Blessing not Curse...

Most of you who know me in real life know that I have ADD. Some of you who didn't might be thinking, "That explains some stuff." I was one of the people with ADD that didn't get the label until later in life. At the age of 24 actually. Since finding out that I actually DID have ADD I have done a TON of reading and research on the subject. I was one of those that used to think that people used ADD as an excuse. My coping skills were always good. I graduated high school with a 3.85 GPA. That alone makes a lot of people think that I can not possibly have ADD. Most people with ADD struggle in conventional schools. I have a few explanations as to why I did so well in high school. First of all, I am an excellent bull-shitter. I didn't have one teacher that I couldn't talk into allowing me extra time to complete something. I was also blessed to go to a school where they stressed teaching instead of stressing passing. My high school teachers knew I was intelligent and I was always highly involved in the classroom. It was that damn homework that threw me. Luckily, I was able to work with teachers and always seemed to wiggle my way out of it. Don't ask me how. I still am not totally sure how I did that.

There are so many misunderstandings in our society about people, especially young boys and adults, that live with ADD. WE ARE NOT LAZY! WE ARE NOT STUPID! Our brains are wired differently from other people's. I wish I had time this morning to elaborate on all I have learned. I will leave you with a few quotes out of a WONDERFUL book called, "Why A.D.H.D. Doesn't Mean Disaster".
"Think of [an ADHD person as] an absentminded professor who can find a cure for cancer but not his glasses in the mess of his desk. These are the inventors, creators, poets-the people who think creative thoughts because they don't think like everyone else."--Martha Denckla, M.D.

"The same right-brained children who are being labeled and shamed in our schools are the very individuals who have the skills necessary to lead us into the 21st century. These children process visually and randomly, and think holistically. They are intuitive problem solvers who get the big picture. They thrive on visual imagery and stimulation; these "attention-deficit" kids can spend hours with computer and CD-ROM programs that mirror their thought processes. It's no wonder they are attracted to computers. The use of computers is congruent with the way right-brained children think."--Jeffrey Freed (This explains my LOVE LOVE UTTER LOVE of all things computers)

"There are many positives with ADD, including a surplus of ideas, creativity, excitement, and interest which accompany this kind of mind." --Sari Solden

"ADD people are high energy and incredibly good brain stormers. They will often happily work 12 to 15 hours by choice. The business community should not fear ADD. Instead, they should see that they have a potential gold mine here."--Dr. Kathleen Nadeau

I wouldn't take back having ADD even if I could. God gave me a "different" perspective on things is all. I see the whole picture where most people only see steps. I see the end when most people see the process. I am intelligent and I am creative. And I was created this way by MY GOD who wants me to use it for something bigger.



There is wonderful speaker by the name Runks. His wife teaches with my mom. He is such a wonderful guy and he embraces ADHD. This is the newest design of shirt on his website. I am ordering one for myself and Jason. LOVE IT!

Go read more posts about ADD awareness!

Reads and More About Me...

My "reads" section in the sidebar has been long overdue for some additions. I updated it with some of my favorite blogs that I have been reading over the past several months. If you have some time check them out.

I also updated my about me section. I have been asked many times to include a "100 things" list. I will start working on that, but for now this will have to do.

Put it down...

I just got a new book in the mail from Amazon. This is like Christmas to me. I love Amazon...I love books. I have about a million things to do today, none of which include reading my precious new book. So there it sits, lonely and unopened.

At least until the dishes are done.

Even on those days...

Today was a hard day for me, Austin and Brodie. We had a lot of behavior issues today that had to be dealt with.

HOWEVER, even on the days when I think I am at my wits end I feel so insanely lucky.

Look at those three!!! They may be terrors some days (more angel than terror on most), but they are my heart.

I love this picture. Chase had his first taste of rice cereal tonight and Austin and Brodie were so excited to help. They are the best big brothers ever.

Chow Down...

Appetizer
What was the very last song you listened to?

"He Reigns" by the Newsboys...I am watching the Billy Graham Special on TV

Soup
What is one company/store/corporation you would recommend that people stay away from?

I am stealing my answer from another blog I read, but I can't remember who (leave me a comment if you know)

Abercrombie & Fitch......Seriously child porn is not cool, neither are crappy overpriced clothes.

Salad
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how much do you enjoy having your picture made?

Depends on my mood that day. I am usually the one taking pictures. But I do like to have memories of me with other people. So I will say IN GENERAL a 7.

Main Course
Besides a bookmark, what is something you've used to keep your place in a book?

Scrap paper, receipts, salt packet from restaurant, straw wrapper...basically anything I can get my hands on.

Dessert
Name a food that you like that most people don't.

Cream cheese with Pickapeppa sauce on Club crackers....mmmmmmmmmmm

Four Months...

Chase had his four month check up today. FOUR MONTHS!!! I can't believe how fast it is all going. I know from having Austin and Brodie how quickly these precious months go. Next thing you know I will be blogging about his first day of school.

He is growing steadily and wonderfully. He is now 16lbs 11oz and 26 1/2 inches long. He is now rolling completely over (front to back and back to front). He loves playing with his toes and can even manage to get one in his mouth at times. He is getting much more vocal and loves to yell. His brothers are still very much in love with him. Seriously, they love this child. Chase thinks his big brothers are hilarious and that they hung the moon it would seem. We are very lucky so far in this department.

Of course, the downside is we had to get shots today. Never a fun thing...necessary, but never fun. So our plan is to camp out at home today. At the 2 month checkup the shots made him VERY cranky, so I didn't want to take my chances with trying to be out and about today.

Jason and I are so blessed by these boys that God has given us. They drive us crazy, but oh how we love them!!!

That New Book Smell...

I got this book today....I am so excited I could pee myself. I adore C.S. Lewis. Now whenever I think, "You know Lewis once said something about this", I can bust out my handy dandy book and look it up. SWEET!

And since this was purchased with the lovely gift card my mom gave me for my birthday...Thanks Mommy!

