I'm Here...Really

The Rockettes & Camel Poop

2011-11-20T20:41:00.001-05:00

I love making holiday memories. This time of year has always been magical. This year mom & dad decided they wanted to take the grand kids (& their parents) to see the Rockettes Christmas show as they toured through Durham.

Mom, Dad, Jen, Eric, all three girls & I went. (My brother would rather be kicked in the groin - in his defense, he was working).

The theatre was beautiful and we could see everything from our seats in the balcony.

I had the pleasure of sitting next to Cayden, which meant there was rich commentary throughout the performance. First it was, "eww I see their underwear" during the high kicks. Then she wanted to know why the toy soldiers lived in dog houses. There was also skepticism over the flying Santa -- she saw the "strings" and explained that they were like puppets. And then my favorite during the live nativity scene: "I sure hope those camels are trained so they don't poop right in the middle of everything!"

Ashton was wrapped up in the show, but apparently also in awe of the lighting. She explained later that during every scene she would try to figure out where the spotlight was coming from.

Carsyn wanted to enjoy it, but was plagued with some digestive issues which are difficult to solve when you have a phobia of auto flush toilets. She was able to replicate some of the dance moves after the show, however.

Naturally the girls had to have a souvenir. Word of caution: these spinny things are of the devil! Both my children have gotten their hair caught in them. Cayden's episode was at the end of the show when (as she describes it) the toy "grabbed her hair and sucked to her head." Ashton it seems, likes to flirt with danger. She purposely stuck her hair in the thing because she, "tried it before & it almost stuck but not really..." She is her Mother's child!

It felt like Christmas outside the theatre -- fake snow and all. Of course this was the only time you could really take photos, so mom & I did!

It was a great day & to top it all off, we got to listen to NC State dominate Clemson football on the ride home! Go Wolfpack! Thanks Mom & Dad. Memory made...

Zoo Day

2011-10-18T20:38:00.001-04:00

Aren't they just the sweetest???

That's more like it...

That would be Cayden trying to sneak into the elephant enclosure.

Monkeys are our favorite! Especially this little guy. I think he wanted us to take him home.

Mom & son chilling by the elephants.

She's walking on a spiderweb...

I didn't think cats liked water. Boy was I wrong. This one swam right up to us.

For a zoo in the middle of downtown, it was a great day!

Adventures in Roofing

2011-10-11T09:02:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I wish it were roofing. I suppose the more accurate title would be adventures with shingles...the medical type. They're horrible! Especially when they're on your face. And, while I thought I was dying for a few days there, I have survived and amassed some tales to tell...

I spent a few days at a horse show where my head and face began to itch. Naturally I was not alarmed because this is pretty normal for a horse show. When I got home, I noticed a small "outbreak" on my forehead. Again, nothing unusual, I had after all been wearing a hat for four straight days.

The unusual part was the "ice cream headaches." My head felt like I had been trying to set a speed record for sucking down Slurpees at 7-11. Except I hadn't. I suffered through for the next week until finally deciding a doctor visit was in order before the weekend. I was told it could be cluster headaches and given 2 prescriptions. I decided to try a mud mask to get rid of the "outbreak" on my forehead. Turned out to be a great family time, though very ineffective.

Long story short it wasn't cluster headaches. A rash and swelling spread across my face leaving me looking like one of those semi-alien things on Star Trek.

My husband was certain I was going to give birth to an alien baby through my eyeball. At this point I was giving serious thought to acupuncture or leeches.

The ER doc took one look at me, declared shingles and pumped me full of percocet and antivirals. I think I slipped into a semi conscious state for the next day and a half. The few brief moments I was awake I remember thinking that I would very willingly submit to a lobotomy if it would make the pain go away. Instead, I would get an appointment with an ophthalmologist and a new set of drugs.

That trip was not without incident. When we arrived it was quiet enough but the volume quickly escalated to that of a middle school cafeteria. My ice pack and I retreated to the car. When I finally got to the exam room my very compassionate *sarcasm* nurse greeted me with, "Oooh, I don't mean to stare but..." Who could blame her really? I looked like I'd lost a bar fight to someone with one heck of a left jab.

She dilated my eyes and then sat me in another waiting area under a tv airing a special on freight trains. (Shoot me now)! About the time I was certain another train whistle would make my head explode they called me in to wait for the doctor. I'm pretty sure he was the guy they used as the sketch model for the old man in the movie "Up" but he knew his stuff.

Three new prescriptions and we were on our way. This last set seems to be working much better. The pain is bearable and the swelling has gone down. Cayden (the daughter who asked if I was missing her soccer game because I looked so scary) says I don't look scary anymore. (Though she did recommend I purchase some moisturizer being advertised on tv -- you know, to help with the bumps and wrinkles). The headaches are fewer and farther between. My lymph nodes no longer look like I've swallowed marbles. And I'm ready to get back into the swing of things.

Lessons I have learned:

Percocet makes me crazy
Painting one's nails while on all these drugs is not wise -- looks more like finger painting
UPS men are very compassionate -- mine was about to call the domestic violence hotline after looking at me
I work with a great crew of folks
I have great family and friends that take excellent care of me
Shingles is not what I would recommend as an extreme vacation
More young(ish) people get this mess than you realize
I should de-stress which I interpret to mean that I'll need more regular massage appointments *hint*
I do not function well trapped in a house for days at a time
I'll need more regular massage appointments...
One can get tired of fried chicken
My prescription drug plan is really good
And oh...I'll need more massage appointments ;)

Best Worst Pick Up Line Ever

2011-09-18T21:21:00.001-04:00

Sixteen years ago today my husband crossed off a big item on his "to do" whiteboard. "Kick it to the girl in gym class." His roommate figured if he added it to the list Eric would get it done & quit talking about it. (Thanks Ricky).

After volleyball class, he followed me over to Taco Bell, got in line behind me and proceeded to deliver the lamest pickup line ever. "Boo." Yep, that was it, "boo." I've gotta give him credit though, he kept on talking and "boo" turned into a great friendship. That great friendship turned into an awesome courtship. That courtship led to an amazing marriage. I love you boo. (Guess the pick up line worked after all)...

Location:Aydlett Rd,,United States

First Day of School 2011

2011-08-30T21:18:00.001-04:00

The girls finally started school today. It was three days late thanks to Irene. Obligatory awkward first day photos:

We drove the girls & walked them to their classes. I don't think this will last much longer. I got the vibe we were starting to embarrass them.

They were all smiles when they got home. Well, except Cayden got blisters from her new shoes & Ashton has already been to the nurse's office due to a close encounter between her head & the monkey bars. Its gonna be a good year. I love my girls.

Location:Aydlett Rd,,United States

Irene

2011-08-30T21:08:00.001-04:00

Well, we survived Irene with only a few very minor inconveniences. We were so blessed, it could have been so much worse & is for so many folks right now. Here's our photo journal of the events:

First there was cereal & watching the wind blow.

It didn't take Eric long to get cabin fever. He decided to go for a retro 80's look & sport my hair piece like a rat tail.

Ashton scripted & we filmed a weather report based on the morning's observations.

We took turns telling not-so-scary stories by candle light.

We did some cleaning, got cabin fever, took a very windy walk (the rain was hitting so hard Cayden thought she was being electrocuted!), and made the best of it.

I spent a lot of time answering phones in the emergency call center -- very entertaining. Irene did visit us & certainly wore out her welcome, but fortunately for us, she didn't leave behind too big of a mess. It will be a long recovery for many...

Location:Elliott Ln,,United States

Keepin It Local

2011-08-21T21:41:00.001-04:00

Team Tuck Away stayed close to home this weekend for a fun, local show. The thinking was that our spoiled "diva" horses needed to spend a day traveling back & forth between the show pen & the trailer. It went well and we all had a blast.

