The Big Tree

I have told you about putting up my mom's tree and how it went seamingly smooth. I also mentioned in a post titled "Merry Winter" that decorating Christmas Trees was one of my favorite things to do in the winter season. Well, I can say that this fact did not really ring true for me this year. I don't know why but I do know that putting up my tree was one of the most frustrating things I did this month. Of course, there is a story. I wish I had pictures to walk you through this process but I was so frustrated that I didn't even take any pictures.

On a Sunday morning, just over a week before Christmas (I think). I got off of a graveyard and then went to finish my mom's tree. Once it was finished, I went home and pulled all of the Christmas boxes out of my shed and into the house. I wanted to nap before I put up my tree. My plan was to take a nap and then get up in time for the football game. While I watched the game I was going to set up the tree. Well, I couldn't sleep. I sat in the livingroom and watched tv until the game came on. Then during the game I was so tired that I fell asleep. Ugh! Anyway, I then woke to find Dallas loosing. (I know big suprise - right). Well, I had to really get into the game and cheer them on. This took up a lot of energy. Which left no energy to put up the tree.

About 8pm that night I decided I better put up the tree because I would be working over the next few days and knew it had to get done tonight! So, I unboxed the tree. Usually I plug it in as I go but this year we had rearranged the living room and the tree was going to have to be plugged into 2 extention cords wrapped around the livingroom to the other side where the plug was. As I thought out how I would plug in the tree I realized all of the extention cords were still in the shed. Well, I decided that I had been putting up the same tree for about 10 plus years and never had a problem with the lights before. I just plug them in and they all work and pow! Then I decorate. My tree is pre-lit with only clear lights. But over the years I have decided that I wanted colored lights. So for the past 5 years (maybe a little longer) I add 3 strands of colored lights to the tree. Yes, I am my Mother's daughter and Yes, I learned to light a tree from my dad. My dad taught me that you have to put lights twirled around every single branch. He used to say, "your mom likes a lot of lights".

Now that I think about it, that might be why I love decorating Christmas trees so much. We used to do it as a family all while we grew up. Dad would come home a little early from work and He, Carla, and I would bring in all of the stuff from the shed. Mom would make something for dinner and then we would eat. After we ate, Dad and I would put the lights on the tree (sometimes for hours) and Mom and Carla would start packing away the nic-nacs and putting out the Christmas ones. We would play Christmas cd's and all sing along. When the tree was lit to perfection, Mom would sit in the floor and hand us the ornaments. Carla and I would place them on the tree. We got to pick where each ornament went for the most part (with some traffic direction from my mom). By the end of the night, the house would be decorated, the tree would be perfect, and the candy dishes were full of m&ms and hersey miniatures.

Those are amazing memories. I love to remember them....but on this Sunday night, there was no Christmas music in the air, there was no family helping me, and there definetly was no candy dishes. However, shortly after I started Amber came home and offered to help. There really wasn't much for her to do so she just kept me company while I diligently worked on putting the lights on the tree. I only found 2 strands of colored lights. So, I was a little sad because I usually put 3 strands on. Then, in one of the boxes I found a brand new 3rd strand. I shaped the tree and then added all 3 strands of colored lights. Amber found me the necessary extention cords after inquiring why it wasn't plugged in. So, we held our breath and waited for the big "AWE" moment as I plugged in the tree.

We released our breath in disgust as no lights came on when I plugged it in. UGH! What do you mean NO LIGHTS!!!!! I said to my self. I checked all of the plugs around the trunk of the tree. Guess what happened next.....Yup! I got lights. Granted, it was only the bottom lights that came on. And only the clear ones at that! How can this be I asked myself. I fumbled and fiddled. Still only the bottom section had lights. I got very frustrated. I unplugged all of the colored lights and just plugged in the clear lights. Same outcome. So, now, I am totally frustrated and a little ticked. I do something next that suprised Amber and even myself. I KICKED my Christmas Tree! Low and behold, guess what happened! You got it! Lights. Don't get too excited. It was only the top lights that came on. No lights in the middle. So, at this point I took a few deep breaths. Then I kicked the tree again. (Hey, it worked the first time, right?!?!) Nope, no go. So, I took all 3 strands of the colored lights off of the tree. I started trying to replace fuses and bulbs. Still nothing. I couldn't bear it any longer. So, I unplugged it and went to bed.

The next day (Monday) I got up and went to work. It was a busy day and I did not think about my tree until I got home late that night. I did not mess with it. Tuesday was the same. But on my way home Tuesday night I thought about it and what I was going to do. I tell you honestly, I thought about just throwing the whole thing in the trash. But instead I stopped and bought one single strand of clear lights. Once I was home I unboxed those lights and wrapped them around my hand (to make putting them on the tree easier). I then plugged them in. They came on and I started putting them on the tree (but just in the middle section where there were no working lights). I get half way done and guess what - my hand is filled with unlit bulbs. Turns out that only half the strand was working but I couldn't see the bottom half that wasn't working. ARE YOU SERIOUS!?!?!? After checking and changing out about 5 bulbs I call it good and ball up the portion of the lights that are not working and stuff them in the center of the tree. I was tired of dealing with it and frustrated beyond belief. But I wanted a tree up for the kid's sake. And too, I thought if I could ever get this tree up it would change my mood this year. But I guess my mood was powerful and maybe it was what was effecting the tree.

That night I put the ornaments on the tree. I even put Brennen's ornaments on the tree which I have not done in several years. But by the time I was done with those, I was tired. I went to bed. And I didn't touch the tree again until Christmas afternoon when I finally put the star on the top during Christmas Lunch. I did not even put the usual beads as garland or the ribbons that flow from the top to the bottom. Poor unfinished tree. So, here are some pictures of the tree.

Please love this tree. When Christmas is over it is going in the trash! I can not do that again next year. As you look at these pictures please do not second guess yourself. If you think I am drunk and took crooked pictures....you are wrong. The tree is actually leaning. I tried to caption the extent that it is leaning but the pictures just don't do it justice.

So, stay tuned for how we spent Christmas.....

The little tree

Every year (well, for the past few years) I have helped my mom put up her tree. A few years ago, she decided not to put up her big tree and instead bought a smaller (3 or 4 foot) tree. So now, every year the question for my mom is....."which tree are you going to put up?"