"I can't imagine a man really enjoying a book and reading it only once." -- C.S. Lewis

Thursday Thirteen #6

Thirteen Things That Have Annoyed Me This Week...

1. The old lady that lives next door to us. Would it kill you to smile lady?
2. The lack of parental volunteers in every single activity. I notice it at school and church and now in scouting. GET INVOLVED PEOPLE.
3. The fact that because of #2 I am now assistant Den Leader of Austin's Tiger Cub Den...also meaning I have to wear a uniform....laugh it up.
4. My favorite pen ran out of ink and I can not find one that I love as much as it.
5. My allergies
6. Which ever one of our neighbors keeps letting their dog use our yard as their toilet.
7. Diet Coke does not taste as good as regular.
   
8. As mentioned in another post...FIFTH FREAKING PERIOD IN LESS THAN 3 MONTHS
9. I am now getting migraines again...after almost 5 years without one
10. Stepping on the 500th toy of the week this morning
11. That I can't get control of my moods
12. I haven't had enough time to read this week
13. That I am writing such a freaking negative list

I promise to do a more upbeat one next week....I feel better already!






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Taking a Break...

I wanted to let you all know that I appreciate the emails that I have been getting. Yes, I know my posts have been somewhat sparse lately. Truth be told, I am just busy. The kids are keeping me busy and I am also trying to spend a little time away by myself every night by going on walks with the dogs. I have a ton to talk about here, just no energy to talk about it. Austin has started scouts, Brodie is demanding a lot of attention, Chase is rolling all over the place and sticking anything he can get his hands on in his mouth....I am just busy with the mom stuff.

Part of it is also that I am feeling all out of sorts lately. For any man reading this right now, you might want to turn away. I have had 5...count them FIVE...periods in the last 2 1/2 months. These birth control pills my doc has me on are making me nuts. Besides the periods (which are so FREAKING annoying as I am used to having NONE) my moods are out of control and my face is in a constant state of break out. All I can say is, WHAT THE HELL?!?! I have my yearly exam in October and plan on insisting that she change my pills then. It is just making me very unhappy.

Know that I am around, I am reading all of your blogs and trying to keep up with my thoughts so I will have lots to say when I get back to full-time blogging.

It's coming..

My 9/11 post will regretfully be a day late.

I have not been very productive today. Chase did not sleep well and has been a wild banshee all day. I woke up with a headache that just will not stop. Needless to say, combining all of this with the normal everyday things that go on around here and I am pooped.

The 9/11 post is halfway done, but I don't want to post it until it is fully completed. It deserves that.

The hard stuff...

I hate some of the things that I, as a parent, have to explain to Austin. He is now 6 1/2 years old and has started to ask the tough questions. He is also very bright, so simplistic answers do not work with him. He wants the details...he can understand the details.

Austin was just 19 months old when 9/11 happened. (Watch Monday for a post about my memories from that day) He was much too young to understand what happened and really never has even acknowledged that he knew anything about it. Friday he came home with a piece of paper from school announcing that they would be having "National Patriot Day" Monday at school. Austin wanted to know what that meant. This is how our conversation went:

Austin: Mom, what is National Patriot Day?

Me: Well, it is a day to remember what it is to be an American and to honor some special people.

Austin: So is it like the 4th of July?

Me: Sort of. The 4th of July is to celebrate our country's birthday.

Austin: Oh, so what people do we honor on patriot day?

Me (realizing I need to just tell him about 9/11 before he hears it on the news and gets confused): Well, back on September 11, 2001 something happened. You were just a baby so you don't remember it. Some very bad men took over some airplanes.

Austin: What do you mean, took over?

Me: They took control of the planes away from the pilots and started to fly them by themselves.

Austin: OK

Me: Those bad men then crashed the planes into two buildings in New York called the World Trade Center. They also crashed one into a building in Washington and another one crashed into a field.

Austin: Why would they do that?

Me (tears coming to my eyes): I don't know Austin. I wish I did know. See these people don't like America and they wanted to hurt us. The two towers fell down and a lot of people on the planes and in the buildings died. It was a very, very sad day.

Austin: So Patriot day is about honoring those people?

Me: Yes, it is about honoring those people and their families.

Austin: Then I guess I better pray for their families on Patriot day. I bet they miss them.

Me (about to completely lose it): I think that would be a very nice thing.

This was probably the hardest conversation I have ever had to have with Austin. I am still not sure if I handled it right. Sometimes being a parent is really hard.

How do they do that?

Does anyone know how Target does it? I go in to return a $6 item and when I leave I find myself loading a new FOOD PROCESSOR into my car. What the hell happened?!?

Thursday Thirteen....Me addition

A Thursday Thirteen challenge has been issued...to name 13 things I like about myself. Game on...

Thirteen Things I like about ME 1. My sense of humor. I make myself laugh and really isn't that all that matters? Seriously though, I get told that my sense of humor rocks a lot. I am a twisted, twisted individual. 2. I am a good mother. I know I am not perfect , but that is not what makes a good mom. 3. My eyes. They are really pretty.....I get loads of compliments on them. 4. My hair. I have the kind of hair people beg for. I could lose half of it and still have more than a full head. I just wish it was all straight (it gets wavy in the back when I let it air dry) 5. I am optimistic, most of the time. I can usually always find the silver lining. 6. I am outgoing. I am not afraid to make a fool out of myself and will go out of my way to make others feel comfortable. 7. I am a GREAT friend... I am a lousy acquaintance. 8. I am very creative. 9. I am a dreamer. 10. I am a good cook. I am not a great cook like my mom yet, but I am working on it. I have really developed a love for cooking over the last year or two. I have always liked it though. 11. I don't rely on material possessions to build up my self worth. Boy, I used to though. This was a hard one to break. Now I am firm in who I am. 12. I love Jesus. 13. I have a big heart. I can't help but care about people. Even when I don't really want to. Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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AWOL

I am alive and kicking. I was enjoying my lovely weekend with my in laws and my family. I have many many things floating around in my head to blog about, but have not quite formulated what all I want to say. So for now a few random thoughts a la LaShawn:

~ Mi Cocina may be snobby Tex-Mex but oh my it was yummy! Thank you Jas for my birthday dinner it was so tasty. Thank you Lesa and Terry for watching the kiddos for us.

