Just a bunch of nothing

Yeah so I got nothing today. The end of school is just around the corner and life has become a blur of activities, parties, graduation, baseball, gifts, and so on.

So here are a few things that are on my agenda for the next few days.

This weekend the university where I work is having graduation. Two ceremonies to be exact. And I am required to work both. Something I am not happy about. I will be there ALL day Saturday.

R1 is off from baseball this weekend and R2 has a directors tournament. I'm not that upset about missing it. It will be quick and painless. I hope.

Sunday I would like to work in my yard. We have some shrubs that need to be trimmed WAY back and weeds that need to be pulled.

A mountain of laundry needs to be folded and put away. Hello...who has the laundry fairy?

I need to start thinking about teacher gifts. I know what I am getting I just need to find time to go over and get them.

R2 has pre-school graduation practice on Friday. Seriously, not kidding. Practice.

R1 has several things planned at school for which I need a calendar to keep it straight.

So what's going on in your world?

The 2010 Thunder

R2 has his final baseball game of the season last night. I have mixed feelings about the end. I love watching him play but then I now have only one to focus on getting to practices and tournaments.

Here are few shots from his season.

Field Day 2010

I hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day.

R1 had field day at school on Friday. And I always take off and spend the day with him. Here are a few pictures from our day.

Tug-O-War


Potato Sack Race


Nuke 'Em


Washers


Kick Ball

Honestly honest

C of See Foxes gave me a blog award last week and I am just now getting around to posting it. Sorry Foxes.

I love reading her. She always has something great to say and she is so up-lifting, even in the midst of craziness.

What I am supposed to do is tell some honest things about myself. And then pass the award on.

So here it goes.

1. I love watching the boys play baseball. Like y'all didn't know.
2. I talk to my dad just about every day, we never go longer than two/three days with out talking.
3. My sister in law is one of my best friends. I love her to pieces.
4. I actually like my smile. My parents paid good money for ortho work so I smile alot.
5. I have clean bathroom OCD tendencies. I can't stand to walk by the boys bathroom and see toothpaste residue in the sink!
6. I love to get pedicures!
7. I can't stand wasps, bees, or any other insect that flies and stings!
8. I love to have everyone over to our house for get togethers
9. I like going to the lake and riding in the boat.
10. One day I would like to go storm chasing. I know crazy!

OK, now I have to pass this on.

Life with Kaishon
Smart, Strong, & Sexy
Tattered Hydrangeas
Charm House

These ladies are awesome. If you have a time go by and read them. And leave them a comment, I know they would appreciate it.

And for all of you mothers out there. I hope you have a wonderful Mother's Day filled with the ones you love.

Kindergarten, double digits, and a few tears

So Monday night I was sitting at the dinner table filling out a Kindergarten admissions packet.

My baby, R2, will be starting Kindergarten in August. And to add to that my other baby, R1, will be turning 10 this year. Double digits.

Anyway, as I sat there I started to think about the past and how fast time has flown since the boys were born.

For R1, when I took that walk down the Kindergarten hallway, I could not believe 5 years was gone. I blinked and poof he was five.

I held it together until I got back in the car and silent tears spilled from my eyes. I knew one day we would have another child so I could take that same walk but 5 years worth of memories came flooding back.

Like when I would take him to his sitter in the morning and he would hug me good bye and tell me to have a "gwait" day. Or when we rented a moon walk for his 3rd birthday and he said this was the best day of his life! When he and I would snuggle on Saturday mornings and watch cartoons.

Now in just a few short months he will turn 10. I'm not ready for this. He is, but I'm not.

I am so proud of him. Proud of who he is and who he has become. My heart swells and feels as if it will burst out of my chest when I think of him.

I know this all part of growing up but this mama just wants to hold that child close who still wants to snuggle with me and keep him chin high forever.

OK just thought you would like to know, big tears streaming down my face.

But now it's my baby's turn. My last walk down the Kindergarten hallway. Last time to have that tiny hand in mine as we walk in to see his teacher, who is so excited to see him she can hardly contain herself.

Once again I begin to think. About a sweet baby who would lay his head on my shoulder and I would drink in his baby smell. What happened to all the bottles, diapers, and baby food? Did he ever crawl or did he just start walking? When did he grow tall enough to turn on the bathroom light with out his step stool?

And like R1, he's ready, I'm not.

OK, I'm kinda ready. I'll be honest, I'm ready for no more daycare/preschool expense.

I'm ready to have them both with Hubs at school. And this will be the only year they will both be in the same school at the same time.

As much as I want to resist, I am excited to see the boys grow. Excited to see them accomplish things they try to do. I can not wait to see what life has in store for them.

But as I sat there with my memories, I could help but feel blessed. I have such a good life. A life filled with family, love, and laughter.

And in the end that is all I have ever wanted.

We are the champions, again!

No time for losers, 'cause we are the champions once again!


Guess I still can't get rid of the 80's theme.

R1 had a baseball tourney this weekend in Lake Charles, Louisiana. And the Storm baseball team is the Lake Charles Contraband 2010 champions.

The boys played great. All of them. We didn't lose one game. We were on fire!!

Here is R1 sliding into home to score another run.


And R1 made the best catch I have ever seen him make. A sliding catch from left field to make the third out of the inning.

It was a proud parent moment for this mama.

Anyway the weekend was great. And I'm ready for the next tournament on Mother's Day weekend.

Put me in coach I'm ready to play

Look at me I can be centerfield!

Yeah I know, kinda lame for a retro theme but who doesn't love that song by John Fogerty.

And yes we have another baseball filled weekend.