This year my mother decided to put up a small tree. It seemed fitting this year with things that have occurred in the recent past. One night over dinner we discussed what the little tree had looked like the last time we put it up (2 years ago). We remembered about all of the gold that was on that tree. It had gold ornaments, gold garland, and a gold star. It could be named a disco tree. This was not a choice but because she got it so late that those were the only ornaments left at that time. As we discussed it, it was decided between my mother and I that she wanted some new decorations on the tree. A few days later, I went shopping. I found a few snowmen. If you know my mom, you know that she loves snowmen. I also found a small container of colorful decorations. Some of them were a little weird looking. Notice the green PINECONE and the glass SNOWMAN in this picture:

After we put these on the tree, we sat back and looked at it. There was a red star that hung on one of the bottom branches. It really stood out and just looked awesome.

After we were done, I decided that there just wasn't enough ornaments still. I told my mom to let me look for some more ornaments the next day before we put the garland on. So, we left it with only lights and ornaments on the tree for that night. The next day I went to Big Lots and found some more ornaments. They were really cute. And guess what......yup they had snowmen in the set too.

So, without any further stalling, here is a picture of my mom's little tree. It turned out beautiful!!!!!!! I hope she really enjoys it.

Merry Christmas!

MERRY WINTER!!!!!

I have finally decided when I stopped blogging. It was somewhere between not having to work graveyards anymore and working on a computer all day long. As I sit here at 4:06am (on a graveyard), it dawned on me...."when was the last time you wrote a blog". I haven't looked (because that could be scary) but I think it was sometime shortly after my birthday. So, I really should be taking time to catch up on some paperwork that I just haven't had the time to do but I wanted to take a few minutes and write.

Lots of things have been happening - although that is pretty normal. I got to go to Mamaw's this year for Thanksgiving. It has been a few years since I have been able to go - but it worked out. Mom and I traveled together. Our trip was so blessed. I love getting to see everyone and catching up with them. I miss seeing my whole family. There were several that had other plans and could not make it so our numbers were a little low this year, but it was intimate and relaxed. I can only hope that in the years to come, my family will still strive for and long to get together. We say so many of the time "what we should do" and very little of the time we actually do it. But anyways, I was super happy.

I haven't really stopped since then. Different things going on. Mainly working. Since I was gone over Thanksgiving, the end of November snuck up on me. We have till the 7th to complete all of our end of the month stuff. Boy, let me tell you....It took me all the way until the 7th too. I have been attending more doctor's appointments with my clients and doing things a little more staff oriented. I am also planning two work Christmas Parties and plan on just attending a 3rd. We are changing our dayhab program. This is the program where we each teach a class for the individual's weekly. From Aug to mid November, I taught Self Advocacy. I changed the class in mid November to a "How To Draw" class where I taught them simple things to draw step by step. I will continue that through December. In January I opted not to teach a class but instead volunteered to do all of the organizing of the classes and all of the paperwork part that goes with it. Wow! I am kinda regretting that decision right now. We are in the midst of the Holidays and I can see the end of the month stuff creeping up as I try to get all of these new classes organized by January. Not to mention, I had to fire a girl at 1:30 this morning, so now I am working graveyards too. AAAAGGGHHHHH!!!!!!

Some personal stuff going on. I attended a very nice service for Cliff Butts last week. For those of you who don't know, this was Scotty's dad and he passed away. I also took Mimi to Albuquerque this week for a doctor's appt. We had a good time visiting and catching up. The drive was really pretty nice.

This weekend I am planning to put up my tree. If it doesn't get done this weekend, It is not getting done. I have decided. But I am also going to help my mother put her tree up. She has decided to do her little tree this year. Most years I will argue with her a little and try to convince her to put up the big tree - but honestly, this late in the game, I am kinda relieved that it will be the little one this year. I love helping her. And decorating a Christmas Tree is one of my favorite things to do, but man, this month has really ran away.

I am truly loving this cold weather. I (like my Sister) and enjoying the crisp air and everything that winter brings (like funny little hats). Everyone too, is complaining around me - but I LOVE IT!!!!!

Well, I guess I will close with that and am totally intending to blog some more real soon. Maybe after I decorate!

I have been celebrated!

Wow! It just dawned on me that I haven't written a blog post since my birthday. So, I decided to start one tonight. When I got on to see exactly how long it had been since I had wrote one, I saw that I had this one set to post but never did. So, it has been since BEFORE my birthday. Wow! You guys should really get on me and hold me accountable. Scotty used to remind me that there was nothing new on the blog but he hasn't in a long time. Maybe he should start again. Well, here it is:

I turned 34 this year. I got to celebrate almost ALL week. My family has so many extensions to it that I usually celebrate twice - but this year I got to celebrate 3 times. On the Saturday before my birthday, the kids (Zeta, Nakomus, Kyli, and Liah) picked out a cake just for me. They got it because it was green and purple. It had whipped icing (not my favorite). Amber and Gladys both tried to get them to get one with buttercream icing but they wouldn't budge. They said this one looked just like me and it was the one they were getting.

Along with the cake, they threw me a little party. They also picked out the butterfly cookie cutters and a monkey as gifts for me. They are so cute. I think they love me a little bit. It was so touching to see that they picked things just for ME! I love them girls.

Dorian drew me a picture for my birthday. Then him, Amber, and Mama (Gladys) decided to put it in a cake. This was very sweet. It is a character for me with fairy wings. I love it.

They took the picture that Dorian had drawn and had it put on a cake. Not just any cake. But a full sheet cake. You can't really see it from the picture but the border on the cake was green and purple. That is so sweet. And HUGE! We ate cake for a long time. Good thing it was good cake. So, not only did I get cake but also, ice cream and dinner. Amber took me out and celebrated me.

Then on Tuesday my Mom, Scotty, Mamaw, Jennifer, and I all went out to dinner to celebrate not only my birthday but my mom's as well. We ate at Cattle Baron and even got free fried ice cream. That was very enjoyable.

I received many phone calls and some cards and a letter from my dearest friend. Let me tell you....as I turned 34 I really felt loved and celebrated. There is nothing dearer than having the people you love and celebrate daily, turn and celebrate you.

Thank you all so much!

Pictures

So, I promised pictures....

Brennen got a hold of my phone and here is what happened...

Brennen from his lap

Brennen screaming (or something)

Brennen calm

Brennen being weird

Brennen and his Mom

And last but not least is Brennen the next day! 

Hope you guys enjoyed! 

12 eyes

I am worried that my fans have given up on me. I worry because on one post there was like 12 to 18 views. Then on the last there has only been 2. I think the previous had a lot because the actual 3 or 4 people who really read my blog probably checked a bunch to see if I have blogged any more. But sometimes it just takes me a while - so don't give up. Just keep checking! I don't have any cute pictures to show - that might really make this blog way cuter! I will put pictures in my next blog. But for now - I will keep all the pictures locked away in the deep dark dungeon (sometimes referred to as a memory card - Ha ha).