~ Our neighbors are thrilled that they were woken up Saturday morning to the sound of chainsaws. Our landlord had our HUGE, 50 year old, sycamore tree cut down. It is now piled in front of our house waiting for the city to come pick it all up. Looks very classy!

~ I have taken over as the prayer "leader" of our Sunday School class. I have a lot of fear about this and I don't know why. I am working through it. I signed up not because I WANTED to do it, but because I really felt like I was supposed to. I am praying that God uses this ministry to strengthen my own prayer life.

~ It rained ALL day Monday....I love that!

~ I took Beau on a walk with me last night. Man that bird dog instinct comes out when he is tracking something. Once he realized that Mommy wasn't playing games he decided to stop trying to walk ME!

~ Austin has done really well in school so far this year. He made 100% on his last spelling test and continues to keep up his good behavior (something we struggled with in Kindergarten). I am very proud of him.

~ Brodie has decided that it is fun to baby talk....acting out with the new baby maybe?

~ Chase used his exersaucer for the first time this weekend. He is finally big enough. He loves it!

~ I started Beth Moore's new bible study, Daniel, yesterday. I am very excited about it. Sounds so interesting....I am sure it will give me lots to blog about.

~ I am still in the process of figuring out my schooling situation. I am for sure going back in the Spring, but we are at a crossroads as to what exactly I am going to study. This is one of those things that will get its own post soon to explain. Ugh...

~ I am so glad I got to see my mom this weekend. Even if it was only for an hour!

~ I need to go do some laundry....OK, I am going....right now.....well as soon as I read my email.

Reason #4,763,982 that my hubby rocks....

Jason came home a little early today. He has had a really rough week at work and we didn't get much time with him. We as a family are not used to that.

After supper we were sitting on the couch when he left the room. About 20 minutes later he returned with ALL of my nail polishes and files and such. He gave me a manicure and painted my nails. He had practiced on himself in the bathroom since he had never painted nails before. He felt badly about the lack of time this week...

That is love people!!!!

How Many Candles???

Yesterday was my birthday. I am now officially on the downside of my 20's. I had a wonderful day. Kree took me out to lunch at the Cheesecake Factory (love that place) and also bought me new running shoes and boots. Jason and I are celebrating my birthday on Saturday. His parents will be in town so we will be going out to dinner just the two of us. LOVE IT!

In other news, Austin is now a boy scout. Jason took him last night to join the Tiger Cubs. He was sooooo excited. I can't wait...he and Jason will have so much fun.

Well, the blog will be somewhat quiet over the next few days with the in-laws coming. I have a lot of stuff to do today. I hope everyone has a great and SAFE labor day weekend.

Knock Knock...

I don't understand why it is so hard for people to pick up a phone and call before coming over. I am not talking about friends or family(though they should call too). I am talking about all the other people that you have to deal with.

For the past 2 years I have been tracked by the Census Bureau. They randomly picked me and every few months the contact me to update some information etc. The old lady that is in charge of my area NEVER calls and just shows up. (I will post another time about hiding from her)

My landlord is having some work done around our house. We have a large sycamore tree that died before we moved in that is in danger of falling if there is a large enough storm (on our neighbor's roof more than likely). The guy that is supposed to come look at it just showed up even though he wasn't supposed to until in the morning.

I have three kids people. It is not always convenient for me to answer the door. Furthermore, since it is such a huge pet peeve of mine, there is a chance I am going to ignore the door until you call. Also, when home alone with three kids I make it a practice to not answer the door to people I do not know. It is called safety. OK, off my rant now...oh crap the doorbell.

Kidding Around...

Last night was an absolutely GORGEOUS night here in Texas. Mild temperatures (anything below 100 is that for us now) and a nice breeze. After supper we decided to go to the park. Austin and Brodie rode their bikes while Jason and I walked with Chase in the stroller. The park was packed. Everyone out enjoying the wonderful weather. Austin met up with some of his friends from school. I love that he has kids in the neighborhood he knows now. I did a few laps around the park while Jason sat and watched the boys play. Chase loves to be outside and sat and watched the trees and all the other kids. It was wonderful. I am so ready for fall!!!

Techie Kids...

It is obvious to anyone who knows me that I love me some computer time. This appears to be a trait that Jason and I are passing on to our kids. Computers are a necessity anymore and I can only imagine how much more necessary they will be in 10 years. Start 'em early!!!

And yes, I do need to take out the trash in the office...

Soak Me...

This summer has been unusually hot and dry around the Dallas area. It has gotten so bad that we are under mandatory water restrictions. We are only allowed to water our yards on Wednesday nights. Needless to say, our once gorgeous tree filled, green grass, wild flower area now looks like it is going to spontaneously combust at any moment. So imagine how happy we were to see rain in the forecast...and even MORE ecstatic to see the rain last night.

It rained good and hard last night. After the rain Mojo and I went for a walk. (I adore my dogs but they are two big dogs and if they see a squirrel I am toast...that is why only one got to go) It was lovely, though a little sticky. There is more rain on the way and I think I may go dance in it. My mom told me it only counts if I dance naked. So I guess I will stick to the backyard.

No Princess for This Queen...

Jason and I can not go out in public without hearing, "So when are you going to try for a girl?"

This.is.an.annoying.question.

Apparently, having all boys somehow means that you are not a full family yet. Well, let me tell you something, I do the laundry and the dishes around here. We are full. No Vacancies left here.

I do realize that there are many things that I will miss out on by not having a daughter. My mother and I have always been very close. I will never be the mother of the bride. I will never go prom dress shopping. I will probably not be in the delivery room when my grandchildren are born (unless of course my daughter in laws are like me and don't care who is in there). I will never get to tell one of my children that their makeup and clothes make them look like a whore and to march upstairs and change...cause if one of the boys has to be told this I will be out cold on the floor.