We definitely went for the low maintenance, just follow the rulebook look.

Ashton decided it was time to give showmanship a try. Birdye took good care of her.

Of course she had to get a Big Daddy hair do.

All by herself...

Cayden agreed to try the leadline class as long as she could ride Birdye & I would lead.

Competition was fierce, but they pulled it off! Cayden looked at me in the line up & said, "I loved it mama. I want to do it again next time!". Be still my heart!

Horse showin's hard work!

I almost had to walk home cause I BEAT BIG DADDY! It was a blast.

Moe made his showing debut & did great. Carter swept up in the morning classes.

Ash & Peeps owned the afternoon!

It was an awesome day, a step back in time to our early days of showing. Wayne even showed up with fried chicken!

The horses were good and got their lesson & the people were fun & got in their practice too. All in all, I'd say, "mission accomplished."

The End

We Made It to the Teens

2011-06-27T22:29:00.001-04:00

So my dear husband asks me tonight on the 13th anniversary of our wedding day, "where's the blog post?" "I can't wait forever!" Well, here it is honey. Happy anniversary... we finally made it to the teens.

It was my year to plan the surprise trip. Due to the fact that one of our cars has no AC and the other requires the use of a hammer to start, we borrowed Mom's car and set out for Charlotte.

I decided that some city life and outdoor adventure might be a fun change of pace, so I booked a room at the Omni downtown and got some tickets to the National Whitewater Training Center.

I had never done the whitewater rafting thing, so I was a little nervous. I was afraid I'd fall out and hit my head on a rock or forget which way was up. Eric reminded me that I'd be wearing a PFD but I was still worried I might not be able to get my head out of the water. Being the compassionate guy he is, he told me that if I couldn't figure out how to get my head out of the water I might just be too dumb to raft! What a romantic...

I learned that I am not too dumb to raft and that Eric is more afraid of heights than I realized. He kept saying, "ladies first" on any of the things that we could fall to our death from. I thought he was just being a gentleman and that he just had poor form when he kept falling off the climbing wall. But when he took longer than the 7 year old in front of him to climb the cargo net I realized something more was going on. He finally confessed his terror after we conquered the zip line.

We enjoyed a night on the town Saturday night. Sunday morning we got to experience Elevation church. Then we stretched the trip home into a 9 hour journey by taking the scenic route and several side trips.

It was a great trip. It's been an even better 13 years. I love marking the milestones with you honey. Happy Anniversary.

New Toy

2011-06-05T21:35:00.001-04:00

Got a new photo editing app on my iPhone (snapbucket). Had a little fun playing tonight.

Never Too Old for a Slumber Party

2011-05-30T20:37:00.001-04:00

So, Jen had a great idea for my mom's Mother's Day gift -- a whole family sleepover. The only problem was we couldn't do it on Mother's Day, so we postponed it until the day before Memorial Day. It was awesome!

Chan and Charles played the role of the "shirtless chefs" and cooked up some mean scallops and ribs.

Meanwhile, the girls played Barbies on the porch. After our bellies were about to bust we all got in our pj's and settled in for a movie marathon.

The kids hunkered down in Chan and Jen's room while the adults piled into the living room like a bunch of kids!

We had an awesome breakfast on Monday that was cut a little short by a call from grandad that he was stuck at the pond. The boys an Ash went to pull him out and got rid of a nuisance groundhog on the way home.

The rest of the day was spent poolside at Mama's. Check out Eric's awesome cannonball form...

Chan and Chuckles got stuck in the inner-tube. Not sure how this started, but it made for a pretty hilarious photo op!

The girls swam until they were prunes & played like champs all day.

When we got home, Cayden donned her favorite rubber gloves, created this superhero costume, & challenged everyone to a boxing match/pillow/glove fight.

I love my family & friends! From camping to relaxing to cooking out & slumber parties, it has been one fabulous extended weekend.

Hatteras Campout 2011

2011-05-29T16:52:00.001-04:00

Our annual Hatteras camping trip was this weekend. We played our usual round of "car tetris" to fit everything but the kitchen sink in the trunk of the camry for our 1 night adventure.

After discovering that our usual spot in Frisco was at capacity, we set up camp in Buxton just beneath the lighthouse. The Tates joined us this year. We planned our usual campfire on the beach, but it was a little less "fire" than normal.

Eric tried using the bags as a wind break but it looked like he was trying to set them on fire. Meanwhile, all the kids had a blast playing in "the pond."

The hotdogs turned out great over the coals. The marshmallows needed a bit more help. It's just not the same without some legitimate flames!

The kids thought it would be fun to bait the seagulls. I had fun laughing when Eric got pooped on.

It took some creativity and scavenging for reeds and firewood, but we finally made some s'mores. Annette got strawberry marshmallows -- yum!

Day two started REALLY early with an awesome breakfast. Pancakes, scrambled eggs and slow-cooked bacon.

The remainder of our trip was spent Oceanside enjoying the sun & surf.

Old man Odell slept every minute the kids weren't feeding him or forcing him to walk through the campground.

The Tates stayed an extra night. Ashton cried because she wouldn't get to see them until the next Sunday.

We made our obligatory ice cream stop on the way home.

As soon as the ice cream was gone, so were the kiddos. Eric and I had unpacked, showered and washed the dog before we finally woke them up to come inside!

Everyone's attitude was great. The weather was amazing and time with friends was a welcome addition to the trip. I think this was our best year yet!

Reset

2011-04-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

Got called out on my workaholic tendency last week so I took a long weekend & spent some time with my loves. Honestly, I didn't think I needed it but now I can see I truly needed the reset (and the rest). Funny how quickly we lose perspective. Here are the highlights:

Not much excitement, but a whole lot of significance...

How do you re-focus?

One Thing

2011-03-14T08:00:00.001-04:00

All last week, I put on the face of the supportive wife and did double duty at home as Eric worked overtime to research, write and rehearse his message for Sunday morning. He tried hard to make sure our needs were met before sneaking away to his man cave. I tried hard to give him the space and support he needed to get things done. Truth be told however, I was sulking. When was it going to be my turn? I've had a hard day too. I don't want to do the dishes again.

I have never been more excited to get to a Sunday morning -- and for what? So I could be the center of his universe again, of course! So there I sat, carried along by the humor and reliving each of the (true) stories he told, completely lost in the message. And then a few statements hit me right between the eyes and started to sting just a little bit. "Submission isn't about who has authority over you, but who has priority over you."

Now, I do a lot around my house, but its often not out of a selfless love and determination of priority for my family. Most often, its self serving -- I want MY house to be clean; I want to eat a good, home cooked meal; I want to be recognized for all MY hard work. Who's the priority in all of that? I want a better picture and I'm outwardly following the pattern, but God doesn't really care about that, does He? The Pharisees outwardly followed the pattern, but Jesus called them whitewashed tombs. Their hearts weren't in it. For me sometimes, what looks like following the pattern to everyone else, is really just making sure my needs and wants are taken care of. My heart's not in it. Or rather, my heart's in it only for what I can get from it. I already do the laundry, fold it and put it away -- that eliminates the mess, who cares how the socks are folded?

Its easy to think the message shouldn't apply to you when your husband is the one doing the preaching. As Eric was suggesting that we all do one thing each day for one week to put others first, my tendency was to exempt myself. After all, I did about a hundred things last week! But if I'm going to be the church, if I'm going to re-sync my relationships, it starts with the small things, in my own home, with my own family. So today, I placed the socks neatly together and folded them in half. Just the way he likes it...

What was your "one thing?"