A few weeks ago - Ok, maybe week before last I got word that I had to travel to Santa Fe for a training. I began to get nervous because I can not see. I have one "okay" eye (the right one) and the other is REALLY REALLY bad. So, back in April I lost the lens to my glasses. It was the left lens, of course. I tried to get another but my prescription had run out in March. And the eye doctor had just left town, FOR GOOD. It was going to be about a 3 month wait till another doctor came to the practice (Walmart mind you). So, I called around. Everyone in Roswell had a 3 month wait. Did I make an appt? Of course not! Well, now, 3+ months have gone by. I could have already been seen - but NO! I have to do things the hard way. Anyway, back to the story. I was leaving for Santa Fe the next day. So, I run out to Wal-Mart and low and behold they have a doctor, an opening, and gave me a discount on the cost. (ARE YOU SERIOUS??????) I did the eye exam and if I waited for glasses it would be 2 weeks for them to come in. Luckily I knew this from past experiences so I got contacts which they have on hand. I thought, this has to be too easy!

Well, of course we know I was right or else the story wouldn't have made it onto the blog entitled, "ONLY TO JESS".

After examining me and trying me out on 1 prescription he decided that they weren't strong enough so I was given a different prescription. Because I had the 1st pair in already, I just wore them the rest of the day. I put in the stronger pair (#A) the next morning. I drove all the way to Santa Fe just fine. I got in the training and could see the things projected onto the big screen at the front of the auditorium. We really didn't use our handouts. I took some notes but I can do that without really looking at them. I then drove home that night. While I was working on the computer I noticed that I could not get the type into focus - but they were new (pretty strong) contacts. I probably had to get used to them. And besides, it had already been a very long day.

Over the next few days I wore them but kept trying to "take them off" when I had to do desk work. I finally went back to the doctor. He thought maybe the power was to strong but as he kept examining me he agreed with that less and less. He sent me home in some lenses that were less powerful (#1). I could see my desk work but not distance (not well enough to really drive anywhere that I didn't know). Luckily he sent me home with 2 more pair. And Lucky for me I had labeled them. Pair A; Pair #1, #2, and unmarked. So, I tried pair #2. #2 were bifocals. YUCK! I was really sad to think that I needed bifocals and I am NOT EVEN 34! I could see far away still but close up still wasn't focusing right. Phew!

So, after a few days of each I have returned to pair A. They are the strongest set but I have adjusted to them. A lot of times I want my glasses so I can just take them off when I need to but I needed to make sure we could get the prescription right before I ordered them. I have been wearing these for about a week straight and I think I am happy with how I have adjusted.

UGH! What a story! I say that as I dig into about an hours worth of work before retiring for the night! So, good night all.

Just a little catching up

So...two weeks ago I started this post. It has been totally revamped twice now. I started with something - I don't even remember what now - and after only getting two sentences I left it for days and days. When I came back to it, I couldn't remember the point of it or what I was going to say. So, I erased it and started a new one. This one was entitled "Never Say Never". It had one sentence about sounding just like my parents. My, how the roles cycle. But after one sentence and a week later, I have revamped once more. I am committed to finishing this blog before I get up from this desk.

Wait, I will be right back - HA!

I decided that if I was going to in fact finish this that I needed something to drink. My how I wish there was just one beer in my refrigerator. So, since there isn't then I will settle for tea. Sweet tea to be exact - but not BUSCH's. It is from Church's. Do you think that is a coincidence that they are both chicken places. I think if we were down south and a little more to the east we would be getting the BEST SWEET TEA. I just have this feeling.

I am still working a lot but not like crazy (like last month). At least now I am on a day schedule (for the most part) and come home to sleep every night. I like that. I had missed it. I am sad to say, but I think I have to work like 3 graveyards next week - YIKES!!!! I finally got the papers. The stinkin' salary papers. So, I am really trying to keep it under 50 hours. That is my goal for now. Hopefully I will get it down to right at 40 but this will take practice - so I am setting my goals realistically now.

Ok, maybe the tea wasn't a good idea. Be right back.......


My stomach has been really upset since last night. I tried to cook some squash for Labor Day but it was no good. Turns out we don't know where the squash came from. It was left on Dorian's doorstep. We all thought Georgia grew it and left it for him. Turns out she didn't. So, I don't know what the heck was up with it - But I only took 2 bites and I was sick, sick all last night and a lot of today. Hopefully I will be fully recovered by tomorrow. I don't think I can handle another day of this.

Other than working a lot - My two favorite things to watch are back on. 1.) DALLAS COWBOYS FOOTBALL!!!!! and 2.)Face-Off. I love this show - I am sad to report that I have not even seen one full episode since it came on 3 or 4 weeks ago. I am never home in time no matter how hard I try and then I get here for the end of it but sometimes I just fall asleep. I am trying harder to watch it - because I sincerely enjoy it. It is the same with Pre-Season for the Cowboys. I did catch MOST of the game against the Bengals - hey they won that one - is that a hint. Maybe if I watch more they will win more! *Note to self; and the calendar/planner I carry; and the calendar on my phone; and to the numerous notes I leave myself*

Speaking of notes - You know things are bad when you write yourself a note to put something on the to do list. I don't know how I managed that; but yes! I did!

Ok. I believe I have rambled enough and these contacts that are the totally wrong prescription are driving me crazy! (that is another blog). Maybe it won't take two weeks to write!

Good night.

Excersizing it up -

I guess the water background to this blog is very appropriate for my new adventure. As many of you know, my mom has been having a lot of back problems over this past year. Well, I am glad to report that she is getting some relief from the pain. She has been taking a series of shots in her sciatic nerve and them combined with aquatic therapy (didn't that sound so genius!?) has really been helping her. But of course, all good things come to an end and her therapy has. So, she and I have joined the Roswell Racquet Club and Spa.

We have committed to taking a "water workout" class two nights a week and then going during the weekend to work on the actual exercises her therapist gave her to do. The first week went well. We met some really nice people. The class is a lot of "as hard as you make it". Of course after the first one we were both sore - we were moving muscles I don't think either one of us have moved in a while. But as we go through them we are figuring out the best way to do each "move" and how it suits us. We use these things called resisters. They are just the swimming "noodles" cut up and put on pvc pipes to look like dumbbells. They really do work as weights. They started me on the baby weights (about 2 1/2 lbs each) last week but then decided I needed to move up to the middle weights (which are about 5 lbs each). I guess I shouldn't call them baby weights - cause that's what a lot of the people in the class use - sorry mom! Anyway, I used the middle weights tonight and MAN I COULD REALLY FEEL THE DIFFERENCE.