However, I am so incredibly blessed to be the mom of three boys. I was told by a woman at church that in all her years as a child therapist she has noticed that the really incredible women are the ones entrusted with boys. Do you know how awesome it was to hear her say that? I do feel like God had a distinct purpose in giving me these little men. I view my job as the mother of boys very seriously. My job is to mold these boys into Godly men.

I know that my house will never be spotless. There will be remnants of toy wars always left out for me to step on at midnight in the dark. There will always be bruises. I will always have band-aids and the phone number to the ER on hand. I will always look at my children as though they have come from another planet. I will always have to guard my makeup from becoming warpaint. I will always have to make sure that I buy lots of bleach for all the stains in underwear (hey it had to be said). There will always be wrestling. There will always be spitting and farting. One day...a day far, far away...I will have to watch them enter the world of dating and have their hearts broken. I will have to help them learn about women. And when that day comes I will cry and contemplate locking them away.

I love my boys and can't imagine having any of them as a girl. They fit me and I feel totally equipped to handle them (most days). I am not a perfect mother, there is no such thing. I do know that God is with me and as long as I seek His guidance in raising these boys I will be just fine.

The biggest bonus to having all boys? I will forever be the Queen of this house! No Princesses may enter my abode. Now go clean your room...

Bless me Blogger....

Bless me Blogger for I have sinned. It has been many moons since my last online confession.

I accuse myself of creating a secret blog...of which I have not mentioned.

Now, my dear blogger...you will always be my #1 blog. I promise to keep you up to date. I promise I will not forget about you. For you are my blog...my lovely blog.

So here is the real deal. I was just for fun trying out a new blogger service. While doing so it occurred to me that I censor myself on this blog more than I used to. There are many reasons for this. Now, if you are a long time reader...or someone that I read...or someone that I know in real life please feel free to email me and I will send you a link to my other blog. The other blog, just so you know, is going to be geared towards a very specific part of my life that I do not want *certain* people knowing about. Basically I don't want that journey to take over this blog. This blog is more about my family and me on a day to day basis. So happy blogging!

Blogger I hope you understand that you and I will still be very close, just know that I am seeing someone on the sly...sorry!

Thursday Thirteen #4

Thirteen Things LaShawn believes in... 1. Jesus - His love has proven itself time and time again 2. Love - even when it hurts and when it is hard. The whole love thy enemies thing is my new mission. When I feel the desire to bad mouth them I will instead pray for them. So, if you are one of my so-called enemies (of which I only have 1 or 2) I am praying for you :-) 3. Forgiveness - It has been shown to me and I CHOOSE to forgive others who don't always deserve it. It is freeing! 4. Hugs - They work wonders 5. Caffeine- It works wonders TOO!!! 6. Family - There is nothing more important on this Earth to me than my family 7. Deep Friendships - I do not do the whole casual friends thing well. 8. Laughter - It is a cure-all 9. Music - There is a soundtrack to my life. 10. Blogs - It is cheaper than therapy 11. The Underdog 12. Retail Therapy - I have not used this much lately, but I still say it works. 13. Myself Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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Shut up Martha!

Martha Stewart I ain't when it comes to housework. Don't get me wrong, my house is not dirty. Cluttered? Yes. Dirty? No. I was reading an article recently in a magazine (I can't remember which one) about a mother who was so OCD about her house that her children literally were like "dolls". What I mean by that is that they were not allowed to play in the house, nor make a mess, nor breathe it sounded like. For example, her daughter came home from school with playdough that the kids had made in art class. The mother promptly made the FIVE YEAR OLD CHILD throw away the offending mess maker. With her daughter in tears over the playdough she called the school and YELLED AT THEM for sending playdough home. Another example, her 12 year old son wanted to play for the soccer team at his school. She would not allow it. Not because he got bad grades or had attitude issues, but because it would mean that he would be dirty and that his clothes might get stained.

I WISH I WERE MAKING THIS UP.

This woman makes her children eat with bibs...HER 12 YEAR OLD SON! She mops twice a day. She has a dustbuster in every room. She will not allow her husband to change his clothes unless she is in the room so that she can assure that the clothing gets in the proper color coded laundry basket (Shana, I know you think Brad needs that.).

What do you remember of your mother from your childhood?

I will tell you what I remember. I remember tickle fights, chearleading lessons, singing silly songs, playing games, girl scouts, taking care of the zoo (our backyard), cooking together, laughing together, dancing, playing in the sprinklers.

Yes, we had to clean our rooms. Yes, there were times my mother would not be able to play because there were things to be done. Yes, we had to help around the house. But these aren't the things I remember.

I want my kids to look back on their childhood and remember snake hunting in the backyard, card games, mom in the floor playing power rangers, mom out in the backyard playing soccer, Jason teaching them how to dig for worms and taking the fishing. I have a sign in our house that says,"Excuse the noise and the mess. The kids are busy making happy memories." If that means that my floor only gets mopped once a week...so be it.

Everyone needs one...

Everyone needs an Aunt Kree. Everyone needs someone who cares for you no matter what.

Kristin understands and shares my twisted sense of humor.

Kristin will drop everything at the drop of a hat if I have a need.

Kristin loves my children with a FIERCE love.

Kristin allows me to be me.

Kristin picks me up when I am down.

There are a multitude of other reasons that I love her so much. Everyone needs an aunt like her. She may be my aunt, but she is mostly my friend. She is amazing. Thank you Kree for all you have done for me over the past year. You and Chris are awesome people and we love you!

Look-y...

I have been interviewed over at 5 minutes for Mom.

Currently spending lots of time with Brodie. He is feeling a little bummed about Austin being back in school. So, excuse the sparseness of the posts.

A Quick Birthday Wrapup...

Click for larger pictures...Blogger is being a #@(&$)!@ and I can't upload directly in.

Brodie wanted a strawberry cake....so that is what Mommy made him. It was quite tasty!



Austin and Aunt Kree are very easily amused. They were playing with FLARP...by the name you can probably guess what kind of sound it makes.