The Evolution of a Family Outing

2011-03-05T21:37:00.001-05:00

All family outings begin with great intentions and lofty expectations of laughter, sunshine, birds singing and endless hugs and "I love you's." Then reality, ushered forth by whining and arguing, sets in. Today's bike trip through the Dismal Swamp State park was no exception. I give you, in pictorial form, the evolution of our family outing...

Things started well enough. The girls happily peddling as Eric & I strolled along behind.

There was the occasional stop to explore or take a photo.

Less than 5 minutes in, Cayden abandoned her bike along the trail & assumed Odell duty. (Much to his dismay).

It wasn't long before the dog escaped and the trail got long & "boring." Thus begins the pouting.

Ashton & Eric found an adventure and managed to avoid any real disasters by narrowly escaping the briars.

Ashton taught herself the art of tree walking.

And that is where bike #2 was abandoned.

We made it two miles in and growling tummies finally convinced us to turn back. But not before the obligatory family photo.

The photographer.

On the way home we decided that the leash was better suited for a child than the dog.

He needed a break anyway. Or perhaps Eric did.

We retrieved the bikes on the way out which meant Eric & I were stuck carrying jackets, sticks & all the other treasures of the day that just couldn't be left behind.

Finally we made it to our picnic spot & ate the sandwiches the girls had made.

Eric taught everyone how to make music with their Root Beer bottles.

Cayden sucked her root beer down the wrong pipe & threw it up on the table. (No legitimate family outing is complete without a little vomit).

After lunch we hiked one more loop where the girls tried their best to rouse dangerous animals from their hiding places.

Fortunately this was as close as we came to seeing any real wildlife.

The girls wielded their walking sticks like She rah warrior princess. (I think they actually took a swing at one another at this point. Like all good parents we pretended not to notice).

We finally made it back to the car where the dog passed out on my feet & the kids started fighting like cats in a sack. Cayden told Ashton she was getting poop for her birthday & she hoped it tasted bad. I lost the ability to discipline because I was trying so hard to stifle my laughter. Eric finally put them both on silence & we rode the rest of the way home in peace.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the evolution (or devolution) of the family outing. We had fun -- like it or not!

Tuck Away Christmas

2010-12-18T22:15:00.001-05:00

The official Team Tuck Away Barn Christmas party was held today. As always, it was great to have the whole team together. There was quite a buffet.

Rod won the ugliest hat competition and the enviable jade & ruby elephant trophy was passed on.

And of course, the PIT crowning and swearing in.

I'm pretty sure something slightly inappropriate was just said...

It was a great time. We are all looking forward to a great 2011 show season.

Friends

2010-11-17T22:06:00.001-05:00

Some awesome friends came to visit this week. I love the kind of friends that you can not talk to for months but pick right up where you left off when you finally get together. Here's to good times with the Burns' crew.

Fall Fun

2010-11-03T21:00:00.001-04:00

We had an action PACKED weekend. First, the Elizabeth City airshow & an accidental afternoon with the Tates.

We checked out planes

And rescue choppers

Scored some chocolate in the great candy drop. (It came from the plane that did drops over Berlin in WWII)!

Ashton got to actually take a flight.

With Isaiah

UPDATE: I forgot to mention flying lawn mowers. How could I forget that???

Then we had our traditional hayride at Morris Farms.

Carsyn didn't want to smile...she was mad!

She did cozy up to a cat's rear end though!

Sunday night we donned our superhero costumes and hit up Candy-Rama at New Community.

We ended the weekend with a quick trick-or-treat trip down the madness that is Main St. on Halloween.

Action packed and tons of fun. Thanks God for the opportunity to make memories with my family. Now if you'll excuse me, I have copious amounts of candy to consume...

Words for the Week: Who Am I?

2010-10-25T17:00:00.002-04:00

You know, if you don’t use a new skill or new information shortly after it is learned, you lose it. Last week, I learned quite a bit about myself. Up until recently, (the past year or so), I would not describe myself as a very self-aware individual. Of course, recent events in my life, have forced me to look within and really examine who I am, my value system and what is important to me.

I took an online inventory called the FIRO-B and got the analysis and interpretation of the data last week. Dr. Lanny Hass shared this very research-based instrument developed by Will Schutz. Schutz believed that self awareness (which leads to self-acceptance and self-esteem) was the first step to solving organizational and leadership issues and ultimately develops openness and honesty between individuals. Maybe you see that as “psycho-babble” but experience has taught me that he might just be right.

The tool was used to measure our behavior choices and preferences in three areas: inclusion; control: and affection. It turns out that I am a very inclusive person and desire that from others. I tend to take control somewhat, but resist controlling behavior in others. I am not a natural initiator of affection (my family is feigning surprise right now) but I somewhat desire that closeness from others. There was a wealth of information about how the results impact my leadership style and interactions with others.

The bottom line however, is that the more I know about myself and how I interact with others, the better I can manage my interactions and understand my limitations. By the way, my results suggest that my career move was a good one, but I already knew that!

Now, time for some introspection – who are you???

Moth Wars

2010-10-20T22:19:00.001-04:00

Most folks know that I get up at an obscene hour of the morning; strap on a headlamp; tie on my running shoes; grab some sort of weapon for protection; and hit the pavement for a five mile run. What you may not know is that, while I enjoy the run, I don't especially enjoy the dark and not being able to see the random critters. I have this fear that I won't be able to scream or react if a fox (more likely a chicken) should attempt to attack.

This week I finally got the opportunity to test myself. I was hitting a pretty good stride, sprinting for my driveway when it came at me out of nowhere. It was the size of a pterodactyl! From the corner of my eye I was sure some large person was running at me. Within milliseconds I screamed and brandished my weapon, poised for attack.

I'm not sure if I actually hit the moth or not, but I do know that those last 10 yards were the fastest I've done in a long time!

Location:Elliott Rd,Aydlett,United States

Long Overdue...and a Little Long

2010-10-10T08:31:00.006-04:00

Bambi on ice, heart in a blender, straight up crazy... those are some of the phrases I'd use to describe this past year in our lives. I've been waiting until everything fell into place and calmed down to write this post. I wanted to be able to see everything from an "aerial view" so to speak. Forgive me, I know its going to be lengthy, but it is more for me than it is for you. I don't want to forget how God molded this all together.

I have to go a little further back in the story to get the full effect. When Eric and I moved here from Raleigh, we began attending my home church. Reluctantly on my part, we began working with the youth group at the urging of one of the leaders. They eventually stole our hearts and we jumped in with both feet. A short time later, Eric was asked to take over the leadership of the student ministry. God grew our faith and our skill set immensely during this time. He also began showing us that church and the Christian life was so much more than what we were accustomed to.

Fast forward a few years and I have left a career field I love to be a more present parent to our girls; the student ministry is growing at a rate faster than the church; we are running around like chickens with our heads cut off, but we love it. A new pastor is hired that shows amazing amounts of promise to turn the tide of stagnation in our church and our hearts are aflutter. Because of what I had learned in student ministry and through technology training in my school job, I stepped into a new volunteer role coordinating production at our new contemporary service. I LOVED THIS JOB! We were flying around, doing it all and very excited. Then, controversy struck, the pastor left and the church was left to maintain the momentum while attempting to heal itself...not an easy task.

Eric and I were crushed because we had poured our lives into building the student ministry and seeing the lost students come to Christ. We had placed so much hope in this man to help us get to the next level church-wide and he failed us. To say we were angry would be an understatement.

Several months later, the church hired another minister who was absolutely wonderful. A very caring and humble man who seemed to be just what our church needed at this point. Our families quickly developed a very close relationship and Eric and I learned a great deal about prioritizing family; narrowing our focus; and slowing down. Unfortunately, the state our church was in at this point was very unhealthy and this family left also. We were crushed, but also blessed by the whole situation.