And yes it's going to rain all weekend! I will be sitting at the ballpark with my umbrella and zebra print rain boots. Nothing says fashion like a pair of zebra print rain boots and some shorts.

Maybe I'll even manage to snap a pick of that up and coming fashion. Ummm maybe not.

Anyway, I hope everyone has a great weekend. See y'all Monday.

I'm the Ice Cream man, stop me when I'm passing by

I've got 31 flavors guaranteed to satisfy.

OK some may know where these lyrics came, if not you might be surprised.

I'm really trying to stay with my retro theme. And I'm still trying to figure out why I decided to even go retro.

Anyway

Last night Baskin-Robbins did a promotion to honor our local fire fighters. This is something they do every year. And we do our best to attended.

The promo was a scoop of ice cream for 31 cents. Yes that is correct. Each scoop was only 31 cents! It was only $1.34 for all four of us to get an ice cream cone with a scoop of our favorite flavor.

I seriously don't know what the boys enjoyed more, the ice cream or getting the chance to sit inside a fire truck and try on the gear.

The roof, the roof, the roof is on fiya!

Well not really the roof but there was a fire in the third grade hall at Hubs' and R1 school Monday.

And yes the retro theme is still going strong.

Smoke started to pour out of the A/C vents and into the class rooms.

I get a text message around 12:30 that reads...

Fire at school, everyone out side no one hurt.

My first thought was OK no one is hurt, He and R1 are fine. My next thought is what the heck happened and what were they going to do about Taks Testing the next day.

It ended up that an A/C unit had burned up, and it never really caught fire, it just produced a ton of smoke. So much so the fire department had to bust out a few windows to vent the rooms.

But by 4:30 Monday afternoon, the A/C unit had been replaced along with the windows. Talk about fast.

The school didn't need any water to stop the smoke and I'm also glad nothing burned.

Can you just imagine that mess!

Little in the middle but got much back

Guess we are going having a bit of retro week going on.

The other night Hubs was playing music on his computer and the boys started to dance.

And I could help but capture this one. R2 was dancing to Baby Got Back by Sir-Mix-A-Lot.

And the whole time R2 was dancing Hubs was singing. I couldn't believe he remembered the words to the entire song!

Hotel, Motel, Holiday Inn

A few weeks ago we traveled to Breaux Bridge, Louisiana for one of R1's baseball tournaments.

And we had to stay in a hotel. I don't know what it about staying in a hotel that just screams out to kids.

As soon as we checked into our room they proceeded to jump from bed to bed. And did I mind, of course not. I remember doing the same thing as a kid with my brother.

We'd go on vacation and the first thing we would is jump up and down on our bed and the jump back and forth between the beds. My mom, who would never let us do this at home, would just say we are on vacation anything goes.

And I guess in a sense, I'm like her, because hey, we are on a mini vacation.

NFL Draft 2010

OK so I have something to admit to y'all. I might have mentioned this a time or two but I can't remember.

I DO NOT LIKE FOOTBALL.

I know, I know. Totally Un-American.

Baseball is my thing. And so is Hockey. Fooball not so much.

But last night after R2's baseball game, I came home and sat down with Hubs and proceeded to watch the NFL draft.

I'm sure about thirty minutes into the show Hubs was glad he had taped it because I was like a four year child with a steady stream of questions.

Who was that, who did he play for, what was so great about him, what did he do during the season.

But what I really think Hubs enjoyed the most was me commenting on Mike Mayock's suit. Black suit, pink pin stripes, pink paisley print tie and crisp white shirt. Yeah it looked good.

Heck I just had to ask him who was the first pick of the draft. I was thinking it was something along the lines of Brandon Sanford.

Sadly I was wrong. But I was close. It was Sam Bradford.

And before I humiliate my self or anger you any more, I'm outta here.

Y'all have a great weekend.

The dairy Dog Farmer

Tuesday night Hubs and I were watching The Pacific, which is on HBO and is completely awesome. If you liked Band of Brothers you will love this!

Anyway Cookie and I were sitting in the chair. Every night I sit in the recliner and she jumps sits down right in between my legs.

R2 comes in to give me one last hug and kiss before going to bed. Then he leans over and gives Cookie her hug and pat good night.

Then he says hey mom, I know how to milk a dog.

Hubs and I just look at him and then bust out laughing.

R2 then he says just like this. As he proceeds to reach under her and act like he is squeezing her nipples.

Guess he was paying attention when we went on a field trip to The South Texas State Fair.

Wishing

This past Friday Hubs and R2 went to bring in the trash cans because Fridays are trash day.

For some odd reason R2 likes to help bring the trash can out and then back in. Guess he knows what is in store for him when he gets a little older and he's just gearing up for it.

Any way they went to get the trash can and R2 says wait dad I need to make a wish.

R2 picks up a dandelion with only about half of it's bloom left and says...

"I WISH I HAD A 4-WHEELER!"

And then blows and watches the dandelion fade off into the breeze.

Tooth Fairy

So R1 had been on this orthodontist adventure for 7 months.

And I have to say there been a huge improvement. I couldn't be more pleased with the results. But more important R1 couldn't be happier with the way his teeth look. Even with all the metal.

Through the course of this adventure, R1 has lost several teeth.

The only difference is with braces I have to perform what I call minor ortho work. I have clip the super small rubber band that holds the wire to the bracket which is cemented on his tooth.

Once that is done, the wire falls out of the bracket and the tooth just falls out.

Or it should.

Last night R1 had a tooth that needed to be pulled. It was loose but it just didn't want to fall out so he just reached up and pulled it. He just looked at me and smiled a half bloody smile and said I did it mom!