Tonight my mom had other obligations so she did not attend class but I did. And then I went to another class afterward. This one is called "Deep Water Dynamics". It is done in Deep Water (duh) and with a flotation device. It is funner than the first class but a more intense workout. I really enjoyed it and am planning to continue to go to it after our other class - well let me see how I feel in the morning before I commit!!! Just kidding.

But I am looking forward to the tanning bed. I am very sad that you have to pay extra to do it. I think that it should be included in the membership. I have always heard that tanning is very good for psoriasis. I want to give it a try. Especially in the winter time when it is at it's worst.

So, when you come to see us - BRING YOUR SWIMSUITS!!!! Even if you aren't into the exercise part of it, there is a hot tub.

So, yeah - don't know whether this will help with me loosing weight but it will definitely not hurt me. I do feel better just getting in some exercise. I am really looking forward to seeing where I am in a month from now as far as stamina, flexibility, and of course body tone - Scotty may be saying good bye to my BINGO WING. It really got a workout tonight with those heavier weights.

Ok. I am going to call it a night. I am really tired!!!!! So, sweet dreams to all!

Just for the Record....

I just want to say real quick - I LOVE that you read my BLOG! That makes me so HAPPY! It makes me want to blog more - not that it will happen - but yes, I WANT to. Thank you - I love you

IN the Radar

It has been WAY TOO LONG since my last post. I find myself at work most of the time now. And when I am not at work, I am passed out on by bed surrounded by a mountain of paperwork, or in the front seat of my (parked and turned off) vehicle. Just Kidding! Ok, not really - it did happen twice. Keys were in my hand and I just needed a small cat nap to make it into my house with the pile of stuff I MUST carry around everywhere!

I have many responsibilities and no where to really be. (Hence the carrying around a pile of stuff). When I work graveyards at the house I need this stuff so that I can check on and document everything - it is this time that I can get so much accomplished. But then everything I have documented and reported on must then be filed somewhere. I do not have an office at the office so I have found a drawer in the house where I have managed to "file in no particular order" everything. But then guess what - I am on call and just so happens that at 10pm at night I need stuff accessible when I get that panic call from staff. Or I need the stuff when the Vice President of the company is calling just as I have dozed off from my graveyard about 11:30 in the morning. I can't successfully and fully answer the questions without the reports, or documentation. This is frustrating. I can answer with "I think" or "I am pretty sure" or let me get up, get dressed, drive to the house to get the paperwork, and then call you back - YEAH RIGHT!!!!! So guess what - I carry everything. Dr. Dalton (chiropractor) at least benefits from this situation.

So, so much for flying under the radar. When I took this job at Tobosa, I said that I didn't want to be known or have any extra responsibilities. I just wanted to do my 40 hours and go home. That lasted a year. If you remember back, in June I was given a promotion. Well, I guess I have done a good enough job to be recognized. They want me to manage 2 houses now. This more than doubles my client load and just about doubles my staff load. It is a compliment that they feel I can handle this - BUT.....

I have to pace myself. I tend to let the perfectionist and the overachiever in myself take over. I really having to talk to myself daily about remembering the small things. I think when I get over the initial things of switching everything around it will really benefit me. It is just the initial getting everything set phase I am in now.

I have said for years that I want out of direct care and into more of the administration side of it. Well, be careful....cause that is where I am transitioning into. Once everything is set, I will no longer be doing direct care except every once in a while. I will be responsible for making sure that the staff under me do the direct care the way that it is supposed to be done.

So, by taking time out and time for myself, I shall be rejuvenated. Thanks Mom! I really enjoyed spending this last weekend with you. I got to spend time with my Mom and Mimi both on Saturday and Sunday. Only worked about 6 hours this weekend thanks to some amazing staff I have working under me. They saw my need for rest and pulled together to cover my shift on Saturday without me even asking! That is why I am successful - because I have help. Please don't ever let me forget that.

My weekend ended with Mom and Me getting our BUTTS handed to us by Mimi and Scotty. (I know he will rag on me if I don't at least mention that!

So, today was busy - tomorrow will be crazy - and Wednesday...well, we shall see. Hope you all have an incredible week.

Exhausted

I am super greatful for my job and for the position I am in but, I must say, "Wow!!!!". I have put in an incredible amount of work lately. I have one girl sick, one girl on vacation, and one out on training. Not to mention a client who has become physically aggressive this week. I have been out on crisis calls and then also filling in for missing staff.

Everyday I say that I am going to make at least just a short blog but - well, you see that's as far as I ever get.

We did celebrate Amber's birthday last Friday, after I worked the Summer Bash event in the park all day. Unfortuneatly, while William, Brennen, and I worked at the park, Amber and Gladys came home to find water everywhere (again). The hot water heater in the kitchen's pipes burst. But luckily, that evening we all got together and got to celebrate Amber. I have a ton of pictures of us and the kids from that evening I will try to post later this week.

Brennen has started tennis lessons and really likes playing. He is in a beginners class at Cahoon Park. He gets to play 3 days a week.

I had a root canal post put in yesterday. My tooth is sore but ok. Good news is that the dentist is going to try to finish my teeth before he moves in September. We still have some to pull, a few to build up, and one more root canal. Then bridges will be made. I saw a picture of me the other day from 2003 where I had all of my teeth. They looked great! I can't wait to get them all again.

Anyway, back to work I go. Have a great relaxing evening.

Busy, Busy

I ended up in the chiropractor's office on Friday morning. I had some vertebrae roll out of my neck. One was in my shoulder and the other was...well, I dont' know where - I think about 3 or 4 came out. But anyway the pain was making me sick to my stomach. I started getting these pains from the base of my head down my shoulder on the right side. They were searing and unbearable. I had them since Thursday. So, long story short - went to the chiropractor. He couldn't believe I could move my arm still. He really does think that I am amazing. (Can you believe that). Anyway, he gave me like 4 or 5 shots of an anti-inflammatory. And then put back what he could. I will be back in there on Monday morning at 8:30am. I am still in some pain but it is bearable now.

Wow! We have been super busy around here! But we did get a day off yesterday. We spent it cleaning out the back room (laundry room minus the washer and dryer). We took a car load of stuff to the Salvation Army and about a bunch of stuff out to the shed. Somehow, the stuff ended up in the house over the last 8 months. I should probably take credit for all of the junk that compiled itself around my house but I WILL NOT!!!! Amber, Brennen and I got it all back where it belongs.