Chase and Daddy hang back and watch the craziness.


Austin, being the budding photographer that he is, posed Uncle Chris for this picture. Very artsy!

Chase and Mommy ready for a nap!

It was a GREAT birthday for Brodie. I can not believe he is 4 years old. I am not ready for these little guys to grow up and they are doing it faster than I can take.

Hole-y Grin Batman!

Austin's first two teeth are now property of the Tooth Fairy. I promise he doesn't always look so scarey...

New Look

I know I am changing looks really often. The reasoning is simple. I am trying to teach myself HTML and CSS. I am sure this site will change looks often. Hey, I DO have ADD!

Thursday Thirteen #3

Thirteen Things LaShawn should be doing instead of blogging. 1. Vacuuming the bedrooms 2. Thank you notes (they will be done started tonight) 3. Sorting the rest of the laundry...a never ending task 4. Clearing off the patio...I have no idea how in the world our dogs manage to find these things. 5. Making a dentist appointment 6. Working on my new design...not technically blogging if I am working on the design is it? 7. Emailing people back 8. Painting my toenails 9. Tweezing my eyebrows...they are getting a little hairy 10. Napping. I have only one child with me today and that is the baby. I really should nap since he is. 11. Sorting our pictures into proper folders 12. Cleaning out the closet in the boys room 13. Folding clothes...the basket is staring at me. Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

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Birthday and the Tooth Fairy...

Brodie turned 4 years old yesterday. I can't believe it. Even though Chase is now here I still can't help but think of Brodie as the baby. He is no baby now. Big man!! We had a great day. We went swimming after Austin got home from school with Aunt Kree and then went out to Blue Goose. I LOVE that my sons love Mexican food....just like their Mama. I will post more pictures and all that this weekend. Brodie wanted to wait until Jason gets home from Oregon to do cake and all that good stuff. So we are having Kree and Chris over on Saturday to celebrate...AGAIN!

Austin also had an exciting day yesterday. He lost his FIRST tooth. This morning he lost his SECOND tooth. He looks adorable with a big whole in his mouth. Just more proof that my babies are growing up. I will post a picture tonight!

Brodie spent the night at Kree's house. They are going shopping and out to lunch today. I should go take advantage and nap with Chase, but there is stuff to be done around the house...so off I go like the little Domestic Goddess I am. (HA!)

A New Day...

I don't know why I picked today. It isn't a Monday. Everyone knows things like this are supposed to start on Mondays. It isn't New Years, Lent or even the beginning of a month. There was no huge crisis to spark it...no dire situations that had me pondering the effects of the thing.

What thing you ask?

Soda.

It is not an issue of caffeine. (I have three small children, please don't dare ask me to give up caffeine or you may lose an appendage. Yes, I know caffeine is an addiction and that it is a "drug", spare me.) It is an issue of sugar and my water intake. I am not one of these people that is going to sit here and try to convince you that I have no idea why I am carrying around extra weight. I know why, and I dare say my sodas are a big culprit of that. I have been saying that I would give up other things in order to still have my soda, but to be honest...that seems silly. I have not been drinking near enough water either, mostly due to cokes. The time has come. I woke up this morning and decided, enough was enough.

So, starting today I am taking a sabbatical from sodas. I will still have caffeine when needed, just in coffee form. I wanted to put it in writing so that it was out there and public knowledge. Feel free to bitch slap me if you see with a coke.

OH WAIT...Jason leaves tonight for a business trip and will not be back until Friday night...WHAT AM I THINKING??!?! Three kids...three days...no soda. Oh well, too late now. Poor kids. They will surely need therapy!

The House of Funk

The worst part of everyone being under the weather this weekend is the repercussions it has had on the house. This cold has sapped every ounce of energy from my body. Couple that with having three kids and well, things just didn't get done. I spent the weekend trying to keep up with the kids...there was much fighting between the older two and many diaper changes and feeding sessions with the youngest. Jason was busy getting rid of books and such. Today, there is much to be done around the house. There are floors to vacuum, dishes to be cleaned, laundry to be laundered, bathrooms to be cleaned, and a multitude of of other odd jobs. Will they all get done today? Not unless some fairy decides to have pity on me. Jason leaves for Oregon tomorrow on business for the rest of the week, so I will get his laundry done and the dishes done. By the time those two things get done it will be time to pick up Austin and it begin the afternoon of fighting and crying...*sigh* Perhaps tomorrow I will feel better and it will be a more upbeat day.

3 months

What do you give a child for his 3 month birthday? In our house, apparently a cold. Jason and I have been feeling under the weather for a few days now. Chase is now developing a runny nose and is getting a bit cranky. Austin and Brodie are feeling down too, but I think theirs is more allergies. Fun times to be had around here.

However, we did hit a milestone today. Chase laughed. It wasn't a full on giggle, but it was a laugh and I was so excited.

In other news, we had a productive weekend. In an effort to rid some of the clutter from our attic and garage we sold a ton of books, old CDs and movies. The CDs and movies were no big deal for me. BUT THE BOOKS!!! I hate parting with books. However, I did it. That is a big victory for me! We are also selling a bunch of books and stuff on Amazon. Freeing our house of some of the clutter feels good. Now I just need to find the bottom of the laundry basket. Well all, I am off to nurse Chase and crawl into bed with a few Tylenol PMs....Happy Sunday!

Seriously Messed Up..

I have written before about how I feel about the whole breastfeeding debate going on in this country. It still completely floors me that there is even a debate to be had. I ran across this very interesting post by another mom that is confused about the same topic. It is totally worth the read....go read it now.

I am much more likely to breastfeed in public now with my third than I did with my other two. I have always done it, but with two older ones it is just harder to find a place to nurse. So we generally just do it whereever we are. I do have a nursing cover (a very hip one I might add). Even with the nursing cover completely covering all activity boob related, I STILL get dirty looks. WHAT THE HELL?!?!? I am WAY more covered than 99% of the teenage girls out there.

Four

The theme for Photo Friday for this week is: Four. This one was pretty easy for me. Brodie turns four years old in 4 days. Where did the time go?