So the tooth fairy paid our house a visit and left him five dollars. Guess she thought pulling your own tooth was worth more than it just falling out.

And I think I have to agree.

Confetti

Confetti, confetti all over the place. Up to my elbows, up to my face.

Well not really up to my elbows but it is all over the place.

For Easter every year the boys get confetti eggs. They have the best time trying to smash them on each other.

This year was no different. Here's what is left of two dozen confetti eggs.

Burn baby burn

Burn baby burn, disco inferno. Burn baby burn, burn that mama down!

Sorry I'm not trying to live The Trammps song, Disco inferno, but when I think of what I am about to post about I can't help but sing that song.

The other day one of my crazy neighbors, yeah he's a few fries short of a happy meal, decided it was time to burn the piles he has been creating.

He rides around our neighborhood on his Kubota tracker, Cutting down trees, moving them, mowing other peoples yards, stump grinding, and pretty much what ever else you can think of.

Anyway he had cut down some trees on my neighbor's lot behind my house and just stacked them along their back property line. It just so happens that we share that property line.

I was kinda glad he was moving them, I was beginning to worry about snakes and other animals trying to build a home in all that stuff.

But R2 was a bit freaked out. He was worried about the grass catching on fire and moving across the yard and burning the house down. He was also worried about his blackberry bushes that were growing.

I personally thought it was to windy to burn and I was concerned about the fire traveling down the property line and burning the trees where several Cardinals have made their home along with a Blue Jay family. Never mind about my house. That's what we those high insurance premiums for.

What I didn't realize is that when he started burning I would wake up at 3:44AM. Yes that's right 3:44AM. Only to look out my back door and see this.



Burn baby burn, disco inferno. Burn baby burn, burn that mama down.

Mrs. Texas has got music

Monday night R1 had a choir program at school.

The 4th and 5th grade choirs sang together and did a great job. They sang several songs at all ends of the music spectrum.

And as an added bonus, Mrs. Texas 2009 Lindsay Clark, was on to give a little encouragement and talk about an upcoming event being held at our high school.

She was so friendly and even had her son with her.

After the performance she signed autographs and took pictures.

I'm married again.

Last week I mentioned I needed to pick up my wedding ring from the jewelers. I had dropped it off almost a week ago for some minor repairs.

Hubs and I have been married for thirteen years this year in September. In the beginning I was faithful in taking it in every few months to have the setting checked and cleaned. But now not so much.

After wearing it for so long I wore out the shank, the bottom part, it just became very thin. And one day after disciplining R2 the bottom cracked.

I waited almost three months before taking it in. I always feel naked when not wearing my wedding ring.

That and Hubs teases me relentlessly. Mostly by saying things like, "Look were not married!" Or "Time to party, I'm not married anymore!"

It doesn't even phase me. I just keep right one going. So after a week of not having my ring, the jewelers finally called to say it was ready.

I picked it up on Friday afternoon. And went home and told Hubs the party was over! We were back to being married.

Oh and no more spanking with my bare hand. We now use a paddle that says "Heat for the seat apply as needed"!

Baseball, the weather, and a list of stuff

So I took half a day off today so I could get some things done before our baseball filled weekend.

And on a random note, the weather is going to be gorgeous this weekend! Think I might be able to work on my flip flop tan, finally!

Here a few things I need to get done today...
Having Hubs mow the grass.
Doing all the laundry. Wash, dry, fold, and put away.
Purchasing two new tires for my car.
Picking up my wedding ring from the jewelers. (That is a post for another day)
Going to HEB.

And since my list keeps growing. I have so much to do, I don't think I'll get it all done.

Hope every one has a great weekend. I'm outta here, see you Monday.

Peace Out!

The answer you have been waiting for

I know the three of you that read this have been sitting on the edge of your seats, just waiting to find out the truth answer from yesterdays meme.

Drum roll please.

And the answer is......

NUMBER 1.

I am so thankful my mother had a dream and in her dream my name was something completely different than what she had picked out. My full name would have been Bernadette Rose $$$$$$$$. It makes me twitch just to think about it.

And just to throw this out there, number 2 did happen just not to me, but it did happen to our new supervisor. She was the one who had to catch the lady as she fell out of the elevator. Oh even better it was a brand new hotel. Which now has a blood stained wall and blood stained carpet.

Y'all have a great day!

Creative writer blog award or not

My friend Brooke gave me an award. Thanks, you're the best.

And to be completely honest, I kinda forgot about till yesterday. Sorry Brooke!

1. Thank the person who gave this to you.
Check, first thing I did.

2. Copy the logo and place it on your blog.
check.



3. Link to the person who nominated you.
check

4. Tell up to six outrageous lies about yourself and at least one outrageous truth.
check, here ya go...

1. When my mother was pregnant with me she wanted to name me Bernadette and call me Bernie.

2. I recently attended a conference where I saw someone get so drunk they fell, hit the wall and broke their nose.

3. I drive a classic car and love it! Don't think I will ever part with it.

4. I have 5 boys and all their names start with the letter R.

5. Hubs and I are trying to buy 15 acres of land and raise cattle.

6. When I was younger I wanted to be a pilot because I have a great sense of direction.

OK now you get to tell me what you think is the truth or not.

5. Nominate some creative writers who might have fun coming with some outrageous things.
check

Life with Kaishon
The Charm House
Tattered Hydrangeas
Beth- A Mom's Life

These women are awesome. I love reading them!

6. Post links to the blogs you nominate and leave a comment on each one letting them know.
check, check.

Have fun!

