Tubby Time

Okay, I've got a funny for ya. Last night, Katie didn't get her tubby. Alright, we will just get a tubby this morning. It was no big deal. Right? I went ahead and took my shower, while Doug watched Katie for me. It was time for her tubby, oh she was so excited. Well, I washed her up and she's old enough now to let her splash around in the tub while I start putting things up. As long as we talk to one another, all is good. As I was putting her clothes up, she yelled, "Mommy!" I wasn't far from the bathroom, so I poked my head in and asked her "what?" She was standing in the tub, which is a No, No with me. As I'm telling her to sit down or she will . . . then I noticed it. She had pooped in the tub! Ugh!!! What a day I'm having? I was afraid to find out what else was going to happen to me today. You would have been proud of me in this situation though. I stayed calm, cool and collective. I asked her what she did. Her mouth was wide open and eyes big as baseballs, oops! She said, "I poopied in the tubby!" I began to give her the 30 minute speech why we don't poop in the tub. When I finished my speech, I asked her (looking for confirmation from her) "now, are you going to start pooping in the potty?" "No, Mommy," she said calmly. I told her she needed to start telling Mommy when she has to go poopy. Again she said calmly, "No, Mommy." I replied a little more firmly, well don't poop in the tub again!

I love the princess stage in little girls, it is so precious. However, the girly girl dressing can be a little challenging. For instance, she received some jewelry for her birthday. She loves the jewelry a little too much. I say this because she doesn't want to take it off, for naptime or bedtime. If I take it off, she begins to cry and throws a fit. Maybe Katie is taking the princess thing a little too far. As soon as she gets up in the morning, we has to put on the princess skirt & shoes. It's hard to change her diaper or clothes with the skirt. The skirt can absolutely not come off during the changes. Ugh! I was kind of surprised she let me take the skirt off Wednesday when we were going to the doctor's office. Tonight, we decided to go out and get some barbecue and stop off at Pat & June's, see how Nicholas was doing. Well, she wore her princess skirt & Snow White shoes. My Dad couldn't get over how well Katie could keep on the shoes and even run in them. She was getting really hot because her face turned red and she was sweating. I wanted to take her clothes off in order to cool off a little, but she would not have me take off the skirt. When I took her shirt off, she just pulled the skirt up to where it looked more like a dress. At bedtime, she insists I read Snow White, then Mermaid and don't forget Belle. Each story is approximately 6 pages long and it's bad when you know the words by heart and I've got the voices down pat. Tonight, I had to have a change. She continued to chant "Snow White, Snow White." Nope, no Snow White tonight! I read the new Froggy book, we got her for her birthday. When I started doing all the sounds and voices, she finally stopped chanting and began to laugh. She actually liked the book. But as soon as the book was over, she began again about Snow White, Mermaid and Belle. I had to read Belle in order to get her to shut up.

Katie's Two Year Old Check-Up

YES! We had a very good check-up this time. The doctor thinks she is doing great! She weighs 24 lbs. and 5 oz. According to her growth scale, she is 27% in her age group. She is 34 1/2 inches tall. I can't remember the size of her head, but Dr. Lunsford was making light of it. He asked me, "Doug's got a big head, right?" I confirmed that he did. He told me we would be watching Katie's head, but it looks like she might have her Daddy's head. tehe! I saw the scale on his computer and it was off the chart at 75%. When I told Doug about it, he didn't seem to find it as funny for some reason. Poor Katiebug, I couldn't get over how she remembered where her doctor's office was. As soon as we past our church, she started whimpering. I thought something was really wrong with her. I began to talk with her, but she would only say no. She did that until we turned into the doctor's office parking lot. When I put the truck in park, then the tears began to roll. She snubbed until we got into the waiting room. Unfortunately, Dr. Lunsford passed by the waiting room and she got a glimpse of him. Well, that is all it took. I couldn't get over how she remembered him. The last time she saw him was when she was 19 months old. Luckily, she didn't get any shots this time.