Thursday Thirteen #3

Thirteen Things LaShawnHas Been Thinking About 1. I am melting. Seriously, I feel like I am living back in Vegas with this heat. Ugh. 2. Am I going to go to nursing school or am I going to go another route? 3. What route as far as schooling and career would be best for my whole family? I can do what I want, but what impact will that have on the kids. 4. Why won't the dishes do themselves? 5. I really need a new pair of jeans. Do I get the cool new ones from Old Navy that look really good on me and have extra money for a shirt and some other stuff or do I go ahead and get the more expensive jeans that look even better on me? 6. How did Cheeto dust get on my keyboard? (I know the answer, but the wee one responsible doesn't KNOW I know) 7. I really want to do something new with my hair, but I do not know what that something is. 8. Can you actually make good money as a web designer? 9. I really want some good Mexican food. 10. Why can't people mind their own business when it comes to parenting? My friend had an encounter recently that just brought this up. Seriously, parenting is hard enough without stupid people butting in. 11. I should really start snooping around the web for cheap software that I need. 12. I don't want to know what Austin and Brodie are doing. All I know is they were giggling and now it is REALLY quiet. 13. I really wish Chase would poop. (It has been 2 days...curious) Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. Zeus 2. My 2 cents 3. Cheryl 4. JennyRyan 5. Emily 6. Julie

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

Leave me a link and I will link to you. Love to hear from others. Come join in the fun. Happy TT!!!


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I Can't Take It

Why can't kids listen? I have told this child over and over again....STOP GROWING UP! Does he listen? NO! He just keeps getting bigger and smarter. You would think as his mom I could control this, but I seem to be powerless.

Austin started 1st grade today. YES, I said it. We no longer use letters to describe his grade. We have moved on to numbers. Here was the shocker for me. This has been harder on my emotions than when he started Kindergarten. I can't explain why. I just have been very emotional about him starting back. I cried today....many times.

The good news...the transition to the new school seems to have gone perfectly. He had a good day and was ecstatic to report that he gets a locker this year. Very grown up indeed.

Next year I will have TWO in school.....there will need to be medical assistance on hand that day...I can't take it.

Getting to know you...

I set up a new about me "thingy". Learn about me in 20 easy steps...check it out.

Hmmmm....

A thought to ponder...

"Those who hate you don't win unless you hate them. And then you destroy yourself."
~Richard Nixon

Blog Chicks Carnival

My first carnival...I am so excited. Here goes...

The Theme is "What I love about blogging..."

This is a subject that I could go on and on and on and on about. So I had to narrow it down some...my children don't want to let me have much time at the moment.

Blogging for me started at a time when I was very unhappy. I started off anonymously in order to just have a place to vent my feelings. It was just before my ex-husband and I separated and my life was in a bit of turmoil. My blog was the only place I felt like I could just talk. Since going public with my blog (especially once it went public to family and friends) it has served two purposes. The first is just a place for me to vent...still. I need to vent sometimes. It is also a way to stay connected with friends and family. We now live several hours away from most of our family. This way everyone can see pictures and hear stories about the kids a little more often.

The most surprising thing for me about blogging is the community involved. There are blogs that I read that I truly feel connected to their authors. My "reads" section in the sidebar is in terrible need of a update, but I read probably close to 20 different blogs a day. I have "met" women like Beckie who just inspire me by being who they are. I am so excited to see where this adventure takes me. So you ask, what do I love about blogging? EVERYTHING!!!!

Wanna play? Go here and find out how. This week it is open to all women.

Rolly Polly

Chase is now a Rolly Polly. I had him on his tummy yesterday and left the room for a moment to help the other two boys with a computer game. When I returned Chase was on his back. Much excitement and high pitched praises followed. I had to see it for myself of course, so I but him back on his tummy and watched him until he did it again. Austin and Brodie were extremely excited. They think their brother is now a genius....which of course he is. My first thought after calling Jason was, "I need to blog about this." But I controlled myself in order that the important folks (ie grandparents, aunts and such) could be notified. Don't want to hurt anyone's feelers.

Friday Feast #2

Appetizer

Name an actor or actress you think is totally underappreciated.

Jason Lee: Before he landed the "My Name is Earl" role, I think he was seen as just another character actor...but he is more talented than that.


Soup

Impress us by using a big word in a sentence.

My predilection for all things girly could cause major problems one day.

Salad

What is something inanimate that you've given a name to (such as a pet rock)?

My brother's pickup in high school was called "The Rice Rocket" (it was a silver Issuzu pickup)

Main Course

What color would best represent your personality and why?

Orange....I thought about this one long and hard. Orange is a bold, bright color, but it can also be very mellow. That is pretty much me.

Dessert

Fill in the blanks: ____________ is so ____________.

Dieting is so HARD!

How Much?!?

So we got our water bill in the mail the other day. Before I tell you all how much it was you better sit down. No, seriously, sit. Ok, but don't say I didn't warn you...

$370

I told you to sit down. Get up.

I seriously thought Jason was going to have a coronary (not a canary) right in front of me. We knew something had to be wrong. We are under mandatory drought restrictions and can only water our yard once a week. How could this be?

After some investigating we found a MAJOR leak underground. I sat all day yesterday with no water waiting on the plumber. Oh, sure we could have left the water on until he got here, but it would have cost us.

So, like I said we had no water yesterday. I told the boys that the toilets would not flush so they needed to let me know if they had to do anything other than #1. They eventually took to peeing in the backyard. Hey, I never said we weren't rednecks. This worked until about noon. That was when Austin made his announcement (Austin is my dramatic one...keep that in mind)

Austin: "Mom, we have a slight problem"

Me: "And what would that be?"

Austin: "Brodie needs to poop."

Me: "Tell him he can't....there will be no pooping today."

Austin: (in terrified voice on the verge of tears) "BUT MOM WE WILL BLOW UP"

Me: "Austin, chill. I am kidding. Tell him to go, but he can't flush."