Eric ultimately gave up student ministry -- a very difficult decision. We re focused our lives on the appropriate "front line" of our ministry, our family. Eventually, we decided that it was time to move on from the church we had served for so many years. We were frustrated and as such very ineffective. We loved the people very much, but felt like it was time to go.

Eric was working from home as a software engineer and was very discouraged about his effectiveness as a Christian. I was working as a teacher and didn't really realize it, but the students were wearing me out and causing me to lose patience with my own children. Our life pace had slowed down very much, but we were still somewhat dissatisfied with the way things were going.

We began attending a new church a little further from home and making connections with people there. I got a call about applying for a job back in my field of expertise in the late spring. After much deliberation, we decided I should go for it. Shortly after, Eric got an email about applying for a ministry position with our new church. Again, after much deliberation we decided he should go for it. We left our jobs; Eric took a hefty pay cut and we are in our new positions.

Amazingly enough, during the time when our lives really slowed down, we each began studying things that ultimately prepared us for our new roles. From the beginning of the journey to the current time; whether we were crushed or uplifted; discouraged or motivated; laughing or crying; God's hand was in it all. He has used every single event to prepare us for where we are today. No tragedy was wasted, no victory was glanced over. Praise be to God.

Hair Magic

2010-08-12T19:56:00.001-04:00

The girls decided they needed a haircut tonight. Ashton wanted to use a little magic. The first spell: bippity boppity boo, my hair is shorter than you!

Cayden before:

Cayden after:

(note the "magic" wand)

The next "spell" was, "bippity, boppity, boo I look just like you!"

Ashton before:

Ashton after:

(again, note the "magic" wand)
Cayden was convinced that Eric could no longer tell them apart. They're playing twins now. Fun times.

She Stole Our Hearts...

2010-08-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

Cayden turned five a few days ago. That is such a bittersweet age. No more toddler, she's finally a big girl. Anyway, here are the highlights of the celebration...

They Liked It...Uh Oh!

2010-07-08T20:16:00.001-04:00

Most folks know I've been "horsin' around" for quite a while now (as in, nearly 30 years).

My girls have played around in the barn and tagged along to shows, but never really expressed much of an interest. Until this past weekend. We headed to the barn so I could ride and they could play. Part of the plan was to get a good marketing video of the girls' ponies. Ashton quickly figured out what was happening an rode her pony to the corner of the pasture to pout.

To make a long story short, she had a little discussion with Big Daddy and I will now be driving them to riding lessons each Tuesday this summer at 11:00. Riding lessons with Big Daddy are no joke (I speak from experience and have the scars to prove it)!

You groom your own horse wether you're 4 or 40...

You lug your own tack...

You saddle your own horse...

You do what he tells you, scared or not...

And when you're finished, you take care of your pony and clean up after yourself.

I was sure they'd burn out and whine over all the work. Instead, they bucked up, did it all and we'll be headed back next Tuesday at 11:00. I think I may have a couple of cowgirls on my hands!

Spent...

2010-07-03T20:59:00.001-04:00

The weather was fabulous. The work was intense. The help was amazing. The yard looks great. I am spent.

I am really looking forward to that first cup o joe tomorrow morning. How are you spending your holiday weekend?

Papa's Day 2010

2010-06-23T22:39:00.000-04:00

So, we had a lot going on Father's Day Weekend.

Ballet rehearsals and costume repair:

The actual FOUR HOUR recital. (My ballerinas were amazing):

We had a visit from an out of town friend, pool time and a couple of trips to church. But with a little preparation, the girls and I managed to pull off this idea I found on the tip junkie site.

Those are brownie-cupcake "hamburgers" with sugar cookie "fries." Ashton was so excited because she just knew Eric would be fooled!

I'm not sure we tricked him, but I am sure he enjoyed the treat!

Just to be fair...

2010-06-13T14:17:00.001-04:00

Just got this text, so I thought I'd be fair:

Yep, that's me. I got caught on the wrong side of the camera.

Location:Rbc Center Rd,Raleigh,United States

It's Too Hot!

2010-06-11T16:32:00.001-04:00

We are on day 2 of the ten day show in the r-dub and this is what Dezi thinks of it all. It. Is. Hot!

Location:Trinity Rd,Raleigh,United States

God Given Time Margin

2010-05-05T09:18:00.002-04:00

I woke up early this morning to the phone ringing. "School is on a two hour delay!" My first thought was, "yes, we can sleep in." As I tossed and turned for about the next 30 minutes, I began to realize that wasn't going to happen for me. I got out of bed and headed for the coffee pot.

God gave me an extra margin of time this morning. I spent some time in his word; cooked breakfast; made lunches; prepared for supper and enjoyed helping the girls get ready for school. Thank you God for the extra margin of time to enjoy my morning and connect with you...

Under the Big Top

2010-04-24T22:44:00.000-04:00

We took the girls to their first circus tonight. It looked a little sketchy from the outside, but this wasn't just a "dog and pony show." (Although it did include a dog and pony show).

We started out with an elephant ride. Elephants have really sad eyes. I wanted to open the gates and tell them to run for it, however downtown Raleigh might not be the best place for a couple of pacaderms to run free. But I digress...

Ronald McDonald was there. The girls were really excited about that. Honestly though, he kinda freaked me out. In every picture I took he looked as though he were about to eat someone.

But the "world's largest show under the big top" did not disappoint. There were tigers; a liger; elephants; camels; zebras; ponies; clowns; trapeze artists; magicians; the "dome of danger" with three motorcycles; comdians; a lady who could support her entire body weight on just one finger; and they even shot a guy out of a cannon! Fun times...

Location:Marsh Ave,Raleigh,United States

Wisdom Screaming

2010-04-20T23:44:00.001-04:00

Our friend Ben has been on a bit of a "kick" here lately about wisdom. He will often say things like, "wisdom is screaming and they just won't listen!" (A reference to Proverbs 1:20 and subsequent verses).

Now, I am pretty good at observing "wisdom screaming" at other people. In fact, I'd go so far as to say I'm a pro. I get so frustrated with the idiotic behaviors of others. The repeated mistakes, self centered thinking and apathy of those all around me drives me insane. I am very quick to see the faults of others and take pride in myself.

But Ben got me thinking. Where is wisdom screaming at me and am I listening? What are the things that I do that are driving others crazy? In what areas of my life am I making stupid decisions, being self centered and/or apathetic. Several things I have read and heard lately have led me this place of introspection. I'm looking forward to journaling through this journey.

What about you? Where is wisdom screaming at you? Are you listening?

Wisdom Screaming

2010-04-20T11:07:00.004-04:00

Disney 2009

2010-03-01T20:14:00.000-05:00

I finally got around to putting the highlight reel together. The video is long enough, so I'll let it speak for itself.

Disney Christmas 2009 from cameron lowe on Vimeo.

For Tonight's Entertainment...

2010-01-19T20:38:00.004-05:00

Two Prayers

2010-01-06T22:13:00.001-05:00

In small group the other day I prayed that God would forgive my complacency toward my prayer life and help me devote myself to more meaningful prayer time with Him. I began to make some meager improvements on my own and then I got this DM from a Twitter friend:

I was moved and honored and knew immediately what to ask her to pray for. I know that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective and I wasn't really sure I wanted this prayer answered. You see, it will require change on my part -- submission and humility. It would be much easier to continue to be bitter and blameshift than to actually change. I struggled for about 2 hours and finally sent my reply.

Then, I asked how I might pray for my Twitter friend. And pray I have. Scripture tells us that if we draw near to God, He will draw near to us and He has.

It amazes me how God can use something as simple as a text message from someone I've never even met to begin a sequence of events that lead to the answer to my prayer & the beginnings of the answer to a prayer I didn't really want to pray.

Why Did it Take Me So Long to Find This?