Please keep in your prayers my nephew, Nicholas, and my Mother. Nicholas has had some trouble with his heart getting out of rhythm. He has gone through several tests and wearing devices in order to catch heart beating out of rhythm. Recently, it was confirmed by the doctors, this is what is happening. He is scheduled to go into the hospital for a simple procedure. The procedure sounds really scary and he is very concerned. They will insert a type of catheter into his leg and work it into his heart. In his heart the probe will send electric shocks, killing off the cells that are causing his heart to get out of rhythm. This procedure will solve the problem. It is an outpatient procedure, so he should be home later that night. Please remember him in your prayers that God will give him the strength and to guide the surgeon's hands. My Mom's hip/leg seem to be getting worse. I'm at a loss for words. Thinking the water aerobics would help build muscles in her hip and legs, I suggested the whole idea that she attend. Now, she seems to blame the aerobics for making her hip/leg worse. She claims the pain has been so bad, she couldn't hardly get out of bed. She was at the doctor's office today. He advised her to skip the water aerobics until her hip/leg feels better. Ugh! I really hope she doesn't give up and not go back. I hope I'm just jumping the gun and she will go back when she feels better. I'm just worried about her health! In fact, most if not all of us sisters are extremely concerned about her and her health. I get so mad because all Mom sees when we start fussing about her health, is us being mean or not understanding. I've tried to put in the Lord's hands, but it is so hard to sit back and watch your Mother slip through your fingers. Please keep her in prayers, her hip/leg will heal so she will get back into exercising. Pray for me as well that I might build more faith in the Lord, He will take care of her and I can't help her alone. Also, that I need more understanding and patience. Thank you so much!

Take care of each other and enjoy the rest of July! God Loves You and so do I!

Bama Pride!

We thought it would be nice to have the girls' pictures taken together. I'm so glad we did because these pictures turned out great.

Amazing Painting!

This is amazing!

Katie's Birthday Party

I think Katie had a great birthday party. While Katie was opening up presents, my sisters were pretty much taking votes as to which one of their gifts would be Katie's favorite. It got to be really funny! It started off with June & Pat's gift. The birthday card they gave her was a Cinderella card that began to sing as soon as you opened it up. Well, Miss Cinderella herself, Alise, recognized the song. Katie and Alise were content for a while just opening up the birthday card and listening to the song. She didn't even care for the gift, which were clothes. They were too busy playing with the card. Of course, Susan and Maryann (along with myself) chimed in and said "leave it up to June." We just love teasing her! Susan's gift was soon after June's card. First, you have to know that Katie likes to play with rocks. When we visit Pat and June, her favorite thing to do is haul a load of rocks from one place and dump them in another place. Susan made the comment a while back, she should give Katie a box full of rocks for her birthday. Well, she did. She had a small box full of clear butterfly shaped rocks just for Katie. Katie soon forgot about the Cinderella card. Her and Alise started playing with the butterfly rocks. Everyone chimed in and started ragging Susan about having the most popular gift. Katie begin to open up Mom's gift and it was a Cinderella clock. Her and Alise had a fit over the clock because it was Cinderella. Everyone turned to Mom and started ragging. This went around and around to everyone at the party to where it was a big joke. I don't think Katie had a favorite gift, she seemed to love everything she received.

I believe everyone had a good time. We had a platter full of Chick-fil-a chicken strips, Doug fried up some french fries, pickles (dill & sweet), cake and ice cream (vanilla & chocolate) for dessert. Later, we put up the pinata for the girls to open. It was a pull string instead of having to beat it with a stick. It was so neat because one string was tied to a small opening and as soon as it was pulled, all the candy fell out. It was funny because as soon as the candy fell out, the girls left to go play and us adults hovered over the candy and began to pick out what we like to eat. I made sure to put some good candy like Snickers, Milky Way, 3 Muskateers, Twix, M & Ms, Smarties, Gummies, etc. in it. I told all the kids to take home a bag full of candy and would you believe we still had candy left over. I just put it in a ziplock bag for treats later.

Uncle Roger & Aunt Sherry Visit

Uncle Roger and Aunt Sherry stopped by to visit us on their way back home. It was so good to see them again. We would have loved to see them stay for Katie's birthday party, but we understood it was important they get back home. They have been away from their kids and grandchildren for quite some time and missed them very much. Maybe next time they visit, they won't have to rush off so soon.

It's Like a Zoo Around Here!

Last Friday, we met Wayne, Laura & Alise to visit the zoo. It turned out to be a nice breezy day, especially in the shade. Of course the humidity was 94%, which made it much hotter than it would have been. I just thank the people who put air conditioning in the exhibit buildings. We had such a good time, but it was too much zoo to cover. I really don't know what was Katie's favorite animal to see. I think she enjoyed the Monkeys and Snakes the best. Sure, she liked the Giraffe, Zebra, Tiger & Lion. She didn't care for the birds much. The train ride was something else. It was like a roller coaster ride. One minute, we were going slow then all of the sudden, we would be zooming around a corner. What a ride! Katie would look at me and say, "Whee." Later, I asked her if she liked the ride. She replied, "uh, huh. Fun, Mommy." Alise and Katie couldn't get over the snakes slithering up the glass window. The snakes actually gave me the willies, while Katie and Alise sat there watching them in amazement. Laura and I took the girls to the butterfly exhibit. The keeper asked us to please stay on the trail in the exhibit room. Sure, no problem. Yeah, right! Tell that to the girls. While Laura and I were busy taking pictures of these magnificent species, we heard Katie and Alise laughing and having a good time. Curious, I turned around to see what they were up to. They were in the far corner of the butterfly exhibit running around all the plants and playing hide and seek. All the fun of running around, they both fell down and was hidden by all the butterfly bushes and other types of plants. Maybe they didn't hurt anything. I have to say it was funny to watch the girls. We planned our zoo tour to where we would arrive at the Children's Play Area at the tail end. By that time, I think the kids were ready to play in some water. They had such a good time, running around getting wet. We let them play for a while and then we headed to the Carousel. I had a hard time getting Katie to cooperate with me. She didn't want to leave the water. I kept the Carousel over her head just so I could get her clothes on. We let the girls ride on the Carousel twice and I have a feeling Katie would have stayed longer, if we had let her. I thought Katie would enjoy petting the sheep and goats in the Petting Zoo. All she wanted to do is walk around in their pen. Afraid she would start picking up pellets, I got her out of the pen right away. She wasn't even interested in the cow. I think towards the end, she began to get tired.