Also, yesterday Brennen fixed our toilet. That thingy broke. The one that has the chain that lifts up the plug when you push the handle. Anyway, I supervised and Brenn fixed it. He did a pretty good job.

Brennen and I spent the day at Bottomless Lakes today. He wanted to attend a party with some of the people he goes the "the Meetings" with. So, he did that and I swam and read my book. (Mom, Carla, don't faint!) Yes, I am reading a book I started last year about this time. It is a book of short stories. I finished one. I started the second and didn't read it for so long that I had to start it again. Well, now after starting it for the second time and still having been absent from it for about 5 months or so.....I started where I left off (on page 3 of the second story). After spending 4 hours at the lake and only one hour in the water guess what page I am on.....3. Ha Ha. I told you not to faint - This only counts as reading for ME!!!!!

So, that is what we have been up to. I have some big events coming up at work and Amber's birthday is in 9 days. We will be celebrating it in 6 or 7. So, this week will consist of some pretty heavy duty planning!

COOKING

So, a really long time ago, it seems.....I wrote my last post. At the end I promised another one. Well, sorry it has taken all this time. I have honestly been super busy. The end of the month is the busiest for me. I am still adjusting to all of my new deadlines and timelines. Which all seem to be on the same 3 days.

I have also been super busy at home (the 6 hours a day that I am there...and 3-4 of those are spent sleeping). Anyway, Amber started a program at one of the gym's in town. It combines a diet, exercise regiment, and personal trainer assistance. She has been doing it I think for 3 weeks and has proudly has announced loosing an initial 40 something pounds. Crazy! She has done super well...this ties into my busyness because I have been cooking! And cooking according to her diet. I even cooked turnip greens! Don't get too excited. I didn't EAT them. I took one taste...not really my forte'.

We have been eating lunch at 11am everyday and there for about 2 weeks we ate it at the table as a family. We have done really bad at accomplishing that this week due to a crazy schedule. But, I LOVE doing this! I LOVE cooking! I LOVE family time!

I got a great recipe from my sister that was called Italian chicken. I made it one night at work and then took it home for us to eat at lunch. Let me just say, "VERY GOOD". It was so good that Kyli (age 6) said "Auntie, I like this chicken" about 15 times during lunch.

Another thing I cooked that was a favorite was yellow squash sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. After eating two pieces Zeta (age 8) declared, "Auntie, there a PARTY IN MY TUMMY!" After compliments like this - who wouldn't like to cook.

I got two recipes off of Pinterest.....well actually that's where the squash idea came from too. (So, 3). One was just a simple smoked sausage, bell pepper, onion, mixture cut up wrapped in foil and cooked on the grill. The other was beef and broccoli made in the crock pot. Because the broccoli is added at the end, I took some of the meat out for Gladys (who doesn't eat broccoli). This was a favorite. I cooked it too long though so the meat kinda shredded when we stirred it but it was still good. Next time I will know not to cook it as long. So, it had a different texture but was still GREAT.

I was going to post pictures but for some reason my camera has gotten out of my pocket. I will have to locate it. That is one reason this post is so late in coming to you. It was done about 4 days ago but I was waiting to put the pictures. As soon as I close this I am going to look for a recipe for cabbage rolls to make for tomorrow or Monday.

So, happy eating to you all!

Summer Tips

1. Don't leave home without your flip flops! When I went on vacation - I forgot my flip flops at home. (I know, how could I?) So, I thought "I will just buy some". This did not turn out well for me. I did end up buying 2 pairs of flip flops, one for Brennen, and one pair that doesn't fit me. This second pair is now just sitting in my closet looking very sad. But it did make me appreciate my own pair of flip flops. They are SO COMFORTABLE and reliable. I think they LOVE me!

After writing this, I went home (before publishing it) and what did I find.....
Amber wearing the 2nd pair of flip flops! That's great - now they aren't just staring at me. They have someone to love too.

2. SPRAY SUNSCREEN is not meant to be sprayed EVERYWHERE! We recently discovered this on Wednesday when Brennen wanted to go to the pool. I thought ok, he needs sunscreen at least on his face. I grabbed the only sunscreen we had (the spray from an aerosol can kind) and told Brennen - "SHUT YOUR EYES". As they closed, I started spraying his little face. Low and behold no sooner did I stop spraying, he opened his eyes (while the mist was still in the air). He started coughing and getting choked up and then he started hollering because his eyes were on fire. My reply? "I didn't tell you to open your eyes yet". Everyone else's reply? JESSICA! Ok. A little harsh I know but I thought that if he had let the mist settle down for a few seconds it wouldn't have burned. Anyway, not my finest "mom moment". So, the moral of the story: DON'T SRAY THE FACE!

3. When it is 105° outside you should NEVER wash dishes in hot water, next to the crockpot that is turned on (and in the middle of cooking), while cooking lunch on the griddle, in a house with a swamp cooler that seems to be barely working, surrounded by 4 very hyper little children! I could not understand why I was so frickin' HOT! Later thinking about it, I thought to myself, I should put a thermometer in here to see how hot it really is. I decided against it. At least if there is no proof I can try to convince myself that it is not as hot as it seems. Although I am sure it is that hot.

So, this last paragraph will lead into my next post.....MY NEW INTEREST

Officially; Temporarily.....

So, a few weeks ago I wrote a blog titled, "IT'S UNOFFICIAL". Well, it has become Official. I have been promoted at work into the Team Leader position. Although, while signing all of the necessary paperwork, I was told and then reminded repeatedly that, "This is only Temporary", "This is only for a few months", "When this situation is over then this position will no longer be needed", etc..., etc..... This was said on May 2nd as well, "when it was unofficial"; and here we are turning the corner from July. I do know that the future still isn't bright - the whole situation is caught up in a court battle. But I also have hope and some confidence that when it is said and done with I can keep my position or at least find a new one.

I have said it time and time again - I am tired of working direct care. I don't mind supervising those that do work direct care; I don't mind pushing the paperwork that direct care involves; I don't mind teaching people to do direct care; I AM JUST TIRED OF DOING IT. - But after 9 years who can really blame me. So, hopefully this will last for a little bit and then hopefully I will move into a new spot.

In other work related news, I have completed 1 year of employment with Tobosa Developmental Services as of Wednesday, June 19, 2013. So, that was good and I have been rewarded with a $1 an hour raise and 32 PTO hours (instead of 16).

We have been 1 staff short on my team since the end of last month and so, everyone on my team - including myself- have been working major overtime. I am averaging about 62 hours a week. So, I do apologize for my blog being empty for so long - but I am committed to blogging more because......