2009-12-31T22:12:00.000-05:00

I finally got around to trying Picasa for image storage, editing and sharing today. It doesn't downgrade the quality of my images; organizes everything for me; has excellent editing capabilities; and auto syncs my files! Awesome!

run

2009-11-22T20:58:00.000-05:00

Eric and I ran our second 5k last month. We ran together the whole time (well, until he left me in his dust sprinting to the finish) and had a blast.

We did well, but I am more proud of the girls. This year, they had a kids fun run. Of course, we let Ashton and Cayden run. The cause the run supported was a children's charity. The girls were excited to learn that they could help other kids just by signing up for and running in a race.

Eric helped Ashton stretch it out...

...and did a little warm up run with Cayden.

The race was only about fifty yards. My girls are amazing and very competitive. Check out the action below. (Warning: I was slightly excited and a tad loud).

I love that our running and trying to stay fit makes them want to do the same. I hope even more that the way we live out our faith will inspire them to "run with perseverance the race marked out before them." (Hebrews 1:12) I am blessed.

Playing Catch Up

2009-11-17T22:03:00.000-05:00

I have a lot of catching up to do when it comes to this blog! It's not like I'm racing to meet a deadline or writing for money, I do this blogging thing for me. I am terrible about baby books and scrapbooking, so this is the avenue I have chosen to store my memories. We've been so busy making memories lately that I haven't had time to blog about them. Never fear, though I've been keeping a list and about a million pictures. More to come! Stay tuned...

Netie Pot Nonsense

2009-10-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

So my sinuses are driving me crazy right now! C-ra-zy! I was in between trips to the sink to suck salt water up my nose when I came across this post from Seth Godin. It had a couple of tips for surviving sinusitis. He mentioned a nasal irrigator and a daily dose of vinegar.

While its probably not something I really should have shared with the world (because who cares, anyway), I composed this useless post for Twitter and Facebook:

This was one of those rare occasions where social networking functioned to its full potential. I got all kinds of responses and advice -- from wintergreen and menthol steam to vacuum hoses to a netie pot -- and that's where things get interesting. Lots of folks were singing the praises of this "netie pot" thing. I mean Dr. Oz endorses it, so it must be good, right? It sounded like some sort of torture device involving high temperatures and knitting needles to me. So I Googled it to see what all the hype was about. After reading up on it, I decided that this was exactly what I needed and I needed it now.

The problem, of course is that I live in the middle of nowhere (and I love it, by the way) but I didn't really want to drive the half-hour to the nearest pharmacy that would be open on a Saturday. So, I did what any self-respecting creative would do and I scoured the kitchen drawers for supplies to make my own version of a netie pot. About 10 minutes later and this was my useless post:

I love social networking. If a friend is someone who helps you out in a time of need, than these are friends indeed! By the way, this is what the actual finished product looked like. I used an earplug fitted over the end of the turkey baster to get a good seal in my nostril. If you're ever in a pinch, feel free to steal the idea!

Mr. Rodney's New Neighborhood

2009-10-03T15:50:00.005-04:00

My Pops retired on Wednesday -- no he's not old enough, but the time was right and he has other plans. He has had a great career and I am incredibly proud of all he has accomplished. My little brother and I put together a quick video to give everyone a preview into what "Mr. Rodney's New Neighborhood" might look like. Check it out. (If you don't know who Bon Qui Qui is, you might want to check this out first).

School Days

2009-09-08T15:45:00.000-04:00

For a lot of folks today is the first day of school. Not us! We've been going strong for two weeks now. I miss the summer but we are starting to get into our routine. Below, find my photo recap of our first day back in action...

Ashton wanted a back to school party, so we started the day with party plates and napkins; cards and a tower of cheese biscuits -complete with candles to blow out.

Cayden waited for the bus with Ashton before heading back to her daycare routine.

Ashton's brand new desk in her brand new first grade classroom. She loves school.

Haircut Time

2009-09-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

Before...

After...

Before...

After...

Not a professional but not too shabby...

Summer Top Ten - 10

2009-09-04T08:01:00.000-04:00

Finally, the last in my summer top ten moments... Eric and the girls "inspired" me to tackle THE ROOM as a summer project. Ashton wanted their bedroom painted and had some pretty complex ideas about what it would look like. I decided to give it a try and to let the girls help too.

I was terrified and a little edgy but they did great.

This part almost killed me until I figured out that their mistakes were pretty easy to fix.

Ashton got really creative with her "base coat."

Everyone was super excited with the finished product. Now if they would just keep it clean...

Summer Top Ten - 9

2009-09-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

Meet toothless...

My child loves to pull her teeth! She was up one night at about 10:00 trying to get rid of one.

Then she pulled another one in her bed the next night without telling anyone. She can't really eat, but the tooth fairy has made her a little richer for her troubles! She and Cayden have been trying to stay awake to see the tooth fairy. Ashton even wrote her a note telling her how bad she really wanted to see her. No luck though, that tooth fairy is a sneaky little rascal!

Summer Top Ten - 8

2009-09-02T07:51:00.001-04:00

Cayden turned 4 this summer. This was the year that she really began to understand that it was her special day (or in this instance, week). She took full advantage of it proclaiming, "I'm the birthday girl" at every opportunity!

We started the day with candle adorned chocolate chip muffins.

We headed to a 4-H club meeting where we made fishing poles and enjoyed more sugary goodness.

We met up with Carsyn, Jen-Jen and Big Daddy for some jumping around at Kangaroo Jacks.

We partied some more at home with yet more chocolate...

Cayden got her first bike and went on her first big girl bike ride. She was so excited she looked at us and said, "this is awesome guys!"

A week or so later we continued the fun by celebrating with the extended fam at Mamie's.

Birthdays are so much fun!!

Summer Top Ten - 7

2009-09-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

The summer always gives me opportunity to do a little "horsing around" (literally). This year we didn't do as many shows, but we enjoyed hanging out at the barn from time to time. The girls were a little more independent this summer which meant I could relax a little more.

Giving Birdye a little exercise to build her stamina.

Cayden loves to ride Birdye.

Ashton is getting really good at riding and taking care of Tater Tot all by herself. I even caught her sitting on his back in the stall. (She had hauled a stool in there so she could get on).

Cayden came to let me know that me and Big Daddy wouldn't have to clean up the poop because she and Ashton had already done it. And they had! Now those are some real barn girls...

Summer Top Ten - 6

2009-08-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

This summer also gave us the opportunity to slow down and connect as a family.

Pool time is always a summer fun. Eric called this move "the helicopter."

Like father like daughter. Crayola 3-d chalk is way cool!

She can hit and pitch. BTW, she's 4...

They had an absolute blast racing around the house in the rain. I love summer...

Summer Top Ten - 5

2009-08-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

We had quite a bit of time to just hang out and be a family this summer. It was a welcomed change. Cayden stayed home from daycare, I didn't have work and Ashton was out of school. It was so much fun to watch my girls really connect with one another.

Chillin with a movie. They are so sweet!

They had a blast "swimming" with their Barbies.

Playing like "bff's".

Summer Top Ten - 4

2009-08-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

Entry 4 in no particular order, of my summer top ten moments:

The girls stayed at home most of the summer except a trip to each of their grandparent's houses. Eric decided it would be a good idea to get Ashton a library card so she could read some new books over the summer. She is in love with books! It turned out to be a great idea for the whole family. We're hooked!

Summer Top Ten - 3

2009-08-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

This is part 3 of my summer top ten list (in no particular order). One of my favorite things about the summer is "the market" -- Morris Farm Market. In my opinion it is the best roadside market around. (Of course I am slightly biased because they are family).

Family or not, it's a great place to hang out and get some homemade icecream, fresh fruits and veggies and plenty of other great stuff. The girls and I spent a great afternoon their just killing time and enjoying ourselves.