When we left the zoo, the girls were pooped. Poor Katie fell asleep before we left the parking lot. I began to get tired myself. Doug and Wayne wanted to stop off at a local outdoors shop, so Katie and I stayed in the car and slept while they shopped. We wanted to try a new restaurant (to us) called "Mellow Mushroom." It's a pizza place, we've heard a lot about. I didn't realize how hungry I was until I took that first bite. Wow! I don't know if I was just so hungry or they really have good pizza. We ordered their Meaty Pizza. It had bacon, pepperoni, hamburger, sausage and cheese. So Good! I was surprised there was one piece left. I started to get it because no one else wanted it, but I knew I had to stop or I would regret it.

Happy Birthday Katie!

I would like to wish our adorable little Princess a very Happy Birthday! We Love You!

I think Katie and myself enjoyed a little rest and relaxation today. As soon as Katie got out of bed, she wanted her Princess skirt on. She wore her Sleeping Beauty skirt all day even during naptime. We colored, played with puzzles, watched movies and played with our baby dolls most of the day. I was able to break away to write "Thank You" notes. Unfortunately, I ran out of stamps. Hopefully, I'll be able to get those out as soon as possible. I haven't noticed lately, but I think there is black cloud over my head. All last week, I've had my shared my bumps, scratches, and bruises. Today was no different! I got to add to that list a burn. I went to get some chicken nuggets out of the oven. I grabbed my new silicone pot holder to pull the cookie sheet out of the 400 degree oven. The heat from the oven rack went right through the silicone holder. Ouch! A blister popped up on my thumb immediately. Dr. Doug told me to put toothpaste on it. Why, I have no idea? I did put some on my thumb. It took a while, but the pain finally went away. Poor Katie, keep a supply of kisses on it because Mommy was hurt. She'd asked me, "Mommy, got a pooh-pooh?" Then she'd kiss it to make it better. She is such a caring soul. I'm almost afraid to find out what is going to happen to my body tomorrow. Especially now since I've covered the scratches, scrapes, cuts, burns, bruises and bumps. I'm afraid the broken bones are coming next. Please pray for me.

I'm still exhausted from the whole party this past week/weekend. It's late and I don't have any pictures ready to post, so I will fill you in on the whole birthday party experience later. Sorry!

Family Party Pics

Sarah sent me these pictures of the the big party at Sandy's. It looks like Allan had a good time on his birthday. Emma is getting so big and prettier everyday.

Katie's Funny Potty Story

I have a funny story to tell you. Today, Katie was following me around the house. Well, my Mountian Dew finally kicked in and I had to go potty. Katie of course followed me into the bathroom. She asked, "Mommy, go poopy in potty?" You have to understand, no matter if you are going poopy or pee-pee, to her you are going poopy in the potty. I answered her, "Yes baby, Mommy's going poopy in the potty." I asked her, "so when are you going to start using the potty?" She looked right at me and said, "No Mommy, I not go poopy in the potty. I poopy in diaper." I got so tickled. I asked, "oh, is that right?" She responded, "Uh, huh!" I went on to tell her that she needed to start using the potty like a big girl. She looked at me with disgust and said, "no Mommy, I not go potty!" Okay! I was amazed in our little conversation. I don't think she's ever told me a sentence quite as long that I could understand. More importantly, I couldn't believe she actually understood what I was saying to her in order to respond in that way.

I got most everything done today. The big thing was to clean all of Katie's outside toys and weed three more flowerbeds. Shoo! I finally got them all done, so I feel like we are ready for a party. Tomorrow, Whitney and Natalie are suppose to be coming by in the morning. We are going to do most of the decorating for the party. I just hope Katie will behave while we run around.

Take care of yourself and God Bless You!