Easter loot

Yeah I think they racked up.

Guess the Easter Bunny thought they were good this year.

South Texas State Fair

For the past two weeks The Fair has been in town. And I have to say the weather has been absolutely beautiful!

R2's Pre-K class took a field trip there to see and learn several things. One of those being how milk gets from the cow to your dinner table.

And the gentleman did a great job explaining this but I think it was a little over the kids heads. I mean they are only 4-5 years old and they really don't care how many different kids of milking cows there are or what temperature the milk is as it leaves the cow.



And for those of you who want to know the answer to last question it is 100 degrees.

After the show each child was given a small plastic bottle of Borden's milk. They even got to choose, white, chocolate, or pink. Of course mine chose pink. He does love anything strawberry flavored.

But what they really wanted to do was go to the petting zoo.

R2 isn't much on petting anything but he does like to look at them. And once he warms up to them he will give them a very quick pet more like a let me just touch my finger tips to your fur and I'm done kinda thing.

I did manage to get a few shots of him after I asked him to pose.

Here he is with some baby deer.


A baby bull.


And my favorite, a baby buffalo.

The annual event that is not so annual

Normally on Good Friday we have a BBQ, egg dyeing, and egg hunting at our house and invite our friends over.

We have done this for the past oh say 5-6 years. It is one of my favorite times of the year. I love having everyone over and hanging out. The kids love it to for obvious reasons. I mean who wouldn't love to find a golden egg with money in it.

But sadly this year we are not having our BBQ. And no, this isn't an April Fool's thing either. Things this year are just to busy for us. With baseball and other activities going on there just wasn't time to plan it.

So I am in mourning. I really am a little depressed about it. I couldn't even decorate the house like I usually do. Well, there are a few decorations out. If you call the table center piece decorations.

I'm off to pout. Be back tomorrow.

Still tired

Oh my word, I'm still exhausted from the weekend.

All did was drive ball players around, eat some great Cajun food, and sit and watch a few ball games.

Who am I kidding, I was a nervous watcher. Wringing my hands and pulling my shoulders up around my neck. And driving in a town where I have no idea where I am going. All that equals mental stress.

Anyway, I'm still tired so I'm off to recoup.

Y'all have great day!

Romp In The Swamp CHAMPIONS

We are the CHAMPIONS!



R1 had a baseball tournament in Crowley, Louisiana this past weekend and and we won!!

I am so proud of our boys they played great all weekend.

And a shout out to Hubs who couldn't make it this weekend but he did manage to play laundry fairy and when R1 and I came home it was all done!! Thanks Hubs!

Baseball, baseball, and more baseball

Oh my word, this is only the beginning of the season and already I'm whooped!

The boys schedules are already conflicting and Hubs and I are running from practice/game to the next.

This weekend R1 has a tournament out of town and R2 has a game here. So Hubs will stay with R2, because he is one of the coaches, and I will be running with R1.

But my real problem is this...does any one have a laundry fairy I can borrow or a clean bathroom fairy. I am in desperate need of both!

Thanks and have a great weekend.

Tired

A few weeks ago I snapped this picture of R2 while he was taking a nap.



He woke up mid nap and leaned over the side of the couch. And then proceeded to sleep that way for the next hour.

I guess when you are that tired it doesn't matter how or where you fall asleep.

Prayers for the The Palace

A bloggy friend of mine put up a post the other day, well her friend Shannon did. If you get the chance go visit The Queen B.

She and her family could use some prayers right now.

Thanks. I know she will appreciate it.

Dedicated

You know you are dedicated when...



R1 had a tournament this past weekend. And a cold front blew in that made the temps dip down into the 40's-50's. And the wind never did let up. We had gusts into the 40 mph range.

So we bundled up with blankets, gloves, thermal socks, and hand warmers. But the wind kept on coming.

We played two games Saturday, even after a 5 hour rain delay. Ended up losing on Sunday. I don't normally like to lose, but it was so cold I was kinda glad.

I hope everyone had a good weekend, I'm off to do the laundry I didn't get done over the weekend.

The Zoo

Last week while we were on spring break Hubs and I took the boys to the Houston Zoo.

We usually go to the zoo sometime in June or July, when it's about 127 degrees outside. It's so hot that even the animals don't want to be there. Most of the animals are not out and the ones that are, are just lying around because when you weigh 500lbs and have fur would you want to move around in the heat?

But this year we planned it. Go in March when the weather is beautiful. And that is just what it was. BEAUTIFUL.

The temperature was in the low 70's. We walked around and I didn't break a sweat once. There was even a slight breeze.

But best of all the animals were out. All of them. And much to my surprise, it was mating season. I guess when the weather man said it was spring fling time, he meant it.

As we were walking along we came upon the flamingos and swans. And guess what the swans were mating! R1 looked at me and asked why one swan was trying to push the other under the water. I told him I didn't know and suggested that we keep walking.

Later we ran into some friends who had just come from the frog exhibit and they said the same thing. They to were breeding.

There were several other animals that were feeling the love too. I just kept telling the boys, oh aren't they nice, lets keep moving.

Over all the day was great and everyone had a good time. But I have to admit my favorite part of the day was going to eat Mexican food at Pappasito's. They have the best fajitas served with this garlic butter sauce. And their hot sauce is a food group all it's own.

OK now I want some chips and hot sauce.

Y'all have a great day!

Butt, it's whats for dessert

I still have so much to tell from our spring break but right now my head is pounding and all I can think about is crawling into my bed and sleeping for hours.

But I will leave you with this little story from last night.

Hubs was bathing R2 and when he got out of the bath R2 said this.