Summer Top Ten 2

2009-08-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

My "summer top ten" list is in no particular order, these are just the ten most memorable moments of the season. With that said, number two on the list was our summer mission trip.

Eric, Jennifer and I took just over a dozen high school students on a World Changer's trip to Philly for a week in July. It was awesome. God really stepped up His game in my life by challenging my boldness for Him.

I saw sights I had never seen before (some I hope to never see again). We got to be a little touristy, but mostly we worked really hard. My biggest takeaway -- there are real people out there that need to hear about Jesus. Albert, I don't know your last name, I don't know if you became a Christ follower but I love you and pray for you still...

Summer Top Ten - 1

2009-08-24T08:00:00.000-04:00

As I've already mentioned, E went all out for my birthday and bought me an iPhone.

He and the girls made clues on index cards and sent me on a little scavenger hunt. We ended up in his office staring at a girl scout cookie box. (Thin mints -- you shouldn't have). Of course they finally convinced me to open it and I was totally surprised.

I mean I had NO CLUE! Eric is a saver, not a spender so I never expected this type of investment. He is awesome. Not just because he buys me cool toys, but he listens and takes time and great effort to do things that will make me feel special and treasured. I love that man.

Summer Top Ten

2009-08-21T07:45:00.001-04:00

To make up for my lack of updates over the summer, I'm going to treat us all to a series of posts I'd like to call my "summer top ten". (Okay, my main motivation is that there are a lot of pictures and memories I don't want to forget). I've already blogged about our anniversary trip, our 4th of July and our horse show -- which would all certainly make the top ten -- so I won't repeat that info. The list will start with my next post and continue until we make it through all ten...enjoy!

Test

2009-08-20T20:37:00.000-04:00

I haven't turned the computer on very often since my amazing hubby got me an iPhone for my birthday. As such, I haven't blogged very often. But we have still been having lots of fun and I have still been capturing it all on "film." So, this is an official test of my new blogger app...

The first pic of e with the new phone.

Just testing multiple images.

On a mission

2009-07-11T23:06:00.003-04:00

This week I'm in Philly with some awesome teens and adult leaders trying to be Jesus to the world. Please pray with us that our lives would overflow what Christ is to us so that others might come to know Him. You can follow our progress on Twitter or facebook.

The Surprise '09

2009-07-08T23:50:00.001-04:00

My husband and I have a fun tradition. Each year, we take turns planning a surprise anniversary trip for one another. Last year was our 10th anniversary and he pulled out all the stops (check it out). Knowing I couldn't come close to that, I went for something a little out of the ordinary for us. We were "country come to town" this year. Enjoy the brief (very brief) highlights video.

Ahoy Mate...

2009-07-07T22:42:00.003-04:00

So my brother took the girls and I out for a spin in the boat on July 4th. They love being in the boat. They each got the chance to drive. Ashton loves to go fast and cross the wake. Cayden also likes to go fast, but she is much more intense and focused. She was spotting all the crab pots and looking for landmarks -- a true C-tuck girl!

Push...

2009-07-01T14:52:00.004-04:00

....ups -- 100 to be exact! That's how many I plan to be able to do by the end of July (or maybe August). Ashton and I did our initial test today and both managed to eek out 20 before we crumbled. Eric, of course, can do quite a few more, but he's gonna do the challenge anyway. Check out the plans at the one hundred push ups site and join us!

These are the before shots of our "guns." I'm at the top right, Eric's in the middle and, of course, that's Ashton at the bottom left.

Update: Day 1 nearly kicked my rear! I'm doing full body push ups and I can barely lift my arms -- eeked out 45 today though (in the appropriate sets of course).

Butcher Knives and Trailer Tires

2009-06-23T12:28:00.003-04:00

So I've had quite a few adventures over the past couple of weeks. The summer is off to a great start. The Team Tuckaway blog has all the details on the Shangri-la, Off Roadin' in the golf cart, The Burns Invasion, and Butcher Knives and Trailer Tires....check it out....

Stop...Hammer Time

2009-06-08T22:08:00.002-04:00

Have you seen this yet? Oh my goodness! I think I would've panicked at first and then jumped in line. I loved me some MC Hammer...

My Art Skills Stink....

2009-06-04T21:34:00.005-04:00

Ashton is just finishing up her first year of big girl school. Everyday I have packed her lunch. And everyday, I decorate a napkin for her lunchbox. The only problem is, my art skills are so bad, I have to label my drawings. See for yourself....

That was supposed to be a picnic basket with the blanket hanging over the side. I think it looks more like some kind of Longaberger superhero mascot. Oh well, its the thought that counts, right? I'm just glad she can read now!

I'm Smiling Just Thinking About It

2009-05-28T22:02:00.006-04:00

This list, that is! Just because I can, I give you my "happy list!"

- The last day of school ('cause its really on my mind right now)
- Sunny, warm days
- The annual Christmas shopping trip with the girls
- Creating just about anything
- Digging in the garden
- Winning just about anything (I'm slightly competitive -- if you can't win, why play?)
- Relaxing with a good cup of coffee (lots of sugar and cream)
- A good run, by the sound on a semi cool day
- Date night...
- Our annual anniversary trip
- Kissing my little girls' cheeks when they're sleeping
- Toes in the sand
- Smelling jasmine, honeysuckle or lilacs
- Hanging at Mama's house
- A good horse show with Dad (when we're winning, of course)
- Those slightly too long, awkward hugs from my brother (he loves trying to creep me out)!
- A mess of crabs to eat

What's on your list?

Anxious

2009-05-25T20:19:00.001-04:00

I am super anxious to get back to blogging. The end of the year teacher schedule is insane, though! Here's a preview pic of some of the fun we've been having...

Flashback

2009-05-21T21:33:00.003-04:00

Let's flash back to a post I did last year at this time. Just because I love this song and these guys are hysterical... Be warned...

Beware the Sunburn

Gangsta of Love...

2009-05-17T21:10:00.004-04:00

So, check out what my hubby has been teaching our little ones...

By the way, did you know pompatus is not a real word?

My Heros

2009-05-12T22:10:00.001-04:00

I Love My Girls

2009-04-30T21:05:00.000-04:00

Took this pic at Bald Head over Easter weekend. It may be my favorite ever of my girls...

Step In It

2009-04-28T14:30:00.005-04:00

So, I had a rather unpleasant experience last night. My husband, at 12:30am woke me from my comatose like slumber to announce that the dog had just puked under the bed. Not fully coherent, I responded with, "we'll get it in the morning." A few minutes later, I hear the dog making that sound that comes just before he blows chunks. Now fully awake, I leap to my feet to try to get the dog outside before the explosion.

I hit the ground running. Around step two, I felt it -- warm, gooey yet slightly chunky, dog vomit squishing between my toes. Worse yet, I was in a full sprint, so I flung it about six feet out in front of me. I managed to get the dog outside, while keeping the rest of the vomit delicately balanced on my toes to prevent spreading it throughout the house. (It was a fun combination of half running, hopping and limping).

When I returned to my bedroom with some cleaning supplies Eric, being the compassionate husband he is, informed me that the mess could wait until the morning. Of course, he didn't realize it was between my toes. He took one look at the "evidence" gagged and turned away.

Of course, the experience was too entertaining not to share, but I've found some application here as well. Authors of two of the blogs I follow (Pete & Anne) are in India right now with Compassion International. Reading their stories and watching videos from the trip really illuminates the great needs that exist half a world away. The thing is, I can skim their blog posts or choose not to watch their videos. I can engineer my experiences so that the problem does not exist to me -- just like the ignored dog vomit didn't exist to me.