Photosite Notice

I don't think I've posted this notice before. If you are having trouble accessing our photos from Photosite, it's not your fault. Photosite posted, after September 27th they will no longer be in service. They are encouraging everyone to move their photos to Snapfish. If you haven't moved your photos by midnight September 27th, they will be automatically deleted. Well, I went ahead and created an account with Snapfish. I don't care for their set up. It reminds me of the way Wal-Mart's Photo Center online is set up in order to purchase prints. There is no creativity or individuality on the website. Doug and I spent most of the day Saturday looking for a new provider. We are very interested in Phanfare. I went ahead and created an account so we can try their 30 day free trial. If we decide to go with them, we can pay a one time lifetime fee, pay by month or year. Doug and I believe it would behoove us if we just pay the one time fee. Please have patience with us as we shop around and feel comfortable with a provider that will fit our needs.

Take care!

Lunch with Aunt Sherry aka Lolly

Lolly and Uncle Roger's in town! They came in yesterday afternoon. I think they are ready to get home and see their kids and grandchildren. It was so good to see them again. Unfortunately, they won't be able to stay for Katie's Birthday Party next weekend. I think they are leaving here, heading home, Thursday. We got to see their new dog, Princess. She's 7 months old and the sweetest thing. A few of us (Sherry, Mom, Maryann, Natalie, Whitney, June, Katie and myself) met for lunch today and had a great visit. I got the Chicken Salad on greens plate - oh, so GOOD! Sherry had to try a little bite to see how it tasted. After she tasted my chicken salad, she told Mom that they would be coming back there tomorrow for lunch just so she can have the Chicken Salad on greens. I was too full to get dessert!

After lunch, Whitney came by the house to play with Katie while I did some house cleaning. I appreciate her coming by because I was able to get a lot done. Katie has gotten on a "Alice in Wonderland" kick. Whitney and Katie ended up watching "Alice in Wonderland" twice today. Her and Natalie are suppose to come over Wednesday to help decorate for the party. I'm pretty much leaving all the decorating ideas up to them. Susan mentioned she might be able to come by and see Katie while we decorate. Of course, this all depends on if she can either get her paint project done or she needs a break.

Doug has asked for my help with his Statistics homework. I just had to create some charts based on the data analysis - histogram, Pareto, bar, pie, box and whisker charts. When you haven't done something like that in a while it's kinda hard getting started. I almost forgot how to create a chart. Ugh!!! Once I got started, it all started coming back to me. It wasn't long before I started burning the keys getting the data analysis and creating the charts. We started on his homework after church yesterday and I finished as soon as I got home from my lunch date. I tried to explain Statistics to my Sisters, Aunt, Nieces and Mom, but all I got were blank looks, except for Whitney. She took Statistics at school and she knew exactly what I was talking about, so I got to connect with her on the subject. While Whitney and I were talking about Statistics and different charts, I could tell we were boring everyone else because they soon changed the subject. In fact, my Aunt Sherry moved from sitting by me to sitting by Maryann. It may be boring, but I like analyzing data. It was exciting to talk to someone else with the same interest.

Please keep in your prayer list a lady in our Sunday School Class, Patty. She is probably in her late 40's and is having to have a double and a possible triple by-pass surgery. Her surgery is scheduled for the 25th of July and she (of course) is scared about the healing process.

Katie Filing Daddy's Nails

Katie decided to give her Daddy a French Manicure. She found my nail file and started filing her Daddy's toe nails. We couldn't get over what she was doing and she did it so well. Too cute!

Katie's Baby Doll Cradle

This is the baby doll cradle Mom and I refurbished. Katie picked out the material, Shasta Daisies. I thought it turned out cute. Mom told me today, she nearly has the crocheted blanket finished.

Katie playing ball with Spike

The neighbor's little dog, Spike, comes every day to visit with Pat, June, Mom and Dad. The 4th of July is no different than any other day, to Spike. In fact, he had a blast with all the kids and dogs to play with. We found out that Spike likes to push a ball around the yard. When he discovered Katie's little play balls, he had so much fun playing with them. While Spike pushed the ball around, Katie would chase Spike around the yard. Poor Spike was wore slap out by the end of the day and went back home.

Fourth of July 2007

We celebrated the Fourth of July at Pat and June's this year, by the pool. Katie had a blast swimming around with Jodie, Jessie & Nicholas.

Sassy's Summer Cut

Sassy feels so much better! I finally got her an appointment to get a Summer cut from Melanie's (pet groomer). Poor Sassy cried all the way to Melanie's in her pet carrier. It was as if she knew she was either headed to the Vet's or the Groomer's. Either way it wasn't going to be pretty. I told Doug I thought it would be best if I took Sassy once every 6 months instead of once a year. I try my best to groom her and it's just not working. Before it's all over, I end up with a headache and stressed and Sassy ends up either gappy hair or in a worse condition than when we first began. At her age, I think Doug is hoping now nature will take it's course and Sassy will pass on. Well, she looks much better with her Summer cut.