"Hey daddy, you are such a cutie, I could eat you up." R2 then starts to act like he is going to eat up Hubs.

But what came out of his mouth next was hilarious.

R2 then says," Looks like butt for dessert!"

Where he gets it from I don't know.

Rascal Flatts sang to me on my birthday, kinda

So on Wednesday for my birthday Hubs took me to the Houston Live Stock and Rodeo. The entertainment for the night featured one of my favorite groups.

RASCAL FLATTS!!!!

I absolutely love them and consider myself a loyal fan. I have all of their CD's but I have never seen them in concert.

They were fabulous!

But as usual things are always an adventure and this time was no different. I'll start from the beginning,because well, it's a good place to start.

We headed for Houston early Wednesday afternoon. We got to our friends around 4:30. Debbie and Cliff were going to babysit and dogsit for us so we could go to the rodeo.

Tammy, their daughter, got there first and started to cook dinner for everyone while I got ready.

The rodeo started at 6:45pm, and Debbie said it takes about an hour with traffic to get to Reliant Stadium.

Before we leave Hubs and I discuss doing the park and ride thing. It's where you park at a specific high school and a shuttle takes you to Reliant Stadium.

But what I heard about park and ride was that it quit running before the concert ended. And I have to admit I didn't do my homework and took someones word for it. Hubs on the other hand asked several friends and they all said it quit some time around midnight or soon after.

But being the hard headed person I am, we left at 5:30, and true to Debbie's word we sat in traffic and arrived at 6:30pm.

What we didn't know was that the fair was also at the rodeo and all of the parking at the stadium was blocked off, unless you were handicap.

There were two cash parking lots one some where along Main and the other where Astroworld used to be. Neither were easy to get to.

After sitting in parking traffic, I made an executive decision to park in some off the wall parking lot, where someone was charging $10.00 to park. I figured either we would come out and my car would be gone or it would still be there but with a window busted out.

By the time we parked and hiked a mile, me in high heeled boots, we managed to get into the stadium just in time to order some food and sit down to watch the muttin races.

Muttin races are where kids ride sheep, as if they were bulls. It's really cute. And just so you know the food was completely over priced. A hamburger and fries were $11.00, drink not included!

We ate and then found our seats and were sitting in them all of 5.2 seconds and the lights dimmed for the show.

The funny thing was I wasn't even mad about sitting in traffic, not finding a parking space, hiking a mile to and from the stadium, and paying to much for food.

I got to see Rascal Flatts on my birthday! I got to hear them sing! And I loved every minute!!

Thanks Hubs!

Puffs lotion tissues with Vicks is the bomb

Well I'm back from spring break. We had a wonderful time doing what ever we wanted pretty much when ever we wanted.

And while each day was packed full of fun stuff, the week didn't start out so great.

What ever is being stirred up by the constant breeze around here has found it's way into my sinus cavity.

I had the worst case of a allergies/head cold. I mean I was flat out miserable. I couldn't breathe and my eyes watered and itched at the same time. My face was starting to feel raw from all the rubbing and scratching.

The first day I tried the normal sinus medicine. Tylenol allergy/sinus. And when that failed me I went straight for the Zyrtec and Vicks.

I found this the other day when I was out shopping and I thought to my self I might need these but little did I know I would need them the next week.

All I can say is Puffs ROCK! Not only did the lotion soothe my nose but the smell of Vicks was like greeting a friend from my childhood. Well not really.

But I remember my mom would slather Vicks on my chest and a little on my nose at night when I was sick to help me sleep.

You know it's bad when you walk around your house carrying a box of tissues just so you can smell that sweet medicated smell that will clear your nasal passages for hours.

Anyway.

After three days of nearly overdosing my self on Zyrtec, Vicks, Advil, and maybe a glass of wine or three the pressure in my head started to ease up. And I was able to function more instead of sitting my couch watching more episodes of Real Housewives of Orange County while holding a Vicks scented tissue to my nose.

The rest of the week was busy. Wednesday was my birthday. And Hubs took me to the Houston Live Stock Show and Rodeo to see Rascal Flatts. But that is another post for another day.

We also took the kids to the Houston Zoo, again another post.

Now it's time to get back into the groove of things. I could use another week off. I mean really look at this weather.


Y'all have a great Monday!

Spring Break 2010

I don't know about y'all but I am ready for a break.

I am ready for a no schedule, no running from here to there kinda week. We don't even have a baseball tournament.

The kids are out of school, which also means Hubs is off. And I took vacation too.

Woo Hoo!!!

We have several things planned but for the most part we are just gonna wing it! What ever happens, happens.

I am also going to take the week off from blogging, not that I have been consistent lately.

So I hope y'all have a great week. And hopefully I will have so very funny stories to tell you when I get back!

Confirmation

I love it when God sends you signs of confirmation on a decision.

Almost a year ago I made decision, after praying about it for months, to walk away from an aspect of my life that just wasn't good for me any longer.

I prayed daily for God to show me in a BIG way what his choice was for me regarding this matter. He not only kept telling me what His decision was but he also brought me peace about the decision.

And God has kept re-affirming his choice for me during this journey. He has kept me safe when confronted. He has kept me humble when faced with this issue. He has kept me gracious when asked about this aspect.

While I some times miss this aspect, He has blessed so much more than I deserve.

The saying, When God closes one door, He opens another is so true.

But here is how I like to look at it.

When God closes one door, He opens another, you just have to get through the hell in the hallway!