What followed that can only be described as a Poop-a-thon. Brodie and Austin NEVER need to go that much....until we have no water. Oh and did I mention I couldn't get the cover off the water meter to turn the water on to flush? There were many candles lit in bathrooms...it was gross.

Everything is fixed and running smoothly now. And do they need to poop today? Oh of course not silly!

It Is Official...

I am a Blogging Chick!

Check out the Blogging Chicks blogroll to the right under READS!

Thursday Thirteen #2

It's that time again (yes, I realize I am posting this Wednesday night...gimme a break...I have three kids):

Thirteen Things You Will Never Hear LaShawn Say: 1. No, Honey, don't buy me ANOTHER Coach purse. 2. I'll have a Diet Coke... 3. More Laundry?!?!? YIPEE! 4. That's OK. I don't need to use the computer today. 5. I need more drama in my life. 6. I have enough hair and makeup products. 7. People in Dallas drive so awesome. 8. I wish the heat of summer would last year round. 9. I have too many pairs of boots and flip flops. 10. Do these jeans make my ass look too small? 11. Bill Clinton was the best president ever. 12. Being a stay at home mom is SOOOOO easy. 13. Who needs chocolate? Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. sahm 2. Melissa 3. Dariana 4. Southern Girl 5. EmilyRoseJewel 6. Meredith 7. Les 8. Raggedy 9. laura 10. Cheeky 11. Nathalitanis 12. my 2 cents 13. DivaP 14. Mysterious Lady 15. Barb 16. Stacy 17. Write from Karen 18. Jenny Ryan

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

I am alive!

I promise I am alive. We have had company ever since we got back from the coast. Jason's mom was here until Saturday night and then my mom got here Sunday. My mom was in town to do some shopping for school clothes (she is a teacher) and to get her hair done. She is now on her way back to Lubbock. I have some great posts written in my head, but have not had the time to sit and write them. Hopefully in the next few days I will find some time to sit and get at least one written. Right now a baby calls....

Say What?

Friday Feast

I haven't had much time to think to myself lately...so my real posts have gone in exile apparently. So here is another meme called Friday Feast. I promise I will have something more to say soon.

Feast One-Hundred & Four

Appetizer
What's the funniest dream you can remember having?

I once had a dream that I was a shark. It was after watching "Finding Nemo" one too many time with the boys. I was a shark, but I was scared of even the tiniest fish. I ended up running into a wall (or swimming into I should say) and I woke up. Doesn't sound funny, but it really was.

Soup
If you were a dog, what breed would you be, and why?

This is HARD. My immediate reaction is to say Yorkie. One of my mom's Yorkies Betty cracks me up. A prissy dog with ADD, yup it fits.

Salad
Continue this sentence: "I get confused when..."

... when people who do not know you say they hate you. Or when people who claim to be Christians can spout ugly awful things about people and pretend they have some right to do so. I am also confused by people that seem to forget all of their sins and mistakes and concentrate totally on others mistakes. Confusing.

Main Course
Name two things that need to be done, but you are procrastinating in completing.

The laundry (this is my most hated chore) and cleaning out the boys' closet, I am scared of what I might find in there.

Dessert
When was the last time you tried something new, and what was it?

This one threw me...I am usually pretty interested in trying new things, but having a hard time thinking of anything right now. OOOOOO I bought some new eyeshadow. I never thought I could pull off lavender, but turns out it makes my eyes very bright. That isn't very interesting but it is all I can think of.

Thursday Thirteen

I am going to start participating in the Thursday Thirteen. Every week it will be different. This week it is just about me.

Thirteen Things You May Not Know About LaShawn 1. I grew up in Las Vegas. Yes, THAT Las Vegas. 2. I wanted to BE Debbie Gibson. 3. I could spend and entire day in Sephora and never get bored. 4. I will cook ANYTHING you want for you if you will do the dishes. 5. My mom should open her own restaurant....I know that isn't really about me, but it explains my love of cooking. 6. I am more than slightly addicted to the computer. 7. I didn't know I had A.D.D. until I was 24. It explains A LOT! 8. I graduated high school with a 3.85 GPA somehow without doing 95% of my homework. I have yet to figure that one out. 9. I have more "flavors" of lotions than days in a fortnight (I'll wait while some of you look up fortnight). 10. I love the smell of motocross races...fuel and oil mixed with dirt. 11. Everything is better with garlic and onions in my book...well almost everything. 12. I LOVE to read....as evidenced by my eclectic and LARGE book collection. 13. I still love to watch my kids sleep...they are so QUIET then. Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. Cheryl 2. Lady Jane 3. Trisha 4. Deanna 5. Spa girl

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. ItÂ’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

beach

I am currently attempting to unpack and find our house. Our trip was great. The boys had a blast and take after Jason and I in that they would be totally happy being beach bums. It was so wonderful to get to relax on the beach and be with our family. This was the first time in a long time I have gotten to spend a whole week with my parents and brother. All four of the kids had a blast. I will write more about the trip later when I am not so frazzled. My mother in law is coming tomorrow and I would like to have all my unpacking and cleaning up done. Hope you all had a great week while I was gone.

Back & Prayers

We are back from our vacation....we had a great time. I will be back later to post about the trip.

While we were gone some sad events took place and I would like to ask all of my friends for some prayer. My dear friend, Shana, had a sad loss on Saturday. Her grandmother passed away. Please pray for Shana's family and especially her grandfather. I love you Shana and your grandmother was very special.

The second item of prayer is for Jason's grandfather, Otto. He fell last Monday. He has had cancer for some time. My mother in law went to check on him and he did not answer. She found him on the floor where he had been since 3 am. He was admitted to the hospital where he remains. Saturday night he had a stroke while my in laws were in the room. That is all the details I have right now. Otto is such a sweet man and we hate to see him in pain. The picture above is of Otto with the boys during our visit in June to Lubbock.

Be back later with a more upbeat post!

Super Mom

I know I said my blog would be quiet, BUT something phenomenal has just happened.