I've been looking every where for the jeweled color (pink) Solo grip plates. I found 2 packs of 12 a while back and I knew I needed another pack. No, problem! I just knew WalMart or the Dollar Tree would have to stock it later. Well, I've been keeping eyes open ever since and I was beginning to panic because I never saw any more since that day. After a great search today, I finally found the plates at Food World of all places. Because I've had such trouble finding these plates, I got 2 packs instead of 1 pack.

Tomorrow, Doug and I are planning on staying at home. Maybe then I might be able to catch up on all my videos and photos. I also need to clean out the carport and clean Katie's outside toys again. I'm to the point where I'm thinking about putting all of the Katie's outside toys inside the carport just so they will stay some what clean. I have to clean the crazy things at least once every two weeks unless it rains, then it's just about every day. The mud washes up on the toys and mold collects on it. Ugh!!! I wished I had a storage building! Also, I'm not finished cleaning out all the flowerbeds. I still have three small beds to clean out - weeds, remove dead flowers & oak tree seedlings.

I got several great notices today in my email. Books a Million was having a great sale on a couple of their "Miss Spider" books. It just so happens they are both Christmas books, but one book I got 65% off and the other I received 75% off. You can't hardly beat these prices and I believe they are hardback books as well. It's rare to find "Miss Spider" books cheap. I got them for Katie when it gets closer to Christmas. Anyway, her books shipped today, so we should get them pretty soon. Speaking of BAM. Katie and I went to BAM the other day, looking for good bargains. Well, I couldn't find the bargain books I was interested in for her that I found online. They did have several coloring books for $1 each. Katie kept hugging a princess coloring book. I found "The Lion King" coloring book and I thought she would like it better. Nope! She wanted both. She needed a new coloring book, so I didn't see any problem with getting both. In fact, I thought it would make it easier for her and Alise to color if there were two instead of just one. Or should I say, for Mommy to color. I do the coloring and Katie likes to look at the pictures. She may scribble a little here and there, but mostly she just likes to look at the pages. My second good news is Rags Land Clothing Store http://www.ragsland.com/ has their Spring Collection 50% off. They have some really cute outfits. I found one A-Line Dress Katie could possibly wear next Spring and a couple of Fall sweaters from last years line in Katie's size. I got them in the shopping cart, but haven't bought them yet. I'm still undecided. My third piece of news today is Photosite is discontinuing their services as a photo provider. They suggested I switch to Snapshots by HP. All of this will be in effect by midnight on September 27th. I'm sure I was sent an email by Photosite, but I'm so quick to delete stuff. I'm sure that's what I did. I received an email from Laura to bring it to my attention. I'm currently transferring all of my photos from Photosite to Snapshots, so please bare with me as I get all of this under way.

Katie and I woke up yesterday sneezing. Today, her nose has been like a leaky faucet. On top of all that, we both have been so cranky. I know she is just tired, but she is so whiny. I've had a few sinus headaches and with my newly removed wisdom teeth, it feels like my jaw is about to fall off. I took a sinus pill and several Advil pills today to try and relieve the pain. Doug thinks I may have to go back to the Chiropractor and he maybe right. I've got knots all in my shoulders and neck. I guess it's been a little over two years since I've seen a Chiropractor for my back. I went to him for my terrible headaches and back pain. Man, did he help! I didn't have a headaches for months. Now, I'm just one big knot! Maybe when everything calms down a little, I'll be able to make an appointment with him.

Take care!

Baby Doll Cradle is Finished!

Mom and I have been working on Katie's baby doll cradle for the past couple of days and finally finished it. I'll try to show pictures tomorrow because I didn't have time to take pictures today. The cradle turned out so cute. I cut out the patterns for the bed skirt & cover, while Mom sewed it together. I had some extra material left over, so I made her a little pillow to go inside the bed. Mom told me she came across some pastel yarn she had at the house, so she is going to try and crochet Katie a baby doll blanket for her doll bed. I thought that was such a nice idea and it would be something Katie can cherish for a long time. I love doing projects together with my Mom, building memories. We kept catching ourselves being a perfectionist and we had to remind each other we were making this for a two year old. I know enough about sewing to be dangerous. The communication between Mom and myself was hilarious because I couldn't remember the sewing terminology. Mom would look at me so confused and ask "what?" I kept calling the pattern a template because that's what you would call it on the computer. Then she would say something that I didn't understand, so I would ask her to explain further. I'm slowly catching up with all I have to do.