The Storm came

It was a great weekend. R1 has his first baseball tournament. He and his team did great considering they are a 9U (9 and under) team and we had to play up this weekend, we played all 10U teams. At one point it was his team against our organizations 10U team. We played hard gave them everything we had but we lost. 8-5. Not to shabby and we held our head high.

Here are few pictures from the weekend.





And my favorite of the weekend

The post where I just ramble about nothing

So I have several things to say to but it will all come out as if I am rambling about nothing. So maybe if I make a list it won't be so bad.

1. Have I mentioned how excited I am about baseball? R1 has a double header on Saturday. He plays at 4 and 6. My nephew is also playing at 4. He's two years older. It should be fun to be at the same ball park and watching them both. My in-laws are coming in and a friend is also coming to watch R1. The funny thing about the friend is R2 is in love with her. She's beautiful and very sweet. Nice to know R2 has a thing for blonds and older women. Anyone who wants to sit in the cold to watch her friends son play baseball is an angel! Thanks Shana!!!

2. I am also excited about this tote bag I ordered from Lands End. I have loved Lands End for years. They have the best stuff. I have a shirt I bought from them, kid you not, 10yrs ago and it still looks just like I bought it yesterday. The red is still so bright. Their swim suits are FABULOUS! I have two and they have lasted through the lake water and the chlorine water. But another plus is they retain their shape. And no I'm not being paid for this endorsement. But if they came knocking on my door, I wouldn't turn them down.

3. I'm ready for Spring Break. I'm ready to just hang out with my family and not have any where to go or any schedule to keep.

4. I've been thinking about one of my bloggy friends this week. She has moved into a new home. I hope she got everything unpacked and put away. I hope she enjoys her new house and all of the wonderful memories she and her husband will have.

5. When I start griping in a few months about how freaking hot it is, please remind of how cold it has been. And while we don't have nearly the amount of snow as Rebeckah. And she is such an awesome mom for letting the kids play to their hearts content!

OK, I know it was pretty bad but thanks for letting me ramble.

Y'all have a great weekend and GO STORM!!!

I didn't think my singing was that bad

Do you think he was trying to tell us something?

This was from R2 birthday party. We were singing happy birthday to him.

I didn't think we did a bad job, but apparently he thought other wise.

Thunder Storm

Take me out the ball game, take me out to the crowd. Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jacks.

Sorry, I got carried away.

It's baseball season, FINALLY. R1 has his first tournament this weekend and I couldn't be more excited. We have only been practicing since November 1st.

And while the weather will be cold, we will have sunshine all day! Thank goodness because the cloudy days are just about to put me into a serious depression.

Anyway, R2 had baseball tryouts this past weekend and he did great! I was so proud of him. He caught well, hit well, and ran fast.

Hubs and I got a call yesterday from his coach. Telling us what our team name is, when we practice, and who else is on our team.

Here is the baseball practice schedule for our house.

Mondays - R2
Tuesdays - R1
Wednesdays - R1
Thursdays - R2
Fridays - open
Weekends - Tournaments and Games

And just so you know I missed typed R1 and R2 each and every time. I had to go back and erase and retype.

But here is the best part, team names.

Since November we have known that R1 is The Storm. And we found out the other day R2 is The Thunder.

So get ready Southeast Texas here comes a THUNDER STORM!!!

Big Duke

Saturday was such a beautiful day! The sunshine and I were like long lost friends. I enjoyed being outside all day and feeling the warmth on my face.

Anyway, Hubs' and I took the boys and Cookie for a walk/bike ride in the afternoon.

As we walked down one street, we came upon a house that had a black lab laying on the drive way soaking up the sun. As we approached the dog stood up and started to follow us.

R2 decided after several blocks to start calling the dog Duke. He kept calling Duke to follow us, and follow us he did. All the way back to our house.



R2 said Duke was his best friend and he was going to keep him in our back yard so he could play fetch with him.

Duke made himself right at home in our garage. He nosed around and then plopped himself down right by the back door. I finally sent him outside and shut the garage door, thinking he would go back to his own house. But Duke never did leave. He moved himself to the back porch and chased Cookie around when I let her outside.

I really wish I would have thought to video this next part, but once again my missed the chance. I wonder if I'll ever get the photo op thing right.

Here's what happened...

I got in my car, opened the garage, started the car, rolled down the windows, backed out, called Duke and he came over and started to follow me.

I pulled out of the drive way and drove down the street. All the while calling Duke. Duke was such a good dog, he followed me back to his house. All seven blocks!

I pulled up to his house and stopped at the end of the driveway. Duke walked up to my car and I told him to "GO HOME!" He walked into the yard and sat down. I told him to "STAY!!" And took off! I think I left some tire rubber on the road.

I made it back home and closed my garage door for the night.

I am also happy to say I haven't seen Duke today. Which means he must be enjoying being back at his own house. R2 thinks we are going to get him and bring him back over here. While Duke was a pretty cool dog, we are only a one dog family at this point. And Cookie was here first!

I'm so dizzy

I'm so dizzy, my head is spinning. No I am not Tom Roe. And no alcohol was involved. This time.

But my head IS spinning and I even feel like my eyes are spinning. I have no idea what the heck is going on with me.

Maybe my sinuses have decided to rebel. Maybe they no longer like the medicine I take or they have had enough of the cold weather.

Who knows but I have a busy weekend and I need to be able to focus.

Any one have any suggestions?

Hope y'all have a great weekend and if you come back Monday and the blog is turned sideways you'll know what happened.

The verdict is in

OK, back to the car saga. Why do car repairs always stress me out. I'll tell you why because they always mean BIG BUCKS, that's why.

And the verdict is in. And it's not great but it could be WAY worse.