I hired a girl yesterday and she will start training this weekend - meaning....I will cut my hours back down to about 50 a week. That will be so much better on me (not on my paycheck). But I need to cut back. I am working almost 6 straight graveyards but then having to put in time at the office and in meetings and trainings as well. And I have had the pleasure of having Brennen for the last 2 weeks - so you know I don't sleep much when "MY TEENAGE AGE SON IS BORED"! Ha Ha.

I did take him to see the movie "The Internship" with Owen Wilson and Vince Vaghn. That movie was good. So, at least I got one afternoon of fun instead of sleeping.

Anyway, I have a report to finish before I get off out of here at 8am and go into a training until 10am and then another training until noon. And since I will have been here since 8pm last night I will then go home and eat lunch, see my family for about an hour, and then go to sleep only to return at 8pm tonight- So, have a GREAT FRIDAY and think about me as you lay your head down tonight!

Vacation Hang Over

I was very fortunate to get to go on vacation last week. I worked from Sun - Thursday. At 12am on Thursday I got off work. After putting gas in the car I went home to get Brennen (who had been way too excited). We left Roswell about 1:30am (NM time). Brennen made himself comfortable in the row behind me (of Krusti). With pillow, blanket, and Ipod he settled in quickly. We drove all night. About 8:00am (TX time) I pulled over on the far side of Abilene for a half hour nap at a rest stop. With a quick call to my sister (who got us back on the right track - no thanks to the TOM TOM) we finished our drive. We arrived in Temple, TX about 11:00am (I think). Spent about half an hour meeting Jaxen's sitter, and watching him wake from a nap and then off to bed I went. Brennen (who had slept all night) went with Nik for a while to the office and then lunch and some DISC GOLFING. I woke when my Sister came home for the day.

I had such a great time with my family. While we were there we got some great family time; we ran lots of errands; got some one on one time with Jaxen; got to know the "Temple Family"; and got to celebrate Jaxen's first birthday.

We didn't do a lot but managed to stay steadily busy. I really enjoyed just visiting. I wish I could do this about once a month but that is a pretty far way to go that often.

I didn't take nearly enough pictures while I was gone but here are a few I managed to capture:

Here is Jaxen playing the water one afternoon

Carla and Jaxen during his Birthday Party

Mamaw and Carla on Sunday afternoon

Jaxen with his new tricycle

Brennen left with Mamaw on Sunday afternoon. He went to stay a week with her. They were gonna do a little work and then play a little at a water park and go visit with Aunt Kay and Kim. I now he will have a good time. I on the other hand, left Temple on Monday morning. Drove home and then napped. I went to work that night.....so now you can see why I have a hangover. But I loved every minute of it.

The Beginning of Summer

I haven't really had a chance to Blog in quite a while. Sorry. Anyway, I guess sometime over the weekend I caught a sinus infection. I am treating it with over the counter stuff but if it is still present by Monday I will be going to the doctor for antibiotics.....I can't afford to be sick too long - I have a nephew to go see!

Last week we started off summer with a bang. I picked up Brennen on Thursday (which was the last day of school). He had his grade report in hand. He did not have the best grades but they were high enough that he gets to go to Texas with me. *Phew* I was really hoping he wouldn't make me prove how serious I was about him NOT going!

We started the afternoon off wishing Liah a happy 6th birthday. That evening we watched Jack Reacher. It was pretty good. I don't think Brennen REALLY enjoyed it. He watched it and said it was good - but not really his cup of tea.

On Friday we went to an awards ceremony in Hagerman for Zeta and Nakomus. Let me just say.......I am glad we had the FLEX. We took Amber, Gladys, Brennen, Dorian, Shawnna, Zeta, Nakomus, Kyli, Liah, and Myself. Who else can say that they could fit everyone in their vehicle? I have pictures to prove it:
(Liah is between Brennen and Amber...she is too short to see; and of course, Gladys and Myself are in the front seat). I knew this car would come in hand.



Before the ceremony started, we had time to play at the tiny park that Hagerman has to offer. Here are some pictures.



Amber and Gladys


Kyli teaching her little sister how to swing by herself


Gladys and Brennen taking a stroll around the track


And of course it wouldn't be complete without Brennen climbing on something!





After the awards ceremony we traveled to Artesia. Amber attended a meeting at work and then Gladys, Amber, Brennen and I went to see the FAST and the FURIOUS 6. It was good. I really don't like when the special features take over a movie and that was the case here. Even Brennen commented that he didn't enjoy the fight scenes because the camera switched back and forth too quickly. Overall it was a good movie but I wish is wasn't so.....advanced.

We returned home that evening and I made Chicken Spaghetti. It went over ok but nothing special.

Saturday, Brennen got up early and did some yard work both for our house and Gladys's house. Then he spent the rest of the day rearranging his bedroom. He was one tired puppy come the evening. I got called into work Saturday night - BUMMER!

Sunday, I made Brennen pancakes and then we spent the whole morning playing video games TOGETHER. The afternoon was taken up by me napping from my night at work.

Overall, it was a good kick off to the SUMMER. We can't wait for 1 more week before we get to go to TEMPLE.

It's UNOFFICIAL

For the past 21 days I have doing the job of my Supervisor. My supervisor is no longer my supervisor. This has been true since May 2. I was asked..."for the next two weeks" can you please look after things and kinda fill in this position. And I have. It is supervising 2 "clients" and 5 staff. It is a lot of paperwork and what not......I learned over the last two weekends that it is a lot of weekend on-call stuff too.

This has kept me pretty busy. I did get off of work this weekend - but believe me - I was on the phone so much I shoulda just been at work. There was supposed to be a meeting last week to determine the fate of this situation. But guess what - meeting was cancelled and it was stated that it would be rescheduled some time before the middle of July. So, is it wrong of me to be asking the question - "Are we going to make this official or what?" A lot of paperwork I have to turn in involving several different departments at work don't want to accept it because it has to have a supervisor signature. I was told to sign them. Then they want a lot of explanation as to why "so and so" isn't the supervisor anymore and who is now. I say a lot of "I am not sure" and "unofficially" and "HOW?". I am not to proud to ask questions when I need to learn something - but people are not so forth coming with the needed information when there is no "official" word. I can't really blame them. But at the same time it makes it hard on me - the "unofficial supervisor".

I think the hardest part is - what do I have to the means to do? Can I do this and that or do I need "YOU" to do it for me since I don't really have any authority. It is pretty frustrating. Can you tell? So, I sent an email this morning with the question in it - "are we going to make this official".

So, this is what I have been doing lately. I am also planning my vacation! I am getting so excited! I will be busy a lot between now and then - but I am hanging strong. Hope everyone has a good week.