I had such a good day. Of course, Mom came over this morning to finish the doll bed skirt and a friend of ours, Debra, asked to come over for lunch. I think Debra and Mom are both planning to join water aerobics at our local hospital rehab center. A while back, I explained to Debra about Mom's lower back and hip problems and she asked me, if Mom would be interested in joining water aerobics with her. I honestly didn't think Mom would go, but to my surprise she seems excited and up beat about it. Today, Debra explained more about it with Mom. Before Debra and Mom left my house, they got their plan and schedule down pat. Yes! Thank you Debra, we all appreciate it. We are all hoping this type of therapy might help Mom.

Natalie called earlier this morning, sounding all bored. I told her when Whitney got out of school, if they wanted, come over and visit with us. I was glad they got to come over and visit, even though they really came over to see Katie - tehe! Katie loves playing with her "Weeby" (Whitney) and "Mat-Mat" (Nat-Nat). We had to get on to Katie for being so rough with the girls. She was having so much fun jumping, walking on & hitting the girls. She was just a little too rough. It's always good to see them and to find out what's going on in their world. Oh, I have good news! Recently, Whitney got accepted to Nursing School at the college she is currently attending. Isn't that great?!? We are so proud of her and her accomplishments.

Take care and God Bless!

Kid's Play Day

Our church hosted a Kids Play Day at a local park. The little girl's face in the camera is one of Katie's church friends, Sophie. Katie had so much playing at the park.

What A Day!

Wow! What a day! We have been gone all day long. We took Katie to Portrait Innovations today and had her two year old pictures taken. She was in such a good mood and she did so well as you can tell in most of the portraits showing above. The studio was running a little late and we arrived there 10 minutes early, so needless to say Katie was ready to run around. Luckily, there was a Legos table were the kids socialized. Katie was busy moving Legos from one net to the other net. Before we started taking pictures, I promised her she could have some gummies if she was good and took some good pictures. She told me, "okay, Mommy." She had a blast running all over the studio photo display set. We had a hard time getting her to wait before running back on the set. As you can see, she had to have her picture made with a Lion they used as a prop. She kept playing with this crazy thing between set changes. The photographer asked if we would want a picture made of Katie & the Lion. Sure, why not? We didn't order any of the Lion pictures - I didn't think they turned out too good, but Katie had fun posing. After it was all done, I couldn't praise her enough. This experience was a lot better than her one year old pictures last year. Ugh! I get a headache just thinking about last year's pictures. By this time, she needed some down time. While I sorted through all the photos with the photographer, I suggested that Doug take Katie outside and eat some gummies. Of course, I couldn't choose just one pose so we didn't get the $9.95 special. Doug gave me the "that's not a bad price," which tells me I've got the go ahead. You would not believe the pictures we got for the price! I was pleasantly surprised! They don't charge sitting fee nor edit fee. They don't pressure you to buy more. What I really like, while you cancel out the photos you don't want on the computer, it keeps a running cost as to what you will pay. Plus, you get your photos in 30 minutes and a disk to keep for your records. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE TO ANYONE. They are located all over the country. Here's their website: http://www.portraitinnovations.com/index.html

While we waited for our pictures to be developed, we ate at Zoe's Kitchen. I love their chicken salad, so good! Katie was so tired and whiny. Laura, I think you're going to love shopping around Patton Creek. I haven't been there in quite some time and they have some neat looking shops. Of course I was with Doug and on a mission (Bama hair bows), so I didn't get to shop around today. Laura, Bama Fever is having a problem keeping their small hair bows in stock. One store owner told me, they haven't been able to recover since the A-Day game. I did get the last hair bow that Bama Fever in the Galleria had in stock. The salesmen called the Huntsville store for me and they had one hair bow left. It might be a little different, but I asked it they would hold it for me. We will try to get up there tomorrow and buy it for Alise.

Doug heard about Tutwiler Farms, so we went to check it out. I was sort of disappointed because I thought it was a real farm. I thought we were really taking Katie to something neat with farm animals. Nope! It's a big shopping center which includes: Chico's, Belk, New Balance, Bama Fever, Accessories Heaven, The Loft, etc. Personally, I think I like The Summit better and besides it's much closer than Tutwiler Farms.

I hate to say it, but after today I'm beginning to hate "Snow White." There should be a limit on how many "Heigh Ho! Heigh Ho!" you can listen to. We had to watch it over and over from the time we left the house to Portrait Innovations, in between and on the way home. It's cute to hear Katie sing "Heigh Ho!" She actually tries to whistle. Of course, only air comes out. If she keeps up the good work, she might actually learn to whistle.

We got home safe and sound around 7:45 p.m. tonight and very tired. I washed Katie up, put her PJs on, brushed her teeth and put her to bed. She was so whiny and tired. Take care and have a great weekend!

Happy 4th of July!

