dying?

The emotions of motherhood are
universal and so our thoughts are for
young mothers stumbling through diaper
changes and sleep deprivation...
And for mature mothers learning to let go.

For working mothers and stay-at-home mothers.
Single mothers and married mothers.

Mothers with money, mothers without.

This is for you all. For all of us...
Hang in there. In the end we can
only do the best we can. Tell them
every day that we love them. And pray.
And never stop being a mother...

And for all the Aunts who have been
Mothers to kids without their own Mothers!

"Home is what catches you when
you fall - and we all fall."

Children's Hope

2008-04-28T11:57:00.002-05:00

Our Sunday School class is raising money to help Children's Hope here in Levelland. We are raising money for a foundation on which already donated playground equipment will be installed. Our goal is to raise $2500.00 by the end of May. We are going to have a large silent auction item and a hotdog supper sometime in May. If you are able to help with donations, hotdog supper, or anything else please let me know. Children's Hope can always use help with toiletries, clothing and food. They could also use help painting their building. Send me an email or leave a comment and I'll get whatever information you need.

Children's Hope
1313 West Washington
Levelland, Texas 79336

Poll

2008-04-26T18:01:00.000-05:00

Check out my poll to the bottom right. I need your vote!

Pictures of nieces and nephews...

2008-04-26T17:28:00.003-05:00

Emmaly...my sister and her family are OU fans. We try to put our UT things on them, but I think Emma got us this time...
Somebody must have been playing with my camera. Aidan practicing Wii boxing moves....
Logan and Samantha enjoying some ice cream and taking time to pose for the camera....
Sportin' their shades. The oldest grandchild and youngest grandchild on the Rodriguez side. April will be 16 in June.

Bible Study

2008-04-26T08:43:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know that the girls in our Sunday School class are starting a summer Bible Study. We decided to focus in on marriage and chose Love and Respect for the reading we are doing at home. During the class we will be listening to Marriage on the Rock by Jimmy Evans. We had 13 girls sign-up!!! Our meeting dates will be on Mondays at 9:00 p.m. Please be in prayer for all of us. Please pray that God will teach us how to "understand" our husbands! he he. I am so excited and can't wait. Thank you Dawn for getting this started!

Birth verse

2008-04-26T08:32:00.003-05:00

I thought this was pretty cool and thought I would share with you. Check out your birthverse at www.birthverse.com/mybirthverse.

Logan
Galatians 3:27 NIV for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
Ariel
James 1:25 NIV But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.
Alexia
John 11:27 NIV “Yes, Lord,” she told him, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”
Shannon
Ephesians 2:6 NIV And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus
Jose
Romans 8:24 NIVFor in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has?

You are a child of God, His treasured possession. He created you in His own image. He chose the day for you to be born. He has a plan and a purpose for your life.

Where will you spend eternity?

2008-04-19T18:12:00.003-05:00

I had a dear friend ask me how I have become much bolder in my outreach and speech, and more vocal as a Christian. She asked ME how she could be bolder. I couldn’t help but think how undeserving that comment is. I'm not anywhere close to where I should be in my walk with Christ. I know I am a perfectionist and very hard on myself. I have a hard time believing my efforts are enough. I always feel that I could try just a little harder, that I haven’t put in 110%. I often have to remind myself that I am saved by the grace of God. John 3:16 brings comfort and reminds me that I will spend eternity in heaven. I recently read in a daily devotion about a woman also struggling with her inadequacies as a Christian. She was struggling with all the “should ofs” in her life? She said she went on for years struggling with the feeling that she wasn’t good enough until one day she knelt down to pray and asked God what was wrong with her. She says that God gently told her “You believed the world’s view of adequacy over My Word, which says that as long as you love me, you are more than adequate!" Doesn’t that just give you chills and excite you all at the same time? The devotion continues to say that she was shown through His Word that we are all more than adequate, not by our own strength, but only through a heart surrendered to Him. Only then can our hearts be set right to understand and to realize He loves us just as we are. Don’t use this as an excuse for not being the Word daily. His will is for a close and intimate relationship with each of us. It is His desire, just as it is our desire for each of our children, to bless us infinitely. He only wants the best for us. I am reassured by His love that I will walk on streets of gold and all of my favorite things will be in eternity. Will I see you there?

McCain for President

2008-04-12T09:45:00.003-05:00

The girls got out early from school yesterday. So we decided to run to Lubbock to support McCain for President. He touched on four points that I actually heard and remembered in between corraling and hushing Logan.

1. He is not going to pull the troops out without first accomplishing the goals that were set for Iraq.

2. He will follow Bin Laden to the "Gates of Hell" until he is caught. He got a big "whoop" for this comment!

3. America has a spending problem and he will make every effort to get it under control.
4. America should be using Nuclear power to help conserve energy. (sounds scary to me! I'll have to research this to find out how I feel about this).

I took the kids because I thought it would be a good experience for them. Ariel wanted to know when he was going to start singing. I think she was a little confused! Alexia said it was awesome!! Maybe we will have a future politician in the house!

I hope you all are making an effort to get to know the people who will be our future President of the United States!

The Last Lecture

2008-04-07T16:26:00.003-05:00

If you haven't heard of Randy Pausch and his Last Lecture at Carnegie Mellon University you really should check this guy out. He has an amazing story about overcoming obstacles. He is a 47 year old father of three battling pancreatic cancer. His story is very inspirational and I am a sucker for inspiration!! I need all the help I can get! He will be on ABC Wednesday night at 9pm CST with Diane Sawyer. I am going to try and attach a video of his lecture, but if I can't figure it out you can watch it at www.thelastlecture.com or www.abcnews.go.com. He also has a blog that you can check out at www.thelastlecture.com. Let me know what you thought of his lecture after you watch it.

Logan Jose

2008-04-04T19:10:00.002-05:00

Logan had a wonderful 1st birthday party. We celebrated with food (a must!) at the park. The kids enjoyed playing and we were blessed with family and friends. Here are a few of Logan's Favorites:

1. Maccaroni and Cheese

2. His binky...yes still has it and uses it faithfully!

3. His sisters! He shews Jose and me away so he can stay with them.

4. His kitty. He rubs its tail on his palm when falling asleep.

5. Balls of any type...basketballs, footballs, golf balls, baseballs...

6. His hand puppet, Matilda the Monkey!

7. Being tickled. He loves to laugh!

8. Bike rides. He's lovin' his buggy!

9. Baths. Hopefully he will love swimming just as much this summer.

10. Last but not least...His Momma...most favorite of all (we'll see what Dad has to say about that, he he)!

Happy Birthday to Logan....

2008-03-27T14:58:00.004-05:00

My baby is 1 year young today! Isn't he just the sweetest?! This may be one of the few pictures I have of him smiling. We recently bought a piano. He loves to play it. Aunt Terra, Aidan, Emma, and Sammie are on there way down today. We are having a party for Logan at one of the new parks in town on Saturday. We will cook brisket, baked beans, and good ol' potatoe salad...with some sweet tea! Wish you all could be here.