Bottom line is the front axle broke. Front left/right CV axle joint to be exact. This would explain why Hubs' car wouldn't go any where. And when it broke it bent something else so now that needs to be fixed too.

So it's getting fixed and yes it was BIG BUCKS but not as bad a needing a new transmission. I'll be blunt here, for the bargain price of one thousand dollars we are receiving the following.

1 new front CV axle joint
1 new oil cover gasket
1 oil change
1 state inspection complete with new sticker

And y'all know that I can handle just about anything, remember this and this. I don't handle car repairs, all they do is make me cry. Which I did on my way Friday to met Hubs' and the boys.

I also prayed and once again, like I knew he would, God provided. He gave me peace and brought a calm like no other can.

So thank you to those who prayed for me and the car trouble. But THANK YOU GOD, for providing for me and family, again, and again, and again.

GOD CAN DO WHAT HE SAYS HE CAN DO!

Honey, it's broken

Friday afternoon, around 4pm, Hubs calls me at work and tells that his car has broken down.

He and the boys were on their way to the bank to get some cash and then take R1 to our alterations lady to have his baseball pants hemmed. He turned into the parking lot of the bank and hears a "POP" and then the car just stops.

So I call our insurance company to see if we have a towing policy. Score there we do. I have them send a tow truck to pick up the car and take it to the dealership. I leave work and go pick up Hubs and the boys.

I also have to give a shout out to our insurance company, Progressive. The first thing they asked me after I told them the car had broken down, was I in a safe place. I just love that. They were concerned about my safety and my familes safety.

While waiting I decide to take R1 to the alterations place since the tow truck was about an hour out. We get that taken care of because his first tournament is at the end of the month. And then we go back and met Hubs to sit and wait.

After we drop the car off, the driver of the tow truck walks over to my car and shows Hubs and I a part that fell of the car and onto the flat bed. He said he was no mechanic but that it didn't look good and brings it into the service department.

Denise is a service rep who has been working at the dealership for years. Every time we have taken one of the cars in she is the one we go to. She is always friendly and up beat. She is polite and concerned about our car trouble. Bottom line is Denise just rocks!

So after a very stressful afternoon, dinner was next on the list. I needed sustenance and a little relaxation.

Sometime this morning they are going to put Hubs' car on the diagnostic machine and figure out what is wrong. It might be the transmission, which equals BIG BUCKS! Or it might be CV-axle joint which is much cheaper.

I asked God to just let it be something that we could afford to fix. And I know it's crazy but I am asking y'all to pray the same. Because to be totally honest we are not in the car market right now.

Thanks bloggy friends y'all are the best!

Laissez les bons temps rouler

It's Mardi Gras time here in Southeast Texas!!! And for those who do not know what Mardi Gras is go here.

The title of the post means "Let the good times roll" and Mardi Gras is French for Fat Tuesday.

There are parades, eating, carnivals, bead throwing, eating, and parties. Did I mention eating.

Hubs loves a good King Cake, and if you have never had one find one and pig out!

So in honor of the weekend and Mardi Gras...LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER!

Oh you have to say that last part in your best French accent!

The Miser Brothers are at it again

Dear Mother Nature,

Would you please have a talk with your sons, Heat and Snow? The boys are at it again!

Snowy is pulling a fast one on Heat and lately it has been cold here in Southeast Texas. It's not the cold I mind, but the lack of sunshine. I am in desperate need of some good old sun shinning right down on my face. There is something about sunshine and a good mood that just goes hand in hand. And the lack of has had me in a funk.

I know you are busy and have better things to do than referee your boys, but maybe if you could get them to ease up just a bit. I would be forever grateful. And so would my husband.

Thanks bunches!

RRMAMA

Consistently inconsistent

So it seems the only consistent thing around here late in my inconsistency.

I haven't blogged every day like I have wanted to. And it's not like I don't have anything to blog about, I have kids!

I haven't kept up with the laundry. It's bad when your husband tells you, you need to do whites tonight because I only have one sock left. Not one pair but one sock. What happened to the other one? Hello laundry fairy! Where have you gone and when are you coming back?

We had change in our dress code at work. No more putting on a cute shirt and a pair of jeans. And while the dress code is casual, I still can't figure out what to wear each morning.

I have no idea what has happened to my bookkeeping skills. I used to balance the check book every few days. It's been a few weeks. I know how this thing works to, I was in the banking industry for years. But all of a sudden, I hate to do it.

So I am consistently inconsistent, at least I am being consistent about something.

baseball, football, and some good eats

Saturday R1 had a great baseball game. He had 4 RBI's, 3 stolen bases, and went 2 for 3. I was one proud mama!

Sunday was the biggest football game of the season for those of you, actually the three of you who read this blog, know I am not a huge fan of football. But I watched the game anyway. It was good one. I will also be honest and tell you I was cheering for the Colts. But only because Aunt Debbie has a deep and abiding love for Peyton Manning.

I mean New Orleans isn't that far from Southeast Texas and everyone else I know was rooting for the Saints. And while I was sad the Colts lost I was happy for the Saints. They played a good game.

And everyone knows a Superbowl game just isn't a game with out some good food. The boys were both asking for Brushetta and Hubs was asking for Sun Dried Tomato Jam with Crostini. I made both in the morning and by dinner they were gone.

Then Hubs broke out the grill and went to work doing what he does best. We had Rib Eye Steaks, brats, ribs, corn on the cob, baked beans, and mushrooms.

In one word...AWESOME!!

I'm gonna brag on Hubs for a minute. This man can cook! He always has. He can grill anything. He makes some terrific chicken dishes too. As a wife, I love that he likes to cook.