I had to capture this moment between Katie & Her Daddy. While I was cleaning up the Kitchen - Supper dishes - Katie and Doug were spending time together by playing princess & watching "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs." Katie was having so much fun jumping & bouncing around on her Daddy.

Last night, we invited Millard and Peggy over for Supper. We had T-bone Steaks, baked potatoes, Chef Salad and Strawberry Shortcake with Cool Whip for dessert. I have to say, I was stuffed. Of course, I was the last one to get up from the table. I knew it would be a challenge for me to eat my steak, but it was well worth it! We didn't get to eat until late. Doug wanted to stop by the funeral home on the way home from work last night, to pay his respects to Theresa's family. He left work around 5:30 and called me at 7:00 on his cell phone, saying he was still in line to view the body. He was afraid he wouldn't be able to get home until around 8:30 because there were so many people and the line was barely moving. Millard and Peggy came over to the house around 6:00, so Doug told us to go ahead and eat without him. Since I had already put the meat on the grill at 6:45, I knew he would have to warm his Supper up when he got home. In between flipping the steaks ever so often, I went outside to get the steaks because I knew they had to be done. Unfortuately, we ran out of gas! I cut a small piece on the meat to see if it was done and I wouldn't worry about changing the tanks. Nope! No such luck. Still too raw! Millard and I got the tanks changed out and we were back in business. The steaks were ready to get off the grill by the time Doug drove up in the driveway - at 8:30. I just knew the steaks were going to be tough, but to my surprise they were tender. Katie was wild last night. She was in her usual giggle mood. She would make a face or say something and follow up with "that's funny" and start giggling. She had lots of fun with Grandma Peggy & Paw-Paw Millard. Millard couldn't play too much with her because he was a little under the weather. He had to sit back and watch Peggy play with her. In our salads, Peggy brought some bell pepper and cucumbers. I love bell pepper and cucumbers in my salad. Yum! Doug has even started eating more cucumbers. Anyway, I ate some in my salad and I have paid for it all night long. I guess you would say that I didn't sleep well at all. In fact, I've been up since 2:00 this morning. I heard Katie about 3:30 crying a little in her bed. I didn't think much of it, I figured she had a dream. Then it dawned on me she had cucumbers as well. By 4:30, I couldn't take it anymore, so I got up and checked on Katiebug. Bless her heart, she has a little gas too. Her and I were both taking medicine this morning. I'll have to remember from now on not to eat bell peppers and/or cucumbers late at night.

Today, I plan to wash the outside windows and do a few things around the house. I'm not going to kill myself, like I've been the past couple of days. Later, we'll go and visit my family for Supper. Katie will probably want to go swimming in the big pool, if you call it swimming. She basically likes to hang around the steps of the pool.

We hope all of you have a safe and wonderful Independence Day! Take care and God Bless.

Almost 100%

Well, I guess Dr. Doug was correct on the pain pills or his method seems to be working thus far. Today, I'm full of energy and had very few headaches. Right now, the discomfort is in the sinus cavity just above my left eye. Every once in a while it will let me know that it's there. It's more aggravating than painful.

With my new found energy and spunk, I was able to knock out quite a bit on my "To Do" list. I washed up a couple of Katie's chair covers, cleaned up Katie's room, started on her 2 year old slide show (like I did last year), updated my mailing for the week, made several phone calls to catch up on the latest and get things organized for the big party in 3 weeks. As some of you may know, I've been refurbishing a baby doll bed for Katie. I bought the material last week, Katie picked out colorful Shasta Daisies (pink, lavender, yellow). Today, I had the chance to spray paint the frame of the wooden bed. I have to say, it turned out really good. I even found a little time to gift wrap some presents. While Katie watched Mermaid this afternoon, I washed a couple loads of laundry.

From time to time, I've been trying to teach Kaitlyn how to pick up her toys & books that she strews throughout the house every single day. Today, I guess you would say I had enough picking up her stuff. I had to stop myself to notice that I couldn't get certain things done for picking up after her. Well things are going to change around here, by George! I had to start out by showing her to put things away and then I stood over her like a warden and made sure she did it. Yes, I had to spank her on the leg a couple of times because she would rather play than pick up. I promise you I picked up her book/stuffed animal case twice today alone. She gets in her room and pulls everything out of her bookcase and strews it all over her room. I know she prefers it that way, but we will not stand for that one bit. The third time she did it today, I took her back to her room and made her pick everything up. I kept cheering her on because I knew she could do it. It just so happened when she finished her Daddy came home with her new favorite cookies - Strawberry Newtons Minis. I have to say, all the work she put into cleaning her room, she deserved those cookies. I continued to praise her by telling her she was Mommy's big helper and she was a big girl now. She was proud being praised! "I help, Mommy." she said. After cleaning all day, she'd see the toys or blankets strewn all over the place and say "Mommy, mess!" She wrinkles up her whole face just to say mess. It's cute, I have to fight back a smile when she says it. Her new thing this week is: She'll either come get me or holler to me, "Mommy, come here!" and say "Mommy, come play in room." This means, she wants me to play with her in her room. Mostly, she'll pull out her puzzles for us to put together and she's gotten pretty good with the 4 piece puzzles. She has one 5 piece Chimp puzzle, she struggles a little with it.