My Crazy Son

Brennen and I had such a great day on Friday. He has this new thing....he just wants to yell in the general direction of people just to see what their reaction is. Of course, I do not let him do this. But just this one day, I don't know what got into me. When I picked him up from his dad's house, Brennen asked me if we could spend the day just him and I. Of course I said yes. So, it was drizzling a very little bit. After the drizzle (like 3 whole minutes) was over we had our windows down. He was showing me this new really annoying noise that he had been making. It was like a whoop and well, I am not sure - just some weird annoying loud noise. We happen to be sitting in the parking lot of the Roswell Daily Record checking out the newspaper for movie times. When he was showing me this noise the person getting into the car next to us just turned around and starred at us. This triggered my giggle box.

We then went to Dollar Tree and again as I was getting back into our vehicle Brennen made this noise - of course someone turned around to stare at us. He wasn't at this point doing it for any other reason except to make me giggle (which it did). I am guessing I was just in a silly mood too. His must have been contagious. But after that person stopped to stare I laughed even harder. Then it hit. Brennen's face lit up and he asked, "Mom, can we make 5 laps around the Rib Crib and then just drive off?" Of course I said no and this light dimmed on his face. Then that silliness just hit me. So, we drove in a circle (a slow circle because I believe parking lots are one of the most dangerous places ever) around the Rib Crib. The parking lot was almost empty. And then we drove around it a second time. As we ended our second lap I noticed 2 employees standing outback smoking. And then our 3rd lap started and ended leading into the 4th lap. By this time Brennen and I are just looking forward to getting to the back of the building where these two employees have began to just stare at us. Neither one of us can control our giggling at this point. As we make our final lap I look at my son and he is just beaming. I am reminded that he doesn't have anyone else to do this silly stuff with. This is one of the small things I can do WITH him to make his day. I know that for the rest of the weekend he is going to think about this and giggle. I love the sound of his giggle. You would think at age 13 he wouldn't giggle - but let me assure you - there was enough giggling just today to last a long time!

After our laps we decided we were hungry and went to Pizza Hut. On the way of course, with the windows down Brennen kept making this new noise. Many people including ones in other vehicles, ones at bus stops, and even some in parking lots just turned to stare as we passed. After eating we both seemed to calm down. Maybe because I would not allow him to make his noise inside Pizza Hut and the pizza took a while to come out. But whatever the reason we calmed. After dinner we went to the Yogurt Bar in the mall. I had always seen these on television but had never actually been to one. It was cool. They have frozen yogurt (about 6 different flavors). You fill the bowl yourself and then top it with your choice of toppings. They have nuts, candy, cookie dough, marshmallows, sprinkles, and fruit (kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, pineapple, etc). Then you pay for it by the ounce. Pretty cool. We enjoyed it.


Then our day was complete. I returned Brennen to his dad's house and came to work - YUCK! But I sit and giggle as I type this. I am glad I took time to be silly with my crazy son.

Fun Day

Since I worked everyday last week (including Mother's Day) we (Amber, Gladys, and I) decided to make Thursday a fun day. I got off of work Thursday morning and slept a little. This was the one night I had off this week so I only wanted to sleep a little so I could sleep that night. Anyway, after Amber got out of Jury duty about noon, I got up and dressed. We started our day by going to Galaxy 8 and watching "OZ the Great and Powerful". It was a GOOD movie. It was visually stunning. So beautiful - I loved it.

We made it out of the movie in time to make a quick stop at Wal-Mart and then off to Hagerman. Zeta and Nakomus had their end of school program tonight. Here are a few pictures I managed to capture:

all of us walking into the school


Zeta and Nakomus talking before the program


Amber and Dorian cutting up while we wait


Kyli, Liah, and I wasting time before the program


Nakomus and Zyler (the girls' brother) were in the 1st act. They sang 3 songs ABC's, The Itsy Bitsy Spider, Old McDonald and then finished with the chicken dance (which I caught on video).

Then came act 2 in which Zeta played the xylophone bells. The played 2 short songs (also caught on video).

After the program we headed back to town and grabbed a quick bite to eat and then headed to Icon Cinema and watched Iron Man 3. It was GOOD! The end got ruined for me because I got a call from work. Yup! No one showed up for the shift. Guess what that meant - I had to go to work. UGH! Oh well. So, finished the movie and ran home. Caught about a 3 hour nap. Then I was at work by 2am. So, hope everyone had a happy weekend. I was working!

Happy Mother's Day!

I am working all of this weekend. But...I got to spend the morning with my Mom yesterday. I had a great time just following her around the house talking my little head off. I love how my relationship with my Mother has grown. 10 years ago I would have thought people were crazy for suggesting that we would get along. All of these years without a healthy relationship has only made me so much more appreciative of our growing relationship. I really do love spending my life with you Mom. I love doing things with you as much as I love doing nothing with you! So, today I will celebrate YOU (granted it will be from my bed - but you will not be forgotten)!


My MOM
BELINDA DIANNE (RAINER DUNN) BUTTS

Glady's Anniversary

So, I said I would write more about Krusti's trip to Albuquerque. On May 7th, 2013 we got the privilege to celebrate Glady's Anniversary. On this day Gladys has been cancer free for 6 years. Gladys is a survivor of COLON cancer. Immediately following her finding out about the cancer (which was already in advanced stages) she was rushed to Albuquerque where she had surgery, chemo, radiation, and an experimental treatment still in the trial stages. Gladys had wonderful doctors and nurses. She had several scares along the way. One which included being allergic to one of the experimental drugs. To this day, she and every one of her kids and grandkids get choked up just talking about it. Gladys went through some amazing stuff - WHAT A STRONG WOMAN. So, every year on this day, we take some special time to thank the Lord for sending angels to surround her. We thank him for allowing us more time with her. And we thank him for the wonderful care she received and for the strength he gave not only her but her whole family to get through this trial. And we take time on this day each year to CELEBRATE GLADYS. She is a wonderful mother, friend, and grandmother (just to name a few things). You have a special place in my heart....Mama.



So this year to help her celebrate, Amber took her to Albuquerque. They had a great time. I was working but got to show her some love with a few special things that morning before they left. What a special LADY!

FLEX

One week ago today we signed papers on our BRAND NEW FORD FLEX. It is the 1st BRAND NEW vehicle either Amber or I have ever owned. It is a 2013 and we got it with like 17 miles on it (or something like that). Can you believe that we qualified with no money down and with payments low enough that we can afford to keep the Pruis also. Our insurance company really worked with us too. They were able to get us coverage while only raising our monthly cost less than $100. Everything really seemed to fall into place with this purchase. So, without further ado.........