But when I get involved, join a cause, choose to subject myself to the suffering of others, I step in it and I can't ignore it. Its messy, its inconvenient and it stinks, but I can't ignore it anymore than I could ignore the dog vomit dripping between my toes last night.

Eric has been proposing that we take the students on an out-of-country mission trip next year. In my mind, I've been debating it -- it'll be so expensive, too much to organize, there is so much we could do here, etc. But if I really get to the heart of the matter, I don't want to feel bad. I don't want to step in it, because it'll be messy and I'll have to do something about it. On the other hand, that is exactly what I want to happen in the hearts of the students. I want them to have to roll around in it so they will understand riches in Christ Jesus and true poverty. Why am I such a hypocrite?

Somebody Had to Do It...

2009-04-22T21:40:00.001-04:00

For those of you who were wondering why on earth I was sucking the guts out of twinkies yesterday, here's a little video explanation. Please excuse my awful hair and lack of makeup, (I had just finished a run). Those poor students don't know what they're in for...

Is He For Real?

2009-04-09T21:34:00.003-04:00

Easter's here and I love candy and bunnies just as much as the next gal, but I love Jesus more. My man really brought it to the students at Ignite last night. A few of my paraphrases from last night's message: "My faith is not a blind faith;" "What idiot would lie knowing it would lead to a horrible death;" "whether you want to or not, you will answer the question that Jesus asks, "but who do you say that I am?"

I admire Eric so much for truly "working out his own salvation" and searching the scriptures, historical texts and the research of others. He knows why he believes what he does. His faith is his own, not his parents, not mine, not the pastors -- its his. The message he shared last night really explains, logically, why there is no other choice but to believe Jesus is who He claims to be -- He is for real! Check out the whole message here. To miss the intro stuff, you can skip ahead to about the 3:30 mark.

Is He for Real?

**Message content source: Josh McDowell

Squeeze What?!?!?

2009-04-08T20:58:00.001-04:00

Surely this cannot be for real... This gem came courtesy of the mental floss blog. I love the little translation mistakes and strange sentence structure: "bread meat;" "break your fast;" "ground cow;" "seameat." Now tell me, really, would you eat this stuff?

I'm a Horrible Mom...

2009-04-05T07:15:00.003-04:00

...but I couldn't resist -- it was too funny. Check out this video:

Its All Free!

2009-03-28T08:18:00.018-04:00

Several people have asked lately what types of software and resources we use in our church services. We have little to no budget for multimedia resources, but there are all kinds of great freebies out there. Below are some of my favorite applications and websites. Hope this can help someone. First, we run everything in Windows on a cheap Gateway laptop.

Presentation Software: I use Easislides to display song lyrics and Bible verses. I use Screen Monkey to display Motion Backgrounds, video illustrations, power points and images. Both are free and work great together!

Motion Backgrounds:
I get motion backgrounds for free at various sites. Movie tools is a great source. Dream scene is a bit strange, but I come across some good ones here from time to time as well. Muddy River Media produces lots of resources also. Again, all free. Various paid sites also offer once a month freebies. Two of my favorites are Worship House Media and Igniter Media.

Video clips and illustrations:
I get my video clips from Muddy River Media, various youtube channels or vimeo. If I choose to use videos from youtube or vimeo I use the free online converter Media Converter.org to download them so that I don't have to rely on an internet connection. Bluefish tv has some great minimovies, illustrations and countdowns that are very cheap and occassionally there are some good freebies. From time to time I also make my own videos using my cheap video camera and edit them in movie maker (free on windows machines).

More, more, more:
There are hundreds of resources out there and I couldn't possibly list them all. By far the best tools for keeping your ear to the ground and catching all the freebies and resources are to have a google reader account and a twitter and follow relevant contributors. (You can subscribe to my blog by clicking the link in the sidebar and follow me on twitter here).

I hope this helps. Pay it forward...

Ready for summer...

2009-03-26T20:50:00.005-04:00

Check out the video below from Rhett and Link. It just might be the hottest craze this summer...

That is one good Obama impersonator! I wonder how phatdippin' in the ocean would work out?

First Playdate

2009-03-16T20:52:00.001-04:00

Last weekend was a weekend of firsts. Ashton had her first sleepover and Cayden had her first playdate with a friend. We met at the elementary school playground and the rest is history!

Little gymnasts...
Cayden is a climber, just like her mama!
Cheeeeeese!
They were even color coordinated.

The Great Sleepover

2009-03-15T20:36:00.005-04:00

Ashton had her first sleepover last weekend. Cousin Katie got off the bus with her and stayed the night and most of Saturday. It was my first attempt at being a sleepover mom. I think it went well...

First, we had the girls make us dinner...pizza! They were happy to oblige...
I had made these "tickets" for evening entertainment and hid them in the living room.

While the pizza was cooking, the girls went on a little hunt for the tickets. They got so excited when they found one.

We ate dinner and made cookies while Eric set up the tent in the living room.

We ran out of time for the pedicure, so they just had movie and popcorn and then to bed. I think a great time was had by all -- they even let little sis join in on the fun!

Major Face-plant...

2009-03-05T20:40:00.002-05:00

I cannot even begin to tell you how many times I have watched this video and laughed like a hyena! Lord forgive me, but it is hilarious... (Ashton thought so too).

I mean really, no one saw that coming?!?!?

A New Baby!

2009-03-04T20:59:00.001-05:00

...at the barn, that is! Isn't she precious? I think we're calling her Taffy, but its not official yet.

My Snugglebug

2009-03-03T20:54:00.000-05:00

Cayden snuck in my room Saturday morning before 7:00am. I have to admit, I was a little frustrated at the time, but I love how she loves to snuggle. She's always so quiet and just content to be close.....until she begins to whisper, "mama, I hongry." That's my snugglebug.

My Fashionista...

2009-03-02T20:47:00.001-05:00

This is the outfit Ashton put together on Saturday. Nice...

Flyin' Solo

2009-03-01T20:43:00.003-05:00

So, I've been flying solo for nearly a week. Eric is out of town and we miss him like crazy. The really crummy part is that he left the day after his birthday, so I've had to stare at his cake and not eat it all! (Just jokes -- its still here, honey). The girls and I are ready for him to come home. I'm tired of flying solo

Pinching What?!?!?

2009-02-17T20:49:00.003-05:00

Ok, so this is probably extremely inappropriate to follow up my last post with, but I can't help it! This poor guys face cracks me up every time. Its hilarious in that "laughing at a funeral" kind of way. If it offends you, I apologize, but hey, its reality -- just watch...

How's Your Pillow?

2009-02-15T07:50:00.004-05:00

This blog post has riding around in my pocket since Wednesday night, so here goes...

Reaching people for Christ is messy. Children that have no parental support or role models are unruly -- but they need Jesus. Teens are rebellious and sometimes obnoxious -- but they need Jesus. Adults are confrontational and stubborn -- but they need Jesus. Churches are messed up! My church is messed up! It is full of people and people are messed up.

Our floors are clean, our services are orderly, our parking lot is quiet -- nothing gets broken and everyone is comfortable and happy. Meanwhile, people are broken, they are messy, they are hurting and sometimes we have to get uncomfortable -- really uncomfortable -- to help them.

Jesus was willing to get uncomfortable to reach people where they were. Jesus replied, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” - Matthew 8:20 How's your pillow feeling lately?

My Armpits are on Fire!

2009-01-27T22:05:00.002-05:00

Not being a real product loyalist, I decided to try some Tom's of Maine deodorant today. My armpits were on fire for about the first hour of the day. I wanted to blow on them but figured it might be a little awkward. It was terrible. Degree, I'm coming home!

I know, its random, but its my life...

Student of the Month

2009-01-26T18:00:00.002-05:00

Yep! I'm proud...

Let it Snow...