Overall it was just a great weekend.

But I have to ask, who were you rooting for?

Take me out to the ballgame

It is that time of the year again, but we can skip peanuts and Crackerjacks for now.

It's baseball season! I am so excited! If you can't tell by all of the exclamation marks!!! I AM READY!!!!

After months of practicing, actually we have been practicing since November 1st, we finally have our first scrimmage.

It rained here yesterday and I am hoping the fields dry out enough for us to play. Also have I mentioned that it's going to be cold. The high for Saturday is 60!

I'm all set though, I have my zebra print rubber boots, in case the fields are a mud pile. I have my chair so my I have something comfy and warm to sit on. And I have my jacket and gloves.

So all I have left to do say is this....PLAY BALL!!!

Oh and GO STORM!!!

He was grounded

Yesterday R2 had bad day at school. Who am I kidding, he a VERY bad day at school.

He got in trouble during Pre-K and was sent to time out, in the other room. He was rude to the owner of the day care, which I need to clarify, we are friends with. He was mean to another child during nap time. And I think the list goes on but I was so mad after hearing about the first part of the things he did that I had Hubs quit telling me.

So when Hubs got him home he did what any parent would do, he whipped him and sent him to his room.

I thought about having him put on his boots and go in the back yard and pick up sticks, and every few minutes or so recite, "School is the key to my future!" Hey it worked for my nephew. But R2 loves to be outside in the mud picking up sticks with his John Deere tractor. So that was out.

But we did take away his TV privileges and even went to so far as to take away his John Deere tractor toys, which he loves. Because seriously, he is 5 and it's not like I can take away going to the mall with his friends or talking on the phone. That and I doubt he will ever have chatter phone bug like I did, because well he's a boy and boys just don't talk on the phone like girls.

After dinner, he had a bath and went right back to his room. He climbed in the bed and asked me to tuck him in. I did and then I asked him what happened during the day. What had made him behave the way he did.

And here is what that precious child of mine said. " I LOST MY MARBLES!"

I had to fight back laughter so hard. I almost lost it. I just looked at him and nodded my head, the struggled to tell him to go to bed.

I walked out of his room and right out into the garage and laughed till my sides hurt. I told Hubs what he said and he wasn't phased by it.

But by 8pm last night my house was very quiet. Maybe that's why I fell asleep around 9pm.

Oh and here is where I tell on myself. I fell asleep in the recliner while playing on Facebook. I know go ahead and laugh, it's OK.

I don't cry pretty

My friend Beth and I were talking on Facebook last night and she told me about some dear friends of hers that had just lost their child.

It always breaks my heart to hear of a parent loosing their child.

Beth told me to go here to read about Emma's story and to make sure I had a box of tissues when I did.

Well I did both, grabbed my box of tissues and read about precious Emma.

And I cried ugly. I was a mess. I couldn't talk, I had streaks running down my cheeks. Tears falling off my face. You get the picture. I have never met this family but my heart is breaking into a million pieces for the them. The hurt is so deep.

But if you would please pray for Emma's parents Christy and Kelvin. Please pray for their family.

And if you would please go leave them a sweet comment. But consider being warned and bring your box of tissues.

And here is where I ramble about my weekend

I told you last Friday about the rambling and about the not making much sense of all the thoughts running around in my head.

So get ready, and consider yourselves warned.

Friday I remember getting off work and coming home but after that...nothing. I can't remember what I did two days ago. TWO DAYS! Clearly it is a sign of one of two things. 1. I'm old and my memory is failing or 2. I lead a very boring life.

Saturday, R1 was schedule to have a baseball clinic for four hours but it was canceled due to all the rain we got on Friday and the fields were a mess. Secretly I was glad. We had so much to do and the boys needed to get their hair cut. Poor R1. He wants the surfer hair cut or style should I say, but all his hair does is get bushier and bushier until he looks like he has a fro! Kid you not. We tried a few summers ago to let it grow out and 4weeks into it I couldn't stand to look at it any longer.

After hair cuts, it was lunch at every kids second favorite place to eat. Chik-fil-a. The first being Chuck E Cheese. And no way was I going to Chuck E Cheese.

Oh my memory is coming back, Chuck E Cheese just reminded me we had Little Caesars Pizza for dinner Friday night. OK moving on.

Then it was a stop a EB Games to get some kind of free thing for R1 and Hubs' Pokemon games. I was just along for the rid for this part of our journey. After EB it was a quick drive thru at Walgreen's.

And then the big part of our trip. HEB, the grocery store. I have one word for the grocery store, even if it is my beloved HEB...UGH! I pushed the cart full of food and Hubs' pushed the boys in a separate cart. Seriously I know what you are thinking. Kids aged 9 and 5, in a cart, but it works. They are contained and kept busy by bringing their DSi's, and I get the shopping done.

My whole point to this rambling about the rock star life I lead is all of this running and driving took 5 hours. 5 HOURS!

I was so tired when we got home I can't remember what I did Saturday night. I think I fell asleep around 8:30. And some where in there I cleaned the bathrooms!

I warned you, rambling.

Sunday, we were a bad family, skipped church. Took Cookie, the dog, to the groomers. Hubs took R1 to baseball practice. R2 and I cleaned the house, walked our selves and the dog around the block. Did the laundry and cooked dinner. Yes folks, I cooked dinner. But only because Hubs' asked me to make his favorite. Chicken Fried Steak.

Made these awesome potatoes to, but that will be my post for tomorrow. Because right now I am EXHAUSTED.

So what did y'all do this weekend?