I present to you.......

KRUSTI!



Here is the front view and then from the back


It can seat 8. Which is what we needed. Especially because we have all of the girls and then Brennen, Amber, Gladys, and myself. We really have outgrown the Pruis. Anytime we ALL wanted to go somewhere we had to make two trips to get us all there. But now... we all fit!



The back row of seats can flip up for seats, fold half way down, and then can lay flat for lots of trunk space. They even flip backwards for tailgates, or watching parades, etc. They just happen to be flat in the pictures because we had a dresser back there earlier that day.

As you can see from the next picture we have only had Krusti for 7 days and already have put some miles on it (740)....It made a trip to Albuquerque on Tuesday. (More of that on a different post).


We are really enjoying it. It is averaging about 20 miles per gallon....but does take about $50 to fill up with gas. This is a change compared to the Pruis that fills up at $27. It has already saved us tons in time and mileage though. Amber now drives the Pruis to work (in Artesia) daily because it gets better gas mileage. But now that we have Krusti we are not required to make 2 trips a day to Artesia and back. It has been nice.

Slow Dancing

So, this weekend Brennen brings home a flyer about an end of school dance. It was a dance just for the 8th graders out at Berrendo. They actually had the dance semi-formal attire. Girls could not wear pants and boys could not wear jeans or t-shirts. So, we spent Saturday afternoon searching for dress pants in a 28 inch waist. Yeah - good luck to us......No such thing. But, we did find a size 30 waist in some "golf pants". They have the look of dress pants - so they worked.

After searching for pants we went to Mom and Scotty's. Brennen showered and cleaned up. We all had supper and Brennen agreed to let me snap 2 QUICK pictures.



Just before we left Scotty became concerned that Brennen did not know how to slow dance. Believe it or not, I have been teaching him how to since he was little. Despite what he says, I AM the one who taught him. But we made sure he could 2 step and then do the sway thing. Of course, I had to warn him against touching bodies - only hand to shoulder or hand to hand. All I got was - MOM!

Anyway, I dropped him off at the school. I really had to fight the urge to walk him inside. I could see numerous teachers and chaperones from where I dropped him off at. I returned to the Butts residence where I was kept busy WINNING at marbles. (Ok, I actually don't know who won last night but I know I did win one game). About an hour into the dance, I thought to myself that I should run out there and check on Brenn - but I did not.

At 10pm, Mom and I returned to the Middle School and collected a VERY EXCITED LITTLE BOY. Brennen had a great time. He danced with several girls and was now needing a "romance counseling" from his friends. To bad he had to settle for advice from his mom and grandmother. Ha!

Brennen ended up staying the night at Mom's and I went home with a smile on my face. Brennen had been to his first dance and had a great time. That is all that mattered to me. I am now trying to prepare myself - in just a few short months -

HIGH SCHOOL BEGINS!

Decisions, Decisions

The latter part of last week was spent looking for a new vehicle. When the Pruis was purchased it was a forced purchase. We did not a chance to look around, compare prices, or even see WHAT KIND OF VEHICLE we wanted. We pulled into the lot with a blown radiator amongst a lot of other things wrong with the car. It is time to get something that is GOOD for us. We do way to much living in the car not to be comfortable. So.......the journey started - from scratch. What are we looking for? How much do we wanna spend? New or Used? Lease or Buy? AAAAAGGGGGHHHH. The questions are endless. In an ideal situation we could afford to keep the Pruis and have a second vehicle as well. Don't really know if the ideal situation exists. So, we looking everywhere. We are crunching numbers. We are driving a lot of sales people crazy because we won't look at things we know we can't afford. We won't test drive if they can't talk numbers first. We have found 2 very nice sales people who we are working with currently. We have found a few vehicles we like: Chevrolet Traverse and The Ford Flex. We are not done looking however. Hopefully we get a chance to go back out and do some more looking today or tomorrow.

In the meantime, we have had 4 safety recalls fixed on the Pruis. We are currently waiting to have the computer replaced as well. It really brings things to light about why this vehicle was pushed onto us - when you receive recall notices every few months.

Anyway, I will keep you posted.

Spitting Image

Everyone always talks about who the baby looks like. Some say mother, some say father, even some say neither. Well, I have heard a lot about how Jaxen looks so much like his GRANDPA. Mimi has said from the get-go how much Jaxen looks like my dad Carl. Well, the other day when we were at her house, we pulled out a picture of my dad when he was only a few years old. I just happen to have a picture of Jaxen in a similar pose saved to my phone (curtisy of Carla's blog). It is ridiculous how much they DO LOOK ALIKE. Wow! Carla this post is for you. You aren't here to gasp with us but maybe this will do the trick. I couldn't believe it - so without further ado:



So, what do you think? I tried to get them side by side but I couldn't. Do you see it?

Trying To Keep Up

So, I thought if I could do 1 blog for every 2 blogs that my sister wrote I would be doing excellent at this. Well guess what!?!? I am FAILING. I just counted and she has 7 since my last one. Wish I had a cute baby to blog about all of the time!!! My baby is not little and he gets upset when he finds out I have mentioned him in my blog. (Well, until he reads it - then of course he is offended because it wasn't all about him! Go figure).

Anyway, I got to spend some time with some of my family not this past weekend but the weekend before. We enjoyed ourselves. So, here are some pictures that I snapped quickly (mainly for my sister). By the way Carla - you were missed. And in your honor - I showed off the video of Jaxen walking. Everyone oooohhhhhed and aaaaahhhhhhhhhed!

Here is Rodney and Lisa just chillaxin'.
And Aubrey, Kayla, and Lindsey
Mimi and Courtney

Here is a picture of Taunya and Ken - Yes that is a real baby - NO! IT IS NOT THIERS - HA HA.

Of course there is a picture of Brennen. I was surprised he let me take it - usually he yells, "NO MOM!" and then hides his head and face. Carla - you are lucky he is not your child, as many pictures as you take - well, really I guess Brenn is the lucky one.

Here is Aubrey and Derek. Surprised Aiden is not with them. They were like the 3 musketeers. Every time you saw one of them this weekend you saw the other two.

Oh wait! Here you go. Aubrey and AJ

Here is a picture of Shawn just hanging out

And Kaitlin

And last but not least, here is a picture of Ella sporting a headband that Lisa had made for her and Kayla


We had a great visit with everyone. It was really cool to see everyone's kids there. The only kid we were missing was Riliegh. I absolutely love going to visit Rodney and Lisa. I am already looking forward to next time.