2009-01-20T21:28:00.003-05:00

So we had a little snow today, which is highly unusual here in Currituck. We laid around by the fire, watched the inauguration, and played in it some. Ashton really wanted to build a snowman, so we created this little guy...

She Was Tired...

2009-01-14T22:43:00.000-05:00

This is Cayden on Christmas Eve. After all the packages, food and chocolate, she'd had all she could take. Not one to show weakness, however, she felt the need to find a hiding place so she could catch a nap. I guess under the couch was as good of a place as any!

Kung Fu Family

2009-01-13T22:41:00.000-05:00

The girls got Kung Fu Panda for Christmas. It was truly inspiring...

The Cheapest Birthday Ever

2009-01-13T21:42:00.002-05:00

Ashton made her birthday list the other day...

It included an invisible baby elephant and an invisible baby unicorn. Tomorrow is the big day -- she'll be six. Do you think she'll be disappointed when she opens the empty box that will contain her new pets? This could, quite possibly, be the cheapest birthday ever!

Gum is of the Devil

2009-01-13T21:35:00.009-05:00

I've already told you that Eric is chiclephobic. He constantly tells me that gum is of the devil. Last Sunday may have proved his point. It all started in church. My dad is going to beat me when he reads this, but I let my children have gum during the service. It kept them occupied and all was going well until....

Ashton was sitting on my lap in the sound booth (closet) and began to cough. I looked down and realized she was gagging and choking. I sat her up, beat her on the back and she seemed to be fine. She said she had choked on her gum, but swallowed it. I said, "ok" and we settled back down until the service was over. As I was cleaning up, I walked over to power down the sound equipment and felt something squish beneath my foot. You guessed it...she had apparently hocked her gum across the booth.

That was bad enough, but it was not the end. On our way home from that evening's church business meeting, Cayden decided it would be funny to put her gum on her eyelid and, of course, this was the result:

I thought about cutting it out, but was worried my hand would slip. I contemplated ice, but I didn't want to numb her eyeball. I tried soap and water -- no luck. Finally, Eric's favorite food came to the rescue....peanut butter did the trick! Heather, that is how you remove gum from hair.

So do I think gum is of the devil? No, bad breath is of the devil. Gum is an easy cure for that!

Lake Traditions

2009-01-12T22:31:00.000-05:00

Eric's family has a number of traditions associated with the lake. We don't know how much more we'll get to go there, so we tried to capture a few of them on film

There's the regular trip to the Gizmo.

The annual debris pile fire and hotdog roast.

Watching the sun set over the lake.

Running down the hill.

And of course, the already mentioned polar plunge... Cool memories.

Be Afraid

2009-01-11T22:28:00.000-05:00

They look intimidating and "other wordly" don't they?? Everybody loves toys for Christmas.

Refugee Camp

2009-01-10T22:18:00.000-05:00

So we always go to Tampa for one night on our Christmas vacation. We stay with Eric's grandparents in the retirement village. The homes are rather small (which is good for people their age, but not so good for visitors).

Anyway, Eric and I and the girls usually sleep in the sewing room. Eric and I sleep on a futon and the girls camp out in their sleeping bags. Eric's parents usually sleep in Grandpa's office on an air mattress. Long story short, bedtime came and the air mattress wouldn't inflate. Eric and I volunteered to give up the futon and camp out in the office on the floor. Here is what our spacious accommodations looked like:

The two unoccupied sleeping bags are for Eric and I. Two adults, two children and a dog in one 10 x 10 office crammed with stuff. I can tell you not much sleeping went on that night. This must be what its like to live in a refugee camp!

My Eyes are Burning!!!

2009-01-09T22:15:00.000-05:00

This is my father-in-law. We all stayed together on our trip to Florida. Cayden thought it would be funny to bust in the bathroom while he was in there. I almost saw him naked. Scary! 'Nuff said...

Polar Plunge

2009-01-08T21:20:00.000-05:00

No, these are not leftover pictures from the summer. Those are my girls, in their skivvies playing in the lake on 12/26/08! Just a few days prior, we were warming ourselves by our fireplace in NC. But in Keystone Heights, it was a balmy 80 degrees! (Still not enough to get me in the water, or even a pair of shorts in December)! Ahhhh memories...

Crisis 1 Averted

2009-01-07T21:08:00.001-05:00

She looks innocent and sweet, but she nearly started a chain reaction that would have put a real damper on the drive to FLA. It was about the 2nd hour of our 12 hour trip and Cayden (the sweet child pictured above), fell asleep with gum in her mouth. This seriously alarmed Eric because he has chiclephobia. I decided to be the hero and swiftly "finger sweep" the gum out before she woke up.

I missed on my first try and had to go in for round two. Of course, the child woke up, bit the bejeebers out of my finger and began throwing a major tantrum. We let her cry for a while until she got so wound up she began gagging. The poor child actually threw up in her mouth! She is good, though, she held it there. Eric began freaking out and throwing tissues at me. Ashton, (the older sister), started gagging at the thought of vomit. I deftly catch the mess with the pile of tissues as Eric yells for Ashton to look out the window and think of something else. All at about 70 miles per hour....crisis 1 averted!

Truck Stop Floor Christmas Lunch

2009-01-06T20:47:00.006-05:00

As many of you know, we spend part of our holiday traveling around Florida visiting various members of Eric's family. It is a 12 hour drive from home and I don't travel well, so it makes for some interesting memories. Over the next few posts, I'll share some of my favorites. I'll start with my favorite from last year:
We travel on Christmas Day heading South on interstate 95. (By the way South Carolina, your portion of 95 needs some serious work! And Georgia, will you ever finish yours?). But I digress...

Not much is open in the way of good restaurants, but there are usually enough truck stops functioning along the way to get us by. We were ravenous and had stopped somewhere in South Carolina for lunch. We decided we could at least get a hot dog from the gas station. I surveyed the scene only to discover that there was but one, shriveled up old hotdog left. Eric decided to go for it as I was headed for the peanuts and Pepsi. Just as he picked it up to place it in the bun, it slipped from his grasp and landed on the nasty, greasy, disgusting truck stop floor. Question: does the five second rule apply in a truck stop? I think not, but my darling husband obviously believes otherwise (or he was on his way to starvation). He picked it up, brushed it off, and thanked God for his Christmas lunch...

Back to the Grind

2009-01-04T20:47:00.003-05:00

I have loved having two full weeks off from work. It seems like this has been the most relaxing break ever! But, alas, it is over. Hi ho, hi ho, its off to work I go....

The up side: I'll get back to a normal routine. I am so undisciplined without a schedule.

Fire

2008-12-23T08:00:00.001-05:00

I do love a fire in the fire place. In the eight (almost 9) years we have been in our house, we've only had a handful, though. Eric was afraid the chimney would catch on fire. (He's a boy scout -- "safety first"). Typically, I would "wish" for a fire on Christmas and "Santa" would make one appear. This year, though its different. I'm not sure what has changed, but its not even Christmas yet and we've already had two fires in the fireplace. I'm loving it!

I Don't Do Christmas Cards

2008-12-21T16:09:00.003-05:00

I know...how can I be a good Southern gal if I don't even send Christmas cards? I'm not sure. I've never been good about sending cards. I write them out, address them, even stamp them - somehow they just never make it to the post office. Oh, well I hope you'll accept this as my apology and enjoy this Christmas greeting anyway. Have a wonderful Christmas. Make some memories. My love to you all.

My Christmas Playlist

2008-12-16T10:02:00.005-05:00

I love classic Christmas tunes. The kind that my grandad used to play on Christmas day on his record player. The kind that make me nostalgic and bring back all those great Christmas memories. So, here's my playlist! (Yes, there is a NKOB song on there...hey, it was my childhood)!

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