Please keep in your prayers a family from our church that just lost their Mother/Wife this morning after fighting a good hard fight against Leukemia. Theresa in her late 30s, left behind a supportive husband, two beautiful young daughters & loving and encouraging extended family. I'll tell you one thing, this little lady was ready for a battle. She had her ups and downs, but she never let her downs get in the way of her faith in God. She could really be in a lot of pain, but she kept a smile on her face and would tell people God is in control.

Please continue to pray for the family of my friend, Toni that passed away over the weekend. Last night, I said my last goodbyes to her at the funeral home. It was very hard to realize that she is truly gone (for a while). Last night as I was saying my prayers and talking to God, I thought of all the good times we had and the nice memories. When you think of the good memories it seems to make the grief a little easier to handle. A smile always seems to slip in while your crying. I've tried not to cry so much because of the headaches, don't want to make them worse. It's been hard! I can't stop putting myself in her shoes. She is so young and leaving behind three young children, not knowing how they were going to accept her being gone. Do they truly understand? Do they blame God? I can't imagine leaving Doug and Katie behind. What's so bad is knowing you would be leaving them behind - knowing it for close to 10 years. I know you're not suppose to think this way because the Almighty God will take you when He is ready and He does allow things like Cancer & other diseases to come in our path for a reason. Some of us won't know the reason until He comes face to face with us. I don't mean to preach, but my heart is bursting - I ask you today - ARE YOU READY? Some NonChristians ask - Why? What do you mean? Hey people we are not meant to forever live on Earth! We are all on a journey through this cruel and evil world. We ALL will die, maybe not like Theresa or Toni, but we all will be gone from here one day. We will ALL stand before the Creator/Father, Savior, and Holy Spirit. Some NonChristians say, why do I want what you have because you are no better than I? My friend, we have all sinned and in many different ways, but until you have our Savior Jesus Christ there beside you come Judgement Day, you will be looking at an Eternal Hell. I don't want that for you because I love you! Jesus Christ loves you as well and He wants the very best for you - happiness, peace, joy, hope - the list goes on and on. By no means is being a Christian easy, but the hope and faith in Christ Jesus - He will get you through any brick wall, mountain top, road block, etc. God created us to worship and praise His Holy Name because His Love is Eternal for you and me! If you feel, you are in a pit and can't possibly get out and don't know what to do - CALL UP ON THE LORD! If you think so lowly of yourself right now. You don't feel worthy enough to call upon the Lord. Shout out loud! "God, I need you!" "God, I have sinned and don't want to sin anymore." Confess your sin right now. He doesn't care how large or small your sin is. It could be murder, drug addiction, child pornography, alcoholism. It could be just a small white lie. He wants you to come to Him and accept His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Do you believe that Jesus Christ came down to Earth in flesh, walked this Earth & died for our sins that we might have eternal life? Please read in the Holy Bible - John 3:16 - "God so loved the World that He gave His Only Begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life." Don't think for a second that church or worshiping God at church is just for the worthy Christians. Church is a building for all sinners (yes, that means you!) to gather, thank God for His ever goodness in your life, a place to ask His forgiveness for your mistakes and a place to listen for His Calling. Church is a building to start the healing in your life, no matter if it is physically, emotionally or spiritually. God heals ALL who come to Him - maybe not physically, but in His own way. He heals in His own time for His own purpose. For further reference, I recommend you read "Get Out of that Pit" by Beth Moore. I can't apologize for this out burst because I believe God lead me to write this message. Right now, I'm shaking and my heart is bursting. I believe someone out there needed to read this message. God Bless You!

I Love "W"!

Okay, by now you should know I'm a Republican! I have to say - I LOVE GEORGE BUSH #43! I love the President's bleeps and blunders. Enjoy!

I Need You by Tim McGraw & Faith Hill

I thought I would share this video with you. I don't consider myself a huge Tim McGraw fan, but I do like Faith Hill and I think this is a pretty song. I hope you enjoy it.

By the way, I'm doing better every day. Still dealing with the headaches, but Dr. Doug took me off my pain medicine - thinking it might be making me worse. For some crazy reason, he seems to think I'm allergic to the pain pills. I've replaced my pain pills for Advil.

Take care and have a great 4th of July week!