For any of you that doubt my Supermom abilities...I have all, ALL THREE, of my boys down for a nap and get this...THEY ARE ALL SLEEEEEEPING! Now, since this won't last long I must go get a week's worth of work done in 45 minutes.

*cape blowing in the wind*

Vacation

We leave tomorrow for a MUCH needed vacation. My parents, my brother and his family, and all our clan are going to be going to Port Aransas on the coast. My dad has his boat down there and we will be doing lots of deep sea fishing and of course LOTS of beach time. My parents go down there many times a year, but this will be the first time that we can all go at the same time. It will be so nice to have a whole week with just our family to relax and enjoy each other. Jason and I will celebrate our one year anniversary the day we come home, so we have decided that we are going to go out one night down there. Luckily Chase will take a bottle and his Daddy and I can go out without worries. So, my blog will be quiet for a week. Hope you all have a fabulous week. See ya when we get back!

Freckles

My husband hates when my makeup covers my freckles. In the summer I rarely wear much makeup and what I do wear is usually very light. Jason loves my freckles. I have a love/hate relationship with them. I like them because they are youthful and unique to me. I hate them because sometimes my skin looks uneven because of them. My son snapped this picture just a few minutes ago. I looked at it and thought...that looks like the everyday me. For that reason I almost didn't post it. Left over insecurities from 5 years of being told I wasn't good enough. I am getting over that though. I am beautiful. I do not wear a size 2 (though give me a year and I will be down), I do not always do my hair, I go out with very little makeup on, I am loud, I like to laugh, I am a goof, I am passionate, I am funny, I am a caring mother. I am me. I like me. Whenever my freckles bother me I look at my son and his freckles and think, "Darling...they are darling." Or I look at my mom and think...."Wow she looks awesome in her 40's".

This is me....

On a non-related note....God has been really working on my heart and mind lately in one area. It is a touchy subject with me. It is a painful subject...it is a hot button for me. I am not ready to disclose what it is yet...but I want to ask for prayer in it. The enemy uses this area of my life to attack me 9 times out of 10 and I want to rid him of that opportunity.

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." -- Philippians 2:3

NewLook

I felt a new look was in order. I was never crazy about that last one.

We have exciting news around our house...AUSTIN'S TOOTH IS LOOSE!!!! Ever since kids in his class at school started losing their teeth Austin has been anxiously awaiting the day that one of his teeth would fall out. Looks like that day is fast approaching!

I have more to talk about I promise, but the boys want to go ride their bikes before it gets too hot.

2 months

Chase had his two month checkup today. He is of course doing fabulous. He weighed 13 lbs 11 oz and was 23 inches long. He did have to get 3 shots (5 vaccinations total, LOVE combo shots) so he is not the happiest of babies today. He seems to be fairing well all things considered.

As you can see Austin got a new bike. He had outgrown his other one. We can ride without training wheels for about half a block before crashing. Still need to work on balance.

I realized today that I had not blogged about the baby shower when I got back from Lubbock. My computer was down and I just never got the chance. I will do that soon, but now I am being paged by children.

***I am not using many commas today...don't know why...hmmm***

Pool

What a great day! The boys and I went to Aunt Kree's apartment and went swimming. The only thing....ONLY thing...I miss about our apartment is the pool. We had a blast playing and munching on snackies. Thanks Kree! We are all pooped and going to veg out tonight. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Caffiene

This is soooo me....hehe

One of those days

It has been one of those days. It is 3 in the afternoon and I just now got real clothes on. Before anyone gets the wrong idea...I did not spend my entire day lounging around in my pj's eating bon bons. I just brushed my teeth because I honestly can't remember if I got a chance to this morning before the circus began. We had a rough night last night. Well, that isn't true, we had a rough early morning this morning to be accurate. Brodie got up repeatedly, which is really rare anymore. He couldn't breathe due to allergies...Austin was also up in his bed sniffling and snotting away. The sneezing was loud...mine that is. Something blew in with these storms. All three of us were snotty messes. Jason finally got Brodie in our bed and laid with him until he crashed back out after I got everyone drugged up on Clarinex. Jason left early for work and my day began shortly after. Austin and Brodie are a bit crabby due to a bad night sleep. Chase decided that today would be "Mommy Hold Me" day.

So, I got Austin and Brodie their breakfast. Since then I have:
~Settled dozens of fights over toys
~Nursed Chase (no not just once....many many times...he seems to be hitting a spurt)
~Explained why God created a multitude of things...in detail....with pictures. (this is Brodie's new favorite game)
~Cooked lunch..while holding a 7 week old
~Gobbled down a Lean Cuisine during the 15 minute nap I managed to get Chase to take without me holding him
~Took Austin and Brodie on a bike ride to let off some energy
~Attempted to get a load of laundry in, but was sidetracked by another round of "Who had the Ninja Turtle First"
~Finished my Application for school in the spring...while holding...you guessed, Chase.
~Cleaned up cat puke...apparantly Cloe didn't realize that she is supposed to CHEW her food.
~Finally got Chase to lay down for a nap....on my bed...with me laying there. Was able to maneuver away long enough to get a load of laundry in and to go rescue a frog from the clutches of the dogs.
~At some point I did vacuum the living room...though I can't remember when.

Chase is happily sitting in his bouncy chair at the moment and the truth is I am sore from carrying him around all day. My house looks like a tornado hit it. Truthfully, one may have come through but I am too out of it to notice. So I decided to come sit and type for a moment. Given all of this., I would not trade my life for the world. God blessed me with three wonderful boys and even when I feel lost in the shuffle I love my life.

Having said that, what time does Daddy get home?!?

My computer is still down. The mother board crashed...we think. So I am typing this on Jason's laptop. I hate his laptop because it takes me forever to type. It types extra letters and I have to go back through and delete a ton.

I will make it snhort...My middle son, Brodie, thinks he is Tarzan. Yesterday he decided it would be a good idea to tie himself to the top bunk of the boys' bunkbed and JUMP (!!!) onto a mattress below. The picture above is the mark to prove it. Moms of boys will understand how I am thankful that it wasn't worse.